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Blue Whale Materials Selected for Grant to Expand Bartlesville Facility
Blue Whale Materials Selected for $55 Million DOE Award Negotiation to Expand Bartlesville, OK Lithium-ion Battery Recycling Facility
Investment Will Expand Operations to Process up to 50,000 Tons of Li-ion Feedstock Annually. Approximately $3M to Go Towards Workforce Development and Community Outreach
Bartlesville, OK – September 20, 2024 – Blue Whale Materials (BWM), a leader in advanced lithium-ion battery recycling, has been selected for negotiation of an award of over $55 million from the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Manufacturing and Energy Supply Chains (MESC) under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Battery Materials Processing and Battery Manufacturing Program.
The selection is part of BWM’s larger $110 million expansion initiative, which will enable BWM’s Bartlesville, Oklahoma state-of-the-art facility to process up to 50,000 tons of battery feedstock annually and produce enough valuable critical minerals to power over 100,000 electric vehicles annually.
The expanded operations will convert 3.5 times more end-of-life batteries and production scrap into Blacksand™, a high-purity, dry, mixed-metal precursor that stands apart from conventional black mass. This state-of-the-art process recovers up to 98% of the cobalt and nickel in lithium-ion batteries and production scrap and significantly reduces contaminants such as aluminum, copper, and fluorine – resulting in a high metal recovery rate and creating an optimized input for downstream metal refiners and battery material manufacturers.
BWM is a portfolio company of Ara Partners, a global private equity firm that is decarbonizing the industrial economy. By scaling up operations, BWM will further establish itself as a leading supplier of critical minerals for electric vehicle manufacturers, battery producers, and energy storage companies. The expansion is another meaningful step toward creating a closed loop and sustainable feedstock solutions for spent lithium-ion batteries.
The expansion is expected to create 150 permanent jobs and 180 construction jobs, boosting local employment in Bartlesville and will help contribute to the state’s sustainable growth.
Approximately $3M of the grant would go towards workforce development and community outreach through expanded partnership programs with The Delaware Tribe of Indians, Blue Star Recyclers, Tri County Tech, and James Emmett and Company.
“The DOE’s backing underscores the importance of building a sustainable and resilient supply chain for critical minerals right here in the U.S.,” said BWM CEO Robert Kang. “This expansion not only supports our mission but also fuels economic growth in Bartlesville, a historic energy community.”
Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt expressed his support for the project: “The State of Oklahoma welcomes this additional investment to expand the Blue Whale Materials li-ion battery recycling plant in Bartlesville. This investment aligns with our state’s focus on self-sufficiency in critical materials production and will bring quality jobs and investment to Oklahoma.”
“This selection for award by DOE’s Office of Manufacturing and Energy Supply Chains is further validation of BWM’s pioneering battery recycling process, and Ara Partners is proud to have partnered with Blue Whale Materials to submit the proposal for award. Government partnerships are essential to decarbonize the industrial economy and increase U.S. manufacturing capabilities,” said Reese Goldsmith, Head of Government Affairs for Ara Partners.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Elizabeth Norton
Brunswick Group
(202) 290-6408
For more information about Blue Whale Materials, please visit www.bluewhalematerials.com
2024 Delaware Tribe Election Candidate Forum to be Held October 19
Save the Date
When: Saturday, October 19, 2024
Time: 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Where: Forsythe Hall
Delaware Tribal Complex
Here is your opportunity to hear the views and plans of the candidates for Tribal Council, Trust Board Chair, Trust Board and Appellate Judge. Hosted by the League of Women Voters.
Questions may be submitted beforehand to tribe@delawaretribe.org by October 11, 2024.
Opportunity Available for Conservation Fellowship at Penn Museum
Lënapeyok! Here is a fantastic opportunity for a tribal citizen.
This is an 8-week, paid fellowship to work with our tribal artifacts being prepared for an exhibition at Penn Museum in Philadelphia, PA.
Even though it states that you need certain skills, those are flexible.
We need someone to take care of our items and it could be you!
Please follow the link for more information and to apply!
NOTICE: For Delaware Korean War Veterans (UPDATED CRITERIA)
UPDATE: Change in Criteria
Any veteran deceased or alive that served in Korea from 1950-55 in-country or in Naval operations supporting NATO are eligible for the award. Veterans or Family members may fill out the application with proof (DD214). Applications must be turned in to the Lenape Veterans Office by October 11. The Awardees will be notified of date and location of the awards ceremony. The next date will be November 2 in Tulsa. Please send all applications to:
Steven Donnell c/o Lenape Veterans Center
Delaware Tribe of Indians
5100 Tuxedo Blvd
Bartlesville OK 74006
Are You A Korean War Veteran?
If you’re a Korean War Veteran that served in Korea in 1950-53, the South Korean government would like to thank you for your service with the Ambassador for Peace Medal presented by the Emissary of the South Korean government.
Please contact American Legion Adjutant Kim Vincent at
(405) 282-2589 (Office) or (619) 807-8431 (Cell)
Or contact Steven Donnell, Service Officer, at (760) 401-2056 (Cell).
Delaware Days 2024 To Be Held September 27-28
Join us Friday and Saturday, at the Falleaf Grounds, as we gather for our 32nd annual Delaware Days celebration! Evening meals at Ford Griggs camp, followed by social dance/stomp dance.
This year, we are hosting our very first 10k Messenger Race on Saturday morning. (More info coming soon)
We hope to see you there!
For more details, see the flyer below or email Cultural Preservation Committee Chairman Levi Randoll at lenape75@gmail.com.
Opportunity for Tribal Members to Train in Collections Care & Management
Join us at West Chester University for a 3-week Collections Management training course! This accredited course is based upon the Register of Professional Archaeologists (RPA) and American Alliance of Museum (AAM) recommendations and will prepare participants for Secretary of Interior Certification.
Participants will learn:
- Relevant Federal and Tribal and Museum Policy and Practice
- Cultural Heritage Management Techniques
- Collections Management Policy and Practice
All participants will earn 3 college credits and practical experience working with material and record collections relevant to museum and archival setting, and within Tribal Historic Preservation Offices.
There is limited space in this program. Spots will allocated on a first come, first served basis. This opportunity is open to any enrolled tribal member of the Delaware Tribe of Indians, Delaware Nation, or Stockbridge-Munsee Community. The education focus is on the Lenape homelands.
For more information contact Susan Bachor, Tribal Historic Preservation Officer, at (539) 529-1671 or sbachor@delawaretribe.org or tsp@wcupa.edu.
Blue Hawaii Health Fair To Be Held Wednesday, October 9
The Delaware Tribe of Indians will hold a Blue Hawaii Health Fair at the Dewey Fair Grounds located at 1109 N. Delaware St. in Dewey, OK on Wednesday, October 9, 2024 from 9:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. Entertainment will be provided by Duke Mason, and there will be games, a free lunch, incentives, and much more! Please see the links below for more information about the event and set-up, as well as a form to take part as a vendor. For any further information, please email Trudy Kerby at tkerby@delawaretribe.org. A bug Tidal Wave thank you to everyone!
Custodian
Delaware Tribe of Indians
Employment Opportunity
Department: Maintenance
Employment Status: Regular
Class: Full-Time
Location: Bartlesville, OK
Immediate Supervisor: Tribal Properties Maintenance Director
Position Overview
The Custodian is responsible for maintaining a clean, safe, and orderly environment within the Tribal Facilities. This position involves performing a variety of custodial and maintenance duties to ensure the overall cleanliness and hygiene of the premises. The Custodian plays a crucial role in supporting the Tribe’s commitment to providing a welcoming and well-maintained space for employees, visitors, and clients.
Key Responsibilities
Cleaning and Santizing
- Perform routine cleaning tasks, including sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, and dusting, to maintain cleanliness throughout the facility.
- Sanitize and disinfect surfaces, restrooms, and common areas to ensure a hygienic environment.
Waste Management
- Collect and dispose of waste and recyclables in accordance with established procedures.
- Monitor and empty trash receptacles regularly, ensuring proper disposal of waste materials.
Maintenance
- Report any maintenance or repair issues to the appropriate personnel.
- Perform minor repairs and maintenance tasks, such as changing light bulbs or fixing minor plumbing issues
Stock and Inventory
- Monitor and replenish cleaning supplies, toiletries, and other necessary items.
- Keep track of inventory and inform the supervisor when supplies need to be reordered.
Safety Compliance
- Follow safety protocols and guidelines to ensure a safe working environment.
- Report any safety hazards or incidents to the supervisor promptly.
Event Setup and Support
- Assist in setting up and arranging facilities for events, meetings, or other gatherings.
- Provide support during special events by ensuring cleanliness and orderliness.
Communication
- Communicate effectively with supervisors, coworkers, and other staff members.
- Report any issues or concerns related to custodial responsibilities.
Adherence to Policies
- Adhere to company policies and procedures related to custodial duties.
- Follow a regular schedule for cleaning tasks while being flexible to address unexpected needs.
Education and Experience
- High School diploma or equivalent
- Proven experience in custodial or janitorial work is a plus
Qualifications and Skills
- Knowledge of cleaning and sanitation procedures.
- Ability to operate cleaning equipment and tools.
- Physical stamina and the ability to lift and move heavy objects.
- Attention to detail and thoroughness in completing tasks.
- Good communication and interpersonal skills.
- Work environment may be indoors or outdoors, depending on the facility.
- Exposure to cleaning chemicals and required to use of personal protective equipment.
- May require occasional evening or weekend work, especially during special events or emergencies.
Physical Requirements
- Prolonged periods of standing and walking
- Must be physically able to climb ladders, bend, or crawl into awkward spaces
- Must be able to lift, carry, push, pull and move objects weighing 30 lbs.
Indian Preference Policy
In accordance with the Indian Preference Act of 1934, (Title 25, USC, Section 47), Indian Preference will be observed in hiring.
TO APPLY
Fill out application with resume attached and turn in to the Human Resources Department by walk-in, email, or regular mail. Contact Human Resources at jobs@delawaretribe.org or use the address below.
Human Resources Department
5100 Tuxedo Blvd.
Bartlesville, OK 74006
NEWS RELEASE: FEMA Can Help With Vehicle Loss, Apply By August 14 (UPDATE)
UPDATE
Oklahomans affected by the May 19-28 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding have until August 14 to apply for FEMA assistance.
This deadline is for residents of Blaine, Caddo, Custer, Delaware, Jackson, Mayes, Muskogee and Rogers counties.
If you were affected by the storms, you should apply as soon as possible. FEMA may be able to help with rent, home repairs and other disaster-related needs.
Original Story
OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahomans who lost their underinsured vehicles because of the April and May storms and tornadoes may be able to repair or replace them with FEMA’s help. Unlike most other forms of disaster assistance, you don’t need to live in the declared counties to be eligible.
FEMA provides Transportation Assistance funds for vehicles with serious safety or operational issues. Vehicles with only cosmetic damage are not eligible. Transportation Assistance is meant to help applicants with one vehicle for the household, unless you provide written justification showing why more than one vehicle is necessary for daily use.
Repairs for a minimum of $50 and a maximum of $3,000 may be authorized with receipts. Up to $16,000 is available with documentation if the vehicle is destroyed. To be eligible, the vehicle must:
- Be owned or leased (but not a rental) by the applicant or co-applicant
- Have been registered with the state at the time of the disaster
- Meet minimum state requirements for liability insurance
- Be verified as having sustained damage in one of the declared counties during the disaster
- Be an approved vehicle type, such as a car, truck, SUV or van
You may be asked to provide documentation of the vehicle’s verifiable damage. If your vehicles was destroyed, include one of the following:
- Proof from insurance company that the vehicle was a total loss
- Document that verifies the vehicle’s title, such as a Salvage Title, Certificate of Destruction or Junk Title
- Statement on official paper from the Public Works Department confirming your vehicle was destroyed and removed from the public right-of-way
- Statement from a local official
In order to apply for Transportation Assistance or other types of disaster assistance, those affected by the storms in Blaine, Caddo, Carter, Craig, Custer, Delaware, Hughes, Jackson, Johnston, Kay, Lincoln, Love, Mayes, McClain, Murray, Muskogee, Nowata, Okfuskee, Okmulgee, Osage, Ottawa, Pontotoc, Pottawatomie, Rogers, Washington and Washita counties can apply for FEMA assistance. The application process is simple, and there are four options:
- Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
- Call the FEMA Helpline at (800) 621-3362. There are multilingual operators ready to help.
- Use the FEMA App.
- Visit a Disaster Recovery Center – for locations and hours, visit fema.gov/drc.
For the latest information about Oklahoma’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4776. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.
FEMA is committed to ensuring disaster assistance is accomplished equitably, without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. Any disaster survivor or member of the public may contact the FEMA Civil Rights Office if they feel that they have a complaint of discrimination. FEMA’s Civil Rights Office can be contacted at FEMA-CivilRightsOffice@fema.dhs.gov or toll-free at 833-285-7448. Multilingual operators are available