BISHINIK PRSRT STD Presort STD P.O. Drawer 1210 U.S. Postage bishinik CHANGE service requested PAID p.O. Box 1210 AUTO Durant OK 74702 Durant OK Durant OK 74702 U.S. POSTAGE PAID CHOCTAW NATION BISHINIKBISHINIK RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED Permit #187 The Official Publication of The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

October 2009 Issue Serving 195,683 Choctaws Worldwide Choctaws ... growing with pride, hope and success

Veterans Day event is November 11 The Choctaw Nation will honor its veterans with a ceremony on November 11 at Tushka Homma. The ceremony will begin at 11 a.m., but staff will be on hand at 10 a.m. on the Capitol Grounds near the War Memorial. All Choc- taw veterans will receive a token A ribbon-cutting is held for the opening of the new cafeteria on the Capitol grounds. of gratitude. A free meal will fol- low the ceremony. Tribal Council elects officers State of the Choctaw Nation 2009 Chief Gregory E. Labor Day During its Pyle delivered the Photo September 2009 State of the Gallery, regular session, Choctaw Nation at the Pages 8-10 the Choctaw annual Labor Day Fes- Nation Tribal tival – speaking of the many things to Council re- be thankful for, the current initiatives elected by of the tribe and the growth and prog- proclamation Council Speaker ress the future holds. Delton Cox as Delton Cox “We have many things to be thank- Speaker, Char- ful for, including this gathering of lotte Jackson family and friends. This wonderful as Secretary occasion brings people from both and Joe Coley coasts to our Choctaw Capitol. as Chaplain “Over the years, our people have for the year traveled to Mississippi to join in their Chief Justice James Wolfe swears in Councilmembers James Frazier, Anthony Dillard, Delton Cox, Jack Aus- 2009-10. As Fair activities. This year, the Missis- tin, Ted Dosh and Joe Coley for their new four-year term. one of his first sippi Band sent two large buses to our acts this term, Council Secretary Charlotte Jackson festival. Almost 200 years after the Speaker Cox Trail of Tears, the Oklahoma and Mis- clinic and also built a Community reappointed sissippi Choctaws are still a family, Center in Durant. We are construct- Patty Hawkins and we still enjoy gathering together ing a Head Start and Child Develop- as Recording to celebrate,” said Chief Pyle. More ment Center in Durant and a Wellness Secretary, Syl- than 70 elders of the Mississippi tribe Center and Social Services building vester Moore came and danced at the village on Sat- in Hugo. Wright City is also getting a as Sergeant- urday. new Community Center. We have just at-arms, and The Chief took the opportunity to opened new casinos in Hugo, String- Bob Rabon as Council Chaplain remind the Choctaws about the 2010 town and McAlester.” The largest ca- Parliamentar- Joe Coley Census, which will be taken in March sino is the one under construction in ian. The same and April. “Every 10 years, a Census Durant that will open in February of committees were also reappointed. is taken and it is important that the 2010. In new business, Councilmem- Choctaw people are counted accurate- Chief Pyle ended his speech with bers approved: ly. A lot of funding the tribe receives a wish for all tribal members and • 14 budgets for the new fiscal depends on the Census. It is important friends, “What I want for all of you year; that we all write CHOCTAW NA- is the same thing I want for my own • ammendments for NAHAS- TION OF OKLAHOMA. We have al- grandchildren. I want all of you and Assistant Chief Gary Batton and Chief Gregory E. Pyle are pictured DA’s 2007 and 2008 budgets; ready been told the space to write this your family to be healthy, successful, with the Choctaw Nation’s 2009-10 royalty – Little Miss Juanita Gonzalez, • the Student/Parent and Em- in is small, but it will be okay to write and self-sufficient.” Sr. Miss Ashton Rachelle DiNardo, and Jr. Miss Stephanie Tehauno. ployee handbooks for 2010 at Jones in the margins of the paper. Academy; “History shows that tribal people • application for the District At- took care of Mother Earth better than torneys Council Justice Assistance most others have. Our employees Grant for local law enforcement; have asked that our sites ‘go green.’ • a right-of-way in Pittsburg We have begun to recycle, to sponsor County in favor of XTO Energy; highway cleanups and park beautifi- • a mineral permit in favor of cations,” said Chief Pyle. Geokinetics USA Inc., also in Pitts- All year, tribal employees have burg County; been working to improve environ- • membership renewal to the mentally friendly habits – small steps, National Congress of American but continually improving ways of Indians; life to lead to a healthier future. Na- • disposal of a 1985 semi truck; tive Americans have long been the • unconditional guaranty related protector of the environment, and to equipment to be used by CMDC; the Choctaw Nation wants to create a Choctaw Defense was one of four organizations chosen to be honored at the 2009 Oklahoma Conference and more environmentally friendly atmo- on Manufacturing with the Governor’s Manufacturing Leadership Award. The event was presented by the • disposition of the arts and crafts sphere in the work place, at home and Oklahoma Manufacturing Alliance at Tulsa. building at Tushka Homma. in communities. During the State of the Nation, Choctaw Defense wins Governor’s Manufacturing Leadership Award u What’s inside Chief Pyle spoke of the Calera City Park clean up and beautification that Choctaw Defense, a business owned by the Choc- to build the next generation of medium tactical vehicle 2010 Labor Day RV reservation he attended with his shovels and taw Nation of Oklahoma, has been presented the 2009 trailers for the Marines. It is the culmination of a five- information is on Page 2. gloves. “The District Councilman Governor’s Manufacturing Leadership Award. The com- year journey that included countless hours of design and Notes to the Nation...... 2 and I arrived expecting to see about pany’s customers include the U.S. Army, Marine Corps, engineering work performed by Choctaw Defense itself. Columns...... 3 15 people helping and found over 40 Navy and Air Force. Over the past 20 years, Choctaw Three versions of the trailers will be constructed in a Holiday calendars...... 3 people painting, planting trees and Defense has produced tens of thousands of aluminum new 80,000-sq.-ft. facility in McAlester. Nursery News...... 4 shrubs and cleaning up the park. The and steel shipping and storage containers. These con- “Congratulations to CEO Steve Benefield and his staff Food Distribution Calendar...... 4 community joined with us and we tainers are built to stringent military specifications and for a job well done! This is an exceptional accomplish- People You Know...... 5 worked as a team!” are used for items ranging from guided missiles to heli- ment and I am very proud that this award with Gover- Voc-Rehab Calendar...... 7 Chief Pyle also spoke of the growth copter engines. nor Henry’s signature will be displayed in the Choctaw Obituaries...... 12-13 that Choctaw Nation is experiencing. Choctaw Defense is the sole supplier for the Improved Nation manufacturing facility,” said Choctaw Chief With the tribal vision in mind, “to Army Space Heater, which includes sophisticated envi- Gregory E. Pyle. “It is great that several of the staff of The Mission achieve healthy, successful, produc- ronmental controls to provide filtered air in chemically Choctaw Defense were able to join Steve on stage as tive, and self-sufficient lifestyles for a or biologically contaminated conditions. The company he accepted this plaque and recognition from his peers.” of the Choctaw also manufactures a variety of ground support equip- Assistant Chief Gary Batton and McAlester area Tribal Nation of Oklahoma proud nation of Choctaws,” the goal is to better serve the Choctaw people. ment and flight critical aircraft components for the Army Councilman Bob Pate also joined the group as the award To enhance the lives of all Chief Pyle said he and the Council Blackhawk Helicopter and the Air Force C17 Cargo was presented by Oklahoma Manufacturing Alliance members through opportunities saw a great need in Atoka County for plane. President Roy Peters. “Our goal is to find the best compa- designed to develop healthy, suc- a clinic. “We allocated funds from This fall, Choctaw Defense is starting production on nies we can and honor them,” said Peters. He said it was a cessful and productive lifestyles. our business revenues to build that one of its largest projects ever – a $62 million contract See Choctaw Defense on Page 11 October 2009, BISHINIK, Page 2 NOTES TO THE NATION

Tribe helps obtain education Assistance with septic system Dear Choctaw Nation, Dear Choctaw Nation, My grandmother, Pearl Paxton, was enrolled at age 6 in Au- I would like to express my appreciation for the new septic sys- gust of 1889. She was always so proud of her Indian heritage and tem that was recently installed in my home and the kindness of passed this feeling on to all of her children and grandchildren. the workers. I called Councilman Delton Cox to see if there was Now that I am a grandmother with grown grandchildren, I can a program that Choctaw Nation had in place that would be able only say that I understand her appreciation and know she would to help us. He sent me to the office in Hugo which gave me the be so thrilled to know the accomplishments of her great-great- application and told me that Hoss Ward would be calling me as grandchildren and realize that the Choctaw Nation has been a part soon as I returned the application. About four weeks passed and of their quest for obtaining an education. They have received fi- Mr. Ward called me, came to the house and started the process. nancial aid for which we all will always be thankful. Harlan Ludlow, Ronald Bacon and Kelsey Ludlow worked very One of our granddaughters, Violet Cottongim, received her hard getting the system put in as quickly as possible and tried to bachelor’s in nursing from the Scott White Nursing School at the not inconvenience us in any way. The crew worked through the Mary Hardin Baylor University in Belton, Texas. She is now a rain, never missing a beat. registered nurse at a major hospital in Austin, Texas. I just wanted to thank you for the system and thank you for hir- Our only grandson, Ross Langdon, graduated from Steven F. Community meeting ing such qualified, professional and friendly men to work for you. Ken Faulkner and Tom Hutchings, both of Friant, California, Austin University in Nacogdoches, Texas, with a degree in music. Francine Curnutt and family welcomed Chief Pyle to the Fresno, California, community meet- He is now a music instructor at a high school in East Texas. ing. They were honored to meet and speak to Chief Pyle regard- Another granddaughter, Kasey Langdon, is a senior at Oklaho- ing Choctaw health care in California. This was the first time ma State University in Stillwater. She is majoring in Nutritional Ken met Chief Pyle, even though every Thanksgiving he visits Looking for ancestors Science and Allied Health and has played on the first team of the Dear Choctaw Nation, his mother, Patricia May of Finley. Ken attended junior high in OSU Cowgirls Soccer Team all of her four years at OSU. I am looking for information for the Moses Foster family who Antlers. While speaking with the Chief, they came to realize that Our last granddaughter, Victoria Cottongim, is a sophomore at lived in the Copiah and Holmes County, Mississippi, area in the Ken had attended school with one of Chief Pyles’s relatives. the Austin Community College in Austin, Texas, and is pursuing 1820s, 1830s. He married a Choctaw woman named Otemansha. a career in teaching. One son, James, married Mildred Womack. Their daughter, Do- Again, we all say thank you to the Choctaw Nation for the sup- rethy, married Franklin McLellan (sometimes sp. McClelland). port of all of our grandchildren. Looking for people The McLellan family moved to Louisiana and Texas. In 1900 The Family of Virginia and Billie Cottongim Dear Editor, they lived in the Choctaw Nation. Other familiar names in this A letter was printed for me last year. I was looking for some family, Samuel Jefferson McLellan, Sarah Burk, Caswell Burk, girls I went to college with in 1982. Pam Noah is one. Pam could Mary Frances Elliott, Addie B. Browder. I have some informa- Tuition assistance appreciated you email me. My computer crashed and I lost your address. Also tion and would gladly help anyone else connected. Thank you. Dear Choctaw Nation, would the Mississippi Choctaw gentleman that wrote me please Sharon Youngblom Thank you so much for the tuition assistance you gave me in write again. I lost your address, too. He is in Colorado I believe. [email protected] the pursuit of my Master’s of Business Administration degree. Thank you. I am pleased to share with you that I completed the degree in Linda Scoggins 10 months and graduated with a 4.0 gpa. Your kind assistance P.O. Box 272 eased some financial burdens and helped keep me focused on my Keota, OK 74941 course work. Although I have graduated into a harsh economic [email protected] time, and jobs in my region are scarce, I am putting this educa- tion to good use. Currently I volunteer on the board of directors of a homeless shelter that keeps families together while coaching Thank you them back on their feet. I am determined that your gift to me will Dear Choctaw Nation, continue to be passed on to others, and will reflect the human Thank you so very much for the financial aid for the last five kindness and respect with which you have given it. years! Our family has been in desperate need of financial assis- Vail Edna Henry tance because my mom is a single mom who lost her job over three years ago. Now, she is putting her two youngest kids through college and does not have to worry about paying off loans for my Thanks for the donation Looking for Taylor descendents education. Because of your assistance, I received my master’s in Dear Choctaw Nation, Dear Choctaw Nation, business administration from the University of Denver. We want to thank the Choctaw Nation for donating two cases I am trying to locate relatives of mine. They would be descen- Sarah Martinez of water for the Lil’ Choctaws and thanks to Councilman Kenny dants of Henry and Lucy Taylor. I would like to find old photo- Bryant for helping with the shirts. We took a team to the Creek graphs of them and their children. If there are any living heirs, Nation Junior Olympics. The team competed against different please call 580-277-5340 or contact me at the following address. Thank you tribes and overall the children did well. We had several to place Emmit Murray Dear Choctaw Nation, first and second. We are proud of the 11- and 12-year-old girls 622 11th NW I want to thank Career Development for investing in my fu- for getting second in the 440 relay race. It was a very close race. Ardmore, OK 73401 ture and helping me accomplish my goals to become a registered Our 9- and 10-year-old boys got first in the tug-of-war. They nurse. A special thanks to Robin Counce for always being espe- were undefeated. The team consisted of all cousins and they en- cially kind and helpful when I needed her and thanks to all of joyed themselves despite the heat. We hope to go back next year. Thank you for educational assistance the Career Develpment staff. I tell everyone that this would not Thanks again to the Choctaw Nation for your help. Dear Choctaw Nation, have been possible without the Choctaw Nation. There are not Melissa Impson, Cindy Watson, Cheryl Billy I recently graduated from the Prac- enough words to express my deep gratitiude. My future is bright tical Nursing program at the Poteau and anything is possible. Kiamichi Technology Center. I would Julie Korf Assistance in CDIB appreciated like to give special thanks to the Choc- Dear Mrs. Williams, taw Nation for providing me with the Your assistance was greatly appreciated today. The profession- many educational programs that helped Kindess in a time of need alism that I have seen since we first talked last year has not gone me make it to where I am today. Also Dear Choctaw Nation, unnoticed. Whenever I was unsure about anything you pointed I would like to thank Chief Gregory E. When our youngest son, Jason Knight, passed away last year, me in the appropriate direction. I just wanted to email you back Pyle, Cynthia Martin, Linda Colwell, everyone was so helpful. I would like to thank the staff of the and show my appreciation to one of the dedicated ladies who Councilwoman Charlotte Jackson, Carolyn Cagle, my instructors, Choctaw Nation who were so kind and helpful in our time of loss. work for Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. Sheila Wilson and Samantha Herbert, Danna McFarland, Valerie Jan Knight Ken Davis Hallen, and all my friends and family. A very special thanks to my fiance, Joshua Brown. I plan to work at the Eastern Okla- homa Medical Center in Poteau and will further my education to become a registered nurse. My parents are Glenn and Traci Bond of McCurtain, and I am the granddaughter of Darryl and Linda Colwell of Keota and Thomas and Wanda Bond of McCurtain. Brittany Bond –Reservations PAYMENTS for Labor Day RV sites All 2010 reservations will be made by mail. No reservations will be accepted prior to January 1, 2010 Searching for family Reservations must be post- Dear Choctaw Nation, marked January 1, 2010, or – phone I am looking for any family related to an Emma Wade or Jef- later. Reservation must be paid reservations 2010 RV Space Reservation ferson Tom. I know I have a sister and her name is Ruth Ann. I in full in the form of a money no phone reserva- have a brother named Jefferson Jr. Anyone having any informa- order or cashier’s check. tions will be accepted Name______tion please email me at [email protected] or please no personal checks – no exceptions. One call me at 208-968-1925. will be accepted. All reservation per application. Address______Patricia Tom Clarke personal checks will be re- We will do our best to respect City/State/Zip______turned without reservations be- requests for preferred RV pads, ing made. The fee for the week- however, we cannot guarantee Daytime Phone Number______end’s camping from Thursday you will get the pad number requested. Reservations will E-mail______Gregory E. Pyle The Official Gary Batton through Monday will be $75. Monthly Publication be dated and time stamped as Chief Assistant Chief Alternate e-mail______of the – vehicles with rvs received. Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma The payment of $75 allows – general parking RV self-contained camper description and length: Judy Allen, Executive Director one (1) RV/travel trailer and No RVs will be allowed to Vonna Shults, Web Director one (1) vehicle into the RV park in general parking. ______Melissa Stevens, Circulation Director area. A $10 fee will be charged Janine Dills, Executive Assistant for each additional vehicle pass – animals ______Lana Sleeper, Marketing Assistant requested. Dogs will NOT be allowed ______Due to limited space, no in the festival area with the Lisa Reed, Editor reservations will be made for exception of dogs owned by ______Karen Jacob, Assistant Editor public tables, tents, or boats in physically challenged individu- Brenda Wilson, Administrative Assistant the RV area. No tents will be al- als. Respect your neighbor and Number of slide-outs______P.O. Box 1210 lowed to hook up to an RV out- clean up after your animal. – Only one (1) reservation per application – Durant, OK 74702 let. The $75 camping fee is for – sanitation No reservations accepted prior to January 1, 2009 (580) 924-8280 • (800) 522-6170 one RV only. Fax (580) 924-4148 A sign-up sheet will be pro- Please return to: www.choctawnation.com – early arrivals vided at the RV booth for those Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma e-mail: [email protected] An additional fee will be wishing to have on-site dump- ATTN: Margaret Jackson The BISHINIK is printed each month as a service to Tribal Members. charged for those entering ear- ing of gray and black water P.O. Box 1210, Durant, OK 74702 The BISHINIK reserves the right to edit submitted material which it finds ly. A charge of $10 per day will tanks. inaccurate, profane, offensive or morally unacceptable. Copy may be ed- be charged for electrical hook- Payment will be made to em- ited for proper grammar and punctuation. Copy will be accepted in any ployees at the RV booth. There Please return the above form with your reservation. Please in- readable form, but where possible, it is requested that material be type- up per day per RV/camper. will be a $50 fine for anyone clude a copy of your CDIB. Be sure to include the length of your written and double spaced. You must include an address or phone number where you may be reached. Due to space limitations and the quantity of – refunds caught dumping gray or black RV or camper and the number of slide-outs. We need a daytime article submissions, we are unable to include everything we receive. No refunds will be given after water in the RV area. A local telephone number should we need to contact you. Thank you. If you are receiving more than one BISHINIK at your home or if your August 13, 2010. All pads not dumping station is provided for address needs changed, we would appreciate hearing from you. filled by 6 p.m. on Saturday will individual dumping by sanita- The BISHINIK is a nonprofit publication of the Choctaw Nation. be offered to those on a waiting tion personnel. A second warn- – tow-away roads/areas between RV rows Circulation is monthly. Article deadline is the 10th of the month for the list. A fee will be charged to ing would mean eviction of the of vehicles may be towed at owner’s ex- following month’s edition. these RV campers. camping area. Any vehicle blocking access pense. BISHINIK® 2009 October 2009, BISHINIK, Page 3 Harvest season brings appreciation for blessings From the Desk of Chief Gregory E. Pyle me must always begin with God and family – and the Choctaw people are part of my extended family. I am committed to a list As the harvest season begins, and the days in Oklahoma start a of priority tasks that go along with the vision statement of the little cooler and end a little earlier, I have a special appreciation for Choctaw Nation, “To achieve healthy, successful, productive, and hearth and home. Traveling across the United States to meet tribal self-sufficient lifestyles for a proud nation of Choctaws.” members and make sure the programs are brought closer to their More accessible health care through additional clinics, more homes gives me and the Assistant Chief an opportunity to get to specialized care through increased funding to contract health, know many new friends. more educational opportunities through scholarships and partner- A lot of these Choctaws still feel a connection to the “home- ships with schools, colleges and universities, career training for land” of Oklahoma. Some were here as a young person and moved more productive lifestyles . . . all of these and more are helping out of this state in order to support themselves and their families. the Choctaw Nation tribal members travel the path to success and Some Choctaws who never lived in Oklahoma still feel a link with self-sufficiency. this area simply because of their heritage. Whatever the reason for I am looking forward to the holidays, to having meals with Se- the bond, I am always thrilled to talk about the Choctaw Nation nior Citizens across the Choctaw Nation, to spending time with and the southeast corner of Oklahoma where our counties are. my seven grandchildren and to seeing more visitors enjoy the I am always pleased to hear when a family has been able to beauty of our tribal history. Please keep in mind as you study the visit our Council House Museum at Tushka Homma or the Tribal history of this tribe, our ancestors were accompanied by mission- Administrative Complex in Durant. Both buildings are full of his- aries as they walked the Trail of Tears. Our ancestors’ first prior- tory, and visitors are welcome. Sharing the culture and heritage ity on entering this new homeland was to establish a church and of our tribe through the art and exhibits at Tushka Homma and a school. They knew that God was real, and they celebrated the Durant are among the priorities of our tribe – sharing our pride in Christmas holiday as the birthday of their Savior. I think our an- our history. cestors were very wise. Listing priorities is a common tool for business and government May you and your family be blessed this Thanksgiving and leaders so that we can stay “on track” with our tasks. Priorities for Christmas. Sustaining our tribe and tribal people From the Desk of program which allows our southeastern Oklahoma. Tribal House was declared a museum Assistant Chief Gary Batton tribal members to get a skill staff started a program where in 1970. Chief Pyle and the at a trade school. I think of people donate new shoes for Choctaw Council have invest- One thing that you will hear the baskets that are given out needy students called Sole- ed many dollars into the resto- Chief Pyle and myself mention to our needy families during mates and this same group is ration of our Capitol. It looks a lot is “sustainability” of the Thanksgiving and Christmas. I now working on a coat drive. great! Choctaw Nation. What do we think of the 800 jobs that will When I think about sustain- The Council House is bright mean by sustainability? First be created at our new casino ability you cannot help but to and beautiful and stronger than and foremost: to sustain our in Durant opening in February reflect on the past. The tribe ever. That is how I think of the culture - a culture of God, fam- of 2010 and the 100+ jobs that has been up and down through Tribe today. Bright and beauti- ily, and friends. will be created in the McAles- the years but we have always ful and stronger than ever. We In sustaining our Tribal ter Choctaw Defense plant. sustained. I think about the will have our ups and downs members it is important to give In sustaining our communi- Council House at our Tribal but Chief Pyle and this Coun- our Tribal members the tools ties we have also given to local Capitol. In 1884 Chief Jack- cil know that they must invest they need to succeed in life. law enforcement agencies, fire son McCurtain announced the in the people to sustain our Tools such as the 5,000 schol- departments, and numerous opening of the Council House Tribe. Chief Pyle wants not arships that are awarded annu- churches. We have been hav- and at the same time gave his only to take care of people to- ally through our education pro- ing food drives this year to re- farewell speech. That was day but for it to remain strong gram, the career development plenish the food banks across 125 years ago. The Council for the next 100 years.

Are we really in a war? Thanksgiving Dinners Ahyathika itibi hosh illaya- Antlers...... November 19...... 6 p.m. sha ho? Did you ever wonder Chaplain’s Corner Atoka...... November 10...... 12 noon “Are we really in a war?” Bethel...... November 23...... 6 p.m. We have been thrust into a Broken Bow...... November 19...... 6 p.m. world that is mad, mad against Coalgate...... November 4...... 12 noon God and mad against each one in a war!” Coalgate Community...... November 13...... 6 p.m. of us. There is no time in the Notice in Ephesians 6:12 Crowder...... November 18...... 11:30 a.m. history of the world when we we “... wrestle ...” We wrestle Durant Community (in Community Center)...... November 10...... 6 p.m. need to be equipped for the not against flesh and blood, we Hugo...... November 17...... 6 p.m. battle all around us. wrestle with the enemy. Idabel...... November 18...... 12 noon We know that we wouldn’t It pictures a man with a grip McAlester...... November 18...... 11:30 a.m. go to war without some pro- on another man, straining ev- McAlester Community...... November 22...... 1 p.m. tection or without some means ery muscle to pin him to the Poteau...... November 18...... 6 p.m. of fighting back. Yet with so ground. He uses all his energy Smithville...... November 18...... 11:30 a.m. Spiro...... November 18...... 11:30 a.m. many Christians it’s almost to keep from being pinned Stigler...... November 17...... 11:30 a.m. like that. down. “Are we really in a war?” Talihina...... November 20...... 11:45 a.m. For the Christian, it is the Tuskahoma (& Outreach Fair)...... November 13...... 6 p.m. Paul wrote in his letter to the straining of every spiritual Wilburton...... November 12...... 6 p.m. Ephesians these words in muscle. Wright City...... November 17...... 6 p.m. Ephesians 6:10-11: We are not called as Chris- “Finally, my brethren, be tians to a time of relaxation, strong in the Lord, and in the Rev. Bertram Bobb just taking it easy. We are power of his might. Tribal Chaplain called to struggle with unseen “Put on the whole armor of forces, and the fight is real. God, that ye may be able to told we are in a battle against Today, men think of the stand against the wiles of the the “wiles” of the Devil. The world, not as a battleground, devil.” word “wiles” means “orga- but as a playground. We think We are in a hostile world and nized conduct or plans of war.” we are not here to fight, we are we are not prepared without Satan is attacking anything here to have fun. We think we armor, without “...the sword of that would defeat his plan. That are not getting ready to live, the Spirit which is the word of is why all of us who are Chris- we are already living. And the God.” (Ephesians 6:17). Our tians feel so much of the effects best we can do is to get rid of testimony is unprotected and of Satan’s presence. Satan is our frustrations and live this before long it is destroyed. not after those who belong to life in the world to the fullest. in the Choctaw Nation We know as we look around him, he is after those who want We have lost the sense that we – Senior Citizen Dinners & Kids Christmas Parties – us the enemy is ever active to defeat him. are in a warfare. It is because of Antlers Seniors...... Decemberr 16..... 11:30 a.m. sowing discord among the Satan hates the book of Rev- that we are so often defeated. Antlers Kids...... December 7...... 6 p.m., up to age 10 brethren causing great damage elation because it tells the final It is true that to many Chris- Atoka Kids...... December 3...... 6 p.m., up to age 12, to the cause of our Lord Jesus chapter of his life. Revelation tians, it is that we don’t want to at the Atoka Community Center on Liberty Road Christ. prophecies his final doom and win, they don’t even know that Bethel Kids...... December 10...... 6 p.m. May we learn and sense in it also prophecies the success there is a war going on. Broken Bow Kids...... December 7...... 6 p.m. a new way how wonderfully of the One of whom he is so The Bible tells us that this Buffalo Valley Kids...... December 14...... 6 p.m. prepared we can be. “Put on jealous, the Lord Jesus Christ. warfare is one for which we Burkhart Kids...... December 10...... 7 p.m. the whole armor of God.” When we study about the may prepare. It is not a war that Coalgate Seniors...... December 9...... 12 noon People today, that is, there plan of Satan, we need to un- we have to go into unprotected. Coalgate Kids...... December 6...... 2 p.m., up to age 12 are many, who do not believe derstand as Paul wrote to the It can help us if we will listen Crowder Seniors...... December 16...... 11:30 a.m. in the Devil. The Bible teaches Christians that it is important carefully and apply the truth. It Crowder Kids...... December 12...... 1 p.m. there is a person called Satan. that we be not ignorant of his can help us to walk into a battle Durant Kids...... December 4...... 6 p.m. And he is actively destroying devices. We need to know his and to fight for God and not be Eagletown Kids...... December 7...... 7:30 p.m. the work of Jesus Christ wher- weapons of his plan. defeated, for our Commander Heavener Kids...... December 7...... 7 p.m. ever he can. The Bible teaches Christians today have two in Chief, the Lord Jesus Christ, Hugo Seniors...... December 16...... 11:30 a.m. that very clearly. attitudes of the study of the has already won the war. And Hugo Kids...... December 4...... 6 p.m. at Housing Culture Center You know there are people things that have to do with Sa- He wants us to get in on the Idabel Seniors...... December 9...... 12 noon who say they are a Christian tan, or the Devil or evil in the victory which we can’t win un- Idabel Kids...... December 7...... 6:30 p.m. but they don’t believe in the world. Either they just don’t less we are well-armed. That’s McAlester Kids...... December 12...... 1 p.m., up to age 10 reality of Satan. If they are a know or they don’t even care. why Paul said to the Ephesians McAlester Seniors...... December 16...... 11:30 a.m. Christian they must not read And Satan continues to do “... take unto you the whole ar- Poteau Seniors...... December 16...... 12 noon the Bible, because the Bible his work as we cooperate with mor of God.” Poteau Kids...... December 12...... 4-6 p.m., up to age 10 everywhere speaks of him. him. Because we haven’t taken The first piece of armor is the Quinton Kids...... December 10...... 6 p.m. The forces of evil in this the time to equip ourselves. girdle of Truth. The girdle of Smithville Kids...... December 8...... 7 p.m. world are led by Satan. And he In I Peter 5:8 we find the Truth is the knowledge of the Spiro Kids...... December 14...... 4 to 6 p.m., age 10 & under has powers that we can know purpose of Satan. Satan goes Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus said Spiro Seniors...... December 15...... 11:30 a.m. nothing of. It is clear in the Bi- about according to Peter “... as in John 14:6, “I am the way, Stigler Kids...... December 4...... 4 to 6 p.m. ble that he has under his com- a roaring lion ... seeking whom the truth, and the life: no man Stigler Seniors...... December 8...... 11:30 a.m. mand a great Army of fallen he may devour ...” cometh unto the Father, but by Summerfield Kids...... December 13...... 2-4 p.m. angels, demons. Satan’s chief objective is me.” Talihina Kids...... December 11...... 7 p.m. We are told that this force of to devour your testimony. He Realize who God is, realize Tuskahoma Kids...... December 5...... 2 p.m. evil that is described in Ephe- goes about as a roaring lion what He has done. Jesus paid Wilburton Kids...... December 12...... 6 p.m. sians is organized. There is an seeking what he can find in the penalty for SIN. Then real- Wilburton Seniors...... December 16...... 12 noon organized program on the part your life with the purpose of ize who you are, a sinner, and Wright City Kids...... December 8...... 6 p.m. of Satan to do his work in this devouring your testimony and trust Jesus as your personal Wright City Seniors...... December 17...... 12 noon world. your influence for Jesus Christ. Savior today, by faith. Will you In Ephesians 6:11 we are And the Bible says, “We are do that? October 2009, BISHINIK, Page 4 NURSERY NEWS

Levi Myles Battiest There’s a new OU fan in Alaska! Jason and Sara Battiest of Fairbanks, Alaska, are happy to announce the birth of their son, Levi Myles Battiest, born June 25, 2009, at Fairbanks Memorial Hospital, weighing 6 pounds 10 ounces and measuring 20.5 inches. Welcoming him to the family are his proud grandparents, Isaac and Marie Battiest of Broken Bow and Bob and Timmy Ellsworth of Bethel, Alaska. Levi is the great-grandson of the late Rev. David Warren Impson and Lena Helen Impson of Wright City, Isaac and Helen Battiest of Broken Bow, Orville and Louise Jones of Mankato, Minnesota, and Robert and Geraldyne Ellsworth of Fairbault, Minnesota. Welcome Levi! May God bless you always.

Vivian Tolli Battiest Vivian Tolli Battiest is the name chosen by Walker and Jamie Battiest for their third daughter, born at 1:17 a.m. on September 6, 2009. She weighed 8 pounds 5 ounces and was 19.5 inches long. She joins sister Kathleen Elizabeth, 6; brother Carson, 5; and sister Madeline “Maddie” Kay, 3. Grandparents are Debbie Battiest and the late Allen Battiest, Ron and Veta Howard, and Great-Grandma is Flora Good Howard. All are of Duncan, Oklahoma. Youth learn ‘Safety First’ at Outreach Camp The Choctaw Nation youth Randa Faye Bollinger outreach department recently held its second annual “Safe- Randall and Brittany Bollinger of Union ty First” camp. Previously City, Oklahoma, are proud to announce held at the Choctaw Nation the birth of their daughter, Randa Faye Capitol, Tushka Homma, the Bollinger, born at 8:20 a.m. July 20, Safety First camp was moved 2009. She weighed 6 pounds 11 ounces. to Wheelock Academy near Grandparents are Eddy and Gloria Kirkes Millerton this year due to of Union City, Paul Bollinger of Union City construction of the new caf- and Terry Dawson of Fletcher, Oklahoma. eteria on the Capitol grounds. Great-grandparents include Lola Kirkes and the late Robert Kirkes The Safety First camp was of Eakly, Oklahoma, Don Tilley and the late Fern Tilley of Alex, again a great success and Oklahoma. Randa is also the great-great-granddaughter of the late there were well over 100 Rosie and Eli Potts. Choctaw youth attending from the 10 1/2 counties that Kenzie Alyssa Moore the Choctaw Nation serves. The youth were bused to the Kenzie Alyssa Moore was born May 30, site in Millerton with approx- 2009, at Rapides Medical Center in Alex- imately 50 adults on hand, andria, Louisiana. She weighed 6 pounds the majority being the Choctaw Nation Outreach Services staff. 14 ounces and was 20 inches long. Proud The youth enjoyed a fishing clinic, wildlife presentation, flint parents are Kelsey McGee and Anthony napping, skeet training and instruction in fishing safety, fire safety, Moore. Both grandmothers, Sydney Mc- gun safety, bow shooting, stranger danger, car seat safety and more. Gee of McKinney, Texas, and Trina Moore They also took part in Chief Pyle’s’ Physical Fitness Challenge of Pineville, Louisiana, also welcomed her and in an Eddie Eagle class that was presented by the National in the delivery room. A very happy grandfather, Michael McGee of Rifle Association. Kingsbury, Texas, and cousin, Elizabeth Bentzen of Canyon Lake, Texas, anxiously waited outside the delivery room. Other family members in the area welcomed her throughout the afternoon and evening. Kenzie was happily welcomed by her “Texas Family” as well! Great-grandmother Marjorie Starritt Walling of San Antonio, Texas, and great-grandfather Louie Joshua McGee of Kingsbury are excited to meet her. Also excited are great-aunts and uncles, WIC offers more fun recipes for the family Gordon and Linda Bentzen of ClearLake, Texas, and Bodey and Kathy Langford of Lockhart, Texas. Kenzie has many other Texas Choctaw Nation WIC is relatives who are so excited to meet her! proud to offer more fun recipes that can be made from our new Choctaw Nation WIC WIC food packages! Have your WOMEN, INFANTS AND CHILDREN Choctaw Nation Food Distribution children help you shop (they love to pick out fresh fruits and SITE PHONE HOURS DAYS Open 9:00 to 3:00 Monday through Friday vegetables). Antlers 580-298-3161 8:30-4:00 Every Tuesday Atoka 580-889-5825 8:00-4:30 Every Mon., Thurs. & Fri. (We will take lunch from 11:30 to 12:00) Oatmeal Pancakes 8:00-4:30 1st, 3rd & 4th Wed. Warehouses & Market Kids will flip for these great Bethel 580-241-5458 8:30-4:00 1st & 3rd Tuesday pancakes! Combine 2 eggs, 2 Boswell 580-380-2517 8:30-4:00 1st & 2nd Friday Broken Bow 580-584-2746 8:00-4:30 Every Mon., Wed., Thurs. & Fri. Durant Warehouse tablespoons vegetable oil and Antlers Warehouse 8:00-4:30 2nd & 4th Tuesday 306 S.W. “O” St. 100 1/2 Waldron Dr. 3/4 cup orange in a small bowl. Coalgate 580-927-3641 8:30-4:00 2nd Wednesday (580) 298-6443 (580) 924-7773 In a larger bowl, mix together Durant 580-924-8280 x 2255 8:00-4:30 Daily 1 cup flour, 1 cup rolled oats, 1 Hugo 580-326-5404 8:00-4:30 Every Mon., Tues., Wed. & Thurs. McAlester Warehouse Poteau Market 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 8:00-4:30 3rd, 4th Friday 1212 S. Main St. 100 Kerr Ave. and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Idabel 580-286-2510 8:00-4:30 Monday and Friday (918) 420-5716 (918) 649-0431 Stir egg mixture into dry McAlester 918-423-6335 8:00-4:30 1st & 2nd week - Mon., Tues., Wed., Fri. ingredients. Heat large frying 8:00-4:30 3rd & 4th week - every day Food Distribution Sites pan lightly coated with oil Poteau 918-647-4585 8:00-4:30 Every Mon., Tues., Wed. & Fri. Smithville 580-244-3289 8:30-4:00 2nd Thursday or cooking spray and let the Spiro 918-962-3832 8:30-4:00 Every Thursday Bethel: Choctaw Community Building magic began. Makes 9 medium Stigler 918-967-4211 8:30-4:00 1st, 2nd & 3rd Thursday Idabel: Choctaw Community Center pancakes. Talihina 918-567-7000 x 6792 8:00-4:30 Every Tuesday Stigler: Choctaw Community Building Wilburton 918-465-5641 8:30-4:00 1st & 2nd Thursday Broken Bow: Choctaw Family Investment Center Sweet Potatoes Smithville: Choctaw Community Building You can feel good serving these healthy “French fries.” Tomatoes wheat goodness! Yogurt Cut sweet potato into the Power up kid favorites with Toast one slice whole-wheat Sprinkle Grape-Nuts® ce- ANTLERS shape of French fries. Lightly tomatoes. Add grape tomatoes bread. Spread lightly with real in the bottom of a cup or Market open weekdays November 2-23, except for: coat with oil and add a light cut into quarters to macaroni cream cheese. Arrange sliced bowl. Add a large spoonful of • November 4: Idabel 9-11:30 a.m.; Broken Bow 12-2 p.m. sprinkling of salt and pepper. and cheese. Place a sliced toma- strawberries and blueberries lemon or vanilla yogurt. Add (market closed). Bake in 425 degree oven for to on grilled cheese sandwiches. over the cream cheese. (For ex- a tablespoon of fruit. (Canned • November 18: Bethel 9-10:30 a.m.; Smithville 12-2 p.m. 30 minutes. (Save time! Cut the tra fun, arrange the strawberries mandarin oranges are great.) (market closed). sweet potato into 8-10 wedges Whole-wheat Bread and blueberries to resemble the Sprinkle Grape-Nuts® on top. • Closed November 11 and November 26-27 for holidays. for faster cooking.) Fill them up with whole- flag. Salute!) Courtesy of Mass. WIC • Closed November 24, 25, 30 for inventory. • Food Demo – November 12 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. McALESTER Are you ready Market open weekdays November 3-23, except for: to purchase Never shake your baby • November 3: Stigler 9-12 a.m. (market closed). a new home? • Closed November 11 and November 26-27 for holidays. Ashley Norris, AFL into a coma. their child, male partner and • Closed November 24, 25, 30 for inventory. The first step Make sure that everyone who extended family members. The • Food Demo – November 10 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. in the home-buying Little babies are fragile. cares for your baby knows not AFL program provides op- process is attending a A baby can go blind, become to shake her. Some people don’t portunities for a brighter future POTEAU brain damaged, or die if shaken. understand how fragile babies through integrated services Homebuyer A baby’s brain is soft and the are and play too roughly with within the Choctaw Nation and Market open weekdays November 2-23, except for: neck is weak. When a baby them. Other people may get other agencies. • Closed November 11 and November 26-27 for holidays. Education Class is shaken, the head flops and upset and shake the baby to try Participants will expand their • Closed November 24, 25, 30 for inventory. Come to one of our Home- knowledge through prenatal ed- • Food Demo – November 3. the brain hits the inside of the to stop their crying. buyer Classes nearest you to skull. This can cause the brain Always support your baby’s ucation, relationship enhance- learn the important steps in ment programs, and parenting DURANT the home-buying process. You to bruise, bleed, and swell. head when you are holding or workshops. Striving for healthy Warehouse open weekdays November 2-23, except for: will become more aware of the A baby who has been shaken moving her around. It is okay • Closed November 11 and November 26-27 for holidays. benefits and risks associated may vomit, seem sleepy, or go to bounce gently or rock her. outcomes in adolescent family • Closed November 24, 25, 30 for inventory. with owning your own home. If you think your baby has lives is our program goal. • Food Demo – November 5 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. We make the process fun and been shaken, take her to the hos- Services are provided through educational, so call us for an pital right away so that medical Choctaw Nation Outreach Ser- appointment today! To register, In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture Oklahoma care can be given. vices to pregnant Native Ameri- call Debbie Childers at 1-800- policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the ba- can teens under 19 years of age sis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, political beliefs 235-3087, ext. 297, to attend a Choctaw Nation or otherwise qualified through class. Tobacco or disability. To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Di- AFL Project an eligible Native American. rector, Office of Adjudication and Compliance, 1400 Independence • October 20 - 4:30 p.m. Helpline The Choctaw Nation Adoles- For more information or ques- Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, or call (800) 795-3272 Crowder Community cent Family Life (AFL) Proj- tions about eligibility please call (voice) or (202) 720-6382 (TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity pro- Center vider and employer. 1.800.QUIT.NOW ect is an innovative program Angela Dancer, Project Direc- focused on pregnant teens, tor, at 1-877-285-6893. October 2009, BISHINIK, Page 5 PEOPLE YOU KNOW

Happy 95th birthday!! Gengnagel completes

basic combat training Way to go Grandpa! Moses Lewis of Ramona, California, celebrated his Oklahoma National Guardsman 95th birthday on September 14. Best PV2 Eric Gengnagel of Elgin, Okla- birthday wishes ever and more to homa, graduated August 6 from U.S. come from daughter Anquita Eastburg Army Basic Combat Training, Bravo of Flagstaff, Arizona, and son, Gary Company, 3rd Battalion, 10th Infantry Lewis of Ramona; grandchildren, at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. Shelley Lewis of Long Beach, California, David Lewis of Mon- Eric is a senior at Elgin High School rovia, California, Kim Dragos of Phoenix, Arizona, and Michelle where he is the varsity quarterback and Kluenter of Flagstaff. defensive middle linebacker. He will also be attending Cameron University as a concurrent student. Happy 81st birthday!! After graduation from high school, Eric will attend Advanced

Individual Training as a Combat Medic/Health Care Specialist at Happy 81st birthday to Willie Mack Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio, Texas. LeFlore (Floyd) on September 23, our Eric is the son of David and Susie Moser of Elgin and the most wonderful and beautiful wife, Father and son celebrate grandson of Doyle and Dorie Denney of Kingston. mother and grandmother. We wish you Rob Watkins turned 48 on September 22 and his son, Jeremy well on your day from all your little Eagle Scout Watkins, turned 16 on September 9! We’re both proud members Choctaws. of the Choctaw Nation along with my father, Baxter Watkins. Jordan B. Logan of Ardmore re- All live in Monarch Beach, California. Jeremy is a sophomore cently achieved Boy Scouts highest at Dana Hills High and Rob is the CEO of MuGahat and Native rank of Eagle Scout. He has received Congratulations to Keelan American Minority Business Enterprise. numerous awards including Order of Congratulations to Keelan Trace The Arrow Brotherhood, BSA Life- Youngblood on his achievements in guard, Scuba, Snorkeling, World Con- fourth grade at Wickes, Arkansas. servation and 34 merit badges. His He took a class for the gifted and tal- Eagle project was to raise funds and ented. He made the Principal’s Honor construct a concrete pad and rest area Roll with straight A’s, received a star with a maintenance free bench for citi- student certificate, a medal for first zens using a public walk/jogging path. place in the fourth grade spelling bee, Jordan is also a member of the Nation- won third place in a spelling bee on al Honor Society, National Society of the eighth grade level, made the most High School Scholars and is the son points in third and fourth grade boys of Janet and Lewis Logan. His paternal great-grandparents were Happy anniversary Thomas and Allie Potts Wall. accelerated reading program, got a trophy and won a bicycle. Happy anniversary to Buster and Jerry Jefferson and to Benny Keelan is the son of Jerry and Stephanie Youngblood, grandson of Rex and Cheryl Blaylock and Don and Margie Youngblood, 60th anniversary and Doris Grayham, all of Oklahoma City. The Jeffersons cel- ebrated their 63rd anniversary on August 17. The Grayhams cel- and the great-grandson of Virginia Grant. Lahoma and Delbert Hotubbee were ebrated their 62nd anniversary on August 14. married August 25, 1949, by Rev. Roy Happy 10th birthday Tate in Buffalo Valley. Delbert retired from the BIA after 30 years and Laho- 40th anniversary Angelina Marie Wilson, daughter of the late Richard V. Wilson and Melissa Wilson ma worked for the U.S. Postal Service Louie Jackson and Kath- of Grannis, Arkansas, celebrated her 10th for 10 years and as a substitute school leen Durant Jackson recently birthday on September 20. She is in fourth teacher for five years. They have lived celebrated their 40th wed- grade at Wickes Elementary School this in Buffalo Valley for the last 25 years. ding anniversary with a lun- year. Wishing you a happy and memorable They have four children; Kenneth Ho- cheon held in their honor. birthday from Mom. tubbee and Jan of McAlester, Karen Goodner and Wayne of Tuc- They were married on Au- son, Arizona, Keith Hotubbee and Dawn of Boonville, Arkansas, gust 23, 1969, at Mary Lee Happy eighth birthday and Carl Hotubbee, Albuqurque, New Mexico; 10 grandchildren

Clark Methodist Church in and three great-grandchildren. Ryan Thorne celebrated his eighth Oklahoma City with the Rev. D.D. Etchieson officiating. Kath- birthday bowling with family and friends. leen is originally from Talihina and the daughter of the late Rev. Engaged to wed His birthday was August 28. He shares his and Mrs. Forbis and Teola Durant. birthday with his late great-grandma, Ella Frankie Joy Pusley Sheffield would Their children are Kim Jackson, and Kelley Jackson and wife Murphy of Idabel. Ryan is the grandson like to announce the engagement of Melissa. Their grandchildren are Tony, 7, and Piper, 3, all of of Gene and LaHoma Crauthers of Okla- Michael Sheffield and Judy LeCoz. Muskogee. The Jacksons attend Fife Memorial United Methodist homa City. Michael and Judy live in Atlanta, Church in Muskogee. Louie is the Dean of Students at Sequoyah Georgia, and are planning for a March High School in Tahlequah. Kathleen is a paraprofessional at Se- 2010 wedding. Michael is a descen- Celebrating first birthday quoyah also. They enjoy watching Sequoyah Indian sports and dent of Lyman Pusley. Congratulations spending time with their grandbabies. Parents Gena Isom and Joey Wahkin- to you both! ney along with sisters Saphire Alexander 34th anniversary and Raven Wahkinney hosted a first birth- Cardona, Ludlow wed

day party for Lillian Jade Wahkinney. She Brandy Cardona and Terry Ludlow, Happy anniversary to turned one on August 4, 2009. Honorary both of Antlers were married in a pri- Tommy and Brenda Ivie of attendee was Great-Grandmother Roxie vate double-ring ceremony on July 18, Caney who are celebrating Tsotigh of Lawton. Also in attendance were 2009, at the groom’s brother’s home. 34 years of marriage on Oc- grandparents Vera and Kevin Wahkinney The Rev. Ernest Baker officiated the tober 25. of Lawton, Uncle Jacob Tsotigh’s family ceremony. The couple has chosen Ant- Brenda works for the of Norman, Aunt Barbara Wilson’s family of Lawton, Aunt Mar- lers as their home. Choctaw Head Start pro- gie Wahkinney’s family of Lawton, Cousin Lisa Maxey’s family gram as a coordinator. Tom- of Holdenville. Unable to attend but sending well-wishes were my is a retired truck driver. Happy 16th birthday! Mamaw Patricia Roberts of Wilbur, Oregon and Great-Granny Flora Isom of Daisy. Lily enjoyed pizza, cake, presents and sing- Christopher Allen Clarke’s mother, Look who’s having a birthday ing with family! Patricia Tom Clarke, would like to Look who is having a birthday on wish him an awesome 16th birthday! Best birthday wishes ever and hope he October 18! You guessed it – Eddy Kim celebrates birthday Kirkes. The following people are just gets everything he wants. a few who would like to wish him a Kody Washington Kaniatobe sends his happy birthday: his two beautiful mom, Kimberly, a happy birthday on Au- daughters, Morgan and Brittany of gust 1. She is the daughter of Jimmy Ray Union City; his great wife, Gloria; Washington of Idabel and Ann Kaniatobe Happy 14th birthday his wonderful niece, Charity Angel of of Durant. Happy 14th birthday to Keaton Sherman, Texas; his handsome nephew, Jeff Angel; and great- Rinehart. He turned 14 on October nephew, Casey Angel, both of Durant; his fantastic sister, Juanita 11. Happy birthday to Keaton from Angel, and brother-in-law, Ellis Angel, and last but not least his Happy second birthday his Mom, Debra, his aunts, Susan and sweet granddaughter, Randa. There are a lot more who would Lisa, and his grandpa, Joe. like to wish him happy birthday but too many to list. We hope Look who turned 2!!! Christina Prim you have a great birthday! just had a wonderful birthday last month. Best birthday wishes from Dad, Mom and Happy sixth birthday brother.

Congratulation times three for our family!! Happy sixth birthday to Julian Ibarra Jr. on October 27. Way to go on that Spencer and Linda Merryman celebrate their 50th wedding an- big 4-pound catfish caught on June 27! niversary on October 11. Spencer’s grandfather, Leo Merryman, Happy sixth birthday Happy birthday from Mom, Poppy, was on the original Dawes Rolls. For many years they made sister and baby brother. Connor Prim is turning 6. Happy Birth- their home in Washington, raising their children, Michael and day to our little Monkey from Dad, Mom Michele. and Sister. Also celebrating are Michael and Cyndi Merryman of Washing- ton, son and daughter-in-love ( we don’t say in law) of Spencer and Linda, who are celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary on Happy birthday to my family October 12th.

All were in the Phoenix, Arizona, area that weekend to share Happy 65th birthday to Ruthie Jefferson on October 5. Also their happiness as Mike and Cyndi’s son, Brandon, married fiance happy birthday to my sister, Andrea, and my brother, Jason Jef- Happy sweet 16 Roxie on October 10. Congratulations to you and may you have ferson, on October 3 and October 16 from Darrell Jefferson. many years of happiness to come from your daughter, sister and Happy sweet 16 birthday!! Courtney aunt, Michele. Happy 15th birthday Rinehart turned 16 on September 10.

Happy birthday to Courtney from her Kristianna Holder will be 15 on Happy birthday Mom, Debra; her aunts, Susan and Lisa; October 10. She has recently changed and her grandpa, Joe. Happy birthday to schools and is in the ninth grade. She our precious daughter, will have a party with some of her Rebecca, who turned friends. Happy birthday sweet 16 on September 12 and to our boys, An- Happy 41st birthday to Deborah Moore drew and Mattie. An- on October 15 from her mom, family and drew will be 3 on Octo- Happy birthday to my daughters friends. ber 24 and Mattie will

be 5 on October 28. Wishing a happy second birthday to Navia DeAnn Nedd on Oc- Happy birthday from tober 10, and happy first birthday to Carlena Sue Nedd on October your Mama and Daddy. 23 from Momma, Daddy, Tamara and Conrad. October 2009, BISHINIK, Page 6 Choctaws to Host Ivy League & Friends now have programs or special departments dedicated to attracting, mentoring and helping Native Americans succeed,” says McDaniel. “We greatly look forward to returning to the Choctaw Nation this Student Recruitment Night November 7. Last year the Nation’s hospitality was overwhelming and the turnout phenomenal,” says Steven Abbott, Associate Direc- – Meet Harvard, Yale, Dartmouth, tor for Recruitment and Student Affairs at the Harvard University Native American Program. “It’s been wonderful to see the Choctaw Columbia and more on November 7 Nation’s commitment to the education of its members – from Chief Pyle, the Scholarship Advisement Program and across the entire community,” Abbott adds. Last year the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma’s (CNO) Scholarship I highly recommend CNO college-bound students and parents The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma has always valued education. Advisement Program (SAP) hosted recruiters from Harvard Uni- take advantage of the opportunity to meet recruiters from some Today, the CNO’s Scholarship Advisement Program (less than 3 versity for a special night at CNO facilities in Durant, Oklahoma. of America’s best colleges at Ivy League and Friends Choctaw years old) has quickly evolved into an important education offer- Nearly 200 top CNO students and parents from 11 different states Student Recruitment,” says Chief Pyle. ing from the Oklahoma-based tribe with over 250,000 members took advantage of the 2008 recruiting occasion to learn more about Ivy League & Friends Choctaw Student Recruitment – the nation-wide. SAP’s mission is to focus on college preparation one of the best colleges in the nation – if not the world. Scholarship Advisement Program’s second annual recruitment and retention for CNO students. The program supports students “To say our prior year’s event was a huge success is an under- gala – will start at 6 p.m. on Saturday, November 7 at the Choctaw in high school through college and graduate school. SAP helps statement,” says Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Chief Gregory E. Event Center in Durant. Pre-registration for students and parents students in many ways – from preparing for college and choos- Pyle. “But this year our Scholarship Advisement Program has is recommended. Online registration is available at SAP’s web ing the right college to locating funding opportunities with tools worked hard to make Ivy League and Friends Choctaw Student site at www.choctawnation-sap.com/Ivy or by calling toll-free like SAP’s newly created online scholarship database with access Recruitment even more memorable and valuable for our high- 1-800-522-6170, ext. 2523. available from SAP’s Internet web site. In less than three years, achieving scholars than last year’s experience. For 2009, SAP has The nation’s premier colleges are actively seeking and recruiting enrollment in SAP’s program is close to 2,000 members and visits confirmed commitments not only from Harvard, but also from Yale, motivated Native American scholars according to SAP Program to the program’s web site (www.choctawnation-sap) exceed 1,000 Dartmouth and Columbia with even more great schools expected. Director Jo McDaniel. “Most of the leading schools in our country per month.

Choctaw Umsted wins first place with painting Nation at the 23rd Annual Red Earth Festival Janie Semple Umsted was selected awarded a first place ribbon with her painting (Batik) titled, for Partners Bear Claw Society Flag, on June 4. This year marked the 23rd Annual Red Earth Festival in Progress at the Cox Convention Center in Oklahoma City. More than Award 1,200 American Indian artists The Choctaw Nation of Okla- Pictured with the Partner for Progress Award are Pat Mc- and dancers from throughout homa Child Care Assistance Gregor, OkACTE Executive Director; Greg Pyle, Chief of the North America gathered to cel- (CCA) program and South- Choctaw Nation; Dr. Ken English, Choctaw Nation Career ebrate the richness and diversity eastern Kiamichi Technology Development Program Executive Director; Eddie Coleman, of their heritage with the world. Centers recently honored the KTC Superintendent; and Shelley Free, KTC Deputy Super- For three days Oklahoma City Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma intendent. was the center of Native Ameri- with the Oklahoma Association can art and culture in America. of Technology Centers’ prestigious Partners in Progress Award. Through the years Red Earth The award was presented to the Choctaw Nation for its contribution to the development, promo- has matured into one of the most Janie Semple Umsted of Durant wins first place with her tion, and progress of Oklahoma’s CareerTech system during the 42nd Annual Career and Technology respected visual and performing painting “Bear Claw Society” at Red Earth. Education Summer Conference held August 4-6 at the Cox Convention Center in Oklahoma City. arts events of its type-setting the The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma is a partner with Kiamichi Technology Centers in the truest standard for many of today’s ciety Flag. Umsted has been piece. The final step involves sense. The Choctaw Nation is situated within the 13 counties that the Kiamichi Technology Centers’ American Indian art shows held working in batik for over 40 removing the wax using heat District serves. As a Partner in Progress, the Choctaw Nation’s many organizational units contribute throughout the nation. The Art years, since her undergraduate and then the artwork becomes to economic development at the highest level. The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma operates businesses Show is juried and those artists days at the University of Okla- pliable and flattened for dry involved in entertainment, health care, manufacturing, defense contracting and the service industry. whose works are accepted go homa, and she has consistently mounting and framing. The Choctaw Nation’s Career Development Program has contributed over $400,000 in educational on to compete for recognition won recognition at art shows Umsted earned a BFA in Art benefits for students and educational entities, including Kiamichi Technology Centers. Other benefits and cash awards. for her work in this difficult-to- from the University of Okla- the Choctaw Nation provides include, but are not limited to, vocational education, health services, Umsted is an artist who has control medium. It is an ancient homa in 1969 and a ME from social services, and a wide variety of employment opportunities within the southeastern part of Okla- spent a lifetime working in a method of using melted wax Southeastern Oklahoma State homa. The Choctaw Nation participates and encourages its members to get involved in community variety of media which includes to paint shapes and lines onto University in 1989. She has services and promoting a green environment to preserve its presence in our state. oils, acrylics, sculpture and fabric, thereby blocking those recently retired from teaching Kiamichi Technology Centers proudly recognizes the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma as its 2009 the ancient media, batik. She areas from the dye. In steps, art at the Durant Middle School Partner in Progress and looks forward to working with the Choctaw Nation today, tomorrow, and is a descendent of two Choc- using one color of dye at a time, and she also served as the Di- in the distant future to accomplish their mission and ours: to build self-worth and ensure economic taw Chiefs, Peter Pitchlynn she meticulously develops an rector of Alumni and Public prosperity for the citizens of Southeastern Oklahoma. (great-great-great-grandfather) unusual design. Once applied, Relations at Southeastern from and William F. Semple (great- the wax holds each particular 1990 until 2000. Currently uncle), and her art exudes the shape as the dye is introduced. she is a professional artist and spirit of her Native American The last color added is usually owner (with Alvina Ralls) of heritage. She works in such one of a very dark value such as the Indian Territory Art Gallery varied media and technique black that permeates the entire in Durant. Choctaw Nation that often her work eludes the observer as to which style is receives Employer singularly hers. Emphasis on vibrant color and dramatic Southeastern Oklahoma Excellence award design is perhaps the dominant The Enlisted Association National Guard of element of her work. These Indian Credit Association the United States (EANGUS) recently honored qualities consistently perme- the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma with the Al ate all aspects of her art. She The Southeastern Oklahoma Indian Credit Association offers Schneider Memorial Award for Employer Ex- has won many awards at the small business, home, home improvement and agriculture loans. cellence at their annual conference in Rochester, Annual Choctaw Art Show at To be eligible to apply, a person must reside within the 10 1/2 Minnesota. Choctaw Nation employee Seth Tushka Homma. county service area of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and Fairchild traveled to Rochester to accept the award for Choctaw Nation. The winning painting was must possess a Certificate of Degree of Indian Blood (CDIB) The award was named on behalf of A. J. Schneider, the founder of Schneider National Inc., the created using the medium of from a federally recognized tribe. leading provider of premium truckload and intermodal services. Mr. A.J. Schneider started Schneider batik. It depicts a hand sewn For more information, please contact Susan Edwards at 580- National, a corporate sponsor of EANGUS, in Green Bay, Wisconsin, in 1935. The award is presented flag called the Bear Claw So- 924-8280 or toll-free 800-522-6170. to an employer who has demonstrated outstanding support to the enlisted men and women of the National Guard and Reserves. The company must have contributed and demonstrated outstanding support to the enlisted men and women of the National Guard and Reserves. In 1996, the Defense Department recognized Schneider National with the first-ever Employer Support Freedom Award and for its continued support program for their employees deployed to the Choctaw Nation Bosnia region. Distance Learning Technology GED Classes Tribe teams Beginning up with October 19, 2009 Mondays, Tuesdays Southeastern and Thursdays 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Choctaw Nation Child Care Community Centers in Bethel, Smithville Resource and Wright City and Referral Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Child Care Assistance (CCA) program and Southeastern Child Martha Childs gets ready to conduct Adult Education Classes 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) are teaming up to provide a resource library that will be avail- over One-Net Distance Learning. Monitors have been set up at the Choctaw Nation able child care providers, parents, and the community in an 11-county area. This new library will be in Choctaw Nation Community Centers in Atoka, Bethel, Community Centers housed in the Southeastern CCR&R office in the University Center on the Southeastern Oklahoma Coalgate, Smithville, Talihina and Wright City so students in these rural areas will have an opportunity to take the classes in Atoka, Coalgate State University campus. It will be equipped and staffed (a part-time position) through financial and earn a GED. and Talihina resources provided by the Choctaw Nation. Making collaboration official were, front row, Choctaw Nation Assistant Chief Gary Batton, Southeastern President Larry Minks, and back row, Southeast- Distance Learning GED classes are now available at the above locations to students in the Choctaw Nation. An experi- enced GED teacher will instruct you, using the One-Net Distance Learning Technology. Distance Learning allows students ern Executive Assistant to the President Michele Claxton, Choctaw Nation Child Care Assistance and teacher to see and hear each other on large monitors. You will be able to interact with the teacher as she helps you Director Marilyn Williams, Southeastern CCR&R Coordinator Stephanie Makke, and Durant Smart prepare to take the GED test. Books, supplies and testing fees are provided. The class will meet 3 days each week for ap- proximately 9 weeks. A CDIB (Certificate of Degree of Indian Blood) is required. For more information please contact Neal Start Director Heather Smiley. Hawkins or Kathy Springfield, Choctaw Nation Adult Education, 800-522-6170 or 580-924-8280, ext. 2319 or 2122. October 2009, BISHINIK, Page 7 Choctaw Nation, Hartshorne Schools partner for student achievement Choctaw Nation By Sue Phillips, Hartshorne Sun Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Councilman Bob Pate presented Book Store Hartshorne Public Schools Superintendent Mark Ichord a check from the tribe, applauding the positive impact Hartshorne Public Schools has on their students. Superintendent Ichord stated the funds will serve Hartshorne NEW!!! students to support good behavior and honor roll trips, perfect attendance awards, and student achievement awards earned birthday throughout the school year. and “We realize that schools can be the best chance, if not the only, all occasion some of our students will have to reach their full potential,” Chief Gregory E. Pyle says. cards The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and Hartshorne Public at the Schools encourage achievement for all students. The STAR Gary Grubbs, Hartshorne High School Counselor; Bob program funds will be deposited directly into Hartshorne’s choctaw nation Pate, Choctaw Nation Tribal Council Member; Mark Ichord, student activity account. The money will be allocated for stu- book store! Hartshorne P.S. Superintendent; and Jason Campbell, Deputy dent services and instruction as equitably as possible across all Director STAR program. student groups. A one-of-a-kind card has just be- come available through the Choctaw Happy Birthday - $2 each Book Store. The front of the card University of Tulsa features artwork by Norma partners with Students benefit from good relationship Howard, noted Choctaw artist, and includes greetings in the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Councilman Ted Choctaw Nation Choctaw Nation language. Dosh, right, presents a check to Dr. Jason Simeroth, Inside the card is a Bible verse to boost Native Superintendent of Durant Schools, to be deposited written in both Choctaw and in the school district’s student activity account. American college English. Cards are sold as a Funds are being distributed throughout the Choc- single card and envelope for success rates taw Nation based on the amount of students in the Happy Birthday Moon - $2 each $2 each. district and on what percentage are Choctaw tribal Two Oklahoma institu- members. Thirty percent of Durant’s enrollment is tions – The University of Native American. Tulsa (TU) and the Choctaw “We realize that schools can be the best chance, Nation of Oklahoma (CNO) if not the only, some of our students will have to – are joining forces to help reach their full potential,” Chief Gregory E. Pyle Oklahoma Native Americans says. “We congratulate you on the successes and achieve their higher educa- on the positive impact you have on the students in the Durant School District.” tion goals. “I have been here for a little over a year,” said Simeroth, “and I am impressed with the partnership The partnership focuses between the school system and the Choctaw Nation. It is rare.” on long-term, sustainable Dosh agreed, stating that the Choctaw Nation also has a good relationship with the city and county, progress in the CNO mem- taking part in many joint ventures such as the new Emergency Response Center on Enterprise Bou- bers’ academic achievement levard. -- reversing a national trend Jason Carmpbell commended Superintendent Simeroth on the amount of students earning awards in Native American college through the tribe’s STAR program, saying this is a reflection of the hard work of teachers and staff. The dropout rates. Through finan- STAR program is only one example of the many partnerships to benefit the youth in our communities. cial, academic and advisory Memories Each: $2 support, TU and CNO will Merry Christmas work together to overcome 20-pack: $20; each: $1.50 barriers to academic success. Austin chosen to participate “We know the desire to in elite football academy attend college and earn a Clark Austin, a freshman at Talihina Junior High, degree is strong among was chosen by the coaches at the Choctaw Nation CNO’s top student scholars,” Football Camp to participate in the Day of Champi- said Chief Gregory E. Pyle. ons Elite Running Backs Academy. Only 12 young “With this partnership, we Yakoke men were invited from other camps held by the Thank You now have a holistic approach Day of Champion staff and Clark was fortunate to to helping our students cross be one of those young men. The young men were SALE! that academic finish line.” chosen not solely on performance but also personal 20-pack only $12 A key aspect of the TU/ character such as respect, hard work, discipline, trust CNO partnership is early in- and good sportsmanship. volvement with students and Clark had the opportunity to receive one-on-one Clark Austin and Coach Earl Mosely. parents. TU will reach out to Order now instruction from a staff with collegiate and profes- students as early as the eighth sional football coaching experience. Two of the instructors at the Elite Running Backs Academy were for the or ninth grade through CNO Get Well Coach Ken Heupel, father to former University of Oklahoma quarterback Josh Heupel, and Coach Earl Each: $1.50 workshops, college prepara- Mosely, who had coached former Pittsburg Steelers great Jerome Bettis. Holidays! tion testing and school visits. Clark is the son of Jack and Philisha Austin and the grandson of Councilman Jack Austin Sr. and TU also will act as a resource Norma Austin and Phillip and June Sharp. Contact the Choctaw Nation Book Store for the CNO Scholarship Ad- visement Program on issues Clark and his family would like to thank Chief Pyle, Assistant Chief Batton and the Choctaw Na- now to place your order! related to college admission tion Tribal Council for their commitment to the youth of Choctaw Nation and the opportunities they By phone: 800-522-6170, ext. 5148 and financial aid. provide for them. or toll-free 888-932-9199. While the number of Web site: www.choctawschool.com. Native Americans enrolled in colleges and universities Choctaw Nation GED Classes Cards will be available for purchase has more than doubled in BRYAN COUNTY LATIMER McCURTAIN NORTH LEFLORE at the Choctaw Nation Labor Day Festival. the past 30 years, graduation Beginning date and time: COUNTY COUNTY COUNTY rates have remained low. The Nov. 17, 2009 Beginning date and time: Beginning date and time: Beginning date and time: Please send the following quantities: National Center for Educa- Tuesdays and Nov. 16, 2009 Nov. 16, 2009 Nov. 17, 2009 tion Statistics reports that 44 Thursdays Mondays and Mondays and Tuesdays and ____Christmas card – Single ($1.50 each percent of American Indians 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesdays Wednesdays Thursdays age 25 or older had at- ____Christmas card – 20-pack ($20 each) Choctaw Nation 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. tended some college in 2007; Tribal Complex Choctaw Nation SOSU McCurtain Choctaw Nation ____Memories card – Single ($2) however, only nine percent South building, Community Center County Campus, Family of that group had earned a ____Happy Birthday card – Single ($2) downstairs 515 Center Point Rd. Idabel, Okla. Investment Center bachelor’s degree as their Durant, Okla. Wilburton, Okla. Poteau, Okla. ____Happy Birthday Moon card – Single ($2) highest level of educational attainment. The class will meet 2 days each week for approximately 13 weeks. Books, supplies and testing fees are ____Get Well card – Single ($1.50) provided. In addition, a $10 (per day) transportation stipend is paid to those who attend classes on a regular “As an educational leader ____Yakoke card – Sale Price – 20-pack ($12) in Oklahoma, TU has a basis and attempt the GED test. If you have turned in an application with our adult Education Program for responsibility to address GED classes and wish to attend the upcoming class, please contact our office. If you have not applied a troubling dropout trend and wish to attend these or future classes, please contact Neal Hawkins or Kathy Springfield at the Durant Ship to: among Native American office, 800-522-6170 or 580-924-8280, ext. 2319. Also, you may register at the first class. A Certificate of populations,” said TU Presi- Degree of Indian Blood (CDIB) is required. Name______dent Steadman Upham. “Our Address______partnership with the Choc- CHOCTAW NATION VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION taw Nation will create new City/State/Zip______opportunities for deserving students, while also making Country______a meaningful impact within November 2009 E-mail______Oklahoma.” The TU/CNO partnership Phone #______also will provide the follow- S u n Mo n T u e W e d T hu F r i S at ing: Please send check or money order to • a four-year scholarship A Vocational Choctaw Nation Book Store to eligible entering freshmen 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Rehab P.O. Box 1210, Durant, OK 74702-1210 and transfers who are mem- Talihina representa- www.choctawschool.com • www.choctawnation.com bers of Choctaw Nation tive will be 10:00-2:00 • additional assistance in available If paying with a credit card: seeking outside scholarships at the 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 for Choctaw students locations Antlers Durant Idabel • free tutoring for all Choc- listed. By Appt. 10:00-2:00 10:00-2:00 Charge my: ______taw students A repre- sentative is • support for the growth 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 Card #______available of the TU Native American Poteau Atoka McAlester Crowder Broken Bow __ Student Association to enrich Monday through Fri- 11:30-1:00 10:00-2:00 10:00-2:00 By Appt. 10:00-2:00 Expiration date: ______campus diversity and cultural day 8-4:30 Coalgate Stigler education except for 10:30-1:30 By Appt. • an annual CNO event holidays at 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 Signature: ______hosted by TU for tribal lead- Phone: 1-877-285-6893the Hugo Wilburton Wright City Holiday Holiday ers and students with a focusFax: 580-326-3087 office. 10:30-2:00 & Bethel By Telephone # ______on leadership E-mail: Appt. For more information,[email protected] con- 29 30 tact the TU Admission office Book Store hours: at 918-631-2307, or email [email protected]. Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. October 2009, BISHINIK, Page 8 2009 Labor Day Festival Photo Gallery

Youth dancers on the lawn.

New invention - a Panjo (made like a banjo, but with a baking pan). Terrry Bullard of Fort Worth, Texas, is playing the instrument. Reece Harod is the inventor.

Ruth McMil- lian, daughter of Code Talker Tobias Frazier.

Speaker Delton Cox and Chief Gregory E. Pyle enjoy a social dance in the village.

Mellissa and Mia Reich join the pow wow’s Grand Entry.

A group of Mississippi Choctaw elders travel to the Labor Day Festival in After making a trip to the Green Booth with Oklahoma. The joined in dancing in the village. empty cans and bottles, Joyce and Jim Lankford were rewarded for their environmentally conscious efforts with free T-shirts proclaiming the motto “sustaining our people, our tradition, our earth.”

Tough, Tough Choctaw winners: Tim Underwood, Fighting Horseshoes – Women’s Ringer Horseshoes – Men’s Ringer Champ: Darlene Noahubi holds grandson Bryce Parson. Heart Award; Matt Adams, first; and Chad Arnold, second. Champ: Phyllis Bohanan. Bunky Impson.

Horseshoes – Men’s doubles: first, Bunky Impson and Danny Horseshoes – Men’s doubles: second, Samuel and Charles Elk. Horseshoes – Men’s doubles: third, Micky and Donald Qualls. Adams.

Horseshoes – Men’s singles: Chad Ritter, second; Mickey Qualls, Horseshoes – Women’s singles: Phyllis Bohanan, second; Tif- Horseshoes – Youth singles: Rayburn Taylor, second (also first; Wilson Oosahwee, third. fanie Bohanan, first; Susan Pittman, third. ringer champ); Keegan Bohanan, first; and Chipper Jones, third.

Horseshoes – Womens doubles: first, Phyllis Bohanan and Ava Horseshoes – Women doubles: second, Sequina Taylor and Horseshoes – Womens doubles: third, Susan Pittman and Vangie Hilton. Tiffanie Bohanan. Robinson. October 2009, BISHINIK, Page 9

Don Tsosie was honored with a jacket for his participation in all 10 years of the Labor Day Basketball Tournament. His good sportsmanship over the Chief Pyle and Assistant Chief Batton are pictured with Choctaw Princesses from Oklahoma and years has been greatly appreci- California. ated.

Assistant Chief Gary Batton tosses the first ball to begin stick- ball play.

Boys Free Throw, age 6-9, 1st: Jaylen Dixon; 2nd: Josh Jones; Boys Free Throw, age 10-12, 1st: Rylee Barton; 2nd: Sean 3rd: Kyle Passmore. Cooper; 3rd: Bryce Brister.

Carol Ayers with granddaughters Amelia and Elora.

Boys Free Throw, age 13-15, 1st: Jacob Ross; 2nd: Kaleb Jones; Boys Free Throw, age 16-18, 1st: Kyle McKinney; 2nd: Keylan 3rd: Braxton Barton. Milam; 3rd: Cade Clay.

Phoebe Allrunner came all the way from Albuquerque to join in the Labor Day festivities

Three-on-three basketball 13 and under: Unstoppables, Jacob Men’s 3 pt winner: Kevin Ross, Micaela Curtman, Stormy Taylor, Braxton Barton, Taylor Women’s 3 pt winner: Kayla Kaseca. Pickett. Burns.

Assistant Chief Gary Batton is presented with a plaque at the annual Choctaw Code Talkers Association Meeting. He is one of six who received recognition for their dedication in urging Con- gress to recognize Native American Code Talkers in World War I and II. Also awarded are Chief Gregory E. Pyle, Judy Allen, John Jackson, Brian McClain and Shannon McDaniel.

Three-on-three basketball 14-18 – 1st: Calera, Kenny Walker, Three-on-three basketball 18-35 men: Cauthron, Tyrone Willis, Cameron Tennison, Jordan Bacon, Austin Hartman, Ben Robison. Jimmy Cauthron, Jonathon Nunn, Steven Willi.

Three-on-three basketball, third, Derek Penz, Kannon Dry, Alex Steve and Gabriel Louis. Three-on-three basketball men 36 and up: SE Ballers, Don Tsosie, Darrell Burris, Bobby Gordon and Mike Converse. Cecil Spring, 94, is the oldest in attendance at the Monday morning activities.

Chief Pyle hands the keys to a fire-engine red 2009 GMC Sierra Sandra Byington of Broken Bow goes home with the midnight pickup to door prize winner Cindy Robinson of Boswell. blue 2009 GMC Sierra. Olin and Bernice Williams and granddaughter. October 2009, BISHINIK, Page 10 2009 Labor Day Festival Photo Gallery

Heritage Award, “Shukha Nipi,” Lyman Choate Art Show Pottery: First, “Opa,” Verna Todd Winners Second, “Nakni,” Verna Todd Best of Show: Third, “Watervase,” Edmon Perkins Chief Pyle is honored by gourd dancers. “Bloodlines” – Gwen Coleman Jr. Lester Heritage Award, “Vllanaknil,” Verna Todd Paintings: First, “Shawl Dancer,” Kathy Basketry: Sturch First, “Nona’s Arrowhead,” Eliza- Second, “Silence of the Storm,” beth Mitchell Vicki Earthman Second, “The Spirit of BlackJack Third, “Blanket of Hope,” Kathy Mountain,” Susan Locke Charlesworth Sturch Third, “Road Warrior,” Elizabeth Honorable Mention, “Darkness of Mitchell Night,” Sandy Sliger Honorable Mention, “Flying Eagle,” Heritage Award, “Bloodlines,” Susan Locke Charlesworth Gwen Coleman Lester Heritage Award, “Choctaw Heart Basket,” Susan Locke Charlesworth Graphics: First, “The Blessing,” Gwen Cole- Cultural: man Lester First, “A Gift for Andrew Jackson,” Second, “Evening Meeting,” Jane Robert Procter Best of Show at Art Show - Gwen Coleman- Olin Williams officiates the Choctaw wedding of Angel Young- Semple Umsted Second, “Amanda Hudson – My Lester with “Bloodlines” blood and Tommy Reese, both of Stringtown. Third, “Junior Miss Buckskin,” Choctaw Heritage,” Chester Cowen D.G. Smalling Third, “Limelight,” Kimberly Battiest Honorable Mention, “Rustic Falls,” Sandy Sliger Honorable Mention, “Yannash – Alepa Buffalo Drum,” John Heritage Award, “Buffalo Tribute,” Paul King H. Johnson White

Sculpture: Jewelry: First, “Eagle Dancer,” Lymon Choate First, “Stonewear Beaded Necklace,” Mike Ralls Second, “Shukha Nipi,” Lyman Choate Second, “Bracelet, Ring Set,” Jerry Lowman Third, ‘My Name is Beast,” Rebekah Ulm Third, “Stoneware Beaded Bracelet,” Mike Ralls Honorable Mention, “Floral Vine,” Laura Kavanaugh Honorable Mention, “Stickball Ring,” Jerry Lowman

Terrapin races – Age 8-12: first, Bobby Chamblain; second, Jonathan Delcid; third, Jandra Levi. Age 3-7: first, Zackery Plumber; second, Quartermain Briggs; third, Kaylee Pate.

Tom Brennan of Poteau is Ana Hollan of Mena, Ar- Checker tournament – Tom Williams, second, and Jason Baker, overall winner in 5k men’s kansas, is overall winner in 5k first. division. women’s division.

Best Dressed Terrapin – Age 3-7: Addison Wesley; Age 8-12: Jandra Levi. The winners are pictured with Councilman Joe Coley, Councilman Perry Thompson, Councilman Jack Austin, and Bos- well Mayor Buck Eastwood.

We made it! Assistant Chief Batton and Councilman Anthony Youth checkers – Logan Amos, second, and Matthew Colum- Dillard cross the 5k finish line. bus, first.

Volleyball tournament – first, Dog Soldiers. Choctaw Nation Fast Pitch Softball Tournaments: – Women – First: Ohoyahoma; Sec- ond: Heat; Third: Chahtas. – Men – First: Indian Boys; Sec- ond: Psycho; Third: Next Jackson Tulley. Domino tournament – Jose Granados, second, Youth dominoes – Caleb Sullivan, second, and Storyteller Tim Tingle. of Kin; Fourth: Thunder. and Mike Baker, first. Heaven Williams, first.

Boy Scout Troop 114 of Carrollton, Texas, spend the weekend at the festival to earn their American Dancers circle newlyweds Matthew and Janet Billy Sam of Wilburton. Indian Heritage badge. October 2009, BISHINIK, Page 11 Rare Choctaw ponies losing home, in need of adoption In a dark meadow illuminated only by the moon and stars, the ful horse, like the roans, paints, and appaloosas, paper-faced and Colonial Spanish Mustangs commonly referred to as Choctaw po- stocking-legged. nies, started to move out of the surrounding brush to come eat the As a means to control Indian tribes the government called for feed that Bryant Rickman laid on the ground. Touring the Rickman a mass extermination of the Choctaw ponies, which the Indians ranch most of the afternoon and into the evening, the small herd prized and depended upon. Unknown to the government, there have come to eat. They have allowed human contact and photo- were Native American families secretly preserving the bloodline. graphs to be taken of them, but these horses would not allow hu- These individuals were the Locke, Carter, Thurman, Crisp and man contact because they are the newest ones to be “rescued” from Brame families the mountain. They are still unsure of humans and most humans Gilbert Jones, a longtime advocate for preserving the lives of would be a little unsure of them. But no one can deny what an in- the Choctaw ponies passed away in 2000 at the age of 93. Before credible part these timid creatures played in Native American life. his death he passed his conservation work to Oklahoman Bryant In 1540, De Soto introduced the Choctaw people to the horse Rickman and his wife, Darlene. Bryant is a retired FFA advisor that later became a strain of the Spanish Mustangs that are today’s and Voc-Ag teacher. Currently, the horses are grazing on land Choctaw ponies. Native Americans, never having seen a horse, leased by ranchers from the lumber companies. Now the lumber referred to the mustangs, as “Spirit Dogs” and the spirit dogs be- companies are reclaiming their land and want the horses moved. came a major part of the tribes’ culture and spirituality. The ponies These rare horses are losing the land where they have lived for revolutionized and enriched the Native Americans life. They were decades, and some will lose their lives. Rickman is moving the fast and could endure long distance with the roughest and rockiest mild temperaments, rather light in build, highly intelligent, hearty horses from the paper company’s land to his own farm and sur- of terrain, unshod. They could also survive on a diet that would and sure-footed with good legs. It is these traits that allowed these rounding neighbor’s land. But he is in need of assistance. He must kill other breeds of horses. horses to survive the hilly, rocky conditions that they live in now. catch them, quarantine them and only then are they able to be The ponies served many purposes. The ponies were used for The tribesmen became exceptional horsemen with their breed- moved to other property. hunting and gathering of food, carrying people and their belong- ing techniques and horsemanship skills. They also became formi- If you would like to help the SW Spanish Mustang Association ings as they traveled to Indian Territory during the government’s dable warriors and hunters that the white man came to fear. The with adopting a horse, buying a horse or a donation, you are able imposed “relocation.” They helped to clear the Choctaw’s newly breeding skills used by the Choctaws to develop their strain of to contact Bryant Rickman at PO Box 948, Antlers, OK 74523 or allotted lands. Traits of the Choctaw ponies are short strong backs, horse still remains a mystery. The Choctaws preferred a color- call 580-743-1991.

Jones Academy All-Boys School Alisha Picone attends Annual Reunion leadership conference We encourage all the Jones Jones Academy student Alisha Picone boys who attended Jones enjoyed her six-day National Leaders Academy through the year Conference on Discover Medicine and 1954 to come and join us Science at Johns Hopkins University, in October 17 for our annual Baltimore, Maryland, and Washington reunion. Wives/escorts are D.C., during July 2009. welcome. Registration is at 10 Alisha was nominated by her Harts- a.m. in the gymnasium. horne-Buzidragis Junior High School’s Activities last all day, clos- Gifted and Talented sponsor to attend ing with the school’s annual an Invitational Leadership Conference gospel singing. All alumni and through L.E.A.D. America. L.E.A.D. is visitors are welcome. an advanced and enriched curriculum held for our world’s most For more information, promising and outstanding middle school students. Selection to the please call Jimmy Bruner, conference is based on academic record, extracurricular activities Antlers, 580-298-3136. and community involvement. Miss Oklahoma Taylor Treat poses with the Learn and Serve Committee of Jones Academy. This inquiry-based program was designed to challenge middle Pictured are Dakota Voice, Oraceli Ortiz, (front) Mariella Chatkehoodle, (back) Lucinda Roberts, school students with hands-on activities in the areas of health sci- Gospel Singing Desma Valdez, Daisica Rice, Jazlynn Bernal, Tyler Dressman, Maranda Rosiere, Alan Harjo, and ence, general science, and in the development of leadership skills. Jeremy Herrington. Topics included such titles as What is Science?, The Scientific The First Indian Baptist Method, What is a Hypothesis?, Critical Thinking, and Introduc- Church is holding its annual tion to Health Science and Forensic Science. The curriculum was Gospel Singing on October delivered through college-style lectures with laboratory activities, 24. Supper is at 5:30 p.m., Judy Picone earns scholarship large and small discussion groups, and focused activities designed singing begins at 7 p.m. MC is Judy Picone, a 2009 Jones Academy/Hartshorne High School graduate, to enhance understanding of each area. Alisha was allowed to use Joe Coley. was recently awarded second place in the Choctaw Nation Youth Advisory her own powers of deduction to achieve suitable conclusions for Everyone is welcome to at- Board scholarship of $250. To earn this scholarship Judy was required to each designed scenario and then expressed her formulated outcome tend. The First Indian Baptist complete an essay about her future college plans. with concrete data and logic. Church is located at 608 W. Judy has also received the Presidential Leadership Class Award, which Other academic activities included a presentation of blood Tyler in McAlester. covers resident tuition at Southeastern Oklahoma State University. She pressure cuff/vital signs, preparation of and final case study is an English Major at SOSU in Durant and has goals of becoming an presentations, scientific method laboratory, and bone anatomy/ 65th Birthday English professor. Judy would like to thank her support team: God, fam- bone mending seminar using foam bone for hands-on experience. ily, friends, Jones Academy, and the Choctaw Nation for helping her begin her college journey and Finally, they enjoyed interacting with staff at the John Hopkins Gospel Singing realize her dreams. A very special thanks goes to David Sanchez who works for Jones Academy. Emergency Response Organization (HERO) EMT training work- He is very instrumental in getting students ready for college in the way of ACT testing preparations shops. The workshops included training in CPR and basic first A 65th Birthday Gospel and never-ending motivation. aid. Offsite visits also included Johns Hopkins University, the Singing for Henry Battiest will Judy is the daughter of Vincent and Sherry Picone and the granddaughter of Wayne and Nora Scott National Library of Medicine, the Maryland Science Center, the be October 31 at St. Matthew of Panola, Oklahoma, and Alex and Judy Picone of Kansas City, Missouri. Smithsonian National Museum of American History, Union Sta- Presbyterian Church. The tion, and the Baltimore Inner Harbor. singing will start at 7 p.m., Alisha is exploring the medical and science fields as a career featuring a surprise special and has aspirations of becoming a pediatrician. Talihina Hospital group as well as local groups. Health screenings Nurse Practitioner Joann Rosenberger has served as an inspiration Everyone is invited to attend. offered at and model to Alisha. On her visits to the hospital, Ms. Rosenberger has always been pleasant, informative, and genuinely interested in Jones Academy Alisha as a patient and a person. She has also offered insight into Wilson Reunion Students at Jones Academy Alisha’s dreams of becoming a doctor. Descendants of Hugo Wil- receive health screenings dur- To family, friends, and Jones Academy: Thank you for all your son will be having a reunion ing the school year. These support in helping Alisha to explore the possibility of becoming at 1 p.m. November 21 at Es- services include a physical a pediatrician. Through her explorations, she gains insight and trella Mountain Regional Park exam and screenings for dental, becomes more focused on her education so that she can achieve in Goodyear, Arizona. For eyes, and hearing. First-grader her dream. information contact Cassandra Jordan Hayes from Platt City, Alisha is the daughter of Vincent and Sherry Picone and the Celaya at 623-221-4338 or MO is pictured taking an eye granddaughter of Wayne and Nora Scott of Panola, Oklahoma, Deanna at 623-849-8103. exam. He had perfect vision! and Alex and Judy Picone of Kansas City, Missouri.

Choctaw Defense Choctaw Nation Continued from Page 1 memorial tremendous achievement that out of 600 companies, Choc- brick sidewalk taw Defense, Tracker Marine Wheelock Academy Group, Wilco Machine & Fab and Acme Engineering and Museum & Gift Shop Manufacturing were selected to be recognized. Alumni/Families/Friends Choctaw Defense is proud of Wheelock Academy of the prosperity the growing It’s not too late to purchase your Memorial company brings to Southeast- Wheelock Brick for the Memorial Walk in and around ern Oklahoma. More than 140 Wheelock Academy. Come look and see how nice they look. good jobs are being created Heritage Festival For tax deduction make check payable to: and that’s vitally important Sponsored by CHAHTA Foundation these days. “Under the leader- McCurtain County Historical Society Wheelock Academy ship of Chief Gregory Pyle and the Tribal Council, we’ve been or stop by Saturday, November 7 Wheelock Academy able to grow into a world-class 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. manufacturer and have made a Museum & Gift Shop name for ourselves in all parts on the Wheelock Grounds on Hwy. 70 East, of the world,” says CEO Steve Millerton, Oklahoma Millerton, Oklahoma, and while there ... Benefield. More than anything, Traditional Games Choctaw Defense is proud visit our gift shop and see the assort- of the efforts in supporting Food, Demonstrations, ment of gift ideas on hand! America and its soldiers. “For Singing, Dancing, Preaching, – [email protected] – us, profit is secondary when Alumni Recognition/Awards Open Monday thru it comes to supporting our – Vendors welcome – Friday 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. troops,” Benefield concludes. For more information 580-746-2139 “We’re happy to make a differ- call Kenny Sivard 580-212-3639 ence in our community, in our or Barbara Grant at 580-746-2139 state, and in our country.” October 2009, BISHINIK, Page 12 obituaries

Ida Taylor Henry ‘Chief’ Davis Ottis Wesley Ida Taylor, 100, passed away on Henry Thompson Davis, fondly known as “Chief,” passed away Ottis Wesley, 79, passed away on September 2, 2009, in Sobol. She was on September 10, 2009. He was born February 1, 1932, in Slim, September 2, 2009, in Lawton. He was born July 5, 1909, in Rufe to Joseph Oklahoma, to Patterson Davis and Lizzie Thompson Willie. born September 24, 1929, in Benning- and Eliza Loman Wesley. Chief moved to this area from Pauls Valley about 40 years ago. ton to Bennett and Anna Brokeshoulder Ida married John Taylor on Octo- He worked at Baggett Motors and Tri-County Autoplex for 30 Wesley. ber 6, 1928, in Choctaw County. She years before retirement. He was baptized at Pickens Missionary Our favorite memories of Ottis are was a wonderful wife and mother who Baptist Church and enjoyed fishing in his spare time. He was al- of him wearing overalls with a carpen- enjoyed taking care of her family and ways a fantastic mechanic who loved to work on cars. His smile ter pencil and wrenches in his pockets raising her grandchildren. and jokes could light up the world. and car grease and oil all over them. Ida was preceded in death by her Chief was preceded in death by his parents; one daughter, Mary He taught his family when they were husband; her parents; one son, Elton Davis; and one sister, Nary Willie. young how to sing gospel music in parts Taylor; step-daughter, Ruby Billy; sisters, Elma Wesley and Chief is survived by two sons, Henry Davis Jr. and wife Kathey and with harmony, and this carried on Elizabeth Wesley; brothers, David Wesley, James Wesley, and of Oklahoma City, Donald Wayne Davis and wife Renee of Fair- all his life as his family continues to sing. We will remember him Jackson Wesley; 11 grandsons, and four granddaughters. view; one daughter, Katherine Bonitz and husband Larry of Okla- standing behind the kids at singings and whispering to each one of She is survived by two sons, Edgar Taylor Sr. and wife Hazel, homa City; six grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and one them that he loved them and to remember who they were singing and Wilson Taylor Sr., both of Goodwater; one daughter, Jeffie great-great grandchild; an ex-wife, Joann Micheli of Fort Towson; about. Ottis married Joy Vaughn on September 1, 1957 in Las Ve- Gibson of Goodwater; 33 grandchildren; 118 great-grandchil- three brothers, Joe Davis and wife Madeline of Shawnee, Alex Da- gas, Nevada. Early in their marriage Ottis gave his life to the Lord. dren; 178 great-great-grandchildren; and 23 great-great-great- vis and James Davis, both of Oklahoma City; one sister: Josephine He graduated from Baptist Bible College in Springfield, Missouri. grandchildren; as well as many other relatives and friends. Gonzales of Albuquerque, New Mexico; a host of nieces, neph- He preached in California, Missouri and Oklahoma and later be- ews, cousins, and friends. came a missionary to the Choctaws in Mississippi. Ottis worked Ada Martyne Woods Hayden Caudell in construction all his life. Ottis’s hobbies included working on cars and doing carpentry. He loved music and watching his family Ada Martyne Woods Hayden Harold Caddell sing. Ottis enjoyed reading and watching old cowboy movies, but Caudell, 90, of Tuskahoma passed he enjoyed most spending time with his family. away on September 10, 2009. She was Harold Caddell, 84, passed away He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Tim Wesley born September 24, 1918, in Hugo to on August 4, 2009. He was born De- and sister, Wynoka Ann Wesley. Geraldine Nelson and Martin Woods, cember 10, 1924, in Dallas, Texas, to He is survived by his wife; sons, Mark Wesley and wife Shelly their only child. Harold and Annie Caddell, an original of Durant, Daniel Wesley and wife Cynthia, Philip Wesley and She attended various schools, in- enrollee. wife Neta “Bug,” all of Durant; daughter, Linda Powell and hus- cluding a convent school where she Harold had a long military history band Jeffery of Lawton; grandchildren, LeiAnn Palmer and hus- learned of the Catholic faith. At the as he had joined the Coast Guard at band Daniel, Jennifer Lang and husband Ryan, all of Lawton, age of 18, she converted to Catholi- the age of 17 during WWII and also Lacey Wesley, Paul Wesley and wife Candice, Deidre Wesley and cism, then attended Oklahoma A&M, served in the Korean War. He was sta- fiancée’ Colby Inselman, Amanda Wesley, Scottie Wesley, Joshua now Oklahoma State University, for a tioned on the Aleutian Islands, Alaska Wesley, Leslie Drennan, all of Durant, Matthew Wesley of St. fine arts degree in Drama and Music. While there she entered and Nolokai, Hawaii. He served on the Louis, Missouri, Katy Wesley of Colorado, Texas, Stuart Dren- and won the Miss Oklahoma contest in 1940. She went on to CGC Blackthorn, USCGC Clover, CGC Nike, and CGC Ram- nan and wife Christina of Richardson, Texas; great-grandchildren, place sixth in the Miss America pageant that year and appeared bler. He also piloted 82 footers and 92 footers. After 22 years of Emma Powell, Tyler Wesley, Taloa Craft, Riley Wesley, Violet in the March 1941 issue of the National Geographic Magazine. service, he retired as Senior Chief Boatswain’s Mate E-8. He was Wesley, Bailey Mishler, Ziva Ernst, Kylie Drennan; sisters, Edith Martyne was the first declared Native American to enter the Miss also a member of the Grand Lodge of Mississippi. Hood and Carol Wesley, both of California; as well as many other America Contest. After graduating, she moved to Washington, He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother-in- relatives and friends. D.C., to live with her mother who worked in the offices of Sena- law, Charles Gonzales. tor Robert S. Kerr. After numerous odd jobs, she was accepted to Harold is survived by his wife of 57 years, Merilys Caddell; Jason Douglas Knight study nursing at Johns Hopkins and became a registered nurse. his sister, Lavelle Gonzales; sons, Dennis Caddell and wife Lin- She was also the first Choctaw Indian woman to attain a degree da of Picayune, Mississippi, Stephen Caddell and wife Shirley of Jason Douglas Knight passed away suddenly and unexpectedly in nursing. After several years of serving in places as varied as Biloxi, Mississippi; daughters, Yvonne Kishimoto and husband on August 31, 2008. He was born December 9, 1974, to Tom and an Indian reservation in Arizona to Public Health in Missis- Ted of Honolulu, Hawaii, Karen Sisk and husband Bill of Hous- Jan Knight, their youngest son. sippi, Martyne returned to Oklahoma where she married Harry ton, Texas; grandchildren, Jonathan Caddell, Dennis Caddell Jr., He will be missed greatly, but his family will cherish wonderful Caudell, assistant to Choctaw Chief Belden. After teaching nurs- Jennifer Turner and husband DC, Stephanie Brooks and husband memories of him always. ing at Eastern State in Wilburton. Martyne served as a nursing Matt, Shelley Caddell and Adrienne Kishimoto; and great-grand- He is survived by his loving parents, Tom and Jan Knight of supervisor for the State Health Department until her retirement. children, Gabriel and Julian. Owasso; his sister, Sherill Mendoza and husband Mike of Bixby; Martyne was preceded in death by Colonel Everett Hayden, brother, Brian Knight and wife Theresa of Broken Arrow; six niec- Harry Quenton Caudell and her parents, Martin Woods and Ger- Harold Ray Moon es; and six nephews. aldine Nelson Woods, as well as stepfather, Paul Radcliffe. She is survived by cousins and extended family, Nixon “Hap” Harold Ray Moon passed away on Karen G. McGregor Nelson, Michael Nelson, Charles Nelson, Gerald Nelson, Don- July 31, 2009. He was born on April 30, Karen G. McGregor, 67, of Lexington passed away due to com- ald Haskins, Paul Blackwell, Norma Austin, Patricia Nelson, and 1941, in Allen. plications of lung cancer August 10, 2009, at Integris Baptist Med- numerous friends throughout the community, state and country. He was in the construction trade since ical Center with her family at her side. She was born February 12, the age of 16 and a general contractor 1942, in Lawton to Elvis Marion Watson and Gloria Jones Watson. since 1977. He loved to play the guitar Karen graduated from Comanche High School in 1960. It was Jesse Allen ‘Sonny Boy’ Tonihka Jr. and sing country and gospel music. All there that she met and married her high school sweetheart, James Jesse Allen “Sonny Boy” Tonihka who heard him were blessed by his mu- Albert McGregor on June 3, 1960. They lived in Purcell upon mar- Jr., 61, passed away peacefully Janu- sic. rying and later moved to San Diego, California, where James was ary 3, 2009, at his home in Prescott, He is survived by his wife, Sharran; a member of the Beach Jumper Unit 1, Team 12. James and Karen Arizona. He was born June 22, 1947, sons, Randal Moon and wife Brenda of Lucerne, Jeffrey Moon of moved to Lexington in 1971 and there they raised their three girls. in Broken Bow, Oklahoma, the son of Lakeport; daughters, Angle Moon and Melissa Moon of Vacav- Her dream was to be a mom and James allowed her to do just that. Jesse and Anna Mae Tonihka. ille; sisters, Kay Burger of Virginia and Marilyn Chatham of Santa She will most be remembered for being a loving wife, mother and Jesse grew up in Golden. He served Rosa, California; uncle, Wallace Davis of Texas; aunt, Kathy Lo- grandmother. Karen was a generous woman and respected friend. two tours in Vietnam. Jesse enjoyed gan of Arkansas; grandchildren, Jeffrey Moon, Melinda Omand, She enjoyed sewing, shopping, caring for her yard and spending fishing and hiking and was a fabulous Michael Anderson, Dalton Lucero, Tristian Lucero and Colten time with her grandchildren. She was fun loving and had a great dancer. He especially loved spending James; great-grandchildren, Makayla, Ashley and Keely Sprague, sense of humor. She was a member of Lexington First Baptist time with his family and friends. Jesse Hayden Moon and Austin Hoffman. Church and was very active in vacation Bible school, Falls Creek was so full of joy and love that he could and different fund raisers for cancer research. Just five days after brighten even the darkest of days with completing her chemo and radiation treatments, she participated in his smile and laughter. He lived his life Lewain ‘Junior’ Wesley the Relay for Life. After going into remission form cancer, Karen to the fullest and remained strong through to the end. We were tru- Lewain “Junior” Wesley passed enjoyed giving her support to others who were going through what ly blessed to have him in our lives and we will never forget him. away on July 31, 2009, at the VA Hos- she had already been through. She loved her grandchildren so very Jesse is survived by his wife, Judy Young Tonihka; his four pital in West Los Angeles, California. much. She was a great support in every thing they chose to do. children, Jesse Tonihka III and wife Stephanie, Barbara Reyes He was loved by his family and ev- She was always spending time with her friend “Queet” and valued and husband Rene, Anna Brambilla and husband Olegario, Joe eryone he knew for his gregarious dis- their friendship deeply. Tonihka with Audra HighElk; his nine grandchildren, Chelsea, position and Santa Claus appearance. She was preceded in death by her parents; and her aunt, Lafalla Jessica, Charlie, Maria, Miguel, Erika, Brandon, Sequoyah and With a huge white beard and long hair, Fox. Quanah; brothers, Donny, Larry and Michael; sisters, Judy, Joan the children all thought he was Santa. She is survived by her husband of 49 years; three daughters, and Peggy, and many family and friends who will miss him dear- He was a great father, son, grandfather Kari Spears and husband Randy of Arkansas, Shelly Bryen and ly. and brother. He took great pride in being a mentor, gave the best husband Jeff, Megan Little and husband Billy, all of Lexington; advice only when you asked and always had a kind word. He seven grandchildren, Matthew Pickle, Broc Bryen, Ryan Spears, never spoke poorly of anyone and made sure that his life was Jade Little, Alec Bryen, Cole Bryen and Payton Little; brother, Wilson ‘Wick’ Belvin spent well. He traveled extensively and loved to camp and fish. Robert Watson and wife Lene of North Carolina; many nieces and nephews and a host of friends. Wilson “Wick” Belvin, 76, passed He took his children on a three-month summer vacation through- away August 25, 2009, at his home in out Europe in a VW pop-top bus in 1979. He also brought all Midwest City. He was born to Lamos the kids out to Washington, D.C., for the opening of the Native Sue Ann Loftin Greenwald and Carrie Williams Belvin in Boswell American Museum on the Smithsonian National Mall. His career Sue Ann Loftin Greenwald passed on October 9, 1932. was spent in the last 50 years protecting our nation as a army away on July 12, 2009, after a heroic He attended school at Goodland sharpshooter and intelligence officer and he recently retired as battle with pancreatic cancer. Sue was Presbyterian Home in Hugo. Wick a logistics manager for missile systems for the Navy with the born September 26, 1938, in Hugo to left school at the age of 16 to join the Port Hueneme Surface Warfare Center in California. He will be Carroll and Pauline Loftin. U.S. Marine Corps where he proudly missed immensely, as he was the catalyst for our family and a She was a loving wife, mother, sister, served during the Korean War. In man who stood alone in a room full of great men. aunt and best friend. Sue always had a 1959, he married Jackie Logan in Los He is survived by his wife, Laura; his children, Theresa and smile and something nice to say no mat- Angeles, California, where they re- William; brother, Maurice and his family, Dennis, Stephen and ter how she felt. We all miss and love sided for many years. He loved sports Diana; Grandma Fern and Claude; his brothers and sisters, Dean, her but, we know she is in a far better and was an avid LA Laker fan. He attended the first Super Bowl Julia and Lashay, Doreen, LaVonna, Bud, Jeff and Danny, Barry, place today than yesterday. Sue moved game which was held in the coliseum in Los Angeles. In 1966, Darrell, Beau and Kathy. He had numerous grandchildren and to Dallas in 1957 where she assisted he formed his own girls softball and basketball team and tried to great-grandchildren. many in her career as a professional secretary at Southwesern Bell, pass on his love of the game to his players. He attended various Collins Radio, Texas Instruments and Gibson’s Department Stores. trade schools while working full-time, receiving certificates in She retired from the Dallas County Sheriff’s Department Photo hairdressing and auto mechanics. After moving to Albuquerque, Ernest Lee Caldwell Lab. Past volunteer work included, The American Red Cross, Aids New Mexico, he returned to school to get a college degree. He Ernest Lee Caldwell, 80, of Clarksvillle passed away on July Arms Network, Meals on Wheels and Dallas Inter-Tribal Center of returned to Oklahoma and began working at Tinker AFB as a 27, 2009, at Johnson Regional Medical Center. He was born in Texas. Sue was especially proud of her Choctaw heritage. For the contract specialist where he remained until his retirement. After Tuttle on January 26, 1929, to Mary and Marion Caldwell. past five years her heart was warmed in serving head start children retirement he moved to Metairie, Louisiana, and attended college He was living in Sanger, California, before moving to Clarks- for the Wylie ISD. until the Katrina hurricane. Then he moved to Midwest City and ville in 1959. His family farmed and raised cattle and chickens Sue was preceded in death by her parents; grandparents; a son, enrolled at Rose State College. He only needed to pass biology while operating the Gulf Station during the 1960s. He also hauled Carmelo Joe Scoma; and a brother, Marshall Loftin. to receive his degree at the time of his passing. coal for Peabody Coal Company before retiring in 1975. He was Sue is survived by her loving and caring husband, Richard Gre- He enjoyed watching his nieces and nephews play ball, soft- a member of the Clarksville Seventh Day Adventist Church. enwald; daughters, Nancy Sue Frost of Wicasset Maine, Sue Ann ball, baseball, it didn’t matter. No matter the weather if he said He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Juanita and husband James Tawwater of Sachse, Texas; brothers, Robert he would be there, he would be there. He will be missed by all Ray and Katheryn Caldwell; three brothers, Russell, Wayne and and wife Bennie Loftin of Kiowa, and Paul and wife Beverly Loft- his family. James Caldwell; and a grandson, Jonathan Caldwell. in of Sapulpa; sisters, Kay and husband John Roberts of Oklahoma He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; and two He is survived by six sons, Dale Caldwell and wife Anita, City, Mary and husband Charles Melton of Paris, Texas, and Carol brothers, Tommy Williams Jr., James Williams Sr., and an un- Duane Caldwell and wife Cheryl, all of Clarksville, Texas, Grant of Tulsa; five grandchildren, Tarrah Marie Frost of Wicas- named stillborn brother. Doyle Caldwell and wife Dona of Sheridan, Arkansas, Darrell set, Maine, Loren Fred Frost III of Gainesville, Florida, Manley Wick is survived by a daughter, Misty Rose Belvin of Arizona; Caldwell and wife Anita of Paris, Tennessee, David Caldwell and Charles Frost of Chicopee, Massachusetts, James Adam Tawwater seven sisters, Lorene Arrow of Yukon, Lula Berryhill of El Reno, wife Karen of Anderson, South Carolina, and Dean Caldwell of and Vanessa Ann Tawwater of Sachse, Texas; four great-grand- Patricia Sinnett of Tulsa, Rosina Mann, Wilma Murrow and hus- Carthage, Missouri; four sisters, Pansy Phillips, Iness Wyrick, children; Tyler Alden Halbrook and Mya G. Grace Frost of Wis- band Bracy, Linda Draper, and Carol McGuire, all of Oklahoma and Ester Stanley, all of California, and Margaret Voels of Min- casset, Maine, Mandy Marie Frost of Chicopee, and Kaleb E. Dink City; two brothers, Anthony Belvin of Moore, and Sammy Bel- nesota; one brother, Donald Caldwell of Lamar, Arkansas; 13 Tawwater of Sachse; several nieces and nephews; and one special vin of Oklahoma City; and a host of relatives. grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. niece, Wendy Melton Suttle of Paris, Texas. October 2009, BISHINIK, Page 13 obituaries

Edna Marie ‘Remmie’ Perry Alex J. Vanriette Helen Louise Reed Helfley Edna Marie “Remmie” Perry of Spi- Alex J. Vanriette passed away on Helen Louise Reed Hefley, 86, ro passed away on August 16, 2009, at July 23, 2009 in Muse, Oklahoma. He passed away August 26, 2009, at her the age of 62. She was born January 21, was born on October 2, 1922 in Albion home in McAlester. She was born on 1947, in Keota to Campbell Phillip and to original enrolee Mamie Bryant and November 13, 1922, in Scipio, Okla- Mary Opal King Perry. Alexander Vanriette. homa, to Alfred Henry “Doc” and She was a member of the New Hope Alex, a 28-year Army veteran, re- Dora Marie Anderson. Indian Baptist Church. ceived three letters of commendation, Helen came from a rich Choctaw- She was preceded in death by her Marksman rifle M-14. Upon his retire- Chickasaw heritage and was a de- parents, and one sister, Betty Lorene ment, he went to work for the Okla- scendant of the Anderson and Folsom Brooks. homa State Penitentiary and worked Choctaws of Mississippi. Helen at- She is survived by one sister, Davy there for 10 years as a guard. He lived tended Wheelock Academy during Jean Brown and husband, Tommy in McAlester for 15 years. Upon the death of his beloved wife third through eighth grade. She mar- of Keota, three brothers, Harold Perry and wife Betty of Spiro, Evelyn Vanriette, he sold his home and moved to Muse. ried Austin Herman Clagg in Atoka Wayne Perry and wife Diane of Spiro, David Joe Perry and wife Alex was preceded in death by his wife and his parents. on August 28, 1945. After Austin’s death in 1962, she married Pam of Spiro, one special nephew, Shalako Perry of Spiro; one un- He is survived by his sisters, Vera Southard of Krebs and Viv- Harley Turnbow and later, Arvil Hefley, who also preceded her cle, Bill King and wife Dorothy of McAlester, one special friend, ian Guerra of Dallas; one brother, Dave Vanriette of Talihina; in death. She was the mother of seven children and a widow for Matthew Kemp of McAlester, numerous nieces; nephews; cousins numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. some 37 years. She was saved at Northgate Baptist Church in and many special friends. McAlester and later became a member of North McAlester Free Anna Calhoun Will Baptist Church. Helen was a homemaker and also worked at Harold Wayne Roberson Anna Calhoun passed away on January 22, 2009. She was the United States Naval Ammunition Depot and as a seamstress born September 1, 1910, in Gay, Oklahoma, the eldest of three for Elsings and Seampruf (Komar). She was a secretary at the Harold Wayne Roberson, 59, of Bos- Oklahoma State Penitentiary and helped her daughter, Jackie, at well passed away in Dallas, Texas, on daughters of Jane and Noel Skelton. She moved to Bakersfield in 1946 and was later joined by her only child, Evelyn Mari. the Hungry Bear Restaurant in 1980 and 1981, where she was September 24, 2009. Harold was born known for her homemade pies. Helen’s hobbies included making July 12, 1950, in Talihina, to Louie This is where she met and married her loving husband, Troy Lee Calhoun. Anna and Troy shared a life full of faith and devotion raisin fried pies and Indian tacos, sewing, being with her family, Roberson and Carrie Phillips Roberson. and watching OU football and basketball. He lived in the Boswell area all of to Christ. They were long-standing members of the Rexland Acres Assembly of God Church. Ann enjoyed sewing for her She was preceded in death by her parents; an infant son, Bob- his life. He married Glenda Hopkins by G. Clagg; five brothers, Edward H. Reed, Alfred H. Reed, on August 13, 1969. He loved playing grandchildren, crocheting, beading, and gardening. She will be remembered for the many stories she shared with us about her Bob Junior Reed, David W. Reed, and Hugh Reed; two sisters, softball, coon hunting, enjoyed being a “Dollie” Mae Lorene Shipley and Oreta Jean Perez. shade-tree mechanic and a member of life growing up as a Choctaw Indian. Ann was preceded in death by her husband, Troy; her parents; She is survived by three sisters, Lillian Slover, Marie Hender- the Oklahoma Softball Hall of Fame. son, and Hazel Martin; six children, two daughters-in-law, and He was employed by the Food Distri- her sister, Sophie, and her grandson Mark Steven Ornelas. She is survived by her loving daughter, Evelyn Mari and son- one son-in-law, Jackie Smith of Odessa, Texas, John Wayne and bution Department of the Choctaw Na- Sharon Clagg of McAlester, Joseph “Joe” Bruce and Carla Clagg tion and member of Good Springs Presbyterian Church. in-law John Ornelas; sister, Wynie Palmer of Stigler; cousin, Jean Keyes of Wright City; five grandchildren and their spouses, of McAlester, Sharon and Mark Yandell of Tulsa, Kathy Louise Harold was preceded in death by his parents. Ludlum of McAlester, and Roger Wade Turnbow of McAles- He is survived by his wife, Glenda Roberson of the home; one Theresa Flores, Vicky and Ron Casteel, Jon and Luisa Ornelas, Gail and Tyler Cannon, Lisa and Rick Linares; 17 great-grand- ter; 16 grandchildren, Joy and Fred Cleveland, Leon and Sher- son, Kevin Wayne Roberson and wife Chasity; one daughter, Ra- ry Murrin, Carla J. and Ron Williams, Sheila and Dr. M. Todd chel Ainsworth; brothers, Alan Roberson and Randall Roberson; children, and 15 great-great grandchildren; one niece; four neph- ews, and many relatives and friends in Oklahoma. Cathey, Shawn and Carole Clagg, John Austin and Tracy Clagg, sisters, Carol Hunnicutt and Regina Roberson, all of Boswell; Crystal and Chris Bullard, Lindsay Clagg Fryer, Bradley Clagg, four grandchildren, Ciarra Ainsworth, McKenna Thompson, Jeremiah Yandell, Joshua Yandell, Adam Yandell, Brittany Yan- Makyah Roberson and Bryce Thomas, along with many other R.E. ‘Jack’ Emmert dell, Hyme LaFaunce, Hyde Ludlum, and Maegan Ludlum; and relatives and friends. R.E. “Jack” Emmert, 85, of Joshua 27 great grandchildren. retired founder and owner of Burle- Marvene Bernice Sparks Parker son Monument Company in Burleson Marvene Bernice Sparks Parker passed away on July 31, 2009. passed away on August 7, 2009, in Richard Vern Wilson She was born on January 19, 1942. Fort Worth. He was born October 7, Richard Vern “Ricky” Wilson She is survived by her husband of 27 years, Bill Parker of 1923, in Talihina to Robin and Bertha passed away August 9, 2009, at the age Greenville, Texas; son, Billy Glover Jr. of Beeville, Texas; Bryant Emmert. of 38. He was born August 27, 1970, at daughter, Carrie Andrews and husband Brandon of Greenville; He married Helen Head on Decem- Talihina to Richard Vernett Wilson and special cousin, Jesse Cross; three brothers, Jack Sparks, Ronald ber 18, 1945, in Oklahoma City. He Judy Elaine Sparks. Sparks and Edward Sparks; and sister Penny Sandrene and hus- proudly served his country in the U.S. Ricky graduated from Hartshorne band Pete. Navy during WWII aboard the aircraft High School in 1988 and joined the carrier, USS Nehenta Bay. Jack was a U.S. Army. He married Melissa Pau- Carl D. Kanimaya man of great faith, character and integrity. He retired from the lene Bailey in November 1998 at monument business with an outstanding reputation. His interests Cove, Arkansas, and to this union a Carl D. Kanimaya of Callisburg, were his family, church, gardening, cattle, and horses. He en- daughter, Angelina Marie, was born. Texas, passed away on August 6, 2009, joyed running his tractor and working the arm. He was a long- Ricky was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Gran- at his home at the age of 77. Carl was time member of Mary’s Town Baptist Church in Joshua and nis. He was employed with Asplundh Tree Service as a power born November 30, 1931, in Blanco to taught men’s Sunday school class for the past 23 years. line clearance foreman and enjoyed his being able to work out- James and Alice Tucker Kanimaya. He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Jill; and a side. He loved spending time with his family and was a loving He was loved by all who knew him. sister, Betty Moline. husband and father. Carl was preceded in death by his He is survived by his wife; son, Mark Emmert and wife Di- He is survived by his wife; his daughter; two stepsons, Charles parents and two sisters, Augusta Ash- ana; daughters, Karen Miller and husband Ed, Dale Koen and Michael Williams of Broken Bow and Kelly Ray Smith of Gran- worth and Geneva Thomason. husband Richard, and Joan Cochell; brothers, John, Mark and nis; his father, Richard V. Wilson of Smithville; his mother and He is survived by his wife of 26 Bob; sisters, Frances and Patti; 10 grandchildren; nine great- stepfather, Judy and Gerald of Hooks, Texas; a brother Michael years, Donna Kanimaya; four daugh- grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; numerous nieces and Allen Wilson of Wickes; a sister, Tonya Elaine Wilson of Gilmer, ters, Connie Hughes of Arab, Ala- nephews. Texas; a grandson, Charles Dakota Williams, his grandmother, bama, Jane Torres of Grand Prairie, Texas, Rhonda Troiani of Marjorie Sparks of Hooks; and a number of aunts; uncles; cous- Flower Mound, Texas, Dawnette Arsht of Lewisville, Texas; one David John Durant ins; and other family members; and a host of friends. son, Jeffrey Kanimaya of The Colony, Texas; two sisters, Stella Joplin and Ola May Hatridge of McAlester; two brothers, James David John Durant of Blanco passed away on September 4, “Junior” Kanimaya and Bob Kanimaya, both of Blanco, and sev- 2009, in Fort Smith, Arkansas, at the age of 91. David was born Johnny Mark Blankinship eral grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. to Willie and Lillie Penny Durant on June 12, 1918, in Benning- Johnny Mark Blankinship, 53, of ton. Valley View, Texas, passed away Au- James Robert Adams He attended White Sand School. He married Katie Twyford gust 19, 2009, at Valley View. He was on December 25, 1937, in Bennington. He worked as a cotton born May 7, 1956, in Frederick to James Robert Adams passed away on August 20, 2009. He was farmer in Arizona and the Savanna Fina Service Station after Johnny Bob and Leola Faye Barker born on December 14, 1934. returning to Oklahoma. David enjoyed singing, playing guitar, Blankinship. He was a mail carrier in Oakdale. California, for three decades. pitching horseshoes and fishing. He was raised in the Panhandle of Jim knew everyone on his route and many people by name in Oak- David was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Katie; Texas and the Dallas/Fort Worth area. dale. He was a hard worker and taught by example, frugality and two infant daughters; and brothers, Lorenzo Durant and W.D. He attended school at Grand Prairie self-reliance. Jim will be missed. Durant. and Plano, Texas, and completed his He was preceded in death by his parents, Joh Henry Adams and He is survived by daughters, Jessie Porter and husband Ray education in Chula Vista, California. Delma Quinton; brothers, Earl Adams and James Quinton; and sis- of Pinetop, Mary Ellen Brunson of Grand Junction, Colorado; On September 2, 1973, he and Kimberly Sue Wulf were united ter, Bette Hendrix. grandchildren, James Porter and wife Brenda of Crowder, Mari- in marriage at Chula Vista. They returned to Frederick, where he He is survived by his three children, Karen Adams and Dennis lyn Drake and husband Bobby of Savanna, Roy David Brunson worked for the family plumbing company and raised their three Sims of Oakdale, David and Angela Adams of Riverbank,California, and wife Carla, Terry Segers, Chuck Brunson and wife Bobbie, children. He later was employed by Goodyear Tire and Rubber and Paula and William Robinson of Westpoint, Utah; best friend all of Grand Junction, Colorado, Kelly Brunson and wife Robin Company in Lawton. He later married Brenda Faye Shelton on and sister, Inez Frisk of Doniphan, Missouri; brother, Dean Quin- of Salt Lake City, Utah; Virgil Durant and wife Ollie of Casa September 15, 1991. They made their home in Mountain Park ton of Rock Springs, Wyoming; and seven grandchildren. Grande, Arizona, Frank Durant of McAlester; numerous great- and then in Valley View, Texas, where he worked as a line loca- grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; and other family tor for major utility companies in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. Bruce Emuel Millsap and friends. Mark’s passion for music began early in life and he passed this talent onto his children. Music, singing, guitar, and his children Bruce Emuel Millsap passed away Willard Wayne Olsen and grandchildren were his greatest joy. August 8, 2009, in Vidor, Texas at the He is survived by his mother and stepfather, Lee and Dale age of 90. He was born February 15, Willard Wayne Olsen, a life-time Maddux of Euless, Texas; his father and step-mother, John and 1919, at Wichita Falls, Texas, to Wil- Atoka area resident, passed away on Helen Blankinship of Hobart; two sons, Micah Blankinship of liam “Bill” Millsap and Rebecca Joan August 14, 2009, at the age of 87. He Valley View, and Jesse Blankinship and wife Stacie of Heald- Willis Millsap. He was a member of was born July 4, 1922, to Thomas and ton; a daughter, Katie Chapman and husband Chris of Lawton; a the Baptist Church in Broaddus, Texas. Sarah Lindsey Olsen in Atoka County. daughter-in-law, Amber Hoyle of Sanger, Texas; three brothers, Bruce was returned to Broaddus, Texas, He served his country during World Jimmy Blankinship and wife Carolyn of Hillsboro, West Virgin- to be buried next to his loving wife of War II in the U.S. Army Air Corps. He ia, Bill Raines and wife Peggy of Hobart and Troy Maddux of many years, Ruby Jackson Millsap. was stationed for 3 1/2 years in Eng- Davidson; a sister, Kristi McCullough and husband Earl of Blair; He spent his younger years at Soper land, France and Germany during WW six grandchildren, Aaron, Kleya, Nyla and Brian Blankinship with his beloved grandmother Elmira II. He married Marian Faye Brown on and Karlee and Josilyn Chapman; a nephew, Jeremy Besson; and Willis, aunt and uncle Charles and Ma- October 31, 1948, at Reno, Nevada. He a host of cousins, aunts, uncles and many nieces and nephews rie Willis Truesdale, and aunt Lina Willis Autry. Bruce loved to was a rancher and a patriotic Christian from the Shelton family. hunt and fish with his cousin, Sam Autry and his lifelong friend, man who served his community as District 2 County Commis- Virgil Chesney. sioner for 14 years. Willard was a longtime active member of the He proudly served his country in World War II with the U.S. Black Jack Baptist Church, a member of the American Legion, Easter Marie Capeheart Army. When he returned he made his home at Beaumont, Texas, Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Disable American Veterans. Easter Marie Capeheart, 91, Foreman, passed away on June where he worked for many years as an ironworker. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Arvel Olsen 12, 2009. She was born on March 21, 1918, in Boswell to Rosa He was preceeded in death by his parents; grandmother; aunts; and Cecil Olsen; and sister, Freda Busby. Crowder Phillips and Edgar Brown Phillips. brothers, Eugene “Gene” Millsap and Herbert “Herby” Keel: his Willard is survived by his wife, Marian; daughter; Paula Olsen Easter was the youngest of seven siblings. She was a mem- daughter, Sonja “Sonny” Millsap Denis; grandson, Randyl Bruce of Atoka, Joye Reeder and husband Lynn of McConnellsburg, ber of First United Methodist Church. She attended Goodland Staton; first wife, Mildred Helton Millsap; second wife, Pauline Pennsylvania, Sara Beth Loke and husband John of Gilbert, Ari- and graduated from Foreman High School. She spent 17 years White Millsap; and third wife, Ruby Jackson Millsap. zona, Brenda Olsen of Atoka; sister, Dora Lee Barnett of Odessa, working in Ashdown, Arkansas, as a legal secretary. She was a He is survived by his brother, J.T. Keel of Soper; sister, Billie Texas; brother, Tommy Olsen and wife Dee of Clayton; grand- wonderful mother and grandmother. Kidwell of Oklahoma City; daughters, Annette Millsap Staton of children, Chad Downard and wife Martina of Augusta, Georgia, She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Day- Hugo, and Joy Millsap Easley of Talco, Texas; one stepdaughter, Pam Lake and husband Brian of Needmore, Pennsylvania, Jessi- ton Capeheart and her great-granddaughter, Sydni Rhea. Mary Paula Hamil Staton of Foreman, Arkansas; grandchildren, ca Pindell of Boston, Massachusetts, Jennifer Benadum of Okla- She is survived by two sons and one daughter-in-law, Clark John Staton Sr., Margaret Staton Loftin, Jayson Staton, Melissa homa City, Heather Aduddell and husband Russell of Oklahoma Lewis Capeheart of Benton, Arkansas, and Ted C. and Betty Staton Robinson, Dennis Staton, and Albert Staton, all of Hugo, City; great-grandchildren; Jordan, Molly, Reagan, Melanie, Lo- Capeheart of Texarkana, Arkansas; one daughter and son-in-law, John Wisner and Paul Wisner of Mt. Pleasant, Texas; and special chlan and Isla; also numerous nieces; nephews; cousins; aunts; Nina and Boyce Rhea of DeKalb, Texas; three grandchildren; nephew, Tommy Keel of Vidor, Texas. uncles; and other relatives, and many dear friends. and three great-grandchildren. October 2009, BISHINIK, Page 14 Trail of Tears from Mississippi walked by our ancestors u u u u Choctaw history ... Iti Fab ssa By Len Greenwood the removal from Vicksburg up gathering began in mid October. were heaped in piles, covered Question from reader: Reprinted from the Red and Big Fork to Ecore But, while the Choctaws were with brush, doused with kero- I know that during the closing years of the 19th century Choctaws March 1995 Bishinik a’Fabre, the 1832 plan did not being gathered and herded to- sene or whale oil and burned. were divided as to the question of whether or not to allot the land include the use of this route at ward Vicksburg and epidemic of When the Choctaws reached or keep its ownership in common. We have a family story told Part 3 of 4 all. Also, no use was to be made cholera broke out in Vicksburg, Vicksburg, they found the city to me by one of my grandfather’s brothers about neighborhood of Memphis, which necessitated with several hundred dying, deserted, and faced famine even troubles during this time. To make matters even worse, transporting the Choctaws from from the dreaded disease and before starting their trip. Fright- My mother told me the two groups were called “the Progres- the white man’s diseases, par- Ahi Apet Okla and northern the remainder of the population ened farmers, who had food sup- sives” and the “Stand-patters.” My question is this: Were there ticularly dysentery, diphtheria Okla Falaya over much longer of that city fleeing in an effort to plies stored, hid from both white other names given to the two groups and who were the leaders of and typhoid raged among the distances as all were to be gath- escape. It was only natural, of and Indian alike and refused to each group? Choctaws as they dragged them- ered at Vicksburg. From Vicks- course, that the fleeing citizens sell any of their food stocks. selves slowly westward toward burg, they were to be transported of Vicksburg spread the cholera Even the steamboats waiting Response from Iti Fabussa: their promised land. Progress to Arkansas Post by steamboat, epidemic, infecting everyone to take the Indians to Arkansas The decades leading up to Oklahoma statehood were a trying, was extremely slow as halts to from there to Little Rock by they encountered including the Post, the Walter Scott and the but yet defining time in the history of the Choctaw Nation. During bury their dead or tend their ill- wagon, and divided there with Choctaws who were enroute repaired Brandywine had been Okla Falayans and Okla Han- to Vicksburg. The cholera hit deserted by their crews fleeing these years, perhaps more pointedly than at any other time, Choc- nesses came often. The leaders nalians taking the Military Trace the Choctaws harder than it from the cholera threat. George taw people were forced to make a series of difficult decisions about of the escort party did not know from Little Rock to Fort Towson did the whites, as they had no Gibson had his agents offload whether and how much to assimilate within the surrounding United the routes they were to follow and the Ahi Apet Oklans taking natural immunity to the disease. some of the supplies from the States and how much to maintain their ancient Choctaw identity and constantly held up the party the Little Rock -Fort Smith road. There is no record of how many two steamboats and by setting and sovereignty. as they studied maps or con- sulted residents of the area. As a Gaines also decreed that on Choctaws died from this plague up a strict rationing program, At this time, two main parties were vying for political power result of the sickness, deaths and these journeys, wagon trans- on their way to or at Vicksburg. managed to keep the Choctaws within the Choctaw Nation. One group, known as “Progressives” pauses caused by the escort, it portation was to be furnished Because of the highly contagious alive until boat crews could be or “Eagles” (or as “Bald Eagles” by their opponents), tended to be took almost three months for the only for the ill or infirm. The nature of cholera, when any rounded up to move them west. in favor of the Americanization of the Tribe and the allotment of Choctaws to drag themselves the remainder of the Choctaws person, Choctaw or white, died To be continued in the what had always been jointly owned Tribal land to individuals. The 150 miles from Ecore a’Fabre to were to march. As in 1831, the from the disease, their bodies November BISHINIK other party was known as the “Nationals” (also called “Buzzards” by the new land. their opponents). They tended to focus their efforts on maintaining Upon reaching Mountain Fork Choctaw social and political autonomy and traditional ways. River, One group of Choctaws The conflict between the two reached its high point during the halted and established a “town”, Tribal election of 1892. Incumbent Chief Wilson Jones ran for which they would come to 2008-09 Little Miss Cheyenne Shomo final goodbye the Progressives. His opponent was Jacob B. Jackson, a college- call Eagle (later to become old Hello! My name is Cheyenne year and we have become educated full-blood Choctaw. Eagletown). Others moved Rae Shomo. I am the daughter close, I Love You. To my sis- The election was an uncharacteristically violent one, and on Sep- southward and settled in the area of Billy and Tina Shomo of ters Brittney, Trista, Tiffany tember 11th 1892, a band of Nationals shot and killed four members around the burned site of the old Broken Bow. and Whitney thanks for always of the Progressive Party, then traveled to McAlester, intending to kill Miller County, Ark., courthouse. On August 28, 2008, the Lord encouraging and supporting more. In the following chaos, Chief Wilson Jones used his power to Still others traveled on westward blessed me as I became Little me. To my Nanny, thank you ask the Indian Agent to martially restore order to the Choctaw Nation. to settle near Fort Towson, and Miss Choctaw Nation of Okla- for all the things that you have A peace agreement was reached on September 15th, and the still others went on a few miles homa. I know this would not also done for me. Nationals surrendered 17 men implicated in the killings and then southwestward to “Horse Prai- have been possible without him. To my Church family at dispersed. However, confusion and mistrust between both parties rie”, a site settled by the Rev. continued. On October 4th, the election was held at the Tvshka- Alexander Tolley and the 400 By me becoming Little Miss NaYimmi Baptist, thank you homma Council House, with a detachment of United States cavalry Choctaws who had voluntarily I have gotten to go to many for always keeping me in your present at the bequest of Chief Jones. Jones won the election by a left Mississippi in 1830. places and meet a lot of differ- prayers when my mother and I count of 1705 to 1697 votes. Not wishing to see further disturbance Thus by April 1, 1832, all of ent people. I will never forget traveled. And a thank you goes within the Nation, the Nationals withdrew and did not contest the the Choctaws who had remained all the wonderful things I have out to Patsy Pilant, Michael close election. alive through the first removal gotten to do and experience. I Pilant, Jr., Wallace Tushka and Nine of the 17 Nationals arrested in McAlester were sentenced to were located in their new home- have learned alot about myself, memories that we got to share Presley Byington for all the death by Tribal Court. U.S. authorities then commuted the sentences land, as those who traveled the my culture and my heritage and together and all the laughs. beautiful beadwork that you of all but one, Silan Lewis who was convicted of the assassination of northern route settled principally I plan to always keep learning. Dad thank you for all the have made for me. Joe Haklotubbee. According to an ancient Choctaw custom, Lewis not far from Fort Smith, calling Thank you Chief Pyle, As- sacrifices that you make for Again to the Chief and Assis- was given a period of freedom to get his affairs in order and is said their main town “Skullyville” sistant Chief Batton, the Tribal our family, you are the best tant Chief thanks for the dances to have even laid in his coffin to make sure it fit him. Lewis willingly (“skully” is a Choctaw word Council and the Choctaw Na- dad anyone could want or that we shared in California, appeared on the day of execution, November 5th, 1894 and was shot for money and the “ville” is tion for all the support that you have, I love you. Mom thanks that is a time that I will always by a Lighthorseman. This was the last execution conducted under English meaning village or have given me. I just hope that for always believing in me and remember. I will always trea- Choctaw Tribal law. town). Counting the party that I have represented the tribe and taking me to all the different surer my time as being Little The election of 1894 passed peacefully, with Jefferson Gardner had come in advance, by April 1 the Choctaw people to the best places I needed to be at this Miss Choctaw Nation. elected as Chief. Although a Progressive, he held an anti-allotment of 1832, of approximately 6,000 of my ability. I am honored to year and the dresses that you And one last verse “Remem- position and managed to postpone it through the duration of his Choctaws who had started out say that I am Choctaw. Dayla made for me, we have shared ber through Christ all things are tenure as Principle Chief. from Mississippi in the fall of and Kanda thank you for all the a lot of time together this past possible.” Concurrently, a strong traditionalist, anti-allotment movement 1831, only slightly more than known as the “Four Mothers Society” formed among between the 4,000 remained alive. Military Choctaws, Chickasaw, Creek/Seminole, and Cherokee. Chitto Harjo, records from Little Rock indi- from the conservative Creek town of Arbeika was the leader of this cate that in April of 1832, some 24,000-member coalition. 536 Indians received rations at In 1896 the tide within Choctaw Nation turned back in favor of Skullyville and 3,749 rations allotment, with the election of Green McCurtain as Principle Chief. were issued at Fort Towson, Almost immediately, the process irrevocably began. Eagle, Miller Courthouse and Horse Prairie. This means that Please mail your questions to Iti Fabussa c/o BISHINIK, at the end of the first migration, P.O. Box 1210, Durant, OK 74702, or e-mail to bishinik@choc- 4,285 Choctaws were alive and tawnation.com with “Iti Fabussa” in the subject line. had survived, including the ap- proximately 400 “sooners”. In Editor’s Note: Due to the volume of the response to this column brief, more than 2,00 had died our writers will prioritize the questions according to topics and along the way and there were space availability. We will publish as many as possible in future two more years of removal to go. issues of the newspaper. From the near disaster of the 1831 removal, one might think George Gaines and his removal Chahta agents should have learned something, and have been able Words of the Month to improve conditions on subse- quent removals. But, improper English Choctaw pronunciation planning, white man’s diseases shoe/shoes shulush shoh-lohsh and mother nature were again to turn the 1832 removal into cup; glass isht ishko ehsht-ehsh-ko a debacle of death and disaster deer issi ehs-si for the Choctaws. Despite the black lusa loh-sah fact that the smoothest part of three tuchina toh-che-nah the 1831 operation had been big chito che-toh

in the PARK Old Fashioned Christmas is the theme of this year’s Choctaw Nation Christmas in the Park. Chief Pyle and Assistant Chief Batton invite you to drive through the Choctaw Nation Capitol Grounds at Tuskahoma to see the bright holiday lights.

Christmas in the Park opens December 1 and will be open all week from 6:30 to 10 p.m.

Hot chocolate will be served Friday-Saturday.