# LOOK FOR US ON SOCIAL MEDIA > Briefs, arguments, decisions, and more. URL: https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/documents/tribal%3Aunited_keetoowah_cherokee%3A2dcfc0ac9af97d57 ## Record - **Collection:** Tribal code - **Document type:** Tribal code ## Text LOOK FOR US ON SOCIAL MEDIA AND AT WWW.UKB-NSN.GOV GIDUWA CHEROKEE NEWS November 2025 Newly crowned Miss and Jr. Miss IHS Funding Paves the Way for Keetoowah to represent the next UKB Tribal Health System Growth two years with Direct Patient Care Introducing Miss Keetoowah Grayci Spradlin and Jr. Miss Keetoowah J’Leeanna Ramsey 2025 Miss Keetoowah Grayci Spradlin 2025 Jr. Miss Keetoowah J’Leeanna Ramsey “J’Lee” Ramsey. I am 13 years old and currently in the 8th grade at MaryetTAHLEQUAH, Okla- The Unitta Public School, where I am taking ed Keetoowah Band would like to all honors classes this year. I proudly announce its new Miss Keetoowah come from the Tahlequah District Grayci Spradlin and Jr. Miss Keeand belong to the Wolf Clan. I am the toowah J’Leeanna Ramsey to repdaughter of Jerrad and Tycilla Ramresent as young ambassadors of the sey, the granddaughter of Rodney tribe. Meet the girls who will be repre- and Sandra Smith, Juanita Proctor, Robert Ramsey III, and Darla Chansenting UKB: My name is Grayci Spradlin, and dler, and the great-granddaughter of I am the 2025–2027 Miss Keetoowah. Woodrow Proctor, Dianne Guthrie, Robert and Mona Ramsey, and Linda Over the past two years, I have had Chandler. I have two brothers, Jaelon the opportunity of representing as and Jre’Sun. the 2023–2025 Jr. Miss Keetoowah, Alongside my studies, I am inand I’m excited to continue this jourvolved in the Service and Leadership ney as Miss Keetoowah. Club and Gifted and Talented proI am 18 years old and live in the grams. I participate in many sports, Tahlequah District. I’m currently a senior at Tahlequah High School and including softball—where my team was the ORES State Runner-Up in also attend ICTC on the Tahlequah 2025—cross country, where we were campus, where I’m working toward ORES State Runner-Up in both 2024 getting my CMA and certification in and 2025, basketball, track, and Phlebotomy. My parents are JB and Krissy Spradlin, and I’m the youngest archery, in which I helped my team win the ORES State Championship of three children. for the past two years. Outside of As Miss Keetoowah, I hope to advocate for the importance of Indian school, I also play travel softball for Vision Elite 14U and AAU basketball Child Welfare (ICW) and help give for B2B. back to my community by helping It is an honor to represent my organize events for Native children family, my school, my community, currently in the system. and my tribe! Jr. Miss Keetoowah J’Leeanna LANI HANSEN, Senior Reporter On September 16, 2025, Chief Jeff Wacoche marked a momentous milestone for the Tribe by signing a historic agreement with the Indian Health Service. The agreement expands the UKB Tribal Health System beyond its well-established Behavioral Health and Purchased & Referred Care programs to include direct patient care under the Hospitals and Health Clinics Program. “This agreement is historic as it secures funding and line authority from the Indian Health Service to operate the UKB Tribal Health System beyond our fantastic Behavioral Health and Contract Health programs,” said Chief Wacoche. “We’ve worked for years to secure this agreement, and we continue to plan strategically and execute for our Keetoowah People. This agreement was the next critical step in that endeavor.” Previously, the Purchased & Referred Care program served only enrolled UKB Members. Under the new Hospitals and Health Clinics funding, the UKB Tribal Health System can now provide services to any Native person enrolled in a federally recognized Tribe, significantly broadening access to care across the Oklahoma Cherokee Reservation. “This agreement gives us the ability to grow our capacity and strengthen access to care across the Oklahoma Cherokee Reservation,” Chief Wacoche added. “We have providers on staff in Behavioral Health who will help us phase in clinical services, and this expansion will also create new jobs and economic opportunities. We ask our members to be patient as we move forward together on our own terms. We’ll share additional information as it becomes available.” Healthcare has long been a cornerstone of Tribal sovereignty. By expanding its ability to deliver direct patient care, the UKB reinforces its right to self-determination while ensuring that Keetoowahs and Native people across the reservation can access the services they need to live healthier, stronger lives. Chief Wacoche expressed gratitude to the IHS leadership, saying, “I thank Secretary Kennedy and the entire leadership team at IHS for their focus on the health needs of the UKB and the Oklahoma Cherokee Reservation. I am proud to work with colleagues committed to advancing accessible high-quality health care for Indian country.” UKB-administered health programs have already demonstrated significant success. Echota Behavioral Health is widely recognized in the Tulsa and Cherokee communities as a leading provider, consistently ranked for quality care. Since its launch on January 1, 2025, the UKB’s Purchased and Referred Care program has served over 1,000 patients, underscoring both the demand for expanded services and the Tribe’s growing capacity to meet the health needs of its people. With this historic agreement, the UKB Tribal Health System takes a confident step forward, building on a strong foundation and looking ahead to a future where high-quality healthcare is accessible to more Native people across the Oklahoma Cherokee Reservation. ORES Division-3 State Champions: Kenwood Lady Indians Kenwood softball makes incredible return to the ORES to claim their first state title. team and the community got behind Keetoowah Band is proud to have and when to be serious, they had a LANI HANSEN, Senior Reporter two state champs Willow Billey and them. They had a great season.” goal set and had their eyes on that KENWOOD, Okla- Returning Les Mouse. After winning the state championgoal.” after their second season, the Kenships, the team was happy but happiThe state champions team had wood Lady Indians Softball Team er to go home as State Champ Bianka a record of 24-1, losing against the has claimed their first title for the O’Field stated. Zion Lady Hornets in the Kenwood Oklahoma Rural Elementary Schools State Champ Ceegyn Sapp added, Festival. (ORES) Division 3 state champion“I want to thank our fans for support“The one loss was definitely an ship. ing us, if we ever messed up, they eye opener for us,” Foreman said. “A “We went into the state tournawould encourage us to get back up couple weeks later we played them ment as one,” Head Coach Doo Foreand cheer us on. It was great seeagain beating them one game, then man said. “I always praise the Lord ing them stay with us since the first they beat us. But other than that, before the game and after, whether game.” they had fun playing ball.” we make good plays or bad plays, Kenwood Public School is repreThe record this year did not win or lose. We always put God first.” sented by multiple tribes, the United compare to last year, the team went Chief Wacoche and Saline District The Kenwood Lady Indians State undefeated all season until the state Rep Smoke with the ORES Div. 3 State Champions Softball Team is coached championships. The coaches knew Champs, the Kenwood Lady Indians. by Doo Foreman and Stephanie from this, that all eyes were on KenCampbell. This was their first year wood. as softball coaches for Kenwood. Going into the state championThis year Kenwood Public School ship games, Kenwood had a total of celebrates its 100th year, under the six games in one day. Their first game leadership of Superintendent Jerod Phillips. The state title is a monumen- started at 10 a.m. and the finals were played at 10 p.m. tal achievement in school history, in “It was well worth it at the end, just the second season of softball. and we had a great fan base” both “I loved watching these girls grow coaches said. in the game from the beginning to Chief Jeff Wacoche and Saline District In that fan base was Mr. Phillips the end,” Assistant Coach Campbell Rep Charles Smoke with UKB State ORES Div. 3 State Champs, the Kenwood as he stated, “we’re all proud of the stated. “They knew when to laugh Champs Les Mouse and Willow Billey. Lady Indians. GIDUWAH CHEROKEE NEWS Assistant Chief Amos Ketcher aketcher@ ukb-nsn.gov 918-457-9645 Secretary Caleb Grimmett-Smith csmith@ ukb-nsn.gov Treasurer Sonja Gourd sgourd@ ukb-nsn.gov Wado to everyone who made this year’s Celebration such a success. I am so proud we were able to celebrate 75 years since constitutional ratification and celebrating Keetoowah history since time immemorial. Each year, I leave the weekend reminded of the strength and unity of our Keetoowah People. The energy, the stories, and the pride in who we are – all of it fills my heart. None of it happens without months of work from our staff and the many volunteers who give their time to make the weekend run smoothly. From administration staff, John Hair Cultural Center team members, Lighthorse, vendors, and countless volunteers who helped – thank you. You made us proud. Our work to defend and protect Keetoowah rights continues – in Washington, D.C., and at every level of government. We remain steadfast November Edition Chief's Corner JEFF WACOCHE Principal Chief jwacoche@ukb-nsn.gov in ensuring that the United Keetoowah Band is treated with the respect and recognition our sovereignty deserves. Whether it’s advocating for fair treatment in legislation, protecting our land and economic rights, or securing needed health care funding, we will not stop standing up for the future of our people. A recent highlight was finalizing our new agreement with the Indian Health Service for Hospitals and Health Clinics funding. This marks a historic step forward for the UKB Health System – expanding care beyond Behavioral Health and Con- NOVEMBER 2025 tract Health to direct patient care. It’s the result of years of advocacy, and it will mean better services for more Keetoowah families. We’ve proven time and again that when we move with integrity and purpose, progress follows. And finally, I want to take a moment to recognize Blaine Bailey, whose music continues to make our Keetoowah People proud. Many of you have seen him perform, and we’re proud of his participation on The Road – a new CBS series executive-produced by Blake Shelton. Blaine’s songs are grounded in Keetoowah life and values, and his new album Indian Country carries that spirit even further. He’s showing the world what it means to be Keetoowah – rooted in tradition, driven by purpose, and always finding strength in where we come from. Chief Jeff Wacoche Cooweescoowee Dist. Clifford Wofford 918-822-1953 Delaware Dist. Tishaleta Smith-Guevara 918-718-4366 tguevara@ ukb-nsn.gov Flint Dist. Frankie Still 918-507-1822 Goingsnake Dist. Willie Christie 918-822-3803 LUNCH SERVED MONDAY - THURSDAY 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM, ALL MEALS MUST BE PICKED UP BY 11:00 AM - 11:30 AM BREAKFAST SERVED FRIDAY 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM, ALL MEALS MUST BE PICKED UP BY 10:00 AM – 10:30 AM $1.00 FOR EACH TO GO MEAL...ALL MEALS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE* NOVEMBER 2025 UKB TITLE VI - JIM PROCTOR ELDER NUTRITION CENTER MENU UKB 55+, SPOUSES = FREE, CDIB 55+ & SPOUSE MUST CONRIBUTE TO COST OF MEAL $1.00 EACH MEAL, GUEST $5.00/Child 0-12 $3.00 November 2025 Illinois Dist. Janelle Adair 918-457-7067 Sun “As a Nation, we remember and celebrate Veterans Day, to honor the military Veterans” Mon 2 Daylight Savings Ends 3 Jellyfish Day Goulash Mixed Vegetables Garlic Toast Fruit 9 Art Museum Day Saline Dist. Charles Smoke 918-457-7071 Tue We d Jim Proctor Elder Inclement Weather Policy “Red Chrysanthemun” Community Center If weather is bad there will be no home 918-871-2747 delivered meals due to 918-871-2860 safety of our driver. 16 Nat. Button Day 23 Stir-up Sunday Thu Fri “Yellow Topaz” “Full Beaver Moon” 1 Sat UKB Regular Council Meeting 10 AM UKB Justice Center ALL SAINTS DAY 4 Election Day Homemade Chili Hominy Cornbread Pineapple Cake 5 Bonfire Night Baked Potato Soup 6 Dog Film Festival 7 Hug A Bear Day Chicken Dumpling Biscuits/Gravy Ham/Cheese Sandwich Green Beans Bacon, Eggs Crackers Corn Casserole Hash Browns Fresh Fruit Fruit Salad Juice, Fruit 10 Veterans Appreciation 11 Veterans Day BBQ Pulled Pork on Bun, Baked Beans Potato Salad Pickle, Pumpkin Pie T6 Closed 17 Take A Hike Day 18 Mickey Mouse Spaghetti w/Meat Steak Fajitas Sauce Corn on Cob Italian Green Beans, Sweet Potato Garlic Roll, Dessert Fresh Pineapple 12 Soup for the Soul Meatloaf, Mashed Potatoes/Gravy Carrots, Hot Roll 8 Talk Money Day 13 Sadie Hawkins Day 14 Nat. Pickle Day 15 Am. Recycles Day Brown Beans TITLE VI CLOSED Fried Potatoes EMPLOYEE Cornbread THANKSGIVING Pumpkin Walnut Cake Fruit Salad 19 Have a Bad Day Turkey N Dressing Mashed Potatoes w/ Gravy, Green Beans Roll, Pumpkin Pie 20 Use Lee Stuff Day 21 World Hello Day 22 Go for a Ride November Birthday CLOSED Cheeseburgers KITCHEN French Fries CLEANING Cake/Ice Cream DAY 24 Nat. Fairy Bread 25 Gazpacho Soup 26 National Cake Day 27 THANKSGIVING 28 BLACK FRIDAY 29 Chocolates Day When Tahlequah Chicken Wings/Dip Baked Potato Schools Are Closed – Cucumber/Tomato w/Fixings, Salad, We May Be Closed Commodity Cheese Salad, Tater Kegs Broccoli/Cauliflower Due to Weather Cornbread, Melons Fresh Fruit C r a c k e r s , F r u i t 30 Blue Beanie Please wear a mask, stay home if you feel sick! Thank you, Title VI Staff - 2% Milk, bread and fruit served daily “Full Beaver Moon” on the November 5th - It’s also the start of cold and flu season, so stay warm with a cozy fire! “November is American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the tradition and languages in our communities” This month brings blustery days with chilly nights! Enjoy your family on Thanksgiving with turkey, fall foods and pumpkin pie! Chrysanthemum represents cheerfulness, a red one conveys “I love you”, white symbolizes truth or pure love, a yellow one indicates slight love! “If trees show buds in November, the winter will last until May” “Ice in November brings mud in December” “Barred Owls calling late in the fall signal a rough winter” “Flowers in bloom late in Autumn indicate a bad winter” PLEASE CHECK ON Hamburger Stew YOUR ELDER’S Hominy Sequoyah Dist. Donald Adair 918-931-0941 UKB Tribal Enrollment 18300 W. Keetoowah Circle Tahlequah, OK 74464 Open Monday-Friday | 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tahlequah Dist. Sammy Allen 918-931-0177 As with other federally recognized tribes, the United Keetoowah Band has its unique process to determine membership. Visit ukb-nsn.gov/membership for Enrollment documents and a brief FAQ section of the most common questions about UKB membership. Find forms for Membership Applicaitions, CDIB Instructions, Update Your Information and UKB Relinquishment. For additional questions, or if you are a member who has lost your en-rollment card, call the UKB Enrollment Office Registrar Amanda Stopp at 918-871-2797. Questions concerning history, cultural practices, cloth-ing, language or ceremonies are better suited for our John Hair Cultural Center and Museum. Visit ukb-nsn.gov/john-hair-cultural-center-muse-um or call 918-871-2866. NOVEMBER 2025 Celebration Quilt Show Successful GIDUWAH CHEROKEE NEWS Marilyn Craig, Museum Marketing Coordinator TAHLEQUAH - The John Hair Cultural Center and Keetoowah Museum staff held their first quilt show during the 75th Annual Keetoowah Celebration. It was a successful event, with a steady stream of visitors and there was a lot of interest cultivated by having the show. To enter the show, you had to be an exclusive Keetoowah member, and each entry cost $5. Contestants could enter up to two entries in each of the four categories: Mini Quilt –small scale quilts under twenty-four” x 24”, Contemporary /Art Quilt, Collaborative/Community Quilt, and Traditional Quilt. $1,325 was available in cash prizes, which paid $100 for first place, $75 for second and $50 for third. The Best of Show Award was $200, and the People’s Choice winner earned $225. In the Mini Quilt category, Never Give Up Keetoowah won first place. The techniques used include paper pieced and embroidery. “This quilt was inspired by the sacred fire. “To me the fire represents survival, identity, and the unbroken spirit of our people. This quilt honors that flame: a living presence that cannot be extinguished, reminding us of who we are, where we come from, and the strength we carry forward as Keetoowah people,” said winner Toni Workman. In the Contemporary/Art Quilt category, Rainbow Chroma took the top prize for $100. and won Best of Show, with an additional $200 cash prize for that win. Toni Workman made the quilt, and she said, “I was extremely intrigued by this circle quilt pattern. It took me about a year to start it because I was so intimidated. I made it for my daughter, who likes all things rainbow.” Second place went to Double Bear Claw. Quiltmaker Lena Deere said, “I picked the bear claw because I believe in the strength of the bear.” Third place in the Contemporary/Art Quilt category was Butterfly Quilt by Betty Holcomb. “It’s a good way to preserve vintage hankies our elders used back in the 50s and 60s. This quilt was hand-pieced and appliqued by hand and hand quilted,” said Holcomb. “The Butterfly Quilt was the most popular with our visitors at the show. People had the opportunity to vote for their favorite quilt, and Betty Holcomb is one of our featured Keetoowah quilters. I was happy to see so many people show up in support for her,” said Kyndal Aimerson, museum assistant and show organizer. Vanelope’s Blankie was the winning entry for the Collaborative Quilt. Tribal member Toni Workman, along with her six-year-old daughter, Hannah Workman created the quilt. The Collaborative/ Community Quilt is a quilt created by two or more individuals, other family members, or community groups. It emphasizes collective effort and intergenerational work. The quilt story is, “A quilt that Hannah and I (her mother) made for her favorite stuffed rabbit. Betty Holcomb stands beside her “Butterfly Quilt.” This quilt was hand pieced, appliqued and hand quilted. This quilt won the “People’s Choice” award for the show. Hannah Workman, 6, stands beside her Collaboration Quilt, that she made with her mom, which won 1st place in that category. Toni Workman stands beside her Rainbow Chroma, which won first in the Contemporary /Art Quilt category and “Best in Show.” This is Hannah’s first quilt project. She selected her fabrics and the block layout and did all the piecing herself. We both worked on the quilting and binding together. She is six years old,” said Workman. In the Traditional Quilt category, quilts titled Hannah’s Fairytales and Sister’s Star, won first and second respectively. Toni Workman made both quilts. The story on Hannah’s Fairytales is “I worked on this quilt for two and a half years. We tried to find fabrics for all of Hannah’s favorite princesses. The books are paper-pieced, and the rest of the quilt is my design. I had a goal to meet a certain size for it to fit her big girl bed,” said Toni. “On Sister’s Star, it is a traditional Lonestar pattern. It will have two sister quilts eventually made with the same fabrics in different places that I will give to by sisters, hence Sister’s Star,” Workman said. Museum staff served cookies and lemonade, tea, and coffee to the visitors. At the end of the day, the winner of the beautiful floral star quilt raffle was announced, as Dalton Thompson, a current student at NSU. When asked about future quilt shows, Kyndal Toni Workman won two more prizes in the Mini Quilt category. Never Give Up Keetoowah (on right) won first place, and Purple Melody won second place. Lena Deere stands beside her quilt Double Bear Claw, which won 2nd place in the Contemporary/Art Quilt category. Aimerson said, “Yes, there will be a second show. We started this event to gather attention for our Keetoowah quiltmakers. Next year we have more Keetoowah’s who plan to participate, and we can establish it as an annual event.” UKB Title VI Program attends National Tribal Health Conference LANI HANSEN, Senior Reporter TAHLEQUAH, Okla- The staff of the United Keetoowah Band Title VI program attended the National Tribal Health Conference at Chandler, Arizona in September. Title VI Director Rebecca Dreadfulwater said they received a Public Health Grant for the program which allowed them to attend this conference. She was able to take her staff Roman Jay Ridge, Ronald Holden and Tara O’Field. The event was held at the Wild Horse Pass Event Center. The event theme was “Culture is Medicine, Community is Healing.” The focus was Indian Health Service, Honoring our Roots, Medicare, Cancer, Public Health, Mental Health and Healthy Heart. “There was a lot of sessions, I attended the ones that interested me, and the others went to sessions that interested them,” Dreadfulwater said. The sessions that Becky and her staff went to that was offered were National Tribal Behavioral Health Listening Session, The Power of Partnership: Disaster Preparedness Plans and Indigenous Food Security, Indian Health Service, Special Diabetes Program, Honoring Our Roots, Creating Pathways for Indigenous Students in Precision Medicine, Healthy Nation, Nourishing Traditions and many others. “One session I did go to was behavior health for dementia, because we’ve had cases in the past with some of our elders,” Dreadfulwater said. Included at the event attendees had cultural night, exhibit night, cultural celebrations, free health screenings and an elder lounge. Dreadfulwater said the conference was exciting and that she was ready to start her public education program at Title VI. “We have two treadmills, a weight scale, blood pressure kits and we will start a walking program whether it’s to the wellness center or around the circle,” Dreadfulwater said. “I hope this gets our elders involved, because that is something the grant wanted us to do.” Title VI Staff pictured L-R: Roman Jay Ridge, Ronald Holden, Rebecca Dreadfulwater and Tara O’Field The theme of the conference was, “Culture is Medicine, Community is Healing” Keetoowah Museum Briefs Got Keetoowah Arts and Crafts? Attention T-shirt Collectors! The Keetoowah Museum Gift Shop continues to buy handmade items from Keetoowah tribal members. The shop has so many beautiful earrings, art prints and graphics, ribbon skirts, hats, wood carvings, miscellaneous beaded items, bracelets, dream catchers, walking sticks and canes, slate paintings, stickball sticks and balls, blowguns and darts, flutes, copper and leather gorgets, corn husk dolls, craft kits, and quilts. Right now, the gift shop would like to buy men’s and boy’s ribbon shirts in all sizes, as well as children’s and toddler’s clothing, aprons, rattles, shackles, moccasins, pipes, bolo ties, and baskets. The Keetoowah Museum gift shop is open 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Saturday by appointment. For more information, find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. If you would like to sell your arts and crafts to the gift shop, artisans and artists need to set an appointment for Tuesday or Wednesday to meet with museum director Ernestine Berry. To make an appointment call 918-871-2866. We have sold two-thirds of our 75th Keetoowah Celebration T-shirts, so get yours now! The shirts are black and are $25 for sizes medium, large and XL, and $27 for 2XL and 3XL. We have a limited number of 75th Celebration tumblers that would make great stocking stuffers. We still have Keetoowah by Blood and It’s a Good Day to Be Keetoowah shirts for sale. We also have Blaine Bailey shirts, caps, albums, and stickers available in the gift shop. Save the Date! The Keetoowah Christmas Arts and Crafts Show is set for Saturday, December 13 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the museum. Cookies, punch, and coffee will be served, and chili will be available to purchase. The Tradition Keepers will be selling chances on a raffle of their donated items. The winners will be drawn at the end of the day at the Keetoowah Christmas Arts and Crafts Show. Look for updated information about the raffle on the TK and museum Facebook pages and on the tribe’s website. GIDUWAH CHEROKEE NEWS NOVEMBER 2025 UKB Education Department received a “My Little Library” grant LANI HANSEN, Senior Reporter Twelve stands filled with age-appropriate books are placed around the UKB jurisdiction. find them will be at the field offices in Vian, Stilwell, Kenwood and places in the UKB jurisdiction. TAHLEQUAH, Okla- The United Keetoowah Band Education Department “We decided to do a literacy challenge for students who can read the has been awarded a “My Little Library” grant. This is a grant of age-approprimost books and write a short little report of maybe one to three paragraphs ate books and Little Library Bookstands. to turn in, then they’ll get points,” Hannah said. “Towards the end of the se“I learned about this grant through some colleagues at San Jose State mester, we will add up the points to give boxes of prizes to the students with University,” Education Director Dr. Leslie Hannah said. “They encouraged me to apply for it. The grant allowed us to get up to twelve stands and so we the most points.” The challenge started in October, Dr. Hannah hopes to tally points at each did.” area participating in this by Thanksgiving or before the fall semester ends. Twelve stands were delivered to the education center plus cases of books “I am just trying to encourage students to read and get something out to fill them. These twelve stands can be found at the Henry Lee Doublehead Childcare Development Center in Tahlequah and Bell Schools. Other places to of it,” Hannah said. “If this works out then I hope to continue in the spring semester.” Education Director Dr. Leslie Hannah and Intake Specialist Amber Dry loaded up one Little Library Bookstand. Students from Bell Schools were excited to receive one of the Little Library Bookstands. Children from Henry Lee Doublehead Childcare Development Center pick out their first books. Native American Youth Face Type II Diabetes Rates Up to 64 Times Higher Than Non-Native Peers ELYSE WILD, Native News Online TAHLEQUAH, Okla- Native American youth have Type II diabetes at a rate up to 64 times their non-Native peers. That's according to a systematic review published last week in Diabetologia, a peer-reviewed medical journal on diabetes. The review extracted data from 49 studies conducted between 1978 and 2019 on the prevalence of type II diabetes in the Aboriginal, First Nation and American Indian/Alaska Native populations. It included data from at least 15 distinct Native American studies across multiple regions, including the Great Plains, Navajo Nation, Cherokee Nation, Northern Plains Indians, and various Indian Health Service reservations. Youth from the Akimel O'odham & Tohono O'odham and Gila River Indian Communities showed the highest prevalence of Type II diabetes at 6.4% Young Native women bear the highest burden of the disease, with AI/AN female youth having diabetes at rates 77% higher than their male counterparts. Native youth also experience worse outcomes with diabetes, suffering higher mortality rates compared to non-Indigenous youth, even with similar Native youth also experience worse outcomes with diabetes, with a mortality rates age at diagnosis and disease duration, pointing to gaps in healthcare accessicompared to non-Indigenous youth, (photo/Canva Pro) bility. The review noted that a handful of the studies included used data from Diabetes in AI/AN youth has only worsened in the past four decades. the Indian Health Service records, which may have resulted in the prevalence Across Native communities included in the review, the disease has risen 3-8 of the disease being underestimated due to barriers in access to care. times since 1980. NOVEMBER 2025 GIDUWAH CHEROKEE NEWS RECAP: 75TH Annual Keetoowah Celebration “Inherently Sovereign” LANI HANSEN, Senior Reporter Winners of the activities which took place at the celebration. TAHLEQUAH, Okla- The 75th Annual Keetoowah Celebration was a success, and the United Keetoowah Band appreciates everyone who came out and participated in the activities offered. Congratulations to all our winners this year at the celebration. Cornhole 1st Place: Cameron Kingfisher/Kaleb Kingfisher 2ND Place: Buzzy Scott/David Walker Volleyball 1st Place: Native Mob 2nd Place: Can You Dig It Marbles 1st Place: Jerad Davis/Jerrod Fields 2nd Place: Phil King/Aaron Kingfisher 3rd Place: Leon Mouse/Elijah Snell 4th Place: Elmer Panther/Camiden Tanner Chief Jeff Wacoche presents his state of the nation address. Outgoing Miss Keetoowah Delia Smith and Tribal Council 2025 Miss Keetoowah Grayci Spradlin and Jr. Miss Keetoowah J’Leeanna Ramsey Inherently Sovereign was this year’s theme, thank you to our Echota Behavioral Health on presenting this display. Chief Wacoche participated in the 4man golf tournament Echota Behavioral Health brings turtle races for kids Truck show winner Saved By Grace was the entertainment for the years celebration. Turtle Race 1st Place: “K-Pop” - Lakya B. 2nd Place: “Big Betty” - Livia M. 3rd Place: “Zoey” - Lyric M. 4th Place: “Biggie Smalls” - Harmony W. 5th Place: “Mystery” - Gabe D. 6th Place: “Roomie” - Kandice B. Horseshoes 1st Place: Kyle Bark/Derrick Campos Stickball 1st Place: Sun Chiefs 2nd Place: Sour Patch Kids Car/Bike/Truck Show Chief’s Choice/People’s Choice/Best of Show Jan Ingram Princesses Choice Derek Hawk Best of Show Motorcycle Forrest Smoke Best of Street Motorcycle Sam Radcliff Modified Cars 1974-1999 1st Place: Richard Ingram 1900-1959 1st Place: Caylan Godwin 2nd Place: Henry Sapp Original Car 2000-present ​1st Place: Derek Hawk ​2nd Place: Kenneth Blossom Modified Truck 1900-1959 ​1st Place: Jan Ingram 1974-1999 ​1st Place: David Bluebird Original Truck 2000-present ​1st Place: Curtis Fourkiller ​2nd Place: Jordan Reed UKB Proudly Celebrates Blaine Bailey’s Musical Journey The United Keetoowah Band proudly celebrates the success of singer, songwriter, and UKB Member Blaine Bailey on his debut appearance on The Road, a new show executive-produced by country music star Blake Shelton. The UKB congratulates Blaine on this exciting milestone and looks forward to seeing what the future holds for him and his music. Bailey’s music is deeply rooted in Keetoowah culture. Drawing inspiration from his upbringing with Keetoowah elders just outside Tahlequah, Oklahoma, he captures the spirit of what it means to be Keetoowah and shares it with the world. In 2021, Bailey released the album Lost City, a tribute to his birthplace and Keetoowah upbring- ing. His 2024 album, Home, blends storytelling with a blues-driven sound, exploring themes of introspection, self-discovery, and the search for a sense of place. As a proud Member of the United Keetoowah Band, Blaine continues to represent his people on a national stage, serving as a source of inspiration for future generations of Keetoowah youth. Blaine’s music, including his newest album Indian Country, continues to showcase his artistry and Keetoowah roots. The UKB celebrates his accomplishments and his time on The Road and looks forward to seeing what the future holds for Blaine and his music. ASSOCIATION ON AMERICAN INDIAN AFFAIRS WELCOMES NEW COMMUNICATIONS ASSOCIATE Trista will support the Association’s Become an Ally Program, helping to expand public understanding of Native Nations and their diverse cultures through strategic storytelling and digital engagement. Through various media channels, she will help foster allyship, inspire dialogue, and encourage collective action on issues impacting Native Country. Trista brings years of experience in digital engagement, journalism, and community outreach. She previously served as the Digital Engagement Manager for the American Indian Science and Engineering Society Native Country, (Thursday, Octo(AISES), where she developed camber 16, 2025) – The Association on paigns highlighting Native excellence American Indian Affairs, the oldest in STEM and helped elevate national national Native nonprofit, proudly initiatives that empower Indigenous welcomes Trista Vaughn, a citizen of students and professionals. Trista also the United Keetoowah Band of Cheroserves as the Community Engagekee Indians in Oklahoma, as the new ment and Cultural Coordinator for Communications Associate. Crosswinds News and Talking Circle, a Native-owned media platform dedicated to amplifying Native stories, perspectives, and sovereignty. “I’ve always believed that storytelling is one of our strongest tools for connection and healing,” said Trista. “Joining the Association allows me to continue that work uplifting our communities, preserving our cultures, and ensuring our people’s stories are told with accuracy, integrity, and heart.” A proud citizen of the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians and descendant of the Hualapai and Chickasaw Nations, Trista was born and raised in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. She holds a B.A. in Media Studies (Public Relations) and an M.A. in Communication from Northeastern State University. “Trista’s creativity, professional- ism, and commitment to community-driven storytelling are a perfect fit for our mission,” said Shannon O’Loughlin, citizen of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and Chief Executive and Attorney for the Association. “Her work will uplift the power of our voices to protect sovereignty, preserve culture, and inspire the next generation of leaders. We’re excited to welcome her voice and vision to the team.” Trista joins the team with a deep passion for amplifying Native voices and creating space for authentic storytelling across Native Country. Trista’s role will focus on elevating the Association’s communication strategies, expanding outreach to Native Nations and allies, and ensuring that every story the organization shares continues to center Native knowledge, values, and sovereignty. GIDUWAH CHEROKEE NEWS NOVEMBER 2025 Marking a new chapter: EBCI holds Inauguration for Dinilawigi (Tribal Council) and School Board SCOTT MCKIE B.P., One Feather Asst. Editor CHEROKEE, N.C. – Working together and unity were two of the themes as the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) held an inauguration for the 2025-27 Dinilawigi (Tribal Council) and two members of the Cherokee School Board. The event was held at the Charles George Memorial Arena in Cherokee, N.C. on the morning of Monday, Oct. 6. Shawn Crowe, an EBCI tribal member, emceed the event and noted, “The Eastern Band of Cherokee have been here for thousands and thousands of years, and our culture and our history is as strong as any Indian tribe in this country. When I’m asked to stand at these events, I am honored, I am privileged because I am Cherokee. I am a part of the people.” He added, “We always talk about change in every election – ‘we need change, we need change’. Most people are afraid of change. But, you talk about the big companies that stay the same, they will always fail because they stay the same. You have to change. Change is inevitable. We have to embrace it.” The following took the Oath of Office from Cherokee Chief Supreme Court Justice Bradley Letts as the 76th EBCI Dinilawigi: Kolanvyi (Big Cove) Rep. Lavita Hill, Kolanvyi Rep. Venita K. Wolfe, Tsisqwohi (Birdtown) Rep. Jim Owle, Tsisqwohi Rep. Boyd Owle, Aniwodihi (Painttown) Rep. Michael Stamper, Aniwodihi Rep. Shannon Swimmer, Tutiyi/Tsalagi Gadugi (Snowbird/ Cherokee County) Rep. Adam Wachacha, Tutiyi/Tsalagi Gadugi Rep. Michael Smoker, Wayohi (Wolftown) Rep. Bo Crowe, Wayohi Rep. Mike Parker, Elawodi (Yellowhill) Rep. Shennelle Feather, and Elawodi Rep. David Wolfe. Crowe spoke of the four women elected to this Dinilawigi. “We went for a couple years where we had no females on our Tribal Council. Well, today that changes…that is a great thing because in our history of the Beloved Women and the women of our tribe, they had a say in war council. They had a say in the councils that met. And, what’s the one thing that women can do that men can never do is bring life into this world. That’s why the women were so honored and remembered in our Cherokee people. So, it’s a good thing that we have some females now on our Tribal Council. Our women have a voice as well and as strong as the men.” Two women also took their Oath of Office for the Cherokee School Board including Melanie Lambert, Tsisqwohi School Board representative, and Roberta “Berdie” Toineeta, Wayohi School Board representative. EBCI Ugvwiyuhi (Principal Chief) Michell Hicks said he is looking forward to working with the newly sworn-in leaders. “Today really does mark a new chapter with the Eastern Band. As we inaugurate our new Council members and welcome our new School Board members, we renew our commitment to serve our people, to serve and protect people, to serve with accountability, and truly to serve with a purpose – a purpose of making sure that community always comes first, that our people always come first. As we make those calls, as we make those decisions, we have to keep that in mind.” He went on to say, “We know the challenges before us are real – from protecting our sovereignty and strengthening our economy, to ensuring our children have the best education possible, to caring for our elders and preserving our culture.” Speaking directly to the Dinilawigi representatives, Ugvwiyuhi Hicks commented, “I look forward to working with you. May we always be mindful of the trust our people have placed in us, the trust they’ve placed in you to do the right thing at any given moment. I want to assure you, it’s not going to be easy. The task we have ahead with our fiscal resources, protecting who we are, the daily lives of our people, it’s not easy. You’re going to have long days. You’re going to have difficult days. You’re going to have a lot of travel in front of you because we can’t fight the battle here. We have to go to Raleigh. We have to go to D.C. We can’t do it in Cherokee, North Carolina. That’s not the way it works anymore.” In speaking to the School Board representatives, he said, “You have the responsibility to help guide our young people…helping them build the skills and pride and strength they’ll need to become the next generation of leaders. Today is a commitment to lead with wisdom, to listen with respect, and to act in courage. Together, we will continue to strengthen the foundation that we have because that’s all we’re given. And, it’s our responsibility to build from that foundation to protect our tribe and protect what makes us Tsalagi, and ensure that our people thrive in the future.” Taline Ugvwiyu (Vice Chief) Alan B. Ensley commented, “I’ve been involved in Tribal Council for a number of years and it’s a great honor to be here and to know you’re here representing your communities. It’s going to be hard for the sitting Council to move forward with the times that we’re in right now. But, I want to say that it really flatters me to be just a small part of the 76th Tribal Council of this tribe.” He served many years as the Elawodi representative and noted, “I want to congratulate you. It’s a wonderful experience to sit on Tribal Council and I hope everybody here realizes the struggles and fights that you have representing your communities. Regardless of your own views on any subject matter, you’ve got to represent what your community asks of you to give.” Taline Ugvwiyu Ensley ended with, “I look forward to working with all of you.” Monday’s event was opened with the posting of the colors by the Steve Youngdeer American Legion Post 143 Color Guard. That was followed by an opening prayer by Matthew Tooni, an EBCI tribal member and Cherokee second language learner. During the program, the Aniyvwiyahi Dancers performed the Cherokee Corn Dance and the Cherokee Ant Dance, and the Dadiwonisi language program performed two songs in the Cherokee language. The closing prayer was offered by Scott Chekelelee, an EBCI tribal member. Following the Inauguration, the Dinilawigi went to the Cherokee Tribal Council House, and Taline Ugvwiyuhi opened the first meeting. Rep. Jim Owle was selected as the Dinilawigi Chairman and Rep. David Wolfe was selected as the Dinilawigi Vice Chairman. The following positions were also selected: Indian Clerk – EBCI Beloved Woman Myrtle Driver Johnson, English Clerk – Michelle Thompson, Interpreter – Sally Arch, and Doorman – Bobby Taylor. The 76th Dinilawigi (Tribal Council) of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians was sworn into office on the morning of Monday, Oct. 6 at the Charles George Memorial Arena in Cherokee, N.C. The Dinilawigi representatives are shown outside of the Cherokee Tribal Council House after their first meeting following the inauguration. Shown, left to right, back row – Wayohi (Wolftown) Rep. Bo Crowe, Wayohi Rep. Mike Parker; fourth row – Aniwodihi (Painttown) Rep. Michael Stamper, Tutiyi/Tsalagi Gadugi (Snowbird/Cherokee Co.) Rep. Michael Smoker; third row – Tsisqwohi (Birdtown) Rep. Jim Owle (who was selected as the Dinilawigi chairman), Tutiyi/Tsalagi Gadugi Rep. Adam Wachacha; second row – Elawodi (Yellowhill) Rep. Shennelle Feather, Tsisqwohi Rep. Boyd Owle, Elawodi Rep. David Wolfe (who was selected as the Dinilawigi vice chairman); front row – Kolanvyi (Big Cove) Rep. Lavita Hill, Kolanvyi Rep. Venita Wolfe, and Aniwodihi Rep. Shannon Swimmer. (SCOTT MCKIE B.P./One Feather photo) Taking the Oath of Office for the Cherokee School Board were Melanie Lambert, Tsisqwohi School Board representative, and Roberta “Berdie” Toineeta, Wayohi School Board representative. Uweluga Swimmer, an EBCI tribal member, does the Cherokee Ant Dance with the Aniyvwiyahi Dancers during Monday’s event. Cooweescoowee District Rep Cliff W. Wofford with EBCI Chief Michell Hicks and Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians Chief Cyrus Ben at Eastern Band of Cherokee’s Inauguration. NOVEMBER 2025 GIDUWAH CHEROKEE NEWS BEAD WORK ribbon skirts Hand mad e Ke etoo Orig wah inal s CRAFT KITS quilts ARTS artwork & jewelry & CR TRADITION KEEPER RAFFLE AFTS stickball sticks CHILI SALE! KEETOOWAH CHRISTMAS ARTS & CRAFTS SHOW Saturday, December 13 • 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM JOHN HAIR CULTURAL CENTER & KEETOOWAH MUSEUM 18280 W. KEETOOWAH CIRCLE, TAHLEQUAH, OK 74464 MORE INFORMATION: 918-871-2866 • www.ukb-nsn.gov/john-hair-cultural-center-museum GIDUWAH CHEROKEE NEWS NOVEMBER 2025 --- Source: Frix Law Library, https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/documents/tribal%3Aunited_keetoowah_cherokee%3A2dcfc0ac9af97d57. Public record. Not legal advice.