All Burial Assistance Applications must be completed and returned with an original certified death certificate no later than 180 days from the date of death. All deceased must be enrolled members of the Peoria Tribe. Payment will be made directly to the funeral home. Please visit with the funeral home concerning this policy.
Application & Information
Craig Harper Chief
Aya,
Several years of hard work, planning, and development culminated in the delivery of our sacred buffalo herd. Over the span of several days, the buffalo were transported to our Oklahoma lands from Yellowstone Park. Prayer, song, and lulus were offered up as they were welcomed to their new home near the Peoria Powwow grounds.
The Peoria General Council Meeting in March had an impressive number of attendees. This show of participation demonstrated the collective knowledge that our unity is our strength. Congratulations to the newly elected council members.
Peoria Tribe Team Members reached a new benchmark as we grew to over one hundred personnel this year. For reference, six years ago we had only twenty-five. The addition of numerous departments and programs along with the outstanding work of our grant writers has pushed us to grow fourfold.
Let us remember as we continue this momentum that growth is never by chance. It is the result of collaboration, planning, and a shared vision for future greatness.
It is an honor to be sharing this journey of expansion with you as your Chief and kinsman.
With gratitude,
Chief Harper
Office of the Chief
Rosanna Dobbs Second Chief
GENERAL COUNCIL
With observations
by Shayla Sturgis, Peoria Tribe Grant Writer
MARCH 2, 2024
The Peoria Tribe General Council 2024, like years before, heralded new plans for the future while remembering past triumphs.
“The morning of the General Council meeting had arrived. I was immediately impressed by how the Showplace was set up, with the glowing Peoria sign catching my attention above all else. The music was light and fun; most citizens had smiles when I greeted them. The meeting began, and the room settled to a hush. Then, the color guard, speeches, and music began…
I was in awe of what a connection I felt between the citizens in the room and their Tribe”
After a welcome from Chief Harper, department leads highlighted the Tribe’s accomplishments in 2023. Crystal Wyrick, Director of Commerce, emphasized the Tribe’s growing self-reliance and ability to build with its own resources, from new property maintenance teams to construction and fabrication teams. Program buildings and Casino installations are now often designed and built by the Tribe itself.
Tracy Coach of Health and Human Services detailed their continued outreach provided to the community with new events, wellness resources, and substance use programs. The department provides meal assistance offers while work
continues on a full food distribution center.
Jolynn Kaiser, Director of Early Childhood, presented how her department provides services to over a hundred children, and regularly engages the community with events. With the Department of Cultural Preservation’s help, they even created a card game in the Peoria Language.
“It wasn’t until my viewing that I realized how much progress occurred in only one year. I was proud that I was able to work for an organization that cared so much about its work and how it helps its citizens.”
The Natural Resources Department welcomed home fifteen buffalo from Yellowstone National Park [see page 10]. Erin Barnes, Department Director, also announced that their greenhouse project will break ground this year, among
other accomplishments and accolades like being the only federally recognized tribe that has a freshwater mussel program.
Charla EchoHawk, Director of Cultural Preservation, relayed that they had completed three language revitalization courses in 2023 and have continued work on a new gallery that will showcase all historical data on the Tribe that has been accumulated.
“The financial portion of the meeting began… When the casino financials began, I appreciated the open disclosure of both high dollar and low dollar purchases in the presentation and the honesty of the casino staff about learned experiences and changes that would come soon…”
Director of Finance, Bill Chase, delved into the finances of the Tribe, revealing the Tribe’s
Above: Bob King with Sam Doty and Erin Barnes of the Natural Resources Department distributing complimentary Peoria Beef to a Peoria Tribe Citizen
Below: Color Guard presenting during the opening ceremony
clean audit, which is essential for applying for and receiving federal grants. He also unveiled the Tribe’s move to new accounting software, employee management systems, and new banking services.
Results from the election came next, and the swearing in of winners Stacy M. Lindsly for the Grievance Committee and Jason Dollarhide for Treasurer and Nick Hargrove for First Councilman. Chief Harper then opened the floor to questions from the citizens.
“Questions and statements of emotion, opinion, and facts arose, some with more emotional fuel or volume than others, but in all each was met with calm demeanors and direct answering of questions to the best of officials’ abilities. As all political meetings go, not everyone was going to leave happy with the results, but the resolution of swearing in elected officials and seeing the color guard exit were moments where those who could not agree were brought back together again.”
Above: Cultural Preservation with Jacey Vangel, Wesley Tosan Farless, Burgundy Fletcher
Below: Finance, Commerce & Construction with Bill Chase, Treva Kennedy, Crystal Wyrick, Shayla Sturgis, Stacy Lindsly, Rebecca Kimbrough, Brandy Rogers, Darin Abernathy
Above: Natural Resources with Bob King, Kyle Foster, Erin Barnes, La Shell Thomas, Sam Doty
To all employees and attendees, thank you for making General Council a success!
Above: Health & Human Services
Shelby Betsey. Whitney Chavez, Tracy Coach, Jeremy Gillespie
Above: Early Childhood Development
Jolynn Kaiser, Christina Graham, Axle Farless, Brenna Fenderson
Below: Peoria Gift Shop
Raylynn Nair, Haley Ball, Carolyn Ritchey
Above: Housing Authority employees
Christie Blalock, Carol Thurman, Melissa Wallace
ELECTION RESULTS
Left to Right: Courtney McCartney, Cassie McCoy, Kristen Gillman, Shelly Mitchell
Left to Right: Lisa Stovall
Jamie Williams
Mandie Vonmoss
Tracy Anderson
The Long Journey Home
On January 5th, 2024, after a lengthy journey, fifteen buffalo returned to Peoria lands, marking a significant milestone in a years-long effort, stated Erin Barnes, Director of Natural Resources.
“We have been working and fighting for this moment for approximately three years and I truly believe each roadblock that was placed was in God’s greater plan,” Barnes said.
With great pride, Barnes recounted the arrival of the buffalo, facilitated by Troy and Delbert from the Intertribal Buffalo Council around 8 am that morning.
“
I
can’t even begin to describe the emotions of watching them arrive.
This is the time, and these are the animals that are meant for the Peoria People.
-Erin Barnes, Director of Natural Resources
“
Left to right: Trey Siegrist, Chief Harper, Troy Heinert, Erin Barnes, Delbert Chisolm, Hank Downum, Bob King, Mike Edwards, Trey Martin, Justus Robertson, Crystal Wryrick, Brandy Rogers
The newly established buffalo population comprises six cows, two bulls, and seven yearlings and calves, heralding a moment of great honor for the Peoria Tribe.
“These are some of the most genetically pure buffalo that exist,” Barnes noted.
Troy Heinert performs the Blessing
The Release
The Bull paces the fence line, investigating the new territory as the herd looks on.
On February 6th, the buffalo were released into the completed 66-acre field! It was imperative to keep the buffalo in a holding pen for a few weeks so that they could acclimate to their new surroundings and feel more comfortable in their new home; by doing this, we reduced the risk of them busting through a fence. After four weeks couped up in the pen, the buffalo were more than ready to get turned out to stretch their legs, run, and eat grass.
Since their release, the buffalo have wandered the acreage in peace. They can frequently be seen napping in the sun, which is a good sign that they are happy, full, and relaxed!
The Peoria Tribe welcomes its first baby bison to be born on Peoria lands!
Peoria Tribe Team Members & Citizens attending the final release.
Ceremonial drumming
If you know anyone who has moved or tribal member households not receiving newsletters, please urge them to contact the Enrollment Office or fill out the form online or by mail.
We have several members with no address on file. Any and all help is appreciated in finding these members.
Total number of enrolled citizens: 3,779
Total number of citizens with no address on file: 948
Thank you to all who have and will assist in this ongoing endeavor. All help is valued!
Requirements
Written consent is required from tribal members aged 18 and above or legal custodial parents for those under 18.
How to Register
Complete the address verification & release of information form digitally at: jotform.com/peoriatribe/update
Or download and print a copy at: peoriatribe.com/forms under “Enrollment” section
Return completed print copies to: Peoria Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma Attn: Enrollment Office PO Box 1527 Miami OK 74355
Stay Up to Date
Tomato Selection Tips
Selecting the right variety of tomatoes can be a daunting task. There are thousands of tomato seed varieties available, and even local nurseries and big box stores typically offer as many as two or three dozen choices for tomato plants. So how do you select which ones to grow in your home garden?
Slicer vs. Snacker vs. Sauce
Before you purchase your tomato plants, first ask yourself what you would like to do with them after they have grown. Tomatoes broadly fall into three categories. Slicers are the classic large, flavorful tomatoes typically eaten fresh, with varieties like “Better Boy”, “Beefsteak”, “Cherokee Purple”, and “Early Girl” (Figure 1).
These can be made into a sauce, but usually require longer cooking times and they can be eaten whole as snacks but are generally considered too large for this and are cut into slices or diced. Snackers are often subdivided into categories like cherry, grape, or cocktail tomatoes and have variety names like “Sun Gold”, “Cherry Bomb”, “Red Pearl”, “Golden Sweet”, or “Black Prince” (Figure 2).
They are sweet, or sweet-tart tomatoes that are typically small enough in size to consume whole and are often a favorite of gardeners who like to snack while they pick their tomatoes. Finally, sauce tomatoes (also called paste tomatoes) are varieties that have been bred for qualities that
Figure 1 Large heirloom slicer-type tomato
Figure 2 Cherry tomatoes, perfect for snacking
make them ideal for processing into sauces that are usually cooked and/or canned. Varieties like “San Marzano II”, “Amish Paste”, “Plum Regal”, or “Roma” are popular (Figure 3).
Determinate vs. Indeterminate
Next, you need to decide how you plan to support your tomato plants. Tomato varieties will be listed as either determinate or indeterminate plants (Figure 4). Determinate (or bush) tomatoes will grow to a certain size and stop. They are bred to stop growing when they are 3 to 4 feet tall, and most of the fruit will ripen together. Indeterminate tomato plants will keep growing for months and months and usually require more management because they produce secondary shoots that are often trimmed by the gardener and their fruit ripens in stages as the vine grows longer and longer. Indeterminate plants can grow very tall or be grown along a large trellis whereas determinate tomato plants often just need a tomato cage or staking to support them.
Once you’ve decided what you want to do with your tomatoes, and what kind of growth habit you’d prefer, you can select the varieties that meet those criteria. You can also choose varieties that have disease resistance bred into them, as well as varieties that produce fruit earlier or later in the season. All this information is generally available on the plant tag, or from the nursery associate. Select plants that are pest free, look compact and green, and that do not show signs of wilting.
Figure 3 San Marzano tomatoes, a popular paste tomato
Embrace the FRESHNESS
A Guide to Spring Cleaning for Cleaner Indoor Air
Alongside the blossoming flowers and warmer temperatures, many households embark on the annual tradition of spring cleaning. Beyond the aesthetic appeal of a tidy home, spring cleaning plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy indoor environment by promoting cleaner air quality.
During the winter months, homes are often sealed tight to retain heat, leading to a buildup of dust and pollutants. Dust accumulates on surfaces, furniture, and hidden corners, acting as a reservoir for allergens. Regular dusting, decluttering, vacuuming, and cleaning help remove these particles, reducing the likelihood of respiratory issues.
Next, ventilation. Clean air ducts and replace HVAC filters to prevent the circulation of pollutants throughout the home. Consider using highefficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, which are designed to capture smaller particles, providing a more thorough filtration of air.
Swap out your cleaning products. Harsh chemicals found in many conventional cleaners can contribute to indoor air pollution. Opt for eco-friendly alternatives or create DIY cleaners using ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils.
Finally, indoor plants not only add a touch of nature to your living space but also act as natural air purifiers. Plants such as spider plants, snake plants, and peace lilies can help remove common indoor pollutants, enhancing the overall air quality and providing a pop of freshness to any space.
Graduate #PeoriaProud Spotlight
ALLI BYINGTON
As a 2023 graduate of St. Genevieve High School, Alli currently pursues a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Missouri State University.
She was recently honored as one of two recipients of a $2,500 scholarship from the National Tribal Gaming Commissions and Regulators. This scholarship is awarded to students affiliated with a United States
LUCILLE RENEE FERGUSON
Class of 2024, Covington, Louisiana.
Lucille plans to take a gap year to work, visit family in Scotland, and then attend college in the fall of 2025!
ZACHARY MAGNUSON
Zachary Magnuson graduated from Oklahoma State University with honors in December 2023. He completed a double major in Biology and Physiology with a minor in Sign Language, and is now pursuing his doctorate in medicine. He hopes to specialize as an ENT and work with the deaf community.
TITUS MAUPIN
CAM KING
Cam graduated from Oak Park High School in May ‘24, excelling in fine arts. She lettered in Orchestra & Speech/Debate, qualifying for Nationals in Speech/Debate & earning Gold in State Choir Competition. This fall, Cam will attend Fort Lewis College in Durango, CO.
Titus Maupin graduated from Hominy High School. He received the Masonic Student of Today award. He is currently in the Tar Creek apprenticeship program. He will be attending NEO in the fall and plans to major in Agriculture.
Abbie Miller graduated as valedictorian from Galena High School. She plans to attend Missouri Southern State University in the fall to study pre-law.
ALEXANDRA BAYOUTH
Alexandra Bayouth graduated from Edmond Memorial High School. She is attending Stephen F. Austin University to play D1 soccer.
JAKE BURTON
Jake graduated with a Bachelors of Arts in Health Science and a minor in Neuroscience from Hendrix College. He will be attending New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine in Jonesboro, Arkansas to pursue a Masters in Biomedical Sciences with plans on entering medical school and becoming a physician.
Growing Our Future Together
The Peoria Education Committee is accepting applications until July 31 for the Fall term. New applicants can mail or drop off their applications at the Peoria Tribal Office, while renewal applicants can email theirs.
Ensure the application has the deadline’s postmark and sufficient postage. Incomplete applications won’t be considered and must include all supporting documents. To obtain applications, contact Mandie VonMoss at mvonmoss@peoriatribe.com or 918-540-2535, or download at peoriatribe.com and send them to the Peoria Education Committee.
PEORIA EDUCATION COMMITTEE
Peoria Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma
P.O. BOX 1527, MIAMI, OK 74355
EARLY CHILDHOOD DELIVERS A VERY IMPORTANT READING MESSAGE:
Kids who are read to, do better in school.
For over four decades, the Oklahoma Institute for Child Advocacy (OICA) has championed the needs of children, addressing issues such as the abuse of kids in state custody and the long-term suffering of Native American children in federal boarding schools. Thankfully we have made many improvements since those dark days, but today’s youth still face huge challenges and need our support.
Important brain development occurs when caregivers talk, read, and sing to babies. Although babies cannot speak clearly, they learn and understand words spoken to them. Speaking warmly and reading to children from birth helps build a strong vocabulary. Singing to babies helps them feel safe, calm, and learn to control their emotions. Daily talking, reading, and singing creates a strong emotional bond with children.
These activities also increase children’s language, reading, math, thinking, and social skills. These skills are important for lifelong learning and success in school.
The National Education Association (NEA) created Read Across America in 1997 to promote literacy and encourage children to love reading. Read Across America Week, including Dr. Seuss Day, will be celebrated nationwide from March 2–6, 2024.
SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS FALL DEADLINE
REIMBURSEMENT FOR SCHOOL SUPPLIES/CLOTHES LAST DAY OF EVERY MONTH
JULY 31, 2024
April was both Sexual Assault Awareness Month and Child Abuse Prevention & Awareness Month. The Peoria Tribe worked with other local tribes and the community to contribute.
Through the month of April, these racks of clothing were placed at multiple community facilities to help spread awareness that sexual violence can happen to anyone and impacts every person in the community.
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual violence, free and confidential resources are available:
The Peoria Tribe’s “Paint the Town Blue” initiative raised awareness of Child Abuse through local art. Peoria Tribe’s child abuse prevention program focuses on enhanced, culturally relevant family support and prevention services through education.
Chief
Executive Assistant
Director of Human Resources
Human Resources Manager
Human Resources Supervisor
Human Resources Generalist
Director of Administration
Tribal Programs Manager
Tribal Programs Specialist (Eldercare)
Tribal Programs Specialist (Education)
Peoria Tag Specialist
Director of Commerce
Director of Finance
Comptroller
Craig Harper
chiefharper@peoriatribe.com
Mindy Tate mtate@peoriatribe.com
Kim Krokroskia kkrokroskia@peoriatribe.com
Tracy Farrales tfarrales@peoriatribe.com
Shawnay Enyart senyart@peoriatribe.com
Brittany Amos bamos@peoriatribe.com
Brandy Rogers brogers@peoriatribe.com
Donna Harp dharp@peoriatribe.com
Tracy Anderson tanderson@peoriatribe.com
Mandie VonMoss mvonmoss@peoriatribe.com
Jamie Williams jwilliams@peoriatribe.com
Crystal Wyrick cwyrick@peoriatribe.com
Bill Chase bchase@peoriatribe.com
Amanda Hall ahall@peoriatribe.com
Comptroller Sara Rutledge srutledge@peoriatribe.com
