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The Offi cial Publication of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

September 2014 Issue

Tribal Council holds regular Keeping our Choctaw Nation strong Successes session • Stickball team Tvshka Homma sent 80 Chief Batton talks about values, culture, players to the fi rst World Series. Choctaw Nation Tribal Council • Development of youth stickball league met for its regular session on with 168 active participants. Aug. 9 at Tvshka Homma. and growth in rst State of the Nation Council members voted to ap- By LISA REED • Development of fi rst Council of Wis- prove the following measures: Choctaw Nation dom—Laura Mackey and Alfred Harley. • Tribal historian and counselor Olin • The Choctaw Language A highlight of this year’s Choctaw Nation Williams appointed as employee program welcomed newest Labor Day Festival was the Monday ceremonies instructor, Lincie Battiest and the fi rst State of the Nation delivered by Chaplain. Maye of Broken Bow. Chief Gary Batton. He addressed the crowded • Cultural Services Department held • Approval of disposal of amphitheater on the Capitol grounds, saying more than 400 hands-on classes. surplus equipment. “Our Choctaw Nation is achukma hoke, we are • Choctaw artist registry has tripled. • Approval for the sale of doing extremely well!” • Choctaw Nation received Congressional discontinued medical Chief Batton shared successes from the past Gold Medal in recognition of Native equipment. year, including the opening on Aug. 29 of the American Code Talker contributions. • Approval of grant applica- Bertram Bobb Chapel at the entry of the Tvshka tion for the Vocational • Age change to allow for more seniors to Homma Grounds. The fi rst church services and receive storm shelter assistance. Rehabilitation Services traditional singing were held during the festival. • New market-style food center open in Project for American Indi- The Rev. Bobb was recognized as a true spiritual Durant with two more scheduled for ans with Disabilities. leader of the Nation. • Approval of budget for the Sunday’s services at the Chapel also included Broken Bow and McAlester. Educational Talent Search a tribal member’s trek from Texas to return a • Grand opening of new Wellness program. hymnal that originally belonged to the Bobb Centers. The Choctaw Nation’s Tribal family and was signed in 1929. Chief Gary Batton gives the annual State • Choctaw Career Development helped Council holds its regular session “God is going to lead this great Choctaw Na- of the Nation report during the 2014 La- over 5,000 with additional training and at 10 a.m. on the second Satur- tion of ours. Our culture will keep us unifi ed and bor Day Festival at Tvshka Homma. employment opportunities. day of each month in the Council strong,” Chief Batton said. “It’s our servant lead- Chambers at Tvshka Homma. ership, it’s our values and respect for our elders, Other ways the Nation is preserving culture Future for Choctaw people honor, integrity, and family. That’s what’s going include classes on pottery, beadwork, and bas- • Scheduled opening of new facilities to keep our Choctaw Nation strong.” ketmaking. Summer camps are held on culture including the Stigler Independent Another success is the way the Choctaw lan- and stickball as well as other activities that Center, McAlester Community Center, guage is being taught and kept alive. It is good to are now a part of our culture such as football, McAlester Head Start, McAlester Food Over 18 hear the language being spoken on the grounds, softball, basketball, baseball, and golf. This Distribution, McAlester Wellness Cen- he said, and good to hear it sung in the National summer, 2,015 Choctaw youth participated in ter, Wilburton Wellness Center, Broken years old? Anthem. Many of our original speakers have those camps. Don’t forget to update passed away, but they have left a legacy that Education, training, and job fairs have helped Bow Food Distribution, Poteau Clinic your membership card our second generational speakers are carrying increase skill sets and annual income for many Expansion, Bethel Community Center, on. Chief Batton’s grandfather taught him some Bethel/Battiest Head Start, Durant If you have recently turned 18 Choctaws. “Our Choctaw people are fi rst in Choctaw words and he said his son, David, can or will be turning 18 within the line,” Chief Batton said for jobs. Health Clinic, Tribal Headquarters, and speak twice as much. A challenge was given his next 60 days and have not yet The Choctaw Nation is also reclaiming its Cultural Center. grandchildren—“I want Jeff rey and Kaylynn to obtained your Adult Member- land base. With the purchase of Winding Stair • Choctaw Nation acquisition of Durant learn to speak it better than David.” ship card please complete a Ranch this year, 44,382 acres were added and 11 clinic Oct. 1. and Poteau Clinic expansion. Preservation of our culture includes the game new Tribal Membership appli- Choctaws employed, with more jobs becoming • Choctaw Nation car tags available of stickball, or “little brother of war.” The team, cation and return to the Choc- available. Tvshka Homma, was formed in 2011 and the beginning Jan. 1, 2015. taw Nation Tribal Membership The growth of the Nation includes planning Choctaw Nation started its fi rst youth league • New Independent Living Community Department. The application for the future—investing in businesses, health, with approximately 168 kids participating. scheduled to open in Stigler. can be found online at www. and saving for our children. • Plan of 20 percent funding to prepare choctawnation.com or by The annual Labor Day Stickball Tournament “To me, the most important part is about our contacting the Tribal Member- was won by the Mississippi Choctaw (MBCI) culture, our history, and our pride of being the for future foundation for children and ship offi ce at (800) 522-6170 this year. Tvshka Homma came in second and great Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma.” grandchildren. or (580) 924-8280. Beaver Dam won third. Chief Batton described the championship game as a game of honor, a game of integrity. “At the very end we all got in the center of the See special 2014 ◆ What’s inside fi eld and said a prayer for everybody. I am so Labor Day Festival proud to see our tribal members playing the and Pow Wow Columns ...... 2 game of stickball again.” section pages 17-20! Nursery News ...... 6 Choctaw artists have been recognized more Food Distribution ...... 6 this year as a way to preserve our culture. The People You Know ...... 7 artistry is a way they can keep a job for them- Notes to the Nation ...... 8 selves and do the things they love to do. There Education ...... 9 are 293 on the artist registry and it continues Obituaries ...... 11 to grow. Iti Fabvssa ...... 14 The annual art show was held in the Capitol Museum during the festival with exemplary works entered in several categories. Best of Show went to J. Dylan Cavin’s “For Some the The Mission Music Comes Easy.” of the Choctaw A life-size statue was dedicated to Tribal Nation of Oklahoma Councilwoman Charlotte Jackson. It was un- veiled by her children, Kevin Jackson and Pat To enhance the lives of all members Jones. Women attending the unveiling received through opportunities designed to a commemorative button celebrating the life and develop healthy, successful and contributions of a strong Choctaw female leader. productive lifestyles. After the unveiling, family members and friends of Jackson’s agreed that the statue represented the true spirit of her giving ways to her culture A ribbon cutting ceremony was held for the grand opening of the Bertram Bobb Cha- and her communities. pel on Aug. 29. ◆ Get your digital copy!

Scan this code with your smart- phone to go online for this issue and archive copies of the BISKINIK! http://www.choctawnation.com/news- Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma 2014-15 Royalty room/biskinik-newspaper-archive/ Kyra, 11, is a Summer, 13, was The 17-year-old Choctaw STAR Little Miss Choctaw new Miss Choctaw student and is on for 2011-12 as well Nation has placed the Principal’s honor as State of Okla- fi rst at the Oklahoma roll. She has com- homa Youth Leader Native American pleted the Chahta of Tomorrow for Youth Language Anumpa Aiikhvna 2011-12. Fair for the past two and the OSU Nutri- years. tion Program.

Little Miss Choctaw Nation Junior Miss Choctaw Nation Miss Choctaw Nation Kyra Wilson, Dist. 9 Summer Moffi tt, Dist. 8 Nikki Amos, Dist. 2 2 BISKINIK | September 2014 FAITH, FAMILY AND CULTURE Fellowship in The Old Ways Choctaw Day of Prayer

This year’s Labor Day Festival was great and I was glad to see The Choctaw Nation is strong because it is built on so many sharing the time with their family and friends. faith. As Chief Batton said during his Labor Day State of I often think of the term “old ways,” especially with the the Nation, God is going to lead our great Nation. events during the weekend, beginning the fi rst night with the When I was a lot younger, I attended Bertram Bobb’s princess pageant. Bible Camp. One of the highlights of the weekend for me The young ladies said Yakoke to their mothers, their grand- was watching Brother Bobb as we unveiled the sign in mothers or their aunts for their support or for making their dress front of the new chapel at Tvshka Homma. He loves God or jewelry. It reminded me of the theme chosen for the festival – and he loves the Choctaw Nation. Honoring the giver of life – our women and all they do. The chapel has been named the Bertram Bobb Chapel Choctaw families came together that night to encourage the to honor his decades of service. His camp near Antlers girls. They continued to come together for the next four days has provided a pos- in the old ways. itive influence on We had our traditional dances, games, gospel singing and thousands of youth good food. over the years I saw boys and girls carrying their stickball sticks in bags on and his Biskinik their backs as they walked all over the grounds – more this year newspaper column than ever before. It seemed such a natural thing for them to do. reaches almost From the Desk Exhibition stickball games were played Sunday afternoon From the Desk of Chief Gary Batton 90,000 households with diff erent age groups. The exhibition games gave the every month. At 90 of Assistant Chief youngest a chance to learn and the oldest a chance to run out years old he still Jack Austin Jr. on a fi eld again to battle. has the heart of a The stickball tournament games were awesome and hard-fought. Tvshka Homma placed servant and will never retire from sharing God’s second, losing to MBCI (Mississippi Band of Choc- Word. taw Indians) in the championship game. I will never I also had the opportunity to be a part of the forget what happened after the game. Everyone gath- early-morning Choctaw Day of Prayer. It was the ered in the middle of the fi eld to pray. The teams, the first time to have church services in the chapel. coaches, families, friends and spectators all came to- Services began as the sun came up and the bell gether to pray for the injured players and everyone’s was rung that Sunday morning to call all to wor- safety as they left the fi eld. It was very moving. ship. The chapel was overflowing with people Another example of continuing traditions is one lining the walls and spilling out the doors. We Appeciation plaque presented of the families in the tent area who has been stay- enjoyed hearing Brother Bobb preach again and to Bertram Bobb for dedication. ing in the same spot for 27 years. They said this was his memory for scripture always amazes me. The the time their family always comes together for their end of the day brought Choctaws back for a traditional singing and Choctaw hymns reunion. That means they have camped there since I were lifted up by truly joyous voices. began working for the tribe. It was a blessing to have the chapel on the grounds and an even larger blessing to It’s this fellowship in the “old way” that makes our have our Choctaw brothers and sisters to share it with. festival so special. We relive what we did at the Labor I am amazed at the amount of people who tell us they are praying for the tribe and Day Festival while we begin planning for next year Chief Batton crowns 2014- us. I appreciate your prayers very much. As long as we continue to put God first, all with the people we care about the most. 15 Miss Choctaw Nation Nikki other things will fall into place. Amos. Spotlight on Elders Chaplain’s Corner with Christian Choices Leo Smallwood We are thankful for another who has accepted a challenge. year of God’s blessing for the Jesus said, “...If any man will Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma come after me, let him deny and friends. himself, and take up his cross, Today, there are many people and follow me.” (Matthew who seem to have no purpose for 16:24). living, no motivating challenge. In other words, when we deny Jesus Christ doesn’t call us to self, we deny selfi sh ambitions, be bystanders. When a person we deny selfi sh, sinful pleasures. accepts Jesus Christ as his or Then we turn and take up our her personal Savior, he or she cross. What did Jesus mean by becomes a member of the Body that? He is saying that when you of Christ. It means that you have go and tell people that you have chosen Jesus Christ and you are received Jesus Christ as your following Him. personal Savior they may laugh “Are you a Christian?” I mean at you. They may make fun of a true Christian, a born-again you. Maybe your friends will no Christian. There are many longer have anything to do with people who have a wrong idea REV. BERTRAM BOBB you. You will have to pay a price. of what a Christian is. They say, Tribal Chaplain Some people resist the idea Photo by Payton Guthrie “A Christian is a person who of a choice of any sort. But Jesus prays.” Christians do pray, but you and to me. taught that there are two roads Leo Smallwood receives recognition with his family on the Rattan High School baseball fi eld. prayer doesn’t make a Christian. We are all sinners, and we are and you have to choose which Or people say, “A Christian lives capable of sin and we all sin. road you will take. We cannot By PAYTON GUTHRIE “the ground where I was sitting was shaking by the Golden Rule.” But living We have to choose. Read travel both roads. Jesus does Choctaw Nation from the bombardment and the water would by the Golden Rule doesn’t what Jesus said in Matthew not allow us to be neutral about shimmer from the explosions.” make you a Christian. 7:13-14: “Enter ye in at the Him. Jesus demands that we Student. Teacher. Veteran. Coach. Princi- Six days after D-Day Leo Smallwood A person may be sincere, but strait gate, and broad is the decide about him. pal. Rancher. Choctaw. crossed the English Channel to patrol the that doesn’t make him a Chris- way, that leadeth to destruc- The Bible teaches that “God Leo Smallwood has lived a full life at hedgerows before taking part in the Battle of tian. Some people think a Chris- tion, and many there be which is love” (1 John 4:8). He loves the age of 97 serving his local community the Bulge. tian is one who keeps the Ten go in thereat: Because strait is you. He is interested in you. He in Rattan. Upon returning from the service he con- Commandments. Everybody the gate, and narrow is the way loves you with an everlasting Leo was raised on a farm as a middle child, tinued his studies at Southeastern where he has broken the commandments. which leadeth unto life, and few love. (Jeremiah 31:3). And He “just right with the big ones to run over and met his future wife, Jane. He would receive We read in the Book of James there be that fi nd it. wants to forgive you. He wants the little ones not to bother with,” with three his Bachelor’s degree in 1946 and his Mas- 2:10: “For whosoever shall keep He said that only a few people to come into your life and into brothers and one sister. ter’s degree from North Texas State in the the whole law, and yet off end in are on the narrow road that your home and into your work “We dug out of the ground mostly what we early 1950s. one point, he is guilty of all.” leads to heaven. The majority to help you. lived on,” Leo said. Leo Smallwood became Coach Smallwood If we break one command- are on a broad road that leads to What do you have to do? You After graduating from Rattan High School for Rattan High School upon completion of ment, we have broken them all. judgment, destruction and hell. have to be willing to say, “God, I in 1936 Leo followed his older sister to South- his Bachelor’s degree. He coached all levels That is called “SIN” in the Bible. Which road are you on? am a sinner.” That is repentance. eastern Oklahoma State University in order to of boys and girls basketball and created the Some people say, “A Christian It is what you do about Jesus You have to be willing to turn pursue his education. By working as a janitor, school’s baseball program. Coach Small- is a person who goes to church.” Christ, His cross and His resur- from sin. Then by faith commit washing dishes in the cafeteria, and by milk- wood changed Rattan from the ground up Yes, a Christian ought to go to rection that counts. If we enter your life to Jesus Christ and put ing cows, Leo Smallwood managed enough event changing the school’s colors from church, but attending church that narrow gate at the cross Him fi rst from now on. You can hours to get a temporary teaching certifi cate. black and orange to green and white, as they doesn’t make one a Christian. and say, “Yes, Lord, I believe, I pray a prayer something like Leo’s fi rst teaching position was in the remain today. What is a Christian? turn from my sins; I am willing this: “O God, I am a sinner, I sawmill community of Frazier Valley. Leo His time at Rattan led to over 625 First, a Christian is a person to change my ways of living,” trust Jesus as my Savior.” would ride horseback to school over the hills baseball victories and 15 district titles. His who has made a choice. we will walk on the narrow road God doesn’t make that choice by way of pig and cow trails in order to teach basketball teams fared equally well winning Second, a change has taken which may be rocky and rough for us. God gave his Son to 42 children at a salary of $65 a month. over 600 games and 9 district titles. place in his life. And third, he and tough. But at the end will be forgive our sins and to give us “Being young and inexperienced I got After coaching and teaching for over has accepted a challenge. Heaven. As we walk on that nar- eternal life, and He helps us to quite an education,” Leo said about his fi rst 20 years, Leo transitioned into the role Now, I emphasize very briefl y row road, God will give us new make the choices by sending year teaching. of Principal for the next 20 years, giv- these three things. power, a new love and new joy. His Holy Spirit to convict us. In February of 1942, Smallwood was ing over 40 years of service to the Rattan First, a Christian is a person Second, a Christian is a But we make our own choice. drafted into the United States Army. After School System. who has made a choice. All the person whose life has been God doesn’t make the choice for basic training Leo was positioned as an Army The Rattan School System recently recog- way through the Bible we are changed. That is done by the us. God gave His Son to forgive teacher for the cadets who didn’t know how to nized Coach Smallwood for his works with asked to make choices. Adam Holy Spirit. The moment you our sins and to give us eternal read or write. That assignment lasted about 18 the sports programs and his time as princi- and Eve in the Garden of Eden receive Jesus Christ, the Spirit life, and He helps us to make months at Fort Sill before Leo was deployed pal at Rattan High School. After the baseball made the wrong choice. They of God comes to live in your the choice by sending His Holy overseas. game the fans and baseball players stood in rebelled against God. They heart. We read in II Corinthians Spirit to convict us. But we make “I was sitting in South Hampton, England, recognition of his leadership of intramural chose to try to rebuild their 5:17: “Therefore if any man be in our own choice. when the invasion started,” Smallwood said, sports at Rattan. world without God, and they Christ, he is a new creature: old Will you continue to pray for made a terrible, tragic mistake. things are passed away; behold, America? Pray for our Chief, We read that record in Genesis all things are become new.” Assistant Chief and the Tribal The Durant Police Department and Choctaw Nation partnership against 2 and 3. They broke God’s law Christ is One who does it. He Council members as they lead Impaired Driving reminds you: and passed the results of their transforms your life, He makes our Nation. Remember our The driver is safer when the roads are dry; disobedience on to Cain and you a new person. Has a change service men and woman in our the roads are safer when the driver is dry. Able, their children, and they taken place in your life? armed services. have passed the results on to Third, a Christian is a person Don’t Drink and Drive. BISKINIK | September 2014 3 Choctaws serving Choctaws and their Communities Chief Batton gives Promise Zone update Health Service workers honored By BRANDON FRYE Choctaw Nation Chief Gary Batton was the keynote speaker at The Gather- ing—the fi rst meeting of an annual business summit. He fo- cused on what could potentially be one of the biggest impacts on local business: the designa- tion of parts of southeastern Oklahoma as a Promise Zone. “One of the reasons we were awarded the designation was our capacity, we’ve been able to improve things here in southeastern Oklahoma,” Photo Provided Chief Batton said. “Today, we Award recipients stand alongside Chief Batton displaying artwork received for have about 6,200 employees quality health service. and for an economic impact, we invest back into the state By BRANDON FRYE artwork, which were do- Manager of the Pharmacy- of Oklahoma about $1.8 Choctaw Nation nated by Tribes 131 Fine Based Anticoagulation Clinic. billion dollars every year.” Choctaw Nation Health Art Gallery of Norman. Ross Green earned The Promise Zone initiative is Services employees re- David Wharton, Chief Risk the Commission Corps an anti-poverty program meant ceived awards during the Offi cer and Health Informati- Honor Award and Com- to provide resources such as 11th Annual Oklahoma cist for the Choctaw Nation, mendation Medal. grants and tax incentives to City Area Director’s Indian earned the Area Director’s Three employees won help improve conditions in Health Service, Tribal and National Impact Award. Length of Service awards. persistently high poverty com- Urban Awards Ceremony Wharton was hand-picked Judy Daniel has worked 40 munities. The Choctaw Nation at the National Cowboy and by the Area Director, RADM years; Dennis King 30 Years; is one of fi ve locations granted Western Heritage Museum Kevin Meeks, as having and Sandra Reavis 30 years. the Promise Zone designation. in Oklahoma City on July 17. a national impact for his One Peer Recognition “We want to make sure that “This is something that work overseeing, collecting, Award went to a single we go back and focus on our was started about 10 years and analyzing data used by employee for each Choctaw tribal members,” Chief Batton ago with Indian Health Ser- governmental entities such Nation facility. Misty Fox said. “Sometimes [members] vice,” Teresa Jackson, Senior as IHS and the Centers for from the McAlester Clinic, want to be entrepreneurs, Photo by Brandon Frye Executive Offi cer for Choctaw Medicare/Medicaid Services. Candice Vaughn from the they want to have their own Chief Batton giving the keynote speech at The Gath- Nation of Oklahoma Health Jason Hill earned the Area Poteau Clinic, Doris Winlock businesses. And that’s what ering on Aug. 10. Updates included a Promise Zone Services, said. “What they Director’s Area Impact Award from the Choctaw Nation we want to encourage.” tax credit. wanted to do was recognize for his work serving as the Health Care Center in Tali- The Nation and offi cials with employees that were out- Chief of Medical Offi cer and hina, Stephanie Storey from the Promise Zone are work- Zone Initiative. Chief Batton state, and national partners. standing in their areas.” Residency Director for the the Idabel Clinic, Miranda ing to implement tax credits and other leaders with the Chief Batton said the Promise Dignitaries including Choctaw Nation Health Ser- Taylor from the Broken Bow to businesses in the zone, Choctaw Nation have met Zone is more than making sure Chief Batton, Assistant Chief vices Authority. He oversees Clinic, Wendi Eubanks from according to Chief Batton. with top offi cials at the White we can create businesses, it is Austin, Todd Hallmark, and medical staff and the family the Atoka Clinic, Nancy “We are trying to get promise House and federal agencies also about creating jobs for our Kelly Mings were in at- practice residency program. Linn from the Hugo Clinic, zone tax credits so we can according to Smallwood. tribal members and for people tendance while each award Area Director RADM Kevin and Gwen Hendrix from the allow every business in the “One of the things we want to here in southeastern Oklahoma. recipient was recognized Meeks selected him for his Stigler Clinic all received Promise Zone designated area make sure to do is collaborate “What they are asking us to for distinguished service impact on the Oklahoma City Peer Recognition Awards. to receive those tax credits,” on a national, state, county, do is lead this eff ort to make in the eff orts of improving service area, which includes “We did very well, and he said. “Hopefully this will and the city level all so we can sure we can coordinate,” the health and wellbeing of parts of Kansas and Texas. these awards refl ect the grow some of those compa- make sure to make a diff er- Batton said. “Our issue is to patients and communities. Ashlee Harden, Clinical quality of service we pro- nies that are currently here ence,” Chief Batton said. bring this together so we can Awardees were honored Pharmacist at the Choctaw vide,” Brandy Griffi n, Media and increase new companies For such eff orts, an REI collaborate with every school with length of service awards, Nation Health Care Center Relations Offi cer for Choctaw which come into our area.” Innovation award was and every city so we can peer recognition awards, in Talihina, earned a Merit Nation and Area Director’s Sara-Jane Smallwood, Public given by Rural Enterprises improve the lives of not only as well as competitive Award. The award recognized Awards Ceremony Committee Policy and Research Analyst Incorporated to the Choctaw our tribal members but all of awards like merit and area Harden’s sustained superior Member, said. “The most im- for the Choctaw Nation, said Nation for working with its these communities. What do impact awards. They were accomplishments during portant part of this is recog- several advancements have partners and coordinating we always say? The rising tide given carefully selected her time with the Nation nizing these people and their been made in the Promise the Promise Zone with local, brings everyone up together.” pieces of Native American over the last 4 years, and as service to Native Americans.” Blue umb teaches youth to protect natural resources Gary Batton Jack Austin Jr. By BRANDON FRYE Chief Assistant Chief Choctaw Nation The Broken Bow Boys and Girls Club of the Choctaw e O cial Nation hosted a day of water Monthly Publication conservation education with of the the help of Oklahoma’s Blue Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Thumb Program on July 29. Blue Thumb aims to Judy Allen, Senior Executive O cer show citizens their power Lisa Reed, Executive Director to make decisions which Vonna Shults, Media Director Ronni Pierce, Editor help keep water resources Stephenie Ochoa, Assistant Editor clean. Volunteers from the Zach Maxwell, Reporter/Photographer program visited the Boys Brandon Frye, Reporter/Photographer and Girls Club to teach the Payton Guthrie, Social Media Coordinator children throughout the day in honor of local river guide, conservationist, and fi sher- P.O. Box 1210 man, James “Jimbo” Jones. Durant, OK 74702 (580) 924-8280 • (800) 522-6170 “He was a guide on the river before there was even Fax (580) 924-4148 Photo by Brandon Frye a Broken Bow Lake, he grew www.choctawnation.com Jeri Fleming and Dennis Wilson demonstrate erosion to members of the Bro- e-mail: [email protected] up on the river,” Dennis ken Bow Boys and Girls Club of the Choctaw Nation using a stream trailer. Wilson, Blue Thumb Vol- e BISKINIK is printed each month as a service to Tribal Members. e BISKINIK reserves the right to edit unteer said. “Jim was all “It’s better to educate and leaky car, antifreeze, or an oil said. “It’s very critical that submitted material which it  nds inaccurate, profane, about teaching kids. Fishing show them why we need leak, and of course you have a children connect to nature o ensive or morally unacceptable. Copy may be edited was more than just fi shing, clean water than it is to say lot of people putting out pesti- and get outdoor time. It will for proper grammar and punctuation. Copy will be it showed you how to be ‘don’t dump your oil down the cides,” Cheadle said, while the help them develop a heart accepted in any readable form, but where possible, it is responsible, told you what storm drain,’” Wilson said. colored waters dripped onto to care for our land and requested that material be typewritten and double spaced. conservation was about.” Another area was dedicated little homes and fi elds. “What water. Then they can grow You must include an address or phone number where you The goal for the day was to viewing the life found in happens is, eventually you are up in a world where their may be reached. Due to space limitations and the quantity of article submissions, we are unable to include to have various stations set streams and lakes, both with a going to get a rain, and that grandchildren will still have everything we receive. up so the members of the microscope and in the hands rain carries various things beautiful natural areas.” If you are receiving more than one BISKINIK at your Boys and Girls Club could of the children. “A lot of these into the streams that then car- Citizens and employees home or if your address needs changed, we would come in smaller groups and kids might have been fi shing, ry them into the local lake.” of the Choctaw Nation, like appreciate hearing from you. volunteers could give quality but before today they didn’t A connection the volunteers Cyndi Johnson and Ste- e BISKINIK is a nonpro t publication of the lessons, Cheryl Cheadle, Blue know about what else was bring up is how frequently phen Moffi t with Environ- Choctaw Nation. Thumb Coordinator, said. in that water,” Wilson said. drinking water comes from mental Health, volunteer Circulation is monthly. Article deadline is the 10th of the month for the following month’s edition. One booth was dedicated Cheadle led a hands-on wa- a lake, and many people for Blue Thumb as well as Editor’s note: Views and opinions in reader-submitted to fi sh printing. Children tershed model of a small com- enjoy fi shing and recreation working to protect natural articles are solely those of the author and do not stepped up, smeared ink on munity and let the children at lakes and streams. resources for the Nation. necessarily represent those of the Choctaw Nation. a fi sh replica, and pressed it pour colored water where “We wanted to help these The Choctaw Nation Envi- against a paper sheet with common pollutants are found. kids get a feeling for what ronmental Offi ce does volun- conservation tips on the back. “Anything that happens on lives in the stream, what can teer creek sampling for Blue The children were excited this model is going to end impact a stream, and how Thumb in southeastern Okla- to be able to learn hands on up having an impact on the to take care of streams and homa, Cyndi Johnson, Water and bring home an educa- stream or lake,” Cheadle said. rivers, and that’s really what Quality Technician with the tional souvenir, Wilson said. “This could be a bit of a we’re set up to do,” Cheadle Environmental Offi ce, said. 4 BISKINIK | September 2014 Choctaw Tags Available for Tribal Members Beginning in January Where do I go to get my Choctaw tag? Do I need to live in Oklahoma to get a Choctaw tag? Choctaw tags can be purchased at any Oklahoma tag office. Yes. Why are State tag offices selling Choctaw tags? How many tags can I get? This benefit was negotiated for the convenience of Choctaw tribal members. The There is no limit on the number of Choctaw tags you can purchase as long as a Choctaw tribe and its members benefit by using the existing infrastructure for tag purchases, tribal member is one of the owners on the vehicle title. thereby avoiding the additional expense associated with establishing a separate tribal Do I have to live in the 10½ counties of the Choctaw Nation to get a Choctaw Tag? infrastructure. No. The Choctaw Nation has made this benefit available to all Choctaw tribal members Will my Choctaw tag be mailed to me? who live anywhere in Oklahoma. The tag office should issue your tag on site. If the tag office is out of stock, your tag will be Is there an additional charge to get a Choctaw tag instead of a State of Oklahoma tag? mailed to you (in this case, the local tag office will issue a temporary tag). No. You will save money because the Choctaw Nation will send you a partial rebate. When can I get my Choctaw Tag? Some people are saying that the Choctaw tags are the same thing as a specialty plate. January 1, 2015. Is this true? What are some benefits of the Choctaw Tag Compact? No. See the table below for a comparison. The tag is legally recognized by State of Oklahoma, it will be registered in the DMV system, all Choctaws pay the same price, and it can be purchased at any Oklahoma tag CHOCTAW TAG OKLAHOMA SPECIALTY PLATE office. Authorized by Tribal and State Compact Authorized by Oklahoma Legislature No extra charge $18-$38 additional fee Why did the Choctaw Nation make a compact with the State? Always available Only available if the state receives at least The Choctaw Nation’s car tag compact with the State of Oklahoma is a legal agreement 100 prepaid applications by deadline between the two governments. When a tribe elects to compact with a state it allows for No waiting period to get tag 6-8 months processing time a legal agreement to be made between the two, where both parties acknowledge the Partial rebate for Choctaw members No rebate sovereignty of the other. Section one of the compact acknowledges the sovereignty of the Choctaw Nation which inherently strengthens tribal sovereignty. All Choctaw Nation If I buy a Choctaw tag, will state or local programs supported by tag sales get less citizens in Oklahoma will receive the same benefits with car tags, regardless of whether support? they live in our territory. The compact ensures all tags are legal and tribal citizens will No. The Choctaw Nation has negotiated a compact that ensures all programs will not face additional challenges from law enforcement for the tags when driving on roads. continue to be supported at the same rate. Examples of programs that are supported by Additionally, compacting allows for revenue from the tags to go back to services across tag sales include local school districts, County Highway Maintenance and Construction the state that Choctaws and all Oklahomans use daily. Revenue from car tags supports Fund, County Improvements for Roads and Bridges Fund, County Road Improvement roads, bridges, public safety, and public schools around Oklahoma. Fund, County for Cities and Incorporated Towns, County Road Fund for County Will Choctaw Farm Tags or Commercial Tags be issued? Roads, Oklahoma Law Enforcement Retirement Fund, Counties for Support of County Not at this time. Government, State Transportation Fund, and Wildlife Conservation Fund. BISKINIK | September 2014 5 Everyone has a story to tell

Storytelling festival participants and attendees on Aug. 16 in Oklahoma City. Photos by Zach Maxwell OKC Choctaw Alliance takes new approach with storytelling festival By ZACH MAXWELL Choctaw Nation “Soon, large turtles were sticking their heads out,” she said. cess and reigning OKC Public Schools JOM Princess, kept the “I thought I was at a school building full of little children.” forest theme going with a reading about the Kowi Anuk Asha, Everyone has a story. It’s in the telling of those stories that D.J. Battiest-Tomasi, a counselor from McAlester, or “little people of the woods.” It is one of the most lasting brings people together. played songs on two wooden flutes. tales of Choctaw folklore. The Oklahoma City Choctaw Tribal Alliance (OCTA) hosted “Being Choctaw, this music is traditional to me,” she said. She also opened the gathering with a performance of the its second annual Storytelling Festival on Aug. 16. A variety Lord’s Prayer in sign language, and ended her time on stage of people gathered to tell their stories and those of others in by doing the same to “Future Days” by Pearl Jam. The effect vastly different forms. was to display the cross-generational themes experienced by “The concept was originally spoken storytelling,” said or- younger Choctaws in a modern, pop-culture infused world. ganizer Phyllis Been. “But I thought, there are other ways to “It’s an honor that I’ve been given the opportunity to tell a story. You have other ways to be creative. It’s becoming continue the stories and traditions we have,” Freeman said. a lost art.” “Lots of people don’t know where they came from, so it’s A mix of elders and youths joined Been on the OCTA Com- good to have events like this to continue our traditions and munity Center stage, blending music, art, and dance into the keep them alive.” traditional spoken word story. OCTA President Della Eisel said the storytelling event rep- The result was a slice of the Choctaw experience that tran- resents a renewed push to bring activities to the 100-member scended hundreds of years of tribal history. Stella Long told organization, including beadwork classes, Choctaw language of her encounters with forest animals; the family of Medal lessons and weekly meals for elders. She thanked Chief Gary The family of SFC Tony K. Burris at the OKC Story- Batton for his efforts to support the OK Choctaw Tribal Alli- telling Festival. ance.

“It was played in the woods as a warning, and men would play the flute while courting. We’re all related and we all share so much. It’s part of our being indigenous to this land.” Nicholas Charleston told a “Shukha Anumpa” story called Nita Micha Chula, or the Bear and the Fox. He mixed Choctaw and English. “Long ago, the Choctaw elders would tell these stories, Shukha Anumpa, to the children to teach them something good,” he said. After lunch, a Choctaw Nation video was shown about the life of US Army Sgt. Tony K. Burris, who was killed in ac- tion during the Korean Conflict and won the Medal of Honor. Three of his sisters were in attendance at the event. Sweet Inspirations Choir, made up of elders from two Native American churches, entertained the gathering with hymns in Choctaw and English. Their story, the group said, Artist D.G. Smalling explains his creations which Madeleine Freeman, left, performed the Lord’s were inspired by his grandfather Calvin Wilson. Prayer in sign language then Isabella Cornell, right, was spreading the message of Jesus Christ. brought in the first storyteller with an honor dance. This brought a blending of Choctaw spiritual traditions, just as artist D.G. Smalling’s works about his grandfather “We’re trying to get people interested in teaching these of Honor recipient Tony K. Burris shared memories of their accomplished the same. His grandfather, World War I Code classes,” Eisel said. “We’re just getting started on some of brother; and 15-year-old Madeleine Freeman read tales of Talker Calvin Wilson, would take his Bible to the forest and this. We’re partnering with Choctaw Nation on our culture the Kowi Anuk Asha and chose a Pearl Jam song for a sign “stomp dance” around it, blending two long-standing faith and it’s going to let us do a lot more.” language performance. traditions. The group is already planning an overnight event in Octo- Stella Long was the first to speak, introduced with an “We’re finally at a place in our history where it’s all right to ber that will include making Choctaw pottery, a cook-out and honor dance by Isabella Cornell. Long recently published her be expressive,” Smalling, a new member of the OCTA board, more storytelling. The group is proving that no matter where first children’s book called Sarah’s Music. She published the said. He explained that stomp dances are “practiced in the there are Choctaws gathered, the tribe’s stories and traditions book after nearly losing her voice, inspired by Been’s remind- woods secretly… You’re not just dancing with people you can will be shared and taught. er that there are other ways to share stories. see, you’re dancing with those who were, those who are and For more information about upcoming events in the She told of playing a flute by a lake and “baby turtles those who will be.” Oklahoma City area, visit the Alliance website www.ok- started gathering around close.” Madeleine Freeman, the 15-year-old former OCTA prin- choctaws.org.

Native beadwork thrives in Poteau By ZACH MAXWELL But there’s much more to a beading group than strings, looms and Choctaw Nation the colorful little stars of the party. In Poteau’s case, like many others, the group elects officers, holds fund-raisers and makes periodic “bead One of the most popular forms of cultural expression for Choctaws trips” to specialty stores in Tahlequah, Choteau, Skiatook, Tulsa, and – colorful, detailed beadwork – is thriving in community center classes Bentonville, Ark. around the region. The Biskinik sat down with one such group in The trips are a fun chance for the group to bond and they also pick up Poteau recently for a close-up view of the art of beading. books and patterns for their craft. While many of the patterns are uni-

An example of beadwork by a member of the Poteau class includes a Choctaw Great Seal by Alta Ruth Bentley.

Connie Veerkamp and her daughter Christy Dickson are leaders at the Poteau class, which has been held weekly at the Dale Cox Commu- nity Center for four years. There are 10 to 18 participants in each class, Peggy Wiser, Lena Mills and beading instructor where Dickson guides novices and more advanced beaders in such Christy Dickson look over a loom with a head-band in progress. At right, one of the Poteau beading class styles as the brick stitch, peyote stitch and square stitch. members strings along. The end results are rosettes, medallions, collars, earrings and lan- yards of a stunning variety of patterns and colors. versal or inter-tribal, there are plenty of unique Choctaw designs based “We have people that have various degrees of skill and we all teach on familiar motifs like the diamond and starburst.“I love everything each other,” Dickson said. “I can sit down and teach three different about it,” said Alta Ruth Bentley of Talihina, a two-year class member. stitches at once. I teach because, in the tradition of Choctaws, seniors “It’s relaxing and it keeps both your mind and your hands working. And teach the younger generation. So I am teaching the seniors and they can you feel good when someone asks, ‘Will you make me one?’ teach their children and grandchildren.” “This is our heritage and it’s very important,” she said. 6 BISKINIK | September 2014

Ten rules to live by, KidsHealth.org NURSERY NEWS Summer is coming to an end and the school year has begun. eating dinner, kids naturally place more value on the cup- This time of year tends to present some challenges for cake then the broccoli. Try to stay neutral about foods. Riley Steven Deweese healthy lifestyles for kids and adults. With all the added activities squeezed into the day with school, work, sporting 8. Food is not love. Find better ways to say “I love you.” Brandon and Andrea Deweese events, meetings, practices…and the list goes on. Some- When foods are used to reward kids and show aff ection, are happy to announce the times, this can all be overwhelming. The contributing writ- they may start using food to cope with stress or other emo- arrival of their baby boy Rilee ers from Kids Health have developed 10 key rules to live by: tions. Off er hugs, praise, and attention instead of food Steven Deweese who was born treats. on June 6, 2014 at Texas Health 1. We are in control of the supply lines. Harris Methodist Hospital in Decide which foods to buy and when to serve them. By 9. Kids do as you do. Fort Worth,TX. At birth Rilee having healthy options such as fresh fruits and veg, whole Be a role model and eat healthy. When trying to teach good weighed 8 pounds 15 ounces and grains, lean meat and low fat/fat free dairy, healthier eating habits, try to set the best example possible. Choose was 20 inches long. He joins big choices are easier to make. Also, by setting times for meals nutritious snacks, eat at the table, and don’t skip meals. brother Bintlee Thomas Deweese. Maternal grandparents are and snacks this will help to keep blood sugar more stable Steve and Sharon Holloway of Azle,TX. Paternal grandpar- and have a much happier household. 10. Limit TV and computer time. ents are Paula Talley of Denison,TX and Karl and Pam When you do, you’ll avoid mindless snacking and encourage Deweese of Wilmington, NC. 2. When a meal is prepared kids need to make the activity. Research has shown that kids who cut down on TV- choices of what they will eat or not eat. watching also reduced their percentage of body fat. When We all like to have some say in our lives and by allowing kids TV and computer time are limited, they’ll fi nd more active to decide if they want to eat a certain food or not is helping things to do. And limiting “screen time” means you’ll have them to grow and have confi dence in themselves. Besides more time to be active together. Kasen Lee Thomison if step one is implemented in the home, the foods they will be choosing from will be healthy choices. Just be sure to Recipe of the Month provide a balanced meal with lean meat, non-starchy veg- Kasen Lee Thomison was born etables, whole grains, fruit and low fat/fat free dairy. July 17, 2014 at WNJ, Sherman, Slow Toasted Granola Texas. Weight 8 pounds 10 3. Quit the “clean-plate club.” (Recipe from Better Homes and Gardens) ounces and 20 1/2 inches long. When your kids and you feel they/you have had enough Proud parents are Shaun and to eat then stop and be done with the meal. This helps Kimberly Thomison. Sisters are everyone to be able to listen to their own bodies when they Ingredients: Use Nonstick Cooking Spray Chelsie and Kaidence Thomison. feel full. When the response to feelings of fullness is noticed • ½ cup honey Grandparents are Paula Talley everyone is less likely to overeat. • ½ cup applesauce from Denison, Texas and Brenda • ¼ cup canola oil and Denny Taylor from Okla- 4. Start them young. • 1 cup peanut butter homa. Food preferences are developed early in life, so off er variety. • 5 teaspoon ground cinnamon Likes and dislikes begin forming even when kids are babies. • ½ cups regular rolled oats • 2 cup sunfl ower kernels You may need to serve a new food on several diff erent occa- Robert Lee Heitt sions for a child to accept it. Don’t force a child to eat, but • ½ tablespoon ground fl axseeds or wheat germ • ½ cup golden raisins (optional) off er a few bites. With older kids, ask them to try one bite. If they don’t like it they don’t have to eat it. • ¼ cup chopped pitted whole dates (optional) Briton and Ramona Heitt Directions: of Norman announce the 5. Rewrite the kids’ menu. 1. Lightly coat a 3 ½ or 4- quart slow cooker with cooking spray; set birth of their son, Robert Who says kids only want to eat hot dogs, pizza, burgers, and aside. In a small bowl whisk together honey, applesauce, oil, peanut Lee Heitt. Robert arrived at macaroni and cheese? When eating out, let your kids try butter, and cinnamon. 9:18 p.m. on Friday, June new foods and they might surprise you with their willing- 2. In the prepared cooker combine oats, sunfl ower kernels, and fl ax 27, 2014, at OU Medical ness to experiment. You can start by letting them try a little seeds. Stir in honey mixture. Center, Oklahoma City. He of whatever you ordered or ordering an appetizer for them 3. Place the lid off-set on the cooker to vent it. Cook on high-heat weighed 6 pounds, 12 to try. setting about 2 ½ hours or until toasted, stirring every 30 minutes. ounces and measured 19 inches in length. The proud big 4. Spread oat mixture on a sheet of foil to cool. Add dried fruit if sister is Brielle Heitt. Paternal grandparents are Martin Heitt desired. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 6. Drink calories count. of Cedar Rapids, IA, and Paige Martin of Norman. Maternal days or freeze for up to 2 months. Soda and other sweetened drinks add extra calories and get grandparents are Ramona Hale of Norman, and the late Nutrition Facts: in the way of good nutrition. Water and milk are the best Robert Hale. Living paternal great-grandparents are Jim Amount per serving: 1 cup drinks for kids. Juice, 100% juice, is adequate at no more Heitt of Cedar Rapids, IA, Mary Doyle of Bella Vista, AK, and than 4oz in a day if that. Calories 234, Fat 10g, Sat. fat 1g, Polyunsaturated 4g, Monounsat- Sally Warner of Norman. Living maternal great-grandpar- ured 4g, Cholesterol 0mg, Sodium 35mg, Carbs 35g, Fiber 4g ents are Geneva Simmons of Norman, and Benjamin I hope you all enjoy this recipe! For further information 7. Put sweets in their place. Espinosa of Midwest City. Deceased great-grandparents are Occasional sweets are fi ne, but don’t turn dessert into the you may contact: Erin Adams, RD, LD Choctaw Nation Dorothy Koos, Gerald Warner, and Louis Hale. main reason for eating dinner. When dessert is the prize for Diabetes Wellness Center 800-349-7026 ext.: 6959 Labor Day Festival and Pow wow 2014 Healthy Living Education and Service Sites Choctaw Nation WIC WOMEN, INFANTS and CHILDREN

SITE HOURS DAYS Antlers 8:30-4:00 Every Tues. (580) 298-3161 Atoka 8:00-4:30 Every Mon., Wed., (580) 889-5825 Thurs. & Fri. Bethel 8:30-4:00 1st Tues. Across from the Tvshka Homma capitol build- Lee Driver visiting the Healthy Living tent looking (580) 241-5458 ing the Choctaw Nation Health Services had lines for information and educational materials. Boswell 8:30-4:00 Every Fri. winding around the tent to receive tips, advice and (580) 380-5264 literature about healthy Living. Broken Bow 8:00-4:30 Daily, except 1st (580) 584-2746 Tues. & 2nd Thurs. Coalgate 8:00-4:30 Every Wed. (580) 927-3641 Durant 8:00-4:30 Daily (580) 924-8280 x 2257 Hugo 8:00-4:30 Daily (580) 326-5404 Idabel 8:00-4:30 Mon., Thurs. & Fri. (580) 286-2510 McAlester 8:00-4:30 Daily (918) 423-6335 Poteau 8:00-4:30 Daily (918) 647-4585 Smithville 8:30-4:00 2nd Thur. (580) 244-3289 Spiro 8:00-4:30 Every Wed. - Fri. Teressa Cearly receiving free immunizations at the (918) 962-3832 Choctaw Nation Caring Van. Stigler 8:30-4:00 Every Mon. - Wed. (918) 967-4211 Talihina 8:00-4:30 Mon., Tues., Wed., (918) 567-7000 x 6792 & Fri. Wilburton CHOCTAW NATION (918) 465-5641 8:30-4:00 Every Thur. FOOD DISTRIBUTION Open 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Monday through Fri- ANTLERS day. Staff will take lunch from 11:30 to noon. Market open weekdays Oct. 1-29, except for: WAREHOUSES & MARKETS Oct. 1: Idabel 9-11:30 a.m.; Broken Bow 1- 3:30 p.m. (market open) Choctaw Nation can aid with loans Antlers: 306 S.W. “O” St., (580) 298-6443 Oct. 8: Bethel 9-10:30; Smithville 12-2 (market open) Durant: 2352 Big Lots Pkwy, (580) 924-7773 Closed: Oct. 30-31 for inventory. McAlester: 1212 S. Main St., (918) 420-5716 Cooking with Carmen: Oct. 9, 10-2 The Southeastern Oklahoma Indian Credit Association offers Poteau: 100 Kerr Ave, (918) 649-0431 DURANT small business, home, home improvement and agriculture loans. To be eligible to apply, a person must reside within the 10.5-coun- Market open weekdays Oct. 1-29, except for: FOOD DISTRIBUTION SITES ty service area of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and must Closed: Oct. 30-31 for inventory. possess a Certificate of Degree of Indian Blood (CDIB) from a Bethel: Choctaw Community Center Cooking with Carmen: Oct. 13,10-2 Broken Bow: Choctaw Family Investment Center federally recognized tribe. For more information, please contact Idabel: Choctaw Community Center McALESTER Susan Edwards at 580-924-8280 or toll-free 800-522-6170. Smithville: Choctaw Community Center Market open weekdays Oct. 1-29, except for: If you are interested in applying for a loan from the In accordance with federal law and U.S. Department of Ag- Closed: Oct. 30-31 for inventory. SOICA or the Choctaw Revolving Loan Fund, there will be a riculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discrimi- Cooking with Carmen: Oct. 7, 10-2 representative from the Choctaw Nation Credit Department nating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, at the: religion, political beliefs, or disability. To file a complaint of POTEAU Market open weekdays Oct. 1-29, except for: Choctaw Nation Family Invest. Ctr. discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Adjudication 210 B. Street, Poteau, OK 74953 and Compliance, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Wash- Closed: Oct. 30-31 for inventory. Cooking with Carmen: Oct. 9, 10-2 September 22 ington, D.C. 20250-9410, or call (800) 795-3272 (voice) or 9:30-11 a.m. and 1-2 p.m. (202) 720-6382 (TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity pro- vider and employer. BISKINIK | September 2014 7 PEOPLE YOU KNOW

Turner storms Carver graduates toward athletic with diploma and Gray sisters run in Junior Olympics success degree Jessie Gray, of Overbrook, qualified for the Amateur Keionte' Turner found Congratulations to Hallie Athletic Union's Junior success in several sports, Carver, who graduated on Olympics held in Des Moines, receiving titles and tro- May 17, 2014 from Arrow- Iowa while in the 6th grade at phies all before the age head Park Early College High Plainsview School in Ard- of 10. School in Las Cruces, New more. Playing baseball, Mexico. Gray placed several 1st, Turner competed with In addition to her high 2nd, and 3rd place finishes the Boomstick Bandits in school diploma, Carver during the last track season the Little League World graduated with an Associate's in the 800 yard, mile run and Series in Bixby in 2012 and 2013. He went to regionals with Degree in General Studies 3,200 relay. the Durant Lions in coach-pitch baseball in 2013. from Dona Ana Community College in Las Cruces. She is the daughter of With basketball, Turner played an undefeated season with She will be attending Edinboro University in Edinboro, Chris and Gwen Gray, and the Tigers in 2012 under the coaching of Jason Wilerson. He Pennsylvania, after a hard earned break during the Spring sister to Madie Gray, all from also won the Northwest Heights Elementary Hoop Shoot in 2015 semester. Overbrook. She is the granddaughter of Harry and Delores 2013. Hallie is the daughter of John and Zenobia Carver of Las Marris of Overbrook, Phil Gray of Madill, and Debbie Bea- Turner also plays football and runs track. He placed 1st in Cruces. Her maternal grandparents are Raymond and the son of Shreveport, La. the 3rd grade track meet in both the 60 meter and quarter late Paula Hodge of Palmdale, California. Maternal great- mile runs. grandparents are Hallie Paul and Zenobia Tyler of Orlando, He also succeeds academically to support his athletic goals. Florida, and the late William and Evelyn Hodge of Orlando. Turner has made mostly A's, and his favorite subject is math. Turner plans on going to college and competing academi- Madie Gray, of Over- cally and athletically there before moving on to play pro- Amos becomes brook, traveled with fessionally. He likes all of the sports so much, he has not Licensed Practical the Plainview Track decided which one to turn into a career. Club from Ardmore to His mother, Wendy Bully, and grandparents Alvin Bully Nurse Des Moines, Iowa, for and Joan Thompson are all proud of his success so far and Congratulations to Dayla Amos the Amateur Athletic look forward to what the future holds for him. for becoming a Licensed Practical Union's Junior Olym- Nurse. Parents Mike and Vicky pics. Amos wish to express pride in Gray was the top Robinson honors Nation, presents €ag her for staying strong when times finisher at the Junior got hard. Her family wishes to Olympics. She won congratulate her for all of her ac- state titles in track complishments. and cross country as a sophomore at Plain- view High School and continued a strong ca- reer with a third place Davis named 2013 Driver of the Year finish at the Junior Ben Davis, of Spring- Olympics in the 3,000 field, Mo., was honored meter run in the 15 and 16 year old division with a run time by his colleagues for of 10:44.29. She added a 6th place finish in the 1,500 run his work as a city bus with a 4:53.44 run time. driver. She is the daughter of Chris and Gwen Gray, and sister to Davis, known for tak- Jessie Gray, all from Overbrook. She is the granddaughter ing on extra shifts and of Harry and Delores Marris of Overbrook, Phil Gray of being available whenev- Madill, and Debbie Beason of Shreveport, La. Justin Robinson (USAF) and wife K’Lee Robinson present- er needed, was selected ed a Choctaw Nation flag to Chief Gary Batton and Assistant as the 2013 Driver of Chief Jack Austin Jr. in August. The flag was flown over Iraq the Year. on July 1 in a USAF C-17A Globemaster III aircraft. His selection was Elders explore eight states in eight days The Robinsons are from Durant and both are citizens of based on job per- the Choctaw Nation. Chief Batton extended his appreciation formance, courtesy, of Robinson’s “servant leadership.” neatness, attendance, “Going back to the Bible, there is no greater thing than safe driving, and good to lay yourself down for a friend,” Batton said. “To me, it is attitude. humbling to receive something like this. I see (Justin) as a Davis is the son of the late Jesse and Ennessie Davis hero. This is about freedom and our way of life.” of Wright City. He is a 1971 graduate of Wright City High Assistant Chief Austin, himself a US Army veteran who School. He, his wife Noreen, and son Russel Davis have lived served in Iraq during Operation Desert Storm, also expressed in Springfield for the last 30 years. his appreciation. The flag was presented to Choctaw Nation on behalf of Robinson and “the men and women of the 816th EAS DET-2, and the crew of Moose 48, while deployed to Ali-Al Salem Air Youth Group creates beaded jewelry Base, Kuwait, supporting America’s war on terrorism during Pittsburg Senior Citizens recently travelled together eight Operation Enduring Freedom,” according to a certificate days through eight states, taking in the sights along the way. presented with the flag. Highlights of their trip include visiting Mt. Rushmore, the Badlands National Park, the Crazy Horse Memorial. They Silva accepted into also visited Pike's Peak, the Cowboy National Hall of Fame, the Garden of the Gods, and Custer State Park. academy, turns 18

Congratulations to Jose A. Silva, who has been accepted to the Anniversary Announcements Thunderbird Youth Challenge Academy. His mother, Michael, Couple his sister and brothers, The District 10 Youth Group met in the Atoka Community and grandmother Janice Center on Aug. 9 to participate in traditional arts and crafts. Celebrates all express pride in his The five young Choctaws made beaded chokers and sun 70th accomplishments. His catchers, worked with feathers, and enjoyed pizza and pi- family also wishes him a cante sauce made from vegetables in the community garden. Leon and Mil- happy 18th birthday. The Youth Group is open for Choctaw children from age 8 dred Wade have to 15 and is held on the second Saturday of the month from been together for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 70 years. The couple celebrated their Choctaw Nation Vocational Rehabilitation 70th anniversary Sunday, Aug. 10, October 2014 2014 at the Okla- homa City Family Durant - Mon., Wed. and Fri.; Broken Bow - Mon., Wed. and Fri.; Idabel by appt. Church. Phone: 580-326-8304; Fax: 580-326-2410 Email: [email protected]

Couple Celebrates 50th Anniversary

Reverend Donald and Clara Jones will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Saturday, Oct. 18, at Big Lick Indian United Methodist Church in Snow. The event will start at noon, beginning with a lunch reception which welcomes attendees to bring a covered dish to share. The family asks those interested in attending to contact them before Oct. 4. Kay Jones can be reached at (918) 605-8201, and Clara Jones at (918) 482-4492. 8 BISKINIK | September 2014 NOTES TO THE NATION

Looking for descendants To The Biskinik Jones Academy Reunion I am looking for descendents of my family Thomas Cooper You are to be The Jones Academy Reunion will be held 10 a.m. Oct. 18 at who married Abby? James Cooper married Mary Fannin, complimented on Jones Academy. The reunion is open to all former students George Washington Cooper married Susan Caroline Staf- the superb story in with dinner and lunch to be served. It is time for all to get ford. Her parent was William Stafford and Hannah? Andrew the July Biskinik together to share old stories and reminisce. For more informa- Jackson Cooper married Jane B. Laney and Sarah Foster. My about the Choc- tion, please call Tully Choate at (918) 455-7255. address is Nichols, PO Box 83, Pittsburg, OK 74560. taw Nation at the Smithsonian. It de- Nichols tailed well all of the activities the tribal members introduced Circle of Nations Conference Information concerning Grandfather to the public and I The Ninth Annual Circle of Nations Christian Leadership My name is Deborah Ann Peterson Avila and I am trying to am most hopeful the Conference will convene Sept. 12-13 at Arrow Heights Baptist locate information concerning my grandfather. His name is Nation will con- Church, 3201 South Elm Place, Broken Arrow. For additional Jackson Turner or possibly J.D. Turner for short. I am request- tinue this wonderful information about featured speakers, programs, or worship ing information from anyone connected to him. My mother’s event. As a member times, please contact Theresa Hinman at 918-724-1952 or visit name is Sylvia Lee Turner born in 1927. My grandmother’s of the Nation who www.circleofnations.net. name is Opal Lee Mayo and was born 1911. If you have any has not been back to information concerning Jackson Turner, please notify me at Caddo for too many 208-899-6436. years, it provided an opportunity to introduce my grandson our traditions. We spent all day Friday enjoying all of the Deborah “Debbi” Avila activities. As you had in the story, the grandson was pulled into the Stealing Partners dance, tried his lung power on Les’s 3rd Annual Homestead Event and blowgun, participated in the beading class, and we all greatly Thanks for help with honoring enjoyed the hymns and Tim Tingle’s stories. We purchased Gospel Singing several of Tim’s books for ourselves and our other grandchild. Many thanks to the Executive Committee of the association, While we did not join in the stickball game, it provided an SPONSORED BY MOTHER EARTH Dr. Lee Hester (and Jenny), Chester Cowen, Cyndi Quellette, opportunity to sit with Tim and discuss his work. Please come AND GRIT MAGAZINES Beth Lawless, Dale, Mindy Pannell, (fundraising) and Tana back to the Smithsonian so we can celebrate together again. SATURDAY OCT. 4 – 10 AM TIL 2 PM Eliza who did an awesome job selling and talking to people. IN A GOOD WAY FARM All volunteered over the weekend at our Code Talkers booth Cliff Schexnayder during the Choctaw Nation Labor Day Festival to help raise Non-profit farm established to give Native American men in money for a granite marker to be placed on the WWI Choctaw need a hand up Code Talkers Highway. The Choctaw store in Colbert also has 13359 SE 1101 AVE – TALIHINA, 74571 our merchandise. My destiny 918 - 567 - 3313 We appreciate all the descendants who attended our annual Free admission – directions available by phone – map meeting. Yakoke to Chief Batton and Assistant Chief Jack Aus- This year in Tvshka Homma was the best by far. I was not available by email [email protected] tin Jr. for being part of our meeting Sunday and Chief Batton able to schedule an appointment to return a hymnal that Farming Demonstrations for attending all of them in the past. Our goal is to honor our belonged to the Bobb family, however, as it turned out, my Kerr Center – Making Bio Char ARSCA – Code Talkers by preserving the history and making the public destiny was to make the trek to the new chapel and present the Rainwater Harvesting aware of these men that did incredible deeds for our country. hymnal to Reverend Bobb myself during opening first services Crafts, too many to list but will include Thank you volunteers for your dedication and hard work. of the Betram Bobb Chapel. Thank you Lord or this opportu- Native American Beading, Pottery, Basketry, Flutes nity! Cultural Demonstrations Nuchi Nashoba, CCTA President Choctaw Preservation Department Bertha M. Williams Bason Homesteading Demonstration Jelly Making – Canning – Herb Drying – Waste Not Want Not Hands on Quilting Bee Support appreciated We will provide quilt to be quilted, needle, thread, and As a recent college graduate, I would like to thank the scissors, bring a thimble if you choose Choctaw Nation for its support in obtaining my undergradu- Ole Fashion Gospel Singing ate degree. The Choctaw Nation’s Higher Education Program EVENTS MC Edward Palmer – Durant * Pianist Daniel Adams – is a potent tool for empowering and enlightening Choctaw Red Oak youth intent on pursuing knowledge and personal excellence. Sound - Native Sound * Manager- Josh Frazier The financial aid provided to me was an immense help, and Choctaw Congregational Sing a Long /English it allowed me to focus completely on my studies. I graduated Marris Reunion Congregational Sing a long song sheets will be provided this past May from Southwestern Oklahoma State with a de- 13 Special groups The Marris Reunion will be helped Oct. 3-5 at Camp Bond gree in Parks and Wildlife Law Enforcement and managed to Singing under tent * Bring a lawn chair 2901 S. Camp Bond Road, Tishomingo 73460. Hotel rooms receive the honor designation of Summa Cum Laude. Both the Hot Dogs, Soft Drink, Water, Baked goods for sale are available for $50 a night. Supper will be held at 6:30 p.m. encouragement and financial support provided by the Choctaw with hamburgers and hot dogs. For more information please Nation is greatly appreciated. contact Harry Marris at (580) 504-1017 or Carol Ibarra at (903) 261-2158. Dakota Kemp Youth of the Nation Looking for relatives OKC School of Choctaw Language Ashley Artigues, YAB member Looking for relatives of Sandy Alexander Hickman. There The OKC Community School of Choctaw Language (all was a photo of the Hickman family taken at the Trail of Tears. One of the most incredible things about Choctaw Nation phases and childrens classes) will resume 6:30-8:30 p.m. Sept. If you may be related, I will share the information I have. I can Youth Advisory Board (CNYAB) is learning the meaning of 9 at the Choctaw Tribal Alliance Center 5320 South Youngs be contacted at [email protected]. Thank you! “family”. Until I joined this organization, I had no idea what Blvd. Oklahoma City 73119. For additional information please it felt like to leave a group of people and really miss them. contact (405) 672-5653. Merry Carnes I learned what it was like to stay in touch with friends and advisors that had helped us overcome countless obstacles. I learned how to handle ugly situations to the best of my ability and to enjoy the good ones. CNYAB has made the biggest im- American Indians Contest Pow Wow and pact on my life and I will never forget what I’ve learned. Thank you for Since I am supposed to talk about one experience, person, scholarships Indian Fair or event that has influenced me I suppose I will talk about Bacone College Center for American Indians Contest Pow Kristen Lovell. Now, I didn’t know Kristen extremely well, My name is Chance Wow and Indian Fair will be held Friday through Sunday Oct. but I did know that everyone who knew her loved her. She Pruitt and this spring I 31 through Nov. 2, Bacone College Campus, 2299 Old Bacone was an all-around, great girl. During my freshman year, she graduated with a B.A. in Road, Muskogee. Sign in begins at 2 p.m. Dance categories: got into a tragic car accident and she didn’t survive. Watching International Security Men’s - Southern Straight, Traditional, Fancy, Grass my CNYAB family grieve made me upset even though I didn’t Studies from the Univer- Women’s - Cloth, Buckskin, Jingle, Shawl and Tiny Tots. know this girl. That’s the beauty of having family. When they sity of Oklahoma. If it had hurt, you’re hurt.When they are having the time of their lives, not been for the scholar- The public is welcome and there is excellent camping avail- so are you. Through Kristen, I learned that there are so many ship aid I received from able. All drums and dancers are welcome. Community dinner occasions when we will have to pull together to get through the Choctaw Nation, I will begin at 5 p.m. with Grand Entry to follow beginning at 7 good times and bad, and that I wouldn’t want to have anyone am not sure I would have p.m. For additional information about event details, please call by my side but my fellow “Yabbers”. completed my studies at (918) 687-3299. My favorite memory from CNYAB was the year we couldn’t OU. Therefore, I person- have our annual conference at the Great Wolf Lodge in ally want to thank former Grapevine, Texas. I liked this year’s conference so much more Chief Pyle, Chief Batton, because it was held in Tvshka Homma and we didn’t have cell and Assistant Chief Jack phone service. Now, this might sound crazy, but I enjoyed not Austin Jr. for helping me achieve this dream. From here, I will having cell phones, Facebook, Twitter, etc., because we were serve my country in the U.S. Air Force where my degree will able to bond more closely and really get into the activities we provide a crucial foundation in my career. Thank you again for had going on. Everything was so much more special that year. your generous support. Monthly Gospel Singing The dance, our classes, and just our “hang out” time were so A monthly gospel singing will be held at 7 p.m. Oct. 3 and much more peaceful. I will remember that year for the rest of Chance Pruitt repeat monthly on the first Friday of each month at the Cor- my life. nerstone Full Gospel Church, 316 N. Main, in Caddo. It is free Everyone always expects the seniors to have it all figured Looking for heirs of Anderson Winship admission and all singers and listeners are welcome. Conces- out. People might ask, “Where are you planning on going sions will be available. For more information, contact Bonnie to college?” or “What will you major in?” But the truth is, I Looking for any of the following heirs of Anderson Winship. Horn at (580) 760-6127. just don’t know yet. I know that these tools that CNYAB has Hiawatha Lee Winship, Michael Ray Winship, Barbara Ann given me will remain embedded in my memory. I know that Winship, Connie Sue Winship, Billie Jean Shannon, Gabrielle whenever I get in a tough situation, I can think back on how Fayth Winship, Tanja Gail Winship, Kenneth Ross Winship I handled it during my YAB days, I know that if I ever get sad Jr., Donna Gail Winship Cartwright, Bechy Lynn Winship or discouraged, I can remember what my CNYAB “family” felt Merker, Clifford Daniel Winship, Pamela Dale Frazier, Angela like and that will brighten any dark day I might have. Ruth Frazier, Terry Don Winship, Jimmy Harold Winship, Jr., Revival Week 2nd Place Essay Winner Vandell Winship, Kenneth Earl Winship, Barbara Kay Winship Battiest, Celestine Winship Harley, Onieda Winship, and De- There will be a revival 6-7 p.m. Sunday through Friday Sept. nita Ann Winship. If you have any information of heirs, please 28 through Oct. 3 at the Cornerstone Full Gospel Church, 316 contact David Whitmarsh at 405-229-3243. N. Main Caddo. Speakers Sunday - Charles McHerron, Broken Arrow, Monday - Sue Chancellor - Kenwood, Tuesday - Fred David Whitmarsh Lowe, Checotah, Wednesday - Beth Rose, Buffalo Valley, Thursday - Derryak Phillips, Wewoka, Friday - Freddy Vill, Bridgeport, Texas. For additional information please call (580) 760-6127. Everyone is welcome!

Dwight Mission Reunion The Dwight Mission annual reunion will be held on Oct. 4. Dwight Mission alumni are encouraged to bring their class photos for the reunion. Sign in will be held from 8:30-10 a.m., program begins at 10 a.m. Lunch served at noon. Please RSVP by Sept. 29 by calling reunion Chair Levada Smith-Wildcat at (918) 773-3096. Meeting will be held at the Dwight Mission dining hall. BISKINIK | September 2014 9 Education Choctaw high school students participate in NNAYI program Four Choctaw Nation high American Indian/Alaska school students were Native students entering included in a 28 group of health professions and teens to participate in the biomedical research. The 16th Association of American curriculum is designed to Indian Physicians' National prepare students for Native American Youth admission to college and Initiative (NNAYI) program. professional schools. Choctaw Nation 2014 Students also receive NNAYI scholarship winners information regarding and attendees were: Ashton fi nancial aid, counseling, and Megli, a student at Lake Photos Provided other college-related Ridge High School from assistance." Mansfi eld, Texas, Rebecca AAIP adds, "Over the past Folsom, a student at Daniel Choctaw high school students accepted to summer medical program for Native American youth. NNAYI decade, more than 573 participants (Left to right) – Ashton Megli, Rebecca Folsom, Conner Chadwick, Quinton Impson. Webster High School from students have received Ogden, Utah, Connor American health care careers. NNAYI Program University School of competitive with winners scholarships to attend the Chadwick, a student at professionals, and partici- Director Gary Lankford Medicine, Georgetown chosen based on panel NNAYI program" with the Putnam City High School pating in interactive explains, "It's important for University and Association review of Association of application process begin- from Warr Acres, and workshops and lectures. the students to hear from of American Medical American Indian Physicians ning in the spring of each Quinton Impson, a student Lecturers were special guest these health care profession- Colleges. (AAIP) members who choose year. at Putnam City High School speakers in various fi elds of als. They're successful Native The NNAYI scholarship the best applications. For additional information from Oklahoma City. medicine such as research- Americans who serve as role summer program is available The application process about the AAIP or the The NNAYI program is a ers, educators, and physi- models and mentors. They to high school sophomores, includes the application, a NNAYI scholarship program, summer scholarship cians. The professionals that inspire our students to juniors and seniors 16 years personal statement, school visit www.aaip.org or call program designed to students met are part of the continue their education and of age or older with room transcripts, letters of (405) 946.7072. familiarize students with program as mentors and role set high goals." and board, travel, and meals recommendation, and proof careers in the healthcare models with the intent to Some of the fi eld trips paid along with all events. of CDIB tribal enrollment. industry by touring medical help encourage and inspire included tours of the The program is considered According to AAIP, colleges and facilities, more Native American National Institutes of intense for students partici- NNYAI was created in 1998 interacting with Native students to pursue medical Health, George Washington pating as well as highly to increase the number of

Elizabeth Guerino Wins Choctaw Higher Ed. helps granddaughter of Native Essay Writers Contest Original Enrollee accomplish dream

Elizabeth Guerino, a Choctaw Nation stu- trip to "Scholar Week" in Washington D.C. dent, recently won the HK Law Native Essay Guerino's essay, A Past, a Future, and a Susan Elizabeth Snead Zimmer-Allen Writer's Contest. There were fi ve fi rst-place Spoon, can be found on the Young Native of Salisbury, Maryland graduated from winners nationally with over 100 Native high Writers website at http://www.nativewrit- Boston University with a Master of Music school students to have submitted eassays. ers.hklaw.com/ESSAYS/2014/index.asp. To Education degree. She previously earned Winners receive a scholarship towards the learn more about the Young Native Writers a Bachelor of Music Performance from college of choice and an all expense paid Essay Contest visit www.niea.org. Texas Tech University and a Master of Music Performance from Yale University. She is employed as Director of Music at Wicomico Presbyterian Church in Salisbury and is also an adjunct faculty member in the Department of Music at Salisbury University. Susan is the granddaughter of Original Enrollee, the late Edward Paul Snead of Idabel and the daughter of the late Honorable Judge Edward Paul Snead, Jr. of Roswell, New Mexico. She wishes to thank Freda Nixon and the Choctaw Higher Education Program for their support and generous Choctaw College Connect fi nancial assistance.

American Library Association chooses Aaron Novinger for Scholarship

Aaron Novinger has been chosen by the American Library Association (ALA) Offi ce A link to your future for Diversity's Spectrum Scholarship. One of 50 exceptional students, Novinger has been invited to attend a Leadership Institute along with the American Library Associa- tion 2015 Conference. As a Spectrum Scholar, Novinger is also, enrolled in a mentorship program and will participate in a national library diversity initiative, along with many other networking and professional development opportunities. Novinger is completing a Master of Library Science (MLS) program at Emporia State University in the fall of 2015 NOVEMBERNOVEMBER 11 with a concentration in Leadership and Administration.

Choctaw student receives DURANT, OK National Honor

Kayla Tucker recently received a national NOON-5 P.M. honor for superior academic achievement. Tucker is Choctaw and will be a junior this MEET OVER 70 fall. From Fort Smith, Ark., Tucker has been COLLEGES AND selected to become a member of the National Society of High School Scholars EDUCATIONAL (NSHSS). Membership in NSHSS entitles INSTITUTIONS qualified students to enjoy a wide variety of benefits, including scholarship opportuni- ties, academic competitions, free events, ATTEND INFORMATIVE member-only resources, publications, BREAKOUT SESSIONS participation in programs offered by educational partners, personalized items, and publicity honors. TRANSPORTATION TO AND FROM THE EVENT PROVIDED LUNCH AND DINNER PROVIDED TO STUDENT AND TWO GUESTS

CHOCTAW EXCLUSIVE EVENT

BUSES WILL DEPART FROM EACH COMMUNITY CENTER BEGINNING AT NOON. CHECK WITH YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY CENTER FOR DETAILS 10 BISKINIK | September 2014 BUSINESS Nation hosts rst annual ‘Gathering’ By BRANDON FRYE Chief Gary Batton spoke as Savings Program will match the keynote speaker for the up to $2,000 at a two-to-one Choctaw Nation summit. “Everyone always rate, meaning an entrepre- The Choctaw Nation hosted asks in Indian Country why neur who saves $2,000 of The Gathering, the fi rst of an is business such a big focus?” their own money will receive annual business summit or- Batton said. “It’s because it $4,000 from the program, ganized by the American In- is part of what allows us to for a total business start-up dian Chamber of Commerce be independent. That’s the savings fund of $6,000. First- of Oklahoma (AICCO) aimed reason why business is im- time home owners can save at at serving Native American portant, and it is the reason a three-to-one rate. businesses, at the Choctaw why having these types of Jill Reyna, Native Ameri- Nation Casino Resort in Du- functions is important.” can Business Resource rant from Aug. 10-12. Three services off ered by Coordinator, said the Native “The Gathering brings the Choctaw Nation provide American Business Resource together Native American support for Choctaw entre- Center helps any Native businesses to give them an preneurs and small business American living in the 10.5 opportunity to learn about owners, and each service was counties wanting to start or federal contracting, tribal present at The Gathering. expand a business. procurement, how they can Choctaw Asset Building “They receive help with a do business with the tribes, (CAB), the Native American business plan, public funding, Photo by Brandon Frye and how they can grow their Business Resource Center, getting their Limited Liability Attendees of The Gathering collect for a day of speeches, vendor visits, and net- business,” Annetta Abbott, and the newly created Pre- Company (LLC), whatever working at the Choctaw Casino and Resort. They are among the many working Executive Director of the ferred Supplier Program sent each diff erent business owner to make business in southeastern Oklahoma more successful. Jim Thorpe Native American representatives to the summit needs,” Reyna said. “We are Games and AICCO Board to explain how they work to here for any tribal member benefi t the tribe while becom- grow their business.” The Native American Busi- Member said. support and grow Choctaw who wants to own a busi- ing more self-suffi cient. With the services the Choc- ness Resource Program and Representatives from the businesses. ness at the beginning of the With business owners taw Nation provides Choctaw the Choctaw Asset Build- Choctaw Nation, Chickasaw Dawn Hix, with Choctaw process, we help them get off wanting to do business with entrepreneurs, “They all work ing Program can both be Nation, Cherokee Nation, Asset Building, said CAB’s the ground.” the Choctaw Nation, “We hand-in-hand,” Miller said. reached by calling Choctaw and Muscogee (Creek) Na- Matched Savings Program Boyd Miller, Commodity make sure they meet the re- Support is available through- Nation Career Development tion, among others, attended is income-based and aimed Manager of the Preferred quirements and match them out the process. From saving at (866) 933-2260 and ask- the summit. Trade show at people wanting to buy a Supplier Program, said the up,” Miller said. “That’s business startup money, to ing for the respective pro- vendors talked about their house, start a business, or objective of the program is to what distinguishes our pro- fi nding support getting off the gram. Boyd Miller with the services, speeches were further their education. Choc- promote and grow Choctaw- gram, the door is not going ground, and ultimately being Preferred Supplier Program given by business leaders taw entrepreneurs can take owned business, promote to close after they contact matched up with business can be reached at (580) 924- and government offi cials, advantage of the program buying Indian-owned and us. We are going to send opportunities, new Choctaw 8280 ext. 2889 to answer and artisans displayed their when saving money to start buying local, so that we can them wherever they need to business owners can rely on questions about doing busi- artwork and wares. a business. The Matched employ more Choctaws and be at that point to help them the Nation’s help. ness with the Nation. Choctaw sisters whip up a tasty gravy business Chocolate’s gone Choctaw vices offered by Choctaws. use a family recipe for “The whole point is to Haughty Mae’s, which was get everybody networking their mother’s nickname. between different vendors “Haughty Mae” Hatcher on this preferred supplier learned the recipe while list,” said Boyd Miller, growing up in hardscrab- Commodity Manager for ble southeastern Okla- the Preferred Supplier homa during the Great Program. “This shows Depression. what Choctaw Nation is “Haughty Mae” married doing to promote Choc- Floyd Thompson, who at- taw-owned businesses. tended Goodland Academy These ladies knew to as a child. The couple come to Choctaw Nation raised their family in through the Preferred Hugo, but the sisters have By ZACH MAXWELL Cathy Nutt of Cape Supplier Program to help maintained links to the Choctaw Nation Girardeau, Missouri, and develop their product.” Choctaw Nation despite sister Pat Prigmore of The sisters visited Choc- relocating to other parts of Choctawesome! Oklahoma City are part- taw Nation Headquarters the U.S. Such is true for choco- ners in Haughty Mae’s in August to demonstrate Nutt says the Choctaw late gravy. A pair of Chocolate. They package the versatility of their Nation helped put her and Choctaw sisters have been a variety of cocoa-based chocolate gravy, pouring her children through col- packaging and selling mixes available at www. it over biscuits, fruit and lege. Like many Choctaws, chocolate gravy mix for haughtymaeschocolate. into pie crusts. Miller said they looked for opportu- three years – and now com. James Wallace and his nity in other parts of the Photos by Zach Maxwell their enterprise has linked Soon, this Choctaw- crew at the Headquarters country but never forgot Boyd Miller (center) with the Choctaw Nation Pre- up with the Choctaw Na- made delicacy will be cafeteria were particularly some of their southeastern ferred Supplier Program, poses with Haughty Mae’s tion’s Preferred Supplier available via a new website gracious hosts. Oklahoma roots, including Chocolate Gravy proprietors Cathy Nutt (left) and Program. promoting goods and ser- Nutt and Prigmore foods like chocolate gravy. Pat Prigmore (right). “Chocolate gravy was cheap,” said Nutt. “It’s an Oklahoma thing and it’s unique. You cannot Citizen runs two businesses find chocolate gravy just By BRANDON FRYE anywhere.” RURAL ENERGY FOR This Southern twist on Choctaw Nation breakfast gravy may have Lena Kopp, a hard work- AMERICA developed when Hershey’s ing businesswoman whose cocoa powder arrived on days do not end unless she (REAP 9007) country store shelves, ac- makes them end, turned cording to a 2010 article two ideas into busi- on Kentucky.com. nesses with the help of her  What is the Section 9007 Program?  This section directs the Secretary of Agriculture to make loans, loan guarantees, and grants to However, the same husband, family, and the farmers and rural small businesses to purchase renewable energy systems and make energy effi- article quotes The Oxford Choctaw Nation. ciency improvements. Encyclopedia of Food and “It was my husband’s  Since fiscal year 2003, Oklahoma has provided 97 applicants with assistance totaling $10,333,029. Drink in America which idea,” Kopp said. “He called puts the origins of choco- me one day while he was  Who is Eligible? late gravy squarely within in Alabama working—he is Photo by Brandon Frye  Agricultural Producers and Rural small businesses—an entity is considered a small business in ac- cordance with SBA’s small business size standards. the boundaries of the always coming up with these Lena Kopp stands in ancient Choctaw Nation. business ideas—he said we her work area.  What are Eligible Projects? The encyclopedia are going to open a drug and business grew to include mo-  Energy efficiency projects typically involve installing or upgrading equipment that results in a sig- nificant reduction in energy use from current operatives. “theorizes that chocolate alcohol collection facility.” bile testing, and Kopp said  Energy efficiency improvements verified by an energy audit or assessment. gravy might have been This was the Summer of they are even looking to open

an offshoot of a trading 2012, the beginning of what a facility in another location.  How Much Assistance Is Available For The Energy Efficiency Program?  Minimum Grant Amount: $1,500 network between Spanish is now called Kopps on the Kopp started working on  Maximum Grant Amount: $250,000 Louisiana and the Ten- Run, a facility serving the the second business last year.  Grant requests must not exceed 25 percent of the eligible project costs. nessee Valley.” The main Hugo area and beyond by “I had to wait to get  What are the Application Requirements? land route for this network processing drug and alcohol Kopps on the Run up and  Applicants must demonstrate financial need. would have been the Nat- tests—like what happens running,” Kopp said. “It got  For grants in the amount of $200,000 or less, applicants should follow the simplified grant appli- cation criteria and procedures in USDA regulation 4280.109. chez Trace in Mississippi. when a company hires on a to the point where the fi rst  The Notice of Solicitation Availability (NOSA) provides complete details on the application pro- Now the breakfast treat new employee. business gave me time to sit cess. A copy of the NOSA will be available in pdf format, as published in the Federal Registrar. has come full circle at the “We did the research, and and wait, so I jumped into Application information can be found at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rd/energy/. hands of Nutt and Prig- that benefi ted us. The clinics the school.”  What are Examples of Energy Efficiency Projects? more. They hope to make have to see patients before 4-C Welding is set to of-  Small Business—Install energy efficient equipment and lighting in a restaurant using a RASERS, their gravy and drink they can perform drug tests, fi cially open in September. install energy efficient equipment in a linen cleaning facility using a RASERS, install new boiler system and high efficiency dry kilns, and energy conservation and efficiency for office/warehouse mixes available to casino and people were having to Kopp offered a word of for calibrated day lighting controls, lighting controls, lighting design alternatives, conditioning of buffets and gift shops wait several hours just to get advice for other Choctaws outside air, and insulation. operated by the Choctaw a drug test done, whereas interested in starting a

 Who Should the Applicant Contact for Additional Information? Nation and its partners. our facility is a walk-in clinic business. “There are so  Additional information can be obtained by calling Jody Harris, Rural Energy Coordinator, at “We’re coming back to open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. many programs if you are (405) 742-1036. our roots,” Nutt said. “We Monday through Friday.” a tribal member. Just jump

were raised on this. We With Kopp’s hard work, off into it. Keep moving wanted to name it some- this business took off , all foward. When an obstacle “USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender”. To File a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, or call (800) 795-3272 (voice) thing that integrated with while Kopp cared for a large comes up, solve it and go to or (202) 720-6382 (TDD). (Fact Sheet revised 8-2013) our Choctaw heritage.” family and a new child. The the next one.” BISKINIK | September 2014 11 OBITUARIES Robert Odell Bowden Glen Dale Hudson Martin Louis Killingsworth Robert Odell Bowden passed Glen Dale Hudson, 71, passed Martin Louis Killingsworth, 88, of away June 1, 2014, at his home in away July 31, 2014 at his home in Eufaula, passed away on Aug. 7, 2014 Oklahoma City at the age of 83. Hochatown. in Tulsa. Martin was born on Feb. 27, Robert was born May 15, 1931 Glen was born Feb. 23, 1943 in 1926 in Muse to Louis Monroe and to Ruben and Annie Lee (Williams) Honobia, the son of George Hudson Linnie (Williams) Killingsworth. He Bowden in Frogville. Robert was of and Ada Bell Simmons Hudson. He attended school in Muse. Martin was the Baptist faith. Robert graduated proudly served his country in the married to Mary Jane Sinyard, who from Greenville High School in U.S. Navy. He married Ann Harris preceded him in death in 1989. He 1950. He served in the Army from on June 22, 1989 in DeQueen, Ark. worked as a cook for 33 years at the 1952-54 and was stationed in Korea. He was employed by Weyerhaeuser Talihina Indian Hospital. On May 18, Robert was a great welder and Company for 30 years. Glen was an 1995, Martin married Frances Fontella worked offshore in the Gulf of Mexico, South Africa, Alaska avid fisherman, enjoying fishing with the love of his life, Ann. Beasley. They were happily married and Ecuador. Robert was proud of his Indian heritage and will He was a member of the Tri-Lakes Bass Club in Broken Bow, for 19 years. He was a member of the be greatly missed. where he enjoyed the sport of competitive bass fishing. Assembly of God Church. Preceding him in death were his parents, Ruben and Annie Glen was preceded in death by his parents, George and He was preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Linnie Lee Bowden; sister-in-law, Sharon Bowden; brothers-in-law, Ada Bell Hudson; brother, Bobby Hudson; sister, Mildred Killingsworth; two sons; step-daughter, Fontella Evera Johnson; Dale Holt, George Cullum and Okie Phillips; niece, Anita Holt; Benbow; and grandson Roary James Hudson. five brothers: Leo, Ray, DC, Gene, and Velton; and one sister, great-nephew, Brad Holt; and uncles, Buck Williams and Tom He leaves to cherish his memory, wife, Ann of the home; Faye. Williams. sons, George Hudson of San Antonio and Robert Damm of Survivors include: wife, Frances Killingsworth, of the home; Robert is survived by his daughter, Robin “Missy” Osborn Broken Bow, daughters, Alice Dennis of Weatherford, Texas daughter, Wanda Jane Thomas and husband, James, of Eufaula; and husband Terry of Moore; son, Butch Hamilton of and Lea Anna Pond with husband John of San Antonio; sisters, step-daughter, Cylvia Lynn Hayes of Bend, Ore.; step-sons, Lee Jefferson City, Tenn.; stepsons, David and Lou Ann Lively Doris Webb of Valliant and Bernice Benefield of Birmingham, Marvin Johnson of Puerto Rico, Kenneth William Johnson of of Durant, Terry and Dawn Womack of Tuttle; brothers, Bill Ala.; 12 grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, other Seattle; sisters, Delois Edwards and husband, Jimmy, of Muse, and Darlene Bowden, Bob Bowden and Charles and Marcia relatives and many special friends. Reba Louise Clark of Wichita, Kansas; sister-in-law, Margie Bowden of Ardmore, Jim and Frankie Bowden of Choctaw; Interment was at Hochatown Cemetery. Killingsworth; six grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren. sisters, Gladys Holt of Stillwater, Novella and Bill Shebester of Burial was at the Prairie Grove Cemetery under the direction Madill, Jean Cullum of Mead, Alta and J.B. Mapp of Ardmore Luveda Louise Earls of Hunn Black & Merritt Funeral Home & Crematory. and Paula Phillips of Newnan, Ga.; granddaughters, Karley Luveda Louise Earls, 92, of Osborn and Blaklyn Lively; grandsons, Zack Lively, Carson Summerfield, passed away Aug. Virginia Mae ‘Cookie’ York Osborn and Caulyn Osborn; and numerous nieces, nephews 1, 2014 in Ponca City. Louise was Virginia Mae “Cookie” York, and friends. born Jan. 10, 1922 in Reichert/ 79, a former preschool teacher and Graveside services with military honors were held at Summerfield to John Christopher librarian assistant at Warren High McAlester Cemetery, Overbrook, with Rev. Wayne Fite & Ora (White) Cox. She was a School, passed away of natural officiating. homemaker. causes July 29, 2014 at her home Otis Jefferson Louise was preceded in death in Downey, Calif. Family members by her husband, Monroe Earls; her were at her side when she died. Otis Jefferson, 84, of McAlester, parents; brothers, Orbria, Ivan, She was born in Poteau on May passed away July 20, 2014 at his Dale, John Jr. and Harold Cox; 20, 1935, the daughter of Rev. Eddie home. sister, Reba Loyd. and Jewel Brown, is survived by Otis Jefferson was born Jan. 11, She is survived by her daughter Sharon Stewart of Ponca her husband of 61 years, Rev. I.C. 1930 in Pittsburg County to Wallace City; son, Leonard Earls of Summerfield; four grandchildren, York; sons, Vaden Scott York (wife and Delphia (Pearce) Jefferson. He Tammy Allison, Amanda Theriot, Caleb Allison and Alicia Blanca) and Nathan Todd York; and attended Jones Academy and later Earls; nine great grandchildren; sister, Freda Barrick of daughter, Tonya Zan Fujita (husband Gene); one brother; Haskell High School. He served in Scottsdale, Ariz.; brothers, Jim Cox of Bonita Springs, Fla., three sisters; and several grandchildren, great grandchildren, the U.S. Army during the Korean Sherman Cox of Oklahoma City, Delton Cox of Pocola; other nieces and nephews. Conflict and had a rank of Sergeant relatives, loved ones, and friends. During her employment years in California, she worked First Class. He worked at the Carbon Interment was in Summerfield Cemetery, Summerfield, for the Weiser Lock Co. in South Gate, the Downey Unified Coal Mines and was a cattle rancher and farmer. He enjoyed Okla. School District as a librarian assistant at Warren High, and in coon hunting and fishing. the ticket office for the Downey Civic Light Opera. A pastor’s He was preceded in death by parents; sister, Ruth Jackson; Albert Edmond Simon wife, she played the piano and worked as a preschool teacher. brothers, Wallace, Ulis, Johnny, and Cleno Jefferson. Albert Edmond Simon, 87, passed Surviving relatives include son Don Sandoval and daughter- away on June 2, 2014, at his home in Ret. Master Sergeant John V. David, Jr. in-law Beth; granddaughter Corey Megan Bresch; two great- Calera. grandchildren, Aleia Bresch and Ava Bresch; brother, Thomas Albert was born April 20, 1927 in Retired Master Sergeant John Jefferson; two sisters, Loretta Wooley and Alice Hayes; special Achille, the only child of Amos and V. David, Jr. died Aug. 13, 2014 nieces, Carol Sibole and Iris Hallbert; special nephew, Chuck Linnie (Arkansas) Simon. After the at the age of 80. Master Sergeant Hallbert; sisters-in-law, Lela Jefferson and Clara Jefferson; death of his mother, he was raised David was born May 9, 1934 in Fort numerous other nieces, nephews, and cousins. by his aunt Emma and grew up with Towson. He enlisted in the United Caroline Thompson his cousins, Henry and Lula Mae States Army on Jan. 7, 1953, in Gibson. Maricopa County, Ariz. He served Caroline Thompson, 97, passed Albert was a full-blood Choctaw for 21 years and retired on July 31, away July 19, 2014. and fluent in the language. Albert enlisted in the Army and 1973 at Fort Sill. She was born Caroline Fulson on served in WWII. He was with the 8th Army Air Corp under His service stations included Feb. 20, 1917, to her parents Andrew General Doolittle in Okinawa in the South Pacific then was Korea, Vietnam, Germany and various posts in the Fulson and Julia Gardner Fulson in honorably discharged. United States, including two tours of advisory service to the Bokchito. She was the second child Albert was a farmer in his early years then moved to Colorado National Guard. He was awarded the Bronze Star born to this union. She attended California and worked as a laborer in various factories. His Medal, Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Good school in Oklahoma. last job was a machinist in an aluminum factory, then he Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Armed Caroline met Victor Ray Morgan retired while in California. Forces Expeditionary Medal, United States Vietnam Service Thompson in Oklahoma and they Albert was licensed and ordained. He served as pastor Medal, United Nations Korean Service Medal, The Republic were soon married on Dec. 1, 1935. of First Indian Baptist Church in South Gate, Calif. twice. of Korea Korean War Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign After marriage they moved to Paris, Texas and began a family. In Oklahoma, he pastored New Jerusalem in Soper for two Medal, and Aircraft Crewman Badge. They were blessed with four girls and four boys in this union. years then was called to pastor Durwood Baptist Church He was a member of the Vietnam Veterans of America, Caroline accepted Christ at an early age. She was a member in Mannsville for almost 18 years until his illness started Inc., Chapter 751 Lawton, Korean War Veterans Assoc., of Mount Zion Methodist Church and became an active affecting him. He also served eight years as moderator for Chapter 319, 2nd Infantry Division (Indian Head) Assoc. and member of Tudor Street Church of Christ. She later became the Choctaw/Chickasaw Association. Albert served the Lord the Disabled American Veterans, Joe N. Cain, Chapter 56 of a devoted member of MLK Church of Christ until her death. preaching, singing and playing the piano. He enjoyed reading Lawton. Caroline was employed as a cafeteria worker for Paris and studying the Bible. He will be greatly missed. After his retirement he completed his education, earning Independent School District. She was well-liked by all of Albert is survived by his wife, Loretta Simon; his eight a BA in Business from Cameron University of Lawton. her co-workers. Caroline was a devoted housewife, mother children, Alvin Dale Simon, Marvin Simon, Michael Simon, He worked for 23 years for the State of Oklahoma, mostly and homemaker. She loved to fish and her favorite hobbies Norma Cook, Gary Simon, Alberta Diangelo all of California, in the Department of Agriculture where he traveled the state included quilting, cooking, gardening and telling jokes. Her Melvis Wilson of Calera, Lena Tiger of Shawnee; mother of and was instrumental in developing farmers’ markets and favorite TV programs were The Price is Right, Wheel of his children, Rosie Simon Jim; 11 grandchildren; one great- marketing “Made in Oklahoma” products. Fortune and Judge Judy. She always opened her home to grandchild and another great-grandchild on the way. John (J.V.) was devoted to his family and loved them everyone and made them feel welcome. Interment was in Rose Hill Cemetery. dearly. Upon his retirement from the state, he spent a She was preceded in death by her husband, Victor great deal of time landscaping his backyard which became Thompson; her parents Andrew Fulson and Julia Dunford; Betty Ruth Beard a showplace. He and his family traveled a lot and John was five siblings, Inez Andrew, Arthur Fulson, John D. Lawrence, Betty Ruth Beard, 87, passed well known for his very detailed travel itineraries. He was a Willard Dunford and Harvey Dunford. away May 31, 2014, in Mountain member of First Baptist East Church of Lawton. He will be Caroline leaves to mourn her eight children, Pauline Home, Ark. sorely missed by his family. Wilson, Margaret Watts, Victor Thompson, David Thompson, Betty was born in Fort Smith, He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary Jaine David Laurence Thompson, Ruth Washington, Juanita Laird, and Ark., on April 12, 1927, on her and John Virgil David; and one sister, Delores Jean David. Harry Thompson; 22 grandchildren and a host of great- mother’s birthday, to John and Master Sergeant David is survived by his wife of 58 years, grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, family and special Frances Fisher Coley. She had one Ruthie L. (Taylor) David; daughter Kathleen M. Talley friends such as Harry Moody, Gregg Evans, Charles Fullbright, brother, Jack. and Albert Desmond. and husband, Marty R. Talley of Lawton; son Kenneth She married Cyril Beard on Nov. W. David and wife Greta David of Grand Junction, Colo.; The family would like to extend a special thanks to her 24, 1945, in Torrance, Calif. Cyril youngest daughter Juanita who was so devoted in taking care brother-in-law Buddy Taylor and wife Paulette Taylor of and Betty were both born in the Fort Smith hospital and Arizona; five grandchildren, Jason David Martin and son of her from the beginning of her illness until the end; Arthur delivered by the same doctors two years and six days apart. Fulson for being our family reunion captain; Eugene Dunford Hunter of Texas; Cristi Talley of Oklahoma City; Chad Betty met Cyril, her husband-to-be, in May of 1943; he was 18 Talley and wife Rachel Talley of Lawton; McKenzie Talley of for traveling the farthest to attend her homegoing celebration; and going into the Navy and she was 16. Carolyn King for her kindness for regular visits, food and Lawton; and John Robert David of Grand Junction, Colo.; Cyril’s aunt and uncle lived in Los Angeles, so he would one brother, Johnathan David of Fort Towson; two nieces: offering to stay for us to have a break. go to their house (he was stationed in San Pedro, Calif.). Mother we loved you, but God loved you more. Johnnie L. Newton and Mary Marie David; uncle Wyndle and Sometimes they brought him down, other times Betty would aunt Nadine David. take the bus from Torrance, Calif. Burial was at Rattan Cemetery under the direction of Joseph Joel ‘Jopey’ Morris When Betty and Cyril were married in November of 1945, Burkhart Funeral Service. Joseph Joel “Jopey” Morris, 67, she was 18 and he was 20. Even though he was in the Navy, he passed from this life on Aug. 2, 2014 had to go to court and be made a ward of the state (his parents in Idabel. He was born July 23, 1947 were deceased), then the judge gave his consent to marry. They in Talihina to Nelson and Agnes lived in Torrance, where their daughter Diane was born on Haskell Battiest (Kellett) Morris. He married Iwana Nov. 14, 1946. They then moved to northern California where Haskell Battiest, 62, of Broken Loman July 15, 2006 in Antlers. Cyril was very lucky to get into the Civil Service – surveying Joseph loved to tell stories, government farmlands. He was later promoted to supervise Bow, passed away Aug. 1, 2014 at laugh, and joke. He enjoyed the inspectors. Betty worked as a telephone operator. Hills Nursing Home in Idabel. He cooking and thought of himself as Betty and Cyril’s son, David, was born Sept. 1, 1949. They was born Nov. 25, 1951 in Wright “the grillmaster.” He loved sports started their journey down California, living in several places City, the son of Leo and Ethel and was always there to watch his until they ended up in San Diego in 1953. They lived there the (Watson) Battiest. grandchildren play. He loved watching cowboy shows. He rest of their married life. Their son died in 1977 and their only Haskell was a member of took pride in his lawn and he was especially proud of the fact grandchild, Brian, was born in 1978. Cyril died in December Myrtlewood Baptist Church in that he was a full blood Choctaw and a United States Veteran. 2002. Broken Bow. He enjoyed singing, He is preceded in death by his parents, Nelson & Agnes Betty and her daughter Diane (husband Lloyd) moved to playing the guitar and enjoyed Morris. Mountain Home, Ark., in February 2004. Betty loved all of her fellowships. Haskell was a member Joseph is survived by his wife, Iwana Morris of the home; friends, church, bowling, golf, and the Red Hats. She signed of Choctaw Nation District 2 Senior son, Joseph Nelson Morris and Karen Jenkins of Nicoma her notes: “Be seeing you.” She also wanted to give special love Citizens. Park; daughter, Bernina Morris of Leupp, Ariz.; son, Brent to her adopted children, Ernie and Sue; her friends, Lue Dean He was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Allen Shaw and wife Kelli of Antlers; daughter Leslie Shaw of and Russell Fires; and her beloved late Virginia Reed. Battiest; and sister, Carrie Louis. Ada; daughter, Ashley Youngblood and husband Douglas of Betty lived in Mountain Home since 2004, moving from Haskell leaves to cherish his memory, one brother, Louis Coweta; grandchildren: Reed, Braden and Paige Shaw, Mason, San Diego. She was a member of the Twin Lakes Baptist Battiest; two sisters, Barbara Sue Battiest and Margaret Emily and Brooklyn Johnson and Teagen Wilkerson; sister, Church. She was a very busy lady playing bridge, golf, bowling Battiest Hernandez all of Broken Bow; one son, Aaron Sue Davis of Clayton; sister, Toni Cody and husband Cleo and line dancing. Betty traveled a lot, was a member of the Battiest of Oklahoma City; special aunt, Liz John of Tyler, of Antlers; sister, Faye Crawley of Ada; as well as numerous Red Hat Society and played Bunco with several of her friends. Texas; several nieces, nephews, friends. other relatives and a host of friends. Betty is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Diane The family wants to say a special thank you to Vada Green Interment was at Antlers Cemetery under the direction of and Lloyd Newell of Mountain Home, Ark.; and her grandson, with Mays Hospice. Burkhart Funeral Service. Brian Giagiozis of San Diego, Calif. Interment was at Broken Bow Cemetery. 12 BISKINIK | September 2014

Something good was done this day: Repatriation journey brings honor By SHELIA KIRVEN mixing, this person’s genes and culture live on in the day. Much effort went into making sure that the event Choctaw community today.” was carefully and strategically planned to be the most Choctaw Nation Before arriving at the burial site, we had a chance to honorable that it could be for the reburial of this ances- stop off at the US Army Corps of Engineers office where tor. I know that these events have happened before. Recently, I had the privilege of being asked to be a Chief Batton, Assistant Chief Jack Austin Jr. and Cul- There have been other repatriations and reburials, and member of a small group from the Choctaw Nation of tural Preservation Executive Director Sue Folsom were I know that as much effort and great care had gone into Oklahoma to travel to Mississippi for a tribal repatria- greeted by Sarah Koeppel, District Archaeologist and each one of those, as did the one that I had the privilege tion and reburial. I was humbled by the opportunity and Tribal Liaison, and Chris Koeppel, Environmental Sec- to be a part of. knew being a part of such an event would be one of the tion Team Leader for the USACE. The group then met Following the burial, a great rain came around a half most honorable things that I would ever get the chance with Colonel John W. Cross, District Commander. We hour later on a perfectly sunny day. One of the group to do in my lifetime. were able to hear how the USACE became involved in stated that the rain was a cleansing and we all agreed this particular reburial project. We were also informed that the rain was fitting for what had just taken place. of what their division does for the State of Mississippi On the way home, I asked Chief Batton how he felt and how they work in conjunction with the tribes. Colo- about the day’s event. He said, “It was humbling and nel Cross stated that he was happy with the relationship emotional. We don’t know if this person was female that the Corps and the Choctaw Nation share. He stated or male, a brother or a sister, but I do agree with Ian that they have always had a good relationship with us and we partnered well on the different issues. Colonel Cross went on to say that the Choctaw Nation was very helpful in the flood of 2011 and he gave his heartfelt gratitude. After the visit with the USACE, the group, including the two archaeologists from the USACE who had been instrumental in this project, traveled to the reburial site to join Dr. Thompson and three of his staff members who had already been there doing the preparation work. Collaborating staff members present (left to right) from As we gathered around and the reburial ceremony was the Historic Preservation Lindsay Bilyeu and Daniel Ragle, conducted, I couldn’t help but think of how this burial from Cultural Preservation Sue Folsom, Assistant Chief was different from any other that I had ever attended. Jack Austin Jr., from the USACE Chris Koeppel and Sarah Because I didn’t know the identity of the individual, I Koeppel, Director of Historic Preservation and Tribal found myself wondering who the person had been. What Archaeologist Dr. Ian Thompson, Senior Heritage Re- was their story? Did they somehow realize that their USACE Colonel John W. Cross, Chief Gary Batton and source Technician and Tribal Chaplain Olin Williams, and Assistant Chief Jack Austin Jr. study a map of the Missis- earthly body had been disturbed from its rest? I was Chief Gary Batton. sippi River and how it has changed over the years. hoping that now they would finally be at peace, know- Before the trip, I decided to look up the word “repa- ing that they had been carefully prepared once again for triation.” The word’s meaning is defined by Merriam- burial and that the persons who had laid them to rest and Sue that to bring the remains home is honorable Webster’s dictionary as “to return (someone) to his or at their final destination were the leaders of our great and they are hopefully now at peace. I also think that it her own country.” The definition was proper and fitting, tribe. brings peace for the tribe too. Just think what that an- as we would be reburying ancient unearthed remains As the Chief and Assistant Chief placed the first cestor did for us. As sure as there is death, there is life. in the Mississippi homeland from which they came. shovels of earth into the ground, I will never forget the It makes me reflect on the people who have gone before Many times human remains are unearthed due to events sound of the dirt as it fell and how the earthen wall us, grandmas, grandpas, fathers, brothers, in some ways such as construction or highway expansion. On this looked inside the grave, each layer of soil representing it is a sad thing. But it is the way of life. There’s hope particular occasion, the remains were donated back to centuries of time and different eras. for our tribe, hope for our people, and hope for our the Choctaw Nation by a private individual with the as- I couldn’t help but wonder if the remains could even families.” sistance of the Mississippi Department of Archives and have been one of my ancestors. I often think about my Assistant Chief Jack Austin Jr. said that, “For me I felt History. A partnership between the U.S. Army Corps of Choctaw ancestors from Mississippi. I wonder about the sense of honor in what we were doing and closure. Engineers (USACE) and the tribe allowed for the repa- their lives and how the removal affected them. I wonder We don’t know about the individual person, but what we triated remains to be reburied. how they lived; think about their heart aches, about the do know is that it was something right and honorable. Dr. Ian Thompson, Director of the Choctaw Nation things that made them happy and even the simple things As Ian stated, making a wrong a right.” Historic Preservation Department and Tribal Archaeol- of life that were taken from them. I always wish that My heart ached for the person whose remains were ogist explained, “The remains came from an individual I could know more. As I stood at the grave that day, I disturbed. At the same time, I rejoiced that they were who lived in what is now western Mississippi before couldn’t help but wonder if that could have been one of buried at a location where they will not be disturbed European contact. He or she did not call themselves my people. And then I realized that it was, because the again. Hopefully they are now at peace and rest, and I Choctaw, but was nonetheless ancestral to today’s Choc- Choctaw people are one family. hope that somewhere, somehow they were looking down taw people, through subsequent mixing of his or her What remains with me is the thought that Olin Wil- upon us and were proud of what took place that day in descendants with Choctaw communities. Through this liams expressed, that something good was done that their honor.

Choctaw Country in southeast Oklahoma, your tourism destination By BILL GRANT from the Kamichi Bird by French explorers long ago. We think the bird came from South Contributing Writer America. The name appears as Kiamichi Mountains, Kiamichi River, Kiamichi Vo-Tech, the After 43 years of operation, the name Kiamichi Country, Inc., as such, is no more, and Kiamichi Trace (US 271 from the Red River to Fort Smith) and in the title of many songs the association will now be known as Choctaw Country, Inc. that I have written and recorded that were played in 34 states and seven countries. We The idea of joining forces with the Choctaw Nation has been fl oating around for some began as The Kiamichi Mountain Boys. time and as of July 23, at our Board of Directors meeting in Wilburton, a resolution was Choctaw has also been a big word in our history and continues to be so. The Choctaw adopted to make it happen. A request form was acquired from the Secretary of State’s Of- were the fi rst of the Five Civilized Tribes moved here by the U.S. Government beginning fi ce in Oklahoma City and on Aug. 11, the request was granted. in 1830. They established the fi rst tribal government here in Indian Territory in 1834. The The Association’s operation will continue as in the past with the two entities coming word Oklahoma came from a Choctaw word meaning “Red Man.” together to achieve the same goal—to better promote tourism and recreation in our 10 Their survival of an almost impossible situation came out of their removal here. Many county area. lives were lost on the trail and many died from sickness after they arrived. Through To my knowledge, Kiamichi Country was organized by KEDDO (Kiamichi Economic hard work and endurance they have come from a near poverty level to well-respected Development District of Oklahoma) as of July 10, 1971, with a board citizens taking care of their people. The Choctaw have built hospitals, member from each of only seven counties at that time. The schools, clinics, senior citizen facilities, roads, etc., and de- only individuals I came to know were A.A. Sewell from Choc- “The Choctaw have built hospitals, veloped many programs benefiting the communities. taw County and Fred Stovall from Latimer County. The other For some time, the Choctaw Nation did not have a tourism counties were LeFlore, Haskell, McCurtain, Pushmataha, and budget although they had created much tourism through Pittsburg. schools, clinics, senior citizen their activities and were always good customers and worked It was part of a plan by Lt. Gov. George Nigh to divide with Kiamichi Country. Now they have a tourism budget and Oklahoma into six regions and aid the state in tourism and facilities, roads, etc., and developed some good people doing tourism promotion. They are now recreation promotion. His belief was that six grassroots in charge of the Welcome Center at Colbert. organizations around the state would know their needs and many programs benefi ting the On Nov. 26, 2006, Kiamichi Country was given three possibilities better than Oklahoma City. His idea came from more counties—Atoka, Bryan, and Coal—by the state which an organization in northeast Oklahoma working on tourism communities.” gave us all of the Choctaw Nation except half of Hughes and carried the name of Green Country. Although it may have County. Four members of their promotion department been incubating in his mind, he probably had thought that it would were already on our board, representing Bryan, Coal, and McCurtain become the third largest industry in the state. Counties. Therefore, the idea evolved to become one in promotion, so here we are. Hopefully, I served on the Board of Directors for a time and had left, but when A.A. became presi- we can do a bigger and better job in promoting tourism and recreation in Oklahoma. dent, I rejoined and did my best to help. However, Mr. Sewell passed away and Ed Edinger Our name change came on the eve of one of the Choctaw’s big events, the annual Labor Day became president. Festival at the Tvshka Homma complex. This is one of the three largest gatherings of Indians On the way home from the Dallas Travel Show, Ed Edinger died in my pickup, leaving it in the U.S., a full fi ve days of action-packed activities which ends with a large dinner and the to Amie Bookout of Idabel to succeed him as president. I signed on as the Executive Direc- State of the Nation address by the new Chief, Gary Batton. tor around 1988. Again, one of the exciting activities will include a group of the famous Choctaw Ponies My good friend, Noel Pence became president of the board and helped the Association, voted by the State Legislature as “The Heritage Horse of Oklahoma.” These ponies have blood but had to resign because of health problems. Presently, Wade Thomson of Wilburton lines that go back to the horses brought by the Choctaws on the Trail of Tears trip from their is President; Karen Wages of Poteau is Vice-President; Joe Webb of Hugo is Secretary; native lands in the east. Cynthia Johnston of Red Oak is Treasurer; and Kim Green is Administrative Assistant for Also, our name change comes on the eve of our kick-off ad sales for the 2015 Choctaw Choctaw Country at the KEDDO Offi ce located in Wilburton. Country Travel and Vacation Guide. One hundred thousand copies will be distributed Through the years, the word Kiamichi has been big in Southeast Oklahoma, taken throughout the central U.S. Watch for us—WE WILL BE MOVING AND SHAKING! BISKINIK | September 2014 13 Haknip Achukmaka Good Health: CNHSA health fairs in full swing The Choctaw Nation Health Services Authority is hosting several health fairs at Choctaw Nation Community Centers. A variety of programs attend each fair to disseminate information, provide on-site health services and generally link Choctaw Nation programs with tribal members. These health fairs have been held in a wide range of locations within the Choctaw Nation this year. Previous locations include Broken Bow, Poteau, Talihina, Wilburton and McAlester. Upcoming health fairs will be held in Bethel on Sept. 24 and Crowder on Oct. 15. For more information about Choctaw Nation Health Services, visit website www.cnhsa.com.

Chief Gary Batton shares a moment with Dixie Owen during the CNHSA Health Fair at the Dale Cox Community Center in Poteau.

Story and Photos by ZACH MAXWELL Choctaw Nation

Reba Baker at the Poteau Health Fair with Sarah Fennewald of the Office of Environ- mental Health.

Iona Parker has her blood pressure checked by Community Health Nurse Brandi Burris during the Poteau Health Fair on July 30 at Dale Cox Commu- nity Center.

Councilman Delton Cox, Chief Gary Batton, Peggy Wiser Wanda Ward received information at the and husband Jerry Wiser of Summerfield at the Poteau Poteau Health Fair on July 30. Health Fair. Cox is an uncle to Mrs. Wiser.

Hansen named member of Choctaw Nation FEMA Advisory Board Injury Prevention Program Jeff Hansen, Emergency and other related plans and Manager for the Choctaw Na- strategies. Distracted Driving . . . tion, has been named to the Hansen will serve on National Advisory Council for the Federal Insurance and Distracted driving is any activity that could divert a person’s at- the Federal Emergency Man- Mitigation Subcommittee as agement Agency (FEMA). a “non-elected tribal govern- tention away from the primary task of driving. All distractions The council was estab- ment official.” endanger driver, passenger, and bystander safety. These types lished by the enactment of “One of the goals I have is the Post-Katrina Emergency bringing disaster response in of distractions include: Management Reform Act of Indian Country to light,” said 2006 to ensure effective and Hansen. “I hope to show that • Texting ongoing coordination of fed- some of the policies being eral preparedness, protection, written also need to address • Using a cell phone or smartphone response, recovery, and miti- Photo by Zach Maxwell our tribes.” gation for natural disasters, FEMA appoints Choctaw Hansen was appointed to • Eating and drinking Nation’s Jeff Hansen to the serve a three-year term on the acts of terrorism, and other National Advisory Council. • Talking to passengers manmade disasters. 35-member FEMA National • Grooming The council advises the it, and private sector input in Advisory Council. The elected • Reading, including maps FEMA administrator on the development and revision tribal official serving on the all aspects of emergency of the National Preparedness council with Hansen is listed • Using a navigation system management. The council Goal, the National Prepared- as James Akerelrea, a mem- • Watching a video incorporates state, local, and ness System, the National In- ber of the Yu’pik people of • Adjusting a radio, CD player, or MP3 player tribal governments; nonprof- cident Management System, central Alaska.

Taking your eyes off of the road for 4.6 seconds at 55 mph is like driving the length of a football field without seeing where you are going. Perry is new Bryan County But because text messaging requires visual, manual, and cog- Veterans Services Officer nitive attention from the driver, it is by far the most alarming distraction. Bryan County Veterans Services is pleased to an- nounce that Alan Perry of the Choctaw Nation is the The best way to end distracted driving is to educate all Ameri- new Veterans Services Of- cans about the danger it poses. ficer for the area. Perry joins Paul D. Conley in this capacity. Native So when you get a text message or phone call, take time to American veterans and spouses of deceased veterans think about distracted driving, your safety, and safety of others in Bryan County are urged to before picking up the phone. It can wait. sign up for VA benefits. Disabled American Veterans (DAV) assists all www.distraction.gov/content/get-the-facts/facts-and-statistics.html veterans through the county service office, located in the Photo By Zach Maxwell Donald W. Reynolds Com- munity Center and Library Alan Perry is one of the new Veterans Services Officers for Bryan County. He encourages all veterans and their Information provided by in Durant. spouses, especially Native American veterans, to come see The Veterans Service Of- Choctaw Nation Injury Prevention Program him and sign up for veterans benefits at Donald W. fice is open Monday through Reynolds Community Center and Library in Durant. Thursday from noon until Derek Anderson & Keosha Ludlow 4 p.m. For information call (580) 931-9905 or (580) 380-3956. 14 BISKINIK | September 2014 Choctaw Resistance to Removal (Part IV) This month’s edition of Iti Fab- Editor’s Note: This people maintained with that homeland. By carrying these vssa concludes a four part series month’s Iti Fabvssa is small, but highly signifi cant clay bowls, Choctaw people were examining ways in which Choctaw the final submission in a able to resist being removed from at least a small part of the people resisted Removal from the four part series. homeland on both a physical and an intellectual level. homeland and the Trail of Tears. Iti Fabυssa While the clay eating bowls are the most concrete example, The previous three editions focused on armed resistance, on the technique of resisting Removal by taking a part of the contesting the Dancing Rabbit Creek Treaty, and on refus- homeland to Oklahoma was and is accomplished in a variety ing to remove from the Choctaw homeland. This month, Iti of ways. The Choctaw ancestors were Indigenous people. They Fabvssa focuses on a more passive, but not less important considered themselves as a living part of their homeland, way that Choctaw people have resisted leaving the homeland, intimately connected with the plants, animals, soil and water bringing a part of the homeland with them to Oklahoma. around them. These connections infl uenced all aspects of Many of the Choctaw people who traveled the Trail of Tears Choctaw traditional life and thought. Choctaw language, tra- in the 1830s had the opportunity to take very little with them. ditional food, traditional political structure, oral histories, and Many were only able to take what they could carry in their all other aspects of Choctaw traditional life ultimately origi- hands. In surviving collections of Choctaw family heirlooms A Choctaw clay bowl, carried to Oklahoma on the nate out of the hundreds of generations of time through which Trail of Tears (Choctaw Nation Capitol Museum). brought from Mississippi to what is now Oklahoma on the Choctaw people interacted with the homeland as Indigenous Trail of Tears, one of the most common objects are small, people. Even 184 years after removal began, the Indigenous carefully crafted clay eating bowls. These are made in the land, as well as the plants and animals there. The respect that relationship that Choctaw people had with the homeland traditional Choctaw style, except that they are smaller than the early Choctaw people had for the earth is seen in the care and is still manifest in the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma today communal eating bowls usually used in Choctaw households eff ort that was put into building large earth mounds. through words in the Choctaw language that describe plants during this time period. That same respect is also evidenced in the small, unassum- and animals in the homeland, through social dances that Why were these small bowls carried west 550 miles to what ing eating bowls that were carried across the Trail of Tears. honor animals from the homeland, through ancient stories, is now Oklahoma in relatively large numbers? The functional These bowls, made from native clay, sand, and burned animal passed down from generation to generation that are set in the purpose of the bowls is obvious, but there is probably a deeper bone, are literally a small part of the Choctaw homeland, but homeland, through traditional foods that come from plants reason. From a traditional Choctaw perspective, the earth, and they are more than just that. Their raw materials were mixed and animals native to the homeland, and through traditional particularly the Choctaw homeland are sacred. The earth is together and shaped according to a pottery tradition developed arts that incorporate materials from the homeland. Because seen as the mother of all life. The course of life follows a circle, by the hands of 100 generations of Choctaw potters living in the Choctaw homeland is an inseparable part of Choctaw and after death, an individual’s body returns to the earth to the Choctaw homeland. When Choctaw people brought these traditional culture, as the Oklahoma Choctaw community decompose and then to be reincorporated into the bodies of bowls with them on the Trail of Tears, they were bringing works to preserve and strengthen aspects traditional culture, new plants and animals. From a traditional perspective, the objects that were simultaneously pieces of the homeland and we are also resisting the separation from our homeland that Choctaw ancestors are literally a part of the earth of the home- symbols of the ancient indigenous relationship that Choctaw Removal entails. A Choctaw welcome, artfully done Meet the multimedia artist By STEPHENIE OCHOA Choctaw Nation In July of 2013 the Choc- taw Nation reached an agree- ment with the State of Okla- homa to assume operation of the state tourism information center in Colbert. The Nation retained operation with a 5-year contract. Encouraging visitors and tourism within A sampling of artist Theresa Prough’s baskets can Oklahoma, as well as utiliz- be seen at the Choctaw Welcome Center in Colbert. ing the opportunity to share Choctaw culture, the Nation added a gift shop with Okla- The Choctaw Welcome Center opens its doors to visitors, By BRANDON FRYE homa and Choctaw items. giving a cultural and artistic experience. Choctaw Nation As the gateway into Okla- in June of this year. Part of From authors to painters to homa via Highway 69/75, vis- the center’s success is due potters and soap-makers, the Theresa Prough displayed her art and itors can experience the rich to the passion of Choctaw Choctaw Welcome Center explained her creative process to guests dur- heritage of Native Oklahoma artists whose crafts, items, aids the community as well as ing the Meet the Artist event at the Choctaw along with maps, brochures, and goods sold on site as well visitors across the Oklahoma Welcome Center in Colbert on Aug. 23. and tourist information. Re- as many opportunities for southern border. The center “I am a multimedia artists. I weave baskets, named the Choctaw Welcome visitors and local populations gives patrons the chance to I make pottery, I do beadwork, and I do tra- Center, sales at the travel to “Meet the Artist” at the experience the native culture ditional Choctaw moccasins,” Prough said. “I center have increased ten- center for discussion, demon- and the opportunity to pur- have been doing beadwork since I was a child, fold since July of 2013 with stration, or specifi c highlight- chase unique items made by I would sit and watch my grandmother on her over 46,000 people visiting ed Choctaw cultural goods. Choctaw artisans. front porch as she did her beadwork.” While she has produced art such as bead- work, purses, and medicine bags most of her life, she continues to evolve artistically by Chahta Anumpa learning art in new media and styles. “I learned pottery through the Cultural Preservation program with Ian Thompson,” Photos by Brandon Frye ◆◆◆ Aiikhvna ◆◆◆ Prough said. “I want to start learning how Lesson of the Month Artist Theresa Prough talks with visitors to use herbs and other plants to dye. I’ve got at the Meet the Artist event. honeysuckle growing in my yard and can use that as a dye to help make baskets.” Singular, Dual and Plural Verbs Prough is a local artist living in Durant, and wear shoes and our feet are more soft, I put she keeps her artwork local. When making insoles in them and they last longer that way,” pottery, Prough said, “I do this at home. I go Prough said. Singular – one out there, dig the clay, and work off of the She said she makes her art because she bininli – ‘sit’ or ‘to be sitting’ back porch. We get the mussel shells from loves it, and it is something she can pass on to Lake Texoma. We take a big old bucket and her grandchildren, which she does now. Katimma bininli chi bvnna? we go down by the water and pick up the Tristan Boucher, granddaughter to Prough, Kah-tim-ma bi-nihn-li chi bahn-na? shells out of the sand.” has learned from her grandmother and pro- In addition to staying local, Prough also duces her own dreamcatchers and beadwork Where do you want to sit? tries to keep her work close to nature and her medallions. “I like teaching and I like to pass traditional roots. “With my products, I try not it on. If there is a mission in my life and art, it to use plastic. It is cheaper, but I like to keep is to pass on what I know, like the beadwork, Dual – two it traditional,” Prough said, pointing to the moccasins, and baskets,” Prough said. “I have bininli – ‘sit’ or ‘to be sitting’ jewelry on display. “These are bone, and these been doing this since I was a child, and if I have a more traditional look because I use don’t pass it on it dies with me.” Katos tuklo mvt kaa pakna chiya. glass beads. I also use shells and brass.” Prough expressed an appreciation of the Kah-tos tohk-loh maht kaa pahk-nah chehn-yah. Maintaining tradition in her work is im- help the Choctaw Nation has off ered her as an Those two cats are sitting on top of the car. portant to Prough, but she also enjoys fi nding artist. “They are really good with helping to get ways to embrace modern designs and practi- your name registered and out there, making cal upgrades. With her pottery, she places old business cards and making contacts,” she said. Plural – three or more designs like the eagle alongside newer depic- “Your name is out there, you’re on the registry, tions of feathers. And with her moccasins, and if somebody is having an event and needs bininli - ‘sit’ or ‘to be sitting’ Prough stays traditional but has adapted her a certain type of artist, there we are all to- Okla impa hosh binohmaya. designs to fi t the needs of Choctaws today. gether, all at once. Being a Choctaw artist gives “With the moccasins, we used to go you many perks, it gets you out there.” Okla- ehm-pah hosh bih-noh-mahn-yah. barefoot. Our feet were more tough, and the The work of Choctaw artists, including They are sitting there eating. moccasins were only worn with travelling or Theresa Prough, can be viewed and purchased during the winter. You can feel how thin it is, at the Choctaw Welcome Center in Colbert or they’re like really nice socks. Now, since we online at www.choctawstore.com. katimma – where bininli – sit or to be sitting chi- you bvnna – want katos – cat tuklo – two mvt – that kaa – car chiya – two sitting pakna –on top of okla – group impa – to eat hosh – subject marker

Beaded detail from one of the artist’s www.choctawschool.com handmade moccasins. BISKINIK | September 2014 15

SEATTLE, WA

Chief Gary Batton with Tom Monie and Diane Monie of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, at the Seattle meeting.

Judith Holder with Dustin Shermar and Jason Shermar at the Choctaw Cultural Gathering in Seattle.

Assistant Chief Jack Austin Jr. (left) and Chief Gary Batton with Roger Amerman and family.

Thank you Seattle Assistant Chief Jack Austin Jr. (left) and Chief Gary Batton with Christina A. Breault and her sister at the Choctaws for visiting Seattle meeting. with us!

Photos by PAYTON GUTHRIE Choctaw Nation Choctaw artist Richard W. Welch II and Assis- tant Chief Jack Austin Jr. in Seattle.

Jake Rae, Lindsay Rae, and Calvin Rae in Seattle. A Choctaw Bible dating to 1867 was brought to the Salem meeting by a Choctaw family. On the right is a page SALEM, OR turned to “Lefiticvs Holisso” or the Book of Leviticus. Papers also make reference to the Hickmans of Hugo.

Chief Gary Batton and this cutie drew out the winners of door prizes in Salem.

Assistant Chief Jack Austin Jr. (left) and Chief Gary Batton with the James family in Salem.

Chief Gary Batton with the Knight family in Salem. Thank you Salem Choctaws for visiting with us!

Photos by PAYTON GUTHRIE Artists Joanna Kaufman and Leah Choctaw Nation Hedberg in Salem. LAWTON, OK

Mary Watson, Pam Watson, and Diwala Gibson, three generations, sit down to make beaded jewelry.

Choctaw Dancers and members from the audi- ence dance the Snake Dance in Lawton.

Mandy Lawson teaches children how to play stick- Thank you ball at the Lawton gathering. Lawton Choctaws for visiting with us!

Photos by Phelicia Scott and Jane Walters from Dun- BRANDON FRYE can work on jewelry as mother and daughter. Choctaw Nation

Jessica Anderson and her children Turtle and Hunter Anderson, all from Snyder, learn to make NORMAN, OK beaded jewelry. Chief Batton and Assistant Chief Austin pose with Karen Gilbert and Anna B. Macomber, the “Benavides both from Hobart, take a break from lac- Boys” of Norman: ing beads onto strings. Marshall Noah (10), Gabriel Raphael (8), Donovan Landa (6), and Dashiell Danger (5).

Choctaw social dancers form a line for those in attendance at the Norman meeting.

Cultural Services Director Sue Folsom caught up with Carol Gardner in Norman. Mrs. Gard- Thank you Norman ner is the wife of the late Chief Choctaws for visiting David Gardner, the first of four with us! Houston and Shirley Cusher of Shawnee chiefs Folsom has worked under with Chief Gary Batton and Assistant Chief during her tenure at Choctaw Photos by Jack Austin Jr. Nation. VONNA SHULTS Kanda Jackson of Choctaw Nation and Cultural Services assists Barbara Tyler KAY JACKSON of Oklahoma City with beadwork ear- Choctaw Nation rings. 16 BISKINIK | September 2014 Choctaw Royalty send appreciation, love and well wishes for 2014-2015 Princess Pageant Winners

(Left) Chief Gary Batton, Assistant Chief Jack Austin Jr. pose with newly crowned 2014-15 Choctaw Royalty and 2013-14 retiring Choc- taw Royalty, Isabelle Cox, Kyra Wilson, Summer Mof- fitt, Kayleigh Powell, Nikki Amos, and Callie Curnutt.

Little Miss Choctaw Nation welcomes new royalty Halito, I am Isabelle Cox and I have had the incredible honor of serving as the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Little Miss for the past 12 months. This evening marks the end to an amaz- ing journey in my life as your Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma 2013-14 Royalty, Little Miss Choctaw Nation, Isabelle Cox, Jr. Miss Choc- Little Miss Choctaw Nation. taw Nation, Kayleigh Powell, Senior Miss Choctaw Nation, Callie Curnutt. Many have made my journey possible, but one thing that I have Sr. Miss Choctaw Nation tearfully says goodbye learned over the past year is that it Halito and welcome to the has been the spirit of every Choctaw 2014-15 Choctaw Nation Royalty that has made my time so meaning- Pageant. Sv hohchifo yut Callie ful and memorable. My year has Curnutt. I am your 2013-14 Miss been filled with incredible experi- Choctaw Nation. I would like to ences. I am so grateful for the new take a moment and thank everyone friends that I’ve made and helping for coming out to support these to spread our proud culture to oth- wonderful young women vying for ers. Choctaws are indeed growing Little Miss Choctaw Nation, Isabelle Cox, during speech at Labor Day. their crowns. As it says in Matthew with pride, hope, and success and 17:20, ‘If you have faith the size I am still amazed that I got the sistant Chief Austin, and the Tribal the last year and I am truly lucky of a mustard seed, you can say to opportunity to see this for myself. Council. Our Great Choctaw Nation and grateful to have your support in this mountain ‘Move from here to To the new Choctaw royalty, is stronger than ever with your guid- everything I do. Thank you Mom there’ and it will move. Nothing you are starting on a journey of a ance and leadership. Thank you Cal- and Dad, I feel like I can do almost will be impossible. I used this lifetime. I know you will represent lie Curnutt and Kayleigh Powell for anything with your love and sup- verse last year in my essay portion our great Choctaw Nation well being such good friends and helping port. You never hesitate in the sacri- in running for Miss Choctaw Na- and continue spreading our proud me through this past year. Thank fices you make for me, I love you. Sr. Miss Choctaw Nation, Callie Carnutt gives a tearful goodbye at tion. They say that God hears all culture and traditions to those you you Faye Self and Elaine Thomson Lastly, I want to thank God for such Labor Day 2014. prayers. Well this time last year, meet. Your experiences will be for the work that you do to make an incredible family, friends, and fu- I was burning up the phone line. has so much traffic coming in you! To my dad, thank you for unforgettable. Congratulations! this such a memorable experience. ture friends throughout the Choctaw Praying that His will be done. This that they have grounded for the believing in me. Especially when Lastly, there are many people that Thank you to my grandparents Nation. He has truly blessed us all! past year, I have tried to continue next two hours. As we land in I didn’t believe in myself. Thanks I need to thank. Thank you Chief Delton and Deloris Cox, you have -Isabelle Cox to do God’s will in representing Denver we miss our connecting for also telling me to get back up Batton, Former Chief Pyle, As- helped me in so many ways over Yakoke and God Bless! the Choctaw Nation to the best flight and barely catch a plane to every time I’ve failed. I love you! of my ability. One of my favorite San Francisco. By this time it’s A, you are the best little sister quotes from Disney’s movie UP nine o’clock at night, I have to be that anyone could have. Even if Jr. Miss Choctaw Nation has a year of memories says, “Adventure is out there!” dressed and ready to go at eight you did tell me several times that “Every good gift and every perfect Well I can honestly say that I have o’clock the next morning. We land my head was way too big for my present comes from Heaven; it comes had a lot of new adventures. From in San Francisco and rent a car crown. I’d also like to thank my down from God, the Creator of the almost getting lost in the Redwood and mom drives 6 ½ hours and we “bodyguards” Pinti, Shilup, and heavenly lights, who does not change or Forest, to driving 6 ½ hours in the pull into our hotel at seven that Les. It’s been so much fun getting cause darkness by turning” James 1:17. middle of the night in California. morning. I had made it to perform to know all of ya’ll and spend- Halito, Sv hochifo yut Kayleigh My first adventure was to Los on time! The only thing that didn’t ing time together on our trips. Powell your 2013-2014 Jr. Miss Angeles along with Fresno. That was my moccasins that were in my I’m really going to miss ya’ll. To Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and was such an amazing experience suitcase that was still in Denver. my Little Miss Isie. I don’t know this is my journey. On August 29th, to get to see the ocean and the After all the traveling experience where to begin. You are such an 2013 the Lord blessed me with the pier. In our downtime the first we had that weekend, I felt like the amazing young lady. I know you title Jr. Miss Choctaw Nation and day, we got to travel around town Griswold family. It was so good will be successful and go far in all the praise and the glory goes to some. Let me tell ya, it’s much to meet the Okla-Chahta royalty. life. You are such a sweetheart. him. I can remember standing on the larger than Wister, Okla. We had a I had a great time while visit- It has been so much fun getting stage, extremely nervous by the time wonderful time getting to educate ing there! Aside from the mental to know you and spend time with it came to announce the results. The others about our culture. In a few breakdown I had on the plane you. I’ll always be here for you if feeling of joy I felt when I heard my days, we got a van and traveled to trying to get there, and also Tracy you ever need me. To my Junior name announced was indescribeable. Fresno. Before we left that morn- almost hitting a pedestrian walking Miss Kayleigh. I am so glad to I knew right then this was going to ing, Faye, Elaine, mom and I de- across the street. That was a close have met you and get to know you be a once in a lifetime experience. cided to take a little scenic detour one! Of course we had to do some this past year. I would also like The 2013 Labor Day Festival went and go see the Redwood Forest shopping while we were there! to thank my councilman Delton by quickly. This is where I met my Se- on the way. In the meantime Mary Isie and I tore that mall up! There Cox and his wife Delores. I cannot nior Miss Callie Curnutt and Little Miss Sue Folsom decided that she might was a lesson learned from all of begin to thank both of you for Isabelle Cox and from that time on I ride with us since we were going that. My mom can accomplish everything you have done for me. knew it was going to be an adventurous to get to the hotel straight away. anything that is thrown her way! I hope I made both of you, and the year representing the Choctaw Nation After all, it was just a little scenic Our next trip was to Wash- people of District 4 proud. To the throughout our travels; it was an unfor- detour. Shouldn’t take too long. ington, D.C. It was such a great councilmen, I have really enjoyed gettable moment. I had a blast cheering Right? Wrong. As we turn into the experience getting to meet people getting to know all of ya’ll better. I them on to get the Championship Jr. Miss Choctaw Nation, Kayleigh Powell, expresses love at Labor Day. National Park, our GPS decided it from all over the world and show- will cherish all the laughs and the title with my auntie. Throughout the was going to die. So we grabbed a ing them a little bit of our culture. memories each of you have given entire festival I enjoyed socializing and to thank Miko Gary Batton, Miko Auntie, my official driver, photogra- map and found the little squiggle Let me tell ya, from one book me. Even if I almost died of elec- meeting all the people who attended. Apela Jack Austin Jr., Tribal Council pher, and royalty role model, my reign road that we would take. Well after nerd to another. If you’ve never trocution from the shock pen. To It has been a phenomenal culture and my Councilman Ted Dosh for would not have been possible without 5 hours in the park and 10 hours heard a British person say “Harry Faye and Elaine, it has been such a experience getting to travel represent- all of their hard work and dedication all of your help. I would like to thank of driving, we make it to the hotel Potter” that is something you memorable, incredible whirlwind ing the Great Choctaw Nation. My in making sure the Choctaw people you for all my beautiful Choctaw dress- around one in the morning. Need- need to add to your bucket list. of a year. Even if we did have to first flying trip was to Albuquerque, are headed in the right direction. es, beaded jewelry, and for all the guid- less to say, Mary Sue has yet to get From Chinatown, to George- have seating assignments at the NM for the 2014 Gathering of Na- Faye and Elaine, I would like ance and advice you have given me. in a vehicle with us ever again! town cupcakes, to the top of the dinner table. I’m going to miss tions. Being able to participate in the to thank you for all the support and Joe and Uncle, I would like to The next experience was to Washington Monument, we saw the both of you very much. Last grand entry was incredible. It was encouragement you have given me this thank you for all the support you have the Gathering of Nations. That is everything there was to see. but not least, I would like to thank unbelieveable how many danc- year. There was never a dull moment given me. Joe, thank you for taking an experience I will never forget. Our last trip was to Mississippi Amber Tehauno and her family. ers and visiting royalty attended. traveling with you two, thank you for my photos and for making my video. I thought I had prepared myself to the 65th Annual Choctaw Indian Amber, you will never know how My favorite trip to attend was the all of the laughs and special memories. I would like to thank my two for how big it was going to be. Fair. It was so good to see the oth- much the pre pageant advice and 65th Annual Choctaw Indian Fair in Isabelle, you are an intelligent, guardian angels, Papa and Bubba I was completely blown away. er royalty and meet the new ones. motivational texts and speeches Choctaw, Miss. Through my entire stay beautiful girl with a bright future for making sure I arrived to my It was such an honor to be able In our down day, Isie and I hit the mean to me. You had confidence was able to not only watch, but partici- ahead of you. Reigning with you has destinations safely. I wish you two to represent Choctaw Nation water park and had a blast. We also in me when I didn’t. It’s been such pate in their Choctaw Social Dances. It been great. You are like a little sister were here but I know you are in a at such an event. Albuquerque hit a lot of the pawn shops too! a blessing meeting you and your is amazing how alive their culture is. It to me, and I will always cherish the better place., I look forward to the was such a beautiful city. As my year as Miss Choctaw family. I would like to thank ev- was an honor having the opportunity to memories and laughs we’ve shared. day when we are all reunited again. In a few short days, we were Nation comes to an end, I am eryone that has congratulated me meet Phyllis J. Anderson, Chief of the Callie, sharing this experience To my succesor, Congratulations! in Bakersfield, CA. But the 12 filled with so many emotions. I and told me you were proud of me. Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians. with you has been fun. We have You have an outstanding journey hours before that seemed like an am so proud and honored to have There was no better feeling than Witnessing the young children speak- shared several laughs and memories. that lies ahead of you. The year will eternity. My mom and I traveled represented the Great Choctaw hearing my own people saying ing their native language, beading, It has been great getting to know you pass before you know it. Cherish to Tulsa to fly to Denver and then Nation. I would like to thank God, they were proud of me. You never basket weaving, playing stickball, and and wish you well in your future. each and every moment. Remember catch our plane to Bakersfield. As for without him I wouldn’t be knew it but I bit back tears and leading the Choctaw Social Dances Mom, I love you and thank you for to always wear your crown with we are almost to Denver, our pilot standing here today. When I was smiled a little bigger each time. was very inspiring. If you ever have traveling by my side throughout this pride and integrity. This is truly a comes on and tells us there are crowned Greg Pyle was Chief and I was shared this quote and I the chance to watch their princess entire year. I have a special place in my once in a life time experience. some storms headed to Denver. I would like to thank him, Chief think it fits perfectly. “How lucky pageant, I encourage you to do so. It is heart where I will remember all of the As I close this chapter in my He says that we are going to circle Gary Batton, and Assistant Chief am I to have found something a one-of-a-kind pageant. Every night memories we have made. I thank you life, I know it is not the end of the in the air and wait to land, but it Jack Austin, Jr. Thank you for that makes saying goodbye so I was able to watch the Men’s World for all the sacrifices you make for me. road. I hope to see you all again shouldn’t take long. After an hour giving me this once in a lifetime hard.” But as we all know, there Series of Stickball. Stepping on the Grandma, I would like to thank when competing for the Miss Senior of circling, the pilot comes back opportunity. Oh and Chief, I’ll is no word for goodbye in the ancestral grounds of the Nahih Waiya you for everything you do for me. Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma title. on and says we are going to have always “have your back!” I would Choctaw language. So I’ll just Mound was a true honor. It is often You have taught me so much about Chi Pisa La Chike! Yakoke! to divert south twenty miles we are also like to thank my mom. She’s say, “Chi pisa la chike!” Yakoke, referred to as The Heart of the Choctaw the Choctaw Culture and heritage. I “Remember that I have commanded running low on fuel. As we land, been with me through every step Choctaw Nation. My name is People (Chahta Alheha Itchokash). remeber the night you first taught me you to be determined and confident! we are told that we will be back of this experience. You are such Callie Curnutt and I am your Most importantly, I would like to to bead like it was yesterday. You are a Do not be afraid or discouraged, for in the air as soon as possible. We an inspirational role model. I’m 2013-2014 Miss Choctaw Na- say Yakoke to God for blessing me with strong Choctaw woman and I admire I, the Lord your God, am with you are taxing out on the runway and so glad we have gotten to share tion, and I proudly served you! this incredible journey and for guiding you for that. You have inspired me to wherever you go” Joshua 1:9. our pilot informs us that Denver this year full of memories. I love -Callie Curnutt me each step of the way. I would like be the person I am today. I love you. -Kayleigh Powell BISKINIK | September 2014 17 Honoring the Giver of Life Labor Day 2014 #ChoctawFest Memories

Welcome to the Labor Day Festival 2014 Biskinik issue. This year’s festival saw many new and exciting things for Tvshka Homma participants but also for members of the Great Choc- taw Nation of Oklahoma. From rides to entertainment, to the crowning of new Choctaw royalty, thousands participated at the 4-day festival and State of the Nation address by Chief Batton. While not everybody was able to attend in body, the spirit of the Choctaw people was felt worldwide this year through our many social media avenues. Be sure to connect with the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, your Nation online, and enjoy the Biskinik recap of events. See you next year!

It is estimated the annual 2014 to their roles by attending events Along with Rev. Bobb providing one building. Labor Day Festival and Pow Wow, throughout the Labor Day weekend services, others were present for However, much of this year’s “Honoring the Giver of Life” welcoming visitors and tribal mem- traditional gospel singing as well excitement surrounded Chief event included almost 80,000 bers beginning bright and early at as flute playing giving first services Batton’s State of the Nation participants for exhibits, carnival the ribbon cutting ceremony for the the true Choctaw spirit. address. attractions, cultural expositions, new Bertram Bobb Chapel. Traditional stickball games, Chief Batton addressed Choctaw pony rides, buffalo The Bertram Bobb Chapel was cultural demonstrations, and the crowded amphitheater tours, entertainment, art awards, set in motion during former Chief entertainment were some of the by saying “We are doing stickball tournaments, and other Gregory E. Pyle’s time with the biggest hits with visitors, as well well” and introduced the sport competitions. On Monday, Choctaw Nation and completed as thousands visiting the Choctaw many accomplishments closing the festival, Chief Gary just in time for the festival. Nestled Village for live examples of the the Nation has seen over Batton gave the yearly State of the on the lush capitol grounds in Choctaw heritage seen through the year. Nation address. Tvshka Homma, former Chief Pyle, cooking, dancing, storytelling, and After acknowledging the The festivities began Thursday Chief Batton, and other organizers games. previous year’s successes, evening with the crowning of the wanted to have a place for tribal There were several buildings Chief Batton then spoke of future new Choctaw Royalty. The new members to worship during the and tents throughout the grounds plans for the Nation. One of the Choctaw Princesses for the 2014-15 festival and participate in gospel including the Healthy Living tent, plans includes the Choctaw Nation Door prizes and car awards year are Little Miss Kyra Wilson singings. The Chapel was dedi- Code Talkers Association and CDIB car tag initiative where Oklahoma were presented along with a medal from District 9, Junior Miss Sum- cated to Rev. Bobb and worship site where members could update tribal members will receive a dis- presented to the eldest Choctaw mer Moffitt, District 8, and Miss services were held on Sunday with information or ask questions about count and tribal Nation designed Nation member in attendance. The Choctaw Nation Nikki Amos from standing room only available for services. Others traveled to see the license plate when purchasing car festival wrapped up with free lunch District 2. The new Royalty took parishioners. vast amount of artisan work all in tags. for all. #ChoctawFest Social Media Festival Coverage

@ChoctawNationOK kept online viewers up-to-date during the Labor Day Festival. Staying on top of events was easy thanks to @ChoctawNationOK upcoming events announcements on Face- book. Choctaws across the globe had immediate access to the State of the Nation address by Chief Gary Batton on YouTube. Views for the speech continue to increase. Real time updates flowed out through Twitter.

Chief Batton with the fondly thought of and remembered 96-year-old Ernestine Hooser Hunkapillar of Broken Bow, who was the eldest member in attendance and has since passed.

The Fourth Annual Labor Day Festival Stickball Tournament champions are MBCI (on the left). Tournament MVP is Gerren Isaac (center photo). Second place this year goes to Tvshka Homma (on the right). MBCI won the championship 3-0 over Tvshka Homma.

Fierce competition followed mutual respect in the Ishtaboli Ohoyo (women’s stickball game). Third Place in the Stickball Tournament went to Beaver Okla Hannali (Sixtown) were Consolation Champions at Dam of the Mississippi Choctaw Reservation. the Stickball Tournament this year.

Domino champs Checkers champions Jason Baker Tough Tough Choctaw winners, Bea Lawrence (2nd Gregory Grimes pulling an SUV Tough Tough Choctaw champion (center, 1st place) and David Sims Madison Perkins (1st place) and Gregory place) and Roland across the Council Chambers lawn Madison Perkins carrying weighted (2nd place, second from left) with Grimes (2nd place). Dan Thomas (far Wade (1st place). during Tough Tough Choctaw contest. barrels while event organizer Jeremy Chief Gary Batton, Assistant Chief right) earned the “Fighting Heart” award. Loper stands watch. Jack Austin Jr. and Tom Williams. 18 BISKINIK | September 2014

Noah Lindsey Women’s single horseshoes Claudia Hodge and Shyla Smith Men’s doubles horseshoe of Allen was 2014 winners (left to right) 2nd Ava are champions of women’s doubles champs are Nicky Slabaugh, horseshoe ringer Hilton; 1st Tiff anie Burchfi eld; 3rd horseshoes. left, and Mike Mings. David Sims Claudia Hodge. champion. Nicky Slabaugh, is 2014 Men’s men’s singles single horseshoes horseshoes runner-up. champion.

Men’s doubles 3rd place horseshoes went Women’s doubles Women’s doubles to Bubba Sims and David horseshoes 2nd place fi nishers horseshoes 3rd place Terrapin Race winners Sims. were Nakisha and Stephanie fi nishers were Sequina Terrapin Race winners (ages 3-7): Kail Postoak, Bunky Impson Bohanan. Hunter and Tiff anie (ages 8-12): 1st, Baillee Berkley Nedham; Dixie placed 3rd in Burchfi eld. Isaac; 2nd, Meek Laflore; Hensley (not pictured). the 2014 Labor 3rd, Hayden Sallee. Day horseshoes competition.

Labor Day Bow Shoot Labor Day Bow Shoot win- Labor Day Bow Shoot winners in the 5 years ners in women’s division – winners, 14-16 coed division and under coed division – from left, Ashley Ellis, 2nd; – from left, Sam Jacob, 3rd; from left, Wyatt Kinslow, Labor Day Bow Shoot winners in Anna Diaz Sandra Riley, 1st; and not pic- Robert Breshears, 2nd; Chase 3rd; Riggin Waugh, 1st; men’s division – from left, David takes home 1st in tured, Christina Waugh, 3rd. Zinc, 1st. Olivia Ellis, 2nd. Edward, 2nd; Kevin Ryan, 1st; Dan Bow Shoot’s 17- Bettinger, 3rd. 19 coed division.

Choctaw War Hoops Labor Day Bow Shoot Choctaw War Hoops Mens 36 Choctaw War Hoops Mini Labor Day Bow Shoot winners, and up champs Mike Converse, Champs - Front: Jaylee 15-18 champions are the winners, 6-8 coed division – “Mavs,” Alex Steve, Lauren 9-13 coed division – from from left, Davion Wilson, 3rd; Don Tsosie, Sheldon Herrod Lopez, Kyler Young, Cale Billie, Garett Smith, Jager left, Trey Wilson, 3rd; Madie Tristen Kirchen, 2nd; Mattie and Darrell Burris. Clay; Back: Addy Clay, Sokolosky. McDonald, 1st; Triston Ross, Wilson, 1st. Chandler Fleming and Coach 2nd. Michael Clay.

Free throw contest winners The winners of the Labor Choctaw War Hoops Women (left to right) Kanice Wesley, Day 5K race were Robin Ray Free throw winners 18 and up champs are the 2nd; Kalin Parsons, 1st; and of Norman and Marcus Tubbs Choctaw War Hoops 18-35 (13-15) were 2nd, Kyle “Savages.” Terri Baker, Felicia Keyonna Gordon, 3rd. of Wilburton. They are shown champs were TJ Broades, Kendell Bassmore and 1st, Maine, and Dajae Gordon (not with Chief Gary Batton and Willis, Justin Richards and Darius Brackus Williams. Third- pictured, Erica Baker). Assistant Chief Jack Austin Jr. Peace. place Brandon Davidson is not pictured. 2014 Art Show The 11th annual Choctaw Indian Arts Show at the Labor Day Festival attracted 106 Sculpture pieces by 42 artists. Of those, 28 were sold at 1. Jack Haynes - Two Bears the show. 2. Marsha Hedrick - Choctaw Mother and Jane Semple Umsted won the People’s Child Choice Award with 832 votes for her piece 3. Jack Haynes - Stone Fist Mysteries of Earth Mother. Best of Show HM: Edmond Perkins - Malvhta honors went to J. Dylan Cavin for a ledger art piece titled For Some the Music Comes Pottery Easy. 1. Edmond Perkins - Moundville Serpent Heritage Award winners were Cliff Wilson Bottle Overgrown by Roots Jr. for a beaded stickball-themed medallion, 2. Carolyn Young - Plenty to Share Debra Belt for Choctaw Visions, and Gwen 3. Mary Frazier - Enduring Coleman Lester for a painting called Indian HM: Evangeline Robinson - Water Vessel Doctor. Shelley Tate Garner, Director of Cultural Basketry Aff airs and Arts Education and Labor Day 1. Lizabeth B. Mitchell - Miniature Bull- Art show winners include For Some the Art Show Coordinator for Choctaw Nation, nose Basket Music Comes Easy (left) by J. Dylan Cavin said the Friday night reception was well at- 2. Susan Locke Charlesworth - Choctaw which was selected as Best of Show; and tended with all but fi ve artists able to attend. Arrow Basket Heritage Award winners (above) by Gwen Chief Gary Batton, Assistant Chief Jack 3. Susan Locke Charlesworth - Choctaw Coleman Lester and Cliff Wilson, Jr. Austin Jr. and the Tribal Council were also School Basket present and the signing of the Choctaw Car Tag Compact took place just outside of the Cultural Museum doors. 1. Karen Braudrick - Oppression Here are the winners of the seven juried 2. Jarvis Johnson - Turtle Rattle with categories from the 2014 Art Show: Beads 3. Margaret Riley Santhanam - Levicy Painting HM: Marsha Hedrick - Raven Platform 1. Gwen Coleman Lester - Gift of Corn 2 Pipe 2. Gwen Coleman Lester - Choctaw Labor Day Festival Jewelry 3. Kevin Hardin - The Next Generation 1. Kanda Jackson - Beaded Jewelry Set HM: Gwen Coleman Lester - Indian Doc- 2. Jerry Lowman - Turtle pendant with tor Stickball 3. Shirley Lowman - Medallion with Stick- Graphics ball Sticks in Center 1. Jane Semple Umsted - End of Harvest HM: Jerry Lowman - ID holder and brace- First place in the art show 2. Paul King - Hands of Time let set. cultural category went to Karen 3. Tosh Felikhatubbee - Memories of my Broadrick’s Oppression (left). Art show basketry winners (on left) and Grandmother First place sculpture (right) is 1st-place painting (right) by Gwen Coleman HM: Beulah Mackey-Cloud - Amafo Chito Two Bears by Jack Haynes. Lester. BISKINIK | September 2014 19 Bertram Bobb Chapel

Chief Gary Batton welcomed visitors to the Chapel and invited them to Sunday night gos- pel singing.

The Bertram Bobb Chapel stands dedicated to Bertram Edward Bobb, Chaplain of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and the Inter-Tribal Council of the Five Civilized Tribes. The Chapel officially opened during the Chief Batton, Assistant Chief Jack Austin Jr., Labor Day Festival and will be available for singings, weddings, funerals, and similar events. and Bertram Bobb read the monument on site at the new chapel. Charlotte Jackson Monument

Above: The family of Charlotte Jackson stands with event organizer Sue Folsom. (Left to right) Sue Folsom, Pat Jones, Jenley Jones, Kevin Jackson, and artist John Gooden attend the statue unveiling in front of the Choctaw The likeness of Charlotte Jackson looks upward alongside a young Nation Capitol Building. Choctaw girl. Annual Inter-Tribal Labor Day Pow Wow

A young dancer looks on as the Choctaw Nation Color Guard Terry Loman and the Eagle Presley Byington at the Grand Entry. circles round in front of pow wow participants. Staff lead the Grand Entry.

Landon Proctor and a girl in traditional Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and Okla Chahta Michael Loman, Choctaw pow wow dancer. dress at the Pow Wow. princesses walk during the Grand Entry. BISKINIK | September 2014 20

Choctaw Village Traditional Wedding

Choctaw Princesses and children dance in the Rose Billy helps Marni The wheeler family Jeff and Kellie West say their vows at the tradition- middle of the Choctaw Village. Billy make a basket. displays their pottery. al wedding held this year at Labor Day. Choctaw Pony Rides

A group sings tradi- Nahinli Billy, an up-and-coming story teller, enter- Tim Tingle tells one of Christian Billy pets Streak, the Choctaw Pony, after tional Choctaw Hymns. tains a crowd of onlookers at the Choctaw Village. his many stories. having trotted around the village with him. Labor Day Booths

Jayden Bess gets her face painted at the Choctaw Cynthia Wilson, Secretary of the Code Talkers As- Tracy Horst and Angie Stephens show off the re- Nation Youth Advisory Board booth. sociation, welcomes visitors to her booth. ward for giving recyclables to Going Green. Arts and Crafts

Quilt show winners Jane Semple-Umsted, painter and registered Choc- Henry Battiest shows off his wares, made of natu- taw Artist, smiles next to one of her many paintings. ral materials like feathers, to interested visitors. Hand Stitched 1st - Sandra Stevens (Fishing) 2nd - Connie May (Tennessee Traveler) 3rd - Sandra Stevens (Dresser Doll)

Machine Stitched 1st - Peggy Newcomb (Snowball and Posey) 2nd - Peggy Newcomb (Summertime) 3rd - Evelyn Brinlee (Evelyn’s Creation)

Machine and Hand Stitched 1st - Peggy Newcomb (All Those Swirls) 2nd - Charlene Benge (Sweet Dreams) 3rd - Mary Sieger (Red & Blue)

• People’s Choice Award: Newcomb’s Snowball and Posey Linda Lou Alexander directs all of her attention Pete and Donna Jo Heflin stand ready to explain into weaving a traditional basket. the process of making natural wood furniture. Carnival and Fun

Felicity Noahubi views Kathy Lally’s turtle in the J0shua Jacob grabs a late night lemonade refresh- Tom Dodd enjoys alligator on a stick from Roger Oddity Show dedicated to strange animals. ment during the final evening of the fair. Ross at the Rodeo Style Mud Bugs and More Vendor.