Published by Mandaree West Segment (2025)

West Segment News

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Editor: Lovina Fox

PERMIT NO. 3

Volume 5 Issue 4

April 2025

This Elder Was a Cattle woman Loving The Simple Country Life

It was a nice day when I first made arrangements to schedule a visit with her grandson Adam while I and

Adam visited on the phone, he mentioned to me that he would be there in case his grandmother forgot to

mention something that he would remind her. I told him that would be great. I then learned that he was

taking care of his grandma, I then told Adam I was very proud of him taking care of his grandmother. Through

my eyes, I can see that his grandmother is very much well taken care of. So, I was very happy to have Adam

there when I did this interview, he was of great help to me. It was in the afternoon when I knocked on their

door and was welcomed inside and sat down, we all visited for a while before I started the interview. So, with

that in mind, I will begin with my own introduction.

In this era that we are in right now is certainly not the same era our grandparents grew up in or even for

some of us our parents. Back then our grandparents, and parents worked hard to have their way of life either

in town or in the country. Most people who lived out in the country made their living by raising cattle and

having ranches, while others raised pigs, and chickens and had big gardens. It was a way of life that leaves

many of our elders with memories, even when it was hard to live in that time it was a happy and a close time with family and relatives. For this

particular family member that I visited with her family raised cattle way out east of Mandaree their homestead was a long way down some hills

and by the lake. It was where she grew up helping her dad with the cattle. She enjoyed riding her horse Olsen and watching the cattle

sometimes with her brother Jimmy. They would watch the cattle all day so they wouldn’t go down the coulee where it was boggy and get stuck

an die. Once the cows laid down to sleep then she and her brother went home and rested. It was a job worth her time and effort in helping her

dad with the cattle. I would say she was a cattle woman since that is where she spent a lot of her time and she enjoyed it as well. Her first name

is Hii shu’ wah “Peppermint” she was named as an infant, she was told her grandpa Snow named her. Her given English name is Mary Jane.

She was born on January 19, 1936 in the hospital at Elbowoods, to the late Charlie Fredericks and Emma (Snow) Fredericks. I asked her what

clans her parents were as she goes onto to say; “My dad is low cap and my mother belongs to the water buster clan, so I belong to the water

buster clan and a child of the low cap clan. On her dad’s side her grandparents are; Pete Fredericks and Mary (Walker) Fredericks and on her

mother’s side her mother’s parents are Philip Snow and her grandmother didn’t have an English name her name was Red Hat.

As we visited I asked Mary Jane where she was raised, she looked at me and said out in the woods and we all got silly and laughed. According

to her grandson he said; “she was raised out east of Mandaree out in the country their place is way behind of what we know today as Elmer’s

point”. Mary Jane said, the house was still down there, we lived in a frame house and our family was so big my folks had to build a log home so

we used two homes for everybody. We had a spring below where our home was so we hauled water in buckets to and from our house which

was about a mile and a half. it was long walk carrying buckets of water. Mary Jane laughed and said that’s why my arms are tough from hauling

coal, wood and buckets of water. Since we didn’t have electricity we used kerosene lamps, we had to dig up coal and hauled coal to our house,

we chopped wood so we used coal and wood to heat our home. My dad Charlie Fredericks was a cattleman, as Adam mentioned that nobody

knows this but at one time her dad was a policeman. As Mary Jane goes on to say; My mother was a housewife, we had a big garden, growing

up we had a lot to do around the house. We had to work in the garden, we canned foods, I was always doing things to help my mother with

everything. When I wasn’t helping my mother, your would find me outside watching the cattle. Adam went onto to say; Out of the daughters my

grandmother Mary Jane was the only daughter that would help with the cattle. As Mary Jane went onto say; In the Spring when it was boggy we

had to watch the cattle all day so they wouldn’t go down the coulee where it was boggy. If we didn’t watch our cows they (Continue on page 4)

Page 2.

West S egm ent New s Apr il 2025

Councilwoman Turner-Lone Fight Update

Greetings to all elders,

and community members

an to those who live off

the MHA Nation. We do

hope Spring is upon us.

We have yet to see some

rain so the grass can turn

green

Begin I start this update. I

would like to extend our

deepest sympathy and

prayers to the family and

relatives of Lana Hazel

Emma Conklin aka

“Bubbles,” Marjorie Hunts

Along and Theresa Gail

Plenty Chief. I would like to extend prayers of comfort for those in

mourning throughout our other segments.

On another note, I have some announcements for our

community people in West Segment. On Thursday, April 17th

there will be colorectal screening and awareness at the elders

meal site from 1:00om to 3:00pm. The best cure is early detection,

so mark your calendars.

The Mandaree Community Board has a survey out if you need to

fill it out you can pick it up at the West Segment Office,

Mandaree One Stop and the Wolf Chief Store. The deadline for

this survey is on May 1st. If you completed your survey you can

drop them off at the West Segment office. If you have any

questions you can call one of the Mandaree Community Board

members.

Pathways to health and wellness with family will be having a

walk for sobriety event at Water Chief Hall on Wednesday, April

23, 2025. We will start at the CARE center in Mandaree, 825

Enterprise Rd. We will provide water for the walk. Everyone is

encouraged to come and walk for anyone that is struggling with

addiction and alcohol. We will have a dinner to follow the walk

and event.

Care Center Weekly Support Meetings:

Wednesdays: Women’s Meeting 6:00pm @ Care Center.

Fridays: AA Meetings 7:00pm @ Care Center

Sundays: AA/NA Men’s

Thunderhorse @ 7:00pm.

Zoom

Meeting

with

Verdell

Contact Information:

Todd McKenzie: (701)421-9158

We are having our Easter fun day on Wednesday, April 16 starting Verdell Thunderhorse: (715)501-8491

at 5:50pm. We will have a barbecue along with fun games and Avis Reimer Finley: (701)-421-0610

Easter baskets for our youth.

Donald McKenzie: (701) 690-0308

It that time of the year for every one to get their spring cleaning

done. With that in mind, we have scheduled our first community Zehuman Chazierman: (701)421-5343

cleanup is set for Friday, April 25th which will coincide with the CARE Building

Mandaree School’s clean up day. Please come to the Water Chief The Mandaree School changed the date of the school prom it is

Hall to sign up and receive your gloves and trash bags from rescheduled to May 3rd– 6:00pm-10:00pm.

10:00am to 6:00pm.

Kindgarten Graduation will be Wednesday, May 21 at 2:00pm

Let’s all come together and help make our community look nice.

8th grade Graduation– Thursday, May 22 at 2:00pm

Our youth fitness and recreation department has started some

spring events for you can call Michael DeVille or LeeAnna for Senior Graduation– Saturday, May 24, at 2:00pm

more information at 759-3377.

I would like to wish everyone a safe

and blessed Easter.

Also if you need ground plowed for your garden, please call Curtis

Hall Sr., at 421-7907 and he will schedule you and let you know

when he will be at your home.

This is all I have for now, so please be

Just to let you know the Elbowoods Memorial Health Center

locations will close early on Good Friday, April 18th, at 12:00pm

and All EMHC sites will also be closed on Monday, April 21 all day

in observance of Easter. For emergencies please call 911.

safe and if you are traveling travel

safe.

Thank you for being a good reader.

Councilwoman Gladys Sherry Turner-Lone Fight

West S egment New s April 2025

Page 3.

Mandaree Students at the National American Indian Science & Engineering Fair at Oklahoma University

Submitted by Mrs. Helen Bojo

Pictured above is Mr. Vender and Love

Hopkins and Mrs. Bojos while at the science

and engineering fair at Oklahoma University.

Congratulations to all our students for doing a job well done in the

National American Indian Science and Engineering Fair at Oklahoma

University.

Coming this far is already a success story of our school “Mandaree” and

receiving special awards in the field of Chemistry is something to celebrate

for.

Good job Love Hopkins for being chosen as one of the exemplary projects

in the field of Chemistry awarded by American Chemistry Society (and

won $$$). This has been a very wonderful journey.

A good opportunity for the students to boost their confidence and an

amazing experience from our laboratory tours (greenhouse and geology

department) to the different hands-on activities and they were able to talk

and ask questions to different scientists and PhD Professors.

This is indeed a beautiful experience thar they will cherish for the rest of

their lives.

On behalf of West Segment we are very proud of these students who were

able to go to the National American Indian Science and Engineering Fair

that took place at Oklahoma University. This gave them a chance to see a

large university and meet various professor and scientist.

Mr. Vender, in the middle is Stan McCornick and

Mrs. Bojo’s they’re all smiles while at the fair.

Page 4.

West Seg ment News Ap ril 2025

This Elder Was a Cattle woman Loving The Simple Country Life

would get stuck where it was boggy and die. so, we had to sit all day with then I heard my brother Luke say what are you doing here go

them and when they would lay down to sleep then we would go home and home and take those ugly things off right now. I said no I’m not

rest. It was I and my brother Jimmy to watch and take care of the cattle.

and I just went inside the hall as I walked inside I seen Sam

My mother had twenty babies, a lot of them died because of sicknesses Lincoln and he’s a brother-in-law through marriage so I was

they didn’t die at birth they lived a little while some up to three and six years teasing him. And after I was done being goofy and silly. Then all

old, so we knew some of them before they passed away. Back then there of sudden they came up to me trying to take the mask off and I

wasn’t any hospitals so when the babies got sick they ended up dying. I said no I don’t want to take this mask off and they said; well we

then asked Mary Jane to name her siblings from the oldest to the youngest. have to show the people who you are. Then they took the mask

My siblings from the oldest to the youngest are; Emery, Adele, Margie, off even though I didn’t want them too. The announcer said the

winner is MaryJane Fredericks. Adam then said; the first prize

Luke, then me, Jimmy, Elmer, Pat, and Carol Ann.

was a horse, which her brother Luke gave to them, so she ended

My living siblings now would be myself; then Adam goes onto say my up winning her brother’s horse back and he was mad at her and

grandma Mary Jane is the oldest, she’s 89 years old, then Elmer he’s 85 didn’t give her the horse, we all laughed.

years old and Carol Ann she’s 80 now. As we started back visiting, I asked

As we visiting, I asked Mary Jane what kind of chores they had to

her to tell me a bit about what she remembered about her brother Pat. As

do back then. As she states; I had to cook my mother taught me

Mary Jane replied; I remember my brother Pat, he was such a goofy happy

when I was ten years old, and at seven I baked bread, I had to

go lucky guy, he enjoyed hunting and riding horseback. Adam said; he was

wash clothes on a wash board, and bedding, and hang them up

a prankster; he loved to tease everyone. He was a good story teller and

on the clothes line, I had to haul water from the spring chop wood

now they have him at the Interpretive center in New Town. Adam went onto

and haul wood. Then I would watch my sisters kids too. I did all

say; I used to enjoy it when he would come over and they would tell us

this; it was hard work. According to Adam he said the spring was

ghost stories, they were really scary. As we visited, I asked Mary Jane

a good quarter of mile she had to walk when hauling water in

where they went to school back then. As she says;

buckets, so it was hard work. Our winters here out in the country

Luke started in Lucky mound and my dad used to take me to Charging were really bad, it’s a good thing when my dad would go

Eagle for school. When we moved to charging eagle where they built a log shopping, he would buy food by the cases so when the winters

house, it was from there I used to walk to school. In the winter time my were bad, we didn’t have to worry about food we had plenty to

folks had to drive us to school. When we were growing up, I had a lot of eat.

work to do. I remember I used to watch my sisters’ kids when they were

I remember when my brother Luke was alive, he would fly his

little. I had to pull weeds from the garden, chop wood, and haul water

plane to Minot he would always bring me back the latest album or

buckets and coal. I was busy all the time. Adam mentioned my grandma

a record he would get me the latest songs. Out of all my siblings,

learned to bake bread from a cowpuncher when she was seven years old.

I was closest to my brother Luke. When he died, I sure had a

As Mary Jane goes onto say, I remember there was this old cowboy named

hard time losing him, I grieved for a long time, I mourned him and

Jay Karp he’s now buried in the Watford City cemetery. One day he came

I didn’t go to school for a year. I remember Luke was helping my

around he said Mary Jane I’m allergic to baking powder and every time I

sister Margie, I guess my dad sold her some cows, and he

come here that’s all you guys have. So, I’m going to show you how to bake

wanted those cows back from across the river by Charging Eagle

bread today. So, he did holey man my dad had a hundred pounds of flour

and my dad was getting the cows back and when they were

and we used it up and filled the whole table with baked bread. When my

crossing them my brother came back. So I told him what they and

dad came back, he was so amazed he said where did all this bread come

he said well I better go help them. I was home alone I was

from. Jay was sitting there and he told my dad your daughter baked all this

cooking and he smelt the roast I was making, he said to me when

bread. I was only seven years old then so now I know how to bake bread.

I come back, I’m going to have my friend with me I and Scot

When I was younger, I used to play with the Young Bear girls, Sadie and Young Bear to eat so set an extra plate. He left and I don’t know

Rozella we would always play together they would come to my house and I how it happened but there was a lot of hills around so when he

would go to theirs. Mary Jane then paused a moment to think about what went our and tried to fly his plane maybe there wasn’t enough

they used to do for fun when she was growing up. Adam reminded his wind for his plane to fly and that’s when he crashed. So him and

grandmother to tell me about the story of the masquerade she went too. Scot died together.

“She laughed and said; “I remember they had a masquerade dance and I

I remember it was towards evening, I was waiting for them to

told momma I want to go they’re having a having a masquerade tonight, my

come back the food was getting cold. Then I heard someone

mother said Well if you want to go, I’ll make you a nose so I said yeah go

drive up and came to the house. I answered the door and I was

ahead. so, I had mask and I used that nose my mother made and I really

one of the teachers from Charging Eagle who drove over to the

looked goofy. So, there I went to what used to be the old Water Chief Hall

house and told me what happened to my brother. I was so

the original one. I got there and got off and started to go over to the hall

distraught I just started walking, my brother Luke has an airplane

continue on next page.

Page 5.

West S egment New s April 2025

This Elder Was a Cattle woman Loving The Simple Country Life

and he crashed my brother was 6’7 that’s how tall he was. He burnt

and my mother tried to jump in the fire and they had to pull her back all

her hair was singe. My mother lost it and after my brother died, they

just didn’t want to do anything.

After a year my brother Emery came by and told me I should be in

school he even came and took me to Flandreau Indian school I was in

the tenth grade. I was nineteen when I went to Flandreau my brother

forced me to go even though I was older. At Flandreau I was older than

the students there. I remember the Superintendent asked to talked to

me. When I was in his office, he started blaming me for things I didn’t

do just because I was the oldest one there. After I heard the

superintendent’s accusations, I was so upset I walked out and went to

my room packed my stuff, got a taxi and got on the bus and went

home. When I was at home I went to the BIA with my mother and

signed up for the relocation program. Through the relocation program, I

worked in California in a factory there I can’t remember the town. Adam

mentioned that Mary Jane had the opportunity to be in movies there

but she didn’t want too because she was too shy.

Mary Jane goes onto to say; Most of my time I was always by myself,

sometimes Jimmy was there too but he had his friends and he would

go with them. Mary Jane shared a memory she had when she was

young. A long time ago when they would go camping, her mother had

this big army tent she laughed that was embarrassing. I was with two

of my friends Mary and Beulah Hale and I told them don’t let me get off

can you cover me with a blanket and her friends said are you serious. I

said yes, I told them I didn’t want to be seen going into this big army

tent. They laughed but they did what I asked them too and my mother

said what are you doing? I told her I was ashamed of her tent her big

army tent. We laughed and Mary Jane said; that tent was so big, I bet

you could get about a hundred people in there I don’t know where she

bought it.

At one time my mother did porcupine quill work and she did her quill

work all over a tipi boy a lot of people were amazed at her quill work. I

can’t remember how long it took her to finish it all I remember was she

was ad it all summer. My grandpa put something on there too but I

can’t remember what it was. My brother Emery was the president at

the pow wow so my mother had Emery donate it. I think that tipi was

donated to the chairman at that time. Adam said; I wonder what

happened to that tipi that quill work is all on canvas a lot of hard work

went into that tipi.

Mary Janes happy time was being with the cattle and riding her horse

Olsen, he was a good horse he looked wild but he was the tamest

horse I used to crawl under go behind him my horse was tame. I

started watching cattle when I was fourteen. Adam went onto say; my

grandmother was a cowgirl she spent most of her time with the cattle.

In March of 2020 when the Covid pandemic hit I asked Mary Jane if

she was affected by it. As Adam states; We both got covid we both

almost died, I had to rush my grandma to the hospital. We were both

sick for a month, we had fever and our fevers wouldn’t go away.

I was even at a point where I started to thinking if it’s my time to go

then I would go, but that’s how sick I was. I remember when I first

took my grandma to the hospital, we were standing there waiting for

them to show us her room. I wanted to stay there to make sure she

was all settled before I left. Then she got really scared she said to

me; who are these people staring at me. I looked around and there

wasn’t anyone in the room so we knew she had seen spirits in that

hospital.

With covid being here on our reservation, I asked Mary Jane from

what she could see of how things have changed. Adam went onto

say; When covid was here I think the younger ones started using

drugs more. Mary Jane said; she never heard of cremation; I didn’t

know too much about it until I was an adult. It isn’t right and not our

way as Indian people and that’s why I haven’t heard about it just

when I was an adult that’s what these white people do.

As we talked about changes, I asked her what she would say

changed the most for us as Indian people? “Mary Jane said we lost

our language, and no one comes over here and visit us. We live close

to each other and yet no one comes over and visits us. The only time

I see my relatives or anyone is when there’s a death or at a funeral.

Our funerals were really honorable those four days they took care of

a lot of things. Now today they want to do the white man ways. When

our loved one died, we all gather together and we would sit there,

they would sing. When my dad passed away my uncles took over and

did whatever they usually do. Our burials were a lot different back

then where they would come and talk about how they lived and spend

time with the family. Now a days it’s all different.

I asked Mary Jane today what shouldn’t change from the past to

today. I would say love, that’s what changed. Today if you say

something to somebody, they would get mad and back then we didn’t

have to lock our doors. A long time ago, if there were people traveling

and they needed something they would stop by our house even if no

one was home and help themselves if they were hungry, they would

eat, but they would clean up after themselves and go. That was

helping each other the people in independence would ride horseback

and my folks would put food out so they could eat when they were

done eating, they would clean up after themselves and leave a note

saying thank you so we knew they were there.

I asked Mary Jane what would she like to see in our community.

Adam went onto to explain more to his grandmother; she was talking

about the money that people get, (royalties). Mary Jane goes onto

say; The parents aren’t teaching their kids the value of money and

they never had to earn it. What they do with that money is buy drugs

go crazy and get killed from it. There’s a lot of people who got a lot of

money but they would get into drugs and die. This is really terrible. I

wish an older person would have a meeting with these parents and

talk to them. The parents need to teach their children responsibility

and values teach them good things. There are parents who aren’t

spending time with their kids, they just buy them what they want and

Continue on next page.

Page 6.

West S egment New s April 2025

This Elder Was a Cattle woman Loving The Simple Country Life

they don’t take care of it because they didn’t earn it. That’s not right so

our kids don’t know anything about values or respecting that money

they got. They should be taught that what monies they do get it’s a

blessing but in a way it’s a curse. If their parents talked to their kids they

could’ve had their own home. Instead, we have grown kids staying here

and there and they don’t have a home. They don’t have anything to

show for their monies. Now today, we have to lock our doors, there’s

people on drugs that we see walk around here at night its gets scary

sometimes because we don’t know what they’re capable of doing.

Before I took care of this whole place here where we live now.

According to Adam he said oh gosh, we had a big garden out here

behind the house the garden it filled three acres. My grandma would

take care of that garden by herself and once in a while I would help her.

I had to take care of the other livestock we had pigs and horses and our

other animals that we had here. When we got our pig, she was pregnant

so we had a lot of little piglets running around, we laughed. They would

get out of the pen once a while and run to our neighbor’s home and

mess up their garden. We would get a phone call from the neighbor and

they would be upset because our piglets got into their gardens. Our pigs

were behind the house down the hill where my grandpa helped me built

a pen for them.

Adam goes onto mention; My grandmother is in good health right now;

we went to Dickinson the other day to see Carol and she must’ve walk

about 5 or 6 miles. As Mary Jane says; My sister is in one of them

homes there, the building she was in is a big building so we walked a

long way. She will be out soon.

Before we closed, I asked Mary Jane if there was anything else she’d

like to share. As she went onto to say; I really feel the parents need to

talk to their children so they don’t use drugs, get a home or do

something good for themselves. But those drugs are really strong

around here and seriously I think some of these parents are scared of

their kids. Adam mentioned “it’s these laws we have now child

protection services cps. They’re so involved that if you do or say

anything to these kids, they will call cps on you and you as the parents

end up in trouble. Now this law has back fired and this generation is

really bad they have no discipline. So, whoever talks to these parents

about their situations with their children. I think the parents need to talk

to cps and tell them they can’t believe everything their kids tell them. If

these kids want to get away with something they will lie to cps and get

their way, which has already happened. I think the council needs to

step up and change those laws. Mary Jane goes onto say; yes, that

would be a good thing, you know I’m even scared to walk outside

sometimes because we live close to those who take drugs. Adam

stated; One time there was a guy that had a pistol and he was walking

around here outside close to our home and a few times a neighbor here

was walking around naked and he didn’t even try to cover himself he

was screaming around. Mary Jane said; that was awful. It would be

good to start teaching these kids at a young age, teach them how to

hunt, or teach them basic life skills, like they don’t teach home ec. in the

schools for girls, they don’t have that anymore. When there’s people on

drugs and they fire guns, they could be shooting around and you

don’t know where them bullets can go, they may end of hurting or

killing someone in our community.

So, my advice would be to our parents they need to talk to their kids

more and child protection services cps needs to be handled more

with the parents and the council. It’s too bad when a child uses the

cps and tells them lies and the parents are the ones that suffer for

their kids lies.

In closing our visit, I thank Adam for helping his grandmother

remember things and helping me along the way. I also thanked Mary

Jane for allowing me into their home. I was there in the afternoon

after the interview was over, we visited for a while. Then Adam got

up and started cooking so I was in for a treat. You know hardly

anyone feeds their visitors today, but I was fed and very grateful. I

ate with them we visited and laughed. I told them both that I sure

enjoyed visiting with them. Hearing all the stories they shared.

Through all of this, I could see that Mary Jane was a hard-working

young woman when she was growing up and the love, she had for

her horse and being outdoors, just being a cattle woman. For a

woman whose eighty nine years old she looks great! She reminded

me of the actress Barbara Stanwyck who acted as being a cattle

woman on a tv show. In the 60’s some of you may remember

Barbara Stanwyck acting in the tv show “The Big Valley.” Well with

what I wrote about today, I believe we have our own Barbara

Stanwyck a cattle woman right here in Mandaree, our own Mary

Jane Fredericks Yeahquo.

Message from the TAT Solid Waste Director

It’s that time of year

again to schedule your

community clean up as

Solid Waste can only

be in one community

at a time. We already

have eight scheduled.

Thank you

Kanzas Johnson

Solid Waste Director

Cell: 421-7674

Office: 627-2034

Fax: 627-2035

West S egment New s April 2025

Page 7.

Mandaree Warriors Represent MHA at the 40th Annual “All West Native American

Basketball Classic

Top L-R : Korday Johnson, Nate Robertson, Teighan Halvorson, Duane

Budreaux, Kyle Grady Jr., Kenyon Grady

Bottom L-R: Tommy Bear Claw, Ky Grady, Tyler Grant, Cashdyn Phelan,

Oray Hall, Colte Phelan

Not pictured: Morgan Fettig, Coach Ashlyn Grady

#1 Morgan Fettig swishes a 3 point shot during the All West

Native American Basketball tournament

#5 Korday Johnson swishes a 3 point shot over a defender during the second round of pool play during the All West Basketball Tournament in

Denver, Colorado.

West S egment New s Ap ril 2025

Page 8.

First Annual Education Conference “It Takes an Earth Lodge Village”

This two day conference was very informative. It was based on then we had a greeting from Dr. Twila Baker. From there the

Reconciliation with Purpose, a healing-informed transformational conference began with presenters such as Bernadine Young Bird

collaborative framework. Which included pathways to creating a Circle of who presented on “Strength based learning. Then Faith Hill gave her

care, Education trauma and healing informed approaches, collaboration presentation on “Who I am. On each of the tables they put some

an understanding of reconciliation with material there where participants could make and take bracelet is

purpose.

what they called it. Then the participants watched a documentary

Faith Hale, is pictured to your left. Is a proud film entitled “When Leaves turn Yellow.

member of the Three Affiliated Tribes of the This was a two day very educational event. The Earth Lodge

MHA Nation. She is the Executive Director Teachings, NHSC Earth Lodge Model presented by Bernadine

and co-founder of Ska:na Family Learning Young Bird. This very model encourages students to see the world

Center (SFLC), one of Ontario’s first through the lens of our home here. This was a very important

indigenous organizations focused on Child component to include because it embraces a lot of teachings. As

Care and Early Years programming. Faith Bernadine states; “It encompasses the four pillars, spirituality

was instrumental in researching, developing, and implementing an urban because we are spirits first. Then the people have to have a way to

Indigenous culturally relevant early years framework. Under her be our culture, our language, our social systems. Then how we

leadership, SFLC continues to grow, offering diverse programs and maintained ourselves before non-native people came here. We had

services, while Faith mentors the Child Care and Early Years sector a long history of self-sufficiency and independence. We need to

through collaboration with various boards, committees, and networks. instill those values. According to Faith she says; our way of life has

Faith holds a Master of Education, a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from always been here and now we have to revive and understand more

Wayne State University, a Bachelor of Education from Brock University of our way of life. Through our education it has to come together.

and an Early Childhood Education Diploma from St. Clair College. As a Connie King-Gottschall wrote; I am grateful for the opportunity to

Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE), she has served on the attend the inaugural Nueta, Hidatsa, Sahnish College Education

College of Early Childhood Educators advisory committee, presented at conference and to be in community with so many brilliant minds and

various conferences, and led research projects in education and dedicated hearts to our languages and culture. The knowledge

community development at local and provincial levels. In addition to her shared, the connections made and the commitment to education

work with SFLC, Faith is the President of the 7 Generations Indigenous rooted in Indigenous ways of knowing were inspiring. A special

Centre (7GIC), a College of Early Childhood Educator Mentor, and has appreciation to Bernadine Young Bird for the teachings of the earth

held leadership positions such as past Second Vice-President of the lodge, reminding us that learning is not just about absorbing

Ontario Federation of Indigenous Friendship Centers (OFIFC) and information, but ensuring that knowledge is passed with care and

delegate appointee to the Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services Board. intention. The matriarch panel was encouraging and honest, thank

Here is my contact information: faith@skanaflc.com; 519-903-4253.

you. Grateful to Superintendent Mark Bluestone joined with students

This conference was held at the Northern Lights building, they had and teachers. Just as the earth lodge provides shelter and a place

continental breakfast available as all participants checked and signed in. for gathering, so too does education when it is rooted in culture,

Before everything started an opening prayer was given by B.J. Rainbow

community and relationships.

Page 9.

West S egment New s April 2025

From District 4A Representative Lisa DeVille

Testimony Representative Lisa Finley-DeVille-HB 1545

March 25, 2025

Chairman Barta, and members of the Senate Industry, Business, and

Labor, thank you for the opportunity to present this important bill before you

today. As the sponsor of HB 1545, I stand before you to advocate for a

change that will honor and recognize the rich history, culture, and

contributions of Indigenous people in North Dakota and throughout the

United States.

This bill seeks to amend Section 1-03-13 of the North Dakota Century

Code to change the name of "First Nations Day" to "Indigenous people

Day." This name change reflects a broader, more inclusive

acknowledgment of the diverse Indigenous nations that have historically

inhabited this land and continue to shape our communities in meaningful

ways.

For generations, the Indigenous people of North Dakota have contributed

to the development, culture, and strength of our state. Whether through the

resilience of our Native communities, the preservation of traditions,

Indigenous people play an integral role in our state’s identity and future.

However, our current observance—First Nations Day—while important,

does not fully capture the diversity of the Indigenous populations across

North America. Changing the name to Indigenous people Day is not simply

a matter of semantics. It is a statement of respect, acknowledgment, and

unity. This change recognizes that all Indigenous communities—whether

they be Dakota, Lakota, Mandan, Hidatsa, Arikara or from any other tribe

or nation—have made unique and shared contributions to the fabric of our

society.

This bill is a step toward greater understanding, and healing for all North

Dakotans. It aligns our state with national efforts to officially recognize

Indigenous people Day across the United States, a celebration of cultural

heritage and the ongoing work to overcome centuries of difficulty and

hardships.

I ask the committee to give a do pass recommendation for House Bill 1545,

and I look forward to working with all of you to continue building a state that

honors and elevates the voices of Indigenous people.

Thank you. I stand for questions.

Respectfully,

Representative Lisa Finley-DeVille

North Dakota District 4A, Mandaree (Ft. Berthold Reservation and MHA

Nation)

North Dakota House of Representatives

600 East Boulevard Avenue

Bismarck ND, 58505

Also noted by Lisa Finley-Deville

That this is not all my actions. I

gave you what is most important.

Testimony of Representative Lisa Finley-DeVille-HB1581

March 20, 2025

Good morning, Chairman Luick and members of the Senate

Agriculture and Veteran Affairs committee. My name is

Representative Lisa Finley-DeVille, I represent District 4A that

includes Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation. Thank you for the

opportunity to present this bill before you today. As a sponsor of

HB 1581, which provides an appropriation to the department of

commerce for tribal tourism grants.

Tourism is a vital tool for fostering economic development and

cultural preservation on tribal lands. By promoting and investing in

tribal tourism, North Dakota can support job creation, diversify

local economies, and provide a platform for sharing the cultural

heritage of Indigenous communities. According to the American

Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association[1] (AIANTA), tribal

tourism contributes significantly to regional and state economies,

with non-Native visitors frequently seeking authentic experiences,

cultural education, and outdoor recreation[2]. Tribal tourism not

only strengthens economic self-sufficiency for tribal nations but

also builds cross-cultural understanding and collaboration.

Investing in tribal tourism infrastructure and marketing through

targeted grants will ensure that North Dakota’s tribal nations are

positioned to capitalize on growing interest in cultural tourism. The

U.S. Department of Commerce reports that cultural and heritage

tourism accounts for over $171 billion annually[3] in the U.S.

economy, with Native American sites and experiences playing an

increasingly popular role. States that have supported tribal

tourism initiatives have seen measurable returns in visitor

spending and local business development.

This bill will provide $500,000 in grants for tribal governments in

North Dakota to enhance and promote tourism opportunities,

helping to expand local economies and boost job creation. Tribal

governments may apply for grants of up to $100,000 to develop

tourism initiatives such as cultural heritage centers, interpretive

trails, community events, and marketing campaigns that highlight

their unique histories and landscapes.

The proposed tribal tourism grants represent a strategic

investment in the future of North Dakota’s economy and its

relationship with tribal nations, promoting sustainable growth,

cultural preservation, and mutual prosperity.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I ask that the Senate

Agriculture and Veterans Affairs committee give HB 1581 a do

pass recommendation. I stand for any questions.

Respectfully,

Representative Lisa Finley-DeVille

North Dakota District 4A, Mandaree (Ft. Berthold Reservation and

MHA Nation)

North Dakota House of Representatives

600 East Boulevard Avenue- Bismarck, ND 58505

Page 10.

West Segment New s Ap ril 2025

Testimony of Representative Finley-DeVille-HB1535

Chairwoman Roers and members of the Senate State and Local Government committee, my name is Representative Lisa Finley-DeVille. I

represent District 4A, which includes, Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation. Thank you for the opportunity to testify today, as a cosponsor I

thank you for the opportunity to speak in support of HB 1535, which relates to the feather alert notice system, and the committee on tribal and

state relations. As an Indigenous woman, I can say this bill represents a critical step toward addressing a pressing issue that affects the safety

and well-being of Indigenous people not only in North Dakota but across the country.

The need for a rapid-response system to assist in locating missing Indigenous people cannot be overstated. Every year, Indigenous

communities across the U.S. face alarmingly high rates of missing persons cases, particularly involving women and children. One tragic and

recent example is the case of Olivia Lone Bear, a member of the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation, who went missing in October 2017.

Olivia, a mother of five, was last seen leaving her home near New Town. Despite extensive search efforts, it took nine months for authorities to

find her, and tragically, Olivia’s case is just one of many where the response time was not fast enough to bring her home safely.

Her disappearance highlights the ongoing gaps in how missing Indigenous people are treated and the urgent need for a system like the Feather

Alert, which could have potentially expedited the search and increased public awareness from the outset. Like so many others, Olivia’s case

was delayed by jurisdictional confusion, lack of coordination between law enforcement agencies, and limited resources dedicated to finding

missing Indigenous people. The creation of a system designed specifically for this purpose would ensure that cases like Olivia's—and others

across our state—receive the urgent attention they deserve.

House Bill 1535 directly addresses these challenges by creating a rapid-response system modeled after Amber Alerts, but specifically for

Indigenous individuals. The “Feather Alert” would be triggered by law enforcement when a missing person is reported, using the state’s

emergency alert system to distribute information as quickly as possible. The quicker an alert can go out to the public, the more likely it is that

someone may have seen the missing person or may be able to assist in their recovery. Studies have shown that early alerts significantly

increase the chances of recovery (U.S. Department of Justice, 2019). When we look at any of the cases of the many Missing or Murdered

Indigenous People, it’s important to remember that Indigenous communities are often dispersed and face specific cultural and linguistic

challenges that other communities don’t. Ensuring that alerts are delivered in Indigenous languages where necessary ensures greater

accessibility and relevance to those who are most affected. Language is a source of strength and unity for these communities, and including it in

the alert system will only enhance its effectiveness (First Nations Development Institute, 2014).

Another key provision of this bill is the Indian Affairs Commission will be liason between tribes and state for the Feather Alert system. This is

essential for ensuring that the system remains responsive and accountable to tribal communities. Coordination between tribal law enforcement,

state agencies, and federal partners is vital for swift action, and the Indian Affairs Commission will help facilitate that. As we have seen many

times, jurisdictional issues can lead to delays in the search for missing persons. A system that is both tribally led and state-supported can help

mitigate those challenges and ensure that every possible resource is brought to bear when someone is missing (National Congress of American

Indians, 2020).The funding provided in this bill—one FTE for the Bureau of Criminal investigation of $250,000 for a full-time position dedicated

to this effort—ensures that this system can be effectively implemented and maintained over time. The creation of a sustainable, well-resourced

alert system is essential to making sure it works when needed most. Without adequate funding and infrastructure, systems like this risk

becoming underused or inefficient. I ask that you give House Bill 1535 a do pass recommendation. This bill represents a vital step toward

addressing the disparities in how missing Indigenous persons are handled in North Dakota. It is a necessary tool to bring greater visibility and

urgency to these cases, ensuring that Missing and Murdered Indigenous People, those who have gone missing, will receive the attention and

resources they need for a timely recovery. We can do better for our communities, and this bill is a key part of that effort.

Thank you for your time and consideration of this important issue.

U.S. Department of Justice (2019). Missing Persons; The Value of Timely Notifications Bureau of Justice Standards

First Nations Development Institute. (2014) The Role of Language in Community Health and Wellbeing

National Congress of American Indians (2014) Addressing the Crisis of Missing/Murdered Indigenous Women/Girls NCAI Policy Brief

Page 11.

West S egment New s April 2025

March 13, 2025

Honorable Governor Kelly Armstrong

Office of the Governor

600 E Boulevard Ave

Bismarck, ND 58505

RE: Request for Support of the Truth and Healing Commission on Indian Boarding School Policies Act

Dear Governor Armstrong,

I am writing to formally request your support in urging North Dakota’s congressional delegation to support the Truth and Healing

Commission on Indian Boarding School Policies Act. As a representative of our state and an advocate for Indigenous communities, I believe this

legislation is critical in addressing the historical and ongoing impacts of Indian boarding school policies on Native people and their families.

The United Tribes of North Dakota, representing the five federally recognized tribal nations within our state, have passed a resolution in

strong support of this Act. This legislation is essential to revealing the impacts of boarding schools, protecting unmarked graves, supporting

repatriation efforts, and preventing the continued removal of Native children from their families and communities by state and federal agencies.

Between 1867 and 1961, North Dakota was home to 12 Indian boarding schools operating across 14 locations. An estimated 60,000

Native American children—approximately 83% of school-age Native children—were subjected to forced assimilation policies. Many of North

Dakota’s tribal citizens today are survivors or descendants of these schools and continue to experience intergenerational trauma as a result.

Addressing this history through the establishment of the Truth and Healing Commission is a necessary step toward reconciliation and justice.

Given your leadership and commitment to all North Dakotans, I request that you publicly support this Act and encourage our

congressional representatives to do the same. Acknowledging this history and supporting solutions for recovery will benefit tribal communities

and contribute to the broader goal of healing and understanding across our state.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I welcome the opportunity to discuss this matter further and look forward to your response.

Sincerely,

Representative Lisa Finley DeVille

North Dakota House of Representative, District 4A

Mandan, Hidatsa, Arikara Nation

Attachment: United Tribes of North Dakota Resolution in Support of Enactment of the Truth and Healing Commission on Indian Boarding

School Policies Act

West Segm ent New s Ap ril 2025

Page 12.

From District 4A Representative Lisa DeVille

Te s t i m o n y

of

Representative Lisa

Finley-DeVille

In support of House

Bill 1455

April 2, 2025

Chair Larson and

members of the

Senate Judiciary

committee, my name

is Representative

Lisa Finley- DeVille,

representing District 4

A, which includes the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation. I’m testifying in

support of House Bill 1455, which establishes a process for reviewing

legislative measures that impact North Dakota’s tribal nations and ensures

consultation with tribal leaders. Thank you for the opportunity to speak today.

As a co-sponsor of HB 1455, I believe it is vital that we ensure tribal voices are

considered when decisions impacting our communities are made.

As someone who works closely with our communities, I know how often critical

decisions can be made without proper consultation or input to our State’s five

tribes. HB 1455 requires that the Indian Affairs Commission conduct a review of

proposed legislation and determine if there may be any implications that would

invoke steps for consultation with tribal leaders prior to committee hearings.

Testimony of Representative Lisa Finley-DeVille-HB 1199

Chairman Wobbema and members of the Senate Workforce

Development committee, my name is Representative Lisa

Finley- DeVille, representing District 4 A, which includes the

Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation. I testify in support for of

House Bill 1199, relating to the establishment of the Missing

Indigenous People Task Force. This bill is an important

measure in addressing the issue of missing and murdered

Indigenous people, not only in North Dakota but also across

the nation.

The creation of a local, dedicated task force is an essential

component of ensuring that we have a coordinated and

focused effort to address the specific challenges faced by

Indigenous communities when it comes to reporting and

recovering missing individuals. Indigenous people face unique

barriers to reaching justice, including jurisdictional challenges,

lack of interagency coordination, and cultural

misunderstandings. This bill aims to remove those barriers

and ensure that law enforcement agencies, tribes, and

organizations can collaborate effectively.

The task force will identify and address the jurisdictional

issues that prevent effective cooperation between federal,

state, local, and tribal agencies. This will streamline

investigations and improve outcomes for missing persons

cases.

This bill is about respect and partnership. It’s about acknowledging that tribal

nations are sovereign governments and ensuring they have a seat at the table

in shaping policy that impacts the lives of their constituents. When we

communicate and collaborate, we make better decisions—not just for tribal

communities but for the entire state.

We must also understand why this is such a critical issue in

North Dakota’s Native communities. By tracking the number of

missing Indigenous people and their recovery, the bill will

provide essential data that will guide future policies and

resource allocation. This data will help us understand the

characteristics of missing Indigenous individuals and the

I’m proud to co-sponsor this bill because it reflects our shared commitment to underlying causes, allowing us to target solutions more

do better. It’s a step toward stronger relationships, better policies, and a future effectively.

where all voices are part of the conversation. I respectfully ask for your support

By approving this bill, we send a clear message to North

and a do pass recommendation.

Dakota’s tribal nations that their safety and well-being matter.

It is an acknowledgment that the historical and ongoing

Thank you for your time.

challenges faced by Indigenous people require targeted and

thoughtful action. We must work together to protect vulnerable

Respectfully,

populations, and this bill provides the framework to do just

that.

Representative Lisa Finley-DeVille

North Dakota District 4A, Mandaree (Ft. Berthold Reservation and MHA Nation)

North Dakota House of Representatives

600 East Boulevard Avenue

Bismarck ND, 58505

Committees:

House Industry, Business, and Labor

House Transportation

I urge you to give House Bill 1199 a do pass and help create a

future where no Indigenous person is left behind, and no

family is forced to endure the pain of a missing loved one

without the support and resources they need.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I stand for any

questions.

Respectfully,

Representative Lisa Finley-DeVille

Page 13.

West S egment New s April 2025

From District 4A Representative Lisa DeVille

North Dakota District 4A, Mandaree (Ft. Berthold

Reservation and MHA Nation)

North Dakota House of Representatives

600 East Boulevard Avenue

Bismarck ND, 58505

Committees:

House Industry, Business, and Labor

House Transportation

The Honorable Kelly Armstrong

Governor of North Dakota

600 E Boulevard Ave

Bismarck, ND 58505

North Dakota’s schools have always been at the heart of our rural

communities. They are where our children learn, grow, and prepare for

the future. With the pending elimination of the U.S. Department of

Education I fear that it may jeopardize that future, shifting an enormous

burden onto already-stretched state and

Local resources. Our rural communities would bear the brunt of this

shift, and it is our students who would pay the price. Given the severity

of this potential crisis, I urge your administration to act swiftly to protect

these essential programs and develop a plan to mitigate the impact of

potential federal budget cuts. Preparing now is essential to maintaining

continuity of services for our students and ensuring that our rural and

tribal schools do not fall behind.

Under your leadership, I am confident that North Dakota can take the

necessary steps to protect our schools and communities. We must

Urgent Request to Prepare for Federal Budget Cuts Impacting safeguard education and ensure that every child—regardless of

geography or background—has an opportunity to succeed.

Education and Special Needs

Services

Dear Governor Armstrong,

I am writing with concern about the potential elimination of the U.S.

Department of Education and its devastating implications for North

Dakota’s public schools—particularly in our rural and tribal

communities. The potential elimination of the U.S. Department of

Education would have devastating implications for North Dakota’s

rural schools, leaving many communities struggling to provide even

the most basic educational services. In a state like ours—where most

schools are in rural areas, federal funding is not a luxury; it is a

lifeline.

The Department of Education’s role in providing critical funding and

oversight, ensuring that all students, including those with disabilities,

have access to the resources they need to succeed. Without this

federal support, our most vulnerable students would be at risk, and

our schools would struggle to fill the funding gap.

North Dakota’s rural schools rely heavily on federal funding for

special education, early childhood programs, and teacher training.

Programs like Title I provide essential support for schools serving low

-income families, enabling them to hire teachers, reduce class sizes,

and offer after-school programs. The Individuals with Disabilities

Education Act (IDEA) ensures students with disabilities receive

necessary services such as speech therapy, occupational therapy,

and assistive technology. Without federal oversight and funding,

these services could be drastically reduced—or eliminated—leaving

families without critical support and widening the equity gap between

districts.

For our rural and tribal communities, the stakes could not be higher.

Local districts with limited resources would face impossible choices,

cutting essential services that help students overcome barriers to

education. Federal protections for students’ civil rights could also be

weakened, leaving many children without the safeguards they need

to thrive.

Thank you for your attention to this issue. I look forward to working with

you to protect our

students and our schools.

Sincerely,

Lisa Finley DeVille

Representative, North Dakota House of Representatives, District 4A

Flags to be Raised for the Four Bears Pow Wow

May 23-25, 2025

Friday:

Dreke Irwin-Army

Edwin Butch Grady-Army

William Well Sr.-USMC

Saturday:

George Chubby Fox-Army

Lloyd Vigen Sr.-Army

Sunday:

Herbert White Owl-Army

Thomas Young Bird-Army

Russell Deserly-Army

Page 14.

West S egm ent New s Ap ril 2025

Continue District 4 A Representative Lisa DeVille

The Honorable Kelly Armstrong

Governor of North Dakota

600 E Boulevard Ave

Bismarck, ND 58505

Urgent Request to Prepare for Federal Budget Cuts Impacting

Education and Special Needs Services

Dear Governor Armstrong,

I am writing with concern about the potential elimination of the U.S.

Department of Education and its devastating implications for North

Dakota’s public schools—particularly in our rural and tribal communities.

The potential elimination of the U.S. Department of Education would have

devastating implications for North Dakota’s rural schools, leaving many

communities struggling to provide even the most basic educational

services. In a state like ours—where most schools are in rural areas,

federal funding is not a luxury; it is a lifeline.

The Department of Education’s role in providing critical funding and

oversight, ensuring that all students, including those with disabilities, have

access to the resources they need to succeed. Without this federal

support, our most vulnerable students would be at risk, and our schools

would struggle to fill the funding gap.

North Dakota’s rural schools rely heavily on federal funding for special

education, early childhood programs, and teacher training. Programs like

Title I provide essential support for schools serving low-income families,

enabling them to hire teachers, reduce class sizes, and offer after-school

programs. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) ensures

students with disabilities receive necessary services such as speech

therapy, occupational therapy, and assistive technology. Without federal

oversight and funding, these services could be drastically reduced—or

eliminated—leaving families without critical support and widening the

equity gap between districts.

For our rural and tribal communities, the stakes could not be higher. Local

districts with limited resources would face impossible choices, cutting

essential services that help students overcome barriers to education.

Federal protections for students’ civil rights could also be weakened,

leaving many children without the safeguards they need to thrive.

North Dakota’s schools have always been at the heart of our rural

communities. They are where our children learn, grow, and prepare for

the future. With the pending elimination of the U.S. Department of

Education I fear that it may jeopardize that future, shifting an enormous

burden onto already-stretched state and local resources. Our rural

communities would bear the brunt of this shift, and it is our students who

would pay the price.

Given the severity of this potential crisis, I urge your administration to act

swiftly to protect these essential programs and develop a plan to mitigate

the impact of potential federal budget cuts.

Preparing now is essential to maintaining continuity of services for

our students and ensuring that our rural and tribal schools do not

fall behind.

Under your leadership, I am confident that North Dakota can take

the necessary steps to protect our schools and communities. We

must safeguard education and ensure that every child—regardless

of geography or background—has an opportunity to succeed.

Thank you for your attention to this issue. I look forward to working

with you to protect our students and our schools.

Sincerely,

Lisa Finley DeVille

Representative, North Dakota House of Representatives, District

4A

For the Safety of our Kids Please Keep your

Dogs in your Yard

Now that Spring is here and the snow has melted,

we will see more of our students from the

Mandaree School outdoors.

Some of the youth will be outdoors running and

getting into shape for school track or any other

activity that West Segment Recreation

Department and the Mandaree School will have

for the youth.

When our students or kids are outdoors

especially those running we all know there are

always dogs encountered. Some dogs from the

old school area and some of the dogs up by the

store and community center and by the new

school. Not too mention outside of some of the

homes.

For the safety of the youth if you have a dog it

would be good if you would have your dog inside

your home or your fenced yard. If any dog acts

anyway or are vicious to our youth. We will have

no choice but to call the pound. So please keep

your dogs under control for the sake of our youth

and kids who love to play outdoors.

Page 15.

West S egment New s April 2025

Mandaree School

Summary of the EO Meeting with BE and Tribal Consultation

Mandaree School Calendar:

I want to address concerns regarding school voucher programs via Executive April 2025:

Order from Friday’s meeting with BIE and their negative impact on tribal

schools. Mandaree Day School, a tribally controlled grant school on the Fort 10: Title 1 Math/Annual Review 5:00-7:30pm

Berthold Indian Reservation in North Dakota, receives funding from the 10: Parent/Teacher Conferences: 4:30-8:30pm

Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) to support Native students through

11: Snow Day Make up day

education, language, and culture.

The BIE is trying to have a plan for a school voucher program, which redirect

public funds to private or parochial schools, which redirect public funds to

private or parochial schools, which are particularly harmful to rural tribal

schools. Unlike urban areas, where families may have multiple school options,

rural communities have limited educational institutions. Diverting funds from

BIE to Tribal Grant schools reduces their already strained budgets, affecting

teacher recruitment, facility maintenance, textbook updates, and

extracurricular programs. These reductions hinder the ability of tribal schools

to provide a quality education that incorporates Native language and culture,

ultimately contributing to cultural erosion.

16-17: Cognia Impact Conference (Staff Only)

18: Good Friday: No School Employees/Students

21: PTC Conference: Comp Day, No Teachers/

Students

17: K-12 Spring Community Music Program: 11:3012:45pm, Spring Program: 1:00pm

May 2025

3: Prom is from 6pm to10pm

Additionally, financial inequities created by voucher programs. Wealthier

families may be able to afford additional tuition, transportation, and other costs 6: Academic, Art and Athletic Award Banquet at

associated with private schooling, while low-income Native families are left in Mandaree gym: 6:00-10:00pm

underfunded public schools with fewer resources. This further widens

8: Mother/Son Daughter Dance: 6:00-8:00pm

educational disparities and limits opportunities for Native students.

Tribal schools are not just educational institutions; they serve as vital

community centers that provide jobs and promote cultural engagement. When

these schools lose funding, it leads to staff reductions, school closures, and

diminished extracurricular opportunities, weakening community trust in the

education system. Rather than promoting voucher programs, policymakers

should invest in improving rural reservation schools by increasing teacher

salaries, updating technology, broadening curriculum options, and enhancing

infrastructure. Expanding partnerships with higher education institutions and

improving broadband access would also provide more equitable opportunities

for students in remote areas.

While school vouchers are often presented as a solution to educational

inequality, they fail to address the unique challenges of tribal schools and

instead jeopardize their financial stability. To ensure that all Native students

receive a quality education, policymakers should focus on strengthening BIE

and tribal school funding rather than diverting resources elsewhere.

Preserving Native languages and cultural traditions must remain a priority to

prevent the loss of indigenous knowledge and identity.

Respectfully,

Hector Salvador Serna, Ed.D (d) CMAA

Superintendent/High School Principal Mandaree Day School

9: will now be a regular school day for both students

and staff. It will NOT be an Enrichment Day as

previously scheduled.

14: Spring Field Day

15: K-1 Field Trip

16: 2-3 Field Trip

19: 4-5 Field Trip

20: 6-8 Field Trip

22: Last day of school

24: Senior graduation at

Mandaree gym at 1:00pm.

We appreciate your

understanding and support as

we make these adjustments.

If you have any questions,

please contact the school

office at 701.759.3311.

Page 16.

West Segment New s April 2025

NHS College April News

NHSC April Newsletter

Campus Updates:

April 18-April 21st-Campus Closed for Easter Break

Events:

April 1st– Seed Starting/Transplanting in the NHSC Greenhouse @ 5pm

April 4th– All Chief’s Society Xosha Day 10am @the MHA Interpretive Center

April 8th– Career/College Fair 9am-2pm@Johnny Bird

April 9th-Lunch & Learn @noon in Room 37 (Drug & Alcohol Awareness)

April 10th– Bison Harvest @10am in Twin Buttes

April 14th-Financial Aid Easter Egg Hunt @ 8am

April 15th-Corn Grinding and Mush workshop @ 5pm in the Cultural center

April 18th– Maapaa-Sunflower Planting Day @ Four Sisters Garden @9:30am

April 22nd– Meat Grinding Workshop @ 5pm in the cafeteria

April 24th & 25th– NHSC Equine Horsemanship Seminar @ HHR

April 24th-MHA Seed & Food Festival 9am @ Fort Berthold Native American Church

April 24th-Job Service on Campus in front lobby

April 25th-MHA Seed & Food Festival 9am @ Four Sisters Gardens

April 29th– Meat drying workshop 5pm in the cafeteria

April 29th-Storm family study night-4:30pm to 7:30pm

New Employee:

Alex Kraft-Evening Maintenance

West S egment New s April 2025

NHS College April Calendar

Page 17.

West S egm ent New s Ap ril 2025

Page 18.

2025 Mandaree Celebration Information

2025 Mandaree Celebration Committee

2025 Mandaree Celebration Bingo!

The

20 25

M a n d a r e e

Vice President– Megan Danks

Celebration

Secretary– Sienna Spotted Horse (daughter of Cornell

Committee will

Spotted Horse and Kylee Dawes)

have bingo every

Treasurer– Terry Beston

Monday. Join us at

Flag Bearer– Donald McKenzie

the Water Chief

Drum Keeper– OD Draper

Hall with the early birds at 6:00pm and the Regular

Announcer– Aron Abbey Jr. (son of Aron & Hailey Abbey Sr.) session at 6:30pm.

President– Stepanie Fox Alcocer

Arena Director– Shayne Lone Bear (son of Milo Lone Bear & Just a reminder, wakes or any emergency event or

Josy Espino)

bad weather will take precedence over our bingos.

Sr. Princess– Kairence Birdinground (daughter of Tasha

Phelan)

Jr. Princess– Jeneva Goodiron (granddaughter of Harriet

Goodiron)

Headman Dancer-Robin Hall Jr.

Head lady Dancer-Cora Young Bear

Attention Vendors!

Terry Beston, Committee Treasurer, is now accepting

payments for the Upcoming 2025 Mandaree Celebration.

For more information, please contact Terry at (701) 4213339.

We look forward to seeing you in July!

Mark Your Calendars!

The 2025 Mandaree

C e l e b r a t i o n

Committee will be

having a big bingo

On Monday, April 21st

at the Four Bears

Casino ball room.

Early birds will be at

1:00pm

The Regular session will start at 1:30pm

Page 19.

West S egment New s April 2025

For Your Information

Wolf Chief Store & Café Regular Hours

Wolf Chief Store

Native Printing LLC is Open

For All Your Printing Needs

Hours:

7:00am-8pm Native Enrolled Member in the Mandaree Area:

Monday to Friday.

We offer the following:

Saturday and Sunday Open Embroidery

at 10:00am-6:00pm

Sublimation

Wolf Chief Store number is Vinyl Heat Press

(701)759-3140.

DTF (Direct to Fill)

Hay Draw Café opens 7:00 Silk Screen Services

am to 3:00pm Monday to Phone: (701) 421-1027

Friday.

Email: nativeprinting_nt@yahoo.com

Hay Draw Café is closed on

weekends.

Mandaree Clinic

Lindsey Fox Sepeta will be Clinic is open Monday-Friday: 8:00am4:30pm: Closed for Lunch 12pm-1pm

there if you have any

questions you can call her

FNP: is in the Mandaree Clinic on Tuesday

421-6347.

and Wednesday only.

Mandaree One Stop

Foot Clinic on Wednesday, at the

As of March 24 Mandaree One Stop will be Mandaree Clinic please call 759-3422 or

open 8:00am-4:00pm.

Sharlene at 627-7977 to schedule your

We only have 2 employees at this time. This appointment.

may change if a new employee is hired.

If you need more information you can call

(701) 759-3609

Numbers for Your Convenience

Mandaree Post Office has a new Post Master.

Laurel Parker

Water Chief Hall : (701) 759-3377

Post Office Hours Monday-Friday: 12:00-4:00pm

Wolf Chief Store & More: (701) 759-3140

West Segment Elders Advocate Rosie

Johnson: at (701) 759-3377 ext.227 Her

cell (701) 421-8519.

Saturday Hours: 11:00am-1:00pm

Main Phone Line: (701) 353-8854

St. Anthony’s Catholic Church Schedule:

Saturday: 7:30 pm New Town

Sunday: 8:30am New Town

Sunday: 11:00am Mandaree

Mandaree One Stop: (701) 759-3609

Mandaree Clinic: Monday-Friday from

8:00am to 4:30pm phone 759-3422

Mandaree School: 759-3311

West S egment New s Ap ril 2025

Page 20.

For Your Information

Beginning

this

month March 2025.

The

Mandaree

Community Board

will be holding their

monthly meetings

every

first

Wednesday of the

month. Community

meetings will be held at the Water Chief Hall.

Mandaree residents are invited and encouraged to

attend!

Feel Free to contact these board members if you

have any concerns or questions:

President: Harriet Goodiron~ 421-5685

Vice President: Kelly Bradfield~421-7842

Secretary: Marle Baker~421-1423

•

Our Next Meeting will be on Wednesday,

May 7th:

West Segment Community Board

Comprehensive Community Needs Survey:

You can pick up a Survey to fill out at the following

places in West Segment. They can be dropped off

at the West Segment Security Office. The deadline

date is May 1, 2025

•

One Stop Store

•

Wolf Chief Store

•

Mandaree School

•

West Segment Tribal Office

Email: hgoodiron@mhanation.com

Kbradfield@mhanation.com

marlebaker@hotmail.com

howardfettig1@gmail.com

West S egment New s April 2025

Page 21.

For Your Information

Message From Water Chief Hall

Any items left at the Water Chief

Hall will be disposed of after (30)

days.

If anyone has any clothing it is to

be picked up as soon as you can

or it will be thrown out.

AA Meeting:

Every Friday at 7:00pm

At the CARE Building.

Phone number at the

CARE Building: (701) 759-3089

You may also contact the

following people:

Verdell Thunderhorse: (715) 501-8491

Donald McKenzie: (701) 690-0308

Todd McKenzie: (701) 502-9158

Page 22.

West Segment New s Ap ril 2025

For Your Information

Job Openings In Mandaree

Roads Department:

CDL Driver/Heavy Equipment Operator – Mandaree X2

Location: Mandaree, ND

Management: No

Description: Regular, Full-Time, Benefits

Pay: $24.00/ Per Hour

Deadline: Open Till Filled

Solid Waste:

Transfer Tech

Location: Mandaree

Description: Basic

Pay: $18.38 per hour

HeadStart:

Cook-Mandaree/Teacher

Location: Mandaree

Description: Regular, full time benefits

Pay: DOQ

Deadline: Open till filled

COMMUNITY HEALTH REP RESENTATIVES:

CHR - Four Bears/Mandaree

Location: Four Bears ND

Management: No

Description: Regular, Full-Time, Benefits

Pay: $20.00-23.00/per hour

Deadline: Open until filled

Applications must be submitted to the Human Resource

Department-Recruitment Team before the deadline with all

required documents or it will not be accepted. Applications are

available online at

w w w. m h a n a t i o n . c o m /

mhanationemployment. Applications are valid for 6 months.

For questions regarding the application process, please call

(701) 627-4781 or email: recruitment@mhanation.com

EMS Job Opening

We need Spring/Summer/Event drivers. Part time/full time

Must have a clean driving record.

18 plus years old.

Free CPR training and get certified as an Emergency Medical

Responder.

$336 a day for a 24-hr shift.

West S egment New s April 2025

Page 23.

War Bonnet Parade Schedule for Fort Berthold Segments

Page 24.

West S egment New s Ap ril 2025

For Your Information

Page 25.

West S egment New s April 2025

For Your Information

West Segment New s Ap ril 2025

Page 26.

For Your Information

Extended walk-in hours for EMHC emergency dental care at the New Town facility.

Here are the new walk-in hours for dental emergencies:

Mondays: 7 am - 10 am; 1 pm - 3 pm

Tuesdays: 7 am - 10 am: 1 pm - 3 pm

Wednesday: 1 pm - 3 pm

Thursdays: 7 am - 10 am: 1 pm - 3 pm

Fridays: 8 am - 10 am: 1 pm - 3 pm

Page 27.

West S egment New s April 2025

For Your Information

Page 28.

West S egment New s Ap ril 2025

Page 29.

West S egment New s April 2025

For Your Information

Page 30.

West S egment New s Ap ril 2025

Obituary

Theresa Gail Plenty Chief iixohgadagi-Sage, 67, Bismarck, North Dakota, made her grand entry to join her family on April 4,

2025, in Bismarck, North Dakota. Theresa was born July 25 of 1957, in Minot North Dakota to Jim Plenty Chief and Mary Jo

Plenty Chief-Packineau. Theresa Plenty Chief is a member of the Prairie Chicken clan and a descendant of ‘Ash Tree on a

Hill’ and Awahuu band of Arikara. As a young girl, Theresa attended various schools, making many friends in Mandaree,

ND, Lame Deer MT, and graduated from Flandreau Indian School in 1975. While attending school in Flandreau, she met and

married Tom Mancha, and out of their union their son Thomas Jay Plenty Chief was born. Theresa later parted ways with

Tom Mancha and decided to pursue a degree in geological engineering. In pursuit of her education, she attended NDSU,

Haskell University, and KU. With the knowledge Theresa learned, she entered employment in the oilfield as a pipeliner,

union laborer, and various other jobs.

In 1984, Theresa was named ‘Sage’ by the late Carrie Brady. She was very proud of her name and the understanding behind

it. In 1986, Theresa was involved in a life-changing car accident in Minot, ND. Through the prayers of many ceremonies,

churches, family members, and friends, she found the strength and healing to continue on living. Following her recovery,

she relocated to Fargo ND, with her mother. In 1988, Theresa was blessed with motherhood again, bringing Jonah Daniel

Plenty Chief into this world. Theresa did her best as a single mother with her mother Mary Jo as support, and the family

moved to Bismarck, ND. While in Bismarck, Theresa spent her time in recovery groups at the DLC. Theresa enjoyed going

to bingo and the casino and traveling with her mother. Theresa purchased her second home in 2018 and was very proud of

this achievement as a homeowner.

Throughout the years, Theresa was a very spiritual woman with her faith in the Native American Church, MHA Ceremonial

ways, and Christianity. Theresa enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her children and grandchildren. She loved

having gatherings in her home for Christmas and holidays, always ensuring everyone got a present. After her mother's

passing, Theresa relocated to Edgewood Vista Assisted Living where she spent the remainder of her days. Theresa was a

testimony to the power of prayer and God’s word. She carried the teachings of love, kindness, compassion, and gentle

teachings. Theresa was a true embodiment to her Indian name Sage; she was a medicine to those who paid attention to her

and brought healing to all.

Theresa is survived by her sons, Thomas Jay Plenty Chief (Lori Plenty Chief), Jonah Daniel Plenty Chief. Siblings: Claire Bald

Eagle, Gordan Plenty Chief, Greg Laplante (Mary), Carol King, Jeanine Rogstad, Lenora Hale- Sustayta (John) Grandchildren:

Elaine Plenty Chief, Thomas Plenty Chief Jr (Antoinette Antonio), Sahnish Plenty Chief, Dion Taylor Bolman (Tiana DuBois),

Pierce Plenty Chief, Quintin Plenty Chief, Alivia Paige Bolman (Jaston Howling Wolf), Xavier Enno, Javin Clyde Plenty Chief,

Logan Plenty Chief, Silas Plenty Chief. Great-grandchildren: Skylee Plenty Chief, Aaliyah Plenty Chief, Mary Plenty Chief,

Thomas Jay Plenty Chief III, Taylor Benson, Miraxubaawia Bolman.

Proceeded in Death by: Mother- Mary Jo Packineau, Father- Jim Plenty Chief Sr, Sister LeeAnn Plenty Chief, Maternal

Grandparents- Jeanette Smith and Richard Wilson Packineau, Paternal Grandparents- Mary Agnes Plenty Chief and Wesley

Plenty Chief.

Page 31.

West S egment New s April 2025

Obituary

Celebration Of Life Forever in our Hearts

Theresa Gail Plenty Chief

Iixhogadagi~Sage

July 25, 1957~April 4, 2025

Wake Services:

Monday, April 7, 2025 at 5:00pm

Funeral Services:

Tuesday, April 8, 2025 at 10:00am

Living Waters Family Worship Center

Living Waters Family Worship Center

Mandaree, North Dakota

Mandaree, North Dakota

Officiates:

Jackie Sterm & Barb Miller

Active Pallbearers:

Thomas Jay Plentychief Jr. Sahnish Gage Plentychief

Dion Bolman

Quintin Nishu Plentychief

Xavier Enno

Samuel Burr

Rocky Wilkie Jr.

Westly Bald Eagle

Senior Pallbearer:

Reverta Dragswolf

Honorary Pallbearers:

Shell Creek Native American Church, Medicine Butte Sundance, GAPS Inc.

Dakota Center For Independent Living, Barney & Merle Botone, Church Assembly of

God, Living Waters Family Worship Center and all her friends at Bingo-Rama and

Pastor– Isaac Sevile.

Interment:

Ebenezer Congregational Cemetery

Mandaree, North Dakota

Page 32.

West Segment New s Ap ril 2025

Obituary

Marjorie Galeener (Hunts Along), given the traditional name (Blue Rose) Micgaba`a arura do`hi, was born on August 6, 2021 to Danette Hunts

Along in Minot, North Dakota. She came into the world as a member of the Three Clan Marjorie was raised in New Town and Mandaree by her

family. She was named after her great-great grandmother, Marjorie Hunts Along.

Marjorie was an adorable, loving, and playful girl with a smile that could brighten anyone’s day. Her favorite color was purple. She enjoyed

playing with balloons and bubbles, and she had a special bond with her brother and sister.

Often, she would sit with her brother even in the smallest chair. Marjorie loved watching movies like Boss baby, Toy Story and Moana with her

siblings. She also like to play indoors and would dance around with her family while her mom tossed balloons into the air.

On Wednesday, March 19, 2025, our sweet three year old baby, Marjorie Joann Galeener gained her heavenly wings, in Stanley, North Dakota.

She was greeted by great grandparents; Marjorie Hunts Along, Vincient Hunts Along, Basil Hunts Along, Meridith Baker and Audrey McArthur.

Grandparents; Gerald Hunts Along, Mark Hunts Along, Ryan Hunts Along, Vincent Hunts Along Jr., Pamela Baker, and Inez Baker, Infant sister–

Shyann Renner, Uncle Basil Hunts Along. Cousins; Court Hunts Along and John Bercier, and many extended family members.

Marjorie’s Loving Family; Mother-Danette Hunts Along, Brother; Gerald Renner, sister; Aaliyah Renner.

Grandpa-Wilbur ‘Willie” Hunts Along,

Aunts; Natasha Hunts Along and Megan Hunts Along.

Uncles; Vincent Hunts Along and Wilbur Hunts Along Jr.

Cousins; Basil Hunts Along Jr., Emily Mandan, Jeslyn Hunts Along, Pamela Hunts Along, Mark Hunts Along, Phoenix Hunts Along, Nevaeh

Hunts Along, Bentley Bercier, Bryleigh and Breyleigh Hunts Along, Shania Hunts Along, Daniel Hunts Along, Zoe Hunts Along and Vincent

“Chenzo” Hunts Along.

West S egment New s April 2025

Page 33.

Obituary

Forever Loved

Marjorie Joann Galeener

Micgaba’a arura do’hi

(Blue Rose)

August 6, 2021~March 19, 2025

Wake Services:

Monday, March 31, 2025 at 5:00pm

Funeral Services:

Tuesday, April 1, 2025 at 10:00am

St. Anthony Catholic Church Mission

St. Anthony Catholic Church Mission

Mandaree, North Dakota

Mandaree, North Dakota

Celebrant:

Father Roger A. Synek

Senior Pallbearer:

Lindsey Fox

Active Pallbearers:

Chenzo Hunt Along Walter Rock

Mark Rock

Duane Budreau

Paul Williamson

Elijah Rock

Honorary Pallbearers:

Rosalyn Hunts Along Tateona Hunts Along

Marjorie Big Pond

And all of Marjorie’s family and relatives

Burial:

Hunts Along Family Cemetery

Mandaree, North Dakota

Page 34.

West S egment New s April 2025

Obituary

Sweet Grass Woman ~ Macuaca mia’sh

Lana Hazel Emma Conklin “Bubbles” was born July 18, 1979, to Edward Flys Away and Emma White Owl in Watford

City, ND.

Lana was a member of the Dripping Dirt clan and a child of the Chicken Clan.

Bubbles grew up in Killdeer, ND on her Dad’s Tom Edward’s farm. She loved running around on the farm and taking

care of all the farm animals. She helped with the farm work and feeding the chickens, cows, horses and garden work.

She always tried to beat her sister Missy in track and went to State that year. She loved to brag all about it. She loved

nature and watching the birds. Bubbles loved riding side by sides. Her favorite thing to do was to go to pow wows and

watch the fancy shawl dancers. She loved her cigs and going to family events.

She always had to have her coffee in the mornings to start her day. She also couldn’t live without her expensive

seafood boils or her crossword puzzles.

She loved taking care of her kids and grandkids. She was the best at wrestling and had a heart of gold for everyone

around her.

Lana is survived by her children: Isiah (Mariah) Finley, Tamira (Manny), Kaci (Conrad), Jacquelyn, Ben (Kelly) Heart,

Jake Thomas.

Grandchildren: Alana Young Bear, Martin Finley, Tenaya Rush, Draco Finley, Stacey Demarce, Ava Lightall, Karsyn

Lightall-Ortiz, Iris Dubois.

Lana’s Brothers and Sisters: Jassen (Toni) White Owl, Nina Finley, Allen Edwards, Avis Finley (Sister-in-law),

Mathilda (Howard) Fettig, Mindy (Matt) Esquibel, Effie Poitra, Cherly Beldarde.

Preceded In Death by:

Her husband Jack Conklin, Michael Lightall, daughter Brooke Heart, brothers; Edward Finley, Ricky Finley, Thomas

Edwards Jr., mother-Emma White Owl, father, Edward Flys Away and Thoms Edwards Sr.

Page 35.

West S egment New s April 2025

Obituary

In Loving Memory Of

Lana Hazel Emma Conklin “Bubbles” Macuaca mis’sh Sweet Grass Woman

July 18. 1979~March 17, 2025

Wake Services:

Friday, March 21, 2025 At 5:00pm

Funeral Services:

Saturday, March 22, 2025 at 11:00am

Water Chief Hall, Mandaree, ND

Water Chief Hall, Mandaree, ND

Officiating:

Pastor Kevin Finley

Music:

Damon Hopkins

Active Pallbearers:

Brandon Edwards

Donovan Gilbert

Jayden White Owl

Alano Antonio

Holy Horse Lone Fight

Riley Esquibel

Raymond Yellow Wolf

Emery Esquibel

Honorary Pallbearers:

Kathy Poitra

Adam Fredericks

Abel Feltes

Antoinette Kitagawa

Final Resting Place:

White Owl Family Cemetery

Mandaree, ND

Senior Pallbearer:

Iris Jackson

Farewell:

Tristan Baker

Page 36.

West S egm ent New s Ap ril 2025

On behalf of West Segment we extend our

sincere condolences to the family and

relatives of Lana Hazel Emma Conklin aka

“Bubbles." Marjorie Galeener and Theresa

Gail Plenty Chief. Our heartfelt prayers are

with these families and their relatives.

We would also like to extend my

condolences to the other segments who

have lost loved ones.

From: Councilwoman Gladys Sherry Turner-Lone Fight &

Personal

On behalf of West Segment

we would like to say “Happy

Easter” to everyone far and

near!

Have a wonderful time with

your family and relatives in

celebrating this holiday.

From Councilwoman Gladys

Sherry Turner-Lone Fight &

Personal.

Happy Birthday Wishes To Our Elders!!

Veronica Serdahl

Ethan Hall

Claryce Mandan

Sheila Jenner

Clayton Danks

Eldora Poitra

JoAnn Keehn

Paula Danks

Clement Baker Jr.

Please forgive us if we forgot to mention your name, it was

not done intentionally.