2024 Election Edition Newsletter

A WORD FROM CHIEF CHARLES DIEBOLD

Dear Tribal Members,

I hope this newsletter finds everyone in good health and spirits as we leave winter behind and move towards spring. The business committee continues to make steady strides on several projects within the Seneca-Cayuga Nation.

The casino remains committed to serving its customers and fostering community engagement through a range of activities and promotions. Most recently, the employee GLC Cares group visited the Grandwood Assisted Living Complex to connect with residents and share the spirit of the community.

The CCDF program is working diligently on the upcoming Easter egg hunt for the kids and preparing for groundbreaking on the new Early Childhood Development Center (ECDC). The anticipated construction completion date is 2nd Quarter of 2025.

The retail store project is in the hands of the architect and final plans for builder Request for Proposal (RFP) is due in May. This is an exciting project for the Nation in that it will consist of a country store, gas pumps, casino, RV park.

As a component of our Nation's future vision, the business committee has undertaken strategic land acquisitions near our existing casino. The Nation has secured acreage adjoining the casino and the former Elk River Marina. This property includes fully equipped facilities such as 28 boat slips (with permits for an additional 61), 8 cabins, 22 RV lots, a commercial retail building along Highway 10, and dry boat storage for 50 vessels. These acquisitions pave the way for establishing GLC as a prominent destination in our area, enhancing business prospects for our casino and store.

The forthcoming election and General Council are set for Saturday, June 1st, and I urge everyone to plan to vote. Your voice matters. This newsletter presents profiles of candidates vying for leadership roles. I encourage you to assess each candidate carefully and select those who will further the progress of our nation. This election will offer both in-person and absentee voting options. If you haven't registered to vote yet, you can do so at the polling place. For absentee voters, I strongly advise promptly completing and returning your ballots upon receipt. Changes in distribution centers and mail processing by the postal service in Oklahoma may impact mail delivery.

Going forward let’s continue to be strong, continue to build our reputation and work together to create a future for our Nation to be proud of.

It is an honor and privilege to continue serving the people of the Seneca Cayuga Nation as we propel our Nation forward with the guiding principles of "Unity and Progress."

Nya-Weh (thank you)

Charles Diebold, Chief of the Seneca Cayuga Nation

IN THIS ISSUE

A WORD FROM THE CHIEF

UPCOMING ELECTION

INFORMATION

VOTING INSTRUCTIONS

CANDIDATE PROFILES

BUSINESS COMMITTEE

Charles Diebold, Chief

Curt Lawrence, 2nd Chief

Kim Guyett, Secretary-Treasurer

Cynthia Donohue Bauer, 1st Council Person

Amy Nuckolls, 2nd Council Person

Hoyit Bacon, 3rd Council Person

Tonya Blackfox, 4th Council Person

COMMITTEE SUMMARY

The Business Committee (BC) has re-established several committees, which include a BC member as the chairperson. They are actively collaborating on existing committees, both internal and external, to represent the Nation.

Kim Guyett (Secretary-Treasurer) is the chairperson for the Enrollment Committee.

Amy Nuckolls is the chairperson for the Housing Committee.

Cynthia Donohue Bauer is the chairperson for the Education/Welfare Committee.

Tonya Blackfox represents the Nation for the Northeastern Tribal Health System Governing Board and the Claremore Indian Hospital Board of Directors.

Curt Lawrence and Kim Guyett work with the Tax Commission.

UPCOMING ELECTION

An election for the Seneca–Cayuga Nation will be held JUNE 1, 2024 . Please read the following information carefully so you can vote.

VOTING PROCEDURE

It is vital that every member vote in this years election. This is your chance to choose your leaders. The Election Committee works hard to ensure a fair election that follows the election process prescribed in the election ordinance.

IF YOU REGISTERED TO VOTE BY ABSENTEE BALLOT:

1. You will receive an absentee ballot by mail.

2. Fill in the ballot and return it per the instructions. All absentee ballots must be received at the designated PO box by 5:00pm on May 31st to be counted.

IF YOU REGISTERED TO VOTE IN PERSON:

1. You will vote in person at the polling place on June 1st, 2024 from 8am - 1pm. The polling place will be the Nation Community Building located at 24805 South 660 Road, Grove OK.

FOR THE OFFICIAL NOTICE OF ELECTION, AND A MORE DETAILED UNDERSTANDING OF ELECTION PROCEDURES, PLEASE VISIT: SCTRIBE.COM > GOVERNMENT > CONSTITUTION & BYLAWS

HTTPS://SCTRIBE.COM/GOVERNMENT/CONSTITUTION-BYLAWS

CANDIDATE PROFILES

There are several positions up for election this year. We asked candidates to submit bios and pictures which follow. These have been published as submitted without editing. All the submitted profiles are published on the following pages.

Candidates running uncontested will be automatically elected.

Candidate for CHIEF

Sharon (Katie) Birdsong

Hello members my name is Katie Birdsong I’m from the Birdsong Logan family. I bring knowledge and experience with serving four years as second chief, and six years as council person, serving for the good of all with many great accomplishments. Always being assessable and listening to the needs of tribal members and providing leadership to meet those needs. I pledge to honor general counsel directives. I believe the nation has made great strides, to bring us into the future with technology and business ventures to better provide for our tribal members. I promise to safeguard our programs and businesses and strive to expand and improve them as to ensure our elders, children, and everyone in between needs are being met so they can enjoy better opportunities. I humbly ask for your vote. Thank you, Katie Birdsong.

Charles Diebold

Candidate for Re-Election as Chief PRIDE  UNITY  PROGRESS

Greetings to all tribal members,

It is an honor and a privilege every day to serve as your Chief. I am asking for your continued support and consideration in this upcoming election A personal goal has been to help bring “PRIDE” back to our Nation in all aspects: culture, reputation, and inter-government relations Nation pride will drive the success of our future.

 PRIDE 

The Seneca-Cayuga are unique in our rich tribal heritage and fortunate enough to continue our Longhouse traditions through the generations. Serving as Chief and Ceremonial Chief follows my lifelong commitment to contribute to our people and continue the ways of our ancestors. I feel privileged to have been raised as a Seneca-Cayuga with my family always following our Longhouse ways. My grandmother, Amanda Whitewing Turkey, was the Head Faith Keeper . Upon her passing in 1951, my mother, Ruby Diebold, was seated in her position, and later became Head Faith Keeper until her passing in 1991. I have felt the honor of serving our people in times of joy as well as sadness, and it is humbling to know our traditions are still with us and will be here for the next generations.

 UNITY 

At General Council, a remarkable transformation towards Unity is underway, evident in the notable reduction of tensions among us. Our goal is to foster an environment of mutual respect where everyone is empowered to voice their perspective. Introducing monthly Q&A sessions into our agenda bolsters transparency and collaboration and provides a platform for open dialogue and understanding Additionally, it seems that the consolidation of Ceremonial and Governmental leadership at this time may have helped to harmonize our tribe's vision and brought us together We will advance - bound by our Pride and commitment to Progress, strengthened by our Unity.

 PROGRESS 

I have been accomplishment-driven throughout my career, and the position of Chief is no different. Our administration has worked relentlessly to increase tribal Progress and is eager to continue this positive momentum. Let’s keep looking to the future and thinking strategically to best utilize our tribal resources. Some highlighted achievements are:

• Envisioned & secured funding for our Early Childhood Development Center (April 2024 groundbreaking)

• Created the Flint Fire (cattle) Ranch (100+ head and growing!)

• Building our Nation’s first Country Store/Casino/RV park (currently in architectural planning)

• Purchased Elk River Marina to extend our property line from the Casino to the waterfront

• Completed 8 Emergency Housing units

• Acquired 3 homes in Miami; a duplex & home by GLC lodge; a home at Flint Fire Ranch; a home on Tiff City Rd; and renovated 2 rental homes

• Purchased the Ice & Iron retail property in Grove

• Expanded our Nation’s land base (≈530 acres) for cattle ranch growth, and casino development

• Improved Ceremonial Grounds: replaced & updated electrical & water lines; built new bathrooms; and updated all other existing bathrooms

• Upgraded our Nation’s water tower & treatment station

Pride, Unity and Progress! Your vote is invaluable to our collective journey toward a brighter future. Together, let's build a Nation founded on unity and propelled by progress. Thank you for considering me for your trust and confidence.

Nya-Weh (thank you),

Charles Diebold, Chief of the Seneca-Cayuga Nation

Candidate for FIRST COUNCILPERSON

Cynthia Donohue-Bauer

Dear Members of the Seneca-Cayuga Nation,

I am Cynthia Donohue Bauer, and I am seeking your support as I run for re-election as 1st Councilperson for our Nation. Over the past few years, I have had the privilege of serving in this role, and during this time, I believe we have made significant progress as a community. However, there is still much work to be done, and I am committed to seeing our ongoing projects through to completion.

For those who may not be familiar with my background, I am the granddaughter of Geraldine Bearskin Stovall and the daughter of Shine Carson. As a mother of five and a dedicated Special Education teacher with 27 years of experience, I have always been deeply invested in the well-being and prosperity of our community. My service on various committees, including the Claims/Welfare Committee and the Election Committee, has provided me with valuable insights into the needs and aspirations of our people.

Recently, I completed my Masters degree in Legal Studies in Indigenous Peoples Law from the University of Oklahoma. Through this program, I gained a profound understanding of the importance of our Nation’s sovereignty. I am deeply committed to expanding our sovereignty in all aspects of our governance and ensuring that our economic development initiatives thrive. Economic prosperity is crucial for upholding our sovereignty and providing essential services to all members of our Nation, regardless of where they reside.

During my tenure on the Business Committee, I have had the honor of serving as the Chairperson for the Benefits Committee. In this role, I have worked tirelessly to ensure that our tribal members have access to vital resources such as Elder funds, Education, and Social Services, including optical, dental, hearing, and emergency assistance for those aged 18-54. These funds are essential for supporting the well-being of our community members and strengthening our Nation as a whole.

As I seek re-election, I am fully committed to continuing the important work we have begun together. I believe that with your support, we can build a brighter future for the Seneca-Cayuga Nation, one that is rooted in our sovereignty, prosperity, and unity.

Thank you for your consideration, and I humbly ask for your vote.

Sincerely,

Cynthia Donohue Bauer

Candidate for FIRST COUNCILPERSON

Diana Baker

First let me start by introducing and telling you a little bit about myself. I am the daughter of Dwight and Phyllis Vowels. My mother was an Enyart, daughter of Euculed and Elnora Peacock Enyart and granddaughter of Thomas and Lizzie Peacock. My husband Doug and I have been married for 39 years and have one son. I have been employed with the Shawnee Tribe in Miami, OK for 17 years as their Child Care & Development Program Specialist and Director. I have worked within the Child Care & Development Fund program for 24 years starting out with the Seneca Cayuga Nation. I am an active member of the National Indian Child Care Association and presently hold a seat on the Board of Directors for the Oklahoma Tribal Child Care Association. I feel that the experience and knowledge, that I have gained on the federal programs is a crucial part of being able to work for the best interest of the tribe. My husband Doug has been employed with Orizon Aerostructures in Grove, OK as a Quality Control Inspector and Team Leader. My son Preston and his wife Abby have our three beautiful grandchildren Sophie, Nathan, and Natalie.

I have filed for the 1st Councilperson position and would like to ask for your support in the upcoming election. If you elect me as your 1st Councilperson, I assure you I will do what is best for the Nation and tribal members with fairness and respect for everyone. The Nation has helped me with different services throughout the years and now I feel it’s time for me to help our Nation. I believe in transparency which can be difficult at times, but we should do our best to reach that goal. My goal is for the Nation to prosper by helping our Nation grow economically for our future generations and also help our education and elders programs thrive to be able to offer more assistance. I would like to help build our benefits program to be able to offer more benefits to all tribal members.

Thank you in advance for your support. I hope to see you in June.

Candidate for FIRST COUNCILPERSON

Terry Whitetree

Greetings my fellow Seneca/Cayuga Nation Brothers and Sisters

Terry l Whitetree candidate for the position of first councilperson of our nation asking for your vote this coming June, all votes are very much appreciated

Graduated from Haskell Indian institution Lawrence KS

Afterwards took refrigeration air-conditioning and sheet metal signed up for u.s. army basic at fort Polk la. Air borne jump school after basic then commo school then assigned to 82nd airborne division Fort Bragg NC

Deployed to Santo Domingo Dominican Republic later on sent to Vietnam assigned to the 101st airborne division Dakto South Vietnam discharged when back to finish my education at Haskell graduated

Went to work at McDonnell Douglas then Rockwell International and retired at Boeing all companies were in Tulsa Oklahoma

Our goals for our nation should be

Taking care of our elders by lowering age to 52

Increase benefits thru claims

Better programs for the urban/Intercity members honor all our veterans

Land purchases in/outside nation area

Businesses nation can buy to locate on our land

All these can be accomplished thru hard work by the Bc and the people we elect this June 4 2022

But we also must look at the portfolio that Nation has established for itself good or bad

Once again asking for you vote

God Bless you all and the Seneca/Cayuga Nation

Thank you

Terry l Whitetree (terrywtree@gmail.com)

Candidate for THIRD COUNCILPERSON

Cheryl Bushman

My name is Cheryl Snell Bushman, I am 59 years old. I reside in Wyandotte, OK., I have lived in Wyandotte since 2008 however; I have resided in Oklahoma all of my life. I was raised in Newkirk Oklahoma; I have always tried to attend all of our ceremonies and General Council meetings. Our Tribal culture and customs are very important to me, it all is a part of who I am. My Dad always told me that my butt needed to be in that seat at General Counsel (because General Counsel is so important). I am the Daughter of Homer A. Snell, the Granddaughter of John and Esther Snell, the Great Granddaughter of Anna Bomberry, and Great-Great Granddaughter of Alexander and Rachel Snell. I am employed with The Dollar General Store in Wyandotte; I have been with the company for over 8 years and I have been manager on duty for over 6 years. My best accomplishment is my son Dakota Bushman, he has grown up to be an amazing man, husband, and father. I will not pretend I have extensive education. I graduated from Newkirk High School in 1982. However, I do have extensive life lessons, I am an individual that is easy to talk to, I have common sense, I am an honest person, and I would like to think I have good morals and values. One amazing thing that I inherited from my father was I observe more than I say. I believe we need a council that listens and tries very hard to do what the Nation wants and needs. To be honest, I have issues speaking in front of people however, when I am passionate about the subject the issues disappear. I will make decisions I feel is best for all. One thing I am very passionate about is our children and the Indian Child Welfare department. I believe the children are our future and we should do everything we can to protect them and keep them in touch with their Tribal heritage. I would greatly appreciate your vote for 3rd Council Person.

Candidate for THIRD COUNCILPERSON

Jason WhiteEagle

Sgë:nö’ I am Jason White Eagle. I am running for 3rd Councilperson for our Business Committee. Many of you already know me from language and singing class or from many of our ceremonies and dances we hold throughout the year. I am running for this position to help strengthen our cultural influence in the decisions we make at the administrative level. I am very active in all aspects of our culture and wish to protect it and pass on our knowledge and traditions to our young people. I have ran for office in the past, and I believe that my character can help make a difference. I have a lot of experience coaching and mentoring young people through softball, helping teach adults how to drive semi-trucks, and do volunteer work for others. My father was Moses White Eagle. I have several brothers and sisters in this area. I have been married to Lois for more than 25 years. I have 3 daughters, 9 grandchildren, and 3 greatgrandchildren with one more on the way. Most of who are active in our culture as well. I am still learning new things every day when it comes to our history and language and hope that you feel as passionate about it as I do. I would like your support in voting for me for this important role. I would like to listen to all your concerns and see how we can address them and make changes for the betterment of the people. Nya:wëh

Candidate for THIRD COUNCILPERSON

Dustin (Dusty) Logan

Sgeno,

My name is Dusty Logan, son of Dave and Kathy Logan, and grandson of David “Babe” Logan and Janie Blackhoof Logan. I’ve spent my entire life in Wyandotte, Oklahoma, surrounded by my family and five remarkable children: Peytience, Evan, Levi, Addy, and Scarlett. My career has been deeply rooted in serving the Seneca-Cayuga Nation for over two decades, a journey that has been both rewarding and enlightening.

My professional path has led me through various roles within the Seneca-Cayuga Nation, including significant time at our Tobacco factory and over 17 incredible years at Grand Lake Casino. During my time at Grand Lake Casino, I grew my career from blackjack and poker dealer to General Manager – remaining dedicated and passionate about the performance of our tribe’s primary economic engine. During my tenure as General Manager, I spearheaded renovations exceeding $3 million, owning projects from the initial concept through execution. Some of these projects include remodeling the casino’s entertainment venue, redesigning our center bar, and overseeing the installation of essential mechanical and network infrastructure that supports the operation of the enterprise.

My vision for our Nation is grounded in self-sustainability. It’s imperative that we invest in our tribal members, in our businesses, and most importantly, in the education and future of our children and grandchildren. Such investments are crucial for breaking cycles of poverty and abuse and building bridges into a more vibrant future. I envision a Nation where our financial resources are utilized within the community and businesses that we cultivate ourselves to our most significant needs and maintain the economic benefits within our Nation.

Education, be it through higher education or trade schools, is a cornerstone for development. It’s crucial that we equip our youth with the necessary skills, ensuring that they find meaningful employment within our ventures, thereby fostering a cycle of growth and self-reliance.

In our quest for progress, individual merit must be our guiding principle. This standard is essential for the integrity, efficiency and sustainability of our operations. Following this standard will keep our Nation moving forward.

Trust in our appointed leaders and their decision-making capabilities is paramount for our collective success.

This June, I am asking for your vote for Third Councilperson on our Nation’s Business Committee. My goal is to ensure that your support is respected as we build bridges into the future together.

Nya:Weh,

Dusty Logan

Kathryn Schaefer

Candidate for

FIRST POSITION

Ryan Birdsong – Unopposed

Candidate for THIRD POSITION

David (Boo) Lane

Sgeno, my name is David Lane, most of you know me as "Boo". I have decided to run for 2nd Grievance Committee position. I would greatly appreciate your vote. Nyaweh.

THIRD POSITION

Nina Short

My name is Nina Short. I am the daughter of Stephanie Whitetree Mathia and the granddaughter of the late Gordon Whitetree.I am married with two amazing children. I am also a small business owner. I have lived in the area most of my life. I was raised in the Traditional and political aspect of our tribe.

I am running for a position on the grievance committee. I am confident that if chosen you will find that my loyalty and integrity will be to put the concerns and needs of out tribal members first.

Preston Baker – Unopposed

Greetings all, my name is Preston Baker. I have filed for the 5th Position on the Grievance Committee, and I would like to tell you a little bit about myself. I am the son of Doug and Diana Baker and grandson of Dwight and Phyllis (Enyart) Vowels. I am the great-grandson of Euculed and Elnora (Peacock) Enyart and great-great-grandson of Thomas and Lizzie Peacock. My wife Abby and I have been married for 13 years and have three children, Sophie, Nathan, and Natalie.

I currently sit as the Vice-Chairman of the Quapaw Nation Gaming Commission. I have worked in the Gaming Industry for 19 years and I am also a licensed EMT. I feel that I can help our Nation on the Grievance Committee by providing an unbiased and fair decision based on facts brought forth to the Grievance Committee.

I look forward to seeing everyone in June.

GENERAL COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM REQUEST

To facilitate an accurate and smooth General Council agenda items must be submitted in advance for the June 1, 2024 meeting by filling in and returning the form at right.

The form must be filled in and mailed or e-mailed to the Secretary-Treasurer.

To submit by mail:

Secretary-Treasurer

C/O Seneca-Cayuga Nation PO Box 453220 Grove OK 74345-3220

To submit by email: kguyett@sctribe.com

This form must be submitted to the SCN SecretaryTreasurer by May 17, 2024, to be considered for the 2024 General Council Agenda

Agenda Request

**This form must be submitted to the SCN Secretary-Treasurer by May 17, 2024, to be considered for the 2024 General Council Agenda**

Email to: kguyett@sctribe.com

Mail to: P. O. Box 453220 Grove, OK 74345-3220

**Notice, submission of this form does not guarantee your business to be heard at General Council, it will be subject to time constraints and quorum count**

Keep up with the latest news, events, and updates: Official Facebook: www.facebook.com/OfficialSenecaCayugaNation Access benefits and government information: Sctribe.com