Outreach Labor Day Continuing publication at the information, of recorded interviews of Beach entertainers Choctaw elders from 2007 and schedules throughout This month – Sarah Belvin Page 8 paper Page 9

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

BISKINIKThe Official Publication of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

August 2011 Issue Serving 208,150 Choctaws Worldwide Choctaws ... growing with pride, hope and success

Game is bridging the gap

Choctaw Nation: LISA REED Chief Pyle, center, and the 2011 OK Choctaws stickball team are fired up about playing in Mississippi.

Sport of stickball bringing together tribes, communities By LISA REED The score at the end of the first hard-fought quarter Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma of the late-night game was in favor of Nukoachi, 4 to 2. The OK Choctaws dominated the entire second and Tournament Thomas Williston Tony Messenger The centuries-old game of stickball has always been third quarters, tying it 4-4 and holding Nukoachi score- District 1 District 2 the Choctaw national sport. Once used to settle disputes, less. The Mississippi team caught the Oklahoma team to be held at it is played today strictly as a sport and is fast growing off guard in the last quarter, overloading their defense to in popularity. All ages are picking up sticks to play the stop the OK Choctaws’ control of the game. Nukoachi annual Labor game of their ancestors. scored 2 more points, winning the game 6-4. Last year, the OK Choctaws team played in its first The game is very physical and very fast-paced. Few World Series of Stickball in Philadelphia, Miss., with 35 fouls for roughness are called and an injury has to be Day festival players. This year, 63 men followed Chief Gregory E. pretty serious for the game to stop. There are not any The field is being prepared, Kenny Bryant Ron Perry District 3 District 5 Pyle onto the field July 8, ready to meet the opposition, pads or helmets in the game of stickball but players are coaches are gathering play- Nukoachi. The players, many with painted faces, raised banned from hitting each other with sticks, tripping or ers and fans are counting the their sticks in the air, yelling challenges and displaying pulling hair. Anyone on the sideline needs to stay there, days until the Choctaw Nation no fear of the more experienced team as the beat of the well out of the way both for safety and to not be a dis- of Oklahoma’s first stickball drums and shouts from the crowds added to the intensity. traction to the players who are giving everything they tournament. The two-day tour- Cultural Services Executive Director Sue Folsom have to win the game. nament will be held Sept. 2-3, explained, “It’s more of a sports game now and played The coaches made it a point to play every member during the tribe’s annual Labor Perry Thompson Bob Pate more for fun but we still take pride in the games and on the team – first-year players and veterans – to build Day Festival. Starting small District 8 District 11 want to win. I am extremely proud of how they played.” experience and confidence. with four teams, the Choctaw Election results Each team is comprised of 30 players on the field, nor- “We played tough and we earned the respect of the Nation expects the inter-tribal The general mally divided into 10 on defense, 10 on offense and 10 Mississippi Choctaw,” Folsom said. “I could hear peo- tournament to grow from year election held centers or “shooters.” After the opening ceremony, all ple in the stands cheering for our team, the Oklahoma to year. July 9 resulted but the 60 players leave the field and the game begins Choctaws. We are bridging the gap, re-establishing a When asked what the in a winner with four 15-minute quarters on the clock. It is usually relationship with the Mississippi Choctaw through the team is doing to get ready, of- emerging in played on a 100-yard football field with a tall pole (“fab- games and other cultural activities. We gain their trust fense coach Joey Tom said, District 11 and vssa”) set as a goal post on each end. See STICKBALL Page 11 See TOURNAMENT Page 11 run-off elections required for Dis- Chief tricts 2 and 5. Gregory E. Pyle The District 11 winner is incumbent Bob Tornado Relief Concert Pate, who received 67.58 per- cent of the votes in that district. BurnDue to theban ex- issuedNo nominated for award VH1 has announced nominees for The run-off election was held The last of the first treme drought in outdoor The 2011 Do Something Awards. July 30 for Districts 2 and 5. Original enrollee Oklahoma, Gov. fires Counting of absentee ballots Mary Fallin has is- allowed On this year’s list is the Tornado completed the voting on Aug. Georgia Mae Self sued a burn ban for at Relief Concert which was hosted at 3. In District 2, Tony Messen- dies at age 106 all counties. Cau- festival Choctaw Casino Resort and featured ger came out on top with 52.6 tion must be used with respect to Oklahoma natives Reba McEntire percent of the votes. Ronald By LISA REED the extreme fire danger and extra and Blake Shelton. Perry was declared the winner Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma precautionary measures must be Since 1996, DoSomething.org in District 5, with 60 percent of taken to prevent wildfires. has honored the nation’s best world- the votes. The Choctaw Nation sadly accept- Tom Lowery, Choctaw Nation’s changers. The Do Something Award Swearing-in will be held dur- director of Forestry and Firefight- is the premier national award for so- ing a ceremony on Labor Day ed the end of an era as the last of its ers, asks everyone to heed the at Tushka Homma for new four- Dawes Roll signees passed away June cial action. 27 in Antlers. Born Oct. 21, 1904, in advice of the Oklahoma Forestry Nominees and winners represent year terms for Gregory E. Pyle Photo provided as Chief and Council members Antlers, Georgia Mae Roebuck Self Services. “During the Labor Day the pivotal “do-ers” in their field, Messenger, Perry, Pate, Thomas was one of over 200,000 whose ap- Georgia Mae Self and Bertha Festival at Tushka Homma, cook- cause or issue. Williston, (District 1), Kenny plication was accepted for tribal en- Burgess at a family picnic at ing outdoors on campfires, char- Online voting, which was open coal or wood grills will not be Bryant (District 3) and Perry rollment between 1899 and March 4, Clayton. to the public through Aug. 14, de- allowed if we are still under the Thompson (District 8). 1906. termined the winners of the awards. burn ban,” he stressed. “Propane or “We are up against some stiff com- u What’s inside Georgia was among four remaining Choctaw original enrollees honored Coleman stoves are allowed.” petition,” said Janie Dillard, execu- by Gov. Brad Henry at an event held in 2008 in Oklahoma City. All cen- According to guidelines issued tive director of gaming for Choctaw Columns...... 2 tenarians, there were also two from the Chickasaw Nation, one from the by the state forestry service on Notes to the Nation...... 3 Muscogee-Creek Nation and one from the Cherokee Nation. She, at 103, campfires and outdoor cooking, Casinos. “This is an opportunity for Nursery News...... 4 and Ruby Lee Trammell Brewer, 102, were able to attend the celebration “Outdoor campfires or bonfires are us to keep the Atoka County devasta- Food Distribution...... 4 in Oklahoma City, accepting recognition for being among the state’s oldest prohibited. LPG and natural gas tion top of mind and continue offer- People You Know...... 6 ing support.” Education...... 7 citizens as well as acknowledgement of the trying times they lived through grills and charcoal-fired cooking Held on May 25 and 26 at Choc- Iti Fabvssa...... 11 during the period of statehood. Choctaw enrollees Dorothy Arnote West and outside in a grilling receptacle are Obituaries...... 12 Irene Roberts Mills were also honored. permitted provided that the activity taw Casino Resort, the Tornado Re- “We were so happy to hold a special reception for the women during our is conducted over a nonflammable lief Concert was co-headlined by The Mission Labor Day Festival that same year,” Chief Gregory E. Pyle said. “Artist surface and at least five feet from Oklahoma natives Reba McEntire of the Choctaw Ruby Bolding had made sketches of Georgia, Dorothy, Ruby and Irene. We flammable vegetation. However, and Blake Shelton. The two sold-out any fire resulting from grilling or Nation of Oklahoma presented copies of the portraits to them and the originals hang in the Capitol shows raised $500,000 for victims of Museum.” the use of one of these cookers or tornadoes in Atoka County. To enhance the lives of all mem- Her pride in her heritage and of being a member of the Choctaw Nation stoves is still an illegal fire.” The Do Something Awards will be bers through opportunities designed For more information visit were excellent reasons to attend the special occasions, but there was another held at the Hollywood Palladium in to develop healthy, successful and http://forestry.publishpath.com/ motivation – she delighted in going anywhere. Los Angeles and premiere Aug. 18 productive lifestyles. burn-ban-information. See GEORGIA Page 5 at 8 p.m. CST on VH1. August 2011, BISKINIK, Page 2 Looking forward to Labor Day improvements and additions From the Desk of enjoy interactive education in the Chief Gregory E. Pyle tent and healthy snacks of fruit. The long-term vision of the Each year I look forward to the Choctaw Nation is “To achieve Choctaw Labor Day Festival for healthy, successful, productive many reasons, and it is always and self-sufficient lifestyles for exciting to explore the changes a proud Nation of Choctaws,” and additions to the grounds. and the Going Lean program Thankfully, there are new shade is a tremendous effort by the awnings at the ballfield for bas- tribal health division to promote ketball, horseshoes and fast- healthier lives for all of us. pitch, which in this 100+ degree One goal of the Healthy Life- weather will be absolutely neces- styles tent is to promote ways sary. to not only keep people living For the first time ever, a stick- longer, but also keep us feeling ball tournament is being held at our festival – and because it is better so we WANT to live and have a better quality of life. so hot, our players will begin the tournament at 8:30 p.m. on I am told that vendors at the festival are offering more than Friday and Saturday nights. The games are expected to last late just the ordinary fair food this year. There are going to be some into the night. healthy choices available, as well. That sounds good to me. The The amphitheater has received a facelift, giving it more Healthy Lifestyles tent will have a list of vendors offering these beauty and efficiency. The concerts are always a huge draw for healthier food options on their menus. our guests, so I am sure we will have a lot of people enjoy the Please be safe as you travel to the festival and enjoy the ac- improvements in this area. tivities this year. This has been the hottest summer on record A change in our health division has spearheaded the Going in our Choctaw Nation counties in Oklahoma, and we may still Lean program, which will be obvious in the large Healthy Life- be experiencing those record-breaking temperatures, so please styles tent beside the Council Chambers. This year, visitors will be careful!

Excessive heat in Oklahoma this summer Chaplain’s Corner may make festival more challenging The positive experience See related articles It is a privilege and joy to ever drinketh of the wa- be in a Christian ministry on ter that I shall give him on Page 1 and Page 7 Sunday as a part of the 2011 shall never thirst, but the Choctaw Nation Labor Day water that I shall give From the Desk of Festival weekend at Tushka him shall be in a well of Assistant Chief Gary Batton Homma. Pray for the per- water springing up into sonal testimonies and fellow- everlasting life.” The Choctaw Nation Labor Day ship. Just as the body of Festival is the hot ticket this year Today many people associ- man cannot live without for fun – in more ways than one. ate Christianity with restric- water, the spirit cannot The Labor Day weekend event is tions with the do’s and don’ts be satisfied apart from always a great way to get the fam- – don’t do this, and don’t do God. He alone can sat- ily together for inexpensive ac- that. isfy our spiritual thirst. tivities, with lots to do for all ages, We Christians have talked David said in Psalms but please be extra cautious this so much of the negative side 107:8-9: “Oh that men year if the temperatures continue of Christian experiance that would praise the Lord the current trend of being exces- we have forgotten to em- for his goodness, and for sively hot. phasize the positive, joyous, his wonderful works to Oklahoma has been breaking re- thrilling and victorious ex- the children of men! perience of daily fellowship Rev. Bertram Bobb “For he satisfieth the cords with three-digit degrees day Tribal Chaplain after day since June. Employee with Jesus Christ. longing soul and filleth the For our Bible text today we hungry soul with good- meetings have been conducted to Join us at 10 a.m. Sept. 4 for turn to the book of Isaiah in ness.” actually coach our staff on how to avoid heat- the Choctaw Nation has first aid staff on the worship services in the tent behind the Old Testament. Now, as then, listen related illnesses and how to recognize symp- grounds, which headquarter out of the law en- the amphitheater during the Labor The prophet Isaiah looked to God’s Word in Isaiah toms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. forcement building behind the museum, as well Day festival! out on a people who longed 55:2, God says: “Hear- Because so much of the Labor Day Festival as having mobile health first aid and emergen- for happiness and security ken diligently unto me, is centered around outdoor activities, it is espe- cy aid staff walking and cycling the grounds but were looking for it in the wrong places. and eat ye that which is good, and let your cially important that families with small chil- throughout the day. There is also a first aid sta- They were running to the places of amuse- soul delight itself in fatness.” dren and elderly plan appropriately for their tion at the ballfield area during games in case ment, spending their money for things This is the secret of soul-satisfaction: let visit this year. of accidents or illness. which brought them no permanent satisfac- your soul delight itself in fatness. Remove Please make sure that everyone drinks plen- It is extremely important to take proper tion. the obstructions, and let your soul find the ty of water and stays in the shade as much as precautions while working or playing in high Isaiah stood before them one day and gave fulfillment of its deepest longings in the fel- possible. There are a few air-conditioned areas temperatures and humidity, so please read them the Word of God. We read in Isaiah lowship with God. on the Capitol Grounds, such as the cafeteria over the information on Page 7 that has been 55:1-2: “Ho, every one that thirsteth, come God said another significant thing in our and the museum, but they are limited in space provided by the Choctaw Nation Safety De- ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; text. He said in Isaiah 55:1: Salvation is and only open during certain hours of the partment to help prepare us all for the Labor come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine “free!” God puts no price tag on the gifts. It day. Day Festival and other activities in the hot and milk without money and without price. is free! It is as Isaiah said, “without money Each year during the Labor Day Festival, summer weather. “Wherefore do you spend money for that and without price.” which is not bread and your labour for that God is not a bargaining God. You can- which satisfieth not? Hearken diligently not bargain with him. You must do busi- unto me, and ye that which is good, and let ness with Him on His terms. He holds in your soul delight itself in fatness.” His hands the priceless, precious, eternal Behrens holds Offensive MVP title Notice that Isaiah didn’t speak negative- gift of salvation, and He bids you to take it ly and berate them for their sins. He didn’t without money and without price. grab the bottle from the drunkard’s hand, he So, you who have spent your money Roger Behrens holds his MVP didn’t shame them for their immoral prac- for that which is not bread and your labor trophy as he poses with Choctaw tices. He left all that for the moment. that with satisfieth not, come and receive Nation Chief, Gregory E. Pyle and He simply asked them, “Are you get- this life-giving soul-satisfying life from Assistant Chief, Gary Batton. He ting what you want out of life?” Why do the hand of God – Salvation through Jesus represented the Choctaw Nation you spend your money for that which is not Christ our Savior! of Oklahoma in the Jim Thorpe bread and your labor for that which satisfi- One last thing. This offer is for everyone: Native American All Star Game eth not?” “Everyone that thirsteth come ye to the wa- at North Texas University in Dent- If Isaiah were living today, he would ter” (Isaiah 55:1). He can meet the need of en, Texas, and was selected as the probably stand here and simply ask, “Are all of us. I ask you: “Are you getting out of MVP offensive player for the blue you getting what you want? Are you finding life what you want? Have you found peace team. satisfaction?” and satisfaction?” Graduating seniors with tribal en- He would say to the successful business- God has given to us His wonderful plan rollment cards from any federally man, “Are you getting what you want?” He for salvation. He gave His only begotten recognized tribe in the United States would say to the labourers, “Are you getting Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, to pay the pen- or Canada are eligible to participate what you want?” He would say to the young alty for sin, which is death, on the cross in the all-star game. This program Choctaw Nation: Bret Moss people, “Are you getting what you want?” (John 3:16). Trust Jesus Christ as your per- got its start in Lawrence, Kan., in Assistant Chief Gary Batton, Roger Behrens and He would say to those who have the best sonal Savior by faith so that you can have 2002. It was used as a recruiting Chief Gregory E. Pyle. homes and the smoothest, powerful auto- peace and reconciliation. tool for the football team at Haskell mobiles, “Are you getting what you want?” The apostle Paul said in 1st Corinthians Indian Nations University. Isaiah did not leave them with an unan- 15:3-4: “For I delivered unto you first of all During the event, players attend a week of game. swered question. He went on to tell them that which I also received, how that Christ practices before the game. They also meet col- Behrens was very pleased to represent the that there is a satisfying way of life, if they died for our sins according to the Scrip- lege recruiters, football scouts and Dallas area Choctaw Nation and will be attending Haskell wish to seek it. He exhorted them to aban- tures, and that he was buried, and that he corporations aside from their two-a-days. A Indian Nations University in the fall. don the vain searching for pots of gold at the rose again the third day according to the special tour of the Dallas Cowboys stadium “It is always a delight to me to see young end of the rainbow, and to start searching Scriptures.” was also included for the players. Choctaws succeeding in their areas of interest. for happiness where it is really found. Jesus Christ is alive. Trust Him as your Another Choctaw, Dylan Parker, a quarter- I wish Roger the best as he furthers his educa- Jesus said to the thirsty, unsatisfied Sa- Savior. Pray for America, and pray for our back from Valliant, was named MVP for the tion,” said Chief Pyle. maritan woman in John 4:14: “But whoso- men and women in our armed service.

Tribal Council members meet in July session at Tushka Homma The Choctaw Nation Tribal Coun- team that was initiated by the Proj- continue the program from Nov. 1, Community Center in Hugo; • establishment of Choctaw Glob- cil members met in regular session ect EMPOWER Program under the 2011, through Oct. 31, 2012; • to donate a 1993 Chevrolet Blue- al Staffing, Inc.; on July 9 at Tushka Homma. Coun- Outreach Services Division to aid • to donate playground equipment Bird 24-passenger disability bus to • and the establishment of Choc- cil members addressed several items Native American women who have to Battiest Public School; Mead Baptist Church; taw Staffing Solutions, Inc.; of new business, approving council been victimized to reclaim success- • to donate a 1991 Chevrolet Blue- • the adoption of certain codes for The Choctaw Nation Tribal Coun- bills: ful lives Bird 24-passenger bus to Armstrong use in Court of General Jurisdiction cil meets in regular session at 10 • to approve procedure manual • to approve the budget and re- Baptist Church; of Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, a.m. on the second Saturday of each for Choctaw Nation Sexual As- contracting for the Choctaw Nation • to donate a 1992 Chevrolet Blue- which will aid attorneys dealing month in the Council Chambers at sault Response Team (SART), a Head Start Program, which will Bird 24-passenger bus to Choctaw with legal issues in tribal courts; Tushka Homma. August 2011, BISKINIK, Page 3 NOTES TO THE NATION Events Labor Day Quilt Show 2011 Thank you, Antlers and Clayton YAB Choctaw Days The Labor Day quilt show entries need to be dropped The Pushmataha County Chamber of Commerce would like off at the Information Center from noon to 5 p.m. on Fri- to recognize and extend a heartfelt thank you to the Choctaw Festival at the Smithsonian day, Sept. 2, and picked up by noon on Monday, Sept. Nation Youth Advisory Board. Members were Malichi Stroud, Washington, D.C. • June 22-25 5. For additional information, contact Shawna Folsom at Tamren Smith, Cassidy Courtwright, Jordan Billy, Cooper 580-924-8280 or 800-522-6170, ext. 2246. Wood and Chelsea Bishop of the Antlers chapter for their su- perb help and community service at the Antlers Homecoming 5K Race and fish fry. Their help was greatly appreciated. We Code Talkers Association invites you would also like to acknowledge the YAB Antlers and Clayton The Choctaw Code Talkers Association wishes to in- chapters that bussed the tables at the 2011 Pushmataha County vite everyone to support the work of this organization. Chamber Banquet for tips that they so graciously donated to Efforts include preserving and honoring the memories the Tushka community after the tornado. This was an appreci- of our Choctaw men who served in World War II. These ated and commendable act of kindness. men were not considered citizens of the United States but Pushmataha County Chamber of Commerce still enlisted to fight for the homeland. Some of the Code Talkers were first members of the National Guard and de- fended the U.S. on the Mexican border from invasion by Seeking information Thankful for Choctaw Days Poncho Villa. I am searching for information on my ancestor, Simon Col- I would like to express my thanks to all involved in the The original Code Talkers need to be recognized with berts’, ancestors. I have the following information from the recent Choctaw Days at the National Museum of the Ameri- other Choctaw veterans. You do not need to be related 1896 census: Simon was number 2120 and his father was Win- can Indian. Not living in Oklahoma, I have few opportuni- to a Code Talker in order to preserve their history-mak- chester Wade, number 2402. Elsie Wade, number 6121, was ties to be involved in Choctaw events. I attended all four ing service and stories. Consider becoming an associate included on the census as well as Elsie’s father, John Davis, days at the museum and came away with unique, wonderful member for $9 per year. number 12598. If you have any information regarding my an- and powerful experiences each time. I had the opportunity The Code Talkers Association meets annually during cestors, please contact Jeramiah Colbert at 164 Cypress Mead, to share parts of this with several members of our extended the Labor Day Festival in the Council Chamber, across OK 73449. Choctaw family, descended from Veda Quincy Leeper. I from the museum at 1:30 p.m. The association invites also had friends from Florida drive up to be here for the everyone to join, to hear the latest news concerning the event. Pictured are Jeff Hancock, Caroline Hancock, Jen- association, to meet descendants and friends and to find nifer Hancock, Nate Hancock, Judith Coats, Chief Pyle, out about how you can get involved. Thank you to Scholarship Advisement Richard Leeper, Laura Leeper and John Leeper. Caroline, If you are interested in joining, contact membership My name is Scott Suddath, grandson of original enrollee Jennifer, Judith, Richard and John are Choctaw members. chair Lila Swink at 580-873-2301 or email at swink1ok@ Ralph M. Suddath, and I have been a recipient of scholarships yahoo.com. You may also contact association president provided by the Choctaw Nation throughout graduate school. John Leeper Nuchi Nashoba at 405-245-5425 or email at nuchinasho- On June 11, I received a master’s degree in social work from [email protected]. Portland State University, which has been a lifetime goal of Amerman’s admiration mine. With the help of these scholarships, I achieved my aca- Tims/Wilson family reunion demic goal. I also want to sincerely thank Lori of the Scholar- for Choctaw Days ship Advisement Program for her kindness and professional- To Judy Allen, thank you so much for all your hard work The children of Julia Tims and Isaac Wilson Sr. will ism throughout my time in school. and coordination put into Choctaw Days. I would be on your host an annual family reunion. All of the relatives, near- team any time. The event was life-changing for my family relatives, friends and any interested individuals are in- and me. The group of people assembled to do the program vited to attend. The reunion will be held Sept. 3 at the Admiration for BISKINIK article was outstanding and represented our tribe well. My brother Smithville Community Center. Everyone is encouraged to bring a covered dish and items for the auction. The Yakoke for the excellent article written by Larissa Copeland, and I were very honored to be with you and the invited par- family hopes everyone can make it so they can catch up “Teaching today with stories of ancestors’ yesterdays,” as told ticipants. on the happenings of the past year. by Les Williston. Many sweet blessings to you, Mr. Williston, Roger Amerman for teaching and instructing our future generation with such respect and passion for your trade and profession. Choctaw Days informative and fun Annual Jones family reunion Shirley Krieger, Woodbridge, Va. I wanted to commend the Choctaw Nation and the Smith- Descendants of Cephus Jones, Betty Jones Thompson, sonian Institution for the spectacular program, Choctaw Reba Jones Meashintubby and Wilburn Jones will hold Days. My daughter and I attended the events on June 22. the annual Jones family reunion at the city park in Tali- Thank you so much for bringing this event to Washing- hina on Sept. 24 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. For information Jordan a registered nurse or directions, call Kathy Leach at 214-440-1455, Joyce Jordan Lynn Dill and her family would ton, D.C. It was such an informative and fun program. My daughter, who is 7 years old, and I truly enjoyed the hands- Purser at 972-424-7477 or Mary Lou Meashintubby at like to thank the Choctaw Nation for helping 918-567-4392. her through nursing school at Connors Col- on workshops, beading and basket weaving. At first, I won- lege. She is the granddaughter of Rosie Jane dered how anyone could conduct such intensive workshops Cricklin Harrison and the late James E. Har- in such a short amount of time, but I was blown away by rison. Jordan is now employed with W.W. Hastings Hospital the knowledge and skill of the presenters. We enjoyed ev- Thankful in Tahlequah as a registered nurse and she appreciates all the erything, from the hands-on activities to the dancers and support. exhibits. The only negative thing we have to say is that we for scholarships just didn’t have enough time to enjoy it all. I wish we could I would like to thank the Choctaw have stayed into the night, what a delight! Again, thank you Nation for the generous scholarships so much. We’re spreading the word. I received over the past four years. I ‘Capture the Spirit’ Calendar Photo Angela R. Brown graduated in May from the Univer- Contest winners announced sity of Colorado at Boulder with a degree in integrative physiology and We would like to thank everyone who sent photo entries for King thankful for Choctaw Days I intend to eventually pursue a Mas- the “Capture the Spirit” Calendar Contest. There were so many It was truly my honor to represent the Choctaw Nation of ter’s of Public Health. Thank you so great entries. Judges narrowed it down to the final three. All Oklahoma at the Choctaw Days event in Washington, D.C. much for these scholarships that have allowed me to continue photos were judged on content and the elements that represent- As an artist, to exhibit at such a prestigious venue, words my education. ed the Choctaw Nation. Our winners are: first place, Melissa cannot express the honor I felt to be there. I witnessed Reich with a photo of her mother and her daughter, both in Danielle Bogrett quality craftsmen and artisans, performing and visual, that traditional dress, shucking corn by a river; second place, Sherry made me proud to be an Oklahoma Choctaw. Nail with a photo of Jeremy Williston in his traditional shirt Growing up in Ardmore, it was not always acceptable sitting by a stream; and third place, Hoally Baker with a photo to be an Indian, but through efforts of quality individuals, Thank you for support of her grandfather singing hymns from Chahta Taloa to one of such as yourselves and your staff promoting our Oklahoma I would like to express my sincere grat- his great-grandchildren. Choctaw heritage, it is now “cool” to be Indian. Working itude to the Choctaw Nation for the guid- Thanks to all the photo entries, the 2012 calendar will be with individuals on your staff, such as Judy Allen, Lana ance and support I received while attend- something to treasure. We hope you will enjoy it! Sleeper, Lisa Reed, Chrissy Dill, and my cousin, Cyndi ing Columbia University in New York. I Houser, all were truly professional and helpful. There were am proud to say that in May I graduated great memories, a great experience and great people. with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Middle Gregory E. Pyle Gary Batton East and Asian languages and cultures Paul King Chief Assistant Chief and a minor in anthropology. Currently, I am teaching English to children in a Palestinian refugee camp in Beirut, Lebanon. The Official No matter where I am, I always speak of the Choctaw people Monthly Publication Thank you, Councilman Coley with pride and appreciation. Thank you again for supporting of the I wanted to say thank you to Councilman Joe Coley for help- me. ing me in May and for the assistance that was provided for me, Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Destiny Sullens it was a blessing. I pray that God’s blessings be upon him and Judy Allen, Executive Director Lisa Reed, Director/Editor his district people. Melissa Stevens, Circulation Director Michael Aaron Thank you Larissa Copeland, Assistant Editor Karen Jacob, Purchasing Coordinator Our deepest thank you to Chief Gregory E. Pyle and the Bret Moss, Copy/Production Assistant Thank you, Councilman Thompson Choctaw Nation for caring during my family members’ loss Chrissy Dill, Journalism Intern and the assistance towards her burial expenses and service The Buckhorn Community Center would like to thank its meal after the funeral. Also thank you to Candi Buck of the P.O. Box 1210 wonderful councilman, Perry Thompson, for his help in getting Muscogee/Creek Nation, all family and friends and most of all, Durant, OK 74702 their newly renovated community center and the necessary ap- Jesus Christ. Alma Jean’s family sincerely thanks you all for (580) 924-8280 • (800) 522-6170 pliances needed. Mr. Thompson is a very thoughtful and caring your prayers and kindness. Fax (580) 924-4148 councilman and the people of District 8 appreciate him very www.choctawnation.com much. Thanks again, Perry, from the Buckhorn Community Michael David Skaggs, grandson of Alma Jean Atkins e-mail: [email protected] Center. The BISKINIK is printed each month as a service to Tribal Members. The BISKINIK reserves the right to edit submitted Thankful for vocational rehab material which it finds inaccurate, profane, offensive or mor- ally unacceptable. Copy may be edited for proper grammar and Seeking information on Hollidays I would like to express my gratitude and thanks for the assis- punctuation. Copy will be accepted in any readable form, but At the bottom of page 11 of the July BISKINIK, Isabel Hol- tance I was provided by the Choctaw Nation Vocational Rehab where possible, it is requested that material be typewritten and liday is identified in one of the pictures. I would like to make in getting the brace I needed for improving my walking. It has double spaced. You must include an address or phone number contact with her about her Holliday ancestors. If anyone knows helped so much. Having the brace has greatly improved my where you may be reached. Due to space limitations and the her or has any information about her, please contact JoAnn quality of life and made my ability to continue to work pos- quantity of article submissions, we are unable to include every- sible. Without the help of the Choctaw Nation and all the great thing we receive. Holliday Scantlen at 918-967-8160. programs they offer, I would never have been able to get the If you are receiving more than one BISKINIK at your home JoAnn Scantlen, Stigler or if your address needs changed, we would appreciate hearing brace. Again, I give many thanks. from you. Teresa Gallant The BISKINIK is a nonprofit publication of the Choctaw Na- Check us out on Facebook! tion. Circulation is monthly. 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BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST August 2011, BISKINIK, Page 4 Ten tips to a great plate Nursery News Choctaw Nation Making food choices for Bethany Caldwell a healthy lifestyle can be WIC Health Services as simple as using these 10 WOMEN, INFANTS Bethany Christine Rosa tips. Use the ideas in this list AND CHILDREN Caldwell was born at 6:32 p.m. on to balance your calories, to Oct. 4, 2010, at McCurtain Memo- Authority introduces choose foods to eat more of- along with other vegetables rial Hospital in Idabel. Her parents ten, and to cut back on foods for your meals. Add fruit to are Jon and Kay of Broken Bow. She has a brother, Johnny, of Okla- Going Lean Initiative to eat less often. meals as part of main or side The rising cases of diabetes, heart disease, high blood pres- homa City. 1. Balance calories – find dishes or as dessert. sure and other diseases linked to poor nutrition and obesity Grandparents are Donna Harra- out how many calories YOU 6. Switch to fat-free or low- among Indian people has long been a concern to the Choctaw man of Broken Bow, the late Glenn Harraman and the late Wil- need for a day as a first step in fat (1%) milk – they have the Nation. A recent State of the Nation’s Health Report (2010) lie and Hannah Caldwell. managing your weight. Go to same amount of calcium and demonstrates a growing frequency of these health problems, www.ChooseMyPlate.gov to other essential nutrients as and they are occurring in younger and younger tribal members. find your calorie level. Being whole milk, but fewer calo- Chief Gregory E. Pyle, Assistant Chief Gary Batton, the Tribal physically active also helps ries and less saturated fat. Kelsie Wesley Council and the Health Services Authority have all agreed that you balance calories. 7. Make half your grains something has to be done to break this trend. To that end, the Lisa and Dewayne Wesley 2. Enjoy your food, but eat whole grains – to eat more Choctaw Nation “Going Lean” initiative was established in would like to announce the birth less – take the time to fully whole grains, substitute a October 2010. of their daughter, Kelsie Jane enjoy your food as you eat it. whole-grain product for a re- The Going Lean Team currently consists of 30 members Wesley, who was named after Eating too fast or when your fined product, such as eating throughout the Choctaw Nation, including Wellness Centers, the late Elsie Jane Wesley. Kelsie attention is elsewhere may whole-wheat bread instead of Health System, Health Providers, Diabetic Educators, Com- was born at 10:56 p.m. on April 5, lead to eating too many calo- white bread or brown rice in- munity Health, Talihina Youth Center Staff, Youth Advisory 2011, in Talihina. She weighed 7 ries. Pay attention to hunger stead of white rice. Staff, Clinic Directors, Hospital Cafeteria Staff, Outreach pounds and was 18.5 inches long. and fullness cues before, dur- 8. Foods to eat less often – Staff, Lifetime Legacy and Behavioral Health, IT Staff, and Her grandparents are Verna and Jamie Washington of Idabel ing and after meals. Use them cut back on foods high in sol- CN Epidemiology/Statisticians. and Dorinda Wesley of Broken Bow. Her great-grandparents to recognize when to eat and id fats, added sugars and salt. Their main focus is on obesity prevention and promoting are the late Elsie J. Wesley and Lenis Wesley of Sobol, along when you’ve had enough. They include cakes, cookies, healthy lifestyles. Program Director Tammie Cannady is de- with Newton and Dorothy Wesley of Broken Bow. 3. Avoid oversized portions ice cream, candies, sweetened termined to make a generational change within the Choctaw – use a smaller plate, bowl drinks, pizza and fatty meats Nation that will greatly reduce the incidence of disease among and glass. Portion out foods like ribs, sausages, bacon and our people. before you eat. When eating hot dogs. Use these foods as John Basura “We will be targeting Choctaws of all ages, through outreach out, choose a smaller size occasional treats, not every- with staff surveys, partnerships with the indigenous Wellness option, share a dish or take day foods. John “Denali” Basura was born on Research Institute at the University of Washington, and reach- home part of your meal. 9. Compare sodium in June 12, 2011, at Kaiser Permanente ing out to the entire area through community forums,” she 4. Foods to eat more often foods – use the Nutrition Hospital in Panorama City, Calif., stated. “Our goal is Healthy People, Strong Nation.” – eat more vegetables, fruits, Facts label to choose lower weighing 8 lbs. 10 oz. and measuring Other plans include establishing weight loss clubs and ex- whole grains, and fat-free or sodium versions of foods like 21 inches long. ercise classes; gardening programs to develop community 1% milk and dairy products. soup, bread and frozen meals. The proud parents are Bruce and gardens and farmers markets, and to illustrate healthy ways These foods have the nutri- Select canned foods labeled Melissa Basura of Burbank, Calif. to cook traditional foods; public school programs focused as ents you need for health – in- “low sodium,” ”reduced so- At home, Baby John has a 3-year-old early as preschool; and even lifestyle/motivational counseling. cluding potassium, calcium, dium” or “no salt added.” brother, Michael “Yuma,” and a sister The Going Lean Team is also working on developing a line of vitamin D and fiber. Make 10. Drink water instead of Amanda. John is the Grandson of Kay (Boyd) and Mike Ba- walking and cooking videos. them the basis for meals and sugary drinks – cut calories sura, and the great-grandson of the late John Boyd and Auddie “As each of these products is readied and made available snacks. by drinking water or unsweet- Lee Self Boyd, an original Choctaw minor. to our communities, we expect to see real change among our 5. Make half your plate ened beverages. Soda, energy John was named after his maternal great-grandfather and tribal members,” says Cannady. “And since Going Lean is a fruits and vegetables – choose drinks and sports drinks are a given a Native American middle name meaning “Great One.” fluid program, we will be able to take feedback from the par- red, orange and dark-green major source of added sugar, His parents are very proud of his Choctaw heritage. ticipants and use it to focus on specific needed areas, or even vegetables like tomatoes, and calories in American di- to expand to new ones.” sweet potatoes and broccoli, ets. Within the nation itself, the Going Lean Team will be con- ducting surveys, working with food services/cafeterias to find Make water the main healthier food options, and encouraging plenty of health activi- FOOD DISTRIBUTION ties. Expect to see more Healthy Living articles in the Biski- ingredient for summer meals nik, the Healthy Nation Healthy Future magazine as well as We are in the heat of the summer and nobody wants to cook educational materials in community centers, head starts and ANTLERS or grill for that matter. Yet we still need to eat. So, what do clinics. Market open weekdays Sept. 1-27 , except for: Sept. 5 we do? The Choctaw Nation recognizes that the future of our people Sept. 7 : Idabel 9-11 a.m.; Broken Bow 12-2 p.m. (market closed) Serve cold, refreshing foods with high water content. This depends upon the health and advancement of our youth. By Sept. 14: Bethel 9-10:30; Smithville 12-2 (market closed) time of year we have so much to choose from: cucumbers, introducing the Going Lean program now, it is the hope that a Closed Sept. 28-30 for inventory tomatoes, berries, peaches ... the list goes on and on. Taking a new healthier lifestyle will become a natural part of our lives Cooking with Carmen: Sept. 8 & 23, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. few fresh fruits and vegetables and some left over grilled lean and that we will continue to teach these ways to our future chil- meat you can create a light and refreshing meal in no time. dren “unto the seventh generation.” Living a healthier lifestyle durant Try grilled chicken sliced and placed on a fresh mixed green depends on us for the generations to come. Market open weekdays: Sept. 1-27, except for: Sept. 5 salad; add fresh tomatoes, cauliflower, yellow squash, blue Closed Sept. 28-20 for inventory berries, sliced strawberries and almonds tossed with a light Cooking with Carmen: Sept. 2 & 19, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. balsamic vinegar dressing. Serve this with a tomato, corn and McAlester black bean salsa with some whole grain chips and ice water Market open weekdays Sept. 1-27, except for: Sept. 5 spiked with cucumber and strawberry slices. Cool, refreshing Closed Sept. 28-30 for inventory and healthy to boot. Cooking with Carmen: Sept. 6 & 14, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. POTEAU Market open weekdays Sept. 1-27, except for: Sept. 5 Closed Sept. 28-30 for inventory. Tomato, Corn Cooking with Carmen: Sept. 12 & 21, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. and Black Bean Salsa Ingredients Serve chilled or at room Choctaw Nation Food Distribution • Seeded, finely chopped temperature. Open 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday thru Friday. We 1 cup black beans, rinsed and will take lunch from 11:30 to 12 noon drained Nutrition Information: WAREHOUSES & MARKETS • ½ cup fresh tomatoes Makes five servings. Calo- Antlers: 306 S.W. “O” St., 580-298-6443 • Frozen corn kernels, ries: 63, Sodium: 138mg, Durant: 100 1/2 Waldron Dr., 580-924-7773 • ½ cup finely minced ci- Total Fat: 2 g, Total Carbohy- McAlester: 1212 S. Main St., 918-420-5716 lantro leaves drate: 9g, Saturated Fat: 0g, Poteau: 100 Kerr, 918-649-0431 • ¼ cup thawed finely Dietary Fiber: 2g, Choles- Food Distribution Sites minced red onion terol: 0mg, Protein: 2g. Bethel: Choctaw Community Building • ¼ cup freshly squeezed Broken Bow: Choctaw Family Investment Center lemon juice I hope you all enjoy this Idabel: Choctaw Community Center • 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive cool and refreshing summer Smithville: Choctaw Community Center oil recipe from the American In- Stigler: Choctaw Community Center • 2 tsp salt and black pep- stitute for Cancer Research In accordance with federal law and U.S. Department of Agri- per to taste served with whole grain culture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on • Hot pepper sauce or a few chips! the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, political dashes of Tabasco (optional) For further information you beliefs, or disability. To file a complaint of discrimination, write may contact: Erin Adams, USDA, Director, Office of Adjudication and Compliance, 1400 Directions RD, LD at the Choctaw Na- Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, or In a medium bowl, com- tion Diabetes Wellness Cen- call 800-795-3272 (voice) or 202-720-6382 (TDD). USDA is an bine all ingredients. ter: 800-349-7026 ext: 6959 equal opportunity provider and employer. August is designated as Choctaw Nation WIC National Immunization Month WOMEN, INFANTS AND CHILDREN August is designated as National Immunization Month to spotlight the importance of keeping SITE PHONE HOURS DAYS your immunizations up to date. The Center for Disease Control has put together a number of Antlers 580-298-3161 8:30-4:00 Every Tuesday charts to help you keep on top of the vaccines that you and your children need. It’s gotten rather Atoka 580-889-5825 8:00-4:30 Every Mon., Wed., Thurs. & complicated over the past few years, as many additional shots have been added to the require- Fri. ments for kids. Bethel 580-241-5458 8:30-4:00 1st Tuesday As an adult you may be in need of some shots as well. Many of the immunizations that kids Boswell 580-380-5264 8:30-4:00 Every Friday now take for granted didn’t even exist when many of adults were children. It’s worth checking Broken Bow 580-584-2746 8:00-4:30 Daily, except 1st Tues. & 2nd out what is available and what you need. The diseases that these vaccines protect against are Thurs. pretty nasty and better off avoided. Coalgate 580-927-3641 8:00-4:30 Every Wednesday Vaccines became a required part of childhood in the early 1950s, when four vaccines were Durant 580-924-8280 x 2257 8:00-4:30 Daily introduced: diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis and smallpox. Luckily for kids back then, three of the Hugo 580-326-5404 8:00-4:30 Daily four were combined into a single injection. This meant that kids only had to receive five shots by the time they were 2 years old, and they never had to receive more than one per doctor’s visit. Idabel 580-286-2510 8:00-4:30 Mon., Thurs. & Fri. Kids are not as lucky on that score nowadays. By the time kids are at age 2, they have received McAlester 918-423-6335 8:00-4:30 Daily as many as 20 vaccinations, sometimes receiving as many as five shots in just one visit. The Poteau 918-647-4585 8:00-4:30 Daily good news is that kids today are protected from a long list of dangerous diseases. The bad news Smithville 580-244-3289 8:30-4:00 2nd Thursday is that there are just too many shots. This will hopefully change in the next few years. There are Spiro 918-962-3832 8:00-4:30 Every Wednesday - Friday Every Monday - Wednesday more vaccinations being added each year, which unfortunately means more shots, but they are Stigler 918-967-4211 8:30-4:00 Talihina 918-567-7000 x 6792 8:00-4:30 Mon., Tues., Wed., & Fri. also working on a number of combined vaccines, which means less shots. Hopefully the final Wilburton 918-465-5641 8:30-4:00 Every Thursday outcome will mean more protection from disease with less shots.

August 2011, BISKINIK, Page 5

Self on Jan. 17, 1948, the couple bought 40 acres in GEORGIA southeast Antlers and he built Giving wounded warriors their home. She spent hours Last of original working in her yard and many enrollees passes remember how beautiful her flowers were. a much-needed lift away at 106 She worked several years Continued from Page 1 for the Court Clerk’s office Choctaw Nation in Antlers. When the Court “I would call to see if she Clerk made the decision to pilot’s role in wanted to go shopping or out retire, Georgia chose to run Veterans Airlift to eat and she’d always say, for the office, won the -elec ‘I’ll be ready when you get tion and remained court clerk Georgia Mae on her 104th Command here’,” cousin Betty Key said until she retired. birthday. with a smile. “She was happy “She would get involved highlighted to have any chance to go.” with campaigning,” Betty Another surprise party was Submitted by She didn’t wait on people said, remembering how her held at a local restaurant. Be- HAROLD HARMON to call her, either. At 101, son, John Key, would go door lieving only two or three were Georgia was still a familiar to door with her when he was meeting her for lunch, she Southeastern Oklahoma face behind the wheel as she 12. “That was 53 years ago. walked into Able’s Barbecue State University aviation drove her car around town. So many people in Antlers are to find the restaurant full of graduate Quentin McLarry She continued driving un- saying they remember seeing family and friends to help her (1998) is the Chief Pilot for til she suffered a stroke and Georgia’s name on their mar- celebrate turning 100 years the Choctaw Nation of Okla- Southeastern Oklahoma State University: DAN HOKE moved into a nursing home in riage license.” old. homa and a part of the Veter- Choctaw Nation pilots Quentin McLarry, left, and Antlers. After retiring, Georgia Georgia surrounded her- ans Airlift Command (VAC). John Wesley are pictured with one of the tribe’s planes, Georgia belonged to a large spent close to a quarter of a self with things that made her McLarry graduated from a Cessna Citation Encore. They also fly a King Air C90. family. She was one of 10 century as a “pink lady” at the happy. Silo High School in 1994. Both planes are owned by the Choctaw Nation of Okla- children born to David and local hospital. A testament of “She owned a large collec- He participated in athletics homa. Carrie Fowler Roebuck. Sis- how much she was cared for tion of bells,” cousin Joyce (baseball and basketball) and ter Vivian Allen of Antlers and recognition of her years Daniels recalled. “She was was named an Oklahoma medical and other compas- ous reasons and this is a tre- is the only surviving sibling. of service, an entire pew at thrilled when she was given Academic Scholar. sionate purposes through a mendous blessing for them Vivian took Georgia to the her funeral was filled with fel- a new one. She also had a lot McLarry said, “For as long national network of volunteer and their families, and a beauty shop and on errands low volunteers. of stuffed animals and would as I can remember, all I want- aircraft owners and pilots. greatly appreciated service when she was no longer able Her caring attitude was ex- just hug them all the time. ed to do is fly. I grew up in Walt Fricke, a wounded that we are happy to be able to drive. She would take care emplified in many ways. There was one really old doll Mead and went to school at veteran who discovered first- to provide them while our of all of her needs includ- “After my dad died in 1975, that she kept in a chair. My Silo. Since Southeastern had, hand how difficult it is to be plane is not being used. ing Georgia’s two dogs. She Georgia would take mother to husband made the chair for and still has, such a great separated from his family, “The warriors have sac- treasured her two canine the doctor and dentist, any- her. She was so proud of that aviation program, going to founded the VAC and has rificed willingly for us and friends and Vivian watched where she needed to go,” an- little chair.” school there was an easy watched it grow into a na- for our country, and it is an“ over them for two years after other cousin, June Walker, re- Georgia liked making ce- choice. tional organization with more honor to be able to provide Georgia moved to the nursing called. “She would come over ramics and a former student “I am proud to say that than 1,800 pilots home. A fellow church mem- when it stormed and spend of Tuskahoma Academy, she Southeastern Aviation is and aircraft own- The support of ber has now adopted them. the night with mother, too.” enjoyed reading, especially where I got my start.” ers who partici- During early adulthood, A longtime member of Ant- history. McLarry is married to the pate in the pro- our warriors must Georgia lived with a cous- lers’ First United Methodist Georgia made many friends former Ashley Chambers of gram voluntarily. be unyeilding. in, Lizzie, in Antlers until a Church, Georgia was very during her 106 years and Durant. They met in high The VAC tornado ripped through the involved with the church and cared deeply for all of her school and were married in makes travel by “ – Quentin McLarry small town on April 12, 1945. her church family. family and friends. August 1996. The two chil- private plane Lizzie’s home had 13 rooms On one of her birthdays, she She was preceded in death dren are Jacob and Randi. available at no cost to vet- for them. You can learn more but when Georgia and Lizzie was asked what she wanted to by her husband; parents; Ashley is the daughter of erans and family members about this great effort at their climbed out of the basement, do and when she replied that brothers William Roebuck, Randy and Kathy Chambers, when it would be nearly website, veteransairlift.org.” there was only one room still she wanted to go to the outlet Dewey Roebuck and Jesse Durant. Quentin is the son of impossible to arrange other- Dr. David Conway serves standing. Although suddenly mall in Stroud, the church van Roebuck; and sisters Flossie Gary and Vicki McLarry of wise because of financial and as Director of Southeastern’s homeless, the two counted loaded up and off they went. Carter, Elizabeth Carter, Vi- Mead. health considerations. Aviation Sciences Institute. themselves as some of the “Someone slipped around ola Fromme, Beatrice Ring- McLarry worked for SE The Choctaw Nation of “I’ve known Quentin for lucky ones. That devastating and got her a birthday cake,” wald and Geneva Carr. as a Flight Instructor and Oklahoma is one of many years,” Conway said. “He is tornado killed 55 people in Betty said. “They stopped at Survivors include her sis- taught classes in the aviation individuals and organizations a good example of the prod- Antlers. a roadside park and surprised ter, Vivian; and many nieces, program for a few years. He involved in the program. uct of our aviation program. After marrying Chester her with it.” nephews and friends. has also flown cargo and cor- Choctaw Chief Gregory He is just a stellar person porate aircraft before start- E. Pyle said, “The Choc- who goes above and beyond ing his flying career with the taw people have historically and his work with the VAC is Choctaw Nation of Okla- served the United States val- a great example.” homa in 2004, where he flies iantly in great numbers, es- McLarry said, “Regardless Dozier named a top five United with Southeastern graduate pecially during wartime, and of what you may think about John Wesley (’99) and Direc- our tribe has stepped up to the the wars that our country is tor of Operations Al Cherry. challenge as well. involved in, the support of SubmittedFresh by Retail Produce Manager He served in the United “We have offered the use our warriors must be unyield- Marine Corps Reserves, of our tribal airplane on the ing. I know that Mr. Walt GEORGE HUBKA along with mixed periods of average of once a month Fricke would agree with me “The Final Four” has a distinct meaning for active duty, from 1995-2003. through Veterans Airlift when I say ‘I pray for the day NCAA basketball teams and fans. In the pro- He attended Officer School Command to be used by when a service like the one duce industry being in the “Top Twenty five” in 1996-97 and was recalled wounded warriors of the cur- provided by Veteran’s Airlift means, that as a retail produce manager, you in 2003 for Operation Iraqi rent war for flights to medical is no longer required.’ are one of the top 25 individuals nominated Freedom. appointments. “But until that day comes, I from throughout the U.S and Canada to be The VAC provides free air “These wounded soldiers am glad this organization ex- honored with the title “Retail Produce Man- transportation to wounded are not usually able to use ists and I am honored to be a ager Award”. veterans and their family for commercial flights for vari- part of it.” Moore resident David Dozier has been se- lected to be among 25 finalists in the competi- tion for being named as a 2011 United Fresh Retail Produce Manager Award recipient. Dozier currently serves as produce depart- ment manager at GFF Foods store in Moore, OK. He is a 20 year veteran with the GFF Foods organization and has worked in the Submitted photo grocery industry since age 15. David Dozier, right, is awarded a top five The original pool of applicant finalists from 2011 United Fresh Retail Produce Manager whom the 25 winners were selected num- Award at the United Fresh Tradeshow in bered over 200 individuals. New Orleans, La. As a finalist Dozier was awarded a paid trip to the 2011 United Fresh Tradeshow in New tools such as “sampling” to provide items for Orleans, La., from May 2 to 4. During the customers to taste and he provides educational Chairman’s Reception and Annual Awards material on the nutritional content of items in Banquet on May 4 the top five “Grand Prize” his department. winners were each awarded a $1,000 cash He notes a trend by consumers in being in- prize. David was one of the top five selected terested in using organically and local pro- out of the 25 there to be awarded one of the duce which he attempts to source locally when special $1,000 prizes given out that night at products are in season in the area. During the the banquet. summer months David’s department features David manages the produce department at Oklahoma grown watermelon and cantaloupe Submitted photo the Moore GFF Foods location. His responsi- products. In recent years Dozier has won many bilities there include training new employees grand prizes and first place awards in various and insuring that those employees on duty in produce display contests he has entered. his absence have a good knowledge of the Some of his prize winning produce displays Blue named Advocate of the Year produce department’s operation to guarantee have included: “Sound the alarm! Apples are John R. Blue was among recipients of graduated from the University of Central Okla- that customers are happy, receive the prod- HOT STUFF,” “Idaho Potatoes Save the Day,” awards during Oklahoma Minority Enter- homa in Edmond. He is a member of the Amer- ucts, quality, and customer service they ex- and “Wholly Guacamole! Make that Spicy prise Development Week and named “Advo- ican Indian Chamber of Commerce, serves as pect from GFF Foods and A.W.G. from which Play” for which he won a 50 inch flat screen cate of the Year.” chairman of the BRIDGE program in Tulsa and the store secures produce. television. The celebration of success was coordinat- is a member of the American Indian Resource In relation to his department’s customer Dozier’s produce display prowess has be ed by the Native American Business Enter- Center. service, David’s nominator for the award stat- cited in many publications in 2010 including: prise Center (NABEC) of Rural Enterprises “John is dedicated to the advancement of ed, “He has a policy of ‘Never say no to any Progressive Grocer, The Produce News, and of Oklahoma Inc. (REI). Oklahoma’s small businesses,” said James customer’.” The Shelby Report of the Southwest. His dis- As director of the Northeast Region of Ray, NABEC coordinator. “Oklahoma entre- David makes use of many training courses plays have been featured on websites such as: the Oklahoma Small Business Develop- preneurs can be proud to call him a friend and offered, studying other materials from vari- www.BIGONIONS.com and www.idahopotato. ment Center, Blue is a resilient advocate for strong advocate on their behalf.” ous suppliers to keep himself abreast of cur- comretail. Oklahoma small businesses with a focus on REI opened the NABEC office four years rent produce industry trends, food quality and In discussing Dozier’s produce department Native American and minority-owned en- ago through an award from the Minority Busi- terprises. His work and programs are made ness Development Agency, U.S. Department of safety issues, and sanitation and has gained operation, GFF Foods President/General Man- possible through the SBA, Oklahoma De- Commerce. Since that time, the economic im- certification as a produce manager from ager Charlie Bert stated, “When I say Dave is partment of Commerce and Northeastern pact from NABEC services is over $93 million A.W.G. During his time at the GFF Foods a pro, I mean it. He knows about how produce Oklahoma State University. including impact from procurement of govern- store David has adjusted marketing and dis- needs to be presented.” Blue focuses his attention on assisting en- ment contracts of $52,002,767. play plans to the ever-changing produce in- The Retail Produce Manager Awards Pro- trepreneurs with business plan development, Through strategic partnerships with leading dustry. gram is sponsored by Ready Pac Foods, Inc., in access to capital, training and education and Oklahoma organizations, NABEC strives to as- He cites a current trend by customers of conjunction with United Fresh, the produce in- he assists businesses with certification to al- sist minority business owners in reaching the wanting to secure nutritious produce items dustry’s trade group. The program has honored low them to pursue government contracts next stage of growth for their companies with for use in their meal planning and prepara- over 100+ managers since the program’s incep- and expand their markets. a special focus on procurement of government tion. To meet that need, David uses various tion in 2005. A member of the Choctaw Nation, Blue contracts. August 2011, BISKINIK, Page 6 PEOPLE YOU KNOW

News from the Meghan writes book Happy birthday, Celesity Woodroofs Fourteen-year-old Meghan Louise A happy birthday to Celesity Perry of Byassee is one of only four percent of stu- Paris, Texas, who turned 2 years old on Congratulations to Mat- dents chosen out of thousands of entries June 9. Celesity celebrated her birthday at thew and Candace Wood- each year to Tate Publishing and of an the Pattonville Fire Department. She is the roof, who were both or- even smaller percent of underage authors. daughter of Donny and Linda Perry and dained by the Louisiana Tate Publishing is the 10th largest book the granddaughter of Toby and Katy Wil- District of the Assemblies publisher nationwide and is also a Christian-based company. son of Pattonville. Celesity has two sisters, of God in March. They also Meghan signed her contract with Tate Publishing, LLC in Mus- Chassity and Trinity. welcomed Andrew Michael tang, Okla., on June 20. Her book is entitled “Fallen Heart” and Woodroof to the family on is a murder mystery. June 29. Meghan’s book will be sold nationwide. Some of her other LeRoy/Choate Matthew and Candace are youth and children’s pastors at the accomplishments include winning District 1 Little Miss Choc- First Assembly of God in Farmerville, La. engagement taw Nation twice. She is the daughter of Kip and Debra Byas- Kristie Rose LeRoy of see of Idabel. She is the granddaughter of Jerry and Betty Byas- Pawnee will marry Jerold see of Idabel and the late Timothy Sr. and the late Effie Lou Lance Choate of Pickens Shomo of Broken Bow. Simas, Anderson on Sept. 10 at the Pawnee Indian Baptist Church. engagement Kristie is the daughter of In the spring of 2011, Tyler An- Happy birthday, Pauline Jarvis and Linda Mathews derson and Jennifer Simas became Happy 93rd birthday to Pauline LeRoy of Pawnee. Jerold is the son of Floyd and Patricia engaged. They will be married in Robertson Labor of Bayfield, Colo. “Kaye” Noah Choate of Pickens. Grandparents of the couple the spring of 2012. All of the fam- Pauline celebrated with two of her are the late Philip and Louise Kent Mathews, the late Henry ily is happy for the two. Jen is the children and their spouses, a grand- and Evelyn Snake LeRoy, the late Culbertson and Ora Noah daughter of Robert and Paula Si- daughter and her family by going to and the late Everett and Edna Choate. mas and Jeanne and Darren Trent. the Bar D Barbeque in Durang, Colo. Kristie is a 2001 graduate of Pawnee High School, a 2004 Jen’s grandparents, Eugene and Pauline was born July 14, 1918, in graduate from Northern Oklahoma College with an associate Opal Ludlow of Smithville, are proud to make this announce- Durant to Virgil, an original enrollee, degree in athletic training and a 2009 graduate from Cameron ment. and Pearl Labor. University with a bachelor’s degree in health education. She is the credentialing coordinator for the Pawnee Service Unit- Indian Health Service in Pawnee. Prayers for Liam Happy birthday, Melody Jerold is a 1999 graduate of Battiest High School and is cur- Melody Rayne Thorne turned 10 rently enrolled at ITT Technical Institute in Tulsa. He is em- William “Liam” Elijah Lyon was born at 3:25 a.m. Feb. 18 to ployed with the Pawnee Nation of Oklahoma-TDC. Whitney and Brody Lyon in Fort Smith. Although he was about years old on July 21 and celebrated five weeks early, Liam was a perfect size, weighing 6 pounds with family and friends. She attends and measuring 19 inches long. However, it was quickly appar- Northmoor Elementary School and ent there was a serious problem. Thanks to Dr. Seglem and his will be in fifth grade. She also plays Happy anniversary diagnostic skills, Liam was quickly diagnosed with hypoplastic softball. Joseph and Callie Tyson of Tus- left heart syndrome, or HLHS, a congenital heart defect that is Melody’s grandparents are Gene kahoma celebrated their 52nd wed- fatal if left untreated. He was transferred that evening by Life and LaHoma Murphy Crauthers of ding anniversary on Aug. 12. They Flight to the children’s hospital at St. Francis in Tulsa. The doc- Oklahoma City. Her late great-grandparents are William and have three children; two sons, James tors spent a week trying to decide the best course of action and Ella Murphy of Idabel. and Sonny Tyson and one daughter, decided he needed a transplant instead of the first three pallia- Josephine Burton. They have six tive surgeries, and he was transferred to Arkansas Children’s grandchildren and three great-grand- Hospital in Little Rock. He and his mother were transported by children. Happy anniversary, Joseph an Angel One team sent by the hospital. He has been there ever Happy 50th and Callie! since. The doctors thought he should have the surgeries to try anniversary and make his heart work as long as possible, maybe even until Loyle Coleman he was a teenager. He had the Norwood surgery but it wasn’t of Battiest and Do- Happy 10th working quite right and they had to operate again, and now it is ris Wilson Cole- Happy 10th birthday to Mandale Tole- becoming apparent that the palliative surgery is not performing man of Fort Towson free Jr., from his grandmother, Jacqueline as expected and he has been placed on the heart transplant list. will celebrate their Johnson, mother Contance McDonald Liam is receiving prayers from all over the world and they 50th anniversary Lampkin and stepdad Derrick Lampkin. carry the family through. He also gets support from other fami- on Aug. 16. Loyle Mandale is the great-grandson of Evelyn lies with affected children. There are many people who have retired from Tinker Johnson of Ardmore and the late Eulus followed his story and encouraged the family with prayers. Air Force Base after 30 years of service, and Doris retired Johnson of McAlester. Liam has been given support in many ways. Though he is from Brookside Golf Course as assistant pro-shop manager Choctaw, a member of the Osage tribe, an artist by the name after 20 years of service. They moved to Shawnee Twin Lakes of Gina Gray, has completed a painting entitled “Blessings for 16 years ago where they enjoy fishing, riding their boat and Liam” and donated it to the family to raise funds. spending time with their six children and 10 grandchildren. You may follow Liam’s journey on Facebook by liking his page, “I love Liam Lyon.”

Brother and sister Tyson family celebrates birthdays celebrate birthdays Joseph Tyson will celebrate his 75th birthday on Aug. 29. Gavin Hunter Barone His great-grandson, Darius Ables, celebrated his seventh birth- turned 12 years old on May day on Aug. 6. Charles Burton, Joseph’s grandson, will cel- 4 and Erica Ruth Lang-Sea- ebrate his 16th birthday on Aug. 31, and Charles’ grandma, bourn turned 2 on Aug. 14. Billie Smith, will celebrate her birthday on Aug. 25. Happy Big brother Gavin celebrated birthday, everyone! Idabel Child Care Center recognized his birthday at the Oklahoma The Choctaw Nation Child Care Administrative offices pre- City Zoo with mom Amie sented the Idabel Child Care Center with a team recognition Lang-Seabourn, sister Erica, award for the highest assessment scores for ECERS and ITERS Happy birthday, Monett cousins Gina Lang, Jayden in 17 counties. Child Development would like to recognize the Happy birthday to Monett Ferguson, daughter of Billy Fer- and Jaystin Perry and special aunt and uncle Eric and Tammy center team members and let them know how much they appre- guson of Wyandotte and Carri Cole of Atoka, who celebrated Kirkland. Little sister Erica will be celebrating her birthday ciate their hard work and dedication. Pictured from right to left her 17th birthday on July 4. Hope you had a great birthday, Mo with a trip to the Jenks Aquarium and a special pond party in are June Osborn, Karen Schmitz, Shelly Osborn and Loretta Mo, from all your family. Caney. Happy birthday, Gavin and Erica, from mom. Hamil.

th Contest 14 ANNUAL Golden – 55 & over LABOR DAY (combined)

Adult – 18-54 1st – $500 POW WOW nd 2 – $400 SEPTEMBER 2nd 3rd – $300 4th – $200 The Choctaw Nation 5th – $100 Capitol Grounds Men Traditional – Fancy TUSHKA HOMMA Straight – Grass Women Cloth – Buckskin THE LINE UP Shawl – Jingle MC – Tim Tallchief Arena Director – Bill Takeshorse Casey-Ward reunion a success Sr. Teen – 13-17 Head Man – George Cricket Shields st The Casey-Ward reunion was held June 25 in Spiro at the Choctaw Community Center. The 1 – $150 Head Woman – Leslie Deer nd event was enjoyed by all who came and everyone had a great meal thanks to John Casey. The 2 –$125 Head Gourd – Michael James rd following attended: Brenda and Ron McCelland of Fort Smith, Bob and Anna Denny of Ed- 3 –$100 Southern Drum – Wild Band of Comanches mond, Bettie and Mel Reynolds of Tulsa, Geneve Neal of Fort Smith, Ark., Skip and Sherry Teen Boys Northern Drum – Young Buffalo Horse Traditional – Fancy Color Guard – Choctaw Nation Butler of Spiro, Kenneth and Sue Conrad of Broken Arrow, Laura Rodgers of Scottsdale, Lo- Straight – Grass retta and Wally Thames of Bartlesville, Bob and Vicki Bennett of Cameron, Mike and Garlena Vickers, Todd and Kristi Vickers and Jacob Vickers of Heavener. Next year’s reunion will be the Teen Girls THE SCHEDULE Cloth – Buckskin last Saturday in June. 2 p.m. Gourd Dance Shawl – Jingle 5 p.m. Break 6 p.m. Gourd Dance Jr. Teen – 7-12 7 p.m. Grand Entry Wood graduates 1st – $125 Registration Closes 2nd –$100 basic training rd A Salute 3 – $75 Congratulations to Pvt. Joshua Jr. Boys All contestants must be in Grand Entry and participate in Inter-Tribal dances. Wood, who graduated from Army Traditional – Fancy Must be in regalia to receive prize money. basic training at Fort Sill in Law- Straight – Grass ton on July 8 from Bravo Battery, For more information: Willard Polk 580-924-8280. Jr. Girls 1-79th Field Artillery. Joshua is Cloth – Buckskin Public welcome, free admission; bring your own pow wow chairs. the son of Michele Golledge and Shawl – Jingle All drums, princesses are invited. brother to Jamie Wood of Long Call Willard Polk for booth information. Booth fee is $20. Beach, Calif. His grandparents, Tiny Tots – 0-6 NO DRUGS OR ALCOHOL WILL BE TOLERATED. Carolyn Shoop and George Vuicich, and his aunt Becky of Bullhead City, Ariz., are all proud of him. August 2011, BISKINIK, Page 7 Choctaw Nation Head Start receives perfect review score Submitted by REBECCA HAWKINS “They master the skill and it moves them up,” said Patty. Choctaw ETS Program She’s then able to use the real time progress monitoring avail- The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Head Start recently had able through iStartSmart to determine how the children need to awarded federal grant its triennial on-site monitoring review from the Department of be divided up for group activities involving TeachSmart. “For The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma’s Educational Tal- Health and Human Services’ Administration for Children and instance, some are ready for sounds and some aren’t there yet,” ent Search (ETS) Program has been awarded a five-year, Families (ACF), which oversees the Head Start program. The she explained. $1,150,000 grant by the Department of Education and with Choctaw Nation system received a perfect score and was one of The results are evident, according to Patti. “I think it’s been it will be able to serve 500 students each year within a seven very few of the 52 American Indian Program Branch Head Starts an incredible aid for us because I’ve seen the improvements in county area. reviewed last year to achieve that distinction. the children. Without this technology we wouldn’t be making the ETS Director Linda Powers wrote the successful grant Adding TeachSmart and iStartSmart to the Choctaw Nation gains that we are.” and it received a score of 100 from all three federal readers. Head Start classrooms has been very good for the program, espe- Cress agrees that the use of Hatch technology has had a pro- “Almost 1,000 applications were submitted for this high- cially since Hatch Technologies provided professional develop- found impact. “It’s a new world,” he said. “We’re changing Head ly competitive program,” said Powers, “and only half of ment training that allowed the instructors to immediately put the Start.” those received funding, so we feel honored to have been equipment to good use. And knowing how to use the technology The children are also fans of the technology, especially iS- awarded this grant.” also gave the teachers an advantage during the ACF review pro- tartSmart. “Children love the computers,” Kathleen Wilson said. cess. “The report mentioned the technology because they got to “We have a lot of 3-year-olds, but the computers are very user The seven counties in the grant are Atoka, Bryan, Choc- see it in action,” Education Coordinator Shawn Cress points out. friendly, so they’re meeting our needs.” taw, LeFlore, McCurtain, Pittsburg and Pushmataha. “It’s not just there hanging on the wall in the classroom. They saw Both she and Rosenthal said that one especially useful feature The ETS Program is designed to provide outreach ser- it in use and were very impressed.” on iStartSmart is a built-in camera that allows each child to have vices to eligible students ages 11-27 in grades six to 12 who Choctaw Nation Head Start is a longtime Hatch customer and his or her own photograph as their log-in. “The kids know how have potential for education at the postsecondary level. The its 13 facilities are filled with technology products. In particular, to get into the site, so they can learn their name faster and where project encourages them to complete secondary school and the facilities at Antlers, Durant, Atoka, Wilburton and McAlester they need to go faster. The young kids have a lot more success pursue a program of postsecondary education. utilize Hatch’s TeachSmart and iStartSmart systems. getting in there and being able to manipulate it,” Kathleen said. The ETS Program will provide a variety of outreach edu- “It’s amazing to watch the teachers utilize TeachSmart,” Shawn Choctaw Nation Head Start Director Rebecca Hawkins sees cational services such as advice and assistance in secondary said. “They open it up during learning center time. They use it for the use of such technology as a vital component of Head Start school course selection and, if applicable, initial postsec- reading stories. They use it to get into the Internet and teach the moving forward and feels that having it in place was a key ele- ondary course selection, assistance in preparing for college kids movement and music. They’re finding every way they can ment in their perfect ACF review. “I think us being able to have entrance exams, assistance in completing college admis- possibly think of to utilize it. And they’re just tapping in.” the Hatch technology available to our children shows that we’re sions applications, connections to high quality tutoring, Patti Rosenthal is one of those teachers. Her class of 16 children trying to advance the knowledge of the kids in every way pos- information on the full range of federal student financial at the Durant Head Start contains both a TeachSmart system and sible,” said Rebecca. “I think it also shows the outside world and aid programs and benefits, resources for locating public and four iStartSmart computers, and this combination of the two has the education entities that these children are leaving us and going private scholarships, personal and career counseling and been a great benefit to her students. The children use iStartSmart into, that we are providing the best possible resources available to guidance activities designed to acquaint youth with a range to develop individual skills and advance through different levels. these children at this point in their lives.” of career options, and exposure to campuses of higher edu- cation. The program also holds financial workshops and provides Congratulations, LPN class of 2011 Keaton furthers connections to improve the financial and economic literacy The Choctaw Nation Career Development Program assist- of the participants or their parents and includes financial ed 24 Licensed Practical Nursing students this year, and 13 her education planning for college. of them participated in the nurse application workshop series Keaton Jones recently graduated from The ETC program can also provide guidance on reentry presented by Career Development. Among these students were Northeastern State University with her into secondary school or alternative education programs for five class officers, three National Technical Honor Society bachelor’s degree in speech-language those who didn’t complete their secondary school educa- members, one recipient of a leadership award, one recipient pathology and graduated magna cum tion. This will lead to a regular secondary (high school) of an award of excellence, three recipients of an outstanding laude. While attending Northeastern, diploma or entry into a general education development clinical nurse award, two salutatorians and one valedictorian. Keaton was active in her sorority, Delta Zeta, where she was (GED) program. Many students graduated at the top of their class and excelled philanthropy chairman in 2010. Keaton was also vice president For more information or for an application for services, in practical applications and leadership. and compliance officer for Northeastern Student Speech Lan- contact the Educational Talent Search office located the at guage Hearing Association. She has been honored on the presi- the Choctaw Nation complex at 800-522-6170, ext. 2711. dent’s honor roll, dean’s honor roll, Rho Theta Sigma Honor Congrats, Melissa and Edward Society, Betty Kolar Craig Scholarship and Alpha Chi Honor Society. She participated in numerous philanthropy events and Melissa Windham graduated in May with Congrats, Celina community service throughout her three years at NSU. She is honors and her bachelor of science degree in Celina Y. Ludlow, Choctaw/Laguna looking forward to working on her master’s degree in the next forensic anthropology from Baylor University Pueblo and an honor graduate of Town- two years. in Waco. She was on the dean’s honor roll and view Magnet Center in Dallas, has Keaton and her family would like to thank the Choctaw Na- was a member of Lambda Alpha, the anthro- been accepted to attend the University tion for the scholarship money and support the last three years pology honor society, and the forensic honor of North Texas for the 2011-12 school and the years to come. She is the daughter of Gary and Kelly society. Melissa is the daughter of Andrew year. She will be majoring in psychol- Jones of Stigler. and Carolyn Windham of Killeen, Texas. She ogy, and her career aspiration is to become a physician’s as- is the granddaughter of Paula Eyachabbe of sistant, providing care for those around her. Celina is the great- Oklahoma City and Gary and Hazel Wind- great-granddaughter of original enrollees Marsill and Sarah ham of Springdale, Ark. Melissa will be at- Blaine graduates Wilson Sampson, Silward and Esther Samuel Ludlow. Proud tending Oklahoma State University in the fall Blaine Christopher Ivie, son of Brenda parents are Kevin and Elizabeth Ludlow, grandparents are Da- to pursue a master’s degree in forensic toxi- and Tommy Ivie of Caney, graduated on vid and Gerri Ludlow of Dallas and Vincenti and Alice Deloris cology. May 13. Congratulations to Blaine, from of Encinal, N.M. Edward Tucker of Oklahoma City is the son of Nasha Tuck- his family and friends. er. He graduated from Putnam City West High School on May 22 and has been accepted into the fire protection technology Walden signs with Bacone program at OSU-OKC for the fall semester. Edward was an ac- Jeff Walden of Spiro has signed with Bacone College, a tive football player and a member of the French club. He is the Kelly earns BA NAIA four-year school, with head coach J.T. Severe and As- grandson of Paula Eyachabbe of Oklahoma City, the younger sistant Matt Cooper. Jeff was an outfielder with the Spiro Bull- Kelly R. Blevins of Coalgate graduat- brother to Nancy Tucker and the nephew of Mitch and Victoria dogs. A four-year starter, he has played on two LeFlore County ed from East Central University on May Holder of Chickasha and Andrew and Carolyn Windham and Tournament Championships and four-time district champs. He 8 with a BA in science education in ki- Chloe Eyachabbe of Oklahoma City. was selected All County team twice, played in the Southeastern nesiology with a concentration on physi- Coaches Association All Star Team in McAlester and the All cal education. He is currently pursuing a Kiamichi All Star Game at Eastern Oklahoma State College master’s degree in sports administration. Kai receives award in Wilburton. Jeff and the Spiro Bulldogs finished their 2011 Kelly is the son of Troy and Diane Blevins and the grandson Congratulations to Kai season with a record of 22-11. He is the son of Robert and Jo of Manuel and Janey Ybarra, Andrew Dority and the late Joyce Stroud, who received the Ann Walden. Youth Advocate Award at the Dority of the home, and the late Melvin “Dick” Blevins. He 7th Generation Conference in would like to thank the Choctaw Nation for the support and April. This award is presented scholarships they provided that helped him attain his goal. Cody graduates to a youth, youth leader or or- Cody Jay Ornelas has graduated with ganization that has worked to the class of 2011 from Edmond Memo- educate and engage the youth in their community in becoming Graduates in the Parker family rial High School in Edmond. A trumpet advocates for a commercial tobacco-free community. Kai ex- The Parker family had three graduates from two generations player in the award-winning EMHS band, emplifies what youth advocacy means within the native com- this spring. Terrie Lane, daughter of William Parker and grand- he attended several band competitions munity. He has displayed true leadership in combating and ad- daughter of Harrison and Susan Parker, graduated from Texas throughout high school that were held across the state and na- dressing the effects commercial tobacco use has on the native A&M in Commerce. Her son, Ty Warner, grandson of Wil- tion. He plans to attend the University of Central Oklahoma youth population. He is a member of the Antlers High School liam and great-grandson of Harrison, graduated from Cooper and continue his music education while pursuing a degree in Students Working Against Tobacco and Choctaw Youth Em- High School in Cooper, Texas. Dally Warner, also grandson either math or science. His mother and stepfather are Jayna and powerment, Youth Advisory Board and participates in many and great-grandson of William and Harrison, graduated from Kenny Fields and his father and stepmother are Kevin and Mel- other activities, hobbies and responsibilities. He has worked junior high. They have another brother, Justin Warner, who will anie Ornelas. Cody is the grandson of James and Joyce Noley on several important issues and environmental changes within be graduating from high school next spring. Congratulations of Wilburton and Ro and Rolf Ornelas of Edmond. His brother, his community. graduates, from their aunt Dorothy Parker Skeen. Christian, will graduate in the class of 2014.

Choctaw Nation

Vocational Rehabilitation Calendar TipsRecord high to temperatures avoid this summer heat-related raise the need for caution. A illnessperson can become seriously ill or die if they do not take the proper cautions while working or playing in high temperatures and humidity. Heat can reduce physical performance, as well as mental alert- ness, causing more accidents. Heat illness starts as heat exhaustion, and if not treated properly, leads to heat stroke. Heat exhaustion symptoms: Heat stroke symptoms: • Dizziness • Hot, dry, red skin • Light headedness • Disorientation Antlers by appt. Talihina Broken Bow 8 10 a.m.-2 p.m. a.m.-4:30 p.m. • Headache • Confusion Idabel by appt. • Feeling weak, fatigued • Convulsing • Clammy and moist skin • Unconsciousness

Tips to help prevent heat exhaustion or heat stroke: Durant Poteau 8 a.m.-4:30 11:30 a.m.-1 • Keep hydrated or cool while working or playing outside p.m. p.m. • Drink water often throughout the day; don’t wait until you are thirsty. At least a quart of water per hour is recommended. • Stay away from soda, coffee, tea and alocholic drinks Durant Wilburton McAlester Crowder by • Avoid large meals before working or playing in the heat 8 a.m.-4:30 10:30 a.m.-2 10 a.m.-2 p.m. appt. • Check with your doctor or pharmacist to see if any of your medicine could affect you Stigler by appt. p.m. p.m. while outside in the heat. • Wear lightweight fabric, such as cotton, to help keep your body cool Atoka • Take frequent, short breaks in shaded areas to cool down Durant 9 a.m.-11 a.m. Broken Bow Wright City by • Do not take salt tablets, unless recommended by your doctor. Most people receive enough 8 a.m.-4:30 Coalgate 8 a.m.-4:30 appt. p.m. 12:30 p.m.-2:30 p.m. salt in their diet to account for the salt that is lost through sweating. p.m. Idabel by appt. If you see someone you believe is suffering from a heat-related illness, move them to a cooler, preferably air-conditioned area. Fan the person and have them drink plenty of fluids. Durant-Mondays • Broken Bow-Mon., Wed. and Fri. • Idabel-By appointment Watch the person closely. If they go into convulsions or shows symptoms of heat stroke, call for medical attention immediately and take steps to cool them down such as soaking their Phone: 580-326-8304; Fax: 580-326-2410 clothing in cool water. Email: [email protected] August 2011, BISKINIK, Page 8

Sometimes it’s just time to Alexis Hart lends a hand to the Career Development, as well as many other Choctaw services, hand cool off. Scholarship Advisement Program. out promotional materials to the young and old alike to spread the word on what the Choctaw Nation has to offer for its members. Outreach

@ The

“The” Outreach Grillmaster, Jimmy Smith. Timmy and Ty Yarbrough work on their sand castle skills on a hot July day. Beach 2011 Choctaw Nation Photos: Bret Moss

Choctaw Nation DARE officer Isaac James, lends wise words to those at the talent show. In the water or on the shore, the Tribal employee Waddell Hearn lends a children make the most out of their day helping hand to talent show contestant. at the lake.

Above: Teresa Roberts and Juan- Above: Scholarship Advise- ita Taylor put their ment Program’s Blaine Parnell hands together for hands out promotional shirts to those performing at beachgoers. the talent show. Above right: Anna Hamilton Right: Catherine and Tonya Bess help beat the Clark and Jayden heat with a sweet snowcone Tedder keep cool treat. and enjoy the beach. Right: In the water or not, Sardis Lake is fun for all.

Outreach at the Beach talent show winners

Talent show winners in the ages of 10 to 13 include: Cheyenne Shomo (R) in third, Jordan, Kasey and Kaylie Billy as a group (Mid) in sec- ond, and Matti Erwin (L) in first place.

Talent show winners for ages 6 to 9: Khayean Talent show winners from ages 14 and up are Byington (L) in third, Logan Dunlap (Mid) in Lance Maxey (R) in third, Kelsey and Erica as a second and Tyler Burt (R) in first place. group (Mid) in second and Stormy Byington (L) in first place. August 2011, BISKINIK, Page 9 Hugo Wellness Center celebrates first year With a half basketball court doubling as an area for free Health, outreach programs geared for all ages movement workouts such as MMA, Chata Fit, Kara- te, Taekwondo and various By BRET MOSS graders visit the center on any health range for this age aerobic classes, 15 pieces Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Mondays, with the second- group. A beginner class starts of cardio equipment, dumb- and third-graders coming in at 9 a.m., with an advanced bells ranging from one to on Tuesdays, followed by the class to following at 9:30 150 pounds, eight machine This month, Aug. 23 to be sixth-, seventh- and eighth- a.m. These classes focus on weight stations that make up exact, will mark the one-year graders on Wednesday and functional movements that a total body workout circuit, anniversary of the Choctaw finishing up the week with the will strengthen muscles and along with many other pieces Nation Hugo Wellness Center fourth and fifth grade children bones, while helping with of specialty equipment and opening its doors to the Choc- on Thursdays. mobility. a running track around the taw people. All classes begin at 3:30 Also, nutrition classes, perimeter, the center is jam For some operations, the p.m. and end at 5 with dif- which are taught by Chad, are packed with opportunities to inaugural year is a slow pro- ferent healthy lessons, fun offered in an effort to keep the create a healthier lifestyle. cess, getting the feel for a new activities and cultural experts, seniors up-to-date on all the Among the more interest- location and duties, but not such as the Choctaw Nation ways to keep their lifestyles ing of the machines is the for the Hugo Wellness Cen- D.A.R.E. Officer and Choc- as healthy as possible. With “Treadwall”, the rock-climb- ter. Facility Manager Chad taw Language teachers. In the August being Cancer Preven- ing version of a treadmill. Arnold and his staff hit the upcoming year, tutoring will tion Month, much of the class With adjustable speeds and ground running as they took be added to the usual acti- material is focused on that is- incline, this small version of a on daily activities, as well as vates of the program as well. sue for the current time. rock wall will go continuous- a multitude of outreach pro- Hugo’s after school pro- With these methods in ly to give the user a unique grams. gram, which has partnered place, the staff of the Well- workout.

These outreach programs with the Choctaw Nation, ness Center strives to meet Children and adults alike are a good portion of the ac- will provide transportation its goal of caring for elders, will find the X Arcade area tivity that occurs “ helping them live of interest. With four stations, in the wellness longer and health- Choctaw Nation: BRET MOSS each with a different piece of center. Regina Ar- This is a really good ier lives, there- exercise equipment hooked nold, the Wellness thing for the Choctaw fore giving them Keeping the Hugo Wellness Center running smoothly up to a video game, it pro- Outreach Coordi- people ... this is a great the opportunity to are employees Sarah Thompson (fitness counselor), Tiffa- vides the fun of an arcade and nator, is in charge “thing for my seniors. pass along their ny Hamill (lead fitness counselor), Niki Trapp (office man- is combined with the wellness of these programs cultural knowl- ager), Jessica Allen (fitness counselor/child care), Macy of a gym. From bikes synced and their coopera- – Councilman Perry Thompson edge to a younger Allen (intern), George Webster (maintenance), Regina with ATV Off-road Fury 4, to tion with the cen- generation. Arnold and Chad Arnold. Not pictured are Dan O’Grady Dance-Dance Revolution and ter. Though the (Karate instructor), Kyle Billy (fitness counselor), Joseph a skateboard game, the com- The After-School Program for their children. center presents specialized Reed (fitness counselor), Willistion Maytubbi (mainte- bination makes for an inter- is one of the more notable Along with the in-house programs for children and nance/landscaping) and Elizabeth McDaniel (Tae kwon esting workout. programs for which the cen- activities, Regina, who has a seniors, the average patron Do instructor). The Hugo Wellness Center ter has been utilized. This is master’s degree in Physical seeking to improve their fit- is an asset that Tribal Coun- a program that is open to all Education, Health and Safety ness is not taken in without cilman Perry Thompson is Choctaw children in K-8, from Southeastern Oklahoma much consideration. The cen- Chad. “It doesn’t matter if is helped to the full potential. proud to have located in his from all schools and teaches State University, also travels ter proudly boasts five fitness they are a novice and never Chad, who has a bachelor’s district. Before the opening, them healthy ways to live the area for other outreach counselors and two aerobics worked out before, or an ath- degree in Nutrition and Exer- Thompson, as well as many their lives, as well as presents events such as fitness fairs. instructors, all of which are lete, we’ve got everything,” cise Science from Oklahoma within the community had them with cultural knowledge She coordinates with more than prepared to mo- he continued. State University, worked at been hoping for something to spark their interest in a va- schools to put on programs tivate and challenge anyone These efforts to personalize the Durant Wellness Cen- like it. riety of categories. such as the Biggest Loser, who is willing to challenge and maximize personal health ter and became the Assistant “This is a really good thing “We want our youth to be which began in March and themselves. have not gone unnoticed by Manager at that location. for the Choctaw people… healthier, more aware and finished in mid-April. This Each day, a staff member the members of the gym. “I When word came that Hugo This is a great thing for my more educated when it comes six-week program allowed will put a customizable work- love the staff, love the work- would be receiving its own seniors,” said Thompson as to health and nutrition,” stat- her to spread knowledge of out on a whiteboard. This has outs and the Chata Fit… I’m center, Chad was a big part he expressed his pleasure ed Chad as he discussed the how to live healthier life- proved helpful to those who real impressed with it all,” of the planning process, and with the facility. He also men- overall purpose of the pro- styles, and encourage better come into the gym looking to said Angela Sparks, a regular with his involvement came tioned a special “thank you,” gram. This is being accom- health habits to the ones who get a good workout, but are at the Wellness Center. his promotion to his current to Chief Pyle, Assistant Chief plished via lessons on how to teach the youth of the Choc- not sure where to start. Each Though the center is en- position. Batton and all others who make healthy snacks, a chil- taw Nation. workout, a child’s version and dowed with up-to-date equip- In planning the layout of made it possible. dren’s version of the Choc- In addition to youth, Choc- adult’s version, is easily mod- ment and is equipped with Hugo’s center, Chad made The Hugo Wellness Cen- taw workout class, “Chata taw senior citizens are another ified to fit every person who innovative programs, “the it a point for the facility to ter is open from 6 a.m. to 8 Fit,” which consists of body active group of the Wellness wishes to partake. greatest asset we have here be “very functional.” This is p.m. Monday through Friday, weight exercises, and various Center. Tuesdays and Thurs- If someone comes to the is our employees,” declared a requirement that was met. 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday other instructional tools and days are bustling days in the Wellness Center needing Chad. He is proud of his staff Though the center is not an and is closed on Sunday. Vari- demonstrations. Wellness Center in terms of more than just a beginning and how they have all done exceptionally large building, ous classes are offered in the Every day of the week senior citizens. workout, but a nutrition plan an exceptional job to keep the it boasts a surprising amount morning and evenings on all hosts a different age group. The center offers work- or long-term health plan, center clean, running smooth- of equipment and room to days of business. For more in- The kindergarten and first- out classes to fit people in “we are ready for them,” said ly and making sure everyone move within its 10,000 sq. ft. formation, call 580-326-9422.

Sarah Belvin’s journey through a true Choctaw life Choctaw District 8 elder married on Sarah’s father’s the Bryan County land, where there, and Henry kept the family reunion. They were Sarah Belvin was born on allotment land on the porch they had nine more children: buildings nice and lawns once held at Sarah’s home. March 3, 1914, a quarter mile of a vacant house. Besides Virgil Gene (Buddy), Sarah mowed. The boys would build a brush north of her present home in Henry and Sarah, those pres- Virginia, Henry Harrison, After Sarah’s time at Whee- arbor and family members Boswell. Both her parents ent at the wedding were Bob Vernon Lee, Dante Arthur, lock, the family lived in Jim- would stay at her home, com- were full-blood Choctaws. Phillips, Myrtle Fraizer and John (Johnnie) Robert, Rich- mie’s house for a few years. ing Friday night and leav- Sarah was the second of her husband Roger, who mar- ard Mark, Solomon and Deb- He was living in Durant serv- ing Sunday night. There was five children. First was her ried Henry and Sarah. orah (Debbie) Elaine. All are ing as Chief of the Choctaw singing and preaching, and brother, Simon Belvin, and Sarah and Henry lived at still living except for Henry Nation. Soon after, the family the boys would go fishing, next was Lillie. She also has Belvin about a half-mile from Harrison and Jimmie Lou. made their last move to Bos- coming back with enough fish two half-brothers, Wilson and the school house. They lived The family stayed at Bryan well. to feed everyone. They also Stephen Belvin. with Henry’s father nearly a County for a while, and in During the depression, it had barbequed brisket. To- Sarah attended school at year, then moved to the al- 1955 moved to Elgin, Kan. was hard on Sarah’s family, day, the reunions are held at Goodland. There were two or lotment land into the house They rented a house in town but they survived producing Beaver’s Bend or Pine Creek three girls to a room and two where they were married, and and lived there about a month. plenty to eat. They had their around Valliant. beds in each room, equipped they stayed for several years. Henry held a job fencing a own milk and butter, chicken Most of Sarah’s children with coal stoves. There was a Sarah gave birth to their first ranch. They stayed in Elgin and eggs. They supplied their lived close to her, one lives building for young girls, ju- was bad, they would ride a two children there, Jimmie for about a year then moved own meat from hogs and in Oklahoma City, one in Te- nior girls and for high school horse to school together. Lou and Clovis Lavada. back to Bryan County. cows. They grew corn for the cumseh and another in Mc- girls. Each grade took their Church was an important Sarah and her fam- Henry farmed in Bryan chickens, hay for the cattle Cloud. turn ironing, washing dishes part of Sarah’s life, which ily moved on several occa- County then moved the fam- and kept a garden for their Every Wednesday, she and waiting on tables as well they traveled to by wagon. sions. They moved to Ryan ily to Wheelock, where he vegetables. would go to the Choctaw as cleaning their rooms. Sarah was 17 when she then moved in with Henry’s worked as a custodian. They During this time, Henry Community Center in Hugo Sarah’s mother passed married Henry Belvin. Hen- mother, Grandma Mabel. Af- stayed at Wheelock for about traveled to California search- and speak the Choctaw lan- away when she was 9 years ry’s brother, Jimmie, was Sar- ter leaving Grandma Mabel’s 13 years. The school was ing for employment but was guage with her friends. old. She continued her school- ah’s school teacher. Jimmie’s home, they built a house on closed when they moved unable to find any. He served Sarah passed away on May ing at Goodland for another wife, Lucille, worked at the as the city marshall for Bos- 6, 2011. She loved flowers year then went on to live with dry goods store in town until well for several years. He of all shapes and sizes. She several relatives in Antlers, 10 p.m. Sarah would walk to enjoyed this job but it kept was known as grandma to Soper and Finley. She stayed town on Saturdays and spend Sarah worried. many, and for Katosha Bel- with her grandfather, John time at the store until Lucille Henry passed away in vin Nakai, she was a very Frazier, and with uncles and got off work so she would 1973. After he passed, Sarah special woman. “I think we aunts. While living with her have a ride home. learned to drive, making trips are grandma’s flowers. We’re grandfather, she studied the One night, Lucille and Jim- to town, church and some- all shapes, sizes, ages, reli- Choctaw language with him. mie didn’t drop Sarah off at times Hugo using the back gions, colors and perspec- She continued her educa- her home and took her home roads. tives. Grandma was a traveler tion at a little country school with them. That’s where she Sarah has 42 grandchildren, in this world with a purpose. called Belvin School, which spent the last of her single 87 great-grandchildren and She roamed from one of us to was not named after her fam- days and when she met Hen- 31 great-great-grandchildren. the next like a busy little bee ily. She met her husband in ry, who was working in Okla- One of her grandsons, James pollinating us, nurturing us the Belvin community. homa City at the time and Frazier, serves as a Choctaw and warming us… She want- Belvin School was a one- coming home on weekends. Tribal Councilmember for ed to get us each to a certain room school where Sarah Later, Jimmie became Chief District 12, and one of her place in our own travels… stayed about two years. She of the Choctaws and kept the granddaughters, Kotasha Bel- Regardless of where we end was living with her cousin, position for 20 years. vin, was crowned Miss Choc- up on our journey, grandma Photo provided Mary Phillips, at that time Henry and Sarah didn’t taw in 1991. has given us everything we and would walk three miles court very long and were Henry shows Sarah some affection while she laughs all For the past 18 years, Sarah need to make sure it’s a great to school. When the weather married Sept. 23, 1930. They the while. and her family have held a big flower show.” August 2011, BISKINIK, Page 10 District princesses vie for crowns

DISTRICT 2 SR. MISS DISTRICT 4 SR. MISS DISTRICT 7 SR. MISS DISTRICT 8 SR. MISS DISTRICT 9 SR. MISS DISTRICT 10 SR. MISS AMBER TEHAUNO AMBER COLWELL MELISSA GUELI REBECKAH BOYKIN AMANDA PEREZ K’ANNA BILLY Pageant kicks off 2011 Labor Day Festival

The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Princess Pageant will be Skinner and Joe Watkins on July 21 for interviews. The judges The Jr. and Sr. Miss Choctaw Nation princesses compete in held at 7 p.m. Sept. 1 in the amphitheater at Tushka Homma. The continue the task on Sept. 1, finalizing their decisions on the the same categories as well as performing a traditional talent annual event brings together all of the princesses from the Choc- young ladies who will represent the Choctaw Nation through and expressing their goals as princess. taw Nation’s 12 districts to vie for the crowns of Miss Choctaw the remainder of 2011 and into 2012. Everyone is welcome to attend the pageant and watch as the Nation, Jr. Miss Choctaw Nation and Little Miss Choctaw Na- Little Miss contestants will be judged on personality, beauty/ girls take the stage, wearing beautiful traditional clothing and tion. The event kicks off this year’s Labor Day Festival. poise, traditional dress and accessories, and on how well they jewelry. Singer Amber May will be entertaining before and dur- The young ladies met with judges Tana Cleamons, Linda answer an impromptu question asked by emcee Lisa Billy. ing the pageant.

DISTRICT 1 JR. MISS DISTRICT 2 JR. MISS DISTRICT 4 JR. MISS DISTRICT 7 JR. MISS DISTRICT 9 JR. MISS DISTRICT 10 JR. MISS MANDY STEELE MYRAH McKINNEY ADRIANNA CURNUTT ALISHA HARDY KAYLEIGH POWELL JERAI BILLY

DISTRICT 11 JR. MISS DISTRICT 12 JR. MISS DISTRICT 1 LITTLE MISS DISTRICT 2 LITTLE MISS DISTRICT 3 LITTLE MISS DISTRICT 4 LITTLE MISS CHERISH WILKERSON NEIATHA HARDY WHITNEY GRIFFITH KALLI BATTIEST JASMINE SCHOON AMBER BATTICE

DISTRICT 7 LITTLE MISS DISTRICT 8 LITTLE MISS DISTRICT 9 LITTLE MISS DISTRICT 10 LITTLE MISS DISTRICT 11 LITTLE MISS DISTRICT 12 LITTLE MISS ERICA TAYLOR SUMMER MOFFITT KYRA WILSON CALLIE JO ARMSTRONG MIKAYA ROGERS CHEYENNE McCOY

Senior Miss Boykin and Jana Pisachubbee ment and goat sportsmanship. Christy Cantrell and Dwight District 3 daughter of Johnny and Bar- Boykin. She loves to participate in 4-H Wilkerson. She is in the top 10 Jasmine Schoon, Talihina, bara Moffitt, attends Good- District 2 events and become involved in percent of her class at Crowder is the daughter of Angela land School. Summer has District 9 Amber Tehauno of Broken community service projects. High School and enjoys cheer- Snyder and attends Talihina earned a CASA pin for dona- Amanda Perez of Durant is Bow is a junior at Southeastern She is the daughter of Edgar ing, softball, dancing, riding Elementary. She has earned tions to the court-appointed a senior at Southeastern Okla- Oklahoma State University. “Bruce” and Francine Curnutt. horses, spending time with several awards for her musi- special advocates for children homa State University where She previously attended Ba- her sisters, helping with junior cal skill with a trombone. She and has been nominated for she is majoring in Native District 6 cone College and was named church and performing Na- is a Girl Scout, enjoys soft- the People to People Award by American Business Manage- Samantha Querubin, not 2008-09 Miss Indian Bacone. tive American dances in local ball, learning the Choctaw her teachers. She enjoys play- ment. She is the daughter of pictured, of Red Oak is the The daughter of Rodney Te- schools. language and pottery and is a ing with her puppy, attending the late Glenda Perez. daughter of Rolando and Della hauno and Camille McKinney, member of her church’s choir. Choctaw language class and Querubin. She attends Red Amber likes sports and enjoys District 10 District 12 Jasmine also enjoys attending Oak High School where she events, and singing. attending pow wows. She is a K’anna Billy of Atoka is a Neiatha Hardy of Coalgate Choctaw stomp dances. is an honor student and enjoys family oriented person. graduate of Kiamichi Technol- is a member of the softball playing softball, attending District 4 District 9 ogy Center where she earned and basketball teams at Coal- District 4 church and spending time with Amber Battice of Cameron Kyra Wilson, Durant, is the certification in early care edu- gate as well as a cheerleader. Amber Colwell of Panama her family. is an honor student, has per- daughter of Kevin Wilson. cation. She was a member of She has been selected Student majored in business at Carl fect attendance and has won She attends Robert E. Lee an all-star cast in 2006-07 the- District 7 of the Month and is an honor Albert State College. The several JOM awards. She en- Elementary where she is an ater competition. She likes to Alisha Hardy of Wright City student. She is the daughter of daughter of Darryl and Thelma joys sports, riding her bike honor student, Kiwanis Kid, draw, play basketball with her attends Finley-Reese Elemen- Paula Carney. Neiatha likes Colwell, she likes hanging out and spending time with family and on the Safe School com- nieces and nephews and listen tary School. She is a member spending time with friends with friends and family. Am- and friends. She also enjoys mittee. Kyra enjoys playing to music. K’anna is the daugh- of the basketball and track and family and enjoys attend- ber has been named Bandsman learning new Choctaw words sports, spending time with ter of Cleta Billy and the late teams and the show choir. She ing Choctaw softball and bas- of the Year and Outstanding from her Nana. her family, watching movies, Drum Major. Winston Billy. has been named Student of the ketball summer camps. She is reading and participating in Month and enjoys reading, active in Grace Christian Fel- District 6 church activities. District 7 Jr. Miss drawing, singing, writing, at- lowship Church. Raven Noriega, not pic- Melissa Gueli of Tuska- tending culture camp, basket- tured, is the daughter of Ray- District 10 District 1 homa is a graduate of Clayton ball camp and church camp. mond Noriega Jr. and Crystal Callie Jo Armstrong of Mandy Steele of Idabel is Little Miss High School where she was a Kinley. She attends Russell Caney is an honor student a student at Haworth. The District 9 member of FCCLA and served District 1 Elementary and enjoys play- and a member of the COPS as vice president of her class. daughter of Roger and Shanna Kayleigh Powell, Durant, is Whitney Griffith of Miller- ing coach pitch, karate, riding program. She enjoys read- The daughter of Clifford and Steele, Mandy enjoys running, the daughter of Billy Don Pow- ton attends Lukfata Elemen- her bike and playing with her ing, playing sports, riding Cathy Ludlow, she enjoys listening to music and attend- ell and Monica Blaine. She is tary School. She is an honor sister. She attends Choctaw 4-wheelers and spending time spending time with family, go- ing church at Chihowa Inchu- an honor student, earned nu- student and has perfect atten- Nation summer camps, Ce- with family and friends. Callie ing to church where she teach- ka. She participates in Track merous Girl Scout badges and dance. Whitney enjoys play- dar Indian Baptist Church and is the daughter of Mike Arm- es the primary class and sings and Cross Country competi- won superior ratings in choir ing softball, arts and crafts, Falls Creek Church Camp. strong and Mandy Lawson. in the choir, playing sports, tions and plays basketball. at a contest in Branson, Mo. riding her 4-wheeler, playing and hanging out with friends. She enjoys spending time with District 7 District 2 with her nephew and spending District 11 her family, swimming, fish- time with friends. She is the Erica Taylor of Fort Tow- District 8 Myrah McKinney of Bro- ing, mudding, camping, sing- son, the daughter of Hobie Mikaya Rogers of Savanna, Rebeckah Pisachubbee ken Bow is an honor student daughter of Jimmy and Paula the daughter of Shaun Rog- ing Choctaw hymns with her Griffith. Taylor and Martha Taylor, at- Boykin of Hugo is a student at Eagletown. The daughter grandma and going to church tends Rattan Elementary. She ers and Kendice Weeks, is an at Northeastern A&M Col- of Donovan and Kimberly and teaching the younger chil- District 2 was runner-up in the Princess honor student and has won lege where she was accepted McKinney, Myrah enjoys dren in Sunday School. Kalli Battiest of Broken Pageant in 2005-06, placed awards in basketball and on a women’s soccer scholar- spending time with family and Bow, the daughter of Kenneth third in 2006-07 and runner- reading. She enjoys reading, District 10 ship. She is also a member of friends and enjoys competitive and Kimberly Battiest, attends up in 2007-08. She has earned singing, spending time with Jerai Billy, Atoka, attends the Native American Student sports. She also enjoys sing- Bennett Elementary. She en- awards in both reading and family, going to church and McCall Middle School. An Association and Baptist Colle- ing and is active in the youth joys playing sports, swim- math in school. Erica likes to working in the garden with honor student, she has perfect giate Ministry Intermural soft- group and women’s society at ming, beading, social danc- play basketball and softball, Papoo Kevin. attendance. Jerai enjoys bas- ball team. She enjoys traveling Kullichito United Methodist ing and attending pow wows. swimming, talking on the ketball, drawing, collecting with the Choctaw Social Danc- Church. Kalli is an active member of phone and singing. She enjoys District 12 sea shells, swimming and rid- ers, doing beadwork, learning District 4 First Baptist Church of Bro- spending time with her family Cheyenne McCoy of Coal- ing her bike. She is the daugh- about her heritage, reading and Adrianna Curnutt of Wister ken Bow. She won first place and friends and going to sing- gate, daughter of Thomas and ter of Shannon Billy. playing the piano as well as was valedictorian of her eighth on a beaded collar in the 2010 ings with her cousin, Matilda. Kelly McCoy, enjoys going spending time with her fam- grade class. She has earned District 11 Indian Art Show and first and to church, taking Choctaw ily and friends. Rebeckah is awards in outstanding public Cherish Wilkerson, McAl- best of show for her rain stick District 8 classes and taking care of her the daughter of Robert “Sam” speaking, academic achieve- ester, is the daughter of in the 2009 Indian Art Show. Summer Moffitt, Hugo, the animals. August 2011, BISKINIK, Page 11

ThePrehistoric weaponAwesome serves hunters for centuriesAtlatl

By DAVID BATTON 20 yards further, they declined. Given that Il- Historic Preservation Department kka threw the present primitive world record Summer Youth Worker into a side wind, and it was his last throw af- ter hours of chucking spears, it is only a matter What is the oldest and most deadly instru- of time until probably he surpasses Envgvall’s ment created long ago by Indian tribes? long-standing record using plain ol’ sticks. Some believe that it is the bow and arrow; Iti Fabussa Although largely replaced by the bow and others believe that it is the basic spear. arrow in North America around the time of the However, there is a weapon older than the wood or rivercane and resemble a large ar- birth of Christ, the atlatl was still being used bow and arrow and far deadlier than the basic row. There are two different types of atlatl by a few Native Americans during the Age of spear – the atlatl, a weapon capable of sending darts, compound and self. “Compound darts” Discovery, 500 years ago. a projectile over 120 yards and killing a wooly have detachable foreshafts, allowing points When Columbus encountered natives using mammoth. to be quickly replaced for a quick reload. The the atlatl during his voyage to the New World, Still being used by today’s hunters and com- other type of dart is the “self dart.” It, unlike Europeans who had long forgotten the weapon petitors, the atlatl has aged gracefully through the compound dart, does not disconnect at the soon became familiar with it again. These en- the years. foreshaft. Atlatl darts are generally 3/8 inch to counters were certainly with the business end Photo provided Many archaeologists believe that over 12,000 1/2 inch in diameter, 4- to 6-feet long, and can of the weapon – leaving a European wonder- David Batton, holding at atlatl, dart and years ago, hunters tracking herds across the reach up to 100 miles per hour when thrown ing, “What was that?” just before dying. detachable foreshaft. frozen tundra of what is currently the state of by an atlatl. Experiments conducted in March of 1978 by Alaska became the first immigrants to enter the The mechanical foundation of atlatl technol- Dr. Dennis Stanford, chief national archaeolo- North American continent. These hunter-gath- ogy is the flexible dart. Under acceleration by gist at the Smithsonian and a primitive technol- state to state. Some states place restrictions on erers brought the atlatl, a weapon that reigned the atlatl, the dart flexes and compresses like ogist, have demonstrated that without an atlatl, what type of animals may be hunted or fished. supreme among them and their descendants for a spring. Spring energy pushes the dart itself the stone-tipped spear could only penetrate Oklahoma, Kansas and Texas allow atlatl hunt- thousands of years. away from the atlatl and launches it at veloci- three inches into an elephant carcass, but with ing and fishing with certain restrictions. It was the first complex weapon system de- ties that easily the atlatl the The International Standard Accuracy Contest veloped by humans, originating in Europe over exceed 100 miles spear could pen- (I.S.A.C.) organizes many of the atlatl competi- 30,000 years ago and spreading to every corner per hour. Instead etrate about half tions in the United States. There are two dif- of the globe that humans occupied. In fact, the of throwing a dart the depth of an ferent types of classifications established by atlatl and dart were used and improved upon 30 or so yards, elephant’s chest I.S.A.C., primitive and ppen. for so long by our ancient ancestors that com- the maximum ob- cavity, enough For primitive equipment, both the atlatl and paratively speaking, the bow and arrow can be tainable with an for a sure kill. the darts must be made of natural materials that considered a recent development in projectile unaided arm, the Photo provided The debate would have been available to prehistoric peo- technology. atlatl will allow an Drawing of an atlatl and dart, by Ruby Bolding. has never been ple. The open class is any type model or design So powerful and effective was the atlatl that average person to centered on the of the atlatl as long as they follow the standard scientists and scholars speculate that it, along throw the dart 90 yards; and a gifted thrower killing power of the atlatl, but with weights length, weight and diameter. with overkill tactics, may have caused the 125 yards, or more. that some believe may have been tied onto the The World Atlatl Association (WAA) pub- extinction of the wooly mammoth in North The first of many improvements to this me- atlatl. lishes information about events and competition America before the end of the Ice Age. chanical system was the implementation of There have been many theories over how results, archaeological finds, scientific informa- The word “atlatl” comes from Nuttal’s multiple length atlatls to fine-tune the device. these weights may have been used, including tion, reports, cartoons, and just about anything (1891) translation of the two Aztec words, one Longer atlatls tend to increase the range of the the ideas that they increase the efficiency of the else that is related to the atlatl as a primitive meaning “throwing,” the other “on water.” dart. This particular invention allowed the user transfer of energy from the atlatl to the dart, as weapon or contemporary sport, though they do The atlatl is a weapon system consisting to hit targets over 100 yards away. a silencing device, or as a counter balance that not set the rules and regulations for competi- of two parts: the atlatl itself and the dart. The To date, the world’s farthest recorded throw makes it easier to hold the dart in a throwing tion. atlatl, generally 15- to 24-feet long, is held using traditional materials is 252 yards (230.48 position for an extended period of time. The atlatl has aged relatively well over the in the hand, and acts as a lever to propel the meters) by Ilkka Kontinaho from Finland, To date, definitive evidence does not exist years. Standing as the oldest and most powerful dart with more force. It resembles a short stick using a 30-inch birch atlatl and a 58-inch, to suggest one of these uses over the others, weapon of our ancestors, it has changed little with a spur at one end that fits in the base of 86-grain wooden self dart. but some modern practitioners do use atlatl over the years, and is a great legacy of the early the dart. The atlatl can be made completely of This throw was accurately measured and weights, claiming that the weights provide one Indian tribes. wood, bone or both and some may incorporate was in the presence of law enforcement with a or all of these benefits. From hunting to competition, the popular- weights made from stone or shell. dense crowd and was presented to the Guinness Today, atlatls are primarily used in two dif- ity of the atlatl is increasing, and the use of the The darts may be far more complex. They Book of World Records, but as Dave Engvall’s ferent ways, hunting and competition. device may again soon span across the entire can be constructed from numerous types of synthetic atlatl distance record still stands some The legality of atlatl hunting differs from world. CHOCTAW NATION LABOR DAY FESTIVAL

Singing Join us on Sunday, Sept. 4, in the amphitheater at Tushka Homma for the great sounds of these amazing individuals and groups 11:00 a.m. 6:4 Him 11:15 a.m. Mirrors Image 11:30 a.m. Seventh Day Adventist Church 11:45 a.m. Edward Capers 12 noon Desiree Noah 12:15 p.m. 4-Given 12:30 p.m. Tyler McClain 12:45 p.m. Caleb Deramus 1:00 p.m. The Servants 1:15 p.m. Kinsman 1:30 p.m. Wright City Singers 1:45 p.m. Shupert Trio 2:00 p.m. Ivan Battiest 2:15 p.m. Lakeside Trio 2:30 p.m. The Stones 2:45 p.m. Brad Joe 3:00 p.m. Edward Daney Ministries 3:15 p.m. Heavenly Places Choctaw Nation: LISA REED 3:30 p.m. Nailcard 3:45 p.m. Living Waters 4:00 p.m. Difining Love OK Choctaws Jesse “Red Eagle” Robbins, William McWilliams scramble to regain control of the ball during 4:15 p.m. Shelby Tidwell “Channing” Parker, Will Cunningham, Jerry Ludlow, World Series of Stickball tournament play in Mississippi 4:30 p.m. Rick Eggenberg center coach Josh Willis, Jared “Pinti” Tom and Kendrick in June. 4:45 p.m. New Creation 5:00 p.m. The Scotts 5:15 p.m. The Orphan Family 5:30 p.m. Master’s Touch 5:45 p.m. Maye Trio 6:00 p.m. Choctaw Hymns 6:15 p.m. Jerry Tims & Chosen 6:30 p.m. Glenn Bonham STICKBALL TOURNAMENT 6:45 p.m. The Johnsons picking up the ball on the run, 7:00 p.m. The Kingsmen nament in Philadelphia,” 9:00 p.m. Third Day Chief Pyle added. “I see and they make shot after shot CHOCTAW NATION LABOR DAY FESTIVAL LABOR DAY NATION CHOCTAW Game is Practice small children who are just at the goal post. Coaches are beginning to walk picking also focusing on helping the enjoying is the key players learn how to handle up the sticks their mom or Continued from Page 1 when another team overloads dad just laid down. They a resurgence “Practice, practice, and more the offense. learn that passion early.” As of press time, tourna- Continued from Page 1 The OK Choctaws meet practice! The other coaches, Josh Willis and Les Willis- ment play will include Tvska- by showing we care about to practice once a week and ton, and I are getting together homma and two teams from what we are doing.” The they are not only sharpen- with our players at least once Mississippi – Standing Pine team was so well-received ing their skills, they are also a week.” and Bok Chito. The fourth is in Mississippi, the game so learning the history of stick- To make it easier for the yet to be determined. exciting that Chief Pyle and ball, known as “ishtaboli” players who live all over the Opening ceremony events Folsom discussed ways to or “kapucha” in the Choc- state, practices are alternately are planned to begin at 7:45 build on that momentum taw language. held in three different loca- p.m. Friday, Sept. 2, with back in Oklahoma. Les Williston, defense tions – Wheelock, Tushka games scheduled later in the evening as temperatures cool Choctaw Nation: LARISSA COPELAND “We will be having stick- coach for OK Choctaws, is Homma and at the elemen- ball camps next year for the teaching players to make tary school in Hugo. down. The championship youth of the Choctaw Na- their own stickballs and “We want to be ready,” game will be held 8:30 p.m. Donations help‘Solemates’ get tion, just like we hold foot- sticks, something that will Tom continued. “We want to Saturday following a wom- en’s exhibition game. ball, softball and basket- also play a major part in the win!” The playing area is being students off on the right foot ball camps every summer,” youth summer camps. The team has also changed its name from OK Choc- prepared east of the basket- Choctaw Nation Youth Outreach Director Paul Roberts, Chief Pyle said. “Stickball is enjoying left, and Kasey Ervin, Choctaw Tribal Events Department, taws to Tvskahomma, which ball fields on the Choctaw “These young boys and a major resurgence,” said accept donations for “Solemates” at the fundraiser kickoff means “red warrior.” Nation capitol grounds at girls will acquire knowl- Dr. Ian Thompson, tribal on July 29 at the Durant Travel Plaza. Numourous Choc- The heat of practice will Tushka Homma. taw employees volunteered to man donation sites at all the edge of the game and its Historic Preservation De- prepare the players for the The stickball tournament is Choctaw Nation’s 13 travel plazas and seven casino loca- cultural significance and we partment assistant director. heat of competition. an exciting addition to Labor tions. Two more Solemates fundraising events were held on will eventually see it hand- “This ancient and passion- With several new play- Day festivities and reminis- Aug. 5 and 8. ed down more through the ate game is bringing more ers, the coaches are work- cent of Choctaw history, it is “Solemates” is a Youth Outreach program in its third generations. excitement to more Choc- ing on conditioning so that expected to bring people in year that provides more than 120 youth participants with “The whole community taw communities than it has all will be used to playing at from several communities, new shoes for the upcoming school year. The shoe purchas- turns out every night to at any time in the past 100 top speed in the hot weather. both as players and spectators es are 100 percent supported by donations. watch the world series tour- years.” They practice catching and of the amazing sport. August 2011, BISKINIK, Page 12 OBITUARIES Alma Atkins Carrie Bohanan Jeffie Gibson Alma Jean Cowden Shelton Atkins, Carrie Belle Tonihka Bohanan, 97, Jeffie Marie Gibson, 84, passed 91, of Strong City, Kan., passed away of Eagletown, passed away May 2, away on June 5, 2011, in Antlers. She on June 4, 2011, at Morris County 2011, at her home. The daughter of was born Aug. 26, 1926, in Corinne to Hospital in Council Grove, Kan. John Silas and Betsy (Hotubbi) Toni- John and Ida (Wesley) Taylor. The daughter of Charles and Alma hka, Carrie was born Feb. 22, 1914, in Jeffie was a lifetime resident of Knapenburger Cowden, Alma Jean Eagletown. Goodwater. She was God’s servant was born May 25, 1920, in Lawton. Carrie was a member of the Mt. who attended the Goodwater United She graduated from high school and Fork Presbyterian Church in Eagle- Methodist Church and enjoyed gar- attended one year of college. She town and a lifetime citizen of Mc- dening, quilting, sewing, home can- married B.P. Shelton in Madill. They Curtain County. She was an outgoing ning, picking wild onions and digging later separated and she and Kenneth Atkins were married Nov. individual who accomplished much in her 97 years. She en- snakeroots. She especially loved caring for her grandchildren 2, 1946, in Dubuque, Iowa. Kenneth passed away in 1986. joyed painting, Native American arts and crafts, playing the and great-grandchildren. Alma Jean was proud of her American Indian background as piano and traveling. She will be remembered by those she met Jeffie was preceded in death by her husband, Angelo Gibson; a member of the Choctaw Nation. Her family moved to Chase for her “smile and shiny eyes.” She enjoyed nature, especially three sons, Haskell Thomas, Ted Thomas and Robert Thomas; County in 1974. She was a homemaker and washed dishes at the birds and flowers, and at one time had a radio talk show, two grandsons, Michael and Collin Baker; a granddaughter, the Flint Hills truck stop in Strong City when it was open 24 “Smoke Signals,” on KBEL. Megan James; parents, John and Ida Taylor; one sister, Ruby hours a day. She was also a member of the Veterans of For- Carrie was always helpful to others. A motivator, she was Taylor Billy; and one brother, Alton Taylor. eign Wars Auxiliary. She enjoyed playing Yahtzee, watching instrumental in building the current Mt. Fork Presbyterian She is survived by children, the Rev. Rosa Baker with hus- Jeopardy and working crossword puzzles. She enjoyed her Church and getting the first van for the Choctaw Women’s band Melton of Idabel, Lora Tom with husband Albert of So- collection of porcelain dolls, bells and wind-up music boxes. Work. She was a very caring person who took children in need bol, Susie Roberts with husband Sammy of Goodwater, Elma She had a true love for Jesus Christ and everyone she met she into her home. Lamb of Little Okla, and Jerry Thomas with wife Kelly of considered a friend. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, the Corinne; 24 grandchildren; 59 great-grandchildren; 24 great- She was preceded in death by her parents; both husbands; Rev. John Bohanan; two sons, Preston Bohanan and Lyndon great grandchildren; two brothers, Wilson Taylor and Edgar a son, John Atkins; two sisters, Maxine Maynor and Betty Jo Earl Bohanan; two brothers, Ray and Johnny Tonihka; two Taylor, both of Sobol; numerous nieces and nephews; as well Waley; a grandson, Robert Michael Shelton; a granddaughter, nieces, Daisy Willmon and Theda Jefferson; two nephews, as many other relatives and friends. Lori Dannatt; and a great-grandson, Jacob Shelton. John Joshua Tonihka and Larry W. McCoy; and a grandson-in- Alma Jean is survived by a son, David Shelton of Strong law, James Hart. City; two daughters, April Pike of Ventura, Calif., and Gloria She is survived by her daughter, Toka Lee Horse of Eagle- Joe Lee Wilson Skaggs of Prescott Valley, Ariz.; a special grandson, Michael town; two daughters-in-law, Loretha Bohanan of Eagletown Joe Lee Wilson, 75, passed away David Skaggs of Porum; and numerous grandchildren, great- and Annette Maness with husband Harold of Hillsborough, on July 17, 2011. He was born on a grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. Ore.; 10 grandchildren, Lisa Bohanan, Russell and Sharon Bo- farm in Bristow on Dec. 22, 1935. hanan, Jimmy and Barbie Bohanan, Tracey and Robby Risner, Wilson grew up hearing the music of Tim Bohanan, Tom Bohanan, Tamara and Bob Hyde, Teresa Louis Jordan, Nat King Cole and Di- Thomas Wilson Hart, Sharon and Dale Fitzsimmons, Lt. Col. T. Jay Hunting nah Washington on the radio. At the Horse with wife Christi; eight great-grandchildren, one great- Thomas A. Wilson passed away at age of 15, he moved to Los Angeles great-grandchild; several nieces, nephews, a special friend, to live with his brothers. He began his home on June 3, 2011, surrounded Laura Carney of Smithville, and a host of friends. by family. Tom was born on Feb. 12, musical career in the early 1950s after 1925, in Tupelo. He moved to Cali- hearing Eddie Jefferson, who later be- fornia with his family as a 9-year-old Peggy Tipps came one of his good friends. child. Toni married Gladys M. Farh- Wilson studied classical singing at a classical conservatory Peggy “Nana” Tipps, 79, of Moore in Los Angeles, but after two years transferred to a city college ner on Nov. 22, 1947. He served hon- passed away June 10, 2011. Peggy orably in the Navy in World War II. to study jazz. He played his first professional gig with Fletcher was born on Aug. 25, 1931, in McAl- Henderson’s alto saxophonist Roscoe Weathers, who told him: He retired from Southern California ester to Olga and Frank McCoy. Gas Company after almost 38 years “As a musician sometimes you’re gonna starve. You gotta learn She was preceded in death by her to make your own work.” Taking that advice, he embarked on a of service. Tom was very proud of his family’s Choctaw Native parents and brother, Robert McCoy of American Heritage. Tom enjoyed square dancing, round danc- tour of the West Coast, where he frequently sat in with vocalist Tulsa. Peggy is survived by her broth- Sarah Vaughn. Wilson moved to New York in 1962: there he ing, watching sports, especially ballgames. He was a member er, Frank McCoy Jr. with wife, Iku- of Trinity Lutheran Church. worked with Sonny Rollins, Lee Morgan, Miles Davis, Pharo- ko, of Broken Arrow; daughter Tyla ah Sanders and Jackie McLean in the ‘60s, and recorded with He was preceded in death by parents, Simon H. Wilson and Moore of Oklahoma City; grandchil- Lorena M. Wilson (Harkins) and six of his brothers and sisters. Eddie Jefferson, Freddie Hubbard and Kenny Dorham. dren, Jillian Moore with fiancé Matt Vandaveer of Tulsa, and During the 1970s, he helped to populate the New York jazz He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Gladys; grandson Mark Moore with wife, Rachel, of Oklahoma City. daughters, Gail Paynter, Susan Bullock with husband Daris; performance loft scene when he operated a loft called the La- son Thomas Wilson with wife Kristlin; grandchildren, Michael dies’ Fort at 2 Bond Street, close to the famous Rivbea loft. In Paynter with wife Staci, Tainara Richards with husband Jeff, 1972 he recorded a live radio program at Columbia University, Joshua McRell with wife Davenport; two step-grandchildren, Sandra Leese which was released as the album Livin’ High Off Nickels and Michael and Carrie; two great-grandchildren, Zachariah and Dimes on the short-lived Oblivion Records label. He also ap- Sandra Bea Leese passed away Jan. peared at the 1973 Newport in New York and 1975 Live Loft Elijah; brothers, Simon and Willie Wilson; and sister, Betty 16, 2011, in Edmond. She was born Marquez festivals. Aug. 16, 1930, in Sayre, to Jack and In 1977, he moved to England with his wife, Jill Christo- Tom was a model of strength, optimism and integrity to his Francis (Sanders) Guthery. She at- family and will be greatly missed by all who knew him. pher, to continue his career in Europe. There, he toured in the tended the University of Oklahoma UK and continued to record with local musicians, alongside and was a dental hygienist. Sandra American pianist Kirk Lightsey. Wilson’s strong baritone voice Jerry Cacy married C.E. Leese in November of spanned an impressive three-octave range, with a strident tone 1960, recently celebrating 50 won- heavily influenced by blues and gospel. English saxophonist Jerry Cacy passed away on July 3, derful years of marriage. Peter King praised the singer in the notes for Wilson’s 2000 2011. He was born March 2, 1942, She was preceded in death by her album Feelin’ Good: “He is a beautiful musician and a beauti- in McAlester to the Rev. Homer Ev- son, Larry Gray; siblings, Charley Guthery and Joe Guthery. ful human being. Joe Lee has a heart and a soul of pure gold.” erett Cacy and Gelia Sirmans Cacy. She is survived by her husband; sons, Ronnie Gray and Car- Wilson’s most recent album was I Believe, recorded in 2008 He graduated from McAlester High ol Leese II; siblings, Lynn Orpeza and Butch Guthrey; seven with the Renato Sellani Trio. He lived in France until his death. School in 1960 and East Central Uni- grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. “Music is a healing force,” jazz singer Joe Lee Wilson said versity in 1965. in a 2001 interview. The Oklahoma bluesman’s swinging style He married Loyleta Butler on David Powell brought the healing power of music to an international audi- March 11, 1963, in McAlester. Mr. ence. Cacy was a Loan Loss Controller at David “Duck” Powell, 56, passed the State National Bank in Heavener. He was a member of the away on, July 6, 2011, in Ardmore. First Baptist Church of Heavener and the Heavener Chamber of David was born Jan. 10, 1955, in Ta- Jerry Hodges Commerce where he served as past president and board mem- lihina to Elmer Powell and Leola Mae ber. He was a member of the Heavener Kiwanis Club where (John) Powell. Jerry Thomas Hodges, 84, passed he served as past president, board member and was a lifetime Duck attended Ardmore schools. away on July 9, 2011, at IU Health member. He was a sales representative for A.C. Neilsen Mar- He then took a position with Carter Ball Memorial Hospital. He was born keting Retail, Champlin Petroleum Company and the former Seminary and also worked in vari- on Feb. 11, 1923, in Stigler to Roy K owner and manager of Sonic Drive-In in Heavener. He served ous nursing homes in the area. In his and Nicie (Lane) Hodges. in the U.S. Army from 1960 until being honorably discharged youth, Duck loved to hunt and fish, as Jerry grew up in Muskogee and was with the rank of sergeant in 1966. well as play dominoes and cook for his friends and family. He proud to be part Choctaw from that He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Hom- played pool on local pool leagues in the area and represented area. He served our country with the er Everett Cacy Jr. and Daniel Willis Cacy; and two sisters, Ardmore in Las Vegas from 1989 to 2006 in national tourna- 2nd Marine Division, 6th Regiment, Betty Curtis and Frieda Cothran. ments. Spending time with family was very important to him, 3rd Battalion Headquarters during Survivors include his wife, Loyleta Cacy, of the home; two and he always felt his greatest accomplishment in life were his World War II, with service in Saipan and the occupation of Na- daughters, Kellye Griffith with her husband Donald of Ada, three children. gasaki, Japan, in late August 1945, and was discharged in 1946. and Leah Thurman with husband, Lt. Col. (retired) Clifford V. He was preceded in death by his parents. He then went into the Air Force with the 125th Fighter Squad- Thurman of Lansing, Kan.; a son, Mica King Cacy with wife David is survived by one son, Sgt. David Alexander Powell- ron during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged from Tiffany D. of Tahlequah; seven grandchildren, Kristen Clubb, Cavener with his wife Shydelle of Alaska, and their children the Air Force and then spent the rest of his life involved in Curtis Thurman, A.J. Thurman, Cacy Alexandra Thurman, Nichole and Nathan; two daughters; Leah (Powell-Cavener) veteran’s organizations such as American Legion, AMVETS Zachary Cacy, Abigail Cacy and Matthew Cacy; three sisters, Mull with husband Dan of Konawa, and their children Xavier and VFW, as a volunteer and club manager. He was also a char- Mary McWaters and Anna Polk with her husband Clifford, and Kimberlie, and Brittany Powell of Ardmore; brothers, Jerry ter member of the Moose Lodge #1999, Kansas City, Kan., an both of McAlester, and Sue March of Howe, Texas; and many Lane of Wilson, Sammy Powell of Springer, and Vincent Mar- AMVETS National Life Member, a member of the Ameri- nieces, nephews and other relatives. ris of Ardmore; and one sister, Yolanda Thompson of Ardmore. can Legion Post #299, Muncie, the Marine Corps League in Muncie, member of the VFW Overland Park, Kan., and the Douglas Jones Rosedale FOE #1100. He had been looking forward to a trip to Eddie Sampson Washington, D.C., to visit the World War II Memorial. Douglas Frank Jones, 51, passed Jerry lived in the Kansas City area for over 20 years, six Eddie Ray Sampson, 52, passed away on June 24, 2011, in Norman. years in Sacramento, Calif., and approximately 19 years in away on July 10, 2011, in Ardmore. He was born on March 9, 1960, in Muncie, Ind. He was the Bingo king. He came to Muncie in Eddie was born Dec. 15, 1958, in Ta- Norman to Alfred and Vivian (Slaw- 1992 when Bingo became legal in Indiana, working for Village lihina to Edward Sampson and Irene son) Jones. Bingo for 14 years. He helped lobby for some changes in the (Thomas Sampson) Mose. He was a Doug was a chef for 30 years, law and helped bars to get pull-tabs in 2008. He and his wife, member of the Durwood Missionary working in various restaurants and Mary Jo, partnered to publish a Bingo info magazine, manag- Baptist Church. He enjoyed watch- nursing homes. He was a caring and ing Bingo locally and had been involved in Bingo for 40 years ing movies and spending time with sharing person. When at the nursing or more. Jerry was happy to be able to work with “his” Mary Jo his grandchildren. homes, he spent time visiting with the during the last 15 years. He was preceded in death by his residents, sharing stories and jokes and cooking their favor- He was preceded in death by his parents; three sisters, Louise parents; grandson Zachary Preston; nephew Brandon Henry; ite meals. Doug was never too busy to take time to listen. He Merritt, Mary Hodges and Helen Ferguson; and two brothers, and niece Kara Sampson. would arrange his work, often coming in before scheduled to Roy and John Hodges. Eddie is survived by his two sons, Jessie Sampson with wife be able to spend time listening to the residents. He was an avid Survivors include his wife of 12 years, Mary Jo Hodges of Rose of Vicenza, Italy, and Jordon Thomas of Ardmore; two reader, enjoyed playing chess and cards. He enjoyed music and Muncie, Ind.; seven children, Dr. Kenneth Hodges with wife daughters, Sarah Sampson of Ardmore, and Sierra Preston with was a member of the chorus when attending high school. He Cookie of Telluride, Colo., Tony Hodges of Tempe, Ariz., husband Chaz of Dickson; four grandchildren, Daylin Arn- shared what he had, showing compassion. David Hodges of Telluride, Nicie Jean Akers with husband eecher, Peyton Sampson, Ashton Sampson and Logan Preston; Doug is survived by his parents; son Tyrel Jones; daughter Chuck of Muncie, Robin Blocher with husband Mike of Nash- siblings, Dale Sampson of Dickson, Barbara Shoemaker with Jessica Crawford with husband Kevin; brother Richard Jones ville, Tenn., Terry Terrell of Muncie, and Christina Terrell of husband Junior of Ardmore, Dennis Sampson with wife Kathy with wife Shelly; sister Valerie Asbury with husband Don; Nashville; two brothers, Dr. Bruce Hodges with wife Cathy of of Lone Grove, Johnny Sampson with wife Joyce of Ardmore, granddaughter Emily Grace Crawford; former wife, Patricia Olathe, Kan., and Galen Hodges with wife Monty of Sapulpa; Quenna Sampson with fiancé Keith Martin of Del City, and Weigl; nieces, Aubrey and Sadie Jones; nephews, Luke and 13 grandchildren, Jeff, Shoni, Nicie Beth, Robin, Jennifer, Steven Mose of Madill; he is also survived by numerous niec- Benjamin Jones; and very good friends, Jack Chappell and Brady, Amos, Tristan, Miranda, Marissa, Alex, Andrew and es, nephews and a host of extended family. Jimmy Dean Howell. Abigail; and three great-grandchildren. August 2011, BISKINIK, Page 13 Cole receives distinguished award for service to Native Americans A coalition had been attempted years U.S. Secretary of Interior Ken Salazar honors ago, but with no one who could lead them, that attempt failed. When Cole caught wind Choctaw Nation’s Historic Preservation Director of this idea, “I grabbed it and took off run- ning with it,” said Cole. He did much re- By BRET MOSS matters to eliminate confusion and friction search on the subject and asked many ques- Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma between the entities. He wanted to have a tions that gave him the knowledge on how large meeting that would allow everything to bring about such a band of tribes. The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, like many native tribes to be openly discussed. With the formation of OCoT and TBAG across the United States, is a nation rich in cultural history. He called the high officials of govern- on his resumé, Cole has plenty of creden- With such an abundance of culture and background, the mem- ment agencies and inquired how to make an tials to deserve the award he has earned. bers of the Choctaw Nation feel it is their duty to preserve the event such as this possible. Once he knew Impressively enough, these are not the only artifacts and ways that link them to their ancestors. how to make it happen, he took their advice reasons he was dealt this honor. Among his One man in particular has been recently recognized with a and the first TBAG conference was held. other achievements are being the past chair prestigious award for his work in preserving the essence of the The first conference was just between the of the Intertribal Council of the Five Civi- Choctaw people. Leading the Choctaw Nation’s Office of His- Choctaw Nation, Caddo Nation, Chicka- lized Tribes Heritage and Cultural Com- toric Preservation, Terry Cole, the Tribal Historic Preservation saw Nation and the National Forest Service, the government mittee, receiving the International Award of Excellence for Officer, has won a Secretary of the Interior Historic- Preser agency with which Cole dealt with most. sponsoring 16 archaeological students from England to study vation Award from Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar who During the first meeting it was strictly business. Cole knew historical and archaeological sites of the Choctaw people, be- gives awards in four categories of public service. that trust had to be built, and he did well to start a foundation ing a trustee on the Gulf Shore Restoration Project, being ap- “Their skill, dedication and professionalism are ensuring that of trust with the meeting. “Building a relationship is the key to pointed to the board of directors for NATHPO and being instru- the story of America continues to be passed down to future working with these federal agencies,” Cole made clear. mental in the Choctaw sponsorship of the 11th annual meeting generations,” mentions Salazar in his news release discussing The beginning TBAG was a success, so another was sched- of NATPHO in Durant. the recipients of the awards. He goes on to tell that the award uled. “Today, 10 years later, it has really improved. We have From the beginning of his work for the Choctaw Nation in is based on the accomplishments of the individual, not on pro- built the relationship with the federal agencies, we have built the early ’90s, having little experience with federal/tribal rela- grams or projects. trust with the federal agencies.” tions, Cole has made incredible strides not only for himself and For those that know of Cole and his contributions, not only to What started as just a meeting meant to clear the air over the Choctaw people, but also for Native Americans all through- the Choctaw Nation, but also to Native American tribes across some discrepancies in policy between a few entities has grown out Indian Country. the country, it would come as no surprise that he received this to become a large-scale learning and problem-solving experi- Cole began his employment for Choctaw Nation in the award. He has become a pioneer of government-to-government ence. Over 400 people attend TBAG on an annual basis. Four Housing Authority and found himself in need of an archaeolo- relations during his dealing with the federal government, pav- hundred people who not only solve problems that currently gist to do surveys on land on which he was required to do his ing the way for better understanding and relationship between exist, but learn how to avoid them in the future and build net- environmental review work. With a great workload, the usual the U.S. government and tribes across the country. works and relationships that allow communication to flow and archaeologist was too busy to come to Cole, so Cole decided he

As a Tribal Historic Preservation Officer, Cole must con- sustain progress. could do the work himself. stantly address issues concerning the Native American Graves TBAG now has workshops, breakout sessions and other ac- He inquired about how to begin and the archaeologist told

Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA), which provides tivities that allow tribes and government agencies to meet and him to attend a workshop to become a heritage resource tech- a process for dealing with human be updated on the happen- nician, which would qualify him to do archaeological surveys. remains and reuniting them with “ ings within each body of Eventually, while doing the surveys, he ran across human re- their original burial sites. Their skill, dedication and government. “Any issues mains, a discovery that introduced him to NAGPRA and his He also tends to Integrated professionalism are ensur- that the agencies or tribes first taste in tribal/federal relations. Cultural Resources Management ing that the story of America have questions or concerns Once he became versed in NAGPRA, in the fall of 1998, he Plans (ICRMPs), which are plans continues to be passed down about, they can now attend was called to the Choctaw tribal headquarters and was asked “ to begin the Historic Preservation Office. He accepted and established by the Department of to future generations. a TBAG and we have top Defense that map out protocol to officials there that they can became the first-ever tribal historic preservation officer of the follow in the event that native re- – Sec. of Interior Ken Salazar visit with. We have nation- Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. mains are unearthed by accident. al NAGPRA ... the Chief After a few years, he realized he would need to expand, both Cole’s hand in the ICRMP is to of Tribal Relations of the in staff and funding. So he applied for 101D2 status, which lend the Department of Defense a tribal perspective on the National Park Service ... the president of the National Associa- allowed him to take over the duties of the State Historic Pres- matter. tion of Tribal Historic Preservation Officers (NATHPO) ... and ervation Office on tribal lands and receive funds from the Na- Dealing with these, as well as numerous other issues are only that makes for building a better relationship,” said Cole. tional Park Service. part of the reason Cole was chosen as recipient of the award. Every year, TBAG presents one individual with an Award of He was awarded this official status after two years of work; Among the notable accomplishments within Cole’s career, one Honor. This year, Cole was given that award, “in recognition the Choctaw Nation Historic Preservation office was award- that shines brighter than most is his hand in the genesis of the of his valuable contributions and efforts towards the success of ed the official 101D2 status. Today, that office consists of 11 annual To Bridge A Gap (TBAG) conferences. TBAG,” as stated on the award. talented employees who are well-versed in the history of the Most recently, the Chickasaw Nation hosted the 10th annual TBAG is a milestone in Cole’s professional career, but it is Choctaw Nation, and federal laws and regulations pertaining to gathering this spring as TBAG provided a well-constructed not the only notable success in this Choctaw’s professional life. historic preservation. forum for federal, state, local, tribal and academic entities to The formation of the Oklahoma Coalition of Tribes (OCoT) is In a time with considerable friction between tribal and na- discuss discrepancies, flaws in laws, problems and possible another monumental success for which Cole is able to boast. tional government, Cole has stood out as one of the pioneers of solutions. The TBAG conference has become so successful When he ran into obstacles while trying to make the Choc- that relationship, opening new doors for the ones who succeed over the years that it has received the National Office of Tribal taw voice heard on Capitol Hill, he knew he had to do some- him. Because of the work Cole and those like him have done, Relations Award for Partnerships in Tribal Relations from the thing about it. “It’s hard for one tribe to go to Washington and American Indian tribes will now be better equipped to commu- USDA National Forest Service. be heard ... I’ve tried it,” said Cole. So he realized that if he nicate with government officials, allowing quick and consider- “This was a vision I had 10 years ago,” declared Cole. Short- gathered many of the Oklahoma tribes, he would have a much able progress to be made. ly after taking over the position of tribal historic preservation louder voice and be heard by lawmakers. Through all of his hard work for the Choctaw Nation, Cole officer he realized that there were serious gaps in the under- OCoT was formed in October of 2010 with 19 tribes and has much more than awards to show for his efforts. He has standings of the federal government and tribal governments. more coming on board, with Cole as the president. “Now when traveled all over the country, met and influenced many impor- “They did not understand our views,” mentions Cole. I go to Washington, I represent 19 tribes,” exclaimed Cole. tant people and been named Elder of the Year in District 9 of “They are stewards of land that used to be ours,” said Cole With over 800,000 tribal members behind him, Cole’s voice in the Choctaw Nation in 2009. as he began to describe the problems he encountered. The na- Washington is now sure to be heard. “This isn’t an overnight deal… it has taken many years,” tional government was taking actions on Choctaw, as well as OCoT, which now meets every other month, was formed said Cole as he humbly told of his career. With all of his suc- tribal land all over the country, that tribes did not deem appro- out of an annual event, the third Native American Repatriation cess, Cole does not plan to hang up his hat anytime soon. He priate. This was not done out of malice, but misunderstanding. Summit (NARS III) where many tribes would accumulate to knows there is still much work to be done for tribal members Seeing these misunderstandings made Cole think of something discuss NAGPRA issues. During this summit, the tribes agreed all over Indian Country. “My job is no where near complete,” that had been needed in his field for quite some time. to band together on more than just NAGPRA laws, but on all said Cole as he prepared to get back to work for the Choctaw Cole knew that these agencies needed a tribal perspective on types of concerns tribal governments may have. people.

Wellness Centers Five Tribes Story Conference now open to military members set for Sept. 16-17 in Muskogee Beginning Aug. 15 the Join some of America’s top “Shell Shaker.” Storytelling concerts will CNO Wellness Centers Help Wanted authors, poets, artists, schol- Joy Harjo, an electrify- be held each evening during in Durant and Hugo will Choctaw Casino Resort in Durant, Oklahoma is seeking the following Part-Time positions: ars and historians at the Five ing oral performer, will give the conference. The concerts be open free of charge to Tribes Story Conference on readings of her work and of- are free and open to the pub- all active duty military, Hotel Staff: Front Desk Clerks, Housekeepers and Floor Care Specialists Sept. 16-17 in Muskogee. fer workshops for all levels of lic. reservist and National Casino Environmental Services Staff Make your reservation to writers. A Muscogee Creek, Space is limited and reser- Guard members and their Valet Attendants and Cashiers meet 13 of Indian Country’s Harjo is internationally ac- vations will be on first-come dependents. Service mem- top presenters from the Cher- claimed as a poet, writer and basis. A small registration bers do not have to be Na- Part Time Associate Benefits include: Free Membership to Choctaw Wellness Center for okee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, jazz musician. Her books are fee of $15 per day is required tive American to take ad- Associate and Spouse, Cigna Employee Assistance Program, Up to five paid holidays per year Muscogee (Creek) and Semi- studied at universities across to attend the daytime events. vantage of this offer. and meal discounts. To join the Wellness nole Tribes. America and abroad. Lunch and snacks will be Additional Benefits for Part-Time Associates upon completion of 1 year of service are: The Five Tribes Story Con- In addition to LeAnne provided during the day. The Center, the service mem- Tuition Reimbursement, 401k, Life Insurance and Health Insurance (Medical, Dental, Vision, ference is sponsored by the and Joy, 11 more exciting traditional dinner will cost ber or his/her dependent Prescription, Wellness and Dependant Benefits). Five Civilized Tribes Mu- presenters will be featured. $10 and is separate from the will need to present a seum and will be held at his- Presenters for the 2011 con- registration fee. Reservations valid military or depen- ***We are looking to increase our Choctaw applicants’ database for multiple Full - Time toric Bacone College. Enjoy ference include, Tim Tingle for the dinner may be made dent ID card in order to and Part -Time positions; Apply today so we will have your application on file when new two days of exciting presenta- (Choctaw), co-host, Greg separately. be issued an access card to positions become available*** tions and workshops designed Rodgers (Choctaw), co-host, This program is funded in the facility. The only cost to help preserve a culture Robert Lewis (Cherokee), part by the Oklahoma Hu- the member will incur is a through the art of storytell- Stella Long (Choctaw), Lynn manities Council (OHC) and one-time $10 fee when is- Choctaw Casinos is owned and operated by the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. Position will give preference to Indians in accordance with Section 7(b) of the Indian Self-Determination ing, visual arts, music and the Moroney (Chickasaw), Di- the National Endowment for sued the access card. Act. Please attach copy of CDIB Card if applicable. written word. ane Glancy (Cherokee), Dr. the Humanities (NEH). Any Anyone with questions Throughout the two days, Les Hannah (Cherokee), Dr. views, findings, conclusions can contact the CNO Apply in person at Choctaw Casino Human Resource Office. 4216 Hwy 69/75, Durant, OK. tribal historians and native Phillip Morgan (Chickasaw/ or recommendations ex- Wellness Center in Durant speakers will discuss a wide Choctaw), Dr. Jerry Licecum, pressed in this program do not at 580-931-8643. range of topics, from the Trail Virginia Stroud (Cherokee/ necessarwily represent those of Tears to boarding school Muscogee) and Kim Poppolo of OGHC or NEH. experiences, encouraging au- (Cherokee/Choctaw/Musco- Additional funds are pro- Choctaw Nation to aid with loans dience questions and discus- gee). vided by the Greater Musk- sion. The Five Tribes Story Con- ogee Chamber of Commerce, The Southeastern Oklahoma Indian Credit Association Choctaw novelist and ference serves as an inspira- the Muskogee Foundation scholar LeAnne Howe will tional springboard for work- and Martha Griffin, MGW offers small business, home, home improvement and ag- deliver the opening keynote ing and future writers, poets, Enterprises. riculture loans. address. Recently returned film-makers, painters and For information on the To be eligible to apply, a person must reside within the from a trip to Jordan as a musicians. In addition to en- Five Tribes Story Conference 10-1/2 county service area of the Choctaw Nation of Okla- Fulbright scholar, LeAnne joying the visual arts, attend- visit www.fivetribestory.org, homa and must possess a Certificate of Degree of Indian has received many national ees will hear a multitude of www.fivetribes.org, call 918- Blood (CDIB) from a federally recognized tribe. awards for her work, in- “stories-behind-the-stories,” 683-1701 or write to 1101 For more information, please contact Susan Edwards at cluding the American Book told by modern heroes of the Honor Heights Drive, Musk- 580-924-8280 or toll-free 800-522-6170. Award in 2002 for her novel Indian world. ogee, OK 74401. Choctaw Nation can aid with loans The Southeastern Oklahoma Indian Credit Association offers small business, home, home improvement and agriculture loans.

To be eligible to apply, a person must reside within the 10-1/2 county service area of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and must possess a Certificate of Degree of Indian Blood (CDIB) from a federally recognized tribe.

For more information, please contact Susan Edwards at 580-924-8280 or toll-free 800-522-6170. August 2011, BISKINIK, Page 14 Family Day at Jones Academy Approximately 250 to 300 parents, relatives, friends, alum- ni and students attended the annual Family Day festivities at Jones Academy on May 14. Families and friends visited the students at Jones Academy and spent a day of fun and food with their loved ones. Children as well as children-at-heart participated in several exciting indoor and outdoor activities. Attendees enjoyed the Tiki Rock Climb, a race car simulator, Dance Dance Revolu- tion, the Fun Flush, a giant inflatable obstacle course and vari- ous other games. Family portraits were also done during the festivities. Some families and friends traveled from as far away as New Mexico and Mississippi while others from Oklahoma utilized transportation provided by Jones Academy. Two meals and Photos provided refreshments were also provided for the families throughout the day. The weather cooperated beautifully and everyone ap- Family Day shuttle service provided by staff member Students play on race car simulator during Family Day. peared to have a great time. Morris Sam.

JA Student attends Medicine, Health Sciences Workshop Holly Andersen, a ninth grade student at Jones Academy, has been selected to attend the Indians into Medicine Program (INMED) this summer at the University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences in Grand Forks, N.D. The six-week summer workshop is a comprehensive education program de- signed to assist Native American students who are prepar- ing for health careers. According to INMED’s website, the program enrolls students interested in nursing, clinical psy- chology and various other health specialties. “As of 2005, the program has graduated 163 medical doctors,” it says. This is the second year that Holly has been selected for the program. Photos provided The institute’s coordinator, Thelma Martin, expressed excite- ment about having her back this summer. Holly is an academ- Brandon Anderson exhibits the First Place Class Cheyenne Neal shows the First Place Class VIII Hampshire ic overachiever and diligent about her studies at Hartshorne III Chester Barrow and Reserve Breed Champion Barrow at the Oklahoma Youth Expo. Reserve Champion Divi- Junior High. She also made the Oklahoma Honor Society. Chester overall at the Oklahoma Youth Expo. sion I Hampshire. Holly is a member of the Sisseton-Wahpeton Sioux Tribe from Agency Village, S.D. Students successful at Oklahoma Youth Expo Brandon Anderson, a ninth-grader from the Jones Academy Division I Hampshire. Cheyenne and her barrow, “Warrior,” 4-H Club, exhibited the First Place Class III Chester Barrow went on to qualify for the premium sale. Warrior was named and Reserve Breed Champion Chester overall at the Oklahoma the eighth Hampshire Barrow overall. There were 16 weight Youth Expo, March 16-21 in Oklahoma City. Brandon’s Ches- classes of Hampshires, and more than 750 Hampshire barrows ter Barrow was the overall champion out of 250 Chester Bar- competing at this event. Only 16 Hampshire Barrows were rows competing at the OYE. selected for the premium sale honors. Warrior was bred and This event is the world’s largest junior livestock show with raised at Jones Academy. Cheyenne, Mississippi Choctaw, is over 2,400 market barrows participating. A total of only 65 from Davis. She is a member of the Hartshorne Miner Cheer- market barrows qualified for premium sale honors. Brandon leading team, enjoys raising and showing her swine projects, Photo provided and his barrow, “Second Chance,” were among the very elite and riding horses at Jones Academy. Jones Academy students “bust thru meth.” group selected for this honor. This barrow was bred and raised Other Jones Academy 4-H students participating in the Okla- at Jones Academy. Brandon is a member of the Choctaw Na- homa Youth Expo were Tyler Dressman and Billie Jo Nunn. tion and is from Camp Verde, Ariz. Tyler exhibited a Second Place Class III Yorkshire Barrow. Bil- Cheyenne Neal, a sophomore from the Jones Academy 4-H lie Jo showed both a ninth place and a seventh place Hampshire MarchStudents of Jones Against Academy participated Meth in a March Club, showed the First Place Class VIII Hampshire Barrow Barrow. Against Meth Walk earlier this year in an effort to address at the Oklahoma Youth Expo. Cheyenne won first place com- Jones Academy 4-H students appreciate Chief Pyle, Assis- the devastating effects that methamphetamine has on a com- peting against 46 other exhibitors throughout the state in her tant Chief Batton and Choctaw Nation Tribal Council for their munity. The month of March was Meth Awareness Month. weight class. Her entry was selected as Reserve Champion continued support at livestock premium sales. Students from the Jones Academy Alternative Center along with the Choctaw Nation Youth Advisory Board and the Learn and Serve Program joined in the event to educate the Jones Academy elementary school students about the conse- YAB help out at quences of doing meth. back-to-school bash The team came together to pass out information about the negative influences of substance abuse and to persuade The Stigler Youth Advisory students to remain drug-free. The group also gave away Board had a lot of fun teach- lime green rubber bracelets that bore the message, “March ing the YAB dance to children Against Meth.” at the Back to School Bash The older students performed a puppet show for the first on July 22. The “YABbers” through fourth grade classes as well as a skit for the fifth and also helped stuff bags and sixth grade classes. Both presentations had anti-drug mes- hand out flyers. Volunteers sages. included Isabella Barrios, Lo- The day ended with the students signing a banner to “bust renzo Gonzalez and DJ Sus- thru meth.” The students then participated in a walk, ran taita. through the banner and signed a pledge to be leaders against The Choctaw Nation Youth meth and remain drug-free. Advisory Board is a program This collaborative effort was sponsored by the Choctaw for youth from eighth through Nation Wind Horse program and coordinated by Amber 12th grades who live within Hearn, a Methamphetamine/Suicide Prevention Initiative the 10 ½ counties of Choctaw specialist. Nation. A CDIB is not re- quired to join, just a desire to help others and to make a dif- ference in your community. To become a member, youth must attend two con- secutive meetings and partici- pate in two projects. Currently there are 16 chapters and 408 members in CNYAB. For more informa- tion, please contact Martina Photo provided Hawkins 918-569-7535 or Melissa Cress 580-345-2230. Stigler Youth Advisory Board teaches the YAB dance.

Photo provided Jones Academy names Super Students Congratulations to Jones Academy’s last nine weeks Super Students. They are, from left, Shianne Myers, fifth grade; Mariella Chatkehoodle, sixth grade; Truvon Willis, fourth grade; Gavin Smith, senior at Campus Alternative School; Odalys Lujano, third grade; Zander Thom- as, second grade; McGavyne Lone Elk, fifth grade; Madison Cheek, second grade; and Bryan Hawkins, sixth grade. August 2011, BISKINIK, Page 15 Choctaw days We would like to thank all the participants, including those who traveled to Washington, D.C., and the many who without their support and assistance, the first Choctaw Days would not have been possible.

Judy Allen

Les Williston Kay Jackson, Sue Folsom, Regina Green, Melinda Steve, Kanda Jackson and Valarie Robison.

Amy & Ian Thompson

Presley Byington

Shannon McDaniel & Connie Courtwright Back row, Ronston McKinney, Lyndon McKinney Jr., Stephanie McKinney, Steven McKinney, Alethia McKinney, Madison McKinney, Micah Frazier, Jonathan McKinney, Valerie Wolfe, Heather Watson. In front, Janice McKinney, Karl McKinney and Ron McKinney.

Gwen Coleman Lester & Rod Lester

Tim Tingle Elaine Thomson, Jr. Miss Choctaw Nation Nikki Amos, Little Miss Choctaw Nation Mahala Battiest, Miss Choctaw Nation Kristi McGuire and Faye Self

Roger Amerman, Brad Joe, Marcus Amerman

Lillie Roberts & Jim Parrish

Moses Johnson, Lena Scott, Bubba Johnson

Choctaw Nation photos by Judy Allen, Vonna Shults, left Lisa Reed, Chrissy Dill, Brad Joe Shirley Barboan

Oneida Winship Olin Williams

Tracy Horst

Lisa Reed Eveline Battiest & Chrissy Dill Paul King Lana Sleeper & Alethia McKinney Greg Rodgers August 2011, BISKINIK, Page 16 Labor Day Festival 2011

September 2 Concertsthrough September 4

Third Day Jamey Johnson

38 Special Concerts are free!

Neal McCoy

Don’t miss any of the great activities beginning September 1 and running through September 5 on the Choctaw Nation Capitol Grounds near Ronnie Milsap Clay Walker Tuskahoma, Oklahoma. Gary Allan Bring your quilts and lawn chairs and enjoy the Choctaw Nation’s exciting lineup this year!

Friday, Sept. 2 Saturday, Sept. 3 Sunday, Sept. 4 6:00 p.m. Neal McCoy 6:00 p.m. Ronnie Milsap 7:00 p.m. The Kingsmen 8:00 p.m. 38 Special 8:00 p.m. Jamey Johnson 9:00 p.m. Third Day 10:00 p.m. Clay Walker 10:00 p.m. Gary Allan

Schedule is subject to change. No drugs or alcoholic beverages allowed on tribal grounds. Labor Day Schedule 2011 Thursday, September 1, 2011 Sunday, September 4, 2011 7:00 PM Choctaw Nation Princess Pageant, Amphitheater 8:00 AM Fast Pitch Tournament continues Entertainer: Amber May before and during the pageant 8:30 AM Golf Tournament @ Sycamore Springs Golf Friday, September 2, 2011 Course, Wilburton 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Choctaw Nation Museum open 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM Youth Advisory Board Offers Crafts for No RVs or tents at RV Noon – 8:00 PM Photo ID/CDIB booth open youth @ playground Park until Aug. 27. 10:00 AM Arts & Crafts exhibits open 10:00 AM Worship Services, tent behind amphitheater Noon – 8:00 PM Going Lean Expo, next to Council Chambers 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Choctaw Nation Museum open Noon – 5:00 PM Quilt entries @ Information Center Noon Gospel Singing @ Amphitheater 2:00 PM Gourd Dancing on Capitol lawn Noon Domino and Checker Tournament Registration, 5:00 PM Registration for Chief Pyle Physical Fitness Challenge, Council Chambers Cafeteria Lawn Noon – 7:00 PM Photo ID/CDIB Booth open 6:00 PM Chief Pyle Physical Fitness Challenge, Council Chambers Lawn, youth 1:00 PM Domino and Checker Tournament in Cafeteria ages 8 -18 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM Going Lean Expo, next to Council Chambers 6:00 PM Concerts @ Amphitheater 1:30 PM Golf Tournament @ Sycamore Springs Golf 7:00 PM Inter-Tribal Pow Wow Grand Entry on Capitol lawn Course, Wilburton 7:00 PM Fast Pitch Tournament at Red Warrior Park 1:30 – 3:00 PM Choctaw Code Talker Association Board Meeting, Council Chambers Choctaw Horses at Village Sa turday, September 3, 2011 2:00-4:00 PM Buffalo Tours, load bus @ Museum each day - demonstration 6:30 - 7:45 AM 5k Registration at Hwy. 271 4:00 PM Choctaw Dancers, Capitol Lawn times at Tribal information 8:00 AM 5k Race begins at Hwy. 271 5:00 PM Stickball Exhibition, Capitol Lawn building and BISKINIK 8:00 AM Fast Pitch Tournament continues 7:00 PM Concerts @ Amphitheater building. 8:00 AM 3 on 3 Choctaw War Hoops Basketball Registration 8:00 AM Horseshoe Tournament Registration Monday, September 5, 2011 8 AM – 8 PM Going Lean Expo, next to Council Chambers 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM Photo ID/CDIB Booth open 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Youth Advisory Board Offers Crafts for 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM Choctaw Nation Museum open youth @ playground 10:00 AM Labor Day Official Ceremonies, Amphitheater Posting of Flags - Choctaw Color Guard 9:00 AM Playground Supervised Stickball Tournament, The National Anthem - Sarah de Herrera 9:00 AM Horseshoe Tournament Friday, Saturday & Museum Hours The Lord’s Prayer in Sign Language 9:00 AM Co-Ed Volleyball Tournament Sunday evenings in Storyteller Tim Tingle Friday, open 9 AM 9:00 AM Quilt Show @ Information Center Village area. Introduction of Tribal Council and Judges Saturday, open 10 AM 9:00 AM 3 on 3 Basketball at Basketball Courts Sunday, open 10 AM 10:00 - 12:00 PM Buffalo Tours, load bus @ Museum State of the Nation Address by Monday, open 9 AM 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Choctaw Nation Museum open Chief Gregory E. Pyle 10:00 AM 8th Annual Choctaw Art Show, 2nd floor of Museum Oath of Office administered to elected officials 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM Photo ID Booth open Door Prize Drawings 2:00 PM Terrapin Races, Playground 11:30 AM Free Meal for Everyone, Cafeteria 5:00 PM Children’s Drama, Choctaw Village Amphitheater Noon Pick up Quilts from Quilt Show (bring lawn chairs) Events throughout the Festival 4:00 PM Free-Throw Contest @ Basketball Courts Carnival Rides Free, courtesy of Chief and Tribal Council 4:30 PM Tough, Tough Choctaw Registration, Specialty Acts, including Magician Russell Turner, Robinson’s Racing Pigs, Council Chambers Superplay, Rock Climbing, Mechanical Bull, Pony Rides and Inca Flute Players. 5:00 PM 3-Point Contest @ Basketball Courts 5:30 PM Tough, Tough Contest, Council Chambers lawn Choctaw Village Schedule 1:45 Storytelling 6:00 PM Concerts @ Amphitheater Saturday, September 3, 2011 10:00 AM Choctaw Dancing Children’s Activities Check-in times for RVs and Tents will be as follows. Please make arrangements 10:30 AM Stickball Skills 2:15 PM Corn Game to arrive and check in at your respective gate during one of these times. 11:00 AM Banaha Making 2:40 PM Pottery 11:30 AM Storytelling Children’s Activities RVs: Tents: 1:00 PM Stickball PLEASE HELP US RECYCLE Wednesday (8-31) 7 AM – 10 PM Wednesday (8-31) 7 AM – 10 PM 1:30 PM Language Collect and empty as many alu- Thursday (9-1) 8 AM – 12 midnight Thursday (9-1) 8 AM – 12 midnight 1:45 PM Arts & Crafts minum cans and plastic bottles as Friday (9-2) 8 AM – 12 midnight Friday (9-2) 8 AM – 12 midnight 2:15 PM Choctaw Dancing you can find during the festival and Saturday (9-3) 8 AM – 12 midnight Saturday (9-3) Locked Sunday, September 4, 2011 bring to the GOING GREEN booth Sunday (9-4) 8 AM – 10 PM Sunday (9-4) Locked 1:00 PM Flint Napping to redeem them for prizes! 1:15 Silver Smithing 1:30 Primitive Weapons