Anadisgoi - Winter/Spring 2018

Spring Creek

Locust Grove, Oklahoma

, HOME.

Home is where all the fun is.

Rediscover home in Cherokee Nation.

V i s i t C h e r o k e e Nat i o n . c o m Š 2017 Cherokee Nation Businesses. All Rights Reserved.

Come say hello.

Osiyo is the traditional Cherokee greeting.

oma

g.

Anadisgoi

WINTER/SPRING 2018

27 41 3 MESSAGE FROM THE CHIEF

23 FEATURES

• Legacy in writing: Sequoyah receives another prestigious honor

4 NEWS

• Representing tribe, state: Cherokee Nation citizen leads softball team to 2018 Special Olympics USA Games

• Ready for action: Tribe prepares for flood season • Serving those who served us: Veterans receive housing assistance

• From Spud to Stud, an inspiring fitness journey: Avid runner inspires others with her dedication to friend and health

• Investing in the next seven generations: Tribe implements new foster care employee leave policy

15 CULTURE

• Progress as promised: Tribe marks halfway point of historic IHS joint venture facility

9 PEOPLE

• More shows, more stories, more Cherokee: Emmy award-winning program launches new weekly statewide format this spring

• Building, Solving, Serving: Q&A highlights with CNB's Diversified Businesses

• Modernizing the Cherokee language: Cherokee Language Consortium celebrates 10 years of translating modern words

• Honoring a lifetime of service: NSU presents Chief of Staff with Centurion Award

• Preserving, promoting traditional Cherokee culture and art: New book spotlights Cherokee National Treasures

Editor Executive Editor Managing Editor Designer Contributing Staff

Amanda Clinton Travis Noland Tyler Thomas Stephanie Remer Julie Hubbard LeeAnn Dreadfulwater Karen Shade Tim Landes Jason McCarty Taralee Montgomery

• Unlikely relationship yields historical insight: Moravian Archives tell the story of Cherokee ancestors • Going Green: Cherokee Nation, CNB implement environmentally friendly policies and initiatives • 10 Places to see in Cherokee Country: Guide to exploring historical locations and beautiful landscapes of Cherokee Nation • Providing opportunities for future generations: CNF fundraising campaign provides more scholarships for Cherokee students

41 HOME • Hunting for dinner: Please the whole family with our homestyle three-bean venison chili recipe

ON THE COVER: Cherokee Nation citizen Joshua Smith and his son, Judah, at Natural Falls State Park in Delaware County, Oklahoma.

Josh Newton Whitney Dittman Leanna Reeder Alicia Buffer Darcy Jackson

Stay up to date with us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Contact Anadisgoi magazine by email at anadisgoi@cn-bus.com.

Anadisgoi (ah-nah-dee-sko-EE): Cherokee for "what people are saying."

The Official Cherokee Nation News

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MESSAGE FROM THE CHIEF ᎤᎬᏫᏳᎯ ᏂᏓᏳᏅᏅ ᎧᏃᎮᏍᎩ OSIYO. Cherokee people are always eager to share our

heritage. To meet the growing demand for tourism and to attract more visitors, we have embarked on a wide range of projects throughout the Cherokee Nation, including the preservation and restoration of historic sites and buildings.

Tourism is an under realized resource in northeast Oklahoma and has the potential to play a key role in our economic development efforts.

In this edition of Anadisgoi, you will learn more about culturally significant places in the Cherokee Nation and some of the preservation projects the Cherokee Nation and Cherokee Nation Businesses have undertaken. You may discover sites that were right under your nose the entire time or rediscover why the Cherokee Nation is such a magical place to live, work and play. For our citizens living outside the 14 counties, we invite you to take in the sites featured here and make plans for a visit.

Cultural tourism showcases our rich culture and traditions; it also creates jobs and economic opportunities for so many of our citizens. It is important for tribes in Oklahoma, like the Cherokee Nation, to tell our story from our own perspectives.

Prepare for Adventure.

With a guide to 100+ fun activities in Cherokee Nation and admission to five unique museums, the Cherokee Passport is an all-access pass to adventure.

5 MUSEUMS. $15.

Visit Ch ero k e e Nati on.com ©2017 Cherokee Nation Businesses. All Rights Reserved.

Native American cultures continue to be an asset for Oklahoma, and we are honored to take the lead in sharing our heritage and history. Our success will help strengthen Oklahoma as a top tourist destination, and it is a much-needed economic benefit to rural communities throughout the state. We operate museums in renovated historic Cherokee buildings and continue to offer a wide array of cultural tours and events. People from all over the country make an effort to see and experience the Cherokee Nation.

One of the sites I am most proud of is the Sequoyah’s Cabin Museum. Two years ago, we acquired the historic site in Sequoyah County from the Oklahoma Historical Society. After some investments in preservation, it reopened last fall. Sequoyah was a man of true genius. He made a lasting impact and truly changed the way our people communicate, share ideas and preserve history. Recently, he was rightfully inducted into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame, an honor that was long overdue. Now we have an unprecedented opportunity to operate his beautiful homestead with the respect and reverence it deserves.

Cherokee Nation and northeast Oklahoma remain an attractive, affordable and educational destination for families and anyone who seeks to learn more about Cherokee tribal heritage, history and customs. We hope you enjoy this issue of Anadisgoi and look forward to seeing you in person at one of our many cultural gems soon.

Wado.

Bill John Baker

Cherokee Nation Principal Chief

ᎧᏃᎮᏓ NEWS

Cherokee Nation prepared for potential spring flooding

By Julie Hubbard

After flooding swept through the city of Tahlequah in 2017 and

a historic flood damaged homes along the Illinois River in 2015, the Cherokee Nation prepared for potential spring flooding by filling 10,000 bags of sand for communities and individuals to use within the tribe’s 14-county jurisdiction.

Cherokee Nation’s Emergency Management team filled each bag with 40 pounds of sand, which were donated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. The tribe hopes the early preparation lessens the impact of potential flood damage in the Cherokee Nation’s jurisdiction.

“Historic flooding events have wreaked havoc on some of our Cherokee Nation communities in recent years,” Cherokee Nation Deputy Chief S. Joe Crittenden said. “We want to be as proactive as possible, and providing our communities with sandbags is one way we hope to prevent some of the physical and emotional damage that flooding can cause here in northeast Oklahoma.”

Cherokee Nation Emergency Management sent 500 pre-filled

bags to Northeastern State University to store, as well as hundreds to the Chewey community of Cherokee and Adair county as well as to the Greasy community near Stilwell.

“When the river floods, water runs through Cherokee and non-Cherokee homes the same way. We want to make sure people are safe,” Cherokee Nation Emergency Management Manager Jeremie Fisher said. “The idea is that we would be an asset to our 14 counties and have a resource that they may not otherwise have access to.”

During natural disasters such as floods, Cherokee Nation Emergency Management works with city, county and state agencies to manage response efforts. Crews also collect data and photographs related to the damage, or set up road barricades and assist residents who need to evacuate their homes. Cherokee Nation Emergency Management is a Type III FEMA incident management team and has responded to tornadoes and flooding.

(L-R) Andrew Luethje, Brad Wagnon and Shaelin Beaver fill and tie bags of sand in Tahlequah. Cherokee Nation Emergency Management is providing 10,000 bags of sand to communities and individuals within the tribe’s 14-county jurisdiction.

The Official Cherokee Nation News

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NEWS ᎧᏃᎮᏓ

Cherokee Nation, Veterans Affairs partner to provide housing to veterans in need

By Julie Hubbard

When Harrel Brooner flips through the pages of his military

service book, he lands on a picture of the USS Richard Bon Homme from 1962.

His memories shift to Vietnam, switching between fun times diving off the edge of the carrier ship that housed 4,500 other sailors to more somber ones pulling bodies out of a fighter plane.

At 76, the U.S. Navy veteran never thought he’d be homeless, displaced after ankle-deep water swept through his mobile home when the Illinois River flooded in May 2017.

“We had to live in a motel for a month and a half,” former Petty Officer 2nd Class Brooner said. “We were paying up to $80 a night, and it really whacked my life savings.”

That’s when Brooner heard about the Cherokee Nation's participation in the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ VASH program, which helps homeless Native veterans find housing.

In 2016, the Cherokee Nation was among 26 tribes awarded part of a $5.9 million grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Department of Veterans Affairs to provide housing to veterans in need.

“This program has helped me out tremendously. I couldn’t have made it without it,” he said.

Brooner, a former top-selling Freightliner salesman, points to his white brick house with blue trim windows and an American flag blowing in the driveway. His dogs are now relocated in the backyard, and his salvaged Navy service books are on top of his dining table.

“The VA has worked with us to identify veterans who need adequate housing, and it’s been a successful and important program for us,” said Gary Cooper, executive director of the Housing Authority of the Cherokee Nation. “We have now filled half of our 20 slots and are helping those who may not have had assistance before. We believe this proves a good idea for Indian Country and can hopefully benefit more tribes.”

For more information about the VASH program, call Lisa Look at 918-616-8794.

LEFT: U.S. Navy veteran Harrel Brooner stands in front of his new home.

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The Official Cherokee Nation News

SewCream/Shutterstock

ᎧᏃᎮᏓ NEWS

Cherokee Nation makes history with foster care employee leave policy

By Taralee Montgomery

L ast year, the Cherokee Nation made history as the first in

know that the best place for these kids is with their biological families if those families can change their lifestyle and create Indian Country and the state of Oklahoma to adopt a foster care a safe, loving environment for these children,” Wagnon said. employee leave policy that grants paid leave to employees opening “We fully and actively support reunification until it is no longer their homes to Cherokee children. deemed to be an option. So far, in our cases it has happened, and The new policy grants Cherokee Nation full-time employees we are so happy to five additional days be a part of those of paid leave when stories.” a Cherokee child For Cherokee is placed in their Nation Principal Cherokee Nation Chief Bill John Baker, Indian Child Welfare the policy was about certified home. more than meeting The policy was a need. It was about immediately utilized investing in the future by more than 15 of the Cherokee families, including Nation.

Cherokee Nation “The job of a foster Commerce Services parent is rewarding employee Brian and comes with Wagnon and his wife, unique challenges.

Ashley.

Lack of workplace “The first several support should never months after taking be a reason a family a placement are filled closes their home with appointments Ashley and Brian Wagnon read a book with their children Isaac and Anna. The Wagnon family is one of more than a to foster children,” of all sorts, and this dozen utilizing the new foster care leave policy.

Baker said. “I can’t policy helps us to be say enough about there for the children the importance of standing together as a tribe for these children. when they need us instead of having to rely on a case worker to It’s a core belief of the Cherokee people to invest and care for our take them to those appointments,” Wagnon said. “The foster care children. I am proud to invest not only in the futures of these leave policy is a tangible way for our employer, who also happens children, but the next seven generations of Cherokees.” to be our tribe, to show their support for those of us who choose Employees can use the paid foster care leave for bonding time, to care for children while in the care of our tribe.” daycare scheduling, doctor appointments or other needs.

For Wagnon and so many Cherokee Nation foster families, the call to give back to the tribe was the beginning of what is now a For more information on becoming a foster parent, visit passion for the reunification of Cherokee families.

“Seeing families reunified successfully is rewarding because we http://www.cherokeekids.org/.

The Official Cherokee Nation News

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NEWS ᎧᏃᎮᏓ

Rendering of the future W.W. Hastings Expansion that will feature an ambulatory surgery center and more than 240 exam rooms.

Progress as promised First-of-its-kind Cherokee Nation health facility reaches milestone in the sky

By Josh Newton

A little more than a year after breaking ground on the new

health care specialists and accommodate more specialized services, Cherokee Nation W.W. Hastings Expansion in Tahlequah, including MRIs.” Oklahoma, hundreds of Cherokee Nation employees and citizens The new facility, located on the current W.W. Hastings Hospital gathered March 9 for a topping out ceremony. campus, will feature five surgical suites and two endoscopy suites The placement of the final steel beam signals an important inside its ambulatory surgical center. It will house a specialty clinic benchmark in the construction and feature 33 dental chairs, 16 project. At 469,000 square feet eye exam rooms, three audiology and featuring design concepts testing booths and diagnostic that celebrate the tribe’s history imagining. and culture, the Cherokee It also expands space for Nation W.W. Hastings several other services already Expansion will be the largest offered, such as rehabilitation health center of any tribe in the services, behavioral health, a country when it opens in 2019. wellness center and more.

The expansion is possible “Through the partnership thanks to the largest IHS with IHS, we will eventually hire joint venture agreement ever about 850 new health care staff, between a tribe and the federal which will improve health care government. for our people for generations Cherokee Nation Deputy Chief S. Joe Crittenden, Special Projects Officer Canaan Duncan “We’ve completed a historic and be a boost to the local and Secretary of State Chuck Hoskin Jr. tour W.W. Hastings Expansion construction site. milestone in the development economy,” Baker said. of our health care expansion When W.W. Hastings efforts at the W.W. Hastings Hospital campus in Tahlequah, and Hospital was built in Tahlequah in 1986, the facility was designed we remain on target to open the largest tribal health care facility to support 100,000 patient visits per year. In 2017, the facility ever built in America in 2019,” Cherokee Nation Principal Chief saw more than 421,000 patient visits.

Bill John Baker said. “When the facility opens, it will house more 7

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The Official Cherokee Nation News

RETAIL

BUSINESS ᎧᏃᎮᏓ NEWS

Historic pavilion rebuilt

Tribe funds new CHC archive building

Tribe invests in public education

Construction is underway for a new

Cherokee Nation recently approved $2

The Cherokee Nation recently gave

pavilion just east of the Cherokee National Capitol in Tahlequah. The multipurpose space will host community events, live music performances, markets and outdoor cultural classes.

The design is modeled after the large log structure that hosted the largest intertribal peace gathering in 1843, as depicted in a historic painting by John Mix Stanley.

The grounds of the peace gathering later became home to the iconic Cherokee National Capitol.

The pavilion is expected to be complete in 2018, just in time for the 175th anniversary of the 1843 peace gathering.

million for a new facility to house the Cherokee National Archives.

Located on the grounds of the Cherokee Heritage Center in Tahlequah, the archives will be home to more than 200,000 items dating back to preEuropean contact. The new state-of-theart facility will create additional space and ensure proper preservation of the many historical items in the archive’s collection.

“The items within our archives embody some of the most significant events in Cherokee history. We have a responsibility to protect these assets,” said Dr. Charles Gourd, CHC executive director.

Plans for the new facility are currently underway.

a record $5.4 million to 108 school districts in northeast Oklahoma during the tribe’s annual Public School Appreciation Day. The Cherokee Nation sells tribal car tags and allocates 38 percent of the revenue each year to education.

School districts use the unrestricted funds for salaries, much-needed supplies, support programs or other projects they say are underfunded or facing elimination because of a budget crunch.

Since 2002, the tribe has awarded more than $50.5 million in education contributions from car tag revenue to more than 100 school districts in northeast Oklahoma.

,

BRING IT HOME.

The Official Cherokee Nation News

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PEOPLE ᏴᏫ Cherokee Nation Businesses President of Diversified Businesses Steven Bilby

Building, Solving, Serving An exclusive interview with CNB President of Diversified Businesses Steven Bilby

By Leanna Reeder

Cherokee Nation Businesses has been dedicated to growing

Cherokee Nation’s economy while creating jobs for Cherokee citizens, solving community-wide problems and empowering citizens to serve one another.

In fiscal year 2016, Cherokee Nation and its businesses had a $2.04 billion economic impact on northeast Oklahoma. CNB is the business arm of the Cherokee Nation and widely respected for the revenue it generates for the tribe, providing world-class entertainment, promoting Cherokee culture and the awardwinning work it performs for commercial and government clients.

Steven Bilby serves as president of CNB’s diversified businesses, or those in the non-gaming sector. He explains how leveraging the company’s increasingly successful gaming and hospitality business into other industries has proven successful and continues to benefit the tribe.

Q: What do building, solving and serving mean at CNB? How

is the company using it to support its overall mission and reach its strategic goals?

A: We have three key stakeholders: our shareholder, our

customers and our employees. Building, Solving and Serving is intended to align our organization to those key stakeholders. In 9

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the case of our shareholder, our goal is to serve the Cherokee people by solving economic issues in the Cherokee Nation through creating profit to fund tribal services and jobs for Cherokee Nation citizens. We serve our employees by building an organization that is the “Employer of Choice” through solving their career and personal needs. Many times our customer is the brave military men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces.

We have the great honor to serve those that serve our country so bravely. So we take great pride in building products and services that solve issues like health, safety and protection for them.

Q: CNB earned $1.02 billion in revenue in fiscal year 2016.

The company invests its profits back into Cherokee Nation business entities or the tribe. How does the reinvestment of those profits work?

A: As a company, we are dedicated to fostering growth and a

sustainable economic advantage for both our businesses and for the Cherokee Nation. First and foremost, 35 percent of our profits directly benefit Cherokee Nation citizens in the form of programs and services like education, health services and housing programs as well as other social services. The remaining 65 percent is reinvested into growing and expanding Cherokee Nation’s

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COM

ᏴᏫ PEOPLE businesses. Reinvesting in Cherokee businesses ultimately grows the monetary value of the 35 percent dividend and creates jobs in high growth and high potential industries, trains and educates Cherokee Nation citizens, promotes self-sufficiency, and allows for collaboration with other industry leaders.

Q: CNB is largely recognized for its continued success in

gaming and hospitality. But the company has also experienced tremendous growth and success in business sectors such as distribution and logistics, federal solutions and real estate, as well as engineering and manufacturing. What role does CNB’s diversified businesses now serve in the company’s overall revenues?

A: Our gaming and hospitality business is a powerhouse and

should be recognized for its success within that industry. The success of our gaming business is what enabled our diversification strategy. Our diversified portfolio, which operates more than 30 companies, has increased revenues by more than $262 million since 2008. It has grown to represent roughly 34 percent of Cherokee Nation Businesses’ overall revenue. Over the past 10 years, we’ve experienced extraordinary growth in the federal contracting arena. While we’re still analyzing our overall

financial performance for fiscal year 2017, I am happy to share that for the first time ever we earned $1 billion in contract wins.

That means our annual contract wins have grown by more than 300 percent in the last five years. These contracts are typically multiyear and are a great indicator of continued growth in the years ahead.

Q: How can Cherokee Nation Businesses become the top tribally owned company in the world?

A: Becoming the top tribally owned company in the world is

our aspirational goal. I’m not sure there is a way of measuring this because it’s multifaceted and fluid. Do our shareholders, customers and employees see us as the industry leader? Do they seek Cherokee Nation out as their go-to provider? When no one else can solve their problem, do they turn to the Cherokee Nation? To be the top tribally owned company, we must answer yes to these questions and more. We may never be able to definitively say we are the top tribally owned company in the world, but we can definitively say our pursuit will not end until we are.

WHERE THE

CAS INO MO NE Y GOES

“I’m happier than I’ve ever been in any job. It’s a really good fit with my life and my personality. I love working with people, and I love interacting with guests every day.”

– DeAnna “Jo” Littledave Read the entire story online at www.wherethecasinomoneygoes.com.

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PEOPLE ᏴᏫ

Honoring a lifetime of service Cherokee Nation Chief of Staff receives award from alma mater

By Josh Newton

Cherokee Nation Chief of Staff Chuck Hoskin is being honored

as one of nine Northeastern State University 2018 Centurions.

Centurions are individuals whose leadership and commitment, in the course of helping others, have made a significant impact during NSU’s history. Honors are given to university alumni, faculty, staff, students or any member of the NSU community, past or present, who impacted the NSU community or the public at large.

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The Official Cherokee Nation News

Hoskin graduated from NSU in 1982 with a Bachelor’s of Arts in Social Sciences and earned his Master’s in Education in 1998.

Along with his service to the Cherokee Nation as Chief of Staff, Hoskin served 12 years on the Tribal Council, between 1995 and 2007, and is now serving his sixth term as an Oklahoma State Representative for District 6.

“Like so many Cherokees in northeast Oklahoma, my experience at NSU helped define my personal life, as well as my professional career as an educator and administrator. I am profoundly honored to be recognized as a Centurion by my alma mater, an institution where I earned both undergraduate and graduate degrees,” Hoskin said. “One of the most important lessons I learned at NSU is the value of public education. As a member of the Oklahoma House of Representatives and as a former Cherokee Nation Tribal Councilor, I have endeavored to make life-changing educational opportunities more accessible.

I am proud of NSU, whose rich history is tied directly to the education of Cherokee Nation citizens, and hope its mission continues to flourish.”

Hoskin is a veteran of the U.S. Navy and a former member of Ironworkers Union Local 584, and he spent nearly two decades working in public education as a high school teacher and school administrator for Locust Grove Public Schools.

As Chief of Staff, Hoskin oversees Cherokee Nation’s Education Services Department and is an advocate for the tribe’s continued support of NSU. He is a member of the leadership team that contributed funding to restoration and enhancement efforts for NSU’s historic Seminary Hall.

“Chuck Hoskin’s selfless devotion to serving others is a model that few of us can match,” NSU President Dr. Steve Turner said.

“He continues to impress me with his humility and tireless effort to improve the lives of Cherokee citizens and all Oklahomans.

He embodies all the values of an NSU Centurion. I am honored to call him my friend and to participate in the ceremony of recognition for this honor.”

Hoskin resides in Vinita with his wife, Stephanie. He has three children, Amy, Chuck Jr. and Amelia, along with three grandchildren.

ᏴᏫ PEOPLE

Cherokee statesman Sequoyah posthumously inducted into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame

Cherokees in the Oklahoma Hall of Fame

By Leanna Reeder

After years of various commemorations,

communities and throughout the world.

Literacy rates among Cherokees began to Sequoyah, the revered Cherokee rise immediately after he completed the statesman and linguist who created the Cherokee syllabary in the 1820s. written Cherokee language, received a “Sequoyah is one of our most revered new honor last year as he was Cherokee people,” Cherokee Nation posthumously inducted into the Secretary of State Chuck Hoskin Jr. Oklahoma Hall of Fame. said. “His remarkable and indelible Inducted in November 2017, contributions in Sequoyah, also known helping shape our as George Guess or tribe and this country George Gist, joined revolutionized seven other honorees communication for in the 2017 class.

Cherokees and The inductees’ names, many others. It is busts and portraits wonderful to see him are displayed at the continually celebrated Gaylord-Pickens and his legacy Museum in preserved.”

Oklahoma City, Although the famed along with the other linguist died long 683 honorees inducted before Oklahoma into the Oklahoma became a state, his Hall of Fame significant place in its since 1928. history continues to be “This distinction is commemorated. In a well-deserved and addition to Sequoyah's long overdue honor.

Country music artist Vince Gill presents Principal induction into the Sequoyah’s induction Chief Bill John Baker a medal at Sequoyah's Oklahoma Hall of into the Oklahoma Oklahoma Hall of Fame induction. (Courtesy of the Fame, Sequoyah is Hall of Fame is a Oklahoma Hall of Fame) memorialized in many permanent way to other ways. He is included on the U.S. recognize the lasting legacy of this Mint’s 2017 Native American $1 coin, linguistic genius and his enormous impact and a bronze statue of his likeness stands on Native peoples,” Cherokee as one of two statues representing Nation Principal Chief Bill John Baker Oklahoma in Statuary Hall inside the said. “His invention of the Cherokee United States Capitol. His portrait hangs syllabary forever changed the way our in the rotunda of the Oklahoma State people communicate. It enabled the Capitol, and his historic homestead writing and translation of newspapers, was designated a National Historic Bibles, literature and even our first Landmark in 1965 and a National written laws and Cherokee constitution.”

Literacy Landmark in 2006.

Sequoyah’s invention of the Cherokee syllabary, the first written language among To view Sequoyah’s induction details and other Native American tribes, influenced information, visit www.OklahomaHOF.com. written languages within native

WILL ROGERS – 1932 Actor/Civic Leader/Journalist

W.W. HASTINGS – 1934 U.S. Congressman

ROBERTA CAMPBELL LAWSON – 1935 Civic Leader

RACHEL CAROLINE EATON – 1936 Historian

JAMES S. DAVENPORT – 1937 Jurist

O.H.P. BREWER – 1939 Public Servant

NANCY K. FITE – 1939 Public Servant

JESSE C. BUSHYHEAD – 1940 Physician

ROBERT L. OWEN – 1941 U.S. Senator

HOUSTON BENGE TEEHEE – 1942 Public Servant

YVONNE CHOUTEAU TEREKHOV – 1947 Ballerina

LYNN RIGGS – 1948 Playwright

JOSEPH J. CLARK – 1952 Military

WILLIAM WAYNE KEELER – 1966 Oilman/Cherokee Nation Principal Chief

ROBERT MAYES HART – 1987 Oilman

CLEM ROGERS MCSPADDEN – 1990 U.S. Congressman

WILMA MANKILLER – 1994 Cherokee Nation Principal Chief

SEQUOYAH – 2017 Andrius_Saz/Shutterstock, Mconnors/Morguefile

Educator/Historian The Official Cherokee Nation News

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PEOPLE ᏴᏫ

Representing tribe, state Cherokee Nation citizen Alicia Jory leads softball team to 2018 Special Olympics USA Games nationals

By Taralee Montgomery

Led by Cherokee Nation citizen and head coach Alicia Jory, the

FIGHTING PEACOCKS ROSTER Athletes: Steven Sposato, Brad Tanner, Michael Wolf, Luke Gallman, Brandon David and Joey Ross.

Unified partners: Eric Jackson, Tyler O’Field, Rob Cearley, Walter Crane, Gage Foreman and Dillon Pruitt.

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The Official Cherokee Nation News

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Jory has been involved in the Special Olympics most of her life Fighting Peacocks softball team will represent Oklahoma at the and knew early on she wanted to coach Special Olympic athletes 2018 Special Olympics USA Games. after watching her mother lead a competitor to the Special The 37-year-old Delaware County resident, her assistant coach Olympics World Games in 1983. and 12 male athletes “My mom was a coach for years,” will compete for the she said. “She was able to take one national championship of her track and field athletes to at the July 1-6 games the world games, and seeing her hosted in Seattle. Of pictures always made me want to the 14 traveling do something at this level.” to Seattle, half are The team practices up to three Cherokee Nation times per week, so Jory said she citizens. It is the most promotes a family mentality and Cherokees Nation self-accountability to ensure citizens ever to compete team success. for one unified “We spend so much time softball team at the together, it’s important to me that Special Olympics USA we all have a feeling of family,” Jory Games. said. “They are an amazing group of Unified softball men. Everyone on the team knows teams are made up of they have a job, and when they do Special Olympics it, we win.” qualified athletes and The state of Oklahoma will also partners, who are be represented at the 2018 Special volunteers from the Olympics National Competition community. with teams competing in golf, “It is an honor to be aquatics, bocce, track and field, chosen to coach this weightlifting and bowling. team. I am not only Fighting Peacocks softball team along with Head Coach Alicia Jory and Assistant Coach Clayton there for them, they are To stay up to date with the Foreman hold the Team Oklahoma banner. there for me. They are Fighting Peacocks or other my family,” Jory said.

Oklahoma teams during the 2018 Special Olympics USA Games, “I love everything about the Special Olympics, getting them to visit www.specialolympicsusagames.org. believe in themselves and succeed – it’s the best thing ever.”

Uber Images/Shutterstock

ᏴᏫ PEOPLE

From Spud to Stud, an inspiring fitness journey Cherokee Nation citizen Marcella Morton inspires others through fitness, healthy eating routine

Marcella’s 6 tips for achieving better health

By Taralee Montgomery

For 19 years, Cherokee Nation citizen

Watch Marcella’s story on Osiyo.tv

Marcella Morton has raced toward better health. Now the lifelong resident of Westville, Oklahoma, is using her goals “It gives me great pride to say that I am and the promise she made to her best 66 years old, I’ve had five knee surgeries, friend to inspire others. and I spent many years as an unhealthy Morton says it all started with a pinky and overweight person, but I started to swear made to her friend Janet Franklin to make changes in my life,” Morton said.

Marcella Morton (right) and her husband Levi on season 1, make a healthy lifestyle change, and from “It’s not easy, but the results are worth it. episode 3 of “Osiyo, Voices of the Cherokee People.” there she accomplished goals she never I call my journey ‘spud to stud.’” thought possible.

In April of 2003, “I was fortunate to Morton crossed the 1. Move more make friends with Janet finish line of the Boston Simply find something you enjoy like Franklin, and her family Marathon with her walking, riding a bike or dancing, gave me a glimpse of what hands held high in honor and move your body. it meant to be a family, of her friend Janet. to love the Lord and to “The hills were tough, 2. Drink water set goals,” Morton said. and the start was at noon Water is the most recommended “We were just a couple so it was hot,” Morton way to maintain the fluids your of Indian girls from said. “When I crossed Nation citizen body needs.

Westville, and had been that finish line,Cherokee I had lost friends since third grade. seven and a half pounds 3. Eat breakfast We didn’t think that there and eight toenails in the Skipping breakfast is the same as was anything wrong with process, but it was all part trying to drive a car on an empty the way that we ate or our of fulfilling the promise I tank. Breakfast is time to refuel. weight, until Janet was made to Janet.”

Marcella Morton crosses the finish line diagnosed with cancer.”

Aside from running, 4. Make changes in your diet at the Route 66 Marathon in Tulsa, It was on that Morton puts her positive Oklahoma. (Courtesy photo) Learn portion control and how to childhood gesture that attitude and 29 years as select healthy food choices, and then Franklin asked Morton to swear she’d an educator to use as an educational talent combine that with exercise. take better care of herself, so that Morton search guidance specialist. would be able to live a long, healthy life.

“As a kid growing up in Adair County, 5. Rest Morton agreed, and not long after that I lived a life similar to some of the Just like healthy diet and exercise, pinky swear, her lifelong best friend, Janet students that are in my Educational we need sleep for our bodies to Franklin, passed away.

Talent Search Program,” Morton said. run smoothly.

Keeping her promise, Morton’s fitness “Sometimes all they need is someone to journey began with a 15-minute walk at believe in them. I make sure they know 6. Reward yourself age 47. Then after competing in her first that they can break the cycle of poverty Changing unhealthy behaviors is a 5k run at age 51, she was well on her way in their families, because I want them to challenge, so when you meet your from couch potato to the unlikeliest of know there is a big world out there.” goals, be sure to reward yourself. race competitors.

The Official Cherokee Nation News

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More shows, more stories, more Cherokee OsiyoTV’s new season goes statewide this spring

is now statewide in Oklahoma and debuts this spring with an all new weekly format. From Miami to Moore and Woodward to Wilburton, OsiyoTV can be seen on OETA, Oklahoma’s statewide PBS network, every Sunday at 3:30 p.m. The show will take on a more traditional spring and fall season format, with back-to-back episodes in the spring and fall and a summer hiatus. With new episodes back to back for several weeks in a row, viewers won’t have to wait each month for a new episode.

Host and Executive Producer Jennifer Loren

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New features include revisiting the timeless Wilson Rawls classic “Where the Red Fern Grows,” which was made into a movie and filmed in the heart of the Cherokee Nation. Let host Jennifer Loren take you back in time to when crews descended on the Cherokee Nation to film the story of a boy and his two coon dogs. OsiyoTV finds the places and the people that brought the popular book to life in our own backyard.

OsiyoTV also catches up with hometown football hero turned NCAA star quarterback Mason Fine at the University of North Texas. Fine was featured in a 2015 episode when he was a high school senior playing his final season at Locust Grove High School, and we see how he’s transitioned to playing big time ball, leading his team to a conference division championship and backto-back bowl appearances for the first time in years.

The show takes a fun detour into professional wrestling, Cherokee style, with its soap opera-like storylines and over-thetop characters. As always, the Cherokee Nation’s finest artists, musicians, storytellers and difference-makers are featured.

“Being on air statewide is a great opportunity for the Cherokee Nation to showcase our culture and educate even more Oklahomans about who we are, and with beauty and authenticity,” said Jennifer Loren, host and executive producer.

“We’re also profiling more traditional Cherokees and highlighting Cherokee communities on a local level. We want to show viewers, particularly those unfamiliar with our culture, that there is a living, thriving community and culture tied to this place.”

Since debuting in 2015, “Osiyo, Voices of the Cherokee People” has been nominated for 15 Heartland Regional Emmy Awards, bringing three home to the Cherokee Nation.

“We hope this show is just the beginning of our storytelling endeavors on television and in film,” said Amanda Clinton, show creator and vice president of communications for Cherokee Nation Businesses. “The Cherokee Nation’s rich culture and unique history allow endless possibilities for us to tell our tribe’s story. With so many new digital formats and distribution methods, we’re excited to see where we go next.”

OsiyoTV maintains a strong multimedia presence and broadcasts to more than 20 national markets through the FNX network. In Oklahoma, the show can also be found on RSUTV in northeast Oklahoma and on select network affiliates in southwest Missouri and northwest Arkansas. Check for showtimes and watch full episodes online 24/7 at www.Osiyo.tv.

“Osiyo, Voices of the Cherokee People” is produced by Cherokee Nation Businesses with Fire Thief Productions,

Anelina/Shutterstock, Mrmohock/Shutterstock

The fourth season of “Osiyo, Voices of the Cherokee People”

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a Native-owned film production company based in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Generous support in research, fact checking, Cherokee language translation and other areas is provided by various departments at Cherokee Nation and through partnerships with institutions like the Cherokee Heritage Center, Gilcrease Museum, the National Museum of the American Indian and more.

“Osiyo, Voices of the Cherokee People” showtimes Oklahoma

Sundays at 3:30 p.m. on OETA Thursdays at 7 p.m. on RSU-TV Saturdays at 10:30 a.m. on RSU-TV Sundays at 9 a.m. on RSU-TV

Anelina/Shutterstock, Mrmohock/Shutterstock

Fayetteville and Fort Smith, Arkansas

Sundays at 10:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on KHBS/KHOG

Joplin, Missouri

Mondays at 12:30 p.m. on KSN Sundays at 9 a.m. on KODE

FNX-TV

Visit www.FNX.org for broadcast markets and schedules.

OsiyoTV interviews Tahlequah, Oklahoma resident Ed Fite for an upcoming episode of “Osiyo, Voices of the Cherokee People.”

Watch complete episodes anytime, anywhere at www.Osiyo.tv.

A Journey “Unto These Hills” JUNE 10-16

7-DAY COACH TOUR Discover thousands of years of Cherokee traditions, culture and history.

Limited seats available.

(877) 779-6977

V i s i t C h e r o k e e Nat i o n . c o m Photo courtesy of Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. © 2017 Cherokee Nation Businesses. All Rights Reserved.

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Cherokee syllabary software being used on a smartphone.

Cherokee Language Consortium celebrates 10 years of translating modern words

By Josh Newton

More than 2,600 new words and phrases have been added to

the Cherokee language in the past decade thanks to the intensive efforts of a select group of fluent Cherokee speakers.

It all began about 10 years ago when teachers at the Cherokee Language Immersion School in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, needed a Cherokee description for “balloon,” one of the many objects and concepts never before translated.

The need for non-existent Cherokee words revealed a new set of challenges for the teachers, who have been responsible for promoting and preserving Cherokee language, history and culture since the school began in 2001.

“Without establishing Cherokee words to identify new items and situations of human existence, the full measure of expression in the Cherokee language will be compromised,” said Dr. Neil Morton, senior education adviser for the Cherokee Nation.

To meet this challenge, a team of about two dozen fluent Cherokee elders from the Cherokee Nation, the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians in North Carolina began to gather quarterly in 17

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2007. The group came to be known as the Cherokee Language Consortium. About 40 fluent speakers have participated in the consortium since its founding.

Each year, the consortium spends countless hours reviewing cultural and language curriculum for schools and communities.

“The consortium is necessary to create new words that reflect today’s society and help bridge a gap between first-language speakers and new speakers,” said Kathy Sierra, a Cherokee Nation translator and chairwoman of the Cherokee Language Consortium. “We encourage speaking our native language on a daily basis to ensure its livelihood.”

Because Cherokee is a descriptive language, a lengthier phrase may be required to describe one English term. For instance, 10 years ago, the consortium agreed to describe a balloon as “ᎤᏃᎴ ᎠᏲᏙᏗ ᎠᎵᏌᎳᏗᏍᎩ,” pronounced “unole ayododi alisaladisgi,” which means “something you put air in.”

Aside from creating Cherokee words and descriptions, the consortium also revives Cherokee words that once existed but have been forgotten over time.

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Preserving, promoting traditional Cherokee culture and art Book highlights Cherokee National Treasures

By Josh Newton

Nearing a year since its release date, the book “Cherokee

National Treasures: In Their Own Words” continues to give readers an exclusive opportunity to know Cherokee National Treasures through their unique stories, including their motivation to teach and carry on Cherokee language and traditions.

Nearly 100 Cherokee Nation citizens have been awarded the honor of Cherokee National Treasure since the special designation was created by the tribe and the Cherokee National Historical Society in 1988. Today, the five-person Cherokee National Treasures Advisory Committee submits recommendations to the Principal Chief with the Principal Chief selecting citizens for the honor.

Cherokee National Treasures actively work to preserve and revive traditional practices that are in danger of being passed from generation to generation, and this first-of-its-kind publication gives readers an opportunity to learn more about traditional practices and art forms Cherokee National Treasures work to preserve.

“This book is truly unique and offers readers an authentic look into Cherokee culture and heritage,” said Principal Chief Bill John

Baker. “All of these Treasures are invaluable sources of knowledge.

Their creative expertise helps define our people today and ensures our tribal culture remains strong for the future.”

About 50 of the nearly 100 Cherokee National Treasures are still living and working to promote and preserve traditional Cherokee customs and art forms, including bow and arrow making, gig making, pottery and ceramics, basketry, carving, loom weaving, marble making, painting, beadwork, storytelling and more.

Cherokee Nation published the book, with Pamela Jumper Thurman and Cherokee National Treasure Shawna Morton Cain serving as editors. Cherokee National Treasures Kathryn Kelley, Betty Jo Smith, Lorene Drywater, Dorothy Ice, Al Herrin, Bessie Russell, Edith Catcher Knight, Thelma Vann Forrest, Durbin Feeling, Donald Vann and Betty Christie Frogg served on the Cherokee National Treasures Book Review Board.

To purchase a copy of “Cherokee National Treasures: In Their Own Words,” visit any Cherokee Nation Gift Shop or www.cherokeegiftshop.com. Copies can also be purchased at many major book stores and online at www.amazon.com.

Cherokee National Treasure Richard Fields (far left) signs a copy of " Cherokee National Treasures: In Their Own Words."

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(L to R) Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Bill John Baker and Cherokee Language Master Apprentice graduates Ronnie Duncan, Lisa O'Field, Larry Carney and Tony Owens.

(Courtesy of Will Chavez/ Cherokee Phoenix)

New language program graduates second class

By Tyler Thomas

After investing a whopping 4,000 hours of studying the

Cherokee language over the span of two years, four Cherokee Nation citizens graduated as conversationally proficient Cherokee speakers from the tribe’s Cherokee Language Master Apprentice Program in December.

Tony Owens, of Bunch; Lisa O’Field, of Tahlequah; Larry Carney, of Tulsa; and Ronnie Duncan, of Bell, comprised the program’s second graduating class.

The tribe started the CLMAP three years ago to teach more young adults to be speakers and teachers. Program participants receive a $10 per hour educational stipend and typically spend 40 hours per week for two years immersed in the Cherokee language in the classroom and community.

“As our fluent Cherokee speakers become fewer, it is vital for our tribe to formulate different strategies that will cultivate new speakers in order to keep our language alive and healthy,” said Cherokee Nation Secretary of State Chuck Hoskin Jr. “I commend the participants and staff of this program as well as the master speakers for their work to preserve and grow our language.”

Program graduate Tony Owens said the program is essential for keeping the language alive, and he hopes to continue his learning

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of Cherokee and eventually teach Cherokee in the future.

“Our language is in danger, and we must continue to teach and learn our language or we will lose it. This program is very intensive and is designed to be an intimate learning experience in order to help participants fully absorb the language and its intricacies,” Owens said. “Having the opportunity to be a part of this program has given me the chance to learn Cherokee, and now I can teach my son what I have learned, giving him something I never had growing up.”

The program is operated by the Community and Cultural Outreach department. Participants are taught the language by fluent speakers Doris Shell, Cora Flute and Gary Vann. In addition to time spent with the master speakers, students are encouraged to visit Cherokee-fluent elders in order to learn and practice speaking the language. Students also visit community organizations and schools to showcase and teach the Cherokee language.

For more information on the Cherokee Language Master Apprentice Program, call the Cherokee Nation Community & Cultural Outreach office at 918-207-7133.

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Annual Meetings & Picnics Mar. 17

10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Bonner Springs

KS

George Meyn Center

126th and State Ave.

Mar. 18

1 - 5 p.m.

Wichita

KS

Mid-America All-Indian Center

650 N. Seneca St.

Apr. 15

1 - 5 p.m.

Arlington

VA

Walter Reed Center

2909 16th St. South

Apr. 27

4 - 8 p.m.

Bakersfield

CA

Stramler Park

3805 Chester Ave.

Apr. 28

10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Fresno

CA

Cornerstone Conference Center

1525 Fulton St.

Apr. 29

12 - 4 p.m.

Suisun City

CA

Rush Ranch

3521 Grizzly Island Rd.

Jul. 21

10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Albuquerque

NM

Taylor Ranch Community Center

4900 Kachina St. NW

Jul. 22

1 - 5 p.m.

Denver

CO

Perl Mack Community Center

7125 Mariposa St.

Aug. 4

10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Portland

OR

East Portland Community Center

740 SE 106th

Aug. 5

1 - 5 p.m.

Fife

WA

Puyallup Tribe's Little Wild Wolves Community Center

5803 N. Levee Rd.

Sept. 15

10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

San Marcos

TX

Dick’s Classic Garage Museum

120 Stagecoach Trail

Sept. 16

1 - 5 p.m.

Houston

TX

Pearland VFW Post 7109

4202 W. Walnut St.

Cherokee Cultural & HistoryPresentations Mar. 17

10 a.m. - Noon

Seattle

WA

Seattle Public Library - NE Branch

6801 35th Ave. NE

Mar. 17

Noon - 4 p.m.

Anaheim

CA

Anaheim Central Library

500 W. Broadway

Mar. 24

2 - 4 p.m.

Mountain City

TX

Mountain City City Hall

101 Mountain City Dr.

Mar. 25

1 - 5 p.m.

Universal City

TX

Universal City Public Library

100 Northview Dr.

Mar. 27

6 - 8 p.m.

Oaks

OK

Oaks Senior Center

324 E. Cherokee Blvd.

Apr. 5

6 - 8 p.m.

Locust Grove

OK

Four Corners Helping Hands

4057 E. 640 Rd.

Apr. 7

11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Albuquerque

NM

Quarter's Restaurant

4516 Wyoming NE

Apr. 24

6 - 8 p.m.

Westville

OK

Westville Senior Citizens Center

113 Buffington Rd.

Apr. 28

1 - 4 p.m.

Clearwater

FL

Moccasin Lake Nature Park

2750 Park Trail Ln.

May 8

6 - 8 p.m.

Bunch

OK

Dry Creek Community Building

30402 S. 584 Rd.

May 19

1 -3 p.m.

Wichita

KS

Mid-American All-Indian Center

650 Seneca St.

May 19

1 - 4 p.m.

Riverside

CA

Sherman Indian H.S. - Bennett Hall

9010 Magnolia Ave.

May 20

9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Wardensville

WV

Wolf Run Retreat

414 Warden Hollow West Rd.

May 22

6 - 8 p.m.

Fairland

OK

Fairland Senior Citizens Center

100 E. Conner Ave

Jun. 5.

6 - 8 p.m.

S. Coffeyville

OK

Native American Fellowship

215 Oklahoma St.

Jun. 8

10:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Portland

OR

Wilshire United Methodist Church

3917 NE Shaver St.

Jun. 8

3 - 5 p.m.

Eugene

OR

The Longhouse at Lane Community College 400 E. 30th Ave.

Jun. 1-3

5 - 9 p.m.

Pine Grove

CA

Gold Country Campground

13026 Tabeaud Rd.

Jul. 7

11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Tehachapi

CA

Willow Springs Estates

14556 E. Tehachapi Blvd.

Jul. 8

1 - 3 p.m.

Fresno

CA

Fresno County Public Library

2420 Mariposa St.

Jul. 12

6 - 8 p.m.

Chelsea

OK

Chelsea Civic Center

618 Pine St.

For additional information or updates to schedule, follow Cherokee Nation Community & Cultural Outreach on Facebook.

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Cherokee Heritage Center hosts 47th Annual Trail of Tears Art Show

By Whitney Dittman

What began in 1972 as a small art show under a rain shelter in

the Tsa La Gi Theater in Tahlequah has now become the longestrunning Native American Art show in Oklahoma.

The Trail of Tears Art Show and Sale returns to the Cherokee Heritage Center April 7–May 5 for its 47th year. The annual event features more than 100 pieces of fine art that will be on display and available for purchase.

“The Trail of Tears Art Show has built a reputation for recognizing and showcasing highquality Native American art,” said Dr. Charles Gourd, executive director for Cherokee Heritage Center. “These artists spend years, decades and in some cases even lifetimes honing their crafts to promote the past, present and future culture of Native Americans.

Honoring their work is something we at the heritage center value dearly.”

The annual show was originally created to foster the

development of Native American painting and later evolved to highlight a wide variety of authentic Native American artists and mediums.

Nearly 70 artists representing various tribes will have their work on display as they compete for more than $15,000 in overall prize money. Competition categories include painting, sculpture, pottery, basketry, graphics, jewelry and miniatures.

Last year’s grand prize was awarded to Tony Tiger for his piece “Metamorphosis.”

“Participating in this show is an honor and a privilege,” Tiger said.

“There are so many fine artists that compete, so being recognized as the best of show was incredible.

Every artist has a reason for creating art; mine is to share my journey, my hopes and my dreams, and to encourage and inspire the next generation of artists.”

An awards reception will be held on April 6 from 6-8 p.m. at the Cherokee Heritage Center to recognize the winners in each category. The reception is open to the public and free to attend.

Artist Tony Tiger was the grand prize winner at the 46th Annual Trail of Tears Art Show for his piece "Metamorphosis."

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© 2018 Cherok

Three great tribes gather to celebrate the Cherokee way of life. Our stories, music, and traditions show we have endured and prospered.

CHEROKEE DAYS APRIL 13-15, 2018 Historical Exhibitions | Storytelling | Traditional Games | Cultural Demonstrations NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE AMERICAN INDIAN, WASHINGTON, D.C.

The Official Cherokee Nation News © 2018 Cherokee Nation Businesses. All Rights Reserved.

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cherokeedays.com | #cherokeedays

FEATURES ᏗᎦᏎᏍᏙᏗ

Moravian Archives provides glimpse of early Cherokees' way of life

By Josh Newton

Tucked away among many of the complex German scripts of 18th century Moravian missionaries is perhaps the earliest and longest-running account of daily life among the Cherokees.

Cherokee Nation Secretary of State Chuck Hoskin Jr. along with Jack Baker, a former Cherokee Nation Tribal Councilor and current president of both the National Trail of Tears Association and the Oklahoma Historical Society, visited the Moravian Archives in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, last year. The two witnessed the painstaking process involved in translating the German writings to English and visited historical sites that tell the story of Cherokees and their interactions with Moravian missionaries prior to removal to Indian Territory.

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ᏗᎦᏎᏍᏙᏗ FEATURES Supported by the Cherokee Nation, the efforts to translate Their insight gives us a look at these items in our history that we those stories have so far produced seven volumes in a series of would not otherwise have. The records were written in an archaic books, with more in the works. Since 2008, Cherokee Nation and, since then, greatly altered style of German script, which was has donated $125,000 and Cherokee Nation Businesses has later banned from being taught in Germany. The fact that fewer contributed another $75,000 to the Moravian Archives to and fewer can read it today adds to the significance of getting ensure production of the these documents translated,” books continues.

Baker said.

“These diaries, letters and Moravian missionaries reports made by the Moravian became persistent advocates missionaries tell us what it against the forced removal of was like among Cherokee the Cherokees on the Trail of communities up through the Tears. They traveled ahead of Trail of Tears in 1838, and the Cherokees and prepared further translation could a “new Springplace” mission uncover stories from the Civil site north of Tahlequah. The War era and beyond,” property was taken over by Hoskin said.

Danish Lutherans in 1902 The Moravian Church is a and survives today as Oaks modern Protestant community Indian Mission. with roots in present-day The Moravian Archives Germany, where early members staff has been translating of the church fled to escape and compiling books that religious persecution in their include photographs, maps native lands of Moravia, then and other records with the an autonomous kingdom of support of Cherokee Nation the Holy Roman Empire, now and additional funding by the Czech Republic. After the Eastern Band of migrating to the colonies, Cherokee Indians, the the Moravians established Cherokee Moravian Historical mission outposts among Native Association, the Wachovia American populations by the Historical Society and Friends mid-1700s. The first mission of Moravian Archives. The The Jan. 1, 1807, Springplace diary, handwritten by Anna Rosina Kleist Gambold, wife among the Cherokees was series is a publication of of John Gambold. The Gambolds were missionaries to the Cherokees in Springplace. founded in Springplace, in Cherokee Heritage Press in (Courtesy of Moravian Archives in Winston-Salem, North Carolina) what is now Georgia, in 1801.

Tahlequah and is distributed by Cherokees allowed the mission largely because they saw an the University of Oklahoma Press. opportunity for their children to be schooled by the Moravians, For more information on the Moravian Archives or to purchase according to Baker. He and Cherokee Nation citizen Anna Smith, any of the first seven volumes of “Records of the Moravians a Winston-Salem area Moravian and Cherokee Nation citizen, Among the Cherokees,” visit www.moravianarchives.org. founded the Cherokee Moravian Historical Association in 2005 to bring renewed attention to Cherokee history found within the Look for an upcoming documentary on the relationship between 200-year-old Moravian recordings. the Cherokees and Moravians, as OsiyoTV traveled to Winston “The Moravians recorded eyewitness accounts of treaty Salem to take you inside the Moravian Archives. Sign up for the negotiations, of our tribal council meetings and day-to-day life.

OsiyoTV newsletter at www.Osiyo.tv.

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FEATURES ᏗᎦᏎᏍᏙᏗ

Cherokee Nation, CNB continue effort to protect and preserve

By Leanna Reeder

Being good stewards of the environment and our natural resources is a deeply rooted Cherokee value.

Cherokee Nation and its business arm, Cherokee Nation Businesses, are working to ensure the tribe’s traditional values and overall respect for the Earth is upheld, even as it embraces today’s modern technologies.

“The Cherokee Nation is committed to shrinking our carbon footprint by at least 25 percent by the year 2027,” Cherokee Nation Secretary of Natural Resources Sara Hill said. “Increasing energy efficiency is one of the quickest and most efficient ways to save money and substantially reduce our share of the global emissions. It’s another way for us to be better stewards of both our financial and natural resources.”

Cherokee Nation's new solar panel canopy charges electric fleet vehicles as well as provides electricity to the tribal complex.

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ᏗᎦᏎᏍᏙᏗ FEATURES

The newest endeavor to reduce the tribe’s carbon footprint is be used to purchase recyclable or compostable materials whenever the Cherokee Nation’s first ever solar panel canopy car charging possible. In accordance with the order, the tribe is replacing foam station, located at the W.W. Keeler Tribal Complex in Tahlecups, plates and other goods in tribal offices. quah. The canopy also provides electricity CNB is also taking additional to the tribal complex, resulting in lower measures to keep the environment free of electricity bills. contaminants. Aging, underground fuel At Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa, tanks at the Outpost convenience store in a deal with Tesla Motors brought first Tahlequah were removed from the ground, electric supercharging stations to northeast along with any pollutants or contaminants Oklahoma. The electric “fueling” station from the surrounding soil. was the first super charging station between In its corporate offices, CNB has Oklahoma City and St. Louis, charging implemented LED lighting as a design and vehicles in about 15 minutes for a several construction standard and is developing hundred-mile drive. heating and cooling systems to ensure In a step toward further reducing carbon maximum efficiency to reduce energy use emissions and advancing toward clean and costs. The company is also retrofitting energy, the tribe agreed to lease tribal land parking lot and interior lighting to LED in Kay County for the development of a or equally efficient types of lighting where wind farm. The wind farm will contribute possible at its properties. significant revenues to the Cherokee In regard to its use of large quantities Installation of new fuel tank at the Outpost convenience store in Tahlequah after removal of former aging tank.

Nation and other tribes through the land of equipment, CNB has implemented lease as well as clean, low-cost power to the measures to ensure all replaced equipment electrical grid. is recycled, if possible. The company works to utilize vendors who Other measures taken by the tribe to reduce its carbon fabricate recycled materials, provide regular and comprehensive footprint include Principal Chief Bill John Baker’s executive order maintenance on all its equipment, and upgrade to more energylimiting the use of foam products and declaring that tribal dollars efficient equipment whenever possible.

Cherokee Nation Environmental Resources Senior Director Pat Gwin demonstrates one of the electric fleet vehicles to Chief of Staff Chuck Hoskin and Secretary of State Chuck Hoskin Jr. The Official Cherokee Nation News

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FEATURES ᏗᎦᏎᏍᏙᏗ

Places to see in Cherokee Country Make the sights and sounds of Cherokee Nation part of your vacation plans

By Tim Landes and Karen Shade

It’s time to start planning those summer vacations, and you might be surprised to find the Cherokee Nation has it all. From picturesque shorelines, rocky bluffs and hillsides, lush forests, open skies and bison dotting the foothills of the Ozarks, there’s never a shortage of things to do for locals and tourists alike.

For nearly 200 years, Cherokee Nation has called northeast Oklahoma home.

Comprised of 14 counties bridging the Ozark Mountain foothills to the tall grass prairies of the plains, the Cherokee Nation is rich in natural features found nowhere else in the state.

The Cherokee Nation is full of cultural attractions, museums and historical landmarks sharing the tribe’s history prior to statehood when the land was called Indian Territory.

Treasures like the Cherokee Heritage Center go further, telling the story of the tribe’s native homelands in the southeastern United States.

Visitors lucky enough to find themselves in our capitol of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, during Labor Day weekend will enjoy the Cherokee National Holiday, the annual homecoming for thousands of Cherokees from near and far.

There’s always something to experience in the Cherokee Nation, so don’t forget the swimsuits, hiking boots and camera. All that’s left to do is pack up the car, grab the family, fill the gas tank and get ready to discover it all.

RIGHT: Cherokee Nation citizen Joshua Smith and his son, Judah, at Natural Falls State Park in Delaware County, Oklahoma.

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The Official Cherokee Nation News

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Natural Falls State Park

Scenic Natural Falls State Park is located in Delaware County close to the Oklahoma-Arkansas state line. The 77-foot waterfall creates a picturesque atmosphere attracting families, outdoorsy types and nature lovers alike. Picnic tables and grills are located all over the park, and campsites with amenities can accomodate everything from pup tents to full-size RVs. For hikers, the park has several nature trails through the beautiful forests with wildlife all around.

There are also plenty of opportunities for catch and release fishing, volleyball, horseshoes, a basketball court, disc golf and other recreational activities on site.

Entrance fee is $5 per car.

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Cherokee Hills Byway

The 84-mile Cherokee Hills Byway is one of the most scenic drives in all of Oklahoma. Beginning at Interstate 40 near Gore, it follows Oklahoma Highway 10, Highway 82 and other roads, winding across pristine Lake Tenkiller, through the dense foothills and valleys of the Ozark Mountains, along the carved out bluffs of the Illinois River and ending at Natural Falls State Park near the Arkansas border. Travelers should take it slow to absorb all the natural beauty, but also because of the winding two-lane roads that take you back to an easier, simpler time.

Fall is the best time to enjoy the Cherokee Hills Byway, as the dense foliage in Sequoyah, Cherokee, Adair and Delaware Counties is enviable even by northeastern standards.

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Saline Courthouse When the Cherokees arrived in Indian Territory, they divided their new lands into nine districts according to the 1839 Constitution of the Cherokee Nation. Near present-day Rose, Oklahoma, the Saline Courthouse is the only district courthouse still standing from that period. Built in 1884, the courthouse is located on a 14-acre site where several fresh water springs meet. The stone springhouse still stands where the fresh spring water bubbles from the earth. The preserved courthouse is empty now, but the grounds continue to attract tourists, passersby and students of Cherokee history as well as Cherokee families holding their holiday gatherings and family reunions.

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Will Rogers Memorial Museum

Fans of Oklahoma’s original favorite son will not be disappointed in Claremore’s Will Rogers Memorial Museum. A Cherokee Nation citizen, Rogers is honored in its collections of thousands of photographs, original manuscripts, private letters and personal papers telling his incredible story. The 20-acre museum grounds, purchased by Rogers in 1911 for $500 an acre, was intended as his retirement home site before his untimely death in 1935. Visitors today will find his final resting place on the property. Be sure to also be sure to see the Will Rogers’ Birthplace Ranch in nearby Oologah.

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Blue HolePark

If you live in Mayes County, Blue Hole Park is that go-to place where you cool off in the summer heat and can always count on seeing friends and neighbors. If you’re not local, Blue Hole is a rare retreat. Fed by Saline Creek, only minutes from Lake Hudson, the pool stays cool even in triple-digit temperatures. And true to its name, Blue Hole’s gem-like color draws visitors in. Shallow areas are ideal for beginning and young swimmers, while the more experienced can plunge deeper. No matter what age, a good time will be had by all.

The park is a privately owned and has camping areas, concessions and other conveniences.

It’s open seasonally, typically from May well through Labor Day. Cost is $10 per carload.

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Sequoyah’s Cabin Less than a decade after he created the Cherokee syllabary, iconic Cherokee statesman Sequoyah moved to Indian Territory and built a one-room cabin in 1829 near presentday Sallisaw, Oklahoma. Early preservation of the site began when the Oklahoma Historical Society bought the property in 1936 and the Works Progress Administration enclosed it in a stone building. Purchased by Cherokee Nation in November 2016, the cabin is one of the most historically and culturally significant landmarks for Cherokees.

For decades, Cherokee families and busloads of kids have visited the cabin and the beautiful woods surrounding it. Designated a National Literary Landmark, Sequoyah’s modest log-hewn dwelling is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

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Sparrow Hawk Primitive Area Trail   This four-mile hike in the hilly terrain east of Tahlequah offers some of the most breathtaking views of the Illinois River in northeast Oklahoma. A favorite among hikers, the Sparrow Hawk Primitive Area Trail is located off of scenic roadway Oklahoma 10 and takes visitors through remote sections of Cherokee country. Managed by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife, Sparrow Hawk is a public hunting and fishing area, and guests must have either a valid Oklahoma hunting or fishing license, Cherokee Nation hunting and fishing license or a Wildlife Conservation Passport to enter.

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Cherokee Nation Bison Ranch   More than three years after a small herd of bison was reintroduced on Cherokee Nation land, more than 100 head now graze 1,000 acres of protected land near Kenwood in Delaware County. In 2014, the Intertribal Buffalo Council provided nearly 40 bison to the Cherokee Nation, and thanks to good stewardship, the herd has quickly grown. Often more associated with indigenous Plains cultures, bison once ranged deep into the Cherokees’ ancestral homelands in southeastern U.S. and the southern plains of Oklahoma and Kansas.

Although the bison ranch is not currently open to the public, the herd easily can be viewed from the roadside. For directions to the ranch or to arrange a school or group tour, call the Cherokee Nation Natural Resources Department at 918-453-5000.

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Cherokee Heritage Center   As the premier center for Cherokee tribal history, culture and art, the Cherokee Heritage Center should be on every list of attractions in northeast Oklahoma. Located in the heart of the Cherokee Nation, the center features Diligwa, home to a living exhibit and experience of authentic Cherokee life circa 1700. The center is also the Cherokee National Archives, the foremost collection of historic tribal-related documents and artifacts. It’s also home to the Cherokee Family Research Center, assisting Cherokees researching their lineage.

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Cherokee National Holiday

Cherokee National Holiday is a celebration of Cherokee heritage, culture and family, held on Labor Day weekend every year.

Holiday festivities include a parade, storytelling, a powwow, fiddlers contest and other events. History buffs will also want to visit the many Cherokee Nation museums and art attractions surrounding the historic Cherokee National Capitol in downtown Tahlequah, Oklahoma, where the Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation delivers the annual State of the Nation Address.

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FEATURES ᏗᎦᏎᏍᏙᏗ

Northeastern State University students Sky Wildcat and Erin Frazier walk through the Tahlequah, Oklahoma campus.

Cherokee Nation Foundation’s “Leave a Legacy” successful fundraising campaign

While budget cuts and shortfalls in funding for primary and

secondary education dominate headlines in Oklahoma, the Cherokee Nation Foundation is furthering its commitment to provide educational opportunities to Cherokee students.

CNF recently reached its funding goal of its “Leave a Legacy” campaign, which created more than $200,000 in new scholarships for Cherokees pursuing a college degree.

“The matching campaign has been a huge success, and we can’t thank everyone enough for the support and encouragement along the way,” said Janice Randall, executive director for Cherokee Nation Foundation. “Our board of directors, Chief Baker and many council members played a huge role in helping us spread the word about this opportunity, and we are pleased to see so many people take part in creating opportunities for Cherokee students.”

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The campaign was launched in 2016, allocating $100,000 to match gifts ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 on a first-come, firstserved basis.

Many of the endowments were established to honor the legacy of a family member, including a donation made by the Nix Family Foundation.

“We chose to take part in this campaign as a way to honor our grandmother, Susan Agnew Leoser,” said Patsi Nix Smith, Nix Family Foundation trustee and CNF board member. “The sacrifices she made as she traveled to Indian Territory on the Trail of Tears are unimaginable, and we would not be the family we are today without her. There is something truly special about making the past part of our future, and it makes us incredibly proud to know that her name will continue to live on and do good things in this world.”

Andrius_Saz/Shutterstock

By Whitney Dittman

ᏗᎦᏎᏍᏙᏗ FEATURES Donors worked directly with CNF staff to establish parameters on how the funds are awarded. While some scholarships may be designated for specific schools or areas of study, others may support students who live in a specific area.

“It was important for us to take the time to get to know these donors and help them develop a scholarship that would truly honor the legacy of their loved ones,” said Randall. “Our job became a lot more difficult, sure, but it also became so much more rewarding. Every year we announce scholarship recipients in the spring, and I know that we will think just as much about the lives these legacy endowments represent as we do the students receiving the funds.”

Shortly after reaching the campaign’s goal, the CNF board voted unanimously to continue matching qualifying donations as its funding allows.

Cherokee Nation Foundation Leave a Legacy Scholarships AUDIE BAKER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP Established by Principal Chief Bill John Baker, this scholarship honors the legacy of his grandmother, Audie Baker, a longtime Cherokee County educator. This scholarship supports a Cherokee Nation citizen attending Northeastern State University and majoring in education with an emphasis in special education.

SUSAN AGNEW LEOSER SCHOLARSHIP Established by the Nix Family Foundation, this scholarship honors the legacy of Susan Agnew Leoser, who came to Indian Territory on the Trail of Tears. The scholarship is designated for a Cherokee Nation citizen residing outside of the tribal jurisdiction and attending a junior college, community college or technical school.

THE PERUZZI FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP John and Hillary Peruzzi established this fund to honor the memory of her mother and longtime educator, Faye Fogleman Kircher, of Locust Grove. The fund supports a student living within the tribal jurisdiction and enrolled full time in a four-year, post-secondary institution.

THE BEAUCHAMP FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP The Beauchamp family, of Fayetteville, Arkansas, established this fund to honor the legacy of Alan Beauchamp. The parameters of this scholarship are yet to be determined.

BRENT AND JANEES TAYLOR, RSU BUSINESS SCHOLARSHIP

Susan Agnew Leoser, pictured in the middle of the second row, is one of many individuals honored through the Leave A Legacy Campaign. Leoser, pictured in the center of the middle row, came to Indian Territory as a child on the Trail of Tears.

“We know that there is no greater investment we can make than in the education of our youth, but the simple truth is that we can’t do it alone,” said Tonya Rozell, CNF board president. “By extending the matching program, we hope to find new partners interested in honoring a legacy and creating new opportunities for Cherokee students. We are certainly more effective when we work together and combine our resources.”

For more information on the Cherokee Nation Foundation, visit www.cherokeenationfoundation.org.

This scholarship supports an undergraduate student from Rogers or Mayes counties pursuing a business degree at Rogers State University.

SEQUOYAH HIGH SCHOOL ALUMNI SCHOLARSHIP Members of the Sequoyah High School Alumni Association created this fund to support a graduating senior enrolling in a higher education institution of their choice.

CARL ALBERT STATE COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP This scholarship supports a student from Stilwell or Sallisaw interested in attending Carl Albert State College in Sallisaw.

ANNA BELLE MITCHELL MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP This scholarship turned endowment supports an undergraduate, graduate or community member who is currently pursuing an education in pottery.

Additional parameters for each scholarship are available at www.cherokeenationfoundation.org.

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ᏧᏪᏅᏒᎢ HOME

Hunting for dinner

By Tyler Thomas

Hunting has long been a tradition of Cherokee people, and today, Cherokee Nation

citizens in Oklahoma are able to more easily participate in that tradition thanks to the tribe’s hunting and fishing compact with the state of Oklahoma.

The tribe issued more than 105,000 hunting and fishing licenses to Cherokee Nation citizens in Oklahoma last year. Many of those tribal citizens were able to harvest at least one deer last hunting season, providing meat for their families throughout the year.

Venison, which is known to be leaner and more healthy, can be used for a variety of dishes, including a crowd favorite – chili. A healthier alternative to beef, combining deer with your favorite chili seasoning, tomatoes, beans and more creates a delicious meal the whole family can enjoy. Use our homemade chili recipe for a wild take on an old favorite. Using a homemade chili seasoning, this dish will leave all at the dinner table full and satisfied.

For more information or to apply for a hunting and fishing license, visit www.cherokee.org.

Homestyle Three-Bean Venison Chili Ground bison or lean beef may be substituted. Recipe yields 6-8 portions.

Chili ingredients: 1 lb. ground venison 15 oz. can light red kidney beans 15.5 oz. can chili beans 15.25 oz. can black beans 30 oz. can tomato sauce 14.5 oz. petite diced tomatoes 2 1/2 TB chili seasoning (see below) Chili Seasoning Mix Recipe: 2 tsp. chili powder 2 tsp. cumin 2 tsp. paprika 2 tsp. oregano 1 tsp. garlic powder 1 tsp. onion powder Mix all seasonings together thoroughly and store in an airtight container.

To make dish: 1. In a large pot, brown the ground venison.

Drain fat after meat is browned and return to pot.

2. Stir in 2 ½ teaspoons of homemade chili seasoning mix.

3. Add 1 can each of chili beans, light red kidney beans, black beans (rinsed) and diced toma toes and stir together.

4. Add 1-2 cans of tomato sauce for desired thickness and stir into mixture.

5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. After 45 minutes, spoon into bowls and top with cheese or preferred condiments and enjoy.

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A l l Ch e r o ke e . A ll ne w.

B EGINS M A RC H 25

The new season of “Osiyo, Voices of the Cherokee People” premieres March 25 with all-new stories of Cherokee Nation and its people.

Join host Jennifer Loren for what’s next on the Emmy Award-winning program that’s unlike anything on TV or online.

Watch in Oklahoma on OETA Sundays at 3:30 p.m. To watch online anytime and for more television showtimes in your area, visit www.osiyo.tv.

W I N N E R : A R T S / E N T E R TA I N M E N T P R O G R A M W I N N E R : H I S T O R I C / C U LT U R A L P R O G R A M F E AT U R E W I N N E R : C U LT U R A L D O C U M E N TA R Y © 2017 Cherokee Nation Businesses. All Rights Reserved.

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