Interior, Bureau of Indian Affairs

Governor Overton James of the Chickasaw Nation sent a telegram to Commissioner Thompson of the BIA requesting the appointment of Thomas J. Ellison as Area Director for the Muskogee BIA office. Congressman Jones' office acknowledged the receipt of the telegram and promised to bring the matter to his attention upon his return to Washington. Governor James expressed his desire for the appointment to be announced before Commissioner Thompson's visit to Oklahoma on February 14, 1974.

Congressman James R. Jones commends World Changers, Inc. for their work in helping the Indian population in Oklahoma. He expresses pride that their headquarters are located in Tulsa and appreciates their self-help programs and scholarship aids for Indian children. He wishes them continued success in their efforts.

James R. Jones, a member of Congress from Oklahoma, has been contacted by constituents seeking information about the Indian roads program, including funding, eligibility requirements, and application procedures. He has also inquired about the possibility of using federal funds for local road improvements and a program involving Osage Indian headright payments. Jones has reached out to the Secretary of the Interior and State Senators to address these concerns and explore potential legislative action to revise the formula for apportioning state funds for highway construction.

Mrs. Loving called the Department of the Interior for information on Indian road money. She wanted to know how many states are eligible, how the money is divided, if there are administrative fees, and why Oklahoma only receives approximately $1 million out of several million dollars available. The Department of the Interior provided information on the amount of money allocated for Indian reservation roads and bridges, eligibility requirements, and how funds are distributed. They also mentioned that Osage Indian headright payments are not put into a special fund for road improvements, but the state of Oklahoma receives a gross production tax on oil and gas produced on the Osage reservation.

The letter is from Clem McSpadden, a member of the House of Representatives in Oklahoma, to George Thurman regarding funding for Indian roads in the Muskogee area. The Transportation Department of the Bureau of Indian Affairs reported that the Muskogee area received $1,230,000 for Indian roads, and the Anadarko area received $1,019,000, totaling $2,249,000 for Oklahoma Indian Roads. McSpadden suggests that Thurman work with the Muskogee Area Office to further his goals of a combined effort of City, State, and Tribal matters and the Osage Nation. He offers further assistance if needed.

Mrs. Marie Arkeketa has been inquiring about gas and oil royalty payments for Ponca Allotment No. 214, Martha Running On Water Eshelman. Congressman James R. Jones has been corresponding with the Bureau of Indian Affairs to address her concerns and ensure that the matter is resolved satisfactorily. The Bureau of Indian Affairs has provided information on the oil and gas lease contract, royalty payments, and disbursements to Mrs. Arkeketa. The case has been referred to the Acting Director of the Anadarko Area Office for further action and a direct reply to Congressman Jones.

The text includes a letter from Congressman James R. Jones regarding the construction of a new Indian hospital in Claremore, Oklahoma. Mr. Butler disagrees with the idea of building special hospitals for Indians and believes they should have access to the same facilities as everyone else. Another letter to the editor suggests implementing a Medicare program for Indians instead of building a new hospital. The director of the Claremore Hospital argues for one comprehensive facility for all patients, rather than favoring treatment for Indians.

The text discusses the quarterly annuity payments for Osage shareholders based on oil production, recent lease sales, and the impact of the energy crisis on tribal income. It also mentions the construction of lakes by the Corps of Engineers and urges shareholders to contact their representatives in Congress. Additionally, it highlights the resurgence of interest in mineral deposits in Osage County, particularly in natural gas wells, due to rising oil and gas prices. Phillips Petroleum Co. is planning to construct gas gathering lines in the area, leading to increased drilling activity by various companies.

Mrs. Elba Pitts wrote a letter to Congressman James R. Jones expressing her concerns about the award of almost $2 million to the Sac and Fox Indians and the training of Saudi pilots in the US. She questions the need for historical compensation and expresses her belief that government resources should be allocated more efficiently. Congressman Jones' office acknowledged receipt of her letter and assured her that it would be brought to his attention upon his return to Washington.

Mrs. Loving called the D.O. requesting information on Indian road money, including how many states are eligible to receive it, how it is divided, and if there are administrative fees. Oklahoma has received approximately $1 million out of several million dollars available, but this information was incorrect. The Bureau of Indian Affairs states that approximately 27 states are eligible to receive the money, it is currently divided based on population, mileage, and land formula, and administrative fees are unknown. Oklahoma received $2 million in 1973 and it is unknown what they will receive in 1975. The information is needed by a meeting on Feb. 7.

The letter addresses the potential closure of Industrial Development Field Offices in Chicago and Los Angeles. The writer, Dewey F. Bartlett, urges the Commissioner to maintain these offices and expand their role in attracting industries to Indian areas across the United States. Bartlett highlights the success of these offices in Oklahoma and emphasizes the importance of their continued support in promoting economic growth and employment opportunities for Native American communities.

The Bureau of Indian Affairs in Oklahoma has seen success in their Industrial Development program, with over 1,000 Indian employees in various industries. The program has led to increased job opportunities and economic growth for Indian residents in the area. The program includes partnerships with private industry and on-the-job training programs. Additionally, other programs such as scholarship grants and vocational training are helping to raise the economic standards of area Indians.

The text is a news release from the Department of the Interior Bureau of Indian Affairs about the "American Indian Calendar 1974" that lists unique events and celebrations of American Indian, Eskimo, and Aleut cultures throughout the year. The calendar also includes information on Indian reservations, hospitality, and attractions for visitors. The text encourages people to check with local offices and tribes for specific event dates and provides information on how to order the calendar.

The letter from the Principal of Jones Academy in response to concerns about an incident involving a student named Patsy Columbus states that appropriate action has been taken based on evidence collected. The District Attorney's Office is handling the case, so no further action can be taken at this time. The letter expresses appreciation for the concern shown by the Tulsa Chapter of the Choctaw Chickasaw Alliance and other individuals.

Two Indians, Mrs. James M. Cox and the Cherokee Action Committee for Foster Children, are receiving awards from the Bureau of Indian Affairs for their contributions to foster care. The awards are part of National Action for Foster Children Week. Mrs. Cox developed a bill of rights for foster children and led a study on improving programs for children in foster care. The Cherokee Action Committee has also made significant efforts to support Indian children in need of foster care. The awards will be presented at a ceremony in Washington, D.C., featuring American Indian dancing and speeches from foster children. The purpose of the awards is to recognize Indian leaders who have made significant contributions to their communities.

Mrs. L.L. Jones wrote to Congressman James R. Jones expressing concerns about the Cherokee Tribe's recent judgment and the distribution of funds. Congressman Jones acknowledged receipt of the letter and explained that the distribution plan is initially a tribal matter subject to approval by the Secretary of Interior. He offered to forward Mrs. Jones' complaint to the Secretary and provide further assistance if needed. Mrs. Jones expressed her concerns about the distribution of funds and the lack of benefit to all Cherokee tribe members in her letter to Congressman Jones.

The text is a series of letters regarding the use of Creek Judgment Funds by the tribal government. James R. Jones, a member of Congress, acknowledges receiving a letter and petition signatures from Allen Harjo, expressing concerns about the proposed plan for the funds. Jones has forwarded the letter to the Secretary of the Interior for investigation. Harjo's letter raises issues about the lack of tribal member involvement in the planning process and uncertainties surrounding the proposed plan. The letters highlight the need for further consideration and transparency in the distribution of the funds.

The letter from George J. Pilfold to Congressman James R. Jones suggests providing hunting and fishing concessions for American Indians similar to a program in Canada. Pilfold believes this would please the Indians and compensate for past wrongs. He also mentions the potential benefits for tourism and energy conservation. Congressman Jones acknowledges the suggestion and expresses gratitude for Pilfold's support.

The text discusses a proposal for the creation of an American Indian University in Oklahoma. It outlines the concept, purpose, methodology, and need for such a university. The proposal aims to support the educational needs of Native American students and improve their success in higher education by providing a culturally relevant and supportive environment. The proposal suggests conducting surveys and presentations to gather support for the university and outlines plans for funding and implementation.

Mrs. Charles Juby requested information on the status of the Indian Hospital in Claremore during a visit to Congressman Jones' Mobile Office. Congressman Jones called for full funding of a construction request for the hospital and support for Indian Health Care Centers. District Manager Jerry Conrey provided Mrs. Juby with copies of this information and offered further assistance if needed.