Trail of Tears Walk the Way at the An- Nual Commemorative Trail of Tears Walk on May 21

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Continuing publication Okla Chahta Senior of recorded interviews of Gathering in Citizens Choctaw elders from 2007 Bakersfield Day This month – Juanita West Noah Page 5 Page 14 and Ola Maye Billy Draper Page 15

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BISKINIKThe Official Publication of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

June 2011 Issue Serving 206,710 Choctaws Worldwide Choctaws ... growing with pride, hope and success

Choctaw Nation Color Guard leads Trail of Tears Walk the way at the annual commemorative Trail of Tears Walk on May 21. Hundreds of walkers of all ages gathered to pay tribute to the long, historic walk made by Choctaw Nation: LISA REED our ancestors more Chief Pyle than 180 years ago. This year’s walk be- unopposed three gan in Millerton and terms in a row ended at the historic Chief Gregory E. Pyle is un- Wheelock Academy. opposed in this year’s election, according to Choctaw Nation zx More Walk photos Election Board officials. This is on Page 12 the third term in a row that Chief Pyle has been the only one to file, Choctaw Nation: LISA REED something that has never happened in the history of the Choc- taw Nation of Oklahoma. Also, unopposed in the 2011 Choctaw Defense awarded major U.S. Army contract election are Councilman Kenny Bryant, District 3; Councilman Tribe’s military manufacturer to design, build the Camel II water trailer in multi-year, multi-million dollar deal Perry Thompson, District 8; and By BRET MOSS are much more advanced to Benefield. Councilman Thomas Williston, Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma than one would find in a Reasons for Amos holding Choc- District 1. local machine shop, and taw Defense in such regards might Several candidates have filed in The Choctaw Nation of Okla- the meticulous attention to include the remodeling of the trailer District 5, the seat to be filled after homa (CNO) excels in many facets detail that must be demon- for the Medium Tactical Vehicle Re- the death of Councilperson Char- of the business world. From gam- strated is of utmost prior- placement (MTVR). The MTVR, lotte Jackson in January. They ing and agriculture, to convenience ity in all facilities. which is manufactured by Oshkosh are Michael B. Jordan, Leland L. stations and medical facilities, CNO The employees and Defense, will go at impressive speeds Sockey, Carolyn Thompson Har- has made great strides becoming a equipment of such an op- over the roughest of terrain. ris, Ronald Perry, Norma Nunn major name in many areas. eration must produce such Some time ago, Choctaw Defense Anderson and Louisa Terrell Gon- Over the past decade, the Choc- products that are of much was asked to create a trailer that zalez. taw Nation has become a well- higher standards and strict would be able to keep up with such a Five have filed in District 2: known name in the field of military specification than com- vehicle. Once the trailer was designed Incumbent Mike Amos, Ivan Bat- manufacturing. Choctaw Defense, Image provided mercial grade manufac- and several were produced, a decision tiest, Jeffery Jefferson, Tony Mes- with locations in McAlester, Hugo turing. Every single detail was made that required the trailer to Computer generated concept image of the senger and Austin Battiest. and Antlers, constantly churns out must be given close atten- meet new, even more impressive mobile Camel II potable water trailer sys- Incumbent Bob Pate and Daniel necessary military equipment for the tion and documented. Not specifications. tem. E. McFarland have filed for the support of America’s armed forces. one aspect, even the de- The team at Choctaw Defense has District 11 seat. The name of Choctaw Defense not only be charged with making the sign of the seemingly random cam- reworked the design to create a new Election day is July 9. Polls will is well respected and trusted in the parts and assembling them, they will ouflage paint, escapes the inspection trailer, one that is 20 percent lighter be open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. business of military manufacturing, also produce the design from the of the facility. with increased capabilities. The al- District 2 voting precincts are with a newly acquired three-year, ground up. In a walk-through of the McAles- ready produced units will be retrofit- the Choctaw Community Center, $20 million contract proving the In a performance standard con- ter facility one would find a clean, ted with the new materials to meet Broken Bow, and the Choctaw point. tract, the military provides a set list efficient operation with employees the upgraded specification and Choc- Community Center, Bethel. The U.S. Army has just recently of capabilities the finished product diligently completing their assigned taw Defense will deliver the finished District 5 voting precincts are awarded Choctaw Defense the per- must have, and the designers and en- tasks. “It is one big orchestra,” men- product seamlessly. the Choctaw Community Center, formance standard contract to design gineers must create a working prod- tions CEO Steve Benefield. It was a game-changing decision Stigler; the Kinta Community and manufacture the Camel II po- uct to those specifications. Choctaw The product of such an orchestra that posed a problem, but the person- Center, Kinta; the County Barn, table water trailer system. This will Defense has a team of about a dozen is a considerable amount of new nel at Choctaw Defense were capable Keota, and the Choctaw Commu- be a highly mobile water trailer that designers, mechanical engineers and business and recognition from high of providing a solution for such a nity Center, Spiro. will provide troops, no matter the lo- computer design engineers to com- places in the military. The current problem, and these kinds of capabili- District 11 voting precincts in- cation and atmosphere in which they plete such a task. commandant of the U.S. Marine ties are the reasons they earn awards clude the Choctaw Nation Health are located, clean and temperature With about 230 employees in Corps., Gen. James Amos, recent- and commendations. “This is the most Center, McAlester; City Hall, controlled drinking water within 10 all three manufacturing locations, ly commended Choctaw Defense capable trailer across all the military,” Hartshorne, and Kiowa High degrees of a set standard. Choctaw Defense also has enough publicly by stating how Choctaw stated Benefield as he reflected on the School, Kiowa. The fact that this contract is a manpower to turn the design to a Defense partners with the Marines product of the company. Runoff elections, if needed, will “performance standard” contract real working product. The capabili- in meeting it’s changing goals are, Currently, Choctaw Defense can be July 30. means that Choctaw Defense will ties and equipment of the facilities “how it should be done,” according See DEFENSE Page 10 u What’s inside

Notes to the Nation...... 2 Columns...... 3 Tribal Council Nursery News...... 4 Food Distribution...... 4 meets in regular People You Know...... 6 Education...... 8-9 May session Obituaries...... 16-17 The Choctaw Nation Trib- Iti Fabvssa...... 18 al Council met in regular session on May 14 at Tushka The Mission Homma. Councilmembers addressed several items of of the Choctaw new business, approving Nation of Oklahoma Council Bills: • to dispose of surplus To enhance the lives of Choctaw Nation: LARISSA COPELAND equipment; all members through oppor- • to donate a 1986 Ford tunities designed to develop Econoline ambulance to the healthy, successful and pro- Recycle Center holds official ribbon-cutting City of Hartshorne; The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma held a formal ribbon-cutting ceremony on May 17 for its recently opened Recycling ductive lifestyles. • to apply for grant con- Center in Durant. The 30,350-sq.-ft. facility on 3108 Enterprise Dr. is another example of partnering with city, county, tinuation for Tribal Victim state and federal officials. The recycling center has collected more than 100 tons of recyclable material since opening in December, including more than 14 tons in last month alone. The BISKINIK Assisance, and • to modify the 20-year, The facility receives newspaper, office paper, shredded paper, magazines, catalogs, plastics #1, 2 and 5, aluminum cans, is printed on long-range transportation steel cans, cell phones, printer cartridges, batteries, e-waste, and cardboard for recycling. recycled paper. plan. The center is open to the public for dropping off items from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. June 2011, BISKINIK, Page 2

Events NOTES TO THE NATION Rosenthal reunion A Rosenthal family reunion will be held at Hugo Lake on Thank you June 18. A potluck luncheon is being planned for that day at I would like to express my thanks and gratitude for the as- 12:30 p.m. for a reunion of the Rosenthal and related fami- sistance that I was provided by the Choctaw Nation during lies as well as to honor the recent passing of Mary Rosenthal my learning process at Tulsa Welding School. I attended this Durham on April 18 in Mt. Juliet, Tenn. A separate memorial school for eight months, and during that time I learned various service for our mother will be held the same day as the re- welding skills. If it weren’t for Choctaw Nation, I would not union at 10 a.m. at the Rattan Cemetery and all are welcome have been able to have that opportunity. to attend. Following the memorial service the Durham, New- I graduated April 5, 2011, and I’m currently looking for a land and Perry families would like to welcome all Rosenthal full-time welding job. I am very excited to be seeking employ- and other related family members to join them at the Hospi- ment within my field of study; this will enable me to seek nu- tality House at Hugo Lake for the luncheon and potentially merous types of opportunities for employment and in the near other reunion events. Meat and drinks for the party will be provided and it’s requested that anyone attending bring a future, become an excellent provider. Once again, I can find no Graduate thankful for donations food dish or dessert. For directions to the Hospitality House other way to express my gratitude other than to say thank you. I would like to say thank you for supporting me with my or more information about the reunion, please contact Diane Zachary Collier show projects the past 10 years. I’ve had the honor of winning Newland at 435-640-8224. Bryan County Grand Champion four times with my swine projects, three of them back to back, and Grand Champion Steer Father’s Day singing To the Youth Advisory Hugo Chapter three times. I have also been very successful at the Oklahoma The 13th annual Father’s Day singing will be held June 19 Youth Expo. None of this would have been possible without The article published entitled “Fear of Death” in March at Black Jack Church, 11 miles east of Rattan. Supper will be generous donors like the Choctaw Nation. meant a lot to me. I will be 71 this December and when I was served at 5:30 p.m. and singing will start at 7 p.m. Conces- It is hard to believe my high school show days are over. I 12 or 13, my father said the phrase mentioned in the article, sions will also be provided. All singers are welcome. Truman people cry when a baby is born and laugh when someone dies. have made many lifelong friends and great memories on my Jefferson will serve as emcee. He never explained the phrase to me, so I was always confused journey and learned many life lessons. Being a member of the by it, but I had my three sons later in life and I love them very great programs FFA and 4H has truly been a blessing in my Meely reunion much. Thank you so much for publishing that letter in the Bis- life. I have a great passion for showing livestock, and being a kinik. part of these great organizations has allowed me to do so. The Meely family reunion will be held June 25 starting Again, I would like to say thank you from the bottom of at 10 a.m. at the Chickasaw Community Center located at Nettie F. Taylor my heart. Your support and generosity will never be forgotten. 401 East Oklahoma Ave. in Sulphur. Each family is asked to May God bless the Choctaw Nation always! bring a cake, pie or cookies to be used as prizes. They also Ashton Thompson are asked to bring chicken or a side dish to share. An auction Assistance in Tushka will be held to raise funds, so bring an item to be auctioned. In the wake of the Tushka/Ato- There will also be family trees from each family that will be ka County tornado, we couldn’t Thank you from Edith auctioned. Activities such as Bingo, a cakewalk, storytelling be more proud to call the Choc- I would like to take the opportunity to express my deepest and music/TV trivia will take place. For more information contact Rosemary Wadlow at 580-247-0336, Donna Smith at taw Nation our home. The re- appreciation for your support over the years. At the age of 94, I 580-993-0085, Lovella Allison at 405-485-3654 or George sponse of the nation with disaster can say that I have never seen such a consistently caring tribe/ Mouse at 405-694-8833 or [email protected]. relief was immediate and well organization as the Choctaw Nation. Over the years, the tribe has provided support to me and my executed. Councilman Anthony Battiest reunion Dillard was at ground zero for family, giving me an opportunity as a widow to work diligently days and hours on-end making sure needs were being met. The to purchase a home through financing assistance, supporting The second annual family reunion for the descendents of volunteers who prepared meals for victims and relief workers my children as they pursued their educations and had fami- Colbert and Ennette Battiest will be held June 25 at the Na- and the medical bus were a God-send. Your construction crews lies of their own and now supporting my great-grandchildren tive American Bible Camp in Ringold. Accommodations are cleared debris and tarped what little belongings people had left. through terrific scholarships. available for those who wish to come early or stay late. Those Olin Williams, Skyler Robinson and Dr. Ian Thompson from It is obvious to me that the Choctaw Nation cares for its attending are asked to bring a covered dish for lunch and pho- the historical cemetery program cleaned up the Tushka cem- members, tribe and loved ones. No words can express how tos. Come join us in reconnecting our family ties. Registra- etery giving peace of mind to those with family buried there. grateful and lucky I am to be a part of this wonderful tribe. tion for door prizes starts at 10 a.m. Lunch will be served at Thank you for your long-standing record of being community Thanks again for all the support throughout the years. 12 p.m. For more information, contact Ivan Battiest at 580- minded and generous. Edith Carney 236-1524, Shelly Marlow at 580-306-7788, Austin Battiest at 580-306-2386 or Nettie Battiest Caldwell at 580-212-1787. Lynn and Cindy Wallis Thankful for emergency services Gospel singing I just want to let Chief Pyle know how thankful I am to The 41st annual gos- have the help from the Choctaw Nation. I will never forget it. Thankful for tornado relief pel singing will be held at The ladies in Emergency Services are angels, and I feel you On behalf of all of us at Voca Baptist Church, I would like Bethel Hill Indian Meth- to express my utmost appreciation for your loving donations should know they give 100 percent. Heather Linson, Kenni odist Church near Battiest, and sacrificial service to the victims of the recent tornados in Elrod and their boss as well as the entire department treated where Rev. Edgel Samuel Tushka. Our community must unite to serve those who have me really well. They went above and beyond and have profes- serves as pastor. This sing- been affected. I am grateful to say that Choctaw Nation has sional attitudes with heartstrings attached. They really listened ing-filled evening is a com- demonstrated the highest level of support during this time. and cared. These ladies’ enthusiasm and helpfulness made me munity service sponsored by Bethel Hill Church held on the Through the food, beverages and packaging supplies donat- proud to be Choctaw, and I was in great hand. I left with tears fourth Saturday night of June each year. This year the sing- ed by CN, the numbers of Voca Baptist Church and the Caney in my eyes and a million pounds of pressure off my shoulders. ing will be held on June 25. It begins at 7:30 p.m. and is free community have been able to prepare between 500 to 1,000 I thank them from the bottom of my heart. May the Lord bless to the public. In addition to the featured group, the Forgiven sack lunches every day for the victims and relief crews in the all of you at the Choctaw Nation. Quartet of Bartlesville, several groups will perform as well Tushka area. We have met critical needs without which fami- Pam Byers as others who are attending and would like to perform. Be- lies and workers would go without. cause the Forgiven Quartet has a southern-style sound, much CN has been instrumental in supplying the victims with Thank you for assistance like the nationally-known former Cathedral Quartet, it is a clothing, hygiene items and children’s toys through donations treat to hear the group sing cathedral songs as tribute. I would like to thank the Choctaw Nation, Chief Pyle and made to the clothing and supplies ministries of Voca Baptist. Councilman Pate for their assistance and encouragement on Our church and community is blessing those who have experi- my being accepted to attend the National Youth Leadership enced great loss during this time. Choctaw Traditional Pottery Class Forum on Law and Crime Scene Investigation in Washington, More could be said about the proactive involvement, the D.C. this summer. This is a wonderful opportunity for me, as I Durant: countless cooperation and the thoughtful provisions of the CN. am interested in pursuing a career in law enforcement. Again, · Date: June 20th, July 11th, We look forward to working with you through the days ahead thank you for all your assistance. · Time: 5-9 p.m. to provide the highest level of support and love to those who · Location: Pottery Studio John Troussel have experienced loss during this time. behind the Cultural Events Danny Kirkpatrick, Pastor Building, 4451 Choctaw Rd. Very thankful Antlers: To the Choctaw Nation, you have honored me as a tribal · Date: June 23rd, July 7th · Time: 6-9:30 Pp.m. Gregory E. Pyle Gary Batton member. I truly have a Choctaw heart. Without my Lord Jesus, I would not be receiving my degree, · Location: Antlers Library and Chief Assistant Chief my ministerial license and my ordination papers. God has done Community Building, 104 S.E. 2nd Street The Official great things for me. Monthly Publication Blessed be the tie that binds our hearts in Christian love. of the Thank you. ATTENTION Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Sanine Holt Judy Allen, Executive Director CHOCTAW ARTISTS Lisa Reed, Director/Editor Seeking information If you are interested in participating Melissa Stevens, Circulation Director I am seeking information on any living family of Willis E. Larissa Copeland, Assistant Editor in a Juried and Judged Choctaw Indian Art Show, Armstrong, born in Atoka. I am his daughter, Cynthia L. Arm- let us hear from you! Karen Jacob, Purchasing Coordinator strong Jones. Please send any information to P.O. Box 7424 Brenda Wilson, Administrative Assistant The annual Choctaw Indian Art Show will be at Tushka Texarkana, TX 75505 or call 903-306-8743. Thank you. Bret Moss, Copy/Production Assistant Homma during the Annual Choctaw Labor Day Festival. Chrissy Dill, Journalism Intern Included will be following categories: Painting, Graphics, P.O. Box 1210 Requesting prayers Cultural, Sculpture, Jewelry, Pottery and Basketry. Durant, OK 74702 Mario Morales is a sergeant in the U.S. Army and was de- For more information, call Valerie at 1-800-522-6170, ext. 2377. (580) 924-8280 • (800) 522-6170 Fax (580) 924-4148 ployed to Afghanistan on May 6. The family would like to re- www.choctawnation.com quest prayers for his safe return. Choctaw Nation e-mail: [email protected] Distance Learning Technology The BISKINIK is printed each month as a service to Tribal Members. The BISKINIK reserves the right to edit submitted Seeking family members material which it finds inaccurate, profane, offensive or mor- Orrin Hartt is seeking information about his family mem- GED Classes ally unacceptable. Copy may be edited for proper grammar and Beginning bers. He is searching for relatives of Sally Impson and the August 8, 2011 punctuation. Copy will be accepted in any readable form, but Hines family. His grandfather was Charles Cleveland Hines, where possible, it is requested that material be typewritten and double spaced. You must include an address or phone number who passed away three years ago, and was three-fourths Choc- Mondays, Tuesdays Mondays, Tuesdays where you may be reached. Due to space limitations and the taw. Orrin is the son of the late Sonja Hines. If you have any and Thursdays and Thursdays quantity of article submissions, we are unable to include every- information regarding these family members of Orrin, please 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. thing we receive. contact him at 707-774-2224. If you are receiving more than one BISKINIK at your home at the at the or if your address needs changed, we would appreciate hearing Choctaw Nation Choctaw Nation from you. Seeking siblings Community Centers Community Centers The BISKINIK is a nonprofit publication of the Choctaw Na- in Bethel, Smithville in Atoka, Coalgate tion. I am seeking my half-brother and half-sister. Their names Circulation is monthly. Article deadline is the 10th of the are Kenneth and Nioka, and their mother is Gladys Helen Ive- and Wright City and Talihina month for the following month’s edition. Prado, whose last known residence is Las Vegas. Their grand- Distance Learning GED classes are now available at the above parents are Ben Ive and Delilah Lucinda Bell; aunts are Eva locations to students in the Choctaw Nation. An experienced GED The Biskinik E-News is a digital version of your monthly Perkins, whose last known residence is Bakersfield, Calif., teacher will instruct you, using the One-Net Distance Learning Biskinik. It is delivered to your e-mail inbox twice monthly and and Ruth Thrill Kill, last known residence in Arizona; uncle Technology. Distance Learning allows students and teacher to see contains articles from the most recent BISKINIK newspaper and hear each other on large monitors. You will be able to interact as well as links to the current BISKINIK and archives. Sign up is Doyle Ive. Kenneth and Nioka were born in the early 1950s in either with the teacher as she helps you prepare to take the GED test. today on choctawnation.com. Books, supplies and testing fees are provided. The class will meet 3 Texas or Oklahoma and are approximately 55-61 years old to- days each week for approximately 9 weeks. A CDIB (Certificate of PRESS AS A SO M C day. If anyone has any knowledge of my described siblings, O I H A 2010 T Degree of Indian Blood) is required. For more information please A I L O

AWARD N O WINNING please contact me at 505-258-4147 or by email at layingit- contact Neal Hawkins or Kathy Springfield, Choctaw Nation Adult NEWSPAPER ® 2011 BISKINIK [email protected]. Thank you. Education, 800-522-6170 or 580-924-8280, ext. 2319 or 2122. BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST

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BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST June 2011, BISKINIK, Page 3 Walking the trail is awesome experience From the Desk so terrible on the men, women and of Chief Gregory E. Pyle children who were making the over 500-mile trip. Walking the Commemorative Trail Fortunately, our ancestors did not of Tears at Wheelock with hundreds of dwell on the negative, but entered tribal members from across the nation into the new lands with hope for the was one of the most awesome experi- future. Accompanied by missionaries, ences of this year! The road was wet churches and schools were soon estab- and muddy, and mosquitoes buzzed lished (Wheelock being the site of the us occasionally, but those slight dis- first ones) and our tribe began to grow comforts only served as tiny hints of in population. Hard work, persever- what our ancestors dealt with on the ance and education helped individuals long, sad march from Mississippi in succeed across the districts, and now the early 1830s. Many people are sur- Choctaw members live all across the prised to learn that the Choctaw tribe world – more than 200,000 of us! I am was the first to be forcibly removed so thankful for my ancestors who sur- from the homeland to Indian Territory. vived that long road – and although it The term “trail of tears” was a phrase is sobering to think of the misery with that was attached to that first removal which they traveled and lived, it is of Choctaw Indians in 1831 by an Ar- their strength that has been passed on kansas newspaper because it was such to all of us which has made it possible a harsh winter and the conditions were to be the tribe we are today! Yakoke! Choctaw Nation: JUDY ALLEN Stickball is great fun to watch Chaplain’s Corner From the Desk of Assistant Chief Gary Batton

I enjoyed watching the stickball game in front of The struggle to do right Pushmataha Hall at the Trail of Tears Walk. Sometimes May you have a happy and safe sum- called “Little Brother of War,” because the game used mer. We pray for the activities the Choctaw to settle disputes instead of going to war, these guys Nation has scheduled. Pray for the Lord’s can get pretty rough! It looked a little like “war” out guidance in the election of the leadership there on the field at times! They all seemed to be having of our Choctaw Nation. fun and the crowd watching the game were all cheer- As a Christian, you have struggles in ing them on. Playing on the lawn of such an historic your life. There will be victories and there site as the old academy boarding school was especially will be defeats in your life. As long as we touching and I appreciate all the people who stayed the are still in the flesh this struggle will con- afternoon to participate. tinue in our lives. This struggle to do right, These same players put on an exhibition game dur- to obey God, and to do wrong, to disobey ing the Red Earth Festival at Oklahoma City the first God. Saturday in June prior to the Grand Entry of the Pow This struggle between the flesh and the Wow, and they are also set to compete in the World Spirit will end only when Jesus Christ re- Series in Mississippi in July! There has been a recent turns and takes us up to be with Himself. (I revival in the interest of stickball as a sport for men Thessalonians 4:13-18). and women! the games at the 2010 Labor Day Festival. If you get a I want to encourage you though. You There will be a short film at the Smithsonian Nation- chance, I encourage you to either watch a live game, or don’t have to live a defeated life. Satan can al Museum of the American Indian on stickball during at least see the film to become familiar with this excit- hold out against every power known, ex- Choctaw Days June 22-25 that shows highlights from ing activity. cept one, the power of the finished work of Rev. Bertram Bobb Jesus Christ on the cross. Tribal Chaplain Jesus Christ has delivered us from the penalty of sin, which is death, at the cross. And as we study His Word, letting Him control our lives we can have power over sin now. Then when He comes back for His own in the clouds we shall be delivered from even the presence of sin. We thank God and praise Him for His only begotten Son who has conquered Satan. You will notice some particular sin will be kind of a fascination upon the people. As soon as they begin thinking about it, the power of that sin will spread through their personalities; the more they try to muster up the will to fight it, the stronger this evil influence becomes. Repeated failures fill the sinner with the conviction that it is useless to struggle. Since the struggle is torment to him, he yields to his sin to escape it only to invite a worse torment. Many of us want the power to win victory over sin, but we are not prepared to pay the price. “What’s the price for getting prepared?”, you might ask. First, it is wholehearted repentance, a complete turnaround, turning away from sin. There is no use seeking the joys of spiritual life and at the same time holding in our minds thoughts of the pleasures of sin. Choctaw Nation: GARY BLACKERBY The sinful imagination will always beat us, the imagination being much stronger than the will. If we are wholehearted in wanting God to remove Assistant Chief Gary Batton, Susie McEntire Luchsinger, Alice McEntire Foran, Tushka Mayor Brickie from us the domination of our old evil nature, He can do it, but it requires Griffin, Councilman Anthony Dillard, Blake Shelton and Reba McEntire. first the act of the will of repentance on our part. There are many people who say, “I am going to get rid of my bad habits first. They don’t seem to realize that if they could get rid of the problems Neighbors rally to help tornado victims themselves they would not need to come to God for power. The New Testament makes it plain that Jesus Christ does not expect us Word spread fast about the tor- to come to Him because we are worthy, rather He calls us to come to Him, nado in Atoka County on April 14. “just as we are.” And He has promised, “Him that cometh to me I will in The damage to the small town of no wise cast out.” Tushka was heartbreaking but the Jesus Christ insists that we turn our backs on the evil past and follow response was wholehearted. The Him. None of us can compromise with evil and get away with it. news of the devastation spread Look at what happened to Samson in the Book of Judges. Samson tried quickly but what people are still to compromise with evil and get away with it. From the time Samson was a talking about is the outpouring of baby, the strong young man had been dedicated by his parents to a holy life. love and assistance from everyone. You would think Samson would at least have married a girl of his own Fellow Okies Reba McEntire religion, but instead he fell in love with a heathen Philistine woman. In and Blake Shelton donated their Choctaw Nation: LISA REED spite of the heartbroken protests of his parents, he persisted in his plans to time for a benefit concert and when marry her. it sold out in only a few hours, the Assistant Chief Gary Batton, Savanna Superintendent Chad Gra- At their wedding feast, Samson put forth his famous, “Out of the eat- Country music superstars offered ham, Pingleton, Krebs Principal Patrick Turner, Tushka High School er came forth meat, and out of the strong came forth sweetness.” (Judges another night! The two concerts Principal Matt Simpson, District 10 Councilman Anthony Dillard 14:14) held in the Event Center in Durant and Choctaw Travel Plaza Executive Director Brian McClain. Unable to solve the riddle, the Philistines prevailed on the bride to learn brought in $500,000 to help with the answer from her husband. the relief efforts. dents from Krebs, Savanna, Pitts- committed in the beginning to Samson was physically strong but was like putty in the hands of a tear- The day after the tornado, stu- burg, Frink Chambers, Indianola, match up to $10,000. A check was ful woman. Having given away his secret, he lost his temper, and the final dents and faculty of several Pitts- Haywood, Crowder, Kiowa, Harts- presented to Tushka School Super- result was murder and a wrecked marriage. burg County schools agreed to horne and Lakewood Christian intendent Bill Pingleton this morn- Samson now had a double reason for keeping away from the Philistines. hold a penny drive to help with the gathered a whopping $13,876.14! ing for $23,876.14, a great example They were after his blood because he had killed so many of their people, rebuilding of Tushka School. Stu- Choctaw Nation Travel Plazas of neighbors helping neighbors. and their women had proved unfaithful. But some strange fascination drew him back and he allowed himself to fall in love with another Philistine girl – this time, the notorious Delilah. The Philistines were seeking to destroy Samson. But they were unable Helping to meet members’ spiritual needs to do so because of his great strength. They prevailed on Delilah to coax Samson to reveal his secret. District 9 Councilman Ted Dosh, left, and the Rev. David Wil- Once more this strong man was like clay in the hands of a beautiful wom- son, Conference Superintendent of the Oklahoma Indian Mis- an, and Samson fell again. He confided in her that his strength lay in his sionary Conference (OIMC), display the deed to land donated hair, which had never been cut from the day of his birth. Delilah caught him by the Choctaw Nation to the Chihowa Okla United Methodist when he was asleep, and with the help of a Philistine, cut off his flowing Church. Though the physical church structure has yet to be built locks. When he awoke he was as other men. The Philistine captured him at the two-and-a-half acre tract of land located at 3210 North and put out his eyes, making him a prisoner and a slave. First St. in Durant, its members have already gathered there as a church body. On May 25, they joined together for a blessing of No man can compromise with evil and get away with it. If we really the land the church is to be built on and to honor the leaders of want the victory we must turn our backs completely on whatever may have the church and the tribe. caused our downfall in the past. It is highly dangerous to toy with evil. A presentation of gifts was made to Councilman Dosh for God’s power is found without any question in His Words, the Bible. Chief Pyle, Assistant Chief Batton, and the members of the Perhaps you have trusted Jesus Christ as your Savior but He does not Tribal Council by the children of the church. The blessing have complete control of your life. You can let Him take over your life prayer, led by OIMC District Superintendent July Tecumseh, today. You can trust Him and be born again into God’s family and begin to closed the ceremony. Choctaw Nation: LARISSA COPELAND live this victorious Christian life. Church leaders say they hope to have the new church built by this time next year and they are incredibly grate- Pray for America and for our leaders. Pray for our brave men and women ful to the Choctaw Nation for its continued support in meeting the spiritual needs of the people of District 9. in service. June 2011, BISKINIK, Page 4 Nursery News Sam Scroggin’s Choctaw Nation Zaiden McFadden Zaiden Gaige McFadden was born at 6:35 p.m. on April 19, 2011, success story of Oklahoma at Paris Regional Medical Center, Sam Scroggins has lived in Paris, Texas, to Brad McFadden in McCurtain County all of and Trinity Perry. his life. He grew up in the Photo Contest Grandparents are Donny and Broken Bow area and gradu- Capture the Spirit Linda Perry of Paris, Dana McFad- ated from Broken Bow High of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma den of Blossom and Bill McFadden School. Graduating from a and share your heritage of Paris. Great-grandparents are Toby and Katy Wilson of Pat- high school was a great ac- with tribal members around the world. tonville, Texas. complishment for Sam because he was the first one Winning entries will be used in his immediate family to in the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma’s Chili-Citrus graduate. That also included 2012 Calendar. many of his extended family members. PHOTOGRAPHY SPECIFICATIONS: Marinated Chicken While attending high • Digital images are preferred but not re- Makes: 4 servings 2. Place chicken on the school Sam worked at Mc- quired. • High resolution 300 dpi RGB JPG files Ingredients: rack of an uncovered grill Donald’s and was on an are preferred. • To be considered for a top in- • 4 skinless, boneless directly over medium coals. after-school program where side calendar page images need to be at least chicken breast halves (1 to 1 Grill for 15 to 18 minutes he helped clean the sport 2 to 5 mb JPG files in horizontal format. ¼ lbs. total) or until chicken is no longer complex. At the time, he did Career Development. “Both • 1/3 cup orange juice pink (170 degrees F), turn- not realize the determination went as far as meeting me at All photos must be received by July 1, 2011. • ¼ cup lemon juice ing once and brushing with that was inside of him. Sam a local clothes store to per- All photos must be accompanied by photogra- • 1 tablespoon snipped reserved marinade once half- said in the back of his mind sonally help me with my in- pher’s contact information including name, ad- fresh cilantro or parsley way through grilling. Discard he had always thought about terview clothes for the LPN dress, phone number and e-mail address. • 2 teaspoons snipped fresh leftover marinade. the nursing profession be- Program. They treated me The subject(s) of the photos must be identified. mint or ½ teaspoon dried cause during his high school like family,” he said. The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma reserves the mint, crushed Nutrition facts: years he helped take care of The first time he did a right to use submitted photos in other publications. • 2 teaspoons chili powder Amount per serving, Calo- his grandfather who was bed mock interview with Penny Watch future Choctaw publications and web • 3 cloves garlic, minced ries - 134, Total Carbs - 2g, bound. and Gena, he froze. He could • ¼ teaspoon salt Total fat - 1g, Cholesterol - After graduation, Sam not think or say a word. With sites: Even if you don’t win this calendar contest, your image may be used in future publications! 66mg, Protein - 26g, Sat fat got married, continued in practice he felt somewhat at Directions: - 2g, Sodium - 139mg. the workforce and began a ease when he had a real in- A Grand Prize of $150 will be awarded to Chili-Citrus Marinade: In family of two children. He terview with the Kiamichi the person submitting the cover photo. Indi- a small bowl, combine the Serve with a mixed green worked at Kwik Kar for sev- Technology Center (KTC). vidual $50 prizes will also be awarded each per- orange juice, lemon juice, salad adorned with sectioned en years in the Idabel area. Sam was accepted into the snipped fresh cilantro or pars- oranges, sliced strawberries son whose photo is chosen for calendar pages. Later, while going through a LPN Program at the Idabel ley, mint, chili powder, garlic, and pecans. For a colorful divorce, he decided to pursue KTC. It was a struggle for E-mail entries to and salt. dessert serve cups of mixed the medical field. 11 months. Luckily he also [email protected] or mail to: 1. Place chicken in a reseal- berries layered with a light He contacted Choctaw Na- received other financial as- able plastic bag set in a shal- lemon yogurt. A crowd pleas- Lisa Reed, PO Box 1210, Durant, OK 74702 tion Career Development, sistance from the Choctaw low dish. Pour marinade into er for all ages! and was able to get assis- Nation because he had to quit bag with chicken; seal bag. tance for Certified Nurse As- his job in order to concen- Marinate in the refrigerator For further information you sistance (CNA) training. He trate solely on his classes. for at least 2 hours or up to 4 may contact: Erin Adams, went through the training and While going through the hours. Turning bag occasion- RD, LD Choctaw Nation Di- became licensed. He started program Sam received tu- ally. Drain chicken, reserving abetes Wellness Center 800- working as a CNA on week- toring from Career Devel- The wisdom marinade. 349-7026 ext: 6959 ends at Hill’s Nursing Home opment. “Penny and Gena and during the week he con- were with me every step of tinued with his regular job. the way. They treated me just of water FOOD DISTRIBUTION He really enjoyed working like a son. There were days I I’m thirsty! What should my as a CNA, so he decided to dreaded going to class when child drink? WIC ANTLERS pursue a Licensed Practical I wasn’t doing well because Water, milk, juice? WOMEN, INFANTS Market open weekdays July 5-26 , except for: Nurse (LPN) degree. I knew they would be wait- Make water your first choice AND CHILDREN July 6 : Idabel 9-11 a.m.; Broken Bow 12-2 p.m. (market closed) He once again contacted ing for me at the door. They of drink. Offer water between July 13: Bethel 9-10:30; Smithville 12-2 (market closed) Penny James with Career would scold me and then meals and snacks. Serve milk Closed July 27-29 for inventory Development for assistance. turn around and tell me that at meals; this is an easy way for your child to get enough cal- Cooking with Carmen: July 11 & 20, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. He did not realize how much they knew I could do it,” said cium and it’s a healthy habit to learn. Juice is part of a healthy more Career Development Sam. diet and could be served with breakfast; only 4 to 6 ounces durant should be offered a day. Market open weekdays: July 5-26, except for: could help him in other areas. On the lighter side, Sam He thought that helping him said that Penny and Gena Closed July 27-29 for inventory financially was as far as they would tell him that it was his Five easy tips to make Cooking with Carmen: July 7 & 25, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. would go. However, they fault they couldn’t diet, be- WATER your child’s first choice McAlester provided weekly nurse-prep cause he kept them stressed • Be a role model: Drink water with your child; he/she will workshops that helped with out throughout the 11 want to drink what you drink. Market open weekdays July 5-26, except for: the nurse application process, months. Sam has since mar- • Make it “cool” to drink: Serve water in a special cup with Closed July 27-29 for inventory as well as provide tutoring ried and both he and his wife a colorful straw or offer it in a sports bottle. Cooking with Carmen: July 5 & 18, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. sessions, mock interviews are working as LPNs. • Add a splash of flavor: Add a slice of fresh lemon or freeze POTEAU and much more. He is hoping his determi- blended fruit in ice trays to add to your water. Market open weekdays July 5-26, except for: It was a great support sys- nation has helped break the • Keep cold water in the fridge: Store water in a pitcher or Closed July 27-29 for inventory. tem for him and he took ev- cycle in his family concern- large bottle for quick access. Cooking with Carmen: July 13 & 22, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. ery advantage of those working the importance of an • Serve water as the dinner drink: Serve a pitcher of water shops that he could. During education and he knows that with fresh lemon slices or fresh orange slices for your evening an interview, he said that all this would not have been meal. Choctaw Nation Food Distribution he owed so much to Penny possible without the support It’s important to remember that what your child drinks is Open 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday thru Friday. We James and Gena Fowler, who of Career Development and as important as what he/she eats. Offering and serving water, will take lunch from 11:30 to 12 noon are two of the counselors for Choctaw Nation. milk and juice promotes healthy habits that will last a lifetime. WAREHOUSES & MARKETS Antlers: 306 S.W. “O” St., 580-298-6443 Durant: 100 1/2 Waldron Dr., 580-924-7773 McAlester: 1212 S. Main St., 918-420-5716 WIC recipe of the month Poteau: 100 Kerr, 918-649-0431 Food Distribution Sites Bethel: Choctaw Community Building Refreshing Lemon Broken Bow: Choctaw Family Investment Center and Cucumber Water Idabel: Choctaw Community Center Smithville: Choctaw Community Center Ingredients: Stigler: Choctaw Community Center 1 gallon of cold water In accordance with federal law and U.S. Department of Agri- 2-3 slices of fresh lemon culture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on 2-3 slices of fresh cucumber the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, political Preparations: beliefs, or disability. To file a complaint of discrimination, write Place all ingredients in a pitcher USDA, Director, Office of Adjudication and Compliance, 1400 and serve! Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, or For a stronger taste, let the mixed ingredients set in the re- call 800-795-3272 (voice) or 202-720-6382 (TDD). USDA is an frigerator for an hour prior to serving. equal opportunity provider and employer.

Take Choctaw Nation WIC advantage of WOMEN, INFANTS AND CHILDREN ChoctawChoctaw NationNation June’s better weather SITE PHONE HOURS DAYS canto aid aid withwith loans loans What better time of the year Antlers 580-298-3161 8:30-4:00 Every Tuesday than June to celebrate Na- Every Mon., Wed., Thurs. & The Southeastern Oklahoma Atoka 580-889-5825 8:00-4:30 tional Great Outdoors Month! Fri. Indian Credit Association The Southeastern Oklahoma Indian Credit While the temperature is Bethel 580-241-5458 8:30-4:00 1st Tuesday offers small business, home, home improvement warming up, yet still not too Boswell 580-380-5264 8:30-4:00 Every Friday Association andoffers agriculture small business, loans. home, home improvement and agriculture loans. hot, we can get outside and Broken Bow 580-584-2746 8:00-4:30 Daily, except 1st Tues. & 2nd To be eligible to apply, enjoy all the healthful ben- Thurs. a person mustTo reside be eligible within tothe apply, 10-1/2 a personcounty service must reside area of the Choctawefits of hiking, swimming, Coalgate 580-927-3641 8:00-4:30 Every Wednesday Nation of Oklahomawithin theand must10-1/2 possess county a Certificateservice area of Degreeof the of Indianbiking Blood and playing ball of Durant 580-924-8280 x 2257 8:00-4:30 Daily Daily Choctaw(CDIB) Nation from a of federally Oklahoma recognized and must tribe. pos- any kind. Along with healthy Hugo 580-326-5404 8:00-4:30 outdoor activities we also can sessFor more a Certificate information, of please Degree contact of Indian Susan EdwardsBlood enjoy healthy outdoor eating; Idabel 580-286-2510 8:00-4:30 Mon., Thurs. & Fri. (CDIB)at 580-924-8280 from a federally or toll-free recognized 800-522-6170. tribe. cool fresh garden salads, col- McAlester 918-423-6335 8:00-4:30 Daily Daily orful fresh fruits full of entic- Poteau 918-647-4585 8:00-4:30 For more information, please contact Su- Smithville 580-244-3289 8:30-4:00 2nd Thursday ing aromas and savory grilled Spiro 918-962-3832 8:00-4:30 Every Wednesday - Friday san Edwards at 580-924-8280 or toll-free entrees such as lean meat and Stigler 918-967-4211 8:30-4:00 Every Monday - Wednesday 800-522-6170. vegetable kabobs or grilled Talihina 918-567-7000 x 6792 8:00-4:30 Mon., Tues., Wed., & Fri. fish with fresh fruit salsas or Wilburton 918-465-5641 8:30-4:00 Every Thursday this flavorful marinade. June 2011, BISKINIK, Page 5 Okla Chahta Gathering May 7-8 in Bakersfield, California

Choctaw social dancing demonstrations are held throughout the two-day gathering in Bakersfield. Congratulations to his year’s Okla Chahta Princesses – Sr. Miss Sarah DeHerrera, Jr. Miss Taylor Archuleta and Little Miss Nizhoni Felihkatub- bee. They are pictured with Assistant Chief Gary Batton, 2010-11 Sr. Miss Lindsay Reeder and Chief Gregory E. Pyle.

Chief Gregory E. Pyle and Assistant Chief Batton present gifts of appreciation to Okla Chahta Board members Bill Harrison, Mike Bryant, Brenda DeHarrera, Aaron Wilkins, Victoria Harrison and Theresa Har- rison. Not pictured, Nancy Long and Pam Reeder. Councilmen attending from Oklahoma – Mike Amos, Anthony Dillard, Chief Pyle and Chyann Ted Dosh, Joe Coley, Bob Pate, James Frazier, Delton Cox and Thomas and Joshua Garland. Williston.

The Okla Chahta Clan honors Storyteller Tim Tingle Kanda Jackson hands a rose to for his years of dedication in preserving Choctaw culture. Learning the language. Ladies learn to weave baskets. Maurise Sharton of Bakersfield. The flowers were passed out to all mothers at the Okla Chahta Gathering in Choctaw Nation Photos: JUDY ALLEN and LISA REED ALLEN and LISA Choctaw Nation Photos: JUDY honor of Mother’s Day.

Chief Pyle visits with Kent Davis, Brandon Da- Players demonstrate stickball for the West Coast Choctaws. vis and Brandon Davis II.

The Color Guard and veterans march into the Tribal member battles ‘Swamp Wars’ circle to begin the festivities. Miami is a vacationer’s paradise with its beautiful beaches, ant 14-foot python slithering its way down the streets of Miami. A myriad of outdoor activities and sizzling nightlife. Yet, the city is teenage boy’s jubilation over a new pet snake, he believes to be a situated in the center of a giant swamp making it a Garden of Eden python, turns to terror when he learns it is in fact a venomous cot- for snakes and other overgrown reptiles – many not native to the tonmouth water snake after being bitten. The team must race to get area. Snakes are everywhere, and the potential for a snake to strike him the anti-venom he needs before the venom attacking his body is at an all-time high. One hundred percent of backyards in Miami does irreparable harm. Unafraid of humans, cottonmouths can turn and throughout South Florida have snakes; you just can’t always up anywhere, and a Florida woman finds this out when one jumps see them. Not to mention, dangerous alligators, aggressive iguanas out of her toilet one night and strikes her. In another episode, car- and Africanized bees. Beginning at 8 p.m. (CT) on June 12, Ani- nivorous Tegu lizards living on the edge of a Florida City trailer mal Planet takes to the front lines of this daily combat in “Swamp park are taking over. The team must remove these highly aggres- Wars,” introducing the only team with the fearlessness and knowl- sive, non-native reptiles before a child loses a finger or a family pet edge to battle these vicious and often venomous creatures – Venom becomes a meal. Joe Kobierowski presents an eagle feather, to- One. The Venom One team is an elite group of specially trained “Swamp Wars” shadows the Venom One team, which consists bacco and cedar to Chief Pyle. Also pictured are fire fighter/paramedics within Miami-Dade Fire Rescue. It’s the of Chief Al Cruz, Captain Charles “Chuck” Seifert (a.k.a. Big his wife, Marcie, and their daughter, Allie. only emergency response team of its kind, and it currently holds Country), Captain Jeff Fobb (a member of the Choctaw Nation of the largest and only anti-venom bank available for public use in the Oklahoma), Lieutenant Scott Mullin, and Lieutenant Lisa Wood, United States. “Swamp Wars” follows the intensity and urgency of the lone woman on the squad. The team’s passion for reptiles and their daily clash with nature as this courageous team takes down other exotic creatures extends into their personal lives too. In their killer snakes, rushes against the clock to deliver anti-venoms and spare time, each team member takes a bit of their work life home ultimately saves lives. with them and in some cases it’s a family affair. Many of them own In each hour of this six episode docu-drama, the Venom One collections of snakes and other reptiles, go python hunting on the team – led by Chief Al Cruz – fights to capture the most dangerous weekends or volunteer with local animal groups. animals that come out of the Everglades and into suburbia; native “Swamp Wars” is produced for Animal Planet by 2CMedia Inc. species such as the Eastern diamondback rattlesnake, which carries For 2CMedia Inc., Chris Sloan and Carla Kaufman Sloan are the five to seven times the amount of venom it takes to kill a human, as executive producers and Calvin Simons is co-executive producer. well as invasive species like the Burmese python. The Venom One Erin Wanner is the executive producer for Animal Planet. Marc Et- team hunts down many of these deadly constrictors including a gi- kind is the vice president for development for Animal Planet. Rabbit and Fox arrive for kids’ language lesson. Livestock disaster assistance available for drought The USDA’s Farm Service Agency has announced that produc- Monitor located at www.drought.unl.edu/dm/monitor.html. racial or ethnic prejudice because of their identity as members of ers who have suffered livestock grazing losses due to qualify- To be eligible for assistance under the LFP producers must: a group without regard to their individual qualities.” ing drought may apply for assistance under the provisions of the • Have timely applied for and obtained either Crop insurance; Listed below are the eligible counties and contact numbers for Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP). This permanent disas- or each FSA office. To make an appointment for signing up please ter program is authorized in the 2008 Farm Bill. The Livestock • Non-insured Crop Disaster Assistance (NAP) coverage on contact the local FSA office in your county. These offices and Forage Disaster Program will help those producers who have suf- the pasture or grazing land which suffered an eligible loss. numbers are listed below. fered as a result of drought. • Be an owner, cash or share lessee, or contract grower of cov- Atoka County: 580-889-2554, Monica White FSA Director There are provisions under which the drought must qualify in ered livestock that provides pastureland or grazing land for the Bryan County: 580-924-4131, Kevin Dale FSA Director order for the producers to be eligible for assistance. For drought, livestock; Coal County: 580-889-2554, Monica White FSA Director the losses must have occurred on land that is native or improved • Provide pastureland or grazing land that is physically located Choctaw County: 580-326-3655, Earl Reed FSA Director pastureland with permanent vegetative cover or a crop planted in a county affected by drought or fire on federally managed land. Haskell County: 918-647-2047, Monte Anderson FSA Direc- specifically for grazing for covered livestock due to a qualifying Note: Eligible farmers and ranchers who meet the definition tor drought during the normal grazing period for the specific type of of “Socially Disadvantaged,” “Limited Resource,” or “Beginning Johnston County: 580-371-3219, Monica White FSA Director grazing land in the county. Farmer or Rancher,” does not have to meet the crop insurance Leflore County: 918-647-2047, Monte Anderson FSA Director Eligible livestock under LFP include beef cattle, alpacas, buf- requirement. Livestock producers who are members of the Choc- McCurtain County: 580-286-2574, Jerry Robinson FSA Direc- falo, beefalo, dairy cattle, deer, elk, emus, equine, goats, llamas, taw Nation would qualify for the LFP under the Socially Dis- tor poultry, reindeer, sheep and swine. For losses due to drought, advantaged exception, which is defined as, “a farmer or rancher Pittsburg County: 918-423-4073, Carl Patterson FSA Director qualifying drought ratings are determined using the U.S. Drought who is a member of a group whose members have been subject to USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender. June 2011, BISKINIK, Page 6

PEOPLE YOU KNOW

Caleb turns 1 Happy birthday to Caleb Hood on March 26, who celebrated his first birthday. His parents are Christie and Thomas Hood, and his grandparents are Lee and Linda Knight and Charles and Kathy Hood. He celebrated with his friends and family.

50th anniversary Dr. James Errol and Lola Louise Isaac of Beach, N.D., will be celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary. Hartshorne Choctaw language class holds May 12 graduation James was born in Ardmore. He is the The Choctaw Community Language Class in Hartshorne had their graduation on May 12. The class completed phase IV of the lan- only Native American pastor in the North guage program. They sung Choctaw hymns and demonstrated their knowledge of the Choctaw language. Richard Adams, Assistant American continent with two doctorate Director of the Choctaw Language Program; Roger Scott, Administrative Assistant; and Nicholas Charelston, Language Instructor degrees. He has been a pastor for over 30 years, along side from Durant all came to help present certificates and had words of encouragement for the students. Later, everyone enjoyed a potluck of his wife. They were married June 10, 1961, in Helmet, Ca- meal. Pictured from left to right are Nicholas Charelston, Roger Scott, Ann Tobey (teacher), Tammy Shaw, Steven Parish, Laura McCullar, Katherine Watson, Pat Warden, Rev. David Warden, Ray Tobey and Richard Adams. lif. They have four children, Roy, Bill, Darrol and Debra; 12 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. They will celebrate on the coast of Oregon with their family. Happy birthday, Kyra Happy birthday to Kyra Wilson of Du- Bennett-Jones engagement rant! Kyra turned 9 years old on May 31. She participated in the Trail of Tears Com- Forrest and Dana Bennett of West, memorative Walk on May 21 at Wheelock Texas, along with Ronnie and Debbie with her family. Jones of Lacey Lakeview, Texas, are happy to announce the engagement of their children, Melisssa Jade Bennett and Stephen Kyle Jones. Melissa is a 2007 graduate of West Happy 20th, Sharena High and a 2011 graduate of Vogue Cosmetology School. She Happy 20th birthday to Sharena Ward on March 24. Her paris currently employed at Shirley’s Salon in West. ents are Ruth Ward and Donnie and Jacque Knight, and her Stephen is a 2004 graduate of Connally High and a 2007 Head Start watches royal wedding grandparents are Lee and Linda Knight and Loyd and Mary graduate of TSTC with an Associate of Applied Science degree The Choctaw Nation Head Start children were invited to at- Ward. in environmental health and safety technology. He is now em- tend the royal wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton ployed with Fluor Daniels. on April 29 via Smart Board. Each child received their personal Melissa is the granddaughter of Jim and Earline Wortman of invitation with their name on it. On April 29, as each child ar- Happy anniversary Holdenville, Margaret Bennett of Waco and Ancil Bennett of rived at school they signed their own name in the guest book. A Congratulations to Edward McAlester. Stephen is the grandson of Donald and Gloria Jones group picture was then taken of both classrooms. and Linda Mitchell of Arkoma, of Lacey Lakeview and Joan and the late Ronald A. Coleman The address to Buckingham Palace was obtained, and the who celebrated their 30th anni- of Elm Mott, Texas. virtual field trip was a lot of fun. A wedding card was bought, versary on May 18. The couple will be exchanging vows in West this month. thanking the royal couple for inviting the Head Start and sharing their special day with the children and staff. Both guest books were wrapped up and decorated with child-friendly Happy anniversary princess crowns to add to their attractiveness and mailed to the Geno and Ouida Whatley were couple. The postmaster said, “It was the most exciting piece of Happy birthday, Hannah married June 24, 1961. They mail to ever leave Antlers, America!” A big happy third birthday to Hannah Knight on Jan. 25. have four sons: John, Dan, Mike Her parents are Ricky and Stacey Knight and grandparents are and Gene. They have also been Linda and Lee Knight. Hannah celebrated with a fairy princess blessed with 15 grandchildren and party and family and friends. 11 great-grandchildren. Geno and Ouida live in the San Diego area near many of their children and grandchildren. Happy birthday, Taylor Happy birthday to Taylor Mae “Snow- Porum Landing Fire bird” Zurmuhlen, who just turned 6 years old, from a proud mommy, daddy and Department Buster. Volunteers led by Choctaw member Mike Blake along with Luke Rhodes, George Wright and Dean Wilburn have reengineered Happy birthday, Emma an Army surplus truck obtained from the Forestry Department Emma Ray Nita Ulla recently cel- and converted them into fire-fighting trucks. Goforth family ebrated her birthday on March 12. Emma enjoys learning Choctaw, playing T-ball, Alfred Allen Goforth, son of Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Goforth trying to text and dancing to pow wow of Sulphur, poses with his eight of nine sisters after returning Happy birthday, music. Hashki, Micha and Pokni are home from spending 32 months as a POW in Korea. He passed very proud of her. She is the daughter of away at the age of 70 in 1999. Today, five of his sisters are Brooke and Mikey Heather Baker. alive. Meme and Papa want to wish a Pictured from left to right are Helen Goforth, Jean Goforth, happy birthday to Brooke Delao, Alfred Allen Goforth, Virginia Goforth Batson, Norma June who will turn 2 years old on June Goforth Kirk, Ellen Goforth Green, Frankie Goforth Church, Happy birthday, Joseph and Joe’al 29, and Mikey Delao who will be 4 Sylvia Goforth Chronister and last is Alfred’s mother, Celia Cousins Joseph Scott Cunningham and Joe’al Cunningham years old on Aug. 28. Meme and Papa will also be celebrating Goforth. will celebrate birthdays in June. Joseph, son of Steve and Deb- birthdays in June, on the 28th and 19th. bie Cunningham of Texas, will be 20 years old, and Joe’al, son of Cody and Stacy Cunningham of Oklahoma, will be 4 years Congrats, Will Happy birthday, Makayla old. Joe’al’s big sister, Caylee, celebrated her ninth birthday William Anthony Fisher V of McKin- Happy seventh birthday to Makayla on Jan. 10. They are descended from three original enrollees: ney earned his Eagle Scout rank from the Hood on March 8. Her parents are Christie Matilda Elizabeth LeFlore Manning, Angie Manning and Ethel Boy Scouts of America on May 4. Will is and Thomas Hood, grandparents are Lin- Matilda Manning. one of the youngest scouts in the nation to da and Lee Knight and Charles and Kathy earn the rank of Eagle. He was only 13 at Hood. She celebrated with a princess party the time of his Eagle Board of Review, and and family and friends. Also happy birth- Congrats, Cheyenne he earned his title with Troop 2150 from day to her Papa Lee on March 9. Cheyenne Keith, an eighth-grader at McKinney, which is in Circle 10 Council for the Boy Scouts Greenville Middle School, placed second of Oklahoma. in the middle-school girls division of the Will’s Eagle Project was repairing the WWII Sherman Tank Happy birthday, National Archery in the Schools Program that is at VFW Lone Star Post 2150 in McKinney. This post Nationals in Louisville, Ky., on May 13-14. is also the chartered organization for Troop 2150. His project Neecey With this runner-up finish, Cheyenne quali- involved scraping and sanding the tank, primer and painting. Neecey Nicole Taylor will turn fied herself for the world competition in Or- William hopes to someday serve his country in one of the 4 years old on June 27. Wishing lando, Fla., in October. According to Greenville archery coach armed services after college. her a happy birthday is her mother, Beverly Stevens, no Greenville student has ever qualified for father, Sharina, Tate and Justin the world competition. Taylor. Cheyenne finished just one point behind the first place seventh-grader, but she earned $2,000 in scholarship money after Michael earns high rank winning a shoot off with another archer. She scored a 292 with Michael Wayne Kraman, 18, earned Happy birthday, Aleikae 22 perfect 10 shots. The competition includes 30 scoring ar- the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest rank A happy birthday to Aleikae Ray Thies of rows, making 300 a perfect overall score. In her third year at in the Boy Scouts of America, by com- Durant who turned 1 year old on April Fools nationals and archery overall, Cheyenne was one of only three pleting a community service project for Day. Aleikae was able to celebrate his birth- middle school archers to place in the top 10 overall individual the Heritage Farmstead Historical Mu- day with friends and family. scores. She also placed fifth in the state among female competi- seum in Plano. He led a crew of other tors in the middle school division as a sixth grader. scouts in building period-style shelving Cheyenne is also the valedictorian of her class at Greenville, so artifacts can be displayed at the historical museum. having a 4.0 average. She also was named the #1 Okla Archer Michael is a member of Troop 288 in Plano where he has Champion in 2010. She is the granddaughter of Kenneth and served as senior patrol leader, bugler and historian. He is a Bette Shelton and Lucille and Carlton Keith. Her great-grand- freshman at the University of Texas where he is majoring in father is original enrollee Sam Postoak, and she is the great- Happy birthday mechanical engineering. He is the son of Tammy and Mike great-granddaughter of original enrollee Lizzie Lewis Boston. Happy birthday to Leroy Kraman of Plano. His grandmother is Betty Heard Watson and Wilson and Silvena Bush of great-grandmother is original enrollee Irene Heard. Smithville. Leroy turned 74 Annie turns 79 and Silvena turned 73 in May. Happy birthday to Annie Betsey of Durant who turned 79 on May 12. Annie is employed at the Choctaw Casino. On May 14 Congrats, Bruce her family celebrated her birthday and Mother’s Day. Congratulations to Bruce Jacob, from all his family and friends. Bruce is one of the first graduates, and also the first Quay graduates Zacharia graduates Native American, to receive a certificate Congratulations to Quay Mahkila Cobb, grandson of the late Zacharia Richard Wilkinson graduated from Denver Semi- for completion of training with Christian Goodwin and Mary Cobb II of Lawrence, Kan., and son of the nary College on May 14, earning a master’s degree in theology. Men’s Job Corps. This is the first training late Goodwin Keener Cobb III of Newark, Del., who gradu- Zacharia is the lead pastor at Rever Church in Longmont, Colo. in the state of Oklahoma by the Southern Baptist Convention. ated with an agriculture and natural resources degree from the You can find him in Facebook, Twitter or listen to his podcasts Bruce is the son of Juanita Johnson of Oklahoma City and he’s University of Delaware. at rever.ag. a member of Victory Baptist Church in Oklahoma City. June 2011, BISKINIK, Page 7 Jones Academy students receive diplomas

DANIELLE CRUZ KOTY DURAN DAKOTA ESTRADA KAYLA JOHN DESTINY MATHIS JAREN RICHARDS Eleven among Hartshorne High School’s graduating class

Danielle ma. She has attended Harts- Bobbie-Michelle Cruz horne Public Schools for four years. She is enrolled at Sem- Danielle, the 17-year-old inole State College where she daughter of John and Angela will attend classes this fall. Cruz of San Juan Pueblo, GAVIN SMITH JACONA THLOCCO- TRACEY TIGER DEERE N.M., is a member of the Oh- Jaren Trae Richards kay Owingeh Tribe. is enrolled at Seminole State Danielle was on the Princi- Jaren is the 18-year-old grandson of Elaine Gibson of College where he will be a pal’s Honor Roll this year and homa State University for two Antlers. He is a member of full-time student this fall. a member of the high school years and then transfer to the the Choctaw Nation of Okla- softball team. She is inter- University of Oklahoma to homa and has attended Harts- Jacona Thlocco-Deere ested in pursuing a career in finish a degree in engineering. horne Public Schools for six Jacona is the 17-year-old cosmetology. and one-half years. Jaren was son of Autumn Thlocco and Kayla Denise John George Deere of Oklahoma Koty Collin Duran a member of the varsity foot- Kayla is the 18-year-old ball, track and power lifting City. Koty is the 18-year-old son daughter of Alan John from teams. His grandparents are Bry- of Tina Gasper of Zuni, N.M., Conehatta, Miss., and a mem- He is scheduled to attend ant and Constance Thlocco and the late Aaron Duran. He ber of the Mississippi Band of Kansas City, Mo. He is classes in the fall at South- SHAYLIN PEDRO- DE-JAY WYLY is the grandson of Madeline of Choctaw Indians. She is a member of the Seminole eastern Oklahoma State Uni- WHITE BUFFALO Lowsayatee of Zuni and the the granddaughter of Evelyn versity and major in criminal Nation of Oklahoma. After late Anson Gasper, Shirley John of Mississippi. justice. graduation, Jacona plans to Shaylin sue a career in nursing. Duran of Tesuque, N.M., and She has attended Harts- be gainfully employed. Jaren was the co-recipient Pedro-White Buffalo Shaylin was a co-recipient the late Joseph Duran. Koty horne High School for two of the Robert Woods Scholar- of the Robert Woods Scholar- Shaylin, 17, is the daughter is a member of the Pueblo of years and has been active in ship Award for 2011. Tracey Cierra Tiger ship Award for 2011. of Melissa Pedro and Derwin Tesuque Tribe. girls’ varsity basketball and Tracey is the 18-year-old Lime of El Reno. She is the He has enlisted in the U.S. track. Kayla made the All- Gavin Keith Smith daughter of the late Diane Ti- De-Jay Wyly Marine Corps. Tournament Team at Tushka granddaughter of Phyllis and Eighteen-year-old Gavin ger of McAlester and the late Ed Naranjo of Ibapan, Utah, Seventeen-year-old De-Jay and the Black Diamond All- Smith is the son of Teresa Gary Tiger of Shawnee. She Dakota Miguel Estrada Conference First Team in and Virgil Pedro of El Reno. Wyly is the son of Mary and Daniel of Wewoka and David is a member of the Choctaw Special recognition goes to Alfred Wyly of Kansas, Okla. A member of the Choctaw 2011. Daniel of Woodland, Texas. Nation of Oklahoma and has Kayla plans to attend class- Melvin Roman Nose of El He is a member of the Chero- Nation of Oklahoma, Dakota He is the grandson of Vio- attended Hartshorne Public Reno who has encouraged kee Nation of Oklahoma. He is the 17-year-old son of Pa- es in the fall at Haskell Indian let Louise Daniel and David Schools for eight years. Nations University. Shaylin throughout her life has been a resident of Jones mela Estrada of Pickens and Daniel of Idabel and Edward Tracey has been active and educational endeavors. Academy and attended Harts- Jesus Estrada of Houston, and Grace Smith of Semi- in student council and var- Destiny Elaine Mathis He has been a mentor and horne Public Schools for sev- Texas. He is the grandson of nole. Gavin is a member of sity basketball. She made “grandpa” to her. en years. Patricia and Floyd Choate of Destiny, 18, is the daughter the Seminole Nation of Okla- the Principal’s Honor Roll. Shaylin was a member of De-Jay was a member of Pickens. of Cynthia Adams of Poteau homa. Tracey’s honors also include the Hartshorne High School the Gifted and Talented Pro- Dakota was a member of and Randall Mathis of Talihi- He has attended Hartshorne making the Basketball All- yearbook staff and the Learn gram and graduated fifth in the varsity football and power na. She is the granddaughter Public Schools for seven Tournament Team twice and and Serve Program at Jones his senior class. He also par- lifting teams. He also was of Linda Watson of Talihina years. He was an active mem- All-Conference player her Academy. She is an enrolled ticipated in Family, Career active in yearbook and the and Daniel and Rotha Mathis ber of the high school band junior year. member of Cheyenne and and Community Leaders of Upward Bound Program. Af- of LeFlore. for three years and also part of She would like to pursue a Arapaho Tribes. She plans to America. ter graduation, he will attend Destiny is a member of the the JA Writers and the Jones career as a court room stenog- attend Southwestern Oklaho- De-Jay has enlisted in the classes at Southeastern Okla- Choctaw Nation of Oklaho- Academy newsletter staff. He rapher. ma State University and pur- U.S. Marine Corps.

COME JOIN US THIS FALL!

Junior Miss Indian Oklahoma Megan Larney and Senior Miss Dayla Amos pose with Jones Academy students Lakota

Dixon and Tasina Lone Elk. Enroll Now @ Jones Academy! Miss Indian Oklahoma visits Jones Senior Miss Indian Oklahoma Dayla Amos and Junior Miss In- We are accepting applications for the 2011 Fall Semester. We have dian Oklahoma Megan Larney visited the Jones Academy campus openings in specific grades 1-12. Tour our elementary school facilities on April 6. The Indian pageant representatives spoke to the students about their platforms and the areas of interest that affected their and dorms. Come Join Us! Be a Part of the Future! Take advantage of communities. During the assembly, Miss Amos addressed the issue the residential program benefits: of diabetes and the impact on American Indian people. Miss Lar- ney encouraged the students to be leaders in their respective Native American communities. • Tutorial Assistance for All Grades (1st-12th) Miss Amos discussed how she grew up in a family that was affected by diabetes and described how she watched members of • Rewards for Academic Achievement her family take medication or shots for their diabetes. Initially, she thought it was fun until she realized the severity of the problem. She • High School Graduation Expenses Paid/Scholarships also became aware of the effect that the disease was having on the • Career Counseling/College and Post- Secondary Preparation Native American population and the high rate of diagnoses among tribal members. Throughout her presentation, Miss Amos advised • Voc-Tech Training students about preventative measures they could take in an effort to avert the disease. She encouraged them to practice healthy lifestyles • Summer Youth Work Program such as eating a diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables. Instead of • Medical and Counseling Services Provided drinking pop, she suggested that students drink nutritious juices and/ or water. Miss Amos added that students need to increase their phys- • Alternative Education Program ical activity and get plenty of rest. She said these basic life changes • Traditional/Cultural Activities would improve their health and increase their longevity of life. Miss Larney discussed the importance of taking leadership roles • Recreational Activities & Educational Trips and the impact that good leaders can have on a community and future generations. She encouraged students to start taking steps now • Agriculture Program toward positions of responsibility and representation in order to be positive influences in their tribal communities. She challenged students on their comfort level and speaking up. She admitted that she Please callPlease for call a tour for a or tour an or application an application, @ tolltoll-free free at(888) 888-767-2518 767-2518 or was scared to speak up at times but realized that she must be will- access www.jonesacademy.org or write to: ing to do this in an effort to be a role model in the community and or access www.jonesacademy.org, or write to: lead by example. She admonished students not to be afraid and be JonesJones AcademyAcademy willing to step up into leadership or representative roles. According HCR 74 Box 102-5 to Miss Larney, by practicing these qualities in an athletic setting, HCR 74 Box 102-5 a classroom or in life, students are preparing to become leaders of Hartshorne,Hartshorne, OK OK 74547 74547 tomorrow and future generations. She revealed to students that one day it was possible they could be representatives in tribal government or chiefs of their sovereign nations. June 2011, BISKINIK, Page 8

EDUCATION

Donor with strong tribal roots supports Jones Academy’s library system Jones Academy’s vice Corps. To the Youth of the Nation library system is thriv- Prior to joining the By: Kamber Vasquez ing and growing. A Army, Hooper earned Youth Advisory Board certified librarian is a master’s in biol- The Nashoba Youth Foundation now on staff and many ogy and a Doctor of was founded by Lisa Fabian and new books line the Philosophy in Ento- Renee Farmer in an effort to com- shelves thanks to the mology. She served bat obesity, diabetes and substance generosity of Ruth in many different as- abuse among our Native American Lynn Hooper, Ph.D., signments, primarily youth. Fabian found that bringing accomplished military in leadership capaci- skate parks to Native America would help serve this pur- leader, teacher, biolo- ties. She was also the pose by getting the kids up and active while doing some- gist and friend of Jones first woman to com- thing they enjoyed. Academy. Due to her mand a deployable Recently the NYF solicited drawings from members of continuing support, Preventive Medicine the Youth Advisory Board students from Heavener and Jones was able to hire Unit. Howe schools. The designs were to contain specific crite- Elaine Garvin to run As an Army wife, ria, which consisted of incorporating Native America and Photo Submitted the libraries. Elaine Hooper’s mother, skateboarding. Among the students chosen were Kamber joined the Jones staff in January of 2010. Previously she taught Nina Jane Wilson Hooper, learned to be strong, resourceful and Vasquez, Sarah Swarts and Viddy Zamora. Judging was at Clayton Public Schools then became their librarian. She also resilient. She also took great pride in her Indian heritage and done on a scoring scale. According to the judges, the draw- helped to establish libraries at Tuskahoma and Nashoba. enjoyed supporting Jones Academy and other Choctaw youth, a ing that they chose was “beautifully done using Native Dr. Hooper’s family has a rich history with the Choctaw Na- cause her daughter has now taken as her own. American scenery on a skateboard which appears to be in tion, especially in the field of education. Her great-grandfather Hooper takes a personal interest in the children of Jones the clutches of an eagle.” served as superintendent of Wheelock Academy and was also Academy. Not only is she generous monetarily, she gives her- “When I was told that I had won first place I could hardly the last elected secretary of the Choctaw Nation before Okla- self and her time. She personally visits the school and brings believe it,” said Kamber. “I have been skateboarding since I homa statehood, when tribal government was abolished. Other books she has hand selected for the children. While on campus was 11 years old. My first skateboard was a cheap $15 board relatives include a superintendent of public instruction for the she reads with the children. that I got from my dad. In my eyes that board was going to Choctaw Nation and a Code Talker. Since the students at Jones Academy come from diverse get me to the X Games and I would meet Tony Hawk who is One of her great-aunts earned a master’s degree in mathemat- tribes and geographic areas, she has brought globes and at- my lifelong idol. As the years passed I kept skateboarding, ics, a rare accomplishment at that time, and taught at Goodland las books for the libraries and dorms the students can use to but my dream of ever meeting Tony Hawk or going to the X Indian Orphanage. Edward Lewis Wilson, Ruth Lynn’s grand- find and show others where their homes are. She also provides Games began slipping away, even though each time I heard father, was born while his parents were at Wheelock Academy books about different tribes, fiction written by Native Ameri- something about Tony Hawk I was all over it. and was the only one of his nine siblings to stay on the allot- cans, field guides on insects and other animals and books given “When Mrs. Farmer held a meeting for Mrs. Fabian about ted land in the Valliant/Fort Towson area. In 1924 the family to her as a child by her grandmother. the ‘Tony Hawk Skate Park Grant,’ I was so excited. They moved to Dallas where Edward worked as an accountant. The The philosophy of reading helps to open new avenues for called everyone who they thought skateboarded or would family also had an extensive history of education outside the lifelong learning is one in which Hooper strongly believes. She like to skateboard including Shonnie Hall who is over the Choctaw Nation, with scientists, teachers, medical doctors, ac- often shares her pride in how eagerly the children use the books YAB here in our area. We were asked to think of a design countants and engineers. she brings and how much they have learned and achieved. that included skateboarding and Native American culture. The military also played a prominent part in Hooper’s life. The Choctaw Nation greatly appreciates Dr. Ruth Lynn Right then, an idea popped into my head: what if I could tie Her father was a full colonel at the age of 27, being one of the Hooper for being so generous and gracious to the children of in a hawk, representing the grant Tony Hawk may give us, youngest ever, and she followed in his footsteps by becoming Jones Academy. Most of all, it thanks her for the time, love and as well as Native America? The hawk could be holding a the first female officer to make full colonel in the Medical Ser- encouragement she shows to these young people. skateboard that has some images depicting a Native region with mountains and a wolf howling at the moon. “This park has been named ‘The Nashoba Skate Park.’ I have moved to many places including Nashoba Valley, Youth Advisory Board holds 2011 Kick Butts Day so I knew immediately that Nashoba is wolf in Choctaw. I The Youth Advisory Board was happy to be able to contribute a design to help generate mission is to promote health- more excitement among the community as well as helping ier lifestyles among the youth to get the kids more upbeat about the idea that we are actu- in the 10 1/2 counties of the ally going to get a skate park. Choctaw Nation by investing “Most of the time skaters get looked at as if they are in and utilizing them as valu- thugs, and this is not at all true. I am glad to know that our able assets through education community and our YAB leader have educated themselves and communication. The Mc- about skate parks and that they are behind the project 100 Curtain County chapter of the percent. They want to provide us a place where we can go YAB consists of teens from that is safe and we can enjoy one of our favorite pastimes. grade eight to grade 12 who at- I have learned a lot about our community from my YAB Photo Submitted tend some of the local county group, and I am so glad to be a part of such a great project.” schools. the number 1,200. Approxi- We had three seniors give The YAB Hugo/McCur- The YAB members shown mately 1,200 Americans die a quote on the project. Erika tain County Chapter is under in the picture from left to every day because of tobacco- Snead said “Kickety kickety the direction of Community right are Whitney Aaron, related illnesses. Americans butts! The world needs more Outreach Specialist Kristi Ad- Congrats, Terrence Erika Snead, Ariel Anna, Ad- that smoke also put their positive influences and a ams. For more information Congratulations to Terrence Isom Jr. who olfo Martinez, Kristi Adams, family and friends at risk of drug-free atmosphere. Who concerning the use of tobacco graduated from Savanna High School on May Kendall Adams and Ethan tobacco-related illnesses be- said using tobacco was ‘in’?” and stopping it, contact the 13. Eighteen-year-old Terrence plans to con- Adams celebrating Kick Butts cause of second-hand smoke. Ariel urges young people to Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline tinue his education at East Central University Day 2011 by displaying signs 53,800 people die every year “kick butts! Please, why not at 1-800-QUIT-NOW. Thank in the fall. and giving away frisbees and from second-hand smoke ex- save a life or two? Be the big- you so much for your concern bouncy balls to the younger posure. Over time, this num- ger person and stand up for and attention. Thank you to generation in front of Pruett’s ber has increasingly targeted what’s right.” Ariel and Erika all the supporters that helped Kyle graduates in Broken Bow. Their signs the younger generation. When of Wright City High School in promoting Kick Butts Day Kyle White Buffalo graduated from Heri- displayed several disturbing asked if the tobacco market said, “Be above the crowd!” 2011. tage College in Oklahoma City on May 13 facts about the causes of using targets the younger genera- Adolfo of Broken Bow High This article was written by with an associate degree in the personal train- tobacco products. tion, an unknown tobacco ad School stated, “Life’s a garden, Erika Snead and Ariel Anna of er program. He is the son of Rochelle White The theme of the YAB’s Kick executive stated: “If they have dig it. Don’t mess it up by us- Wright City High School/Mc- Buffalo Jr. and June White Buffalo and is the Butts Day demonstration was lips, we want them.” ing tobacco.” Curtain County CNYAB. brother to Shana White Buffalo. His grandparents are Rochelle Sr. and Joy White Buffalo of Stratford and the late Gaston Hickman and Anna Belle Hickman Alberson of Roff. Jones students receive STAR awards Kyle has many aunts, uncles and cousins that are very proud Jones Academy students of his accomplishments. were recognized for their academic achievements by the Choctaw Nation STAR Program for the fall 2010 Emily: Stanford graduate school semester. Success Emily Clara Deffner, daughter of Jac- Through Academic Recogni- queline Ree Deffner, great-granddaughter Congrats, Jordan tion (STAR) honors Choctaw of original enrollee Edmond Ree Cleve- Jordan Daniel Hanslovan students for classroom excel- land, is graduating from Stanford Univer- has received his Doctor of Ju- lence and perfect attendance. sity on June 12 with a Bachelor of Arts in risprudence from Williamette Students were rewarded with Photo Submitted American Studies and a minor in creative University College of Law. Wal-Mart gift cards valued writing. While attending Stanford, Emily His family would like to say from $10 and $25. Students Jaren Richards and Tracey Tiger, Cheyenne Neal (10th- was very active in her sorority Kappa Kappa Gamma, where congratulations. receiving these awards are en- grader), Alisha Picone (ninth-grader), Shelby Tushka (fifth- she was President 2010-2011. Emily was also on the Stanford Jordan and his family rolled in the Hartshorne public grader), Billie Jo Nunn (ninth-grader), Kendale Willie (sev- co-ed cheer squad and was a member of the Stanford Women’s would also like to thank the schools. enth-grader) and STAR representative Jason Campbell. Club Lacrosse Team. Emily participated in numerous philan- Choctaw Nation. Jordan has thropy events throughout her four years. She looks forward to received scholarships from her future success with her Stanford degree in hand. the Nation for the past seven years and they appreciate the support. Choctaw student selects OU As a four-year starter at quar- terback, Choctaw member and Talihina High School alumna Jordan Eagle Road amassed Photo Submitted over 100 rushing touchdowns, numerous accolades and a senior season for the record books, which accounted for 40 touchdowns, over 2,000 yards of offense and an average of Outstanding Youth Leadership Achievement Award over 10 yards per carry. His pass completion percentages also Choctaw Nation Youth Advisory Board Around Skit at the banquet after accepting stood above the 50 percent mark. On defense he had seven Hugo/McCurtain County Chapter traveled the award. The students who performed the interceptions and led his team to nine shutouts in the season. Appreciates support to Oklahoma City on March 23 to attend the skit were Preston Wells, Micah Green, Luke They ended their season with a 12-1 mark. He also helped add Jenifer Empson recently re- Youth Speak on Bullying at the capitol be- Green, Josh Hyland, Jacob Wallace, Jennifer a state basketball championship to the trophy case at Talihina ceived her bachelor’s degree fore attending the Second Annual Prevention Williams, Adolfo Martinez, Chris (CJ) Scott, this March. in interdisciplinary health Award Banquet, held by the Oklahoma Depart- Donyale Shanklin, Daniele Karr, Ariel Anna, Jordan chose the University of Oklahoma over full-ride of- services: occupational thera- ment Of Mental Health and Substance Abuse, Haleigh Owen, Courtney Patterson, Bethany fers from Northeastern State University and Bacone College. py and graduated summa cum where they received the 2010 Outstanding Webster, Mahli Webster, Morgan Moffitt, Coach Stoops is proud to have him as a member of his fall laude. Youth Leadership Achievement Award for Deedee Adamson, Blake Pillars, Alexis Siler, 2011 recruiting class. Assistant Coach Bruce Kittle remarked She would like to thank dedication and professional services. In addi- Adult Sponsor for the Hugo/McCurtain YAB/ via email, “He seems like a great athlete and even more impor- the Choctaw Nation for the tion, 19 YAB students from Hugo/McCurtain Youth Empowerment, Kristi Adams, and As- tantly a great young man.” Jordan is the son of Bill and Teresa scholarship money to help her County were there to accept the award. The sistant Director of Youth Empowerment, Me- Eagle Road. For further information please see the May issue continue her education. students also did a performance of the Turn lissa Cress. of the Native American Times monthly magazine. June 2011, BISKINIK, Page 9

Moving onward Very thankful graduate Greetings brother and sister Choctaws. I My name is Lucas Freeman, a man who has one semester wanted to write a quick note to thank you all left before gaining the most valuable achievement he has ever for your kind support while I have been in experienced. This achievement would not be possible without undergraduate school. I graduated May 14 the help that has been graciously given to me by the Choctaw from the University of Minnesota, Morris, Nation. I grew up being told that college is the best way to get with a bachelor’s degree in theatre arts. In a job within our society and to be able to live comfortably, but addition, I have been accepted to the graduate school at the I noticed a problem as I began to look at tuition prices. I asked University of North Dakota. My education would have been myself, “How can people afford this?” I was honestly worried much harder to finance without the generous contributions of that I would be one of the many who could not afford a college the tribe throughout my undergraduate schooling. I am looking education until I found out that I was eligible for a scholar- forward to the day when I am in a position to give back to the ship through the Higher Education Department of the Choctaw Pictured left to right with speaker Sam Glenn’s artwork Choctaw family that has given me such support. Thank you Nation. Later I found myself not only being eligible for the are Joshua Sam, Brandon Anderson, Gavin Smith and Eli- very much. – Anthony J. Albright scholarship but a recipient of the scholarship, which then al- sa Reyes. lowed me the luxury of entering Southeastern Oklahoma State University to gain my degree. Rance graduates It’s now four years later and I’m about to graduate. It’s been 2011 Career Expo – Map Your Future Congratulations to graduate Rance Chris- a long and hard road but I’ve made it. There have been ups and “Courage, courage to step out, courage to step out and tian Gilliam of Coalgate High School. downs during these four years, and there have been times when achieve what you set out to accomplish.” These were some of Rance is the son of Jeff and Angie Gilliam I didn’t know if I was going to be able to make it, but the Choc- the words of Sam Glenn addressing an audience of 1,500 high and the grandson of the late Rev. Raymond taw Nation came to my rescue. Throughout these years the school students at the fourth annual Choctaw Nation Career Carney and Paula Carney and Bear and Cleo Choctaw Nation has provided me with food, clothing and even Expo on April 6. The event was held at the Southeast Expo Gilliam. He attended Coalgate Schools for a computer without asking for anything in return except that Center in McAlester. Glenn, also known as the “attitude guy,” six years and was involved with sports. I do well in college. I would like to say that this achievement is a nationally acclaimed corporate speaker and author of “A He played football and basketball for four of graduating is one that I worked to gain by myself but I’d Kick in the Attitude.” His book is an account of his own jour- years and golf for two years. He was active in 4H, National be lying. Without the moral support of my family and friends, ney to success with instructions about remaining positive while Honor Society, president of the Art Club, member of the drama the constant motivation given to me by my loving parents and moving toward one’s own success. His motivational speech in- club and student council representative for his senior class. He the financial help that the Choctaw Nation has allotted me, I cluded a creative blend of humor, inspiration and an art dem- was also selected to attend Boys State this past summer. would not be where I am today. For all of this, I thank those onstration. He used a cloth canvas to create a landscape with Rance has one older sister, Karnie. He likes to hang out with mentioned. valleys, mountain peaks and a winding path. He then applied his friends and family and loves to watch Sooner sports. His the composition to illustrate a person’s successes and failures future plans include attending East Central University and in life and the hard choices one has to make at times. pursuing a degree in civil engineering from the University of Fishing trip for After the presentation students were able to attend sessions Oklahoma. and meet with over 150 vendors representing businesses, col- Jones students leges, vocational schools, human services specialists, military Fifth-grade Jones Acad- recruiters and prospective employers. Students were encour- Lyles selected for emy students took a trip to aged to pick up information from the various displays as well Hartshorne Lake on May as visit with the vendors and ask questions. Each student re- national internship 16 and were successful, ceived a free tote bag from the Choctaw Nation for the items Choctaw member Kayla Lyles of Hugo catching 28 fish. they collected at each booth, such as brochures, employment has been selected to join students from across applications, pencils, pens, key chains, stress relievers and the nation and around the world working for more. There were also door prizes, which included a 19-inch Project Vote Smart in Montana for the sum- television, an Ipad, T-shirts and other assorted gifts. mer. She has also been awarded the National Barry Goldwater The career expo was sponsored by both the Choctaw Na- Scholarship. tion Career Development and the Scholarship Advisement Pro- Project Vote Smart is a program that provides a unique lesson gram. About 25 Jones Academy students attended the fair and in the study of American politics. Students from across the na- collected valuable information to assist them in making im- tion and around the world come to the high-tech research center portant decisions about their future. The students also left with in the Montana Rockies for 10 weeks to help American citizens the knowledge that it will take courage to step out and achieve educate themselves about elected officials and candidates. Kay- what they set out to accomplish. la’s goal is to help citizens better defend themselves from the po- Choctaw Nation honored at reception litical hype and misrepresentation characteristic of present day The American Indian Graduate Center (AIGC) partnered with political campaigns. the Gathering of Nations for a reception, “Celebrating Education Shambre advances her Kayla is the daughter of Karla Peel and the granddaughter of and Tribe,” at the Isotopes Ball Park in Albuquerque on April 30. Karen and Paul Lyles of Hugo. She is a fifth-year student at the During this event, AIGC recognized and honored two alumni, education University of Central Oklahoma majoring in political science/ an outstanding tribe that generously supports higher education The Choctaw Nation Student School public administration. She is a representative of the Choctaw and a corporate organization, all making a difference in Indian and Activity Fund Program afforded Nation in the University’s Native American Student Association. country. Shambre Marie Westbrooks, daughter Kayla has also had the honor of interning for Gov. Brad Henry, The Choctaw Nation was the tribe selected and was recognized of Angela Guess Westbrooks, the op- U.S. Congressman Dan Boren, Oklahoma Council of Public Af- and honored during the event. This selection was not only based portunity to participate in the Running fairs and Oklahoma’s Legislative Report at the state capitol. on the Scholarship Advisement Program and its commitment to Start Program at Clark College in Van- Kayla is very proud of where she comes from. She is a strong promoting the importance of higher education and adequately couver, Wash., where she completed advocate for tribal preservation and rural areas. She is a strong preparing students for college, but also for its regular and gen- nine college courses in addition to her high school courses. She leader and dedicated public servant to her state, community and erous philanthropic support of organization and programs that is grateful for the Choctaw Nation’s financial support and her tribe. After graduation, Kayla plans to move to D.C. to pursue focus on educating youth and generally improving communities. Choctaw heritage. her career in public service while representing the people of the To learn more about AIGC, visit the website aigc.org, and to Shambre will graduate from Prairie High School in Vancou- Choctaw Nation and Southeastern Oklahoma. learn more about the Scholarship Advisement Program and the ver on June 17 and will continue her education at Clark Col- Kayla said: “I think my most favorite thing about where I services they offer, visit their website at choctawnation-sap.com. lege. come from is that there is a different standard of living down here. It is such a great place to grow up with proud, friendly, down-to-earth people. I believe it’s something you can’t under- Congrats, Michael Unclaimed Funds stand unless you’re from the area. I have seen success and I have Michael John Byrne graduated with The Accounting Department of the Choctaw Nation seen struggle. I want to become a better public servant so that I honors from Union High School in Cam- of Oklahoma is trying to contact the individuals listed. can give back to the community that has had a huge impact in as, Wash., on June 9. He is a member of Choctaw Nation is in possession of unclaimed funds my life. This community has so much hospitality and love. I am the Choctaw Nation Scholarship Program that may be due to these individuals. If your name is just a little nobody from a very small area and I am humbly hon- and is attending Barrett Honors College listed below, please contact the Choctaw Nation of ored and surprised to have had these opportunities. I hope that I at Arizona State University this fall on Oklahoma at P.O. Box 1210 Durant, OK 74702 Attn: can make my community proud.” a large academic scholarship. Michael and his family want to Kellie Young, Payroll Accountant or by phone at 580- thank the SAP for all their support. Congratulations and good 924-8280 ext. 2408. luck, Michael! Aldridge, Kimberly Kenyon, Cory Ayala, Maria Leyendecker, Christopher Babcock, Ramona Marlatt, April Congrats, Damien Bagsby, Adreena McClary, Hunter Congratulations to Damien Christo- Belcher, Tony McElroy, David pher Hamilton who just graduated from Coalgate High School. Damien is the son Bittle, Kenneth McGee, Brandi of Amick and Taloa Birdshead and the Blaylock, Courtney Meeh, Kaycee grandson of Joseph and Joann Birdshead Bond, Kevin Mitchell, Shane of Billings, Mont., Rev. Gary and Cheryl Weeden of Coalgate Burns, Dillon Mofield, Beverly and Leland Hamilton of Duncan. Callahan, Benjy Moore, Christopher Damien has attended Coalgate Schools for eight years. He’s Campuzano, Yrma Morris, Micah Congratulations to these Hartshorne students who been a member of the Wildcat football team for four years, Christian, Ashley Newby Pigeon, Kayla recently completed the Choctaw I class. Pictured are basketball team for three years and ran track for four years. front row, left to right, Melissa Sam, Marla Ichord Cook, John Nottingham, Kristy He was also a member of FFA for two years. His is the older Cross, Christopher Periman, David and Anayssa Wills; back row, Mrs. Morgan, Candance brother to Tvli and Warren of Coalgate and Samantha and Da- Davis, Logan Phelan, James Hunt, Raina Wansick and Bryce Cullum. kota of Duncan. Damien enjoys spending time with his friends and family, including his church family at Grace Christian Fel- Davis, Phyllis Ply, Jessie lowship. He is all heart and loves to fish. He plans to attend Day, Linda Russ, Billy Congrats, Sara and Ryan! East Central University in the fall and go wherever the Lord Druby, Danny Samples, David leads him from there. Duboc, Barbara Sawyer, Jennifer Congratulations to Sara and Ryan Stockton, who graduated Duncan, Kayla Scarbrough, Tammie from Quinton High School. They are the children of James and Tammy Stockton and will be attending Eastern Oklahoma Elliott, Cass Shearwood, Colton State College in the fall. Ryan plans to pursue a career in phar- Congrats, Jordan Elliott, Kelly Shearwood, Joseph macy and Sara plans to pursue a career in radiology. We are Jordan MaRae Billy was recently Elliott, Tommy Slawson, Colten very proud of both of you, from Mom and Dad. honored by the Oklahoma Federation Emmert, Lacey Smelser, David of Indian Women at a banquet at the Forwoodson, Ashton Smithart, Jerry Choctaw Nation Community Center Foster, Cory St. Clair, Jimmy Congrats, Lupita in McAlester. Jordan was the recipi- Frederick, Johnny Steve, Samuel Congratulations to Lupita Elisa-Denay ent of the Achievement Award for Futrell, Edward Stevenson, Pamela Roiz who graduated Kindergarten at Okla- Outstanding American Indian Female Garrett, Lisa Stimac, Stepheney Student. Jordan’s application and biography was chosen over homa City Schools. We are proud of you, Gwin, Tanner Truett, Nasha from mom, dad, your brothers, Quinton and many other applicants, and she is honored to have the opportunity to represent her Choctaw heritage. Hall, Sharawn Vickers, Lauren Israel, family and friends. Keep up the good Haney, Ashley Wade, Nalani work! Jordan is an eighth grade student at Rattan Junior High School. She has always excelled academically in her class and Hankins, Kaci Ward, Henry is actively involved in organizations such as the honor roll, Helt, Jennifer Waugh, William Academic Awards Program, Choctaw Nation Youth Advisory Himes, Kristi Whitebuffalo, Angela Congrats, Riley Board, A.W.A.N.A.S. Church Program Group Leader, Okla- Hodge, Lauren Whitehead, Cheri Riley Askew, a sophomore attending homa S.W.A.T., the junior high softball team and junior high Hodge, Melba Williams, Curtis Charles Page High School in Sand Springs, basketball. Within these organizations, Jordan has demonstrat- has been selected to attend the 2011 College Holland, Rachel Yvette Williams, Randi ed excellent leadership abilities and often inspires others to ac- Holt, Terry Williams, Shauna Horizons Workshop this summer. The work- complish their goals. She shares her compassion for education shop will be held at the University of Roches- and community service to lead others to achieve more in life. Hunt, Casey Williams, Tyson ter in New York from June 26 to July 1. Jordan’s future plans are to graduate high school with honors Jackson, Jeremy Willis, Robert Riley is the son of Tom and Sherry Askew and to attend college. She is considering a career in the medical Jones, Billy Wilson, Riley of Sand Springs, the grandson of Joe and Ginny Pope and the field. She also wants to continue her support in the community Junell, Keri Womack Jr, Melvin great-grandson of original enrollee Sylvia Gibson. and her Choctaw tribal heritage. Kemp, April June 2011, BISKINIK, Page 10

TeachingBy LARISSA COPELAND pre-European today contact, go intowith He goes onstories to say, “The pa- “A specific of colorancestors’ of red is our collective memory. yesterdays Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma the craft work, how to make pal bull is the root of how Eu- sacred to Choctaw people,” Sadly, there are even those Choctaw weaponry and use ropeans would interact with he says. “The Creek word who deny Choctaws ever “My goal is to educate them,” he states. “I also talk Native people on this conti- for red is ‘catē’ (pronounced stomp danced at all. But our people, our youth,” says about ancient religion, village nent, a justification handed ch•ah•tee) and that may be the ancient Choctaws were Choctaw craftsman and cul- life, social structure, political down by God that this earth where the name Choctaw taught to pray this way, tural expert Les Williston of structure and hierarchy, ev- and its abundance was meant came from,” said Williston. around our sacred fire - Tushka Homma. “I do dem- eryday living basically. I put for them only. Inherently stat- “Choctaws have an exten- this is our covenant with onstrations for our people to out a lot of information so I ing that indigenous peoples, sive, interesting history and the Creator, a gift we were hopefully foster and build on always try to have a question wherever found, could not I’ve been reading about it for given to help us live close the pride in being Choctaw and answer session for any- own the land on which they a long time,” says Williston. to God,” according to Wil- people.” one who has questions about lived and could be placed in To learn about the culture, liston. He gives cultural presen- Choctaw culture. perpetual slavery.” he’s taken humanities classes He further explains, the tations regularly to youth “If the kids have a question, He then moves to the time and reads often about the cul- last Choctaw ceremonial groups using displays and I always try to give a good, when the Choctaws encoun- ture, including journals, an- ground shut down in 1937. demonstrations and oral his- thorough, full answer, some- tered Spanish conquistador thropology and archaeology He and his wife, Sarah, or torical accounts. He gives the times more than they want Hernando de Soto and his books. “I like reading the old “Beloved” as she’s also presentations at the Choctaw to hear,” he states. “But if I men in the 1540s as they books and journals that were known, started up the first Labor Day festival, culture don’t know I tell them, ‘we’ll came into the southeast look- sent back to Europe from the one since that time, now camps, schools, churches, find out together.’ I would ing for women and riches. He people who wrote them while holding the dances in LES WILLISON various Boy Scouts and JOM like everyone to want to learn recounts reading about when they were here on those ex- Tushka Homma. They are groups, and other youth gath- more.” de Soto came up on other ear- peditions. They sent letters, in their fifth year of putting erings. Understanding the impor- ly tribes with his big horses journals and things back to on the dances, which draws in yard filled with full bloods. He grew up in Broken Bow, tance of what he says to the and armor, and the tribesmen Europe. I just put it all to- members from several other We were all the same color so where making things with his children, Williston chooses would just scatter and run. gether. tribes. “We plan to hold sev- I never thought much about hands was a way of life. “My his words carefully. “What But not the Choctaw, he says. “You can read them all eral this summer, eventually it. But when Wounded Knee grandfather carved wood and you say to them is very im- “When de Soto and his men but you can’t take it at face going to once a month,” says came about, I began to see a my uncles made things,” he portant,” he explains. “It’s came upon one of our leaders, value,” he warns. “You’ve Williston. “Once we get a difference. I became aware of explains. “I grew up in the going to stick with some of he didn’t move,” continued got to know your culture be- council established, we’ll go the hatred, and that’s when I country where if you wanted them forever. You watch what Williston. “He just stared at cause they’re writing from a to once a month in the next found out about prejudice.” something you made it.” you tell them and make sure him and stood his ground. European point of view. They year or two.” (Note: Beginning on Feb. Over the years he’s become it’s something that’s going to “He met up with the Choc- don’t know the names of the Additionally, Williston 27, 1973, the town of Wound- a well-skilled craftsman, carry them through the next taws and we attacked,” he things they’re writing about performs historical re-enact- ed Knee, S.D., was occupied most of his methods being few years, maybe into adult- says. “We had bows and ar- exactly, or the customs they ments including the Trail of by American Indian Move- self-taught. “I’ve also picked hood,” he says. rows but they had gunpowder are witnessing, but they note Tears drama at Tahlequah for ment activists for 71 days in up on skills from many other “When I’m doing this and and horses.” (Note: In Octo- descriptions. You have to read seven years playing a con- protest of governmental cor- craftsmen along the way, talking to children, I see those ber 1540, after the capture of between the lines, under the federate soldier and villager, ruption and atrocities towards whether it’s theory, philoso- little eyes looking up at me, Choctaw Chief Tuscaloosa, lines, over the lines.” also serving as the weapons Native Americans. Federal phy or technique.” inquisitively,” he continues. the Choctaw ambushed de Though this is time con- technician for several years, officials, including U.S. Mar- Much of his craftwork in- “Their brains are like little Soto’s army in Mabila, a suming, Williston is more a villager in a movie shot in shals and the National Guard, volves Choctaw weaponry sponges, soaking it all in. One town near present-day Mont- than happy to put in the work Dripping Springs, Texas, and were sent in, and during sev- made with his hands, which little story could spark some- gomery, Ala. De Soto’s army to get an accurate look at a documentary last winter at eral ensuing gunfights, two includes bows, arrows, ar- thing in them and they’ll hold burned the city and retreated Choctaw life throughout his- Chalmette in Louisiana in Indians are killed and several rowheads, blow guns, darts, on to it. The words and phras- to the north.) tory. “It’s just something that the role of a Choctaw warrior people are injured.) tomahawks, lances and at- es I use, the way I look at “It was a successful resis- has always intrigued me,” he in the War of 1812. He also “It was during those years latls (spear throwing aid), to them with honesty all leaves tance,” Williston continues. explains. “I’d find a subject works as a villager every year when Native pride – pride in name a few. He uses the same an impression. You have to “It was a full hundred years or a trail that I was interested at Tushka Homma during the your blood, your people and traditional techniques as his be honest with them because before they (Europeans) came in and I’d go find out. I’d dig Labor Day festival. He can be who we are – was being held ancestors as much as possible they’ll pick up on it if you’re back into the south. This time through the books just know- found building and maintain- up and showed to us,” he ex- and without the use of any not sincere.” though, they came wanting to ing a key word or names. It’s ing the Choctaw Village as it plained. “Before then, things electricity. All his pieces are He hopes his messages and talk and trade.” very lengthy and tedious, but grows year by year. were a whole lot quieter. functional tools or weaponry demonstrations stay with the His lessons continue with I’m very interested in it so it’s He speaks Choctaw and is When the ’60s and ’70s came meant for use, not just set on children, evoking a desire in later Choctaw historical ac- not tedious to me. You just working to become more flu- along, Native youth were a shelf on display. “I don’t them to create and continue counts, explaining their role have to make the time to do ent, along with teaching his starting to say, ‘Hey, we’re make it if it can’t be used,” learning. “When they get big in the War of 1812 at the the research and learn it. If children. “I have taken the still here!’ I heard that as a kid he states. “These are lethal enough to start making these Battle of New Orleans as the I want to know something I Choctaw language classes and just thought, ‘Yeah, that’s weapons our ancestors used (the weapons and tools), may- Choctaw fought alongside find out. I learn all I can and taught by Abe Frazier and who I am.’ And I’m proud.” to defend our people or feed be they will,” he says. “May- Andrew Jackson and Ameri- then I tell the story.” have three certificates,” he It’s that pride that drives our families, not trinkets or be they’ll come look me up can soldiers to push back the In addition to creating says. “I feel it’s important that him to continue teaching the decorations.” and say, ‘Can you show me invading British forces. Choctaw crafts and weap- we get our language back. The younger generations about He gathers the material how to do that?’ And I will.” Darker times are also told, onry and educating groups Choctaw Nation is doing a re- the Choctaw culture and the for his crafts himself, cutting Along with the demonstra- including broken treaties and on the culture, Williston also ally good job with this. I see a steps and missteps through- his own cane and bois d’arc, tion aspect of his presenta- the forced removal of the tribe partakes in the sacred dances lot of young kids come up to out history that have brought hunting animals, and search- tions, he also delves into the on the long, heartbreaking that are exclusive to south- my table and start naming off the thriving Nation to where it ing out just the right rocks. past of the Choctaw, explain- walk from their homeland to eastern tribes – stomp dances. the stuff in Choctaw. I’m re- is today. He jumps at any op- He’ll also barter and trade for ing to his audience the path Indian Territory on the Trail At these ceremonial dance ally impressed with that. I’m portunity to share the stories the things he needs, just as his taken by the tribe throughout of Tears. “I tell young Choc- gatherings, he draws from his thinking, ‘All right’!” and crafts with those eager to ancestors did. history. taws never to forget this com- childhood experiences danc- Pride in his Native heritage learn. One opportunity in par- Along with making these “I try to teach all the kids plex history, not only because ing with the Okla Homma is something that he’s carried ticular is the Choctaw Days Choctaw pieces, he also about their culture and his- it makes our people who we Chahta Hilha dance group. with him for as long as he can festival in Washington, D.C., teaches others how to create tory. I’ll usually start with the are, but also because history “I was part of the group the remember. However, it was this month where he will be them, using his crafts as a tool Doctrine of Discovery and the can repeat itself at any time. Rev. Gene Wilson started in around the age of 10 when giving his cultural presenta- to educate. “I demonstrate to papal bull from 1455.” (Note: Remember, our seal shows an the ’70s,” he divulges. “It was Williston first realized it was tions to visitors of the Smith- the kids how to make the ar- Romanus Pontifex is a papal unstrung bow, but the string is a major factor in influenc- this heritage that set him apart sonian’s National Museum of rowheads, how to tie blowgun bull written in 1455 by Pope not removed, only loosened.” ing me about our culture. It’s from others in his commu- the American Indian. darts, sometimes I shave on a Nicholas V to King Afonso V He further describes very why I do the stomp dances nity. Listening to his family, He will hold daily cultural stave to show how I work on of Portugal. Catholic nations early references before the now. The ceremonial dances his uncles in particular, dur- presentations using displays, wood to make a bow.” of Europe used this docu- tribe was even called Choc- I learned from that dance ing that time is what shaped demonstrations and oral his- He uses his demonstrations ment to claim authority over taw. According to Williston, group, we now perform at him and his ideas about his torical accounts, hoping to as a way to connect with the “discovered lands” during the they were called “pashi fa- our stomp dances. It’s a sa- identity. reach not only those unfa- youth. “I focus on the youth Age of Discovery, suppos- laya” or long haired. In the cred setting and that’s where “Around that time, the miliar with the tribe and its because it just might give edly “sanctifying” the seizure southeast, he says, the Choc- they (the dances) belong be- Siege of Wounded Knee was traditions, but to also further them direction in their lives. of non-Christian lands. Na- taw were one of the only cause that’s where they came on the news,” he said. “My educate his own people. A lot of the kids get in trouble tive Americans were deemed tribes where the men wore from. Other tribes remember family was talking about this He hopes visitors take from because they don’t have any pagans by Catholic priests for their hair this way. “I thought us taking part in stomp dances and how we’re Natives of this his work and from the festival direction. Getting involved the sake of sequestering their it was cool and one of the with them, especially during land. ‘We’re Indian,’ they’d as a whole that Natives are with their culture is important lands.) “It’s very important to earliest references to us was diplomatic meetings among say. That’s when I first start- not what is portrayed in mov- – it puts pride in who they are me to share my belief the re- when we were called pashi neighboring tribes, and it is ed hearing those words and ies. “Choctaws have a beau- and their tribe. Making this lationship to Creator is no less falaya,” he says, explaining well documented in BIA pa- phrases. tiful, vibrant, living culture,” stuff and telling stories about sacred than the Christians’ re- his own long hair. pers that Choctaws stomp “When I was growing up, I he said. “I think it (Choctaw it builds that pride,” he says. lationship to God. In fact, I The name Choctaw, he danced. But so few of our old saw full bloods all the time,” Days at NMAI) is a good op- “In the presentations, I talk believe we are praying to the says, possibly came from a ones are alive who remember he continued. “On hog kill- portunity to share that cul- about traditional Native life, same Spirit.” neighboring tribe, the Creeks. it, so it has faded some from ing day, there’d be a whole ture.”

ery part only on an as-needed other materials at impressive table item produced by Choc- keep Choctaw Defense in the are quality, being on time, basis. This way, they can cre- speeds. A recently acquired taw Defense. The Paveway realm of success. and having the right price; DEFENSE ate products faster and more order of 365,000 105mm is a bomb that can be guided Benefield, who has been keys that the crew at Choctaw efficiently by removing the ammo crates will soon be via computer and camera in with Choctaw Defense for 13 Defense has not neglected, Tribe awarded major mass storage aspect and not completed with one unit be- the front end. The portion years, knows that the keys to which is depicted though its military contract overproducing certain parts ing assembled every 55 sec- Choctaw Defense produces the success in this business paramount success. that will become waste if not onds. takes commands from the Continued from Page 1 used. Choctaw Defense is also front computer and carries “We never have more involved in the mass produc- out the maneuvers, enabling create two MTVR trailers than a two-day supply,” said tion of the Battle Damage As- the bomb to hit in the optimal a day, which is impressive Benefield as he talked about sessment Repair (BDAR) Kit, location of a target. considering all the rigor- keeping the on-hand parts at which is a type of first aid Churning out so many ous inspections and scrutiny a minimum to deflect over- for vehicles in combat zones. military articles is a very se- they must be held up against. production. The BDAR kit holds essential rious business. According to This impressive statistic is Lean Manufacturing is a articles that, if a vehicle is Benefield, one third of the made possible by a process concept that has been imple- disabled with a quickly fix- American budget is defense. Help Wanted called “Lean Manufacturing,” mented in many locations able error, it can be repaired There are businesses con- Seeking Choctaw CDIB Members! which, according to Benefield across the globe. Choctaw just enough to get troops out stantly vying for the contracts ***Choctaw Casino Resort in Durant is looking to increase its Choctaw is waste elimination and con- Defense has done a notable of danger and back to a repair that Choctaw Defense earns applicants’ database for the following full-time positions. Please submit stant improvement. job in employing the concept, shop. on a regular basis, and with applications and resumes for positions such as Hotel Shift Managers, IT As a part of the Lean Man- winning the Oklahoma Manu- Choctaw Defense also defense budget cuts pend- positions and Supervisors for varied departments*** ufacturing system, Choctaw facturing Alliance Governor’s makes a considerable amount ing, the competition will only Immediate openings available for the following: Defense has had to assess Award for Top Lean Manu- of climate controlling units stiffen. Hotel Housekeepers Casino Environmental Services Staff its operation and eliminate facturing and being nominat- that control the temperature of Choctaw Defense is antici- Hotel Front Desk Clerk waste. It has stopped the tra- ed as one of eight finalists for tents and other small quarters. pating these upcoming bud- IT Help Desk ditional methods of manufac- Innovation in Manufacturing These units have been sent all get cuts and challenges, and Choctaw Casinos is owned and operated by the Choctaw Nation of Okla- turing, which consists of mass by the National Institute of over the world to make condi- the plan is to position itself homa. Position will give preference to Indians in accordance with Section creating all the components Science and Technology. tions the best they can be for as one of the best. “Remain- 7(b) of the Indian Self-Determination Act. Please attach copy of CDIB of a product, storing them and Using the Lean Manufac- American troops. ing at the top of the game like Card if applicable. finally making a finished unit. turing techniques has allowed The tail section of the Pave- we are now,” said Benefield Apply in person at Choctaw Casino Human Resource Office, In contrast, they make ev- Choctaw Defense to produce way Smart Bomb is also a no- as he reviewed his plan to 4216 Hwy 69/75, Durant, OK. June 2011, BISKINIK, Page 11 Choctaw vocal talent to perform at National Museum of the American Indian By BRET MOSS he spoke of his anxiety. Tushka Homma, where to perform and allow viewers dreamed I would be singing Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma He pushed though the they have encountered to vote for their favorite. Joe there.” He feels that it is im- nervous feeling and did packed crowds of about was not chosen as the winner, portant to pass along the ways an excellent job sing- 3,000 people. but gained plenty of public- for singing Choctaw to future With the much-anticipated ing “Just A Closer Walk Joe has also been ity through his on-air perfor- generations and plans to de- event, Choctaw Days, a cel- With Thee,” and an up- privileged with tour- mance and becoming a final- liver his talents into the hands ebration of the Choctaw peo- beat song titled “Glory ing around Anaheim, ist out of many showcases. of his family. ple and culture at the Smith- Glory.” “After I sang, Calif., and singing at Over the years, Joe has He hopes to pass along his sonian National Museum of it was a whole different the Ryman Auditorium, been perfecting his vocal tal- musical gifts to his nieces, the American Indian in Wash- feeling,” continued Joe. the former stage of the ent, singing in a variety of dif- who have shown interest in ington, D.C., fast approach- This was in 1991, Grand Ole Opry. He has ferent settings for multitudes the type of performing Joe ing, the Choctaw Nation is right after Joe graduat- been to many non-Indi- of diverse audiences. For the has come to love. He men- gathering experts in all facets ed from Dickson High an churches to present particular singing that he will tions that he may have to of Choctaw heritage. School. From that night the Choctaw songs to be doing at the Smithsonian take the road as his father Vocalist and musician Brad on, there were many them to fill their curi- and for many of his perfor- and cousin, pushing them to L. Joe, employee of Choctaw individuals requesting osity about the native mances, Joe must sing in the become more than they think Nation Archiving Enterprise that Joe travel to their culture. Choctaw language, which he they are, but they will be bet- and Dickson resident is one churches to sing for Joe’s time spent with is still learning. “I am still in ter for it. of the honored individuals to events and special oc- the Revelators was dic- a learning process,” mentions Joe’s music is not only rich be selected for his expertise casions. tated by life occurrenc- Joe. Growing up, many of in culture and pleasant to the and exceptional attributes to Once Joe gained con- BRAD L. JOE es with the members the ones around him spoke in ears, but it’s very meaning- represent the Choctaw Nation fidence in his abilities, of the group. As time Choctaw, granting Joe a bet- ful to many people. Although this June in D.C. he longed for his own went on the members ter understanding. he has been known to sing Joe will be singing the personal style, so he him to perform at a variety of gain more responsibili- The three hymns he will be country music, his talents are Choctaw hymns 11, 35 and sought aid from his cousin, locals. This, combined with ties, forcing their traveling to presenting in D.C. are pure dominantly in gospel music, 41, which he describes as Cecil Taylor, who taught him meeting the Johnson family, slow. Choctaw, meaning that they a genre that can have great songs of hope and joy. They to play the piano, an instru- who will also be featured at Even after the split with have their own tune and are meaning to those listening. are songs to celebrate the ment that Joe plays for Dur- the Choctaw Days event, in the Revelators, Joe would completely in the Choctaw Combined with spiritual les- Choctaw Nation and will dis- wood Baptist currently. 1994 led to his traveling rou- still travel and do solo per- language. This will force him sons, his words can be quite play the culture to the guests Cecil had a soft jazzy/blues tines. formances. He also took up to “start from scratch.” Be- powerful. “People have been of the museum. feel to his music, which Joe The Johnsons, consist- photography in his spare cause the songs are new to moved to tears, including my- Joe began his musical en- greatly admired and made his ing of siblings Moses, Sigus time, and gets a considerable Joe, he began practicing them self,“ describes Joe. deavors at a considerably own. He began writing his “Bubba” and Lena, with Joe amount of requests for his as soon as he received word He explains that through young age. He was born a own songs and creating his formed a group called the photography skills. that he was invited to perform his singing, some people have twin and the youngest child to personal music. Revelators. “With that we In a time when he was not at the event. been compelled to accept Donald and Ruby Joe in the Cecil also taught Joe to traveled all over the nation, utilizing his musical gift, He immediately went to Christ, and the fact that he is city of Ardmore. His family control his voice and widen from Florida to New Mexico, his father decided to spark his mother, who is full blood able to help them along their was involved with the Dur- his range. “I was scared to to California, “ stated Joe. his interest once again and Choctaw, and the members of journey towards salvation is wood Indian Baptist Church, reach the high notes,” said The group received its gigs convinced him to audition his church to get advice on his number one reason for do- located 13 miles east of Ar- Joe as he described the days by word of mouth describes for “Ardmore Live,” a musi- the right tune and pronuncia- ing what he does. dmore, and this is the stage before learning the width of Joe. They would perform at cal variety show held at the tion. Every Sunday he makes Joe mentions that his fa- where his abilities experi- this vocal range. one location; someone would Washington Theater in Ard- a point to sing them in church vorite part of performing is enced their genesis. Much like Joe’s father, Ce- become impressed and ask more. He auditioned with “I to get a feel from perform- “when someone comes up to Joe, initially shy and un- cil also pushed Joe to become them to perform at other Cross My Heart,” a single by ing them to an audience. He me and says I moved them sure of his talents, received a better. During a singing, Ce- events, and their reputation George Strait and was select- has also recorded them to a or touched their heart, and much-needed push from his cil decided to play in a higher would disperse with the peo- ed to the showcase. CD and sings along on his mostly being appreciated.” father, who played guitar for key; forcing Joe to elevate his ple leaving their venues. Over a period of time and 40-minute commute to work. Joe gives credit to his parents the church. Joe had been wea- voice. He had no choice but to Most of the events where events in Ardmore and Deni- Joe describes his oppor- for their constant support and ry of performing solo, but one give into his cousin’s request they were requested to sing son, Texas, Joe was selected tunity to sing his music and prayers. Brad L. Joe looks night, during an anniversary that he attempt a higher range. were church functions such to compete in a talent con- display his heritage at the forward to bringing his ex- event, his father, seeing his From then on, Joe had a much as singings and revivals. test with the showcase. He National Museum of the pertise along with many other potential, pushed Joe to give easier time with his range. Some of the more notable made his way to the top of the American Indian as “once Choctaw cultural experts to it a try and step up to the mic. Through Cecil, Joe met performances were several completion, and the top three in a lifetime,” and went on Washington, D.C., this sum- “There I was, nervous as I several musicians, which in- occasions at the Choctaw Na- were given a spot on KXII, to say, “I’ve always heard of mer, and maybe experience don’t know what,” said Joe as creased his network and led tion Labor Day Festival in the local television station, the Smithsonian, but I never that quality appreciation.

Family trio proud to represent the Choctaw Nation in Washington, D.C. By BRET MOSS form spiritual songs, they do Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma plan to present themselves as personal witnesses. They also Within the Choctaw Nation hope to teach those of the of Oklahoma, there are not area about their ways of life only talented individuals rep- as Choctaws. They are hop- resenting the Choctaw peo- ing to get the language out to ple, but entire families mak- the public as well as demon- ing this native culture shine. strate how they grew up in the The Johnson family broth- Choctaw Nation. ers Sigus “Bubba” and Mo- They feel exceptionally ses, along with sister Lena honored to be asked to travel Scott have been filling the with the tribe on this monu- ears of those around them mental occasion. “We will with melodies adorned with do our best to make our tribe the Choctaw language since proud,” explains Lena. a very young age. With only Aside from their vocal four years separating Lena, talents, the Johnsons have a the eldest, from the young- considerable amount going est, Moses, the siblings have on in their lives as well. Lena grown and learned together. is married to Mike Scott and The trio were all born in has two daughters, Kristin the Dallas area to the late Si- and Michaela, who keep both gus and Della Johnson, but Mike and Lena busy with Choctaw Nation:LARISSA COPELAND soon moved near Achille at a sports. She is a 2009 graduate young age to be with a church The Johnson family: Sigus “Bubba,” Lena and Moses. of Southeastern Oklahoma family and were raised in State University with a major Oklahoma. traveled and performed at rise, Fla., because they had a end thing, it was just when- trio has a central goal, which in psychology and a minor in Near the age of 3, each of various locations. Over time, cousin who lived in the area ever they were needed,” she is, “to see souls saved,” as sociology and Native Ameri- the three children along with Bubba’s love for quartet mu- who wanted them to record continued. They would sing stated by Moses. Though can studies. She has been their sisters, Rhonda and Rob- sic rubbed off on Moses. “Af- their work. That album, titled at events as needed for a time, they enjoy the privilege of employed with the Choctaw in, all learned to sing Choc- ter hearing that, I just always “Introducing The Revela- but eventually the drummer performing for crowds, the Nation for 11 years where she taw hymns. They learned this had the desire and love to tors,” consisted of a composi- and bass guitarist departed thing they long for the most is pleased to serve her fellow skill, “before we were able to sing,” explains Moses as he tion of English hymns, which from the group, along with is for their music to speak to Choctaws. Lena also enjoys read,” explains Lena. talks about how he truly be- they sold in a Christian book- the pianist to pursue other in- people on a spiritual level and volleyball herself and enjoys Sigus and Della were both gan his personal journey into store in Oklahoma City as terests. aid them in coming closer to playing with her family. qualified for musical perfor- the music world. well as at their performance The Revelators, consisting the Lord. Bubba is the father of Sigus mances and had taught their Eventually, New Vision venue. of just Brad, Bubba and Mo- They acknowledge that Jr. and Elizabeth and cherish- children to be the same. As a disbanded, leaving Bubba, Throughout the lifespan ses also gained some compe- music can be powerful and es his time with his children result, they began to travel as along with another group of the group, The Revelators tition clout by placing third speak to people in ways that as loving fathers do. Like a family to churches through- member, Brad Joe, avail- were known to make treks out of 72 groups in Spring- normal diction cannot, and Lena, he enjoys volleyball as out Oklahoma to perform as able to recruit new talent for to Florida, California, North dale, Ark., for the Albert E. they plan to travel “wherever well as other sports. He is an the Johnson Family. a fresh crew. The asked Mo- Carolina, Missouri and New Brumbly All-Night Singing. the Lord leads,” declared Mo- employee of the Choctaw Na- As the children grew, they ses to sing tenor and a local Mexico to sing for revivals The three men also released ses, to aid in that cause. tion of Oklahoma. went about doing their own friend to play the piano in a and all-night singings. One another album simply called They knew, even when the Moses is a fan of karaoke thing, lightly involved in group called The Revelators. of the biggest events was the “Revelators.” Lena had left to other groups dissolved over events and enjoys showing up singing, until Bubba made This particular group traveled Choctaw Nation Labor Day sing with a trio in Tahlequah time, they were still to stick the competition from time to an impression as he sang at all over the states of Oklaho- Festival in Tushka Hommaa. named Crossroads. Her group together and bring music with time and enjoys the fact that a church event. Some of the ma and Texas. When Lena took over for placed first in the Seminole a message to the people. “I he has only failed to claim audience realized that they They traveled and per- Moses, the traveling routine Gospel Singing. just feel like God was leading first place on one occasion. could benefit from his accom- formed for various churches remained unchanged, but the In 2010, Brad decided to us to do something as a fam- He has a wife, Karen, and paniment, and invited him to as The Revelators for a time. band did not. Around that go solo, leaving just Bubba ily,” elaborated Lena. lives in the Durant area where join the New Vision Quartet. Moses left the group eventu- time, a drummer and bass and Moses. When Brad left, When The Johnsons travel he works for Love’s. This was in the early ’90s ally and the remaining Rev- guitarist were added to the the group became inactive for with Choctaw Nation’s most The Johnsons are a close and Bubba was still young. elators requested Lena to sing group. As the group grew, a time, with only Bubba still culturally experienced indi- family and a very talented He had a love for quartet mu- tenor. “They were needing a they decided to create another performing at various church- viduals this June, they will one as well. They enjoy their sic, but still had to think over tenor, and I did miss it,” men- album, this one titled “Head- es. After discussion among not be able to sing usual singing abilities and hope to his decision. “I prayed to see tioned Lena as she told of ing for Glory” which con- the family trio, Bubba, Moses praise and worship songs in spread their gospel message if that is what the Lord want- how she became reacquainted tained a Choctaw version of and Lena made their first ap- the facilities due to federal far and wide. Even though it ed me to do,” said Bubba, and with the musical field after “Amazing Grace.” pearance as The Johnsons in regulations, but they will be is seldom for all siblings to after some careful thoughts spending some time away. Besides doing this, “The November of 2010 in Wilbur- able to bring Choctaw hymns agree on one fact, they all can and prayers, he decided to As The Revelators with Revelators were in and out,” ton, performing at the Choc- to the public of that area. declare the best part about join. Moses, they made an album describes Lena. “It wasn’t taw Nation GED Graduation. Though they cannot use it is, “we are doing what we With New Vision, Bubba at a recording studio in Sun- like a constant, every week- As the Johnsons, the family that venue to publicly per- love.” June 2011, BISKINIK, Page 12 The Walk at Wheelock

Assistant Chief Gary Batton joins the dancers.

Chief Gregory E. Pyle greets Steven Baker and Nor- ris Samuels, both of Oklahoma City, after the walk.

Honoring our ancestors Wheelock Academy is one of the favorite sites to hold the Choctaw Nation’s Commemorative Trail of Tears Walk. The peaceful rolling hills, old stone church and historic campus are located in the area of one of the first settlements of Choctaws in Indian Territory. Hundreds attended this year to walk in the footsteps of the ancestors, honoring them for the hardships they bore and for the example of courage and resilience they set for us. Choctaw Nation Photos: Judy Allen, Lisa Reed, Vonna Shults, Karen Jacob Choctaw royalty.

Twila Lemons of Ruidoso, N.M., presents Chief Pyle with a copy of her children’s book, “The Legend of Prairie Ready for the walk – Linda Wilson, Kenzie Wilson, Kevin Rose.” Also pictured are her grandson Logan Lemons, and Wilson, Kashis Wilson, Kyra Wilson and Emerson Wilson. her son, Denver Lemons, of Lockheart, Texas, and son Ry- der Lemons of Mound, Texas. Assistant Chief Batton visits with the Atchley family from Missouri – Judy Atchley Rottger, Pat and Wes Eberhart, Charlie Atchley, Russell Atchley and Gerald “Smokey” Atchley.

Anna Frazier Stephan of Idabel.

Topsy Williams of Stigler and Linda Max- It’s stickball time! well of Poteau.

A smile for the camera.

Alma Hibbert of Wylie, Texas.

A group from Durant rode a bus to Wheelock. Ramerez Willis.

Joanna Taylor of Wright City. Monica Billy and Assistant Chief Batton.

Attending the walk is a tradition for Williston Wesley. Pictured with Mr. Wesley are family members Kelman Wesley, Ethan Columbus, Charlene Wesley, Shareece Columbus, Bobby and Kyreece Wesley, Ernest Hooser of Charlotte Poindexter, Kayla Wesley, Jimmy Wesley and Bennie Wesley. Durant. June 2011, BISKINIK, Page 13

Choctaw employee James a tremendous asset By CHRISSY DILL be a tribal member, just em- juvenile population as well. Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma ployed by the Choctaw Na- Latoya has proved to be a tion. beneficial employee of the Choctaw Nation employee Before she came to Em- Choctaw Nation, and she Latoya James has been an as- ployee Health, Latoya was has plans to better Employee set to the tribe for 10 years. employed with several or- Health services. “We’re in the Pictured are S.T.A.R. students - front row, left to right, She has contributed much ganizations within the tribe, process of putting together a Ashlynn Moody, Jaxon Culwell, Jett Pitchford, Gunnar effort in supplying employ- including the travel plaza, substance abuse counseling Thompson, Laney Tiffee, Shaylee Cripps; second row, ees as well as tribal members the casino, human resources program for employees,” she Cornelio Hernandez, Drew Maxwell, Journey Perdue, with services they deserve. and on to Rapid Results, the said. Destiny McGee, Cody Drury, Weston Cox; third row, Emaline Wiles poses with She is honored to be called latter leading to her position This substance abuse pro- Isaac Dehart, Kelsey Bottoms, Andrew West, Trace Mc- her certificate for being an a Choctaw Nation employee, in substance abuse preven- gram is “in the works,” as Daniel, Hunter Woodral, Gannon Cheek, Carson Cheek; excellent S.T.A.R. student. and she plans to continue her tion. “Going through Rapid Latoya described. “We will back row, Shannon Minnis, Josa Wiles, Harley Duncan, valuable services within the Results, I saw that there is a offer counseling services, ses- Megan Mathews, Rhiannon Morton, Jace Hamner. tribe. need to help the individuals sions, education and referrals Latoya became associated that come through,” she said. for employees,” she added. with the Choctaw Nation This circumstance Latoya In the past Rapid Results when she was just 14 years was in also led to her deci- was a public program, but S.T.A.R. recognizes old through the Workforce sion to make a change to her now services are offered only Investment Act, where she educational goals. In 2007 to Choctaw Nation employees successful students worked with several organi- she earned her bachelor’s de- and tribal members. Accord- The Choctaw Nation S.T.A.R. Program zations including Choctaw gree in criminal justice from ing to Latoya, an employee along with Heavener Schools recently recog- Nation Finance and Bryan Southeastern Oklahoma State must pass a return to duty test nized the Johnson O’Malley Indian students County youth. “I loved Sum- University and had the desire in order to continue work for for their academic achievements. The S.T.A.R. mer Youth,” said Latoya with to attend law school. Now she the Choctaw Nation. Program encourages academic success of a smile. “It was a very valu- is working to attain her mas- “The individual can come Choctaw students by providing them with cer- Shae Singleterry and Laney May able experience.” ter’s degree in human rela- in voluntarily,” explained tificates and gift cards. receive their S.T.A.R. certificates. According to Latoya, WIA tions from the University of Latoya. “An evaluation will provided her with skills she Oklahoma. be conducted, then we’ll go would uti- “I first from there with either educa- lize the “Summer Youth met Latoya tion or counseling sessions.” rest of her when Not only is Latoya educat- profes- allows you to she was ed in drug abuse prevention sional life. develop skills working and education, she is learn- “The main through ing about tobacco and alcohol thing was you need for the the Sum- abuse, which she said she will the re- world.” mer Youth utilize eventually. sponsibil- – Latoya James Program in Latoya has provided servic- ity I had,” human re- es for the tribe in her various she said. sources,” roles she has been allowed to “They looked at me as a co- said Choctaw Nation em- play, in human resources and Pictured are S.T.A.R. students – front row, Dillion May, Gunner Sanders, Jessica Drury, worker, not a child, and they ployee Shelia Kirven, a close in health care. She has shown Taylor Martin, Kennedi Cooper, Lily Friedl, Makenzie Wilson, Makaylee Wilson, Em- made me a more responsible acquaintance of Latoya. “I dedication and determination ily Yandell, Macy Maxwell and Dawson Adrean; middle row, Shayleigh McDaniel, Jor- employee.” truly don’t think I’ve known during her time as a Choctaw dan Terry, Tyler Singleterry, Lexi Moody, Parker Olive, Delaney Farmer and Devon Latoya gained valuable as- anyone who loved learning so Nation employee. Mathews; back row, Hunter Tiffee, Garison Thompson, Abbi Moody, Cheyanne Dehart, sets through Summer Youth. much.” “I’ve managed to reach Malory Lynch, Cheyanne Cranfield, Shaylie Sanders and Haley Cripps; not pictured, “I looked forward to each After officially earning her goals I’ve set for myself so Michael Owens and Luke McGee. summer,” she said. “The peo- master’s in December, Latoya far,” she said. “They may ple were great and offered me plans to attain her Licensed seem small to other people, guidance and leadership.” Professional Counselor but they really mean a lot Latoya was given the op- (LPC) from OU as well and to me.” Some of these goals portunity to expand her edu- become a Licensed Alcohol include Latoya’s graduation cation beyond the classroom and Drug Counselor. “This from high school with honors WIA provides experience, through this Choctaw Nation will allow me to expand my and maintaining a full-time program. “Summer Youth al- scope of services in order to employment status while at- lows you to develop skills expand into mental illness tending school. responsibility for Choctaw teens you need for the world,” she rather than only substance “I’m one of the youngest said. “I was responsible for abuse,” she explained. people here,” she continued. The Workforce Investment chooses their my actions and learned the “I still have criminal justice She expressed pride in the Act gives youth of the Choc- place for em- value of hard work.” roots; that is still in me,” said fact that she was at a young taw Nation the opportunity to ployment, When she graduated high Latoya. Though she plans to age to have received a posi- gain experience in a field of a school school, Latoya was able to continue employment with tion with such longevity. their choosing while teaching counselor, or earn an interview for employ- the Choctaw Nation, ulti- “I’ve seen Latoya grow them the value of holding a sometimes ment within the Choctaw Na- mately she’d like to work into a tremendous asset to full-time job. a helpful in- tion. “I still remember the day, with a prison re-entry pro- the Choctaw Nation,” said “The Summer Youth Pro- dividual ap- July 16, 2001, I began work- gram providing incarcerated Shelia. “She’s an outstanding gram introduces kids into the pointed by ing for the tribe full time,” individuals with life skills, employee, and it has been an workforce,” said WIA direc- the Choctaw said a satisfied Latoya, “and training, job searching tech- extreme joy to see her grow tor Patty Mink, “and it puts a Nation, will I’ve been here ever since.” niques and helping them fur- and advance within the Choc- little money in their pockets.” approve the Choctaw Nation: BRET MOSS Latoya contributed the ther their education. taw Nation.” WIA is a five-week-long choice and Summer Youth Program as “Some people ask me why “There are so many peo- summer program that allows guide the student through the ployment after the program; it one of the main reasons she I’d want to rehabilitate them,” ple I’d like to thank,” said students ages 14-21 to obtain process of gaining full em- opens more doors for them,” is employed with the Nation said Latoya. “They will get Latoya, smiling, but there a job at various worksites ployment. commented Mink. today. “It’s one of the things I out one day, and they could were a select few she remem- within the 10 ½ counties of “The program has grown Mink discussed the impact love most about Choctaw Na- be my neighbor.” bered from when she “was the Choctaw Nation. tremendously,” said Mink, WIA has on its participants, tion,” she said. According to Latoya, a little girl.” Among others, The number of students who has held the title of WIA serving as motivation to seek Latoya plays her part in teaching them these social Kay Jackson, Shelia Kirven, participating in this program director since July 1998. employment and maintain advancing Choctaw Nation skills and providing them Margaret Jackson and “defi- is impressive. Last summer, Not only has the program jobs. “The program really im- services with the title of Sub- with ways to contribute to nitely Brian McClain” were there were a total of 1,403 in- grown over the years, a few proves their self-esteem,” she stance Abuse Coordinator for their community will enhance a great help to Latoya. She dividuals, all able to work up changes have been made as explained. “They have to go Choctaw Nation Employee their lives outside of prison. also thanked all of her co- to 40 hours a week and were well. “Participants are able to out and find their own job in Health. “I will be working “This will help society as a workers, Chris Ribbera and paid by the Choctaw Nation work at government or non- the field they are interested in; with substance abuse individ- whole, help my neighbors Wanda Vanderveen, her sum- for their work efforts. profit businesses now,” said it’s a big motivator.” uals and provide services for and myself, not just the pris- mer youth counselor. “There This year, the number of Mink. In the past students If you are interested in par- them with no cost,” she de- oners,” she added. are so many people that have participants has increased to a were only able to be employed ticipating in WIA next sum- scribed. She continued saying She also expressed the need made an impact on my life,” total of 1,504. by profit organizations. “Lots mer, all paperwork must be the individual doesn’t have to for this type of service for a she said. Once the participant of kids are picked up for em- completed by April 15.

MSPI employee Hearn provides loyal service to Choctaw Nation began working in Choctaw vention, telling them it is “Tracy was supportive of me she wouldn’t be where she is ‘Summer Youth probably one of the Nation’s accounts payable de- prevalent and it’s the most going to work for MSPI,” she today in serving the Choctaw partment. In 2004 she worked preventable cause of death. said. “She knew it was in the community if it weren’t for best programs in Choctaw Nation’ with the imaging department, When Amber became field I was interested in.” the tribal employees and their sistance Program. where “we just started to go aware of MSPI seeking em- Tracy also helped Amber services. By CHRISSY DILL According to Amber, online,” she described. ployees, she jumped at the to utilize the Career Devel- “I want to give back to Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma “Summer Youth is probably Amber continued employ- opportunity since the work opment Program, which in- Choctaw Nation as much as I one of the best programs at ment with the tribe in the was related to her interest, troduced her to a 75-hour can,” she said. Choctaw Nation employee Choctaw Nation.” She con- government department of having her bachelor’s degree hypnosis course. “There’s a Amber holds a desire and Amber Hearn has contributed tinued saying the program finance in 2006. in psychology. therapeutic side and a fun side passion for working with her services for several years, teaches teenagers work ethic Today she is an employee At this time she was em- to hypnosis,” explained Am- Choctaw youth, showing working in a variety of de- and responsibility at an early of the Methamphetamine and ployed with the accounts re- ber, having an official hypno- them how to experience their partments and providing her age. Suicide Prevention Initiative ceivable department under sis certificate and conducting own culture while seeing skills for tribal members and Amber said the Summer (MSPI), a grant given to the the direction of Tracy Sikes. it on the side. what is available career-wise employees. Youth Program helps students Choctaw Nation by Indian “Tracy did a lot for me,” said “I can help people with ev- in their future, and she hopes She gives the Nation credit attain their goals in and out of Health Services. “The Nation Amber. eryday habits like nail-biting, to benefit the Choctaw Nation for her motivation to further the classroom. “It helps with is one of 126 tribes across the Amber worked for the weight loss and smoking.” through her work. “I want her education, gain valuable responsibility in the class- United States to receive this Choctaw Nation all through “The Choctaw Nation re- them to know there is a place experience and learn the im- room as well as the real world grant,” said Amber. college and when she started ally pushes you to further for them after school,” she portance of taking responsi- after school,” she explained. Amber’s duties at MSPI pursuing her master’s. Tracy your education and they’ll said. bility. “The program taught me the include “going out into the worked with her and her class help you,” said Amber. “If it Amber said she has gained Amber began work with importance of respecting oth- community to raise aware- schedule. “She made sure wasn’t for their support, pro- valuable experience as a the Choctaw Nation when she ers, and it helps students see ness regarding methamphet- I had time for school and a viding scholarships and the Choctaw Nation employee. was just 14 years old through what they want to do in their amine and its effect on the job,” said Amber. Summer Youth Program, I “I’ve worked for lots of dif- the Summer Youth Program, future.” Choctaw Nation area,” she Since she was employed feel like I wouldn’t have my ferent departments for Choc- where she was employed with Amber continued employ- explained. with a finance department degree or hypnosis certifica- taw Nation,” she said. “I feel Upward Bound, the Head ment with Child Care As- Amber also informs indi- and had a psychology degree, tion.” like I’ve gained a lot of expe- Start and the Child Care As- sistance until 2003 when she viduals about suicide pre- Amber said she felt a bit lost. Amber continued by saying rience.” June 2011, BISKINIK, Page 14 Choctaw Senior Citizens gather for annual event

District 12 Councilman James Frazier and Chief Gregory E. Pyle visit and enjoy lunch at the annual District 9 Councilman Ted Dosh event. and Marilyn Mitchell of Durant pose for a photo.

The Bethel and Broken Bow seniors join to sing a Choctaw hymn. Choctaw gospel singing contest 1st place: Bethel/Bro- ken Bow 2nd place: Poteau Dorothy and A.R. Kirkpatrick are having 3rd place: Wright City a great time. The Poteau seniors entertain the crowd with their singing.

Louise and Bill Amos of Idabel show off their traditional dress.

Mary Watson was named the Choctaw Seniors from Wright City sing a Choctaw hymn. Nation Outstanding Elder of the Year. Windal Muse, left, and James Green enjoy the afternoon. Carolyn Jackson and mother Alma Hat contest winners Choctaw Nation Photos: Jossett of Atoka are proud of their fan- LARISSA COPELAND and BRET MOSS cy hats.

James Frazier (1st place, not pictured); Eva Lanning, left, (1st place, McAlester); Jane Jim Lloyd is all Jim Fry, left, (3rd place, Spiro); and Walker Parent, center, (2nd place, Spiro); and Jonell Assistant Chief Gary Batton greets Rick and Bar- smiles both in front of Davis (2nd place, Idabel). Fields (3rd place, Wright City). bara Plotner at the Event Center. and behind the camera.

ByRoger CHRISSY DILL Amerman exhibits Choctaw beadwork People seem to enjoy Rog- Amerman of Yakima intri- work efforts.” Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma er’s work year after year, last cately stitches a link to his Future beadwork from year gaining him a “People’s heritage and, for others, to Roger includes a full, match- Roger Amerman has Choice” award at the North- the American Indian culture.” ing traditional Choctaw male been selected to display his west American Indian Art He was also written about in regalia, which contains over Choctaw-style beadwork, Show and Auction in Post The Wenatchee World in Oct. five pieces. “All items will described as active and high- Falls, Idaho. 2000, describing him releas- include Choctaw and mound energy as well as exhibiting Along with his awards, ing a powerful vision. builder designs and motifs,” vibrancy, color and complexi- Roger has also conducted In 2006, Roger visited Top- he explained. ty, at the Choctaw Days event special presentations and re- penish, Wash., to serve as a Throughout his educational taking place this summer at ceived several honors and lecturer and conducted his career, Roger was interested the National Museum of the recognitions. He has held the presentation “A review of in the environment and has American Indian in Washing- role of guest lecturer and in- southeast tribal beadwork and worked toward keeping it a ton, D.C. structor, showing his care in its ties to the artistic tradi- clean place, much like the “Beadwork is the one me- spreading the Choctaw heri- tions of the ancient southeast environment his Choctaw an- dium I like, I’m able to excel tage through teaching bead- mound builder complexes cestors lived in. at and is appreciated by oth- work. He has also been the fo- of eastern North America,” “At a young age, I was fas- ers” said Roger. cus of articles in publications. sponsored by the National cinated and intrigued by the He began this type of art “I am motivated to tap into Park Service at the Lewis and rich geology of Utah and Ari- early in life. “I originally the vast richness of Choctaw Clark National Historic Trail zona, mountain systems, di- started beading when I was and southeast art heritage and Visitor Center at Yakama Na- nosaur fossils and the ancient 11 years old,” he said, as he couple it with my technical tion Cultural Heritage Center. people that once inhabited the took an interest in Choctaw Photo Provided beadwork skills and knowl- Roger sincerely cares about canyons and plateaus,” he ex- fancy dancing and wanted to ROGER AMERMAN edge,” said Roger. “I want to the traditions of the Choctaw plained. participate in pow wows. “At help bring it to the forefront tribe being spread throughout After graduating high first, beading was peripheral “Beadwork seems to first annual Choctaw Nation of native artistic traditions in the community, and he makes school, he attended college to my first passion of fancy ground me,” he said. “It’s a Art Show in Tushka Homa North America.” a personal effort to do so. He at the University of Oregon, dancing, but I found out that way I can connect with con- and received the same title in Roger served as an instruc- served as a planning commit- earning his bachelor’s degree I really enjoyed beading. It temporary Indian people and the 2006 show. tor for a Native American tee member for the premiere in geology. was somewhat therapeutic, my Choctaw ancestors.” Though he’s had success Beading Workshop, “Bead- exhibit, “Choctaw People, He went on to earn his mas- and eventually people started He is a proud member of in local Choctaw art shows, ing Excitement,” sponsored Choctaw Arts,” organized by ter’s in geology from Colo- noticing my work and would the Choctaw Nation, his heri- Roger has broadened the by the Burke Museum at the the Institute of American In- rado School of Mines and his even pay me for it.” tage and family history play- display of his talent to vari- University of Washington in dian Arts (IAIA) Museum in master’s in natural resource Roger is known for his Pla- ing a significant role in his ous venues across the United 2003. New Mexico in the spring of science from Washington teau pictorial-style beadwork inspiration for designs. “My States. These national accom- In 1996, he conducted a 2008. He was also a planning State University. and depicting the icons, mo- Choctaw kin originally come plishments, along with his lecture and slide presentations committee member for “Our Roger has held several tif and heritage of the Choc- from Atoka and Stephens best of show award at the first on two separate occasions: Land/Ourselves: American positions in his career field taw/Southeast tribal people Counties,” he explained. annual Choctaw Art Show, “Tribal Natural Resource Indian Contemporary Art- throughout the years, such as through his finished product. Roger’s great-grandfather are which he is most proud. Ethics, Landscapes and Fam- ists” at the Museum of Art at a plant ecologist, an explora- The result of embracing and is the late Redmond Bond, He received best of show ily Art” was sponsored by the Washington State University tion geologist and his current investing himself in these two born in Indian Territory at the in May 2000 at the Indian Art Department of Landscape De- Fine Arts Center in 1995. title as a soil conservationist. artistic beadwork traditions end of the Civil War, and his Show Northwest in Portland, sign at Utah State University At Choctaw Days, Roger Roger and wife Carolyn is masterful creations exhib- grandparents are the late An- Ore., and in 2008 received and was presented for the an- is planning to exhibit his full Jackson Amerman have four iting endless creativity and drew Wright and Alice Bond “Best of Classification” at the nual international conference length, full buckskin and par- sons, Douglas Jackson, Dar- exciting designs, beadwork in Wright. Heard Museum Indian Fair for the Council of Educators tially beaded, highly ornate ren, Dawson and Preston. motion with a rich visual vo- Throughout his time as and Market in Phoenix, Ariz. in Landscape Architecture in southeast Choctaw cut fron- Darren and Dawson are cur- cabulary. a Choctaw artist Roger has He was the recipient of Spokane, Wash. tier jacket. “This coat is by far rently attending college in Roger’s designs also in- earned many awards through the prestigious Southwestern Roger was featured in the my largest project to date, and Washington and Idaho, and clude “lane” and “contour” exhibitions and various com- Association for Indian Arts Yakima Herald-Republic I have never shown it to the Carolyn, Preston and Roger style beadwork using an over- petitions. He received “Best (SWAIA) Fellowship Award in 2006 in an article enti- public,” he said. “I call it the live on the Nez Perce Reser- lay stitch. of Show” in Sept. 2004 at the in 2007 as well. tled “Bead-by-Bead: Roger Sistine Chapel of my bead- vation in Idaho. June 2011, BISKINIK, Page 15

Ralph Adcock, Marvin Ginn and DeAnn Rowe take a Councilmen Jack Austin, Delton Cox and Ted Dosh wait At the end of the dinner, Councilman Coley relaxes and minute for a picture and then finish speaking with Chief with Michelle Shoemake, Delores Cox, Mary Coley and speaks briefly with JoAnna Baker, Wilhemina Baker, Ma- Gregory E. Pyle. Faye Self for the festivities to begin. rissa Martinez and Samantha Queravin.

Wilburton center hosts appreciation dinner

Assistant Chief Gary Batton welcomes Councilman Coley thanks Clyde and Rosie Mae Ludlow and Gwendolyn Parish Brayden Spears for attending the Appre- Bart to the Wilburton dinner. ciation dinner.

Choctaw Nation Photos: KAREN JACOB

Councilman Joe Coley enjoys visiting with people from his area during the Appreciation Dinner on May 16. Pictured, far left, Ralph Adcock; above left, Betty Hall; above right, C.J. Adcock; and, far right, Steve Smith, president of Eastern Oklahoma State University.

The early life of District 6’s Juanita West Noah Juanita West Noah was This was also the time her twin sisters were to J.C. and the two got along. born on Oct. 30, 1931, in a born. She remembers that after the twins were J.C. was happy to know she small LeFlore County com- born her father gave her more responsibilities approved and mentioned that munity called Rosedale to Ted because he had to take care of them. is was a long time coming. and Lotta Thomas West. Shortly after the birth of the twins, the fam- The couple had four chil- She lived in a large green ily moved to Juanita’s grandmother’s Indian dren during their 39-year house that her parents rented. allotment. It was into an old wooden house marriage. J.C. passed away It had wide porches and many that was in need of repair. The night of the on June 2, 1989, from a heart rooms with notable décor. move-in, there was an ice storm that produced attack. He had some earlier in She remembers enjoying that ice that did not thaw for three weeks. life, but he kept working hard house very much as a child. During the ice, Juanita started school at the through his days, which may She attended a Methodist community of Boggy. She had to walk across have attributed to the fatal at- church in Rosedale that was fields of ice and snow to get to school. That tack. inside the school her sister at- particular school went to the eighth grade and During the marriage Juanita tended. Juanita completed that school. Shortly after obtained her nursing license. Early in her life, her parents she completed her education at Boggy, a tor- She went to the Poteau Voca- split. Her father took her to nado destroyed the school and it was consoli- tional Technical School and stay with an aunt and uncle while he went to California to find dated with other schools. got her LPN. She went to work for Latimer County General work. Once he found it, he had intended to come back for her, Juanita then took the bus to Red Oak school and finished four Hospital. but Lotta found out where she was located and came to take years there. She graduated in 1949. Juanita was a tall girl and One day she got a call from the Choctaw Nation about the her. wanted to play basketball, but her parents would not let her. CHR program. A man who Juanita was acquainted with offered Her parents eventually reunited and they moved to the Mc- During high school she had a man in her life, J.C. Noah, that her a job with the Choctaw Nation and she took it. She greatly Curtain area when Juanita was four. This was in 1936 and she liked. He was in the service during World War II and they enjoyed it as she traveled all around the Choctaw Nation. Juanita remembers terrible conditions of the dust bowl. She could not be together. Once Juanita turned 18 and he left the She worked for Choctaw Nation until she retired at 72 years remembers the water drying up and having to take the milk service, he came up to her home in a taxicab and took her away. old. She was deeply sad to leave her job because she enjoyed cow down to the creek because they had to save all the well The two left for Fort Smith Ark., and were married. The taxi it so much. water close to the house. driver was the only witness to the marriage. They lived with his In her retirement years, Juanita attends the Wilburton Se- She remembers her mother washing her and her sister’s hair parents for a time and then rented a place at Boggy Center. Her nior Citizen’s Program every Wednesday. She also goes to the in the yard, a whirlwind of dust blowing though the yard and husband worked in various places around the area. He worked Church of Christ in Red Oak and sings in Choctaw at the Lodi both of them becoming covered in mud. The girls enjoyed the at the Naval Ammunition Depot in McAlester and eventually Church and the Cedars Indian Baptist Church. whirlwinds, but Lotta was not so pleased and had to wash their at the Circle F Ranch. She enjoys arts, crafts and painting. She painted pictures for hair again. Juanita’s mother did not approve of the marriage at first, but around her home and has painted a sign that goes outside her This was the year she began attending school at McCurtain. after a few years of J.C. treating her right, Lotta came around home.

Ola Maye Billy Draper shares her memories Ola Maye Billy Draper was born on Aug. sanitarium, she was given cod liver oil times because of her mother’s hard work. The family had a 20, 1921, in the town of Howe, Okla. Her fa- to help her condition, which is why she hard time getting clothes because they had little money, and the ther, Watson Benton Billy, was three-fourth will not eat fish to this day. She recalls money they did have, they used to buy flour. Choctaw blood and her mother, Sophia that even moving her arms and legs was Ola’s mother also enjoyed cooking often. Ola did not learn to Moore Billy was full blooded. Ola is listed as sometimes hard. cook like her mother, but would help in other ways around the having three-quarters Choctaw blood, though While she was in Shawnee she did kitchen such as peeling potatoes and cleaning. As a result of the she has more. much reading and crocheting while she cooking, the family would have guests over often. Ola was the fourth of five children in her got better. Her favorite book was Little Around 1940, her mother sold that place and moved to Wil- family. She lived and began school in Howe Women. She loved to read each night burton and lived on a reservation, which is now Eastern Okla- until she was nine years old. At this age she when things were quiet all around her. homa State College. Ola says that some people claim there was was forced by illness to reside at the sanitar- On Saturdays, the sanitarium staff never a reservation there, but Ola knows better. ium in Talihina. Her doctor thought she had would take the residents to downtown Ola lived on this reservation until 1940 when she married developed TB due to bouts of pneumonia that Shawnee for shopping and a movie. Edward Draper, who was a member of the Army. She met him had damaged her lungs. Once a month, there was a party for before 1940, while at a dance. They danced with each other and Before leaving for Talihina, Watson passed them as well. At the parties the girls felt a spark. away in 1928. She remembers that before would get dressed up, which was a rare After the dance, they did not see each other for some time. he even knew how to drive, he had purchased a new Model-T occasion, and enjoyed food and games with their friends. Ola Edward was stationed in Texas, Missouri and California until Ford, which a friend later showed him how to operate. He was would sometime not be in good enough health and have to miss he was discharged in 1940. After his discharge, the two trav- the Methodist minister of Spring Hill Church in Howe. the party, which she remembers being very disappointing. eled to a Justice of the Peace in Poteau and were wed. She spent a year in Talihina. There, the occupants of the sani- When Ola was nearing the age of 16 she was able to return Once they were married, the couple moved to an apartment tarium had classes after their lunch. If they chose, they could home from Shawnee. It was July when she was released. Her in Wilburton. Ola’s mother came down with an illness and take part in crochet classes, learn to work with leather or em- mother did not have a phone at the time, so when she was able stayed with them until she recovered. They then moved to a broider. Ola spent her time learning to crochet and made bed- to go home, she called her mother’s lawyer who relayed the house on the reservation. spreads, tablecloths, afghans and doilies. message. While living there, Ola learned how to drive a car. The car She also learned to do beadwork. She made many bracelets, Aside from her time spent in the sanitarium, Ola remembers she learned on was a little car called a “bread wagon,” which a belt, necklaces and some key holders, which she gave as gifts. certain other aspects of her childhood. She vaguely remembers had a standard transmission. She did not care for it, so Edward After spending a year in Talihina, Ola was well enough to re- her sister, who passed away in 1945. She was about 15 years purchased a ’47 Chevy and later a ’50 Ford. turn to her home. older than Ola and suffered from kidney problems. Her other In the late 1950s, Edward and Ola moved into her current Upon her arrival, the family moved to Higgins, located in sibling also passed away at various times from differing causes. home, which they rented at the time, but now own. They de- the country outside of Hartshorne on a trail that was known as She remembers her mother working hard around their land cided to settle down there because her mother could live with the Choctaw Trail. The move was due to her mother getting re- during hard economic times. Her stepfather passed away in them and his parents lived nearby at Cravens. married. The school she attended in Higgins, which no longer 1933, meaning her mother had to take on the bulk of the work. During the marriage, Edward worked construction in Wilbur- exists, went to the eighth grade. She would raise the cattle, hogs, geese, chickens and guineas ton until he made the decision to work at the ammunition plant. She began her fourth grade year there, but quickly had a re- all while growing an annual garden. “She worked!” exclaimed Ola’s health improved and she began to have children. She has occurrence of her TB. She was moved to Shawnee to another Ola. three sons, Calvin Davis Draper, Leonard Edward Draper and Indian TB sanitarium, where she stayed another year. At the She remembers always having enough food during hard Billy Hugh Draper. June 2011, BISKINIK, Page 16 OBITUARIES James Nelson Sherry Hobb Geneva Anderson James “Hondi” Eli Nelson Jr., Sherry Lambert Montgomery Hobb, Geneva Anderson, 95, of Amarillo 46, a longtime Lane area resident 64, passed away on Feb. 18, 2011, passed away on Feb. 22, 2011. She passed away on March 26, 2011, at in Spokane, Wash. She was born on was born on Jan 3, 1916, in Durant Fort Smith, Ark. He was born on July July 2, 1946, in Ada to Marie Breco to Albert and Cena Harkins. She was 17, 1964, in Atoka to James Nelson and Robert Huntington. The family raised in Tupelo and Erick. Her father Sr. and Esther (Peters) Nelson. He moved to Germany in 1947 where he was an original enrollee of the Choc- graduated in 1982 from Atoka High was a pilot in the Army. They moved taw Nation. School. James was a brick and rock back to the states six months later. In She married Rod Anderson on Aug. mason and worked in the construction 1953, Marie re-married and Jim Lam- 9, 1931, in Delhi, which is located in field. He attended the Church of the bert adopted Sherry at the age of 8 in Beckham County. He preceded her in Rock in Lane. He enjoyed playing his flute and working for the Spokane. She remained in Spokane to raise her two children, death in 2002. They lived in Snyder for several years before Choctaw Nation as a Community Health Representative. Kim and Jim. Sherry went to college in San Francisco in the moving to Amarillo in 1996. He was preceded in death by his mother, Esther (Peters) Nel- ’60s, studied fashion and design and became an accomplished Mrs. Anderson was a homemaker and enjoyed cooking, sew- son; nephew Wayne Bailey; and grandparents, T.R. and Carrie seamstress. In the ’70s she worked at the Bon Marche, now ing, crocheting and gardening. She was eagerly awaiting the birth Nelson and William and Tracy Peters. known as Macy’s, in Spokane as a department manager in of her first great-great-grandchild to join her legacy in April. He is survived by his son, Matthew of Lane; father James the women’s department. In the ’80s she became very diverse The family would like to give a special thanks to the staff Nelson Sr. of Lane; siblings, Jackie Lyles and Lucy Nelson, detailing and undercoating new vehicles. In the mid ’90s she of Bivins Memorial Nursing Home and to Patsy Hubbard and both of Lane, Carla Hayes with husband Robert of Fittstown, worked at Bumpers Fun Center as a general manager dealing Jerry Pickens for all their care. Shelley Cromer of Durant, Jennifer Manuelito with husband with marketing, recruiting, etc. with her daughter and son. She She was preceded in death by her parents; a son, Lewis Ed- Brandon of Phoenix, and Willie Nelson of Calera; along with retired in 2000 and in the last 10 years she used her creativity ward Anderson in 1935; a granddaughter, Pam Porter in 2010; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, other rela- styling greeting cards, purses, and dabbling in interior design. three brothers; and two sisters. tives and many dear friends. Sherry loved to dance and had a great sense of humor. She also Survivors include two daughters, Helen Porter with husband had a great love for Jesus and his teachings. BeBe of Olathe, Kan., and Janice Hughes and special friend She is survived by her two children, Kim and Jim; sister Jerry Pickens of Amarillo; a brother, Charles Harkins of Tur- Brandon Winship Kathy; father Jim Lambert; and husband Ed Hobbs. lock, Calif.; a sister, Melba Polk of Tupelo; three grandchildren, Rod Porter of Kansas City, Mo., Dana Higgs with hus- Brandon Ray “Gator” Winship, 24, band Kal of Amarillo, and Tim Smallwood with wife Kelly; passed away on May 2, 2011, in Rat- Jim Rose and four great-grandchildren, Kallie McBride with husband tan. He was born May 5, 1986, in Ada Mitch, Kyle Higgs with wife Bianca, Saira Smallwood and to Jackie Leroy and Sherry Rae (Win- Dr. Jim E. Rose, 55, of Ringling Yvette Smallwood, all of Amarillo. ship) Cook. passed away on March 2, 2011, in Gator grew up in Bonham, Texas, Ardmore. He was born on Sept. 3, and had lived in the Rattan area for 1955, in Ardmore to McClain and Bernice Long the past seven years. He was of the Margarette (Bogle) Rose. Dr. Rose Bernice Long, 82, of Wilburton, Baptist faith, and he enjoyed riding graduated from Ringling High School passed away on April 29, 2011, in horses, hunting and helping Nana in in 1973, from Cameron University in Poteau. the kennel. Most of all, Gator loved spending time with his 1978 and received his Doctorate of Bernice was born Nov. 27, 1928, family and friends. Veterinarian Medicine from the Col- to John and Lorene (Jack) Burnett in Gator was preceded in death by his papa, Jimmy Winship; lege of Veterinary Medicine at Okla- Red Oak. She grew up in Leflore and great-grandfather, Anderson Winship; great-grandmothers, homa State University in 1982. Red Oak. She married Chester Long. Ada Winship and Alma Fuller; and an uncle, Harold Winship. In 1982, he moved to Poteau to practice veterinary medicine Bernice enjoyed traveling with her He is survived by his mother, Sherry Cook of Rattan; father, at Poteau Valley Veterinary Hospital with Dr. Phil Chitwood. In friends on the Choctaw senior trips. Jackie Cook of Bennington; brothers, Kike Cook of Rattan 1992, he returned home to Ringling to start his own mobile vet- She was a member of the Thessalo- and Edward Johnson of Hugo; nana, Linda Winship of Rat- erinary practice, “Ramblin’ Rose Veterinary Services.” He and nian Baptist Church. tan; uncle, Terry Don Winship of Rattan; cousins, Lyndsi Win- the former Cindy Carol Chapman were united in marriage on Bernice is preceded in death by her parents, John and Lorene ship, Kayli Winship, Easton Winship, Loghann Winship and Dec. 28, 1973, in Ringling. They had just celebrated 37 years of Burnett; husband Chester Long; son Sam Colbert; sisters, Wan- Kelbi Winship; many other aunts, uncles and cousins, as well marriage in December. Jim loved working with animals, being da Johnson, Mae Hatcher and Carolyn Littlejohn; and brother, as many other relatives and friends. outdoors, traveling, being with his family and riding the four- Dear Jack “Hambone” Burnett. wheeler with his granddaughter, Justice. He was her “Doc.” He She is survived by her sons, Jerry Colbert with wife Darlene was a proud member of the Choctaw Nation and was pleased to of Gallatin, Tenn., Tommy Colbert of Poteau and Steve Long Jewel Meely pass on his heritage to his children and granddaughter. with wife Barbara of Hackett, Ark.; sister Jo Graves with hus- Preceding Jim in death were his father on Feb. 2, 1974; band Dennis of Amarillo, Texas; 12 grandchildren, Tina, Chris- Jewel D. Meely, 53, of Oklahoma mother on Dec. 27, 2006; and mother-in-law Carol Chapman ty, Tammy, Tommy, Timmy, Torry, Teddy, Heather, Jeremy, City passed away on Dec. 29, 2010, on Aug. 10, 2008. Chris, Tony and John; numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, in Oklahoma City. He was born on Survivors include his wife, Cindy, of the home; daughter nephews, cousins and other family and friends. Dec. 19, 1957, in Oklahoma City to Kimmie Carol Rose Wilson with husband Bo’don of Sanger, Charley and Virginia Mae (William- Texas; son Cody James Rose of Norman; granddaughter Justice son) Meely. He grew up in Oklahoma Nycole Wilson; sister Janice Willis of Corinth, Texas; brother City before moving to Sulphur and at- McClain Rose with wife Laura of Oklahoma City; father-in- Daniel Hudson tended school in Sulphur before join- law L.J. Chapman of Courtney; brother-in-law Larry Chapman Daniel Hudson, 86, passed away on April 17, 2011, in Ant- ing the Army. He enjoyed music and of Courtney; sisters-in-law, Tammy Holder with husband Den- lers. He was born on Feb. 14, 1925, to Isham Hudson and baseball. nis of Chickasha and Shelly Milson with husband Larry of Oil Phoebe (Bohanan) Hudson in Eagletown. Both parents were He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers and City; numerous nieces, nephews, family and friends. full-blood Choctaws. one sister. Daniel was fluent in the Choctaw language. He loved to sing He is survived by his son, Christopher Meely of New Or- Choctaw hymns and read the Choctaw Bible. leans, La.; two brothers, David Byars of Sulphur and Charles Laymon Kennedy He was preceded in death by both parents; two sisters, Velma Meely of Ardmore; two sisters, Tawana Colungo, Sulphur, and Battiest and Pauline Hampton; half-sister Daisy Wilmon; two Ramona Macias of St. Louis, Mo. Laymon E. Kennedy, 82, of Tulsa brothers, John Beaver Hudson and Edwin Hudson. passed away on Sept. 19, 2010 in Tul- He is survived by brother James Hudson of Speers; a host of sa. He was born on March 28, 1928, relatives of Hudson, Bohanan, Amos and Tonihka descent; and Pearlie Deatley in Hoyt to H.R. and Lela (Green) a host of nieces and nephews to the third generation. Kennedy. He moved to Tulsa in 1950 Pearlie May Sampson-Deatley, 58, and worked for Tulsa Public Schools of Wright City, passed away on March foe 27 ½ years, then retired from Frances Jones 9, 2011, in Paris, Texas. She was born Union Public School in 1987. He Aug. 10, 1952, in Roxton, Texas, the was a member of the Masonic Delta Frances M. Jones, 90, homemaker, daughter of Jacob Sampson and Ma- Lodge #425 in Tulsa. passed from this life on April 23, rie (Elapshabbie) Sampson. Pearlie He was preceded in death by his parents; and his brother, 2011, in Tulsa. She was born on April was a hardworking woman and had Bunny Ray Kennedy. 25, 1920, to Joe and Magdolene (Fra- worked as a dietitian and cook for at He is survived by two daughters, Lanora Kennedy of Coweta zier) Allen in Sardis. least 20 years for numerous nursing and Dianna Easley of Broken Arrow; two stepdaughters, Kelly Frances married Odis Lowell Jones facilities in Paris. She loved to spend Jack of Sapulpa and Michelle Schwartz of Owasso; three sis- who preceded her in death. time with the family, loved her cats and enjoyed listening to ters, Elrenah Lawrence, Norma Lee Brignon and Betty Sue Frances was preceded in death by music. She was a member of Goodwater Methodist Church. Maxwell, all of Oklahoma City; brother Jerry Kennedy of her husband, Odis Lowell Jones; par- Her parents preceded her in death. She was also preceded in Oklahoma City; five grandchildren, Brandon Fountain, Lisa ents, Joe and Magdolene Allen; step- death by a brother, Eldon “Red” Sampson, and nieces, Jaque- McAlester, Travis Sims, Josh Hicks and Jeremy Hicks; and mother Eunice Cain Allen; great-grandchild: Brooke Nicole line Sampson and Audrey Sampson. several great-grandchildren. Olmstead; sister Maggie Bales; and brothers, Earlwayne Allen She is survived by her husband, Rodney Deatley; two sons, and Dale Cain. Charlie Sampson with wife Libby and Joe Sampson with wife She is survived by her children, Nancy Trompler, Lynna Brittany, both of Paris; two sisters, Ruthie Fleming and Sarah Harry Denison Edmondson with her husband Gerald, Larry Jones with his Sampson, both of Paris; two brothers, Albert Sampson of Ada, wife Shauna; grandchildren, Alaine Brand with her husband and Johnny Sampson of Paris; grandchildren, C.J. Sampson, Harry Lafayette Denison, 79, Kenneth, David Trompler with his wife Brandi, Pastor J. Cole Brittany Sampson, Joseph Sampson Jr., Eric Sampson, Stormy passed away on May 6, 2011, sur- Weston with his wife Ambre, Matt Jones with his wife Lisa, Dunken and Sierra Sampson; niece Mary Sampson of Paris, rounded by his family. Jennifer Olmstead with her husband Nick; great-grandchildren, and nephews, Walter and Kevin Sampson of Paris; along with He was born Jan. 23, 1932, and Harrison Jones, Peyton Olmstead, Randy Olmstead, Susan numerous other nieces and nephews and a host of family and raised in Idabel. He attended Austin Brand, Nicholas Brand, Joshua Brand, Alex Trompler, Eva friends. College and Baylor College of Medi- Trompler, Adam Trompler, Audrey Weston, Caroline Weston; cine. He then did general practice in sister Clara Kesner. Hardtner, Kan., until he returned to Thelma Day school for additional training in urology at the University of Oklahoma. Nadine Parker Thelma “Lucille” Day, 87, passed He practiced urology for over 30 years, caring for people in away peacefully on March 22, 2011. north Texas and southern Oklahoma. Nadine S. Parker, 83, passed away She was a resident of Garden Grove, Harry married his high school sweetheart, Phyllis Jane Har- on Nov. 29, 2010. She was born on Calif., for the last 52 years. din, and they raised three children, Mark Denison of Euless, Nov. 3, 1927, in Caddo to Eulin G. Born Aug. 19, 1923, in Hugo to Texas, Lea Freemyer of Boerne, Texas, and Steve Denison of and Jewell L. (Dillard) Stevens. She Arthur and Eliza (Lewis) Fulton, she St. Petersburg, Fla. They shared 50 years as a married couple graduated from Phillips High School was raised by her paternal grandmoth- and had five grandchildren. in 1944 and continued her education er, Susan (Hayes) Fulton in Hugo. Harry spent the last several years living half time with Lea at Freed-Hardeman College in Hen- Lucille attended Goodland Academy and her husband, Bryon, along with their children, Joy, Benja- dersonville, Tenn. She worked most and graduated from Wheelock Acad- min and Nathan. They all enjoyed the time they spent together. of her life as a nurse until her retire- emy. She relocated to Southern California and married James Steve and his wife Dee have two children named Caitlin and ment. She moved to Bryan County in Jackson Day in 1948. He preceded her in death in 1971. Lu- Daniel. April of 2005 from Amarillo. She was a member of the North- cille retired at age 72 from Kaiser Permanente in Huntington Harry and Phyllis shared many happy times together trav- west Church of Christ and the Choctaw Seniors and she en- Beach, Calif. eling, C and W dancing, watching OU football and playing joyed reading, crossword puzzles, crocheting, arts and crafts, Home caregiver “CeCe” greatly enriched her last years. Lu- bridge. He also loved the outdoors, spending many happy gardening and cooking, but her greatest joy in life was her fam- cille enjoyed being a homebody, family gatherings, and the oc- years bird hunting, fishing and mushroom hunting. ily. Nadine will be greatly missed by all who knew her. casional trip to Las Vegas. She found special joy in her pets, He overcame many obstacles in his life. He started his work Nadine was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Jim, most recently her cat, Piper. career at the age of 10, working in Humpy and Amy’s Restau- Bill, Dow, Grover, John and Garland Stevens. Lucille is survived by her only daughter, Susan Walden rant in Idabel. He worked summers on the wheat harvest and She is survived by her daughter, Judy Coley with husband (Fritz); granddaughters, Erin Brown (Craig) and Lauren Saun- highway construction to help pay for his education. Jim of Colorado Springs, Co.; son Thomas R. Parker with wife ders (Kevin); great-grandchildren Jacob and Alexis La Scala, He was very proud of his Native American roots and his Cheryl of Houston; sister Mary Ellen Evans with husband Don Erika Marquez (Mike), Brenden Brown and Graham Saunders; family ties to the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. He collected of Amarillo; three grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and cousin Linda Manning; and other extended family and friends. arrowheads and studied the Choctaw language. many other relatives and a host of dear and loved friends. June 2011, BISKINIK, Page 17 OBITUARIES Cecilia Wetwiska Mary Durham Norris Meashintubby Cecilia Marie Wetwiska, 47, of Lexington, Texas, passed Mary (Rosenthal) Durham, 89, a Norris Wayne Meashintubby, 28, passed away on April 30, away on April 25, 2011, at Scott and White Memorial Hospital, resident of Mt. Juliet, Tenn., passed 2011, at Talihina Indian Hospital. He was born June 17, 1982, in Temple, Texas. away on April 18, 2011. She was at Talihina Indian Hospital. He lived in Talihina all his life and Wetwiska was born in Houston on May 4, 1963, the daughter born Jan. 12, 1922, in Rattan. She graduated from Talihina High School. He also loved to play of Jesse and Betty (Anderson) Wetwiska of Lexington. was the third of 12 children born to sports and enjoyed playing with his son, nieces, and nephews. She was an exceptional athlete who held a track record. She Parker and Eva Mae (Boyett) Rosen- He also enjoyed going fishing. was a state champion in volleyball, softball and bowling. She thal and was of German and Choctaw He was preceded in death by his father, Archie Meashintub- was always a very friendly, cheerful and generous person, who descent. She was the granddaughter by; grandmothers, Lena Meashintubby and Reba Meashintub- loved people. She loved to sing and was active in her church. of George Rosenthal and Mary (Wil- by; stepbrother Roger James; and nephew Mark Meashintubby. She is a born-again Christian filled with the Holy Spirit. She lis) Rosenthal. Her Choctaw ancestry He is survived by wife Austrina; son Norris Jr.; mother Mary was a loyal caretaker and always cared for her parents. She came from the Willis side of her paternal grandmother, Mary. Lou Meashintubby of Talihina; four brothers, Norval with wife did volunteer work with dogs and also worked as a technical She was raised in both Cloudy and Rattan and attended Delissa Meashintubby of Eugene, Ore., Nathan with wife An- engineer. Rattan High School in the mid- to late 1930’s. She was a nette Meashintuby of Fort Smith, Ark., Neville with wife Alicia She was preceded in death by maternal grandparents, L.E. valued member of the girls’ basketball team at Rattan High Meashintubby, and Archie Meashintubby Jr. of Talihina; two and Marie Anderson; also paternal grandparents John and School. During high school she also contracted Typhoid Fe- sisters, Sherry with Isidro Balderas, of Fort Smith, Ark., and Mary Wetwiska. ver, along with a younger sister, and spent several months Shirley Trejo from Talihina; four stepbrothers, George James, She is survived by her parents and sister Kay Wetwiska of recuperating. Delbert James, Eddie James, all of Talihina, and Bobby James, Houston. After high school and before her marriage to her husband, of Oklahoma City; three stepsisters, Marilyn James, Lisa James H. Durham, she worked as a high school teacher and Rodriguez and Renee Ludlow, all of Broken Bow; stepmom as a farm worker. During WWII, she worked in an Oklahoma Christina Meashintubby from Talihina; five nephews, Kyle, Jim Folsom City factory building fighter planes for the war effort before Nakoma, Brandon, Neville Jr. and Nehemiah; seven nieces, heading to California for her marriage in September 1943. Jalonda, Dedra, Davita, Dalita, Melanie, Annissa, and Alyssa; Jim Folsom passed away on April 24, 2011, in the Veteran’s Her first child was born in 1944, while her husband was sta- great-niece, Neela Meashintubby; three great-nephews, Kam- Center of Ardmore. He was born Dec. 31, 1947, in Greenville, tioned in England. Other children followed in 1946, 1950 and ron, Isiah, Joshua; also numerous family and friends. the son of Rudolph Stanton and Helen Fisher Folsom. 1962. A resident of Love County most of his life, Mr. Folsom was a After the war, while her husband completed his education, surveyor for more than 30 years, owning and operating Folsom she raised their children and became her sons’ Cub Scout/Boy Sarah Belvin Surveying Company. He served four years with the U.S. Air Scout den mother. She was also active in the church as a Sun- Force, 1966 to 1970, and was a veteran of the Vietnam Con- day School teacher. The family moved to California in 1955. Sarah Belvin, 97, passed away on May 6, 2011, at her home flict. His hobbies included deer hunting and playing bluegrass In California, she worked for 20 years in retail sales at The in Boswell. She was born March 3, 1914, in Boswell, the music, especially the mandolin. Broadway as a salesperson, assistant manager and depart- daughter of Solomon Belvin and Virgie (Frazier) Belvin and Mr. Folsom was preceded in death by his parents; and a ment manager of various departments. After retirement, she was a lifelong resident of Boswell. Sarah was a loving mother brother, Terry Folsom. enjoyed working in her yard, gardening, visiting family and and grandmother. She loved cooking and gardening (pulling He is survived by two daughters and son-in-law, Nellie friends, and spending time with her five grandchildren and weeds while in a wheelchair). Sarah had lots of pride and al- Folsom of Nashville, Tenn., and Jennifer with Aaron Rudd of eight great-grandchildren. She and her husband also enjoyed ways kept her family fed. Being one of the “Golden Girls,” she Spring Hill, Tenn.; brother and sister-in-law, Charles T. with a memorable trip to Europe. In 1995, she and her husband was very social and loved to go. Olga Folsom of San Benito, Texas; three sisters, Peggy Folsom moved to Mt. Juliet, Tenn., where she lived until her death. Preceding her in death were her parents; her husband, Henry and Mona Bland of Lewisville, Texas and Beverlee Thomas Her beloved husband, Jimmie, passed away in June of 2007 Belvin (1-14-1974); sons, Henry Belvin Jr., and Baby Belvin; of Krum, Texas; three grandchildren, Ethan, Ava and Miles; after almost 64 years of marriage. daughter, Jimmie Lou Hunt; sisters, Lillie Pierce and Sissy several nieces and nephews and a host of friends. She is survived by her children, James H. Durham, John P. Belvin; and brothers, Simon Belvin, Stephen Belvin and Jonas (Susie) Durham, Diane Durham (Bill) Newland, and Sherry Belvin. L. Perry; her siblings, Frank (Monalla) Rosenthal, Ernes- Survivors include: seven sons, Virgil “Buddy” Belvin of Irby Lee Ward tine Krohn, Isabel (Harley) Murray and Tommie Scott; her Valliant, Vernon Lee Belvin of Midwest City, Dante Belvin of grandchildren, Adrianne Durham, Amy McCartney, Ashley Boswell, John Robert Belvin of Boswell, Richard Mark Belvin Irby Lee Ward, 90, passed away on Grguric, Nathan Durham, and James Perry; her eight great- of Boswell, Solomon James Belvin of Shawnee and Jerry Paul March 7, 2011, at the Midland Hos- grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was Belvin of Boswell; three daughters, Lavada Duke of Atoka, pice House in Topeka, Kan. 89 years old and lived a long, happy and interesting life. She Sarah Virginia “Weaver” Rutledge of Millerton and Debra Lee was born on May 20, 1920, in will be dearly missed. Bacon of Boswell; 38 grandchildren; 67 great-grandchildren; Murray Spur, the son of Willis and 40 great-great-grandchildren; one great-great-great-grandchild Myrtle Allen Ward. He graduated and numerous other family members and friends. from eighth grade at Old Town Grade School in Murray Spur and received Daniel Seeley his GED certificate later from Empo- Daniel Dewitt “Renegade” Seeley, 65, of Beaumont passed Mary McKnight ria Teachers College. away on April 28, 2011, at his residence. He enlisted in the U.S. Army on He was preceded in death by his mother, Rev. Velma Baker; Mary B. McKnight, 87, passed Aug. 29, 1938, and was discharged on June 23, 1954. He stepdad Rev. Ralph Baker; grandmother Igney Wesley Seeley; away on Jan. 15, 2011, at her home. served in World War II and the Korean War. brothers, Harry and Donald Seeley; and son Daniel Dewitt See- She was born Mary B. Addison on Lee worked for the State of Kansas as a road and bridge su- ley Jr. Oct. 16, 1923, in Wister, and was perintendent for Northern Lyon County and also farmed. He He is survived by his wife, Marquitta Janet Baker Seeley of raised in west Texas near Olney. She was a member of the Miller United Methodist Church. He was Beaumont; son, Daniel Dewitt Seeley II of Beaumont; daugh- had lived in the Fort Worth area for also a 50-year member of Masonic Lodge #3335, AF&AM at ters, Diana Ruth Ann Seeley Cooper of Krebs, Tracy Lynn over 60 years. Mary married Bobbie Allen, a member of Moreland, Edmunds, Clayton, Thompson, Seeley of Beaumont, Lavelma Kay Seeley Mizelle of New Kenneth McKnight on April 4, 1958, Post #389 at Admire and the VFW in Emporia. Augusta, and Katelyn Danielle Seeley of Beaumont; sisters, in Weatherford. They enjoyed travel- He married Edith Lynch on July 5, 1947, in Lawton. She Karen Logan of Valliant; Sharon Logan Allen of Idabel, and ing and spending time with family. passed away on Oct. 8, 2002. He was also preceded in death by Nancy Kay Ebahotubbi of Oklahoma City; brother, Harris Lo- Mary was preceded in death by her his parents; sister Inez Fimpel; brother Christopher Columbus gan of Valliant; grandson, Corey Daniel Ray Seeley of Krebs; parents, Edward and Blanche Addison, and a sister, Lucille Ward; and a nephew Joe Ward. granddaughters, Montanna Christine Seeley and Haley Justine Langham. Survivors include seven nieces and nephews and numerous Storm Seeley of Krebs. Survivors include husband of 52 years, Bobbie K. McKnight; grand-nieces and grand-nephews. children, Sandra L. Kutej of Fort Worth, Kenneth C. McKnight of Granbury, Larry D. McKnight of Fort Worth, Kathryn K. Charles Battiest Cheney and Ricki D. McKnight, both of Granbury; 13 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grand- Glen Bertis Charles R. Battiest, 87, passed children. away on Feb. 11, 2011. He was born Glen Dale Bertis, 45, passed away Nov. 15, 1923, in Boswell, the son of Thomas P. Burrows on April 30, 2011, in Lane. He was Stephen J Battiest and Cassie Lela born on Jan. 20, 1966, in Mescalero, (Binger) Battiest. Thomas P. Burrows, 79, of McAlester passed away on May N.M. Charles was a World War II Army 9, 2011, at McAlester Regional Health Center. Born April 4, He was preceded in death by his veteran and he retired from the Kan- 1932, near Centerpoint in Atoka County to Terrance and Vinnie parents, Richard and Naomi Bertis; sas City Star. He enjoyed hunting, (James) Burrows, he grew up in the Atoka area and had lived in sister Deloris Fay Bertis; and brother fishing, gardening and took great McAlester since 1958. Richard Bertis Jr. pride in his cabin property near the As a youngster, he worked in the family-owned sawmills He is survived by his daughter, To- lake. until he moved to Fort Worth, Texas, and worked at Swifts sha Bertis of Oklahoma City; broth- Charles was preceded in death by his daughter, Sandra Bat- Packing Co. After he moved to McAlester in 1958, he worked ers, Dennis Bertis with wife Sherrie of Tulsa, Randy Bertis of tiest; his son, Michael Ray Battiest; his parents; two brothers, at Holsom Bakery then at Sims-Moore Lumber Co. He later Oklahoma City, and Dwayne Hamill of Calera; sisters, Roberta Alto and S J Battiest; and two sisters, Beulah Milam and La- worked in bridge construction for Muskogee Bridge Co. In his Bertis of Soper, Sandra Campos with husband Jorge of Bent- Vonne Keener. spare time, he enjoyed the outdoors, hunting and fishing. ley, Wanda Bertis of Los Angelos, Anita Cooper of Lane; along Survivors include his wife, Gearldean Battiest; children, He married Betty Wright in 1954, in Atoka, and she preceded with several nieces, nephews and many friends. Dane Battiest with wife Kathy, Ginny Irminger, Darlene Sher- him in death in 1999. He was also preceded in death by his man with husband David, Lorraine Klein with husband Rupert, parents and eight siblings. Karen Battiest, Donnie Lansdown, Dale Lansdown and Trina Survivors include two sons, Steve Burrows with wife Debbie Hammer; 15 grandchildren, including Adam Battiest, Christo- of McAlester, and Johnnie Burrows with wife Gaye, of McAl- Malcolm Jones pher Battiest, Angela Wright, Jeremy Sherman, Sara Irminger, ester; two daughters, Bonnie Burrows, of McAlester, and Sher- Laura Irminger, Rupert Klein, Alysia Battiest, Tyler Klein, Me- rie Handley with husband Dale of McAlester; seven grand- Malcolm E. “Mack” Jones, 98, of gan Klein, Dustin Klein and Abby Klein; and six great-grandchildren, Ryan Burrows with wife Alice of New Mexico, Brett McAlester passed away on April 19, children. Burrows of McAlester, Jacalyn Burrows of Norman, Jonathan 2011, at a local nursing home. Pedigo of Shawnee, Rachelle Pedigo of Ada, Fordie Glenn of Born to James and Beulah (Mack- Bugtussle, and Rebecca Smith with husband, Rhys of McAles- ey) Jones, Oct. 4, 1912, in C-Tree Jimmie Payton ter; six great-grandchildren; one brother, Henry Burrows with Community, Savanna, he married wife Viola of California; and several nieces and nephews. Vera Riddle in 1934 at Muskogee. Jimmie Lawrence Payton, 58, or Faulkner, Kan., passed He joined the Arpelar Nazarene away March 29, 2010, following a long illness at the Mercer/ Church in 1944, and served as Sun- Lovelady homestead where he and long-time close platonic Wanda Camp day School superintendent for more friend and caretaker of nearly 30 years, Terry Mercer. than 50 years. He worked as a farmer and rancher most of his Jimmie, better known as his stage name, Crazy Ed Car- Wanda June (Tucker) Camp, 85, life and was a deputy sheriff for Pittsburg County for more than rington, was born Oct. 1, 1951, in Lubbock, Texas, to Lonzo of Poteau, passed away on April 14, 11 years. and Betty (Stewart) Payton. 2011, in Spiro. Wanda was born Sept. He was an avid baseball fan and most of his grandchildren Jimmie worked concrete construction for many years and 5, 1925, in Fairview to Homer Mc- knew him as “Cowboy Mack.” was very proud of his Choctaw and Cherokee heritage and Curtain and Pearl Ida (Butler) Tucker. He was preceded in death by parents James and Beulah often would pull out his CDIB card to show people who ques- Wanda was a beautician. She loved Jones; wife Vera Jones in 2001; sister Marcella Wilkins; and tioned him. He was baptized and was of the Baptist faith. her Sunday School Class and spend- brothers, Oscar Jones and Raphael Jones. Jimmie was also an avid guitar player and had played semi- ing time with her family. She was Survivors include his sons, Glenn Jones with wife Carol of professional in numerous states. He was willing to teach any- proud of her Choctaw heritage. She Arpelar, Harold Buck Jones with wife Frances, of Arpelar, Jim one how to play guitar for nothing. He recently saw that one was a member of the DAV Auxiliary. Jones with wife Ann, of McAlester, Charles Jones with wife of his best friends got his Les Paul guitar. She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Camp Barbara of Fort Worth, Texas; grandchildren, Randy Jones, He was an avid cyclist and was very proud of his ability to Sr.; sisters, Mary Lou Jerome, Doris Graves; and her parents. Rodney Jones, Robin Galloway with husband Doug, Curtis El- jump on his bicycle and ride across country. When asked how Survivors include son and daughter-in-law, Charles H. Jr. lison with wife Kristin, Dale Ellison, Pam West with husband far he had rode in a single day, he would smile and proudly and Carol Camp of Poteau; daughters and sons-in-law, Judy Eric, Greg Jones with wife Jennifer, Shelly Larson with hus- say, “122 miles.” and Bob Womack of Keota, Karen and Enie Tobler of Spiro; band Dave, Davy Roberts, Chris Jones with wife Denise, Cory He was preceded in death by his father, a sister and a niece. grandsons, Bob Womack of Keota, Danny and Liz Womack of Jones with wife Beth Ann, Chad Jones with wife Marti; 30 He is survived by his children, Charles and Jennifer Pay- Bixby, Chris and Michelle Tobler of Wylie, Texas; great-grand- great-grandchildren; eight great-great-grandchildren; sisters, ton of Fort Worth; mother Betty Payton of Antlers; Billy and children, Hayley Womack, Hayden Womack, Scarlett Tobler, Melanie Shuman of McAlester, and Aurilla Hazelwood with Don Payton of Antlers; Dale Payton of Tecumseh; sister Twila Colin and Tara Womack, Cassie Womack; sisters, Nancy Men- husband Vestal of McAlester; and numerous nieces, nephews Allen of McCloud; and a close friend, Terry Mercer of the denhall of Tulsa, Cordelia Newnam of Broken Arrow; other and other family members and friends. home. relatives, loved ones and many beloved friends. June 2011, BISKINIK, Page 18 The role of Choctaw fathers and uncles May’s edition of Iti Fabvssa ered in bear or panther skins, Choctaw society had a variety weapons and the parapherna- honored Choctaw mothers. the belief being that this would of chiefly positions, including lia for the stickball game, they With June being the month help transfer the bravery and assistant community chiefs, made canoes and did wood- of Father’s Day, this edi- powerful quality of these ani- local community chiefs, and carving. tion is dedicated to honoring mals onto the boy as he slept. district chiefs. While having Before European contact, Choctaw fathers and maternal At the age of three or four, a Iti Fabussa important family connections men probably chipped most or uncles. We will do this by pre- boy would be given a bow could certainly help a man’s all of the stone cutting tools. senting a little bit of what is and arrows and encouraged to prestige, and climb through They were probably also the known about the daily lives, practice. Boys of a little more the different gradations, posi- ones who laboriously fash- roles, and personal character maturity would assemble early tions were maintained through ioned ground stone axes and of early Choctaw men. in the morning to learn tribal merit. A slip-up could demote made shell jewelry. At least in Traditional Choctaw society history, battle strategy, and a Miko down to a Tvshka. certain times and places, men places a special emphasis on lessons in morals and spiri- Chief Pushmataha, who ap- tanned the hides that they ob- balance. The vital and sacred tuality from respected elder parently had few living fam- tained on the hunt. Choctaw roles of women in 18th Cen- men. They were trained to be ily members, is the perfect men did some of the heavier tury Choctaw society, which honest, generous, and to keep example of a Choctaw male jobs around the village as well, we described last month, were their emotions from control- raising through the ranks of such as clearing the agricul- offset and balanced by the ling them. Boys were given Choctaw society solely on his tural fields before planting, roles of men. While women a great deal of freedom, and own merit. helping to set the large posts of were considered the givers often spent the day running Although protecting the houses, or of defensive walls and nurturers of life, men were races, wrestling, having shoot- community was a man’s most around villages, and helping considered the takers of life. ing contests, hunting small important job, to which he to harvest the fields when the For example: while women animals, playing physically might be called at any instant, crops ripened. gave birth to children, men demanding games like stick- men actually spent the great Some men also had special- killed the enemies who threat- ball and achapi, and playing majority of their time away ized roles in Choctaw society, ened the future of Choctaw games of intuition, like naki from the battlefield. As be- in addition to the various of- communities; similarly, while luma (hide the bullet). These fore mentioned, honored men fices of chief. Many of the women grew gardens, men activities were fun, but they taught and trained the boys Hopaii, or prophets were men, supplemented their family’s also developed the set of skills, of the community. Within the as were many of the Alikchi. diet with meat from animals physical abilities, and compe- family, training and discipline Some Choctaw men were that they hunted. Choctaw tency in the woods that would of the children, particularly noted and respected orators. folklore likens women unto hi- all be essential for the boys boys, was the duty of their Some of the same were enter- loha, the rolling thunder, men to one day take on the roles Photo Provided mother’s brother. Unlike the taining story tellers and come- are likened unto malvtha, the of men. In the evening, the children’s father, he was of dians. powerful lightning that can boys would again assemble tives, although most Choctaw or title, possibly going through their same iksa and clan. Despite the their many roles, split trees. for stories from the elder men. battles were defensive ones. a succession of several. The Men also hunted meat for Choctaw men of the 18th cen- Choctaw girls grew into As the boys grew in age, the Success in war would bring titles of such highly success- their families, and perhaps tury, like women had a great women through the sacred men would begin taking them about a transformational ful warriors often incorporated others in their iksa who had no deal of time for leisure, far power innate in their bodies. out on hunts. On these forays, change in a male’s life. the word “humma,” mean- one to hunt for them. The meat more than most Americans Conversely, boys could be- boys were given a great deal of After showing some feet ing “red” in the Choctaw lan- they provided was essential to do today. They spent free come men only through years silent teaching and encourage- of prowess against an enemy, guage. In traditional Choctaw the plant-rich Choctaw diet, time playing active games of hard physical, mental and ment. As boys matured physi- a male became a Tvshka, or thought, this color was associ- and the hides, tendons, hooves and games of chance, laugh- spiritual training in order to cally, they became known as warrior, the gradation rank for ated with warfare and military and antlers were important ing, joking, and smoking with be able to prove their worth “Hattak Himitta”, or “young Choctaw males. It was at this success. Thus, we have Shu- raw materials. Although men friends, sharing time with their through success in hunting, men”. Theirs was the lowest of point that he was really rec- lushumma, “Red Shoes,” and enjoyed these hunts, they were families, and surely some time stickball, oration/debate, and four “gradations” for Choctaw ognized as a man in Choctaw “Tvshkahumma,” “Red War- not leisurely affairs by today’s just lounging around. They most importantly, battle. With- males. society. He would likely be tat- rior.” standards. Men often trav- were far being the stoic, mono- out proven success, a male War had always been a part tooed, and given a new, warrior Although military success eled many miles on foot over syllabic, dim-witted warriors would never be considered a of Choctaw life, but when Eu- name, by which even strangers was important, men were not difficult terrain attempting to we often see pictured by Hol- man, regardless of how old he ropean colonial powers arrived would recognize him as a man gauged on this factor alone. find game, and then had to lywood. became. The path to manhood in the Southeast, they worked worthy of respect. Many of With some military success, stalk close enough to shoot it. We owe our Choctaw father was a hard one; some didn’t hard to increase dissention and these war names describe what demonstrated speaking ability, Sometimes the hunts involved and uncles, past and present a make it; some perished in the war between the tribes. Begin- the warrior did in battle, and intelligence, leadership, and dangerous animals such as very great deal: our very exis- attempt, and some become honing in the late 1600s, English- end in the word “vbi” (gener- generosity could pull a man up panther and black bear, and tence. The path that they have bak. Those who did become sponsored slaving and scalp- ally spelled ubbee in English), through the ranks respect and there was always a chance of followed has not been an easy men would be recognized as ing raids were waged almost meaning, “to beat” or “kill.” social power. For example, encountering an enemy war one. They mentored the up- persons worthy of respect; constantly against Choctaw Thus, we have “Musholatub- some highly honorable Choc- party while one was out far coming generations, they rep- their advice would be valued communities. Choctaw soci- bee,” meaning “extinguishes taw titles end in the phrase from home and alone. resented the community, and in tribal council meetings; ety became militarized in or- and kills; Eyachubbe, meaning “imalhtaha,” meaning “it is As alluded to above, another they sacrificed of themselves, they would be sought after by der to survive. At least in some “goes and kills,” and Nowab- finished to him.” The name important male role was play- sometimes their very lives, to young women looking for a communities, young men were bi, meaning “walks and kills.” Hopaii Imalhtaha, implies ing stickball. Although the ensure that the Choctaw peo- good husband, and they would whipped with canes to teach Many Choctaw families still that this special person had game could sometimes serve ple would survive to this very become fathers. Continued train them not to fear pain or carry these names today, hand- reached the height of being a as a simple pastime, contests day. success in masculine pursuits physical hardship. Some, of ed down from distinguished profit. Such a man might have with other villages or other This Father’s Day, lets re- through life might take a man their own accord, had contests combat veteran grandfathers been part of the third gradation Tribes could be very serious member our fathers, uncles, all the way up to the office of to see who could stand next to several generations ago. In in Choctaw society, a “Hat- affairs, which were used in and grandfathers, past and chief. stirred-up hornet nests the lon- 18th century Choctaw soci- tak Holitopa,” a beloved man, the place of warfare to work present for all that they mean Let’s take a little closer look gest. In their mid teens, boys ety, Tvshka were respected as respected for his wisdom and out disputes. Even without in our lives. at the path of Choctaw men in might begin traveling with the protectors of the community, spiritual power. He would be weapons, these games were the 18th Century. At birth, or Tvshka Chimpota, small de- and their opinions mattered at welcomed towards the inner hotly contested and it was not If you have any questions shortly thereafter, baby boys fensive patrols that searched Tribal Council. circle of the Choctaw council. uncommon for one or several concerning Choctaw history would be given a name that for raiding war parties within With continued success in Success in war and lead- players to loose their lives be- or culture, please mail to Iti often reflected a particular oc- Choctaw country. With proven war, a man’s prestige would ership, and proven wisdom fore the outcome was reached. Fabussa c/o BISKINIK, P.O. currence in their early lives, ability, youth might be asked continue to grow. He would be could bring a Choctaw man all Choctaw men made a va- Box 1210, Durant, OK 74702, or referred to a distinguish- to go on an occasional war able to raise followers for his the way to the fourth and high- riety of essential tools and or e-mail to biskinik@choc- ing quality or characteristic. party into enemy country to own military expeditions, and est male gradation in Choc- implements for their commu- tawnation.com with “Iti Fa- Young boys’ beds were cov- avenge the deaths of clan rela- possibly earn a new war name taw society, miko, or “chief.” nities. In addition to their own bussa” in the subject line.

Stickball team preparing for World Series Pearl River Coach Josh Willis Pearl River shares his love BYE July 9 - 10 p.m. of the game Tucker July 7 - 9:30 p.m. By LISA REED Beaver Dam Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma OK Choctaws July 14 - 10 p.m. Growing up in Philadelphia, Miss., July 8 - 10:30 p.m. Josh Willis says he started play- Nukoachi ing stickball about the same time he July 11 - 9:30 p.m. BOK CITO started walking. He remembers his grandfather, Arch Mingo, telling him July 9 - 3 p.m. the early history of “ishtaboli” or WARRIORS “kabucha toli.” WAR EAGLES July 16 - 10 p.m. Commonly called “little brother of CHAMPION war,” stickball was “sort of a practice WAR EAGLES for a war,” he said, “a way of honing BYE the skills that were required in war. July 7-16, 2011 July 12 - 8:30 p.m. It is believed that the preparations for OKA HOMMA the game were much the same as the July 9 - 4:30 p.m. preparations for war.” UNIFIED Stickball has been around since the July 15 - 10 p.m. early 1700s. When disputes would NANIH WAIYA arise between tribes or communities, July 9 - 8:30 p.m. stickball provided a peaceful way Choctaw Nation: LISA REED TIAK HIKIYA to settle the issue. The games were Josh Willis is in his second year BYE July 13 - 10 p.m. very physical, hard-fought contests of coaching the OK Choctaw Mississippi Choctaw, Annual Choctaw Indian Fair, 62nd involving up to 300 players. stickball team. The men will be Bracket Series of Stickball – Men’s World KONI HATA When the Mississippi Band of participating in the World Series KONI HATA Choctaw began holding its fair in of Stickball next month. 1949, stickball was an important event but few teams took part. Today, a single elimination tournament, the ball team. The team played their first lighter with a wavy cup so the player back home.” drum getting the players pumped up. World Series of Stickball, is held. game in the World Series last year will have more speed to throw the Seventy-one players have signed They yell out, letting the other team There are 31 teams signed up for the and are preparing to go back to Choc- ball quicker. The center’s stick has a up to play with the OK Choctaw. know they’re ready for the battle. tournament this year in three brackets taw, Miss., again this year. little wave to the cup. They come from all over Oklahoma, “The whole community comes out – Men’s, Men’s 35+ and Women’s. He makes a lot of the sticks as well. “We have been practicing every two from Dallas and some live in to the high school football field to Willis, who moved to Oklahoma The defense stick with a wider, wav- Sunday,” Willis said. “We need to Mississippi. watch the games,” Willis said. “There three years ago, is in his second year ier cup, is made to pick up the ball be more aggressive, keep everything A drummer leads each team onto are about 1,000 people. You are go- of coaching the OK Choctaw stick- easier, he explains. The shooter is in motion. They get pretty physical the field, the rhythmic beat of the ing to hear the love of the game.”