December 2018 Issue Remains of Choctaw Korean War Veteran Return Home After 68 Years by KENDRA GERMANY member of the Able Company, 1st Battal- 5 to Sept. 5, 1953, all remaining POWs remains unrecoverable Jan. 16, 1956. ion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 24th Infan- were exchanged during Operation Big Kaniatobe remained at the Punchbowl The remains of a Choctaw veteran, try Division. Exchange. All returning POWs from both for over 60 years, until the Defense POW/ Pvt. Charles Gibson Kaniatobe, returned The 21-year-old was killed in action operations were questioned regarding MIA Accounting Agency requested the home Nov. 15, after being deemed unre- July 10, 1950, as a result of heavy fighting other POWs, but none could provide any disinterment of 10 unknown soldiers in- coverable for nearly seven decades. with the North Korean People’s Army at information about Kaniatobe. cluding Unknown X-173. The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Chonui, Republic of Korea. The intense Due to having no information or leads The remains were disinterred in Octo- provided the Kaniatobe family trans- battle left hundreds of U.S. troops dead or to his whereabouts, Kaniatobe was de- ber 2017. portation to DFW International Airport, missing. clared dead Dec. 31, 1953, by the U.S. Based on recovery location, and histor- where his casket was welcomed by the Due to the large number of U.S. casu- Army. ical information involving Kaniatobe, the U.S. Army Honor Guard, a USO Honors alties, grave registration troops set up Kaniatobe was posthumously promot- Indo-Pacific Directorate believed there Team, the Choctaw Nation Honor Guard, makeshift graves on-site as a temporary ed to the rank of Private (Pvt-2), and his was a high possibility Unknown X-173 relatives, and representatives of the solution. family was notified of his actions. He was was Kaniatobe. Choctaw Nation. During the battle north of Taejon, a awarded the Purple Heart, the Combat Thanks to scientific advancements Assistant Chief Jack Austin Jr. and temporary cemetery, American Cem- Infantryman Badge, the Korean Service and mitochondrial DNA sequencing, re- District 1 Council person Thomas Wil- etery No.1, was established. An uniden- Medal, the United Nations Service Med- searchers were able to identify Kaniato- liston accompanied Kaniatobe’s sisters, tified soldier known as Unknown Ameri- al, the National Defense Service Medal, be by comparing DNA samples from his Clara and Ann, as well as his niece and can X-173 was interred there. the Korean Presidential Unit Citation remains to those of his living siblings, nephew Kimberly and Rick Kaniatobe, Throughout the remainder of the war, and the Republic of Korea War Service Clara, Ann and James. on the flight from Durant to Dallas. Oth- the United Nations Command request- Medal. Kaniatobe was finally laid to rest back er family members were accompanied on ed a list of American and allied service The American Graves Registration home in Idabel Nov. 17 and was buried shuttles by representatives of the Choc- members held captive by the Chinese Services hoped to recover the remains with full military honors. taw Nation, including District 9 Council People’s Volunteer Forces and the Kore- of all American and allied troops from Kaniatobe was also recognized at the person James Dry. Family members from an People’s Army. Kaniatobe was never the demilitarized zone after the war. It 2018 Choctaw Veterans Day Ceremony, the Dallas area were also in attendance. mentioned on any of the lists. wasn’t until 1954 that Operation Glory and his family was presented with an One even traveled all the way from Ari- The American Graves Registration would take place. The operation lasted American flag by Chief Gary Batton. zona to attend the event. team continued the search for American from Sept. 1 until Oct. 30, 1954. “So many Choctaws like Pvt. Kania- “It was an honor to join the family of remains. From May 22 through June 10, The remains of over 2,900 soldiers were tobe have given their lives in service to Charles Kaniatobe as his remains ar- 1952, soldiers of the 392nd Quartermaster recovered. The U.S. Army’s Central Iden- their country. It is a blessing that Kania- rived at DFW International Airport. Graves Registration Company conducted tification Unit processed the remains for tobe is finally home after all these years,” The plane-side honors were emotional a field search to locate Kaniatobe in the identification in Kokura, Japan. During said Chief Gary Batton. for everyone involved. It is amazing that area between Chonui and Choch’iwon. this process, 848 sets of American re- The Choctaw Nation would like to thank thanks to scientific advances, Kaniatobe During the search eight sets of remains mains were still unidentifiable. the staff of DFW International Airport, is finally home,” said Assistant Chief were recovered, none of which could be These soldiers were interred as “un- the DFW Airport Police Department, the Jack Austin Jr. associated with Kaniatobe. knowns” in the National Cemetery of the USO Honors Team, the U.S. Army and ev- Kaniatobe was born Jan. 31, 1929, to In the spring of 1953, all sides agreed Pacific, known as the Punchbowl, in Ho- eryone involved in ensuring Kaniatobe’s Walter Kaniatobe and Wilcey Shaw Kani- to a limited exchange of prisoners of nolulu, Hawaii. arrival home was a special event. atobe. He was the eldest of 10 children war. During what is known as Operation Due to lack of information and having For more information on the Defense and a resident of Idabel, Oklahoma. Little Switch, select sick, wounded and no leads to the location of his remains, the POW/MIA Accounting Agency’s projects, As a Korean War veteran, he was a injured POWs were released. From Aug. U.S. Army declared Charles Kaniatobe’s visit http://www.dpaa.mil.

The U.S. Army Honor Guard loads the casket of Pvt. Charles Kaniatobe for his Ann and Clara Kaniatobe pay respects to their The remains of Pvt. Charles Gibson Kaniatobe, long-awaited journey home from the DFW International Airport to his hometown of brother Charles – a moment the Kaniatobe were positively identified in October 2018, after Idabel, Oklahoma. family has waited 68 years for. 68 years of being missing in action. tobes, theycanfinally rest. lifetoprovidenormal protection for us–many paying theultimate sacrifice. made? free,” aveteran,” or“Thank dowe really understandthecommitmentandsacrifices to, andincluding hisorherlife. have writtenablank check America,for theamountup payable totheUnitedStates of lowing strong family traditions. honortobeamongthosewelcomingand agreat thishero. people who were watching from adistance. Itwas anextremely humbling experience and athird stoodat attention asPvt.Kaniatobe was tothevehicle. transferred high Americanflags draped casket toahearse. Anotherhonor guard heldarow of dren when theysaidgoodbye totheirbrother, warrior, atrue aTvshka Chahta. and othersinneed.Hehadbeengonefor almost70years. Hissiblings were justchil- situation hitus. Pvt.Kaniatobe hadserved our countryandgiven hislifetoprotect it plans tobringhimhomeIdabel. family wasbegan notifiedinOctoberthat his remains hadbeenidentifiedandthey our tribalmembersandemployees live inTexas. economicimpactisfar-reachingThe becausemany of more jobsfor peopleliving inandnearBryan County. Choctaw Casino&Resort-Durant which willadd1,000 tion. providing much-needed loca- servicesinacentralized thenew headquarters. ItopenedinJune andis ing of all inGod’shands. hope for abrightfuture becausethere ispeaceasit our mothersare always withusandwe know there is daughter-in-law. isinevitable. Change memoriesof The and mother-in-law. for willgather theholidayfamilies withoutmy mom Every year bringschange andthisisthefirst year our Tvshka ChahtaisFinallyHome After BeingMIAfor68Years a G. Kaniatobe. G. Kaniatobe. ternational Airport, tomeettheaircraft carryingtheremains ontheir brother, U.S. Army Pvt.Charles Rick, Clara, Ann andKimberly KaniatobeboardtheplanethatwilltakethemtoDallasFort Worth In- Assistant Chief JackAustin Jr. May God bless all of our warriors ondomesticandforeign ourwarriors soil. May Godbless allof areMilitary families thestrength behindtheforces ontheline. And,for theKania- Every soldier, sailor, Marine, andCoastGuard responder airman isputtingasidea When we read orhearwords such as“Honoringallwho served,” “Freedom isn’t All are signinguptoprotect our freedom andtoparaphrase quote–they afamous futureThe changes for menandwomen when theyjointhemilitary. Many are fol- It mademeproud toseetherespect beingshown by allattending andeven other asanhonorguard theflag- carefully carried homebegan hisjourney of lastleg The the aircraft andconversationsThe sat onDFW’starmac of ceasedastheenormity Also among the highlights of theyear isanew lease- Also amongthehighlightsof We have justannouncedanew expansiontothe Other changes thispastyear have included theopen- our It isthefirstChristmaswithadditionof T 2 he Christmas season is a time of faith andfamily. faith he Christmasseasonisatimeof Choctaw NationGrowthContinuesinto2019 missing between 1950and1953. approximately 7,700soldierswho hadbeenlistedas Korean People’s Army. theNorth in combat operations against sion engaged Battalion, Regiment, Divi 21stInfantry 24thInfantry - word onCharles. siblings James, ClaraandAnn,have long-awaited any not have any children. Hisclosest living relatives, hisremains.Dallas tomeettheaircraft carrying Pvt.Charles Army Kaniatobe to family membersof toaccompanyJames DryandIhadtheopportunity as missinginactionsincetheKorean War. ourChoctaw veterans who hasbeenlisted oneof of militaryactivities andceremonies. ent typesof Chief GaryBatton A Thanks toadvancesThanks inDNA testingtheKaniatobe He was declared missinginaction1950,oneof Company A,1st Pvt. Kaniatobe was amemberof In hisearly 20swhen hewas killed,Kaniatobe did In November, Williston, CouncilpersonsThomas themprepared mefor theemotionalreturn None of FFC s aveteran, Ihave inmany participated differ honors. tohisfamily forbe returned burial withfullmilitary taw warriors, Pvt.Charles Army G. Kaniatobe, would ourChoc- oneof Agency announcedtheremains of Thursday, Nov. 1,theDefensePOW/MIA Accounting sacrifice, hasfinally been brought hometo rest. On were alsonamedfor theCodeTalkers. ing itonFriday, July throughout 6.Bridges Oklahoma Tvshka ancestorswithamonument inAntlers, unveil- helping bringanendtoWorld War I.We honored our Choctaw menwho becamethefirstCode Talkers,of between ourChahtapeopleandIreland. March. Itwas awonderful culturalexperienceshared Choctaw Nation duringhistriptotheUnitedStates in Ireland, LeoVaradkar,Prime Ministerof visitedthe and hearingaids. taw tohelpprovide eyeglasses, dentures orpartials, isnow opentoany eligibleHearing AidProgram Choc- in theChoctaw Nation, theEyeglasses, Dentures and tribal memberswho travel tothehospitalandclinics Missouri andArkansas. Oklahoma,Texas, Kansas, riskareas of high tornado amounttohavethe grant shelterinstalled. anew storm of amount andtribalmembers18-44canreceive half reduced to45years oldoroldertoreceive thefullgrant States. for tribalmemberswho live anywhere intheUnited Advantage andHomeowners FinanceService Program homeownership such astheHomebuyer opportunities obstacles tobecomenew homeowners. There are also in 2019. theChoctaw Nation withmore to beadded districts of providingto-purchase homesinall housingprogram Pvt. Kaniatobe was declared missinginactionMon- Another Choctaw soldier, onewho gave theultimate year This thegroup marks the100thanniversary of We have hadmany uniquecelebrations thisyear. The Among thehealthservicesavailable toChoctaw isavailable program The totribalmembersinthe limitshave age ShelterProgram Storm The been overcome ishelpingfamilies LEAPprogram The by KendraGermany - Koi ChitoHvshi December members bymailandarchivededitionsareon contacts. TheChoctawNation’sofficialpublication,theBISKINIK,isavailabletotribal about tribalhistory,culture,news,services,government,businesses,applicationsand Stay Connected. 2 Faith In ThisIssue 12 10 9 7 Obituaries 5 4 3 Veterans Day Thanksgiving Dinners People You Know Notes totheNation Sports &Education Nursery News www.youtube.com/ChoctawNationOK www.instagram.com/ChoctawNationOK www.twitter.com/ChoctawNationOK www.facebook.com/ChoctawNationofOklahoma

Family Deadline toapplyisSunday,April1,2019 with youthworkprogramapplications. The WIOAdepartmentwillbevisitinghighschoolswithinthe10½countiesofChoctawNationtoassiststudents YOUTH WORKPROGRAMAPPLICATIONS

Culture 1/16/19 KINTA 1/16/19 COLBERT 1/16/19 CALERA 1/16/19 ANTLERS 1/15/19 WISTER 1/15/19 HOWE 1/15/19 HEAVENER 1/15/19 BROKEN BOW 1/15/19 RATTAN 1/15/19 MOYERS 1/14/19 SPIRO 1/14/19 PANAMA 1/14/19 BOKOSHE 1/14/19 ARKOMA 1/14/19 VALLIANT 1/10/19 CLAYTON 1/9/19 INDIANOLA 1/9/19 CROWDER 1/9/19 TUPELO 1/9/19 1/9/19 1/9/19 CANADIAN 1/9/19 CADDO 1/9/19 BOSWELL 1/8/19 1/8/19 1/8/19 1/8/19 1/7/19 1/4/19 1/4/19 1/4/19 1/3/19 beginning January 1,2019. https://wioaapplication.choctawnation.com willbe available website orcontact WIOAstaffat(800)522-6170.Applications male andover18).Furthereligibility requirementslistedonthe drivers license,physicaladdressverification, selectiveservice(if Bring acopyofCDIB/Membership Card,SocialSecuritycard, HUGO COALGATE MCCURTAIN SILO KEOTA CANEY MCALESTER KIOWA SAVANNA PITTSBURG BUFFALO VALLEY Panther Month

munity news through a variety of communicationchannels. throughmunity news avariety of mation for Choctaw Nationtribal members com- delivering by infor asthesourceBiskinik MissionStatement:Toserve of town ofIdabel,OklahomaonNov. 17. years. Kaniatobe waslaidtorestinhishome Gibson Kaniatobe arereturnedhomeafter68 The remainsofKorean War veteranPvt.Charles Page 1: Year. is allabout. year othersfirstare what thistimeof put theneedsof families, andcaringpeoplewho goodcitizens strive to Pvt. Kaniatobe andhisfamily. ny onSaturday, Nov. 10.Itwas astandingovation for of this year. September finally identifiedin Americans recovered onFriday, Oct.6,1950,andwere day, 164 July 10,1950.Hisremains were amongthoseof Tvshka Homma,onSaturday, Nov. 10. tion Veterans Ceremony heldintheheartofChoctawNation, honored byChiefGaryBattonduringtheannualChoctawNa The familyofU.S. Army Pvt.CharlesG.Kaniatobewas ChoctawNation.com featuresaccesstoinformation May you have ablessed Christmasandhappy New Faith, family andculture keep usunited–strong We honored thefamily duringourVeterans Ceremo- 1:00 9:00-2:30

11:00 11:30 10:00 9:30 10:15 10:00 10:00 10:00 10:30 10:55 12:30 12:30 12:30 12:30

11:00 11:00

11:30 10:15 11:20 11:20 12:15 1:00 8:00 9:00 9:00 9:30 9:05 2:00 1:00 9:10 1:30 TBA 2/6/19 DURANT 1/30/19 WAPANUCKA 1/30/19 COLEMAN 1/29/19 BROKENBOW 1/29/19 PANOLA 1/28/19 WHITESBORO 1/28/19 LEFLORE 1/28/19 SMITHVILLE 1/28/19 BATTIEST 1/24/19 ATOKA 1/23/19 IDABEL 1/23/19 EAGLETOWN 1/23/19 STUART 1/23/19 CALVIN 1/23/19 WILBURTON 1/23/19 TALIHINA 1/23/19 ROCKCREEK BENNINGTON 1/23/19 1/22/19 CAMERON /21 PCL 1/22/19 1/22/19 POCOLA 1/22/19 HAWORTH 1/22/19 REDOAK 1/18/19 1/18/19 1/17/19 1/17/19 1/17/19 1/17/19 1/16/19 1/16/19 1/16/19 ChoctawNation.com. QUINTON POTEAU HARTSHORNE HAILEYVILLE STRINGTOWN TUSHKA SOPER FORTTOWSON WRIGHTCITY STIGLER JONESACADEMY Front Photos by KendraFront Photosby Germany

9:00 &1:00 12:30

10:30 10:00 10:00 10:00 10:00 10:00 10:40 10:30 12:30 12:30 12:30 12:30 12:30 9:51 11:00 11:30 11:30 9:55 11:20 1:00 8:15 8:00 11:15 11:15 9:00 9:00 8:30 TBD 1:00 1:00 1:15

by DeidreElrod

- 2018 - Tips and Techniques to Help Beat the Holiday Blues by SHAUNA HUMPHREYS painful memories. Most counselors will recommend mindful- The holidays are here. In three consecutive ness techniques to aid with being in the pres- months, we have Halloween, Thanksgiving ent. Last, but not least, remember that God is and Christmas. with you in your difficult times and cling to For most people these holidays bring good that faith and hope. memories and excitement, but for others, the As always, please know that if your holidays can bring about sadness and depres- depression worsens or you begin to have sui- sion. cidal thoughts, the Choctaw Nation is here Faith, Family, Culture is the perfect motto for you and there are counselors available in for the Choctaw Nation. our Behavioral Health Department and on- Family has always been an important piece call at our Emergency Room. of our culture and strength for the Choctaw For more information on counseling ser- people. vices, please contact Choctaw Nation Behav- Many Choctaw families rely on their faith in ioral Health at (918) 567-3065 or McAlester God to get them through the difficult times. Wind Horse at (918) 302-0052. Choctaws have proven repeatedly that we Also, the National Suicide Prevention are a culture of resilience and strength. Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential Even so, holidays can often bring out some support if you are in distress. Contact them depression and a time of being blue. at (800) 273-8255. There are many reasons for the holiday blues. Some include grieving the loss of a smooth and other times crashing down, so 3 loved one, family discourse and the pressure prepare yourself for the rough days and do “This newspaper article was developed, in to buy gifts you cannot afford. something to remember your loved one during part, under grant number 5H79SM062902-04 Many times, holidays are busy and chaotic, the holidays. from SAMHSA. The views, opinions and content leading to high stress and anxiety, while other More tips to aid with other causes of holiday of this publication are those of the authors and times not having any family to celebrate with, blues include: prioritizing your activities, contributors, and do not necessarily reflect the a recent divorce, or the loss of a loved one can setting realistic goals for yourself (financially views, opinions, cause a person to feel down. and with your time), reaching out and making or policies of One tip to help fight holiday blues that are new friends and contacting current friends, CMHS, SAMH- due to the loss of a loved one is to memorialize family or supportive people. SA, or HHS, and them. It is important to try and live in the moment should not be con- Grief is like an ocean wave, some days and enjoy the present instead of dwelling on strued as such.”

Elder Angel Tree Looking for Help Location Days Hours Antlers Every Tue. 8:30 a.m.– 4 p.m. by JIMMY SMITH receive the Christmas 580-298-3161 gifts. Atoka Mon. Wed., Thurs. There are 20 elders 8 a.m.– 4:30 p.m. The Choctaw Nation 580-889-5825 & Fri. Victim Assistance pro- chosen from each of Battiest 1st & 2nd Tue. the 12 Choctaw Tribal gram, which includes the 580-241-5458 Every Month 8:30 a.m.– 4 p.m. Districts. Choctaw Nation Elder Boswell 1st Thurs. of Every Once the Elder Angels Advocacy/Vulnerable 580-380-2518 Month 8:30 a.m.– 4 p.m. are received by the staff, Adult program spon- Broken Bow Daily Mon. - Fri. we find sponsors for 8 a.m.– 4:30 p.m. sors an Elder Angel Tree 580-584-2746 each of the Angels. project. Coalgate 1st Wed. of Every The Choctaw Nation The purpose of this 580-927-3641 Month 8:30 a.m.– 4 p.m. Victim Assistance pro- project is to make sure Durant gram and the Choctaw Daily that some of our Elders 580-920-2100 Nation Elder/Vulnerable Mon. – Fri. 8 a.m.– 4:30 p.m. who might not receive a x-83517 Adult Advocacy program gift for Christmas will Hugo Daily coordinate with the 8 a.m.– 4:30 p.m. receive a gift through 580-326-5404 Mon. – Fri. Community Based Social this effort. Idabel Daily Work and Project EM- 8 a.m.– 4:30 p.m. The criteria that we 580-286-2510 Mon. – Fri. POWER staff to locate follow when choosing McAlester Daily sponsors for the Elder 8 a.m.– 4:30 p.m. 918-423-6335 Mon. – Fri. who is eligible to receive Angels. Poteau Daily gifts through this project Many sponsors are 918-649-1106 Mon. – Fri. 8 a.m.– 4:30 p.m. are they must be Choc- Choctaw Nation as- Smithville 1st Thurs. of Every taw, 55 years or older, sociates from Choctaw 580-244-3289 Month 8 a.m.– 4:30 p.m. needy and forlorn or Nation Health Services, Spiro widowed. Casinos, Headquarters Wed., Thurs. & Fri. 918-962-5134 8 a.m.– 4:30 p.m. With the help of the and Choctaw Nation Stigler Mon. & Tue. Community Center Field Housing Authority. 918-867-4211 8:30 a.m.– 4 p.m. Representatives and The gifts are deliv- Talihina Mon., Tue., Wed. the Community Health ered to the elders before 918-567-7000 & Fri. Representatives, we are Christmas. or questions about the Adult Advocacy program 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. x-6792 able to locate the eligible If you have any con- Choctaw Nation Elder please contact us at (877) Wilburton Every Choctaw Elders that will cerns about elder abuse Advocacy/Vulnerable 285-6893. 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. 918-465-5641 Thursday Recipe of the Month Corn Souffle Building Healthy Families Through Good Nutrition • 4 eggs • 21 Ritz crackers, crushed

• 4 Tablespoons flour • 3 Tablespoons sugar • 1 can whole kernel corn, • 1 can cream style corn CHOCTAW NATION FOOD DISTRIBUTION drained • 1/3 cup melted butter WAREHOUSES & MARKETS Open 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Preparation Wednesday, Friday 1. Preheat oven to 3500 and cook until set, or 45 minutes. Thursday: 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Antlers: 400 S.W. “O” St., (580) 298-6443 2. In a bowl, mix eggs, sugar and flour. Broken Bow: 109 Chahta Road, (580) 584-2842 3. Add drained kernel corn and cream style corn and mix well. Durant: 2352 Big Lots Pkwy, (580) 924-7773 McAlester: 3244 Afullota Hina, (918) 420-5716 4. Pour in a 9x9 in. baking dish. Poteau: 100 Kerr Ave, (918) 649-0431 5. Crush crackers in a bag and pour on top. January 2019 6. Melt butter and drizzle over top and bake. ANTLERS Market open weekdays January 1-31, except for: Recipe by Carmen Robertson Closed: January 1, 30 & 31. Nutrition Facts: Cooking With Carmen: January 4 & 16, 11 a.m.- 1 p.m. Servings 9, Serving size 142 grams (per serving), Calories 235, Total Fat 11 grams, Trans Fat 0 grams, Cholesterol 101 BROKEN BOW milligrams, Sodium 139 milligrams, Total Carbohydrates 30 grams, Dietary Fiber 2 grams, Sugars 11 grams, Protein 5 Market open weekdays January 1-31, except for: gram, Vitamin A 7 percent, Vitamin C 4 percent, Calcium 3 percent and Iron 7 percent. Closed: January 1, 30 & 31. Cooking With Carmen: January 7 & 18, 11 a.m.- 1 p.m. For more information, contact Choctaw Nation Nutritionist Carmen Robertson via phone at (800) 522-6170 ext. 2733, by DURANT email at [email protected] or at a Cooking with Carmen demonstration. Market open weekdays January 1-31, except for: Closed: January 1, 30 & 31. Cooking With Carmen: January 11 & 21, 11 a.m.- 1 p.m. MCALESTER Market open weekdays January 1-31, except for: Closed: January 1, 30 & 31. Nursery News Cooking With Carmen: January 14 & 23, 11 a.m.- 1 p.m. POTEAU Kyler Keith Malott Quintin Thomas Puckette Market open weekdays January 1-31, except for: Closed: January 1, 30 & 31. Kyler Keith Malott was born at 12:02 p.m. on Quintin Thomas Puckette was born at 1:58 Cooking With Carmen: January 9 & 25, 11 a.m.- 1 p.m. June 12, at Texoma Medical Center p.m. on April 7, at the Lawrence + in Denison, Texas. He weighed Memorial Hospital in New Lon- In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. De- partment of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations 10 pounds, 6 ounces and was don, Connecticut. He weighed and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employ- 21 inches long. 5 pounds, 13 ounces and was ees, and institutions participating in or administering Kyler is the son of Keith 181/2 inches long. USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based and Whitney Malott and Quintin is the son of on race, color, national origin, sex, religious creed, disabil- ity, age, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior the little brother of Adley Michael and Kerry Puck- civil rights activity in any program or activity conducted and Briley of Calera, ette and the grandson of or funded by USDA. Persons with disabilities who require Oklahoma. Thomas and Debby Puck- alternative means of communication for program informa- He is the grandson of ette of Poteau, Oklahoma tion (e.g. Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.), should contact the Agency (State or local) Gina and the late Steve and Ruth and the late where they applied for benefits. Individuals who are deaf, Harris of Calera, Okla- Thomas Stone of Windsor hard of hearing or have speech disabilities may contact homa; Curt Malott of The Locks, Connecticut. USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Woodlands, Texas; the late He is the great-grandson Additionally, program information may be made avail- able in languages other than English. To file a program Terry Anderson of Roberta, of Calvin Beames of Kingston, complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Oklahoma; and Will and Debbie Oklahoma; J. Charlene Beames Discrimination Complaint Form, (AD-3027) found online at: Turner of Montgomery, Texas. of Ardmore, Oklahoma; and the http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html, and Kyler is the great-grandson of Marvetta and late Charles and Oneta Puckette of Poteau, at any USDA office, or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested the late Benny Phelps of Calera, Oklahoma; Oklahoma. in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call the late Bob and Angie Malott of New Ro- His family would like to express their appre- (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to chelle, New York; the late Richard and Bar- ciation and gratitude to the NICU staff at Law- USDA by Mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of bara MacMurchy of The Bronx, New York; the rence + Memorial Hospital, the NICU staff at the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; Fax: (202) 690-7442; or late Gerald Anderson of Roberta, Oklahoma; Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital and the Email: [email protected]. and Floy Smith of Durant, Oklahoma. Ronald McDonald House of Connecticut. This institution is an equal opportunity provider. member of theChoctaw member of Scholarship. Sheisa the Lockheed Martin within IndianCountry. ing economicdevelopment contributions toadvanc- and lookforward totheir their educational goals as theystrive toreach thesestudents to support National Center. the President andCEOof ers,” saidChrisJames, American business lead- emergingNative of group impressive andtalented winners are anincredibly taled over $25,000. essay. theirpersonal quality of ness experienceandthe personal challenges, busi- community involvement, evaluated basedongrades, The field. applicants were ing inabusiness-related studentsmajor graduate giate juniors, senior, or must befull-timecolle- Tulsa, Oklahoma. Spirit CasinoResort in 40 Celebration at theRiver 10th Anniversary 40under ents were honored at the Scholarships. American IndianBusiness its2018 five winnersof recently announced DevelopmentEnterprise for AmericanIndian King, PurtellReceive AmericanIndianBusinessScholarships Week. day, Oct.29,for RedRibbon Center in Talihina onMon- Choctaw NationChildCare Sgt. IsaacJamesvisitedthe Tribal PoliceDAREOfficer RIGHT: ChoctawNation 4 RaeLynn Kingreceived “We are proud tobeable year’s“This scholarship year,This awards to- Scholarship winners scholarshipsThe recipi- NationalThe Center - congratulate Purtell. Purtell. congratulate Bennett was present to oweh Justin Corporation theOngwe- and CEOof winner andPresident tions andgrowth strategy. entrepreneurship,- negotia sult ontopicsrelated to PhD toteach andorcon- Cracker Barrel. American Airlines and west Airlines, Dr. Pepper, companies like South- and worked withmajor throughout hiscareer, professional positions Oklahoma. the Choctaw Nation of sity andamemberof Oklahoma State Univer and Entrepreneurship at PhD studentinBusiness American Scholarship. the Ongweoweh Native marketing. or business management native communityin tribe andorwithinthe hopes towork withher income housingprograms. where sheworked onlow- Kansas City, Missouri, with Travois andTepa in completed aninternship ness Administration. inBusi- pursuing adegree University where sheis Haskell IndianNations attendingis currently Oklahomaand Nation of DARE VisitsChildCareCenter Previous 40under Clinton planstousehis Clinton hasheldvarious isasecondyearPurtell receivedClinton Purtell she After graduation, RaeLynn mostrecently EDU - (from left (from left ) OngweowehCorporationCEOJustinBennett,ClintonPurtellandPr ) KaelynnKing,SmallBusinessLiaisonOfficer RavenSmithandNationalCenter President andCEOChrisJames. student intheblack jacket. betweenshirt, thestudentinblue jacket andthe ColumbiaUniversity.American Councilof the IvyNative CouncilFall Summithostedby theNative attended Studentsat American andIndigenous Cornell, at NativeCouncilFallSummit Choctaw NationRepresented this time. Search application. New studentsmay apply at selor, orcallthenumber above for anew Talent ext. 2711.Check withyour highschool coun- by calling(800)522-6170 student. Pre-register Students must beChoctaw oraTalent Search cated at 3205LincolnRd. NE,Idabel,Oklahoma. to noonat theIdabel Kiamichi Tech Centerlo- Grades 9-10onThursday, Dec.6,from8:30a.m. Garry issecondfrom therightwearingGarry amaroon summitwasThe heldFriday, Nov. 2–4. NativeThe Native at Americanorganization Cornell, isafreshman University. at Cornell Susan Garry FORGIVEABLE LOANPROGRAM FREE ACT PrepWorkshop appropriately toreceive loanforgiveness. business remains in good standing, and use the funds Business Development Advisor closely toensure the outlined inthefinalloan approval), work withaChoctaw Fund recipients must meetallreportingrequirements (as requirements outlinedintheloan program are met. forgiven dateoftheorigination ifall ontheanniversary assistance provided. The originalloanamountmay be over apredefined periodbasedontheloanamountand $5,000 for aperiodofoneyear; theloanwillbeamortized tribal membersare eligibletoreceive aloanfor upto successfully beginorgrow theirsmallbusiness. Qualified tribal entrepreneurs andprovide to thecapital necessary Program istoevaluate theneedsofqualified Choctaw The purposeoftheSmallBusinessForgivable Loan esident andNationalCenter CEOChrisJames. What istheSmallBusiness Forgivable LoanProgram? Choctaw Development FundManager SMALL BUSINESS For more information contact: [email protected] 580-924-8280 ext. 2371 Angel Rowland Thursday- GEDclass9a.m. speaker 11 a.m. Wednesday -Chair Volleyball 9a.m.,LunchandGuest Tuesday -GEDclass9a.m. Monday -Chair Volleyball 9a.m.,LanguageClass6p.m. Copy may beeditedfor space, and proper grammar punctuation. inany Copy readable willbeaccepted to include everything we receive. Itemsare printed right to determine whetherright todetermine material submittedfor publication shallbeprintedandreserves theright the quantity of article submissions, article we are unable the quantityof you may bereached. Duetospacelimitations and must include anaddress orphonenumber where submitted articles are solely those of theauthor aresubmitted articles solely thoseof luck at 6p.m. Date TBA -SeniorBingoNightandPot- Christmas. Dec. 24–25-CommunityCenterclosed for ter Dec. 20-Commoditiespick upinMcAles- nounced. date andtimefor decorating float tobean- Wilburton at 6p.m. Mickey Mousetheme, Dec. 15-ChristmasParade downtown birthday weekend. Chief’s Dec. 14-CommunityCenterclosed for noon. Dec. 12-CommunityChristmasDinnerat leaves at 9a.m. Dec. 11-GrantCasinoDay Trip, bus a.m., followed by breakfast. Woods CommunityPrayer Meetingat 7 Dec. 7-District6Councilwoman Jennifer atDec. 6-QuintonChristmasParty 6p.m. Dec. 5-Commoditiespick up. Buffalo Valley School cafeteria at 6 p.m. Dec. 4-Buffalo Valley Christmas at Party Other activities andday tripstobeannounced. rate, profane, offensive ormorally unacceptable. to editsubmittedmaterial which itfindsinaccu- material betypewritten anddouble spaced. You Gary Batton Gary lights tour. theannual Christmas isinlieuof a.m. This at 11 inSherman with lunch at GoldenCorral matinee at 2:30p.m. two busses loadat 10a.m. ChristmasPageant” Plano, Texas for “Giftof Prestonwood Baptist Church, 6801Peak Blvd., a.m. at 2746BigLotsParkway inDurant. taw CommunityCenter, opentothepublic at 8:30 Home Care blood pressure check andcrafts. sing traditionalChoctaw songs, Millennium Sale (Noclothing.), Exercise by Shirley McLain, fore andafterWednesday lunch.), SilentAuction (Thrift Storefirst.), WhiteBuffaloSale openbe- (Please standafterprayer tobeserved lunch the Event Center. lia withsongbooks. - join intosingaround theChristmastree inrega Grand Theater entranceallDistrict9seniors regalia. at theEvent Center. Grandentryat noonin Christmas, Happy New Year, Happy Holidays. at 11a.m. Bingo card promptly at 10:45a.m.,Bingo starts District 9Roadrunner singers. tion lunch by withacommandperformance the Dec. 26- Dec. 19- Dec. 12- Dec. 8- Dec. 7- Dec. 5- Dec. 2 Dec. Nov. 30 at theEvent Center. BISKINIK oryour addressneedstobe to Tribal Members.to Tribal BISKINIKreserves The the photographs to be submitted is the first day of tobesubmittedisthefirstdayphotographs of Circulation ismonthly. Deadlinefor and articles The BISKINIKisprintedeach The monthasaservice changed, our Circulation Department our Circulationchanged, Department in theorder received. Faxed photos willnotbe and do not necessarily represent those of the and donotnecessarily represent thoseof would appreciate hearingfromyou. The BISKINIK is a nonprofit publication of the BISKINIKisanonprofitThe publication of form, butform, where possible, itisrequested that District 9DecemberEvents District 6DecemberEvents Editor’s note:Views andopinions inreader- each thefollowing monthtorun month. If you arereceiving morethanone If Apryl Mock, Reporter/Photographer Chief email: [email protected] Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Choctaw Nation of 1 - Dara McCoy, Executive Director - 14th Annual Choctaw Nation Pow Wow Stacy Editor Hutto, Managing Christmas lights in Plano. Day trip to to trip ChristmaslightsinPlano. Day White BuffaloSalein at Choc- bus barn Senior lunch, Decemberbirthdays

- Vendor boothsetupfor Pow Wow at 14th Annual Choctaw Nation Pow Wow (580) 924-8280•(800)522-6170

No lunch served, Centerclosed, Merry Senior lunch Bingo,” “Prize pick up GaryBatton Birthday Celebra- Chief www.ChoctawNation.com Monthly Publication EVENTS Choctaw Nation. Choctaw Nation. Durant, OK74702 Weekly Events The Official The P.O. Box 1210 accepted. of the of Assistant Chief Jack AustinJr. cuisine andconversation. the drums, while enjoying traditionalChoctaw/Native as oftenpossible towatch andlistentothesoundof Response Team member. Davis likes toattend pow wows also trainedandqualifiedasaCommunityEmergency HomelandSecurityandis of United States Department cy Response Team member, “CERT” which isunderthe - is alsotrainedandqualifiedasaCommunityEmergen Coordinator.con andistheEmergency Management He citizens. ICWAgent, Advocate, MilitaryVeterans andthesenior Grays HarborCounty, Washington, by helpingtheindi- continues toplay anactive role withinhiscommunity Oklahoma. ern Cherokee CountyMountedHorsePatrol,- inNortheast coast tocoast. IndianAffairsin numerous capacities from Bureau of Interiorwiththe of tary andUnitedStates Department Davis hasserved hiscountryintheUnitedStates Mili- inmany subjects. degrees numerousHe earned college nothing inreturn. Forcescountry intheUnitedStates Armed andasked Native AmericanMilitaryVeterans, who served this Dwight, David andAdam.” brothers, theDavis Boys’ “Floyd, Johnathan, Kenneth, andLeonard,burn Bobby Joe andDennis,” andhis Uncle’s MilitaryServicetoourcountry. Choctaw Nation. actionwas This toshow respect for his the ing theChoctaw Nation Culture viaJuly Allenof shar appreciation of Belgiumintoken of province of from the Arms HollisRoberts withtheCoat of Chief Luxemburg, Belgiumarea. resulted This inpresenting ion, inTulsa,was tasked for dutywithintheprovince of Davis, while assignedtothe486thCivil AffairsBattal- commissioned asanOfficerSecondLieutenanttoMajor. enlisted person;“Private then toStaffSergeant” was hiscareer asin orapersonwho“Mustanger” began Guard andU.S. Reserve. Army thetitleof Heearned Nationalconditions intheArmy Guard, AirNational andlater servingunderHonorableStates MarineCorps hismilitarycareer in1969bygan enlistingintheUnited StateAcademy University. andSoutheastern be- Then same OklahomaChampionshipFootball Team. and Kenneth Dewayne that Davis were alsomembersof B Football Champions. Hisbrothers, Floyd GeneDavis theBiskinik. 2018 issueof painting andgiftedittoTommy Davis. SeetheAugust by THOMASDAVIS Veteran Leads InterestingLife 12-13 Atoka:10-1&1:30-3 12-6 Smithville:10-1&1:30-3 possess a CDIB and reside within the 101/2 county area months. To beeligible toapply you mustbeChoctaw, are available upto$2,500andare within 24 toberepaid home improvements and small businesses. loans The tribe.ognized Micro-loans are available for emergency IndianBlood(CDIB)from afederally rec - of Degree of Oklahomaand mustpossessaCertificate taw Nation of of theChoc- reside within the101/2countyservice area loans. Toagriculture beeligible toapply, apersonmust offers small business, home, homeimprovement, and OklahomaIndianCredit Association Southeastern The Edwards at (580)924-8280ext. 2161ortoll-free • • • mayattorney beable toassistwith: matters that the free toallChoctaw members. Examplesof ONLY documents toprovide assistancewithsimplelegal will beavailableA licensedattorney by appointment He isanactive church memberwho serves asaDea- Although, Davis hasbeenretired for many years, he Davis the hasserved for many years asamemberof Davis from Talihina graduated HighSchool in1967. Davis, gives tribute toallChoctaw Veterans and BaconBoyThe “Everett, Theodore, orWil Gilbert - atIn fact onepointintimehiscareer, thenCaptain Davis played football at OklahomaMilitary college the1966OklahomaState Class Davis was amemberof 2018,RhondaSchwerdel craftedapatriotic In June of Southeastern OklahomaIndianCreditAssociation For pleasecontact Susan moreinformation, expenses. sary adjustmentduetorisingproduction andmailing themonth. on thefirstof theeventthe event falls orthemonthpriortoevent if will bepublished. contact information. Only thewriter’sfullnameandcity for publication mustbeunder150words. We require full to publish alllettersourreaders send.Letterschosen mail,itisn’tHowever, possible thevolume of becauseof asspaceallows. submissionswillbeaccepted sports post wedding announcements. anniversary at 50years, or60+ anniversaries. We donot golden wedding marriage, anniversary at 25years of 13, 15,16,18,21,30,40,50,55,60,65,70,75,80andabove. If you are interested inapplying for aloanfrom the If SOICA ortheChoctaw Revolving LoanFund,there Biskinik AnnouncementPolicy Guardianship andmodifications Contracts andleases Family law (divorces, custody, child support) December Community will bearepresentative from theChoctaw Nation contact SamanthaGuinnat(580)380-8149. probate. Toor for makeanappointment, anyquestions, isnotproviding assistancewithwillsand department or assistincriminal matters. Atthistime thelegal The officedoesnot providerepresentation incourt We for any apologize inconvenience. isaneces- This All events themonthof senttotheBiskinikwillrun We welcome alllettersfrom Choctaw tribalmembers. highereducation only and News of from graduates theirsilver Couples may sendinannouncementsof We 1,5, milestonebirthday for ages accept greetings The ChoctawNationofOklahoma or emailto:[email protected] Center Schedule and ChoctawRevolving Loan Fund Antlers CommunityCenter Mail to:ChoctawNation Credit Department at the: Credit Department of theChoctaw Nation. of Legal Assistance Durant, OK74702 9 a.m.–11 a.m. (800) 522-6170. December 13 P.O. Box 1210 Attn: Biskinik 1-31 Idabel: 10-1&1:30-3 1-24 Wright City:10-1&1:30-3 1-10 Crowder: 10-1&1:30-3 10-1&1:30-3 1-3 Coalgate: January 2019Community Center Schedule - Email:[email protected] Fax: (580)326-0115 Phone: (580)326-8304 Saturday, Dec. 8,at 10a.m.inTvshka Homma. meetings-and-bills nation.com/government/tribal-council/council- resolutions andCouncilbills, gotowww.choctaw- • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • items: thefollowing approval of approved. Saturday, Oct.13,were sessionheldon regular were presented. sion committeereports at Tvshka Homma. Nov. 10,intheirchambers sessionSaturday,regular Councilmetin Tribal Council Atoka (Jan.25) Crowder (Jan.4) Antlers (Jan.8) Wright City(Jan.21) By Appointment Jan. 16-McAlester(10a.m.-2p.m.) Jan. 23-Poteau(11:30a.m.-1p.m.) Jan. 9-Talihina(10a.m.-2p.m.) Idabel andBrokenBowbyappointment Durant: Monday,WednesdayandFriday Holds Regular The next Tribal Councilmeetingwillbeheldon nextTribal The For detailedmeetinginformation onthese New business included the minutesThe of ses- During theregular ChoctawThe Nation January 2019Schedule Tribal nation of theChristianfaith. nation of Oklahoma andproclaim theChoctaw Nation a blessingsgreat over theChoctaw Nation of Resolution tohonorChihowa (God)for His Ordinance adoptedinCB-124-18. CouncilElection andTribal Amend theChief 2019. Choctaw Nation HealthServicesActof Rescind CB-83-84andCB-57-85approve the (Garvin Pecan Farm). Fee County, LandinMcCurtain Oklahoma Electric Cooperative Inc. onChoctaw Tribal ChoctawAn electriclineeasementinfavor of (Idabel Pecan Farm). Fee County, LandinMcCurtain Oklahoma Electric Cooperative Inc. onChoctaw Tribal ChoctawAn electriclineeasementinfavor of Nations inMcClainCounty, Oklahoma. forUSA intrust theChoctaw andChickasaw R.K. PinsonandAssociates onlandheldby the leaseNo.Oil andgas 42000106947infavor of sas Riverbed. theArkan- landinthearea of tractsof certain escrow by theUnitedStates Government for royalty incomefundsheldin releaseThe of –ChahtaVllaApela. program andEarlyInfant ChildhoodHomeVisiting Continuation for theProject Maternal, Tribal FiveFunds andbudget for theYear Oneof and Technical (NACTEP). Education Program Continuation for theNative AmericanCareer Three Funds andbudget for theYear Oneof Area No.Assistance Solicitations Purpose 4. Funds andbudget for theCoordinated Tribal Area No.Assistance Solicitations Purpose 3. Funds andbudget for theCoordinated Tribal Development grant. Strategies Continuation for theSocialandEconomic Three Funds andbudget for theYear Oneof Funds andbudget for Project Apelachi. lence Prevention Initiative –Project Strong. theDomesticandSexualVio- Continuation of Funds andbudget for theYear Five Four of Ribbon. lence Prevention Initiative –Project Homakbi theDomesticandSexualVio- Continuation of Funds andbudget for theYear Five Four of Chahta Inchukka. and Early ChildhoodHomeVisiting – Program Infant Maternal, theTribal Continuation of FiveFunds andbudget for theYear Three of tion Initiative. theBehavioral- HealthIntegra Continuation of Funds andbudget for theYear Three Two of Himmak PilaPehlichi. andDevelopmenterment (1-Lead)–Chahta Native Youth Initiative for Leadership, Empow- for theYwar the Atwood Five Continuation of Funds andbudget for thesupplementalaward FY 2018-2019. Family Violence Prevention budget program Funds andbudget for theChoctaw Nation Shop Onlinefor Handcrafted Choctaw &Branded Items Art Session ChoctawStore.com Shop nowat & Support Choctaw& Support Artists . Wilburton (Jan.30) Idabel (Jan.28) Broken Bow(Jan.14) Coalgate (Jan.25)

5 NOTES Charles McIntyre Shares Story of a Lifetime of Helping People 1952 that a poor Indian boy needed an education. So, I was the first male to at- tend OPC,” said McIntyre. “I didn’t readily agree, but she kept encourag- ing. At first, I took Bible classes there and took my regular classes at South- eastern and the next year other males attended at OPC.” Gwen, Charles; wife, said “He knew he had a scholarship to go to Mur- ray after high school. He came from a poor fam- ily who didn’t encourage him. He was still at home when it was time to be at school.” 6 Charles laughed, “We were taught to respect by JUDY ALLEN our teachers and elders. I was asked by one of Charles “Beaver” Mc- my high school teachers Intyre, 83, grew up around why wasn’t I at Murray, Hugo, Oklahoma. He came when the football players from a low-income family, are already working out? so he worked at a young I responded, ‘I am just age to help earn money. wanting to get some things Jobs he had as a youth done.’ You get up there! included working at the My teacher told me. I went Cotton Club west of Hugo that next day.” by Judy Allen as a dishwasher starting Charles and Gwen have Charles McIntyre shares a photo of himself in an old yearbook. He went to college at Murray State College, Oklahoma Presbyte- when he was in fourth been married 62 years. rian College and Southeastern Oklahoma State University. He has spent his lifetime teaching students. Part of his 50-year teaching grade. They met at OPC, and career was spent on the Hopi Reservation. He cleaned up at the end went to a softball game on of the night on weekends. a college education and McIntyre said, “Most students were native. A “A message I would their first date. He said he walked home football training through of the work was social mix of Zuni, Hopi, Apache like to leave for the next “I liked her smile,” said across the railroad tracks. the generosity and caring work. The schools taught and Navajo. generation is ‘Be true Charles. “There is an old If boxcars were there, he of others. the importance of being “Another 30 percent to yourself and family Perry Como song, once waited on the cook, Mel- He was determined to honest, listening to teach- were Hispanic. The rest and your country. Stay you have found her, never vin, who checked things help other youth, so he ers. It was a lot of public were a mix of Italian and hooked–don’t deviate from let her go.” out to make sure no one wanted to teach and coach. relations. Anglo.” what you strongly believe Charles has fond memo- was hiding in the cars. Charles said, “Part of “I finally came back to While on active duty in,’” said McIntyre. ries of his time at OPC and Charles also picked up my 50 years in an educa- Oklahoma at the request at Fort Leonard Wood, “One of our schools SOSU. aluminum, brass and cop- tion career was on the of Choctaw Chief Jimmy Missouri, every morning, in the BIA system had a “The main cook was per to sell. “I even picked Hopi reservation, although Belvin to run the Choctaw Charles enjoyed being on motto, ‘make our schools a Mrs. Trout. I was in foot- up bones and sold them. most of my time was on Nation Housing. Flag Duty. sacred place for children.’ ball at SOSU and needed “I worked at Johnny the Navajo reservation. “I ran Housing about “Four of us would “I always liked that and more to eat, so the cooks Steel’s Dairy and at the “I spent time teaching eight years. We built our march up to the Post it has stuck with me,” said were really good to me. My Bowling Pin downtown in public schools and also fair share of homes, all Headquarters and put the Charles. room at OPC was on the Hugo. We had to set up the reservation schools. over the 10½ counties. flag up the pole on a chain “Now I spend a lot of bottom floor next to the pins by hand back then. “One of the people I “And there was $3.2 and every afternoon we time picking up alumi- cooks.” “I harvested corn, taught while in Gallup million in a nest egg when would bring it down and num cans on behalf of Charles was drafted into picked and chopped cot- took a position with Thio- I left Housing. After Hollis fold it and put it to rest my grandson, who is an the U.S. Army and after ton, baled hay. I worked kol Chemical Company Roberts became Chief, I overnight at the MP Head- autistic 5-year-old. two years went back to for 75 cents a day. I got a and presented a vocational went back to New Mexico quarters. “I sell the cans at the OPC. job working at the Pepsi- training sponsored by to teach.” “One time, one of my of- recycling center and the He remained active in Cola Bottling Company the BIA and the chemical Charles continued, “In ficers said ‘McIntyre, you money goes to his educa- National Guard and Army for 25 cents an hour and company. the 50 years I was teach- are handling that flag as if tion fund. I enjoy making Reserves. thought I was doing great. “One of the career train- ing, most of the time I was it were a little baby.’” an effort for the young- “Bloomer Sullivan was “I always did a lot of ings was a Police Training, also coaching. Charles said the flag was ster,” McIntyre said. the Director of the Ath- reading. At the drugstore I and the Director of Pro- “The years I played took very important to him and When asked if there was letic Department at SOSU would get a Daily Okla- grams called and asked a toll on me–that may deserved to be handled as anything he would have while I was at college homan for a nickel and that I take the position of be why my knees have if it were as precious as a done differently in his there. Dave Stevens and read about sports and the Manager of the National been replaced and why baby. illustrious life, McIntyre Pudgy Bowers were also in war,”McIntyre said. Indian Police Academy. my shoulder gives me “I have always believed stated, “Maybe take more the Athletic Department,” After graduating high “Cadets traveled from trouble.” in community services. At advantage of opportuni- said Charles. school, Charles attended all across the United According to Charles, OPC during the holidays ties and I would have “I was fortunate to be Murray State College for States to attend. his favorite place to teach we would get together, col- worked harder.” co-captain of the football two years. “Each class averaged was Gallup High School. lect clothes and food and He went on to say, team with Bill McClain “Then someone put a about 34 students. We “It is a public school, deliver to needy families. “Everything has been very from Oklahoma City.” bug in Oklahoma Presby- learned plaster casting, but is close to the Navajo “Always being poor my- good. I love the United Charles realized that he terian College President fingerprinting, how to reservation,” said Charles. self, I was always for the States of America and the was very blessed to have Amy Robinson’s ear in make arrests, etc.” “About 60 percent of the little man,” said Charles. Choctaw Tribe.” received the benefits of

Has it been a while since you got your Biskinik? Do you need to change or update your address?

Please give the Direct Member Communications Department a call at (800) 522-6170, ext. 2116, or email [email protected].

We’ll make sure your contact information is correct.

COLLEGE CLOTHING ALLOWANCE NEED COLLEGE CLOTHING?

-The Choctaw Clothing grant is a one time only allowance.

-A grant of $300 is provided for a semester GPA of 3.00-4.00

-A grant of $250 is provided for a semester GPA of 2.00-2.99

Fall awarding is January 1 – April 1

For more information, please contact (800) 522-6170 ext. 2175 or ext. 2463

APPLY ONLINE ccaapplication.choctawnation.com Paper applications NO longer accepted Amos Taylor Jr. Mindi Brock Dr. Bruce Clifton

Amos Taylor Jr. passed away Mindi Louise Brock, 27, Nov. 8. Amos was born Jan. 11, passed away Oct. 29. Mindi 1945, in Durant to Amos and was born Oct. 21, 1991, in Sher- Agnes Tubbee Taylor Sr. man, Texas, to Mildred Taylor Amos was preceded in death of Calera and Harold Brock of by his parents; granddaughter Muscle Shoals, Alabama. Mindi Brock; and brothers Mindi was preceded in death Harold and Geno Taylor. by her grandfather Richard Amos is survived by his Brock; grandmother Dessie loving and devoted spouse, Hernandez; great-grandmoth- Edna Taylor; children Mildred Taylor, Billy Taylor er Lucille Gibson. Since Mindi’s passing her grandfa- and spouse Joanna and Monty Taylor and spouse ther, Amos Taylor Jr. passed away. Dr. Bruce Clifton Stan- Sara; grandchildren Penny Bechthold, Manda Es- Mindi is survived by her beautiful daughters ton, 71, passed away Oct. parza and spouse Noel, Brandon, Coby, Peyton and Madison and Rameigh Brock; mother Mildred Taylor; 20. Bruce was born June 28, Skylar Taylor, Avery Enoch and Taylor Bumgardner; father Harold Brock; sister Penny Bechthold; niece 1947 in McAlester, the first great-grandchildren Madison, Rameigh and Leilanie Leilani Brock; grandparents Edna Taylor, Donald child of Arthur, Jr. and Brock, Adriana and Amelia Esparza and Chase and Gibson and Barbara Brock; and numerous extended Loeva (London) Stanton. Beau Bumgardner; brothers Jerry, Johnny, Daryl and family and friends. Bruce was preceded in Randy Taylor; sisters Nancy Wallace and Barbara For the full obituary, please visit Brown’s Funeral death by his parents. Morgan. Service. He is survived by his For the full obituary, please visit Brown’s Funeral spouse David; his son Todd Service. and Natalie Kussart and daughters Harper, Amelia and Camella and his son Alyene Tomlinson Bryan and spouse Jeanette, and sons Jackson and Col- 7 Randall Jones Alyene (Johnston) Tomlin- lin; brother Bradley and son, 100, passed away Oct. 27. spouse Linda; sister Gayla Howard and spouse Gary; Randall Lynn “Randy” She was born Oct. 19, 1918, to and many nieces and nephews. Jones, 62, passed away Sept. Joseph Lee Johnston and Dona For the full obituary, please visit Fitzgerald Funeral 21. He was born May 12, 1956, “Doney” (Gore) Johnston in Service. to Clinton “Clint” and Patsy Lula. Lou Jones in Duncan. She was preceded in death He was preceded in death by by her spouse Ulyesess Tom- his mother; grandparents, Joe linson; her parents Joe and Jones, Dealie Jones Baugh; Hiram Impson Doney Johnston; granddaugh- step-grandfather Doris Baugh; ter Janet Mowdy Buchanan; son-in-law Glenn Mowdy; and Ernest and Lula Mae Rog- Hiram “Hi” William Impson, brothers Norris Johnston, Howard Johnston and Art ers. Jr., 83, passed away Oct. 4. He Johnston; and sister Jewel Roach. Randy is survived by his father and step-mother, was born March 11, 1935, to She is survived by sons Donald Tomlinson and Clint and Jeanne Jones; daughter Shelly Wingard and Hiram William Impson and spouse Nell, and Wayne Tomlinson and spouse Linda; spouse Chris; sisters Sharon Jones and Sheila Leuch Bess Hardaway Impson in daughters Ulene Mowdy, and Lawana Dansby and and spouse Jerry; grandchildren Max and Sophie; McAlester. spouse, Ronald; grandchildren Annette Hamm and half-brother, Beau Jones; step-sister Tracy Jones; and He was preceded in death by spouse Jerry, Tony Mowdy and spouse Buffy, Tammi many other family and friends. his parents, spouse and sister Stephens and spouse Harold, Michael Tomlinson and For the full obituary, please visit Wilson Funeral Irma Sue Allen. spouse Lynn, WaLinda Harbour and spouse Robbie, Home. Hiram is survived by his Joann Flowers, Daniel Tomlinson and spouse Aman- three children Kim Bourgeois and Melvin, Karen da, Darin Dansby, and Justin Dansby and spouse, Long and Rick, B-O-B Impson and girlfriend Becky Ashley; 28 great-grandchildren; and 18 great-great- Smedley; grandchildren Rachel Elwell and Ryan Gib- grandchildren with two more on the way; brother lin, Nathan Elwell and Taylor; great-grandchildren Oral Mae Keener Clement Johnston; and five nieces. For the full obitu- Braxton and Nolan Elwell, Connor Giblin; brother ary, please visit Brown’s Funeral Home. Bob Impson; and four nieces. Oral Mae “Tiny” Keener, 96, For the full obituary, please visit Bishop Funeral passed away Nov. 3, 2018. She Service. was born Nov. 1, 1922, to Ode Edge and Susie (Leflore) Edge Steven Dillishaw in Boswell. She was preceded in death Steven Duane Dillishaw, 46, Richard Ables by her parents; her spouse passed away Oct. 29, 2018. He Judge Keener; sisters Reba was born Nov. 6, 1971, in Ta- Richard Glen Ables, 72, Maxwell, Lora Ada (Bill) lihina, to Clarence Ivory and passed away Oct. 9. He was Bornnman and Lola (Sleepy) Betty Jean (Tupper) Dillishaw. born March 7, 1946, to James Crowder; brothers Stanley Edge, Frank Edge and Eli He was preceded in death by Raymond and Nedra Burney Curtis; nieces and nephews Sondra Townley, Billy Ray his parents; brothers Clarence (Keeton) Ables in Caney. Bornnman, Sterling Maxwell, Barney Maxwell, Doro- R. “Pete” Dillishaw, David He was preceded in death by thy Maxwell, Julius “Dude” Crowder, Mary Sue Dillishaw; and grandson Gage his parents and brother Enos Owens, Clark Crowder and Ila Jean Curtis. Knight. Ables. She is survived by nieces and nephews Mac Edge, He is survived by daughters Ashley Woods and He is survived by his Jan Edge, Joan Edge, Judy Hollcroft, Billie Smith, Viv- spouse Connor, and Heather Knight and spouse spouse, Mary Jane Ables; ian Ardis, Virginia Ary, Verlin Bornnman, Ramona Dakota; brothers Jackie Dillishaw, Ricky Dillishaw, sons Richard Glen Ables Jr. and spouse Maryava, Pugh, Betty Jo Robinson, Ueal Bornnman, Brenda Gary Dillishaw and Michael; sisters Phyllis Conley, Brent Alan Ables, Matthew Blake Ables and spouse Maxwell, Edward Crowder, Tommy Crowder, Gail Linda Conley and Janet Cole; grandchildren Leeon Rachel; daughter Melissa Jane Ables; grandchildren West and Armon Curtis. Tay “Peaches” Woods, Aryiana Woods, and Sabrina Gibson Hicks, Joshua Ables, Roslynn Norris, Mad- For the full obituary, please visit Miller and Miller Woods; along with many other relatives and a host of elynn Ables; brother James Ables; sister Viola Lang Funeral Home. friends. & spouse J.D.; Aunt Jimmie Culbreath; sister-in-laws For the full obituary, please visit Serenity Funeral Betty Ables, Ruth Keeler and Artie Powell. Service. For the full obituary, please visit Atoka Funeral Home. Doris Ann Pilgreen Obituary Policy Doris Ann (Anthony) Pil- Obituary submissions are for Choctaw Nation tribal members only Paul Brown green, 77, passed away Oct. 3. and are free of charge. The Biskinik will only accept obituary notices She was born May 11, 1941. from funeral homes. Family members/individuals may submit funeral Paul Stephen Brown, Sr., 86, She was preceded in death by notices as long as the notice is from the funeral home or printed in passed away Nov. 5. her father, Glenn Anthony. their local newspaper through a funeral home service. Full-length Paul was born Nov. 7, 1931, She is survived by her handwritten notices will not be accepted. The Biskinik strives to serve to Abel and Elizabeth (Cor- mother, Ethel Anthony; chil- all Choctaws, therefore, any handwritten notices received will be dray) Brown in Ringgold. Paul was preceded in death dren Christy and Chuck Green, searched online for official funeral home notices. If none are found, Debra and Rene Rodriguez, and by his parents; and 10 brothers efforts will be made to contact the family and make arrangements for Tammie and Pierre Rostant; and sisters. grandchildren Ryan and Amanda Mora, Ethan, Pax an official notice. Due to space limitations, there is a 150 word limit He is survived by his chil- and Emersyn, Daniel, Skyler and Hayden Rodriguez, for obituaries. The online issue of the Biskinik will contain links to the dren Steve Brown, Jr. and Sara, Lance and Hudson Hodges, Jarrett Green and full obituaries. spouse Nancy Becky Fields and spouse Wayne, Blane Audrie Rostant; brother Wayne and spouse Regina Send official obituary notices to: Brown and spouse Lucia and Robin Weaver and Anthony; niece Jennifer Carr; nephew Jeff Anthony Biskinik spouse Shane; 13 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchil- dren; brother Larry Brown; sister Wanda Brown; who knew her as “Aunt Doe.” She will be forever re- PO Box 1210 membered by her numerous cousins; extended family, and numerous nieces, nephews and other family and and dear friends. Durant OK 74702 friends. For the full obituary, please visit The Duncan Ban- For the full obituary, please visit Jones Harkins ner. or email: [email protected] Funeral Home.

WANT ALL THE LATEST IN ♦ CHOCTAW ♦ Chahta Anumpa Aiikhvna NEWS & EVENTS? uuu uuu Lesson of the Month Keep in touch with fellow Choctaws through the Biskinik and our social media sites. Choctaw Adverbs Stay up-to-date with: akinli – too, also, anyhow, as well beka – usually, sometimes Cultural events atuk o?- And so? bilia – to do an action, always; usually Education assistance Birth announcements Akinli follows the future tense ‘a-chi’ after a verb. Obituaries 1. Il ia chi akinli. We are going too. Tribal Council updates 2. Chi pisa la chi akinli. I will be seeing you also. Choctaw success stories 3. Ish vla chi akinli ho? Will you be coming as well? And more! 4. Holisso ma hochefo la chi akinli. I will read that letter too.

Subscriptions and submissions are free Atuk o? is expressed at the beginning of a sentence. services to members of the Choctaw Nation. 1. Atuk o, ish ia chi ho? And so, will you be going? Address Change or Sign Up: 2. Atuk o, katimma impvt ia chi bvnna? And so, where do you want to eat? (800) 522-6170 3. Atuk o, il ia chi ho? And so, will we be going? Ext. 2116 or 2310 or 4. Atuk o, katimma ish ia chi? And so, where will you go? [email protected] Beka will follow a verb and end with a past tense. To Submit Stories: 1. Tvmaha ia li beka tuk. I usually go to town. biskinik@choctawnati�n.com 2. Kanimikma okla talowa beka tuk. They sing sometimes. or 3. Chim vlla yvt chi hobachi beka tuk. Your child sometimes imitates you. Choctaw Nation 4. Kvta hosh i kafi ay pa talali beka tuk? Who usually sets their coffee here? Attn: Biskinik P.O. Box 1210 Dmant, OK 7 4702 Bilia will follow a verb. Visit the Choctaw Nation on: 1. A hattak vt owattvt nowa bilia. My spouse always goes hunting. 2. Ohoyo mvt shulush himona chompa bilia. That woman always buys new shoes. 3. Vllosi mvt na yukpa bilia. That baby is always happy. I] 4. Tvmaha ia li bilia. I am always going to town. www.facebook.com/choctawnationofoklahoma

@ChoctawNationOK www.choctawschool.com country for ice to float in the Nita Abi, Bear-Killer, which was located south from the streams. mouth of the Alabama River. Iti Fabussa The coldest part of the The most important resource that Choctaw people year is the time when fur- obtained from the bear was the fat. The fat was rendered Panther bearing animal pelts are at into bear oil for transportation and storage. their prime. Bear oil was used as a moisturizer for human skin, it Choctaw men and boys was used in the hair and as a binder for face and body used the softly tanned pelts paint. It was also used to fry foods. The hides from black Month of ferocious animals, like bear were tanned with the fur on for robes and blankets. panthers, for bedding. They In the early 1700s, bison were an important food This article is part of a believed that the prowess of these animals could be source for Choctaw people. In the southern part of series titled “A Year in the transferred to the sleeping person through the hides. Choctaw country, was a place called Bok Yvnnvsh Foni Life.” This is probably why the coldest part of the year in Ka, Bayou of the Buffalo Bones. Focusing on the time period the Choctaw calendar included Panther month. It was so named because the bones left from a bison of around 1700, the series fol- Canebrakes were the main winter hunting grounds. hunt were still visible in the water long after. Choctaw lows the traditional Choctaw They provided shelter for fur-bearing animals, were the hunters would have taken bison when the need and op- calendar through a year, highest-yielding source of winter forage for deer and portunity arose, but they may have favored the period with each article providing a bison and were where black bear hibernated. from roughly December 15, to January 15, when the glimpse of the activities that Not all of Choctaw country produced quality peltry. animals’ winter robes are at their prime. our ancestors were up to dur- The southern-most regions, such as the lower Tombig- Groups of Choctaw men are said to have hunted bison ing each month. bee River, were sufficiently warm enough that pelts from on foot. Deer continued to be hunted in the winter when The information in these the animals there were thin all year. they were available. articles is taken from a book Other regions of Choctaw country produced some- By January, the deer rutting season reaches even the 8 titled, “Choctaw Food: Re- what better quality peltry. Like the Owachito, or as an most southern bounds of Choctaw country. At this sea- membering the Land, Rekin- extension of it. son, the fawns are independent of mothers, so the does dling Ancient Knowledge,” Hunters would set up temporary base camps, some- could be hunted without jeopardizing the fawn popula- which will be published by times with their women and children, in places several tion. Choctaw Nation later this year. miles from their village where they could easily access While Choctaw hunting parties were out and about This edition of Iti Fabvssa presents Panther Month. the swamps and canebrakes where pelt-bearing animals during the winter, they took the opportunity to acquire Koi Chito Hvshi, Panther Month, roughly corre- could be found. additional resources that were rare or absent around sponds with December. Choctaw hunters were conspicuous for their skill in the villages. In late December, the sun reclines to its most southern hunting panther. In the mid-1800s, and possibly before, One of these was salt. They located good sources of position, bringing the winter solstice, followed by the beaver, fox and wolf were sometimes caught by trap- salt by the large numbers of deer and other animals that coldest days of the year. ping. Some of these species of animals were also prob- came to lick it up. These included salt springs, kvli hvpi In the early 1700s, the planet was experiencing the ably shot with arrows. oka, and natural salt licks, lukfapa. Little Ice Age, but on average, the coldest winter tem- After deer, black bear were the most important source Such localities included Blue Licks in present-day peratures in the Choctaw homeland may not have been of animal protein in the Choctaw diet. Many bears Noxubee County, Mississippi, and Hvpi Bokushi, Little much different from today. migrated into Choctaw country during late fall, to avoid Salt Creek, located in present-day southwestern Ala- One interesting Choctaw place name that does in- colder temperatures to the north. bama. dicate cold weather is a stream located in present-day By December, they were at their fattest and moved Water from the latter was so salty that three gallons, Green County in southern Mississippi, which was called slowly. Among all of the Southeastern tribes and Euro- when evaporated, would produce one gallon of salt. Okti Abeha, Blocks of Ice Therein. American communities, Choctaw men were said to be This name indicates that the weather did occasionally the best at the dangerous job of hunting the bear. Editor’s Note: For Iti Fabvssa stories you might have missed get cold enough even in the southern part of Choctaw Certain places were favored for bear hunts, such as please visit choctawnation.com and click on History & Culture. COMMUNITY MEETING UNITES CHOCTAWS ArdmoreArdmore

Lillian Vaughn visits with Chief Batton and Assistant Chief Jack Austin Jr. Dorislene Morgan and Chief Gary Batton visit before the Ardmore Community Meeting starts.

Drummer Mike Scott and chanter Wesley Scott wait for the Community Meeting to begin in Ard- more. Mike and Wesley begin the meeting by leading in Chief, Assistant Chief and social dancers.

Tribal members update information in the lobby of the Ardmore Convention Center after regis- tering at the Community Meeting.

Adelyn Smith of Ardmore gave Chief Batton and Assistant Chief Austin a high-five after meeting them at the Ardmore Community Meeting.

Photos by Stacy Hutto

Marie Arnold, 90, of Maysville was the eldest Chahta present at the Ardmore, Oklahoma Community Meeting. Chief Batton presents Chief Batton and Assistant Chief Jack Austin Jr. answered questions Marvin Wallace had about Marie with a medallion as her sister peaks different departments and who to contact. over her shoulder. PHS students attend AISES National Conference Four Choctaw Na- competing in hands-on tion members from the experiments in chemistry, Paris High School robot- manufacturing, aerospace ics program attended the and engineering. America Indian Science Students learned about and Engineering Society AISES Pre-College oppor- National Conference. tunities and gained skills The event took place on in resume building. Oct. 3, in Oklahoma City, They received college Oklahoma. application tips from both Daniel Bohanan, Asher the University of Okla- Andoe, Allyssa Standi- homa and Oklahoma State fer and Corbin Martin University. participated in the Boeing The event was funded, in STEM Day for Pre-College part, by a donation made students. by the Choctaw Nation of Students spent the day Oklahoma. (from left) Allyssa Standifer, Corbin Martin, Daniel Bohanan and Asher Andoe.

Native Authors Meet to Discuss Future of Children’s Literature by STACY WELLS author Tim Tingle’s short 9 story was included in the anthology, “Flying Les- In September of this sons & Other Stories”). year, a group of Native Turtle Mountain Ojibwe American Young Adult BIRTHDAY WISHES author Dawn Quigley stat- and children’s authors ed, “In schools and librar- converged in Minnesota’s ies our American Indian north woods. Robert Fleak, Littleton identities are still being Writers from the north Colorado, recently taken today, although per- slope of Alaska, Musk- celebrated his haps unwittingly, through ogee-Creek Nation, the 90th birthday. the use of biased and mis- Turtle Mountain Band of Robert is the represented Indigenous Chippewas, the Choctaw son of original characters portrayed in Nation of Oklahoma and enrollee, literature, thereby taking other Native nations were Ruth Sexton and away our right to a true eager participants. Ray Fleak. Happy and respectful representa- A group of Native American authors recently met in Minne- We shared a common birthday Robert! tion of Native American sota to discuss the future of Native American literature. Their purpose: to build a com- people.” munity passionate about goal was to create a community of author’s passionate about We Native authors, by changing the landscape of increasing Native American representation in literature. writing about the beauty, Native representation. humor, and depth of pen when Native people authentic Native voices Bailey Reid Thorne, Tuson, We were joined by Ar- our culture allow Native gather,” said retreat in children’s literature, Arizona, celebrates his thur Levine of Scholastic children a reflection of the founder and organizer Debbie Reese (Nambe 13th birthday on Nov. 29. Press, Cheryl Klein of Lee pride of our past, along Debby Dahl Edwardson. Pueblo) said, “We learned, He is the son of Mike & Low and Yolanda Scott with a hope of a bright That power was evident laughed and got to know and Krista Thorne, of Charlesbridge—influen- and promising future. with the eight writers’ each other. the grandson of tial representatives of the Tingle observed, “With who attended. “The coalitions we form, LaHoma (Murphy) industry. the rising number of We were intent on formally and informally, Crauthers and the Currently, Native writ- Native students, we must improving craft while have sustained indigenous great-grandson of the ten books are almost encourage them to share addressing issues specific people for hundreds of late Ella and William non-existent, especially in what they know: to write to Native writers—lack of years. Murphy. the young readers market their own stories, their representations, identity “It is why we are still (ages 0-18). tribal and family stories and the right to tell our here, fighting—with our Last year, the top five of tragedy and triumph, of own stories. words—for our Nations publishers in the U.S. pub- overcoming. Most importantly build- and our children.” lished over 215,000 books “We must share the ing a network of authors Together we are carving for young readers and truth of our country’s devoted to making Native a path for change, for our from that vast number, Jessie Michael history, which begins with voices more prominent tribes and our Nation’s only one book featured a Christopher Pace us,” Tingle said. was a priority. youth—one word, one Native author (Choctaw celebrated his “Powerful things hap- Leading advocate for story at a time. 21st birthday on Oct. 8. Happy birthday from your grandma Delphie, Tommy Whiteman Tammy Nunn! Recognize 40th Anniversary

Tommy and Delphie Whiteman celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary on Sept. 30. The couple has two children and four grandchildren. The Whitemans said, “We are blessed and thankful for each other and our family. Thank God.”

Free ACT Prep Workshop Enjoy stopping for red lights Thursday, Dec. 6 8:30 a.m. - noon

Presented by Educational Talent Search For grades 9-12 Idabel Kiamichi Tech Center 3205 Lincoln Rd NE Idabel, Oklahoma 74745

Must be a Choctaw Tribal member or a Talent Search student to attend. Pre-register at 1-800-522-6170 Ext. 2711.

R o b b e R s C av e s tat e P a R k , ok

C h o C taw C ou n t Ry.C om Thanksgiving

Kenneth Freeman Jr. poses Judd Elrod smiles for a photo during the Atoka dinner. District 1 Senior Miss Mandy Steel plays with 4-month-old Ileana Garcia at the Idabel dinner. for a photo at Hugo.

Chief Gary Batton and District 12 Councilperson James Fra- zier share a laugh at the Crowder Thanksgiving Dinner.

Toree Billy, 4, takes a piggy back ride during the Broken Bow Thanksgiving Dinner.

New faces full of smiles help make a full house at the Choctaw Community Center at Wright City.

Durant staff load plates during the Thanksgiving dinner.

Wesley Taylor, 18 months, and his father Quincey Taylor pose for a photo with Councilperson Jack Austin Sr. at the Antlers Thanksgiving Dinner.

Councilperson Tony Ward poses with Lucy White, Virginia Jef- Councilperson Anthony Dillard addresses the crowd at the ferson, Leona Rivers and Gayle Franklin at Bethel. Atoka Thanksgiving Dinner.

Councilperson Ronald Perry visits guests of the Coalgate Janell Ward, Kris Nelson, Brynson Ward, Britton Ward, Linsy Thanksgiving Dinner. Ward and Maleah Shomo prepare to feast at the Bethel dinner.

Assistant Chief Jack Austin Jr. and Councilperson James Dry Councilperson Perry Thompson prays with his granddaughter Chief Gary Batton serves guests of the Idabel dinner. serve guests at the Durant dinner. Mallory at the Hugo dinner.

Army veteran Minnie Wade quietly reflects on the story of Pvt. Ethel Jean Jones and Lois Geneva serve drinks at the Coalgate Councilperson Kenny Bryant poses with District 3 Junior Miss Charles Kaniatobe the night before his remains are returned Thanksgiving dinner. Aryanna Ludlow and Little Miss Soledad Garcia-Mejia. home. Councilperson Williston discussed Kaniatobe at length. Dinners

Chief Gary Batton spends a precious moment with 10-month- Councilperson Williston takes a moment to honor old Mackenzie Christenberry at the Poteau dinner. veterans during the Idabel dinner. Abree Anderson, 2, prepares to dig in at the Broken Bow Thanksgiving meal.

Spiro elders show off the desserts they are about to enjoy. John A. Hooser and Lucille Hooser pose for a photo at the Tvshka Homma dinner. They have been married 73 years.

Avery Cusher, with the Smithville eighth grade class, serves food at the Smithville Thanksgiving Dinner.

Sophia Shoemaker, 6, excitedly checks her raffle ticket during the Broken Bow Thanksgiving dinner. Kyle Burch serves dessert at the Spiro Thanksgiving dinner.

Councilperson Jennifer Woods visits with Clare Harvey, Gary Smith and Pete Swafford during Wilburton’s lunch.

Corbin Cook prepares to enjoy his pie at the Antlers dinner.

With a full tummy it was time to bundle up before heading outside and home for a nap after the Wright City dinner. Ariana Flanigan, 2, and Amelia Flanigan, 5, pose for a photo at the Broken Bow Thanksgiving dinner.

Chief Batton visits each table to converse with guests at the Choctaw veterans gather at the table reserved for them during Tvshka Homma Thanksgiving dinner. the Wilburton Thanksgiving Dinner.

Councilperson Delton Cox celebrates his birthday with Chief Gary Batton and wife Delores at the Poteau dinner.

Councilperson Ronald Perry chats with guests of the Stigler Thanksgiving Dinner.

Photos by Apryl Mock, Charlie Clark, Christian Toews, Dara McCoy, Deidre Elrod, Karen Jacob, Kendra Germany, Lisa Reed, Stacy Hutto and Vonna Loper. Councilperson Bob Pate prepares to enjoy some Choctaw Nation employees serve guests at the Coalgate dinner. pumpkin pie at the McAlester Thanksgiving dinner. Veterans Revered During Tvshka Homma Ceremony by APRYL MOCK Gibson Kaniatobe and ers Association. Those presented them with a who donate $100 or more The Choctaw Nation has Choctaw Nation fl ag and will receive a Choctaw a long tradition of honor- an American fl ag pre- Code Talker commemora- ing service members. served together in a glass tive coin. During the Veterans shadowbox. Guests could also ex- Day ceremony at Tvshka Kaniatobe had been plore historical fi ction by Homma, more than 1,400 missing in action since Sarah Elisabeth Sawyer, Chahta continued this the Korean War. His re- including her work, “An- tradition by gathering to mains were identifi ed and umpa Warrior: Choctaw pay their respects to those returned to his family on Code Talkers of World who have served and those Nov. 15, after 68 years of War I.” who continue to serve the his body being unidenti- “Anumpa Warrior” United States of America. fi ed. (Language Warrior) is the The Choctaw Nation He was laid to rest in fi rst novel on the Choctaw Color Guard, which is Idabel on Nov. 17, with full Code Talkers of World celebrating 20 years of military honors. War I and combines ex- service this year, posted Guest speaker re- tensive historical research the colors and performed tired Army 1st Sgt. Dale on the Code Talkers with a 21-gun salute in honor of Cantrell shared his life fi rst-hand insight into veterans. experiences, including his Choctaw culture, which Chief Gary Batton and time served in Iraq. are woven together into a Assistant Chief Jack Aus- President of the Code beautiful story of redemp- tin Jr. welcomed veterans Talkers Association Nuchi tion. and invited them to stand Nashoba discussed the To conclude the cer- so those in attendance importance of the Code emony, the District 7 choir The Choctaw Nation Color Guard prepares to perform a 21-gun salute in honor of Veterans Day. could thank them for their Talkers, who were the fi rst performed Hymn No. 48. service. to use their native tongue Afterward, veterans and Miss Choctaw Nation as a means to protect their families were pro- Loren Crosby, Junior Miss valuable intelligence from vided lunch in the Tvshka Kalin Beller and Little enemy forces. Homma cafeteria. Miss Mia Reich performed This year marked the If you would like to do- the Lord’s Prayer in sign 100-year anniversary of nate to or join the Choctaw language, accompanied by the Code Talkers who Code Talkers Association, Chantelle Standefer. served in World War I. contact Carole Ayers at Standefer is the great- A booth tended by (405) 990-0030. granddaughter of Code Carole Ayers and her Sawyers’ book, “Anum- Talker Tobias Frazier. husband, Don, allowed pa Warrior,” is available Chief Batton introduced veterans and guests to in the Choctaw Store and the family of Pvt. Charles sign up for the Code Talk- Amazon. Photos by Deidre Elrod

Author Sarah Elisabeth Sawyer presents her new Guest speaker retired Army 1st Sgt. Dale work of historical fi ction, “Anumpa Warrior.” Cantrell addresses the crowd Nov. 10.

Members of the Choctaw Code Talkers Association pose for a photo at the Veterans Day ceremony. Choctaw Code Talker Association President Nuchi Nashoba addresses a crowd of more than 1,400. Pastor Olin Williams What is Love? One of the principles of love is to lose indepen- dence to gain intimacy. To attain the fulfi llment, security and sense of worth of love, one must lim- it his or her freedom. The loss of some personal autonomy ignites the joy and freedom of love. A deep relationship is not a unilateral decision. A healthy love relationship involves mutual loss of independence, unselfi sh service and limited personal options. Human beings are most alive and free in rela- tionships of love. Freedom is not the absence of limitations and constraints, but it is fi nding the right ones that fi t our nature and liberate us to become ourselves. Both sides adjust to the other and a relationship develops. The love of God is much the same way. God ad- Community Center Christmas Parties justed himself to us. God, the Father, gave up His Pastor Olin Williams only begotten Son, to become a limited human Employee Chaplain being, vulnerable to su ering and death. On the cross, He submitted to our condition as Children’s Parties sinners and died in our place to forgive us. John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world, that He gave his only begotten Son that who- Tushkahoma Dec. 2, 2 p.m. Wilburton Dec. 8, 2 p.m. ever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” Idabel Dec. 4, 6 p.m. Spiro Dec. 8, 6 p.m. At fi rst thought, one thinks about his loss of freedom in loving God. He thinks about Bu alo Valley Dec. 4, 6 p.m. Antlers Dec. 9, 2 p.m. all the constraints the love of God requires. Smithville Dec. 4, 6 p.m. Broken Bow Dec. 13, 6 p.m. But, when he accepts God’s love and realizes that God sacrifi ced himself to man- Quinton Dec. 6, 6 p.m. Stigler Dec. 13, 5 p.m. kind fi rst, then he does not see the constraints as oppressive anymore. He desires to Talihina Dec. 6, 6 p.m. Durant Dec. 13, 6 p.m. mutually give, adjust and change and begins to discern the full meaning of 2 Corinthi- Atoka Dec. 6, 4:30 p.m. Hugo Dec. 14, 6 p.m. ans 5:14, “For the love of Christ constrains us.” Coalgate Dec. 7, 6 p.m. Poteau Dec. 15, 6 p.m. For the Christian, the love of Christ gives freedom in the constraint. Freedom cannot be defi ned as choosing our own beliefs and practices. There is an Crowder Dec. 8, 1 p.m. Wright City Dec. 16, 2 p.m. authority in place that defi nes that true freedom evolves from the constraints and McAlester Dec. 8, 1 p.m. Bethel Dec. 17, 6 p.m. restrictions. When you fall deeply in love, you want to please the beloved. You don’t wait to be asked to do something. Love has liberated you to deny yourself to please the one you Community Parties love. Inconvenience and money does not limit you. You eagerly research how you can Coalgate Dec. 5, 12 p.m. Hugo Dec. 12, 11:30 a.m. do something to please the beloved. However, the spirit of fear of not having mutual Bethel Dec. 5, 12 p.m. Spiro Dec. 12, 12 p.m. involvement keeps a lot of people from loving God or others. But we must remember Atoka Dec. 5, 11:30 a.m. Durant Dec. 12, 11:30 a.m. 2 Timothy 1:7 which says, “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, Crowder Dec. 12, 11:30 a.m. Antlers Dec. 13, 12 p.m. and of love and of a sound mind.” Wright City Dec. 12, 12 p.m. Talihina Dec. 18, 11:30 p.m. McAlester Dec. 12, 11:15 a.m. Poteau Dec. 19, 12 p.m. Broken Bow Dec. 12, 12 p.m. Stigler Dec. 19, 11:30 a.m. Wilburton Dec. 12, 12 p.m. Smithville Dec. 19, 12 p.m.