Anadisgoi
WINTER 2015-16
15 23 3 A Message from Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Bill John Baker • Harbor in the storm: Partnership keeps at-large CN citizens safe • A gift for generations: Cherokee Nation leads charge to preserve Seminary Hall • Portrait of patronage: Cherokee Nation Businesses wins at Governor’s Art Awards • Good stewards: CN Financial Resources Department certified excellent in reporting • A testament to culture: Cherokee Nation publishes a new red letter edition translation of the New Testament • Sharing the joy: Cherokee children and elders receive a merry Christmas
Designer Other Contributions
• Second chances for change: Program offers opportunities for ex-felons
11 People
4 News
Editor Executive Editor Managing Editor Contributing Staff
• Improving access to health: Wilma P. Mankiller Health Center opens its doors
22 Lifestyle
• Sustaining a legacy: Sara Hill, Cherokee Nation’s new secretary of natural resources
• It’s in the mail: Hunting and fishing licenses mailed to 90,000 Cherokees
• 5 questions with Sara Hill
• Taking the bait: Catching bass like the pros is about what you know
13 Business
• Exercise gave me a new life: Cherokee Nation citizen loses 135 pounds
• Ready for the rush: Cherokee Casino & Hotel Roland opens for business • In good company: Top TERO businesses are recognized for excellence
15 Features
• Burpees made easy: Trainer Brandon Goad demonstrates • A better way to fry: Chef Bradley Dry’s healthy take on Indian tacos
• Cherokee warriors: Veteran shares his stories from the Cherokee Warrior Flight
Amanda Clinton Travis Noland Karen Shade Julie Hubbard Tyler Thomas Tim Landes Jason McCarty Brandon Scott Stephanie Remer Cherokee Nation Communications Cherokee Nation Businesses Communications
ON THE COVER:
World War II veteran and Cherokee Nation citizen Valentino Burnett shares a few of his wartime memories and the experience of joining the Cherokee Warrior Flight. Photo by Jeremy Charles.
Contact Anadisgoi magazine by email at anadisgoi@cn-bus.com.
The Official Cherokee Nation News
Anadisgoi
2
MESSAGE FROM THE CHIEF ᎤᎬᏫᏳᎯ ᏂᏓᏳᏅᏅ ᎧᏃᎮᏍᎩ OSIYO. Honoring the sacrifices and service of our brave men and women who defend this country and our freedoms is a deeply ingrained value in our Cherokee culture. Native people serve at a higher rate in the military than any other racial group in the United States, and the Cherokee people have always held these brave individuals in the highest regard. In the cover story of this issue of Anadisgoi, you’ll learn more about the Cherokee Warrior Flight, which is just one way we say “thank you” to those Cherokee veterans. In our second annual Cherokee Warrior Flight this past fall, 11 Cherokee World War II and Korean War veterans had the opportunity to see the Washington, D.C., monuments erected in their honor, free of charge. They visited the U.S. Capitol, WWII monument, Korean War monument and other national monuments honoring military service. These men embody the traits that make the United States the best nation in the world – a dedication to service and a willingness to accept great responsibility under the darkest of circumstances. The Cherokee Warrior Flight was created in 2014 to honor these brave men and women and let them know their sacrifices are forever appreciated. And time is critical for us to deliver that message of thanks. The U.S. Veterans Administration says there are fewer than one million of the 16 million WWII veterans alive today who fought in that epic war, and almost 500 WWII veterans pass away every day. The fall 2015 flight included a Pearl
Harbor survivor, a set of four brothers from Adair County, Oklahoma, and another pair of brothers living in different states but reuniting for this trip. They ranged in age from 82 to 94. World War II veterans making the trip were Navy veteran Bill Durall, of Green Valley, Arizona; Marine Corps veteran Dean Durall, of Mapleton, Utah; Navy veteran Winfred “Wink” Chamberlain, of Texas City, Texas; Army veteran Virgil Carter, of Tahlequah; Navy and Coast Guard veteran Charles Scott, of Palo Alto, California; Army Air Force veteran Gerald Zellner, of Big Cabin; Navy veteran Valentino “Tino” Burnett, of Eucha; and Army veteran Monroe Hembree, of Stilwell. Korean War veterans include these brave men: Army veteran Dan Hembree, of Westville; Air Force veteran Alfred Hembree, of Westville; and Army veteran Ivan Hembree, of Bunch. As you read about their journey in this issue of Anadisgoi, I know you will be touched by these humble men who have done and seen amazing things. Please enjoy following along on their special trip in this issue of Anadisgoi magazine. To the Cherokee Warrior Flight veterans, thank you. We will never forget your duty, your valor or your sacrifices. God bless the brave men who made this journey, and God bless every veteran who’s served for us to live free. Wado.
Bill John Baker
Cherokee Nation Principal Chief
ᎧᏃᎮᏓ NEWS
Harbor in the storm Red Cross partnership ensures Cherokee Nation citizens are prepared for storms
Like any Oklahoman, Michelle Ayers understands danger-
ous storms in the spring and summer are a harsh reality in the Sooner State. The mother of three wants to know her family is safe when tornado sirens sound near her rural Shawnee, Oklahoma, home of 15 years. “Two years ago, the storm’s path came down Highway 102, and it sounded like a train rolling though our yard,” said Ayers, Cherokee Nation citizen. “The kids and pets were freaking out. It was so scary.” The tornado damaged their roof, but the Ayers home was largely unaffected. Just a mile down the road, a trailer park was completely destroyed, impacting dozens of families. Through a partnership between Cherokee Nation and the American Red Cross, the Ayers now have their own in-ground shelter capable of safely accommodating 10 people. Cherokee Nation was one of seven tribes to share in a $1,567,500 Red Cross grant awarded specifically to tribal governments to provide individual storm shelters for tribal citizens. Through the grant, more than 40 Cherokee families living outside of the Cherokee Nation’s 14-county jurisdiction have received a new storm shelter or will have one in the coming months. “These shelters provide additional safety and peace of mind to families, adding to the recovery of the community at large,” said Red Cross Disaster State Relations Director and
National Tribal Relations Lead Chele Rider. “Strong partnerships, like the Red Cross and the Cherokee Nation, allow safety efforts to blossom and help save lives. One of our highest priorities at the Red Cross is to empower Oklahoma families and increase their preparedness.” For Cherokee families like the Ayerses, the opportunity is a blessing and a prayer answered. “We had no options for safety without a cellar or storm shelter. We have wanted to get one of these so badly for so long,” she said. “We are thankful to the Cherokee Nation and the Red Cross for making this dream come true.” The shelter was installed in a day, and Cherokee Nation Construction Project Administrator Paul Crosslin said the execution of the grant has been smooth. He said local contractors are hired to install the shelters, which can hold between 8 to 12 people. “This is a wonderful opportunity to better protect Cherokee families against threatening weather,” said Cherokee Nation Tribal Councilor Jack Baker, of Oklahoma City, who represents at-large citizens. “We are proud to implement the first and only Cherokee Nation program that was specifically developed for Cherokee Nation’s at-large citizens.” Fellow at-large Tribal Councilor Wanda Hatfield, also of Oklahoma City, stressed the importance of Cherokee Nation’s role in emergency management. “The state’s sovereign tribal governments play a critical role in the overall safety of our citizens,” Hatfield said. “Working with the Red Cross ensures our people are better protected today and for the future.”
Cherokee Nation Tribal Councilor Jack Baker (L to R), Cherokee Nation citizen Michelle Ayers and Cherokee Nation Construction Project Administrator Paul Crosslin stand in front of a storm shelter the Cherokee Nation installed at Ayers’ Shawnee home. The Official Cherokee Nation News
Anadisgoi
4
NEWS ᎧᏃᎮᏓ
A gift for generations Cherokee Nation pledges $4 million to preserve NSU’s Seminary Hall
After the Cherokees were forcibly removed to Oklahoma
Turner were joined by Cherokee Nation Tribal Council members, several regents of the Regional University System along the Trail of Tears in the 1830s, one of the tribe’s first of Oklahoma, NSU faculty, staff, students and community endeavors was to rebuild its educational system. A crowning members in the historic hall for achievement of that effort was the presentation of the gift. the Cherokee Female Seminary, “Seminary Hall is a powerful which was the first institution unifier of the university, the city of higher learning west of of Tahlequah and the Cherokee the Mississippi River for any Nation,” said Cherokee Nawoman of any race. tion Principal Chief Bill John Sadly, that first structure Baker. “When our Cherokee burned down in 1867 on leaders were first removed to Easter Sunday on the grounds this part of the country, they of what is now the Cherokee made a moral decision to invest Heritage Center in Park Hill, in the future of our people Oklahoma. The tribe would through education. Despite the soon rebuild closer to Tahletrauma of removal and starting quah, Oklahoma, and nearly over, the tribe allocated half of 130 years later, that iconic its overall budget to erect the building is the oldest structure seminary school and fund its on the campus of what evenPrincipal Chief Bill John Baker and Northeastern State University President Steve mission. Today, we honor our tually became Northeastern Turner hold up copies of the original blueprints of NSU Seminary Hall. Photo courtesy of NSU. BELOW: Seminary Hall on the NSU campus in Tahlequah. Cherokee ancestors by making State University. this investment for the genera In December, the Cherokee tions to follow.” Nation contributed $4 million to ensure the Cherokee Seminary Hall currently houses the College of Nation’s historic and iconic symbol of education, Liberal Arts administration, faculty and classrooms Seminary Hall, will be preserved and celebrated for genserving more than 1,700 students. The daily erations to come. Cherokee Nation Principal Chief activities of a busy college campus have Bill John Baker, Oklahoma Secretary of State taken its toll on the 126-year-old Chris Benge and NSU President Steve
5
Anadisgoi
The Official Cherokee Nation News
ᎧᏃᎮᏓ NEWS building. The 19th century building is also not equipped for 21st century technologies and learning environments. The gift is the largest ever received by the university. “The generosity of the Cherokee people and their commitment to higher education have come together in an unprecedented way,” said NSU President Steve Turner. “Seminary Hall has been and will continue to be a symbol of courage, hope and determination. Principal Chief Baker’s leadership continues to have a tremendous impact, not only on NSU, but on the entire state.” The Cherokee Nation gift provides the necessary resources to preserve, renovate and repurpose Seminary Hall. The iconic structure will become a multipurpose
building that will showcase its cultural lineage, provide a modern classroom experience for students and house administrative departments. A highlight of the project will be a museum. Cherokee Nation Businesses is funding the effort in order to further its mission of preserving Cherokee culture and history. Through its cultural tourism department, the tribe’s holding company recently restored another Tahlequah landmark, the Cherokee National Capitol, and operates three local Cherokee Nation museums. To learn more about the Cherokee Nation’s preservation of historic buildings, visit VisitCherokeeNation.com.
History of an icon: Seminary Hall
Financial difficulties forced the female seminary to close in 1856, and it remained closed during the Civil War. The seminary reopened to students in 1871. On Easter Seminary Hall, originally the Cherokee Female Seminary, Sunday 1887, it burned to the ground. Within a year, is one of the most historic buildings in all of the Cheroconstruction began on a new seminary. Relocated to Tahlekee Nation. It played an important role in establishing a quah, Oklahoma, it opened in 1889. At the time, it was the foundation for education not just for Cherokee women, largest building ever erected by an Indian nation. More than but became a hub of higher education for generations of 200 female students moved Oklahomans. into the new building to In 1839, the majority begin their studies. of the Cherokee people In 1907, Oklahoma was arrived in Indian admitted to the union as the Territory after the forced 46th state, and government removal along the Trail of buildings across the CheroTears from their ancestral kee Nation were seized by homelands. The people the federal government. The quickly settled into their Cherokee Female Seminary new surroundings in operated until 1909, when the northeast Oklahoma and state of Oklahoma purchased began to reunite as a the building from the U.S. nation. In 1847, led by The state turned the Principal Chief John school into a teaching college Ross, the Cherokee and renamed it Northeastern Nation began building Graduating students stand outside of the Cherokee Female Seminary in Tahlequah in 1902. State Normal College in 1909 two institutions of higher The seminary building was purchased by the state seven years later and stands today as and then Northeastern State learning. The Cherokee Seminary Hall on the Northeastern State University campus. Photo courtesy Oklahoma Teachers College in 1921. Male Seminary and the Historical Society. In 1974 it was finally named first Cherokee Female Northeastern State University and now offers degrees in Seminary opened in 1851. 78 different programs, including one of only a handful of The Cherokee Female Seminary was located in Park Hill, doctorate of optometry schools in the United States. Nearly Oklahoma. It was the first institution of higher learning 20 percent of NSU students identify as Native Americans. west of the Mississippi River for any woman of any race The historic structure that once housed the Cherokee and included classrooms, dorm rooms and a chapel. Female Seminary is known today as Seminary Hall, the Students held music recitals, staged plays and published their oldest building on the NSU campus. own magazine. The Official Cherokee Nation News
Anadisgoi
6
NEWS ᎧᏃᎮᏓ
Portrait of patronage CNB recognized for supporting art and culture in Oklahoma The 2015 Governor’s Arts Awards Selection Committee and exhibition of cultural artifacts and artwork. The law named Cherokee Nation Businesses as recipient of the Earl calls for those funds to be used for any form of art deemed Sneed Business in the Arts Award. historical, cultural or traditional, including crafts, paintings, The award recognizes businesses and corporations for beadwork, sculptures and landscaping. It also allows for the exhibiting outstanding support of expense of preserving, installing and the arts. displaying such art. “Cherokee Nation Businesses CNB’s cultural art department has always been a strong advocate works throughout the year to for the arts in Oklahoma, especially research, procure, preserve, install public art that represents our unique and display art throughout Cherokee tribal history and heritage,” said Nation locations, including the tribal Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Bill complex, health centers, entertainJohn Baker. “One of our missions ment venues and business operais to invest in art that represents the tions. The department also oversees Cherokee culture. From traditional art donations to public venues, such arts, like pottery and basket weaving, as Wayne Cooper’s “Trail of Tears” to modern sculptures and paintings, painting, which currently hangs in we strive to share those works and the Senate Chamber at the Oklatalented artisans with the world.” homa State Capitol. Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin (left) presents the Earl Sneed Business The tribe and its businesses pur The Governor’s Arts Awards In the Arts Award to Molly Jarvis, Cherokee Nation Businesses vice chased more than 700 pieces of art were presented by Oklahoma president of cultural tourism and marketing. Photo courtesy of the in 2015. Governor Mary Fallin to CNB and Legislative Service Bureau and Oklahoma Arts Council. During the past year, CNB has 19 other honorees during a Dec. 2 placed more than $1.7 million into the state’s economy ceremony at the state Capitol. Honorees are selected based through its procurement of art. In accordance with tribal on their efforts to increase art awareness, access, education law, Cherokee Nation and CNB use new construction and and volunteerism. renovation projects to fund the procurement, preservation
Good stewards Cherokee Nation Financial Resources Department certified excellent in reporting For the 14th straight year, the Cherokee Nation received the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting. It also took the Outstanding Achievement in Popular Annual Financial Reporting award for the third consecutive year. The awards are the highest honors given to governments for stellar financial reporting and accounting by the Government Finance Officers Association. “We strive to be good stewards of Cherokee Nation’s resources, and this acknowledgment proves our fiscal 7
Anadisgoi
The Official Cherokee Nation News
management remains exceptional,” said Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Bill John Baker. “The tribe’s recognition for accurate and timely accounting and financial reporting is a tribute to the commitment and quality our Financial Resources Department puts forth day in and day out.” Cherokee Nation Financial Resources oversees the tribe’s operating budget as well as the accounting and maintenance of multiple federal grants, employee payroll and the purchasing department. The office produces both the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report and the Popular Annual Financial Report, a condensed version of the CAFR. “The continued recognition of the two reports is evidence of the Cherokee Nation’s diligent stewardship of the tribe’s finances and dedication to transparency,” said Cherokee Nation Treasurer Lacey Horn. “Cherokee citizens should feel confident in the financial reports of the tribe.”
ᎧᏃᎮᏓ NEWS
A testament to culture
Cherokee Nation publishes red letter edition New Testament in Cherokee language
Bible study in the Cherokee syllabary just became easier,
a red letter edition,” Baker said. “This represents a big step and more accurate. For the first time ever, the Cherokee forward in the preservation and revitalization of our CheroNation has published the New Testament red letter edition kee culture, because the New Testament is the most read of the Bible in the Cherokee syllabary. and sought after publication in the world. The tribe’s language program translated and published This is one of many projects completed by the tribe’s the Bible, seeking to improve on translation inaccuracies language department, which consists of 13 Cherokee speakthat have persisted since missionaries to the Cherokee ers. The department has worked with Microsoft, Apple and Nation in the 1860s attempted Google on translation projects in the task. That version has been the past. reprinted by the American “The New Testament is one Bible Society. of the most popular and most The new Cherokee Nationenduring pieces of published published Bible marks the first text in syllabary,” said Roy Boney, time a Cherokee syllabary Bible manager of the Cherokee Lanincludes the words of Jesus guage Program. “The Cherokee Christ in red type. The project Language Program believed it was took Cherokee Nation translaimportant for our translators to tors about two and a half years review and revise the Bible so it to complete. reads as accurately as possible in The Cherokee Nation’s red letter edition New Testament took two Cherokee Nation Principal Cherokee.” and half years to complete. Chief Bill John Baker and Plans for an official Cherokee Deputy Chief S. Joe Crittenden presented some of the first Nation published Old Testament are in the works. The copies of the Bible to local Cherokee ministers at a pastors Language Program also plans to produce an audio recording meeting in Tahlequah in December. of the New Testament in Cherokee. “Although copies of the New Testament in Cherokee syllabary have been in circulation for years, this is the first Copies of the Cherokee Nation-published New Testament red letter time our Cherokee Nation translation department has comedition are available for purchase in the tribe’s gift shops and online pleted an official and proper translation of the Bible and in at CherokeeGiftShop.com. The Official Cherokee Nation News
Anadisgoi
8
NEWS ᎧᏃᎮᏓ
Sharing the joy Annual gift drive ensures a merry Christmas for Cherokee children, elders
More than 2,000 Cherokee children woke up to unwrap
Roofing contractor CPR, of Tulsa, a certified Cherokeeowned business, delivered four trailers carrying 250 bicycles gifts Christmas morning thanks to the Cherokee Nation to the tribal complex to donate. Cherokee Nation Businesses Angel Project. also gave $20,000 to the program to help fulfill unmet needs Each year, the Cherokee Nation Angel Project collects for angels not adopted or returned. donations of clothes, books and toys to help ensure “Giving back is something my mother raised me to do, Cherokee children in need have a merry Christmas. and my employees love it,” said Robert Brown, president “Every child deserves the joy of a bountiful Christof CPR. “I remember one year when my mother couldn’t mas morning and the experience of tearing open a neatly provide for me, and a store employee helped me with one wrapped gift selected specifically for them. As a father and toy under the tree. This grandfather, it’s something is all about the kids and I never grow tired of helping parents have a gift watching,” said Cherokee for their child under the Nation Principal Chief tree Christmas morning.” Bill John Baker. “We are The Cherokee Nation blessed at the Cherokee Angel Project helps Nation to have a Cherokee children whose wonderful program in place families meet income for our Cherokee children, guidelines and live within ensuring them that the 14-county tribal magical feeling on Christjurisdiction. mas morning.” “It is just a great Families selected for feeling to be able to work participation in the prohard behind the scenes and gram are asked to list their know that so many Cherochildren’s needs along Bicycles donated to the Cherokee Nation Angel Project were given to children of Cherokee kee children will be smiling with a few wants. Parents families in need just in time for Christmas. and taken care of at Christoften listed winter clothing mas because of the hard work of all the volunteers and the and bedding, while the children’s wish lists included sports loving hearts of all those who shopped and donated items,” equipment, books, toys and games. said Nikki Baker-Limore, executive director for Indian Child Cherokee Nation citizen Ann Fleming, of Muskogee, Welfare, which oversees the project. adopted an angel from the tree at the Nov. 24 Cherokee Applications are accepted each fall, and angels are Nation Angel Project kickoff to help a 15-year-old girl distributed to several trees located at Cherokee Nation asking for new clothes and accessories. offices. In 2015, 1,769 children received gifts through the “It is very rewarding and a spiritual thing to give, tribe’s Angel Project. especially to a child,” said Fleming, who volunteers at four Cherokee Nation also operates a program that provides organizations, including a library and veterans center. “If gifts to Cherokee elders. The program served about 173 people could just see everything through the eyes of a child elders in 2015. and what it means to them, it’s worth it to donate to this program.” If you would like to make a charitable gift to select Cherokee Nation programs, visit Cherokee.org/giving.
9
Anadisgoi
The Official Cherokee Nation News
ᎧᏃᎮᏓ NEWS
Improving access to health Cherokee Nation opens $10M Wilma P. Mankiller Health Center addition
C herokees in Stilwell, Oklahoma, and its surrounding
communities now have access to a larger, much improved Wilma P. Mankiller Health Center. The $10 million, 28,000-square-foot expansion nearly doubles the size of the existing health center. The new building will house primary care, lab and radiology. Radiology features a new X-ray machine that conducts bone density tests in order to better diagnose and treat osteoporosis. “The long-term impact of this expanded health center means we will be able to offer Cherokee Nation citizens more and better services for years to come,” said Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Bill John Baker. “The largest per capita population of Cherokees is right here in Adair County, and while the old Mankiller clinic was serviceable, it was overburdened. However, today, with more patient space and better equipment, we can see more people and make those visits faster and more comprehensive. We have a mission to build a healthier tribal nation, increase life expectancy and lower the number of Cherokees suffering from chronic illness and disease.” In 2014, the Wilma P. Mankiller Health Center received 120,000 patient visits and filled more than 220,000 prescriptions, ranking it the second most used among the tribe’s eight health centers and hospital. Cherokee Nation displays cultural art throughout its health centers to provide a sense of cultural pride for
patients and their families. The Wilma P. Mankiller Health Center features vintage photographs from across the community, as well as “The Origin of Strawberries,” which includes text and artist depictions of the traditional Cherokee story. The collaborative piece is part of an ongoing project featuring art created by Cherokee families. It depicts the work of Daniel HorseChief, Mary HorseChief, Sam HorseChief and Mary Adair. The Wilma P. Mankiller Health Center expansion is the third project completed under a $100 million health care capital improvement plan using casino profits. The Cherokee Nation opened a new health center in Ochelata and a new annex in Sallisaw this summer. A brand-new health center in Jay is scheduled for completion soon. Gina Olaya, CNB’s director of cultural art and design and daughter of former Principal Chief Wilma Mankiller, said the completion of the Wilma P. Mankiller Health Center shows her mother’s foresight from her time in office when the health center opened in 1991. “I was here with my mom when Cherokee Nation opened the first facility. One of the visions she had for this facility was to see growth,” Olaya said. “She was a good proponent of knowing sometime in the future this facility would need to grow. When she acquired the property, she made sure to obtain enough to cover the expansion. For me to be here and see her vision come to fruition after she’s gone is truly a gift.” The Official Cherokee Nation News
Anadisgoi
10
PEOPLE ᏴᏫ
Sustaining a legacy Attorney Sara Hill appointed as Cherokee Nation’s first secretary of natural resources
Longtime Cherokee Nation attorney Sara Hill stepped
into a new role in October as the tribe’s first secretary of natural resources. The cabinet level position oversees the tribe’s environmental programs and advises the Chief and Tribal Council on land, air and natural resources policies. The position was created under the 1999 Cherokee Nation Constitution but never filled until Hill’s nomination by Principal Chief Bill John Baker. “I am very honored to be appointed to this position, but more importantly, I’m glad Principal Chief Baker and the Tribal Council are making protection of our natural resources a priority,” Hill said. “It takes a sustained and resolute commitment from our political leaders to ensure the environment is protected and preserved for the next seven generations of Cherokees.”
Sara Hill said she looks forward to tackling all the challenges ahead as Cherokee Nation’s new secretary of natural resources. OPPOSITE: Hill enjoys lunch at Kawi Café, one of her favorite restaurants. 11
Anadisgoi
The Official Cherokee Nation News
ᏴᏫ PEOPLE Hill, a Tahlequah, Oklahoma, resident, has served the tribe as deputy attorney general since 2004 and as a special assistant United States attorney for the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Northern District of Oklahoma since 2014. She chairs the Cherokee Nation Interdisciplinary Water Work Group that has managed the tribe’s comprehensive water planning endeavors for more than three years. Hill’s legal representation for the Cherokee Nation includes examining the feasibility of a hydroelectric project on the Arkansas River, environmental issues, water rights and natural resource protection. Baker also nominated Hill to the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service’s Regional Tribal Conservation Advisory Council of the Central Region, created to provide effective means of communication with tribes at both the national and regional levels. “I am proud to say we are finally making our natural and environmental resources a priority. Sara Hill will ensure our natural resources are properly preserved for the future of the Cherokee Nation and our people,” Baker said. “We cannot leave today’s environmental issues for our children and grandchildren to solve. That is an unfair burden. We have a better vision of preservation, and we have taken action to ensure we reach our goals.” Hill graduated cum laude at Northeastern State University with a Bachelor of Arts in political science in 2000. She earned her Juris Doctor from the College of Law at the University of Tulsa in 2003. Hill is admitted to serve before the Supreme Court of Oklahoma, the courts of the Chickasaw Nation and Cherokee Nation, the U.S. District Courts for the Eastern and Northern Districts, and the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals. “With Secretary of Natural Resources Sara Hill in place, coupled with the leadership of this Tribal Council and Chief Baker, we have the ability to develop laws that will truly enhance the sustainability of our land, water and air for generations to come,” said Cherokee Nation Speaker of the Tribal Council Joe Byrd. “The Cherokee people deserve that. Clean air and water and a fertile land will always be our foundation for long-term health as a tribe and a people.”
5 questions with Sara Hill What made you want to get into protecting natural resources?
For many years, I served as an attorney for the Cherokee Nation on environmental and natural resource issues. From this perspective, I could see how many challenges the Nation was facing, but also how much natural beauty and biodiversity there was to protect. I can’t think of a more rewarding career than preserving our natural resources for future generations.
As the first secretary of natural resources, what is your biggest goal for the coming year? There is plenty to do – from updating our environmental code to strengthening relationships with federal and state agencies that also work to protect natural resources. The biggest goal is to create partnerships: we all have a responsibility to pass what we’ve inherited to the next seven generations, and to do that we have to work together to solve our environmental challenges.
What is your favorite movie and why?
I enjoy survival stories, and my favorite movie (and book) at the moment is “The Martian.” The movie’s protagonist, a botanist and engineer, is stranded on Mars and has to await rescue using only his wit, technical skill and whatever meager supplies he has on hand. I’m an amateur astronomer, so I loved both the science and the scenery of the movie.
What is your favorite restaurant?
The Kawi Café is directly downstairs from my office in the Cort Mall in Tahlequah, so I run down there a lot for lunch. They serve a squash casserole that is made from candy roaster squash, an heirloom variety grown in the Cherokee Nation’s own native plant garden. It’s delicious!
What is your favorite tourist attraction in the Cherokee Nation jurisdiction?
There is a lot to love in the Cherokee Nation, so this is a tough call. I can narrow it down to two, though: the Illinois River and Natural Falls State Park in Delaware County. I go to both of those places several times a year with my family – they are beautiful year round, so there’s never a bad time to visit.
The Official Cherokee Nation News
Anadisgoi
12
BUSINESS ᏗᎦᎸᏫᏍᏓᏁᏗ
Ready for the rush Cherokee Casino & Hotel Roland celebrates hotel grand opening
Guests visiting Cherokee Casino & Hotel Roland are in for
entertainment venue inside the resort, offers live a luxurious stay after completion in December of the $80 music and cocktails. The resort-style hotel features a million, six-story hotel with 120 rooms. nearly 5,000-square-foot convention space, offering guests “Creating good jobs for our people is the primary goal the ability to host conferences, special events, weddings and of all our business endeavors at the Cherokee Nation,” said trade shows. The property also features two dining options. Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Bill John Baker. “Not The convenient Grab & Go serves café-style foods and only does this new facility fulfill that goal, but it will also Starbucks coffee, while a Las Vegas-style buffet offers a leave a lasting impact on the region, as well as help build the wide array of foods and desserts. A covered parking garage economy of Sequoyah County and free valet provide safety, and the Cherokee Nation.” convenience and accessibility for The 170,000-square-foot guests. property in Roland, Oklahoma, “The completion of the hotel brings 300 new jobs and added is a major milestone for the area,” amenities to the region. said Shawn Slaton, chief executive “When you look at this facilofficer for Cherokee Nation ity and entities like CNB, CNE Businesses. “While this new and the Cherokee Nation, you entertainment destination is a see what they provide to the huge career and economic driver employees,” said Bryan Warner, for Sequoyah County, it also Cherokee Nation tribal councilor represents the growth and success Casino & Hotel Roland offers spacious hotel rooms to guests. for district 6. “Working here gives Cherokee that we’ve had in Roland. This is BELOW: The casino and hotel’s welcoming exterior. them the opportunity to meet where our company started, and their family’s goals and leads to a better way of life.” today, we are proud to reinvest in this community.” Hotel guests have access to a variety of entertainment options, including 850 electronic games, table games and Cherokee Casino Roland is located off Highway 64 on Cherokee a private High Limit poker room. Lee Creek Tavern, the Boulevard in Roland. For more information on Cherokee Casinos, visit CherokeeCasino.com or call 800-256-2338. All guests must be at least 21 years of age to attend.
13
Anadisgoi
The Official Cherokee Nation News
ᏗᎦᎸᏫᏍᏓᏁᏗ BUSINESS
In good company Top Indian-owned businesses of 2015 recognized
Hundreds of Native business owners from around north-
east Oklahoma gathered at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa for the Cherokee Nation’s eighth annual TERO Awards Banquet on Nov. 19. The Cherokee Nation awarded 10 certified Indian-owned businesses for outstanding performances in 2015. “Creating more and better economic opportunities for our Cherokee-owned small businesses helps our communities and propels what we do as a tribal government. We want to ensure small businesses are thriving because that helps Cherokee families retain good, quality jobs, and it spurs the local economy,” said Cherokee Nation Secretary of State Chuck Hoskin Jr. “We are proud that today we have more Indian businesses working for the Cherokee Nation via contract or subcontract than ever. Indian-owned small businesses are helping the Cherokee Nation remain the economic pacesetter in our corner of the state.” The Cherokee Nation established a Tribal Employment Rights Office in 1983. TERO negotiates with contractors doing business with the tribe and refers qualified Native American workers to fill vacancies. TERO also maintains a list of more than 800 Indian-owned businesses and offers preference to Indian-owned vendors who bid on Cherokee Nation contracts. In fiscal year 2015, TERO vendors earned more than $71.1 million in contracts. “The number of TERO-certified vendors has quadrupled in the past eight years,” said Cherokee Nation Speaker of the Tribal Council Joe Byrd. “The increase has resulted in more Cherokees and other Natives being able to support their families while also helping local economies and the state of Oklahoma’s economy to grow.” For more information on Cherokee Nation TERO, visit CherokeeTERO.com.
Those attending the TERO Awards Banquet include (L to R): Cherokee Nation Deputy Chief S. Joe Crittenden, Tribal Councilor Janees Taylor, Breck Childers of James R. Childers Architect, Principal Chief Bill John Baker and Secretary of State Chuck Hoskin Jr.
2015 TERO Award Winners Community Leadership Award Davis Excavation, of Tahlequah
Customer Service Award
Meeks Lithographing Company, of Tulsa
Consulting Firm of the Year
James R. Childers Architect, of Fort Smith, Arkansas
Construction Company of the Year Green Country Steel, of Salina
Retail Business of the Year Danny’s Muffler & Tire, of Tahlequah
Woman Owned Business of the Year Harris Contractors, of Fort Gibson
Small Business of the Year Ogden’s Heat & Air, of Stilwell
Large Business of the Year
Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Bill John Baker addresses the crowd at the annual TERO Awards Banquet.
Ground Zero Construction, of Colcord
Pioneer Award CPR, of Tulsa
Chief’s Award
Strong Builders LLC., of Rose
The Official Cherokee Nation News
Anadisgoi
14
FEATURES ᏗᎦᏎᏍᏙᏗ
Cherokee Warriors
A journey to the nation’s capital brings back memories for Valentino Burnett and other veterans aboard the Cherokee Warrior Flight by Julie Hubbard
Nearly 70 years have passed since Valentino “Tino” Burnett repaired engines and
generators aboard the USS Stokes, a long-gone naval cargo ship that hauled Jeeps and telephone poles across the Pacific Ocean during World War II. Now, the 88-year-old Eucha, Oklahoma, resident, staring out the window of a fastmoving van, is on his way to be a special guest in the Tulsa Veterans Day Parade. The parade is one of several special events Burnett has been honored in. Since participating in the Cherokee Warrior Flight, he’s been thanked by lawmakers, hugged by school children, greeted by strangers and received other recognition for his wartime sacrifice. In September, Cherokee Nation’s second annual Cherokee Warrior Flight took Burnett and 10 other Cherokee veterans of World War II and the Korean War to Washington, D.C., to visit the war memorials built in their honor and to share their memories. A film crew with the Cherokee Nation’s “Osiyo, Voices of the Cherokee People” television show followed to document their experiences.
15
Anadisgoi
The Official Cherokee Nation News
Valentino “Tino� Burnett, standing in front of the Cherokee Nation Warrior Memorial, was one of 11 Cherokee veterans to participate in the most recent Cherokee Warrior Flight. Photo by Jeremy Charles.
The Official Cherokee Nation News
Anadisgoi
16
FEATURES ᏗᎦᏎᏍᏙᏗ
Watch the Cherokee Warrior Flight on Osiyo.tv
Charles Scott (left) and Virgil Carter lead the departure for the Cherokee Warrior Flight from Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Catoosa, Oklahoma.
“Practically everyone I’ve met lately has said, ‘I saw you “We feel comfortable sharing stories, and there is a on TV,’” Burnett says. “I really didn’t know that the healing process taking place even all these years later,” Cherokee Warrior Flight would be so awesome and bring Crittenden says. this much attention. I made a lot of new acquaintances, For Burnett, whose dark eyes peer from behind tinted and I wouldn’t have gone to see the World War II Memorial glasses and have witnessed images that few can imagine, otherwise.” memories shelved away since 1945 are still vivid. Because Native people have historically served in the U.S. From Jay High School to Navy barracks armed forces at a higher per capita rate than other ethnic populations, Cherokee Nation Named “Valentino” because started its warrior flight he was born on Valentine’s Day, program in 2014 as a way to Burnett says he knew he’d be thank and honor its veterans. drafted on his 18th birthday. “As Cherokee people, recogThe Japanese attacked Pearl nizing the sacrifices and service Harbor in 1941, drawing the of our brave men and women U.S. into World War II. Since who defend this country and the start of the war, he had our freedom is a philosophy already lost three friends. So in that is entrenched in our the fall of 1944, as a Jay High history and our values,” said School sophomore, he enlisted. Deputy Principal Chief S. Joe “The recruiter came to Jay, Crittenden, a Navy radio Korean War veterans Virgil Carter (seated), Ivan Hembree, Alfred Hembree and and I remember signing the operator who served in Dan Hembree stand in front of the Korean War Memorial. paper. I decided I was going Vietnam. “Like most tribal nations, the Cherokee people to leave,” Burnett says. “If you have always held the highest regard for those who are willing were drafted, they could put you wherever they wanted. I to go into battle to protect and defend us all.” didn’t want to dig foxholes, so I joined the Navy.” Sharing the experience with fellow Cherokee veterans is Burnett left home on Dec. 1, 1944, with nothing but the like entering a brotherhood, Crittenden added. clothes on his back. A bus picked him up in Jay and took him to Tulsa, where he boarded a train to California. 17
Anadisgoi
The Official Cherokee Nation News
ᏗᎦᏎᏍᏙᏗ FEATURES In his years of service, dill pickles eased the nausea of the swaying ship. Chow was powdered potatoes and potted meat. They passed the time throwing dice. “We were headed into Japan hauling a load of brand-new Jeeps when they dropped the two bombs in Hiroshima, ending the war,” he recalls. “I was a little concerned that we were going to have to go to Japan and am glad we didn’t. We detoured to the Philippines, and they had us unload the Jeeps right there. Left them behind and went home.” Back home, Burnett earned his high school diploma, went to college on the GI Bill and worked five years as a telephone line inspector for Southwestern Bell. Every time he tested a line connection, he asked specifically to speak with a switchboard operator named Minnie. She became his wife, and they’ve now been married 67 years.
A flight attendant read each of the veterans’ names aloud before the plane jetted down the runway. In the nation’s capital, the veterans strolled along the World War II, Korean War and Vietnam War memorials, where they were met by strangers wanting to shake their hands. Oklahoma’s U.S. Senator James Lankford and U.S. Congressman Markwayne Mullin each left congressional committee meetings to personally show their gratitude to each veteran. At the National World War II Memorial, dedicated in 2004, Burnett posed for photos in front of one of the many quotes etched into its walls. It was a quote from President Franklin D. Roosevelt about the attack on Pearl Harbor, where Burnett was stationed during the war. “I think about the people who got killed in the service, and it is kind of emotional,” Burnett said at the time. “There Cherokee Warrior Flight bound were so many killed in World War II, but it was really a nec Many years after his service, essary war because of Hitler during a meeting at the American and the Japanese imperialLegion post in Jay, Burnett heard ists. It was an important about the Cherokee Warrior Flight thing, but I hated that so program taking Cherokee veterans many people were lost.” of World War II to visit the war Back to the van making memorials in Washington, D.C. its way to the Tulsa Veterans On a long ago trip to the Day parade, Burnett says he capital, he visited the Vietnam still doesn’t know what to Veterans Memorial after it opened think about all the attention in 1982 and found his son’s name, he’s received of late. Edward Burnett, on the wall. “Even my daughter put Edward was in the U.S. Army and me all over Facebook, and a only 19 when his helicopter went lady at the grocery store saw down in 1972. my World War II hat and “At that time, the World War II handed me a $100 bill to say, The recent Cherokee Warrior Flight brought several World War II veterans Memorial hadn’t been built,” Bur‘I just want to help you with to Washington, D.C. Front row (L to R): Billy Durall, Monroe Hembree, Dean Durall and Virgil Carter. Back row: Charles Scott, Valentino Burnett, Gerald nett says. “I wanted to see it and your groceries.’” Zellner and Winfred Chamberlain. see my son’s memorial again.” Participants of the 2015 Burnett and his wife boarded the Cherokee Nation’s Cherokee Warrior Flight were World War II veterans Billy Warrior Flight from Tulsa on Sept. 28. Cherokee Nation Durall, of Arizona; Monroe Hembree, of Stilwell; Dean Principal Chief Bill John Baker wished the veterans well the Durall, of Utah; Virgil Carter, of Tahlequah; Charles Scott, evening before after a meal of pot roast and chicken at the of California; Gerald Zellner, of Big Cabin; and Winfred Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa. Chamberlain, of Texas. Korean War veterans on the flight “This is something for you, and I truly hope it’s a blessing were Virgil Carter, of Tahlequah, and Ivan Hembree, Alfred for each and every one of you,” Baker said to the veterans Hembree and Dan Hembree, all of Adair County. gathered around a table. “Enjoy it, and I hope that you share To nominate a World War II or Korean War veteran for the Cherokee some of that comradery you had some 60 years ago.” Medal of Patriotism award, which is required for participation for the 2016 Cherokee Warrior Flight, call 918-453-5150. The Official Cherokee Nation News
Anadisgoi
18
FEATURES ᏗᎦᏎᏍᏙᏗ
Second chances for change Cherokee Nation’s Coming Home program gives opportunity to start again by Tyler Thomas
Released from the Tulsa County Jail into 17-degree weather
“As a society and as a tribal government, we can’t just give up on our people after incarceration,” said Cherokee Nation in the middle of November in 2014, Chris Cowan had no Principal Chief Bill John Baker. “For citizens who have paid money, nowhere to go and nobody to call. After two years their dues and need an extra hand, we can find opportunities of incarceration, he had only questions. where they can succeed and thrive. The Cherokee Nation The Cherokee Nation citizen served time for two felony sees the long-term value in helping our people reintegrate offenses and wanted to get his life back on track. Afraid of and restart their lives.” falling back into the same routine, he knew he needed to Since its implementation in make some changes. 2014, 85 of the 95 formerly Cowan’s mother picked incarcerated participants have him up in Tulsa and took stayed out of prison, and him to Tahlequah, Oklahoma, the majority have maintained to learn more about steady jobs. For those in the Cherokee Nation’s Coming program, the recidivism rate Home program, which helps (the percentage of convicted former inmates get back on criminals returning to prison their feet after release. within three years of release) “I knew all I needed was an is only 10.5 percent, drastically opportunity to do something, lower than the national average and with the help of the tribe of 67 percent. I was able to secure that Daryl Legg is the Cherokee opportunity,” Cowan said. Nation director of vocational After receiving housing programs and oversees the assistance and placement in Cherokee Nation employee and former Coming Home program participant Chris Coming Home program. the Cherokee Nation’s Day Cowan, left, speaks with Cherokee Nation Vocational Programs Director Daryl Legg. Honored as a “Champion of OPPOSITE: Chris Cowan enjoys his new career as a budget analyst with Cherokee Work Program, Cowan is Nation Career Services. Change” by the White House now a full-time employee as in 2014, Legg is a three-time a budget analyst in Cherokee convicted felon now working with other former prisoners. Nation’s Career Services department. He eventually regained Legg believes the program epitomizes the Cherokee spirit custody of his 14-year-old daughter and today is pursuing of helping those in the most need. an economics degree as a full-time student at Connors State “Everybody has the ability to change” Legg said. “That College. He credits Cherokee Nation’s Coming Home reintedoesn’t mean they’re going to, but we need to put them in gration program with helping him find his way back. the right position to change. If they succeed, then we are “I thank God for this program every day,” Cowan said. saving lives and tax dollars.” The program is for citizens of federally recognized Native American tribes residing within the Cherokee Applicants should contact the Coming Home program within six Nation’s 14-county jurisdiction. It provides an individual months of anticipated release to be considered for participation. $250 for clothing, works with the individual to obtain a job, For more information on the program, contact Daryl Legg at assists with housing needs and provides other services to 918-453-5000 ext. 3832 or daryl-legg@cherokee.org. help those struggling to find work after a felony conviction.
19
Anadisgoi
The Official Cherokee Nation News
The Official Cherokee Nation News
Anadisgoi
20
ᎤᎾᎴᏂᏓᏍᏗ ᎨᏒᎢ LIFESTYLE
Jeff Feverston/Shutterstock
Taking the bait
It’s in the mail Hunting and fishing licenses mailed to 90,000 Cherokees, more on the way
About 90,000 Cherokees in Oklahoma have received their free 2016
If you have not yet updated your contact information, you may visit Cherokee.org and click on services > citizenship > updating your information.
Jason Christie has worked hard to become a top professional bass angler. Hauling in massive numbers of trophy fish during tournaments across the country has given the Cherokee Nation citizen from Park Hill, Oklahoma, an edge at catching bass. As he prepares for the Bassmaster Classic in March, he shares some of his hard-won know-how. “It’s better to be really good at a few things rather than trying to master everything,” says Christie. When it comes to tackle, there are thousands of baits and hundreds of rods and reels to choose from. Christie says it’s best to keep it simple. He also suggests focusing on a handful of different baits and how to use them. Learning which ones to use at the right water depths is also useful. “I carry a lot of different baits in my boat, but there are eight to 10 I go to when it’s a tough day,” Christie says. “You’ll find which ones give you confidence and help you catch fish.” The best seasons to catch many types of fish are spring and fall, because fish swim closer to the top where the water is a temperate range of 60-70 degrees. Want to know more about a particular lake (water level, temperature, activity)? Christie suggests calling the local bait shop or marina. And don’t be afraid to ask for help. “Go with somebody who is good, whether it’s a buddy or a guide,” he says. “Spend a day or two with them and learn a lot. I still learn from fishing with my buddies.”
B.A.S.S./Seigo Saito
Cherokee Nation hunting and fishing license. The first batch of licenses was mailed in late December to households who updated their addresses prior to Oct. 31. Cherokee Nation citizens who updated their information after Oct. 31 will receive their hunting and fishing licenses in the next wave of mailings. The licenses are valid now until Dec. 31, 2016. A new license will be mailed each calendar year for the length of the compact. The new hunting and fishing licenses are the result of a historic compact signed between Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Bill John Baker and Governor Mary Fallin last spring. “This compact not only reinforces our sovereign rights to freely hunt and fish our own Cherokee lands, but it also expands our sovereignty to include hunting and fishing rights across all 77 counties of Oklahoma,” Baker said. Previously, the patchwork of Cherokee trust land, fee simple land and non-Cherokee-owned land made jurisdiction confusing, and many Cherokees feared receiving a citation from state game and wildlife officers. Likewise, those game and wildlife officers feared unnecessarily citing Cherokees for legally hunting our lands. “Now, with the hunting and fishing compact I signed with Governor Fallin, there is no more confusion,” Baker said. “Cherokees may now pheasant hunt in western Oklahoma, trophy fish on Lake Texoma in southern Oklahoma, or deer hunt right here in Cherokee country like our ancestors did, free of concern about boundaries.” Cherokee Nation citizens 16 and older and living in Oklahoma are eligible for the free license. Cherokees who already hold Oklahoma lifetime hunting and fishing licenses will not receive a new license.
Catching bass like the pros is about what you know
Jason Christie The Official Cherokee Nation News
Anadisgoi
22
Exercise gave me a new life Dedication and a recreation center help a Cherokee Nation citizen lose 135 pounds by Julie Hubbard
Working out at the Cherokee Nation Male Seminary Recreation Center helped Brandon Dirteater lose more than 135 pounds. BELOW: Before and after photos of Dirteater.
Brandon Dirteater can slam a 20-pound medicine ball
up against a wall in succession, handle burpees with ease and is often first in his noon bootcamp class to finish running sprints up and down the gym floor. For the past three years, the 24-year-old W.W. Hastings Hospital phlebotomist has spent his weekdays working out at Cherokee Nation’s Male Seminary Recreation Center in Tahlequah, and it’s paid off. He’s lost 135 pounds. “I was 320 pounds at my heaviest,” he said, wearing a sweat-drenched muscle shirt. “I played sports in high school, but I was ignorant about what I was doing. I had bad eating habits and not enough movement.” 23
Anadisgoi
The Official Cherokee Nation News
A trainer at the gym urged him to check out the bootcamp program, a 45-minute, high-intensity class modeled after military-style physical strength training that burns up to 600 calories and works all the muscles. The Cherokee Nation turned a former Bible school campus into a fitness center, called locally Markoma gym. Cherokee Nation citizens and employees get free memberships, while the general public may purchase a monthly membership. Along with bootcamp, the center offers Zumba, yoga, spin classes, weight rooms, running and cardio equipment, and a basketball court. It currently has more than 10,000 members, with about 2,500 attending group fitness classes every month.
ᎤᎾᎴᏂᏓᏍᏗ ᎨᏒᎢ LIFESTYLE “Since I started three years ago, there are a handful of people in bootcamp who have collectively lost hundreds of pounds, are more productive, more mobile, off insulin and medications,” said Nicholas Kirk, head trainer and supervisor at the center. “Brandon is a role model and prime example for those who want results, if they are willing to put in the work.” Dirteater said his life has changed drastically since he starting eating healthy and exercising. He is more active in daily life, has more confidence and is training to enter an amateur men’s physique bodybuilding competition in the summer. “I’m a whole lot happier and feel like I have more opportunities,” he said. “I feel like we are very lucky to have these resources.”
Fitness center hours
Kristen Mankiller (left) and Bonnie Cookson do hover moves in the spin class at the Male Seminary Recreation Center.
Male Seminary Recreation Center 1501 Graham Ave., Tahlequah, Oklahoma • 918-453-5496 Hours: 5:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday - Thursday (closes at 7 p.m. Friday) 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday - Sunday Center offers free child watch. Call for arrangements. Open to CN citizens and employees at no cost. Available to general public for $20 per month. Cherokee Nation Vinita Health Center 27371 S. 4410 Road, Vinita, Oklahoma • 918-256-4800 Hours: 5 a.m. - 7 p.m. Monday - Friday Fitness facilities are free and open to citizens of any federally recognized tribe. Redbird Smith Health Center 301 S. J.T. Stites Blvd., Sallisaw, Oklahoma • 918-775-9150 Hours: 1 - 6:30 p.m. Monday - Thursday (closes at 5:30 p.m. Friday) Fitness facilities are free and open to citizens of any federally recognized tribe.
Burpees made easy Cherokee Nation trainer Brandon Goad demonstrates how to do the high-intensity squat burpee at home.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Step 1: Start in standing position. Feet should be firmly planted shoulder-width apart.
Step 2: Squat until thighs are parallel to the floor as if going to sit in a chair.
Step 3: Return to standing position. Step 4: Place hands on floor directly below shoulders. Step 5: Kick feet backwards into push-up position. Step 6: Lower chest to floor then push up. Step 7: Bring feet back to chest. Step 8: Return to standing position. The Official Cherokee Nation News
Anadisgoi
24
LIFESTYLE ᎤᎾᎴᏂᏓᏍᏗ ᎨᏒᎢ
A better way to fry Chef Bradley Dry shares a better way to make Indian tacos and frybread Tulsa chef and Kansas, Oklahoma, native Bradley Dry enjoys cooking traditional Cherokee meals, but with a twist. Whether he’s catering a private party or cooking for family and friends, Dry substitutes healthier ingredients and prefers alternative cooking methods to the usual. In this issue, Dry shares his vegan spin on the popular Indian tacos he grew up eating at his grandmother’s home in Delaware County.
Bradley’s Indian Taco Topping 3 tomatoes, diced 1 can hominy 1 can corn 1 can black beans 1 can pinto beans 1 onion, diced 1 red bell pepper, diced 4 cloves garlic, minced 1 tablespoon cumin 1 tablespoon garlic powder 2 tablespoons oregano 1 tablespoon olive oil Salt and pepper to taste
Frybread 3 cups self-rising flour 1 ½ cups of water Watch Brad’s story on Osiyo.tv
{ } CHEF TIP:
Use a cast iron or heavy skillet for even browning.
Topping preparation 1. Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and add onions. 2. When onions turn slightly brown, add minced garlic and seasonings. Cook for 10 minutes. 3. Add remaining ingredients and lower heat to simmer for 20 minutes.
To make frybread 4. Mix ingredients to form dough and knead for 3 minutes. 5. Flatten or roll out about 6 ounces of dough. 6. Spray a medium-sized skillet with olive oil spray and place over medium heat. The pan is ready when the water sizzles and quickly evaporates. 7. Add rolled-out dough. When the dough rises and begins to bubble on top, flip it. Remove from pan when both sides are cooked. 8. Place prepared topping on top of bread. Add fresh corn, onions, lettuce or arugula, fresh tomatoes, cheese or light sour cream to your liking. Yields 6-8 tacos, depending on bread thickness. 25
Anadisgoi
The Official Cherokee Nation News
FOR THE LATEST NEWS
Anadisgoi.com
28
Anadisgoi The Official Cherokee Nation News