Sota Volume #41
Issue #51
Wednesday, December 22, 2010

New Web Photo Galleries --

"Gathering of Warriors" Akicita Wacipi 2010 Highlights

Link to SWO/AAIA Dakotah Language Home Page

Links to SWO/AAIA Dakotah Language Booklets:

CAske goes out to play!

Child's Bedtime Story in Dakotah

Anpetu de Waunspepi Anpetu!

Photo Highlights of 2010 Wambdi Homecoming Parade

Photo Highlights from Sunkan Wakan Owe "Horse Tracks" Summer 2010

Photos from the Heipa District Wacipi (by Stephanie Glaholm-Baxter)

Photos of SWC Dakota History Event (day two)

143rd Annual SWO Wacipi Session One & Specials

143rd Annual SWO Wacipi Session Two

143rd Annual SWO Wacipi Session Three

143rd Annual SWO Wacipi Sessions Four & Five (Dani Two Stars)

Educational Forum (June 30, 2010)

SWO General Council Day One (June 24, 2010)

SWO General Council Day Two (June 25, 2010)

See our updated weekly podcast!

Link to US voters guide in the Dakotah Language

Welcome to SDSU OnCall Radio --Tune in weekly for a friendly, informative and factual medical podcast.

Inside this edition –

Buffalo Lake District members honored with healthy lifestyle awards

“Don’t Shatter the Dream” safety campaign underway

Joint Commission surveys Woodrow W. Keeble Memorial Health Center

Sgt. Joe Williams, SWO Tribal member, paints “Freedom Over Tyranny”

Photo highlights of SWO Elderly Christmas Dinner

October 2010 Tribal Council proceedings inside this Sota

Next week: Highlights of December 2010 SWO General Council

SWO Tribal Inauguration January 4th

An agenda is not yet available, but the Oyate are invited to the inauguration of incoming Tribal Executives and Council members on Tuesday, January 4th, 2011 at the Dakota Magic Convention Center in North Dakota. Watch for the agenda in next week’s Sota.

President Obama meets with 12 tribal leaders

Washington, DC – Dec. 15, 2010 – President Obama met with 12 tribal leaders in advance of last week’s second annual Tribal Summit to hear directly from Indian Country about their policy priorities and concerns. Also in the meeting were Attorney General Eric Holder, Interior Secretary Ken Salazar, Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, White House Senior Advisor Valerie Jarrett, White House Domestic Policy Council Director Melody Barnes and other Administration officials. The President conveyed to the leaders his commitment to strengthen and build upon the government to government relationship with Indian Country. He also noted that while much progress has been made, more remains to be done, and he is committed to working with the Native American community to achieve those goals.

The 12 leaders who met with the President represent the geographic diversity of the country and they were selected by their regional peers. The leaders are:

• President Shirley of the Navajo Nation

• Chairman Black Eagle of the Crow Tribe

• Chairman Smith of the Pala Band of Mission Indians

• Chief Red Eagle of the Osage Nation

• Chairperson Edwards of the Caddo Nation of Oklahoma

• Chairman Barbry of the Tunica-Biloxi Indian Tribe

• Chairman Hall of the Three Affiliated Tribes

• Chairman Wright of the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe

• Chairman Hayes of the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe

• Chairman Cladoosby of the Swinomish Tribe

• President Thomas of the Central Council Tlingit & Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska

• Chairwoman Diver of the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa

President Obama hosts 2nd annual Tribal Nations Conference

Washington, DC – Dec. 16, 2010 – In the morning, the President delivered remarks at the opening session of the White House Tribal Nations Conference at the Department of the Interior. The audience was made up of approximately 500 attendees, including more than 320 representatives from federally recognized tribes, Administration officials, and Members of Congress.

This conference will provide leaders from the 565 federally recognized tribes the opportunity to interact directly with the President and representatives from the highest levels of his Administration. Each federally recognized tribe has been invited to send one representative to the Conference. This will be the second White House Tribal Nations Conference for the Obama Administration, and continues to build upon the President’s commitment to strengthen the nation to nation relationship with Indian Country.

Stage Participants

Opening Remarks from Secretary Ken Salazar, Department of the Interior

Presentation of Colors by the Navajo Code Talkers Color Guard

Flag Song by Hunter Street (Hidatsa/Dakota), age 7

Invocation by the Governor of the Pueblo of Taos, James Lujan

The President was introduced by the President of the Quinault Indian Nation, Fawn Sharp. (Fawn Sharp , a member of the Quinault Indian Nation, graduated from the University of Washington, School of Law, in 1995 and received an advanced certificate in International Human Rights Law from Oxford University in 2003. She received her bachelor’s degree from Gonzaga University in 1990, where she studied criminal justice and philosophy. She currently serves as President of the Quinault Indian Nation. Prior positions include Managing Attorney/Lead Counsel, Quinault Indian Nation, Associate Judge, Quinault Tribal Court; Administrative Law Judge, Washington State, Department of Revenue, Tax Appeals Division; and, Of Counsel, Phillips, Krause & Brown. Prior to becoming an attorney, Fawn worked for the US Central Intelligence Agency and the Washington State Department of Corrections.)

Attendees

Secretary Ken Salazar, Department of the Interior

Secretary Tom Vilsack, Department of Agriculture

Secretary Hilda Solis, Department of Labor

Secretary Shaun Donovan, Department of Housing and Urban Development

Secretary Ray Lahood, Department of Transportation

Secretary Steven Chu, Department of Energy

Secretary Arne Duncan, Department of Education

Secretary Eric Shinseki, Department of Veterans Affairs

Administrator Lisa Jackson, Environmental Protection Agency

Deputy Secretary Neal Wolin, Department of the Treasury

Deputy Secretary David Hayes, Department of the Interior

Deputy Secretary Bill Corr, Health and Human Services

Dr. Yvette Roubideaux, Indian Health Service

Patrick Corvington, Corporation for National and Community Service

John Berry, Office of Personnel Management

Chairman Fred Hochberg, Export Import Bank of the United States

Deputy Administrator Marie Johns, Small Business Administration

Craig Fugate, Federal Emergency Management Agency

US Senator Byron Dorgan, D-ND

US Senator Lisa Murkowski, R-AK

US Senator Jon Tester, D-MT

US Senator Tom Udall, D-CO

US Representative Tom Cole, R-OK

US Representative Raul Grijalva, D-AZ

US Representative Stephanie Herseth Sandlin, D-SD

US Representative Grace Napolitano, D-CA

US Representative John Sullivan, R-OK

 Former US Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell

Commentary on President’s remarks at Tribal Nations  Conference

Excerpts from pool reporter observations

President Obama began remarks at about 9:40 at the Tribal Nations Conference at the Sidney R Yates Auditorium at the Department of the Interior.

He announced that the US was "lending support" to the UN Resolution on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

Governor James Lujan of the Taos Pueblo offered the opening invocation, mostly in American Indian language.

Fawn Sharp of the Quinault India Nation introduced the President. Ms Sharp said that under Obama "extraordinary strides have been made in restoring trust between" Indian country and US. Including the redress of wrongs against American Indians farmers and workers She said "thanks to leadership of Pres Obama, Indian leadership has reason for hope."

President Obama entered to strong applause. Laugh line: He recalled his visit to Crow Nation when he was campaigning, said he was given the name "One who helps people throughout the land." He said that upon hearing this, he said his name should have been "One who is not picking up his shoes and his socks."

The President thanked Ken Salazar (who walked into the auditorium as his name was being mentioned). Said he wants to hear more about how Indian Country and US can work together Emphasized importance of infrastructure investments to advance economy and jobs in Indian Nation (roads, high speed rail and internet).

He said : "I support legislation to make clear that Secretary of the Interior can take land into trust for all (federally protected lands)." He talked about the importance of closing gaps in healthcare and education.

"We will not succeed unless tribal communities are a safe place to grow up," he said, citing crime rates that are twice to 20 times higher than average rates. "It's a sobering statistic."

He shook some hands and got a few "Love you" shout-outs. The White House tells us there are more than 500 attendees, representing 565 federally recognized tribes.

Full text of remarks by President Obama at White House Tribal Nations  Conference

THE PRESIDENT: Thank you. Thank you so much. Thank you very much. Thank you very much. Everybody please be seated. Thank you.

Thank you, Fawn, for that wonderful introduction. Thanks to all of you. It is wonderful to be with you here today.

I see a lot of friends, a lot of familiar faces in the house. I want to thank all the tribal leaders who have traveled here for this conference. And I also want to recognize all the wonderful members of Congress who are here, as well as members of my Cabinet, including Secretary Salazar, who is doing terrific work here at Interior on behalf of the First Americans and on behalf of all Americans. So thank you very much, everybody. (Applause.)

Yesterday, I had the chance to meet with several tribal leaders at the White House, continuing a conversation that began long before I was President. And while I’m glad to have the opportunity to speak with you this morning, I’m also very eager to see the results of today’s meeting. I want to hear more from you about how we can strengthen the relationship between our governments, whether in education or health care, or in fighting crime or in creating jobs.

And that’s why we’re here today. That’s a promise I’ve made to you. I remember, more than two years ago, in Montana, I visited the Crow Nation -- one of the many times I met with tribal leaders on the campaign trail. You may know that on that trip, I became an adopted Crow Indian. My Crow name is “One Who Helps People Throughout the Land.” (Applause.) And my wife, when I told her about this, she said, “You should be named ‘One Who Isn’t Picking Up His Shoes and His Socks’.” (Laughter.)

Now -- but I like the first name better. And I want you to know that I’m working very hard to live up to that name.

What I said then was that as President I would make sure that you had a voice in the White House. (Applause.) I said that so long as I held this office, never again would Native Americans be forgotten or ignored. (Applause.) And over the past two years, my administration, working hand in hand with many of you, has strived to keep that promise. And you’ve had strong partners in Kim Teehee, my senior advisor for Native American issues, and Jodi Gillette, in our Intergovernmental Affairs office. You can give them a big round of applause. They do outstanding work. (Applause.)

Last year, we held the largest gathering of tribal leaders in our history. And at that conference -- you remember, most of you were there -- I ordered every Cabinet agency to promote more consultation with the tribal nations. Because I don’t believe that the solutions to any of our problems can be dictated solely from Washington. Real change depends on all of us doing our part.

So over the past year my administration has worked hard to strengthen the relationship between our nations. And together, we have developed a comprehensive strategy to help meet the challenges facing Native American communities.

Our strategy begins with the number one concern for all Americans right now -- and that’s improving the economy and creating jobs. We’ve heard time and again from tribal leaders that one of the keys to unlocking economic growth on reservations is investments in roads and high-speed rail and high-speed Internet and the infrastructure that will better connect your communities to the broader economy. That’s essential for drawing capital and creating jobs on tribal lands. So to help spur the economy, we’ve boosted investment in roads throughout the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Indian Reservation Road Program, and we’ve offered new loans to reach reservations with broadband.

And as part of our plan to revive the economy, we’ve also put billions of dollars into pressing needs like renovating schools. We’re devoting resources to job training -- especially for young people in Indian Country who too often have felt like they don’t have a chance to succeed. And we’re working with you to increase the size of tribal homelands in order to help you develop your economies.

I also want to note that I support legislation to make clear -- in the wake of a recent Supreme Court decision -- that the Secretary of Interior can take land into trust for all federally recognized tribes. (Applause.) That’s something that I discussed yesterday with tribal leaders.

We’re also breaking down bureaucratic barriers that have prevented tribal nations from developing clean energy like wind and solar power. It’s essential not just to your prosperity, but to the prosperity of our whole country. And I’ve proposed increasing lending to tribal businesses by supporting community financial institutions so they can finance more loans. It is essential in order to help businesses expand and hire in areas where it can be hard to find credit.

Another important part of our strategy is health care. We know that Native Americans die of illnesses like diabetes, pneumonia, flu -- even tuberculosis -- at far higher rates than the rest of the population. Make no mistake: These disparities represent an ongoing tragedy. They’re cutting lives short, causing untold pain and hardship for Native American families. And closing these gaps is not just a question of policy, it’s a question of our values -- it’s a test of who we are as a nation.

Now, last year, at this conference, tribal leaders talked about the need to improve the health care available to Native Americans, and to make quality insurance affordable to all Americans. And just a few months later, I signed health reform legislation into law, which permanently authorizes the Indian Health Care Improvement Act -- permanently. (Applause.) It’s going to make it possible for Indian tribes and tribal organizations to purchase health care for their employees, while making affordable coverage available to everybody, including those who use the Indian Health Service -- that’s most American Indians and native -- Alaska Natives. So it’s going to make a huge difference.

Of course, there are few steps we can take that will make more of a difference for the future of your communities than improving education on tribal lands. We’ve got to improve the education we provide to our children. That’s the cornerstone on which all of our progress will be built. We know that Native Americans are far more likely to drop out of high school and far less likely to go to college. That not only damages the prospects for tribal economies; it’s a heartbreaking waste of human potential. We cannot afford to squander the promise of our young people. Your communities can’t afford it, and our country can’t afford it. And we are going to start doing something about it. (Applause.)

We’re rebuilding schools on tribal lands while helping to ensure that tribes play a bigger role in determining what their children learn. We’re working to empower parents with more and better options for schools for their kids -- as well as with support programs that actually work with Indian parents to give them a real voice in improving education in your communities.

We’re also working to improve the programs available to students at tribal colleges. Students who study at tribal colleges are much less likely to leave college without a degree and the vast majority end up in careers serving their tribal nation. And these schools are not only helping to educate Native Americans; they’re also helping to preserve rich but often endangered languages and traditions. I’d also like to point out last year I signed historic reforms that are increasing student aid and making college loans more affordable. That’s especially important to Native Americans struggling to pay for a college degree. (Applause.)

Now, all these efforts -- improving health care, education, the economy -- ultimately these efforts will not succeed unless all of our communities are safe places to grow up and attend school and open businesses and where people are not living under the constant threat of violence and crime. And that threat remains real, as crime rates in Indian Country are anywhere from twice to 20 times the national average. That’s a sobering statistics -- represents a cloud over the future of your communities.

So the Justice Department, under the leadership of Eric Holder, is working with you to reform the way justice is done on Indian reservations. And I was proud to sign the Tribal Law and Order Act into law, which is going to help tribes combat drug and alcohol abuse, to have more access to criminal databases, and to gain greater authority to prosecute and punish criminals in Indian Country. That’s important. (Applause.)

We’ve also resolved a number of longstanding disputes about the ways that our government has treated -- or in some cases mistreated -- folks in Indian Country, even in recent years. We’ve settled cases where there were allegations of discrimination against Native American farmers and ranchers by the Department of Agriculture. And after a 14-year battle over the accounting of tribal resources in the Cobell case, we reached a bipartisan agreement, which was part of a law I signed just a week ago. We’re very proud of that and I want to thank all the legislators who helped make that happen. (Applause.)

This will put more land in the hands of tribes to manage or otherwise benefit their members. This law also includes money to settle lawsuits over water rights for seven tribes in Arizona, Montana and New Mexico -- and it creates a scholarship fund so more Native Americans can afford to go to college.

These cases serve as a reminder of the importance of not glossing over the past or ignoring the past, even as we work together to forge a brighter future. That’s why, last year, I signed a resolution, passed by both parties in Congress, finally recognizing the sad and painful chapters in our shared history -- a history too often marred by broken promises and grave injustices against the First Americans. It’s a resolution I fully supported -- recognizing that no statement can undo the damage that was done; what it can do is help reaffirm the principles that should guide our future. It’s only by heeding the lessons of our history that we can move forward.

And as you know, in April, we announced that we were reviewing our position on the U.N. Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. And today I can announce that the United States is lending its support to this declaration. (Applause.)

The aspirations it affirms -- including the respect for the institutions and rich cultures of Native peoples -- are one we must always seek to fulfill. And we’re releasing a more detailed statement about U.S. support for the declaration and our ongoing work in Indian Country. But I want to be clear: What matters far more than words -- what matters far more than any resolution or declaration -– are actions to match those words. And that’s what this conference is about. (Applause.) That’s what this conference is about. That’s the standard I expect my administration to be held to.

So we’re making progress. We’re moving forward. And what I hope is that we are seeing a turning point in the relationship between our nations. The truth is, for a long time, Native Americans were implicitly told that they had a choice to make. By virtue of the longstanding failure to tackle wrenching problems in Indian Country, it seemed as though you had to either abandon your heritage or accept a lesser lot in life; that there was no way to be a successful part of America and a proud Native American.

But we know this is a false choice. To accept it is to believe that we can’t and won’t do better. And I don’t accept that. I know there is not a single person in this room who accepts that either. We know that, ultimately, this is not just a matter of legislation, not just a matter of policy. It’s a matter of whether we’re going to live up to our basic values. It’s a matter of upholding an ideal that has always defined who we are as Americans. E pluribus unum. Out of many, one.

That’s why we’re here. That’s what we’re called to do. And I’m confident that if we keep up our efforts, that if we continue to work together, that we will live up to the simple motto and we will achieve a brighter future for the First Americans and for all Americans.

So thank you very much. God bless you. Thank you. (Applause.)

Statement by DOI Secretary Ken Salazar –

Washington, DC – Dec. 16, 2010 – This morning we kicked off the White House Tribal Nations Conference, a gathering that is a testament to President Obama's respect for the inherent sovereignty of Indian nations and determination to honor the Nation's commitments to American Indian and Alaska Native communities.

President Obama is hosting the conference here at the Department of the Interior - the second he has convened since taking office - and delivered keynote remarks to leaders of the 565 federally recognized tribes in the United States. Members of the President's cabinet and other high-ranking Administration officials will be participating in a series of breakout sessions with tribal leaders, discussing a wide range of social, economic and political challenges facing Indian Country. It is rare that so many of us are in one place at the same time and it speaks to President Obama's high-level engagement with and commitment to Indian Country.

A little over a year ago - at the first-ever White House Tribal Nations Conference - President Obama pledged that we would work with American Indian leaders to fulfill our trust responsibilities, to empower tribal governments and to help build safer, stronger and more prosperous tribal communities.

While we have made great progress on these fronts, there is much work to be done - by all of us. It is my hope that today provides a venue through which to continue a candid and honest dialogue between and among nations as we develop a comprehensive agenda to reform, restructure and rebuild federal relations with Indian Country.

Together we are building a solid foundation for a bright, prosperous and more fulfilling future for the First Americans.

Announcement of US Support for the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples

Washington, DC – Dec. 16, 2010 – President Obama today announced United States support for the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. The announcement, made during the White House Tribal Nations Conference at the U.S. Department of the Interior, underscores the U.S. commitment to strengthening government-to-government relationships with federally recognized tribes and furthering U.S. policy on indigenous issues.

The decision to support the Declaration represents an important and meaningful change in the U.S. position, and resulted from a comprehensive, interagency policy review, including extensive consultation with tribes. While the Declaration is not legally binding, it carries considerable moral and political force and complements the President’s ongoing efforts to address historical inequities faced by indigenous communities in the United States.

The President’s speech can be found on http://www.whitehouse.gov . A more detailed statement regarding U.S. support for the Declaration and our recent related initiatives in Indian country can be found at www.state.gov/p/io/.

From NCAI –

The National Congress of American Indians calls U.S. adoption “One of the most significant developments in international human rights law in decades.”

President Obama announced that the United States will lend its support to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) today during the second annual Tribal Nations  Conference in Washington, D.C. Prior to this morning's announcement, the United States had been the lone holdout of the original four nations to vote against the adoption of the Declaration by the UN General Assembly in 2007; the other three (Australia, New Zealand, and Canada) have all since reversed their position.

“This is one of the most significant developments in international human rights law in decades. The United States and the Obama Administration have done the right thing today by joining the rest of the world in affirming the inherit rights of Indigenous people,” said Jefferson Keel, President of the National Congress of American Indians, the oldest, largest, and most representative American Indian and Alaska Native organization in the country. “International human rights law now recognizes the collective and individual human rights of Indigenous peoples, including treaty rights, land rights, and the right of self-determination.”

In delivering his remarks to hundreds of tribal leaders gathered for the Tribal Nations  Conference, President Obama was clear that the aspirations in the Declaration were ones that all Americans should vow to uphold. Immediately after he made his announcement of support, the President emphasized that "what matters far more than words...are actions to match those words."

The Declaration, for the first time, gives international recognition to the collective human rights of Indigenous peoples, including treaty rights, land rights, and, perhaps most importantly, the right of self-determination. The Declaration calls for the maintenance and protection of Native cultures, languages, and identities; the fulfillment of treaty obligations by nation states; the equal treatment of an end to discrimination against Indigenous peoples; and the rights of Native peoples to meaningfully participate in the decision-making process and to be consulted on all matters that concern them.

The importance of the Declaration to American Indian and Alaska Native tribes is significant. While not legally binding in and of itself, it nevertheless performs the invaluable functions of gathering together in one document the basic rights of Indigenous peoples, educating the general public, and providing clear direction for those nation states endorsing the Declaration. The Declaration has considerable moral and political force and Indian nations will not hesitate to use the Declaration as the standard by which to measure the actions of the federal government.

Statement on US Support for UN Declaration on Rights of Indigenous Peoples

Washington, DC – Dec. 16, 2010 – Statement by Ambassador Susan E. Rice, U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations, on the Announcement of U.S. Support for the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples:

Today, I join President Obama in underscoring the United States’ support for the U.N. Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. The Declaration is a milestone in the international community’s efforts to identify and address the needs of indigenous peoples around the world, to protect their ways of life and to help their communities to flourish.

After a thorough review, the United States is pleased to join more than 140 countries in support of this Declaration. As the President himself recently said, we believe that, “Together, we can advance the arc of human progress toward a more perfect Union and a more perfect world — one in which each human being lives with dignity, security, and equality.”

Let us continue to work tirelessly to protect the rights of indigenous peoples here and around the world.

Fourteen Tribal Leaders convene to advise Justice Department on bi-annual basis

Washington, DC – Dec. 15, 2010 – Attorney General Eric Holder today convened the inaugural meeting of the Justice Department’s Tribal Nations Leadership Council (TNLC), a group of tribal leaders from around the country who will advise him on issues critical to tribal communities. The TNLC marks the first time a council composed of tribal leaders selected by tribal governments will advise a cabinet member on an ongoing basis.

TNLC members include one tribal leader from each of the 12 regions of the Bureau of Indian Affairs, chosen by the tribes of that region, and two members from the Office of Justice Program’s Tribal Justice Advisory Group. The creation of the TNLC fulfills a pledge made by Attorney General Holder at the department’s Tribal Nations Listening Session in October 2009.

In addition to Attorney General Holder, tribal leaders met with senior leadership from numerous department components.

“The Tribal Nations Leadership Council will play an important role in continuing the critical government to government dialogue between the department and tribal governments on matters including public safety,” said Attorney General Holder. “The creation of the council has been a priority for me since my visit with tribal leaders last year and I believe it is a critical step in our work to improve coordination and collaboration with tribal communities.”

The TNLC is expected to meet bi-annually, and TNLC members will have a term of service of two years. The tribal leaders who comprise the initial council include:

Tribal Nations Leadership Council Members

Marge Anderson, Chief Executive, Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe Indians, Minnesota

John Barrett, Jr., Chairman, Citizen Potawatomi Nation, Oklahoma Roman Duran, Lieutenant Governor, Pueblo of Tesuque, New Mexico Diane Enos, President, Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, Arizona Lynn Malerba, Chief, The Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut, Connecticut Willie Noseep, Co-Chair, Eastern Shoshone Business Council, Wyoming Ben Shelly, Vice President and President-Elect, Navajo Nation, Arizona Robert Smith, Chairman, Pala Band of Luiseno Mission Indians, California Ron Sparkman, Chairman, Shawnee Tribe, Oklahoma

John F. Stensgar, Chairman of the Natural Resources Committee and Colville Business Council, Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, Washington

Michael J. Stickman, First Chief, Nulato Village, Alaska Roger Trudell, Chairman, Santee Sioux Tribe, Nebraska

Co-Chairs of the Tribal Justice Advisory Group

Juana Majel Dixon, 1st Vice President-NCAI/TJAG Pacific Region, Pauma Yuima Band of Mission Indians, California

DOT helping fulfill Obama Administration's commitment to tribal communities

Statement by DOT Secretary

Washington, DC – December 17, 2010 – Yesterday, I had the opportunity to attend the second White House Tribal Nations Conference. It was a great chance to hear the concerns of the Native American community and discuss ways that we could build upon our government-to-government relationship.

At the conference, President Obama reminded tribal leaders that, before he took office, he had promised them they would have a voice in the White House:

"I said that so long as I held this office, never again would Native Americans be forgotten or ignored. And over the past two years, my administration, working hand in hand with many of you, has strived to keep that promise."

The President also noted that one key to unlocking economic growth on reservations is investments in infrastructure that better connect tribal communities to the broader economy. And I am proud of the work the Department of Transportation has done to help fulfill the President's commitment by strengthening ties between American Indians & Alaskan Natives and our transportation programs.

Earlier this year, DOT put in place a Tribal Consultation Plan, a detailed course of actions we will take when developing, changing, or implementing policies, programs, or services that affect tribes. It was created with input solicited from tribal leaders, and it gives the Native American community a much-valued voice.

DOT is firmly committed to improving tribal transportation resources. The Recovery Act included a $310 million boost for the Indian Reservation Roads Program. And we increased the annual amount of that program from $275 million to $450 million. We’re also working to make it easier for Native American communities to access resources through discretionary programs like TIGER. For example, we provided $12 million in TIGER support to improve roads on the Flathead Indian Reservation in Montana.

And, earlier this week, the Federal Transit Administration awarded $15.1 million in Tribal Transit grants. Funds available on a competitive basis to tribes through the Tribal Transit program are in addition to formula funds tribes receive from states through FTA’s rural transit program. Public transportation gives those who live on tribal lands--sometimes in very remote areas--better access to jobs, health care, and other vital services.

In addition, over half a million dollars in Hazardous Materials Emergency Preparedness Grants were issued to nine Native American Tribes this fiscal year to help them perform their hazardous materials response duties.

But our partnership with the Native American community goes beyond funding. We strengthened our government-to-government relationship by letting tribes decide if they want to work directly with the Federal Highway Administration rather than going through the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Regional University Transportation Centers funded by DOT’s Research and Innovative Technology Administration (RITA) provide technical assistance to tribal transportation agencies. And we recently launched a one-stop informational website for tribes, dot.gov/tribal.

And we are not done listening to the concerns of the Native American community. Using yesterday's conference as a springboard, we will continue building on our partnership and working to improve transportation access for tribal communities across the country.

SWO Chairman-elect Robert Shepherd meets with President Obama

From SWO Chairman’s Administrative Assistant Dustina Gill:

Tribal Chairman-elect Robert Shepherd attended the White House Tribal  Conference and met with President Obama.

Watch for more information and photos in next week’s Sota.

(Editor’s note: Robert was also present at Barack Obama’s Presidential inauguration in January 2009.)

Drive Sober during "Don't Shatter the Dream" Campaign

Mobilization December 20-January 2

By Shannon White

SWO Injury Prevention Specialist

Sisseton-Wahpeton Law Enforcement is joining law enforcement agencies across the country for the "Don't Shatter the Dream" Impaired Driving Mobilization, reaching out across Indian Country with life-saving traffic safety messages. From December 20, 2008, through January 2, 2010, Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and tribal officers will be conducting checkpoints and saturating the reservation roadways-working diligently to get alcohol and drug impaired drivers off the road.

In the five year period from 2002 - 2006, 3,262 Native Americans lost their lives in motor vehicle traffic crashes. Of those, 1,864 (or 57 percent) involved an alcohol impaired driver or motorcycle operator who was at or above the legal limit of .08.

The holiday season is an especially dangerous time to be out on the streets and highways, particularly because of adverse weather conditions and increased drinking and driving.

"Through stepped up enforcement, we will be doing our best to protect the tribal members from unsafe drivers who make dangerous decisions," said Captain Gary Gaikowski on behalf of the Sisseton-Wahpeton Law Enforcement effort.

Saving lives is the ultimate goal of the mobilization. "Not only are traffic-related fatalities the leading cause of death for Native Americans ages 1-44, Native Americans are also killed and injured at crash rates two to three times higher than the national average," Gaikowski said.

"Driving impaired is a dangerous crime that puts many innocent people in danger," he said. "But we can all work together to protect our community by taking a stand-let's get alcohol impaired drivers off the road and make travel safer for everyone."

This holiday season, law enforcement officers on the Lake Traverse Reservation urge all tribal members to set a good example. "If you are planning to drink alcohol, designate a sober driver before going out, and don't forget to buckle up," Gaikowski said. "Wearing your seat belt is your best defense against an impaired driver."

Buffalo Lake District members honored with healthy lifestyle awards

Buffalo Lake District members were honored at the December 14, 2010, session of the Tribal Council for living and promoting healthy lifestyles.

The members honored were as follows: Frances Johnson, elder; Paula Crawford Bossert, adult; and Monique White, youth.

Certificates were presented to the recipients in behalf of the District, Tribal Council, and Human Services Board by Buffalo Lake District Human Services Board Representative Lisa RedWing. The Honor Song was by the Red Iron Drum Group.

This session is one in a series of ongoing monthly presentations that recognize the many individuals on the Lake Traverse Reservation that live and promote healthy lifestyles. This activity is a step in implementing Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate Health Plan Strategic Issue A. TO SUPPORT AND PROMOTE HEALTHY LIFESTYLE CHOICES, STRATEGY 1: Provide positive examples to the community by recognizing people from the Districts for living and promoting healthy lifestyles.

The Human Services Board selected these individuals because the District recognizes that they demonstrate the following healthy lifestyle qualities:

*"Well-balanced" (living and promoting a lifestyle that is healthy in body, mind and spirit).

*Abstinence from alcohol, habitual use of tobacco (cigarettes, chew), illegal (non-prescription) drugs, and all other addictive substances

*Caring, empathetic, and has respect for others.

*Well respected in the community.

Frances Johnson

Buffalo Lake District

Elder Member

Personal Information: Frances lives at Buffalo Lake with her animals and daughter. She has eight kids and helps them all out at times. Accomplishments: Why this person has been selected (what this person has done to promote healthy alcohol and drug-free lifestyles: Frances eats right and takes good care of herself. She likes to read and put puzzles together. Why this person has been selected (what this person has done to promote healthy alcohol and drug-free lifestyles: Frances does not smoke or drink and is a healthy person.

Paula Bossert

Buffalo Lake District

Adult Member

Personal Information: Paula is married. She has her degree in Social Work. She works with youth. She is an employee at Indian Health Service. Accomplishments: Paula has training dealing with youth and other people with troubled lives. She has her degree in the field of social work and does training. Why this person has been selected (what this person has done to promote healthy alcohol and drug-free lifestyles: Paula has promoted healthy lifestyles. She brings children in to her home if homeless or having troubles at home. She promotes a traditional life.

Monique White

Buffalo Lake District

Youth Member

Personal Information: Mother - Stephanie Williams Father - Damion White Grandmothers - Gail Williams and Sonja White Grandfathers - Russel Barse and Richard Boyd Jr. Great Grandparents - Ed & Yvonne Williams, Violet Barse, Emery & Rosemary White, Mary Ann Wanna Accomplishments: Girl Scouts, 10 years - Silver Award Art Club, 3 years Sisseton High School Golf Team, 4 years Sioux Voices, 3 years Teens Against Tobacco Use (TATU), 2 years Why this person has been selected (what this person has done to promote healthy alcohol and drug-free lifestyles: Monique is tobacco and alcohol and drug free. She encourages her friends to be healthy or finds new friends. She presented a segment on healthy lifestyles during her Girl Scout Silver Award. The theme for her Silver Award was Health Fair for Young Girls. She worked with many people from the community and held a fair for young girls.

Sisseton Clinic receives high marks from Commission members –

Joint Commission holds accreditation survey at Woodrow W. Keeble Memorial Health Center

(Editor’s note: Last week’s Sota erred in publishing an article incorrectly linking the Senate Indian Affairs Committee investigation into alleged mismanagement in the Aberdeen Area IHS Area to an on-site visit at Sisseton. The Joint Commission survey of the Sisseton Indian Health Service that occurred last week had nothing to do with the investigation. Here is information about the Commission survey, which reflects very well on the operation of the Woodrow W. Keeble Memorial Health Center.)

The Sisseton Indian Health Service has contracted with the Joint Commission to conduct its accreditation survey. It is similar to the Tribe contracting with an auditing firm to come in and review compliance with government standards. They come every three years, unless there are significant issues of some sort. They were last here in August 2007. IHS has been expecting them for several months, but their visits are “unannounced,” so they do not know exactly when they are coming. They are not federal investigators. The Joint Commission is a private organization. Their job is to make recommendations to improve the services, and IHS pays them to do so.

In their opening meeting, they stressed that their role is consultative. They pass on a variety of observations and suggestions for improvement. When there are findings, the facility has a certain number of days – 60 days or 90 days – to correct the issue. If there were serious findings, the Joint Commission might come back to re-survey sooner than 3 years. The official report will be issued from Joint Commission, but indications from the exit interview were that the survey went well.

The Joint Commission did two types of surveying. One was patient tracing and the other was systems tracing. In patient tracing, they followed individual patients throughout the full course of their treatment. This was with the patients’ consent. In systems testing they looked at things like data management, environment of care, performance improvement, and provider credentialing and privileging. The Human Services Board requested the opportunity to meet with them and did so last Thursday afternoon. They told the Board at that time that they were impressed with the Sisseton Indian Health Service and, in response to a question about how this facility compares with other IHS facilities, said they would put it in the 75-100th percentile.

Memo from IHS Director –

IHS response to Senate Committee investigation

Washington, DC – Oct. 29, 2010 – I have reviewed the concerns raised in the hearing on the Aberdeen Area held by the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs. In addition, a letter was sent to the HHS Secretary requesting investigations of all IHS-operated facilities due to concerns that these issues may be occurring in other IHS Areas. Given that the concerns raised are serious and unacceptable, I am directing IHS senior leadership to implement the following items immediately throughout the organization:

1) Ensure that we do not hire or contract with excluded felons: Before every hire, the supervisor, as part of the required reference checks, and the human resources staff, as part of the screening process prior to the job offer, and contracting officers during the contract award process (majority of the issues identified in Aberdeen were contract providers) must both check the OIG Exclusion List for the name of the person they intend to hire. If the individual is on that list, they are not to be hired. It takes just a few minutes to go to the website http://exclusions.oig.hhs.gov/ and enter an individual’s information. Anyone who hires someone who is on the OIG Exclusion List will be held accountable and appropriate disciplinary action will be taken. This applies to Commissioned Officers and Civil Service employees who are transferred, reassigned (including IPAs, MOAs), or re-hired (including CO-STEPS, etc.)

2) Conduct background checks quickly and as a condition of hire: Before every hire, fingerprint checks must occur as a part of the pre-employment process. It only takes a few days to check now that the process is electronic. If problems appear, the individual should not be hired until the background check is resolved. Every position description, vacancy announcement and all counseling of potential new hires should include clear instruction that employment is conditional on a cleared background check. We are also updating our list of “public trust” positions that require more extensive background checks. We must take seriously the assessment of suitability for hire for all potential employees. Our patients are counting on us to get this right. This change will be effective for all pending new hires that have not yet entered on duty as of today.

3) Limit use of administrative leave (Civil Service)/Non-Duty with Pay (Commissioned Officers): I am directing all Area Directors and HQ Office Directors to review the use of administrative leave/non-duty with pay and, if necessary, to take actions to ensure it is appropriate and used on a limited case-by-case basis. While sometimes outside entities require placement of individuals on administrative leave pending investigations, we need to closely monitor the status of these investigations and encourage prompt resolution.

4) Improve security in IHS pharmacies: In order to prevent missing and stolen narcotics, I am directing all IHS Area Directors and Chief Medical Officers to review all relevant pharmacy policies and monitoring processes and systems and to implement improvement strategies as soon as possible. Consult with your local human resources staff to determine whether proposed changes require notice to the union because it is a change in working conditions (such as security cameras placed in pharmacies).

5) Ensure that healthcare providers have current licenses: I am directing all Area Directors and Chief Medical Officers to review how we monitor healthcare provider license status and to develop a process to ensure that providers with expired (revoked, suspended and conditional) licenses are not allowed to practice in our hospitals and clinics until they correct their licensure status. Exceptions only apply to providers who are in training without full licensure.

6) Ensure program integrity: I sent an email to all IHS recently emphasizing the importance of program integrity and have explained how employees can report allegations of fraud, waste or abuse by other employees. We will hold individuals accountable if investigations reveal they have engaged in any of these types of activities. All employees are responsible for ensuring that we are using our federal resources in the most effective and efficient manner. A link will be added by OMS/PIES to the IHS home page for reporting fraud, waste and abuse.

7) Improve business practices in the Contract Health Services Program: I have been consulting with tribes on how to improve the business of the CHS program. I just received recommendations from the tribal workgroup and after review by all tribes, we will be implementing specific activities to ensure that we are maximizing these resources through sharing and implementing best practices, improving customer service, improving billing and referral processes and negotiating the best rates from outside providers.

8) Improving accountability: Because these concerns are serious, it is important to make sure that if these action items are not implemented, responsible individuals will be held accountable. I heard from staff input last year that the lack of accountability for poor performance was a big problem throughout IHS. Accountability is one of our agency priorities – and needs to be an important part of ensuring that we do change and improve as an organization. This will be added to managers’ performance plans that are accountable for the implementation.

We will include these subject areas in the IHS Area review process to assure that these recommendations have been implemented in all our IHS-administered facilities. I am recommending that our tribally-administered facilities implement these actions as well.

Thank you to all employees who help us implement these reforms. In order to gain the trust of our patients, we have to address these issues as soon as possible.

Yvette Roubideaux, M.D., M.P.H., Director.

Paws for the Cause negotiates action plan with SWHA

Submitted by Joan L.White

On December 13, 2010, representatives from Paws for the Cause and SWHA tenants appeared before the SWHA board to present a plan of action in response to the dog ban. Shortly after that meeting we were notified that we were given a reprieve until April 1, 2011 on the dog ban. Thank you to everyone who signed a petition, showed up to the meetings or volunteered to help. This would not have been possible without community support.

During the next four months tenants will be required to prove that they want to keep their dogs. Tenants can prove that they are responsible dog owners by spaying/ neutering, vaccinating, and registering their animals. Those with outside dogs will need to provide an enclosure, shelter, food and care for their dogs. Paws for the Cause will be going into housing sites to register animals and secure documents regarding spay/neuter and vaccinations and provide pet owner education classes. Paws for the Cause will also be seeking funding for free spay/neuter programs and a facility to temporary house the unwanted animals. This must be a community effort with all parties involved, tenants, the SWHA, Paws for the Cause and the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate.

Due to the weather, the second roundup scheduled for December 11, 2010, was rescheduled to December 12, 2010. At that time, 51 dogs and 9 cats were removed from the Lake Traverse reservation. These animals all went into foster homes in the Twin Cities were they will be spay/neutered and receive vaccinations before being placed in permanent homes. We would like to thank all of the rescues groups who traveled to the Lake Traverse reservation to pick up our animals to find them permanent homes. We are very grateful!

Paws for the Cause is planning a third round up on December 30, 2010. For those individuals in housing sites or the Lake Traverse Reservation community who wish to surrender their dogs, please contact laketraversedogs@yahoo.com and include a photo, your dog’s name, breed, age, veterinary history, temperament.

Please be patient as we are getting many requests and will contact you regarding your dog. If you do not have access to a computer, you can leave a message for Joan at 605-742-0219 or Karen at 605-698-3284. However, we prefer that you list your dog at the email address above. We are asking dog owners please do not DUMP your animal elsewhere. Paws for the Cause is willing to assist in finding your dog a new home.

SD Soldier paints mural representing "Freedom Over Tyranny"

By Sgt. Rebecca Linder

196th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade – Dec. 4, 2010 – Camp Phoenix, Afghanistan – After giving up hours, days and even months of free time painting a mural on the wall of the Camp Phoenix gym, artist Sgt. 1st Class Joseph Williams and many others stationed here gathered to take part in a dedication ceremony on Dec. 1 for his painting called "Freedom Over Tyranny."

As counterinsurgency continues to be the mission for troops serving throughout the country, Williams, a member of the 196th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, South Dakota Army National Guard, decided to paint a mural that would symbolize the relationship between U.S., coalition and Afghan forces serving together in order to help the Afghan people.

"We use this mural as a reminder for what we are here for now, that we are helping the Afghans build up their country again and partner not only with coalition forces, but the people of Afghanistan," said Vice Adm. Robert Harward, Combined Joint Interagency Task Force 435 commander, during the ceremony.

"The world will soon see that this collective effort that we've all done together is going to rid this country of the tyranny that it's been under and the war that is has suffered for years," added Brig. Gen. Ted Johnson, 196th commander. "You will see as we unveil this, we stand shoulder to shoulder for freedom over tyranny so this great country can move on with its history."

Williams, who studied art in San Francisco, said he was heavily influenced by the great American illustrator, Norman Rockwell to come up with the idea of the drawing.

"His 'Four Freedoms' paintings from 1943 really inspired me and I think it wasn't until we were in a conflict of our own that the Four Freedoms really spoke to me," said Williams, of Moorhead, Minn. "Given our fight along the side of our Afghan and coalition counterparts, it only seemed natural that this idea of 'Freedom over Tyranny' applied so well here."

"In 1941, Franklin Roosevelt made a speech before congress before going to war talking about the four pillars of freedom - freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom of fear and freedom of want," said Harward. "Today, in that same spirit, we salute Sgt. 1st Class Williams for his motivation and inspiration."

Using his artistic abilities, Williams, who has been painting since he was 14, now 32, used four soldiers to model for the painting, which represents the Bulgarian, American, French and Afghan forces, who were also there for the ceremony.

"It's been an honor to be able to help Sgt. 1st Class Williams in his endeavor to communicate the ideals that the coalition forces bring to Afghanistan," said Sgt. Matthew Wells, 196th soldier who helped pose for the mural.

"This idea is why we are here, it is why we stand together," added Williams. "Even though the struggle for freedom is a more difficult path, it is unquestionably the difficult path worth fighting for."

Emergency preparedness message –

SWO winter storm closings policy

SWO Tribal members are asked to please contact Tribal Law Enforcement at 698-7661 in the event of an emergency, and to be as specific as possible concerning the nature of the problem.

Tribal officials ask that anyone away from home during a storm, if you find shelter, please notify Tribal Law Enforcement that you are safe. That could prevent rescue workers from endangering themselves out looking for you.

The public is asked to plan ahead when the forecast calls for a possible winter storm. This includes checking to make sure there is ample heating fuel, food, and drinking water. For those with serious medical conditions, be certain there is ample medication on hand.

In some cases, dialysis patients and others with acute health problems should contact their health provider about staying in a “swing bed” or with family or friends close to the health care center. Telephone number is 698-7606.

Tribal office business hours on winter storm days

The Tribal offices will be closed due to winter weather in conjunction with the closing of either the Sisseton public schools or Tiospa Zina Tribal School. If it is announced in the news, either on the radio or television, that the Sisseton Public School or Tiospa Zina Tribal School will be starting one hour late due to winter weather then the Tribal offices will open one hour late. If the school is closed because of a major winter storm for an entire day then so shall the Tribe.

If, however, the school is closed because of a non-storm related crisis, such as broken waterlines, then the Tribe shall be open during normal business hours.

Above all, employees are asked to please use their best judgment when traveling in winter weather and avoid traveling during winter storms except in emergencies. (And then, please let others in your family, or friends, and Tribal Law Enforcement, know your plans.)

If possible, everyone is asked to please check on your elderly family members and friends during such times.

SWO Head Start closings policy

(Here is the school closing policy as stated in the Head Start parent handbook.)

1. Facility -The SWO Head Start will close if the facility becomes unsafe for the children. This includes a water break, furnace breakdown, or any health hazard declared by The Director of Head Start, Dept. of Health or by the SWO.

2. Weather-The Head Start and Early Head Start will close if the public or Tribal schools remain closed due to the weather. Notices will be given out over B103 KBWS radio station KELO and KABY TV stations.

3. Head Start-The SWO Head start will not run buses if the temperature is -20 degrees or colder. Parents must transport and pick up their children if no buses run. Children will be considered excused for that day.

Editorials –

Sota guest editorial –

Suicide is a real threat to our Youth

According to Teen Suicide Statistics, a person dies by suicide every 16 minutes in our country. Suicide is the third leading cause of death for 15 to 24-year-olds (behind accidents and homicide) and the fourth leading cause of death for 10 to 14-year-olds.

The fact is, suicide is a real danger to our children. And among the top risk factors for adolescent suicide is substance abuse (including alcohol, over-the-counter medicines, prescription medications and illegal drugs).

Some youth use drugs as a way to self-medicate - to temporarily alleviate pain. However, substance use is not a permanent "fix" to take away the hurt, and all too often, plays a lead role in attempted and completed suicides.

Substance abuse can affect the chemical balance in the brain, intensifying feelings of depression and sadness; it can cause dependency, leading to feelings of hopelessness and helplessness; it can also bring with it symptoms of withdrawal when a person is not using, causing physical illness and further chemical imbalances which can contribute to deeper depression and suicidal thoughts.

The National Council for Suicide Prevention shares the following suicide warning signs:

*Depression, feelings of worthlessness, feelings of rejection

*Rage, uncontrolled anger, seeking revenge

*Acting reckless, engaging in risky activities, seemingly without thinking

*Feeling trapped - like there's no way out

*Increased alcohol or drug use

*Withdrawing from friends, family and society

*Anxiety, agitation, unable to sleep or sleeping all the time

*Dramatic mood changes

If your child or anyone you know is displaying any of these warning signs, you are encouraged to contact a mental health professional or call the National Suicide Prevention Suicide Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

Information for this article came from www.suicidolgy.org and is support by There's Hope-Roberts County Suicide Prevention Task Force.

Sota guest editorial –

The Final Inspection

(Editor’s note: Here is the first of several poems recognizing the sacrifices of our veterans. As we celebrate Christmas let us remember their sacrifices and pray for those of our Oyate who have served in the past and those who remain in harm’s way. See the list of SWO members serving overseas today, provided by SWO Tribal Veteran Service Officer Geri Opsal.)

The soldier stood and faced God,

Which must always come to pass,

He hoped his shoes were shining,

Just as brightly as his brass.

"Step forward now, you soldier,

How shall I deal with you?

Have you always turned the other cheek?

To My Church have you been true?"

The soldier squared his shoulders and

said, "No, Lord, I guess I ain't,

Because those of us who carry guns,

Can't always be a saint.

I've had to work most Sundays,

And at times my talk was tough,

And sometimes I've been violent,

Because the world is awfully rough.

But, I never took a penny

That wasn't mine to keep...

Though I worked a lot of overtime

When the bills got just too steep,

And I never passed a cry for help,

Though at times I shook with fear,

And sometimes, God forgive me,

I've wept unmanly tears.

I know I don't deserve a place

Among the people here,

They never wanted me around,

Except to calm their fears.

If you've a place for me here, Lord,

It needn't be so grand,

I've never expected, or had much,

But if you don't, I'll understand."

There was a silence all around the throne,

Where the saints had often trod,

As the soldier waited quietly,

For the judgment of his God.

Step forward now, you soldier,

You've borne your burdens well,

Walk peacefully on Heaven's streets,

You've done your time in Hell

- Author Unknown

It's the soldier, not the reporter

who has given us Freedom of the Press.

It's the soldier, not the poet,

who has given us Freedom of Speech.

It's the soldier, not the campus organizer,

who has given us the Freedom to Demonstrate.

It's the soldier, not the lawyer,

who has given us the Right to a Fair Trial.

It's the soldier who salutes the flag, serves under the flag and

whose coffin is draped by the flag,

Who gives the protestor the right to burn the flag.

- Father Dennis Edward O'Brien, USMC

"The Night Before Christmas"

Even in Muddy Korea, A Korean Christmas Carol

Twas the night before Christmas and all through the tent

was the odor of fuel oil (the stove pipe was bent.)

The shoe packs were hung by the oil stove with care

in the hopes that they'd issue each man a new pair.

The weary GI's were sacked-out on their cots,

And visions of sugar-babies danced through their heads.

When up on the ridge line there rose such a clatter

(A Chinese machine gun had started to chatter.)

I rushed to my rifle and through back the bolt.

The rest of my tent mates awoke with a jolt.

Outside we could hear platoon Sgt Kelly,

a hardnosed man with little pot belly.

“Come Clancy, come Yancy, come Conners and Watson,

up Miller, up Shiller, up Baker and Dotson!”

We tumbled outside in a swirl of confusion,

so cold that each man could have used a transfusion.

“Get up on that hilltop and silence that Red.

And don't you come back till you’re sure that he's dead.

Then putting his thumb in front of his nose

Sgt. Kelly took leave of us Joes.

But we all heard him say in a voice soft and light,

“Merry Christmas to all -- may you live through the night.”

- Author Unkown

From the Office of SWO Tribal Veteran Service Officer Geri Opsal

NAMES OF VETERANS THAT ARE CURRENTLY SERVING IN THE WAR:

1.      Cole Bernard - Afghanistan

2.      Cheyenne Barse - Afghanistan

3.      Jesse Chanku - Afghanistan

4.      Jenkins Anderson - Afghanistan

5.      Joe Williams - Afghanistan

6.      Jeffrey (Chaske) Heminger -

7.      Lisa Gonzalves - no address yet just deployed 12/15/2010

Lcpl Bernard, Cole                           

2/1 Golf Co. 1st Plt

Unit 40205

FPO AP 96427-0205

Pfc Anderson, Jenkins D 4-4 2 FA 1-4 BC1 FOB Farah APO AE 09382

Pfc Barse, Cheyenne FOB Leatherneck 452 OD CO FPO AA 09372

SPC Chanku, Jessie 452nd OD CO FOB Leatherneck FPO AE 09372

Joe Williams 196th MEB Camp Phoenix APO AE 09320

LCP Heminger, Jeffrey

2/1 Weapons Co.

Engineer Plt, Unit 401210

FPO - AP 96427-0210

Brief editorial comments from the editor’s desk –

On and Off the Lake Traverse Reservation

We begin by wishing all our readers a very merry and safe Christmas holiday and happy new year 2011!

Hopefully families will enjoy this holiday season with loved ones. Please make it a safe and enjoyable time.

*****

The first day of General Council for December 2010 got off to a slow start due to heavy snowfall on Thursday morning.

Oyate noticed the absence of outgoing SWO Tribal Chairman Michael I. Selvage Sr.

Chairman Selvage has been undergoing a round of surgical procedures in Fargo, ND due, in some large degree, by his insistence upon staying at work day after day while in office – despite health conditions which would severely “limit” most others.

We wish him well.

Please see the “Pidamiya” we have included in this week’s Sota on behalf of friends and relatives who wanted their appreciation expressed on their behalf.

We are also extending that Pidamiya to all of the other outgoing Tribal officials, thanking each for their terms of service.

Finally, we look forward to carrying highlights of the upcoming inauguration on these pages in January, introducing the Oyate to their new Executives and Tribal Council. They have lots of work to do and need everyone’s support.

See news coverage and photos of the December General Council in next week’s Sota.

*****

Incoming Itancan Robert Shepherd was not present for General Council as he had traveled to Washington, DC to meet with other tribal leaders and to participate in the White House Tribal  Conference.

DelRay German, in his report to the Oyate on behalf of the Reservation Planning Commission on Thursday, said “He (Robert Shepherd) is in the right place, meeting with President Obama on the needs of the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate . . . on our future.”

Inauguration of the new Executives and Council members will take place on Tuesday, January 6th, 2011 at Dakota Magic Convention Center.

Watch for highlights in your Sota.

*****

Correction!

Last week’s visitors to the Woodrow Wilson Keeble Memorial Health Clinic had nothing whatsoever to do with the on-going investigation into alleged mismanagement of the Aberdeen Area IHS.

Please read our report in this week’s Sota about the Joint Commission survey of Sisseton IHS, which accurately describes what happened at the clinic last week!

*****

Readers should note that in the coming new year we will be sharing some exciting new feature columns.

Included, besides the OEP Tidbits & Facts column already underway thanks to Sheila Greseth, and the Dakotah Language features by Tammy DeCoteau and the treasured elders of the SWO/AAIA Dakotah Language Program, there are two others being prepared.

The first is another Dakotah Language feature.

We asked Vine Marks if he would consider providing a column, basically his unique brand of story-telling, sharing the stories of his youth written in the Dakotah Language.

Watch for Vine’s column, “Ahanna Dakota Woyakapi” beginning next week.

The second column are actually reprints of the old series of “RCN Banknotes & Quotes” written by Harold Torness and originally appearing in the Sisseton Courier. We have permission to republish those columns featuring Oyate men and women.

In both of these columns, we especially hope that younger generations become better acquainted with their own family histories, and with their grandparents and great-grandparents.

And, of course, we hope Vine’s column encourages more of the youth to learn their own Dakotah Language!

*****

Words to consider (or, perhaps not!):

“Remember that as a teenager you are at the last stage of your life when you will be happy to hear that the phone is for you.” Fran Lebowitz (1950 - ), Social Studies (1981)

“I never know how much of what I say is true.” Bette Midler (1945 - )

“If the only tool you have is a hammer, you tend to see every problem as a nail.” Abraham Maslow (1908 - 1970)

“I never forget a face, but in your case I'll be glad to make an exception.” Groucho Marx (1890 - 1977)

“If you are not criticized, you may not be doing much.” Donald H. Rumsfeld (1932 - ), US Secretary of Defense

*****

Copy to be considered for publication – news, advertising, editorial opinion letters, etc. – are to be submitted to: Sota, P.O. Box 5, Wilmot, SD 57279 by 10:00 a.m. on Thursday. FAX and e-mail submissions will be accepted until 12:00 noon on Friday (with the exception of letters to the editor/open letters to the Oyate, or “opinion” letters, which must be received no later than 10:00 a.m. Thursday).

If you are writing an opinion letter, please note that it must be signed and the author’s name will appear in print. Letters must not contain libel and must be brief, ideally 500 words or less. Letters may be edited for content. Omissions will be identified with periods . . . editor’s explanations will be provided in [brackets]. Readers who want access to unedited versions will need to contact the authors.

Earlier receipt of copy is always appreciated. So, if you are aware of a date or message that needs to be publicized or advertised, please let us know about it in advance of the weekly deadline.

The preferred way to submit typed articles and ads, art and photos, is by e-mail.

The editor can be reached at the following e-mail address:

earthskyweb@cs.com

For more information, leave a message on the Sota production office voicemail (605) 938-4452, or send a fax to the 24-hour dedicated line (605) 938-4676.

-- CDF

Obituaries --

Funeral services for Alan Pendleton Sr.

Alan W. Pendleton Sr., Hehaka Ska “White Elk,” age 57, of the Lower Sioux Community journeyed to the Spirit World on Thursday, December 9, 2010 at Season’s Hospice in Redwood Falls, Minnesota.

He was born on May 18, 1953 in Redwood Falls the son of Wallace Pendleton & Iola Goodthunder. He honorably served his Country in The United States Army.

Alan enjoyed going on long rides, drawing, being out in nature, fishing and shooting pool. He was formerly employed as a security guard and also dealt black jack at the casino for many years. Survived by children: Al Pendleton Jr. & Tara Pendleton both of Lower Sioux Community, Shawn Rainey, Michelle Rainey and Rona Rainey all of Minneapolis; grandchildren: Jada Farmer-Pendleton of Lower Sioux, Shawn Wabasha Jr. of Lower Sioux, Darjion Howard of Red Lake, Tessie Rainey of Redwood Falls, LeRas Rainey of Red Lake, Devon Rainey of Red Lake and Tyler Rainey of St. Croix; a brother: Benjamin Pendleton of Lower Sioux; sisters: Warlene Yellow Cloud of Flandreau, Ann Larsen, Brenda Pendleton and Joyce Pendleton all of Lower Sioux; god children: Lucy Kamolz and Josh Larsen; a host of other relatives and friends. Preceded in death by his parents: Wallace & Iola; a granddaughter: Destiny Pendleton; brothers: Mathew Pendleton & Wallace Pendleton Jr., sisters: Gloria Pendleton and Beatrice Rainey and by a nephew: Jesse Sander.

Funeral services for Alan Pendleton Sr. were held on Tuesday afternoon, December 14th at St. Cornelia Episcopal Church in the Lower Sioux Community. Officiating Reverend John Robertson and uncle/aunt Frank & Christine Saunsoci Sr. Interment St. Cornelia Cemetery.

All night wakes were held on Sunday and Monday at the Bishop Whipple Mission in the Lower Sioux Community.

Honorary Casket Bearers were Joan Pendleton, Jody Goodthunder, Marc Pendleton, Fred Pendleton, Linda Wabasha, Toni Winkelman, Dorothy & Brad Neis, Winterhawk Old Rock, Sr., Myron Rainey Jr., Ben Neal, Rick Hemple, Dony Dow, Sage Hisday, Don Prescott, Dawn & Earl Pendleton and Glenford Columbus.

Casket Bearers were Dugan Dow, Doug Pendleton, Sam Rainey, Steven Pendleton, Myron Rainey Sr., Mato Means, Floyd Fischer and Nate Wabasha.

The Chilson Funeral Home in Winsted, Minnesota served the family. Online condolences may be made to www.chilsonfuneralhome.com/.

Funeral services for Conrad Redearth

Conrad Delano Redearth, age 56, of Flandreau, South Dakota journeyed to the Spirit World on Wednesday, December 8, 2010.

He was born on October 25, 1954 in Flandreau, South Dakota the son of Stanley Pitzenberger & Donna Redearth.

On May 27, 1989, Conrad Rederth & Julie Ann Nelson were joined in marriage in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

He was employed as Director of Tribal Maintenance for The Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe. Conrad was also a past Tribal Enrollment Clerk and devoted most of his life to the tribe.

He enjoyed camping, fishing and especially his grandchildren. Conrad helped many people and never asked for anything in return. He was never judgmental.

Conrad had worked in upholstery for more than thirty years. He had owned and operated Ratt’s Upholstery since 1991.

He was a faithful, lifelong member of First Presbyterian Church in Flandreau, South Dakota. Conrad was always willing to help with any holiday events.

Survived by his loving wife:Julie Ann Rederth; a daughter: Sally Rederth of Flandreau; three grandchildren: Trevor, Ayisha and Rowan Rederth; brothers and sisters: Dana (Betty) Red Earth, Jeffery Robin (Billie) Rederth, Lloyd “John” Crow Jr., Glen Rederth, Darwin (Marie) Crow, Becky Red Earth-Villeda (Trinidad) and Melodie Crow all of Flandreau; many nieces, nephews, an aunt: Pat (Leroy) Schmidt, an uncle: Harold (Buzz) Rederth; many other relatives and friends.

Preceded in death by his parents, a sister: Brenda Lee Crow, great uncles, great aunts and grandparents.

Funeral services for Conrad Rederth were held on Sunday, December 12th at First Presbyterian Church in Flandreau, South Dakota. Officiating Pastor Stan Gruneich and Paula Armstrong.

Drum Group was “The Buffalo Lake Singers.”

Interment is at the First Presbyterian Cemetery in Flandreau.

All night wakes were held on Friday and Saturday at Eastman Hall, Flandreau, SD.

Honorary Casket Bearers were Steve Studsdahl and Conrad’s brothers and sisters.

Casket Bearers were Trevor Rederth, Randy Barse, Troy Hammer, Zach Crow, Bill Kitto, Ted Rederth and Jim Weddell.

The Chilson Funeral Home in Winsted, Minnesota served the family. Online condolences may be made to www.chilsonfuneralhome.com/.

Notice of editorial policy

(Editor’s note: The following comes from the editor’s column and the Sota “deadlines and policies” statement published weekly in the Sota.)

Copy to be considered for publication – news, advertising, editorial opinion letters, etc. – are to be submitted to: Sota, P.O. Box 5, Wilmot, SD 57279 by 10:00 a.m. on Thursday. FAX and e-mail submissions will be accepted until 12:00 noon on Friday (with the exception of letters to the editor/Open letter to the Oyate, or “opinion” letters, which must be received no later than 10:00 a.m. Thursday).

If you are writing an opinion letter, please note that it must be signed and the author’s name will appear in print. Letters must not contain libel or offensive language and must be brief, 500 words or less. Letters may be edited for content. Omissions will be identified with periods . . . editor’s explanations will be provided in [brackets]. Readers who want access to unedited versions will need to contact the authors.

Open letter to the Oyate

Dear Angela Wilson:

With respect to all my relatives in Sisseton and Flandreau, and scattered throughout the country, I offer to you, these words attributed to my ancestor . . . "Taoyateduta is not a coward! And he is not a fool! Braves, you are like children; you know not what you are doing. You are like dogs in the Hot Moon when they run mad and snap at their own shadows. We are only little herds of buffaloes left scattered; the great herds that once covered the prairies are no more. See! The white men are like the locusts when they fly so thick that the whole sky is a snowstorm. Count your fingers all day long and white men with guns in their hands will come faster than you can count. Yes, they fight among themselves, away off...but if you strike at them they will all turn on you and devour you and your women and little children just as the locusts in their time fall on the trees and devour all the leaves in one day. You are fools. You cannot see the face of your chief; your eyes are full of smoke. You cannot hear his voice; your ears are full of roaring waters. You are little children - you are fools. You will die like the rabbits when the hungry wolves hunt them in the Hard Moon. Taoyateduta is not a coward....He will die with you."

....Taoyateduta (Little Crow)

I also offer to you another quote that my mother, Arlene Heminger, often said to me, "Living well is the best revenge." I feel that your eyes are also filled with smoke and your ears are full of roaring waters. You invoked my ancestor's words, taken out of context and I feel you are exploiting him for your own purposes whatever they may be. But whatever they are, I don't see how you are helping Indian people, by threatening others with violence. It makes no sense to me, albeit, it may help you sell some books. I wrote to the Winona Post to offer my apologies to the young college students that you verbally attacked for what their ancestors may have done against Indian people. I guess I really just don't understand how an "academic", a person called to teach, can justify attacking students. And since you chose to exploit my ancestor's words to justify your actions, I apologized on your behalf, as one of his descendents.

As one Dakota woman to another, Angela, women give life - they don't take it away. I find your words to be far from representing what "Dakota women" traditional values are. You say that our male political leaders are picking on you because you are a strong Dakota woman. I certainly can identify with those feelings. But I can only go back to my spiritual foundation which is based on the teachings of the White Buffalo Calf Woman to truly understand the power that Dakota women have. I believe that with the power to give life, comes a never-ending commitment to protect children - all children. I think this includes showing kindness to young college students - not using a bully pulpit to kick them in the face.

As a single mother, I raised four children. All four of my children, are like you - they all possess a minimum of a four year college degree and two have advanced degrees. Like you, they obtained their academic credentials in "white man institutions", read "white man books", obtained a "white man's degree". Does that make them white? I think it makes them capable of surviving in the world today on their own terms. Like many single moms, I struggled and worked as hard as I could to raise my kids by myself. Along the way, I made mistakes - mistakes that I will regret until the day I die. But I never quit trying to provide a better life for them and have been rewarded with four well-educated and hardworking young adults. Now, it is their time to raise their children well and to continue on the path that my ancestor Wowinape, Little Crow's son, began in hopes that his children and grandchildren would live and flourish.

I don't think stating the obvious Angela, will contribute to the return of our lands and more importantly the return of strong, healthy vibrant Indian communities - free from alcoholism, child neglect, sexual abuse, incest, drug abuse, corruption and the rest of the legacies left us from colonization that Indian people are now self-perpetuating! My contributions to Indian people may be small - but I feel that if I can contribute four healthy functional Indian adults, then I have done my part for my people.

Vernell Wabasha is strong Dakota woman and elder that I have enormous love and respect for. You have attacked her, her son and the Wabasha name. And yet in speaking with her the other day, she only wished you well and hoped that you would find some peace. I wish the same for you as well, Angela. Again, as my mom always said to me, when I would come home from the cities, full of myself about the latest cause, "living well is the best revenge."

Lee Ann TallBear.

Open letter to the Oyate

Apology to the Voters of Roberts County.

I would like to apologize to the voters of Roberts County for the poor job that I did in the attempt at the vote recount that took place in Roberts County recently.

I was approached by certain voters to help in requesting a recount of certain precincts in the county. Their concern was that the returns from three of Roberts Counties precincts were posted a long time after the other eleven and that those returns did not seem to jibe with the rest of the results. Even though I was recovering from recent surgery I agreed to do it as I am not working. My wife happens to be a notary, which made the collection of petitions a whole lot easier as she could accompany me and notarize the signatures as we went along. We filed the petitions regarding the three late precincts on Friday the Twelfth of November. The law allows us three more days to file additional petitions. We had several other petitions in various states of completion to be filed on Monday the fifteenth. We had intended to finish those petitions on the fourteenth and fifteenth. Those never got finished or filed as my wife had a heart attack on the fourteenth. The idea behind the whole recount was to see why there seemed to be discrepancies between the ones filed on Friday and the rest of the precincts. My inability to get the balance of the petitions filed made the whole recount useless. I was not even able to attend the recount as I should have.

To this date I have not seen any official notification of how the recount turned out but I have been told that the recount was done by the same machine that everybody has perfect reason to suspect may be wrong. If you doubt that statement I suggest that you go to your computer and type vote fraud into your search engine. That search will educate you as to the problem with the voting system that has been forced on us. It has been said that Joseph Stalin stated that he did not care who voted or how often as long as he got to count the vote. The way that I understand the voting system that we use today is that the only one who really knows how the vote actually turns out is the Secretary of State’s computer. When I was told that the recount was not done by hand, which the petitions clearly requested and which is provided for by the Secretary of States own rules, I decided to contact the Secretary. I was told by Nelson himself that the rules were that if the election was counted by machine it had to be recounted by machine and the petitioners had no right to request a hand count. The only way it could be counted by hand is if the recount board requests such a count. The recount board is made up of hand picked individuals appointed by the Chief Judge of the Circuit. It is made up of people picked from the two alleged major parties yet three of the five individuals impacted by this recount are independents. Welcome to the new world of Stalin folks.

One thing became clear as I circulated these petitions for recount which in my mind is the most basic of our rights as citizens. The citizens and/or slaves who are allegedly required to support this monster that we call government are deathly afraid of it and its ability to retaliate against them. That fear is not confined to the federal government but goes all the way down to our county officials. No one knows more about Roberts County’s willingness and ability to retaliate against them than I do and I truly do understand their fear. The problem is that we were born in America and as Americans we have the power, if we exert it, to control this monster. The people of Roberts County must stand up and put a stop to what is going on. One individual made the statement that we do not want to recount the election because the County is broke and it might screw things up. I am totally at a loss as to how a couple of hundred dollars to verify an election can screw anything up more than it is.

Gene Paulson.

Dated this 13th day of December, 2010.

National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month

Every day, 36 people in the United States die, and approximately 700 more are injured, in motor vehicle crashes that involve an alcohol-impaired driver. This December, during National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month (3D Month), consider what you and your community can do to make injuries and deaths from impaired driving less of a threat.

The Problem

*According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), about three in every ten Americans will be involved in an alcohol-related crash at some point in their lives.

*In 2006, 13,470 people died in alcohol-impaired driving crashes, accounting for nearly one-third (32%) of all traffic-related deaths in the United States.

*In one year, over 1.4 million drivers were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or narcotics. This accounts for less than 1% of the 159 million self-reported episodes of alcohol-impaired driving among U.S. adults each year.

*Alcohol-related crashes in the United States cost about $51 billion a year.

Protect Yourself and Your Family and Friends

During the holiday season, and year-round, take steps to make sure that you and everyone you celebrate with avoids driving under the influence of alcohol. Following these tips from NHTSA can help you stay safe:

*Plan ahead. Always designate a non-drinking driver before any holiday party or celebration begins.

*Take the keys. Do not let a friend drive if they are impaired.

*Be a helpful host. If you're hosting a party this holiday season, remind your guests to plan ahead and designate their sober driver, always offer alcohol-free beverages, and make sure all of your guests leave with a sober driver.

Know How Communities Can Help

Proven community and state-level methods for reducing alcohol-impaired driving include:

*Sobriety checkpoints. Studies found that fatal crashes thought to involve alcohol dropped by about 22% following implementation of sobriety checkpoints.

*Minimum legal drinking age (MLDA) laws. Studies found that raising the MLDA to 21 reduced crashes by about 16% among people ages 18.20 years.

*0.08% BAC laws. Fatal alcohol-related crashes declined about 7% after 0.08% BAC laws were passed.

*"Zero tolerance" laws for young drivers. Three studies found that zero tolerance laws resulted in declines in fatal crashes among drivers ages 18.20 years of between 9% and 24%.

Information for this article came from http://www.cdc.gov/motorvehiclesafety/impaired_driving/3d.html and is supported by There's Hope community coalition.

Healthy Kids –

Happiness

By Sonia J. Magat, D.O., Ph.D.

This time of the year, we hear "Merry Christmas," "Happy New Year" instead of the usual greeting of "Have A Nice Day". The problem is that many do not know exactly what "happiness" is. Some think that it is a right. As a right to the" pursuit of happiness" which many consider as essential for general well-being.

What have recent researches found ? Can happiness be measured?

1.   Happiness is subjective and is not the same for everyone.

2.   Happiness leads to more productivity: "better jobs, more money, more satisfaction with marriages and stronger immune systems". In short, "being happy brings you good things" according to conclusion made by Sonja Lyubomirsky, professor of psychology at the University of California, Riverside, after 250 studies conducted over 25 years.

3.   A separate study in 2009 on 60,000 adults published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reported that 50% our happiness is controlled by our genes, 10% is "due to life's circumstances" and the remaining 40% is in our control, depending on our goals and choices. To manipulate the 40% in your favor to increase your sense of happiness, some tips offered by Leslie Pepper in her article "The Science of Happiness," (Real Simple Magazine, Jan, 2011) are:

*Do some "repeat behaviors" that you have enjoyed in the past such as going on trips with friends.

*Focus on whatever you are doing, including your job. If a person enjoys his or her work and feels that it is important, it raises his or her set range of happiness.

*Do something that you find meaningful such as volunteering in the community. "Doing good can make you feel good". This is the same as having a "meaning in life" or believing in something "bigger than oneself"- spirituality or philosophy of life (Dr Ed Diener, Happiness Research).

4.   Exercise is considered an instant happiness booster. According to research by psychologist Tai Ben-Shahar, Just exercising at high intensity for 30 minutes 3 times a week can "provide the same benefits as some of the most powerful psychiatric medications". This is due to the increase in the protein called brain-derived neurotrophic factor, which can function as an antidepressant. Besides, research has also shown that "green exercise" -activity outside in the presence of nature- also boost self esteem and mental health.

5.   According to Dr. Eric Braverman, author of "The Edge Effect," the amount of serotonin, a chemical in the brain that regulates mood, is at a lowest level around 2:00 p.m. Therefore, he suggests eating a snack such as dairy products, which contain Vitamin B (B6, B12 and folic acid), and complex carbohydrates (whole grains).

6.   Studies by psychologist David Myers show that "there is little correlation between cash and contentment". Giving away money can make one happier than spending it on oneself. Another psychologist, Daniel Gilbert, explained this to be due to the phenomenon called "hedonic adaptation". People adapt quickly to whatever makes them happy that after a time, the pleasure or happiness wears off. This explains the fact that despite the increase in wealth in the last 50 years, there was no corresponding increase in people's level of happiness (BBC News).

7.   Friendship has a greater effect on happiness than a typical person's income. The deeper the relationship, the better (Happiness Research).

8.   Psychologist Ed Diener, University of Illinois reported that "happy people live longer than depressed people". The difference between the happiest group and the unhappiest group was 9 years of life. Compared to smoking cigarettes which can decrease a person's life span between 3 to 6 years, 9 years of happiness is a big difference.

Whatever we choose to believe about happiness, we know that although we could not change our genetic makeup, we have about 40% of our happiness under our control.

*For starters, check on everyday behaviors. Perhaps one finds pleasure in getting everyday tasks completed, such as making the bed or doing dishes.

*Try exercising with your family, or do the "green exercise"- go out for walks and take a break from the routines of shopping and partying this season.

*Holiday season is a great time of the year to be social.

"Family" is the most frequent answer by the 400 people who answered the question: "What makes you Happy?" (Real Simple Magazine, Jan, 2011). People who are more satisfied in life have good familial support system. Christmas is the time for families to get together. Treasure all happy memories with friends and family.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all! From the Staff of the Early Childhood Intervention Program.

OEP Environmental Tidbits & Facts

Submitted by Sheila K. Greseth

Brownfields Public Involvement/Grants Analyst

Last week I mentioned that for the next few weeks, our topics would be in regards to indoor air quality, so this week's topic is Radon. Radon is an invisible, odorless gas that is a natural radioactive decay product of uranium, a common element in soil and rocks. Radon gas is considered harmless when dispersed into outdoor air but can be a serious health hazard when trapped in buildings.

Radon gas can enter the home from the soil through dirt crawlspaces, cracks in foundation and walls, floor drains, pipes, and sump pumps. Radon can enter any home, old or new, even those with no visible cracks. Each building is unique, and the ground underneath is also unique. Two houses that are side by side can have two different levels. The only way to know the radon level in your home is to test it. There are two types of test kits you can use to test the radon levels in your dwelling. The two types of test are short-term and long-term. Short-term test remain in the home for two days to ninety days; whereas, a long-term test remain in your home for more than ninety days.

EPA recommends the following testing steps: Step 1 is to take a short term test. If the result is of the test is 4pCi\L. or higher*, take a follow up test to be sure. Step 2 is to follow with either a long-term test or a second short-term test. For a better understanding of your year-round average radon level, take a long-term test. However, if you need result quickly, take a second short term test. The higher you initial short-term test result, the more certain you can be that you should take a short-term rather than a long-term follow up test. Step 3 is to follow up with a long-term test: fix your home if your long-term test result is 4pCi\L or more*. If you follow up with a second short-term test, the higher your short-term results, the more certain you can be that you should fix your home. Consider fixing your home if the average of your first and second test is higher than 4pCi\L or higher*.

There is a risk of living with radon. Radon gas decays into radioactive particles that can get trapped in your lungs when you breathe. As they break down further, these particles release small bursts of energy. This can damage lung tissue and lead to lung cancer over the course of your lifetime. Not everyone exposed to elevated levels of radon will develop lung cancer. The amount of time between exposure and the onset of the disease may be years. However; smoking combined with radon is an especially serious health risk. Stop smoking and lower your radon level to reduce your lung cancer risk. Children have been reported to have greater risk than adults of certain types of cancer from radiation, but there are currently no conclusive data on whether children are at greater risk than adults from radon. I have inserted some tables to show the Radon risk if you smoke, and the Radon Risk if you've never smoked.

RADON MYTHS AND FACTS

Myth: Scientists aren't sure radon really is a problem.

Fact: Although some scientists dispute the precise number of deaths due to radon, all major health organizations (like the Centers of Disease Control, the American Lung Association, and the American Medical Association) agree with estimates that radon causes thousands of preventable lung cancer deaths every year. This is especially true among smokers, since the risk to smokers is much greater than to non-smokers.

Myth: Radon testing is difficult, time-consuming, and expensive.

Fact: Radon testing is easy. You can test your home yourself or hire a qualified radon test company. Either approach takes only a small amount of time and effort.

Myth: Radon test kits are not reliable and are difficult to find.

Fact: Reliable test kits are available through the mail, in hardware stores, and other retail outlets.

Myth: Homes with radon problems can't be fixed3.

Fact: There are simple solutions to radon problems in homes. Hundreds of thousands of homeowners have already fixed radon problems in their homes. Most homes can be fixed for about the same cost as other common home repairs.

Myth: Radon only affects certain kinds of homes.

Fact: House construction can affect radon levels. However, radon can be a problem in homes of all types-old homes, new homes, drafty homes, insulated homes, homes with basements, and homes without basements. Local geology, construction materials, and how the home was built are among the factors that can affect radon levels in homes.

Myth: Radon is only a problem in certain parts of the country.

Fact: High radon levels have been found in every state. Radon problems do vary from area to area, but the only way to know your radon level is to test.

Myth: A neighbor's test result is a good indication of whether your home has a problem.

Fact: It's not. Radon levels vary from home to home. The only way to know if your home has a radon problem is to test it.

Myth: Everyone should test their water for radon.

Fact: While radon gets into some homes through the water, you should first test the air in your home for radon. If you find high levels and your water comes from a well, contact a lab certified to measure radon in water to have your water tested.

Myth: It's difficult to sell homes where radon problems have been discovered.

Fact: Where radon problems have been fixed, home sales have not been blocked or frustrated. The added protection is sometimes a good selling point.

Myth: I've lived in my home for so long that it doesn't make sense to take action now.

Fact: You will reduce your risk of lung cancer when you reduce radon levels, even if you've lived with a radon problem for a long time.

Myth: Short-term test can't be used for making a decision about whether to fix your home.

Fact: A short-term test followed by a second short-term test may be used to decide whether to fix your home. However, the closer the average of your tow short-term is to 4 pCi/L, the less certain you can be about whether your year-round average is above or below that level. Keep in mind that radon levels below 4 pCi/L still pose some risk. Radon levels can be reduced in most homes to 2 pCi/L or below.

If you have any further questions regarding Radon, please feel free to contact Sheila K. Greseth, Brownfields Public Involvement/Grants Analyst, at (605) 698-4998 ext. 105 or 1-800-338-3180 ext. 105. The information provided by the United States Environmental Protection Agency and more information can be found on-line at www.epa.gov/radon.

Tiny holiday tastes will total BIG Calories

By Tracey Lehrke

Roberts Co. Extension Homemaker

The extra calories sometimes sneak up on us over the winter holidays. They don’t always arrive in the form of large portions of calorie-laden food. Rather, they may tiptoe in through many tiny tastes throughout the day. Let’s look at “Holly Day’s” food diary for one day and view how those “tiny tastes” can add up. Calories are approximate and will vary, depending on brand, recipe, exact serving size, etc.

Taste 1: OOPS! I broke that cookie removing it from the baking sheet. I’ll just eat the half that didn’t get all crumbled up. I deserve it for getting up early to bake these cookies before heading to work. Approximate Calories: 30 calories

Taste 2: Someone brought holiday candy to work today! I’ll just have one small piece of the peanut brittle. Approximate Calories: 80 calories

Taste 3: It’s mid-afternoon and I still haven’t eaten lunch. I need to pick up a few things at the grocery store before I swing through a fast food place for a quick bite. The grocery store is offering food samples — I’ll just eat a little cracker with spread to tide me over until I get to lunch. Approximate Calories: 40 calories

Taste 4: The fast food place is giving out 1/4 cup samples of its special flavored holiday coffee. I can’t pass that up! Approximate Calories: 20 calories

Taste 5: Still a couple of hours to go at work before I head to that holiday dinner tonight. I think I’ll check out the break room to see if any more goodies have shown up. ... Some chocolate-covered cherries have appeared! Chocolate is good for you, right? I’ll just have one. Approximately Calories: 60 calories

Taste 6: It’s a great dinner party, but maybe I shouldn’t stand near the snack table before the meal starts. I’m now dipping my third chip. Approximate Calories: 75 calories

Taste 7: Who can pass up old-fashioned eggnog? I’ll just have a half cup. Approximate Calories: 200 calories

Taste 8: There are just a couple of tablespoons of candied sweet potatoes left. Someone should enjoy them — it might as well be me! Approximate Calories: 60 calories

Taste 9: The nice thing about helping dish up dessert is you can take a little “preview” taste — using a separate tasting spoon, of course! One heaping tablespoon of candy cane ice cream coming right up! Approximate Calories: 70 calories

TOTAL TASTING CALORIES FOR THE DAY for “Holly Day” is 635.

Wow, that really added up for her! I know my calories add up a lot faster when baking cookies. It’s is not the broken cookie that I like but that cookie dough! I also need to count my chips right away because I am pretty sure if I am dipping chips in my favorite dip, I have never even considered stopping after the third chip!

If comparable types of “tiny tastes” are continued throughout the holidays, it might be possible to gain as much as a pound a week! On average, an additional 3,500 calories above your body's needs can lead to a weight gain of a pound. Maybe that tiny taste isn’t so small after all ....

Have a very Merry Christmas!

Source: Alice Henneman, MS, RD, UNL Lancaster County Extension Educator.

“On Call” considers Medicare and Medicaid on the Dec. 23 program

Brookings, SD – Much ink and emotion has enveloped America when it comes to health care and programs such as Medicare and Medicaid.

During the Dec. 23 broadcast of the “On Call” program, medical editor Dr. Richard Holm and program producer and host Tami Watson will join their guest to dispense with the emotion and get to the facts on these programs, how they fit into changes to American health care, and how they may change in the future.

Dr. George Waldmann is their guest, and he has more than 40 years of experience as a family doctor in rural areas and as a contractor/doctor who worked in the Medicare system. Watson said his expertise, along with the many years of seeing the system on the inside, should help viewers get honest answers to their questions.

“The reform of health care has put more focus on existing programs and how they may work in the future,” Watson said. “Both Dr. Holm and Dr. Waldmann know these topics well, and should serve to address issues that our viewers may have.”

“On Call” airs Thursdays on South Dakota Public Broadcasting-Television at 7 p.m. Central, 6 p.m. Mountain. The South Dakota Cooperative Extension Service produces “On Call,” a weekly program about health. The South Dakota State Medical Association and the South Dakota Department of Health both endorse “On Call” and its programming. “On Call” is the only show to receive these endorsements.

The program is made possible by major underwriter support from Avera Health and the South Dakota Foundation for Medical Care. Additional sponsors include Dakotacare, Brookings Health System, the South Dakota American College of Physicians, Swiftel Communications, and the Friends of SDPB. The Brookings Health System, Fishback Financial Corporation, and the Larson Foundation provide closed captioning for “On Call.”

“On Call” returns next week on Dec. 30 with a program that looks at our medical heritage.

For more information about the program, visit the “On Call” website at this link: http://oncall.sdstate.org/.

Ripple Effect –

2011 Annual Land & Water Summit Conference

The 28th Annual Red River Basin Land & Water International Summit Conference will be held on January 18-20, 2011, at the Ramada Plaza & Suites in Fargo, ND. The title is “Reflections on the Red.”

Timing is right for a significant Red River Basin-wide gathering around the issue of flooding. Flood events of the last dozen years in the basin have caused millions of dollars in damage and required heroic flood fights to prevent even more catastrophic damage.

Such real and potential problems demand comprehensive, basin-wide planning. The 2011 conference will bring together basin stakeholders, community leaders and experts in the water management field to facilitate and integrate that planning.

“Designing Resilient Communities” is the keynote presentation by Thomas Fisher, Dean of the College of Design at the University of Minnesota. The presentation will focus on how we can protect ourselves and our communities from disruptive changes and what can we learn from natural ecosystems to increase our resiliency in the face of unexpected shocks. Fisher will look at why the number of disastrous events has increased in recent decades and what we can do to reduce their impacts, while strengthening our communities in the process.

Ed Thomas will lead a pre-conference workshop on Tuesday, January 18, beginning at 8:00 a.m. The workshop is titled, “Negotiating the Future of the Red River Basin: Mitigation & Sustainability or Litigation & Misery.” Thomas is a floodplain manager, disaster response and recovery specialist, and attorney. He retired from the Department of Homeland Security – Federal Emergency Management Agency after nearly 35 years of public service and is employed by Michael Baker, Jr., Inc.

Hazard mitigation and flood risk management is all too often thought of as a zero sum situation: one side wins and one side loses. In reality, we can demonstrate that often win–win solutions based on basic economic principles can be developed for the Red River Basin, so that communities, developers and reasonable natural hazard risk mitigation all win. Such solutions have the advantage of being based on sound economics, law, ethics, and environmental sustainability. Such solutions are being implemented all over our nation.

Understanding the legal framework under which hazard mitigation and negotiations occur can significantly increase the likelihood of a successful effort to reduce the devastating impacts from floods on the Red.

Other presentations will include high water levels on Minnesota lakes, Devils Lake, and Lake Winnipeg; mainstem and tributary 20% flow reduction recommendations; the Agricultural Water Enhancement Program; Lake Winnipeg Web Portal; and tile drainage.

You and your neighbors are invited to attend the conference. If you can’t come yourself, do check with your local officials to make sure your community or area is represented. You can check out the entire program or register for the conference online at www.redriverbasincommission.org or call the Red River Basin office at 218-291-0422 (US) or 204-982-7250 (Canada).

Conference registration of $190 (before January 8, 2010) covers the workshop, all plenary and special sessions, exhibits, breakfasts, reception, lunches, banquet and refreshment breaks ($210 after January 8). If you are only attending the Tuesday morning workshop, the fee is $25.

Until the next Ripple Effect, The Red River Basin Commission (RRBC).

The RRBC is a grassroots organization that is a chartered not-for-profit corporation under the provisions of Manitoba, North Dakota, Minnesota, and South Dakota law. Our offices in Moorhead, MN and Winnipeg, MB can be reached at 218-291-0422 and 204-982-7254, or you can check out our website at www.redriverbasincommission.org.

SWO Health and Wellness Column –

Zani Unpi

TOY STORY: What to buy, what to leave on the shelf!

Submitted by Peggy Johnson, RN, PHN

Woodrow Wilson Keeble Memorial Health Care Center

If you've ever watched a baby make a grab for a small toy, you know why many manufacturers warn of a choking hazard. Choosing age-appropriate gifts for children is as important for their enjoyment as it is for their safety. When buying gifts for children, consider these tips:

1. Read the label. Age recommendations take into account both safety and a child's ability to understand and play with a toy.

2. Think sturdy. Look for unbreakable plastic toys and stuffed toys that are sewn tight and machine washable.

3. Choose nontoxic materials. Some labels specify "nontoxic". Crayons and paints may be designated "ASTM D4236", which means that they've been reviewed by a toxicologist. Newer toys should comply with limits on lead in paints.

4. Avoid known hazards. Steer clear of toys that shoot into the air, uninflated balloons and small magnets for children under 6 years of age, and electric toys for children under 10 years old.

The best toys will appeal to a child's senses, curiosity, interests and creativity.

SAFE BETS FROM THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF PEDIATRICS:

Infants: rattles, soft squeeze and squeak toys, board books, large blocks, stacking toys, floating bath toys.

Toddlers: sturdy dolls and stuffed animals, board books, building blocks, drums and other instruments, ride-on toys, matching games.

Preschoolers: books, simple board games, crayons, paints, chalk and clay, ride-on toys, dress-up clothes, puzzles with large pieces.

 Once the gifts are open:

*Immediately discard plastic wrappings on toys before they become dangerous play things.

*Keep toys appropriate for older children away from younger siblings or neighbors.

*Pay attention to instructions and warnings on battery chargers. Some chargers lack any device to prevent overcharging.

HAVE A SAFE AND HAPPY CHRISTMAS! ZANI UNPI!

Resources: Mayo Clinic, American Academy of Pediatrics, and U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Zani unpi!

How NESDCAP, NESDEC are serving people’s needs

Every three years, NESDCAP and NESDEC complete a formal Needs Assessment within their service area of 25 counties in northeast South Dakota. Surveys are sent to individuals, businesses and partnering organizations across northeast South Dakota to explore what residents in our local communities need, or even want, to help improve their quality of life. Through the survey process we determine facts such as, (1) many people around the area have leaky roofs; (2) many homeowners need home repair; or (3) residents are having financial issues and want financial education. These facts help us create a vision for the programs and services provided by NESDCAP and NESDEC. In order to serve people's needs we must know what they desire to change.

The survey also gives us information about the communities across our service area. The majority of people agree that the surrounding communities have many activities to keep us entertained, a great deal of community pride, and that most of the time the businesses in their communities meet their needs. But some communities still need a little assistance from established organizations such as NESDCAP and NESDEC with the power to truly help and change lives.

Other factors gleaned from the survey to help us improve our programs and services are as follows:

*58% of the respondents have an annual income between $0-$24,999

*77% of the respondents had received previous services from NESDCAP or NESDEC

*86% of respondents owned their home

*42% of the respondents said they had an urgent or strong need for home repair

*44% requested financial education and job skills training

*43% requested assistance with starting a business

*86% of the individuals believe their community is safe

*89% say their community is friendly place to live

*83% agree their community has pride

*59% say businesses in their community meet their basic needs

*77% say there are sufficient community activities

*84% believe that NESDCAP/NESDEC programs and services definitely improve the lives of individuals, families, and communities in northeast South Dakota

*77% say NESDCAP/NESDEC improved their day-to-day living because of the services they received.

Our work is not complete once the statistics have been tallied, it has only really begun. NESDCAP and NESDEC believe that the needs assessments process is critical to developing relevant and effective programs and services that can improve our lives in South Dakota. Our next step is to take a serious look at the data that was collected from our respondents and take action to create strong customer service, maintain quality programs, and improve our services in order to make a greater impact in the lives of the residents we assist.

If you have questions or comments about NESDCAP and NESDEC's programs or services, please contact us through our website at www.nesdcap.org or call 1-888-202-4855. NESDCAP/NESDEC are Equal Opportunity Organizations.

Molding our rural communities into a place you can call home

The Northeast South Dakota Community Action Program (NESDCAP) and Northeast South Dakota Economic Corporation (NESDEC) have joined forces with NeighborWorks America to develop the Community Building and Organizing program. The focus of this program is to build healthy communities by developing resident leadership, strengthening resident-led associations, and sponsoring community building activities that enhance relationships among neighbors and spur organizing efforts. This is primarily done through a membership program that provides grants, technical assistance, peer sharing opportunities and other resources to approximately 80 NeighborWorks organizations, including NESDCAP/NESDEC.

NESDCAP/NESDEC recently provided a survey entitled "Getting to Know YOUR Community" to five rural areas of northeast South Dakota including; Milbank, Webster, Redfield, Aberdeen, and Sisseton. This survey was a part of NESDCAP's Prospects & Possibilities Sessions held in these communities to discuss key issues facing our state and region. The survey complimented our discussions at the community meetings and centered on the history between the community and its residents asking questions based on the quality of life in the community such as: Are individuals satisfied with their community? Are they able to complete their activities of daily living within their community? and Would they recommend their community to others looking for a place to settle? The results gathered from this survey reassured NESDCAP/NESDEC that South Dakota truly is a great place to call home!

The survey results presented a positive and hopeful picture for small towns in rural South Dakota. Most survey respondents have developed roots in their community, intending to remain in the community and be involved in making the place they call home a better place to live. The majority of the people surveyed responded that they moved to the community to live near family and friends and 68.14% have lived in the community for 11-30 years.

*65% say they definitely would recommend their community to someone else as a good place to live.

*79% of individuals already own a home in their community.

     o28% of those homeowners have owned their home for more than 30 years.

*63% of renters would consider buying a home in the community.

o41% of these renters say their financial status is the reason why they aren't considering buying a home right now.

*62% agree they are comfortable with the safety in their community.

*26% say compared to three years ago their community has improved some.

*38% have hope that the streets, sidewalks, public spaces, parks and playgrounds will continue to improve.

*The two highest demands for NESDCAP/NESDEC services include housing loans (44.8%) and business loans (41.1%).

*When asked how often do you do your main shopping, receive medical care or purchase entertainment in your community we received the following results:

     o75% often do their main food shopping in the community.

     o49% sometimes do other kinds of shopping.

     o88% often purchase gasoline.

     o45% often eat out.

     o62% often receive medical or health care.

     o56% often receive dental care.

     o45% sometimes attend entertainment or arts & cultural events.

Among the people we surveyed the majority agree that their community is a great place to live and that they feel safe there. Most would recommend their community to others looking for a place to call home and have the hope that their community will continue to grow and improve. With the help of organizations like NeighborWorks America and NESDCAP/NESDEC, communities will continue to grow in population and be molded into a place you will be proud to call your home, if you're not completely satisfied already!

If you would like more information about NESDCAP and NESDEC programs and services, please call us at 1-888-202-4855. NESDCAP/NESDEC are Equal Opportunity Organizations.

Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) program

Is your roof leaking or in need of repair? Do your windows leak cold air? Is your electrical in need of an upgrade? Is your plumbing giving you problems? If your home is in need of repair you may qualify for the FHLB program through the Northeast South Dakota Community Action Program (NESDCAP).

The funds will be used to provide home repairs such as new shingles, wiring, plumbing, among other repairs to eligible owner-occupied homes in the following counties; Beadle, Brookings, Brown, Buffalo, Campbell, Clark, Codington, Day, Deuel, Edmunds, Faulk, Grant, Hamlin, Hand, Hughes, Hyde, Jerauld, Kingsbury, Lake, Marshall, McPherson, Marshall, Miner, Moody, Potter, Roberts, Sanborn, Spink, Stanley, Sully and Walworth. Generally, one major repair per home is considered under this program. See below for the income guidelines:

County                                    1-2 Persons                  3+ Persons

Brookings                   $32,700                         $37,605

Brown                         $29,950                         $34,440

Codington                   $30,600                         $35,190

Hughes                        $34,900 `                      $40,135

Stanley                                    $32,050                         $36,855

Other Counties                       $29,450                         $33,865

For additional information contact: Northeast South Dakota Community Action Program (NESDCAP), Jared Groos, 104 Ash St. East, Sisseton SD 57262; 1-888-202-4855 toll free. NESDCAP is an Equal Housing Opportunity organization. Federal Home Loan Bank Program (FHLB).

FTA awards Indian tribes $15.1 million for Public Transportation improvements

Washington, DC – Dec. 16, 2010 – American Indian and Alaska Native tribal governments across the United States will soon be making public transportation improvements on or near reservations, thanks to a $15.1 million investment of federal funds announced today by the Federal Transit Administration.

“DOT is absolutely committed to improving tribal transportation resources,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. “Building and maintaining good transportation infrastructure on and near tribal lands, and in Alaska Native villages, goes hand-in-hand with meeting the needs of the local workforce while protecting environmentally sensitive lands and important cultural legacies.”

Tribal Transit funds will provide grants to tribes for 59 separate projects, including transit equipment purchases and facility construction and improvements. Participants under this program include federally-recognized tribes and Alaska Native villages.

“More transportation options means greater mobility,” said FTA Administrator Peter Rogoff. “Planning and expanding public transportation on or near Indian reservations will give those who live on tribal lands – sometimes in very remote areas – better access to jobs, health care, and other vital services.”

Funds made available on a competitive basis to tribes through the Tribal Transit program are in addition to formula funds that tribes receive from states through FTA’s program for assistance to rural areas. Tribal Transit funds can be used to support planning, capital, and operating assistance for tribal public transit services.

A complete list of projects receiving assistance can be found at http://www.fta.dot.gov/news/news_events_12218.html.

Opposition blocks funding for worthy South Dakota projects

Washington, DC – December 17, 2010 – Last night, opposition in the Senate prevented the Omnibus spending bill from moving forward. The bill would have funded the federal government through Fiscal Year 2011 and provided resources for many South Dakota priorities like Lewis and Clark, Mni Wiconi and South Dakota universities.

I’m disappointed that funding for Lewis and Clark, Mni Wiconi, Ellsworth Air Force Base and the groundbreaking research being done at South Dakota universities is now in question after this bill was blocked from moving forward. When used responsibly, earmarks are not a symbol for over-spending or government waste, but an investment in our local communities.

I have been elected by the people of South Dakota to do a job, and that includes providing for worthy projects in my state. The failure to pass this bill means that the decisions on funding matters for South Dakota projects next year now rests not with elected members of Congress, but with nameless, faceless bureaucrats in Washington.

Although I was able to secure the following funds for South Dakota projects in the bill, it was blocked from moving forward:

Agriculture

$4,500,000 – North Central Agricultural Research Laboratory (NCARL)

$519,000 – South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks (SDGF&P) - Wildlife Services South Dakota

$700,000 – South Dakota State University (SDSU) - Center for Multi-Functional Prairie Agriculture

$600,000 – SDSU - Sustainable Wheat Production and Food Security

$1,250,000 – SDSU and NCARL - Biomass Crop Production

$265,000 – USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife Services - Blackbird Management, SD and ND

Commerce, Justice and Science

$1,000,000 – Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe - Justice System

$200,000 – Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe - Emergency Dispatching System

$150,000 – Crow Creek Sioux Tribe - Boys and Girls Club of Three Districts

$100,000 – Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe - Boys and Girls Club of Moody County

$1,000,000 – Oglala Sioux Tribe - Department of Public Safety

$800,000 – Oglala Sioux Tribe - 9-1-1 Upgrades

$1,000,000 – Rosebud Sioux Tribe - Justice System

$200,000 – Rosebud Sioux Tribe - Emergency Response and 9-1-1 Dispatch Project

Defense

$2,400,000 – Black Hills Nanosystems Corporation - MEMS Microdetonator Packaging Technology for Advanced DOD Weapons

$1,600,000 – Dakota Power, LLC - Next Generation Lightweight Drive System for Army Weapons Systems

$4,000,000 – General Atomics - Military Waste-to-Energy Project using the Hydro-Thermal Energy Conversion (Hy-TEC) Process

$1,200,000 – H.F. Webster Inc. - Implementation of Aging and Battle Damaged Weapon Systems Repair

$2,000,000 – Loyds Systems - Advanced Robot and Sensor Technology for Surveillance and Energy Efficiency Applications

$4,000,000 – South Dakota School of Mines and Technology (SDSMT) - Emerging Technologies in Advanced Materials

$3,600,000 – SDSMT - Advanced Materials and Manufacturing Solution to Complex Problems

$800,000 – SDSMT - Energy Efficiency, Recovery, and Generation

$1,600,000 – SDSMT - Life Extension of Navy Weapon System Structures through AMP Technologies

$1,600,000 – SDSU - Renewable Jet Fuel from Lignocellulosic Feedstocks

$1,600,000 – SDSU - Alternative Power Technology (APT) for Missile Defense,

$2,400,000 – SDSU - Accelerated Materials Development for Army Cannon Systems

$766,000 – University of South Dakota (USD) - Tissue Regeneration Following Injury

Energy and Water Development

$2,868,000 – Big Sioux River Flood Control

$650,000 – Black Hills State University - Boiler Replacement Project

$7,000,000 – Lewis and Clark Regional Water System

$287,000 – Missouri River Restoration

$28,126,000 – Mni Wiconi Rural Water System

$2,000,000 – SDSU - Sun Grant Initiative

$350,000 – USD - Energy Science

Financial Services and General Government Appropriations

$250,000 – South Dakota Rural Enterprise - Dakota Rising Rural Entrepreneur Fellowship Program

Interior, Environment and Related Agencies

$765,000 – Black Hills National Forest - Lady C Ranch/Wildcat Canyon Acquisition

$500,000 – Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe - Prairie Management Program

$750,000 – City of Huron - Drinking Water and Infrastructure Improvements

$750,000 – City of Rapid City – Source Water Protection

$3,000,000 – Dakota Tallgrass Prairie Project

$2,600,000 – SDGF&P - Blood Run Site

$4,557,000 – Wind Cave National Park – Land Acquisition

Labor-HHS-Education

$450,000 – Aberdeen Area Tribal Chairmen’s Health Board - Northern Plains Healthy Start Program

$450,000 – Black Hills State University - University Center

$200,000 – City/County Alcohol and Drug Programs - Women’s Half Way House

$350,000 – Dakota Wesleyan University - Building Future Healthcare Specialists for Rural America

$200,000 – Lake Area Technical Institute - Emergency Services Education Center

$100,000 – Lake Area Technical Institute - Virtual Medical Laboratory Equipment

$200,000 – Lower Brule Sioux Tribe - Kidz Klub

$100,000 – Native Women’s Health Care Center, Rapid City

$250,000 – Oglala Sioux Tribe – Ambulance Building

$50,000 – Rosebud Sioux Tribe - Elderly Assistance Program

$150,000 – Rosebud Sioux Tribe - Alcohol and Drug Treatment Program

$450,000 – Rosebud Sioux Tribe - Comprehensive Health Care Facility

$100,000 – SDSM&T - Fossil Preservation

$200,000 – SDSU - Health Sciences Initiative

$400,000 – USD - FIDES Program

$100,000 – Yankton Sioux Tribe - Dialysis Unit

Military Construction, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies

$12.4 million – Ellsworth Air Force Base - Maintenance Training Facility

$12.8 million – South Dakota National Guard - Aircraft Maintenance Facility at Joe Foss Field

$151,000 – South Dakota Army National Guard - Firing Range and Supporting Facilities

$25 million – Watertown Army National Guard - Readiness Center

Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies

$200,000 – Boys and Girls Club of Wagner

$1,000,000 – Brookings Area Transit Authority - Bus Storage and Transit Operation Facility

$400,000 – City of Custer - Downtown Streetscape Project

$300,000 – City of Yankton - Downtown Streetscape Project

$300,000 – Crow Creek Sioux Tribe - Mel and Elnita Rank Community Facility

$400,000 – Lower Brule Sioux Tribe - Domestic Violence Shelter

$550,000 – Northern Hills Alliance for Children - Childcare Center Building Modifications

$150,000 – Rosebud Sioux Tribe - Ghost Hawk Road (BIA Route 7 to SD Highway 18)

$150,000 – Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate - Restoration of Powwow Grounds

$750,000 – South Dakota State Department of Transportation (SDSDT) – 1-29/1-229 Bridges and Interstate Mainline Reconstruction from Near Tea Exit to North of 69th Street and East to Louise Avenue

$1,200,000 – SDSDT - South Dakota Highway 100 right-of-way and construction

$750,000 – Standing Rock Sioux Tribe - Community Streets Project - Old Bear Soldier

South Dakota-related projects I secured in the Omnibus:

$1,600,000 – Boeing, B-1 AESA Radar Operations Utility Evaluation

Other National Projects included in the Omnibus of importance to South Dakota:

$200,000,000 – B-1B Modification of Inservice Aircraft

Applauds defeat of deeply flawed Omnibus Spending Bill

Washington, DC – December 17, 2010 – Senator John Thune issued the following statement regarding the Senate Majority Leader's decision last night to abandon the Democrats' proposed $1.2 trillion omnibus spending bill:

"The American people have spoken and they reject Washington spending sprees and this type of closed-door deal making in Congress," said Thune. "I'm pleased that Republicans stood together to stop this $1.2 trillion, 2,000-page spending bill from passing. Instead of continuing the old Washington way of doing business, we must listen to the concerns expressed by voters this past Election Day."

Thune is an original sponsor of a short-term Continuing Resolution (CR) free of earmarks that will provide funding to keep government operations at 2010 funding levels until February 18, 2011. Currently, the federal government is funded under a CR that expires at midnight on Saturday, December 18, 2010.

RC Family of Companies change the way it assesses FUSC

Effective January 1, 2011, RC Family of Companies (Roberts County Telephone Cooperative Association and RC Communications), New Effington, SD, changed the way it assesses its Federal Universal Service Charge (FUSC). RC Family of Companies is making this change because of a recent Federal Communications Commission (FCC) order.

For the first quarter of 2011, the Federal Universal Service Charge (FUSC) contribution factor will increase from 12.9% to 15.5%. This will result in an increase in the charge that appears on your monthly telephone bill. The factor is applied to services designated as interstate by the FCC and changes from time-to-time based on the needs of the federal universal fund.

The federal universal service fund was established and is maintained to ensure that all consumers, regardless of location, have access to essentially the same telecommunications services at affordable prices. The fund also provides schools, libraries, low-income consumers and rural health care providers with assistance in obtaining telecommunications services.

Please call RC Family of Companies at 888-668-0877 with any questions you may have on these changes.

Youth, school activities highlighted –

Education watch on the Lake Traverse Reservation

More than 2,550 students set to claim their FAU diplomas

SWC Director of Nursing Barb Dahlen among graduates

By Sonja Isger

Palm Beach Post Staff Writer

Thursday, Dec. 9, 2010 – More than 2,550 Florida Atlantic University students are set to graduate today and tomorrow as "Fall Commencement" gets underway.

The ceremonies are scheduled for 9 a.m., 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. today and 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. Friday at the Boca Raton campus on Glades Road.

They will join more than 118,000 alumni who have graduated from FAU since President Lyndon Baines Johnson declared the school officially open in 1964, FAU officials report.

The university opened with fewer than 1,000 students, no dormitories and no dining halls, according to the FAU official history.

The university now enrolls about 28,000 students from across the country and more than 180 countries. This week's graduates include 90 degree recipients over age 50. The oldest graduate is 72 years old, the youngest is 19.

The university's commencement announcement notes that "Fall commencement also highlights the accomplishments of outstanding graduates, including:

Barbara Dahlen, 58, is only the 15th American Indian ever to earn a doctoral degree in nursing. A Turtle Mountain Chippewa, Dahlen came to FAU from the University of North Dakota where she taught nursing and recruited American Indians to nursing. She is now the director of nursing for the Sisseton Wahpeton College. Dahlen will walk for the Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing in the December 9 ceremony at 5 p.m.

Georgia Paul, 20, is the youngest person ever to graduate from the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science's B.S./M.S. Fast Track Program in Biology, simultaneously receiving both her bachelor's and master's degrees while completing the five-year program in four years. Having overcome numerous traumatic experiences in her native country of Haiti, Paul plans to attend medical school. She will walk in the 1 p.m. commencement ceremony on December 10.

Awarded Child Care Credential

Theresa V. White of Sisseton, SD has been awarded a Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential in recognition of outstanding work with young children. The credential was awarded by the Council for Professional Recognition in Washington, DC, which represents the early childhood education profession.

CDA is the only major national effort to improve early childhood education and care by evaluation and recognition the skills of individuals providing care. The first Credential was awarded over 30 years ago, and now 49 states plus the district of Columbia include CDA in their childcare licensing regulations.

Parents who use early education and care are especially concerned today about their children’s welfare. With this in mind, as part of the CDA assessment process, every candidate for the CDA Credential is observed working with young children or families by an early childhood professional. In addition, the candidate must demonstrate the ability to work with families to develop children’s physical and intellectual capabilities in a safe and healthy learning environment.

The CDA Credential is having a positive effect on the quality of early childhood education and care. Its impact is evident in center-based and home visitor programs as well as family child care, the most common form of care for children under five years old.

Child care staff and parents wanting information on CDA should write to the Council for Professional Recognition at 2460 16th St. NW, Washington, DC 20009-3547, or call the Council at (202) 265-9090 or (800) 424-4310.

ESDS FACE parent essays winners announced

Each year the Bureau of Indian Education sponsors a FACE national essay contest. FACE adults are asked to write about “What FACE Means to Me.”

The Enemy Swim Day School FACE program had 15 adults submit essays this year, which is a record number from Enemy Swim. These essays were also judged locally and the winners were announced at the annual Holiday Celebration on December 3rd. The top five winners each received a certificate and cash gift.

The winners were: 1st place – Josh Redday; 2nd place – Cassie Campbell; 3rd place – Vernadine Blackthunder; 4th place – Marlys Robertson; and 5th place – Tricia Amos. The essays were judged by staff volunteers from Enemy Swim Day School. This year the judges were Ardis Iron Cloud, Mary AnnAker, Karen Stugelmeyer, Stephanie Baxter, Shawn Lesnar, Amanda Archer, and Tracie Butler.

All of the essay writers are still in the running for the national contest.

The national winners will be announced later in January.

Results of ESDS Chip Shoppe Fundraiser

The results are in from Enemy Swim Day School’s Community Education Chip Shoppe fundraiser. Students and families did a fantastic job of getting out in the community to promote this activity by selling, buying and delivering the products sold.

Fundraisers don’t just happen they need support from the community. We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who helped make this event a success. No matter whether you sold, bought, or delivered Chip Shoppe merchandise, thank you for generously supporting our ESDS Afterschool Program.

These are the results by classes for this fund raiser:

Kindergarten total sales $512.50. Sales persons: Vincent Davies, Ethan Dolney, Trinity Tamayp.

1st grade total sales $288.00. Sales person: Jasiah RedBear.

2nd grade total sales $496.00. Sales persons: Wakanyan Bertsch, Tawnie Davies, Serene Bassette.

3rd grade total sales $47.00. Sales person: Mrs. Sundeen.

4th grade total sales $557.50. Sales persons: Itancan Christenson, Elijah Eastman, Angelia White.

5th grade total sales $805.50. Sales persons: Darian Gill, Chaske Quinn, Jamal Pomani.

6th grade total sales $1427.00. Sales persons: Jaisey Shepherd, Taylor Pratt, Jelaina LaBatte, Gabrielle Bird, Gabrielle Renville, Megan Iyarpeya, Mari Shepherd.

7th grade total sales $913.00. Sales persons: Anna Pomani, Dane Gill, Cheri Owens, Micah Eastman, Persephone Eastman, Rena Hopkins, Marcus Gill.

8th grade total sales $677.50. Sales persons: Oakley Amos, Mickala Barnette, Demi DuMarce, Tyrell Eastman, Bobbi Iyarpeya.

The class with the highest total sales was the 6th grade with $1,427.00. They will be enjoying a pizza party soon and their teacher has won $25.00. Congratulations 6th grade and congratulations to all of the sales people!

Garden Corner

Submitted by Eric Hanssen

Browns Valley, Minnesota

Care Of Poinsettias Part 1 Of 2:

Location and Temperature

The poinsettia thrives on bright, sunny natural daylight; at least six hours daily is recommended. Placement near a sunny window is ideal. To prolong the bright red of the bracts, temperatures ideally should not exceed 70° F during the day, or fall below 65° F at night. Be sure to avoid placing the plants near drafts, fluctuating air currents, excess heat and dry air from appliances, fireplaces or ventilating ducts. Chilling injury will occur if poinsettias are exposed to temperatures below 50° F. Frost will kill them.

Water and Fertilizer

Poinsettias do best with a moist soil condition, not too wet and not too dry. Water the poinsettia thoroughly when the soil surface feels dry to a light touch. The best indication of a thorough watering is when the water begins to seep through the drain holes at the bottom of the inner pot. Water just enough so the water barely begins to seep through these holes. Be sure to discard any excess water, as poinsettias left sitting in water may suffer from permanent root-rot damage.

It is not necessary to fertilize your poinsettias when they are in bloom during the holiday season. However, after 6-8 weeks, a balanced, all-purpose household plant fertilizer mixed ½-strength will help maintain the rich, green foliage color and promote new growth. Repeat once more in another 6-8 weeks.

After the Holidays

At the end of April or early May, when the bracts age and begin to turn a muddy green, cut the plant back to about 8 inches. The amount you cut from the top will depend on the shape of the plant. Some plants will need to have more cut than others to achieve a full, rounded canopy. After you cut the plant back, it will probably look rather stark, with bare branches and bluntly cut woody stems. This is not the plant's most attractive state, but by the end of May you will see vigorous new growth as the plant develops more lush green foliage. Keep the plants near a sunny window.

You may place your plants outdoors where they can bask in the warmth of summer when the outside night temperatures are warmer. Continue to water the plants regularly during the growing period. Fertilize every 3 to 4 weeks throughout the spring, summer and fall months with a well-balanced fertilizer mixed ½-strength.

Around June 15th you may wish to transplant your poinsettias into larger pots, about 2" to 4" bigger than the original inner pot. Use a soil mix that incorporates a considerable amount of organic matter such as peat moss. You may also try planting them into a well-prepared garden bed rich in organic matter and with good drainage. Your poinsettias will do best in a protected area, preferably along a south garden wall. Immediately after transplanting, be sure to water thoroughly. More next week on Poinsettias.

Information in this article comes from University of Minnesota Extension, from website http://www.extension.umn.edu/yardandgarden/ygbriefs/h102poinsettia.html.

Make Sure You Are Cyber Secure

By Jason Alderman

When Ben Franklin famously wrote, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure," I'm pretty sure he wasn't warning his readers about the perils of cyber crime. But in today's world of phishing, shoulder-surfing and computer spyware, his advice hits home.

It's a sad reality that some people will rip you off if you give them an opportunity. Just as you take safety precautions when handling cash, so should you be vigilant when using credit or debit payment cards for purchases, whether the transaction is in person on online.

Here are tips for protecting your account information and avoiding payment card scams:

Prevent online intrusions. Use updated anti-virus and anti-spyware software, only download information from trusted sites and don't click pop-up windows or suspicious links in emails. These can all be tricks to install spyware, which can record your keystrokes to obtain account or other confidential information.

Use secure websites. When purchasing items online, look for safety symbols such as the padlock icon in the browser's status bar, an "s" after "http" in the URL, or the words "Secure Sockets Layer" (SSL). These are signs that the merchant is using a secure page for transmitting personal information.

Protect personal information. Never provide sensitive information, such as credit card or bank account numbers, passwords, Social Security number, driver's license, or address/phone by mail, phone or email unless you initiated the communication. Report requests for personal information to your card issuer by calling the number on the back of your card.

Be wary of "free trial" offers. Take time to read and understand all terms and conditions. Pay particular attention to any pre-checked boxes in online offers before submitting an order. Failing to un-check the boxes may bind you to terms and conditions you don't want.

Track account activity. Regularly review credit card and bank statements and report any suspicious or unauthorized charges to the financial institution or card issuer. Ask whether your credit or debit card offers "zero liability," which means you won't be responsible for unauthorized or fraudulent purchases.

Transaction alerts. Sign up for email or text message transaction alerts from your bank to keep track of purchases. These alerts are triggered when the transaction meets certain criteria you select; for example, purchases over a certain dollar amount. In addition, banks generally will contact you if they spot unusual activity, such as multiple large purchases made within a short time frame or from different geographic areas.

A few other quick tips:

* Create strong, random passwords and change them regularly.

* Shield keypads from the eyes of "shoulder surfers" at stores and ATMs.

* Review receipts for accuracy before signing and retain them for your records.

There are many great resources where you can learn how to protect your personal and account information and prevent fraud, including:

* The National Cyber Security Alliance's www.StaySafeOnline.org is filled with tips for safe Internet use.

* The Federal Trade Commissionf's ID, Theft, Privacy and Security page offers extensive information about identity theft, privacy and information security at www.ftc.gov/bcp/menus/consumer/data.shtm.

* Visa Inc. offers VisaSecuritySense (www.visasecuritysense.com), which contains tips on preventing fraud online, in stores and at ATMs, spotting deceptive marketing practices, and more.

Jason Alderman directs Visa's financial education programs. To Follow Jason Alderman on Twitter: www.twitter.com/PracticalMoney.

Legal Notices –

Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate

Lake Traverse Reservation

State of South Dakota

In Tribal Court

Case No. D:11-111-456

In the matter of the change of name of Bernita Peterson, Petitioner

vs

And concerning: Helena Nakai Peterson, Minor Child.

ORDER FOR PUBLICATION

AND NOTICE OF HEARING

Notice is hereby given that the Petitioners (Bernita Peterson) request for a change of name of minor child from Helena Nakai Peterson to Nakai Helena Peterson shall be heard before the Honorable Judge B.J. Jones, Chief Judge of the Tribal Court, in the courtroom of the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate at Agency Village, South Dakota, on the 28th day of December 2010 at 2:30 p.m.

Dated this 3rd day of December 2010.

By the Court:

B.J. Jones, Chief Judge.

Attest: J. Wanna, Clerk of Court.

51-2tc

Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate

Lake Traverse Reservation

State of South Dakota

In Tribal Court

Case No. D:10-254-084

In the matter of Jasmine Rose Owen, Christopher David Owen and Chase Lee Owen, minor children, and concerning Becky Cooper and Devlin Owen, parents.

NOTICE OF HEARING

Take notice that Petition alleging the dependency and neglect of the above named children has been filed and a hearing will be held at the above named Court, Agency Village, outside the city of Sisseton, Roberts County, South Dakota on the 29th day of December 2010 at the hour of 1:30 o’clock PM or as soon thereafter as possible.

You are required to be at the hearing. Upon request, the Clerk will provide you with a copy of the Petition describing the matter.

Dated this 30th day of November 2010.

By order of the Court:

B.J. Jones, Chief Judge.

Attest: Lois Kohl, Clerk of Court.

49-3tc

Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate

Lake Traverse Reservation

State of South Dakota

In Tribal Court

Case No. D:11-045-390 et seq.

D:11-048-393 et seq.

In the matter of the termination of parental rights and adoption of: Isiah Christian Hernandez, DOB August 2, 1997, Alicia Florine Hernandez, DOB July 29, 1996, minor children.

Jeanette Sarah Seaboy-Ellingson and Craig Vernon Ellingson, Petitioners

vs

Juan Ramon Hernandez, Respondent

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The Court being satisfied by affidavit duly filed herein that personal service well be made, it is ordered that Juan Ramon Hernandez be notified by three (3) weeks publication in full of the notice of these proceedings in the regular issue of a qualified newspaper.

Dated this 29th day of November 2010.

B.J. Jones, Chief Judge

Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate

Lake Traverse Reservation

State of South Dakota

In Tribal Court

Case No. D:11-045-390 et seq.

D:11-048-393 et seq.

In the matter of the termination of parental rights and adoption of Isiah Christian Hernandez, DOB August 2, 1997, Alicia Florine Hernandez, DOB July 29, 1996, minor children.

Jeanette Sarah Seaboy-Ellingson and Craig Vernon Ellingson, Petitioners

vs

Juan Ramon Hernandez, Respondent

To Juan Ramon Hernandez:

Take notice that a hearing will be held at the above named Court, Agency Village, outside the city of Sisseton, County of Roberts, South Dakota, on the 4th day of January 2011 at the hour of 2:00 PM. You are required to be at the hearing. Upon request the Clerk will provide you with a copy of the Petition describing this matter.

Dated this 29th day of November 2010.

By order of the court:

B.J. Jones, Chief Judge

Attest: J. Wanna, Clerk of Courts

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Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate

Lake Traverse Reservation

State of South Dakota

In Tribal Court

Case NO.: D-11-087-432

Order for Publication

& Notice of Hearing

In the matter of the change of name of Jessica Maxine Selvage, Petitioner vs Robert John Keoke III, respondent and concerning Gage Maxim Kyree Selvage, minor child.

Notice is hereby given, that the Petitioners (Jessica Maxine Selvage) request for a change of name of minor child Gage Maxim Kyree Selvage to Gage Maxim Bernard shall be heard before the Honorable Judger B.J. Jones, Chief Judge of the Tribal Court in the court room of the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate at Agency Village, South Dakota on the 15th day of December 2010 at 2:30 p.m.

Dated this 18th day of November 2010./

By the Court:

B.J. Jones, Chief Judge.

Attest: J. Wanna.

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SISSETON-WAHPETON OYATE

IN TRIBAL COURT

LAKE TRAVERSE RESERVATION

STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA

CASE NO. I: 09-008

SWOCSE/Wayne German, Jr., PLAINTIFF

VS.

JADENE GERMAN, DEFENDANT

ORDER OF PUBLICATION & NOTICE OF HEARING

It is hereby Ordered that Notice by Publication be provided herein for a Motion to Show Cause for Failure to Pay Child Support and Notice of Hearing is hereby provided that a hearing will held at the H&HS Building, Rm. S-2, Agency Village, South Dakota, on the 28th day of December, 2010 at the hour of 9:00 o’clock A.M. or as soon thereafter as possible.

You are required to be at the hearing. If you fail to appear a Warrant will be issued and Bond set at the amount of the arrears. Upon request, the OCSE Clerk will provide you with a copy of the Motion describing the matter.

Dated this 17th day of November, 2010

BY THE ORDER OF THE COURT:

Michael T. Swallow, Presiding Judge

ATTEST: Oyate Contreras, OCSE Clerk of Court

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SISSETON-WAHPETON OYATE

IN TRIBAL COURT

LAKE TRAVERSE RESERVATION

STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA

CASE NO. CS: 09-039

SWOCSE/Carol Freimel, PLAINTIFF

VS.

KEITH HAWK, DEFENDANT

ORDER OF PUBLICATION & NOTICE OF HEARING

It is hereby Ordered that Notice by Publication be provided herein for a Motion to Show Cause for Failure to Pay Child Support and Notice of Hearing is hereby provided that a hearing will held at the H&HS Building, Rm. S-2, Agency Village, South Dakota, on the 28th day of December, 2010 at the hour of 9:00 o’clock A.M. or as soon thereafter as possible.

You are required to be at the hearing. If you fail to appear a Warrant will be issued and Bond set at the amount of the arrears. Upon request, the OCSE Clerk will provide you with a copy of the Motion describing the matter.

Dated this 17th day of November, 2010

BY THE ORDER OF THE COURT:

Michael T. Swallow, Presiding Judge

ATTEST: Oyate Contreras, OCSE Clerk of Court

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SISSETON-WAHPETON OYATE

IN TRIBAL COURT

LAKE TRAVERSE RESERVATION

STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA

CASE NO. CS: 09-019

SWOCSE/Dorothea Wilson, PLAINTIFF

VS.

LINDA BEARHART, DEFENDANT

ORDER OF PUBLICATION & NOTICE OF HEARING

It is hereby Ordered that Notice by Publication be provided herein for a Motion to Show Cause for Failure to Pay Child Support and Notice of Hearing is hereby provided that a hearing will held at the H&HS Building, Rm. S-2, Agency Village, South Dakota, on the 28th day of December, 2010 at the hour of 9:00 o’clock A.M. or as soon thereafter as possible.

You are required to be at the hearing. If you fail to appear a Warrant will be issued and Bond set at the amount of the arrears. Upon request, the OCSE Clerk will provide you with a copy of the Motion describing the matter.

Dated this 17th day of November, 2010

BY THE ORDER OF THE COURT:

Michael T. Swallow, Presiding Judge

ATTEST: Oyate Contreras, OCSE Clerk of Court

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SISSETON-WAHPETON OYATE

IN TRIBAL COURT

LAKE TRAVERSE RESERVATION

STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA

CASE NO. CS: 10-061

SWOCSE/Bonita Hart, PLAINTIFF

VS.

EDWARD PELTIER, DEFENDANT

ORDER OF PUBLICATION & NOTICE OF HEARING

It is hereby Ordered that Notice by Publication be provided herein for a Motion to Show Cause for Failure to Pay Child Support and Notice of Hearing is hereby provided that a hearing will held at the H&HS Building, Rm. S-2, Agency Village, South Dakota, on the 28th day of December, 2010 at the hour of 9:00 o’clock A.M. or as soon thereafter as possible.

You are required to be at the hearing. If you fail to appear a Warrant will be issued and Bond set at the amount of the arrears. Upon request, the OCSE Clerk will provide you with a copy of the Motion describing the matter.

Dated this 17th day of November, 2010

BY THE ORDER OF THE COURT:

Michael T. Swallow, Presiding Judge

ATTEST: Oyate Contreras, OCSE Clerk of Court

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SISSETON-WAHPETON OYATE

IN TRIBAL COURT

LAKE TRAVERSE RESERVATION

STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA

CASE NO. I: 09-034

SWOCSE/Charlotte Strutz, PLAINTIFF

VS.

MAHLON PROVOST, DEFENDANT

ORDER OF PUBLICATION & NOTICE OF HEARING

It is hereby Ordered that Notice by Publication be provided herein for a Complaint To Establish Child Support and Notice of Hearing is hereby provided that a hearing will held at the H&HS Building, Rm. S-2, Agency Village, South Dakota, on the 29th day of December, 2010 at the hour of 1:00 o’clock P.M. or as soon thereafter as possible.

You are required to be at the hearing. Upon request, the OCSE Clerk will provide you with a copy of the Motion describing the matter.

Dated this 17th day of November, 2010

BY THE ORDER OF THE COURT:

Michael T. Swallow, Presiding Judge

ATTEST: Oyate Contreras, OCSE Clerk of Court

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SISSETON-WAHPETON OYATE

IN TRIBAL COURT

LAKE TRAVERSE RESERVATION

STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA

CASE NO. I: 10-078

SWOCSE/Nicolas Redday, PLAINTIFF

VS.

CARISA ROBERTSON, DEFENDANT

ORDER OF PUBLICATION & NOTICE OF HEARING

It is hereby Ordered that Notice by Publication be provided herein for a Motion to Show Cause for Failure to Pay Child Support and Notice of Hearing is hereby provided that a hearing will held at the H&HS Building, Rm. S-2, Agency Village, South Dakota, on the 29th day of December, 2010 at the hour of 1:00 o’clock P.M. or as soon thereafter as possible.

You are required to be at the hearing. If you fail to appear a Warrant will be issued and Bond set at the amount of the arrears. Upon request, the OCSE Clerk will provide you with a copy of the Motion describing the matter.

Dated this 17th day of November, 2010

BY THE ORDER OF THE COURT:

Michael T. Swallow, Presiding Judge

ATTEST: Oyate Contreras, OCSE Clerk of Court

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SISSETON-WAHPETON OYATE

IN TRIBAL COURT

LAKE TRAVERSE RESERVATION

STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA

CASE NO. I: 10-060

SWOCSE/Sara Paul, PLAINTIFF

VS.

MINH DINH, DEFENDANT

ORDER OF PUBLICATION & NOTICE OF HEARING

It is hereby Ordered that Notice by Publication be provided herein for a Complaint To Establish Paternity and Notice of Hearing is hereby provided that a hearing will held at the H&HS Building, Rm. S-2, Agency Village, South Dakota, on the 29th day of December, 2010 at the hour of 1:00 o’clock P.M. or as soon thereafter as possible.

You are required to be at the hearing. Upon request, the OCSE Clerk will provide you with a copy of the Motion describing the matter.

Dated this 17th day of November, 2010

BY THE ORDER OF THE COURT:

Michael T. Swallow, Presiding Judge

ATTEST: Oyate Contreras, OCSE Clerk of Court

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SISSETON-WAHPETON OYATE

IN TRIBAL COURT

LAKE TRAVERSE RESERVATION

STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA

CASE NO. CS: 00-252

SWOCSE/Brenda SOLBERG, PLAINTIFF

VS.

ANDREA WHITE, DEFENDANT

ORDER OF PUBLICATION & NOTICE OF HEARING

It is hereby Ordered that Notice by Publication be provided herein for a Motion to Show Cause for Failure to Pay Child Support and Notice of Hearing is hereby provided that a hearing will held at the H&HS Building, Rm. S-2, Agency Village, South Dakota, on the 28th day of December, 2010 at the hour of 1:00 o’clock P.M. or as soon thereafter as possible.

You are required to be at the hearing. If you fail to appear a Warrant will be issued and Bond set at the amount of the arrears. Upon request, the OCSE Clerk will provide you with a copy of the Motion describing the matter.

Dated this 18th day of November, 2010

BY THE ORDER OF THE COURT:

Michael T. Swallow, Presiding Judge

ATTEST: Oyate Contreras, OCSE Clerk of Court

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SISSETON-WAHPETON OYATE

IN TRIBAL COURT

LAKE TRAVERSE RESERVATION

STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA

CASE NO. CS: 06-141

SWOCSE/Timothy WHITE, PLAINTIFF

VS.

AUTUMN WHITE, DEFENDANT

ORDER OF PUBLICATION & NOTICE OF HEARING

It is hereby Ordered that Notice by Publication be provided herein for a Complaint To Establish Child Support and Notice of Hearing is hereby provided that a hearing will held at the H&HS Building, Rm. S-2, Agency Village, South Dakota, on the 28th day of December, 2010 at the hour of 1:00 o’clock P.M. or as soon thereafter as possible.

You are required to be at the hearing. Upon request, the OCSE Clerk will provide you with a copy of the Motion describing the matter.

Dated this 18th day of November, 2010

BY THE ORDER OF THE COURT:

Michael T. Swallow, Presiding Judge

ATTEST: Oyate Contreras, OCSE Clerk of Court

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SISSETON-WAHPETON OYATE

IN TRIBAL COURT

LAKE TRAVERSE RESERVATION

STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA

CASE NO. CS: 08-076

SWOCSE/Dina OWEN, PLAINTIFF

VS.

RUBY EASTMAN, DEFENDANT

ORDER OF PUBLICATION & NOTICE OF HEARING

It is hereby Ordered that Notice by Publication be provided herein for a Motion To Modify Child Support and Notice of Hearing is hereby provided that a hearing will held at the H&HS Building, Rm. S-2, Agency Village, South Dakota, on the 28th day of December, 2010 at the hour of 1:00 o’clock P.M. or as soon thereafter as possible.

You are required to be at the hearing. Upon request, the OCSE Clerk will provide you with a copy of the Motion describing the matter.

Dated this 18th day of November, 2010

BY THE ORDER OF THE COURT:

Michael T. Swallow, Presiding Judge

ATTEST: Oyate Contreras, OCSE Clerk of Court

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SISSETON-WAHPETON OYATE

IN TRIBAL COURT

LAKE TRAVERSE RESERVATION

STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA

CASE NO. CS: 02-199

SWOCSE/Carole ADAMS, PLAINTIFF

VS.

JACKIE CRAWFORD, DEFENDANT

ORDER OF PUBLICATION & NOTICE OF HEARING

It is hereby Ordered that Notice by Publication be provided herein for a Complaint To Establish TANF Arrears and Notice of Hearing is hereby provided that a hearing will held at the H&HS Building, Rm. S-2, Agency Village, South Dakota, on the 28th day of December, 2010 at the hour of 1:00 o’clock P.M. or as soon thereafter as possible.

You are required to be at the hearing. Upon request, the OCSE Clerk will provide you with a copy of the Motion describing the matter.

Dated this 18th day of November, 2010

BY THE ORDER OF THE COURT:

Michael T. Swallow, Presiding Judge

ATTEST: Oyate Contreras, OCSE Clerk of Court

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SISSETON-WAHPETON OYATE

IN TRIBAL COURT

LAKE TRAVERSE RESERVATION

STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA

CASE NO. CS: 07-166

SWOCSE/Todd ROCKWOOD, PLAINTIFF

VS.

CRYSTAL RENCOUNTRE, DEFENDANT

ORDER OF PUBLICATION & NOTICE OF HEARING

It is hereby Ordered that Notice by Publication be provided herein for a Complaint To Establish Arrears and Notice of Hearing is hereby provided that a hearing will held at the H&HS Building, Rm. S-2, Agency Village, South Dakota, on the 28th day of December, 2010 at the hour of 1:00 o’clock P.M. or as soon thereafter as possible.

You are required to be at the hearing. Upon request, the OCSE Clerk will provide you with a copy of the Motion describing the matter.

Dated this 18th day of November, 2010

BY THE ORDER OF THE COURT:

Michael T. Swallow, Presiding Judge

ATTEST: Oyate Contreras, OCSE Clerk of Court

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SISSETON-WAHPETON OYATE

IN TRIBAL COURT

LAKE TRAVERSE RESERVATION

STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA

CASE NO. I: 11-002

SWOCSE/Crystal RENCOUNTRE, PLAINTIFF

VS.

TODD ROCKWOOD, DEFENDANT

ORDER OF PUBLICATION & NOTICE OF HEARING

It is hereby Ordered that Notice by Publication be provided herein for a Complaint To Establish Paternity and Child Support and Notice of Hearing is hereby provided that a hearing will held at the H&HS Building, Rm. S-2, Agency Village, South Dakota, on the 28th day of December, 2010 at the hour of 1:00 o’clock P.M. or as soon thereafter as possible.

You are required to be at the hearing. Upon request, the OCSE Clerk will provide you with a copy of the Motion describing the matter.

Dated this 18th day of November, 2010

BY THE ORDER OF THE COURT:

Michael T. Swallow, Presiding Judge

ATTEST: Oyate Contreras, OCSE Clerk of Court

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SISSETON-WAHPETON OYATE

IN TRIBAL COURT

LAKE TRAVERSE RESERVATION

STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA

CASE NO. CS: 06-243

SWOCSE/Linette BEAUDREAU, PLAINTIFF

VS.

JULIE OWEN, DEFENDANT

ORDER OF PUBLICATION & NOTICE OF HEARING

It is hereby Ordered that Notice by Publication be provided herein for a Motion to Show Cause for Failure to Pay Child Support and Notice of Hearing is hereby provided that a hearing will held at the H&HS Building, Rm. S-2, Agency Village, South Dakota, on the 28th day of December, 2010 at the hour of 1:00 o’clock P.M. or as soon thereafter as possible.

You are required to be at the hearing. If you fail to appear a Warrant will be issued and Bond set at the amount of the arrears. Upon request, the OCSE Clerk will provide you with a copy of the Motion describing the matter.

Dated this 18th day of November, 2010

BY THE ORDER OF THE COURT:

Michael T. Swallow, Presiding Judge

ATTEST: Oyate Contreras, OCSE Clerk of Court

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SISSETON-WAHPETON OYATE

IN TRIBAL COURT

LAKE TRAVERSE RESERVATION

STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA

CASE NO. CS: 05-489

SWOCSE/ Summer DUMARCE, PLAINTIFF

VS.

TYSON BRANT, DEFENDANT

ORDER OF PUBLICATION & NOTICE OF HEARING

It is hereby Ordered that Notice by Publication be provided herein for a Motion to Show Cause for Failure to Pay Child Support and Notice of Hearing is hereby provided that a hearing will held at the H&HS Building, Rm. S-2, Agency Village, South Dakota, on the 28th day of December, 2010 at the hour of 1:00 o’clock P.M. or as soon thereafter as possible.

You are required to be at the hearing. If you fail to appear a Warrant will be issued and Bond set at the amount of the arrears. Upon request, the OCSE Clerk will provide you with a copy of the Motion describing the matter.

Dated this 18th day of November, 2010

BY THE ORDER OF THE COURT:

Michael T. Swallow, Presiding Judge

ATTEST: Oyate Contreras, OCSE Clerk of Court

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SISSETON-WAHPETON OYATE

IN TRIBAL COURT

LAKE TRAVERSE RESERVATION

STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA

CASE NO. I: 10-098

SWOCSE/Allen WHITE, PLAINTIFF

VS.

MADONNA ADAMS, DEFENDANT

ORDER OF PUBLICATION & NOTICE OF HEARING

It is hereby Ordered that Notice by Publication be provided herein for a Complaint To Establish Child Support and Notice of Hearing is hereby provided that a hearing will held at the H&HS Building, Rm. S-2, Agency Village, South Dakota, on the 28th day of December, 2010 at the hour of 1:00 o’clock P.M. or as soon thereafter as possible.

You are required to be at the hearing. Upon request, the OCSE Clerk will provide you with a copy of the Motion describing the matter.

Dated this 18th day of November, 2010

BY THE ORDER OF THE COURT:

Michael T. Swallow, Presiding Judge

ATTEST: Oyate Contreras, OCSE Clerk of Court

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Trading Post –

Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate

Job Openings

The Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate Tribe is seeking to fill the following positions:

CD Technician, Dakotah Pride.

Receptionist, Early Childhood Intervention

Director, Planning

Tribal Energy Specialist, Planning

Teacher, Early Head Start

Teacher Aide/Bus Driver, Early Head Start

Bus Driver, Early Head Start

Closing date: December 27, 2010 at 4:30 p.m.

All interested applicants may obtain application and job description information at the Human Resource Department of the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate. You may contact Arnold Williams at (605) 698-3911 ext. 112.

Enemy Swim Day School

Job Opening

Enemy Swim Day School has an opening for a bus driver starting in immediately. This is a 6 hour per day route in the Sisseton area. Applicant must have a valid CDL driver's license. ESDS will assist driver in obtaining a CDL if needed. Health and vision insurance is included as well as retirement benefits and paid leave.

Wage is dependent upon experience. If interested please pick up an application from the business office or visit our website: www.esds.us. Call (605) 947-4605 or (888) 825-7738 and ask for Deb Rumpza for details.

Open until filled. Indian preference policies apply.

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Enemy Swim Day School

Job Opening

The Enemy Swim Day School has an opening for a Special Education Para-educator. This is immediate placement. Duties include assisting in the classroom, assisting the teaching staff, meeting with SpEd staff, reporting and other duties. The minimum of an AA degree and/or para pro assessment/certification is preferred or willing to work toward certification. Wage is dependent upon experience. Close date is 12/22/10 at 4 p.m.

Visit www.esds.us for an application and job description. Call (605) 947-4605 and ask for Virginia to inquire about the position. Applications may also be picked up at the Business Office. Indian preference policies will be followed.

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Tiospa Zina Tribal School

Employment Opportunities

·Position Openings: Substitutes for Classroom, Facilities, Kitchen, and Bus Driving Qualifications: 21+ years old, HS Diploma/GED + Closing Date: Ongoing

·Position Opening: Secondary Mathematics Teacher Qualifications: South Dakota State Certified Highly Qualified Teacher Opening Date: 4/21/2010 Closing Date: Open until filled · Position Opening: Family and Consumer Sciences Teacher (FACS) Qualifications: South Dakota State Certified Highly Qualified Teacher Opening Date: 9/27/2010 Closing Date: Open until filled

·Position Opening: (2) Baby FACE Parent Educators Qualifications: Have an AA degree or 60 hours of college credit or state level accreditation for para professionals. (Requirements are from No Child Left Behind legislation.), be able to travel to required trainings and professional development each year, hold a valid driver’s license, be highly organized, be able to learn the PAT Born to Learn™ curriculum and convey that information to parents, be able to establish rapport with families and empower parents by building on their strength, and be able to work well in a team. Opening Date: 11/22/2010 Closing Date: Open until filled

Siyo Peters, TZTS Human Resources Director, PO Box 719, Agency Village, SD 57262; Phone 605-698-3953 ext. 3207; Fax 605-698-7686; Web Page http://www.tiospa-zina.us/TZ2010/hr/employment.html/.

Coteau des Prairies Hospital & Clinic

Job Openings

*Nursing Assistant - Full-time. Assists nursing staff in providing and recording routine patient care activities. Provide assistance with admission, orientation, and discharge procedures of patients. May also perform multiple clerical and reception duties on Nursing Unit. Must be able to work a rotating shift including nights and weekends. Must be Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). This position is eligible for benefits. Hiring range $9.00 - $10.50 per hour depending on experience.

*Registered Nurse - Fulltime position available. Responsible for the delivery of total patient care through the nursing process of assessment, planning, intervention, and evaluation; and related duties as required. Must be a graduate from an approved school of nursing; and be eligible for or currently licensed in the State of South Dakota. Certification in CPR required. A minimum of one year experience required. OB experience a plus. Pay scale $18.75 - $29.00 depending on experience.

*Clinic LPN - PRN/Casual Part-time. This position is PRN/Casual part-time and requires variable hours to fill in when needed. This position is responsible for the delivery of total patient care through the nursing process of assessment, planning, intervention, and evaluation; will maintain standards of professional nursing and will perform related duties as required. Must be a graduate from an approved school of nursing; and be eligible for or currently licensed in the State of South Dakota. Certification in CPR required. Hiring range is $13.30 - $16.50 depending on experience.

Apply in person, download application from www.cdphospital.com Or e-mail resume to cdphr@cdphospital.com Coteau des Prairies Hospital and Clinic, 205 Orchard Drive, Sisseton, SD 57262; 605-698-4651. EOE.

Dakota Nation Gaming Enterprise

Job Announcement

Dakota Connection Bingo and Casino

Position:  General Manager (GM)

Summary of Duties: The General Manager is responsible for the overall profitability and operations of, and accountable for, the performance for the all the gaming revenue departments and non-gaming revenue in addition to all the support departments. This position is also responsible for the direct management, overall development, coordination and management of the facility staff to obtain optimum profits, efficiencies and economy of operations. This position is also responsible for communicating any and all relevant business issues to DNGE and the SWO Tribal Council.

Education/Experience: Bachelor's (BA/BS) Degree preferred. SWC Gaming and Hospitality Degree and three years of experience at the General Manager level or 5 years of gaming management experience. Must have knowledge of gaming regulations, operational procedures and customer development. Must be able to obtain a PMO Gaming License. Must have excellent communication and employee relation skills.

Closing date: January 7, 2011 at 4:30 p.m.

Please submit applications/resumes and credentials to: Heather Roberts, Corporate Executive Assistant, 16849 102nd Street SE, Hankinson, ND 58041; E-mail heatherw@dakotamagic.com/.

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Dakota Connection Bingo and Casino

Sisseton, SD

POSITION: Controller Trainee (Assistant Manager)

REPORTS TO: Controller

GENERAL FUNCTION: Assists Controller in supervising and managing all accounting functions. Assists Controller in overseeing the casino cage and count room departments. Works with the Controller in developing all financial reporting including monthly and annual financial statements. Assists the Controller in coordinating all information required by internal and external auditors. Establishes accounting policies and procedures and ensures adherence to such policies.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS: AA Degree in Accounting or Business Administration preferred. Prior Controller experience with gaming preferred. 2 years accounting experience. Must be able to successfully complete college courses leading to a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting. Good Communication and organizational skills. Must be a SWO tribal member. Must be able to obtain a Primary Management Official (PMO) License.

SALARY: Determined by guidelines set in Career Path Training Program.

CLOSING DATE: January 7th, 2011 CLOSING TIME: 4:30 PM.

Please submit applications/resumes and credentials to: Heather Roberts, Corporate Executive Assistant, 16849 102nd Street SE, Hankinson, ND 58041; E-mail heatherw@dakotamagic.com; Phone # 1-800-325-6825 ext. 458; Fax # 701-634-3086.

Dakota Connection Casino

Job Opening

C-Store Department: Clerk/Cashier (1) full-time, rotating shifts, day, swing, graveyard, weekends & holidays. Excellent customer service skills. Math skills essential. Ability to operate necessary equipment. Physical ability to lift moderate amounts of weight. Previous experience working with money preferred. Strong organization skills managing various functions. Dependable & available to work any & all shifts. Must be at least 21 years old, must have a High school diploma or GED.

Opening date: Thursday, December 09, 2010, 2010.

Closing date: Wednesday, December 15, 2010 @ 4:00 p.m.

Indian preference will apply/EEO Employer Apply with the Human Resources Department, call or write for job description. Submit application to: Human Resources Department Dakota Connection Casino, 46102 SD Hwy 10, Sisseton, SD 57262.

Indian preference will apply/EEO Employer.

Apply with the Human Resources Department, call or write for job description. Submit application to: Dakota Connection Casino, 46102 SD Hwy 10, Sisseton, SD 57262.