February 2019 Issue Passage of the Stigler Act Amendments of 2018 a Huge Win for the Five Tribes by BRADLEY GERNAND caused by the 71-year-old Stigler Act, but prevents future ones from occurring, according to Donna Loper, the Nation’s senior director of land titles Restrictions on land transfers which have troubled Choctaw families for and records. For original Indian land to still be restricted today it has to have decades have now been removed, eliminating a long-standing injustice. “never been sold and never passed by probate to someone who is less than half- Legislation signed into law Dec. 31, 2018 by President eliminates blood.” a restriction on land inheritance by members of the Five Tribes which dated President Trump’s signature on Dec. 31 was the latest development in a process from 1947. which stretches back approximately 120 years. The restriction, which was part of the Stigler Act, took away the right of During the waning days of the , as it became clear the lands tribal citizens possessing less than one-half degree Indian blood quantum from inhabited by what were then known as the were—contrary inheriting land from their forebears and retaining it as “Indian land.” to longstanding treaties—eventually to be part of a new state in the United Until passage of the Stigler Act the government administered strict protections States, Congress acted to begin the process known as “allotment.” on land which had been allotted to original enrollees, limiting the ability to sell Lands in the Five Tribes had until that time been held by each tribe in common, or transfer it, or for counties to tax it, without federal approval. with no individual ownership. In the , however, land is generally After passage of the Stigler Act these lands were no longer protected during owned by specific individuals or entities and taxed by their governments. Congress probate proceedings if heirs of allotted land possessed less than one-half degree established a commission to create membership rolls for each of the Five Tribes. Indian blood quantum. Federal law did not dictate a minimum Native American Following completion,they divided tribal lands among tribal members. blood degree requirement for any other Native American tribes. came into existence in November 1907 with lands within its borders allotted to During recent years more and more Choctaw citizens have been blocked from these original enrollees protected at the federal level. The rest was taxed. inheriting interests in lands allotted to their Choctaw ancestors because they did Potential negative impacts arising from the Stigler Act were not universally not meet the Stigler Act’s 50 percent blood quantum threshold. evident in 1947. An issue of Smoke Signals, the journal of the Indian Association As of early 2016, “after a century of staggering losses of Choctaw Indian lands,” of America, reported at the time that the Stigler Act was passed so the Choctaw Nation says, the number of allotted lands within its boundaries was and “could sell their lands to the government.” This apparently was reduced to 135,263 acres, down from almost 7 million acres following the original considered an advance or improvement. President Harry S. Truman, in affixing his allotments. signature to the act, the journal said, “wrote the happy ending to the story.” As the members of earlier generations continued to pass, the problem deepened. But that was not the end, and it was not happy. A wrong has been righted, and the Since the beginning of 2017, at least 40 Choctaw citizens who are heirs of original process continues. With faith, family and culture as their longstanding mainstays, allottees lost their restricted interests in at least 2,800 acres as a consequence of the the future continues to brighten for one of the world’s most historic peoples. Stigler Act. Those lands then lost their protected status and the characteristics originally defining them as Indian lands and have now come under state and county taxation. In July 2015, with the scope of the problem rapidly becoming apparent, Choctaw Nation Chief Gary Batton joined leaders of the other Five Tribes in calling on Oklahoma’s congressional delegation to address the injustices of the Stigler Act. The chiefs, during a meeting of the Inter-Tribal Council of the Five Civilized Tribes, signed a unanimous resolution denouncing the impacts of the act. Responding to the chiefs’ plea, Rep. Tom Cole, a Republican member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Oklahoma, sponsored legislation in May 2017 designed to amend the Stigler Act. This effort, which was co-sponsored by other members of the House from Oklahoma, culminated Dec. 31, 2018, with President Trump signing the amendment into law. Removal of these unfair restrictions “restores the Choctaw Nation, and its citizens, to the same parity treatment that the United States accords other Indian tribes and tribal members outside of ,” the Choctaw Nation said in a statement. “This legislation is a tremendous win for all Oklahoma tribes and Native Americans in the state,” Chief Batton said, following the president’s signature. “Native people will be better able to protect tribal lands and maintain generation-to-generation ownership and connection to our land.” Rep. Cole agreed, saying “Many of Oklahoma’s citizens have passed out of half-blood lineage, but remain vested to their Native American heritage. Removing the half-blood degree prerequisite and expanding The Stigler Act Amendments of 2018 were signed into law by President Trump Dec. 31, 2018. The its range to any degree will help preserve the rights and legacy of legislation applies to citizens of the Five Tribes: , Cherokee, Choctaw, Muscogee (Creek) and Native American tribes and their inheritance.” Cole is a member of Seminole nations. These amendments end the requirement for holders of tribal allotment land from the Chickasaw Nation. those tribes to have a certain percentage of tribal blood. The recently signed amendment does not reverse past injustices (John 1:14). andtruth grace theFather, full of of theonly begotten his glory, theglory asof God (John 1:1).AndtheWord was madeflesh,and dwelt amongus, and we beheld family’s loss. be done. Hewent back totown withsuppliesneededtorestore and returned the drove away leaving only hollow words behind. belongings. Aneighborcame by andlooked over thesituation. you.” thing tosay of may thecontrary part beashamed, having noevilcondemned; that hethat isof doctrine showing gravity, uncorruptness, sincerity, sound speech that cannotbe aChristianistospeakthetruth. themarks of phoniness. isevil. Deception Oneof whom theyare spoken, hislove andcharity. thebelly.” of parts into theinnermost deadly poison.” full of James iniquity….an 3:6-8says,corruption, “thetongueisafire, unruly evil, fullof Tribal MembersEncouragedtoGetHealthyDuringNationalHeartMonth help you planthat works choose afitness for you. works isknowledgeable andcan withtheirlifestyles. OurWellness Centerstaff nity towork class that equipmentandjoinafitness outwithtop-of-the-linefitness Poteau, StiglerandWilburton. membersandemployees Tribal have- theopportu Atoka, Antlers, Broken Bow, Coalgate, Crowder, Durant,Hugo, Idabel, McAlester, our Wellness Centers. Choctaw Nation Wellness Centersare located currently in providers you canstart onyour toliving journey ahealthy andproductive life. our clinics located andhealthfacilities throughout the10½counties. Ourhealth became law Dec. law 31.This overturns 2018,which Stigler ActAmendmentsof Nation rightnow. federal level that affecttheChoctaw Country asawhole. only theChoctaw Nation but Indian affectingnot onlegislation informed Choctaw Nation thriving. the criticalcomponentinkeeping the sovereignty isaninherent rightand area. Our andourgeographical citizens have agoverning responsibility toour what tribalsovereignty means. of federal level canchange thevery essence a sovereign at nation, the legislation two nations. Even thoughwe belongto beingmembersof unique situation of Assistant Chief JackAustin Jr. In the beginning was theWord,In thebeginning andtheWord was with God, andtheWord was Another neighborcameby andlooked theplaceover andsaw allthat needed to there’s anything Icando, let meknow.”He shookhisheadandsaid,“If he Then One day down. their ahouseburned occupantssaved The very littleof goodworks; in of apattern Titus 2:7-8teaches, “Inallthingsshowing thyself words.Flattery is the abuse of deceitandflattery are of another form Words of notonly theonespoken gossiphurt of,hiscredit andinterest, butWords to of atalebearer areProverbs aswounds andtheygodown 18:8warns, words “The of Everyone for tipsandinformation onhow canvisitheart.org toprevent heart Our tribalmembersmay tohealthat oneof alsoseekhelpontheirjourney Congress unanimously passedthe Congress Here are afew thingsgoingonat the you,I urge astribalmembers, tostay Being asovereign nation meanswe A 2 Pastor OlinWilliams Employee Chaplain s tribalmembers, we have the Pastor OlinWilliams Staying InformedEssentialtoSovereignty edgeable physicians andhealthprofessionals at developing disease. heart We have many knowl - having you or thinkyou mightbeat riskof tor if developing disease.you heart reduce your riskof through theChoctawoffered Nation that canhelp as well. andservices There are many programs sive alcoholusecanallattribute disease toheart weight, poordiet,physical inactivity andexces- anyone.key that riskfactors canaffect Diabetes, blood pressure, highcholesterol andsmokingare diseaseeach year. heart of CDCalsostatesThe that about 610,000peopledie death inbothmenandwomen intheU.S.cause of diseaseistheleadingAccording totheCDC,heart diseasedoesnotdiscriminate. Month.Heart Heart healthy lifestyle changes. February isAmerican Year’s resolutions. Agoodresolution istomake new2019. The year usually bringswithitNew Chief GaryBatton Words I First, you adoc- shouldalways seekthehelpof diseasecanbehereditary, heart Though high FFC bring joy and peacetoone’ssoul. can or endearment encouragement comfort, of asilver network basket. Sincereof words of golden apples seenthrough thedelicate designs time andtherightplaceare asbeautifulthe appropriate, seasonable andspoken at theright basket orbox. simileis, The words that are onthetablethe ornament was asilver woven silver.” goldin pictures of fitly spoken islike apples of Proverbs. InProverbs 25:11,itreads, “Aword prompt laughter ormotivate tears. attract attention orbreed can contention.They relationships. Words are powerful. Words can emotions withwords isthebasisfor allhuman beings. ability The toexpress ideasand hopeeveryone to start hashadafantastic Words canalsobeabusive. Whenitisusedin W In the days of Solomon,who istheauthor,In thedays of There are references towords intheBookof come. Our children are the future of the come. Ourchildren are thefuture of tribes, for andfamilies generations to Native culture, thestability of safeguard Native children andto best interest of political one, andnotonebasedonrace. States andtheChoctaw Nation isa the relationship between theUnited this, tribes for generations. Becauseof our tribalgovernments toprotect our because theU.S. with madeagreements being Native. We have theseprotections we “special”provisions get justfor Native by “race,” but that doesn’t mean theirrace. Sure, we are because of by treating Native children differently the ICWA violates the14thAmendment thatHomes. ruled federaljudge The children withfamily, tribalorNative Native theplacementof prioritized Native AmericanChildren and of 1978, addressed thepredatory adoption ords are agiftfrom Godtohuman The ICWAThe was designedtoprotect the The ICWA,The created in Act unconstitutional. Indian ChildWelfare declaredjudge the October 2018,afederal a Texas In courtroom. takes placein aware of original enrollees. the to usfrom thedays of have beenpasseddown lands, which ownership of generation-to-generation tribal landsandmaintain will beable toprotect Tribes. Native people theFive members of a tremendous winfor is legislation 1947. This been aninjusticesince requirements that have the blood quantum Another casetobe in the plaintiff’s favorin theplaintiff’s would produce the regions. Whilewe don’t believe aruling constitutedgovernments intheirlegally half, andthat theFive remain Tribes the doesn’t have jurisdictionover itseastern their nations. Oklahoma Hesuggests the Five rightstoadminister Tribes’ neverargues that Congress extinguished (Creek) Nationfrom theMuscogee Inthiscase,Supreme Court. aplaintiff soon make itsway before theU.S. same. positive outcome, andwe hopeyou dothe Nation. We willcontinue pressing for a you setyour mindto. healthygetting andactive isanexcellent goaltoset.You canaccomplishanything your New Year’s of Whetheritisapart resolutionportant. ormedically necessary, disease, heart pleaseseekmedicalattention. Yourof healthandwell-being are im- youdisease andlive thinkyou mightbeexperiencingsymptoms ahealthierlife. If Choctaw Nationoffersmanyprograms tohelpmembersreach their healthgoals. National HeartMonthisagreat timetosetgoalstowardlivingahealthyandproductive lifestyle. The Choctaw Nation. 1947. There are manyother cases,bills andpiecesoflegislationthatcouldpotentiallyimpactthe on Dec.31. This lawovercomes thebloodquantumrequirements thathavebeeninplacesince H.R. 2606,more commonlyknownastheStigler Act Amendments of2018,wassignedintolaw The Carpenter v. Carpenter The Murphy casewill Hurry Up and Slow Down UpandSlow Hurry C HOCTAW C OUNTRY U.S. aswell. the nation but tobevoting of citizens asovereign to notonly bemembersof extremely hard for ustohave theability and stay Ourancestorsworked informed. youencourage toseekoutinformation potentially impactournation. I that could legislation and piecesof to dothesame. this caseclosely, you andIencourage all at theChoctaw Nation willbemonitoring newly empowered respects. incertain We the Choctaw Nation would finditself drastic changes somepunditssuggest, There are many othercases, bills Provided byChoctawNationHealthServices Authority . COM Photo Provided Choctaw Nation Farmers Market Program Begins May 1

Submitted by PEGGY CARLTON local WIC clinics on Wednesday, May 1. Participants do not have to wait for The Choctaw Nation WIC Farmers their WIC appointment to receive their Market Nutrition Program and Senior checks. They can walk in and request Farmers Market Nutrition Program their Farmers Market checks. To avoid begins on Wednesday, May 1. long waiting periods be sure to call Senior Farmers Market participants ahead and ask about a convenient time. will start receiving applications in the Participants must be in a current mail on Friday, Feb. 1. certification with Choctaw Nation WIC As in previous years, all seniors who and receiving benefits to qualify for were served the previous year will be Farmers Market checks. on the mailing list. Per federal regulations, infants must If you are a Native American senior, be at least four months old on the day 55 years or older and meet income of their appointment to receive Farm- guidelines, go to the nearest Choctaw ers Market checks. Nation Community Center on or after Both WIC and Senior Farmers Market Friday, Feb. 1, and request an applica- Programs are federally funded and are tion be mailed. Seniors can contact on a first-come-first-served basis until Peggy Carlton at the number below and funding is depleted. request an application be sent to them. For more information, questions or WIC participants may start request- concerns, please contact Peggy Carlton 3 ing Farmers Market checks from their at (580) 916-9140, ext. 83822.

Injury Prevention Program Educates High School Students

Submitted by KEOSHA LUDLOW

The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Injury Prevention Program, a part of Choctaw Nation Outreach Services, seeks to educate and make a difference to youth and to Location Days Hours reach out to as many members of the tribal communi- Antlers Every Tue. 8:30 a.m.– 4 p.m. ties as possible. 580-298-3161 One of the IP Program’s main goals is focused on Atoka Mon., Wed., Thurs. educating driving-age students about the dangers of dis- 8 a.m.– 4:30 p.m. 580-889-5825 & Fri. tracted driving and the importance of using safety belts. Battiest 1st & 2nd Tue. The program works with three of the most ru- 580-241-5458 Every Month 8:30 a.m.– 4 p.m. ral high schools in the tribal service area – Battiest, Boswell Rattan and Wright City – where the Native American 1st Thurs. of Every 580-380-2518 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. population is among the highest. Month Broken Bow Daily Mon. - Fri. One of the IP Program’s goals is to work with other 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. 580-584-2746 programs to educate youth and tribal members on as Photo Provided Coalgate 1st Wed. of Every many subjects as possible. For example, as part of a High school students listen to an injury prevention presentation 580-927-3641 Month 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. partnership with Chahta Himmak Pila Pehlichi, “Choc- conducted by the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Injury Durant Daily taw Future Leaders,” the group educates students ages Prevention Program. 14-24 who participate in the CHPP after-school tutoring 580-920-2100 Mon. – Fri. 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. x-83517 program and archery activities at all three locations. The partnerships with programs such as CHPP and Hugo Daily Another partnership with David Lindly, Program the Children Matter Program give staff more opportu- 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. 580-326-5404 Mon. – Fri. Specialist from the Children Matter Program, resulted nities to work with the students. IP staff say through Idabel Daily in the IP Program hosting a special event to reach out sharing the activities with other programs, every- 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. 580-286-2510 Mon. – Fri. to the community and others in the local areas around one learns more and discovers new ways to build McAlester Daily these schools. partnerships. 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. 918-423-6335 Mon. – Fri. Poteau Daily 918-649-1106 Mon. – Fri. 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. 1st Thurs. of Every Turkey and Kale Stuffed Spaghetti Squash Boats Smithville 580-244-3289 Month 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Ingredients Spiro Wed., Thurs. & Fri. • 1 medium spaghetti squash • 1 can no-salt-added, crushed 918-962-5134 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. tomatoes Stigler Mon. & Tue. • 1 teaspoon canola oil 918-867-4211 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning • 1 medium yellow onion, finely Talihina Mon., Tue., Wed. blend (salt-free) diced 918-567-7000 & Fri. 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. • 1/4 teaspoon salt x-6792 • 3/4 lb ground turkey (extra-lean) Wilburton Every • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. • 1 1/2 cups frozen chopped kale 918-465-5641 Thursday • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese • 1 teaspoon minced garlic

Preparation Building Healthy Families Through Good Nutrition 1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. 2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out seeds and discard. Place halves cut-side-down in large baking dish. Add 1 inch of water to the dish. Cover with foil and bake 50 to 60 minutes. Nutrition Facts: 3. Meanwhile, in a medium pot, warm oil. Add onions and saute 6 to 8 minutes. Add CHOCTAW NATION FOOD DISTRIBUTION Servings: 4, Serving size: 1 boat (per serving), ground turkey and cook 5 to 6 minutes. Stir in chopped kale and garlic, cook about 1 minute. Add tomatoes, Italian seasoning blend, salt and pepper. Bring mixture to a Calories: 261, Trans Fat: 0 grams, Cholesterol : 37.3 boil; reduce heat to a simmer, cover and let cook 20 to 30 minutes. milligrams, Sodium: 350 milligrams, Total Carbohy- WAREHOUSES & MARKETS 4. When squash is done, carefully shred the inside. Then coat strands with tomato drates: 29.8 grams, Dietary Fiber: 7 grams, Sugars: sauce. Open 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, 13.3 grams, Protein: 28.6 grams 5. Add the spaghetti squash shells onto a baking sheet. Transfer spaghetti squash Wednesday, Friday strands into the 2 shells. Thursday: 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Recipe by The American Heart Association 6. Return to oven and cook 10 to 15 minutes. Sprinkle with Parmesan and serve. Antlers: 400 S.W. “O” St., (580) 298-6443 Broken Bow: 109 Chahta Road, (580) 584-2842 Durant: 2352 Big Lots Pkwy, (580) 924-7773 McAlester: 3244 Afullota Hina, (918) 420-5716 Nursery News Poteau: 100 Kerr Ave, (918) 649-0431 First Baby of the New March 2019 ANTLERS Year Welcomed Market open weekdays March 1-30, except for: Closed: March 27, 28 & 29. Tarra and Breden Estel of Mena, BROKEN BOW Arkansas, welcomed their son Arthur Market open weekdays March 1-30, except for: Estel into the world on Jan. 2 at 9:53 p.m. Closed: March 27, 28 & 29. Arthur weighed 5 pounds, 3.8 ounces DURANT and was 19 inches long. Market open weekdays March 1-30, except for: Arthur was the first baby born at the Closed: March 27, 28 & 29. Choctaw Nation Health Care Center in Talihina in 2019. MCALESTER Market open weekdays March 1-30, except for: Closed: March 27, 28 & 29. POTEAU Blake Winter Wright Market open weekdays March 1-30, except for: Closed: March 27, 28 & 29. Blake Winter Wright was born at 1:01 p.m. on Aug. 3, at Cooking With Carmen: Cooking With Carmen is COLLEGE cancelled until further notice. the Alaska Native Medical CLOTHING Center in Anchorage, Alaska. She weighed 7 ALLOWANCE In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department pounds, 11 ounces and of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its agencies, offices, employees, and institutions was 20¼ inches long. NEED COLLEGE CLOTHING? participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited Blake is the daughter from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, of Brandon and -The Choctaw Clothing grant is a sex, religious creed, disability, age, political beliefs, reprisal Melanie Wright and the or retaliation for prior civil rights activity in any program or one time only allowance. activity conducted or funded by USDA. Persons with disabilities granddaughter of Larry who require alternative means of communication for program and Deanna Henry and information (e.g. Braille, large print, audiotape, American Mike and Pamela Divis. -A grant of $300 is provided for Sign Language, etc.), should contact the Agency (State or local) where they applied for benefits. Individuals who are deaf, a semester GPA of 3.00-4.00 hard of hearing or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages -A grant of $250 is provided for other than English. To file a program complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination a semester GPA of 2.00-2.99 Complaint Form, (AD-3027) found online at: http://www. ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html, and at any USDA office, or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in Fall awarding is January 1 – April 1 the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. For more information, please contact Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by Mail: U.S. (800) 522-6170 ext. 2175 or ext. 2463 Department of Agriculture, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; Fax: (202) 690-7442; or Email: program. APPLY ONLINE [email protected]. ccaapplication.choctawnation.com This institution is an equal oppertunity provider. Paper applications NO longer accepted 4 Burrage Headed Toward Bright Future by APRYL MOCK When discussing his first some Zero Level classes, year at Harvard, Burrage (which aim to prepare a Truman Burrage is said, “After my first Eco- student for the level of everything you would nomics class I ran out of work required) had tutors hope to see in the future the building, violently cry- and took advantage of “all of our youth. Intelligent, ing, and called my father. the office hours,” he’s never passionate, kind and I thought this is the end. I seen needing extra help as exceedingly charming, but can’t do it. But it all turned a negative thing. as humble as they come. out alright. These schools “It doesn’t show lack The 22-year-old son of don’t leave you on your of intelligence. I was just Sean and Carole Burrage own. They really tailor the coming from a different grew up as a proud member experience to each stu- educational background. of the Choctaw Nation dent.” Unfortunately, a lot and graduated Durant It’s no secret that Native of Native Students get High School in 2015. From Americans are under- discouraged. I see them there, he made his way to represented in Ivy League compare themselves to Harvard College where he schools. Burrage feels everyone else. But just will graduate later this year passionate about changing because you didn’t’ go to with a degree in economics. this, from the inside out. a prep school like a lot of Following graduation, Serving as both the Presi- Harvard students, doesn’t he will spend two years dent of the Native Ameri- mean you aren’t capable of in Boston, gaining some cans of Harvard and as the succeeding,” Burrage said. Photo by Chris Jennings valuable work experience, undergraduate representa- Burrage is excited for the and then will return to tive on the Harvard Council future of Native Americans Truman Burrage will graduate from Harvard College later this year. After gaining work experi- Harvard Law to march with of Indigenous Peoples, at Harvard. “They recently ence in Boston, he will return to Harvard Law and be a member of the 2024 graduating class. the class of 2024. Burrage had ample oppor- hired an amazing Native In his position, many tunity to create change. American faculty member, would find themselves “I learned of the Philip Deloria. The Native charismatic advocate. I Choctaw Nation. vide a unique and valuable full of hubris (perhaps alarmingly high rate American Faculty is have no doubt good things “When the Choctaw Na- perspective. Don’t be afraid, justifiably so) but, Burrage of mental health issues growing,” said Burrage. are ahead for Truman. I tion says it wants its youth the tribe will support you,” maintains a good-natured and lack of academic Dr. Philip Deloria, know that he’ll be using his to succeed, that’s not an Burrage said, “Don’t think and often self-effacing preparedness among Native a Professor of Native superpowers to advance empty promise,” Burrage there are barriers, you can sense of humor, which Americas. I worked hard to American and Indigenous the common good,” Deloria said. do it. when paired with his bright bring this to the attention Studies (the first such said. Burrage hopes his story “If you had told me four smile, make him instantly of the people who could professor at Harvard), met While Burrage is no will inspire and encour- years ago that I’d be where likable. remedy it. I think progress with Burrage last spring doubt headed for a very age other Choctaw teens to I am now, I wouldn’t have He recognizes how has been made, but there’s to discuss Native life at bright future, he’ll always pursue the Ivy Leagues. believed you, but here we blessed he is and is not still a long way to go.” Harvard. be a “small town kid” who “Being Choctaw is a are and I couldn’t be more afraid to laugh at himself. Though Burrage took “He is a forceful and grew up in the heart of the valuable asset. You can pro- thankful.”

Huckaby Earns Holt Honored for Masters Degree Academic Success

Trevon Holt was recently named Candra DeeAnn Daniel a member of the Academic All- Huckaby graduated with a Frontier Valley Conference team Masters in Education with a as well as a Choctaw Nation Star Principal Certification from Student. Stephen F. Austin State Univer- Trevon is a junior at Bixby High sity in Nacogdoches, Texas on School and a starter on the Spar- Dec. 15, 2018. tans’ 2018 Class 6A-II State Cham- Candra is the daughter of pionship football team. William Dee and Rebecca Ann Members of the team must Morris Daniel. maintain a grade point average Candra expressed her sincer- between 3.5 and 4.0. est thanks for the scholarships He is the son of Chris and Darla she received each semester Holt, the grandson of Ron and from the Choctaw Nation. Becky Holt and the great-grand- “Without the support, this son of Gladys Bowden Holt. achievement would have been a dream delayed,” Candra said. Thomas Plans Essert Completes RN Career Bachelor’s Degree Haley Thomas graduated from Emerald Coast Career Institute in 2018. The family of Phyllis She is employed at Emer- Gail Essert wants to con- ald Coast Infectious Disease gratulate her on complet- Clinic and will begin working ing her college degree. toward her Registered Nurse Phyllis held a 40-year-old degree soon. dream to graduate with a “During school, I Bachelor’s of Science in experienced the death of Nursing. my dad, my grandma and She completed this life grandpa, and my best friend. goal during the December It really pushed me to finish 2018 ceremony at East school. It has been life- Central University in Ada, changing. It pushed me to Oklahoma. want to be a better nurse and a fighter,” Thomas said. Adams Earns Masters Degree

On Dec. 15, 2018, Alora Adams received her Master’s Degree in Historic Preservation from Eastern Michigan University. Alora has served as an intern at the Choctaw Museum in Tvska Homma for the past two summers. In January, following will be held throughout the10 1/2 counties graduation, Alora moved to Talihina, Oklahoma. during January and February 2019. She hopes to continue her work with the Choctaw Museum in Tvska Homma.

Photo Book Depicting Abandoned Places in Arkansas Released Hosted by Career Development James Kirkendall, Michael Schwarz, Eddy Sis- son and Ginger Beck take readers on a visual tour Education Services, call for through Arkansas in “Abandoned Arkansas: An Echo From the Past.” Stops include the Majestic Hotel in Hot Springs Locations and Schedules, and the once-loved theme-park, Dogpatch USA. This vibrant book gives readers the history of abandoned structures throughout the Natural Call (866) 933-2260 State alongside stunning photos. “Abandoned Arkansas” was launched on Jan. 28, and is now available at Target, Walmart, www.choctawcareers.com Barnes & Noble, Books A Million and online at Amazon.com. If you would like more photos from abandoned places around the state, please visit AbandonedAR.com. NOTES 5 Feb. 25 • Wright City 25 • Wright Feb. 27 • Wilburton Feb. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. • 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Policy Attn: Biskinik Attn: P.O. Box 1210 Box P.O. Biskinik . • • Durant, OK 74702 Mail to: Choctaw Nation Announcement McAlester Poteau Talihina • • • Session or email: [email protected] March 2019 Schedule 13

Tribal Tribal a) Administer oath ofa) Administer oath for Election Board office - Jenni Candace Perkins, Green, members Kay Halcomb. Ogle and Kitty Judy fer Johnson, Council bills approved: funding CB-106-18 and to approve b) Rescind construction offor Center Atoka Wellness Expansion. Four the Year for funds and budget c) Approve of the Making Policy for Continuation Five (MPOWER.) Equity Reality Wellness Outreach of the conveyance land in d) Approve County to the Housing Authority Pushmataha of Independent for Elderly Nation the Choctaw Housing. of the conveyance land in Coal e) Approve ofCounty to the Housing Authority the Independent for Elderly Nation Choctaw Housing. f) the approval Amend CB-8-08 and withdraw property in , to sell excess Oklahoma. 4200158849 in grazing lease No. g) Approve offavor on land Ewing and Donna Downen and the Choctaw in trust the USA for held by of Nations Chickasaw Oklahoma in Atoka Oklahoma. County, 4200158852 in grazing lease No. h) Approve the on land held by of Church W. favor Steven and Chickasaw the Choctaw USA in trust for ofNations County, Oklahoma in Latimer Oklahoma. 4200158853 in favor grazing lease No. i) Approve the USA in of on land held by Jr. James, Fred Nations and Chickasaw the Choctaw trust for of Oklahoma County, Oklahoma in Latimer (160 acres.) 4200158854 in favor grazing lease No. j) Approve the USA in of on land held by Jr. James, Fred Nations and Chickasaw the Choctaw trust for of Oklahoma County, Oklahoma in Latimer (380 acres.) line easement in a communication k) Approve offavor Com- Bell Telephone Southwestern the USA in on land held by d/b/a AT&T, pany of Nation the Choctaw trust for Oklahoma in Oklahoma. County, Pittsburg of permit in favor a revocable l) Approve tribal fee on Choctaw Schools Calera Public Oklahoma. County, land in Bryan for the budget year 2018 fiscal m) Approve fund. Development Child Care Nation Choctaw Holds Regular Regular Holds The Choctaw Nation Nation The Choctaw During the regular ses- ofThe minutes the included business New on these detailed meeting information For The next Tribal will be held on Council meeting Council We accept milestone birthday greetings accept ages for milestone birthday 1, 5, We send in announcements ofCouples may their silver graduates from ofNews and only higher education tribal members. Choctaw all letters from welcome We sent to the Biskinik will run the month ofAll events This is a inconvenience. apologize any for We Tribal Council met in regular Saturday, session 12, in their chambers Jan. Homma. Tvshka at sion, committee reports presented. were regular- session held Sat were 8, 2018, Dec. urday, approved. ofapproval the following items: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • - go to www.choctaw and Council bills, resolutions nation.com/government/tribal-council/council- meetings-and-bills Saturday, Feb. 9, at 10 a.m. in Tvshka Homma. 10 a.m. in Tvshka 9, at Feb. Saturday, 13, 15, 16, 18, 21, 30, 40, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80 and above. 13, 15, 16, 18, 21, 30, 40, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80 and above. of 25 years at anniversary marriage,wedding golden do We or 60+ anniversaries. 50 years, at anniversary announcements. not post wedding sports will be accepted submissions as space allows. because of of the volume However, mail, it isn’t send. Letters all letters our readers to publish possible We must be under 150 words. publication for chosen the writer’s full Only full contact information. require name and city will be published. if or the month prior to the event the event the event falls on the first of the month. and necessary adjustment due to rising production mailing expenses. Durant: Monday, Wednesday and Friday Idabel and Broken Bow by appointment February By Appointment Bow 11 • Broken Feb. 22 • Atoka Feb. 22 • Coalgate Feb. Phone: (580) 326-8304 Fax: (580) 326-0115 Email:[email protected] March 20 March 6 March Jack Austin Jr. Jack Assistant Chief of the P.O. Box 1210 Box P.O. February 11 The Official Loan Fund Loan Durant, OK 74702 Choctaw Nation. Choctaw Choctaw Nation. Choctaw 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Monthly Publication Monthly www.ChoctawNation.com (580) 924-8280 • (800) 522-6170 photos will not be accepted. Talihina Community Center Talihina Brad Gernand,Brad Senior Director Dara McCoy, Executive Director Executive McCoy, Dara Choctaw Nation of Nation Choctaw Oklahoma If more than one are receiving you email: [email protected] Chief The Choctaw Nation of Nation Choctaw The to edit submitted material which it finds which to edit submitted material Apryl Mock, Reporter/PhotographerApryl Mock, inaccurate, profane, offensive or morally offensive profane, inaccurate, would appreciate hearing from you. appreciate would 2161 or toll-free (800) 522-6170. each month to run the following month. month to run the following each Editor’s note: Views and opinions in reader- Editor’s note: Views BISKINIK or your address needs to be BISKINIK or your Chris Jennings, Reporter/Photographer Chris Jennings, in any readable form, but where possible, it is possible, where form, but readable in any The BISKINIK is a nonprofit publication of publication The BISKINIK is a nonprofit the Items are printed in the order received. Faxed Faxed received. printed in the order Items are and do not necessarily represent those of represent and do not necessarily the spaced. You must include an address or phone an address must include spaced. You The office does not provide representation in court in court representation provide The office does not the At this time matters. or assist in criminal department assistance with legal is not providing wills and probate. questions, any or for appointment, an make To (580) 380-8149. Guinn Guinn at contact Samantha 9:00 a.m. from Wednesday every will be available in the tribal headquarters building, until 4:00 p.m. 1802 Chukka Hina in Durant. Members at located legal for with appointments services should come Kristi Phillips. desk and ask for to the front from the SOICA or the Choctaw Revolving Revolving or the Choctaw the SOICA from If a loan for in applying interested are you The BISKINIK is printed each month as a serviceThe BISKINIK is printed each Circulation is monthly. Deadline for articles and Deadline for is monthly. Circulation photographs to be submitted is the first day ofphotographs to be submitted is the first day to Tribal Members. The BISKINIK reserves the The BISKINIK reserves to Tribal Members. we are unable to include everything we receive. receive. we everything to include unable are we Gary Batton Kendra Germany, Interim Managing Editor Germany, Kendra Family law (divorces, custody, child support) child custody, (divorces, law Family and modifications Guardianship A licensed attorney will be available by attorneyA licensed will be available assistance to provide ONLY appointment legalwith simple to all free documents of Examples members. Choctaw that matters with: to assist be able the attorney may number where you may be reached. Due to space be reached. may you where number Susan Edwards at (580) 924-8280 ext. (580) 924-8280 ext. at Susan Edwards submitted articles are solely those of solely submitted articles are the author grammar be accepted will Copy and punctuation. Oklahoma Legal Assistance Legal Oklahoma For more information, contact please For Association and Choctaw Revolving Revolving Association and Choctaw publication shall be printed and reserves the right shall be printed and reserves publication requested that material be typewritten and double be typewritten material that requested right to determine whether material submitted for material right to determine whether unacceptable. Copy may be edited for space, proper space, be edited for may Copy unacceptable. the Choctaw Nation Credit Department Credit Nation the: at the Choctaw limitations and the quantity oflimitations article submissions, changed, our Direct Member Communications changed, our Direct Member Communications Loan Fund, there will be a representative from from will be a representative Loan Fund, there The Southeastern Oklahoma Indian Credit home, business, offers small Association and agriculture home improvement, a person apply, to eligible be To loans. within the 101/2 county service must reside ofarea ofNation the Choctaw Oklahoma and must possess a Certificate of Degree of a federally Indian Blood (CDIB) from available are Micro-loans recognized tribe. and home improvements emergency for available The loans are small businesses. to be repaid within 24up to $2,500 and are must be you to apply be eligible To months. within reside and CDIB a possess Choctaw, area the 101/2 county Nation. of the Choctaw Southeastern Oklahoma Indian Credit Credit Southeastern Oklahoma Indian • • -

Regular Riders Regular Jennifer Robinson Jennifer phone: 405-795-1333 Weekly Events Weekly

Senior Shuttle Service for email: [email protected] Lunch and Guest speaker Lunch and Guest speaker a.m. at 11 Cake on the first of the month Wednesday birthdays. for that month’s - Val for 2 - Pickup Feb. entine’s Dinner & Talent Show Distribution 6 - Food Feb. (After Lunch) Pickup Dinner 6 - Monthly Feb. Butterfields at 13 - Monthly Feb. Shopping Grocery - Food 21 - Food Feb. up in pick Distribution McAlester if needed. 25 - Life Line Feb. 9 a.m. Screening 26 - Bingo Night Feb. 6 p.m. and Potluck. Mondays Senior Fitness Program 9 a.m. 55 + at Center Chair Wellness 9:30 a.m. at Volleyball Language 6 p.m. Class at Wednesdays (Required for Seniors for (Required Sales or any Taco working service activity) food Sale 22 - Indian Taco Feb. 10 a.m. of 27 - Installation Feb. Officers After Lunch Meals Tulsa Tulsa Feb. 7 7 Feb. Feb. 4 4 Feb.

Feb. 7 7 Feb. Feb. 13 Feb. Feb. 27 Feb. 10 a.m. 10 a.m. 10 a.m. March 6March March 2 March Tulsa, OK Muskogee Muskogee Muskogee, OK Muskogee, but not required. but Feb. 15, 2018. Feb. 1100 Eufaula St. Adults $8 Kids $5 8:30 a.m. – Noon Durant OK 74701 Durant 8611 S. Union Ave. Health Fairs Health 200 Gerlach Dr. 200 Gerlach Road 810 Waldron landscape trees. trees. landscape EVENTS 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. Blvd. 5320 S. Youngs 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Durant, Oklahoma Oklahoma Durant, District 6 Events District 9 Events Choctaw Alliance Center Choctaw Oklahoma City, OK 73119 Oklahoma City, For more information contact: information more For office. New students may apply at this time. Language Class Phase 1 Language Hugo Choctaw Community Center Community Hugo Choctaw OKC Choctaw Veterans Choctaw Veterans OKC Stigler Choctaw Community Center Community Choctaw Stigler Orders will be accepted Orders through Fife Indian United Methodist Church or call Angela (580) 924-5464 at Entertainment, Raffles and Vendors Entertainment, Raffles and Free ACT Prep Workshop Prep Free ACT Choctaw Adult Community Coalgate Choctaw Community Center Community Coalgate Choctaw Durant Kiamichi Technology Center Technology Kiamichi Durant Tulsa Creek Indian Community Center Tulsa Creek Indian Community To pre-register, please call (800) 522-6170, ext. 2711. pre-register, To District Annual Tree Sale District Annual Tree Steven Kessler Kessler Steven Bryan County Conservation For details, please stop by the office at at the office details, please stop by For Association Post 319 Fish Fry Association Post phone: 405-291-0531 taking orders for a variety of a variety for taking orders fruit and Bryan Conservation District is currently Conservation Bryan Choctaw Nation Educational Talent Search is hosting an ACT Prep ACT Search is hosting an Talent Choctaw Nation Educational Workshop for high school students. To attend the workshop students attend the workshop To for high school students. Workshop sign up not required. Children should be accompanied by should be accompanied by Children sign up not required. Begins as scheduled one day a week for 16 weeks. Advanced Advanced 16 weeks. for a week Begins one day as scheduled adult. Work book provided and Choctaw Dictionary helpful, and Choctaw book provided adult. Work email: [email protected] plication check with your high school counselor or call the Talent Search Search Talent or call the plication check with your high school counselor must be Choctaw or a Talent Search student. For a new Talent Search ap Talent Search student. For a new Talent must be Choctaw or a Council 1 - Council Feb. Woods Member Jennifer Community Prayer 7 a.m., Meeting at breakfast. by followed 2 - Princess Pageant Feb. 11 a.m. to 5 Recruitment p.m. Handlers 5 - Food Feb. Safety Course 2 p.m. 6 - Food Feb. in pickup Distribution McAlester after lunch. 7 - Durant Casino Feb. at leaves bus Trip, Day 8:30 a.m. and 8 - Indian Taco Feb. Sale Yard Sale. Bake 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. by 12 - Workshop Feb. Brad 6 p.m. Emily Day 13 - Valentine’s Feb. Lunch 18 - President’s Feb. Community Center Day, Closed - Valentine’s Day Day 2 - Valentine’s Feb. & Talent Dinner Theater to 5 p.m. 2 p.m. Show 6 - Senior Lunch Feb. White Buffalo Sale ofState the Center Sale 8 - Indian Taco Feb. 9:30 a.m. 13 - Officer Feb. Forum Candidate Announcements and Speeches 15- Council Member Feb. Dry’s Monthly James 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. Breakfast 20 - Election ofFeb. Officers Handlers 21 - Food Feb. Class with Rinnah Wyatt District 9 Seniors Open Up for Reba McEntire Durant District 9 Choctaw choir was the opening act for Reba McEntire’s concert at Durant Choctaw Casino Nov. 24, 2018. This wasn’t the choir’s first performance on the big stage. The group also opened for the Million Dollar Quartet in November 2017. The choir is directed by Gaylia Green, who is also the pianist for the choir. Choir members pictured with Reba McEntire are: Back row (left to right): Dennis Czapiewski, Glenn Estes (as Santa), Waymon Woods, Jim Plunkett, Don Owens, Dan Trujillo, Carol Trujillo, Peggy Estes. Second row: Beatrice Bridges, Carole Ayers, Penny Czapiewski, Shirley McLaine, Tony Winningham, Jo Selby, Geneva Shults, Judy Jackson, Brenda Woods. Front row (left to right): Ann Kanitobe, Gaylia Green, Diane White, Georgia Smith, JoAnn Winningham, Sue Price, June Sidle, Martha Plunkett, 6 Gina Trato and Rozella Ludlow. Biskinik Article Brings Two Generations of Choctaw Space Campers Together

In the February 2018 issue of the Biskinik, we told you the story of Penny Pettigrew. Pettigrew is the NASA Payload Communications Manager. Young tribal member Noah Parker, 10, of Colorado read Penny’s inspiring story. He was already planning on attending Space Camp and knew he needed to get in touch with Penny. Noah wrote a letter to her May 1, 2018, hoping to connect with Penny while he was in Huntsville, Alabama. The catch was, Noah didn’t have Penny’s address, so he sent copies of the letter to three dif- ferent locations in hopes of one reaching her. Two months later, on June 29, Penny received the letter, sent via the Marshall Space Flight Center. This left just enough time for Penny to respond before Noah’s arrival at Space Camp. The pair and Noah’s grandparents finally met before he checked into Space Camp July 8, 2018. Two generations of Choctaw Space Campers, connected by more than just a love of space and science, but a heritage and culture as well.

New Year - New Career! Hosted by: Choctaw Asset Building (CAB) & the Chahta Foundation Career Development can assist you in reaching your career goals! CAUTION: This program may change your life! We offer: •Individual career planning and guidance •Funding for training and earning of industry Presented by: credentials Derek Hines •Professional job search strategies (resumes, Cost (including books): $100. cover letters, interviews) Free for Choctaw Tribal Members! Contact us today - 2019 can be the year your dreams become reality! Join us for this 9 week workshop series! Beginning March 25, 6-7:30 p.m. on Mondays Location: Gaddis and Gaddis Wealth Management, (580) 920-2260 202 W. Main Durant, OK - Durant, OK Homebuyerswww.choctawcareers.com REGISTER TODAY! (580) 745-8133 Education EVERY MOMENT EVERY MOMENT AreHomebuyers you interested IS AN EVENT in becoming a IS AN EVENT homeEducation owner? Are you interested in becoming a home owner?

Choctaw Casino & Resort offers a range of accommodation experiences with well-appointed conference space, special event coordination and multiple amenity Choctaw Casino & Resort offers a range of accommodation experiences with options for your personal and professional needs. Book your event with Choctaw well-appointed conference space, special event coordination and multiple amenity Casino & Resort and choose from a variety of offerings such as hotel room options for your personal and professional needs. Book your event with Choctaw blocks, catering, décor and technical support. Casino & Resort and choose from a variety of offerings such as hotel room blocks, catering, décor and technical support. The Choctaw Nation Housing Authority offers FREE workshops for potential and new homeowners. All materials For more information please contact our Conference Center Sales at 580-931-2715 are furnished. For more information please contact our Conference Center Sales at 580-931-2715 For more information on dates and course locations, or to preregister, contact our education coordinators at The Choctaw Nation Housing Authority offers FREE 580.579.6007 or 580.579.7319 or workshops for potential and new homeowners. All materials 4216 S. Hwy 69/75 | Durant, OK 74701 [email protected] are furnished. 888.652.4628 | ChoctawCasinos.com 4216 S. Hwy 69/75 | Durant, OK 74701 For more information on dates and course locations, or to 888.652.4628 | ChoctawCasinos.com preregister, contact our education coordinators at 580.579.6007 or 580.579.7319 or [email protected] the greatest natural wonder on the continent, these migratory flocks were so large they darkened the sun Iti Fabussa for two days at a time as they passed overhead at a speed of 60 miles per hour. During the winter, passenger pigeon roosts were Crane a meat source of almost unlimited potential in the South. At these roosts, millions of passenger pigeons came together at night to rest after a day spent flying over the landscape in search of nuts and other food. Month Their numbers were so great they often broke the branches of the trees with their weight. Pachanusi, This article is part of a series titled “A Year in the Life.” Focusing on the time Where the Pigeons Sleep, was a notable passenger period around AD 1700, the series follows the traditional Choctaw calendar pigeon roost in Choctaw country. through a year, with each article providing a glimpse of the activities our Choctaw men and boys hunted the sleeping birds ancestors were up to during each month. This information is excerpted from that perched on lower branches of such roosts. The a book soon to be published by the Choctaw Nation entitled “Choctaw Food: technique was blunt but efficient. Arriving at night, Remembering the Land, Rekindling Ancient Knowledge.” aided by someone carrying a torch, the hunter simply Watonlak Hvshi, Crane Month, roughly corresponds with February. This clubbed as many sleeping birds as desired and let month may have gotten its name from the vast flocks of birds that came into them fall into an open bag. Choctaw people also Choctaw country during the winter. caught birds with snares, hushi isht hokli, or shot Written descriptions from the period particularly note the appearance of them with blowgun darts. ducks, geese, bustard and passenger pigeons. From today’s perspective, it Besides migratory birds, the turkey also made is easy to miss how significant these flocks of migratory birds were to our a significant contribution to the diet. The season ancestors. For example, one Choctaw town was named Hanka Aiola, Where the for hunting turkeys was the cool part of the year Canadian Goose Cries, because of a beautiful, tree-rimmed pond located next to when they were relatively fat. Like their Alabama 7 the village that seasonally attracted flocks of birds. neighbors to the east, Choctaw hunters probably On a larger scale, the passenger pigeon was perhaps the most numerous bird acquired turkeys as they roosted in trees or by stalking them with a decoy. species on the planet 200 years ago. After nesting in the Great Lakes region Choctaw women contributed to the winter diet by digging edible wild roots, during the summer, immense flocks headed south for winter. Described as including laurel greenbrier and American groundnut. In abundant years, these root plants made up a relatively smaller portion of the diet, but in years of poor crops and poor hunting, they served as a staple until the land began to turn green in the springtime. During the cold parts of really bad years, communities sometimes turned to starvation foods like longleaf pine roots and yellow jacket larvae. On days of suitable weather, during mid-to-late winter, the men and women who were already back in the villages began working to prepare agricultural fields to be planted later in the spring. These activities began with the appropriate dances. Choctaw workers cleared brush for the fields using fire – a process known as bvlli. Large trees were removed through a slow, patient technique known as iti chant abi. First, men girdled and killed the trees by chopping through the bark all the way around the tree’s base using stone-bladed axes. These girdled trees would be left to rot and fall to earth or to stand and dry out. Workers would return to the spot a year or more later, gather fallen limbs and brush, and cut down new saplings. They would pile this material at the bases of the standing dead trees and set it on fire. The fire would burn through the dry wood and fell the trees. Sometimes, parts of the fallen dry trees would be hauled off and used for firewood. Most of the rest would be burned on the spot. If new saplings popped up while the field was in use, workers would cut them down, pile them on living roots, and burn them. They would repeat the process until the roots quit sending up saplings. Ultimately, the traditional Choctaw method of clearing a field put a great deal of rotten wood, ash, and charcoal directly into the soil where it acted as a fertilizer and moisture-retainer. In the coming months, this would be crucial to by Choctaw Nation the new crops.

Watonlak Hvshi, or Crane Month, roughly corresponds with February. It may have gotten its Editor’s Note: For Iti Fabvssa stories you might have missed name from the vast flocks of birds that came into Choctaw country during the winter. Written descriptions from the period particularly note the appearance of ducks, geese and bustard. please visit ChoctawNation.com and click on History & Culture.

Chahta Anumpa Aiikhvna February Language Lesson

Nan vlhpoat nanta achi? What do the animals say? Add your animal sounds. 1. Ofi yvt nanta achi? What does the dog say? Ofi – dog Akanka – chicken 2. Wak vt nanta achi? What does the cow say? 3. Katos vt nanta achi? What does the cat say? Wak – cow Fala – crow 4. Issuba yvt nanta achi? What does the horse say? Katos – cat Okfochush – duck 5. Akanka yvt nanta achi? What does the chicken say? 6. Nashoba yvt nanta achi? What does the wolf say? Issuba – horse Nanta – what 7. Fala yvt nanta achi? What does the crow say? Nashoba – wolf Achi – say 8. Okfochush vt nanta achi? What does the duck say?

www.choctawschool.com

Student School Student School and Activity Fund and Activity Fund Need money to buy school or activity clothing? Need money to buy school or activity clothing?

- $100 VISA gift card available nationwide for Choctaw Tribal Members- $100 VISA who gift are card attending available 3 nationwideyear old daycare for Choctaw to 12th T grade.ribal Members who are attending 3 year old daycare to 12th grade. - Each student with a tribal membership can receive funding one time- Each per student school with year a. tribal membership can receive funding one time per school year. - Apply online at ssafapplication.choctawnation.com - Apply online at ssafapplication.choctawnation.com Applications for 2018-2019 School Year ApplicationsAvailable July for 1, 2018-2019 2018 - May School 1, 2019 Year Available July 1, 2018 - May 1, 2019 For more information contact (800)For 522-6170more information ext. 2175 contact or 2463 (800) 522-6170 ext. 2175 or 2463 Flag Flown at U.S. Embassy in Honor of Chief Batton

by APRYL MOCK to educate others about the Choctaw Na- tion,” Gilbert stated. Chief Gary Batton received a birthday She added that she especially enjoys present from across the globe Dec. 15, sharing the stories of the Choctaw Code 2018. Talkers with military colleagues. Micha Gilbert, an emergency manage- Gilbert and her husband, Major Mat- ment coordinator at the U.S. Embassy in thew Gilbert have enjoyed their time over- Astana, Kazakhstan, flew an American seas, although they have missed the local flag in honor of Chief Batton. cuisine in Durant, specifically cheeseburg- “I chose the date because of his birth- ers and chicken nuggets from Sherrer’s. day, but most importantly I wanted to say Though she sometimes gets homesick, ‘thank you!’ for all the Choctaw Nation the experience is something Gilbert would has done to help me get to where I am never change. today,” Gilbert said. She said, “The opportunity to experi- While in Kazakhstan, Gilbert takes ence so many different cultures and Photo by Apryl Mock great pride in sharing her heritage. meet people from all around the world “As an American overseas we are is something that I will cherish forever. Micha Gilbert and her husband Major Matthew Gilbert present My time in Astana will come to an end in Chief Batton and Assistant Chief Austin with the flag that was frequently asked about our family lineage. the summer of 2019, and then we will see flown over the Kazakhstan U.S. Embassy in honor of Chief Bat- Telling people I am Choctaw is a great conversation starter, and a wonderful way where our adventure takes us next.” ton’s birthday Dec. 15, 2018. 9 Stovall Demonstrates Chahta Spirit, Emmert Plays for Donates Toys to Children’s Hospital All-American Team Laney Emmert of Spiro, Shelby Stovall, a mem- Oklahoma, was selected to ber of the Battiest Choc- play in the All-American taw Nation Youth Advi- Games in Irvine, Califor- sory Board, exemplifies nia. what YAB is and upholds Laney’s team, the 2022- the Chahta Spirit. 2024 SY Stars, consisted She has made a great of 11 girls from across contribution to the YAB America. The team went program by exuding ser- undefeated during the vant leadership with every tournament, winning first meeting and project she place. attends. Laney’s batting aver- Before Christmas, Shel- age for the tournament by made the decision that was a 750 with 2 RBI’s. she did not want anyone to Defensively she played buy her presents this year. both short stop and second She chose to instead base, making a total of 17 give presents to children outs. at OU Children’s Hospital Courtesy Photo Laney and her family in Oklahoma City. The SY Stars pose for a team photo after placing first in the want to give a “huge thank She made the 3 hour trip All-American Games in Irvine California. Laney Emmert of you” to the Choctaw Na- from Bethel, Oklahoma to Spiro, Oklahoma, was selected for the team and sponsored by tion for sponsoring Laney deliver the gifts. Courtesy Photo the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. in this event. She brought a little joy and hope into the lives of Shelby Stovall of Battiest, Oklahoma, delivered toys to OU many children who were Children’s Hospital for Christmas in lieu of asking for presents relegated to the hospital for herself. She is an active member of the Choctaw Nation BIRTHDAY WISHES Youth Advisory Board. this holiday season. Austin Lee Edward Porter celebrated his first Delivering gifts to chil- ered cookies to members broken his arm. birthday on Nov. 25, 2018, surrounded by many loving dren in the hospital is not of their community. Shelby is a strong leader family members. the only thing Shelby did They even made a spe- in her community and He is the son of Randee (Bohanon) and Justin Porter this holiday season. cial delivery on Christmas indeed portrays the true of Poteau Oklahoma, and the grandson of Randel and She and her mother Eve to a little boy that had Chahta Spirit. Ruthie Bohanon of Smithville, Oklahoma, and Dennis baked, packaged and deliv- and Chelli Porter of Watson, Oklahoma. Chaplain Apela Visits Jones Academy to Share the ‘True Meaning of Christmas’

In December 2018, the Chaplain Apela group spent an evening of fellowship with the Jones Academy students. Chaplain Olin Williams brought some helpers (apela) to share the good news of the meaning of Christmas. Chantelle Standefer sang Christmas carols with the students and performed ‘O Holy Night’. Rebecca Good spoke to the students about the true meaning of Christmas.

Teach To Reach is a program available to assist Native Americans who have been accepted into the Choctaw Nation teacher education programs Emergency Management at OSU, OU, ECU, NSU or UCO.

Benefits of Participation: • Receive Funding for Tuition, Books & Fees • Monthly Living Stipend • Technology Allowance • Mentor Teacher Support • Professional Development & Culture Experiences • Assistance with Job Placement • Support for the First Two Years of Employment • Funding for classroom school supplies upon employment • Testing or Exam Fees

For program information and to apply contact: Career Development: 866-933-2260 www.choctawcareers.com/T2R *A portion of the total costs of the Teach to Reach program will be financed with Federal money. Living Out the Chahta Spirit: 2018 in Review

Pvt. Charles Kaniatobe arrives back in the U.S. after being MIA for nearly seven decades. Kaniatobe was laid to rest in his hometown of Idabel, Oklahoma.

Chief Gary Batton and Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar try traditional Choctaw foods during Varadkar’s visit March 12, 2018.

Ground is broken for the Choctaw Nation Judicial Center Jan. 30, 2018. The Choctaw Nation The Choctaw Nation Color Guard leads the way during the 2018 Trail of Tears memorial walk. Judicial Center will be located at 2250 Chukka Hina in Durant, Oklahoma.

Choctaw Chief Gary Batton cuts the ribbon at the Headquarters Grand Opening as Chickasaw Gov. Bill Anoatubby and 2017-2018 Miss Choctaw Nation BreAnna Jefferson hold it steady.

Chief Gary Batton joins a demonstration of the Raccoon Dance during the Portland, Oregon Community Meeting July 29, 2018. Social dancing is an integral part of Choctaw Culture. The Choctaw Nation Trail of Tears Bike Team ends its 500-mile ride at Choctaw Nation Headquarters. Chief Batton, front, joined the bike team 12 miles out in Blue, Oklahoma.

Children enjoy the view from the Buffalo Tour bus at the 2018 Labor Day celebration. Staff hang blue ribbons at the former Headquarters in honor of Child Abuse Awareness Month.

The Choctaw Nation Color Guard celebrates 20 years of service in 2018. The color guard was formed in 1998, thanks to the help of former Chief Gregory E. Pyle.

Photos by: Kelsey Brown, Deidre Elrod, Kendra Germany, Stacy Hutto, Apryl Mock and Krislan Turner. Nikki Schuth-Mitchell helps a student plant vegetables in the Edible School- yard garden at the Durant Child Development Center.

The sunset lights up the sky behind the Ferris Wheel dur- A friendly pirate helps Vanessa Anderson, 3, and Ethan Ander- ing the 2018 Labor Day celebration. son, 6, spin the wheel to win a prize during the Fall Carnival.

The Choctaw Hymnal app is released in March of 2018. The app is available for both Apple and Android devices.

Members of the Choctaw Nation Tribal Police, who had been working in Florida following Hurricane Irma, prepare to board their flight to Puerto Rico to offer aid following Hurricane Maria. Choctaw 2017-2018 Royalty smile and wave during the 30th annual Red Earth parade in Oklahoma City June 8, 2018. Crawford Follows Martial Arts Dreams Thanks to Choctaw Career Development

by CHRIS JENNINGS On family, Crawford said, “Warriors Legacy is my family. My students are Two-time Taekwondo National my family. When they walk in here, I Champion Ryan Crawford has learned want them to be part of the Warriors from his life experiences. Now, with Legacy family.” help from the Choctaw Nation Career Faith is where Crawford was firm. Development Program, he’s using those “I believe this is the path that God experiences to teach others. chose for me,” Crawford said. It was The CNCDP assisted Crawford in get- his faith and training that helped him ting specialized martial arts training in survive through some rough times in muay thai. That training helped Craw- his life. ford open Warriors Legacy Martial Arts “God gave me the gift of muay thai to school in Paris, Texas. help protect those I care about and the Crawford, who said he grew up with ability to teach those that want to do an abusive father, assumed a protector the same,” said Crawford. role in his family. “I wanted to protect It took Crawford’s strong Choctaw people. That’s kind of always been my faith to take the next step though. thing,” Crawford said. “The system is out there to help,” said That early desire to be a protector Crawford. continued as he enlisted in the National The CNCDP’s purpose is to provide Guard in April 2005. things like career guidance and skills Crawford served one tour in Iraq and development – things that helped Craw- two tours as search and rescue during ford be a better person. Hurricanes Ike and Gustav. “If you’re not spending every day try- It was in the National Guard that ing to better yourself, just a little, then Crawford started paying attention to you’re not living any more, you’re just the other styles of martial arts. surviving,” said Crawford. “When I got back from basic train- The unstrung bow on the Great Seal ing I started looking into kickboxing, of the Choctaw Nation represents the boxing, jiu-jitsu, judo, krav maga, muay desire for peace. If called upon though, thai … I wanted to absorb everything I the Choctaw are ready to string that possibly could,” said Crawford. bow and protect their family. Much like Crawford prefers muay thai, a form Ryan Crawford is ready to protect his Photos by Chris Jennings family, friends and nation. that uses the whole body along with Ryan Crawford and his daughter, Sophie Crawford, spar at the beginning of class at Warriors Legacy. kicks and punches. Crawford describes muay thai as “one of the most effective combat systems in the world.” After the National Guard, Crawford felt like he was missing something. That’s when he opened Warriors Legacy martial arts. “It’s been a dream of mine since I was a 20 or 21-year-old kid,” said Crawford. Crawford, who suffers from post-trau- matic stress disorder, says the teaching helps him. “This was my outlet and this helped me cope a lot with what I had going on. It really got me back to my center,” Crawford said. Through his teaching, Crawford is able to pass along a few of the Choc- taw core values to his students. Some of them are included in the Warriors Creed displayed on the wall of his school and recited before class. When asked what some of the core values mean to him, Crawford was quick to reply, “Honor to me is facing an obstacle head front, honest, right in front of you … facing your problems Ryan Crawford gives an encouraging smile Ethan Krayniak, left and Ryan Crawford, center demonstrate proper stance to Logan Flanagan. This head-on.” to Charlotte Howell as she works out on the was Logan’s first trip to Warriors Legacy. punching bag. February Watonlak Hvshi 2019 crane month In This Issue Page 1: 2 Faith Family Culture Amendments to the Stigler Act mean tribal 3 Health lands will now be available to members of the Five Tribes with less than 50 percent 4 Sports & Education blood quantum, thus righting a decades 5 Notes to the Nation old wrong that saw Choctaw’s loose 7 Iti Fabvassa familial lands for generations. 8 Obituaries Front Page Artwork by Kendra Germany 9 People You Know Biskinik Mission Statement: To serve as the source of information for Choctaw Nation tribal members by delivering community news 10 Year in Review through a variety of communication channels.

Stay Connected. ChoctawNation.com features access to information about tribal history, culture, news, services, government, businesses, applications and contacts. The Choctaw Nation’s official publication, the BISKINIK, is available to tribal members by mail and archived editions are on ChoctawNation.com. www.facebook.com/ChoctawNationofOklahoma www.twitter.com/ChoctawNationOK www.instagram.com/ChoctawNationOK

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