Continuing publication Choctaw of recorded interviews of Harvest Day in Choctaw elders from 2007 Carnvival Denver Costume Contest This month – Edith McMinn and Doecha Harris Page 8 Pages 13 Page 16

bisKinik CHANGE service requested Presort STD p.O. Box 1210 AUTO Durant OK 74702 U.S. POSTAGE PAID CHOCTAW NATION

BISKINIKThe Official Publication of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

November 2011 Issue Serving 210,258 Choctaws Worldwide Choctaws ... growing with pride, hope and success

Past Outstanding Elders 1999 Outstanding Choctaw Randle Durant, District 6 2000 Elders named for 2011 Rev. Bertram Bobb, District 7 The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma zx More photos on Pages 10-11 Judith Perry, District 8 held a banquet Oct. 20 to honor out- standing elder nominees from each tired at the rank of E-8. His MOS was 2001 of its community centers. Chosen William “Bill” Amos, District 1 52B, power generation equipment as the tribe’s Outstanding Elders for Juanita Jefferson, District 3 repairman, with his first duty station 2011 are Herbert Jessie, District 1 at Fort Hood with the 11th Data Pro- 2002 – Idabel, and Rebecca Nahwoosky, cessing Detachment 2nd Armored Moses Williams, District 2 District 7 – Wright City. Division. His next duty station was Lois Burton, District 4 “The annual recognition of our el- in Karsrube, West Germany, with the ders is a special event,” Chief Greg- 72nd Signal Battalion in charge of 2003 ory E. Pyle said. “They represent the Franch Johnico, District 3 the power generation repair shop. He strength of our resilient nation.” Rena Caffey, District 9 has also been stationed at Ramstein Choctaw Nation: LISA REED Herbert Jessie, 1st Sgt. (ret.), is Airbase, West Germany, with the Councilman Thomas Williston, Outstanding Choctaw Elders Herbert 2004 a member of the Choctaw Nation 92nd Ordinance Detachment where Jessie and Rebecca Nahwoosky, Chief Gregory E. Pyle and Councilman Shirley Montgomery, District 7 Color Guard. He joined the group in he was in charge of direct support re- Jack Austin. Ernest Hooser, District 9 1998, served as assistant coordinator pairing power generation equipment and is now the coordinator. He also that included the chapparal missiles His last duty station was at Fort Sill later became the center coordinator 2005 serves as commander of the Ameri- with the Polar Bear BN, 4th-31st In- for the Idabel and Broken Bow of- Julia McKinney, District 2 and Vulcan machine guns for low- can Legion Post #8 in Idabel and is fantry Regiment. This battalion was fices. He remained with the agency Truman Heron, District 9 flying aircraft for protecting the air- on the Board of Commission of the base. Herbert returned to the states the only American unit that fought in from 1990 to 1998. He then began 2006 Choctaw Nation Housing Authority. to Fort Belvoir where he became an China during the 1930s. Herbert was his career with the Housing Author- Carrie Bohanon, District 2 He was born in Talihina to a fam- AIT instructor for the power genera- the battalion motor sergeant, training ity in Hugo as a modernization coor- John Hooser, District 7 ily of migratory farm workers who tion repair school for five years. He young officers on the combat readi- dinator, retiring in 2005. moved from West Texas to East Cen- was sent next to South Korea where ness of track and wheel vehicles. This year’s female Outstanding 2007 tral Texas, then Western Oklahoma He spent a total of eight and one- Elder winner, Rebecca Hattie Nah- Juanita Futrell, District 3 he was the battalion motor sergeant and settled in Frederick. Herbert at- half years overseas during his mili- woosky, has taught Choctaw lan- Benny Anderson, District 3 for the 44th Combat Heavy Equip- tended rural Weaver School in Fred- ment Battalion while also acting as tary career. He retired from the U.S. guage classes in Wright City for four 2008 erick. While growing up, he worked the first sergeant and a platoon ser- Army in 1989. years. She has been a member of the Lorene Blaine, District 9 on farm lands that had wheat, cotton, geant. This unit, close to the DMZ After his retirement, Herbert and Choctaw Language Dictionary com- Walker Davis, District 1 maize and alfalfa, driving combines line, maintained combat readiness wife Lillie moved to Kvllituklo to be mittee for six years. and wheat-loaded tractors. After for track and wheel vehicles. near his mother. The couple raised Hattie is married to Frank Nah- 2009 graduation, he went to work for a three children, Cheryl, Robert and woosky and enjoys reading her Bi- Leo Smallwood, District 7 After returning to Fort Belvoir, skilled-craft leatherworks facility Douglas. Herbert lost his wife in ble, studying and praying. She is a Norma Price, District 9 Herbert was sent to Garistedt, West until he was drafted into the U.S. Germany, near Bremmerhaven, 2010 and his son, Douglas, this year. Sunday School teacher at her church. 2010 Army. where he was assigned as the 1st He began working for Little Di- She graduated from Grey High Mary Watson, District 7 Herbert’s military career spanned Sgt. of the 199th Combat Service xie Community Action Agency soon Melvin Tom, District 2 22 years – 1967-1989 – and he re- Battalion 2nd Armored Division. after retirement as a van driver and See ELDERS Page 5

Tribal Council Choctaws among AARP Oklahoma Indian Elder honorees meets in regular Each year AARP Oklahoma cel- young, new pastor in the late 1960s, nificant time researching self-deter- ebrates 50 of the state’s Indian El- he addressed the cultural situation of mination. He was employed by the October session ders by recognizing their achieve- the tribe at the time, he says, leading Absentee-Shawnee and Sac and Fox The Choctaw Nation Tribal ments and contributions in cultural to him and a small group making a tribes as a child welfare director and Council met on Oct. 8 in regular preservation, community service, trip to their “homeland” in Missis- served on boards of other Indian and session at Tushka Homma. Trib- arts or leadership in their respective sippi. The trip was the first of many state agencies. Mr. Dry promoted al Council Speaker Delton Cox tribe, community or state. This year, made over the few decades, with the legislation and worked closely with called the meeting to order, wel- Indian elders from 37 of the state’s group growing in size every year. other tribal members to create the comed guests and then asked for tribes were recognized at the AARP “Many of the older Choctaws Oklahoma Indian Child Welfare committee reports. After com- Oklahoma Indian Elder Honors cer- never talked about the homeland or Act. He is a founding member of mittee reports were given the emony, an event held Oct. 4 at the much about the history,” he says. the Oklahoma Indian Child Welfare Tribal Council addressed new National Cowboy and Western Heri- Through forced integration, much Association and continues to work business. tage Museum in Oklahoma City. of the cultural identifiers were lost closely with state and tribal leaders. • Approval of several budgets Included among the honorees were over time following the Trail of Betty War including Upward Bound Math/ three Choctaws, the Rev. Donald Tears. It became, sadly, “a muted Also honored but not in atten- Science Program FY 2012, Inju- Eugene “Gene” Wilson, Thomas J. heritage and tradition,” he says. Re- dance was Betty War of Hartshorne, ry Prevention Program, Project Dry and Betty Cooper War. gaining the dance was a vital piece a Choctaw who worked with Indian Safe and Legal Assistance for The event, which drew several in reconnecting to their tribal roots. children for over 35 years at Jones Victims Grant. hundred people, opened with a buf- Countless young people who were Academy in Hartshorne, according • Budget modifications to fet dinner and a performance by the Choctaw Nation: LARISSA COPELAND part of his Choctaw dance group to AARP. She first served as a ma- WIC FY 2011 and Capitol Proj- Oklahoma Fancy Dancers. Follow- Thomas J. Dry and the Rev. during the 1970s credit his lasting tron in the little girls’ dorm where ects Budget FY 2012. ing a keynote address by John Penn, Gene Wilson proudly display their influence on their lives, many con- many had wounded spirits, low or • Disposal of surplus equip- a member of the AARP National medallions at the Indian Elder tinuing the tradition of Choctaw so- no self-esteem. She made them feel ment by Fixed Assets Depart- Board of Directors, the honorees Honors ceremony on Oct. 4 cial dancing today. proud to be Indian and was involved ment. were presented with large medal- Thomas J. Dry in every aspect of their lives from • Approval of oil and gas lease lions of appreciation as a brief his- Eagletown, is credited with help- Indian heritage has always been school to church. Today, many for- with Stephens Production Com- tory of their accomplishments was ing to stimulate the tribal culture in important to Thomas J. Dry of Ed- mer students still come to see, visit pany. read to the crowd. the 1970s by “kick starting” a tradi- mond. Realizing he needed more and help “Miss War.” A generation The Choctaw Nation Tribal The Rev. Gene Wilson tional Choctaw dance revival among skills to help the Indian cause, he of men and women love her for her Council meets in regular ses- The Rev. Gene Wilson, a resident the youth of the Presbyterian church earned a Master’s degree in social kindness, as a wise counselor and sion at 10 a.m. on the second of Indiahoma but originally from in Southeastern Oklahoma. As a work at the age of 54 and spent sig- mentor and as their “spirit mother.” Saturday of each month in the Council Chambers at Tushka Homma. Passing of former chief u Former Chief of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Hol- For tribe and country, three What’s inside lis E. Roberts passed away Oct. 19, 2011, in Hugo, at the Columns...... 2 age of 68. Notes to the Nation...... 3 Hollis was born on May 9, 1943, in Hochatown, the generations deep in tradition By LARISSA COPELAND Nursery News...... 4 son of Laura Roberts. He attended Holly Creek Elemen- Johnson James and Aaron James, both full- Food Distribution...... 4 tary School his first eight years and graduated from Idabel Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma blooded Choctaws. Along with his seven People You Know...... 6 High School in 1961, and attended Southern Methodist “In Indian ways, as grandparents, you’re brothers and sisters, he was raised on a farm Education...... 7 University. Obituaries...... 14 the teachers,” says Harry James of Talihina. in Talihina and attended school there. Iti Fabvssa...... 18 Hollis married Helen R. Rodriguez, April 19, 1963, in “If you don’t teach them (the grandchildren), “We were mostly self-sufficient on our McKinney, Texas. He was known as a true entrepreneur, who will?” farm, raising almost everything we ate,” he The Mission gaining business experience while working with Weyer- A man of few words, Harry and his wife, says. of the Choctaw haeuser, Campbell Soup, Great State Packing, Swink Gro- Carol, of 54 years, have tried to pass on During his school days, Harry was very cery, Hollywood Vassarette, and Wiley Jenks Paint Store. Nation of Oklahoma what they know of the tribal ways to their active in sports. “I really like sports. We Hollis was very active in civic service through the Jay- 12 children, 26 grandchildren and 26 great- didn’t have a lot of students so we all had To enhance the lives of all mem- cees, served as a volunteer baseball coach, and served as grandchildren. This was done through their to play to have enough for the team. That’s bers through opportunities designed a mentor for boys with the Goodland Presbyterian Boy’s what you do in a small school,” he says. to develop healthy, successful and actions. Home. He became involved in tribal and Choctaw County “I played all the sports offered, football, productive lifestyles. Harry Clyde James was born in 1927 near See ROBERTS Page 5 Talihina, the oldest child of Cleo Patrick See JAMES Page 17 BISKINIK | November 2011 | Page 2 Dry summer once again shows dry river bottoms From the Desk of stream flow. Chief Gregory E. Pyle Big Cedar, on the upper ba- sin of the river. Our Choctaw elders are Recorded No Flow – 35 very wise. They share our his- times for a duration longer tory through stories – and as I than 20 days since 1965 and was a youth, those stories were 50+ consecutive days in 2011 fun to listen to and I would ask Clayton – Gage station that they be told again and is below mouth of Jackfork again. Now, I realize the im- Creek (USACE is currently portance of the “lessons” and discharging 12 cfs from Sar- “culture” of our families and dis) our tribe as these verbal trea- Recorded No Flow – 5 times sures pass down from genera- for a duration longer than 20 tion to generation. Some of the days since 1983 and 0 days in stories and legends are known 2011. throughout the tribe and oth- Antlers – Recorded No lakepage.html. regulation by the Corps of En- ers are simply in families, but Flow – 8 times for a duration This depicts a trend leading gineers and conservation ef- I encourage all of you to share longer than 20 days since 1972 toward less steady rainfall and forts of other agencies we still your father’s and your moth- and 43 days in 2011 intensifying drought. experience years of drought. er’s stories with children and Belzoni – Not operational Statistics of note – The Bel- The Jackfork Creek and other grandchildren. since 1972 (Hugo Lake) zoni Gage, the only gage on feeder streams into Sardis My dad told me that dur- had went dry. Our state hasn’t A feature of the Kiamichi Recorded No Flow – 11 the river until 1965 prior to Lake have had little to no flow ing the Great Depression the had a great deal of data-based River is its very low stream times for a duration longer any impoundment, recorded a for some time now. No moni- Kiamichi stopped flowing information available for wa- flow in late summer into win- than 20 days since 1925 period of 55 days in 1954 and toring systems are available down by Antlers where his ter in the southeastern part of ter. This is due to the obvi- Given this data that the 89 days in 1956 with zero flow for these streams at this time. family had a dairy. The men Oklahoma for them to glean ous lack of precipitation but Kiamichi River experiences occurring in that duration. As the process of establish- and boys would take pics and from, but what they found was also to its geomorphology or almost regular no flow peri- In conclusion, it is diffi- ing a water plan progress’s our shovels to dig trenches in the fascinating, and I thought it the shape, contours, gravel ods; it is important to keep cult to determine whether the knowledge and information riverbed to get the pooled wa- was worth sharing. bars, bank height, and eleva- in mind the climate forecast Kiamichi River has ever dried such as this will improve and ter to flow to the pump sta- The Kiamichi River Basin tion changes of the river. It for the upcoming seasons. Il- up. Through gage data there become more readily avail- tions. History has repeated it- is unfortunately susceptible to may retain pools or pockets lustrated here: http://www. is evidence of periods that the able. self with the drought this year, drought. The recorded data for of water but have no recorded swt-wc.usace.army.mil/SARD. river ceased to run. Through Data obtained from usgs.gov stopping the flow in places stream flow is accurate; how- flow. This may even occur in on the beautiful Kiamichi. I ever the gauging stations have relatively ‘wet’ years to some walked down across part of the only been placed in relatively degree. riverbed this month on stones recent years. A more intriguing tale may washed smooth from many Stream Gages on Kiamichi be to examine the duration of Family values years of the rushing stream, and installation dates: drought or zero flow levels. It now bone-dry, reminding me Big Cedar – 1965 is important to remember that includes of my father’s long ago story. Clayton – 1980 Hugo Lake and Sardis Lake I asked some of the staff in Antlers – 1972 were completed in 1974 and the tribal land management Belzoni (lower Kiamichi) 1982 respectively. This is sig- providing offices to do some research – 1925-1971 (no longer moni- nificant because the USACE on how often the riverbed toring) can release water and affect best education for our youth From the Desk of Chaplain’s Corner Assistant Chief Gary Batton

Remaining true to our Choc- taw culture is very important, A Thanksgiving challenge even though it can sometimes be This is my Thanksgiving vant;...enter thou into the challenging when a tribe contin- greeting and challenge to you joy of the Lord.” (Matthew ues to grow and progress at such in the Chahta language: 25:21). Sad will be your lot. a remarkable degree. I think it is “Yakni moma kut yakoki I believe these are the honorable that education has been important One such “investment” is the Scholarship achi nitak ai ulhpihisa tok a il words that everyone should to this tribe throughout our history. Choctaw Advisement Program (SAP) which has helped afamah mak osh e hieli hokut, want to hear: “...enter thou leaders and warriors have long been recorded the tribe build a stellar relationship with Chihowa ut pi hullo, micha into the joy of the Lord.” Well, as intelligent, tactical thinkers, both in times of Ivy League facilities such as Harvard, Yale, pi nukhaklo na nan ulhpesa how can we do this? How can war and for the purposes of setting up villages Dartmouth, Johns Hopkins and Notre Dame. bieke ho ai itunohowat afumi we enter into God’s presence, and planning for the future. These, and many others, including Stanford, achuffa moma ka il afama ho- into His joy? As non-natives came more and more fre- Berkeley, Rice and Perdue, spend the first kut, Yakoki! il ima hachi pul- Jesus said: “Not every on quently to the home territories of the Choc- weekend in November each year at the Choc- lashke.” that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, taws, the elders realized the value of formal- taw Nation recruiting Choctaws as prospec- Interpreted: shall enter into the Kingdom ized education and cross-socialization of the tive undergraduate and graduate students. This “Thanksgiving Day is a day of Heaven; but he that doeth youth of the tribe. was the fourth year for this tremendous event, set aside as a national holiday. the will of my Father which is Today, Choctaw Nation scholarships, career with about 500 in attendance! A day when we can pause and in heaven.” development opportunities and many possibil- What a privilege for our tribe to be able thank God for the blessings What is God the Father’s ities for training, growth and development are to continue our culture of providing an edu- He has bestowed upon us dur- will? To do His will is to do offered by the tribe. These are all investments cation for our members at such prestigious ing the past year.” things His way. in the sustainability of the Choctaw Nation, in- institutions of learning. This is a blessed Na- Rev. Bertram Bobb That was Paul’s attitude First, to come into His pres- vestments in the future of our tribe. tion! when he wrote in First Thessa- Tribal Chaplain ence is to come by the way He lonians 5:18: “In everything we has planned, and that is by they give thanks:...” way of the cross. The cross on which Jesus Paul thanked God for the faith of believers in Christ paid the penalty for sin, which is death. Romans 1:8: “First, I thank my God through Je- You cannot come into God’s presence any sus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken other way. Jesus said while He was still on of throughout the whole world...” earth: “...I am the way, the truth, and the life; Paul thanked God for his personal relation- no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” ship with Jesus Christ saying Corinthians 9:15: (John 14:6). “Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.” Peter said this concerning God’s promises Many of us know that we have learned the and His will for you in II Peter 3:9: “The Lord most through the rough experiences of life. is not slack concerning his promise, as come God’s way is to bring about the best of us under men count slackness; but is long-suffering to the pressure of tough times. God usually gets us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but our attention when we feel our inability to cope that all should come to repentance.” in the Choctaw Nation with these circumstances. Our weakness gives God’s will is for us to come to Jesus and He – Senior Citizen Dinners & Kids Christmas Parties – God an opportunity to show his strength. is not willing that any should perish. When we learn to thank God for everything, Jesus said this concerning man’s works. And Antlers Seniors...... December 14, 12 noon Antlers Kids...... December 5, 6 p.m., up to age 10 He turns what seems like a calamity into a it was a message of comfort: The message of Atoka Kids...... November up to age 12, blessing. During these times, the Lord brings Christ to the laboring man is one of comforting at the Atoka Community Center on Liberty Road us closer to Himself. too, in Matthew 11:28: “Come unto me, all ye Bethel Seniors & Kids...... December 16, 5 p.m., kids up to age 10 The Psalmist recalled the mighty acts of God, that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give Broken Bow Seniors & Kids...... December 14, 6 p.m., kids up to age 10 Buffalo Valley Kids...... December 6, 6 p.m. at the cafeteria saying, “Come and see the works of God:...He you rest.” Burkhart Kids...... December 15, 7 p.m. turned the sea into dry land: they went through This is God’s plan of salvation, through His Coalgate Seniors...... December 14, 12 noon the flood on foot: there did we rejoice Him.” Son, and it is one of Joy, Peace and Satisfac- Coalgate Kids...... December 9, 6 p.m., up to age 12 (Psalms 66:5-6) tion. Crowder Seniors...... December 7, 11 a.m. As Christians we can thank God for past I mention also that there will be rewards for Crowder Kids...... December 10, 1 p.m. Durant Kids...... December 2, 6 p.m. events that brought hope for this life and for the Christians. I don’t have time to go into de- Heavener Kids...... December 12, 7 p.m. eternity. We can thank Him for the first com- tails on this subject but will you read this pas- Hugo Seniors...... December 14, 11:30 a.m. ing of Jesus Christ and the hope of the second sage from First Corinthians 3:11-15? Hugo Kids...... December 9, 6 p.m., Housing Culture Center coming, the cross and the resurrection. We are Remember, salvation is not by works. It is Idabel Kids...... December 14, 6 p.m., up to age 12 thankful for the writings of Paul, for example: by faith. Faith in the finished work of Jesus Idabel Seniors...... December 21, 6 p.m. McAlester Kids...... December 10, 1 p.m., under 10 years of age “To wit, that God was in Christ, reconcil- Christ on the cross. McAlester Seniors...... December 14, 11:30 a.m. ing the world unto himself, not imputing their The work of Christians shall determine their Poteau Seniors...... December 21, 11:30 a.m. trespasses unto them: and hath committed unto rewards in Heaven. After one has accepted Je- Poteau Kids...... December 17, 4 p.m., up to age 10 us the word of reconciliation.” (II Corinthians sus Christ as Savior his life is one that is build- Quinton Kids...... December 8, 6 p.m. 5:19) ing. God has a will and a purpose for our life Smithville Kids...... December 13, 7 p.m. Spiro Kids...... December 19, 4 p.m. Jesus said “...thy Word is truth.” (John 17- and as we study His Word, the Bible, we learn Spiro Seniors...... December 20, 11:15 a.m. 17). Because the Bible is true, we know the His will for us. And as we labor according to Stigler Kids...... December 9, 4-6 p.m., 10 and under promise of Christ’s return and all other prophe- His will then we are building upon the founda- Stigler Seniors...... December 7, 11:30 a.m. cies in God’s Word will be fulfilled. tion of Christ with Gold, Silver and Precious Summerfield Kids...... December 18, 2 p.m. We can be grateful for the signs of realiza- Stones. Talihina Kids...... December 16, 7 p.m. Tuskahoma Kids...... November 29, 6 p.m., up to age 10 tion of God’s great program for the earth. We So many times we try to do God’s will our Wilburton Kids...... December 10, 2 p.m. are grateful for these signs that point to God’s way. Our way is to satisfy our fleshly desires. Wilburton Seniors...... December 14, 11:30 a.m. ultimate triumph. God is in charge of our world, When a Christian is our of God’s Will then he Wright City Kids...... December 6, 6 p.m., up to age 10 and His glorious plans will be realized. is building with hay, wood and stubble. Wright City Seniors...... December 15, 12 noon Today’s message is on WORKS. You may Continue to pray for Native American peo- hear many commendations on work here on ple for their spiritual and physical welfar. Pray earth. But if you never hear those words which for America and for our tribal leaders for wis- will ring forever in the ears of those who hear dom, encouragement and strength to lead our them. “Well done, thou good and faithful ser- Nations. BISKINIK | November 2011 | Page 3

Seeking photos Thank you from Kodie I am looking for photos of my grandparents and great-grand- Thank you so much for both care packages you sent. They 6th Annual parents. I am willing to pay for copying and postage. William were definitely a morale booster. I will definitely eat everything Pusley, born 1884, died 1880, married Elizabeth Hampton; I and put everything to good use. Thank you so much for these Native American have a photo of her. Other photos I’m seeking are of Joshua packages. Leaving home for a year is hard. I am a single mom Thomas Ryan, born Sept. 1845, died Sept. 1878, and married of three little girls and these were the first packages I received. Lela Eugenia McCarty, of whom I also have a photo; Lenora It helped me out a lot just to know someone cares who doesn’t Awareness Expo Eugenia Ryan, born Dec. 25, 1877, died Oct. 6, 1899, and mar- even know me. Thank you just doesn’t seem like it’s enough ried William Wiley Pusley, of whom I have a photo as well as for how these packages made me feel, but I can’t come up with December 6, 2011 his second wife, Lelan, and their three children. I am the grand- better words. I really do appreciate all your support. I can’t daughter of Lenora, William’s first wife. wait to come home and be with my family. Please keep us in Expo: 3 p.m. - 9 p.m. I am willing to share any photos if you are interested in help- your prayers. Thank you again, and I know I am praying for Evening program: 6 p.m. ing me. My name is Betty J. Pusley Simmons. Contact me at everyone back home who stands behind all the soldiers here. 32526 Ruth Hill Road, Squaw Valley, CA 93675 or call at 599- PFC Kodie R. Bowman Southfork Ranch 332-2342. Thank you. 3700 Hogge Rd. Thank you for Parker, Texas 75002 scholarship funds I recently graduated from the Univer- FREE ADMISSION sity of Central Arkansas and received my Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. This event is hosted by the DFW Native American I would like to thank the Choctaw Na- Chamber of Commerce, who is partnering with the tion for the past six years of scholarship Choctaw Nation and other tribal nations to bring better money provided to help me further my education. The support access to tribal resources and information to tribal is greatly appreciated. members living in your area. Some of the resources Angela Sawyer and information you will be able to access include tribal heritage and corporate booths. We plan to have booths on stickball, ancient weaponry, artwork, storytelling and bead work. Choctaw Social Dancers will perform at Langston Upton of Wister FFA says thanks to the Choc- the evening program as well as participation from Bear taw Nation for support at the 2011 Premium Sale. Claw Drum Group. The Choctaw Color Guard will post the flags at 6 p.m. Dinner will be served. Chief Gregory E. Pyle will be one of the event speakers. Thankful for Emergency Services I wanted to send everyone at Choctaw Nation and the Emer- For more information: dfwnacc.org gency Services Department my deepest and most sincere ap- preciation and gratitude. You have come through for me when I was in such despair, and for so many others, too. Emergency Seeking information on Guthries Services is a blessing for many of us. You help give us hope I am looking for information on Joe Thomas Guthrie, the and help us get through our hardships. With God’s will and His brother of the late William Terrell “Woody” Guthrie of the blessing, you may continue to give much needed help to many. Seeking Phillips daughters Maysville area, who passed away in January 2005. I am also Linda S., Oklahoma City We are looking for the daughters of Anthony W. Phillips, seeking information on Troy Guthrie, the son of Woody. If you born in Oklahoma on Sept. 14, 1940, died on Sept. 28, 2001. have any information, contact Robert Guthrie at P.O. Box 6195 His last known residence was Carson, Calif. The picture above Norman, OK 73070 or by email at [email protected]. Thanks to Housing Authority features Anthony in the center with his daughters. On the left is Cindi and the right is Lacresha. We are looking for his daugh- I want to thank the Housing Authority and the MMR Depart- ters to complete the probate of Alma J. Phillips, his mother. ment of the Choctaw Nation for my rental assistance, refrigera- Please contact Janet Phillips at 580-326-8344 if you have any Thank you from Shirley tor and the electric stove. I want to personally thank the staff information. I would like to thank Chief Gregory E. Pyle and the Choctaw and for your support and courteous service. I truly thank you! Nation for their assistance for my granddaughter in pursuing Marion Carr, Durant her degree in nursing as well as financial aid in my grandson’s Thank you from Durant ISD burial expenses. Thank you to the Choctaw Nation Color Guard for honoring my brother, Tillman Hokett, at his burial services. It is with tremendous gratitude that I write this letter on be- Seeking father, brother It was beautiful and such a tribute. May the Lord continue to half of the Durant Independent School District to express my My name is Naomi Sue Nelson (Show). I am looking for bless each of you. Thanks again. deepest appreciation to the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma for my father, John Henry Nelson. I had been in contact with him, the generous donation to our students. During these times of Shirley Bushong but I moved and lost his phone number. I know he lives by the budget constraints and cuts, these funds will allow our students Choctaw Casino, where I last saw him. I would really like to to access many activities and events that would have been oth- get back in touch with him and I have a brother by him who erwise unavailable to them. I’ve never met, named John Anthony Nelson. Choctaw Nation The Durant ISD is proud to partner with the Choctaw Na- If you have any information on either my father or brother, tion through the STAR Program and we very much appreciate please contact me at 305 S. High St. Fairfax, MO 64446 or at its untiring efforts on behalf of our students. This program is to aid with loans 660-686-9442. indicative of the important role the Choctaw Nation plays as a supportive partner of the Durant ISD. The Southeastern Oklahoma Indian Credit As- sociation offers small business, home, home im- Jones reunion, thank you W. Jason Simeroth, Ph.D., Superintendent provement and agriculture loans. To former Jones students, Mr. Choate and I missed you at To be eligible to apply, a person must reside the reunion on Oct. 15. We want to thank Choctaw Nation for within the 10-1/2 county service area of the the banner that was made. It was beautiful. Also, thank you to Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and must possess Thankful for financial support a Certificate of Degree of Indian Blood (CDIB) all employees of the Choctaw Nation who had a hand in the I recently graduated from Clackamas Community College, reunion and all the Jones staff who went all out to help in any from a federally recognized tribe. and it was in no small part thanks to Chief Gregory E. Pyle and For more information, please contact Susan way possible. We want to say thank you! Hope to see you next the generosity of the Choctaw Nation. I have been shown more year! Edwards at 580-924-8280 or toll-free 800- financial kindness than I could have hoped for. Thank you for 522-6170. Bobby Coley allowing me to experience that. It means a lot to me. James Gillette If you are interested in applying for a loan from the SOICA or the Choctaw Revolving Gregory E. Pyle Gary Batton Loan Fund, there will be a representative Chief Assistant Chief Thank you for caring for troops from the Choctaw Nation Credit Department at the Poteau Family Investment Center for My son, Sgt. Douglas Ray Carpenter Jr., will be redeploying assistance on... The Official next month from Afghanistan. Thank you to the Choctaw Na- Monthly Publication tion for care packages sent to him. Nov. 29 from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. of the As a Blue Star mother, our chapter sends care packages to Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma the addresses that are submitted to us and send them out once a month. Something from home means so much to our troops. Judy Allen, Executive Director Thanks to the Choctaw for all you do for our troops. I have Lisa Reed, Director/Editor been to your hotel and casino for a Vietnam Veterans State Melissa Stevens, Circulation Director Larissa Copeland, Assistant Editor Council meeting and everything was beautiful. Karen Jacob, Purchasing Coordinator Thank you again, and I hope to visit Durant and the Choctaw Bret Moss, Copy/Production Assistant facilities again. Chrissy Dill, Journalism Intern Karen Vollman

P.O. Box 1210 Durant, OK 74702 (580) 924-8280 • (800) 522-6170 Thank you from Spiro Fire Department Fax (580) 924-4148 Thank you to Councilmen Delton Cox and Ron Perry and www.choctawnation.com the Choctaw Nation on behalf of the town of Spiro and the e-mail: [email protected] Spiro Fire Department for the nation’s donation to the fire de- partment for pagers. We appreciate your generosity and sup- The BISKINIK is printed each month as a service to Project Falvmmichi Tribal Members. The BISKINIK reserves the right to port. The Choctaw Nation Youth Advisory Board’s “Project edit submitted material which it finds inaccurate, pro- Ronnie Parent, Mayor of the town of Spiro Falvmmichi” conducted its annual training of the adult volun- fane, offensive or morally unacceptable. Copy may be teers and students in September, which started the eighth year edited for proper grammar and punctuation. Copy will of the project. be accepted in any readable form, but where possible, it is requested that material be typewritten and double Project Falvmmichi is a domestic violence prevention pro- spaced. You must include an address or phone number Thank you for support gram funded by the Choctaw Nation Youth Empowerment Pro- where you may be reached. Due to space limitations We are proud to announce the re- gram and Choctaw Nation Project Safe and continues through and the quantity of article submissions, we are unable cent graduation of Breanna Heck from their leadership and partnership with the Choctaw Nation to include everything we receive. Houston College, Houston, Texas, as a Youth Advisory Board along with schools and adult volunteers If you are receiving more than one BISKINIK at your Certified Occupational Therapist As- in the 10 1/2 counties of Choctaw Nation. home or if your address needs changed, we would ap- sistant, COTA. Breanna is the proud The Choctaw word, “falvmmichi,” means to reclaim. The preciate hearing from you. mother of a beautiful 3 year old daugh- project carries out the spirit of the word. It began in 2004 and The BISKINIK is a nonprofit publication of the Choctaw Nation. ter, Alexandra Cade. She has overcome has grown from six to 34 schools and 60 classrooms. Circulation is monthly. Article deadline is the 10th untold obstacles to reach her goal. She is the daughter of Chris Teen mentors work in the second grade classrooms with the of the month for the following month’s edition. and Sherri Cade Sholar, granddaughter of Thomas and Melissa goal to raise awareness in youngsters that hitting is not right Sapp, and great-great granddaughter of Tommie Cade Grimes and resources are available to help if they experience or know of Ardmore, Indian Territory. of such abuse. The mentors raise awareness through this pro- Thanks to the Choctaw Nation providing financial support, gram by entering the second grade class each month during PRESS AS A SO M C O I H A 2010 T She will have a rewarding career and be able to support herself the school year, where they perform a puppet skit and do an A I L O

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O WINNING ® and her child, and help many people in her chosen field. God activity with the students. Both the skit and the lesson identify NEWSPAPER BISKINIK 2011 BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST Bless Chief Pyle and the Choctaw Nation. conflict resolution.

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BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST BISKINIK November 2011 | Page 4 Nursery News Kid-friendly fruits and veggies 10 tips for making healthy foods more fun for children Grace Shallenberger Grace Lynn Whisenand Shallen- Encourage children to eat own favorites. Then pop the 8. Homemade trail mix berger was born on March 4, 2011 vegetables and fruits by mak- WIC pizzas into the oven to warm. Skip the pre-made trail at St. Mary’s Hospital in Reno, ing it fun. Provide healthy WOMEN, INFANTS 5. Fruity peanut butterfly mix and make your own. Nev., to Mathew and Jolene Shal- ingredients and let kids help AND CHILDREN Start with carrot sticks or Use your favorite nuts and lenberger (Irmer) and big brother, with preparation, based on celery for the body. Attach dried fruits, such as unsalted William of Washoe Valley, Nev. their age and skills. Kids may wings made of thinly sliced peanuts, cashews, walnuts or She was 6 pounds 13.5 ounces and try foods they avoided in flower. Fruit chunks go great apples with peanut butter and sunflower seeds mixed with measured 20.5 inches long. Grand- the past if they helped make with a yogurt and cinnamon decorate with halved grapes dried apples, pineapple, cher- parents include E. Nena Dilbeck of Stagecoach, Nev.; Bruno them. or vanilla dip. or dried fruit. ries, apricots or raisins. Add Irmer of Bladen, Nev.; and Frank and Judy Shallenberger of 1. Smoothie creations 3. Caterpillar kabobs 6. Frosty fruits whole-grain cereals to the Genoa, Nev. Her great-grandmother is Earline Bullard of Car- Blend fat-free or low-fat Assemble chunks of melon, Frozen treats are bound mix, too. son City, Nev. yogurt or milk with fruit apple, orange, and pear on to be popular in the warm 9. Potato person pieces and crushed ice. Use skewers for a fruity kabob. months. Just put fresh fruits Decorate half a baked po- fresh, frozen, canned and For a raw veggie version, use such as melon chunks in the tato. Use sliced cherry toma- Lucas Hill even overripe fruits. Try ba- vegetables like zucchini, cu- freezer (rinse first). Make toes, peas and low-fat cheese nanas, berries, peaches and/ cumber, squash, sweet pep- “popsicles” by inserting on the potato to make a funny Lucas “Minko” Hill was born or pineapple. If you freeze the pers or tomatoes. sticks into peeled bananas face. on July 21, 2010. He is the son of fruit first, you can even skip 4. Personalized pizzas and freezing. 10. Put kids in charge Stephanie Hill; grandson of Ste- the ice! Set up a pizza-making 7. Bugs on a log Ask your child to name ven Anthony and Barbara Hill of 2. Delicious dippers station in the kitchen. Use Use celery, cucumber or new veggie or fruit creations. McAlester; and great-nephew of Kids love to dip their foods. whole-wheat English muf- carrot sticks as the log and Let them arrange raw veggies Wilda Taliaferro of Lone Grove, Whip up a quick dip for veg- fins, bagels or pita bread as add peanut butter. Top with or fruits into a fun shape or and Dennis Hill of Sapulpa. gies with yogurt and season- the crust. Have tomato sauce, dried fruit such as raisins, design. ings such as herbs or garlic. low-fat cheese and cut-up cranberries or cherries, de- Go to www.ChooseMy- FOOD DISTRIBUTION Serve with raw vegetables vegetables or fruits for top- pending on what bugs you Plate.gov for more informa- like broccoli, carrots or cauli- pings. Let kids choose their want! tion. ANTLERS Market open weekdays Dec. 1-22 , except for: Dec. 7 : Idabel 9-11 a.m.; Broken Bow 12-2 p.m. (market open) Recipe of the Month Dec. 14: Bethel 9-10:30; Smithville 12-2 (market open) Diabetes Awareness Closed Dec. 23-30 for inventory Month Cooking with Carmen: Dec. 6 & 16, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. Green Beans with Glazed Onions November is a very special and Alaska Natives to have durant Ingredients: time of year. It is American diabetes compared with non- Market open weekdays: Dec. 1-22, except for: 32 oz. frozen white pearl onions, thawed (2 bags) Diabetes Month and it is Hispanic whites. Closed Dec. 23-30 for inventory ½ cup. balsamic vinegar, divided American Indian and Alaska • 68 Percent increase in Cooking with Carmen: Dec. 14 & 22, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. 2 tbsp. butter, unsalted Native Heritage Month. Ac- diabetes from 1994 to 2004 2 tbsp. canola oil McAlester cording to the American Dia- in American Indian and Alas- Market open weekdays Dec. 1-22, except for: 1 tsp. ground thyme betes Association nearly 26 ka Native youth aged 15-19 Closed Dec. 23-30 for inventory 1 tsp. black pepper, ground million children and adults in years. Cooking with Carmen: Dec. 8 & 20, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. 1 tsp. salt, divided American live with diabetes, • 95 Percent of American 3 lb. fresh green beans, cleaned and trimmed and another 79 million at high Indians and Alaska Natives POTEAU 3 tbsp. olive oil risk for developing Type-2 with diabetes who have Type- Market open weekdays Dec. 1-22, except for: 1 tbsp. ground mustard diabetes, the disease is taking 2 diabetes (as opposed to Closed Dec. 23-30 for inventory. 1 ½ tsp. sugar or Splenda a devastating physical, emo- Type 1 diabetes). Cooking with Carmen: Dec. 2 & 12, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. Directions: tional and financial toll on • Estimated 30 percent of 1. In a medium saucepan, combine onions, 4 tbsp. vin- our country. Recent numbers American Indians and Alaska egar, butter, canola oil, thyme, pepper, and ½ tsp. salt. by the Centers for Disease Natives who have pre-diabe- Choctaw Nation Food Distribution 2. Heat over low heat until butter is melted; stirring to Control and Prevention de- tes Open 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday thru Friday. Staff coat onions. pict where our country is and American Indians and will take lunch from 11:30 to 12 noon. 3. Place mixture on a baking sheet and roast in a 400 de- where we are headed: Alaska Natives are at a much WAREHOUSES & MARKETS gree oven for 35-40 minutes stirring occasionally until on- • Every 17 seconds, some- greater risk for developing Antlers: 306 S.W. “O” St., 580-298-6443 ions are browned nicely. Remove from oven and set aside. one is diagnosed with diabe- Type 2 diabetes. However, Durant: 100 1/2 Waldron Dr., 580-924-7773 4. Blanch green beans in large saucepan of boiling water tes. joining with the American McAlester: 1212 S. Main St., 918-420-5716 just until tender, about five minutes. • Diabetes kills more peo- Diabetes Association to take Poteau: 100 Kerr, 918-649-0431 5. Drain and rinse with cold water; set aside. In small ple each year than breast can- a pledge and raise your hand Food Distribution Sites bowl, whisk together olive oil, mustard, sugar, the remain- cer and AIDS combined. to Stop Diabetes, a difference Bethel: Choctaw Community Building ing 4 tbsp. of the vinegar, and the remaining ½ tsp. of salt. • Recent estimates project can be made. This month we Broken Bow: Choctaw Family Investment Center 6. In a large bowl, toss the dressing together with the that as many as one in three can do this by: Idabel: Choctaw Community Center onions and the green beans. Place the mixture in a large American adults will have di- • Visiting www.stopdiabe- Smithville: Choctaw Community Center casserole dish and cover. abetes in 2050 unless we take tes.com Stigler: Choctaw Community Center 7. Bake for 20 minutes in a 350 degree oven. steps to Stop Diabetes. • Calling 1-800-DIABE- In accordance with federal law and U.S. Department of Agri- Nutrition facts: Amount per serving: Calories - 191.6, With these facts hitting the TES culture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on Total Carbs - 22.2g, Total fat - 10.3g, Unsaturated fat - table, let’s look at some num- • Texting “join” to 69866 the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, political 7.6mg, Fiber - 6.9g, Protein - 3.1g, Sat fat - 2.7g, Potas- bers from the U.S. Department (Standard data rates and mes- beliefs, or disability. To file a complaint of discrimination, write sium - 190.9mg, Sodium - 305.2mg. of Health and Human Servic- sages apply) USDA, Director, Office of Adjudication and Compliance, 1400 For further information you may contact: Erin Adams, es’ Indian Health Services: • Attending an American Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, or RD, LD, Choctaw Nation Diabetes Wellness Center 800- • 2.2 times higher likeli- Diabetes Month event in your call 800-795-3272 (voice) or 202-720-6382 (TDD). USDA is an 349-7026 ex: 6959 hood of American Indians area equal opportunity provider and employer. Green holiday tips to try this season During the holiday season, meat and produce. Not only then become part of the Cell of a loved one. Choose a waste disposal increases 25 does it taste better, you’ll be Phones for Soldiers program. cause that addresses an issue percent in the United States, doing your part for the planet Send Tree-free Holiday that you and your friends and causing an extra 5 billion too. Search www.localhar- Cards family members care about pounds of waste in the land- vest.org for locations near Search for cards made from and support. fills according to the Medical you. kenapf, hemp, and other tree- Recycle Packaging From University of South Carolina. Get a Pesticide-Free Tree free resources. Or, send e- Gifts Plus, travelers will be logging Demand is on the rise for cards and avoid the wait at the To reduce environmental tons of miles and creating tons Christmas trees that are not post office for stamps. impacts, it is important to re- of greenhouse gas emissions. covered in chemicals; some Hold a Zero Waste Holi- cycle all cardboard packaging Here are tips to help you growers use 40 different pes- day Party and peanuts or other Styro- plan ahead to reduce your ticides, as well as chemical Host a zero-waste party. foam packing that comes with waste and green your gift giv- colorants. The good news is Minimize the garbage by us- gifts or purchases as these ing this year. that there are now a number of ing reusable cups, plates and items will not de-compose in Make Your Own Wrap- tree-farms that sell pesticide- utensils if you don’t have a landfill but can be used over ping Paper free trees, so ask your local enough of your own borrow and over again for packaging Most mass-produced wrap- Christmas tree seller, or www. some from friends or rela- and shipping. Both of these ping paper you find in stores localharvest.org for a location tives. Use fabric tablecloths items can also be recycled at is not recyclable and ends up near you. and napkins. Then be sure to the Choctaw Nation Recy- in landfills. Instead, here’s a Do a “Cool Home” Tour recycle any post-party cans cling Center and any location great chance to get creative! Take a pledge this New and bottles and compost food where a recycling container is Wrap presents with old maps, Years’ to reduce your home scraps. located. the comics section of a news- energy use by buying energy- Consider the Lifecycle of paper, or children’s artwork. efficient light bulbs. Replac- Electronic Gifts Or use a scarf, attractive dish ing only six regular 60-watt Some of the most popular towel, bandana, or some other bulbs with six 13-watt CFL gift items for children and Choctaw Nation WIC useful cloth item. If every bulbs will save the average teens are electronics like com- family wrapped just three American family $60 per puters, video games, and mu- WOMEN, INFANTS AND CHILDREN gifts this way, it would save year. If there’s a fire in your sic devices. But the manufac- enough paper to cover 45,000 fireplace this Christmas, turn turing and disposal of these SITE PHONE HOURS DAYS football fields. down that thermostat! Lower- items creates significant hu- Antlers 580-298-3161 8:30-4:00 Every Tuesday Buy Energy-Saving Holi- ing the temperature even five man health and environmental Atoka 580-889-5825 8:00-4:30 Every Mon., Wed., Thurs. & day Lights degrees can take 15 percent hazards. Remember the Choc- Fri. Now you can decorate your off your heating bill. taw Nation Recycling Center Bethel 580-241-5458 8:30-4:00 1st Tuesday house with LED lights that Recycle Your Old Cell can recycle anything that runs Boswell 580-380-5264 8:30-4:00 Every Friday use 90 percent less energy Phone on electricity so don’t just Broken Bow 580-584-2746 8:00-4:30 Daily, except 1st Tues. & 2nd than conventional holiday Getting a new cell phone for throw those old electronics Thurs. lights, and can save your fam- Christmas? Not sure what to into the trash. Coalgate 580-927-3641 8:00-4:30 Every Wednesday ily up to $50 on your energy do with the old one? Now, you Give Gifts from the Heart Durant 580-924-8280 x 2257 8:00-4:30 Daily bills during the holiday sea- can drop off that old phone at Instead of spending money Hugo 580-326-5404 8:00-4:30 Daily son! LED lights are available any Choctaw Nation Com- on commercial goods, give Mon., Thurs. & Fri. at many major retailers, in- munity Center. Each year, 130 the gift of your time and talent Idabel 580-286-2510 8:00-4:30 McAlester 918-423-6335 8:00-4:30 Daily cluding Target, Wal-Mart, and million cell phones are thrown to loved ones this year. Offer Poteau 918-647-4585 8:00-4:30 Daily Ace Hardware stores. out, weighing approximately to make dinner, walk the dog, Smithville 580-244-3289 8:30-4:00 2nd Thursday Add Organic and Lo- 65,000 tons. Recycling your help with gardening or home Spiro 918-962-3832 8:00-4:30 Every Wednesday - Friday cal Foods to Your Holiday old phone prevents hazardous repairs. Stigler 918-967-4211 8:30-4:00 Every Monday - Wednesday Feasts elements like mercury, cadmi- Give the Gift of a Better Talihina 918-567-7000 x 6792 8:00-4:30 Mon., Tues., Wed., & Fri. Support local family farm- um and lead from ending up World Wilburton 918-465-5641 8:30-4:00 Every Thursday ers who grow sustainable in our landfills. These phones Make a donation in honor BISKINIK | November 2011 | Page 5

spending time with his grandchildren, especially ROBERTS showing them the animals. The most memorable attri- Former Chief bute to his life was his abil- ity to always recognize and passes away acknowledge everyone by Continued from Page 1 name, showing personal in- terest in their lives. He will affairs. He served as city be truly missed. councilman at Hugo for 14 He was preceded in death years, was a member of the by his mother and one broth- Choctaw Nation: LARISSA COPELAND Choctaw County Chamber of er, Albert Roberts. Students earning a Choctaw Language minor are, in no particular order, Kandace Fol- Commerce, and was elected He is survived by his wife HOLLIS ROBERTS som, Nicholas Charleston, Justin Fite, Kristin Pate, Anjanette Williston and Caleb Taylor. to the Oklahoma House of of 48 years, Helen; daughter They are being congratulated by Chief Gregory E. Pyle (far left), School of Choctaw Lan- Representatives for a period Tina Standifer and husband guage Director Jim Parrish (second from left) and Assistant Chief Gary Batton (far right). of six years. In addition, he tensively and was privileged Rick of Paris, Texas; two had acted as Secretary and to personally meet and serve sons, Ricky Earl Roberts of Treasurer of the Arkansas with world leaders and digni- Hugo, Blake Roberts and Riverbed Authority. Roberts taries, including former Presi- wife Amy of Hugo; three Students first to complete Choctaw served as the Assistant Chief dent Bill Clinton. His family grandchildren, Bailey Sadua for the Choctaw Nation of fondly remembers many of and husband Marcus of Par- Language and Culture minor at SE Oklahoma until he became these trips and enjoyed shar- is, Sabre Standifer of New By CHRISSY DILL taw Nation has an agreement with for the mi- nor,” he added. Chief in April 1978, after the ing his experiences. His role York City, Alyssa Standifer Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma untimely death of C. David as Chief ended in 1997, when of Paris, and one on the way; “As Language Director, I look forward to Gardner. Judge Ralph Hodges he focused his efforts on the three great-grandchildren, In collaboration with the Choctaw Nation of future students receiving their minor,” said administered the oath of of- Hugo Furniture Store that he Ryan, Addisyn and Brynlee Oklahoma, Southeastern Oklahoma State Uni- School of Choctaw Language Director Jim fice to Roberts in Montgom- and Helen bought in 1990. Sadua; sister Virginia Dera- versity’s English, Humanities and Languages Parrish. “This partnership with SE helps us to ery auditorium on the campus They also owned and oper- mus of Ada, ; a special neph- Department offers a minor in Choctaw Lan- prepare teachers to teach in the Choctaw Lan- of Southeastern Oklahoma ated the Circle H Western ew, Danny Roberts of Holly guage and Culture and recently produced its guage School.” State University. During his Wear, now a shipping office Creek, several nieces, neph- first six students to officially hold the minor. The Choctaw Nation Language Department time as Chief and State Repre- known as The Connecting ews, and a host of extended To receive a minor in the Choctaw language offers language classes over the Internet as sentative, Hollis traveled ex- Point. Hollis always loved family and friends. at SE, the student is required to obtain 18 well and will continue to expand those classes hours. Choctaw language courses offered in- to meet the needs of those who are interested clude Choctaw Language and Culture 1, 2, 3 in enrolling, according to Choctaw Nation’s is a Federal Civil Services Hattie is currently em- and 4, Intermediate Conversational Choctaw website. In addition to learning how to read graduate in business. Hat- ployed by the Choctaw Na- and Advanced Conversational Choctaw. and write the native language, students will ELDERS tie has worked in the finance tion Head Start program at The following students, who earned their also learn about the history and culture of the department of the Bureau Wright City and has been undergraduate degrees prior to earning their tribe through the classes. Tribe names of Indian Affairs, Smithson- there for eight years. Choctaw minor, are the first to receive recog- The School of Choctaw Language encour- Outstanding ian Gallery and First Indian As a teacher, and someone nition for successfully completing the Choc- ages anyone who is interested in learning National Bank. She lived in who is proud of her heritage, taw Language and Culture minor at SE. They more about the Choctaw language and culture Elders for 2011 Washington, D.C., for 10 ½ Hattie encourages Choctaw completed 18-21 hours in Choctaw courses to visit choctawschool.com, where lessons are years before moving back people of all ages to learn to meet the minor requirements and were ap- available, according to Parrish. “All words Continued from Page 1 to Idabel. She worked for our language and preserve it. proved by the English, Humanities and Lan- and phrases have audio, which is spoken by a the Department of the U.S. Nominees from each of guages Department: Nicholas Charleston, Jus- first-language speaker.” School in Idabel in 1965, Army in Texarkana then for the districts also received tin Fite, Kandace Folsom, Kristin Pate, Caleb Distance learning through One-Net is now from Haskell Jr. College in the Choctaw Nation Upward recognition – See Pages 10- Taylor and Anjanette Williston. in approximately 40 high schools within the Lawrence, Kan., in 1976, and Bound Program. 11 for photos. “Since these students had already received Choctaw Nation and in three colleges, Carl their bachelor’s degrees, Southeastern recog- Albert Jr. College, East Central University nized their completion of the Choctaw Lan- and Eastern Oklahoma State College. In addi- guage and Culture minor with a notation on tion to courses at SE, the program is also be- their transcript during this fall semester,” said ing taught in 40 different community classes Goodland grad excels in military Kristie Luke, Associate Dean for Admissions in various locations in Oklahoma, Texas, Kan- “I used to be the one blow- al person.” But Greg complet- and Records/Registrar at SE. sas and California as well as 14 head starts. ing things up, now I’m dis- ed the task anyway, “I’m not “The minor became available fall 2011,” If you are a student and interested in earning arming the bombs!” sure many people got anything said SE Native American Center for Student a minor in Choctaw Language and Culture at This is a phrase you don’t out of it,” he chuckled, “but Success Director Chris Wesberry. “Southeast- SE, contact Chris Wesberry at 580-745-2376 expect to hear from a Good- it was huge for me. I learned ern is the only university right now that Choc- or email at [email protected]. land alumnus unless, of how to talk to people. I started course, he’s Greg Gardner. to come out of my shell.” After Greg is an EOD (explosive the incident, Greg’s confidence ordnance disposal) techni- began to grow. The leadership cian with the U.S. Army. He skills that have launched an Reserve your stopped by the campus to honorable military career took show off some of the tools of root from his education from the trade and shared the excit- Goodland Academy. 2012 Labor Day RV Site ing news in his career. Greg is Submitted photo “I excelled because of now a Captain in the Army after Goodland. Honestly, I don’t In order to reserve an RV site with electric and water hookups for the 2012 only three-and-a-half years enlisted. Captain’s know if I would have made it in the Army if Labor Day Festival, please mail the reservation request form below no earlier Career Course in Virginia is the next stop for it weren’t for the structure here at Goodland.” the cheerful Goodland graduate. Greg has two simple pieces of advice for the than Jan. 1, 2012. RV sites will be reserved on a first come, first serve basis. “It’s sort of funny,” Greg mused, “I came current residents of Goodland, “my advice to Please include a copy of your CDIB card. Also, include the length of your to Goodland as a young man causing all the these young guys would be, one: don’t fear RV or camper and the number of slide-outs. PLEASE DO NOT SEND ANY trouble. Now I’m the one fixing things!” the structure. I know it’s kind of scary to come MONEY AT THIS TIME. After the deadline, all reservations will be drawn He continued to describe a youth filled with to a place where everything is so structured, randomly for RV sites. If your name is drawn, you will be notified by mail. At abundant energy. “When I arrived at Good- but it’s good for you. Second, Goodland will that time you will send in your cashier’s check or money order in the amount land, I had so much energy. But I had no focus, help you to be anything you want to be, you of $75.00 to receive your confirmation and rules for RV camping at the Labor and sometimes that turned into destructive just have to give it your all.” things. When I got to Goodland, David (the After the helpful advice, Greg gave an ad- Day Festival. president) took me under his wing. I learned ditional, humorous caveat, “and I will say this No phone reservations will be accepted. Please only include one reservation how to properly harness my energy and I much, don’t tell David Dearinger, an ex-Ar- per application. We will do our best to respect the requests for preferred RV found my passion.” my guy, that you want to go in the military. pads, however, we cannot guarantee you will get the pad number requested. Yet, Greg found out rather quickly that be- He’ll have you doing PT (physical training) Please watch the Biskinik newspaper for future articles or changes in park- ing committed to change meant that you had at 5 o’clock in the morning and doing military ing, tent camping and tribal preferences for the 2012 Labor Day Festival. to get out of your comfort zone. Greg fondly corners on your bed spread!” recalled a particular church trip when he was Greg is a true treasure to the rich tapestry of first introduced to public speaking. excellence that Goodland weaves every day. “I remember traveling with David to a When a young man is committed to changing 2012 RV Space Reservation church function one Sunday. As we entered his life, Goodland will always be there to in- the building, David turned to me and said, ‘Be fuse his life with the skills and principles nec- Name ______prepared, you’re going to be preaching today.’ essary to succeed. It’s so exciting to watch a I panicked, because I wasn’t much of a spiritu- young man find his passion in life! Address ______

City/State/Zip ______

Daytime phone number ______

Alternate phone number ______

Email ______

RV camper description and length: ______

Number of slide-outs ______

– Only one (1) reservation per application – No reservations accepted prior to Jan. 1, 2012.

Please return to: Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Attn: Margaret Jackson P.O. Box 1210 Durant, OK 74702

NO RESERVATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED PRIOR TO JAN. 1, 2012 BISKINIK | November 2011 | Page 6

PEOPLE YOU KNOW

Happy 60th Kristianna turns 17 Happy birthday, Cadence anniversary Happy birthday to Kristianna Holder, Happy second birthday from grandma Weldon (Bud) and Car- who turned 17 on Oct. 10. She is in the and grandpa, Russel and Bonnie Horn, to olyn (Johnson) Brumley 11th grade and is proud to be a Choctaw. Cadence Gray Wolf. Cadence is the daugh- recently celebrated their ter of Joseph and Valerie Wolf. 60th wedding anniver- sary. They were married Sept. 2, 1951, in Ada. Bud and Carolyn were born and Heald family, birthday, anniversary raised in Ada. After they were mar- Happy birthday, Happy birthday to Papa Hank, Hank Welch of Ripon, Calif., ried and a short term in the Army, from the Heald family. They hope he has a great many more Bud worked at the Pepsi Company, Courtney years. and Carolyn’s uncle’s family owned Courtney Faye Barnard celebrated To Jeff Heald, your wife, Jennifer, thanks you for a great, Ada Candy Company. Bud decided her 11th birthday on Sept. 8 with a wonderful 20 years and hopes for many more to follow. She to go to college and Carolyn worked surprise party with several friends and said being married to you has been and is such a blessing. jobs in Ada to put him through family members attending. She is the school. Bud went to East Central and daughter of Lindsey and Jeremy Phil- completed his B.A. They then decided to move to California. lips of Huntsville, Ark., and Thomas Bud finished his master’s and later they had three daughters, Barnard of Ardmore. She is the granddaughter of Lloyd and Happy 100th Jayna Eager, Beth Eggleston and Paula Evans. Kathy Holt of Wesley, Ark., Kathy Phillips of Clinton, Steve Carolyn finished her degree at the age of 50. Carolyn and and Stephanie Phillips of Springdale, Ark., the late Susie Eb- birthday, Pop! Bud were both teachers in the San Joaquin Valley of Califor- erhart and the late James Barnard, both of Ardmore. Her great- James Harold Spring, born in nia (Visalia, Woodlake, Strathmore, Exeter and Seville). Bud grandparents are Mary Holt of Fayetteville, Ark., Elva Doling Jumbo, Okla., turns 100 on Dec. 3. retired as a superintendent and still substitutes today. He will of Springdale, Richard Doling of Clinton and Lavern and Gil- He is the son of James and Della be 80 in December. Carolyn retired three years ago at the age bert Bates of California. Spring. “Pop” attended school at of 75. They have traveled back and forth to Oklahoma more Goodland and Murray State College. times than can be counted, visiting very summer and some He married Aldene Henegar in 1934 Christmases to see family, who live in Ada, Oklahoma City and they moved to California to get some sunshine in 1941. and Stratford. Happy birthday, Cody Happy birthday from Genie, Beverly, John and Susie. They loved to travel over the years. Bud and Carolyn have Cody Tyler’s family would like to gone to Russia, China, Mexico, the Philippines and many more wish him a happy birthday. It doesn’t places to spread the word of Jesus Christ. If you know these seem possible that he will be 10 years Collins appointed two and would like to wish them a happy anniversary or birth- old, they said. God and angels gave day wishes (Carolyn’s was Sept. 27), you can send them a card them the best gift, they said, on Nov. 2, to state Commission at 623 N Quince St. Exeter, Calif. 93221. They have had a won- 2001. Happy birthday to a son, brother derful life and have been blessed over the many years together, and the best grandson, Cody. From your for Rehab Services which they attribute to putting Jesus Christ first in their lives. family, mom, dad, brother and Grandma Choctaw member Lynda Collins They also have two son-in-laws, Jim Eager and Evan D. Evans, Louise and Bob. has become the first woman and first along with eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Native American ever to serve on the Oklahoma Commission for Re- habilitation Services. She was ap- Twins celebrate Brian takes role on pointed by Gov. Mary Fallin to the governing board for the Oklahoma Department of Rehabilita- 94 years board of directors tion Services, which provides employment, vocational rehabil- Twins Ernest Hooser Brian Ladner was appointed to the itation, education and disability benefits decisions for 85,000 of Durant and Ernestine Love County Soil Conservation Dis- Oklahomans with disabilities. Hooser of Broken Bow trict Board of Directors. He will com- In the beginning, the Ada native was a teenager facing cancer celebrated their 94th plete the term of office held by his treatment and barriers to employment because of a disability. birthday on Oct. 8. Fam- father, Ott Ladner, who passed away Jan. 28, 2011. Brian is With help from the Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation ily and friends joined a farmer/rancher and certified contract welder in the Jimtown Services (DRS), she got career counseling, encouragement and the brother and sister community in Love County. He is the great-great-grandson of her first job. in Idabel for a party in original enrollee Sis Stout, a full-blood Mississippi Choctaw. Collins eventually worked her way up through the ranks to their honor. Happy birthday, Ernest and Ernestine! become a Vocational Rehabilitation administrator, retiring after 33 years in 2005. Choates wed In August, Fallin asked her to return to DRS as a member Happy birthday, Anberlin Kristie Rose LeRoy of the Commission for Rehabilitation Services, a three-person and Jerold Lance Choate governing board for the agency. Her three-year term began in Anberlin Colbie turned two on August and was elected as commission vice chair at her first Oct. 28. Her birthday was celebrated were united in marriage at 3 p.m. on Sept. 10 at meeting on Sept. 12. with her parents, Erin Burkhalter and Collins currently works as a certified case manager with Brett Crosby of Durant; grandparents, the Pawnee Indian Bap- tist Church. The Rev. Daysprings of Tulsa, where she visits clients’ homes to provide Willard and Betty Crosby of Durant, mental health services two days each week. Brian and Tish Burkhalter of Calera, Jarvis LeRoy officiated the ceremony. She earned a bachelor’s of science in psychology and soci- Angela Jackson of Durant, as well as ology from East Central University and a master’s degree in many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Happy birthday, Bug. Kristie is the daughter of Rev. Jarvis and Linda psychology with an emphasis in vocational rehabilitation from LeRoy of Pawnee. She is the granddaughter of the late Henry Oklahoma State University. She holds a national Certified Re- and Evelyn Snake LeRoy of Ponca City and the late Phillip and habilitation Counselor (CRC) license and is recognized by the Happy birthday Louse Kent Matthews of Pawnee. state as a Certified Public Manager (CPM). Kenneth and Darlene Johnson wishes a happy birthday to Jerold is the son of Floyd and Kaye Choate of Pickens. He is Collins has also been recognized with many professional their grandchildren, Nishozoñe Anna Marie Washee, who the grandson of the late Cultertson and Ora Noah and the late awards, including the DRS Vocational Rehabilitation Life- turned 16 on Oct. 18, and Tushka Kenneth Ray Johnson, who Everett and Edna Choate. time Achievement Award, National Rehabilitation Association will be 12 on Nov. 4. The couple resides in Pawnee where Kristie is employed Southwest Region’s Voyle C. Scurlock Award and Oklahoma with the Pawnee Indian Health Center as the credential coordi- Rehabilitation Association Hubert E. Byrd Award. She was nator and Jerold is employed with the Pawnee Nation TDC and twice named DRS Vocational Rehabilitation Manager of the Don graduates drug is attending school full-time at ITT Tech in Tulsa. Year. Collins is the daughter of Wib and Juanita Scroggins of Ada. court program She is the great-granddaughter of Susan Nail, a full-blood Don Gilbert was among Choctaw. She and her husband, Jud, have two children, Blake a group of graduates of the Brothers’ birthdays and Breanna, and three grandchildren, Wilder, Gwyneth and most successful drug court Birthday wishes go out to Spen- Adalyn. program in the state dur- cer Thomas Barnard, who will be ing ceremonies held at First seven years old on Oct. 20. He is the Christian Church in Durant. son of Lindsey and Jeremy Phillips of Good job, Megan! The community-based and Huntsville, Ark., Thomas Barnard of Megan Hart, 12 years old, daugh- operated program is in its seventh year and the recent gradua- Ardmore; the grandson of Lloyd and ter of Jim and Ginger Hart of Gleen- tion brought to 111 the number of those given a chance to begin Kathy Holt, Kathy Phillips, Steve and pool, harvested two deer the same a new life and avoid a lengthy prison sentence. Stephanie Phillips, the late Susie Eb- morning during the youth hunt Don, who has spent much of his adult life in prison, told a erhart and the late James Barnard. His while hunting on her grandparents, moving story about his battle with alcohol and drugs. He said great-grandparents are Mary Holt, Elva Bill and Celia Scherman’s, land near he has been sober for 638 days. He was given a seven-year Doling, Richard Doling, Lavern and Gilbert Bates. Lake Eufala. prison sentence for his last offense, which was suspended with Spencer’s little brother, Korbin Foster, will be two on Oct. the successful completion of drug court. 23. He is the son of Lindsey and Jeremy Phillips and Kevin Don pointed out to the audience to his wife and small son and April Foster; the grandson of Lloyd and Kathy Holt, Kathy who were there supporting him and said he couldn’t imagine Phillips, Steve and Stephanie Phillips, Jayne and Jeff Sablotne being in prison for the next seven years of his son’s life. He and Randel and Mari Foster. His great-grandparents are Mary then received congratulations and a certificate from Judge Far- Holt, Elva Doling, Richard Doling and the late Cecil Lovelace. rell Hatch and Julie Rorick during the ceremonies. Happy birthday, boys! Henry turns 75 Don is the husband of Misty M. Ward, the stepfather of Da- Family and friends kota and Zachary Ward and the father of Kenneth L.N Gilbert gathered on Sept. 11 to II. help Henry C. Folsom Jr. celebrate his 75th birthday. Damon appointed to Calif. Henry was born Wheat Commission Board Sept. 7, 1936, in his Damon Sidles, plant manager from parents’ home seven Miller Milling in Fresno, Calif., has been miles southeast of appointed by the California Secretary of Blanchard on the Hen- Agriculture to serve as Alternate Public ry C. Folsom Sr. and Member on the California Wheat Com- Edna Mae Howell- mission Board. In addition to working Folsom family farm, which was land that the United States with the California Wheat Commission government gave back to Indian families in 1905. (CWC), he serves on the Technical Committee of the Interna- Henry Jr., his wife, Sarah Sue, and their two children, Lori tional Association of Operative Millers and is director of the Suzanne and Jeffrey Charles, built their home on the Folsom Golden West District of that organization. Kolton earns Reserve, family farm in 1973. Damon is from Great Bend, Kan., and earned a bachelor’s The Folsom family members are descended from John Fol- degree in milling science and management from Kansas State Grand Champion with swine som, born about 1615 in or near Hingham, England. University. His career began as head miller with ConAgra, Kolton Baber of Big Pasture 4-H won Reserve Breed Cham- Lengthy genealogy records of the Folsom family are re- working in several states, including Minnesota, Illinois, Okla- pion Cross at the 2011 Tulsa State Fair on Oct. 6. Kolton then corded in the publication, Genealogy of the Folsom Family, a homa and Alabama. He joined Miller Milling in July 1997 in went on to win Reserve Grand Champion Barrow of the entire revised and extended edition including English records. Eliza- the capacity of shift miller and was promoted to plant manager show. Kolton is a sixth grade student at Big Pasture Elementary beth Knowles Folsom compiled the two-volume publication in in the summer of 2000. Damon is the son of June and Dick School in Randlett. He is the son of Steven and Shelley Ba- 1938. Sidles of Durant. His grandfather, Turner Silmon, was an origi- ber and the grandson of Ray and Joyce Teakell of Duncan and The 75th birthday party for Henry Jr. was a great success and nal enrollee. Terry and Pam Baber of Burkburnett, Texas. all who attended had a great time. BISKINIK | November 2011 | Page 7

EDUCATION Southeastern to assist Native American students Enhancing the academic Ameri- tunity to “Diverse Issues In Higher success of Native American can Cen- apply for Education” magazine. Each students is the goal of a near- ter for this unique year, the magazine publishes ly $2 million federal grant re- Student grant,” its top 100 rankings of minor- A Salute ceived by Southeastern Okla- Suc- Wesberry ity graduates. homa State University. cess. We said. “With According to the latest The five-year, $1,995,623 are very Native rankings, Southeastern is Title III grant was awarded proud of American sixth in the nation in award- by the U.S. Department of the his- student ing undergraduate degrees to Education. Chris Wesberry, tory and Chris Wesberry Tim Boatmun services at Native American graduates Native American Center for heritage the heart of in all disciplines combined. Ward promoted Student Success coordina- that the Native American stu- our proposal, we developed In addition, Southeastern Lance Corporal Joshua P. Ward, tor, was principal investiga- dents have played throughout the Connect2Complete proj- is ranked 17th nationally in USMC, was promoted to his cur- tor for the project, and Tim the course of the University’s ect. We are proud to have awarding master’s degrees in rent rank, effective Oct. 1. He com- Boatmun, Associate Dean for existence. been the recipient of a grant all disciplines. pleted basic training at Parris Is- Academic Services, was co- “I also want to recognize that will have such a positive In the undergraduate rank- land, S.C., in November 2010 and principal investigator. Chief Gregory Pyle of The impact on so many students.” ings, Southeastern was received further training at Camp Also assisting in writing Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma “I feel honored and hum- ranked in the top 10 in nine Lejeune, N.C., and Twentynine the proposal was Paul Buntz, and Governor Bill Anoatubby bled to be part of such a trans- different majors; in the mas- Palms, Calif., as Field Radio Op- grant coordinator-writer. of the Chickasaw Nation for formative project at our Uni- ter’s category, Southeastern erator and is now permanently stationed at Camp Lejeune. The “Connect2Complete their continued support of the versity,’’ Boatmun said. “This was ranked in the top 10 in He is the grandson of Choctaw, Imogene Taylor, formerly (C2C) Project” will strive University’s initiatives. For grant award reflects the tre- two majors. of Broken Bow, and son of Bill and Salean Marolt, all of to bolster the retention rates many years, they have part- mendous commitment of Dr. Southeastern held the top Grove City, Ohio. and graduation rates of Na- nered with Southeastern to Minks and our tribal partners three rankings on the under- His family says: We are proud of our Marine, who car- tive American students at ensure a better learning envi- to student success. Under graduate list in Engineering ries on tradition of his grandpa, Bob Rowe, and grandma, Southeastern. Currently, ap- ronment for all students.” Chris Wesberry’s leadership, Technologies and Engineer- Imogene, as well as great-uncle, Leroy Tushka. Join us in proximately 29 percent of The C2C project will fund Southeastern will have the ing-related fields (Occupa- supporting LCpl Ward and all of the military. Southeastern’s enrollment is two new positions – retention preeminent Native American tional Safety & Health), Edu- comprised of Native Ameri- specialists – with Wesberry student services program in cation, and Psychology. cans. serving as project director the country.” In the master’s degrees Southeastern president and Boatmun as co-director. The university’s efforts rankings, Southeastern was An educational adjoining: Larry Minks acknowledged In addition to strengthening have not gone unnoticed na- ranked first in Engineering the support of members of the the retention and graduation tionally. In its 2011-2012 Technologies and Engineer- Choctaw and Pawnee Contributed by: Prof. Thomas D. Watts, Ph.D. U.S. Congressional delega- rates through additional ad- special college issue, “Winds ing-related fields (Occupa- tion from Oklahoma, includ- missions and advising servic- of Change” magazine rated tional Safety & Health), and This article is a tribute to a remarkable and accomplished ing Rep. Dan Boren, Rep. es, the project includes such Southeastern second in the second in Engineering (Aero- member of the Choctaw tribe, Dr. Joseph P. Bohanon. Dr. Bo- Tom Cole, Sen. James Inhofe, components as enhancing the nation in two categories: “Top space Administration & Lo- hanon was appointed president of Pawnee Nation College in and Sen. Tom Coburn. Native American collection in 5 Colleges for American Indi- gistics). Pawnee in July 2011. This prestigious and honored appoint- “Our Congressional del- the Henry G. Bennett Memo- ans by percent of Bachelor’s Regarding the C2C grant, ment is a testimony to the many achievements and abilities egation is to be commended rial Library, professional de- degrees” (4-year weighted the total cost of the program of this modest but very accomplished son of the Choctaw for its support of higher edu- velopment, mentorships, and average of 23.9%), and “Top will be financed with Federal Nation. The Choctaw and the Pawnee have different histo- cation,” Minks said. office renovations. 5 Colleges for American In- money. It will provide servic- ries, cultures, traditions and languages, but they share much “This project will cer- “Having a significant per- dians by percent of full-time es to students and facility im- as well, including the fact that they are both residing on the tainly complement the many centage of Native American undergraduates” (27.1%). provements over a five-year Great Plains. Both the Choctaw and the Pawnee have their existing programs we have students enrolled at South- Earlier this year, Southeast- period. The funding for the respective tribal headquarters in Oklahoma, where Pawnee in place through our Native eastern allowed us the oppor- ern earned high marks from initial year is $399,014. Nation College is located. Dr. Bohanon grew up in Oklahoma and had previously oc- cupied a seminal position at historic Bacone College in Mus- cogee as the director of the American Indian Studies Program. To the Youth of the Nation Dr. Bohanon’s educational background and experiences place By: Courtney Patterson him in a good position to understand the many challenges Chair of Choctaw Nation Youth Advisory Board facing tribal colleges today as well as general higher educa- Hugo Chapter tion today. “Chi Pisa La Chike (For Kristi)” Dr. Bohanon received his Ph.D. in Higher Education Ad- “Goodbye” isn’t my favorite word choice for a departing. ministration from the University of Southern Mississippi, The word is bitter when it sits on my tongue, waiting to see located in Hattiesburg, Miss. Incidentally, while at USM, he off a companion, hoping that it won’t be the last time we see familiarized himself even more with the culture and traditions each other physically in this world. “Goodbye” has a strong of the Mississippi Choctaw and other tribes in the area. His effect when it crosses my lips; I feel as if I am punched in the Ph.D. dissertation at USM was on field education in social chest every time, a loss of breath, I struggle for air and my work programs. Both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in heart races uncontrollably. Once the word is past my mouth, social work are from the University of Texas at Arlington. I it soars through the sky as question, soon splashing on the Jones Academy Super Students was the director of the Undergraduate Social Work (BSW) face of my departing companion. A wave of tears begins to program at UTA from 1991-1998, so I witnessed his steady Jones Academy has named its Super Students. Pictured flow, returning my question with an answer, they struggle to progression through both programs. He performed very well left to right are sixth grader McGavyne Lone Elk, sixth reply, moving their lips in a quivering fashion as they squeeze academically at UTA and also somehow found the time to grader Daisica Rice, fifth grader Lena Goodbear, fifth grader their eyes close as dams to back up the floods of tears the are be quite involved with the Native American community in Truvon Willis, fourth grader Odalys Lujano, third grader trying to hold back. They finally answer with a silent, “good- the north Texas area. While at UTA, he founded the Native Lastenia Lainez-Ortiz, first grader Seneca Jones and second bye,” confirming my last question. I know it is time for them American Student Organization (NASA), a most needed and grader Jose Lainez-Ortiz. These first nine weeks super stu- to leave. important student organization that is still thriving today, dents were selected by their teachers on the basis of grades, “Goodbye” is an absolute lie. There’s nothing good about serving the needs of Native American students at UTA and citizenship and cooperation. “bye” in any way, shape or form. I know some people would more. disagree, and that’s fine. Everyone is entitled to their own Bohanon’s graduate education in higher education and in opinion. In mine, “goodbye” says “I give up.” I give up to a social work could not be better training for his new position cruel world filled with hate, despise and agony. “Goodbye” Emilia named as president of a tribal college. He has also published various is the okay signal to a final launching sequence to your end. items over the years but has been so busy as a Native Ameri- “Goodbye” is a monster, standing 12 feet tall with a twisted Notable Student can leader in so many capacities that he has not had the time face, red eyes and a purple snake-like tongue. Reaching out, Congratulations to Emilia to devote to scholarship as he would like. I know if he touches me, my skin will set ablaze, and that Farmer, who was recently named Bohanon knows that the Choctaw are social service-mind- just by his touch, I don’t dare wonder what he’ll do if he is to a Notable Student at the Jones ed and education-minded, just as he has been throughout his whisper in my ear. Academy Campus Alternative life. As the new President of Pawnee Nation College, he is When I become friends with someone, I feel as if I’m giv- School. Emilia is a sophomore determined to “make a difference,” to bring his commitment, ing pieces of my heart away. Those pieces of my heart are to from Walnut Grove, Miss. his talents, his own and his tribe’s illustrious history into play remind them of my affection. What I’ve learned about these for an even better future at Pawnee Nation College. pieces of affection is that they have self-destruct modules. With every goodbye said, they blow. In so, I lose myself, piece by piece, never to return the same, always broken and Choctaw Nation Vocational Rehabilitation Calendar tattered in terrible degrees. A few weeks ago, I attended an annual YAB Teen Con- ference. At this conference, there was a certain speaker that stood out from the rest. This speaker’s message was so bold Broken Bow to me. It was of an Indian tale, of which all the details I can- 8 a.m.-4:30 not recall, but I do remember this: there is no word for good- p.m. Idabel by bye in the Choctaw language. Instead, they say “chi pisa la appt. chike,”meaning, “until we meet again.” This word has be- come very meaningful to me, reminding me there’s no good- bye, we will meet again. Durant This is truly a letter to myself, but I guess it could be a letter Antlers by Wilburton Crowder by to someone else, too. When someone leaves, there’s always a 8 a.m.-4:30 appt. 9:30 a.m.-2 appt. reason for the departure. Maybe we’re leaving, maybe we’re p.m. p.m. watching someone else leave, it just all depends, but what- ever the situation may be, don’t look at it as goodbye. Don’t Atoka 9 give them back to a cruel world. Say “chi pisa la chike,” and Durant a.m.-11 a.m. Talihina 9 set them off on a path to soon be intertwined again with your Coalgate own. 8 a.m.-4:30 a.m.-2 p.m. p.m. 12:30 p.m.- 2:30 p.m. Ryan signs with Durant Poteau McAlester 10 Holiday Houston Baptist a.m.-2 p.m. 8 a.m.-4:30 Ryan Lower of Cyrpress, 10 a.m.-2 Stigler by Texas, has signed with Hous- p.m. p.m. appt. ton Baptist University, a Di- vision 1 four-year college. He spent his first year of college at Galveston College with Wright City a scholarship as a competi- by appt. tive pitcher for the Division 1 JUCO and had a great season. Ryan has played competitive baseball since he was 5 years old. He played for his high school, Cy-Creek, lettered as a varsity pitcher and was nominated his senior year for first team All- Durant - Mondays • Broken Bow - Mon., Wed. and Fri. • Idabel - By appointment District pitcher in a 5A district. He plans to play ball and major Phone: 580-326-8304; Fax: 580-326-2410 • Email: [email protected] in international business. BISKINIK | November 2011 | Page 8

Lana Sleeper pulls Palo Robles in for a good time during the Stealing Partners Dance. Joey Tom gives Stacy Whitmire a spin during the Stealing Partners Dance.

Assistant Chief Gary Batton with Boone Spencer. Joyce and Allan Moran with Chief Greg Pyle.

Julie Smith, Lillie Baird and Mayla Smith visit Les Williston to learn about Choctaw weapons.

Joey Tom explains how to handle stickball sticks to Brendon Wilson. Theresa Morris holds up her design.

Language Director Jim Parrish and Internet Language Instructor Lillie Roberts visit with one Michael and Penny Carter of Parker, Colo., spend some time with Chief of Lillie’s online students, Ronnie Funk, and his Pyle. daughter, Sophia.

Photos by LISA REED and BRET MOSS Choctaw Nation Two of the younger ones from an Irish of Oklahoma dance group enchant the audience. The group was comprised of dancers from the Bennett School of Dance and the Heritage Irish Stepdancers. Mandy Lawson, left, and Brad Joe, right, meet Ronald Hickman, a former resident of Ardmore, and his daughter, Assistant Chief Batton enjoys his visit with Bob and Merylene Hickman. Paula Berry of Monte Vista, Colo.

Sam Rizzo and Tina Walker at the make-and- Carolyn Cross brings several items from the Choctaw Na- take booth making traditional Choctaw items. tion Bookstore for visitors to see and purchase. Jami and Katie Moseley at the make-and-take booth. BISKINIK | November 2011 | Page 9 Joe Watkins attributes Native American knowledge, archaeology to the campus of OU By CHRISSY DILL 40 years, including work in creating an awareness of Na- portion of Hokkaido Island as Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Europe on an archaeological tive American issues among well as with traditional arts in site more than 40,000 years high school students. the region. Choctaw member Dr. Joe old and sites in the United “My main goal in writing “It is very fulfilling to be a Watkins holds the title of Di- State that were at least 12,000 the books was to create some- part of helping a group devel- rector of the Native American years old, he said. “I love ar- thing that would cause people op policies that can have such Studies Program at the Uni- chaeology because it gives us to think,” said Watkins. a far-reaching impact,” said versity of Oklahoma. With this the time depth to think about The Indigenous Archaeol- Watkins. title, Watkins introduces and humanity’s ways of dealing ogy book was written at a time Dr. Ian Thompson, Choctaw encourages many exceptional with things – environmental when archaeology was just Nation Historic Preservation aspects of Native American change, population pressure beginning to gain serious con- employee and tribal archae- culture to students at his uni- and resource shortages,” he cerns of Native Americans, ologist, met Watkins when he versity, and his history as an stated. stated Watkins. “Repatriation was attending school at the educator, writer and his close “One of my greatest thrills was just happening and none University of New Mexico and relations with the Choctaw was serving as an on-air talent of the archaeologists were Watkins served as his advisor. Nation have contributed to his for the Oregon Public Broad- aware of how long American “He is a close personal friend passion for spreading knowl- casting Service series, ‘Time Indians had been requesting and mentor,” said Thompson. edge of the traditions of the Team America,’ in 2009,” said the return of those objects cov- Watkins was also on Thomp- American Indian. Watkins, of his archaeological ered under the laws.” son’s doctorial committee. According to his biography, projects. “We’ll be shooting His second book, Wat- “We have a good working Watkins was an Associate Pro- another series in 2012 with kins said, was written to help relationship,” said Thomp- fessor of Anthropology at the four archaeological sites. It Dr. Watkins participating in an excavation in Japan this younger scholars, primarily son, saying the great degree University of New Mexico will be great fun and a tremen- year. This photo was taken by his wife, Carol J. Ellick. high school students, become in which Watkins is involved from 2003-07. He received dous experience to be able to aware of the issues Native with his students. “He is al- his Bachelor of Arts degree in reach so many people.” and their stamina – without ei- gram is administration,” said Americans have faced for ways there for his students.” Anthropology from the Uni- As a professor of anthropol- ther one, they won’t be able to Watkins, who helps develop hundreds of years concerning According to Thompson, versity of Oklahoma and his ogy, Watkins taught classes contribute to the future of Na- appropriate curriculum and the disproportionate amount Watkins is a generous and Master of Arts and Doctor of dealing with the archaeology tive America,” said Watkins. classes to suit the needs of of American Indian materials very helpful individual. “He is Philosophy degrees in Anthro- of the Southern Great Plains, Watkins said it is rare for Native American students on in museums. always doing things for other pology from Southern Meth- ethics in anthropology, arche- an event related to Choctaw campus as well. “I also get the “I think both books have people and the native commu- odist University, where his ology of Eastern North Amer- Indians to take place on OU’s opportunity to teach one class had impact on the discipline of nity,” he said. doctorate examined archae- ica as well as basic introduc- campus, although “the uni- a semester on particular top- archaeology,” said Watkins. “I Thompson showed great ap- ologists’ responses to ques- tion to anthropology. versity offers the Choctaw ics,” he added. do believe they have created preciation for the things Wat- tionnaire scenarios concerning According to Watkins, the language for college credit, Watkins said he gains the some conversations, if nothing kins has accomplished during their perceptions of American Native American Studies Pro- and the classes are often in de- greatest motivation when else beyond that.” his educational and profes- Indian issues. gram at OU is always involved mand,” he stated. serving on a student’s mas- Watkins’ current study in- sional career. “It’s pretty out- One of Watkins’ family in Native American Heritage Watkins said the program ter’s thesis committee. “I can terest includes the ethical standing,” he said. “He is members held a special place Month, and the organization focuses on the general situa- help a student complete their practice of anthropology and arguably the foremost native in Choctaw history. “My great- doesn’t focus on advocating tion of Native Americans on research and contribute infor- the study of anthropology’s archaeologist in the country.” uncle, Joseph Oklahombi, in just the month of Novem- campus and tries to continu- mation on the state of Native relationships with descendant Watkins has done more to was a Code Talker,” he said. ber. “We are always involved ally remind people that there American populations in the communities and Aboriginal promote indigenous archaeol- “It was always something we with ensuring that the univer- are 38 federally recognized U.S. today,” he said. populations. ogy than anyone else has in were proud of.” sity and the local community tribes in Oklahoma. “Their is- “When students complete Currently, Watkins said he is the country, said Thompson. Watkins recalled having are aware of Native American sues are a microcosm of the is- their degree and move on, it working on a book that exam- “He works very hard with the Sunday lunches at his uncle issues on a daily basis rather sues Indians face nationwide,” gives me the feeling that I’ve ines the situation of the Ainu tribal communities all over the Oklahombi’s house, before than once a year,” he said. he explained. “We focus on truly helped someone accom- of Japan as they become more world to help protect their an- he passed away when Wat- The program itself offers the creating classroom situations plish a dream,” said a proud recognized as a global Indig- cestors and heritage.” kins was just 6 or 7 years old. opportunity of contribution to where Native Americans and Watkins. enous people. “I have been to With his mediation between “He was always this man who Native American culture and non-Native Americans alike In addition to his various Japan six times and have been various academic disciplines, stayed in the background; al- governance nationwide, Wat- are exposed to those issues.” roles as an educator, Watkins working with the Center for members of Indigenous ways a quiet and confident kins said. “We teach students An included responsibility has published numerous ar- Ainu and Indigenous Stud- groups and studies in an- man,” remembered Watkins. how to learn, how to write, as director, Watkins helps stu- ticles and written books con- ies of Hokkaido to help the thropology and archaeology, “He never talked about what how to think and how to criti- dents through the educational cerning anthropology. His first Ainu understand how Ameri- Watkins hopes to continue de- he had done. The more I found cally evaluate the information process involved in complet- book, “Indigenous Anthropol- can Indian groups maintain veloping the NASP at OU in out about him and his actions out there about Native Ameri- ing their master’s degrees, ogy: American Indian Values membership, governance, re- order that students will serve in World War I, the prouder I can issues.” “then moving on to tribal em- and Scientific Practice,” is in lationships with the dominant as cultural liaisons to translate became to have known such a The program provides stu- ployment, a Ph.D. program, or its second printing, and his lat- government and so forth,” he information back and forth be- great man.” dents with many opportunities, further opportunities,” he said. est book, “Reclaiming Physi- explained, adding he is also tween Native American tribes Watkins has been involved including meeting interesting “Most of the time, my role cal Heritage: Repatriation and involved with working on the and the institutions that impact in archaeology for more than people. “We tax their brains as director of the NAS pro- Sacred Sites,” is aimed toward archaeology of the northern them.

Swink, Boswell students honor Code Talkers through project Contributed by: Bill Hankins, The Paris News

Fourth grade students at ers,” the practice of securing rior, one of the greatest of the Henryetta in the old Musk- Boswell Independent School battlefield communication doughboys. He reportedly ogee Creek Nation. He was District and Swink ISD se- by having Native Americans captured more men in the later sent to patrol the border lected Code Talkers Joseph transmit messages in their Champagne than Sgt. York between the United States Oklahombi and Walter Veach own languages did not be- did in a comparable and more and Mexico and had a major as their honorees. Boswell gin during World War II. The famous event in the Argome hand in stopping the Pancho students raised $300 to pur- tactic was initiated amongst Forest (132 men captured) Villa invasion of Texas. chase a paver inscribed with Choctaw National Guards- two days later. Oklahombi In 1917, the company Elementary students at Soper raised pennies for Code information about Oklahom- men in the Battle for Blanc was also awarded the Croix merged with the 36th Divi- Talker Ben Carterby. bi, and Swink students col- Mont Ridge in the Cham- de Guerre. sion and was sent to France. lected 30,000 pennies for a pagne Sector of France in Oc- Veach was from Durant Veach, a captain, with the all- paver honoring Veach. The tober 1918. and helped organize Durant’s Indian Company E, saw much pavers are placed at the Red Oklahombi was one of first National Guard unit and activity during the war. River Valley Veterans Memo- these Code Talkers, so his sto- served as its commander. Be- Pavers for the two Code rial being built in Paris. ry is intertwined with theirs. fore his enlistment as a Code Talkers were presented dur- Contrary to the Hollywood But this particular Code Talker, he helped put down ing ceremonies on Veterans war movie, “Wind Talk- Talker was also a mighty war- the Crazy Snake uprising near Day in Paris.

The Goodland Academy students at Grant learned about and collected pen- nies for Code Talker Tobias Frazier.

Photos provided.

Goodland Academy students col- lected pennies for Code Talker Mitch- Hugo Elementary fourth grade students raised money for Code Talker James Edwards. ell Bobb. They are pictured with Lila Swink at the Hugo Library.

Boswell Independent School District fourth grade students raised pennies for Joseph Oklahombi.

Students at Swink Independent School District Fort Towson fourth grade students raised funds for Code Talker Ben Carterby. learned about Code Talker Walter Veach. BISKINIK | November 2011 | Page 10 Choctaw Nation’s Outstanding Elders District 1 – Idabel Laura Marie Cusher Carney was born Dec. 26, 1912, in tant superintendent, and as of July 1, 2011, he became the super- Florence McClure Spalding, not pictured, is the oldest of six Beachton near Smithville. The oldest of nine children, she is intendent of Poteau Public Schools. He serves on the Kiamichi children. She began her education at Wheelock Academy, gradu- the only one surviving of her siblings. Laura will soon be 99 Technology Center Advisory Committee, coordinating curricu- ated from Goodland High School and attended Drones Business years old. She was married to the late Edmond Carney and they lum with vo-techs to enhance career development. He manages Schools. After graduation, Florence joined the U.S. Women’s have one son, Elton Carney of Smithville. She has eight grand- curriculum development, child nutrition programs, district test- Army Corps, better known as the WACS, from 1943-1947. Her children and several great- and great-great-grandchildren. Laura ing and all programs relative to public school. duty stations included Stark Hospital, Charlotte, S.C., and Yo- began school in Zafra, traveling there by horseback. She then kohama, Japan. After receiving an honorable discharge in 1947, attended Wheelock Academy and then in 1932, she graduated Florence had the opportunity to work at the Pentagon in Wash- from Haskell Institute in Lawrence, Kan. Transportation was a ington, D.C., and attended evening classes at the University of barrier in the early years, yet her father would take her by wagon Maryland, earning an associate degree in business management to Peter Consur near Heavener and she would two to three days in 1973. She retired from the U.S. Air Force in 1984 as a GS- for the train. Peter Consur would put her on the train and she 11 working as a program analyst in the material Management would return to Haskell. Laura was very active with the Choctaw Branch, Aerospace Support Division, Directorate of Supply and Nation during the term of Chief David Gardner. She was one of Services, Deputy Chief of Staff Systems and Logistics. Flor- the first members of the Choctaw Senior Program and is still ac- ence’s current project is working closely with the Choctaw Na- tive, enjoying her Wednesdays at the Smithville Senior Center tion to ensure all Choctaw veterans are registered with the tribe. having lunch, playing Bingo and visiting with friends. She still writes letters and continues sewing lap robes, donating them to nursing homes. Laura is of the Presbyterian faith and has served her church as an elder for several decades. Councilmen Ronald Perry and Delton Cox, JoElla Clark and Chief Gregory E. Pyle.

District 4.5 – Spiro JoElla Wood Clark and husband Odell have three children and five grandchildren. JoElla attended Shady Point and Spiro Public Schools. She has been active in PTA and Booster Clubs in local schools supporting her children and their extra-curricular activi- ties. She served as president of the Booster Club for numerous uears. JoElla and Odell began working with the Child Welfare Department as foster parents and have helped approximately 30 Councilman Tony Messenger, Darlene Noahubi and Chief children of all ages. After they stopped taking in children, JoElla Gregory E. Pyle. went to work for the Child Welfare Department as a part-time case worker aid. She worked at the Spiro Senior Center. She re- District 2 – Bethel flects that, “It was great being there in the beginning.” Darlene Noahubi resides in Bethel with her husband, Alton. Councilman Kenny Bryant, Lodean Starr and Chief They have three children and eight great-grandchildren. Darlene Gregory E. Pyle. attended Nanih Chito Elementary near Smithville and graduated from Smithville High School in 1972. She worked at the Ta- District 3 – Talihina lihina Hospital after she graduated from high school and then Lodean Starr is retired from the United Services Automobile at the Broken Bow Clinic. For the past 13 years, Darlene has Association (USAA) in San Antonio, Texas, and remains an ac- been employed as a Community Health Representative (CHR) tive board member with the United San Antonio Pow Wow. She with the Choctaw Nation. She is a member of the Kulli Chito returned to Talihina in October 2003 and is currently employed Presbyterian Church of Bethel, has held many positions over the part-time as a switchboard operator at Choctaw Nation Health years and promotes Choctaw women to participate in Presbyte- Care Services. Lodean was selected as a Choctaw Nation dele- rian women’s gatherings. Darlene is proud of her heritage, stat- gate at the 2006 National Indian Conference on Aging (NICOA) ing that, “It became her first language.” in Tulsa, a great honor for her and was honored May 30, 2007, Melvin Noahubi, not pictured, has resided in Bethel all of his on Senior Day in Durant. Lodean remains active in cultural ac- Councilmen Ronald Perry and Delton Cox, John Casey life. He is the father of two sons, Tim and Darren Noahubi. He tivities with the Talihina Indian Club and Choctaw language attended North Bethel and graduated from Battiest High School classes. She is a member of the Choctaw Seniors’ choir, “The and Chief Gregory E. Pyle. in 1971. After graduation he began working at Weyerhaeuser as Joyful Choctaw Singers,” a group who has recorded Choctaw John Fletcher Casey is a graduate of David Starr Jordan High a log cutter and has 40 years of service with the same company. hymns. She also enjoys sewing Choctaw dresses for her nieces. School, Long Beach (Calif.) City College and Orange Coast Melvin is proud of his Choctaw heritage. He credits his parents She participates in Pine Grove Church activities. University, Orange, Calif. John joined the U.S. Army and served for his knowledge of the Choctaw language which he speaks his duty stationed in Fort Carson, Colo., and the Republic of fluently. He volunteers his time to keeping the center clean and South Vietnam from 1966-69. He is a member of the VFW of safe for the elders. He helps serve the elders at their meals every Spiro, the American Legion in Poteau, the Choctaw Veterans As- Wednesday and makes sure they are taken care of. Melvin is an sociation, Skullyville Association and Spiro DAV. John serves active member of the Kulli Chito Presbyterian Church in Bethel. on the LeFlore County Veterans Day Parade Committee in Po- He volunteers at the church, renovates camp and assists with Va- teau. He is also affiliated with Murrow Masonic Lodge, Scottish cation Bible School. Rite, Shriner and Order of Eastern Star. He was employed as District 2 – Broken Bow a truck driver in Fort Smith, Ark., for OK Industries and FFE Priscilla Jones Coleman, not pictured, was raised with four Transportation Inc. in Dallas, Texas, until his retirement. John siblings. She was blessed with five wonderful children and now attends the First Baptist Church of Spiro serving in the capacity has an extended family of 15 grandchildren and four great- as a pre-school teacher. He is also a worship leader for a local grandchildren. She attended Antlers Public School and gradu- nursing home. ated from Boswell High. After raising her children, Priscilla returned to Southeastern Oklahoma State University in 1982 to Councilman Kenny Bryant, Cornelius Winship Jr. and earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education with Chief Gregory E. Pyle. emphasis on language, science and social studies. In 1988, she received her master’s degree in counseling. Her career included Cornelius Winship Jr., known to his family as “Neely,” at- teaching within public schools, counseling at Jones Academy, tended Honey Grove School in Honey Grove, Texas, and gradu- and as executive director for Kiamichi Youth Services. She has ated from Fort Towson High School. He grew up with one sister shared her expertise as a consultant to schools and organiza- and obtained an extended family of siblings over the years. After st tions, a representative to numerous organizations and has been graduation, Neely served the U.S. Army with the 1 Cavalry dur- honored as a nominee for bilingual Teacher of the Year as well ing the Vietnam War. He was awarded the Bronze Star, Purple as being named Eagletown Teacher of the Year. Priscilla enjoys Heart, Air Medal, Army Commendation Heart and Parachutist being a caregiver to her 86-year-old mother. She is currently a Badge. He was employed as a maintenance personnel in apart- part-time employee of the Senior Wellness Program at the Bro- ment complexes in the Dallas and Fort Worth area. Neely is an ken Bow Center and attends Tohwali United Methodist Church. active member of the Talihina VFW and was recently honored with the junior vice commander position. He has been an asset to the Talihina community by raising monies for different enti- Councilman Ronald Perry, Amelia Steen and Chief Greg- ties as the VFW and the Choctaw Senior Center. He attends and ory E. Pyle. volunteers at the Talihina Senior Center. District 5 – Stigler Amelia Christy Steen was the third child of eight siblings and resided for a number of years on her grandmother’s restricted land six miles from northeast Stigler. She and husband Jim are proud parents of two children. She attended Stigler schools and was an active member of the band and glee clubs. Amelia is a graduate of Haskell Institute in Lawrence, Kan., majoring in commercial training. Her employment career began with the Census Bureau in Pittsburg, Kan., in the finance department of the City of Pitts- Councilman Tony Messenger, Henry Battiest Sr. and burg, and then after working for 13 years in Johnson County Chief Gregory E. Pyle. government in the data processing department, she retired and returned to Stigler 13 years ago. She attends the Bethel Indian Henry Lee Battiest Sr. and his wife, Dinah, have two children Baptist Church, is a member of the Ladies Auxiliary of VFW and are blessed with grandchildren. The oldest of five children, Post 4446, Stigler’s Elder Nutrition Site, Whitfield Sr. Citizens Henry was born into a musical family whose legacy has spanned Councilman Delton Cox, Edith Ward and Chief Gregory and past treasurer of the Choctaw Senior Citizens group. over four generations. He could “play by ear” and by the age of 6 E. Pyle. he was singing with his parents, forming a trio known to many as the original “Battiest Family.” As a young man, he played and sang District 4 – Poteau in a couple of different bands until his marriage and then he and his Edith Sue Welch Ward is a retired educator serving the public wife sang as a duet. He formed and played for a number years in school system with 38 ½ years of teaching. She worked at the the “Singing Tribesmen.” In 1975, Henry formed a family group, Choctaw Travel Plaza in Poteau for six months, then returned to the Battiest Indian Family, that included his children. In 1982, the educating for one and a half years, then as a teacher’s assistant Battiest Indian Family began as a full-time singing ministry. for five and one-half years where she is currently employed three days a week. She enjoys helping children to learn. Edith is proud to be 1/8 Choctaw. Her great-grandfather, Livingston “Buck” White, was a full-blood Choctaw. Edith is a trained volunteer disaster relief worker. She has previously served her church as a Sunday School teacher and church treasurer. She and her late husband, Johnny Ward, had three children. Councilman Ronald Perry, Dixon Lewis Jr. and Chief Gregory E. Pyle. Dixon Lewis Jr. and wife Lorene have one daughter, Michele, and one grandson, Tobey. Jr. spent most of his life in Keota, attended Keota schools and graduated from Chilocco Indian Boarding School and OSU Okmulgee Tech. He joined the Okla- homa National Guard in 1964.He was employed 21 years with the Oklahoma Department of Transportation, served his com- Councilman Kenny Bryant, Lowell Nichols and Chief munity as deputy sheriff, and is now self-employed, operating Gregory E. Pyle. Lewis Printing Shop. He serves as minister for New Hope Indian District 3 – Smithville Baptist Church and has served as the C-C Baptist Association Lowell Nichols and wife Sherry have two children and two clerk for 10 years. Jr. has served as the president of the Choctaw grandchildren. A resident of the Octavia area, Lowell attended Councilman Delton Cox, Hank Harris and Chief Greg- Senior Program of Stigler for 10 years and has been a valued vol- Octavia Elementary School and graduated from Smithville High ory E. Pyle. unteer driver for the Choctaw Senior bus for the past 10 years. School. He served in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Alaska. A full-blood Choctaw, he is a Choctaw language teacher. His After his term of duty, he was employed driving trucks and in William Henry “Hank” Harris and wife Barbara have been involvement in the community includes Haskell County Demo- 1977 became self-employed. In 1986, Lowell began working married for 31 years and raised two children. He is a graduate of cratic delegate, member of 32nd degree Masons, Mason pastmas- for the LeFlore County Highway Department and during his 25 Poteau High School, Carl Albert Junior College and Northeast- ter, and has been a member of the Cookson Hills Housing Au- years of service he was promoted to foreman and held that posi- ern State College with a degree in education. Hank served 26 thority for 14 years. He has also served as a committee member tion until he retired this year. years as a teacher, counselor, assistant principal, principal, assis- for the Fort Smith Indian Day celebration. BISKINIK | November 2011 | Page 11 Choctaw Nation’s Outstanding Elders

Councilman Perry Thompson, Kenneth Armor and Chief Councilman Bob Pate, Suzanne Heard and Chief Greg- Gregory E. Pyle. ory E. Pyle. Councilman Joe Coley, Maggie Sue Anderson and Chief Kenneth Odell Armor was raised in the Bokchito area. He District 11 – McAlester Gregory E. Pyle. and wife Sharyn have one son and two grandsons. Kenneth has Suzanne Heard was born in Haileyville. Her mother, Irene District 6 – Wilburton been employed as a mechanic for 31 years at Babcock Wilcox Heard, a Choctaw original enrollee, instilled in her the pride she Maggie Sue Anderson was born in Yanush, the youngest of in Paris, Texas. He owns and operates a hydraulic hose business. has for the Choctaw Nation and it’s deepened through the years. 10 children. She is a graduate of Buffalo Valley School, Haskell He enjoys operating heavy machinery from backhoe to dozier. Suzanne has become one of the tribe’s ambassadors. She attended Institute and Southeastern Oklahoma State University. After re- Kenneth’s hobbies include hunting, fishing, riding ATVs and Southeastern Oklahoma State University, earning a B.S. in ele- ceiving the blessing of a college education, Maggie wanted to anything to do with the outdoors. He is an active volunteer at the mentary education, history and art, then a master’s degree in coun- give back and the best way she how to return this investment in Hugo Senior Center. seling at Oklahoma City University. Her career includes teaching her future was to work with and for the Indian people. Her ca- in Oklahoma schools and working for the BIA. Suzanne is always reer began in 1966 working for the BIA in Osage County. After one of the first to volunteer when she sees a need in thecom- receiving her degree she began employment with Indian Health munity at church, school and McAlester’s Senior Citizens Center. Service at Talihina Indian Hospital, then at other HIS locations Education, history and art have always been important to her She in McAlester and Tahlequah, Eagle Butte, S.D., back to Tali- currently serves as a member of Jones Academy’s School Board. hina and then Oklahoma City. She worked in hospital adminis- tration, management in the Office of Environmental Health and Engineering Services in the Oklahoma Area of Oklahoma and Kansas, and as the federal coordinator of the tribal Community Health Representative (CHR) and Emergency Management Ser- vice (EMS) programs of the Oklahoma Area consisting of Okla- homa, Kansas and Texas.

Councilman Ted Dosh, Gaylia Green and Chief Gregory E. Pyle. Councilman Bob Pate, Jack Haynes and Chief Gregory E. Pyle. District 9 – Durant Jack Haynes has lived most of his life within the boundar- Gaylia Seeley Green and her late husband had two children. ies of Choctaw Nation. Jack is a veteran having served in the She is currently married to Robert Green and they reside in U.S. Navy. He did work with his hands as a carpenter, machinist, Bokchito at her family’s ancestral land east of Bokchito. She at- draftsman, firefighter, EMT, and as a forklift operator. During his tended several small rural elementary schools in the Bennington years as a firefighter, he sustained a serious injury that ended his and Bokchito area and graduated from Bennington High School. firefighter career so he then applied with the U.S. Army and re- She earned a degree in music education from Southeastern Okla- tired as an explosives operator after 21 years. Retirement allows homa State University and her master’s from the University of for Jack to devote more time for wood carving. Texas at Dallas. Galia was a stay-at-home mom for 11 years, volunteering at church as children’s choir accompanist for vocal Councilman Jack Austin, Bettie Teal and Chief Gregory and instrumental soloists. She taught at Mohawk Elementary for E. Pyle. 24 years. Although retired from teaching she was asked to fill in District 7 – Antlers for the Bokchito music teacher and retired again after 3 ½ years Bettie Sue Tom Teal was raised in Antlers and graduated from of service. For nine years she has volunteered at her church, Old Antlers High School. She received her LPN pin and certificate Bennington Presbyterian, as pianist for the worship services. from Kiamichi Area Vo-Tech in 1979. She began her nursing Gaylia enjoys church work, Choctaw Senior activities, serving career at the Choctaw Memorial Hospital in Hugo where she as song leader for Choctaw hymns, taking Choctaw language worked for 13 years, then went on to work at the Choctaw Na- classes and loves to garden. She also loves spending time with tion Nursing Home for 19 years. She retired in February. Bettie her three grandchildren. is enjoying her retirement, spending time with her grandchil- dren, taking part in Choctaw Senior taco sales and the trips they take for their hard work. Bettie ahd her husband, Ronnie, attend Councilman James Frazier, Maggie May Anderson and and enjoy church at the Cowboy Roundup Church in Antlers. Chief Gregory E. Pyle. District 12 – Coalgate Maggie May Hall Anderson was born at Centrahoma, one of eight children. Maggie has lived in Coal County all her life. She married Willie Anderson in Coalgate and they had seven chil- dren, five of whom are still living. A homemaker most of her life, Maggie worked briefly out of the home as a cook at a local café and as a cook at the Olney School for until her last child gradu- ated. Her most enjoyable times are going to church and being with her family. She is an active member of the Coalgate Senior Councilman Ted Dosh, Willie Walley and Chief Gregory Center. Maggie attends the Gospel Lighthouse Church of Coal- E. Pyle. gate every Sunday, sings in the choir and is often asked to sing solo in her native Choctaw language which she speaks fluently. Willie Walley and his late wife, Ella, celebrated 47 years of marriage and were blessed with two children, six grandchil- Councilman Jack Austin, Troy McKee and Chief Greg- dren and four great-grandchildren. Willie was born and raised ory E. Pyle. in Bennington, one of six children. Willie joined the Oklahoma National Guard while in high school. After graduation, he en- Troy Jay McKee and his wife, Patsy, have one daughter and listed in the U.S. Air Force and retired with 20 years of mili- two grandsons. Troy lived south of Antlers, attended elementary tary service. He was part of the greatest technology advances in school at Lively and graduated from Antlers High School. He the history of aviation and aerospace power. He handled highly traveled to Texas for employment opportunities and worked at sensitive information in communications. Willie served during various jobs until his employment with Ex-Cell Energy where the Korean and Vietnam Wars. In addition to stateside duties, he he remained until his retirement. Troy moved back to Antlers served overseas tours in Germany, Italy, Pakistan, The Aleutians after retiring. He stays very active in his community. He loves and Alaska. Honors include Army and Air Force Good Con- being part of the Hill Volunteer Fire Department. Troy spends duct, Army of Occupation, National Defense Bronze Star and his Wednesdays enjoying fellowship at the Antlers Senior Nutri- Air Force Longevity Service metal. Willie has served the New tion Center. He and Patsy attend Hill Baptist Church where they Bennington Presbyterian as deacon, Sunday School teacher and Councilman James Frazier, Judy Wilder and Chief enjoy spending time with all those he grew up around. treasurer. He is currently employed part-time as wellness leader Gregory E. Pyle. for the Choctaw Nation Aging Services. District 7 – Wright City District 12 – Crowder Cecil Samuel Caldwell and his wife, Nettie, raised seven chil- District 10 – Atoka Judy Wilder was born in Porterville, Calif., and had two dren and now enjoy 10 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Susan Jim was born and raised in Bentley, attending school younger brothers. Judy and her husband of 43 years, Ron, have Cecil was raised in the Sobal community and at the age of 13, his there. She married Emmitt Jim, now deceased, in 1948 at the two children and now have been blessed with five grandchildren family relocated to Texas. At 19, he returned to Wright City and age of 16 Susan never had to work a day out of her home. Her and one great-grandchild. Judy and Ron reside in Crowder. After has lived there for 52 years. In 1960, Cecil was employed with husband provided for her and the 10 children – six boys and graduation from high school in 1966, Judy attended business col- Dierks and later with Weyerhaeuser at the Wright City plant with four girls. Susan has 25 gradchildren and 36 great-grandchldren. lege and then worked at the Wells Fargo Bank while attending combined service of 40 years in the lumber industry. He retired She is a member of the Macedonia Baptist Church. Susan is an Bible college. She is an active church member serving in sev- in 2002 and now enjoys fishing and living life to the fullest active participant of the Choctaw Singers Quartet. She is still in eral ministries through the years – church, correction facilities, with his family. He is considered the #1 fan of his grandhildren’s good health and loves to go out and spend time with her children Sunday School teaching, missions, camps and women’s minis- sports events. Cecil is a member of the Goodwater United Meth- and grandchildren. She enjoys the fellowship with elders at the tries. She is also active with the Crowder Choctaw Seniors where odist Church in Sobal. He fluently speaks the Choctaw language. Choctaw Community Center. she served as secretary and is currently vice president. She has worked at all the fundraising events the last four years and has headed the concession trailer at the Labor Day Festival.

Councilman Anthony Dillard, C.H. Isom and Chief Gregory E. Pyle. Councilman James Frazier, Keith Holman and Chief Councilman Perry Thompson, Betty Crain and Chief C.H. Isom and his wife of 56 years, Nadine, were foster par- Gregory E. Pyle. Gregory E. Pyle. ents and adopted a daughter. They are the proud grandparents of two. He and Nadine worked side-by-side on various jobs from District 8 – Hugo Keith Holman and wife Pat have two children and five grand- logging, peeling pine poles and working in the cotton fields. In children. He graduated from McFarland High School in Cali- Betty Fay Griffin Crain and husband T.A. have been married 1969, he and his wife returned to Daisy. He found employment fornia. He resided in Bakersfield, Calif., and was co-founder of for 59 years. They have three sons, five grandchildren and one as a construction worker on the Indian Nation Turnpike and B&H Construction. Keith returned to the Canadian area in 2004. great-grandson. Betty attended Hugo High School and was ac- upon completion of that project, C.H. found employment at a The Holmans own the Lakeview Landing, motel and RV park in cepted into the diversified education program learning a trade at local sawmill. His former boss encouraged him to complete an Eufaula. They are active with the Life Church in McAlester. He the Hugo hospital as a lab technician for two years. She gradu- application with the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority and he re- works in the classroom with the one- to three-year-olds. He is ated from the Missouri Medical School at Gradwohl Laboratory tired from there with 22 years as a maintenance worker. C.H. also an usher at the church and is involved in Life Riding Motor- and X-ray in St. Louis, Mo. She worked at the Danforth hospital began as a volunteer firefighter, served on the Board of Direc- cycle Ministry. Keith enjoys spending time with his family and in Texas City, Texas Laboratory medical supervisor and in Ro- tors and then served as chief of the Daisy Fire Department. He friends fishing, camping and riding his motorcycle. He is very swell, N.M., as the lab and X-ray tech for a cardiologist clinic. was instrumental in fundraising for maintaining the building or much involved with fundraisers that are held at the District 12 Her career in the medical field has been non-stop all these years. upgrading equipment. Crowder Community Center. BISKINIK | November 2011 | Page 12 Digging up history with flint knapper James Briscoe By BRET MOSS western Oklahoma itol building. “Making the arrowhead rebuilt over time on top of its Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma State University in This historical Choctaw is just directing where you ruins. He explained that over For many people, the Choc- Weatherford for a settlement is where the first want to strike that piece with history, the city would be de- taw culture of past and present short time. While Choctaws to move into the your BB,” explained Briscoe. stroyed and rebuilt on top of is an interesting subject to pon- he was doing his area established a community. Tindle and Briscoe utilize deer itself, creating layer after layer der and learn. One man who studies, he had a job They built a mound in respect and elk antlers on the flint to of town to compose this large finds the age-old facts about with the Oklahoma to their ancestors and gave it make the same effect the BB mesa, where the current city the Choctaw people especially Highway Archaeo- the same name as the location has on the glass. By striking rests. fascinating is semi-retired ar- logical Survey with where the Choctaw people are the right location on the flint, He mentioned that on top of cheologist James Briscoe. the State Highway believed to have originated. it creates the desired shape. the mesa was a Mesopotamian Briscoe, who many know as Department working To Brisoce’s delight, several This skill to create and teach palace that is still standing and one of the men who teach flint in the lab and doing years ago, when the traditional others to create great arrow- a Roman bath that was built by knapping at the Labor Day fieldwork. village was built on the Capi- heads is one that Briscoe has Israeli engineers. With all the Photo provided After gaining his tol grounds, he was asked to picked up due to curiosity on medieval buildings, “it was Festival, has traveled all over “ the globe, seen amazing things degrees, Briscoe be- demonstrate how to make ar- the subject and many years of just like time traveling to the that most will only see on tele- He was fascinated with the gan his own consulting com- working to per- past,” he exclaimed. vision, and is still constantly culture, and from a young age pany called Briscoe Consult- fect the process. Throughout his life, Bris- amazed by what he learns he was interested in history ing Services in 1982, which he It’s kind of like It is a skill he is coe has seen many impressive about the Choctaw people. and archeology, particularly owned until the end of 2010. Christmas every greatly pleased to historical sites and artifacts, Briscoe’s connection and Oklahoma and western his- If an entity wanted to conduct share with others. but the Choctaw ways still interest with the Choctaw Na- tory. an activity that required the time you go out. “You’ve never intrigue him more than many, tion goes back to before he Along with his close ties manipulation of the soil, such seen true magic making him very proud of his as building a pipeline, Briscoe “ – James Briscoe until you help a heritage. Because of his enjoy- was born. His grandmother’s to Native American culture, grandmother, Sara Isom, was many factors contributed to would survey the area to see kid make his own ment for his career he can eas- full-blood Choctaw and mar- his interest in history. Arche- if anything of historical value rowheads to patrons who were arrowhead,” he said with a ily say, “The last time I ever ried a Frenchman who had ological sites on his family was in the way of that process. willing to learn. smile. worked for a living was my bought a plantation on Choc- farm, his grandfather collect- If there were public involve- “They know they are go- Briscoe modestly asserts freshman year in college.” taw land. ing arrowheads and his parents ment, state regulations or po- ing to make their own arrow- Tindle as having a greater Briscoe is more than happy When the relocation of the being active in the Oklahoma tential for cemeteries, Bris- head and they just flock to expertise at the art of making to do what he does for the Choctaw people began, Sara Anthropological Society, were coe’s company would usually that place,” stated Briscoe as arrowheads, as well as several Choctaw Nation. He acknowl- chose to stay with her French all influencing factors that led be involved. he spoke of the patrons’ posi- Choctaw artists. He mentions edges that he has a responsi- husband in Mississippi and Briscoe to his field of work. If Briscoe found something tive response to the arrowhead Joe Watkins, Les Williston bility to the Choctaw Nation to adhere to the state laws. This For his formal education on in the way of the construction, booth at the Labor Day Fes- and Ian Thompson as a few of give back in the way he knows act left Sara, along with Bris- the subject of his interest, Bris- he researched and would find tival over the years. He went his favorites. how and loves. He does it out coe and her lineage, off the coe attended the University of a safe alternative route for on to mention that in the last To go along with his works of admiration for his heritage, official Choctaw rolls. Her Oklahoma where he earned a construction. Avoiding ar- years, the numbers to make at Labor Day and his survey because as Briscoe says, “You brothers and sisters remained bachelor’s in Anthropology, cheological or historical sites arrowheads has been consis- work for the nation, Briscoe don’t have anything if you with the tribe and were placed the comparative study of hu- (and cemeteries) was taken as tently over 400. has proven to be a useful re- don’t have respect in your on the rolls. man societies and cultures and his way of preserving at least When teaching arrow- source. “When they need heritage.” Briscoe was born in West- their development. He then a portion of the heritage for head making at the festival, some particular bit of history ern Oklahoma and raised on went to Drew University in future generations. This was Briscoe has a partner named or extra consulting… I jump a farm. He had close ties with New Jersey where he received a great part of his career until Curtis Tindle. Their booth is right in,” said Briscoe as he Cheyenne and Arapaho and a master’s in Historical Ar- he sold it to his partner, with something the duo anticipates told how individuals have re- was eventually adopted into chaeology. whom he still does various and prepares for year-round. lied on his extensive knowl- the Wilson Clan, a Cheyenne He then taught classes at consulting projects. “Finding a good piece of flint edge and experience to com- family, and learned their ways. Drew University and at South- For a man with an excep- is sometimes fairly difficult,” plete tasks. tional interest in artifacts from mentioned Briscoe. We “save Aside from his work with the past, this was a prime ca- them up all year long for those the Choctaw people, through- reer. “Usually you find some- kids,” he continued. out his career Briscoe has been thing fairly interesting every Flint is the material from assigned to interesting tasks time you go out and do some- which the arrowheads are all over the world. He has thing,” said Briscoe enthu- made. Briscoe describes it as a worked with various organiza- siastically. “It’s kind of like glassy, obsidian material, like tions over the years that have Christmas every time you go volcanic glass. It has is able to taken him around the globe. out,” he continued. create a conchoidal fracture, In his recollection, the most Briscoe’s profession has which is a characteristic only impressive thing he has seen also allowed him to be able contained in certain materials, was in the city of El Irbil, Iraq. to work with the Choctaw Na- usually glass. “The middle of town has the tion of Oklahoma on numer- Briscoe explains chipping world’s oldest surviving city. ous occasions. He recalls one flint by using the conchoidal They found stuff [dated] to notable experience where he fracture as the act of shooting 5,000 B.C. Continuous occu- did a massive survey around a BB at glass. Where it hits pation for 7,000 years,” ex- Photo provided Tushka Homma and found will leave a small hole, but on plained Briscoe. Photo provided the original Oklahoma Nvnih the other side, the hole is big- He told of a large mesa-like The crowd partaking in the flint making lessons present- Waiya, which is about two ger, making a cone effect in hill in the middle of the des- Briscoe on his search for ed by Briscoe and Tindle. miles from the Choctaw Cap- the glass. ert, which was the city being the perfect pieces of flint.

what is said to be the largest the patrol, the aircraft car- naval battle in history. “We es- rier Saratoga lost a man over- corted the 25th Army Division board. Because of this, three into Leyte Gulf for that inva- destroyers containing about War on the waves sion,” said Wells. 900 men were sent back to While in Leyte Gulf, the rescue the fallen naval sea- Melvin got an assist for sink- man. World War II Naval veteran ing a Japanese battleship and Eventually the Melvin destroyer and fired nine -tor found the individual and res- pedoes, according to Wells. cued him safely. This was a recounts battles at sea “They were firing at us and dangerous task according to By BRET MOSS ize themselves with the work- they were hitting all around, Wells. “There we were with Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma ings of the ship, he explained. but they didn’t hit us,” men- searchlights and if there had The Melvin’s shakedown tioned Wells as he told of how been any submarines out Outside the city of Mariet- cruise took place in February the Japanese radar systems there, they could have sunk ta, Okla., lies the residence of of 1944 in Bermuda. After were sub par to its American us,” because they would have U.S. Navy veteran Sylvester the shakedown, they trav- Choctaw Nation: BRET MOSS counterpart at the time. seen the searchlights, said Alfred Wells, a man who has eled with the battleship Iowa The crew of the Melvin also Wells. seen many important pieces through the Panama Canal to A photo of Wells over 60 used a witty tactic to avoid He traveled to Iwo Jima and of American naval history. Pearl Harbor where Wells and years later at his home. shots from the enemy. The Okinawa, and towards the end Wells, who is known as the Melvin’s crew got their crew in the firing room would of the war, he was within 70 S.A. to most, boasts nine first assignment in the- Mar burn oil to create a large miles of Tokyo. They fired battle stars, each represent- shall Islands. ameter and three-foot length. amount of smoke to construct upon the enemy, but by that ing a naval battle in which This assignment was part Other than manning the K- the illusion that the ship was time they didn’t have enough he served his country during of the United States’ efforts to Guns and depth charge canis- on fire, making the Japanese resources to fight back. Not World War II in the Asiatic take back ground on the Pacif- ters, Wells was also assigned suspect they had disabled the long after that, Japan surren- and Pacific arena. Photo provided ic front. The Melvin would go to do maintenance on torpe- vessel. This would also pro- dered on Sept. 2, 1945. Wells was born in 1925 from island to island, fighting does. vide a smoke shield, making After Japan’s surrender the Wells during his naval near Marietta and attended to relieve them of Japanese Over the course of his tour it hard for the Japanese to see Melvin was ordered to patrol career. Tahlequah Indian School control. “Just about every en- in the Pacific, Wells recalls en- the Allied Forces. “She [the an area near Japan to clear out from the first to sixth grade do training, Wells was sent to gagement they had, we were gaging about six submarines. enemy ship] thought we had underwater minefields. The and then moved with his Recife, Brazil, to a repair ship in,” stated Wells. “In Saipan, we caught one on been hit, but we were making crew would cut the cables family because his stepfather called the Melville. The Mel- For these engagements, the surface and we were go- smoke,” exclaimed Wells. that the mines were anchored worked on the railroad, which ville repaired a wide variety of Wells’ battle station was ing to ram it,” declared Wells. Wells and the Melvin were to, they would float to the top required relocation. They lat- naval equipment. It contained the portside depth charges This was not an unusual ap- involved in numerous other and then the crew would shoot er moved back to Marietta in a machine shop that allowed on K-Guns. He would fire proach to sinking surfaced World War II naval battles them to make a huge explo- 1939. for repairs to whatever was 300-pound canisters of TNT submarines at the time. The in the effort to win the Pa- sion. Wells’ biological father was needed. “They could do just to certain depths in order to Melvin was equipped with cific for Allied Forces. Out In February of 1946, Wells full-blood Choctaw, making about anything and repairs for sink submerged submarines a cutting bow, which was a of all these conflicts, “what was discharged from the Navy him half Choctaw of which other ships,” recalls Wells. that opposed the American ef- large piece of steel designed scared me most out there was in Norman. He went on to he is very proud. After a year with the Mel- forts. to ram subs without hurting the weather,” stated Wells as work in the oil field and did On June 23, 1943, 17-year- ville, he travelled to Brook- Wells’ job was to set the the ship. he recalled how nature was a variety of jobs there. He be- old Wells enlisted in the Navy. lyn, N.Y., where he boarded depth at which the canister The crew had fired a shot sometimes a more menac- came very adept at repairing “I went in on what they call a the Melvin, a Fletcher-class would explode to make the at the sub before attempting ing foe than the opposing machinery and fixing various Minority Cruise in the Navy. destroyer. This was the second most efficient impact to the to ram it, and when they got force. Traveling through sev- things. He traveled to the ends You go in when you’re 17 ship of the U.S. Navy to be submarine. Each certain depth to where the sub was, it had eral typhoons and over the of the country working for the and you get out when you’re named after John T. Melvin. was calculated by sonar and already submerged. Wells is 7-mile-deep Mariana Trench, oilrigs and even worked on 21,” he said. He went to boot “It was a new ship… we then relayed to Wells as he unsure whether or not the shot the deepest place on Earth, some offshore rigs. camp in San Diego, and from had to take it on a shakedown competed his duty. made contact and sank it, or did not sit well with him. “I Wells now resides in Mari- there, went to torpedo school cruise,” said Wells. Shake- Wells was also charged with if the sub submerged to avoid didn’t know it at the time and etta and has a wife and two in Newport, R.I. down cruise refers to a sort of loading the canisters after the ship because it was in the I’m glad I didn’t,” said Wells daughters, Tanis and Leslie. In a rather clever move, trial run for the ship and crew. they were fired. When it came blackness of night. with a laugh. He is proud to have served Wells chose to enlist in the They would test the guns and time to reload, about three Among the most notable During the patrols in the his country in its time of need Navy to avoid being drafted other functions of the destroy- or four men would load the events in his travels, Wells Pacific, the crew of the Mel- and is humble about the great into the Army. er to make sure operations 300-pound cylinder that had took part in the largest naval vin went 62 days without see- service he has given for every Upon completing his torpe- went smoothly and familiar- an approximate two-foot di- battle in World War II and ing land. At one point during American citizen. BISKINIK | November 2011 | Page 13 McMinn’s story lends insight to role of Choctaw women

Edith Frances Jones Mc- 1947, and Elvin Wayne Gayhart, born Aug. Minn is a Choctaw woman 14, 1950. whose story lends insight to Elvin passed away in late 1979 due to a the roles that Choctaw wom- semi truck accident in Cushing, Okla. He was en played in American soci- Edith Jones McMinn a veteran of Vietnam and an electrician’s help- ety in the early to mid-1900s. receives her nursing hat er before becoming a truck driver. Great attention has been and pin, left; pictured After her first marriage ended, Edith met focused on ancient Choctaw with Chief Gregory E. and married a part Cherokee man named and considerable awareness Pyle, below; and with James McMinn. They were wed on May 26, has been shown to the Code husband James McMinn, 1959, in Stonewall, Texas. Talkers of the World Wars, right. In 1963, Edith graduated from her training but often overlooked is the to become a LPN, which at the time was re- life of the Choctaw women ferred to as Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN), whose diligence has aided in at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Paris, Texas. While granting the Choctaw Nation she was going through training, James worked such a respectable name. for the county doing construction work. Edith was born in her parents’ home in Sti- In 1969 the couple moved to Stigler and gler on Nov. 15, 1923. Her parents were Ed- lived in a house on Edith’s grandmother’s ward Jones and Ella James Jones – both full- land. After two years that house burnt down blood Choctaw. She was one of eight children and they moved into town while they built an- that her mother brought into the world. other home. Edith and her family lived in Stigler for the They completed and moved to Edith’s cur- earliest years of her life, but by the time she This was a fairly dangerous job. “We had rent residence in November of 1979. While was able to attend school, they moved to the a timer and we had to turn the heat off at a living there, she worked for Haskell County country on the outskirts of Stigler. certain time or the chemical would explode,” Hospital and he worked at Bennett Western “I started school in a little community said Edith. She went on to describe that the Auto. named Havana,” said Edith as she described machine was in a small room that contained a Western Auto closed its doors in 1970, so her younger days. She continued by remem- door she could look through. She stood behind James went to work for Allen Canning Com- bering that it was a two-room schoolhouse the door for protection of possible fires. pany. Edith soon joined James working at the about five miles south of Stigler. Since the chemical was so easy to catch canning company because she worked nights She began her studies in the “primer” and fire, Edith and her co-workers were required and weekends at the hospital, which limited continued them through the eighth grade in to wear only clothes that were fire resistant. the time the couple could be together. Havana. “I didn’t know English when I started In the event of a fire, there was an open space In the mid 1980s Edith and James retired school, so my cousin who was a few grades that would funnel the flame, while the girls ran from their jobs and spent their time together. ahead of me had to interpret for me,” Edith in the other direction. James passed away in April of 1990 at the age remembered. In one instance, one of the girls ran the of 78 just before he would undergo heart sur- In consideration for her learning, Edith’s wrong way during a fire and caught fire. “It gery. parents began to speak English around her in There was a manufacturing plant in Sun- burned the coveralls off her back,” said Edith. Since then, Edith has been exceptionally ac- order to help her learn. flower Village just west of Kansas City and a The girl that was burned was transported to tive within the Choctaw community. She is on Upon completing the eighth grade at Ha- short distance east of Lawrence. At this plant, Kansas City, where she was treated for her in- the Senior Citizen’s Committee at the Stigler vana, she continued her education at Haskell “They were begging everyone to work there. jury. Community Center and attends the weekly Institute, which is a school in Lawrence, Kan. Several of us girls went to work there,” said She was in need of blood, so Edith and lunch every Wednesday. It was about a two or three-hour train ride Edith. the rest of the girls traveled to Kansas City She has taken many trips with her Choctaw from her departure in Muskogee to Haskell In- “I wanted to be a nurse and was accepted and donated their blood to their colleague. group and enjoys it very much. They have stitute. “That was the first time I had ever rode at Phoenix, Ariz., to take my training, but I Edith remembers not heeding the advice of traveled to Branson, San Antonio, Memphis, a train,” said Edith as she recalled her first trip stayed and worked at the war plant.” Edith the hospital employees and getting sick after Meridian and Choctaw, Miss., together. Edith and the motion sickness that followed. worked in the plant until it was closed. exploring the city immediately after giving has seen the Dancing Rabbit Treaty Mounds During her time at Haskell Institute Edith Edith described her job at the plant as “a blood. and the Tribal Complex of the Mississippi studied many subjects, among which she par- man’s job.” She cooked bazooka powder, Following the closing of the plant, Edith Choctaws. ticularly enjoyed history. Volleyball was also a which was used to make shells for guns. “Be- moved to Dallas to attend school, but she was She enjoys taking part in many of the Choc- common activity for the young Choctaw. fore cooking, it looked like white cornmeal, too late, for the semester had already begun. taw Nation events such as the Labor Day Fes- With nearly 1,200 students enrolled in the but after cooking it looked like a sheet of rub- While waiting for the next semester, she tival and makes a point to hear Chief Pyle’s institute from various Native American back- ber,” she recollected. spent a short time as a waitress. Following State of the Nation Address. grounds, Edith was pushed to become fluent She ran one of two big iron machines, her waitressing, she went to work at Baylor In her 93 years of time on this earth, Edith in the English language, which all attendees which were called “Even Speed.” She would Hospital as a nurse’s aid, where she worked has experienced much, and in her memories spoke. pour the chemical that looked like cornmeal for seven and a half years. lie experiences that only a woman of her time When she was 20 years old, Edith graduated between two rollers in the machine and then While waitressing, Edith met her first hus- can possess. from Haskell Institute. This was during World would cook it at 350 degrees for a certain band, Arnold Gayhart, and married him in Future generations of Choctaws will create War II, a time with a shortage of men and a amount of time until it became the finished 1946. She had two children with Arnold. They their own histories, but it is important that the great demand for manufacturing work. rubber looking product. were Mary Frances Gayhart, born Sept. 1, histories of ancestors not be forgotten.

Harris shares memories of fulfilling life experiences

Doecha Carolyn Thomp- rior and exterior of the building. Phase three son Harris was born on was designated to renew the recreational fa- March 18, 1944, in the Ta- cilities for visitors. lihina Indian Hospital to Doecha remembers giving tours in that Marie Orman, a full-blood Doecha Thompson Harris building and getting enjoyment from tourists’ Choctaw. As she knew it, in high school, left; on her misinformed thoughts about Choctaws. She her name was Carolyn Or- wedding day to William remembers that many people thought Choc- man, but discovered it was Harris, below; and she and taws were still wild, a fact that she set them Doecha Carolyn Thompson William, right. straight about. when she was 16. After her time with the Choctaw Nation, In her early years she went she got a job with the Indian Hospital in the to school at Cass School in public health service, which was a govern- Kineme, which is five miles ment job. She worked as an administrative out of Stigler. She lived in a clerk in a hospital. She worked there for six house on top of a large hill years. there and did her lessons by coal oil lamp. It During these times she got a divorce from was very cold in that house and she remem- her first husband and met the man she calls bers the wind blowing though the boards of her “dream man,” William Carson Harris, and the home. married him on Oct. 1, 1977. He was work- Eventually, her grandfather, Wilburn James, worked at the McAlester Am- ing for the Corps of Engineers in Sallisaw, so sold his allotted land and bought a place in munition Depot in the bomb Doecha got a job with that organization. Stigler. It was a much better place to live. She and mine division. She would She enjoyed her job with the Corps of En- remembers being thankful for the clean water roll 500 pound bombs over gineers. She witnessed many things about the that the new home provided. He even bought a stencil board that said “US business become computerized as she worked a television, which was unusual for the folks Navy Ammunition Depot.” She and learned as things progressed. She retired of the community. would run up to 1,000 bombs a in 1994. She attended Stigler School from the sec- night. In her retirement Doecha has done many ond to the twelfth grade. Upon graduation, There were many employees things and had many hobbies. She traveled she wanted to join the army, hoping that it working with her because it to Fort Smith, Ark., and met a woman who would provide her with a career and an oppor- was in the time of Vietnam and taught her how to work with porcelain china. tunity to see the world, but her parents would ammunition was in high de- She learned how to make porcelain Indian not allow it. mand. She lived in Stigler and dolls with this talent as well. In regards to her future, she spoke with the a man with a van would come She did not stay out of work long before BIA and chose to go to school in Lawrence, and pick up workers to take applying for another job. She was hired as Kan. She was ready to leave on a Monday them to the depot. an administrative clerk for the Ruben White with a bus ticket in her possession, but she got Eventually she went to work Clinic in Poteau. She only stayed with that married that Saturday before. for the Choctaw Nation, doing job a short time before deciding she wanted She was at the New Hope Baptist Church, work with her husband as a co- something different. which was having an association meeting and ordinator for the GED office in She became involved with the Community her first husband proposed to her because he Durant. Health Representatives (CHR) through the knew she would be leaving soon. She then transferred to Tus- Choctaw Nation. She eventually moved into She said yes and the preacher who was at kahoma to work in the Council the position of Field Office Director for the the meeting, Reuben Anderson, married them House for the Choctaw His- Spiro Community Center, a job that she held on the side of the road under a tree for a quick torical Society. This was a job until the mid 2000s. wedding. Her new husband had to go to work she enjoyed because she was a In more recent years, Doecha has been in- for his construction site the following Mon- museum curator. She was sent volved with the Spiro Community Center and day so there was little time to celebrate. took a considerable toll on her, and they found to various museums for training in the Okla- the events that go on in that area. She works The couple lived in Tahlequah for a few out shortly after that Gwen had Down’s syn- homa City area. closely with the seniors helping to plan trips months, but moved to Oklahoma City for his drome, which broke Doecha’s heart. The Council House was converted to the and events. job. Doecha became pregnant while in Okla- In 1966 Doecha became pregnant again and Choctaw Nation Historical Museum, with the She enjoys bowling, golf and embroidery homa City and bore a daughter, Gwendolyn. bore a daughter named Marilyn, who was ex- dedication ceremony on Labor Day, Sept. 1, in her free time. She is close with the Lord There were complications for Doecha and ceptionally healthy. Both of the girls grew to 1975. The members of the Board of Directors and especially enjoys going to church. She Gwen shortly after the birth. make Doecha proud. had a three-phase plan to restore the building. encourages those around her to have a close Doecha needed gall bladder surgery, which During her career years, Doecha had Phases one and two were to renew the inte- walk with the Lord. BISKINIK | November 2011 | Page 14 OBITUARIES Cordia Bunch-Heimel Grace Townsend Pauletta Willis Cordia L. Bunch-Heimel passed away on Aug. 30, 2011, in Grace Burkett Townsend, 92, Wanda Pauletta Thomas Willis, 65, Fontana. passed away on Sept. 8, 2011, in Du- of Lago Vista, Texas, passed away on A native of Oklahoma, Bunch-Heimel was a resident of Fon- rant. Oct. 31, 2010. Pauletta was born to tana for more than 15 years. She was a retired LVN. She was Grace was born June 12, 1919, in Paul and Vineta Thomas on Aug. 20, a proud member of the Choctaw Nation. She was a long-time Pollard, the daughter of James Henry 1945, in Lubbock, Texas. She was Dallas Cowboys fan and an avid Bingo player. and Leona (Sanford) Smith. She had married to R. Nolen Willis on Dec. 1, She was preceded in death by her daughter, Paula Gann. lived in the Boswell area for many 1965, at Westside Baptist Church in She is survived by two children, Mike Bunch with wife years before moving to Durant. She Sapulpa. Pauletta and Nolen had two Helen, and Linda Morrison with husband Jerry; one sibling, raised 10 children, in addition to children, Jeffrey Wayne Willis and Lewis Amos of Oklahoma; grandchildren, Nick Bunch, Rob- working at the Wanda Ruth Skating Sarah Willis Dahlberg and the light of ert Bunch, Heather Bunch-Money, Joseph Bunch, Kimberly Rink in Jay and the Tin Top Café in Boswell. their life, grandson Logan John Dahlberg who was born on Jan. Bunch, Raoul Contreras, Lori Morrison-Contreras, Jake Mor- She was preceded in death by her parents; her husbands, 20, 2010. rison, Graciela Morrison, Tom Morrison, Breanne Morrison, Grelie Burkett and Leroy Townsend; and one son, Darrell Pauletta loved life and lived it to the fullest. She enjoyed trav- Lee Gann, Andrew Gann, and Paul Gann; great-grandchildren, “Coonie” Burkett. eling and designing and decorating and hand making incred- Cheyenne Nicole, Thomas Bunch, James Bunch, Addison Grace is survived by children, Travis Gene Burkett with ibly beautiful home and personal artifacts which she liked to Bunch, Sean Money, Makaley Money, Jacob Money, Cordia wife Alma of Portor, Texas, Ben Burkett and Leonard Kow- share with family and friends. Over the years she was engaged Contreras, Cayetano Contreras, Alex Morrison, Andrea Morri- alski, both of Houston, Burl Burkett with wife Carla of Silo, in a variety of “projects.” Once she had mastered a particular son, Madison Morrison, Olivia Morrison and Rylee Morrison. James Burkett of Hillsboro, Texas, Noel Burkett with wife skill or craft, she moved on to a new “project.” In addition to Tammie of Blue, Billie-Faye and Wesley Grynkiewicz of Hart- being a great wife and mom, her many and varied interests in- Shelly Ody fort, Conn., Eva Dean and Derek Brazier of Magnolia, Texas, cluded duplicate bridge, doubles tennis, flower decorating and Nona Darough of Lockhart, Texas, and Ona Mae Strain of her incredible gardens. Where ever she and Nolen lived, she Shelly Denise Strait Ody, 46, passed Durant; sisters, Netti Shouse of Tulsa, and Jimmy Shouse of always requisitioned a goodly amount of lawn which was then away July 16, 2011, in Whittier, Calif. North Carolina; 17 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren and transformed into a beautifully landscaped garden. Shelly was born on March 1, 1966, in 10 great-great-grandchildren. In 2001 Pauletta was diagnosed with stage-two breast can- Los Angeles and was the twin of Kelly cer. After months of chemotherapy and radiation her doctors Dean Strait who passed away on May declared her “cancer free.” Unfortunately in April 2007, she 11, 1990. Jesse Lee Howard was informed that she had stage-four breast cancer which had Shelly loved to play jokes and her metastasized to her bones and liver. At the time, Pauletta de- laughter will be missed. She cherished Jesse Lee Howard passed away on June 21, 2011. Jesse Lee clared that she was not going to let the cancer dictate her life her family and being a mother to her was the first child born to Cecil Monte Howard and Etta Scrog- and she continued to enjoy traveling and carrying out a myriad four daughters was most important gins Howard. of “projects” she loved. to her. She enjoyed working with children and worked as a He graduated from Spaulding High School. He later joined After two years of a mostly normal life, Pauletta began that School Aid at McKibben Elementary School in Whittier, where the Oklahoma National Guard. His unit was called to active tortuous and difficult final decline dreaded by all cancer pa- she also worked on the McKibben PTA, serving as its president duty and sent to Korea. tients. Never willing to give up hope she was committed to for multiple years. Shelly loved being a Choctaw, attending the He was a wonderful family man, a good Christian and was continue her battle with cancer and she soldiered on. Okla Chahta Gathering in Bakersfield and many pow wows in respected by all who knew him. He has been greatly missed by One of the things that motivated Pauletta to fight with all the Southern California area. his family. of her strength was the prospect of her first grandchild. In the Shelly was preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Myrtle Jesse is a grandson of original enrollee Emery Goodwin summer of 2009, Pauletta explicitly directed her oncologist to Strait; her twin brother, Kelly Strait; sister Brenda Strait; and Howard. He was very proud of his Choctaw heritage. keep her alive until her grandchild was born. Happily, on Jan. nephew Nicholas Jaragowsky. He was preceded in death by his father, mother and one in- 20, 2010, Pauletta, her husband Nolen, their daughter Sarah She is survived by her loving family which consisted of fant sister, Jo Ann. and Sarah’s husband Greg welcomed Pauletta’s first grand- husband Steve Ody; daughters, Tess Gamble, Alison Ody, Sa- Jesse is survived by his wife, Florence; one son, Gary with child, Logan John Dahlberg. mantha Ody, and Jennifer Ody; grandson Logan Chassereau; wife Susan of Oklahoma City; one daughter, Gina Meek with The birth of Logan seemed to mark the beginning of the end; brother Gary Strait, sisters, Pam Reeder, Kathy Strait and The- husband Stan of Norman; six grandchildren and four great- she had accomplished what she wanted so dearly to do, to hold resa Schulte; brothers-in-law, Ron Reeder and Mike Schulte; grandchildren. and love her only grandchild. nieces, Lindsay Reeder and Nina Sandoval; nephews, Bill Jesse had two brothers, Jimmy Howard with wife Norma Her family could sense that once Logan arrived, Paulet- and Justin Heddy; one grandnephew and one grandniece; Ron of Oklahoma City, and Wayne Howard with wife Carolyn of ta seemed to be finally resolved to fight the cancer with the Strait; a large extended family and many, many friends. Newalla; two sisters, Carlene Castañeda with husband Bob of knowledge that her fight would ultimately end in her passing. Oklahoma City, Linda Bible and Jimmy Sanders, both of Hold- Pauletta was preceded in passing by her younger sister, enville. Glenda and her father, Paul Abram Thomas. Julius Bowen Jr. Survivors include her husband Nolen; her children, Jeff with Julius L. Bowen Jr., 70, passed away Ivan Kelly wife Maria; Sarah with husband Greg; grandson Logan John on Sept.19, 2011, in Lawton. He was Dahlberg; her mother, Vineta; her brother, Wayne Thomas with born on Feb. 4, 1941, in New Haven, Ivan Noel Kelly, 68, passed away on wife Brenda; her sister, Marilyn Evans with husband Win- Ill., to Julius L. Bowen Sr. and Mary Oct. 6, 2011, at his home in Durant. He ston Evans; her aunt, Joy Culbreath with husband Muggs; her Louise Thomas. He married Andrea was born on June 10, 1943, in Durant, uncles, Charles Clark with wife Kathy, Junior Clark and Eub “Tweetie” Lyons on July 17, 1997, born to Jack Drake and Mary Cath- Thomas; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and other in Pawnee. He was affiliated with the erine (Crowder) Kelly. He attended family and friends. Baptist Church, had served in the Ma- Russell Elementary School, Durant rine Corps, League Past President, as Middle School, graduated from Du- a Boy Scout Troop Master, and on the rant High School and attended South- Rev. Isaiah Wesley Advisory Board at Oklahoma University for Native Ameri- eastern Oklahoma State University. He cans. He was a Marine Advisor in Vietnam, serving five tours married Carolyn Wells on March 22, The Rev. Isaiah Wesley, 80, of of 13 months in Vietnam, and was a Civil Engineer. 1965, and to this union was born two children, Cynthia and McAlester, passed away on Sept. 1, Julius enlisted in the U.S. Marines in 1957 and received Brian. 2011, in Oklahoma City. He was born his honorable discharge on Sept. 26, 1966, with the military He loved helping others in need and had a strong commit- to William Taft and Rebecca (Pickens) rank of Corporal. He served in Vietnam and received the Pur- ment to serving the people of Durant and Bryan County. He Wesley on Dec. 23, 1930, in Blanco. ple Heart, Good Conduct Medal, Presidential Unit Citation, was a proud member of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and Rev. Wesley attended Blanco School Navy Unit Citation, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm the Oklahoma Bail Bonding Commission and was a devoted and Pittsburg High School. He served Leaf and Frame, Vietnam Civil Action Color Medal with Palm basketball official and baseball umpire in the surrounding as a Corporal in the U.S. Army during and Frame, Republic of Vietnam Campaign with Four Bronze area from 1970 to 1983. He deeply cherished his family and the Korean War. He married Joyce Ar- Stars, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal with one Bronze treasured his time with his friends drinking coffee at Wright’s lene Fuller on April 17, 1959, in Chi- Star, National Defense Medal, Republic of Vietnam Service Drive Inn. He enjoyed playing dominos, building and mowing. cago. She preceded him in death in 2000. Rev. Wesley worked Medal dated from 1962 to 1966, Combat Air Crewman Wings Ivan will be deeply missed by his family, friends and the people as a mechanic for Crane Carrier Co. in Tulsa for over 30 years with three Gold Stars, Navy Parachute Wings, Meritorious of Durant and Bryan County. before retiring. Rev. Wesley pastored several area churches in- Mass (for mines and booby traps) deployment in combat, and Ivan is survived by his caring and devoted wife of over 46 cluding, Brushey Baptist Church, Rock Creek Baptist Church, other Shooting Badges, and miscellaneous awards. His mili- years, Carolyn Kelly of the home; children, Cynthia Kelly and Cedar Baptist Church and Zion Missionary Baptist Church. He tary experience included Boot Camp MCRD in San Diego, Ca- Brian Kelly of Durant; brother Morris Kelly and companion enjoyed reading the Bible, watching OU football and spending lif., Advance Infantry Training at Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sea Betty of Durant; sister Barbara Gantt with husband Solomon time with his family. School, MCRD at San Diego, Marine Detachment USS Helena of Ada; grandchildren, Caleb Spence of Durant, Chloe Spence He was preceded in death by his parents, William Taft and CA-75 Cruiser, 1st Reconnaissance Bt. 1st Marine Division Kendrick with husband Jordan of Kingston, and Dal Kelly of Rebecca Wesley; his first wife in 2000, Joyce Wesley; and an Camp Pendleton, Calif., (Recon Trained) HMM 363 Helicop- Pottsboro; mother-in-law Laverne Wells Maddox of Durant; uncle, Henry Wesley Jr. ter Squad, HMM 364 Helicopter Squadron, Navy Adviser Unit and other relatives and friends. He is survived by, his wife Mary of the home; daughters, Ar- 79.3.6 Vietnam HMS 36 1st Marine Air Wing, and served from Ivan was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Mary lene Murphree with husband Randy of Tulsa, Janet Wesley of 1962 to 1966 in Vietnam. Kelly; sisters, Mary D. Kelly Thompson, formerly of Red Tulsa, Diane Whalen with husband Randall of Glenpool, and He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He be- Bluff, Calif., and Lorene Frances Melton, formerly of Waco, Carol Scully with husband Mark of Powder Springs, Ga.; lieved highly in God. Texas; and brother Richard “Dick” Kelly of Bakersfield, Calif. grandchildren, Phillip Wesley, Stephen Wesley, Matthew Mur- Julius was preceded in death by his parents, Mary Louise phree, Elijah Whalen, Allison Scully and Ryan Scully; brother Swink and Julius L. Bowen Sr.; three grandchildren; and one Paul Wesley with wife Leona of McAlester; sisters, Ramona great-grandchild. Perry Pritchard Robertson, Leola Lester with husband Bill, Loyce Wright with Julius is survived by his wife, Andrea “Tweetie” Bowen of husband Dave all of McAlester, and Rozelle Wesley of Kiowa; Pawnee; daughters, Sabrina Stephens with husband Gerald Perry Lynn Pritchard passed away along with aunts, numerous nieces, nephews and other family of Hugo, and Leah Vannoy with husband Samuel of Lawton; on March 1, 2011, in Pyote, Texas. He members and friends. sons, Julius L. Bowen III of Hugo and George Russell Gardipe was born on Sept. 13, 1950. He was Jr. with wife Lisa of Lawton; 17 grandchildren; seven great- raised in Wickett, Texas. He went to Jesse Taylor grandchildren; sister, Mary Katherine Vannoy with husband Monahans High School and then to John of Geronimo; brother Phillip Bowen of Van Nuys, Calif.; Texas State Technological Institute Jessie Harold Taylor, 53, passed away on Sept. 23, 2011, in aunts, Ruth Fuller of Sawyer, Betty Span Hanks of Van Nuys, in Sweetwater, Texas. He also served Hugo. He was born April 25, 1958, in Sobol, to Wilson and Calif.; niece Deborah Louise Vannoy of Geronimo; along with on the Pyote Texas City Council for Deloris (Billy) Taylor. a number of other relatives and many friends. 14 years. He is the grandson of Mary Jessie Taylor married Angela Luper on on Feb. 3, 2006, in Elizabeth Frazier Buchanan, one of the Choctaw original en- Goodwater. The most important people in his life were his Rev. Ted Hilliard rollees. He was also grandson of Larkin Pritchard and Emma wife, girls, and his large family with which he enjoyed spend- Roundtree, and the son of Mildred Christine Buchanan, and the ing time. He enjoyed gardening, fishing, and hunting. He was The Rev. Ted Hilliard passed away on Aug. 29, 2011, in Fort late Alton Perry Pritchard, from Spencerville. a shade tree mechanic, carpenter, and all around handy man. Smith, Ark., two days prior to his 89th birthday. He was born Perry was a proud husband and father. He enjoyed work- Jessie was preceded in death by his mother, Deloris Taylor; Aug. 31, 1922, in Grapevine, Texas, to George Washington ing with his cows, making hand-made spurs, in which he took three brothers, Kurt Taylor, Jeff Taylor and Wilson Taylor Jr.; Hilliard and Daisy Dean Callahan Hilliard, who was a Choctaw much pride. He also enjoyed cowboy poetry gatherings in Al- one nephew, Donald Porky Vanhoose; one niece, Jennifer Tay- original enrollee. pine, Texas, Jean Prescott music, a good rodeo and researching lor; great nephew, Dakota Vanhoose; and grandmothers, Nellie Hilliard farmed in both Texas and California until the late his genealogy. He was proud to be Choctaw/Cherokee. Most Billy and Ida Taylor. 1950s. He then operated a nursery and landscape business in of all, he enjoyed knowing good people. He was quiet and he He is survived by his wife, Angie of the home; children, Ray- California, retiring from that business and relocating to Sal- “listened” with his eyes. His briskets would make one’s mouth mond Taylor with wife Kendra of Hugo, Misty Riggs with hus- lisaw in the early 1990s. Before leaving California, he taught water. He was on an award-winning cooking team. He and God band Troy of Talihina, Amanda Dawn Taylor, Samantha Jane high school vocational education classes in Chowchilla, Calif. walked in his pasture together. Taylor, and Baylyn Laraine Taylor, all of the home; grandchil- He served as pastor for Round Mountain Community Church After his passing, his friends continued working on Perry’s dren, Ethan Taylor, Anthony Chandler, Trevor Malakowsky, in Vian for several years. The Rev. Hilliard was proud of his shop, a place he worked so hard to finish. and Trace Malakowsky; father Wilson Taylor Sr.; brothers, Choctaw lineage, which traces to Louis Durant, one of the ear- He is survived by his wife, Abigail B. Pritchard of Pyote; Steve Taylor with wife Lisa of Ringold, Rayburn Taylor Sr. liest intermarried whites in Mississippi. He served in the U.S. daughter, Alexis P. Collins of Monahans, Texas; sons, Seth with wife Tonya of Sobol, John Taylor Sr. with wife Nikki of Army in Italy and North Africa, receiving an honorable dis- Pritchard of Andrews, Texas, and Nolan Pritchard of Del Rio, Sobol; sisters, Velma Whisenhunt with husband Pat of Emory, charge in 1945. Texas; two grandchildren, Leighton Collins and Maddox; Texas, Karen Burt with husband Danny of Hugo, Phyllis Bo- He was preceded in death by two wives, Martha and Hattie Belle. brother L. Gene Pritchard of Red Oak, Texas; sister Beverly P. hanon with Gary Tollett of Sobol, Ava Hilton with husband He is survived by a daughter, Cheryl Marie Good of Sal- Biggs of Raleigh, N.C.; nieces and nephews, Julie and Emily Charles Sr. of Talihina, Brenda Haycraft with husband Dean lisaw; and two sons, Rev. Phillip Hilliard of Alhambra, Calif., Pritchard, and John, Jay and Brendy Biggs; aunts, Mary, with of Hugo, Jennifer Davidson with husband Aubrey of Rattan; and Ted C. Hilliard of Tracyton, Wash.; six grandchildren; 21 Jim Davis of Ft. Towson, and Marie B. Nelson of Bakersfield, numerous nieces and nephews; as well as many other relatives great-grandchildren; and five great-great grandchildren. Calif. Go rest easy, Cowboy. and friends. BISKINIK November 2011 | Page 15

Don’t lose sight of Ghost Stories at Tribal Headquarters diabetic eye disease Thousands of Native American adults are at risk of losing their vision as a result of complications from diabetes

Diabetes affects nearly 26 Clinical research, support- million people in the United ed in part by NEI, has shown States. In addition, another that maintaining good control 79 million people are esti- of blood sugar, blood pres- mated to have pre-diabetes, sure, and cholesterol can slow a condition that puts people the development and progres- at increased risk for diabe- sion of diabetic eye disease. tes. All people with diabetes, In addition to regular dilated both Type 1 and Type 2, are at eye exams, people with dia- risk for diabetic eye disease, betes should do the follow- a leading cause of vision loss ing to keep their health on Eugene Taylor and Greg Rodgers and blindness. TRACK: take a pose at the mic before telling Lori, Alexis and Christian Hopkins take their seats along with Brian Gon- their creepy tales. “The longer a person has • Take your medications. zalez before the lights go out for the spooky stories. diabetes the greater is his or • Reach and maintain a her risk of developing diabet- healthy weight. ic eye disease,” said Dr. Suber • Add physical activity to Huang, chair of the Diabetic Photos by BRET MOSS Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Eye Disease Subcommittee your daily routine. for the National Eye Insti- • Control your blood sug- tute’s (NEI) National Eye ar, blood pressure, and cho- Health Education Program. lesterol. “If you have diabetes, be sure • Kick the smoking habit. to have a comprehensive di- “Don’t lose sight of dia- lated eye exam at least once betic eye disease,” added Dr. a year. Diabetic eye disease Huang. “Don’t wait until you often has no early warning notice an eye problem to have signs, but can be detected ear- an exam because vision that is ly and treated before notice- lost often cannot be restored.” able vision loss occurs.” For more information on Diabetic eye disease refers diabetic eye disease and tips to a group of eye problems on finding an eye care profes- that people with diabetes may sional or financial assistance face as a complication of the for eye care, visit www.nei. disease and includes diabet- nih.gov/diabetes or call NEI ic retinopathy, cataract and at 301-496-5248. Choctaw Storyteller Greg Rodgers signs a few of his books before get- glaucoma. Diabetic retinopa- The National Eye Institute ting down to business. thy, the most common diabet- (NEI), part of the National ic eye disease, is the leading Institutes of Health, leads the cause of blindness in adults federal government’s research 20–74 years of age. Accord- on the visual system and eye ing to NEI, 4.1 million people diseases. NEI supports basic have diabetic eye disease and and clinical science programs its prevalence is projected that result in the development to increase to 7.2 million by of sight-saving treatments. 2020. For more information, visit While all people with dia- www.nei.nih.gov. betes can develop diabetic eye About the National Insti- disease, African Americans, tutes of Health (NIH): NIH, American Indians/Alaska Na- the nation’s medical research tives, Hispanics/Latinos, and agency, includes 27 Institutes older adults with diabetes are and Centers and is a com- at higher risk of losing vision ponent of the U.S. Depart- or going blind from it. All ment of Health and Human people with diabetes should Services. NIH is the primary have a dilated eye exam at federal agency conducting least once a year to detect vi- and supporting basic, clini- sion problems early. In fact, cal, and translational medical Cheyenne Murray, Shanelka Barboan, Sydney Branson, Kira Moore, with early detection, timely research, and is investigating Morgan Stew and Kenzi Clapp put on brave faces before the ghost stories Eugene Taylor entertains the audi- laser surgery, and appropriate the causes, treatments and begin. ence with his Choctaw tales. follow-up care, people with cures for both common and advanced diabetic retinopathy rare diseases. For more in- can reduce their risk of blind- formation about NIH and its ness by 90 percent. programs, visit www.nih.gov. The many benefits of trees around the home Environmental benefits Air quality can be im- from the time they are planted Planting the tree Trees alter the environment proved through the use of until they mature. Trees are a The ideal time to plant trees in which we live by moder- trees, shrubs and turf. Leaves wise investment of funds be- and shrubs is during the dor- New heat pumps to ating climate, improving air filter the air we breathe by cause landscaped homes are mant season and in the fall quality, conserving water, and removing dust and other par- more valuable than non-land- after leaf drop or early spring harboring wildlife. Climate ticulates. Rain then washes scaped homes. The savings in before bud break. Weather improve efficiency control is obtained by moder- the pollutants to the ground. energy costs and the increase conditions are cool and allow A pair of “Heat Pumps” ating the effects of sun, wind Leaves absorb carbon dioxide in property value directly plants to establish roots in the was recently installed in the and rain. Radiant energy from from the air to form carbo- benefit each home owner. new location before spring IT building in Durant as part the sun is absorbed or de- hydrates that are used in the The indirect economic ben- rains and summer heat stimu- of the Choctaw Nation’s ef- flected by leaves on decidu- plant’s structure and function. efits of trees are even greater. late new top growth. How- fort to conserve energy and ous trees in the summer and In this process, leaves also These benefits are available ever, trees properly cared for go green. is only filtered by branches absorb other air pollutants— to the community or region. in the nursery or garden cen- The “Heat Pumps” will of deciduous trees in winter. such as ozone, carbon mon- Lowered electricity bills ter, and given the appropriate both heat and cool the build- We are cooler when we stand oxide, and sulfur dioxide— are paid by customers when care during transport to pre- ing at a significant energy in the shade of trees and are and give off oxygen. power companies are able to vent damage, can be plant- saving versus the 20-year-old not exposed to direct sunlight. By planting trees and use less water in their cool- ed throughout the growing air conditioners and electric In winter, we value the sun’s shrubs, we return to a more ing towers, build fewer new season. In tropical and sub- resistance furnaces that were The new “Heat Pumps” radiant energy. Therefore, we natural, less artificial environ- facilities to meet peak de- tropical climates where trees replaced. It is estimated that look like traditional air con- should plant only small or ment. Birds and other wildlife mands, use reduced amounts grow year round, any time is the old air conditioners had ditioners. deciduous trees on the south are attracted to the area. The of fossil fuel in their furnaces a good time to plant a tree, an efficiency “SEER” rating side of homes. natural cycles of plant growth, and use fewer measures to provided that sufficient water of 6 and the air conditioning Wind speed and direction reproduction and decomposi- control air pollution. Com- is available. In either situa- side of the new “Heat Pumps” ing over 300 percent, 1 watt can be affected by trees. The tion are again present, both munities also can save money tion, proper handling during have a “SEER” rating of 15. of electricity consumed but more compact the foliage on above and below ground. Nat- if fewer facilities must be planting is essential to ensure “SEER” is seasonal energy 3 watts of heat out. Annual the tree or group of trees, the ural harmony is restored to the built to control storm water in a healthy future for new trees efficiency ratio. The old elec- savings is estimated to be greater the influence of the urban environment. the region. To the individual, and shrubs. Before you begin tric furnace has an efficiency $1,638.56 which is a decrease windbreak. The downward Economic benefits these savings are small, but planting your tree, be sure rating of 100 percent, mean- of 22,446 kilowatt hours an- fall of rain, sleet, and hail is Individual trees and shrubs to the community, reductions you have had all underground ing 1 watt of electricity con- nually. The EPA estimates initially absorbed or deflect- have value, but the variabil- in these expenses are often in utilities located prior to dig- sumed and 1 watt of heat out. that will reduce CO2 emis- ed by trees, which provides ity of species, size, condition the thousands of dollars. ging. The heating side of the “Heat sions by 15.2 metric tons an- some protection for people, and function makes determin- See diagram below Pumps” has an efficiency rat- nually. pets, and buildings. Trees in- ing their economic tercept water, store some of it, value difficult. The and reduce storm runoff and economic benefits the possibility of flooding. of trees can be Check us out on Facebook! Dew and frost are less com- both direct and in- mon under trees because less direct. Direct eco- radiant energy is released from nomic benefits are the soil in those areas at night. usually associated Temperature in the vicin- with energy costs. ity of trees is cooler than that Air-conditioning away from trees. The larger costs are lower the tree, the greater the cool- in a tree-shaded ing. By using trees in the cit- home. Heating ies, we are able to moderate costs are reduced the heat-island effect caused when a home has by pavement and buildings in a windbreak. Trees facebook.com/choctawnationofoklahoma commercial areas. increase in value BISKINIK | November 2011 | Page 16

Lots of fun at CHR October Fest Idabel holds

appreciationDistrict dinner 1 Councilman Thomas Williston takes time out to greet Aiden Williston and District 1 Little Miss Whitney Griffith. Everyone en- joyed a traditional meal of fried pork, banaha, fry bread, fried pota- toes, pinto beans and District 7 Councilman Jack Austin visits with assorted cobblers. Stephen Billy of Finley. Photos by KAREN JACOB Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

Assistant Chief Gary Batton wel- comes everyone to the CHR October Fest before handing the mic over to Chaplain Bertram Bobb for a prayer.

District 1 Junior Miss Choctaw Mandy Steele per- forms the Lord’s Prayer in Christine Scott of Maggie Mae An- sign language. Williston welcomes Doretha Bowen and Ada Wilson. Atoka derson of Coalgate Photos by LARISSA COPELAND Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Games and good company at Senior Bingo Appreciation Day Photos by LARISSA COPELAND Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

Mary Marshall of Atoka looks at some of complimentary items at the Tribal Chaplain the Rev. Bertram Bobb and festival. Willhemina Baker of Wilburton. Andy and Norma Choate came from Finley to take part in today’s games.

District 6 Councilman Joe Coley and Ray- mond Mackey of Wister are all smiles at the event on Oct. 13.

Walter Amos of McAlester at the Se- Jim and Charlene Lloyd, left, and Sue Crowley of Atoka, nior Bingo Appreciation enjoy the Bingo and time with friends. Day.

Outreach Services Social Worker Farron Dill sings for entertainment while Pat Hunter District 11 Councilman Bob Pate visits District 4 seniors Buzz and Evelyn Wil- and Ovie Austin of Poteau dance the two-step. with A.R. Kirkpatrick of McAlester. liams have fun playing a game of Bingo. Outreach Services’ Harvest Carnival Costume Contest Photos by LARISSA COPELAND Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

5 & under category winners 1st place: Justin Yandell of Tuska- homa 2nd place: Isabell Samuels of Honobia 3rd place: Jayce White of Talihina

12 & up category winners 1st place: Selene Roberts of Wil- burton 6-11 category winners 2nd place: Mariah Harris of Bro- 1st place: Chris Ozuna of Atoka ken Arrow 2nd place: Martha Hobie Taylor of Rattan 3rd place: Juanita Gonzalez of 3rd place: Bryar Coleman of Tuskahoma Stigler BISKINIK | November 2011 | Page 17 JAMES Three generations deep in tradition Continued from Page 1 basketball, baseball, and ran track.” Outside of school, Harry also spent time boxing at a local club. At the age of 19, before his school days were over, Harry decided to enlist in the U.S. Army. “Everybody in this part of the country is pretty patriotic,” he says, including his parents. “They let me do what I was supposed to do. If they didn’t feel it was right, I’m sure they wouldn’t have let me do it. I think Indians feel different about joining the service than others do.” Harry went to Fort Bragg, N.C., for basic training. There he was asked if he spoke any foreign languages and he said he did. “English,” he says with a laugh, knowing it wasn’t the answer they were looking for, “Choctaw is my first language.” Upon completion of basic training he was soon shipped overseas. As an infantryman assigned to the 11th Airborne, he served his country in World War II during an occupation mis- sion of Hokkaido, one of the northern islands of Japan. After the war, he entered the Army Re- serves, returned to Ta- lihina and reentered school graduating in 1949. In 1950, Harry was again called back to Choctaw Nation: LISA REED active service with Three generations of veterans from the James family take part in the gourd dance at the pow wow during the Choctaw the Army, this time Nation Labor Day Festival. Patriarch Harry James of Talihina, center, his son, Michael James of Tahlequah, right, and for the Korean War. grandson Chad Murphy, currently residing in Fort Carson, Colo., regularly participate in intertribal pow wow dancing, Uncomfortable as do many of Harry’s grandchildren. Teaching his children and grandchildren tribal dances has always been very im- speaking about his ex- portant to Harry. periences during the wars, he says he felt lucky that he made remembers his dad telling him, “Nobody wins in war.” Harry says Michael. it home uninjured. “I took the day off of work when Michael shipped off for his This is something Michael is grateful for. “I’m glad mom try to forget about all training. and dad recognized how important our culture is and that we that,” he says. After attending boot camp in San Diego, he was stationed at needed to participate in it and know it,” says Michael. “We He received two Camp Pendleton where he worked in the communications field were always around the dancing.” Battle Stars for his and completed two extended overseas training missions. His It was at a pow wow in Talihina where Harry began gourd service during the first deployment was to Japan and the Philippines, conducting dancing. Gourd dancing is believed to have been started by the Photo provided wars. numerous training missions on different islands, at one point Kiowa tribe and revived in Carnegie, Okla., in the mid-1950s. Harry James during his Army Never one to try spending over 30 days on a small Filipino island. His second During the gourd dances, they sing and dance, usually hold- days. to sway his children trip over focused on helicopter operations in Japan, and he also ing in one hand a fan of feathers, in the other a gourd rattle, or grandchildren’s spent time in Korea. usually a metal can or salt shaker rattle. decisions, his actions, his honorable service, has made a last- “I learned a lot from those trips, about how people are around “It’s very spiritual,” says Michael. “Like a prayer in move- ing influence on some of their choices on joining the military the world,” says Michael. ment, the positive vibration, the drumming. It’s like singing a themselves. Michael returned back to Oklahoma and he began nursing hymn in church. I feel a connection to earth and sky, like it’s all

Harry has several who followed his footsteps into service in school after receiving an honorable discharge from the Marine interwoven during the gourd dancing.” the armed forces – son Michael served in the Marine Corps and Corps in 1983. Michael says his dad has no pain when he dances. son Thomas was in the U.S. Army. His grandchildren also con- Though military Both Harry and Michael have been asked to be the head tinued the path with granddaughter Kristi Durant and grandson service throughout Our parents gourd dancer at the Choctaw Nation Labor Day pow wow, with Chad Murphy both enlisting in the Army. Chad and his wife, family lineages isn’t “ Michael performing the duty this year. Jeri, have both been deployed to Iraq, Chad twice and Jeri too uncommon, the taught us that “I was very honored to get to be the head gourd dancer at the once. Chad is currently stationed at Fort Carson, Colo. James family stands our culture, like pow wow,” says Michael. “It’s like we came full circle with Harry said Chad called him from Iraq when he got his CIB out for many other “ my dad being able to be there after he’d been the head dancer (Combat Infantry Badge). “He was excited,” says Harry. “He reasons as well. anything good, before. It was awesome to be able to have my nephew, Chad, wanted me to know.” Three generations there too,” who, with his family, was visiting Oklahoma while Growing up in the James household, Michael says his fa- deep in the armed will endure. on leave from the military. ther’s service wasn’t much of a topic for discussion. “My dad forces, the family is Speaking on his nephew, Michael says he’s a lot like Harry. didn’t talk much about the military when we were kids,” says also steeped in the – Michael James “He’s an impressive young man,” he says. “His mannerisms Michael. “Sometimes he’d bring up the training, the way they traditions and cul- are like my dad’s.” were taught to think, but nothing about actual things that hap- ture of their tribes. Chad’s young daughters also took part in the pow wow danc- pened to him. He grew up in a different time, a time when they “As Indians, we do a lot of things out of respect,” says Mi- ing. didn’t really talk about the things that they experienced. It’s chael. “I learned a lot about respect from dancing; my parents With the children grown and not being one to keep still for worked for him though, to keep it in. When we were growing made sure of that.” long, Harry has stayed busy over the years working in the art up and something happened, his saying was, ‘Shake it off. To- “I started war dancing in 1957 at a pow wow in Binger, and trade of silversmithing. Harry retired from the Choctaw morrow is a new day’.” Okla.,” says Harry. “Carol was dancing long before that Nation Health Care Center in Talihina in 1982 after 28 years, Though Harry was humble about his service, it is one of the though.” with 33 years total in civil service. In 1980, knowing his retire- reasons Michael decided to serve his country. “It’s because of According to Carol, being raised among many different ment was soon approaching, Harry sought out a skilled hobby my dad and my uncles,” he says. “Talihina’s got a lot of veter- tribes, immersed in the cultures, is where she found her love of to keep him busy during his retirement. He was taught to be ans. It’s a very patriotic area.” dancing. “I grew up with the dancing,” she says, “the culture, a silversmith by fellow Choctaw silversmith Jerry Lowman. Once, Harry told Michael about Joseph Oklahombi, one of just learning it. I’m still learning. You never stop.” “He’s been at it ever since,” says Carol. the Choctaw Code Talkers, though Michael didn’t know that Together, Harry and Carol raised their children engaged in What started as a hobby has turned into a small side busi- about Oklahombi at the time. “He compared him to Sgt. York. the tribal dance cultures, taking them to pow wows, and con- ness. Harry sells his jewelry pieces at art shows, fairs, festivals That’s all he said about it though.” (Note: At the Battle of Mont tinuing the tradition with their grandchildren. As a family, they and pow wows. He focuses on jewelry and often incorporates Blanc Ridge Oklahombi reportedly captured more men than attended and danced at pow wows and social gatherings. symbols of Choctaw culture. York did during the Battle at Argonne Forest, both similar bat- “Carol and I always took our kids with us everywhere we The Choctaw social dancing still has a place at the James’ tles. Oklahombi was awarded the Silver Star for his actions; went,” including pow wows and Choctaw social gatherings, family get-togethers during the holidays. Michael usually plays however, York was awarded the Medal of Honor.) says Harry. “That’s how they learned, they just got out there the role of Santa Claus at the family Christmas gathering, much Michael, who today is a nurse at the W. W. Hastings Indian and danced. Now, we take our grandchildren when we can.” to the delight of the children and leads some of the social danc- Hospital in Tahlequah, joined the Marine Corps in 1979. Since Along with intertribal dancing at pow wows, Harry and es. “He comes in and does a war dance,” says Carol. “The kids he was only 17 he needed a parent’s signature to enlist. Harry Carol also took their family to meet with other families in Ta- just love it.” reluctantly signed the papers allowing him to join. Michael lihina as part of the Indian Club for Choctaw social dancing “It’s good to see that it’s moving forward with this genera- sensed that it troubled his dad that he was signing up but he and other traditionally native activities. “I remember my older tion too,” says Michael. “Our parents taught us that our culture, never tried to talk him out of it, only offering advice. Michael friends playing games of stickball with the other kids, too,” like anything good, will endure.”

Goodland begins restoration process on historical cabin The 163-year-old Good- glory.” Leonard Bacon. Basil Le- current school building. A land Academy has begun res- The small, one-room cabin Flore and his wife, Carrie, rock chimney and modern toration efforts to rebuild a is especially important be- are both buried in Goodland’s porch were added to the historical cabin located on its cause it’s made from the tim- cemetery, itself a gift from cabin. The last restoration campus. The cabin has fallen bers of the home of the first them to the local community. efforts, a modern compos- in serious disrepair over the governor of the Choctaw In 1931, the home was recon- ite shingle roof, was added past few decades because of Nation, Basil LeFlore. The structed on Goodland’s cam- by the Jaycees Club of a poor foundation and lack of cabin was originally built in pus and dedicated as a mu- Hugo in the 1960s. funding for upkeep. A volun- 1837 on another section of seum through the efforts of David Dearinger fur- teer group from Claremore the Goodland property. Gov- Mr. W. E. Schooler. Accord- ther stressed Goodland’s performed the clean up of ernor LeFlore purchased the ing to historical documents, commitment to the res- the cabin’s fallen porch and cabin and expanded it for use the cabin was in memorial of toration, saying, “If we its dilapidated composition as his home and as a council Schooler’s wife, Annie Cros- have to buy one log at a shingle roof. house for the tribal govern- sett Schooler, and it served as time, we will. We will be “This building has so much ment. Many of the policies a reminder of the early days building the cabin to origi- historical significance that we of the early Choctaw Nation when the Choctaws and their nal specifications and the took it upon ourselves to start were created in this build- white friends did so much to WPA-built, stone chimney Submitted photo The historic cabin circa 1930. restoration, it’s too important ing. Governor LeFlore’s wife, carry on, even under difficul- will remain. We will also to lose,” Goodland President Carrie Gooding LeFlore, was ties, the church and school be building a proper founda- backgrounds in historical res- in completing this project is David Dearinger said, “Our a teacher at Goodland during they loved (Reflections of tion so this sort of thing never torations. The building will welcome. history is so intertwined with this time and was responsible Goodland, Volume 1, 1940). happens again.” remain near its current site For more information, the Choctaw Nation that we for teaching one of the great- In 1935, the cabin was Goodland already has a and will be open to the pub- please contact David Dear- felt it imperative to restore est Choctaw superintendents moved by the WPA across few contacts concerning lic once the project is com- inger at 580-326-7568 or da- the building to its former in Goodland’s history, Silas campus to make room for the builders and suppliers with plete. Support and assistance [email protected]. BISKINIK | November 2011 | Page 18 Early Choctaw settlement discovered in Mississippi Exciting archaeological discoveries made this sum- mer and fall in the Choctaw Homeland are helping us to learn more about our history. The Choctaw Nation Historic Preservation Department is collaborating with archae- Choctaw Nation: Chrissy DILL ologists in Kemper County, Vangie Robinson demonstrates traditional Choctaw Mississippi, to study several pottery during a special event for Leadership Oklaho- recently discovered Choctaw ma on Oct. 27 in Durant. sites that date to the 1700s and early 1800s. This is the first time that Choctaw- ar chaeological sites dating to the earlier part of this time Novices to experts range have ever been studied, and work at these localities Students are becoming teachers is providing us with a rare of the Choctaw Nation culture glimpse into the lives of our By LISA REED ancestors during the decades before the Trail of Tears. Photo courtesy Hunter Johnson Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Over the last few years, A crew from Tennessee Valley Archaeological Research surveys one of the sites. An awakening is taking place in the Choctaw Nation of Mississippi Power, Liberty Oklahoma. It’s no longer just pokni teaching her family to Fuels and North American bead or mafo speaking the language. Grandmothers and Coal have been planning and deposits capable of providing grandfathers are being joined by younger generations who conducting preliminary work a lot of new information about are becoming involved in the culture of the tribe. on the construction of a new Choctaw history. All four are One trend in particular is becoming more evident. People power plant and an associated eligible for listing on the Na- who spent a year or two attending cultural classes are now lignite mine in Kemper Coun- tional Register, because of becoming the teachers. ty, Mississippi. This project, their potential to provide new “Some exceptional students are taking over as teachers overseen by the U.S. Depart- Iti Fabussa information about Choctaw and that is the way it is supposed to be,” Dr. Ian Thompson ment of Energy, falls under history. said. Thompson is the director of Choctaw Nation’s Historic the National Historic Pres- The time period to which Preservation Department and has witnessed the transforma- ervation Act, a federal law they date is particularly sig- tion of novices to experts. which requires the overseers nificant. Archaeology has “There are several in particular who have been attending of federally supported proj- been able to give us a lot of the pottery and moccasin classes that we have been hosting ects to make careful consid- information about the his- over the last year-plus, who are now filling in or teaching eration of potential impacts tory of our ancestors 1,000s classes on their own,” Thompson continued. “It is rewarding to historic sites and Native of years ago, but has told us to see the fulfillment they get from sharing what they have American sacred sites before very little about Choctaw life learned with others. Those students will eventually have work begins. More than a from AD 1600-1800. The their own students who will also teach. That is the way that year ago, the Choctaw Nation “missing” period from 1600- traditional culture has always been passed on.” Historic Preservation Depart- 1800 was a critical point in Vangie Robinson of Boswell attended pottery classes ment was notified about the Choctaw history, in which our in Durant for two years and is now demonstrating the art project, and has since been ancestors fought to maintain around the country. consulting with the Depart- their sovereignty in the face “I started the classes because I like learning new things ment of Energy concerning of colonial powers, adopted and enjoy creating something,” Robinson said. the project’s potential for smaller, weaker Tribes into Robinson’s work won an honorable mention in the 2011 impacting important ances- Photo provided the larger body of Choctaws, Choctaw Nation Art Show in September at Tushka Homma. tral Choctaw sites. To fur- and created a society whose Skyler Robinson prepares to do a ground penetrating ra- She has attended festivals in Arkansas and Louisiana and ther comply with the law, members traveled to Oklaho- dar (GPR) on one of the sites. provided a demonstration this month on the revitalization of North American Coal also ma and established the Choc- traditional pottery at symposium in Natchez, Miss. contracted with Mississippi taw Nation as it is today. Robinson and fellow student Dan Berneir often fill in for State University to survey moss clad oaks which the high At another of the sites, We don’t currently know the regular instructors at the Durant pottery class. It is held the lignite mining area, while hills were crowed, and over- a small, anciently filled pit a lot of details about this pe- twice a month at the Cultural Resources office. They recent- Mississippi Power Company looking the deep open valley was partially excavated. In riod, but it would be nice to ly held their first firing of Choctaw pots and pipes after the contracted several cultural of… to the west, which even the fill, archaeologists found learn, because it was such an burn ban was lifted in Bryan County. resource management firms in mid-winter was always Choctaw-made metal jewelry, important time in our history. Berneir says his interest in learning and now teaching how to conduct archaeological clothed with a green luxuriant glass beads, stone tools, frag- Of course, to many Choctaw to make Choctaw pottery and moccasins is to preserve cul- surveys at the future plant site growth of vegetation.” mentary Choctaw ceramics, people these sites also a have tural paths. and along all gas and trans- Basic testing was conduct- early 1800s European ceram- value far beyond the informa- “My grandmother would tell me stories,” he said. “I’ve mission lines supporting the ed at the four sites to deter- ics and glass, and plant ma- tion that they contain, rep- been interested all of my life but am able to learn more now plant. mine if they may be eligible terials including acorn shells resenting physical traces of that I have moved back to the area.” The archaeologists exam- for the National Register of and nuts, hickory hulls, corn, Choctaw ancestors’ homes, Berneir entered a pair of moccasins in the Choctaw Nation ined site records, early aerial Historic Places, as locali- as well as possible remains and a Choctaw traditional Art Show this year, winning second place in the Cultural photographs, and the topog- ties that have the potential of black walnut, squash rind, lifeway that is the foundation division. He has set up demonstrations at the Ouachita Festi- raphy of the area. They also of today’s Choctaw tradition- val at Beavers Bend and worked with Robinson at a cultural to provide new information and a persimmon seed. Pig conducted systematic shovel al culture. event held in Durant for Leadership Oklahoma. about American history. At bone and eggs shell were The newly discovered Bill and Shirley Lambert became involved in the pottery tests to see what types of the request the historic pres- found in the pit fill as well. classes in Idabel and helped teach until the classes ended. material lay below the soil. ervation departments of the From just this small excava- Choctaw archaeological sites The couple still create the clay pots in their spare time at Through these techniques, Choctaw Nation of Oklaho- tion, we learn a little bit about have a great potential to tell us home. They are working with clay that they brought home they located many archaeo- ma and the Mississippi Band the activities our ancestors about our ancestors and his- with them from New Mexico. They also use clay from the logical sites; some thousands of Choctaw Indians, Ground- were conducting at the site, tory. However, we must never Tom, Okla., area, cleaning all the rocks and sticks out be- of years old, some only a few Penetrating Radar (GPR) and a lot about the foods they lose sight of the fact that they fore they start molding their creations. Different materials decades old. studies were also conducted were eating. These foods rep- were made and lived in by our are added to the clay to prevent cracking, most often sand or At least 10 of them are to take a non-invasive look at resented a diet that consisted ancestors, and are in a sense, crushed pieces of pottery. Choctaw sites dating from what is buried under the soil, of a combination of indige- sacred. The next step is for “Ian taught us how to make a fire pit and we fire our own the 1700s-1800s. Of these and to ascertain the possibil- nous plant foods supplement- the ground penetrating radar pottery at home,” Shirley said. 10, some are significant, ity of Choctaw graves be- ed with domesticated animals data to be synthesized and The Lamberts miss the bi-weekly pottery classes but enjoy and portions of the proposed ing located at the four sites. that the Choctaw communi- thoroughly analyzed to see if going every week to the senior center in Idabel where they project have been moved to Skyler Robinson and James ties obtained from Europeans any of the sites may contain continue to participate in several activities. avoid damaging them. Work Carver from the Choctaw and then raised themselves. Choctaw burials. Then, a plan demonstrated that some of Nation Historic Preservation This, as well as the range of of action will be created to the other Choctaw had been Department took Choctaw artifacts recovered supports a minimize impacts to possible previously disturbed, or were Nation’s ground penetrating few rare written sources from burials, and at the same time very ephemeral in nature. radar unit to Kemper County the time period that suggest to gather as much informa- This left four other potential- Mississippi and assisted with Choctaw communities during tion as possible from the rest ly substantial Choctaw sites the survey. these decades were eclectic, of the sites about the lives of sitting within the proposed The ground penetrating maintaining some elements our ancestors before mining lignite mine area and requir- radar survey, combined with of traditional life, and adopt- activities impact them. ing further study. the shovel tests, and a few ing others items and traits Much is yet to happen, but The area in which these very small excavations, has from Europeans to suit their thanks to what our ancestors sites are located is right in the turned up a number of inter- preferences. left at these sites, in a year heart of the Choctaw home- esting things at the sites. All This work confirmed that or two we may know much, land. Although we will not four of the sites have many at least three of the four sites much more about Choctaw give details on these sites’ buried features: things such are Choctaw, and that all four history and the lives of our exact locations in order to as hearths, filled in trash pits, have extensive archaeological forebears than we do today. protect them from the threat and house foundations. At of vandalism or looting, their one of the sites, a large, an- location corresponds almost ciently filled-in post hole was exactly with Henry Halbert’s encountered and partially geographical description and excavated by archaeologists. map coordinates for hunting As they excavated it, they un- lodges and possibly other covered four large Choctaw outposts of the Choctaw town clay pots, probably dating to of Shomo Takali (Hanging the mid 1700s. Other than a Moss). few small fragments, this is This outpost was located the first time that Choctaw about two miles away from pottery dating to this time pe- the village itself, in a particu- riod has ever been uncovered lar stream valley that abound- by archaeologists. Studying ed in springs and salt licks these early pieces will help Above, a 1700’s Choctaw that attracted deer. According modern Choctaw potters to ceramic vessel recovered to Halbert (n.d.), speaking of learn the techniques and de- from one of the sites (courtesy the upland portion of this out- sign styles of our ancestors TVAR). At right, an artistic post; “These lodges occupied and aid in efforts to revitalize rendering by Ruby Bolding of a most picturesque position, Choctaw traditional ceram- another one of the recovered standing amid the massive ics. vessels. Photos provided