OSAGE TRIBE RECOGNIZES ADDICTION PROBLEMS DURING POW
WOW

The Osage Nation Counseling Center, Social Services and Drug Free
Communities are sponsoring the annual Red Ribbon Pow Wow which honors
those who have worked to rid the scourge of addictions in our
communities. The Osage Nation will participate in the nation-wide
observance on October 21, 2006 at Wakon Iron Hall in Pawhuska, OK
starting at 2:00 pm with a pow wow.

The dance remembers the life of Enrique "Kiki" Camarena who grew up
in a dirt-floored house with hopes and dreams of making a difference.
The DEA sent Camarena a former Marine, to work undercover in Mexico
investigating a major drug cartel believed to include officers in the
Mexican army, police and government. On Feb. 7, 1985, the 37-year-old
Camarena left his office to meet his wife for lunch. Five men
appeared at the agent's side and shoved him in a car. One month
later, Camarena's body was found in a shallow grave. He had been
tortured to death. While American law enforcement searched for him,
red ribbons were hung on trees in his California hometown. It was
decided then to not forget his sacrifice by remembering him every
year. The cartel he was investigating was selling marijuana. Some
have suggested this is a harmless drug, but in truth it is protected
and marketed with ruthless cruelty. Experts say anyone who smokes, or
buys marijuana contributes to torture and death.

The counseling center honors those who represent the best of our
community to carry on the message of Red Ribbon Week. The Princess
this year is Robynn Roan Daylight Rulo. The Pawhuska student is
active in all phases of her Osage culture specializing in ribbonwork
and the preservation of the Osage language. This year's honoree is
John Henry Mashunkashey. Mashunkashey is well versed in Osage
traditions and was recently elected to the Osage Minerals council.

The Pow Wow will also honor the life and times of the late Vernon
Butler. The talented substance abuse counselor and Catholic Deacon
passed away in April of this year. The long time counselor treated
many people for substance abuse with love and kindness.

Head Man Dancer is Dillon Moore from Fairfax and currently attending
school in Coffeyville Community College. Head Lady Dancer is Crystal
Holt of Pawhuska. Head Boy Dancer is Mason Bighorse and Head Little
Girl Dancer is Lainie Maker. Leading the singing this year for the
second year as head singer is Michael Paul Pahsetopah.

Master of Ceremonies will again be led by Fi Davis of Hominy and the
Arena Director will be Charles Eaves.

The dance will begin at 2:00 pm with the afternoon program devoted to
junior contests for straight dancing and girl's cloth dress. Most of
the specials will also be held during the afternoon session.

Dinner will begin at 6:00 pm.

The evening session will begin at 7:30 pm and will include any
specials not recognized from the afternoon and adult contests.