The Muscogee Nation

Author: muscadmin

  • A Word from Chief & Second Chief: Jan. 28

    January 28, 2020

    Second Chief Del Beaver
    Principal Chief David W. Hill

    Dear Muscogee (Creek) citizens and employees,

    We want to continue providing periodic updates on our activities and progress during the transition and report activities of the Executive Office. MVTO to Speaker Hicks and the National Council for the time and positive response to the State of the Nation address on Saturday. It’s this kind of mutual respect and support that will provide positive collaboration to better serve our Nation and citizens as we move forward in 2020.

    There were several meetings this week that addressed areas of need for our Nation and citizens. We met with the Oklahoma Policy Institute to review and discuss issues affecting our programs and services. The OPI is an independent public policy research organization focused on advancing equitable and fiscally responsible policies for all Oklahomans through research, analysis, and advocacy. Many of the issues on the forefront affect the lives of our tribal citizens in areas of health, education, economic opportunity and justice reform.

    We met with Indian educators and citizens on issues regarding Tulsa Public Schools and will continue to monitor the situation and discuss ways to support our Native American students and educators attending and employed with TPS.

    A meeting was also held with Admiral Watts of the Indian Health Service (IHS) to discuss the Nation’s needs, concerns, and future partnerships.

    A review of the Emergency Services and Risk Management programs was conducted to analyze needs and modify policies and procedures to ensure the safety of our employees, citizens and property is the best it can be.

    A second meeting was held with the Mvskoke Language program to continue efforts on language revitalization and program development. Processes are being developed to receives ideas and recommendations from employees and citizens on the most effective way to address our language needs.

    The evaluation and comprehensive analysis of departments and programs with Cabinet Secretaries was completed. We appreciate the support and assistance from the acting cabinet members and their staff. There are many positive activities in the Nation and we look forward to improving and expanding services to our clients and citizens. This was an extensive endeavor, however the information received during the evaluations will be vital in developing a framework for programs that provide opportunity and enhance the quality of life for all Muscogee citizens.

    We attended the Okfuskee Indian Community meeting and dinner last week. The community members presented both of us with beautiful handmade quilts. We are grateful of their hospitality and the support for the citizens they represent and serve. It is a pleasure to visit all of our communities and hear first-hand the needs and concerns of our citizens.

    Mvto!

  • Grand opening for smoke shop held for community

    For Immediate Release
    Jan. 28, 2020

    Grand opening for smoke shop held for community

    Chief Hill envisions new smoke shop will help community flourish

    TULSA, Oklahoma — The Muscogee (Creek) Nation Tulsa Creek Indian Community (TCIC) held a grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony on Jan. 25 at the new Riverside Indian Smoke Shop (RISS) just north of River Spirit Casino (RSC) in Tulsa.

    Manager of RISS Tony Bell said it has been a long time coming for the new smoke shop to be opened.

    “It is an honor,” he said. “Everybody has been working hard to get this going.”

    Bell said the smoke shop is owned and managed by the TCIC board.

    On the day of the grand opening, the shop held a giveaway for the customers.

    “They would spin the wheel and see what prize they would get,” Bell said. “It was something we wanted to do for them.”

    Bell said RISS has two drive-thrus for the customers, and a gift shop.

    “We sell other things too,” he said. “We wanted to have other things in here for our customers to look at and if interested, to purchase.”

    Bell said the smoke shop does sell travel items in case the patrons who are staying at RSC need anything.

    MCN Principal Chief David Hill said it has been long overdue for TCIC to have a new smoke shop.

    “I am happy to be here with members of the community and see this new smoke shop being opened,” Hill said. “I believe this is going to help the community flourish and expand into other projects.”

    Bell said the hours of operation for RISS is 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Monday thru Saturday and 12:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. on Sunday. For more information, call: (918) 299-7155.

    ###

     

  • 2020 State of the Nation Address

    State of the Nation Address
    January 25, 2020

    Muscogee (Creek) Nation Principal Chief David W. Hill:

    Hesci, Good morning.

    Second Chief, Mr. Speaker, National Council, Citizens and Employees,

    I appreciate the time I have been given this morning. It is an honor to stand before you and deliver the State of the Nation Address of the great Muscogee (Creek) Nation.

    Today, I am proud to report that the Muscogee (Creek) Nation has never been stronger. We have experienced tremendous growth, stability and opportunity. I can proudly say the success of our businesses, the commitment and determination of our leaders, citizens and employees have created opportunities for all to thrive and prosper. As Muscogee (Creek) people, we have a unique strength that will ensure prosperity and security for generations to come.

    I want to share some highlights with you. During the 1st quarter of 2020, the Nation had 2,064 employees with a 1st quarter payroll cost of over $24 million. The permanent fund has grown to over $430 million, an increase of over $29 million from the last quarter.

    That shows great financial stability which brings us to the Department of Health. The Muscogee (Creek) Nation continues to fulfill its goal of providing quality services that promote health and wellness. Third party collections were over $17 million and this year, third party revenue is projected to exceed funds received from the Indian Health Service.

    The department welcomed three new doctors and two new dentists in November and continues to expand programs and services to meet an ever growing demand. Healthy citizens are one of the most valuable assets our nation can have, but when our citizens need care, we want to provide the best care available.

    Health care is important, but so is education. Education is a high priority for this administration
    And we recognize that education empowers all citizens to pursue a better quality of life,
    stronger earning power, self-sufficiency, individual empowerment, and a brighter future for our children and generations to come.

    The department continues to grow and expand services. Programs such as the state/tribal education partnership, the native community youth project the tribal education department grant, trauma informed instruction, and Native EDGE provide federal program assistance, professional development and college and career readiness for students.

    The department has been recognized by state superintendent Joy Hofmeister, who stated, “the Muscogee (Creek) Nation has been a leader in investing in teacher professional development around working with children that have had hardship, abuse and neglect in Oklahoma classrooms. All of us working together I know can solve this and we can see kids break the cycle of trauma.”

    We’ve also committed additional funding to Higher Education and Employment and Training and now provide approximately $15 million to citizens for college and career education and training.

    The Department of Education & Training will continue to evaluate services and focus our efforts to provide quality education and training programs for our citizens and strive to create a skilled workforce to compete in today’s global market.

    Our most important job is taking care of our people. The department expended more than $3 million in direct client services to assist 57,337 citizens and celebrated the holidays with gift exchanges in addition to providing over 1,000 turkeys and hams to community members.

    The department also celebrated the completion of Hanna Community Center with a ribbon cutting and activities for community members. This is a testament to our investment in rural communities.

    The Nation is also investing in the modernizing the technical infrastructure to stay up with the times. We have started implementation of the Nation’s infrastructure replacement with Cox Communications.

    This network build will also provide service to our local casinos and independent agencies in the area. The initial savings of $13,000 per month on all network circuits with cox pricing will be re-invested into the network, which will pay for the redundancy required.

    Another investment for the Nation is a tribal utility authority. The department drafted chartering documents to establish a tribal utility authority. Commerce also evaluated opportunities for broadband development for tribal options in February 2020.

    The Mvskoke Loan Fund now has a portfolio greater than $1.4 million and the internal revenue service awarded the fund a tax counseling grant this quarter. The fund will provide seven community-based tax preparation events at MCN community centers and facilities for those 60 and over.

    To continue our mission of enhancing the overall quality of life of the Muscogee people, the Nation is committed to providing quality housing programs and services to meet a variety of needs.

    The department of housing is currently in the process of developing the 36-acre tract that will service our elder community and provide 72 cottage style units where elder citizens can enjoy a community that is based on sustainability, healthy living and culture. The construction is projected to begin this summer.

    The Indian Community Development Block Grant was awarded to the department of housing and will enable renovations to be done to the exterior of 35 of the Eufaula low rent site units with more units to be added at a later date with an anticipated completion June 2021.

    Construction wrapped up on 12 new homes in Morris, Okmulgee, and Holdenville this month and will be home to 12 families from the waiting list. Infrastructure has begun on an 8-acre tract in northern Okmulgee County that will be the site of 8 new homes with an anticipated completion this fall. A 12-acre site has been purchased in the Henryetta area and is currently in the planning stages to construct even more homes.

    I ask all veterans to please stand and be recognized. Thank you for your service. Since
    September 2004, 865 initial/new claims for service compensation opened with the US Department of Veteran Affairs for Muscogee veterans and their surviving spouses.

    From January 2005 through December 2019, total compensation paid directly to Muscogee veterans was $97.5 million. This amount will exceed $100 million in 2021. In calendar year 2020, total compensation to Muscogee veterans is estimated to be nearly $10 million.

    The average age of the Muscogee veteran is 70. Not only are they veterans, they are elders. We will continue to support them and ensure their needs are met.

    Now, for some information from law enforcement. The Lighthorse administration continues to grow and prosper. A tribal resource grant program for equipment and training was awarded to purchase 20 police units. The department’s 49 active patrol officers have logged 476 training hours from law enforcement sponsored programs.

    The motor vehicle department is on track to have the highest revenue producing year since the inception of department. Thus far, the department is $30,000 ahead of the previous year.
    The annual tax collections over $2.5 million for FY19. Have processed over 200 more requests for registration as compared to the same time period as last year.

    Our culture is our identity and the keeping of our traditions. This administration values our cultural assets. Efforts to incorporate the language have increased as we have been raising awareness of the loss of our language.

    The Mvskoke and Euchee Language Programs have marketed the available resources and have an ongoing endeavor to build upon our current resources. The Cultural Center and Archives Department continues to collaborate with other organizations and participate in outreach and cultural demonstrations to revitalize and share our heritage.

    With that let’s talk about sovereignty.
    We must continue to strengthen our sovereignty.
    The tribal nations, the state of Oklahoma, and the United States government have had a long history of broken promises and we are not dwelling on it.

    We cannot change history, but by working together we can build a brighter future.

    We will continue to work with the state of Oklahoma, but
    The Muscogee (Creek) Nation will not be controlled or intimidated by Oklahoma’s inability to practice sound fiscal management or dishonest attempts to rectify this failure by interrupting our lawful government activities.

    The state must provide a fair and equitable partnership and mutual trust with the tribal nations that have provided so much to Oklahoma and its citizens.
    Along with other tribes, we stand firm in our position on the gaming compacts.

    We have worked with our community partners with an impact for the state. Would you like to hear how we helped? Since 2010, Muscogee (Creek) Nation has donated 75 vehicles with a value of $950k. 50 computers were donated to local schools for a savings of $60k along with $17k of surplused items.

    Each citizen is a shareholder in our Nation.
    Our commitment to financial stability, accountability, and transparency will continue to move our nation forward.However, we cannot rest on our accomplishments.
    We must continue to expand as we are constantly striving to improve current programs and provide quality services to over 89,000 citizens.

    We have made great progress, but there will be many challenges that we will encounter in the days ahead. I know this is a time of great challenges, but I also know it’s a time of great opportunity.

    We can meet these challenges with progressive solutions that will be the product of our collaborative efforts. The positive results will improve the lives of our tribal citizens and contribute to the success of the Nation.

    Progress should be measured by the success of our people and opportunities for a brighter future for and generations to come.

    As we move into the year 2020, I will bring a 20/20 vision that will clearly focus on the people and what is best for our nation.

    My wish for this administration is to be recognized as one that brought stability and accountability, prosperity and growth, and opportunities for a better quality of life for our citizens.

    I look forward to working with each of you to make this state of our nation as strong as ever and we strengthen our sovereign for a prosperous future.

    Mvto.

  • Nation hosts annual county tournament for second year

    For Immediate Release
    Jan. 28, 2020

    Nation hosts annual county tournament for second year

    Beggs, Morris victorious in county tournament

    OKMULGEE, Oklahoma — For the second year, athletes, families and spectators flocked to the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Mvskoke Dome for the Okmulgee County Tournament (OCT).

    This week-long event brought excitement to the county and the eight schools that were represented in the tournament.

    MCN Director of Tourism and Recreation Kyle Lee feels it is an honor to be the host site for the annual county tournament.

    “This is one of those events where you haven’t seen friends in awhile, chances are you would see them here at the tournament,” he said. “It is an honor for us to hold something where friends can reunite and catch up for a bit and see some great basketball too.”

    Sixteen teams representing the eight schools competed in a week-long tournament that left standing one boy and one girls’ team who had the right to call themselves Okmulgee County Tournament Champions for the 2019-2020 season.

    The Beggs Demons repeated as OCT Men’s champions while the Morris Lady Eagles were crowned champion for the Women’s.

    Not only does OCT bring competition to the Dome, but it also brings revenue for the schools and Tribe.

    “We do everything here but the gate,” Lee said. “The gate is split within the schools and it helps with their athletic departments.”

    Lee thinks moving here helped boost the attendance being a neutral site for the schools.

    “We are great partners with the schools and if we can help them with their funding then it benefits all of us,” Lee said.

    Lee said that so far, they have been hearing nothing but positive comments for the upgrades to the Mvskoke Dome.

    “We talk to the superintendents and athletic director’s of each school about the tournament a lot,” he said. “We want to try and be on the same page with everyone.”

    Lee also said that the support they get for this tournament helps attract the Oklahoma Secondary School Athletic Association attention for them to be considered a host site in the annual basketball playoffs.

    “Not only are we bringing people throughout the county to the Dome, when the playoffs are here and if we are a host site, we bring people throughout the state to see our facilities,” Lee said.

    Lee said it is the teams that bring everyone out but it is the volunteers that help everything move along.

    “We could not do this without them (volunteers),” he said. “They have been such a wonderful help to all of us. Whether at the concession, hospitality room or just helping whenever they can, the volunteers are great.”

    ###

  • FY2020 1st Quarterly Report

    This browser does not support PDFs. Please download the PDF to view it: FY19 4th quarterly report WEB

  • Muscogee (Creek) Nation collaborates with TFCU to offer financial workshop

    For Immediate Release
    Jan 22, 2020

     

    Muscogee (Creek) Nation collaborates with TFCU to offer financial workshop

    Nation helps citizens to understand finances

    OKMULGEE, Oklahoma — The Muscogee (Creek) Nation wants to help citizens sharpen their education with their finances.

    A partnership with Tinker Federal Credit Union, the MCN Department of Housing held a financial empowerment workshop on Jan. 14 through their Ross Financial Grant.

    MCN Service Coordinator for the Ross Grant, Jessica Hudson thinks there are numerous opportunities to give the citizens financial education.

    “There’s a lot of different aspects and a lot of different ranges for individuals and everyone can benefit from this workshop,” she said.

    TFCU Financial Educator Giovanni Monterroso said the main theme for the workshop was how to get out of debt.

    “We discussed the importance of having a goal and working to achieve it,” he said.

    Monterroso said the participants were very engaging when he had questions for them. At the end of the workshop, they were talking and thanking him for the advice from the workshop.

    “At the end of the day, many of them came and told me that they learned many practical things and planned on implementing for their own finances,” he said.

    Hudson there will be other financial workshops in the future. She wants to hold at least one workshop every few months.

    “There maybe more than that,” she said. “There will be at least two more before the Summer.”

    For more information on future workshops or if needing to speak with Hudson on financial advice, call: 918-549-2528.

     

    ###

  • BEADing the Stigma event held to improve youth mental health

    For Immediate Release

    Jan 20, 2020

    BEADing the Stigma event held to improve youth mental health

    Departments work together to bring healthy, cultural activities

    OKMULGEE, Oklahoma — There are several different ways to help improve your mental health. Things such as exercise, surrounding yourself with good people, walking, yoga and beading.

    “Yes, beading has helped out with my mental health and at times when I dealt with anxiety,” Mvskoke Nation Youth Services (MNYS) Youth Mentor Jasmine Buckley said. “This project is very close to me.”

    Mental health issues can come from all types of conditions. Different things can affect people’s mood, thinking and behavior. Like it or not, stress can affect our lives everyday.

    Muscogee (Creek) Nation Behavioral Health Services through the Methamphetamine and Suicide Prevention Initiative (MSPI) grant and MNYS began a partnership and wanted to incorporate something new to help with mental health issues.

    ‘BEADing the Stigma’ was held for the youth at the Oklahoma State University Prevention Program Office in Okmulgee on Jan. 14.

    MSPI Project Director Rush Williams has been looking forward to this activity and knows it will help raise awareness for mental health.

    “We want to reduce any type of stigma there is for mental health treatment,” he said. “This is another healthy activity that our youth can do.”

    Williams said when preparing for this event MCNBH and MNYS have a desire to be as culturally diverse as possible.

    “We wanted to find something that could tie our culture with self-care and make it into a healthy activity,” Williams said. “We felt beading could do something and be very rewarding for our participants.”

    Several youth were at the event ready to participate and learn how to deal with things stress related and improve their mental health.

    Buckley says beading has always been a part of her life and she wanted to share it with others.

    “Beading for me has been an outlet and it is a connection with my culture,” she said. “It helps me to deal with stress and get the worries of everything away from me.”

    Both and Williams and Buckley said they hope to hold more ‘BEADing the Stigma’ events in the future.

    ###

  • OneFire Holding Company partners with Hopkins Propane to provide propane at special rate

    For Immediate Release

    Jan. 17, 2020

    OneFire Holding Company partners with Hopkins Propane to provide propane at special rate

    Discounted prices offered to all Muscogee (Creek) citizens

    OKMULGEE, Oklahoma — OneFire Holding Company has partnered with Hopkins Propane to introduce the Mvskoke Propane Program for Muscogee (Creek) citizens.

    Mvskoke Propane offers a special discounted rate for propane and propane tanks to citizens for propane-fueled utilities as well as the option for payment plans.

    The program is separate from the MCN LIHEAP program as well as the Tribal Energy Program, which assists low-income households toward cooling and heating bills.

    Citizens wishing to utilize Mvskoke Propane must provide a copy of their MCN citizenship card and either a valid driver’s license or utility bill with the same address as their citizenship card to Hopkins Propane.

    For those interested in enrolling in the program, contact Hopkins Propane Eufaula at: (918) 689-7808 or Hopkins-Eufaula@okfuels.net.

    For more information, visit: onefireholding.com/mvskoke-propane.

    ###

  • A word from Chief & Second Chief

    January 13, 2020

    Dear Muscogee (Creek) citizens,

    Hesci! Our first week in office has been completed and as leaders, we understand that accountability and transparency from government are fundamental. This is why we felt it necessary to provide the citizens of this great Nation with an update on activities and initiatives that have been addressed so far.

    So far, a meeting with current Cabinet members was held to receive updates on their respective departments and programs. All Cabinet positions are in “acting” status at this time. Positions are being reviewed and updated as necessary to reflect current duties and responsibilities, processes are being formulated for advertisement and application of Cabinet positions. Also as of January 6, briefings were scheduled for Muscogee (Creek) Nation departments and programs and site visits are being conducted to programs. Together, we want to meet with staff and listen to employees’ ideas and recommendations on what we can do to improve the Nation’s service to our citizens and our employees. We want our employees to love working here and figure what avenues need to be taken to accomplish this.

    We have met with the Investment Committee to review the financial status of the Nation. The committee will continue to meet with financial institutions for further evaluation of finances, with long- and short- term investments in mind.

    On January 8, we had the opportunity to meet with leadership of Oklahoma tribes in Norman, Oklahoma regarding the gaming compact issue that MCN and 34 other tribes in the State of Oklahoma are facing. We also attended the quarterly Inter-Tribal of the Five Civilized Tribes on January 9-10, at the Hard Rock Casino Tulsa. We are still united with the tribes in protecting our sovereignty through tribal gaming.

    We want our citizens to remain informed and updated on the concerns and recommendations they have shared with us over the last few months before we took office. We will continue to provide transparency and accountability as these efforts develop.

    Mvto,

    David W. Hill, Principal Chief

    Del Beaver, Second Chief

  • Muscogee (Creek) Nation ushers in new leadership

    For Immediate Release

    Jan. 4, 2020

    Muscogee (Creek) Nation ushers in new leadership

    Tribal Officials take oath of office

     TULSA, Oklahoma — The Muscogee (Creek) Nation ushered in a new era of leadership with the inauguration ceremony of Principal Chief David Hill and Second Chief Del Beaver Jan. 4 at the River Spirit Casino Resort.

    The inauguration commemorated the new MCN Executive Branch leaders taking office in their respective positions.

    Hill and Beaver were officially sworn into office on Jan.1 at the MCN Council House in Okmulgee, Oklahoma.

    In his inaugural speech, Hill stated his primary goal is building trust to strengthen the Nation.

    “I will tirelessly work to improve our tribal services by listening to our citizens and employees…together we will create strategies to implement these goals,” Hill said. “I truly want to leave a legacy that all of you can be proud of. You are Muscogee (Creek), you have special blood that runs through your veins, you deserve the best.”

    Beaver focused on strength in unity.

    “The future of our tribes lies in the foundation that our forefathers built, from Ocmulgee to Okmulgee we have not only survived but thrived,” Beaver said. “Each generation of Muscogee people have overcome obstacles, have brought new ideas and have added a layer to our foundation.”

    “As Muscogee people I ask that we stay united, lift each other up and continue to build for future generations.”

    The incoming leadership recognized and honored past leadership with a special presentation for Principal Chiefs Claude Cox, R. Perry Beaver, Bill Fife, A.D. Ellis, George Tiger and James R. Floyd for their service and contribution to the Nation.

    A special reading was presented by U.S. Poet Laureate and Muscogee (Creek) citizen Joy Harjo.

    The ceremony followed the MCN National Council inauguration held at the Mound Auditorium in Okmulgee, Oklahoma.

    After the ceremony and reception, a celebratory stompdance was held at the old Event Center at the River Spirit Casino Resort.

    ###

  • Unofficial Results Announced in Muscogee (Creek) Nation General Election

    Unofficial Results Announced in Muscogee (Creek) Nation General Election

    OKMULGEE, Okla. – The Muscogee (Creek) Nation announces unofficial results for the primary election held on Dec. 14. 5,178 votes were cast.

    Unofficial results show David Hill leading in the race for the Office of Principal Chief.

    David Hill received 3,399 votes, accounting for 65.6 percent. In second place was Bim Steve Bruner, receiving 1,779 votes and 34.3 percent.

    The full results of the election are listed below.

    The results will not be considered official until Friday, Dec. 20th at 5:00pm.

    Complete Unofficial Results 

  • Muscogee (Creek) Nation hosts Inter-Tribal Working Group Meeting

    For Immediate Release
    Dec. 16, 2019 
    Media Contact: Liz Gray
    O: (918) 549-2453
    C: (918) 758-8106
    egray@muscogeenation.com

    Muscogee (Creek) Nation hosts Inter-Tribal Working Group Meeting

    ITWG provides forum to discuss Violence Against Women Act

    TULSA, Oklahoma — The Muscogee (Creek) Nation hosted the Inter-Tribal Working Group Meeting (ITWG) addressing Special Domestic Violence Criminal Jurisdiction (SDVCJ) Dec. 11-12 at the River Spirit Casino Resort in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

    ITWG was established after the 2013 Violence Against Women Act reauthorization to provide a forum to work together and network as tribes were implementing SDVCJ.

    The group is a voluntary working group of designated tribal representatives who may exchange views, information and advice peer-to-peer, about how tribes may best implement SDVCJ, combat domestic violence, recognize victims’ rights and safety needs as well as safeguard defendants’ rights.

    SDVCJ is a voluntary opt-in for tribes to exercise criminal jurisdiction over non-Indians who commit domestic violence, dating violence and criminal violations of protective orders against a Native person.

    MCN is one of 25 different tribes involved in SDVCJ across the country and has been participating since the first meeting in 2013.

    An executive order signed Nov. 26 by President Donald Trump established a task force on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women in order to enhance the operation of the criminal justice system and address legitimate concerns of Native communities regarding missing and murdered Indigenous people.

    The executive order outlined its mission to conduct appropriate consultation with tribes, develop model protocols and procedures and improve law enforcement response along with improved sharing of data among various law enforcement agencies.

    “The Muscogee (Creek) Nation is taking steps to develop a collaborative approach to the crisis of our missing and murdered Indigenous relatives by creating our own internal task force to develop and implement necessary protocols to coordinate and enhance the responses of Lighthorse police, Family Violence Prevention Program, Children and Family Services and Adult Protective Services,” MCN Family Violence Prevention Program Director Shawn Partridge said. “MCN continues to strengthen our collaborative responses to violence against Indigenous women and people, including domestic violence.”

    During the ITWG meeting, representatives from the MCN District Court held a mock trial of a first appearance of a non-Indian offender as an opportunity to discuss the proceeding and variances in rules of criminal procedure.

    Members of MCN FVPP participated in an interactive discussion about the challenges in domestic violence cases and how to identify and discuss strategies.

    ###

    Representatives from the MCN District Court held a mock trial during the Inter-Tribal Working Group meeting Dec. 12 at River Spirit Casino Resort.

  • Feeding families for the holidays

    For Immediate Release
    Dec. 13, 2019 
    Media Contact: Liz Gray
    O: (918) 549-2453
    C: (918) 758-8106
    egray@muscogeenation.com

    Feeding families for the holidays

    Commissioned Officers Association donates to student organization outreach efforts

    OKMULGEE, Oklahoma — The College of the Muscogee Nation Tribal Leadership Circle accepted a donation from the East Central Oklahoma Commissioned Officers Association to go toward their holiday food drive Dec. 10 at CMN in Okmulgee, Oklahoma.

    MCN Department of Health COA Lieutenant Commanders Amanda Wyatt and Lacey Blankenship presented the student lead organization with a check to help purchase food items in an effort to support CMN students and their loved ones during the holiday season.

    “This opportunity lets students know they have support from their tribal community, highlights the new student organization and their own outreach activities and maybe even invite other hospitable donations,” Wyatt said.

    TLC was formed to create an opportunity to expand culture, education, community and fellowship among the student body.

    The institution’s faculty and staff held a food drive last year in partnership with MCN National Council donating hams to families.

    “I thought this year would be a good opportunity for the students of this organization to lead it,” CMN Instructor Caci Biggs said.

    She said CMN’s goal is to provide ten students and their family a meal on Christmas and will be accepting donations through Dec. 17.

    For more information on how to donate to the food drive, contact Caci Biggs at: cbiggs@cmn.edu or (918) 549-2844.

    ###

  • Mvskoke Nation Youth Services to begin pilot mentorship program

    For Immediate Release
    Dec. 11, 2019 
    Media Contact: Darren DeLaune
    O: (918) 732-7617
    C: (918) 777-8457
    ddelaune@muscogeenation.com

    Mvskoke Nation Youth Services to begin pilot mentorship program

    Kickoff set for Jan.22

    OKMULGEE, Oklahoma — The Muscogee (Creek) Nation Mvskoke Youth Services will be launching a pilot program, Mvskoke Mentors, at Wetumka Public Schools in Wetumka, Okla.

    MNYS are now recruiting people to serve as mentors for several Mvskoke youth who attend WPS.

    MNYS Director Nancy Mason said it has been a vision of the program since its inception in 2014.

    “Every two years we would do an assessment and ask young people and adults on what was needed in the community,” she said. “In every assessment, their response was mentors.”

    Mason knows it has taken awhile to get the mentorship program going only because they wanted to make sure it was done right.

    “We wanted to take our time, not rush into it, get data and facts and not have any complications with it,” Mason said.

    Mason said that MNYS and Wetumka have a great relationship and that was one of the reasons for the pilot program to begin in that town.

    “They have been super open for us to come in and provide services,” she said. “They have been great in giving us feedback and suggestions for our program.”

    The target grades for ‘Mvskoke Mentors’ is 6-8.

    Mason said she is looking for all different types of mentors for the youth.

    “Different people with different experiences,” she said.

    Mason said the mentors have to be at least 21-years-old and a background check will be done.

    “We want to make sure we have every part of protection in place,” Mason said.

    Would you be that person to help make a difference in a youth’s life? Could you devote one hour a week with this person? If so, apply to be a mentor.

    The Mentor application can be completed online by going to www.mvskokeyouth.com/mvskokementors.

    Applicants can also call: 918-549-2557, if they want an application mailed or emailed to them.

    MNYS will host orientation meetings at Wetumka Indian Community on Dec. 12th and Dec. 16th for those interested in becoming a Mvskoke Mentors.

    The kickoff date for the mentor program will be Jan. 22.

    ###

  • VITA program returns for 2020 tax season

    For Immediate Release
    Dec. 11, 2019 
    Media Contact: Liz Gray
    O: (918) 549-2453
    C: (918) 758-8106
    egray@muscogeenation.com

    VITA program returns for 2020 tax season

    Muscogee (Creek) Nation Department of Commerce calls for volunteers, tax filers

    OKMULGEE, Oklahoma — The Muscogee (Creek) Nation Department of Commerce would like to invite taxpayers and those with tax preparation experience to participate in their Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.

    The VITA program offers free tax help to those who make $54,000 or less and persons with disabilities.

    MCN Department of Commerce wants to offer citizens an opportunity to receive a full tax refund and save money to the benefit of their families.

    Volunteers interested in becoming a greeter, preparer or reviewer may contact MCN Department of Commerce to sign up for training. Volunteers must pass certification standards and testing instituted by the IRS.

    Two rounds of volunteer workshops will be held to complete volunteer certification. The first sessions will be held Dec. 17 and 19 from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. The second is scheduled for Jan. 7 and 9.

    Volunteers can sign up for recurring shifts or days of the week as able and desired. Appointment shifts can run anywhere between 2-6 hours in length.

    Tax return appointments begin Jan. 13 until April 15, with available slots every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday with allotted appointment times set from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

    Tax preparation will be located at the MCN Commerce building located at 1002 Bear Lane in Okmulgee, Oklahoma.

    For more information about volunteering or filing appointments, contact MCN Department of Commerce at: (918) 549-2607.

    ###

  • MCN Employment and Training accepting applications for summer youth

    For Immediate Release
    Dec. 11, 2019 
    Media Contact: Darren DeLaune
    O: (918) 732-7617
    C: (918) 777-8457
    ddelaune@muscogeenation.com

    MCN Employment and Training accepting applications for summer youth

    Summer youth work sites applications are also being accepted

    OKMULGEE, Oklahoma — The Muscogee (Creek) Nation Employment and Training are taking applications for students ages 16-21.

    The goal of the eight-week summer employment program is to provide on-the-job training, life skills and career guidance.

    MCN Youth Coordinator for E&T Mia Hoskison said they had over 500 students who were in the program last summer.

    “We served eight counties last year with our youth,” she said.

    Hoskison said the youth worked at areas such as restaurants, area schools, as ranch hands and in the departments at MCN.

    “It varies,” Hoskison said. “We tried to place them in fields that are in their interest for careers.”

    Hoskison said the work sites were very receptive for the youth in the program.

    “Overall, we had great mentorship from our work sites,” she said. “It seemed to run smoothly.”

    Okmulgee County Homeless Shelter Executive Director, Brenda Brewer said that having the summer youth workers has been nothing but a blessing.

    “I was very blessed with two wonderful workers,” she said. “Without them, we would not have the store organized and ran as smoothly as we did.”

    Brewer said having the summer youth employees helped with their budget because MCN is paying the summer youth and not the worksites.

    “I can’t afford to pay what we need here,” Brewer said. “It offsets our costs on wages and gives the summer youth the experience of working and if they would like to have a career in this type of work.”

    Hoskison said they are expecting about the same numbers as last year for the summer youth program.

    “If we can have more that would be great,” she said.

    Applications can be done online for both summer youth workers and summer youth work sites.

    To apply to be a summer youth worker, go to: http://bit.ly/MCNSY2020. Applications will be taken until March 31, 2020.

    To apply to be a summer youth work site, email at: eta@muscogeenation.com or call: 918-732-7773. Applications will be taken until January 31, 2020.

    ###

     

  • VITA Tax Preparation Assistance 2020

     

    This free tax preparation is by appointment only. Please call the MCN Department of Commerce at (918) 549-2607 for more information or to schedule your appointment.

    This tax forms / preparation checklist should help you get organized before filing your next income tax return

    Tax Preparation for Personal Information

    The IRS needs to know who is filing the tax return, as well as how many people are covered on it.

    To make this easy, they require:

    • Your Social Security number (bring card)
    • Your spouse’s Social Security number (if married)
    • Social Security numbers for any dependents (bring cards)
    • State issued photo ID and Tribal ID if applicable

    Tax Preparation for Income Information.

    The following documents will help you prepare all the income information that you need to file a federal tax return:

    • W-2 Forms from all employers you (and your spouse, if filing a joint return) worked for during the past tax year
    • 1099 Forms if you (or your spouse) completed contract work and earned more than $600
    • Investment income information (including: interest income, dividend income, proceeds from the sale of bonds or stocks, and income from foreign investments)
    • Income from local and state tax refunds from the prior year
    • Business income (accounting records for any business that you own)
    • Unemployment income
    • Rental property income
    • Social Security benefits
    • Miscellaneous income (including: jury duty, lottery and gambling winnings, Form 1099-MISC for prizes and awards, and Form 1099-MSA for distributions from medical savings accounts)
    • Homebuyer tax credit
    • Green energy credits
    • IRA contributions
    • Mortgage interest
    • Student loan interest
    • Medical Savings Account (MSA) contributions
    • Self-employed health insurance
    • Moving expenses

    Tax Preparation for Credits and Deductions

    There are many tax credits and tax deductions for various expenses, which are designed to help lower the amount of tax that an individual has to pay:

    • Education costs
    • Childcare costs
    • Adoption costs
    • Charitable contributions/donations
    • Casualty and theft losses
    • Qualified business expenses
    • Medical expenses
    • Job and moving expenses
    • Gambling winnings and losses information

    Tax Preparation for Direct Deposit

    Are you interested in having your tax refund directly deposited into your bank account?

    If so, you will need to provide two things:

    • Your bank account number
    • The bank’s routing number

    Last Year’s Tax return

    To assist in the accuracy of preparing your return, please bring a copy of last year’s tax return which will help for comparison purposes.

  • Lighting up holiday cheer in Okmulgee

    For Immediate Release
    Dec. 10, 2019 
    Media Contact: Liz Gray
    O: (918) 549-2453
    C: (918) 758-8106
    egray@muscogeenation.com

    Lighting up holiday cheer in Okmulgee

    Christmas Tree lighting ceremony held at Muscogee (Creek) Nation Council House

    OKMULGEE, Oklahoma — The Muscogee (Creek) Nation Council House celebrated their 2nd annual Christmas Tree lighting ceremony in Downtown Okmulgee prior to the city’s “Festival of Lights” Christmas parade.

    Carolers from Belvin Baptist Church sang Christmas songs in both English and Mvskoke language.

    A special appearance was made by MCN’s own Santa Claus during the ceremony.

    “I was pleased to see all the younger attendees meet our Santa,” Principal Chief James Floyd said. “The Nation is happy to host and bring cheer, anything we can do to set the holiday spirit.”

    ###

  • Battle of the Dome: Bacone vs Haskell

    For Immediate Release
    Dec. 4, 2019 
    Media Contact: Liz Gray
    O: (918) 549-2453
    C: (918) 758-8106
    egray@muscogeenation.com

    Battle of the Dome: Bacone vs Haskell

    Basketball event to include youth camp, alumni meeting

    OKMULGEE, Oklahoma — The Warriors and Fighting Indians will face off in the Bacone College vs. Haskell Indian Nations University: ‘Battle at the Dome’ Dec. 7 at the Mvskoke Dome located at the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Claude Cox Omniplex.

    Games begin at 2 p.m. with the women’s game tipoff and the men’s game will begin at 4 p.m.

    Prior to the games, there will be plenty of activities as BC will host a youth camp for youth ranging from 3rd-8th grade and an alumnus meet and greet for Bacone and Haskell.

    BC Vice President of Strategic Initiatives and Special Projects and Director of Youth Clinic Nicole Been said the college is honored to host the event.

    “Our overall goal is to create a phenomenal event that showcases two historic Native American serving institutions, give back to the community through our free youth clinic and bring our people together in an amazing atmosphere to celebrate a game that is valuable to our culture,” Been said.

    After the contest, players will be available for autographs. Registration is full for the youth camp.

    Alumni can RSVP for the meet and greet via email or phone at: alumni@bacone.edu or (918) 781-7277.

    For more information, please contact MCN Tourism and Recreation at: (918) 732-7991.

    ###

  • Muscogee (Creek) Nation invites community to share holiday cheer, games and gifts 

    For Immediate Release
    Nov. 21, 2019 
    Media Contact: Liz Gray
    O: (918) 549-2453
    C: (918) 758-8106
    egray@muscogeenation.com

    Muscogee (Creek) Nation invites community to share holiday cheer, games and gifts 

    Walk into a Winter Wonderland at the Mvskoke Dome

    OKMULGEE, Oklahoma — The Muscogee (Creek) Nation Tourism and Recreation Department is providing holiday fun for the family with the Christmas Carnival Dec. 6 at the Mvskoke Dome.

    This free event will be held from 3 p.m. – 8 p.m.

    “We’re excited to kick off the Christmas season and provide a fun and festive night here at the Mvskoke Dome for the community and our citizens,” MCN T&R Marketing Coordinator Jason Salsman said.

    Bring the kiddos and enjoy free professional pictures with Santa Claus, play holiday-themed games like ring toss and cake walk; then cozy up with some hot cocoa.

    Show off your holiday-decorating skills by competing in the gingerbread house and Christmas cookie decorating contests.

    An assortment of vendors offering everything from clothing and jewelry, to baked goods and candles will be available to those wanting to pick out unique and beautifully crafted gifts for friends and family.

    “There will be something for everyone, and at a time of the year when every dollar counts, we’re glad to provide this experience mostly free of charge,” Salsman said.

    ###