Chickasaw Veterans Honor Fallen at Tomb of the Unknowns

The Chickasaw Times Post Office Box 1548 Ada, OK 74821 Chickasaw Times Vol. LIII, No. 12 Official publication of the Chickasaw Nation www.chickasawtimes.net December 2018

Season’s Greetings

Season’s greetings from all of us at the Chickasaw Nation! This special season reminds us of the many blessings that have been bestowed on us by God. It is appropriate for us to reflect on this special season, and on all the good things we have received. Throughout the generations, the Chickasaw people have been guided by faith. Our ancestors encountered many challenges, and often found themselves relying on God and each other for basic survival. GOV. BILL ANOATUBBY The Almighty blessed our people and brought them through so many trials. He gave us the Four Chickasaw Vietnam War veterans lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns in Arlington National Cemetery Nov. 12. The veterans will to survive, and the blessings of strong families and a strong are, from left Knute Landreth Jr., Bruce Squires, Gene Jefferson and Donald Yegge. Jacquelyn Sparks tribe. During this Christmas season, we extend our prayers of good- will to Chickasaw families across the country and around the Chickasaw veterans honor world. We take time to say a special prayer for our Chickasaw veterans and our Chickasaw men and women currently serving in the military. We appreciate all they have done and are doing to fallen at Tomb of the Unknowns preserve our way of life. WASHINGTON, D.C. – Chicka- citizens who participated in a humbling.” Our Chickasaw elders, who have guided us throughout the saw Nation warriors laid a wreath five-day trip to Washington by Several Chickasaw veterans centuries, are a very special blessing. We honor them for their at the Tomb of the Unknowns in the Chickasaw Nation. Each year, were thanked for their service by wisdom and their contributions to our people and our culture. Arlington National Cemetery Nov. the tribe sends its warriors here a man who came to America from We say a prayer of deep and abiding love for our Chickasaw 12 to honor veterans who made to take in the sights, participate Belize and works as a volunteer at children. Our children lead us with their pure and simple faith, the ultimate sacrifice defending in Veterans Day memorial cer- Arlington Nation Cemetery. and we count on them as our leaders in the years to come. freedom. emonies meet other Chickasaws “It was an amazing moment We know there are people grieving during this holiday season. Four Chickasaw Vietnam War who have served. The 2018 war- and meant so much,” Phillip Billy, Some must face illness, or the loss of loved ones. We offer our veterans represented their tribe riors served America in the Army, a veteran and director of veteran prayer of compassion for those whose souls are hurting. at the national shrine. They in- Navy, Marines, Air Force and Na- services at the Chickasaw Nation, Wherever we encounter our fellow man in distress, we are cluded Ada, Okla., resident Gene tional Guard. said. “It came from his heart.” commanded by God to love him and help him as we can. We Jefferson, a former Marine ser- Governor Bill Anoatubby said Mr. Yegge said the encounter pray that we may answer the call to help others when the op- geant who served as a helicopter the trip was an expression of put a lump in his throat. “He just portunity is before us. machine gun operator; Donald appreciation to Chickasaws who seemed to appear out of nowhere Christmas marks the season of peace, joy and fullness of Yegge, a Loyalton, Calif., resident had served our country. to shake our hands and thank us heart. May you and your family enjoy a wonderful holiday sea- who served as a gunner’s mate “There is something truly spe- for our service.” son! in the Navy; Knute Landreth Jr., cial about those men and women The Chickasaw Nation provides God bless you, your family and our beloved Chickasaw Nation! a Roswell, N.M., resident and for- who serve in the armed forces to veterans with increased ben- mer Army sergeant who served defend our freedoms and way of efits and services, including the as a stealth “search and destroy” life,” Gov. Anoatubby said. “While Chickasaw Warrior Society. The warrior; and Bruce Squires, a it is important to make a special warrior society was formed by Fargo, N.D., resident, and Army effort to honor their service on Gov. Anoatubby in 2015. It is an first lieutenant. All are combat Veterans Day, it is always appro- organization to encourage com- veterans. priate to express our apprecia- munity, establish and support “Oh, wow, it was very emotion- tion for their sacrifice and dedi- camaraderie and personifies the al,” Mr. Yegge said regarding the cation.” Chickasaw warrior spirit. The honor of laying a wreath while This year’s excursion has tak- tribe also opened The Chickasaw Multi-Tribal Day offers representing the Chickasaw Na- en the warriors to monuments Nation Veterans Lodge on the Ada tion. “The sergeant said ‘where honoring the nation’s greatest South Campus near the Chicka- cultural cornucopia are you from?’ We said Oklaho- leaders and sites commemorat- saw Nation Medical Center in Ada. ma, California, New Mexico and ing wars where Americans have The site was selected to assist SULPHUR, Okla. – Several hun- pashofa – a hominy-based soup North Dakota … from the Chicka- fought with valor and dignity in veterans in a centralized location. dred visitors filled the Chicka- which has sustained Chickasaws saw Nation.” the name of freedom. It serves by assisting them in ac- saw Cultural Center’s Traditional for centuries. “I got to a place very few people Two other Chickasaw veterans cessing all resources available Village Nov. 3 to enjoy, learn and Patrons traveled from far and in the United States will ever get who represented the Chickasaw through the Chickasaw Nation partake in dance, food, crafts and wide to witness tribal culture, to be thanks to the Chickasaw Na- Nation at the tomb – protected and other sources. It also serves much more during Multi-Tribal learn traditional dance steps and tion,” Mr. Landreth said of being by active military honor guard as a place for members of the Day. taste a menu based on recipes steps away from of the Tomb of soldiers 365 days a year – also Chickasaw Warrior Society, other Representatives of about a doz- passed down through the gen- the Unknowns. “It was just unbe- expressed how much it meant to veterans and those in active ser- en tribal nations, including danc- erations. lievable. I don’t know how I was them to be given the privilege of vice to come together for fellow- ers, artisans, flutists and drum Chickasaws Linda Underwood selected. It meant a lot to me. It laying the wreath. ship and build relationships. circles dressed in traditional re- and husband, Darrell, set wood was a great honor.” “It was very special,” Mr. Jef- galia took part in the event. The ablaze under an iron pot to cook The servicemen were part of a ferson said. Mr. Squires said the Chickasaw Nation rolled out the pashofa long before the sun dozen Chickasaw veterans and respect shown the veterans “was CONTRIBUTED BY Gene Lehmann, Media Relations. red carpet, serving traditional SEE MULTI-TRIBAL, PAGE 2 Tribe, Dustin Mater honored for unique special operations patch ADA, Okla. – Governor Bill Base Andrews, Maryland. casions, Chief Master Sgt. Young Anoatubby joined renowned “We wear it with pride,” Maj. said. Chickasaw artist Dustin Mater to Joshua Odquist told Gov. Anoa- “I’m proud to have had the op- celebrate a Mater-designed patch tubby following a ceremony at portunity to design this emblem to be worn by a special operations the Chickasaw Veterans Lodge. for the Air Force,” Mr. Mater said. unit. Maj. Odquist is the squadron’s “He is quite a talent,” Gov. Ano- Officials of the 137th Special commander atubby said of Operations Security Force Squad- and anti-ter- Mr. Mater. “We ron unveiled the patch designed rorism officer. are blessed to for the Oklahoma-based unit. He formally have him. We The patch features an ancient presented Gov. are thankful Chickasaw mace – an ornamen- Anoatubby for him and tal staff carried as a symbol of with a squad- thankful to authority – a Southeastern tribal ron badge and you for provid- tomahawk and woodpecker motif “challenge ing service to connecting the two. “Pugnentes coin” featuring our country.” Humi Ruberis” adorns the top. Mr. Mater’s art. M r. Mater The Latin words mean “Warriors M r. Mate r wore a special of the Red Soil” to illustrate the Left to right, Chief Master Sgt. Richard Young and Maj. Joshua Odquist of the 137th Special r e c e i v e d a bandolier for squadron’s Oklahoma roots. Operations Security Force Squadron present a framed uniform emblem to Chickasaw artist framed patch the ceremony Dustin Mater, Governor Bill Anoatubby, Chickasaw Nation Secretary of Culture & Humanities “What we were shooting for was in Chickasaw in honor of Lisa John and Chickasaw Nation Arts and Humanities Executive Officer Laura Stewart. Mater, ‘red earth warriors or red dirt an international renowned artist, worked with the Oklahoma City-based squadron for 16 Nation col- his family’s warriors,’ Richard Young, chief months to develop the emblem, shown in detail in opposite photo. The squadron is part ors of red, blue and yellow. The turtle clan. Fashioned in Chicka- master sergeant and the squad- of the 137th Special Operations Wing at the Will Rogers Air National Guard Base near Will framed emblem is the first one saw tribal colors, the bandolier ron’s security forces manager, Rogers World Airport in Oklahoma City. produced in full color. Uniform features elaborate beading of im- said. patches are in subdued, military- agery important to Chickasaws “We wanted an emblem that signing the patch.” al modifications before approval issue tones. The new emblem centuries ago, including a turtle had the Native American-Okla- Officials met with Mr. Mater 16 as an official Air Force heraldry may be used in full color on let- (“loksi”) and designs that mimic homa ties in it. The Chickasaws months ago to launch the project. patch in August by the Air Na- terheads, cards, stationery, chal- pucker-toe moccasins. showed immediate interest in de- The patch went through sever- tional Guard History Office, Joint lenge coins and other special oc- CONTRIBUTED BY Gene Lehmann, Media Relations. 2 CHICKASAW TIMES December 2018 ‘Piominko’ garners Independent Publisher awards tory and Native American Studies in the Multicultural Non-Fiction leader in general. I think Gover- and Chickasaw Endowed Chair, Adult category in the 22nd an- nor Bill Anoatubby is a very simi- became interested in Piominko’s nual Independent Publisher lar kind of visionary. story on a trip to Chickasaw Book Awards presented in May in “I am grateful for my co-author homelands in Mississippi where Times Square in New York. and friend Mitch Caver and Gov. he met eventual co-author Mitch Earlier, the work received a Anoatubby and the Chickasaw Caver. Mr. Caver had done exten- silver medal in the Independent Nation for their continued sup- sive research on the great Chicka- Book Publishers Association’s port in working on the book.” saw leader and friend of Ameri- Ben Franklin Awards 30th annual Mr. Caver, an honorary Chicka- ca’s first president. They decided competition. saw citizen, said he also consid- it was a story that needed to be “I am quite excited and pleased ers the accolades a great honor told. to win both awards because it rec- and acknowledged Dr. Cowger, Dr. Cowger and Mr. Caver’s new ognizes the years spent research- as well as their publisher, Chicka- book explores the Piominko/ ing and writing the book as a la- saw Press. Washington friendship as well as bor of love for an exceptionally “I give a lot of credit to my co- Piominko’s dogged determination significant person, but a hereto- author and friend Tom as well as to partner with the newly cre- fore untold story, Dr. Cowger said. the hard work and dedication of “Piominko” authors Mitch Caver and Dr. Tom Cowger. Photo by: Andrew Lipovsky ated United States and to defend “While I am flattered and hum- the people at the Chickasaw Press “Piominko: Chickasaw Leader,” his tribe’s sovereignty, a legacy bled by both of these awards and and the numerous other people describes the life and accomplish- whose echoes reverberate to this the national attention the book who assisted with the book, Mr. ments of one of the most signifi- very day. Piominko’s decision to is receiving, I am most pleased Caver said. cant Native American leaders of side with America was not always because it helps ensure that Pi- “Reaching back over 200 years the 18th century. popular with neighboring tribes ominko’s important place in to bring the story of Piominko The book reveals what few his- who were siding with Spain and Chickasaw and American history forward has been an interesting torians, if any, fully realized be- sometimes even questioned by is restored to new generations. journey. His attaining the status fore: the great visionary Chicka- his own tribal citizens. For that “In the course of the history of of a hero within two nations dur- saw tribal leader, Piominko, and reason, he was well known and all people, sometimes there are ing his lifetime presents a man President George Washington, praised in his lifetime by Ameri- only a handful who distinguish overdue for recognition.” forged a critically important can leaders. themselves enough to be lead- friendship that endured until Mr. Caver and Dr. Cowger’s ers without any kind of equals. I their dying breaths. book has garnered two presti- put Piominko in that class. He is Dr. Tom Cowger, East Central gious awards for its authors. The a once in several centuries type (OK) University professor of His- most recent was a gold medal of Chickasaw leader and Native CONTRIBUTED BY Loné Beasley, Media Affairs. Chickasaw artist weaves cane, 8mm film into SEASAM ‘show’stopper

TISHOMINGO, Okla. – South- eastern Art Show and Market (SEASAM) attendees probably didn’t realize the submission named “Best in Show” contained an actual “show.” Woven throughout Kelley Lun- sford’s prize-winning mat is 8mm film of a family’s 1960-era vaca- tion to Disneyland. On close inspection, one may actually see children riding a roll- ercoaster in each frame! “It is a traditional Chickasaw mat,” Ms. Lunsford said. “In the Southeast, our ancestors weaved mats for all different kinds of purposes. It was an item to sit on, and mats were used in burials to cover the deceased.” The twill-patterned mat is wo- From left, Darrell Underwood, Linda Underwood and Virginia Bolen tend to a large pot of pashofa at ven with cane. To make the piece Multi-Tribal Day Nov. 3, at the Chickasaw Cultural Center. Pashofa is cracked hominy soup with pork contemporary, Ms. Lunsford filler cooked in large quantities. It has been a staple food of Chickasaws for centuries. turned to eBay, a web-based auction house where people bid “on Chickasaw citizen Kelley Lunsford with her “Best in Show” submission to the 2018 Southeastern Art CONTINUED the oddest items you can image,” | FROM PAGE 1 Ms. Lunsford said with a laugh. Show and Market (SEASAM). Titled “Koh-dah-crom-eah,” it is a traditional Chickasaw mat made of sliced MULTI-TRIBAL cane and 8mm Kodachrome film. In the close-up, the images of a family vacationing at Disneyland peeked through a partly cloudy likes it very much,” said Lori, a She had already cut cane to in the early 1960s can be seen. sky. Sulphur resident who watched as approximately the size of 8mm “We were here in the dark get- her daughter quickly consumed film, which was the most popu- ting everything ready,” Mrs. Un- the dish. lar film used by families to shoot derwood said. Chickasaw Vir- A favorite among attendees was home movies in the early ‘60s. ginia Bolen was enlisted to help Cvse, a soup made from pump- She then searched for 8mm film the Underwoods serve pashofa kin. Seminole Nation citizen Ja- and discovered some in an eBay as long lines of patrons sought to net Johnson-Maylen prepared the auction. sample the traditional staple of soup along with Ecko (corn soup) To her amazement, Ms. Lun- the Chickasaw tribe. and Cvtvhakv (blue bread). sford found herself in a bidding “I think it’s pretty good. The Tribes demonstrated tradition- war for the footage. pork and salt add flavor and al games, such as stickball – the “I paid more than I wanted to texture,” said Hong Li Nguyen, a forerunner of today’s Lacrosse pay, but I just love how it looks,” student at the University of North – and chunky, a spear-throwing she said. “The old film has dim- Texas at Denton. “The way in contest. Beading, hide-tanning, ples in it that really accentuates which it is prepared (in huge iron weaponry, arrow-making, flint the woven pattern.” weaving conference. I was shown red, black and white face paint on pots) would feed many people.” knapping and storytelling were The popular film - Kodachrome a new diagonal technique I am Chickasaw warriors preparing for A few steps away, Chickasaw demonstrated. - was celebrated by professional anxious to try,” she said. battle is similar to markings on citizen Debbie Walker and Choc- Glen Leming, a frequent dem- photographers as the first film Her oil painting is of a pileated woodpeckers. taw citizen Janet Milburn, of onstrator at such events, dis- to produce realistic color images. woodpecker – described by the “In my painting, I have a Chick- Duncan, served up squirrel gravy played weaponry and worked on Ms. Lunsford calls her submis- National Audubon Society as “a asaw warrior on one side and the for sampling. Debbie’s husband, smoothing a stem of river cane sion “Koh-dah-crom-eah.” dashing bird with a flaming red pileated woodpecker on the other. Wayne, said the squirrel meat to make an arrow. River cane is It is the artist’s way of honoring crest.” Pileated woodpeckers are They are looking eye-to-eye,” Ms. was provided by Chickasaw Na- difficult to find in Oklahoma. It the tonal qualities and cadence of about the size of a small crow. Lunsford said. tion Cultural Activities Manager was the preferred arrow-making the Chickasaw language. Their plumage is red, black and SEASAM award-winners sub- Jesse Lindsey. material of ancient Chickasaws She works for the Chickasaw white. It is the second largest mitted artwork that included Squirrel gravy was prepared in in Mississippi where it could be Nation Department of Commerce woodpecker in North America be- paintings, drawings, photo- the traditional Chickasaw man- found with ease. as senior manager of tourism, hind the ivory-billed woodpecker, graphs, sculptures, jewelry, pot- ner, according to Debbie. The “I like working with cane,” Lem- art and retail. Ms. Lunsford ex- which is believed to be extinct. tery, textiles, baskets, regalia and meat was seared and water was ing said as he used a very sharp plained she is a “buyer,” work- Woodpeckers are sacred to the more. added to mix into gravy. Flour- knife to cut the sectional pieces ing with artists to fill Chickasaw Chickasaw people as fierce birds. The top winners in each cat- based gravy was a rarity, she away from the cane to make it Nation-owned galleries and retail Its pecking is believed to signal egory were: Best in Show, Ms. said. “Chickasaws made do with straight. “Chickasaws are grow- operations. new opportunities for those who Lunsford, Chickasaw; Best in Di- resources available to them.” ing it now because finding any in The Stratford (OK) High School listen and heed the meaning of vision, Cultural, Tyra Shackleford, Lori Whitebuffalo and her Oklahoma is tough.” graduate is multitalented. the sound. Many tribes also be- Chickasaw; Best in Division 3D young daughter, Mahlia, sam- Multi-Tribal Day 2018 marked “I am currently working on a lieve woodpeckers possess heal- Art, Troy Jackson, Cherokee; and pled the Walker contribution. It the eighth year the Chickasaw painting that I am very excited ing powers. Best in Division 2D Art, Bryan was obvious Mahlia loved it. “She Nation has hosted the event. about, and I recently attended a Ms. Lunsford thinks traditional Waytula, Cherokee.

The Chickasaw Times is published by the Chickasaw Times, Bill Anoatubby Jefferson Keel The Chickasaw Times is mailed free to Chickasaw registered voters, government and educational offices, and upon request 1500 Hoppe, Suite 1, Ada, OK 74820, P.O. Box 1548, Ada, Governor Lt. Governor to other Native American citizens. Reprint permission is granted OK 74821 monthly with two special issues published, one in with credit to The Chickasaw Times unless other copyrights are June and one in September. shown. Tony Choate Editorial statements of the Chickasaw Times, guest columns Subscriptions are free. Tom Bolitho Editor Media Relations Executive Officer and readers’ letters reflect the opinions of the writers and not Vicky Gold necessarily those of the Chickasaw Times, its staff or the tribal Communications Management and Support Services administration of the Chickasaw Nation. Send mail to: Contributors Executive Officer All editorials and letters will become the property of the Chicka- P.O. Box 1548, Ada, OK 74821 Chickasaw Times: Mallory Jones, Briana Scribner saw Times. Editorials must be signed by the author and include Media Relations/Media Affairs: Gene Lehmann, Brandon Frye, KC Cole, Tom Chickasaw Times: (580) 332-2977; Fax: (580) 332-3949 the author’s address. Bailey, Deborah Large, Loné Beasley, Dana Lance, Deadline for submission is the 15th of each month prior to pub- Tribal Communications: Carmen Carter, Jennifer Jones, Taylor Owen, Dallas e-mail: [email protected] lication. Submissions can be mailed, faxed, hand-delivered or Rudd, Savannah Burwell, Kortney Samis e-mailed. Chickasaw Headquarters: (580) 436-2603 Photographers: Mike McKee, Marcy Gray, Jacquelyn Sparks, Mike Scott December 2018 CHICKASAW TIMES 3 U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs Wilkie visits Chickasaw Nation, affirms tribal sovereignty, honors warrior tradition between the Chickasaw Nation said. and VA, and the services that After speaking, Secretary Wilk- they provide to 2,500 veterans in ie and Governor Anoatubby an- this area – that’s important for us swered questions from veterans to see as a model for the future,” attending the event and pointed he said. many of them in the right direc- Secretary Wilkie previously vis- tion to get the help they needed. ited Alaska and saw the relation- Secretary Wilkie said he en- ship between their health servic- joyed coming to Oklahoma be- es and the VA. His visit there and cause it is a place where he does to the CNMC, he said, convinced not have to explain what it means him that tribal health services are to serve and again praised Native well-maintained. American service in the armed “I’m also happy to see, because forces. of great facilities like the (CNMC), “No other group contributes we are renewing all of our reim- more to the safety of this great bursement agreements with In- nation than the Native peoples of Gov. Bill Anoatubby speaks to the group of U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs Robert Wilkie speaks to a gathering of veterans and others during a dian Health Services and tribal the United States,” he said. veterans, citizens and others gathered Nov. 28 Nov. 28 visit to Ada hosted by the Chickasaw Nation. health programs, including those to welcome U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs right here in Oklahoma, through CONTRIBUTED BY Justin Lofton, Media Relations. Robert Wilkie. the year 2022,” Secretary Wilkie ADA, Okla. – United States Sec- “They have put their lives on the retary of Veterans Affairs Robert line to protect the freedoms that Wilkie spoke Wednesday, Nov. 28, all Americans enjoy. Native Amer- at a town hall for veterans hosted icans have contributed much to at the Chickasaw Nation Commu- that legacy. They’ve answered nity Center. the call of duty throughout our Secretary Wilkie said the Chick- nation’s history.” asaw Nation and Native Ameri- Secretary Wilkie said he grew cans maintain a long-held warrior up in Comanche County, where tradition. Fort Sill is located, and he hopes “No group of Americans serves to strengthen the relationships in greater numbers than the war- between the Department of Vet- riors of the great nations of the erans Affairs (VA) and the Plains Plains,” Secretary Wilkie said. tribes of the United States. “I’m here to affirm their sover- “My family has long connec- eignty and their tribal traditions, tions in Oklahoma,” Secretary but also to honor the warrior cul- Wilkie said. “One of the things I ture.” hope to leave behind is a closer Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill relationship with the nations of Anoatubby thanked Secretary the Plains. It was important to Wilkie for visiting the Chickasaw me growing up, and it’s certainly Nation and Oklahoma. important to me now. I have the “It speaks volumes about your opportunity to return the kind- commitment, Mr. Secretary, to nesses that I received as a child.” serve all veterans that you’d come Prior to the town hall, Secretary here to rural, south-central Okla- Wilkie visited the Chickasaw Na- homa to speak with us,” Governor tion Medical Center (CNMC) and Anoatubby said. said the collaborative relation- Veterans ask questions during the Q-and-A session of the veterans town hall meeting hosted by the Chickasaw Nation. Governor Anoatubby praised ship between the VA and the the sacrifice of those who serve Chickasaw Nation Department of in the armed forces. Health is an excellent example of “Our soldiers have made the working together for the sake of greatest sacrifices and taken on veterans. the greatest burdens,” he said. “That relationship that exists Chickasaw spiritual leader helps guide OU football players

“They’re able to trust me and speakers who have different to be able to minister through know they can visit with me. I backgrounds,” he said. these athletes,” he said. “And don’t want to be a person who Sometimes it’s a former athlete, those kids listen. They lock in. shows up only on game day. I but not always. Occasionally, Mr. The influence of an athlete is want to be there for early morn- Tims delivers the message him- powerful and that’s what FCA ing practices or workouts or sum- self. does. We help take advantage of mer workouts or even on the days He said just before kickoff that influence to use it for good. when it’s freezing cold and no- some players want him to join “I also help with our OU FCA body wants to be out there prac- them in prayer. group, which is open to all stu- ticing.” “About 15 minutes before kick- dents and athletes.” While most players physically off there are players on our team Mr. Tims and his wife, Amanda, tower over much of the rest of the who ask me to link up in prayer met through FCA where she was population, Mr. Tims says they with them. Usually our prayers a coach. They have four children. are still essentially boys. are somewhat related to the cha- Mr. Tims traces his Chickasaw “There are a lot of ministry op- pel message that was presented.” heritage through his maternal portunities that open up because Mr. Tims’ full-time job is serv- grandmother. His grandfather they are kids just trying to make ing as the FCA Norman area rep- was a part-time pastor and full- it through life. They’re just trying resentative, a position he accept- time teacher and coach. to figure it out. For many of them ed after graduating from college. “I was born at Carl Albert In- it’s the first time they’ve been With it comes the responsibility dian Hospital and raised by my away from home. of working with 30-plus schools grandparents in Tishomingo. “As student athletes they have in a region that includes Nor- Part of my roots growing up was many new responsibilities and man, Newcastle, Bridge Creek, going to Chickasaw Community they’ve invested a lot of their Tuttle, Dibble, Washington, Pur- Council meetings and Annual lives into the game of football. cell, Lexington, Wayne, Little Axe Meetings.” There are over 120 bodies and, in and Noble. Later, he said, the Chickasaw the end, only 11 guys get to play His connection with OU foot- Nation was pivotal in helping offense and 11 guys get to play ball has the advantage of open- make sure he stayed in college. defense.” ing up ministry opportunities for “The Chickasaw Nation and my His ministry is not limited to team members who speak at area grandparents are what gave me players only. schools. He said school adminis- the guardrails to keep moving “I’m also looking for opportu- trators and church pastors are forward,” he said. nities to minister to coaches and eager for OU football players to sports staff,” he said. “They com- speak to their young people. mit a lot of time to that program. “I’m able to minister to these Gov. Bill Anoatubby and Jeremy Tims. They’re away from their families. athletes and then that allows me CONTRIBUTED BY Loné Beasley, Media Affairs. They work long nights and week- NORMAN, Okla. - Jeremy Tims “There was a spirit award ends.” was a five-year walk-on player named after me at Southeastern,” A typical game day, both at for his Southeastern Oklahoma he said. “The new coach called home and away, starts at a hotel State University basketball team me and said, ‘I’ve heard you com- where players are sequestered the who readily admits he wasn’t the peted every day in practice and night before the contest. If it’s a greatest player. about your attitude and enthusi- night game, three meals are on The Chickasaw citizen now asm and that you were encourag- the agenda - breakfast, lunch and works with the Fellowship of ing to others. I want to name an the pregame meal. Christian Athletes (FCA) and award after you.’” “I try to sit with a different serves as University of Oklahoma It is this same spirit of encour- player at every meal, just to get football team chaplain. He said agement Mr. Tims brings to OU to know who they are and where his real collegiate athletic role football players, coaches and they’re from,” Mr. Tims said. “I’m was providing spirit for the team. staff almost daily. just looking for ways I can be an “I was not your 20 points and “I’m on campus four or five encouragement to each one of ten rebounds a game guy,” Mr. days a week, spending time with them.” Tims said. “My role was bench them,” he said. “If I want to be Four hours before kickoff play- supporter or bench encourager.” able to minister to them, I need to ers may attend a strictly volun- His positive influence did not have a relationship and a friend- tary 20-minute chapel session go unheralded. After Mr. Tims ship with them where they know where they usually hear a guest graduated, a new coach made a I’m around. They’ve got to know speaker Mr. Tims has invited. point of recognizing him. who I am. “I like to bring in different Jeremy Tims kneeling with a player in prayer before game. 4 CHICKASAW TIMES December 2018 ‘Visual Voices’ is amalgam of talented Chickasaw artists

showcased.” Also included are essays and poetry by 10 Chickasaw authors that give readers information about Chickasaw culture, history, heritage and traditions. “We wanted the book to illustrate the fine art on display, the artists who created it and expla- nations about what it means to be Chickasaw,” Ms. Clark said, add- ing “the book itself is a work of art.” Two nationally-renowned museum curators, who helped launch “Visual Voices,” contributed essays. Exhibit co-curator Manuela Well-Off-Man is Chief Curator of ADA, Okla. – “Visual Voices: the Institute of American Indian Contemporary Chickasaw Art” Arts (IAIA) Museum of Contem- opens a three-month exhibition porary Native Arts in Santa Fe, at the Mississippi Museum of N.M.. Dr. Well-Off-Man is also an Art in Jackson, March 2, 2019 art historian with more than 15 through June 2, 2019. years of curatorial experience in Something special awaits pa- museums and art galleries. trons who visit the exhibit – a Another essay contributor is ex- Chickasaw artist Dustin Mater looks through a hardcover book celebrating “Visual Voices: Contemporary Chickasaw Art” a world-class exhibit comprised of 128-page, hardcover “catalog” hibit co-curator Karen Whitecot- 57 works by 15 Chickasaw master artisans. The book is open to Mr. Mater’s futuristic battle helmet “Cosmic Warrior I,” borrowed from popular culture, fused concerning the world-class art ton, owner of Heritage Museum with Chickasaw identity. Throughout history, Chickasaw warriors have never experienced the sting of defeat in warfare. “Visual Voices” will be displayed exhibit will be available for pur- Services, LLC, in Norman, Okla. in the Chickasaw ancestral Homeland at the Mississippi Museum of Art in Jackson March 2 through June 2, 2019. chase, according to “Visual Voic- Ms. Whitecotton was instrumen- es” Exhibition Program Manager tal in advising and consulting Mrs. Blackburn is chairman of alsmith and forger Daniel Worces- bition will be the second exhibi- Laura Clark. Chickasaw artists to make “Vi- “Visual Voices” Chickasaw Art- ter and Brent Greenwood, whose tion for “Visual Voices,” followed While softcover “catalog” books sual Voices” a reality. Ms. White- ist Board which oversees creative avant garde paintings have won by its Santa Fe opening in August are printed for many art exhibi- cotton is a member of the Citizen development of the exhibition national awards. 2019 and a 2020 venue, Ms. Clark tions, “Visual Voices” took the Potawatomi Nation and has years first envisioned by Governor Bill “Visual Voices” opened to criti- added. endeavor to a grander scale, Ms. of experience in managing ex- Anoatubby five years ago. cal acclaim at the Fred Jones Jr. The books are now available Clark said, by collaborating with hibitions as well as preserving Other board members include Museum of Art, located on the for purchase through the Chicka- the Chickasaw Press. tribal culture. Chickasaw citizens Kristen Dors- University of Oklahoma cam- saw Press or through the “Visual “Ours is an embossed, hardcov- The book was edited by Ms. ey, a celebrated California jewelry pus, June 8, 2018. The exhibition Voices” website at www.Chicka- er book,” she said. “It contains 78 Clark and designed by Chicka- designer, vice-chair; internation- ended Sept. 9 and the works are sawArtists.com. color illustrations by professional saw artist Joanna Underwood ally recognized textile artist, being warehoused in specialized photographers. All 15 Chickasaw Blackburn, a nationally acclaimed weaver and garment-maker Mar- crates in Dallas, Ms. Clark said. CONTRIBUTED BY Gene Lehmann, Media artists and their artworks are Chickasaw sculptor and potter. garet Roach Wheeler; master met- The Jackson, Mississippi, exhi- Relations

Oklahoma State University to open college of medicine in partnership with Cherokee Nation Oklahoma State University the OSU Center for Health Science several tribes will make schol- (OSU) will open the nation’s first has developed gradually over the arships available to citizens of college of medicine on tribal land years. This new center is a cul- these tribes. Scholarships will be in 2020. mination of that strengthening available to Chickasaws and other The Cherokee Nation and Okla- partnership. Native American students thanks homa State University Center for In 2006, OSU medical students to donations totaling $350,000 Health Sciences announced Oct. started completing clinical rota- from the Chickasaw Nation, Cher- 31 the establishment of an addi- tions at W.W. Hastings Hospital. okee Nation and other donors. tional facility to Tulsa’s OSU Col- In 2009, OSU established a fam- This partnership with OSU lege of Osteopathic Medicine, to ily medicine residency program and the Cherokee Nation is a be located at a tribal health facil- in Tahlequah. In 2020, the tribe continuation and expansion of ity in Tahlequah. and college will create their new the Chickasaw Nation’s efforts The new 469,000-square-foot college of medicine. toward training competent and outpatient health facility is ex- “This new site will give our compassionate family physicians. pected to be complete in 2019. young people a place to learn and The Chickasaw Nation started a Current plans call for the en- to become doctors while staying family residency program July 1, rollment of an inaugural class of close to home,” Chief Baker said. 2018 to provide training that em- 50 students, starting in the fall of “Having medical students hone phasizes fundamental principles 2020 with a total of 200 students their skills right here in Tahle- of family medicine that include when fully operational. The new Gov. Bill Anoatubby an Cherokee Principal Chief Bill Don Baker at the formal announcement of the quah is a win-win for the Chero- comprehensive and holistic ser- medical college will be located at new tribal school of medicine . kee Nation. Our people will have vice, cultural sensitivity, continu- the W.W. Hastings Hospital cam- access to doctors, making north- ity of care and care that is of the pus, 100 S. Bliss Ave, and will “That mission will create health- sicians for rural and medically east Oklahoma a great place to highest quality, while being cost occupy approximately 60,000 ier families and communities in underserved areas of the state,” work, to live and to raise a fam- effective. square feet. northeast Oklahoma and improve said OSU President Burns Hargis. ily.” “We admire and support OSU the lives of Cherokees for the “What better way to achieve those OSU Center for Health Sciences Center for Health Sciences’ efforts next seven generations.” goals than partnering together estimates the new site will have in to populate rural Oklahoma with “Chief Baker and the Cherokee to bring a new center of medical total up to 200 medical students doctors from rural Oklahoma,” Nation share a mission with the learning to the Cherokee people?” in training by the time the first said Bill John Baker, Principal OSU College of Osteopathic Medi- A cooperative relationship be- class graduates in 2024. Chief of the Cherokee Nation. cine to provide primary care phy- tween the Cherokee Nation and Financial contributions from Upcoming Events

Festival of Trees Dec. 6, 6-8 p.m. Chipota Chikashshanompoli Nov. 24-Dec. 31 Community Center Youth Speaking Chickasaw Lan- Chickasaw Cultural Center Ada, Okla. guage Club Sulphur, Okla. (580) 310-6620 Dec. 11, 6-8 p.m. (580) 622-7130 Culture & Humanities Oklahoma City Children’s Christ- Ada Celebration of Lights mas Celebration (580) 272-5592 Nov. 24-Dec. 31 Dec. 6, 6-8 p.m. Chickasaw Cultural Center Community Center Non-Silver Printing Techniques Sulphur Oklahoma City Dec. 15-16, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. (580) 622-7130 (580) 310-6620 University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma Ardmore Children’s Christmas Photography with Tanya Low- Chickasha, Okla. Celebration rance (580) 272-5520 Dec. 4, 6-8 p.m. Dec. 8, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Community Center ARTesian Gallery & Studios Skunk Run and Fun Walk 5K Ardmore, Okla. Sulphur Dec. 15, 8:30 a.m. (580) 310-6620 (580) 622-8040 Wintersmith Park Ada Tishomingo Children’s Christ- Christmas Celebration and Arts (580) 559-0880 mas Celebration Market Dec. 4, 6-8 p.m. Dec. 8, 10 a.m. Mini Christmas Canvases with Community Center Chickasaw Cultural Center Leanne Parker-West Tishomingo, Okla. Sulphur Dec. 18, 4-6 p.m. (580) 310-6620 (580) 622-7130 ARTesian Galley & Studios Sulphur Language Class Wax Resist with Leanne Parker- (580) 622-8040 Dec. 6, 6-8 p.m. West Purcell Area Office Dec. 11-12, 4-6 p.m. Photography with Tanya Low- Purcell, Okla. ARTesian Gallery & Studios rance (580) 272-5318 Sulphur Jan. 12, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (580) 622-8040 ARTesian Gallery & Studios Ada Children’s Christmas Cel- Sulphur ebration (580) 622-8040 December 2018 CHICKASAW TIMES 5 Indian warriors have storied history in service to the United States

service is rarely mentioned. ship. Within minutes, it sank. The changing impact on American In- Offices on the south side of the American Indian population bodies of most of those lost were dians. Scores of those who didn’t lodge provide space for tribal ex- totaled about 350,000 during the never recovered. leave their reservations and na- perts who offer counseling ser- WWII years. More than 44,000 Na- The United States set head- tions to serve in the military left vices and assist in seeking vari- tive men and women served by stones for those “missing in ac- to work in munitions or war ma- ous programs and benefits avail- the end of the war, more than 10 tion” or “buried at sea” in the terials manufacturing plants. able to veterans, Gov. Anoatubby percent of their population. Fort Bliss National Cemetery, Families were uprooted, mov- said. Some tribes experienced as Fort Bliss, El Paso, Texas. Henry ing from small rural areas to Accompanying the lodge is a much as 70 percent of their eligi- Nolatubby’s headstone is there: large urban centers to work and new organization for veterans: ble men and women serving. Most “Henry Ellis Nolatubby, PFC, US escape reservation or poverty the Chickasaw Warrior Society. voluntarily enlisted for service. In Marine Corps, World War II.” His blight. Family members who The Society encourages the gath- fact, the prevailing belief among name is listed on the Tablets of went along but didn’t work in ering of military veterans for mu- indigenous people was that be- the Missing, National Memorial war industries labored at other tual support, camaraderie and ing drafted was disgraceful and Cemetery of the Pacific, USS Ari- jobs. Children, many of whom maintaining and carrying on the shameful. zona Memorial. spoke little or no English, entered Chickasaw spirit. Another 40,000-plus worked in One of the Arizona survivors strange schools. At the 2017 Chickasaw Veter- the defense industry, and just as said many were already at their When the war ended, some of ans Convention at Winstar Con- many helped in a myriad of oth- big guns firing when “quarters” the returning Chickasaw military vention Center, Gov. Anoatubby er home front war efforts. These sounded, sending each man to personnel and industrial workers unveiled a woman’s Pendleton Indian citizens, many working his battle station that horrify- returned to their tribal homes. shawl and a man’s Pendleton vest for a paycheck for the first time, ing morning, December 7, 1941. Many others, however, continued for Warrior Society members. Chickasaw citizen Henry Ellis Nolatubby, U. invested more than $50 million In the tradition of the Chicka- their lives or constructed new Veterans also received a front li- S. Marine Corps, first American Indian to die in war bonds and regularly con- saw warrior, it is reasonable to ones in the urban areas. Living cense plate with a society logo to during WWII. Photo is from the Chilocco Indian tributed to organizations such as think Henry Nolatubby was one among other Americans while show service in the military, and Agricultural School 1942 yearbook. the Red Cross and military relief of those, defending his nation, striving to still retain their Chick- also so they may park vehicles in societies. Indian women through- engaging the enemy. He was 19. asaw American Indian roots be- selected spots at tribal facilities. “Everybody who is in the ser- out the United States grew and Scores of other Chickasaw men came a huge, daunting challenge. They also received a warrior soci- vice is a warrior,” Chickasaw canned vegetables and fruit that and women served the military ety “military challenge coin.” citizen and World War II and were sent to the troops. in every branch of the armed Chickasaw In addition, The Chickasaw Na- Korea War veteran Roy Swinney services and throughout the war tion recently signed a memoran- said. “I am Chickasaw, but also Nolatubby became theater, from the South Pacific veterans today dum of understanding with the an American. I am proud of the Islands to the British Isles. They The Chickasaw Nation honors Oklahoma Department of Veter- time I served, of the time I spent first Indian casualty conquered hills and caves, many its men and women veterans of ans Affairs to assist Chickasaw in the Navy. Chickasaw warrior Henry Ellis times being wounded themselves. all ages and military service. On veterans. The memorandum, “My brothers Charles, Clar- Nolatubby was the first American They battled in the air. They October 2, 2017, a 15,000 square- coupled with federal legislation, ence and Vic were in the Army. Indian to lose his life in WWII. He dropped bombs. They hunted foot Veterans Lodge was dedicat- allows Chickasaw Nation staff Charles was a medic. Clarence graduated from Chilocco Indian submarines and dropped depth ed for warriors and their families. to file veterans’ claims, appeals was wounded in the Battle of the Agricultural School in northern charges. WAC Jeraldine Brown, of The lodge sets on the South Cam- and follow the claims process on Bulge. Vic was captured in Hol- Oklahoma in 1939. He worked for Edmond, Okla., served in photo pus near the Chickasaw Nation behalf of veterans. Previously, land by the Germans. He weighed a year, then joined the U.S. Marine intelligence. She printed images Medical Center in Ada, Okla. It laws required veterans to handle 225 pounds when he entered the Corps at Oklahoma City. daily, but wasn’t prepared for was located on the medical cen- claims themselves. service. He weighed 90 pounds Mr. Nolatubby was sent to the total devastation she saw in ter grounds for the convenience “The Veterans Lodge, veterans when he got home.” San Diego for basic training. In photos she learned were the af- of veterans who require recurring services, the Chickasaw Warriors American Indians were the December 1940, the teenager termath of the atomic bombs that medical attention. The lodge of- Society and the Veterans Confer- largest contributors per capita to shipped out for Bremerton, Wash., were dropped on Japan. fers a place for fellowship, games, ence exist to serve you and gives the armed forces during World and more training. He was as- Many Chickasaws were recipi- assistance or just a spot to relax. us an opportunity to express our War II, according to United States signed to the battleship USS Ari- ents of medals and commenda- “Our military servicemen and gratitude to you, Gov. Anoatubby Department of Defense records. zona. tion for their bravery and excel- women are warriors,” Gov. Bill told 2018 conference attendees. Indians fought in every the- After exercises at sea, the ship lent service literally in the face Anoatubby said during the lodge “Although we can’t fully ex- ater of the war and were often headed for port at Honolulu. of hazardous, life-threatening dedication. “You have been our press our gratitude – it’s just vir- assigned to the most dangerous In Japan’s dawn attack on Pearl situations. Mothers and fathers constant protectors. Some of you tually impossible to do that or to operations or duties. They earned Harbor a few months later, 2,403 saw as many as four of their sons stormed the beaches at Norman- give a gift as great as the one you hundreds of medals and honors, American servicemen died, in- and daughters serve at the same dy. You sweated below the decks have given us – the Chickasaw including five Congressional Med- cluding 1,177 of the 1,400 sailors time. Others dealt with sons be- of aircraft carriers in Korea. You Nation is going to continue to do als of Honor, and were respected and Marines on board the Ari- ing declared missing in action or endured the physical and emo- what it can to honor your service for their bravery, courage, abil- zona. A Japanese bomb crashed incarcerated as a prisoner of war. tional warfare of Vietnam. You and your sacrifice.” ity and will to act. They became through the battleship’s two ar- powered through the heat and bomber pilots, scouts, comman- mored decks and exploded, ig- Impact on uncertainty of tour after tour in dos, communications experts, niting the magazine (ammo stor- the Middle East. What other word gunners and brigadier generals. age) and ripping open the ship’s American Indians can be used to describe you ex- Yet American Indian military sides. Fire engulfed the entire World War II wielded a life- cept ‘hero.’” CONTRIBUTED BY Tom Bailey, Media Relations.

Chickasaw artist produces reincarnations of historic Native weapons

TISHOMINGO, Okla. – Histori- I try to inspire our younger gen- animals. cally accurate craftsmanship of erations to take up some of these “Native Americans made some Native American weapons has techniques. of the most complex bows in the made Chickasaw citizen Eric “As a youth, when I was learn- history of the world,” he said. Smith recognized among Holly- ing to make Native weapons, Native American “horn bows” wood movie-makers. people were telling me ‘this is are among them. This month, he added another irrelevant’ and ‘there is no use “Mountain sheep horns, elk accomplishment to his resumé – for these things in the modern antlers, caribou antlers and sin- published author. world.’ Well, I am a walking tes- ew were all used,” he said. “I’ve “The Warriors tools: Plains In- tament that isn’t true. Here are replicated many of those bows. dian bows, arrows and quivers” these ancient methods so needed For me, it was a lot of trial and hit bookstores and retail busi- and highly sought after today. error and a lot of mistakes. For nesses Dec. 4. It is published by That just shows the relevance of our people to figure out this com- Roadrunner Press. our people and our culture.” plicated technology, it is almost “I am very excited about it. Mr. Smith has been crafting Na- unbelievable. It shows great skill, Roadrunner Press is out of Okla- tive weapons since age nine. That great ingenuity, and dedication homa City and has published is when he made his first bow. to work with material available many Native American-themed “No, it wasn’t a very good one,” to them in their natural environ- Eric Smith greets visitors from his booth at the Southeastern Art Show and Market during the 2018 books,” Mr. Smith said. “It is Mr. Smith recalled with a sly grin, ment. So, I share that knowledge Chickasaw Nation Annual Meeting and Festival. written from a Native American “but I was so proud because it ac- in the book for people who want perspective. So many books con- tually worked.” to try to do it.” “It took about four months to sider that a great compliment.” cerning (Native American) histo- By the time Mr. Smith had en- write the book,” he said. “I did “The Warriors tools: Plains In- ry are written by Europeans and tered his teens, his craft was Winning the Battle some research to make sure all dian bows, arrows and quivers” they had a completely different honed to such a high degree Mr. Smith is an expert in Na- the facts were correct, but pri- is available on Amazon, at Barnes perspective from that of Native he was asked to make bows for tive American weaponry. He has marily I wrote about what I have and Noble and other major book- people.” friends and hunters. successfully replicated all kinds learned from elders and by doing stores. The book is available for Mr. Smith most recently found of weapons from many different it. I had friends read the manu- Kindle download. nationwide acclaim for crafting The Next Level tribes, including his own tribe. script and they said ‘it makes me CONTRIBUTED BY Gene Lehmann, Media Relations. Native weaponry for the Oscar- Making weapons came natu- However, his specialty is weapons want to build a bow,’ and, I con- winning movie “The Revenant.” rally to the artist, but a curiosity of Plains Indians at around the The 2016 motion picture was nagged his soul. Not only did he time they acquired horses. Most nominated for a dozen Oscars, wish to make quality weapons, historians put the date at around taking home three; Best Actor, he wanted them to be historically 1680, following the Pueblo Revolt. Best Cinematography and Best and culturally pure. He was recently a trifecta win- Director. For guidance, he turned to Na- ner at the Southeastern Art Show He is still crafting weapons for tive elders and made frequent and Market (SEASAM) sponsored movies, but is unable to say much road trips to consult with them. by the Chickasaw Nation during about his endeavors until studios “Elders always have a story to its Annual Meeting and Festival and movie executives are ready to tell,” Mr. Smith said. “If you sit celebration. Mr. Smith entered  make announcements. down with an elder, listen and let two categories and placed three them talk to you, it is amazing times – first place in cultural  For Children the information they will share. clothing; second place in weap- The book is written at a high Everywhere I went, whether it was onry; and third place in cultural school level and Mr. Smith’s great- Pine Ridge (South Dakota Oglala clothing.  Chickasaw Citizen  est desire is to make it available Lakota) or Tuba City in the Navajo Sometime in the near future,  to students. Children are the Nation, I listened and learned.” he will move from his Lawton  keys, the artist believes, to pre- With the visits came an epiph- home to Pauls Valley, Okla. He   serving Native culture. any – all ancient cultures world- has spent a year restoring a home  “The things that we do, our wide used archery. once owned by a family member cultural ways, they must con- No culture, however, exceled at who is now deceased. tinue,” Mr. Smith said. “The key it like Native Americans. Sharing his knowledge, re- to that is reaching children. We In the book, Smith devotes two search, philosophy and skills must inspire our youth or we are chapters to weapons made from appeals to Mr. Smith because the in trouble. With everything I do, the horns/antlers and sinew of book “will be around forever.”  6 CHICKASAW TIMES News From Your Legislators December 2018 Lots of great celebrations, events and Enjoy the many holiday events this year Unique, fun Christmas celebrations at Fort lights displays in the Chickasaw Nation throughout the Chickasaw Nation Washita, Chickasaw Cultural Center hokma, chinchokma, Hello, how are you? here are so many exciting, fulfilling events hokma! The holidays seem to come around faster to be experienced throughout the Chicka- Greetings from the Tishomingo District! every year. As always, there’s plenty to saw Nation during this holiday season! I would like to take this opportunity to do in the Chickasaw Nation! December is You and your family have plenty of expe- wish you and your family Merry Christmas a beautiful time to get out and enjoy all riences to share together while engaging in and a Happy New Year. theC lights and decorations and take part in the many someT great fun. ThisC year brought many exciting developments and celebrations. The Chickasaw Christmas Celebration and Arts Mar- progress for the Chickasaw Nation and our citizens. Every year, I write about the beautiful Artesian Hotel ket is Dec. 8 at the Chickasaw Cultural Center in Sul- From the opening of new facilities which help deliver and all the activities available for Christmas celebra- phur. This is a great event to share programs and services to our citi- tions. Every year, I write about the the blessings of the season, and zens; expansion and enhancement Progressive Dinner, which starts at to also partake of some excellent of the programs and services and the Chickasaw Capital Museum in shopping opportunities. You will the growth of many of our busi- Tishomingo and progresses to the find lots of unique art, crafts and ness ventures, this year has been Chickasaw White House in Emet, gifts made by some of our very full of progressive developments in OK. Both of those events are well talented local artists. Be sure to the Chickasaw Nation. worth your time to check out if attend this year! Right here in the Tishomingo you’ve not had the opportunity to Another unique event is the District, we celebrated the open- do so before. Christmas celebration at Fort ing of a new Head Start building in One event that you don’t want to Washita near Durant, Okla. Sulphur and enjoyed record-setting miss is the Christmas Celebration Fort Washita is unique in our attendance during May’s Artesian and Arts Market, which will be at DAVID Chickasaw and Indian Terri- TIM Arts Festival. Our Annual Meeting NANCY the Chickasaw Cultural Center on tory history. This installation was and Festival hosted thousands of ELLIOTT December 8. This will be a great WOERZ establlished by the federal gov- COLBERT Chickasaws from across the coun- time to do your Christmas shop- Chairman, ernment to shield the Chickasaw try in Tishomingo and surround- ping from many of our local artists Nation from bands based with the ing communities. and artisans. You’ll be getting Chickasaw Plains tribes. The fort didn’t oper- Chickasaw This time of year, we can look Chickasaw some great “one-of-a-kind” gifts Tribal ate for all that long, but it has lots Tribal forward to the wonderful holiday Tribal and helping out our local artists at of history that is fun to check out. celebrations planned at the Chicka- the same time. Legislature During the Fort Washita celebra- Legislature saw Cultural Center and Artesian Legislature Another great activity that seems tion, you and your family can en- Hotel in Sulphur; as well as fam- to get bigger every year will be joy Christmas music, baked goods, ily events at the Chickasaw White on December 15 at Fort Washita, hot chocolate and even horse-and-buggy rides. Don’t House and Capitol in Tishomingo. which is near Durant, OK. “Celebrate Christmas at Fort miss it this year! If you are in Chickasaw Country during the holiday Washita” will start around 10 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 15. There are lots of Chickasaw Nation communities that season, enjoy the many unique holiday celebrations we Activities will include horse and buggy rides, Christmas have wonderful Christmas light displays, including offer in our communities – from Christmas light dis- ornaments and craft making, Christmas music and Chickasha and Ada. The Chickasha lights display at plays to holiday plays and interactive Christmas celebra- stories, old-fashioned baked Christmas cookies, black- the park has been an annual tradition for a long time tions for our citizens- there are many ways to celebrate smithing demonstrations, and of course, a visit from and draws thousands each year. The Ada lighs display the season with your family in the Chickasaw Nation. Santa! Hot chocolate, hot apple cider, coffee, and cookies is centered at historic Wintersmith. You and the fam- For a full list of holiday events, visit www.chickasaw. will also be served to guests. ily can stay in the car and drive arouind the park’s lake net or see the Chickasaw Times. Fort Washita served a very important purpose in and enjoy the lights. Or you can get out, if the weather is Again, I hope you and your family have a joyous protecting Chickasaw families during the years after pleasant, and take in the lights from the convenience of Christmas and a Happy New Year and enjoy time spent Removal, when our ancestors were trying to start their the nice walking trail. together. new lives in Indian Territory. There is a great video on There are many celebrations and other events to enjoy As always, thank you for allowing me to serve as your CNTV explaining Fort Washita’s importance. It’s a great during this Christmas season in the Chickasaw Nation. representative on the Chickasaw legislature. place to visit any time of the year. Don’t miss out this year! See you there! Please feel free to contact me with any questions or I’ve only listed a few of the exciting events going on concerns. this month. Check out the calendar on the website, David Woerz Chokma’shki, www.chickasaw.net, for more information. There are Tim Colbert always lots of art classes, language classes, and cultural [email protected] classes being held each and every month. There are even (580) 421-7242 a couple of winter sports camps going on this month. I hope you can take advantage of every opportunity to We are thankful for the many blessings get out and enjoy this holiday season! It goes by just as fast as it arrives, so we must enjoy every moment while we have received, and for our beloved tribe we can. I hope you all have a Very Merry Christmas and a Very Happy New Year! Please let me know if I can help you in hokma! Greetings from the Pontotoc Dis- any way. trict! Chipisala cho anowa, (Until I see you again) The holiday season is upon us. While we Nancy should be thankful every day, the holiday Pontotoc District Seat 2 season, especially, reminds us to reflect [email protected] uponC and to give thanks for the blessings in our lives. (580) 399-4374 I have many things for which to be thankful. I give thanks to God for my family and friends, our health and well-being, as well as, the opportunity to serve the people of this great Chickasaw Nation. I hope your Thanksgiving was one filled with happiness and surrounded by loved ones. And as Christmas approaches, I want to take this opportunity to wish you all a very Merry Christmas! May your holidays be filled with an Ada Senior Center Gift Shop abundance of peace and joy. The gift shop is located inside the Chickasaw Nation LISA In October, I was delighted to Ada Senior Center at 1005 Chamber Loop Road, in Ada. IMPSON visit with many of you during the Hours of Operation: Chickasaw Festival and Annual Monday through Friday Meeting. The Princess Pageant, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Chickasaw Cultural Evening and the State of Call (580) 436-1007 for more information. the Nation are among my favor- Tribal ite events. This year, I may have Legislature added another favorite. During the Festival, the Chickasaw Legis- 2018-2019 Tribal Legislature lature hosted its first Office Tour and Reception. An invitation was Following is a list of the Chickasaw Nation Tribal Legislators including their address and phone numbers. If you extended to our at-large citizens to tour the Legislative have any questions or need any information, please contact the legislator in your area. building and to attend a brief reception before traveling Pontotoc District Pickens District Tishomingo District to one of the Nation’s historic churches, Sandy Creek Seat # Seat # Seat # Presbyterian Church. While at the church, an evening 1. Toby Perkins 1. David Woerz 1. Scott Wood service was held and conducted primarily in the Chicka- 15810 CR 1569 P.O. Box 669 101 West Main Street saw language. I enjoyed sharing the experience with Ada, OK 74820 Ardmore, OK 73402 Tishomingo, OK 73450 many citizens who were visiting the church, and per- (580) 399-2606 (580) 235-3240 (580) 221-1430 haps, hearing our language for the first time. Thank you [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Sandy Creek Presbyterian Church for welcoming us and for your hospitality. 2. Nancy Elliott 2. Connie Barker 2. Tim Colbert While November brings a number of gatherings, the 620 Ann 509 SW 7th Ave. P.O. Box 773 Elders Thanksgiving Luncheon is one of my favorite Ada, OK 74820 Marietta, OK 73448 Sulphur, OK 73086 November get-togethers. Each year our elders from (580) 399-4374 (580) 272-4175 (580) 421-7242 across the Chickasaw Nation gather in Ada for a special [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Thanksgiving meal and time of fellowship. During this year’s luncheon, we were treated to a selection of Choc- 3. J. Lisa Impson 3. Linda Briggs 3. Steven Woods taw hymns performed by the Senior Choir. The songs P.O. Box 2669 P.O. Box 241 5071 Gray’s Road were beautiful and it was a very lovely addition to an Ada, OK 74820 Marietta, OK 73448 Davis, OK 73030 already enjoyable afternoon. (580) 235-3185 (580) 272-7268 (580) 272-7270 In November, across the nation, our country’s veter- [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] ans were honored. I would also like to offer my sincere thanks to the brave men and women who have served 4. Karen Goodnight 4. Shana Tate Hammond Panola District and continue to serve our county. Your sacrifices are not P.O. Box 759 801 North Mississippi Seat # forgotten. Washington, OK 73093 Ada, Oklahoma, 74820 1. Beth Alexander May God continue to bless you and the Chickasaw Na- (580) 235-2654 (580) 235-1438 Box 246 tion. As always, I consider it a privilege to serve as your [email protected] [email protected] Achille, OK 74720 legislator and I look forward to hearing from you. (580) 272-7850 Chokma’shki! 5. Lisa J. Billy [email protected] Lisa 19259 150th Street [email protected] Pontotoc District, Seat 3 Lindsay, OK 73052 (580) 235-3185 (580)399-7083 [email protected] [email protected] December 2018 News From Your Legislators CHICKASAW TIMES 7 A homelands trips is a great way to feel All Nations delivers message of fellowship Hall of Fame nominations the history of the Chickasaw Nation and unity on the National Mall now being accepted

ello Everyone, ovember was a very busy month. Attend- The Chickasaw Nation is currently accepting nomina- I hope your Holidays are filled with ing the Chickasaw Nation Elders’ thanks- tions for the Chickasaw Hall of Fame. Nominations must peace, love and laughter. giving Luncheon is always a highlight! be received by Chickasaw Nation Culture and Humanities In October, the Legislators and staff It is an opportunity to interact with our by Friday, Dec. 7 at 5 p.m. made a Homelands trip back to our elders and do a bit of Christmas shop- Chickasaws both living and deceased are eligible for ChickasawH ancestral homelands in Mississippi. We trav- pingN at the same time! Various CN Senior Centers set up nomination. Nominees must have distinguished them- eled to Memphis, Tennessee and from there to Tupelo, tables to sell homemade items for fundraising. Those selves in their business, profession, craft or vocation, Mississippi which is considered our Homelands head- homemade cakes and cookies are hard to pass up! thereby bringing honor to the Chickasaw Nation, impact- quarters. During this trip, I had Recently, I attended the All ing fellow Chickasaw citizens or the community on a local the pleasure of taking my 11-year- Nations DC gathering located on or national level. old granddaughter, Rylee Mathews, the national mall in Washington Chickasaw Nation elected officials and current employ- on this educational journey. DC. The mission statement of All ees of the Chickasaw Nation are not eligible for induction We first visited the statue of Nations DC is: To empower the into the Chickasaw Hall of Fame while holding office or Piomingo, the well-known Chicka- First Nations People to activate employed. saw warrior and recipient of the the governmental voice of author- Inductees are required to commit to being present for Washington Peace Medal. We trav- ity, rightly given to them by our the banquet and induction ceremonies in 2019. eled the Natchez Trace Parkway Creator; by expressing that author- Nominees must be citizens of the Chickasaw Nation or and stopped at the Visitor’s Center ity through the gathering of all be eligible to become citizens of the Chickasaw Nation. to learn more about the trade route tribes and nations in Washington Nominees are not required to live in Oklahoma. taken by fur trappers and traders DC annually, to pray and intercede. New inductees are honored with a plaque in the Chicka- CONNIE as they would travel south down BETH Dr. Negiel Bigpond (Euchee (Yu- saw Nation Honor Garden, a beautiful and serene monu- BARKER the Mississippi River with their chi) Tribe) is the visionary for this ment dedicated to individuals inducted into the Chicka- goods, and then return home to ALEXANDER endeavor and Chickasaw Nation saw Hall of Fame. the north by the Natchez Trace, Tribal members, Randy and Nancy Located on the Chickasaw Cultural Center campus in meeting and trading with Chicka- Wade are a part of the Executive Sulphur, the Chickasaw Nation Honor Garden is an origi- Chickasaw saw people along the way. Along Chickasaw Team. The first gathering occurred nal design inspired by the four directions and incorpo- Tribal the Trace is the grave site of Meri- Tribal in 2016. This year, opening ceremo- rating spiral symbols indicative of traditional Chickasaw weather Lewis the great explorer nies recognized military veterans culture. Legislature of the Lewis and Clark expedi- Legislature followed by representatives from Nomination forms are available at HOF.Chickasaw.net/ tions, where he died in 1809. each Tribal Nation in attendance. Nominations. We stopped at the site of Col- Various speakers and worship groups shared through- For more information, contact LaDawn Webb at (580) bert’s Stand, where George Colbert operated a ferry out the day. It was nice to have Lt. Governor, Jefferson 436-2603 or [email protected]. across the Tennessee River from 1800 to 1819. This be- Keel and his wife, Carol stop by for a visit. Lt. Governor came an important landmark for weary travelers since shared his personal testimony and encouraged all to he offered food and lodging along the Natchez Trace. It enter into unity. To come together, worship, and form is rumored that he once charged Col. Andrew Jackson new friendships with others from around the world is a $75,000 to ferry he and his army across the river, but it moving experience and can be life changing. I met such was most likely never paid. With a Scottish father and a variety of people: Jewish, African American, Chinese, Chickasaw mother, he quickly built a network with both Japanese, Samoan, Ethiopian, Maori people of New cultures and being bilingual helped him establish a Zealand, numerous from Canada and throughout the worthy business. United States. A kindred spirit and fellowship with other We visited prehistoric Shiloh Indian Mounds along tribal people does the “heart” well. I am ready for next the Tennessee River, one of the largest surviving prehis- year! For more information visit www.alltribesdc.org on toric sites and the least disturbed areas of the eastern the web. Youth clothing grant mounds in the eastern United States. Our guides, Brad May you and your family have a Merry Christmas and Lieb and LaDonna Brown, educated us on Mississippian a blessed holiday season! The deadline to apply for the Chickasaw Nation Youth Indians and the communities they lived in before early “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another Clothing Grant is Dec. 31. Europeans arrived. Cities much like todays, early natives above yourselves.” Romans 12:10 The grant provides eligible Chickasaw students with built plazas, temples and civic building for community Beth a $200 grant once per school year to purchase school gatherings. Between 1100 and 1300, Shiloh Mounds was ((580) 272-7850 clothes. one of the most impressive communities along the Ten- P.O.Box 246 Chickasaw citizens, ages three through high school se- nessee River with several hundred people living there Achille, OK. 74720 niors, can apply online at Chickasaw.net/ClothingGrant. and many other villages dotted along its outskirts. Students must provide most recent report card or prog- As Chickasaw citizens, it’s so important to know our ress report (grades K-12 only). history, know where we came from and to share with For more information, contact Youth Services at (580) our children and grandchildren. Keeping our story alive 272-5585 or [email protected]. will forever be an important part of our culture. I hope if you ever get the chance, make a trip to our Chickasaw Homelands and learn about our history. God Bless, Connie Barker College clothing grant Pickens District Chickasaw citizens attending college are eligible to apply for a college clothing grant. Chickasaw college students pursuing bachelor’s, master’s or doctorate degrees are qualified to receive the Chickasaw Nation College Clothing Grant. Funds are distributed in the form of a non-reloadable Visa gift card. The grant is for clothing purchases only. To apply, students must be a Chickasaw citizen, provide an official high school transcript (first time freshman students only), an official college transcript and schedule of classes. Randy Wade, Dr. Negiel Bigpond and Nancy Wade, wearing the Chickasaw Nation Qualifying applicants will be notified with an award Warrior Society Shawl. letter. Online applications will be available Chickasaw.net/Col- legeClothing. Application deadline is Feb. 1. For more information, contact youth services at (580) 272-5585 or [email protected].

Prenatal education classes offered The Chickasaw Nation Department of Health prenatal education classes introduce parents to the various services offered through the Chickasaw Nation. December classes are 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., on Friday, Dec. 14 and Dec. 28. Lunch is provided. To prepare and guide parents, professionals from different fields gather to answer questions at the Chickasaw Nation Medical Center. Tours are conducted to familiarize parents with pro- Legislator Beth Alexander and Lt. Governor Jefferson Keel gram locations at the Medical Center. Update address online or by phone! Accommodations are made for family members who want to attend with expecting parents. It is a happy new year when we can keep in touch Four hours of IDP credit can be earned. with Chickasaw citizens! For more information or to schedule a class, contact Let us know your physical address with an easy ad- Stephanie Leland or Rachel Hattensty at (580) 421-6200. dress update online or by phone. Silk painting class Dec. 15 Receive important news, resources, guides and help SULPHUR, Okla. - The ARTesian Gallery & Studios in us respond when you are affected by a natural disas- Sulphur will host silk a painting class, Saturday, Dec. 15. ter or weather emergency when you add your current Classes are split into two sessions for different skill Parenting Education Program information online at www.chickasaw.net/address- levels. The Chickasaw Nation Parenting Education Program change or call (888) 661-0137. The morning sessions, 10 a.m. - noon, will cover begin- provides high quality, up-to-date parenting information ner’s techniques. The afternoon sessions, 1-3 p.m., will to those interested in learning more. guide intermediate students. Classes are Mondays and Wednesdays, Jan. 14 through Count of Voters by District Silk painting is the application of dyes artfully placed March 13, from 9-11:30 a.m., or from 2:30-5 p.m. at Chicka- onto silk fabric using a fusion of contemporary original saw Nation Family Support, 720 Colony Drive in Ada. Panola 2,396 Pontotoc 16,013 design concepts and traditional Native American motifs. Classes are free and open to the public. Registration is Pickens 10,003 Tishomingo 6,782 Classes will be taught by full-time studio artist and required. 2017 Red Earth “Honored One” Patta Butcher. These courses teache families nurturing behaviors and 35,194 Ms. Butcher has been a professional artist for more than how these behaviors can work within their unique family Count of Voters by District 30 years. She enjoys expressing her art using hand-paint- environment. ed silk, and has a background in fashion design, clothing For more information, or to register, contact Parent and and textiles. Community Education at (580) 310-7900 or visit Chicka- To reserve a seat, contact the ARTesian Gallery & Studios saw.net/Parenting. at (580) 622-8040. CONTRIBUTED BY Taylor Owen, Tribal Communications 8 CHICKASAW TIMES December 2018 Chris Shilling appointed Under Secretary of Technology and Innovation

“Chris Shilling brings a singu- received his bachelor’s degree saw Nation. program as one of those. lar combination of creativity and from the University of Oklahoma “My wish is every citizen and “I think people have a precon- technical skills to this new posi- in 2009, graduating summa cum employee of the nation look to the ceived notion that ‘IT is over my tion,” Gov. Anoatubby said. “His laude in psychology. Upon earn- future through the lens of tech- head and I’ll never understand ability to devise and implement ing his degree, he worked for two nology,” Mr. Shilling said. “It can it,’” Mr. Shilling said. “With Ro- a wide range of inventive uses years as press secretary and spe- enable us to enhance education; setta Stone, the Chickasaw lan- of technology will be extremely cial assistant to the president at solve problems related to health guage is something we can all valuable as we strive to continue OU before entering Harvard. care; assist the (Department of) understand and learn. It can be a delivering effective and efficient At Harvard, Mr. Shilling earned Commerce grow and diversify in second language. I want IT to be services that enhance the lives of a Master’s of Business Adminis- exciting ways it never has before. a second language everyone can the Chickasaw people.” tration, graduating in 2013. That is my hope and that is why I understand and learn. Mr. Shilling reported to work in Born and reared in Oklahoma am here – to help figure out how “It is such an honor to be asked late August and will be associated – he graduated from Yukon High to do it.” to be a part of the Chickasaw with the Information Technology School in 2005 – Mr. Shilling re- Currently, the Chickasaw Na- Nation. I have always seen the (IT) division. turned to his home state as senior tion employs approximately 250 Chickasaw Nation’s impact from “I will be working with this deputy director of Stephenson IT professionals, supervised by the outside looking in. I wit- amazing team of professionals Cancer Center, the only academic five directors, according to Mr. nessed how the Nation invested at CHRIS SCHILLING to help plan what technology will cancer center in Oklahoma. It is Shilling. He reports to Dakota OU and at the Stephenson Cancer ADA, Okla. - Gov. Bill Anoatub- look like five to 10 years from affiliated with OU. Cole, Deputy Secretary of Com- Center and in all Oklahomans. I by has named a Harvard and Uni- now,” Mr. Shilling said. “I will be There is a special place in Mr. merce. have such high respect for this versity of Oklahoma educated Na- allowed to be more of a futurist, Shilling’s heart for OU. It is where Mr. Shilling is ready to celebrate organization and Governor Anoa- tive American as Under Secretary whereas my directors will build he met his wife, Stephanie and the victories his department has tubby’s leadership. It is humbling of Technology and Innovation at and manage teams with expertise launched nonstop educational enjoyed with citizens, employees to be part of it,” Mr. Shilling said. the Chickasaw Nation Depart- in today’s IT environment.” and professional endeavors that and the Nation. He cites the Ro- ment of Commerce. Mr. Shilling is Choctaw. He eventually led him to the Chicka- setta Stone Chickasaw Language CONTRIBUTED BY Gene Lehmann, Media Relations. Tomi Tice appointed Executive Officer of Nursing at Chickasaw Nation

Nursing for the Chickasaw Nation cluding continuous improvement in higher education at East Cen- versity of Oklahoma Health Sci- Medical Center. of nursing services and staff to tral University, Ada, as a nursing ence Center’s College of Nursing “Mrs. Tice brings a wealth of meet the patient expectations. instructor and clinical coordina- and a bachelor’s degree in Nurs- experience, clinical knowledge She is honored to be selected to tor. ing from East Central University. and a longstanding dedication serve Chickasaws and other Na- Her decision to pursue a health Among her awards and accom- to provide exceptional health tive Americans through this new care career stems from observing plishments, Mrs. Tice received the care to this position,” Gov. Anoa- position,. the care her brother received dur- Indian Health Service Area Direc- tubby said. “She is fully commit- “I am incredibly blessed to work ing his 10-year battle with leuke- tors Group Impact Award and ted to our mission of enhancing with excellent people who care so mia. was a top five finalist for March the overall quality of life of the much about our patients’ well-be- “During that time my sister of Dimes 2016 Nurse of the Year. Chickasaw people.” ing, and always strive to provide started nursing school,” Mrs. She was named Chickasaw Na- A Stratford, Okla., native, Mrs. the best care possible,” she said. Tice said. “A couple of years later tion Health System Employee of Tice has served the Chickasaw Mrs. Tice began her career in I followed suit. To get to watch all the Year in 2003 and nominated Nation in the health care field health care as a nurse at Valley those (nurses) interactions with for East Central University Teach- for more than a decade, most View Regional Hospital (now Mer- family, I just felt like that is where ing Excellence Award in 2010 and recently as director of inpatient cy Hospital Ada). I needed to go. That’s what led my 2011. nursing. Her service to the Chickasaw sister and me in that direction.” Mrs. Tice and her husband TOMI TICE In her new role, Mrs. Tice di- Nation began in 2001 at Carl Al- Her niece is currently in nurs- Shannon have three daughters ADA, Okla. – Gov. Bill Anoa- rects and supports the medi- bert Indian Health Facility as an ing school. Katy, 17, Reagan, 19 and Morgan, tubby has recently appointed a cal center nursing staff of more Intensive Care Unit (ICU) staff “We started a family tradition.” 22 and live in Stratford. tenured Indian health care pro- than 400 to ensure the delivery nurse. She has served in a variety A Cherokee citizen, Mrs. Tice fessional to a leadership position of quality health care. Her duties of nursing positions in the trib- said her entire family chose the in the Chickasaw Nation Depart- include overall accountability for al health department including Chickasaw Nation Medical Center ment of Health. day-to-day operations associated surgery, family practice and float for its health care needs. Tomi Tice, M.S., RN, was re- with direct patient care, clinical pool, as well as nurse educator. Mrs. Tice earned a Master of CONTRIBUTED BY Dana Lance, Media Affairs. cently named Executive Officer of education and development, in- Mrs. Tice also spent seven years Science in Nursing from the Uni- Amber Wilson appointed Director of Quality at Chickasaw Nation

lence make her well-suited for Staff Quality, Performance and moting a culture of safety and Ms. Wilson said. this new position,” Gov. Anoa- Development Manager before ac- high reliability. A part of this ef- “I would just like to thank our tubby said. “She understands the cepting her current appointment fort involves managing medical tribal citizens and community important role she plays in ful- as Director of Quality. staff credentials, privilege and members for entrusting us with filling our mission of enhancing While working full time, she reappointments. their health. We have a strong the overall quality of life of the earned credentials as a Regis- Ms. Wilson and her team work desire to serve our patients in an Chickasaw people.” tered Health Information Ad- with Department of Health facili- environment that promotes pa- After graduating from Davis ministrator (RHIA) and Certified ties in Ada, Tishomingo, Purcell tient safety, wellness, quality of (OK) High School, Ms. Wilson be- Professional in Healthcare Qual- and Ardmore. They proactively care and quality of life,” she said. gan her service with the Chicka- ity (CPHQ) and a master’s degree. work to ensure a safe environ- A supportive family played a saw Nation in the Health Informa- “It’s an honor to be appointed ment for the patients, visitors large role in Wilson’s success, she tion Management Department as by the Governor for this posi- and staff of these Chickasaw said. And her family, including a part-time employee while com- tion,” she said. “I do not take this medical facilities. her husband and daughter, con- pleting her undergraduate degree responsibility lightly and I feel Each employee, program, de- tinue to push her forward as she at East Central University. incredibly blessed to have the op- partment and division of the works to be a role model. Upon graduation, she accepted portunity to serve the Chickasaw Chickasaw Nation works to en- “I really want to be an excellent a full-time position with Val- people and our Chickasaw Nation hance the overall quality of life example for my daughter. I want AMBER WILSON ley View Regional Hospital (now employee family in this role.” of the Chickasaw people. Wilson her to really believe she can do Mercy Hospital Ada) in the Qual- Ms. Wilson is now responsible said she sees this mission ful- anything she sets her mind to. I ADA, Okla. – Gov. Bill Anoatub- ity department where she worked for the oversight of Risk Manage- filled by her team. want her to know it takes hard by has appointed Amber Wilson from 2006-2010. ment, Joint Commission Accredi- “Our work truly is about en- work, but she can do it,” Wilson Director of Quality within the She then accepted a full-time tation, Medical Staff Credential- hancing processes, policies and said. Chickasaw Nation Department of position with the tribal Depart- ing and Privileging and Quality practices to ensure we are de- Health. ment of Health working in Utili- for the Department of Health. livering safe, high quality care, “Ms. Wilson’s experience, edu- zation Management. In 2015 she Her team works to ensure which can in turn enhance our cation and commitment to excel- moved into the role of Medical guidelines are in place while pro- patients’ overall quality of life,” CONTRIBUTED BY Gene Lehmann, Media Relations.

Alicia Boatright named Chickasaw Nation Director of Inpatient Nursing

said. “Her passion and commit- “It is an amazing honor to “I feel like lots of doors are be- Cmdr. Boatright and her hus- ment to the Chickasaw people be able to serve my people and ing opened. There are many new band, Shane, reside in Byng, Okla- make her a great asset to the give back to my tribe,” Cmdr. programs and services on the ho- homa, with their three children, Chickasaw Nation.” Boatright said. “I am very much rizon and those that are already Audrey, Alivia and Nolan. Shane In this new capacity Cmdr. looking forward to being in this going are doing fantastic.” Boatright is the manager of the Boatright will oversee the facil- role and doing what I can to en- Cmdr. Boatright is a 2005 grad- Chickasaw Nation’s Oklahoma ity’s inpatient nurses, which in- sure all the patients at Chickasaw uate of East Central University’s Optical. cludes those who work in respira- Nation Medical Center receive the School of Nursing where she In her spare time, Cmdr. tory therapy, social work, pulmo- highest quality and the safest earned her Bachelor of Science Boatright is busy helping get their nary rehab, acute care services, care possible. degree. She recently received her three children to school, dance surgical and obstetrical services, “I’m a firm believer that my job Master of Nursing Administra- classes, T-ball and basketball and emergency and critical care is to take care of the nurses. They tion Degree from the University practices. services. are my patients and, in turn, they of Oklahoma. CONTRIBUTED BY Loné Beasley, Media Affairs. Cmdr. Boatright, a Chickasaw are going to take great care of the citizen, is a U.S. Public Health patients that seek their health- Service commissioned officer as- care here. We’ve got great nurses.” signed to the Chickasaw Nation Cmdr. Boatright said making CMDR. ALICIA BOATRIGHT Medical Center. She began her ca- sure nurses have what they need Chickasaw Business Network reer in 2005 working as a medical is an important part of ensuring ADA, Okla. - Commander Ali- surgical nurse at the former Carl quality care for patients. The Chickasaw Business Net- part of an effort to promote busi- cia Boatright has been appointed Albert Indian Hospital. “My plan is to continue our work identifies existing business among Chickasaws. Chickasaw Nation Medical Cen- In late 2006 she joined the staff focus on enhancing the overall nesses owned and operated by The directory can be assessed ter director of Inpatient Nursing of Wewoka Indian Health Center quality of life of the Chickasaw Chickasaw citizens. This allows online at ChickasawBusinessNet- in the Chickasaw Nation Depart- before returning to the Chicka- people. We are making sure our potential business opportunities work.com. ment of Health Services. saw Nation in 2010. Prior to her nurses are equipped with the among Chickasaw citizens. For more information, call (580) “Commander Boatright’s edu- new assignment, Cmdr. Boatright tools they need to fulfill that mis- Chickasaw citizens are encour- 559-0805 or email ChicksawBusi- cation, experience and expertise was Chickasaw Medical Center’s sion.” aged to review the Chickasaw [email protected]. make her well suited to serve in deputy director in patient nurs- She said she admired Governor Business Directory when shop- CONTRIBUTED BY Taylor Owen, Tribal Commu- this position,” Gov. Anoatubby ing. Bill Anoatubby’s vision. ping for products or service as nications. December 2018 News of the people CHICKASAW TIMES 9 Births Families enjoy day indoors with Camp Hayaka Unta

Macey Howell with Healdton High School Head Montgomery commits to Rhodes College for soccer Basketball Coach Mike Phillips Zoey Montgomery, daughter of a varsity player on the OHS girl’s WAYLON JOHN ALLEN ROY Chickasaw girl Todd and Beth Montgomery, is a soccer team. 2019 International Baccalaureate She recently committed to Shane Roy and Adrian Cole are selected to Top 100 graduate of Oakland High School Rhodes College in Memphis, proud to announce the birth of (OHS) in Murfreesboro, Tenn. Tenn., to play soccer and she baby cousin Waylon John Allen Miss Basketball She is active in her church, plans to major in pre-med and Roy. Dakota Johnson enjoys her time creating crafts Oklahoma Lifepoint, in Smyrna, Tenn. She biology. Waylon was born Aug. 4, 2018 and spending quality time with family at Hayaka was class president, freshman She is the great-great-grand- at the Chickasaw Nation Medical Unta Camp, Oct. 13 in Tishomingo, Oklahoma. through junior years. She vol- daughter of original enrollee Gal- Center, Ada, Okla. He weighed 5 Chickasaw citizen Macey How- unteers at local charities and is loway Bond. lbs., 6 oz and measured 18 inches TISHOMINGO, Okla. - Chicka- ell, 15, was recently selected to at birth. saw families enjoyed the Chicka- the VYPE Top 100 Mr. /Miss Bas- His parents are Tyler Roy and saw Nation Hayaka Unta “Into ketball Oklahoma. Karlie Charles signs with Iowa State Tesia Placker, of Oklahoma City. the Woods” Camp, Oct. 12-14, at Macey is a sophomore at Heald- His grandparents are Bruce and Camp Bond in Tishomingo. Due ton (OK) High School. She is a Bobbie Hill, and Martin and Mela- to inclement weather conditions, hardworking athlete full of heart nie Rosales, all of Oklahoma City. the camp was conducted indoors, and character. His great-grandparents are Judy but fun activities and family time VYPE Oklahoma is a free sports Ross and the late Floyd Ross, and ensued. magazine and includes coverage Cindy Jones and the late Eddie Hayaka Unta is offered twice a of high school athletes and their Johnson, all of Oklahoma City. year, in spring and fall. Chicka- accomplishments. He is also welcomed by loving saw youth are encouraged to ap- Macey is the daughter of Misty aunts Maricela Rosales, Esper- ply in advance, when applications Howell, of Healdton, and Cecil anza Rosales, Joycelyn Roy and are available. Howell, of Edmond, Okla. uncles Adrian Cole, and Robert For more information, contact Roy, all of Oklahoma City. the Chickasaw Youth Services at Great aunts Valerie Caldwell, (580) 310-6620 or visit Chickasaw. Christina Neighbors, Jeannie net. Lentz, Donna Ross and great un- CONTRIBUTED BY Carmen Carter, Tribal cles Steven Caldwell, Mark Lentz Communications and George Zapata also welcomed Waylon. Starr inducted into National Honor Society member of Phi Theta Kappa for Karlie Charles recently signed of Eastern Kentucky University outstanding academic achieve- a National Letter of Intent to at- and plays basketball profession- ment through Grayson College, tend and play Division I softball ally for the Svendborg Rabbits in in Sherman, Texas. She maintains at Iowa State University (ISU). She Svendborg, Denmark. an A average both in high school committed to ISU as a freshman Karlie is of Chickasaw descent and college classes despite the four years ago. and is the great-great-grand- fact that she has a busy extra- She attends The Colony High daughter of Mrs. Estella Brown curricular activity schedule. School, The Colony, Texas, and Smith, of Chickasha, Okla., and Hannah is on a World’s Lev- plays travel softball for Glory Ad- the great-granddaughter of Mrs. el 5 International competitive kins 18U Gold. Bernice Smith Clark, of Okmul- cheer team. She was chosen for She has two brothers, Daniel gee, Okla. A.L.L.S.T.A.R. Icon for the second Charles and Zachary Charles. Her parents are Chris and year in a row at her gym. She is Her brother Zachary is a graduate Asani Charles. also a CheerFit Elite Ambassador and a Rebel Digital/Promo Mod- HANNAH STARR el. She has participated in high Outstanding Achievement school cheer, basketball and track BRINNLEY ANN MILLER Chickasaw Citizen Hannah at various times throughout high Starr was recently inducted into school and was named Junior Award recipients Brinnley Ann Miller was born the National Honor Society. She Class Homecoming Princess in Oct. 1, 2018. She weighed 7 Ibs., is a junior at Tioga High School, September. Cashin Clifft teacher, Tricia Brown. 5 oz. and measured 21 inches at Tioga, Texas. She is the daughter of Michael Cashin Clifft is the recipient of Ms. Brown describes Logan as a birth. She participates in the early and Melanie Starr, of Krugerville, the Chickasaw Honor Club Out- hard worker with an exceptional She is the daughter of Charles college program and became a Texas. standing Achievement in Aca- attitude who is a good example Miller and Kaela Peterson. Her demics. for younger students. maternal grandparents are Audie Cashin is in the 5th grade at Logan is also a participant in Peterson and Rebecca Marino. Her Frink-Cham- multiple extracurricular activities paternal grandparents Peter and bers Elemen- including National Honor Society, Ellaine Miller. tary School Oklahoma Indian Honor Society, in McAlester, Chikasha Pelichi Ikbi and more. Okla. He was Logan’s hobbies include wood- Chickasaw cousins earn basketball awards nominated by working, preaching and spending his teacher, time with friends. Wettee Dobbs. Karlie Norwood C a s h i n i s Karlie Norwood is the recipi- described as ent of the Chickasaw Honor Club an excellent Outstanding Achievement in Aca- Cashin Clifft student and is demics. currently on Karlie is a senior at McLoud the Superintendent’s Honor Roll High School in McLoud, Okla. She as well as a participant in the was nominated by her assistant gifted and talented program. principal, Bryan Jennings. Cashin’s hobbies include play- Mr. Jennings ing baseball, basketball, reading, is happy to swimming, watching the Boston report that Red Sox and spending time with Karlie is a ded- his family. His future plans are icated student to continue his education and at- and is ranked tend the University of Oklahoma. among the top Logan Jarrett 10 percent of Logan Jarrett is the recipient of her graduating the Chickasaw class. Honor Club Karlie’s hob- Karlie Norwood Outsta nd i ng bies include Achievement attending in Art, Citizen- church, being involved in Fellow- ship and Aca- ship of Christian Athletes (FCA) demics. and student council, playing soft- Logan is a ball and basketball and showing senior at Roff her creativity through crafts. High School in Karlie’s future plans are to go to Chickasaw Walker/Parnacher cousins recently got runner-up out of 16 teams at the 16th Annual Warrior Showcase Shootout All Indian Tournament at Roff, Okla. He college and pursue a degree in Henryetta, Okla. The cousins are from the Ada, Okla., Allen, Okla., and Lone Grove, Okla., areas. Kelby Parnacher and Kaylee Davis were named to the Logan Jarrett All- Tournament Team. Stoney Cully received the Outstanding Offense award and Laney Parnacher received The Hustle Award. The girls are coached by was nominated sports medicine. Jeremiah Cully and Melissa Walker. Top row from left, Kelby Parnacher, Arianna Munoz and Kaylee Davis. Bottom row from left, Laney Parnacher, Cherish by his English Woodward and Stoney Cully. Christmas at Fort Washita Dec. 15 Celebrate Christmas at Fort ioned baked Christmas cookies, Washita from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., blacksmithing demonstrations Saturday, Dec. 15 at the fort near and a visit from Santa. Durant, Okla. Hot chocolate, hot apple cider, Activities will include horse coffee and cookies will be served. and buggy rides, Christmas orna- For more information, call (580) ments and craft making, Christ- 924-6502. mas music and stories, old-fash- 10 CHICKASAW TIMES December 2018 Chickasaw Foundation Scholarship Recipients 2018-2019

The Chickasaw Foundation is proud to announce the scholarship recipients for the 2018-2019 academic year. The scholarships are provided by our generous sponsors, as well as supporters and donors of the Chickasaw Foundation. Scholarship recipients have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement and are recognized for a commitment to further their education. Please join us in congratulating them!

Bank2 Bank- John Bennett Ann Eubank Governor W i l s o n J . ing Scholar- Herrington Health Schol- E m e r i t u s Brown Memo- ship-In Memo- Scholarship arship Overton James rial Scholar- ry of Mr. Rob- Ms. Saman- Ms. Roxanne Memorial ship ert Walton tha Perry is a Dickerson is Scholarship Ms. Dani- Ms. Ander- junior at East a freshman at Ms. Britany elle Fixico is a son Blevins is Central Univer- Murray State Lofton is a ju- junior at the a sophomore sity majoring College major- nior at East University of at East Central to be a biology ing in arts and Central Univer- Oklahoma ma- University ma- clinical lab sci- science. sity majoring joring in Na- Anderson Blevins joring in ac- Samantha Perry entist. Roxanne Dickerson Britany Lofton in education. Danielle Fixico tive American counting. Studies. John Bennett Chickasaw Lula Bynum Bank2 Ta- Herrington Foundation Bourland Me- I r e n e C . o s s a a - a s h a ’ Scholarship Health Profes- morial Schol- Howard Me- Scholarship Mr. Collin sions Scholar- arship morial Schol- Ms. Darcey Potter is a se- ship Ms. Jennifer arship Drullinger is nior at Okla- Ms. Ashlyn Haas is a grad- Ms. Gracie a freshman h om a St ate Velasquez is a uate student Sweetman is at Oklahoma University ma- senior at Okla- at Southeast- a freshman State Universi- joring in me- homa Chris- ern Oklahoma at Southeast- ty majoring in chanical engi- tian University State Universi- ern Oklahoma Darcey Drullinger marketing. Collin Potter neering tech- Ashlyn Velasquez majoring in Jennifer Haas ty majoring in State Universi- nology. nursing. Native Ameri- Gracie Sweetman ty majoring in can Leader- biology. Bank2 Ta- John Bennett Janie Hard- ship. o s s a a - a s h a ’ Herrington wick Benson Computer- Scholarship Scholarship Memorial Lynn C. Gib- craft Corpora- Ms. Kara Gil- M s . Ly n s i Scholarship son Memorial tion Scholar- bert is a gradu- Stanley is a Ms. Kaylee Scholarship ship ate student at senior at Okla- Gemeny is a M s . Fa it h Mr. Jase Ryan Southern Il- hom a St ate senior at the Hunt is a fresh- is a freshman linois Univer- University ma- University of man at Utah at the Univer- sity- joring in me- Texas at Tyler State Universi- sity of Oklaho- Carbondale chanical engi- majoring in ty majoring in ma majoring in Kara Gilbert majoring in Lynsi Stanley neering. Kaylee Gemeny nursing. English educa- Jase Ryan mechanical en- business ad- Faith Hunt tion. gineering. ministration. Lillian Fowl- John Bennett er Memorial Computer- Bank2 Ta- Herrington Scholarship Mary K. Mo- craft Corpora- o s s a a - a s h a ’ Scholarship Ms. Annah reland & Dan- tion Scholar- Scholarship M r. C o d y Baykal is a iel T. Jenks ship M s . Nee ly Standridge is graduate stu- Scholarship Mr. Trevor Wood is a a senior at the dent at the Ms. Katelyn Seidel is a ju- sophomore at University of University of Holcomb is a nior at the Uni- Murray State Oklahoma ma- Oklahoma Col- senior at Au- versity of Dela- College major- joring in en- lege of Medi- burn Universi- ware majoring ing in business gineering and Annah Baykal cine majoring ty majoring in in computer management. Cody Standridge computer sci- in medicine. special educa- Trevor Seidel science. Neely Wood ence. Katelyn Holcomb tion. The Chicka- Chickasaw Bank2 Ta- Pearl Carter saw Nation M o o n i e n e Foundation o s s a a - a s h a ’ Scott Aviation Ada Well- Ogee Memorial General Pur- Scholarship Scholarship ness Program Scholarship pose Educa- Mr. T.J. Clark Mr. Nathan Scholarship Ms. Alexis tion Scholar- is a freshman Feather is a M r . L a n e Walker is a ship at East Central sophomore at Martin is a ju- graduate stu- Ms. Sydney University ma- the University nior at Okla- dent at the Uni- Ross is a fresh- joring in busi- of Oklahoma homa Baptist versity of Okla- man at Okla- ness. majoring in University ma- homa majoring h om a St ate meteorology. Lane Martin joring in health in instruction- Sydney Ross University ma- T.J. Clark Nathan Feather and human Alexis Walker al leadership joring in unde- performance. and academic cided. David & Car- Ataloa Me- curriculum. olyn Nimmo morial Schol- Judicial Chickasaw Graduate Busi- arship Scholarship – Overton M. Foundation ness Scholar- Ms. Hai- Law Student “Buck” Chea- Toksali’ Schol- ship ley Wilson is Scholarship dle Memorial arship Ms. Chenoa a f resh ma n Ms. Kelli Scholarship Ms. Ta ra Lane is a grad- at Oklahoma Case is a grad- Ms. Lydia Fall is a gradu- uate student Baptist Univer- uate student at Bomboy is a ate student at at the Univer- sity majoring Tulsa Univer- freshman at Southwestern sity of Central in art. sity College of East Central Oklahoma Chenoa Lane Oklahoma ma- Hailey Wilson Kelli Case Law pursuing a University ma- State Universi- joring in busi- masters of law. joring in spe- Tara Fall ty obtaining a ness adminis- Chickasaw Lydia Bomboy cial education. master in nurs- tration. Foundation Mitch Sperry ing education. F i n e A r t s Memorial Law Pauline Mitch Mus- Scholarship Scholarship Walker Memo- C o l b e r t grove Memori- Mr. Jesse Fac- Mr. Michael rial Scholar- Scholarship al Scholarship tor is a junior Power is a ship Ms. Taylor M r. D yla n at the Univer- graduate stu- M s . R i l e y Taliaferro is a Harden is a ju- sity of Arizona dent at Okla- Freeman is a junior at the nior at Oklaho- majoring mu- homa City Uni- senior at the University of ma State Uni- sic. versity School University of Central Okla- versity major- Jesse Factor of Law pursu- North Texas homa majoring ing in finance Michael Power ing a masters majoring in in kinesiology. and account- Homer “Dee” in juris doctor- Riley Freeman anthropology. Dylan Harden ing. Wells Memori- ate. Taylor Taliaferro al Scholarship N a t i v e Mr. Jackson Bill Fryrear Ruth Ote- Donald D. A m e r i c a n Wallace is a Memorial ka Oliphant and J. Weno- Fund Advisors senior at Okla- Scholarship Wyers Memo- nah Gunning Scholarship h om a St ate Mr. Aeneas rial Scholar- Memorial Mr. Keagen University ma- Freeman is a ship Scholarship Trett is a fresh- joring in me- freshman at Ms. Kelsey Ms. Mady- man at Okla- chanical engi- the Univer- Well is a senior son Mitchell is h om a St ate Jackson Wallace neering. sity of Central at the Univer- a freshman at University ma- Oklahoma ma- sity of Hous- Harding Uni- Keagen Trett joring in agri- joring in his- ton majoring versity major- business. The Chicka- Aeneas Freeman tory. Kelsey Well in music edu- Madyson Mitchell ing in health saw Nation cation. science. John Bennett L i g h t h o r s e Herrington S chol a rsh ip C o l b e r t Vinnie May Ithana (Edu- Scholarship In Memory of “Bud” Baker Humes Memo- cation) Schol- Mr. Ty Mont- Special Agent Scholarship rial Scholar- arship gomery is a Patrick Flick- Mr. Kyle Mc- ship Ms. Douglas- junior at Okla- inger Gregor is a ju- Ms. Lauren Ann Smith is hom a St ate Ms. Lindsey nior at the Uni- Coltharp is a a freshman at University ma- Wallace is a versity of the freshman at Baylor Univer- joring in bio- Lindsey Wallace sophomore at Ozarks major- the University sity majoring chemistry and Murray State ing in educa- of Mary Har- in political sci- Ty Montgomery molecular biol- College major- tion. din-Baylor ma- ence. ogy. ing in criminal Kyle McGregor Lauren Coltharp joring in music Douglas-Ann Smith justice. education. December 2018 CHICKASAW TIMES 11

CONTINUED FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS | FROM PAGE 10

Ithana (Edu- The Hill Chickasaw Chickasaw Chickasaw cation) Schol- Group Schol- Foundation Foundation Foundation arship arship Grants Grants Grants Ms. Michal Ms. Lillian Mr. Kyle Sto- Ms. Adria Mr. Levi Hin- Freeman is a Oliver is a ry is a gradu- Brown is a son is a fresh- sophomore at freshman at ate student at graduate stu- man at East Northeastern the University the University dent at Brown Central Univer- State Univer- of Oklahoma of Oklahoma School at sity majoring sity majoring majoring in majoring in ac- Wa s h i n g to n in psychology. Michal Freeman in English. Lillian Oliver biochemistry. Kyle Story counting and Adria Brown University in Levi Hinson management St. Louis ma- Ithana (Edu- Wesley D. information joring in mas- Chickasaw cation) Schol- Brantley, Jr. systems. tery of social Foundation arship Scholarship work. Grants Ms. Mikayla Mr. Isaac Lill Chickasaw Ms. Rumor Armstrong is a is a graduate Foundation Chickasaw Lejeune is a sophomore at student at the Grants Foundation sophomore at Brigham Young University of Ms. Aneliese Grants East Central University ma- Texas South- Apala is a grad- Ms. Lilia University majoring in nurs- western Medi- uate student at Shahbandeh joring in mar- ing. cal School ma- the University is a graduate keting. Mikayla Armstrong Isaac Lill joring in gen- of Massachu- student at the Rumor Lejeune eral medicine. setts-Amherst University of James Mi- majoring in Oklahoma Col- Chickasaw chael “Mike” Chickasaw Aneliese Apala public health lege of Law ma- Foundation Dunn Memori- Foundation communica- Lilia Shahbandeh joring in indig- Grants al Scholarship Grants tion. enous peoples’ Ms. Allison Mr. Castren- M r. R y a n law. Pittman is a ze Fricano is a Smith is a ju- Chickasaw freshman at graduate stu- nior at East Foundation Chickasaw Seton Hill Uni- dent at the Uni- Central Univer- Grants Foundation versity major- versity of Min- sity majoring M r. D yla n Grants ing in biology Castrenze Fricano nesota School in kinesiology. Walker is a M s . L a c i i Allison Pittman and pre-medi- of Med ici ne Ryan Smith freshman at Knight is a cine. majoring to ob- the University graduate stu- tain his doctor Chickasaw of Oklahoma dent at Regis Chickasaw of medicine. Foundation majoring in College major- Foundation Grants Dylan Walker physiology and ing in mental Grants Janet Shaley Ms. Sara pre-medicine. Lacii Knight health nursing Ms. Kelsee James Memori- Massey is a and psychiat- Crawley is a al Scholarship freshman at Chickasaw ric care. junior at Okla- Ms. Sophia the University Foundation hom a St ate Starnes is a of Oklahoma Grants Chickasaw University ma- freshman at majoring in Mr. Logan Foundation joring in natu- Tulane Univer- Sara Massey health science. Haltom is a Grants ral resource sity majoring freshman at Ms. Ta r y n Kelsee Crawley ecology man- in English. Chickasaw Oklahoma Hastings is a agement. Sophia Starnes Foundation State Univer- sophomore Grants sity Institute at Texas A&M CONTRIBUTED BY Calvin Harjo, Public Affairs Rob e r t L . Mr. Josef Li- Logan Haltom of Technology University ma- Walton Memo- ebl is a fresh- majoring in joring in visu- rial Scholar- man at the pipeline engi- alization. ship University of neer. Taryn Hastings M s . A m y Mary Washing- Mullican is a ton majoring Chickasaw Chickasaw senior at the Josef Liebl in computer Foundation Foundation University of science. Grants Grants O k l a h o m a Mr. DaeJon Mr. Cay- Amy Mullican Health Science Chickasaw Jordan is a man Watkins Center major- Foundation freshman at is a freshman ing in dental Grants Murray State at Oklahoma hygiene. Ms. Katrina College major- Wesleyan Uni- Bevans is a ing in physical versity major- Patricia (Tri- freshman at DaeJon Jordan therapy assis- Cayman Watkins ing in exercise Elders sha) Fowler the Univer- tant. science. Hays and Phil- sity of Central lip Gregory Oklahoma ma- Chickasaw Chickasaw program (Greg) Hays joring in kine- Foundation Foundation Educational Katrina Bevans siology. Grants Grants Scholarship Ms. Aman- Ms. Marissa celebrates Ms. Kylie Bri- Chickasaw da Wixon is a Beaver is a ann Arter is a Foundation graduate stu- senior at the freshman at Grants dent at the University of 10 years Kylie Briann Arter the University Mr. Cam- University of North Texas Chickasaw Nation Aging Itia- of Oklahoma eron Chavez California-Riv- majoring in pela (elder help) program this majoring in is a graduate erside major- public health. year celebrates its 10th year of business. student at the Amanda Wixon ing in history. Marissa Beaver service to Chickasaw Nation el- University of ders. The program, implement- Stacie Lynn Oklahoma ma- Chickasaw Foundation Grants Chickasaw ed in 2008, provides 24-hour Hays Memori- joring in social Ms. Kayla Thompson is a sopho- Foundation medical alert services for quali- al Scholarship Cameron Chavez work. more at Tarleton State University Grants fied Chickasaw elders. It served Ms. Madison majoring in nursing. Ms. Ja h na 50 Chickasaw elders in 2018. Shiloh Edgar is Chickasaw Buckaloo is a A new device, which includes a sophomore at Foundation Chickasaw graduate stu- GPS, has been implemented for the University Grants Foundation dent at Walden elders with Alzheimer’s dis- of Pennsylva- M s . J a n e Grants U n i v e r s i t y ease and/or dementia. The staff nia Wharton Hopaki is Mr. Payton majoring in processed 148 calls regarding School of Busi- freshman at Whitehead clinical mental medical alert devices this year. Madison Shiloh Edgar ness majoring Rochester is a graduate Jahna Buckaloo health. The Itiapela medical alert in internation- Community student at the program pays the initial costs al business. and Technical University of Chickasaw and monthly fees for 24-hour College major- North Texas Foundation medical alert services for quali- The Chicka- Jane Hopaki ing in admin- majoring in Grants fied Chickasaw elders, 60 years saw Nation istrative assis- Payton Whitehead biochemistry M s . L i l i y of age or older, living in the Division of So- tant. and molecular Shore is a Chickasaw Nation service area. cial Services biology. freshman at Required forms can be com- General Edu- Chickasaw the University pleted by contacting the aging cational Schol- Foundation Chickasaw of Arkansas administration office. An ap- arship Grants Foundation majoring in in- plicant can expect a Chickasaw Ms. Jessica Ms. Heather Grants Liliy Shore terior design. Nation Aging specialist to make Cox is a gradu- Abbott is a M s . A m y the initial visit to assess the Jessica Cox ate student freshman at Nystrom is a Chickasaw Foundation Grants services needed. If approved, at Oklahoma East Central sophomore at Mr. Caleb Manning is a fresh- the manager will contact the City University University ma- Arizona Uni- man at Lee University majoring in client. School of Law joring in pre- versity major- information systems. The Chickasaw Nation consid- majoring in pharmacy. ing in biomedi- ers its elders “living treasures” law. Heather Abbott cal engineer- Chickasaw and works hard to provide Amy Nystrom ing. Foundation them the best service and care The Hill Chickasaw Grants possible. The tribe remains Group Schol- Foundation M s . K a y l i devoted to the health and well- arship Grants Nail is a fresh- being of its elders by offering Ms. Abigail M r . S e t h man at Okla- programs and services, which Rose is a fresh- Chapman is a h om a St ate are focused on all aspects of man at the Uni- freshman at University ma- their lives. versity of Okla- Abilene Chris- joring in pre- For more information, con- homa majoring tian University Kayli Nail medical biol- tact Aging at (580) 795-9790 or in pre-nursing. majoring in ogy. [email protected]. biochemistry. Abigail Rose Seth Chapman CONTRIBUTED BY Dallas Rudd, Tribal Com- munications. 12 CHICKASAW TIMES December 2018 Chickasaw citizens, employees tabbed for NextGen Under 30 honors

Fourteen Chickasaw Nation employees for 10 years beginning her career in the tion Medical Center. cluded facility maintenance for the Chick- and citizens have been designated recipi- education division. She graduated from East Central Uni- asaw Nation Department of Commerce, ents of NextGen Under 30 honors. As a special assistant II she promotes versity with high academic achievement, sales associate with Sovereign and event NextGen Under 30 recognizes individu- a professional image by representing the earning a Bachelor of Science in biology, staff at Riverwind Casino. als who demonstrate talent, drive and ser- cabinet secretary of culture and humani- and she graduated from the University of “I believe no matter where you work vice to their communities. As the name ties both internally and externally, while Oklahoma’s College of Medicine’s physi- within the Chickasaw Nation you are serv- implies, they are the youthful - 30 years of preserving and protecting Chickasaw cul- cian associate program. ing the Chickasaw people in some way,” age and under - movers and shakers not ture and heritage by encouraging cultural As a physician assistant, Mrs. Plunk Mr. Gilliam said. “I feel that I am contrib- only of tomorrow, but today. involvement and historical awareness. Bri- works in conjunction with other provid- uting to the Chickasaw people, past and Award winners are selected by a panel elle plays a key role in the department’s ers and physicians to provide health care present, with my day to day work. The of judges based on their participation in, process to review and analyze scripts for to Chickasaw citizens and other Native cultural center is a home for Chickasaw and contribution to, their communities. projects that are seen on Chickasaw.tv and Americans. She is dedicated to treating history and culture, and this allows us to Winners were honored at an awards din- television commercials. Her attention to their chronic and acute conditions. share our stories and let people know we ner in November at the Embassy Suites by detail is one of her strengths and makes She said the satisfaction of getting to are still here and thriving.” Hilton in Norman and profiled in in Okla- her an invaluable member of the team. help people feel better is the biggest re- homa Magazine. Ms. Helm is a true asset within the depart- ward in her line of work. Media, Public Relations, Marketing & Chickasaw employees won in the catego- ment, taking on a wide scope of projects “When I am helping someone feel better, ries of arts, education, finance, healthcare, and accomplishing all with great quality. or can at least provide some reassurance, Advertising hospitality, media, public relations, mar- Outside of the office, Brielle is committed it contributes to enhancing their quality of Kelly Hobbs keting, policy, public service and staffing, to her family and friends. life,” Mrs. Plunk said. “Whether it’s treating Kelly Hobbs is a Senior Marketing Coor- as well as non-profit. Below is a complete their poison ivy or improving their blood dinator for the Chickasaw Nation Depart- list of winners by category along with a pressure, seeing a smile on their face as ment of Communications brief biographical sketch of each. Finance they leave my office makes it all worth it.” and Community Develop- Marissa Fortner Kayla Dewitt ment. She is also a Chick- Marissa Fortner is an internal auditor for Lt. Cmdr. Kayla Dewitt of the United asaw citizen. Arts the Chickasaw Nation Executive Branch. States Public Health Ser- Mrs. Hobbs has been She is also a Chickasaw vice is a six-year veteran working for the Chicka- Danielle Frazier citizen. physical therapist at the saw Nation since she Danielle Frazier is an administrative as- Mrs. Fortner, a five- Oklahoma City Indian was 14, having partici- sistant in the Chickasaw Nation Depart- year employee of the Clinic (OKCIC). She is also pated in the Chickasaw ment of Culture and Chickasaw Nation, grad- a Chickasaw citizen. Her Nation Summer Youth Kelly Hobbs Humanities. She is also uated from Allen High responsibilities include Program. She also filled a Chickasaw citizen. School in 2012, earned managing and deliver- several part-time posi- Ms. Frazier, a 10- a Bachelor of Science in ing essential physical tions during college. As a year employee with the accounting in 2015 and therapy care services to full-time employee, she has served in both Chickasaw Nation, ac- a Master of Science in an active patient popula- Lt. Cmdr. Kayla Dewitt the health and communications fields. Her Marissa Fortner quired an administrative accounting in 2016. She tion of 20,000 members of over 220 dif- previous positions have included medical professional certification is a Certified Public Ac- ferent tribes. staff support specialist, credentialing spe- July 2017 -- a feat which countant, licensed in Lt. Cmdr. Dewitt volunteers at physical cialist and marketing coordinator. trained her in tribal sov- April 2018. therapy booths at OKCIC’s annual Walk for She earned a Bachelor of Science in busi- ereignty, leadership and Danielle Frazier She has served the Chickasaw Nation in Wellness, its Children’s Health Fair and its ness administration in May 2017. She grad- personal accountability. four roles: as a student in the Chickasaw Adolescent Health Fair, as well as the or- uated at the silver level from the Chicka- She earned a high school Nation school-to-work program, an ac- ganization’s basketball and soccer camps, saw Leadership Academy in 2016. diploma from Pampa countant at Chickasaw Nation Headquar- as a way of promoting healthy lifestyles. In her current position, Mrs. Hobbs is High School in May 2009. ters Finance, an internal auditor, and with Other volunteer efforts include working responsible for planning and creating She has fulfilled two professional roles her current position as internal auditor II. with the Oklahoma Regional Food Bank content for websites and social media, for the Chickasaw Nation. From 2009 un- She oversees and reviews monthly account and chairing the 2016 Surgeon General’s strategizing marketing campaigns as well til 2012, Ms. Frazier was a receptionist. In reconciliations, performs internal control 5K run. as collecting and reporting on data and 2012 she began work as an administrative testing and executes audits. Her work also She said her life’s mission is to positively analytics. She focuses on promoting and assistant, a position which had her arrang- involves improving processes, managing impact the lives of others through physical marketing the Chickasaw Cultural Center ing travel and meetings, processing pay- risks and helping to safeguard assets. therapy. in Sulphur. ments and contracts, assisting backstage She said a personal highlight from her “I am passionate about providing qual- “It has been a blessing as a Chickasaw during productions, and facilitating class- time with the Chickasaw Nation is all she ity care and maintaining a positive rapport citizen to be able to learn more about my es for up to 50 people. has learned about the tribe and people. with all patients and hope to continue ex- history and culture, as well as share it with She said one of her favorite memories is “I have learned a lot about my profession, panding physical therapy services to the others,” Mrs. Hobbs said. the first musical tour the Chickasaw Na- but I have learned even more about what American Indian population,” Lt. Cmdr. tion Department of Culture and Humani- the mission of the Chickasaw Nation truly Dewitt said. Policy and Public Service ties prepared, called “South Pacific.” means and how hard our people work for Krysten Booker “I learned so much about not only my the benefit of our citizens,” Mrs. Fortner Hospitality Krysten Booker is a WIC nutrition spe- job, but what I am capable of,” Ms. Frazier said. Leah Copeland cialist for the Chicka- said. “I also made so many new friends Maria Roberts Leah Copeland is a project manager saw Nation Department and helped serve the Chickasaw people at Maria Roberts is a sec- within tourism for the of Health. She is also a the same time.” ond-level budgeting spe- Chickasaw Nation De- Cherokee citizen, a wife Ms. Frazier said one of the most promi- cialist in the Chickasaw partment of Commerce. and mother to two chil- nent ways she helps meet the mission of Nation Department of Mrs. Copeland, a dren, with another on the Chickasaw Nation is by helping to Treasury, a position she three-year employee for the way. bring the theatre experience to Chickasaw has served in since 2017. the Chickasaw Nation, Mrs. Booker, a three- citizens. She is tasked with earned a Bachelor of year employee with “We want to educate, nurture a creative managing more than Arts in journalism and the Chickasaw Nation, side through our love of theatre, in the 100 budgets for the broadcasting from Okla- earned a Bachelor of Krysten Booker hopes others will find something they are Chickasaw Nation. This homa State University Leah Copeland Arts in human services passionate about.” includes analyzing Maria Roberts in 2010. She also earned in May 2016 and a Mas- monthly reports, review- a project management ter of Science in human Education ing and addressing is- professional certification resources administra- Jarrel Booker sues and discrepancies, i n 2017. tion in May 2017, both from East Central Jarrel Booker is a youth recreation spe- helping management and staff develop She has served the Chickasaw Nation in University. cialist in the Chickasaw Nation Depart- financial plans, as well as monitoring rev- multiple roles. In 2015 she began work as She served in the U.S. Army as an auto- ment of Community Services. enue and expense costs. special projects manager for the Chicka- mated logistical specialist. Mr. Booker, a six-year Mrs. Roberts earned a Bachelor of Sci- saw Nation, before taking on her current While a student in college, Mrs. Booker employee of the Chicka- ence in business administration and a position in April 2018. began working in nutrition services part saw Nation, has invested Master’s in business administration, both Mrs. Copeland also worked at Remington time with the summer food service pro- two years toward an un- from Southeastern Oklahoma State Univer- Park from 2010 to 2015 as a group sales gram. She said it was a turning point for dergraduate degree from sity. coordinator and as group sales assistant her when she realized such work included East Central University Accounting has been her focus from the manager. Her professional history also in- more than feeding children. It was also and graduated from Ada beginning, having served as staff accoun- cludes event coordination for the city of building relationships with families and High School in 2009. tant for a chain of grocery stores and, as Grapevine, Texas and a marketing intern- community outreach. He began working for senior accountant, covering 10 hotels for ship with Pfizer Pharmaceuticals in New Stepping into her current position, Mrs. the Chickasaw Nation in Jarrel Booker Premier Hospitality Management. York. Booker took on the responsibilities of sup- 2012 at Riverwind Ca- In addition to being named one of 2018’s Rance Gilliam porting, empowering and educating moms sino and then the Ada NextGen Under 30 recipients, Mrs. Roberts’ Rance Gilliam is a special events man- about breastfeeding as well as providing Gaming Center, fulfill- other honors include the Chickasaw Nation ager for the Chickasaw nutrition education to parents. ing multiple roles such as soft count clerk, employee spotlight, Beta Gamma Sigma Nation Department of “I get to help fulfill the mission state- floor tech, vault clerk and security officer. Academic Honor Society and the National Culture and Humanities. ment every day and bless others with the In 2017, he took on his current position Association of Secondary School Principals He is also a Chickasaw programs we have to offer,” Mrs. Booker as youth recreation specialist, a position Citizenship Award. citizen. said. “As a former recipient of Chickasaw which tasks him with planning, organizing She has assisted community members He is a professional Nation WIC, I can now show the same grati- and implementing youth athletic events, with preparing their taxes as part of the planner with the Chicka- tude and compassion to build up parents, camps and programs. VITA program. She also volunteers with saw Cultural Center who just as I was as a WIC mom.” As a youth recreation specialist, Mr. Toys for Tots and the Hope Chest. develops tribal events Shane Jemison Booker has earned a lifeguard certifica- after researching objec- Rance Gilliam Shane Jemison is a project developer for tion, CPR certification and commercial tives, locations, vendors the Chickasaw Nation Department of Com- driver’s license. Health care and theme designs. He munity Services. He is “Nothing is more inspiring than putting JJ Plunk works with other de- also a Chickasaw citizen. a smile on the faces of the future of the JJ Plunk is a physician assistant for the partments in and out of the Chickasaw As a project developer, Chickasaw Nation,” Mr. Booker said. “I’m Chickasaw Nation Department of Health. Nation to clearly define their goals and Mr. Jemison identifies really proud of the work I do with these She is also a Chickasaw citizen. objectives, then develops an event based potential federal and kids.” Mrs. Plunk has entirely on their ideas. non-profit grant fund- He said with the growth of youth pro- dedicated her efforts as Mr. Gilliam, a seven-year employee for ing opportunities for all grams, youth camps and a new wellness a professional and an the Chickasaw Nation, earned a Bachelor Chickasaw Nation ser- center, the Chickasaw Nation brings the employee to working for of Arts degree in Native American Studies vices, helping to ensure best to benefit citizens the Chickasaw Nation. In from the University of Oklahoma May 2017. the tribe can provide the Shane Jemison and the community. high school, she was a He has been working for the Chickasaw highest quality services Brielle Helm summer youth employee Nation since graduating high school. As a possible for Chickasaw Brielle Helm is a spe- with the Summer Youth school-to-work student, Mr. Gilliam worked people and other Native cial assistant II to the Employment program. for Chokka’ Kilimpi’ (Strong Home) and the Americans. Secretary of the Chicka- In college, she worked Imatahli (To Prepare) programs. In addi- Mr. Jemison, a two-year employee with saw Nation Department school-to-work with Dr. JJ Plunk tion, he presented education and cultural the Chickasaw Nation, earned a Bachelor of Culture and Humani- Tina Cooper at the Sov- information to students for the University of Science in political science and pre-law ties and a Chickasaw cit- ereign Clinic. Dr. Cooper of Oklahoma and Oklahoma City Commu- from Oklahoma State University in 2015. izen. Brielle has worked is now Mrs. Plunk’s su- nity College. He infor the Chickasaw Nation Brielle Helm pervising provider at the Chickasaw Na- His past professional positions have in- terned in SEE NEXTGEN, PAGE 13 December 2018 CHICKASAW TIMES 13

CONTINUED NEXTGEN | FROM PAGE 12

Washington D.C. with the Bureau of Indian employee with the Chickasaw Nation, grad- around them, recruiting and networking and a case of water. And while volunteer- Affairs. uated with a Bachelors in athletic training with their field of interest,” Ms. Poe said. ing at the Oklahoma City Rescue Mission Mr. Jemison has been working in policy from East Central University in May 2016. serving dinner, Ms. Burwell recalls always and public service related fields since 2010. She is set to complete a Masters in Native Non-Profit thinking she needed to do more. His professional history includes work American leadership with an emphasis in Savannah Burwell “Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes we as a legislative reporter for the Journal Re- hospitality marketing in the spring 2019. Savannah Burwell is a need a helping hand,” Ms. Burwell said. “I cord, a legislative correspondent for U.S. She is currently in the silver level in the communications officer wanted the homeless community to know Congressman Steve Russell and a strate- Chickasaw Leadership Academy. for the Chickasaw Nation someone cares about them and they do gic support specialist for New Valley Forge, She has fulfilled three professional roles Department of Commu- matter.” LLC, in Oklahoma City. for the Chickasaw Nation, beginning as a nications and Commu- One particular encounter on her way “I am proud to be from rural southeast teacher assistant at the Chickasaw Nation nity Development. She is back home from work with a man standing Oklahoma and to have grown up in John- Child Development Center in Ada and a also a Chickasaw citizen at a stop sign sparked Ms. Burwell’s inten- ston County,” Mr. Jemison said. “While human resource specialist. With her cur- who has started her own tions to establish a non-profit. travelling the country, I like to share the rent position as human resources outreach non-profit organization “I pulled over to talk to him. After about lessons I have learned there and apply recruiter, Ms. Poe is responsible for net- benefiting the homeless. Savannah Burwell an hour, I knew his life story and it was them to the complex issues we face as a working with colleges, technical schools, Back to Basics is the proof people don’t choose to be homeless,” nation and in Oklahoma.” high schools, agencies and programs name of Ms. Burwell’s Ms. Burwell said. “After speaking to this He said serving people is what he enjoys while developing working relationships non-profit, which pro- man, once again, I knew I had to do more. most and emphasized the importance of with their Native American programs. She vides new backpacks to the homeless com- So, I started Back to Basics.” compassion when work- oversees the hosting of Chickasaw Nation munity of Oklahoma City. In the winter With the help of a coworker, Ms. Burwell ing with others and ful- hiring events and gives presentations to re- months, the organization provides socks, took an idea and made it reality. They de- filling one’s purpose. cruit Chickasaw citizens and provides in- hats, gloves and scarves. cided to gather item donations and offer a formation on career opportunities within Back to Basics has provided more than backpack drop off once a month. Staffing the Chickasaw Nation. 500 backpacks since its establishment in “We quickly became known as the ‘back- Charlesey Poe She said some of her favorite experiences Ju ne 2017. pack people’ which was awesome because Charlesey Poe is a hu- are the “Coffee and Careers” hiring events, Ms. Burwell said from a young age she we were forming relationships.” man resources outreach when all human resources representatives has always wanted to help homeless peo- It is an ongoing endeavor for Ms. Bur- recruiter for the Chicka- are together as a team assisting different ple. She credits her parents – whom she well, who said she intends to continue saw Nation Department departments and Chickasaw citizens look- says are both selfless people possessing spreading awareness about the homeless of Interior Services. She Charlesey Poe ing for employment. a servant’s heart – for instilling in her a community. is also a Chickasaw citi- “There is no better way to build a re- drive to help others. zen. lationship with future employees and Anytime she encountered someone on a Ms. Poe, a four-year Chickasaw citizens than to physically be corner, she would bring them some food CONTRIBUTED BY Brandon Frye, Media Relations.

Promoting Indian commerce throughout the state Walker re-elected president of American Indian Chamber of Commerce Oklahoma

DURANT, Okla. - Chickasaw it is to serve in this capacity, if owners, promoting growth and Chickasaw Nation’s efforts in pur- citizen Bailey Walker was recently only to enhance your businesses increased opportunities. suing AICCO’s mission: to pro- re-elected president of the Amer- along with our friendships,” Mr. AICCO has initiated Leadership mote and enhance the success of ican Indian Chamber of Com- Walker said at the conference. Native Oklahoma, an entrepre- all American Indian people. merce of Oklahoma (AICCO). Mr. Within AICCO, Mr. Walker has neurial training program. Two The Chickasaw Business Net- Walker was re-elected Oct. 7 dur- served as an advisory board groups of leaders have graduated work, available at www.Chicka- ing “The Gathering,” an annual member, state board member from the program thus far. sawBusinessNetwork.com or at business conference and awards and vice president of the state This year’s volunteer of the (580) 559-0620, offers services ceremony, hosted this year at the board. He was also the 2017 Paul year, Justin Arledge, of Ardmore, such as the Small Business De- Choctaw Casino and Resort. and Pamela Bickford Volunteer of Okla., is also a Chickasaw citizen. velopment Center, Chickasaw Mr. Walker serves as Chickasaw the Year. He is AICCO Oklahoma City chap- Business Directory and Preferred Nation preferred vendor program Since its inception in 1991, ter president. Vendor Program. Bailey Walker, Chickasaw citizen and preferred coordinator, where he advocates AICCO has promoted Indian The Chickasaw Nation received More information regarding vendor program coordinator for the Chickasaw on behalf of entrepreneurs and and minority-owned businesses. the AICCO Large Business of the AICCO can be found at www.aic- Nation, was re-elected president of the American suppliers seeking to do business The group advocates for positive Year Award in 2017 after being cok.org. Indian Chamber of Commerce of Oklahoma Oct. 7 with the tribe. change in state and federal legis- nominated and voted for by orga- during an annual business conference. Through lation. In addition, the organiza- nization members statewide. these roles, Mr. Walker advocates for and assists “As your state president, I wish Native American and minority businesses. to convey how much of an honor tion works directly with business The award recognizes the CONTRIBUTED BY Brandon Frye, Media Relations.

Accurate, reliable health info available to public anytime, anywhere with CHIC

information from the National Li- No one is ever alone when ex- “I got a call from the U.S. Na- brary of Medicine’s MedlinePlus, ploring the information CHIC tional Library of Medicine. That’s PubMed and Clinical Trials da- provides, because help is avail- how we got to work in genetic re- tabases to answer health ques- able by phone or in person. search back in 1991,” he said. tions,” she said. If visiting an on-site kiosk in A need to accurately record CHIC pulls information from Ada, Ardmore, Tishomingo or DNA sequencing pushed Mr. Hill’s some of the same medical re- Purcell, dedicated CHIC coordina- business from hardware into sources physicians themselves tors like Ron Frazier are stationed health information. turn to professionally. at nearby welcome desks and can Mr. Hill said one sequence was PubMed is a search engine full offer guidance. about 20,000 characters long, of references and abstracts on life “Someone is always here to made up of only four letters (T sciences and biomedical topics. help find the answers,” Mr. Fra- for thymine, A for adenine, C for In addition, ClinicalTrials.gov is zier said. “I’m glad to help in any cytosine and G for guanine). The a web-based resource providing way I can.” Library of Medicine had a hard insight regarding clinical stud- Lisa Sheppard (Tishomingo), task for the company, which was ies to patients, researchers and Chris Sampson (Ardmore) and to archive these genetic sequenc- Chickasaw Health Information Center (CHIC) offers public access to the world’s largest medical library health care professionals. Lisa O’Donnell (Purcell) also of- es with 100 percent accuracy. so anyone can better inform themselves regarding specific health topics. It is credible, up-to-date Accessing CHIC resources is a fer guidance at their respective Their efforts were successful, and backed by the best information is available. There is no cost to access the service and it is open more top-down process than see- locations. and Mr. Hill’s company gained to the public, whether visiting Chickasaw health facilities in person or online at CHICresources.net. ing a physician, but the two work To find out more, contact Alic- a reputation for quality and reli- The Chickasaw Health Informa- Public kiosks at Chickasaw hand in hand. [email protected] or (580) ability, which exponentially grew tion Center (CHIC) offers public health clinics in Ardmore, Tisho- A visit to the doctor’s office of- 436-3980 ext. 80021. their opportunities. This new gig access to the world’s largest medi- mingo and Purcell give communi- ten involves a patient explaining set Computercraft down the suc- cal library - the United States Na- ty members an in-person method symptoms, being examined, the How a Chickasaw businessman cessful path it is still traveling. tional Library of Medicine (NLM) of tapping into CHIC. Four such doctor gathering details and per- Since 1991, the technology com- - with the purpose of helping ev- kiosks are also available in the haps making a diagnosis. When gave back to his community pany has provided scientific and eryone better inform themselves Chickasaw Nation Medical Cen- using CHIC resources, a person Gene Hill - a Chickasaw busi- technical support services to the regarding a diagnosis or specific ter in Ada. starts with a diagnosis or condi- nessman and veteran originally U.S. National Library of Medicine. health topic. This public service is the re- tion and digs deeper into the de- from Pauls Valley, Okla. - has Carolyn Hill, Mr. Hill’s daughter, There is no cost to access the sult of collaboration among the tails. found a way to give back to his is now president and CEO of the service. Anyone can use it, and Chickasaw Nation, the National Learning more about one’s con- childhood and tribal communi- company. the health information provided Library of Medicine and Com- dition or illness can help in ways ties. What he offers is one of the Computercraft’s experience is the most up-to-date, data-driv- putercraft, a Chickasaw-owned past just intellectual curiosity. most impactful services possible: with archiving, analyzing and en insight that health science can company. Receiving a new diagnosis can a path to better health. distributing health-related in- provide. Janice Kelly, the acting deputy be a confusing and scary experi- “To have a good day, you have formation from the NLM and its “This project is an important associate director of the National ence, leaving a patient with many to have good health,” Mr. Hill strong ties to the Chickasaw com- step in providing crucial infor- Library of Medicine Specialized questions. CHIC helps fill in the said. munity have enabled Computer- mation that will help create and Information Services, helped cre- gaps, so anyone can answer their In his 80 years, Mr. Hill’s path craft to act as a liaison between increase awareness and under- ate CHICresources.net. She of- own questions and discover new in life has taken him across the the two groups. standing of individual health is- fered examples of when the web- topics to address with their phy- globe. Places like Oklahoma, Cali- The data and resources man- sues,” Gov. Bill Anoatubby said. site or kiosks might prove useful. sician. fornia, Washington, Korea and Ja- aged by Computercraft are the By providing access to credible “When you get a new diagno- Being better informed can of- pan have been the backdrops to backbone to the Chickasaw resources, the Chickasaw Nation sis and want to learn more about fer a sense of understanding and his story and success. Health Information Center (CHIC), is hoping to help build a healthier that condition, you can use the confidence. When plotting a path Mr. Hill’s upbringing in Okla- which offers public access to the community and reduce the health Chickasaw Health Information to better health, having a firm homa, his time serving in the U.S. world’s largest medical library. disparities faced by many Native Center to find information,” Ms. grasp on the best medical infor- Army and studying economics The goal is to help anyone better Americans today. Kelly said. “If you are having mation currently available can abroad, and his employment with inform themselves regarding a There are three points of ac- surgery and want to know more help plot the course. the U.S. Department of Veterans diagnosis or specific health topic. cess: a website, a smartphone ap- about pre-operative preparations Developers have also added a Affairs computerizing hospitals Mr. Hill sees it as a way to take plication and on-site kiosks. or postoperative care, you can child-centric portal to the website all situated Hill in a unique spot: his personal success and redirect The website CHICresources. research that information on called Kid’s Corner (located under at the convergence of information it to benefit Chickasaws and com- net can be accessed anywhere via CHIC.” the “Community Health and Well- technology, business and health. munity members. an internet browser on personal She said users might also look ness” tab). It is a space for chil- Computercraft, founded in computers, tablets and smart- up possible side effects for a new dren to play games and watch 1981, is a Chickasaw-owned and phones. The mobile application is prescription or learn about lab videos while learning about the operated company headquartered available as a free download from test values and desirable ranges. community, health and environ- in McLean, Virginia, where Mr. Apple and Android app stores. “CHIC provides quality health ment. Hill now lives. 14 CHICKASAW TIMES December 2018 Late fall, winter time to take advantage of Health programs

The Chickasaw Nation Depart- and Prevention (CDC), recom- groups should avoid visitation to Purcell and once a month in Okla- tation of the function of organs ment of Health has many excep- mends yearly vaccination for ev- health facilities during flu sea- homa City and Colbert. Addition- and tissues. Medical imaging tional programs, services and eryone 6 months and older. Vac- son, unless seriously ill or in the ally, nutrition education and food seeks to reveal and diagnose dis- resources to offer Chickasaw cination of high risk persons is case of an emergency. preparation demonstrations are ease as well as assess treatment citizens, Chickasaw Nation em- especially important to decrease For more information about the offered. responses. ployees and the community. their risk of severe flu illness. influenza and the preventative Seniors who are currently Imaging services at the Chick- There are different times in Yearly flu vaccinations can reduce measures, visit www.CDC.gov. participating in the Chickasaw asaw Nation Medical Center our lives when we need to check the risk of doctor visits, missed Nation Senior Farmers’ Market (CNMC) offers a full range of on our health and ensure we are work and school due to the flu. Winter fruit and Nutrition Program are already medical imaging options, includ- meeting every milestone, get- According to the CDC, flu vac- enrolled in the Winter Fruit and ing a CT scan, MRI, ultrasound, ting every test or immunization cination has been associated vegetable program Vegetable Program and may visit X-ray, dual-energy X-ray absorp- needed. Protecting our children’s with lower rates of some cardiac a nutrition center to receive their tiometry (DXA) and mammogra- health and maintaining our own events among people with heart for seniors fruit and vegetable package. phy. Core needle and stereotactic well-being is vital. disease, especially among those The Chickasaw Nation Winter For questions regarding any of biopsies of the breast and fine We are excited to highlight who experienced a cardiac event Fruit and Vegetable Program is the Chickasaw Nation Farmers’ needle aspiration biopsies of the some important “Did You Know” in the past year. Flu vaccination committed to providing healthy Market programs, please contact thyroid are also offered. facts and tips for a healthier life- protects women during and after fruits and vegetables to Chicka- Ada Nutrition Services at (855) Ultrasound, X-ray and mam- style: pregnancy and can also protect a saw seniors during the winter 572-3433. mography services are offered at baby after birth from flu. months to fill the gap between the Ardmore, Purcell and Tisho- Get your flu shot! The flu vaccine only protects growing seasons in the Senior Chickasaw Nation mingo Health Clinics. The Chickasaw Nation support against influenza, not other ill- Farmers’ Market Nutrition Pro- Imaging services maintains the fight against the spread of in- nesses. Some people may have gram. Department of state-of-the-art digital diagnos- fluenza and is working diligently already been exposed to a flu vi- Chickasaw seniors, 55 and tic equipment as well as highly- to prevent the transmission and rus, before receiving the vaccine, older, Chickasaw Warrior Society Health Imaging skilled, registered technologists spread of the infectious diseasse which can cause flu-like symp- members and Chickasaw citizens Services in all locations. during the 2018-2019 season. toms. who are 100 percent disabled re- All images are interpreted by, These preventative measures are People at high risk of serious ceive a variety of healthy fresh, The Chickasaw Nation Medi- and biopsies are performed by, for the safety of our patients, visi- flu complications include young dried and frozen fruits and veg- cal Center imaging services uses experienced, board certified ra- tors and staff. children, pregnant women, etables each month, from No- various techniques and process- diologists. The flu vaccine is not 100 per- people with chronic health con- vember through March. These es to create images of internal For more information or to cent effective, but it still offers ditions, like asthma, diabetes may be picked up from any one structures hidden by skin and schedule an appointment, call protection against the flu virus. or heart and lung disease, and of our four nutrition centers lo- bone inside the human body as (580) 421-4525. The Centers for Disease Control people 65 years and older. These cated in Ada, Ardmore, Duncan, well as provide visual represen-

Keep yourself, children safe during the holiday season

The holiday season creates a those less fortunate. ing, as well as, others who are to freezing or below. Stay active and eat healthy - great opportunity for fun and Managing stress - Try to take around and breathe in second- Fire safety - Residential fires Try to eat lots of fruits and vege- fellowship, by bringing fam- time for yourself and decom- hand smoke. are most likely to occur dur- tables, which will help lower your ily and friends together. During press. The holiday bustle of pre- Exams and screenings - Stay ing winter months. Do not leave risk for certain diseases. Try to this time, it is vital to make your paring food, traveling and buying current on all exams and screen- space heaters, fireplaces, candles stay active with at least 2½ hours health and safety a priority. gifts can sometimes make you ings during the winter months. and food cooking on the stove, a week of physical activity. Kids The Chickasaw Nation Depart- feel overwhelmed. Give yourself Immunizations - Last year, the unattended. Be sure to not plug and teens should get at least one ment of Health, Research and time and take a break. flu season hit epidemic levels. in too many Christmas lights to hour of physical activity a week. Public Health Division, would Drinking and driving - The Practice healthy hygiene. Remem- one extension cord. For more information and pub- like to make sure everyone has a holiday season means more peo- ber to get your flu shot! Food safety - Practice proper lic health tips, visit www.CDC.gov. healthy and safe holiday season. ple will be on the roads and with Keep a close eye on children - food preparation. Wash hands The Centers for Disease Control the weather changing, roads can Always pay close attention to chil- and surfaces often to prevent the and Prevention (CDC), recom- become hazardous quickly. Do dren during the winter months. spread of germs. Avoid cross-con- mends 12 ways to stay healthy not add to the danger of slick Avoid areas that are unsafe. Do tamination. Always cook foods to during the holidays. roadways by drinking and driv- not let your children stay outside the proper temperatures. Refrig- CONTRIBUTED BY Dallas Rudd, Tribal Communica- Hand hygiene - It is important ing. Make an effort to not drink too long, if temperatures are close erate foods promptly. tions. to make certain you are always and drive, and encourage others washing your hands, for at least to do the same. 20 seconds. This holiday season Seat belt safety - Every time is also flu season. Washing your you get in a car, remember to hands can help with the spread make sure everyone puts on their of the flu and flu-like symptoms. seat belt. Children should always Face masks available at health facilities Stay warm - When going out- be in a child safety seat, booster For your safety, face masks are tory infection (cough, runny nose, to minimize the spread of the flu doors, always make sure to wear seat or seat belt, depending on readily available for anyone us- fever), face masks are available at and flu-like symptoms. layers, a heavy coat, gloves and your child’s height, weight and ing Chickasaw Nation health fa- the hand-hygiene kiosks at every The goal is to protect patients, stocking hat, if possible. If you age. cilities. When you arrive for your building entrance. staff and visitors from being ex- have old coats that are not be- Smoke-free - Avoid smoking. appointment, if you are experi- Face masks should be worn posed to the virus, which can be ing used, you can donate them to Smoking hurts the person smok- encing any symptoms of respira- during visitation in the rooms spread through cough, sneeze or of patients who are in isolation by touching something that the for influenza. You may also be flu virus has infected. asked to wear a face mask if you People at high risk of serious are showing signs of respiratory flu complications include young infection. children, pregnant women, In the event the kiosk is empty, people with chronic health con- notify staff at the front desk and ditions, like asthma, diabetes THE CHICKASAW NATION they will provide you with a face or heart and lung disease, and mask. people 65 years and older. These The Chickasaw Nation Depart- groups should avoid visitation to ment of Health works diligently health facilities, unless seriously to prevent the transmission and ill or in the case of an emergency. MEDICAL FAMILY THERAPY spread of illness by taking these For more information about the additional measures. These pre- influenza and the preventative ventive measures are for the safe- measures, visit www.CDC.gov. MEDICAL FAMILY THERAPY OFFERS GROUP THERAPY TO ENCOURAGE PARTICIPANTS ty of patients, visitors and staff, TO WORK TOWARD AND MEET MANY TYPES OF GOALS. Diabetes class Dec. 18 Depression group therapy teaches techniques Have you or a loved one been We look forward to meeting you to manage depression or unstable moods. diagnosed with diabetes? as we embrace a culture of well- If so, please come join us the ness and foster a spirit of com- Trauma group therapy helps participants overcome third Tuesday each month at the munity. the damaging impact of past trauma. Ada Chickasaw Community Cen- The next support group is set ter, 700 N. Mississippi, at 6 pm. for Dec. 18. It is a great opportunity to learn One IDP credit will be given for current evidence-based informa- attendance. GROUP THERAPY SERVICES PROVIDE: tion from the experts, receive For more information, contact support and fellowship with com- the Chickasaw Nation Diabetes • Support from others who know • Methods of coping munity members. Care Center at (580) 421-1511. how you feel • Healthy living and self-care skills • Awareness that you are not alone • Strength and endurance to A screening is required to participate in one Join AmeriCorps training help others of these group therapy sessions. To schedule a • Help to overcome barriers to screening, call (580) 421-4591. meaningful relationships The Chickasaw Nation and • Able to work 17 to 40 AmeriCorps have partnered to hours per week create the Chickasaw Nation • Required to have a high AmeriCorps Program. school diploma or equivalent or CHICKASAW.NET/MEDICALFAMILY Program members will provide agree to obtain a high school di- lifesaving disaster preparedness ploma or equivalent during the Zero Suicide is a commitment to suicide prevention in health and behavioral health systems. It is both trainings to elders, veterans and service year a concept and a practice being implemented by the Chickasaw Nation. families with children in under- • Must pass a National Ser- served, vulnerable, rural commu- vice Criminal History Check nities inside and outside of the For more information, or to ap- Chickasaw Nation service area. ply, contact Rebecca Rhynes at Participants must be: (580) 559-0963. • A citizen of the United States • Age 17 or older December 2018 CHICKASAW TIMES 15 Many perceptions of foster care children are erroneous

One of the most generous safe, loving and stable home. enting techniques are among Bonding with older children. the time comes. things you can do is open your It is too expensive to foster par- these licensing requirements. The largest population in foster A strong bond is exactly what heart and your home to a child ent. Foster parents will not get a care consists of children ages 11- a child needs during the diffi- in need. This big commitment Raising a child can be expen- choice in what child you receive. 18. People sometimes feel wary cult times they are facing. Foster can sometimes be overwhelming sive but the foster care system Situations for foster children of taking in older kids but most parents will always have special for potential foster families. The does its best to cover necessities vary greatly and social work- of them still need as much guid- connection for children placed in truth is most individuals are hesi- and some extracurricular expens- ers will never place children in ance as a younger child. It is com- the home but watching a child re- tant to take the leap into foster- es. Foster children are eligible for homes with parents who are monly believed that it is harder to build and reunite with his or her ing children because of popular medical assistance, which cov- unwilling or unsure of their ca- bond with children you have not birth family is just as rewarding. misconceptions about the foster ers medical, dental and mental pabilities to care for a child. As raised but making those connec- Social workers encourage a cohe- care system. health expenses. parents, you can chose if you are tions is still possible. sive relationship between biologi- Here are commonly held mis- Foster parents will not receive able to care for a child in emer- Inability to handle conflicts cal and foster families and this conceptions about foster parent- any help from the foster care sys- gency, short-term or long-term that may arise. can make the transition easier. ing. tem. situations. Transitioning into a family is Foster parents can also decide Kids spend years in foster care The Chickasaw Nation Foster Fostering takes up too much hard for everyone involved. This what level of uncertainty they About 45 percent of children Care and Adoption Program will time. can make potential parents feel are comfortable with when ask- in 2016 spent less than a year in always be there to provide sup- Fostering is a commitment and unprepared. Families are encour- ing about the reinstatement of foster care. In fact, only four per- port whenever they can. Case there are other factors along with aged to call social workers dur- parental rights. cent of kids in the system in 2016 workers are dedicated to the suc- the typical needs of a child. These ing this time to get ideas about For more information about had spent more than five years in cess of a foster child and their needs may include mandatory what to do and strategize for the the foster care and adoption pro- foster care. foster family. Support includes visits with parents or relatives, best outcome. Social workers may gram, call (580) 272-5550 or visit Foster parents must be young assisting with enrollment into court dates, or medical appoint- even schedule a family therapy Chickasaw.net/Foster. and married to foster children a school, health insurance and ments. Talk to your social worker session to find the root of the Potential foster parents must other services. If a child has a dis- about these concerns and how conflict. meet all requirements below to ability, the agency will do its best you will be able to meet these Families may become attached CONTRIBUTED BY Kortney Samis, Tribal Communica- be eligible: to prepare you and your family. needs. and unable to let a child go when tions. Be at least 21 years of age It takes a lot of work to be li- Be able to support oneself censed as a foster parent. Be a member of a federally-rec- Social workers are trained to ognized tribe walk parents through the pro- Reside in Oklahoma cess. These procedures are in- Health System Highlight Can be single or married depth to ensure safety and well- The most important require- being of foster children. Multiple ment is the ability to provide a trainings to teach effective par- Health, call the Ardmore clinic at pediatric patients, as well as (580) 222-2950; Chickasaw Nation routine illnesses, applying over Medical Center at (580) 436-3980; 10,000 hours of extensive work Keep your mental health Purcell clinic at (405) 527-4700; in NICU CHO post residency and or the Tishomingo clinic at (580) 30 years of experience. 387-2722. He has served as Chief of Pedi- on track this holiday season atrics at Choctaw Nation Hospital, The holiday season is a time are available to help with mental Provider highlight Carl Albert and the Chickasaw for family, gift giving and holi- health issues. Dr. Patrick Mason is a Board Nation Medical Center. He also day parties. There is plenty of fun Other resources to manage and Certified Pediatrician. He has has previously served as Chief of and excitement, but this season eliminate holiday stress includes: been practicing medicine at the Staff and overseen a Joint Com- can also overwhelm many of us. Outpatient Therapy Services Chickasaw Nation since Decem- mission survey. Dr. Mason was Whether we spend too much Chickasaw Nation Outpatient ber 1993. Dr. Mason began his ca- a medical reviewer for standard money on gifts, have recently lost Services offers individual, cou- reer at Carl Albert Indian Health of care through Oklahoma Foun- a family member or just cannot ples and family counseling ser- Facility and transitioned to the dation for Peer Review for more find time to ourselves, stress and vices. Chickasaw Nation Medical Center than 10 years. depression are realities through- (580) 436-1222 in 2010. He attended the Univer- Dr. Mason was inspired to DR. PATRICK MASON out the holidays. Chickasaw.net/Outpatient sity of Oklahoma School of Medi- choose medicine by his mother, Fortunately, the Chickasaw Suicide Prevention The Chickasaw Nation Depart- cine and completed his pediatric a nurse. He made pediatric medi- Nation has resources to provide The Chickasaw Nation Pre- ment of Health is dedicated to residency at Stanford University cine his specialty based on per- mental health help when needed. vention Services offers classes providing the highest quality Medical Center through Stanford sonal illness as a child. The Mayo Clinic recommends to bring awareness to the early health care. Chickasaw Nation University and Children’s Hospi- Dr. Mason also manages several the following to minimize stress warning signs of mental health health care heroes commit each tal of Oklahoma and the Univer- businesses including his ranch during the holidays: problems and suicide interven- day to your health, and the health sity of Oklahoma. He was named and cow/calf operation. He lives Acknowledge your feelings. tion. of your family. They believe your outstanding resident and served with his wife of 38 years, enjoys Being sad or upset is okay. We (580) 272-1180 dreams thrive through a strong chief resident at both programs. two adult children, and adores, should not force ourselves to feel Chickasaw.net/Prevention body, mind and spirit. Their mis- Dr. Mason is a Fellow of the spoils and loves one grandchild happy just because it is the holi- Medical Family Therapy sion is to be the quality health American Academy of Pediat- who was born at Chickasaw Na- days. Medical family therapy is a care provider you choose for your rics, Board Certified [Recertified] tion Medical Center. Reach out. Go to a community unique approach to overall health family. by American Board of Pediatrics holiday event if we are feeling that addresses the biological, psy- For more information, or to and a Diplomate of the American alone. chological, social and spiritual schedule an appointment with the Board of Medical Examiners. CONTRIBUTED BY Dallas Rudd, Tribal Communications Be realistic. Not every Thanks- health of patients and their fami- Chickasaw Nation Department of Dr. Mason manages complex giving, Christmas or other holi- lies in a medical setting. day lives up to expectations from (580) 436-3980 past years. Chickasaw.net/MedicalFamily Set aside differences. Family Psychosocial Unit members can often be a source The Chickasaw Nation Psycho- of stress. Debates and arguments social Unit provides psychologi- are sometimes better set aside for cal assessments for adults and a more appropriate time. children. Is your home suicide-safe? Stick to a budget. Plan what to (580) 436-1222 spend on food, gifts and other Chickasaw.net/Psychosocial TAKE THESE ACTIONS TO RESTRICT ACCESS TO LETHAL expenses. Behavioral Health Services MEANS OF SUICIDE. Plan ahead. Budget time for Behavioral health services pro- shopping, cooking and visits be- vides a psychiatric evaluation for fore we getting overwhelmed. the diagnosis and pharmacologi- Learn to say no. There is a lot cal treatment of many mental ill- to do during the holidays. Our nesses. families will understand if we (580) 421-4591 cannot be at every event. Chickasaw.net/Behavioral- MEDICATION Firearms Don’t abandon healthy habits. Health LOCK AND LIMIT. REMOVE. LOCK. 3 in 5 teens say prescription drugs More than half of all suicide deaths It is fine to have an extra ginger- It is normal to feel over- are EASY to get from their parents' result from a gunshot wound. bread cookie, but eating right and whelmed by financial and social medicine cabinets. continuing fitness plans provide expectations during the holiday the energy needed to get every- season. It is good to get help when Support Alcohol thing done. needed. Mental health services LISTEN AND ACT. MONITOR CLOSELY. Take a breather. Sometimes we are available to help Chickasaw 9 out of 100 high school Substance use makes youth need to make time for ourselves. citizens get through tough times students attempted suicide more likely to choose lethal in the past 12 months. means, such as guns. Seek professional help if you and enjoy the holidays. need it. As Chickasaw Nation CONTRIBUTED BY Kortney Samis, Tribal Com- citizens, resources and support munications Poisons TAKE PRECAUTIONS. Intentional exposure to poisons are more likely to result in serious or fatal outcomes.

For assistance Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., contact Chickasaw Nation Prevention Services at (580) 272-1180 or [email protected]. FOR 24/7, FREE AND CONFIDENTIAL ASSISTANCE, CALL THE NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION LIFELINE AT (800) 273-8255

Jimmy Jennings Trucking, LLC Zero Suicide is a commitment to suicide prevention in health and behavioral health care Sand, Gravel, Topsoil, etc. systems. It is both a concept and a practice being implemented by the Chickasaw Nation. 16874 CR 3540, Ada, OK 74820 (580) 272-8952 • (580) 436-1047 Chickasaw Citizen 16 CHICKASAW TIMES December 2018 Chickasaw Citizen Groups - Chickasaw Community Councils

Ada Chickasaw Citizen Connection Oregon Chickasaw Citizen Connection Monthly at 6:30 p.m. Houston Chickasaw Citizen Connection Quarterly, Sunday in Eugene/Springfield, OR Quarterly, Sunday at 1:30 p.m. Alaska Chickasaw Citizen Connection Ozark Chickasaw Citizen Connection Annually in Anchorage, AK Kansas City Metro Citizen Connection Semiannual, Sunday in Fayetteville, AR Quarterly, Saturday in Kansas City/Olathe, KS Ardmore Chickasaw Citizen Connection Pacific NW Chickasaw Citizen Connection Bimonthly, Thursday at 6:30 p.m. Louisiana Chickasaw Citizen Connection Quarterly, Saturday at 1:30 p.m. in Vancouver, WA Semiannual, Saturday at 1:30 p.m. in West Monroe, LA Arizona Chickasaw Citizen Connection Purcell Chickasaw Community Council Quarterly in Phoenix/Tempe area National Capitol Region Chickasaw Citizen Connection Carolee Maxwell: (405) 527-7676 Quarterly, Sunday in Washington, D.C. Fourth Tuesday monthly at 6:30 p.m. Bryan County Chickasaw Citizen Connection Quarterly, Thursday at 6:30 p.m. in Durant, OK Nevada Chickasaw Citizen Connection San Diego Chickasaw Citizen Connection Quarterly, Sunday at 1 p.m. in Henderson, NV Quarterly, Sunday in La Jolla, CA Central Texas Chickasaw Community Council Second Sunday at 2 p.m. in Austin, TX New England Chickasaw Citizen Connection Southern California Chickasaw Citizen Connection Semiannual, Sunday in Windsor, CT Quarterly, Saturday in Fontana, CA Colorado Chickasaw Citizen Connection Second Saturday bimonthly at 11:30 a.m. in Lakewood, CO New Mexico Chickasaw Citizen Connection St. Louis Chickasaw Citizen Connection Quarterly, Saturday in Albuquerque, NM Triannual, Saturday in St. Louis, MO Connerville Chickasaw Community Council Tony Poe: (580) 421-4994 Northern California Chickasaw Citizen Connection South Texas Chickasaw Community Council Third Monday bimonthly at 6:30 p.m. Quarterly, Saturday in Sacramento, CA Ellen Brooker: (210) 421-1956 Second Sunday at 2 p.m. in San Antonio Duncan Chickasaw Citizen Connection Northern Pontotoc Chickasaw Citizen Connection Quarterly, Saturday at 11:30 a.m. Bimonthly, second Thursday at 6:30 p.m. in Newcastle, Texoma Chickasaw Citizen Connection OK Quarterly, Thursday at 6:30 p.m. in Kingston, OK East Texas Chickasaw Citizen Connection Quarterly, Sunday at 2 p.m. in Tyler, TX North Texas Chickasaw Community Council Tishomingo Chickasaw Citizen Connection Paula Motaharnia: (903) 436-4980 Monthly at 6:30 p.m. in Tishomingo, OK Florida Chickasaw Citizen Connection Third Saturday at 1:30 p.m. in Bedford, TX Quarterly, Saturday in Orlando, FL Tri-State Chickasaw Citizen Connection OKC Metro Chickasaw Community Council Semiannual, Sunday in Newark, NJ Georgia Chickasaw Citizen Connection Scott Factor: (405) 830-8831First Tuesday monthly. Quarterly, Saturday in Atlanta, GA Potluck at 6 p.m.; meeting at 6:30 p.m. Tulsa Chickasaw Citizen Connection Quarterly, Saturday in Tulsa, OK Adopt an Angel Tree and Give the Gift of Hope Wichita Chickasaw Citizen Connection Semiannual, Sunday at 2:30 p.m. in Wichita, KS Angel Trees are planted Angel Tree Locations for 2018 Pauls Valley Area Office throughout the Chickasaw Na- 220 N. Chickasaw For more information about each group’s meeting times, tion each year. These special Ada Area Office Pauls Valley, Okla. contact the Chickasaw Nation Community Outreach at (580) trees offer citizens, employees 231 Seabrook Road 332-1165. and members of the community Ada, Okla. Purcell Area Office opportunities to ensure everyone 1430 Hardcastle Blvd. receives the gift of hope during Ardmore Health Clinic Purcell, Okla. the holidays. 2510 Chickasaw Drive Participants can adopt an “an- Ardmore, Okla. Sulphur Area Office gel” from the tree and provide 4970 W. Hwy. 7 Free cooking shows listed items to specific children Ardmore Area Office Sulphur, Okla. Ada Nutrition Services Ardmore Nutrition Services Purcell Nutrition Services What’s In Your Pantry? What’s In Your Pantry? What’s In Your Pantry? and teens. 949 Locust St. Dec. 4 at 10 a.m. and noon Dec. 4 at 10 a.m., noon and 5 p.m. Dec. 4 at 10 a.m., noon and 6 p.m. at 10 a.m. and noon at 10 a.m. and noon at 10 a.m. and noon Angel trees are adopted by in- Ardmore Tishomingo Area Office Dec. 6 Dec. 5 Dec. 6 Brunch 2.0 Brunch 2.0 Brunch 2.0 dividuals and are not federally 815 E. Sixth St. Dec. 11 at 10 a.m. and noon Dec. 11 at 10 a.m. and noon Dec. 11 at 10 a.m., noon and 6 p.m. Dec. 13 at 10 a.m. and noon Dec. 12 at 10 a.m. and noon Dec. 13 at 10 a.m. and noon funded through the Chickasaw Chickasaw Nation Medical Cen- Tishomingo, Okla. 518 E. Arlington, Ada, Oklahoma 2350 Chickasaw Blvd., Ardmore, Oklahoma 1530 Hardcastle Blvd., Purcell, Oklahoma (580) 272-5506 (580) 226-8289 (405) 527-6967 Nation. ter Family Life Center Duncan Nutrition Services Visit one of these angel trees to 1921 Stonecipher Blvd. For more information, call (405) What’s In Your Pantry? What’s In Your Pantry? choose an angel and share with Ada 207-9883 or visit Chickasaw.net/ Dec. 5 at 10 a.m. and noon Dec. 7 at 10 a.m. and noon Brunch 2.0 Brunch 2.0 your community. AngelTree. Dec. 12 at 10 a.m. and noon Dec. 14 at 10 a.m. and noon Dec. 13 at 6 p.m.

Duncan Area Office 229 W. Seabrook, Ada, Oklahoma 1302 W. Main, Duncan, Oklahoma 1911 W. Plato Road CONTRIBUTED BY Taylor Owen, Tribal Com- (580) 272-5506 (580) 470-2150 Duncan, Okla. munications

Celebration of Lights Nov. 24 - Dec. 31

Drive through the beautiful holiday light display every night between 6 p.m. & 9 p.m.

TRADITIONS

ChickasawCulturalCenter.com (580) 622-7130 867 Cooper Memorial Drive Sulphur, OK 73086

Weaving a story from Chickasaw tradition—textile artist Tyra Shackleford on www.Chickasaw.tv. CHICKASAW.TV @CHICKASAWTV @CHICKASAWTV

UNI_17-CNTV-128_DEC-18_CTM.indd 1 11/15/18 12:35 PM December 2018 CHICKASAW TIMES 17

Exhibit “A”, attached hereto and incorporated by reference. This lease was approved by OCTOBER 2018 LEGISLATIVE MINUTES the Choctaw Nation in Choctaw Nation Council Bill CB-61-18 on February 14, 2018. A motion was made by Ms. Briggs and seconded by Mrs. Alexander to approve GR36- CHICKASAW NATION TRIBAL LEGISLATURE 006. REGULAR SESSION Members voting yes: Beth Alexander, Connie Barker, Lisa J. Billy, Linda Briggs, Tim Legislature Building Colbert, Nancy Elliott, Dr. Karen Goodnight, Shana Hammond, Lisa Impson, Toby Per- Ada, Oklahoma kins, Scott Wood, Steve Woods, David Woerz October 19, 2018 13 yes votes The motion to approve GR36-006 carried unanimously. AGENDA ITEM #1 CALL MEETING TO ORDER Ms. Briggs concluded her report. Chairperson David Woerz called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. AGENDA ITEM #2 ROLL CALL AGENDA ITEM #8 NEW BUSINESS (Comments from Citizens) Members present: Beth Alexander, Connie Barker, Lisa J. Billy, Linda Briggs, Tim Col- Mr. Mike Wingo thanked the Legislature for their contribution in the Susan G. Komen bert, Nancy Elliott, Dr. Karen Goodnight, Shana Hammond, Lisa Impson, Toby Perkins, 3Day walk. He participated in three of the walks and plans to participate in two more. Scott Wood, Steve Woods, David Woerz As of to date, these events have totaled $6.2 million for breast cancer research. Staff present: Doretta Sellers, Recording Secretary, Harold Stick, Sergeant-At-Arms- Mrs. Alexander commented on the health care information that Ms. Stephanie Luna Robert Cheadle, Legislative Counsel presented at one of the community council meetings. She stated it was informative for Guests present: Michael L. Wingo, Dana Lance, Wynona Coon, Kathy Deere, Shirley both those that resided inside and outside tribal boundaries. Adkins, Melpherd Switch, Charles Tate Ms. Barker welcomed guests from the Absentee Shawnee Tribe. AGENDA ITEM #3 INVOCATION Chairperson Perkins wished Mr. Cheadle a happy birthday, and recognized Judge Invocation was given by Ms. Barker. Charles Tate. AGENDA ITEM #4 ELECTION OF OFFICERS AGENDA ITEM #9 ADJOURNMENT Chairperson Woerz opened the floor for nominations for Legislative Chairperson. Ms. The Legislative Session adjourned at 9:25 a.m. Billy nominated Mr. Perkins and Ms. Briggs seconded the nomination. Mrs. Alexander Respectfully submitted, made a motion for nominations to cease and Mr. Perkins be declared Chairperson by Scott Wood, Secretary acclamation. All members were in favor of the motion. Mr. Perkins thanked the Legis- Chickasaw Nation Tribal Legislature lature for their vote of support. Prepared by: The floor was opened for nominations for Legislative Secretary. Mrs. Alexander nomi- Doretta Sellers, Recording Secretary nated Mr. Wood and Dr. Goodnight seconded the nomination. A motion was made by Mr. Chickasaw Nation tribal Legislature Colbert for nominations to cease and Mr. Wood be declared Secretary by acclamation. All members were in favor of the motion. Mr. Wood thanked the Legislature for their vote of support. Chairperson Perkins appointed Ms. Sellers as the Recording Secretary and Mr. Stick as COMMITTEE REPORTS the Sergeant-At-Arms. All members were in favor of the appointments. AGENDA ITEM #5 READING OF MINUTES - September 21, 2018 Committee of the Whole Meeting A motion was made by Ms. Hammond and seconded by Mrs. Alexander to approve the November 13, 2018 minutes of September 21, 2018. Present: Beth Alexander, Lisa J. Billy, Tim Colbert, Nancy Elliott, Shana Hammond, Lisa Members voting yes: Beth Alexander, Connie Barker, Lisa J. Billy, Linda Briggs, Nancy Impson, Toby Perkins, Scott Wood, Steve Woods, David Woerz Elliott, Dr. Karen Goodnight, Shana Hammond, Lisa Impson, Toby Perkins, Scott Wood, Absent: Connie Barker, Tim Colbert, Linda Briggs, Dr. Karen Goodnight Human Resources Committee Steve Woods, David Woerz November 5, 2018 12 yes votes Present: Beth Alexander, Nancy Elliott, Dr. Karen Goodnight, Lisa Impson, Steve Wood, Member Abstaining: Tim Colbert Absent: Toby Perkins, David Woerz 1 abstention Land Development Committee The motion to approve the minutes of September 21, 2018 carried. November 5, 2018 AGENDA ITEM #6: UNFINISHED BUSINESS Present: Beth Alexander, Lisa J. Billy, Linda Briggs, Lisa Impson, Steve Woods, Toby There was no unfinished business to discuss. Perkins AGENDA ITEM 7: REPORTS OF COMMITTEES Absent: Tim Colbert (A) HUMAN RESOURCES COMMITTEE REPORT by Committee Chair Scott Wood General Resolution Number 36-001, Gubernatorial Appointment to the Inter-Tribal Council of the Five Civilized Tribes Ms. Nancy Elliott NOVEMBER 2018 RESOLUTIONS This resolution approves Governor Bill Anoatubby’s appointment of Ms. Nancy Elliott to the Inter-Tribal Council of the Five Civilized Tribes as a representative of the Chicka- General Resolution Number 36-007 saw Nation. Gubernatorial Appointment to the Chickasaw Historical Society A motion was made by Mr. Wood and seconded by Ms. Barker to approve GR36-001. (Charles G. Tate) Members voting yes: Beth Alexander, Connie Barker, Lisa J. Billy, Linda Briggs, Tim Explanation: This resolution confirms Governor Bill Anoatubby’s reappointment of Charles G. Tate to the Chickasaw Nation Historical Society to fill an unexpired term of Colbert, Dr. Karen Goodnight, Shana Hammond, Lisa Impson, Toby Perkins, Scott Wood, office ending on September 30, 2019. Steve Woods, David Woerz Presented by: Human Resources Committee 12 yes votes Yes votes: Beth Alexander, Connie Barker, Lisa J. Billy, Linda Briggs, Tim Colbert, Nancy Member Abstaining: Nancy Elliott Elliott, Dr. Karen Goodnight, Shana Hammond, Lisa Impson, Toby Perkins, Scott Wood, 1 abstention Steve Woods, David Woerz The motion to approve GR36-001 carried. General Resolution Number 36-008 General Resolution Number 36-002, Gubernatorial Reappointment to the Chickasaw Gubernatorial Appointment to the Chickasaw Historical Society Nation Election Commission (Rose Jefferson) (Wiley Barnes) This resolution confirms Governor Bill Anoatubby’s reappointment of Ms. Rose Jef- Explanation: This resolution confirms Governor Bill Anoatubby’s appointment of ferson to the Chickasaw Nation Election Commission as the Pontotoc District Represen- Wiley Barnes to the Chickasaw Nation Historical Society to fill an unexpired term of tative, to fill a term of office ending on December 31, 2021. office ending on September 30, 2019. A motion was made by Mrs. Alexander and seconded by Ms. Briggs to approve GR36- Presented by: Human Resources Committee 002. Yes votes: Beth Alexander, Connie Barker, Lisa J. Billy, Linda Briggs, Tim Colbert, Nancy Members voting yes: Beth Alexander, Connie Barker, Lisa J. Billy, Linda Briggs, Tim Elliott, Dr. Karen Goodnight, Shana Hammond, Lisa Impson, Toby Perkins, Scott Wood, Steve Woods, David Woerz Colbert, Nancy Elliott, Dr. Karen Goodnight, Shana Hammond, Lisa Impson, Toby Per- General Resolution Number 36-009 kins, Scott Wood, Steve Woods, David Woerz Gubernatorial Appointment to the Board of Directors of Chickasaw Nation Indus- 13 yes votes tries, Inc. The motion to approve GR36-002 carried unanimously. (Melvin Burch) General Resolution Number 36-003, Gubernatorial Reappointment to the Chickasaw Explanation: This resolution approves Governor Bill Anoatubby’s appointment of Nation Election Commission (Beryl Sears) Mr. Melvin Burch to the Board of Directors of Chickasaw Nation Industries, Inc. to fill a This resolution confirms Governor Bill Anoatubby’s reappointment of Mr. Beryl Sears three-year term of office beginning on January 1, 2019 and ending on December 31, 2021. to the Chickasaw Nation Election Commission as the Panola District Representative, to Article IV of the Articles of Incorporation issued by the Secretary of the U.S. Depart- fill a term of office ending on December 31, 2021. ment of the Interior provides that the terms of office of each board member shall be A motion was made by Ms. Elliott and seconded by Ms. Barker to approve GR36-003. three years. Mr. Burch will fill a three-year term of office beginning on January 1, 2019 Members voting yes: Beth Alexander, Connie Barker, Lisa J. Billy, Linda Briggs, Tim and ending on December 31, 2021. A resume of Mr. Melvin Burch is attached. Colbert, Nancy Elliott, Dr. Karen Goodnight, Shana Hammond, Lisa Impson, Toby Per- Presented by: Human Resources Committee kins, Scott Wood, Steve Woods, David Woerz Yes votes: Beth Alexander, Connie Barker, Lisa J. Billy, Linda Briggs, Tim Colbert, 13 yes votes Nancy Elliott, Dr. Karen Goodnight, Shana Hammond, Lisa Impson, Toby Perkins, Scott Wood, Steve Woods, David Woerz The motion to approve GR36-003 carried unanimously. General Resolution Number 36-010 Mr. Wood concluded his report. Assurances for the Indian Community Development Block Grant Program (B) LAND DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE REPORT by Committee Chair Linda Briggs U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Southern Plains General Resolution Number 36-004, Fiber Optic Network Utility Easement in Love Office of Native American Programs County Explanation: This resolution approves the Chickasaw Nation’s application for an In- This resolution authorizes and approves the proposed fiber optic network be granted dian Community Development Block Grant for a community facility funded by the U.S. to Trace Fiber Networks LLC, 2020 Lonnie Abbott Blvd, Ada, OK 74820. The easement Department of Housing and Urban Development, for the establishment of a Chickasaw authorizes Trace Fiber Networks, LLC to construct and maintain fiber optic network lines Nation Community Gymnasium to be located in Tishomingo, Johnston County, Okla- across the Vacant Land Thackerville tract (LOVE-010). This fiber optic network serves homa. the Chickasaw Nation for network connectivity and communications. Presented By: Human Resources Committee A motion was made by Ms. Briggs and seconded by Ms. Barker to approve GR36-004. Yes votes: Beth Alexander, Connie Barker, Lisa J. Billy, Linda Briggs, Tim Colbert, Nancy Members voting yes: Beth Alexander, Connie Barker, Lisa J. Billy, Linda Briggs, Tim Elliott, Dr. Karen Goodnight, Shana Hammond, Lisa Impson, Toby Perkins, Scott Wood, Colbert, Nancy Elliott, Dr. Karen Goodnight, Shana Hammond, Lisa Impson, Toby Per- Steve Woods, David Woerz kins, Scott Wood, Steve Woods, David Woerz General Resolution Number 36-011 Approving an Oil and Gas Lease 4200106947 on a Jointly Owned Mineral Interest 13 yes votes in McClain County in favor of R. K. Pinson and Associates, LLC. The motion to approve GR36-004 carried unanimously. Explanation: This resolution approves the Chickasaw Nation’s execution of an oil General Resolution Number 36-005, Electric Utility Easement in Carter County Replac- and gas lease in favor of R. K. Pinson and Associates, LLC. (R. K. Pinson), 10201 Buffalo ing General Resolution 35-017 Ridge Road, Edmond, Oklahoma 73025, described as: Beginning at a point 785 feet East This resolution rescinds and replaces GR35-017 wherein an electric utility easement of Northwest Corner of Section 30, Township 6 North, Range 1 West, thence South 38 was granted to Oklahoma Gas and Electric Company at Oklahoma Gas and Electric East 144 feet; thence South 57 East 726 feet; thence South 56 East 2640 feet; thence Company’s request. This resolution waives compensation and grants, conveys, and South 38 East 737.8 feet; thence East 135 feet to right bank of Canadian River; thence dedicates a perpetual electric utility easement to Oklahoma Gas and Electric Company North 713 feet; thence North 25 West 2138.4 feet to the meander corner between Sec- for the purpose of constructing and maintaining electric power lines across the Ard- tions 19 and 30; thence West 2515 feet more or less, to point of beginning in Section 30, more Child Development Center, 1001 Cottonwood, Ardmore, Oklahoma 73401. This Township 6 North, Range 1 West (USA IN TRUST), for a total of 81.17 acres, more or less. electric power line was relocated to facilitate the construction of the Child Development The Oil and Gas Lease was the subject of competitive bidding at the Bureau of Indian Center. Authorization for Governor to waive compensation was not included in original Affairs, Eastern Oklahoma Regional Office, Oil and Gas Lease Sale held on August 21, resolution GR35-017. 2018. A motion was made by Ms. Briggs and seconded by Mrs. Alexander to approve GR36- Presented By: Land Development Committee Yes votes: Beth Alexander, Connie Barker, Lisa J. Billy, Linda Briggs, Tim Colbert, Nancy 005. Elliott, Dr. Karen Goodnight, Shana Hammond, Lisa Impson, Toby Perkins, Scott Wood, Members voting yes: Beth Alexander, Connie Barker, Lisa J. Billy, Linda Briggs, Tim Steve Woods, David Woerz Colbert, Nancy Elliott, Dr. Karen Goodnight, Shana Hammond, Lisa Impson, Toby Per- kins, Scott Wood, Steve Woods, David Woerz 13 yes votes The motion to approve GR36-005 carried unanimously. General Resolution Number 36-006, Authorization and Approval of Grazing Lease in Pittsburg County This resolution approves Grazing Lease No. 4200070201 (G09-1912), for grazing purposes only, on property belonging to the Chickasaw and Choctaw Nations, contains 233 acres, more or less, in favor of Jesse Chip Lott II and David Cantrell. The proposed lease will be for a three (3) year term beginning March 1, 2018, and expiring on February 28, 2021, with a per annum payment of $1,600.00, of which the Chickasaw Nation will receive $400.00 per annum. The lessee agrees to additional stipulations as set forth in 18 CHICKASAW TIMES obituaries December 2018

made any event great fun. held many roles with the BIA sports, working in his garden and watched sermons by Dr. David Terry Wagon She spent much time research- and was eventually promoted to attending church where he also Jeremiah on television. On the ing her family genealogy. She was Agency Superintendent working taught Sunday school for many Friday before she passed away, particularly proud of her Chicka- closely with the Chickasaw Na- years. He and Dorothy were ac- she had a fun evening of karaoke saw ancestry, passing on stories tion and other tribes. In 1991, he tive members of Praise Assembly with her friends at Harvest Steak- and history to her family mem- received the Meritorious Service of God Church. house. bers throughout the years. She Award from the Department of He was preceded in death by She treasured her relationships spent the last 49 years in Alex- the Interior in recognition of his his parents; two brothers, Marion with her nephews, Charles Lewis andria Va., where she remained dedication and outstanding con- Whitfield and Bill Whitfield; one and wife, Jeri, of Lebanon, Okla., active in her community until tributions on behalf of Native sister, Gwendolyn Leahy; and one and Joseph Lewis, of San Jose, the last couple of months of her American people. He assisted in grandchild, Wendy Palmer. Calif., Emerson James and wife, passing. establishing Chickasaw Nation He is survived by his loving Shirley, of Bakersfield, Calif., and She was preceded in death by compacts for control of many wife of 70 years, Dorothy, of the Donald James and wife, Vivian, her husband Bob and brother BIA programs and was also able home; five children, Karin Myer, of Bakersfield, Calif.; her niece, Holmes Parker McLish. to secure and deliver the official and husband, Edward, of Okla- Christine James Buford, of Ba- She is survived by her children, Chickasaw Nation seal to the tribe homa City; Jack Whitfield Jr., of kersfield, Calif.; and her Carroll Mike (Ann) Brutsché of Edmond, after it had been taken into cus- Centralia, Wash.; Sherry Franks, nieces, Lorene Carroll Lauderdale Okla.; Suzi (Jim) Wixson of Ro- tody of the BIA sometime after and husband, Steve, of Ardmore, and husband Ed, of La Vernia, Terry Louis Wagon, 59, of Allen, swell, Ga.; Mark (Karen) Brutsché Oklahoma statehood. He was in- Okla.; Lynn Whitfield, and wife, Texas, Nadene Carroll Collard Okla., passed away Nov. 14, 2018 of Herndon, Va.; Scott Brutsché ducted into the Chickasaw Nation Sharon, of Loco, Okla.; and Lar- and husband, Dave, of Olney, at his home. Services were Nov. of Alexandria, Va.; Nancy (Stan Hall of Fame in 2007. In 2016, he ry Whitfield, and wife, Carmen, Texas; Wilma Carroll Sandlin 17 at Criswell Funeral Home Cha- Eisenstein) Brutsché of Olney, received a Chickasaw Historical of Comanche; eleven grandchil- (predeceased), Wanda Pearl Car- pel, Ada, Okla., with Revs. Randy Md.; and sister Shan Guadagnoli Society Lifetime Service Award. dren, Fred Myer, Faye Trostle, roll Ashley and husband, Clyde, Wade and Tony Poe officiating. and niece Beverly Davis of Al- Mr. Browning was a proud hus- James Whitfield Jr., Matt Franks, of Temple, Texas; Phyllis Carroll Burial followed in Sealy-Chapel buquerque, NM.; as well as nine band and father. He was also a Michael Whitfield, Jack Franks, (predeceased) and Letha Carroll Cemetery. grandchildren and eight great- storyteller and had many stories Larry Whitfield Jr., Zenna Lewis, Ringener, of Madill, Okla. The Mr. Wagon was born March 12, grandchildren, to whom she was to tell about all the places and Melissa Rose, Stephanie Dery Carroll nieces considered her to 1959 at Talihina, Okla., to Ivan affectionately known as “Mimi.” people he met during his lifetime. and Tony Whitfield; forty great- be their sister due to their close- and Wanda Carter Wagon. He at- He served our Lord by helping so grandchildren; one great-great- ness in age. tended Connerville Elementary many people through the BIA and grandchild; and many nieces and She was preceded in death by and graduated from McLish High Joe Beshirs helping to establish the Chicka- nephews and other relatives and her parents, Josiah Lewis and Ad- School. saw Nation Area Office in Purcell, close friends. die Owens; her brothers, Milford He married Lori Watson No- Okla. Condolences may be left at co- Lewis, Josiah Lewis and Charles vember 28, 1981 in Connerville. He loved to golf, fish, make [email protected]. Lewis; a grandson Chad Albitre; He had worked on a pipeline and beautiful silver jewelry and play foster parents, Emerson James also with the Chickasaw Nation Joker with his friends from the and Anna Mitchell James; foster Housing Division in maintenance. Cedar Creek Lake United Meth- siblings, Alvin James, Emerson Survivors include his wife, Lori, odist Church in Tool, Texas. He Phybee DeLois James and Thelma James Car- of the home; a son, Josh Wagon; was an incredible husband, dad roll; and her nieces, Wilma Car- daughter, Casey Bear, and hus- and friend to everyone who knew Lewis Johnson roll Sandlin and Phyllis Carroll. band, James; his grandchildren, him. She is survived by her two Andrew Wagon, Corri Stick, Pa- He is survived by his wife, Ju- daughters, Pamela Houser and tience Bear and Mamie Bear; a dith (Judy), of Bethany, Okla.; husband, Mike, of Bakersfield, Ca- brother, Charles Watson Wagon; sons, Brian Browning and Miller lif., and Vicky Reed and husband, and sister, Elaine Wagon Byars. Crowe, of Bethany, Okla.; daugh- Bill, of Windermere, Florida; two He was preceded in death by ter, Cheryl Browning-Lotto, and grandchildren, Kip Bivins, of Ba- his parents; and a sister, Angela son-in-law, Erich, of Hurst, Texas; kersfield, Calif., and Noelle Reed Wagon Lewis. Joe Dee Beshirs was born April and daughter, Teri Lynn Brown- Marion and husband, Todd, of Bearers were Josh Wagon, 13, 1948, at Princeton, Texas, to ing, of Santa Fe, NM. South Hadley, Mass.; three great- James Bear, Shannon Carter, Mi- RE and Nettie Freeman Beshirs. grandchildren, Brooke Marion, of chael Lindsey, Ernie West and He passed away on November 4, Belchertown, Mass., Reed Marion, Darren West. Honorary bearers 2018, at Colbert, Okla., at the age Jack Leroy of South Hadley, Mass., and Addie were Watson Wagon, Dale Woods, of 70. Sarad, of Los Angeles, Calif. Nelson Wisdom, Jr. Wisdom, Mr. Beshirs was a lifelong Whitfield Frank Hamilton, Bondo Davis and farmer and rancher. He married Andrew Wagon. Carolyn Jane Dailey on November Larry Smith 8, 1977. Together, they moved to Phybee DeLois Lewis Johnson, Mary Patricia Bryan County 22 years ago. He 90, passed away August 11, 2018. was of the Assembly of God Faith Graveside services were August McLish Brutsché and dearly loved his Lord and 20, 2018 at Arvin Cemetery, Savior and treasured his family. Arvin, Calif., with her nephew, He was preceded in death by Charles Lewis of Lebanon, Okla., his son, Joel D. Beshirs; parents officiating. She selected three RE and Nettie Beshirs; two broth- songs to be played at her servic- ers; one sister; and son-in-law. es: “How Great Thou Art” sung He is survived by his wife of by Daniel O’Donnell, “Somewhere 41 years, Carolyn Jane Beshirs; Over the Rainbow” sung by Isra- children, Pamla Tyann Moore, el Kamakawiwo’ole and “What A Rodney Joe Beshirs and wife, Wonderful World” sung by Louis Tammy, Lecia Ilene Allen, Joe Dee Armstrong. A dove release oc- Beshirs Jr., Sammie Gene Beshirs curred as the graveside services and wife, Brandi, Christopher Dee Jack Leroy Whitfield, 92, of came to an end. Beshirs and Deretha Jane Meyers Loco, Okla., passed away sudden- Mrs. Johnson was born March Larry Smith, 66, of Houston, and husband, Cord; daughter-in- ly Oct. 29, 2018, at his home. A fu- 28, 1928 at Madill, Okla., to Jo- Texas, was born April 22, 1952 at law, Sherry R. Beshirs; 18 grand- neral service was Nov. 2 at Praise siah Lewis and Addie May Owens. Norman, Okla. He passed away children; 22 great-grandchildren; Assembly of God Church. Burial Her father was a Chickasaw Na- June 25, 2018, after a sudden six brothers; and two sisters. followed at Addington Cemetery. tive American and was listed on stroke. He was buried June 29, at Mary Patricia McLish Brutsché, Mr. Whitfield was born Nov. 22, the Dawes Roll. She joined three Woodlawn Cemetery at Houston, 92, passed away peacefully on 1925, at Ardmore, Okla. to Al- brothers in the Lewis family; Jo- Texas. September 29, 2018, surrounded Zane Olen phaeus L. and Alice Jane (Lavers) siah, Charles and Milford. He graduated from Oklahoma by her family. Whitfield. At 10 months of age, she lost State University as an electrical Mrs. Brutsche was born April Browning He left school to join the Navy her mother. The family of Emer- engineer. He spent many years 28, 1926, at Yuma, Ariz., to in Nov. 1942 during World War son James, a Chickasaw Native working in the oil industry and original enrollee Holmes How- II. He served as an Aviation Ord- American listed on the Dawes retired from Houston Airport Sys- ard McLish and Corrine Parker nanceman Third Class Petty Of- Roll and Anna Mitchell James be- tem in 2015. McLish. She was a direct descen- ficer and was awarded the Vic- came her foster parents. In this Larry was a great person who dent of Chickasaw Nation Secre- tory Medal and the Asiatic Pacific family she gained two brothers, we were all lucky to know and tary John McLish. Campaign Medal. He was stand- Alvin James and Emerson James love. He enjoyed his passions of Mrs. Brutsché grew up in Ro- ing on his ship, the USS Salamaua and a sister, Thelma James. She hunting and dancing with his swell, N.M., and after the early watching the signing of the peace attended the Carter Seminary family and dear friends. He was deaths of her parents, she went to treaty with Japan on Tokyo Bay. Boarding School from September always ready to help someone in live with relatives in Englewood, Upon his honorable discharge 1936 through June 1938. After need and his biggest enjoyment Colo., where she finished high in Feb. 1946, he returned to and her foster parents died, Emerson was assisting family and friends school. She excelled academical- graduated from Addington High James in 1934 and Anna Mitchell with financial savvy advice to ly and was extensively involved in School. James in 1939, she went to live help them better their future. extracurricular school activities. On Mar. 19, 1948, he and Doro- with her foster sister, Thelma His last and by far greatest gift While attending nursing thy Faye Pitts were united in mar- James Carroll and her husband, was being an organ donor. What school in Dallas, Texas, she met riage at the First Assembly of God Whit Carroll and their children; a great testimony to his life. He the love of her life, Robert Leg- Church in Comanche. They made Lorene, Nadene, Wilma, Wanda gave to the end so life would be ate Brutsché, who was attending their home in California, Wash- Pearl, Phyllis and Letha. better for others. medical school at the time. They Zane Olen Browning, 82, passed ington and Texas. He worked as a She met her future husband, Mr. Smith was a very proud both graduated in 1947 and mar- away Monday, October 22, 2018 in manager for Quester Corporation William Ebb Johnson at Johnson citizen of the Chickasaw Nation ried on June 10 of that year. She Oklahoma City. at Toledo, Ohio, and then a floor- Corner, Okla., in 1942. They mar- and spent many hours research- worked as a pediatric nurse until Mr. Browning was born January ing installer as well as ordained ried in June 1946 in Oklahoma ing the family tree and passing starting a family. Bob served in 26, 1936, at Mill Creek, Okla., to minister pastoring churches in following Ebb’s discharge from on the family history. He attended the U.S. Public Health Service, pri- Albert Winston Browning and Ze- both California and Washington the U.S. Navy after the end of WW the Chickasaw Nation Festival in marily in Federal Prison Health nobia Hale Browning. He married before moving back to Comanche II. In 1948 they moved to Cali- Oklahoma each fall and enjoyed and Indian Health Service, for Judith Dean on September 19, in 1993 to retire. fornia to be near Ebb’s parents, catching up with family and 40 years, which required them 1959. They celebrated their 59th He was a citizen of the Chicka- Posy and Johnnie Allen Johnson, friend at each celebration. to live in many places across the wedding anniversary on Septem- saw Nation and was very proud of and her foster brother, Emerson He was preceded in death by United States while raising a fam- ber 19, 2018. his Native American heritage as James. Ebb passed away in 1997 his parents, Francis T. Smith and ily of five children. Following his high school grad- well as his military service. A par- after 51 years of marriage. his wife Sallie; and brothers Ken- She was a very loving and dedi- uation at Mill Creek High School, ticularly proud moment for him Mrs. Johnson enjoyed talking neth Smith and Sherman Smith. cated mother and wife. She was he worked on a ranch briefly and was being a part of the Chickasaw with people about her Chickasaw He is survived by wife, Julie always socially active in her com- soon enrolled at Haskell Insti- Honors Flight to Washington, D.C., Native American heritage and Smith; three children, Christina munity in each city she resided. tute, where he learned many of with his Native American broth- both her father and grandmother, (Eric) Holmes, Brandie (Fred) Bres- She was involved in modeling, Lit- the skills he would need to be- ers in service. His mother, Alice Sallie Sealy, were enrolled in the hears, and Eric O’Brien; grand- tle Theater, bowling, bridge, wom- come the Superintendent of the Lavers, was ¾ Chickasaw and was Dawes Rolls. She loved dancing children, Ashley Breshears, Cal- en’s clubs, charity work and any Ardmore (now the Chickasaw) an original enrollee of the Dawes with her husband, enjoyed coun- vin Breshears, Carissa Holmes, project she was needed. Family Agency of the Bureau of Indian Commission. She is from the trib- try music and meeting with her and Austin Holmes, who he will was her number one interest. She Affairs (BIA). al lineage of Edmund Pickens, the lunch group, including Pamela lovingly look down and watch was enthusiastically supportive He graduated from Haskell first Chickasaw Chief. Houser, Chris James Buford, them as they grow; a brother, of the activities and interests of Institute in Lawrence, Kan., and Mr. Whitfield was a member of Vivian James, Pat Rush, Shirley Herman Smith and his wife She- her children, grandchildren and began his 39-year career with the Duncan Chickasaw Nation Se- Buford, Jackie Peavyhouse and rian; and many nieces and neph- great-grandchildren and always the BIA at the age of 19. He nior Center. He loved watching all Rosemary Foster. She frequently ews. 19 CHICKASAW TIMES obituaries December 2018 George Elliott Jr. daughter Mrs. Elizabeth Ann of Wichita Falls, Texas, Aaron Okla. Funeral services were Nov. personality and big heart; she al- Murphy, and husband, Edward Betsey of Oklahoma City and 29, 2018 at the Chickasaw Nation ways had a smile for friends and John; grandson Edward Chris- Freddie Walker Jr., of Oklahoma Community Center, Ardmore, strangers. topher Murphy, and wife, Krys- City; daughters, Rowena Pewe- Okla., with Rev. Vincent Baptiste She was preceded in death by tal; grandson Anthony Drake nofkit of Tulsa, Okla., Kim Pewe- officiating. Interment followed her parents, Dorsey Mose and Marchioni, and wife, Carly; and nofkit, of Yukon, Okla.; adopted at McMillan Cemetery, McMillan, Anita (Palmer) Mose; and brother, grandson Sean Alexander Mur- sons, Arthur Landin, Roberto Okla. Kenneth Eugene Mose. phy. He had several nieces and Landin, Candelario Landin and Ms. Morgan was born Sept. 30, She is survived by her sons, nephews. John Daugomah; special nephew, 1952 at Ardmore, Okla., to Dorsey Kenny Morgan and wife, Victo- Many thanks to the medical Robert McGeisey, of Fernley, Nev.; Mose and Anita (Palmer) Mose. ria, of Ada, Okla., Todd Morgan, professionals at Seton Hospital sisters, Norma Jean Dawson, of She attended Lebanon Schools of Ardmore, Okla., and daughter, Austin; including, Dr. Melear, Dr. Oklahoma City and Shirley Rich- and later Madill Schools, where Kristi Morgan, of Ardmore, Okla.; Lam, Dr. Ashour and the Inten- ardson of Oklahoma City; broth- she graduated in the Class of ten grandchildren, Jason Morgan, sive Care Unit (ICU) Nursing Staff er, Don Walker, of Seattle Wash.; 1970. She earned her Associates Josie Morgan, Elias Morgan, Ever- and Hospice. All were absolutely and numerous grandchildren and Degree from Murray State College. ley Hamilton-Morgan, all of Ada, wonderful! great-grandchildren. She continued her education at Okla., Marc Sampson, Samara Okmulgee Tech in Culinary Arts. Morgan, Tyicee Nguyen, Tames While attending, she represented Nguyen, Kaine Nguyen, all of Ar- Freddie Lee Dorislene the school in a beauty pageant dmore, Okla., and Isaac Jennings, and won. of Broken Arrow, Okla.; brothers, George Elliott Jr., 90, passed Walker Sr. (Mose) Following her time in school, James Mose and wife, Roberta, of away Nov. 7, 2018 surrounded she worked at the Little Brownie Madill, Okla., and Don Mose, of by family at his daughter’s home Morgan Cookie Factory. In 1992, she went Lone Grove, Okla.; sisters, Shir- at Austin, Texas after struggling to work for the Chickasaw Nation ley Mose, of Edmond, Okla., and with cancer for several years. He and was there for over 26 years. Christine Lewis. of Lone Grove, was buried at Our Lady of the In her youth, she loved playing Okla.; aunts, Lina Pickens, of Mc- Rosary Cemetery and Prayer Gar- softball and later in life she sup- Millan, Okla., and Sallie Palmer, dens at Georgetown, Texas. ported her children and grand- of Ardmore, Okla. Mr. Elliott was born April 11, children in the sport. Pallbearers were Shannon 1929 to George Elliott Drake Sr., Ms. Morgan was a believer in Mose, Coby Lewis, Leslie Mose, of Nashville, Tenn., and Maggie the Bible and a true Christian. Chad Lewis, Ethan Martinez and May Poff, of Purcell, Indian Ter- She enjoyed attending Chihowa Pedro Molina. Honorary pallbear- ritory. His mother was an origi- Baptist Church. She loved to ers were the members of the Re- nal Dawes Enrollee #1135. She lift her voice to the Lord and to entry Program. was the first Native American travel to anywhere she could to Condolences may be left at Indian Registered Nurse in the attend church singings. She will www.griffinhillcrest.com. United States as documented by be remembered for her joyful the Chickasaw Holisso Research Freddie Lee Walker, Sr. passed Center in Sulphur, Okla. away November 5, 2018, at OU Before entering the Navy in Medical Center, at Oklahoma City. Dorislene (Mose) Morgan, 66, 1948, Mr. Elliott was a gradu- Funeral services were Novem- passed away Nov. 24, 2018 at Ada, ate of Ysleta High School in El ber 9, at Ray & Martha’s Funeral Paso, Texas. He served aboard Home, Carnegie, Okla. Interment the heavy cruiser USS Rochester was at Cedar Creek Cemetery, (Flagship of the Seventh Fleet) Carnegie, Okla. NOW AVAILABLE ON DVD & BLU-RAY since the start of the Korean War. Mr. Walker was born July 8, He completed training for Petty 1950, at Sasakwa, Okla., to Doro- Officer First Class with a rating of thy Walker. He attended school in Machinery Repairman First Class Oklahoma City, graduating from * on Feb. 18, 1952. He was honor- Capitol Hill High School. Upon 20% OFF ably discharged June 25, 1952. graduation, he served in the Unit- LIMITED TIME ONLY He worked for the El Paso Fire ed States Army. After his military Department and Paul Lieggi Real service, he attended Haskell Uni- Estate before choosing a career versity. He worked as a salesman with the Santa Fe Railroad. He for Holton Transfer Moving Com- worked 40 years for Santa Fe, pany in Oklahoma City for more mostly as a locomotive engineer than 25 years. working out of El Paso, Texas. A He married Mary Lou favorite activity after retirement Daugomah in 1984 at Gainesville, was travelling with his wife, Mary Texas. He was a member of the Evalyn Zarifis Drake, as members Chickasaw Tribe of Oklahoma. of the Wally Byam Airstream Car- He was an avid OU Sooner fan avan Club. and Thunder fan and most of all He was preceded in death by enjoyed his children and grand- three sisters; Martha Sue Thiedt, children. Mary Patricia Bailey and Mary Ag- He was preceded in death by nes “Georgie” Selly. his wife; parents; and brother, He is survived by his wife of 66 Billy Jack Henson. years, Mary; daughter, Mrs. Mary He is survived by his sons, Agnes Marchioni, and husband, Scott and wife, Billie Pewenofkit, Paul Jeffrey; son George Michael of Wichita, Kan., Burnett Strong- Drake; son John Dominic Drake; bow and wife, Alicia Pewenofkit,

DOCUMENTARY

FEATURE FILM

Celebrate Native American Heritage Month with Te Ata and Bearer of the Morning!

*Use code NAH20OFF Purchase at ChickasawOutpost.com or in-store at 132 W. Main St., Ada, OK 74820 December 2018 CHICKASAW TIMES 20 Elders compete in annual Senior Olympics event

TISHOMINGO, Okla. - Chicka- of its elders by offering programs saw Nation Aging hosted the and services which are focused Senior Olympics in Tishomingo on all aspects of their lives. Oct. 2, during the week of Annual The senior centers program Meeting and Festival. provides congregate breakfasts, Elders came from all over to lunches and homebound meals compete in the annual Olympics to qualified Chickasaw elders. event. They enjoyed the cama- The senior centers also provide raderie and came prepared for health monitoring, social activi- friendly competition. Participants ties, cultural classes, speakers, el- were part of teams that represent- der wellness programs and group ed each of the Chickasaw Senior activities. Centers. Wisdom Walkers is an elder People reconnect with family wellness program designed to ini- and friends during the Senior tiate and sustain activity among Olympics. One thing that stands Chickasaw elders. Exercise class- out to Chickasaw citizen, Dwight es are held regularly at the Chick- Immohotichey, is “You get to see asaw Nation Senior Centers. The a lot of people you don’t get to see program includes many fitness on a daily basis. You get the expe- activities, such as Tai Chi, line rience of that.” dancing, chair exercises, water Participants chose the events in aerobics, golfing, fishing, bowling which they would compete. There and Nintendo Wii sports tourna- were many events to choose from ments. Each senior center also including volleyball, stickball, has a treadmill and many have archery, casting, basketball shot other exercise equipment. and more. The Chickasaw Senior Golf Stacy Wesberry, senior centers Academy offers participants the and information director, said opportunity to learn from profes- “Elders need to get out, not only sional instructors at the WinStar physically, but emotionally. They Golf Course. While promoting an have to be out and be a part of active lifestyle, the Chickasaw Se- Tree lighting ceremony something, and this is one way nior Golf Academy gives seniors we do that. We try to keep our el- the opportunity to enjoy golf and ders as active as possible.” connect with other golfers. rings in the holiday season The Chickasaw Nation strives For more information, contact Gov. Bill Anoatubby performed his traditional late November duty of lighting the Wintersmith Park Christmas lights in Ada. The lights are a big attraction to provide elders the best service, the aging division at (580) 795- in Ada and regularly draw thousands throughout the holiday season. From left, Chickasaw Nation Culture and Humanities Secretary Lisa John; City of fun events and activities and care 9790 or [email protected]. Ada Public Information Director Lisa Bratcher; Ada Chamber of Commerce President Shana Wood; City of Ada Assistant City Manager Angie Dean; Gov. possible. The tribe remains de- CONTRIBUTED BY Dallas Rudd, Tribal Communica- Anoatubby; Chickasaw Nation Executive Officer of Chickasaw Cultural Center Valorie Walters; Chickasaw Nation Culture and Humanities Special Assistant voted to the health and well-being tions. Joe Thomas; and City of Ada Director of Parks and Public Facilities Scott Lowrance. ‘Chickasaws are Playing’ camp emphasizes stickball

game of lacrosse. coach at Jenks High School and Clovis Hamilton, youth lan- the U.S. Lacrosse Southwest Re- guage outreach manager, wants gional Manager, and Mario Enra, to give kids an incentive to do head lacrosse coach at the Univer- well in school by introducing la- sity of Oklahoma and Braveheart crosse. Lacrosse. “I was hoping to introduce At the end of the two-day clin- these Chickasaw kids to lacrosse, ic, campers were given a pair and let them know there’s a sport of stickball sticks and lacrosse they could play that could get equipment. them to college,” Mr. Hamilton For more information about the said. “Chickasaws are Playing” Camp, Featured coaches at the “Chick- contact Clovis Hamilton at (580) asaws are Playing” Camp were 272-5592. Mike Delloro, coach of the Du- CONTRIBUTED BY Savannah Burwell, Tribal Com- rant Lacrosse Club, Tim LaBella, munications.

Campers and staff at the “Chickasaws are Playing Camp”, Oct. 18-19 at Ada Junior High. Jacquelyn Sparks

ADA, Okla. - The Chickasaw Na- Chickasaws have a long history stickball, has continued to prog- tion Department of Culture and of playing the traditional game of ress. Humanities hosted the “Chicka- stickball, known as “little brother Like stickball, lacrosse is a saws are Playing” Camp, Oct. 18- of war.” team sport played with a stick 19 at Ada Junior High. Stickball was historically played and ball. Players use the head of Students learned the basics of to settle conflicts over land and the lacrosse stick to carry, pass, stickball and were introduced to politics between Native Ameri- catch and shoot the ball into the lacrosse. can tribes. There are recorded goal. The camp promotes a healthy accounts of stickball dating back Students at the camp spent the and active lifestyle, and revital- to the early 18th century. first part of the day learning la- izes the game throughout the Lacrosse was initially played crosse and stickball drills and Chickasaw Nation. by the Algonquian tribe and like spent the afternoon playing a

Chickasaw citizen, Brenlee Underwood practicing stickball during the “Chickasaws are Playing Camp,” Oct. 18-19 at Ada Junior High.

Chickasaw Citizen