Red Continuing publication Honoring Earth of recorded interviews of Choctaw Festival Choctaw elders from 2007 veterans

Page 13 This month – Ward Morrison Pages 14-15 Page 13

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BISKINIKThe Official Publication of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

July 2011 Issue Serving 207,346 Choctaws Worldwide Choctaws ... growing with pride, hope and success

Choctaw Days festival draws record crowds to Smithsonian The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma partnered with the zx Choctaw Days pull-out Smithsonian National Mu- photo section on Pages 9-12 seum of the American Indian to hold the first-ever Choc- taw Days in Washington, D.C. The four-day event in June brought in thousands of visitors, many of them tribal members who were happy to be a part of the historical Photo provided event. JANIE DILLARD Each day of the festival featured traditional dancing, music, singing, food, art and Dillard named ‘Great demonstrations. Woman of Gaming’ “It was a great opportunity to share our heritage,” said Janie Dillard, executive direc- Chief Gregory E. Pyle. “Trib- tor of gaming for the Choctaw al members traveled from as Nation, has been honored as one far as California to be a part of this year’s “Great Women in of Choctaw Days. Our tribal Gaming.” Hosted by Casino En- history and culture have been terprise Management magazine, shared with people from all Choctaw Nation: LISA REED the leading gaming industry trade across the United States and Chief Pyle and Assistant Chief Batton, both in red shirts, are joined by presenters and visitors in a snake dance on publication and training event dozens of other countries.” the opening day of the festival in front of the National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, D.C. producer, and the “Official Pub- lication” of the Association of Gaming Equipment Manufactur- ers (AGEM), the annual awards Paving traction for the tread: Choctaw Nation Transportation program honors female gaming By BRET MOSS miles upon miles of roads within the economy and provide jobs. divided among the districts to make executives for outstanding profes- Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma boundaries of the Choctaw Nation A notable stretch of road for which sure everyone gets the benefits of the sionalism, perseverance, drive, for some years now. the Transportation Department had Transportation Department. As of this commitment and mentorship. Traveling through the state of In the words of Blankenship, “We a hand was Highway 144. We part- date, some counties have received “On behalf of the entire Choc- Oklahoma, the grandest sights and oversee building of all the roads nered with the state and constructed over 20 miles of road, with other taw Nation of Oklahoma, we are best scenes cannot be spotted from within the Choctaw Nation.” The a road from Bethel to Honobia in a counties waiting to receive an equal proud to have Janie named as one the likes of the interstate; they are department is funded by federal five-year project to help the Bethel amount or more in the near future. of the Great Women of Gaming,” only accessible via the side streets dollars from the Federal Highway residents and residents in this area Blankenship describes the process said Chief Gregory E. Pyle. “Hav- and rural roads. Administration and the BIA. They from having to take another lengthy as a long one, taking about three or ing been employed with Choctaw These streets are essential, not partner with the state and county as route to reach the Choctaw Nation four years. “It’s not something you Casinos for more than 20 years – only for great views and explora- much as possible on all of the road hospital in Talihina. can get done in a year,” said Blanken- starting out as a bingo clerk and tion, but for the transportation needs projects, to get the most miles built Though the Transportation De- ship as he described the intricate pro- advancing to her current position of the inhabitants of the rural com- in the most efficient way. partment’s main goal is to serve cess. The first step to getting a road on of executive director – it is an munities. They are used on a daily Currently, there are three proj- the Choctaw people, they make it the agenda is contacting the Council- honor for me personally to see basis for the necessity of the popu- ects that were funded by Federal a point to partner with the state, as person who oversees their district; the Janie recognized by the national lation, from the daily commute to Stimulus money. The Council in the situation with 144, because Councilperson decides whether the gaming community for her pro- emergency trips to hospitals. House North road at the capitol of with a combined interest in the proj- proposed road is both necessary and fessional excellence and uncondi- Within the Choctaw Nation of the Choctaw Nation, Bentley Road ect, more money can be allocated to financially feasible. tional loyalty to our tribe and our Oklahoma, the Transportation De- in Atoka County and the streets of it, resulting in more miles of roads If the Councilperson feels it is nec- casinos.” partment is charged with improving Wilburton. These are special monies with a reduced construction time. essary it is brought to the Council, “All of these women have much the roads used by members of the appropriated to the Transportation Over the past three years, 96 miles who will then take the request to the to be proud of, and Casino Enter- Choctaw Nation. Led by Executive Department over and above the nor- of road have been built in the Choc- Transportation Department. From prise Management is extremely Director Wayne Wylie and Director mal appropriation. These stimulus taw Nation, along with numerous here, it will be analyzed to find all the honored to award them this recog- Bill Blankenship, the Transportation funds were made available by the other projects such as parking lots specifics on what it will take to create nition and share their stories with Department has been responsible for Obama administration to boost the and walking tracks. The miles are See ROADS Page 5 our audience,” said Peter Mead, publisher of Casino Enterprise Management magazine. An in-depth article featuring profiles of this year’s 11 award winners will be featured in the August 2011 issue of Casino En- terprise Management. The win- ners will also receive a presti- gious crystal Great Women of Gaming Award and the chance to be featured in a CEM Audio Edge podcast. For more information about the Great Women of Gam- ing Awards, visit www.greatwom- enofgaming.com. u What’s inside

Notes to the Nation...... 2 Columns...... 3 Nursery News...... 4 Food Distribution...... 4 People You Know...... 6 Education...... 7-8 Choctaw Nation: BRET MOSS Obituaries...... 17-19 Iti Fabvssa...... 20 Choctaw Nation Adult Education Program holds GED graduation The Choctaw Nation Adult Education Program held a graduation ceremo- flore, Megan Long, Dakota Mantaghi, Jerrica Martin, Jennifer Massey, Kel- The Mission ny for its GED recipients on June 10 at Eastern Oklahoma State University ly McCoy, Jodie McKinney, Cynthia McReynolds, Derek Meaders, Gloria of the Choctaw in Wilburton. Melton, Shenia Mick, Keyrene Moffitt, David Montes, Michael Montgom- Pictured in no particular order is the proud graduating class of students, ery, Sherry Ann Montgomery, Jessica Mulligan, Cheyenne Murray, Jeri My- Nation of Oklahoma Levi Adair, Ellen Amos, Misty Armstrong, Jaron Baker, Floyd Ball, Terry ers, Derek Myers, Emily Myers, Elizabeth Nicholls, Tony Pelayo, Colton To enhance the lives of Barkhiemer, Terry Battiest, Shannon Bays, Autumn Beagles, Shavonne Bea- Pickens, Caleigh Poole, Megan Powless, Jerald Renteria, Jill Robinson, Kay- all members through oppor- gles, Robert Beesler, Matthew Billy, Shania Billy, David Boggs, Jim Bowen, leena Routh, Kori Royal, Della Sam, Christine Simpson, Amy Smallwood, tunities designed to develop Shepanie Brewer, Allana Brown, Julya Buckner, Dakota Callahan, Jordan Heather Steer, Tracy Strain II, Jason Sulser, Ashley Thielen, Gary Thomas, healthy, successful and pro- Carneyt, Ryan Carpenter, Anthony Chavira, Thomas Christy Jr., Matthew Dalton Thomas, Josephine Tiger, Justin Tisho, Sarah Trevino, Tessa Tucker, ductive lifestyles. Churchwell, Christopher Cleckler, Stacy Colbert, Cody Cook, Kike Cook, Jo Eva Underwood, Donna Valdez, Natasha Warden, Sierra Watson, Trev- Amanda Crews, Cory Cross, Jericah Deramus, Tuesday Dickens, Acea Du- or White, Kaitlynn Whitson, Ashton Williams, Kimberly Williams, Jeanita ran, Carla Enriquez, Emerald Finley, Joseph Ford, Caitlyn Franklin, Leslie Wilmoth, Klent Wolf and Jeri Wolfenbarger. The BISKINIK Gibson, Tiffany Gilmore, Shyla Gullick, LeeAnn Harjo, Otho Head, James Teaching the courses were Vicky Alford, Martha Childs and Charles is printed on Hendrix, Dylan Henson, Brian Hernandez, Miquel Hernandez, Douglas Hil- Thompson, with Charles Clark as the GED examiner. The Adult Education recycled paper. burn, Maekayla Holloway, Lona Howard, Paul Inacio Jr., Athina Jefferson, staff includes Joy Culbreath, executive education director, Neal Hawkins, Jacob Jones, Tracy Jordan, Natasha Lawrence, Joseph Lawrence, Lisa Le- adult education director, and Kathy Springfield, administrative assistant. July 2011, BISKINIK, Page 2 NOTES TO THE NATION Events Mountain Fork Gospel Singing Seeking realtives The Mountain Fork Gospel Singing Convention is held on I am the mother of Caroline J. Hawkin, who passed away the third Saturday of January and July (July 16) at the Choc- March 4, 2011. I am trying to locate her half-sister, Ida Shelton, taw Nation Community Center in Smithville. Morning sing- and brother to tell them, but I don’t have their current con- ing begins at 10 a.m., a potluck meal will be held at noon and tact information. She also has another sister, Nickie Mickle, the afternoon singing will be at 1 p.m. For questions contact in Spokane, Wash. If you have any information, please conatct president and vice president Ben and Helen Caldwell at 580- me, Lola Neeley, at S. 10th Ave. Yakima, WA 98902 or at 509- 244-7370 or secretary/treasurer Meg Scott at 580-244-3073. 457-3346. SANAO Pow Wow Thank you from veteran November 5-6, 2011 I am a World War II veteran of the U.S. Navy and a proud Location: The Rocking “R” Arena member of the Choctaw Nation. I’d like to thank the Choctaw Nation for the use of buses to the Tulsa Airport for the Okla- 3864 Morning Star Rd. 2010-11 Rattan Lady Rams softball team – back row homa Honor Flight, which left Tulsa on June 8 for a trip to El Dorado, Arkansas from left, Jaimie Williams, Paige Pillars, Kayli Winship, Washington, D.C. I’d also like to say thank you for furnishing Come join us in a traditional Native American event! Macy Williams, Coach Paul Watts, Lyndsi Winship, Jadyn the prestigious Honor Guard for the flag ceremony during the Gibbs and Makayln Harley; front row, Megan Birchfield, program. They were very professional and exacting and did a There will be traditional Native American dancing, Jordan Awtry, Brenna House, Kenya Griffith, Carleigh wonderful job of adding so much to this program with their singing and lots of vendors. Lunch and supper will be Crowley and Stephany Roden. expertise. Again, many thanks, and I would like you to know provided. that I am very proud of my Choctaw heritage. Admission State champions say thank you Wallace B. Henry Adults and Children (12 & up) - $6 per day The Rattan Lady Rams softball team had a great year. They OR $10 for a two-day pass relied on their coaches and teachers for instructions and guid- Children (1-11) - FREE ance and each other for leadership and encouragement. They Proud of Choctaw family also relied on their community for loyalty and support, which My name is Ginger Stevens and I am part Choctaw through South Arkansas Native American Organization - has been given through attending ballgames, speaking posi- my great-great-grandmother. My grandmother’s name is Lu- “Committed to Cultural Preservation and Education” tively within the community and contributing financially. cille Haire Cates, born in Laurel, Miss. Her ancestors immi- Directions: Take 19th Street northwest out of El Dorado. 19th becomes Through their efforts and dedication, they were able to grated through the Bahamas and part of the group sailed to Morning Star at the city limits. Continue straight on Morning Star Road. achieve the goals they’d set. On the field, they became Slow- Nova Scotia. She is now buried in the cemetery at Fort Sill The arena is five miles past the city limits on the right. Pitch State Champions. In the classroom, they earned the State next to her second husband, Chief Warrant Officer Travis Cates This is a family oriented event, no drugs or alcohol allowed. Academic Team Championship title. With the Choctaw Nation of Edom, Texas. They had two children, Michael James and they were able to obtain state championship rings to help hon- Diane, who are adopted from Pennsylvania. or, celebrate and remember these special achievements. They My parents met in Fort Sill in 1954. My father was serving would like to humbly thank the Choctaw Nation for its assis- in the Army and my mother lived on the base. He is from Illi- tance and for helping them celebrate their success. Lewis Armstrong reunion held nois and I was born in Joliet, Ill. His father was from Waterloo, On June 11-12, the 24th annual Lewis Armstrong family re- Iowa. union was held at Harmony School cafeteria. The Indian dishes Michael lives in Knoxville, Tenn., and Diane resides in Law- that were shared were banaha (shuck bread) made by Gayle ton. Michael works Christian churches and is a musician. Sapp, and Floy Crawford and Pam Tipps furnished the pashofa. Appreciation My grandfather, Coy Wyatt Reeves, is also from Laurel. A great time of fellowship was had by all. It was enjoyable to The expressions of concern for Sarah Belvin through prayers, Originally, both families had migrated over to northeast Texas hear the elders tell about the activities, pranks and other things phone calls, food, flowers and visits are sincerely appreciated. when they were young. Coy is buried in Shreveport, La. He has they did while growing up. This year the attendance was down A special thanks to Dr. Rowland and staff, Encompass Home two children, Rickie and Vickie, with his wife, Gladys. to 25 people due to illness, deaths and distance. Next year will Health, Tri-County Hospice, the Good Springs Presbyterian My grandmother has one living sibling, her younger sister, be the silver reunion, so the family prays that all will be well Church, Miller and Miller Funeral Home, Chief Gregory E. Mary Taylor, who lives in Albuquerque. with family members and possibly a record number will attend. Pyle, Assistant Chief Gary Batton, District 8 Councilman Perry I am looking forward to a time when I can visit places in The ones attending from Atoka were Gary and Eva Armstrong, Thompson, Choctaw Nation employees including Community the south and learn more about my ancestry, since it is very Hildred Marlow, Darrell and Marleah Cochran and Alene Health Representative Patricia Ensey and Brenda James. They important to me. Lowe. Marleah has been coming so long that she said, “I think made many welcome contributions during our period of loss. I have finally grown to like the shuck bread!” From Choctaw, Okla., Brenda Brown attended. Floy Craw- The family of Sarah Belvin ford of Jones attended as well. Hildred Marlow has been away Thank you for support from home and Brenda and Floy brought her to the reunion, and everyone was glad to see her. Attending from Lehigh were I would like to express a thank you to the Choctaw Nation, Bonita Martin-Price and Sherman and Delloise Armstrong. Thank you Larry Wade and everyone at the Higher Education Department Mustang residents attending were Billy Armstrong, Faye Ayers for the assistance I received as a student at the University of and Pam Tipps. From Oklahoma City were Darrell and Gayle Hanna Corsello and Rose Wadlow would like to thank Chief Oklahoma. I graduated with a BBA in Finance in May and the Sapp and Zach Armstrong. Tushka residents included Gary W. Pyle, Assistant Chief Batton, Richard Adams and Roger Scott assistance I received truly helped me accomplish my gradu- and Lori Armstrong and Chandra Potter and her two daughters, for giving them the opportunity to learn and teach the Choctaw ation. Empowering the Choctaw people with the chance of Ciara and Presli Sherrard. From Yukon were Scarlet Swails and language. They are both looking forward to teaching the chil- higher education is what makes the Choctaw Nation great. An her two grandchildren, Brooklyn and Corey Swails II. dren and adults in the Sulphur and Pauls Valley areas. investment in education can only draw dividends for the Choc- Everyone had an enjoyable time and the family is looking taw Nation, which will help the nation grow and continue to forward to next year, praying for a larger attendance.The Lewis excel. Again, thank you very much for the support. Armstrong reunion started in 1985 at Boggy Depot then moved Jordan Ham to Cedar Circle in Atoka. From there it moved to Harmony School cafeteria. Important address information Please ensure that all correspondence mailed to the CAB participant says thank you Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma is marked with the correct Thankful for language course I just wanted to thank you for all the wonderful programs address: P.O. Box 1210, Durant, OK 74702. The post of- I graduated from Phase I of the Chahta Language course that you offer. I just closed on my house yesterday, and I am fice in Durant has received several pieces of mail addressed and just wanted to thank the Choctaw Nation, Chief Gregory officially a homeowner! The Choctaw Asset Building Program to the physical address of the tribal headquarters recently, E. Pyle and everyone in the Language Department as well as has been great. Not only does it help people with closing costs which lacks a mail receptacle. Any mail sent to the physical all the people who have made this opportunity possible. Our and down payment for a home, it is also a great incentive with address instead could possibly be lost or returned to sender. teachers were Joyce Cooper and Kathy Lee and they were pa- the matched funds to get in the habit of saving. Right when I Anyone with questions can contact the Choctaw Nation tient and very encouraging. I look forward to Phase II. got paid every month, a check went straight to my savings ac- Mail Center staff at 800-522-6170. It was also very encouraging to have representatives of count. I was always excited to see my statement from CAB ev- the Language Department, especially Richard Adams, Roger ery month showing my account plus my matched funds; it was Scott, young Nicolas and their staff members come all the way great to watch my money grow. Even though my CAB account here and speak to us in Choctaw, present us with our certifi- was closed to use for a down payment and closing costs, I am cates and take pictures. It shows me how committed they are Gregory E. Pyle Gary Batton still in the habit of sending money straight to savings when I to ensuring our native tongue by helping and supporting others Chief Assistant Chief get paid. who want to learn. My home-buying experience was definitely a learning expe- Again, many thanks for the dinner, bag of goodies and most- The Official rience and it had many ups and downs. It was quite stressful ly the support and encouragement. Yakoke! Monthly Publication at times, but I knew if I had any questions I could call anyone of the involved with CAB. I definitely took advantage of that, and Sarah J. Wade Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma I spoke with them numerous times. They answered my ques- Sterling, Okla. Judy Allen, Executive Director tions, helped explain things and were a sounding board if I Lisa Reed, Director/Editor was frustrated with the process and helped talk me through Melissa Stevens, Mail Services Director everything. I wanted to let you know how much I appreciate Thankful for exceptional service Larissa Copeland, Assistant Editor the help I received from your staff, especially Dawn Hix and My parents and I recently visited your office while traveling Karen Jacob, Purchasing Coordinator Janie Joplin. to Joplin for my uncle’s funeral. My father, sister and I were Brenda Wilson, Administrative Assistant Words cannot express how grateful I am for the opportu- able to update and receive new CDIB cards and have photos Bret Moss, Copy/Production Assistant nity to be involved with a program like CAB. Not only did I Chrissy Dill, Journalism Intern taken for new IDs. My sister and I both had to obtain the full- become a homeowner quicker because of the CAB program’s form birth certificates before getting the new IDs. I also picked P.O. Box 1210 matched funds, but the classes required in the program helped up the paperwork to get my children enrolled. Your staff, in Durant, OK 74702 reshape my mindset on money, and I am definitely in a much addition to the receptionist and bookstore staff, extended the (580) 924-8280 • (800) 522-6170 more stable position financially because of it. most hospitable and warm welcome I’ve ever experienced any- Fax (580) 924-4148 Thank you for your leadership and making these programs where, and I was born and raised in Texas, where we pride www.choctawnation.com available to the people of the Choctaw Nation. ourselves on hospitality and friendliness. Please let them know e-mail: [email protected] how much we appreciated their exceptional level of customer The BISKINIK is printed each month as a service to Tribal Kamie Case Members. The BISKINIK reserves the right to edit submitted service. material which it finds inaccurate, profane, offensive or mor- Nancy Gail Mills Mackey ally unacceptable. Copy may be edited for proper grammar and Thank you from Tushka mayor punctuation. Copy will be accepted in any readable form, but After the April 14th Tushka tornado, the Choctaw Nation where possible, it is requested that material be typewritten and was one of the first groups on the scene to help. Food, ice, double spaced. You must include an address or phone number where you may be reached. Due to space limitations and the water and repair supplies were all provided. In addition, chefs Praise for Biskinik quantity of article submissions, we are unable to include every- provided meals on site for workers and victims at Tushka City It is with a great deal of pleasure when I speak of the Biski- thing we receive. Hall and later at Tushka Baptist Church. The heavy equipment nik, as it recently contained a story about women. If you are receiving more than one BISKINIK at your home and chainsaw crews also helped a great deal in cleaning debris. Women are the givers and supporters of life. In my family, or if your address needs changed, we would appreciate hearing The historic preservation team did a great job on cleaning our Arbuckle and Anderson, this has been played out over and over from you. Address changes can be made by calling (800) 522- cemetery. again. One particular time it reminds me of is World War II. 6170, ext. 2116. We appreciated your sponsorship of the Reba McIntire/ Prior to that time, the family men were charged with providing The BISKINIK is a nonprofit publication of the Choctaw Na- Blake Shelton concert. The Thursday night performance that tion. our daily fare and the general wellbeing of the family. When Circulation is monthly. Article deadline is the 10th of the I attended was great. One hundred percent of the funds from the war started, my mother, Tess Arbuckle Anderson, and her month for the following month’s edition. this event is earmarked for tornado victims benefits. Anthony sisters joined the war effort and worked in the defense industry Dillard was a valuable resource we could count on for help. He by building aircraft and munitions. The BISKINIK E-News is a digital version of your monthly always came through when we needed something. The people The Biskinik story reminded me to remember and be grateful Biskinik. It is delivered to your e-mail inbox twice monthly and of the Choctaw Nation can be proud of Mr. Dillard. He pre- for the members of my family, especially the females, and how contains articles from the most recent BISKINIK newspaper sented them very well. they have persevered through the years and triumphed in life. as well as links to the current BISKINIK and archives. Sign up Our town could not have a better friend than the Choctaw today on choctawnation.com. Thank you for bringing this story to us, and thank you to Chief

PRESS AS Nation. You came through and helped during our time of need. Pyle and Assistant Chief Batton for their continued leadership A SO M C O I H A 2010 T A I L O

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BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST July 2011, BISKINIK, Page 3 Viewing original Choctaw treaties at National Archives From the Desk of Chief Gregory E. Pyle We saw several other treaties, but none compared in emotion to viewing the Treaty of Dancing Rabbit Creek. Thousands of Choc- It was an emotional experience to view some of the original taws died along the Trail of Tears as a result of this treaty and the treaties between the Choctaws and the United States govern- ensuing removal. ment. Realizing that this was a rare opportunity, I was anxious Although the original treaties are kept under lock and key, the to see the documents that had signed our Mississippi homelands text of these documents can be read in books and on the Internet. over to the United States, sending our ancestors along the Trail For people who wish to research treaties dealing with Choctaw of Tears. In preparation for this appointment, we had placed a Nation, here are some of the dates to look for: request on behalf of the tribal government weeks in advance Hopewell Treaty, 1786 to see the original papers. The treaties are kept in the National Fort Adams Treaty, 1801 Archives in Washington, D.C., in a small room with extremely Fort Confederation Treaty, 1802 high security. Hoe Buckintoopa Treaty, 1803 Entering the archives, we were met by a host, one of only four Mount Dexter Treaty, 1805 people with a key to the secure room holding the treaties. She Fort St. Stephens Treaty, 1816 checked our identifications against our reservations and then led Doaks Stand Treaty, 1820 us through a maze of security checkpoints to the vault with the Dancing Rabbit Creek Treaty, 1830 treaties. One by one, seven treaties dealing with our tribe were Camp Holmes Treaty, 1835 laid out for view. Doaksville Treaty, 1854 Each of the official documents shown us were very different Choctaw and Chickasaw Treaty, 1866 in size and appearance. The first treaty we saw was the Fort Our treaties are so important they are kept in the same small Confederation on the Tombigbee Treaty of 1802, which rede- – Sept. 27, 1830. This is the first removal treaty. About 11 vault as the first acts of the very first Congress of the United States. fined boundaries and ceded 10,000 acres of land in Mississippi. million acres in Mississippi were ceded in exchange for about We were privileged to see the first public law passed by the first Signatures of many of the Choctaw representatives were simply 15 million acres in Indian Territory. Shortly following, the Congress, oaths of office for the first Senate and House of Repre- an “X” with a representative putting their name beside the X. Choctaws began the very first Trail of Tears, emigrating in sentatives. This was a huge parchment, signed by President George The second treaty was dated Nov. 16, 1805, and gave a cession three main stages, the fall of 1831, again in 1832 and 1833. Washington and John Adams. I was awed to see such documents of Tombigbee River and redefined the English treaty of 1765. Under this treaty, Choctaws who chose to remain in Mis- shelved beside our treaties, and proud to know that our Choctaw With heart pounding so loud I thought everyone in the room sissippi were allowed to become United States citizens – the history is housed in the same prestigious and secure environment could hear, the next treaty I gazed on was Dancing Rabbit Creek first major tribal people to gain United States citizenship. as the United States treasures!

Congressional Cemetery final resting Chaplain’s Corner place for two honored Choctaw chiefs From the Desk of Out of the darkness Assistant Chief Gary Batton I appreciate your prayers for a man can do to please our Native American people. God until he has been The Tribal Council recently Continue to pray for America born of the Spirit of accompanied the Chief and me and for our leaders. God. to Congressional Cemetery in The Gospel is the good Even today you can Washington, D.C., to visit the fi- news of salvation, the mes- trust Jesus Christ as nal resting place of former Choc- sage that can bring you out your personal Sav- taw Chiefs Pushmataha and Peter of the darkness and bring you ior and be born again Pitchlynn. This was an awesome into the light (Acts 26:18) into God’s family. You experience to have our current The Gospel of Jesus Christ do this by faith in His tribal leaders walking through is the story of God’s love. God finished work on the such rich history of the United the Father loved us so much cross. You can pray States government, which in- that He gave His only begot- something like this: cludes our own tribesmen. Con- ten Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, “God, I realize I am a gressional Cemetery has about to die on the cross for the sins sinner, I receive Jesus 55,000 graves other than our two of the whole world. (John Christ as my Savior.” chiefs, including 76 members of 3:16) To trust Jesus Christ Congress, a signer of the Decla- Many Christians today as your personal Savior ration of Independence, gener- sense and can see there is means to be born again als and commandants, Supreme something radically wrong in REV. BERTRAM BOBB into the family of God Court justices, vice presidents the churches but cannot see Tribal Chaplain – born into a spiritual and administration cabinet offi- what is causing it. life. Food for spiritual cials. This historic cemetery pre-dates Arlington Pitchlynn had a lifetime’s connection with The messages in many pulpits are one of life is the Word of God. We study the Bi- Cemetery by 70 years, and a visit here is worthy the United States’ government – his father, promoting a program rather than preach- ble for spiritual growth. of a walking tour through the grounds. John, had been George Washington’s interpreter ing what the Bible says, what the Bible Peter wrote in his first letter, First Peter Chief Pushmataha died in 1824 while in for negotiations with the Choctaws. The Chief, says about sin, the penalty of sin and God’s 3:15: Washington seeking payment of debts owed by Council and I were all excited to be able to see answer to these problems. “But Sanctify the Lord God in your the government to the Choctaws. The United the tombstones of these two Chiefs. We were And also the teaching of the Bible that hearts: and be ready always to give an an- States government, under orders from the presi- even able to talk to a descendant of Pitchlynn Jesus Christ will come again. Jesus will swer to every man that asketh you a reason dent, purchased a site for him at the Congres- – R.D. Folsom was at the cemetery and visited come back to Earth in the same manner of the hope that is in you, with meakness sional Cemetery. His funeral procession, led by with us about his ancestor. Our tribal history He went to Heaven. How did He go to and fear.” Senator Andrew Jackson, was reported to have is fascinating and each new thing I learn helps Heaven? There is one thing by which a Chris- been over one mile long. Pushmataha had re- me stay enthused about reading and research- We read this record in the book of Acts tian is going to stand or fall. And that is quested that, “the big guns be fired over me,” ing more information about the Choctaw Nation 1:9-11, just after the commission to His his reality with God. Are the marks of the so at the conclusion of the ceremony, cannons heritage! disciple to evangelize the world: Holy Spirit’s power about him in his daily were fired in his honor. The military has contin- I am especially mindful in finding an under- “And when he had spoken these things, walk? Is there a clear ring to his testimony ued that tradition, but it is now called a 21-gun standing about these important Chiefs of our while they beheld, he was taken up; and a that the people cannot dispute the fact the salute. history and how their decisions (and the deci- cloud received him out of their sight. And man is close to God? Chief Peter Pitchlynn died in 1881, and was sions of other tribal leaders of our past) have while they looked steadfastly toward heav- Here is something that Paul said in First a prominent tribal member. He strove to keep affected our tribe. This awareness makes me en as he went up, behold two men stood Corinthians 9:16: “For though I preach the the Choctaw Nation neutral during the Civil very appreciative of the importance of ALL de- by them in white apparel; Which also said, gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for ne- War. He had served as Chief from 1864 until cisions made by the Chief, Council and leaders Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing cessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto 1866, and then moved to Washington, where of our tribe today. Their decisions will have a up into Heaven? This same Jesus, which me, if I preach not the gospel!” he worked to press Choctaw claims for lands profound effect for generations to come. is taken up from you into Heaven, shall so Have we maintained a clear testimony sold to the United States in 1830. Other Choc- Our Council and Chief have a tremendous re- come in like manner as ye have seen him through the years of our life as a Christian, taws buried in Congressional Cemetery include sponsibility and I take this opportunity to say go into Heaven.” one who is maintaining an unblemished Pitchlynn’s children, Sophia, Thomas, Samson “thank you” to all of them for being willing to Yes, Jesus is coming back to earth. We testimony? You have not let down the and Lee, and a grandson, Emmett Kennedy. serve our tribal members. do not know the time of Jesus coming but standards and you are taking the gospel we do have signs. One of the signs we read message out to an ungodly world. But do about in Matthew Chapter 25 is “wars.” they see above all a man or woman who is What causes wars? James asks this same triumphing in his personal walk because question in James 4:1: he is not allowing the flesh with its- ap “From whence come wars and fightings petites to dominate his life, a man living among you? Come they not hence, even of under the control of the Spirit of God? your lust that war in your members?” These are the authentic marks of Christian So we learn that war comes from greed experience. and lust and this is sin, because there is sin But the Apostle Paul could never have in the heart. expressed those things in his life were it So we see here that man’s problem is not not that within him was the indwelling life a social or an economic one. That is, you of the risen Lord Jesus Christ which en- cannot change a man by giving him a good abled him to do so. house to live in, a good paying job, lots Again it is only the Gospel of Jesus of clothes, a new car. But the problem is a Christ (1 Corinthians 15:1-4) that will spiritual one. give us victory. John writes in John 1:12: Choctaw Nation: KAREN JACOB In the Old Testament we read in Jeremi- “But as many as received him, to them he Roger Scott presented Choctaw Language teaching certificates to Hanna Williams, Rose- ah 17:9, “The heart is deceitful above all gave the power to become the sons of God, mary Wadlow, Hannah Carsillo, Anthony White and Thomas A. Williston at the June Trib- things, and desperately wicked: who can even to them that believe on his name:” al Council meeting. Pictured with the new teachers are Council members Kenny Bryant, know it?” Will you trust Jesus Christ as your Sav- Delton Cox and Thomas Williston. Only you and God know your heart. ior? That is the reason Jesus said “ye must be May God continue to bless you. Ya- Tribal Council meets in regular June session born again.” (John 3:7). There is nothing koke! (thank you) for your prayers. The Choctaw Nation Tribal Council met on recreational lease; June 11 in regular session at Tushka Homma. • Applied for Public Prevention Health Choctaw Nation Tribal Council Speaker Delton Cox called the Fund’s Community Transformation Grant; meeting to order, welcomed guests and then • Approved funds and budget for the continu- to aid with loans asked for committee reports. After committee ation of Tribal Transit Program Grant and the The Southeastern Oklahoma Indian Credit reports were given the Tribal Council addressed FTA Bus and Bus Facilities Livability Initia- Association offers small business, home, home new business. The first order of business was tive Grant improvement and agriculture loans. to present five new Choctaw Language teacher • Approved budget for Choctaw Nation certificates. Roger Scott from the Choctaw Lan- Child Care Development Fund; To be eligible to apply, a person must reside with- guage Department presented the certificates to • Amend CB-100-10 for Johnson O’Malley; in the 10-1/2 county service area of the Choctaw Hanna Williams, Rosemary Wadlow, Hannah • Aproved the NAHASDA 2012 Indian Nation of Oklahoma and must possess a Certificate of Carsillo, Anthony White and Thomas A. Wil- Housing Plan. Degree of Indian Blood (CDIB) from a federally rec- liston. The Council also: The Choctaw Nation Tribal Council meets in ognized tribe. Choctaw Nation • Approved the disposition of assets from the regular session at 10 a.m. on the second Satur- For more information, please contact Susan can aid with loans Housing Authority; day of each month in the Council Chambers at Edwards at 580-924-8280 or toll-free 800-522-6170. The Southeastern Oklahoma • Approved two revocable permits and one Tushka Homma. Indian Credit Association offers small business, home, home improvement and agriculture loans.

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

For more information, please contact Susan Edwards at 580-924-8280 or toll-free 800-522-6170. July 2011, BISKINIK, Page 4 Nursery News Choctaw Nation Health Services Authority Ava Hornsly introduces a ‘Going Lean’ initative Ava Grace Hornsly was born on The rising cases of diabe- and promoting June 26, 2010, to Robert and Bren- tes, heart disease, high blood healthy lifestyles. na Hornsly of Biloxi, Miss. pressure and other diseases Program Di- Eddie and Sheralyn (Buxton) linked to poor nutrition and rector Tammie Hornsly are her grandparents. obesity among Indian peoples Cannady is de- Maude (Cook) Buxton is her has long been a concern to termined to make great-grandma who lives in Ore- the Choctaw Nation. A recent a generational gon, but was there to welcome her State of the Nation’s Health change within the into the happy home. Report (2010) demonstrates Choctaw Nation a growing frequency of these that will greatly health problems, and they reduce the inci- Tucker Ingle are occurring in younger dence of disease Tucker Gage Ingle was born at and younger tribal members. among our people. 6:08 p.m. on June 10, 2011, at the Chief Pyle, Assistant Chief “We will be tar- Choctaw Nation Health Care Cen- Batton, the Tribal Council geting Choctaws ter in Talihina. and the Health Services Au- of all ages, through outreach activities. Expect to see more working on developing a line Tucker weighed 7 pounds and 13 thority have all agreed that with staff surveys, partner- Healthy Living articles in the of walking and cooking vid- ounces and measured 19.3 inches something has to be done to ships with the Indigenous Biskinik, as well as educa- eos. long. break this trend. To that end, Wellness Research Institute at tional materials in commu- “As each of these products Parents are Larry and Michelle the Choctaw Nation “Going the University of Washington, nity centers, Head Starts and is readied and made available Ingle of LeFlore. Big brother is Trystan Ingle, also of LeFlore. Lean” initiative was estab- and reaching out to the entire clinics. to our communities, we ex- Grandparents are Melanie Morris of Talihina and the late Larry lished in October 2010. area through community fo- The Choctaw Nation rec- pect to see real change among Ingle Sr. of LeFlore. The Going Lean Team cur- rums,” she states. “Our goal our tribal members,” says ognizes that the future of rently consists of 30 members is healthy people, strong na- Cannady. “And since Going our people depends upon the from throughout the Choctaw tion.” Lean is a fluid program, we health and advancement of Isreal Cerda-Cotanny Nation, including wellness Other plans include estab- will be able to take feedback our youth. centers, health system, health lishing weight loss clubs and from the participants and use By introducing the Going Isreal Rey Blu Cerda-Cotanny providers, diabetic educators, exercise classes; gardening it to focus on specific needed Lean program now, it is the was born on Jan. 27, 2011, weigh- community health, Talihina programs to develop com- areas, or even to expand to hope that a new, healthier ing 5 pounds 11 ounces and mea- Youth Center staff, Youth Ad- munity gardens and farm- new ones.” lifestyle will become a natu- suring 18 inches. visory staff, clinic directors, ers markets, and to illustrate Within the Nation itself, ral part of our lives, and that He was welcomed home by hospital cafeteria staff, Out- healthy ways to cook tradi- the Going Lean Team will we will continue to teach his parents, Martha Cotanny and reach staff, Lifetime Legacy tional foods; public school be conducting employee these ways to our future chil- Richard Cerda of Oklahoma City; and Behavioral Health, IT programs focused as early as surveys, working with food dren “unto the seventh gen- brother Quiton; sister Lupita; staff, and CN Epidemiology/ preschool; and even lifestyle/ services/cafeterias to find eration.” Living a healthier grandmother Jeanette Kemp of Oklahoma City; and many fam- Statisticians. Their main fo- motivational counseling. The healthier food options, and lifestyle depends on us for the ily members and friends. cus is on obesity prevention Going Lean Team is also encouraging plenty of health generations to come.

A happy and healthy holiday Healthy tips for active play Happy Fourth of July! low fat crackers topped with Your child loves to move! Why is active play impor- ative. Time to get out the long tables diced tomatoes, cilantro and Encourage your child to play tant? • Active children are more covered with colorful table- part skim mozzarella or with actively several times each Active play helps your likely to be happy and feel WIC cloths and that neverending a hummus dip made with day. Active play for children WOMEN, INFANTS child learn healthy habits. good about themselves. Chil- supply of tasty homemade roasted red peppers. Protein: can happen in short bursts of AND CHILDREN There are many health ben- dren feel proud after learning goodies. The best part of this grilled chicken marinated time and can be led by you efits of active play, such as: how to bounce a ball or ride is tasty home made goodies with the chili-citrus recipe or your child. Active play • Set limits on TV and • Active children are less a bike. can also be healthy for our from last month. And last but can include playing on a computer time – limit TV and likely to weigh too much. Children love to move and hearts and bodies. Setting not least, dairy and fruit: a playground, playing tag with other screen time to less than • Keeping your child active play, and learn new activi- out healthy dishes from each colorful fruit parfait layered friends, or throwing a ball. two hours a day, as advised now helps lower the chance ties. There are so many ac- food group is a good place to with strawberries, blueber- How can you raise an ac- by many doctors. Try reading of developing chronic diseas- tivities that you can do with start. Vegetables: marinated ries, raspberries and light tive child? during inactive time rather es like Type 2 diabetes. your child to encourage ac- cucumbers or a vegetable vanilla yogurt. Try this cool • Make active play fun for than watching TV. • Activities, like running tive play…dancing, family tray with a variety of color- and refreshing salad at your the whole family – let your • Be active yourself – ac- and jumping rope, help your walks, playing catch or kick ful veggies. Grains: tray of next BBQ: child help plan the fun. tive parents tend to raise ac- child learn movement skills ball, playing hide and seek... • Focus on fun, not perfor- tive children. You influence to develop muscles and strong the fun and games ideas are mance – all children like to your child’s behavior, atti- bones. endless! Keep in mind that Marinated cucumber salad play, they will win when they tudes, and future habits. Be • Active play can also help active play helps create hap- Makes: 5 servings mixture and mix well. Add move, have fun and are active more active and limit your the mind develop. Playing py, healthy habits that last a Ingredients: black pepper as desired. daily. own time watching TV. “pretend” lets kids be cre- lifetime! • 3 large cucumbers 3. Cover and refrigerate • ½ teaspoon salt minimum one hour. • 1-2 tablespoons Splenda Nutrition facts: Amount Recipe of Choctaw Nation WIC or sucralose per serving. Calories - 7, • 1/8 cup water Total Carbs - 1.5g, Total the Month: WOMEN, INFANTS AND CHILDREN • ¼ cup distilled white vin- fat - 0g, Cholesterol - 0mg, egar Protein - 1.2g, Sat fat - 0g, • ¼ - ½ cup sliced red onion Sodium - 235mg. Summer SITE PHONE HOURS DAYS Directions: For further information Antlers 580-298-3161 8:30-4:00 Every Tuesday 1. In a medium size bowl you may contact: Erin Ad- Wraps Atoka 580-889-5825 8:00-4:30 Every Mon., Wed., Thurs. & mix vinegar, water, salt and ams, RD, LD. Choctaw Fri. Splenda. Nation Diabetes Wellness Ingredients: Bethel 580-241-5458 8:30-4:00 1st Tuesday 2. Peel and slice cucum- Center 800-349-7026 ext: 2-3 Tortillas (tortillas come Boswell 580-380-5264 8:30-4:00 Every Friday bers and add to vinegar 6959. in a variety of flavors – wheat, Broken Bow 580-584-2746 8:00-4:30 Daily, except 1st Tues. & 2nd garden, spinach, etc.) Thurs. 2-3 Slices of Deli Ham Coalgate 580-927-3641 8:00-4:30 Every Wednesday FOOD DISTRIBUTION 2-3 Slices of American Durant 580-924-8280 x 2257 8:00-4:30 Daily Cheese Hugo 580-326-5404 8:00-4:30 Daily ANTLERS Preparations: Market open weekdays Aug. 1-26 , except for: Layer all ingredients on Idabel 580-286-2510 8:00-4:30 Mon., Thurs. & Fri. Aug. 3 : Idabel 9-11 a.m.; Broken Bow 12-2 p.m. (market closed) McAlester 918-423-6335 8:00-4:30 Daily your tortilla and microwave Aug. 10: Bethel 9-10:30; Smithville 12-2 (market closed) Poteau 918-647-4585 8:00-4:30 Daily until cheese melts. Roll up Closed Aug. 27-31 for inventory and eat! Smithville 580-244-3289 8:30-4:00 2nd Thursday Spiro Every Wednesday - Friday Cooking with Carmen: Aug. 19, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. To add flavor add fresh gar- 918-962-3832 8:00-4:30 Stigler 918-967-4211 8:30-4:00 Every Monday - Wednesday den vegetables such as a to- DURANT Talihina 918-567-7000 x 6792 8:00-4:30 Mon., Tues., Wed., & Fri. mato, lettuce or onions. Market open weekdays: Aug. 1-26. Wilburton 918-465-5641 8:30-4:00 Every Thursday Closed Aug. 27-31 for inventory Cooking with Carmen: Aug. 17, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. McALESTER Market open weekdays Aug. 1-26. Closed Aug. 27-31 for inventory

Cooking with Carmen: Aug. 11, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m.

b v p o p r c t o h n o y s r POTEAU c r a c k l e h r m f a z y j Choctaw Laughter Market open weekdays Aug. 1-26. Cool LIHEAP If the weather allows, shut off your p v t v a k p t o l s n f a f o i g v f y v z a c f u u d y Crackle Pool Closed Aug. 27-31 for inventory. air conditioning at night and open b h w t v d t g t w t f z y p Family Pop Cooking with Carmen: Aug. 15, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. the windows. Remember that the q s l a k e e y o s d a e n p Fan Pride elderly, disabled and young t u x l a d l r x j y t w n a Flag Summer children are more sensitive to i m o a i i e y l i m a f u h Fun Sun CHOCTAW NATION FOOD DISTRIBUTION slight temperature changes and are p m q r h t k q n s z p s s w Happy Sunny Days Open 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday thru Friday. We at higher risk of heat stroke. o e p e h u f u a c k d d h j Hot Water u r a g c c s d f k y t s x q Lake will take lunch from 11:30 to 12 noon

e p u g o e n p v w d m m i n WAREHOUSES & MARKETS Use a ventilation fan when taking a g a r o o p v x o i g h m z j Antlers: 306 S.W. “O” St., 580-298-6443 shower to remove heat from the l v l u l k y s c o d c s f u bathroom. Also If you are able, let g v d l e o t n m o l g o e i Durant: 100 1/2 Waldron Dr., 580-924-7773 your clothes air dry after washing or McAlester: 1212 S. Main St., 918-420-5716 turn off fans, lights, and TVs when no one is in the room. Poteau: 100 Kerr, 918-649-0431 FOOD DISTRIBUTION SITES Bethel: Choctaw Community Building AVOID HEAT STRESS Broken Bow: Choctaw Family Investment Center

• Drink plenty of water, and avoid Idabel: Choctaw Community Center drinks containing alcohol or lots of Smithville: Choctaw Community Center sugar. Stigler: Choctaw Community Center • Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing In accordance with federal law and U.S. Department of Agri- • Try to limit physical activity to the culture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on morning and evening, when it is cooler. the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, political beliefs, or disability. To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Adjudication and Compliance, 1400 These tips were brought to you by: Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, or The Choctaw Nation LIHEAP & REACH Dept. call 800-795-3272 (voice) or 202-720-6382 (TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer. July 2011, BISKINIK, Page 5 Wrangling reptiles and scouting snakes all in a day’s work By LARISSA COPELAND “After that,” he men who continue to do our of course, wouldn’t be com- My mom hated it. She was Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma continued, “we ran jobs.” plete without a few reptiles horrified of snakes but she around the county Serving as a fireman for the such as tortoises, lizards and never discouraged me.” Snakes. Alligators. Igua- looking for snakes past 13 years and a venom snakes. His love of reptiles has only nas. Bees. Even rescuing an that were causing response officer for the past “Regardless of whether grown with time. His favorite occasional kitten. It’s all in people concern, five, Fobb says, “serendipity,” it’s pretty or furry or cuddly reptile to encounter in his oc- a day’s work for Capt. Jeff because they’d is what brought him to this or not, they’re used to ani- cupation has been the Eastern Fobb, a paramedic/fireman ended up on peo- particular job. “I was working mals showing up to live at the Diamondback Rattler. and venom response officer ple’s porches or in for the fire department and house and they’re fine with “It’s a beautiful, beauti- with the Miami-Dade County their houses. I also they were needing people [for that,” he says, with a laugh. ful snake,” he says. “A lot Fire Rescue. had to deal with a the venom response team] Though he grew up and of people are afraid of it, but He’s also a member of the snake bite, which and they reached out to me. It lived his entire life in Florida, they give us a warning. They renowned Venom One team, happens on aver- sounded interesting and I’ve his family’s Choctaw roots rattle their tails before we get a unique emergency response age about once ev- been doing it ever since.” run deep back in Oklahoma. too close. That’s just one of team of specially trained fire- ery three days in a To be qualified for the ven- Fobb’s parents, the late Leb- my favorite things to come fighters and paramedic of- busy year. om response team one must ies J. and Nancy J. Fobb, across. It’s just neat to see ficers. In fact, the team is so “Then there was meet several strict criteria to were from Antlers. The mili- them clinging to existence Photo provided unique it was chosen by the an exotic animal include being a paramedic, an tary is what brought the fam- along the edges of the coun- Animal Planet network to ap- Proud Choctaw Capt. Jeff Fobb of that was under officer on the force, and hold ily to Florida. Fobb’s father, ty.” pear on the new wildlife se- the Miami-Dade County Fire Rescue someone’s house,” a venomous reptile license. Lebies, served in the Air Viewers of “Swamp Wars” ries, “Swamp Wars,” which is featured with his team, Venom One, he says. “I ended “We also had to perform Force, and his final station can get an up-close view of debuted earlier this summer. on Animal Planet’s “Swamp Wars.” up going to gather other training to do our job before retiring was in Miami. the Eastern Diamondback as “This job is unusual and I up that little guy as safely and effectively,” said Three of Lebies and Nancy’s well in an episode. can’t think of any other fire It could include anything well. And in between all the Fobb, “including six months children, sons Jeff (Capt. Some things he hopes department that has this type from wading through a calls I got a kitten out of a of on-the-job training to learn Fobb) and Joel and daughter viewers were able to take of specialty,” says Fobb. “It’s swamp to documenting a na- storm drain. to choose the selection of ap- Jeri, stayed in the Miami area, away from the show is an a fairly good fit with Animal tive reptile to climbing under “It was a full day,” he con- propriate medications, and while Lebies, Nancy and son appreciation for the animals, Planet with this line of work a house to rescuing a pet to tinued. “I used about 27 gal- working in a hospital environ- Jim all relocated back to Ant- respectful relationships be- and since people are inter- transporting injured birds and lons of fuel and went from ment, which is very different lers. (Lebies passed away in tween animals, humans and ested in it they thought they other wildlife. one end of the county to the from working in the field.” 2000.) the shared environments, and could create a program based While no day is typical for other. The job entails a lot of It was working in this field Fobb’s interest with snakes to learn things that they can around what we do on a daily Fobb and his team, the wild- driving and a lot of patience.” of work that he met his wife, and reptiles goes back to his do to keep themselves safe if basis.” life in Southern Florida is While it may seem extreme Sandra, a retired firefighter. childhood, an interest his par- they encounter the animals. But what the team does on sure to keep them busy every for some, he feels right at Together, they live in Mi- ents never tried to repress. “I Viewers should check lo- a daily basis changes from day. “Yesterday,” he says, de- home with the reptiles. The ami, where they are raising was interested in snakes when cal listings for show times day to day. scribing a summer day that’s only thing unusual, accord- their two daughters, Erin and I was quite young,” he says, of “Swamp Wars” on Animal “Every day is different,” he as close to normal as it gets, ing to Fobb, was having the Kiera. As a family of animal explaining his desire to work Planet. says. “It’s one of the attractive “started with us recovering crew and cameras present, lovers, the list of pets at their in this career field. “I always “I feel fortunate that people things about the job – I never an 8-9 foot Burmese python which the team soon got used home isn’t short. It includes thought they were fascinat- might be interested in watch- know what to expect when I from a local business on the to having around. “We’re not horses, donkeys, chickens, ing. I used to always bring in ing what I do,” says Fobb. “I go into work.” edge of the Everglades. actors,” he says, “we’re fire- turkeys, goats, dogs, cats, and snakes, lizards, you name it. hope people enjoy it.”

Native Nation, a Native American hip-hop group, put on an entertaining and educational show for Fam- ily Day at Jones Academy. In front, Jesse “Red Eagle” A Salute Robbins, left, and Chris Taylor, a former Jones Academy student, perform for the students and their families, while Anthony “D.J. Pyro” Mnic’opa dee- Ralph Coxsey, jays. Vietnam veteran Ralph Coxsey of Hous- ton, Texas, originally from Submitted photo Durant, is a veteran of Vietnam. He served on ac- tive duty in the U.S. Navy for four years, receiving ‘Native Nation’ performs at Jones Academy an honorable discharge in Southeastern Oklahoma’s Native Nation is comprised Through their unique genre, portance of their roles in the 1969 before transferring own Native Nation, a Native of three gifted singers, Chris the group highlighted Indian community. into the naval reserves. American rap/hip hop mu- Taylor, a former Jones Acad- traditions, culture and history. According to several con- He received the National sic group, made a successful emy student, Jesse “Red Ea- Their music encouraged cert goers, what made the Defense Medal, Vietnam splash at the Jones Academy gle” Robbins and Anthony students to take pride in their performance so entertaining Service Medal with Bronze Star, and the Vietnam Cam- Family Day on May 14. “D.J. Pyro” Mnic’opa. The tribal heritage, learn Indian was the fact that the music paign Medal. His brother, David, recently found some of The talented group per- trio entertained their audi- customs and language, avoid was very contemporary and Ralph’s old military records, including a thank you letter formed for the Family Day ence with a wonderful blend drugs and alcohol, and pursue had great rhythm. from Senators Edward V. Long and Mike Maroney sent in crowd and Jones Academy of rap and musical lyrics that their dreams. Native Nation was spon- 1966 to his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Coxsey, for his students during the annual promoted positive attitudes In one song, the group sored by Jones Academy and help when the senators stopped in Hawaii, where he was festivities. and Native American themes. uplifted women and the im- KidRez Entertainment. stationed.

A ‘green’ impact Get your Labor Day Festival T-Shirt! • More space can be saved in our landfills by RoadsContinued from Page 1 recycling paper products The adult shirts will be $12 and children’s are than any other materials. $10 at the festival. the road and then it is presented to the Chief, Paper can be recycled up to Mail outs are $15 to cover shipping. who has the ultimate say for proceeding with five times before the fibers the project. become too weak. Upon the Chief’s approval, the Transpor- • Recycling a single alu- tation Department places the project on the minum can save enough Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). energy to power a tv for This is the agenda for projects that are three hours or run a 100- waiting to be constructed. The money is ap- watt light bulb for almost propriated for the project and the contractors four hours. Imagine how begin construction after all rights-of-ways much energy you could C are obtained, utilities are relocated, and the A save if you recycled every Environmental process is completed. The projects in the TIP, which is a five- can you used in a year! B • Plastics, PET (#1) and year plan, are the more immediate projects HDPE (#2), make up 96 of the 20-year plan, called the inventory. “An percent of all plastic bot- E inventory is the overall plan of the entire Na- tles produced in the United D tion. When a project is approved to construct States. Since 1977, when it is placed on the TIP,” explains Blanken- Choctaw people. the first PET bottle was re- ship. If the BIA approves the project selected Over the course of its life as a department cycled, plastic bottle recy- Festival T-Shirts & for the TIP, money is appropriated for the in the Choctaw Nation, the Transportation De- cling has increased to more Souvenirs Order Form process to begin. partment has created many projects throughout than 2.3 billion pounds an- In order to complete items on the TIP, the the 10-1/2 counties that Choctaw members and nually. Remember to check Choctaw Nation Transportation Department non-members alike have been able to enjoy. the recycling symbol on subcontracts its work to a variety of contrac- With thousands of miles of roads already on the bottom of plastic con- tors. Because there is such a multitude of the long-range plan, the Transportation Depart- tainers and if there is a 1 or work being done, as it pertains to lengths, ment hopes to complete as many roads as pos- 2 on it, take to your nearest terrain and costs, Blankenship must oversee sible to aid the Choctaw people, work they are recycling center. many projects being done by numerous con- proud to do. Recycling can help take tractors. Last year, Wylie was selected to the National an enormous step towards Though the Choctaw Nation does not have Indian Reservation Roads Program Coordinat- conserving our world’s its own road construction crew, they require ing Committee (IRRPCC). This committee is resources and energy sup- A - Waterproof drawstring backpack Yellow if any contractor needs additional labor for composed of 12 members selected from each plies as well as limiting the with Seal - can be worn as a back- Blue the project, they are to use Choctaw prefer- BIA Region across the United States. This amount of greenhouse gas- pack or carried - $10.00 ence. This is just a small way that the Choc- committee reports to the Assistant Secretary of B - Labor Day Shirt - Grey- $15.00 taw Nation is keeping its people involved in Indian Affairs, the Federal Highway Adminis- ses and other pollutants re- C - Labor Day Shirt - Yellow - $15.00 leased into the atmosphere. D - Labor Day Cap - White - $12.00 gainful employment. tration and Congress. The committee oversees Although it may seem like E - Labor Day Cap - Black - $12.00 The duties of the Transportation Depart- the IRR Program’s policies and procedures,

we are just tiny parts of Postage and ment are governed by the Indian Reservation delivery of services, technical standards, and this vast planet, each of us handling is Roads (IRR) Program, which is a part of the funding. can make a significant dif- included. Federal Highway Administration and Bureau “We want to help all of our citizens to get of Indian Affairs. The policies and procedures to their church, their recreational places, their ference by making these To order, send payment (No Personal Checks) small, simple changes in with completed form to: to be followed by the IRR are outlined in 25 place of employment, their city, their schools, our day-to-day activities Labor Day T-Shirts CFR, part170. Following these guidelines, on a nice road,” proudly stated Blankenship as and in the disposal of our PO Box 1210 this department has utilized many available he gave a general overview of the purpose of Durant OK 74702 waste products. resources to create better conditions for the the Transportation Department. July 2011, BISKINIK, Page 6

PEOPLE YOU KNOW

Brown opens Red Earth Festival small business Choctaws Debra Belt and Per- rin Deal placed in the Eastern Jack Brown Jr. of Tuska- Cloth special contest during the homa has worked with wood 2011 Red Earth Festival on June as a hobby for most of his 3-5. Debra was the top Choctaw life. For the past couple of finisher, placing second. Lorie years, he has been selling his Loman Keel and Angela Sitting- unique handmade furniture bear also competed. The Chero- and storage buildings on the kee, Creek, Caddo and Seminole tribes were represented as side while working as a contract carpenter for log homebuild- well. The Eastern Cloth ladies also competed in the Southern ers in his area. Now, thanks in part to the Choctaw Nation As- Cloth category along with other tribes. Debra competed in the set Building (CAB) program, he has been able to combine his trick contest where dancers were eliminated one by one until woodworking hobby with his entrepreneurial spirit to create his one contestant was standing alone, and she came very close in own small business, Lumber Jacks. winning an iPad. Congrats, District 4 Princesses “I enjoy working in this industry and have seen the demand It was a time of sisterly fellowship for the Choctaw ladies The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma recently held its annual for my products grow over the past two years,” said Brown. who came from across the state. They supported each other in District 4 Choctaw Princess Pageant at the Choctaw Commu- In April 2010 Brown enrolled in the CAB program. The competition, shared words of encouragement, laughed, made nity Center in Poteau. CAB program is a matched-savings program designed to help sure each other’s attire was in order and wished each other to District 4 Councilman Delton Cox wants to introduce you to tribal members save for homeownership, education or to open dance well. They were proud to represent their families, friends the new Choctaw Princess who will be representing his district or start a small business. Brown opened his CAB savings ac- and the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. at Tushka Homma during the Labor Day Festival and crown- count with $50 and made monthly deposits for a little over one ing of the 2011 Choctaw Nation Princesses. The judges for the year. Participants in the CAB program save at least $25 per evening were Carol Harris and Evelyn Kasworm. month for six months or for as long as three years. CAB will Pictured left to right are Councilman Cox, Little Miss Amber match up to $2,000, $3 to $1 for a first-time homebuyer, or $2 Happy birthday, Kennedy Battice, Junior Miss Adrianna Curnutt and Senior Miss Amber to $1 for education or for small businesses. Kennedy Paige Webb celebrated her Colwell. While saving with the CAB program, Brown attended a per- birthday July 18. She is pictured with her sonal financial education workshop to learn how to better man- new baby brother, Jayden Luke Webb. Her age his income and expenses so that he could afford to save. family is proud of the wonderful daughter He also attended small business workshops and was referred to and big sister she has become and would Happy birthday, Jennifer the Native American Business Resource Center (NABRC) for like to wish her a wonderful birthday. Jennifer Lynne Williams of Idabel cel- help with developing his business plan. While working with ebrated her 18th birthday on May 14. She Billy Hamilton, NABRC Program Coordinator, Brown learned is the daughter of Barry and Linda Wil- of small business loans available through Rural Enterprises of liams of Idabel. Her grandparents are the Oklahoma Inc. (REI). To qualify for a small business loan, he late Arvel and the late Pauline Williams needed to be able to invest a certain amount of his own money of Summerfield and Donald and Bobbie into the equity of his business. The CAB program helped him Scott of Idabel. achieve that goal by encouraging regular saving habits and by matching his savings at a rate of $2 to $1 for each dollar he saved. Using the funds from the CAB program and from REI’s microloan program, Brown has been able to purchase equip- Maci advances in hockey ment he needed to diversify his product lines and increase his The Oklahoma City Youth Hockey profit margins. Association sends one player to the “CAB is really good for people,” said Brown. “It gives them USA Hockey National Select Festival. a chance to do something that they would not have been able Congratulations to Maci Hoskins for to without their help. It’s a great benefit,” he said. Located five being selected to advance to the USA miles north of Tuskahoma on State Highway 2, directly across Hockey National Select Festival. Ca- the street from Potato Hills State Park on Lake Sardis, Lum- Michelle leads volunteer group leb Thompson, Jarrod Guffey and Maci ber Jacks offers a wide variety of custom handmade furniture Michelle Synhorst led a group of volunteers from Rice Uni- Hoskins all participated in the Texas Af- for both indoor and outdoor use, including porch swings, gun versity on a service project at the Cheyenne River Reservation filiate Camp in March and were selected from the pool of play- cabinets, log beds, TV stands, patio furniture as well as taking in Eagle Butte, S.D., where she and 12 other students volun- ers to advance to the Rocky Mountain District Camp where the custom orders to fill his client’s needs. Custom-built outdoor teered at a Lakota reservation with an organization called the top 3 percent of the players in the district participated in skill storage buildings can be delivered or built on site. For more Cheyenne River Youth Project. evaluation sessions with hopes of advancing to the Hockey information about how the CAB program can help you reach The trip was part of Rice University’s Alternative Spring National Select Festival. Maci was selected to advance to the your financial goals, call 866-933-2260 or go online to choc- Break Program, where students volunteer all over the country. USA Hockey Select Festival Camp, where she and the other tawcareers.com/cab.html. Michelle and her group spent the week working with children U.S. athletes will showcase their best talent in front of many and teens at the Cheyenne River Youth Center, where they scouts from Division 1 and 3 colleges as well as junior teams learned a lot about the Native American culture and history. and prep schools from around the country. Congratulations and Michelle is a student at Rice University in Houston, Texas. good luck, Maci. Alissa dominates track She is the granddaughter of Charles McClure of Dallas and is the great-granddaughter of the late Ruby Marx McClure, an Alissa Brooks-Johnson, a sopho- original enrollee. Happy birthday, Charley more at Pe Ell High School, won Charley Ray Anderson, son of Ashley four individual events at the Wash- Boydstun and Jimmy Anderson of Du- ington State 2B Girls Track Cham- rant, is celebrating his first birthday July pionships in Cheney, Wash., May Father, husband 14. To help him celebrate are his grand- 27 and 28. Her team, consisting of parents, Laquita Boydstun of Durant, three girls, also repeated their over- returns home Tommy and Donna Boydstun of Durant, all Girls State Team Championship Petty Officer Second Class Belinda Webb of Calera and the late Trophy for the second year in a row. Alissa, a Choctaw mem- DCFN Earl “Hoot” Phillips, Charley Webb and many uncles, aunts ber, won first place in the long jump with a jump of 18’00.50, son of Nancy Harkins of Heav- and cousins. Happy birthday, Charley! the 100 m hurdles 15.42, 300 m hurdles 44.44, and the 200 m ener and grandson of the late 25.58. In Washington State, team members are only allowed Ella Perkins, served aboard the four events and this is may be the first time that it has ever USS Kearsarge. On May 16 he been done in four individual events. Alissa also maintains a returned to Norfolk, Va., where he is stationed. His wife, Mi- Coach Parrish 3.8 GPA. chelle, and first-born son, 6-month-old Earl III, were there to welcome him home. This happy reunion was the first meeting honored between father and son. Welcome home, Earl. Coach Rick Parrish was recently honored by the Dylan turns 9 Oklahoma Girls Basket- Family and friends hope Dylan has a ball Coaches Association great summer after celebrating his ninth with the Charles K. Heatly birthday on July 7. Award for dedication and Dylan is the son of Kevin and Eliza- service. During Coach Par- beth and brother to Trev and Amber. rish’s career, which spans three decades, he has had the honor They wish him the best birthday so far. of coaching seven All State players, served on the OGBCA His grandparents are Stan and Nancy Sue Spring Garcia of Board of Directors and the OSSAA Advisory Committee as California and Paula Brunk and Sam Ashenberner of Oregon, well as coaching both the OBGCA and OCA All State West who all wish him a great birthday as well. Teams. His peers have selected him as Conference Coach of This fall Dylan will attend Patterson Elementary in Hills- the Year seven times and he has been chosen as the Lawton boro, Ore., as a fourth-grader. He enjoys sports after school and Constitution All Area Coach and the Duncan Banner Coach on the weekends. He attends professional games throughout of the year. Coach Parrish will add to the 423 career wins, 17 the year with his family. district titles and eight regional championships as he leads his Linda Huff of California would like to share this photo team again this year at Rush Springs. Dylan is a proud Choctaw, descending from original enroll- of a group of men who worked on building a railroad in ees Henry Frank Oakes and Christopher Columbus Spring, Oklahoma. Some of Linda’s family members who are pic- who were born in Indian Territory before it became Oklahoma. tured are Johnny Lee Ott, Gillam Ott, John Ott and Arvel His family and friends would like to say, good luck “Bink- Ray Huff. Congratulations, er!” Luck is on his side this year with his birthday being 7-7-11. Ruth and Jerry Ruth Musselman and Jerry Thompson of Durant were united in marriage on April 30. The ceremony was Allens retire held at the Sanctuary of the Mr. and Mrs. George Allen Calvary Baptist Church in would like to announce their Durant. Pastor Darel Bunch retirement from federal service officiated the double-ring with a combined total of 72 years ceremony. June Seago and Sandy Helms registered the guests. of service to the United States of Don Herron and Thomas Phipps served as ushers. Ron Long America. Mr. Allen retired as a was the best man, Sherry Herron was the matron of honor and senior master sergeant after 26 wedding coordinator and L’Roy Campbell gave the bride away years and then went on to work while his wife, Betty, lit the unity candle. The bride was attired for 16 years in civil service. All Congrats, Bethel Choctaw language class in a white satin gown with lace sleeves and a pearl-encrusted 42 years were in the service of The Bethel community class has graduated from Phase 1 of bodice while the groom wore a formal tuxedo. Judy Polson and Air Force Civil Engineering. His Chahta Anumpa Aiikhvna, taught by community teacher Bob L.D. Harp photographed the wedding and the reception as well wife, Jackie, served 30 years in Ludlow. Richard Adams, assistant director of the School of the as the bride’s nieces, Laura Salazar, Carrie Hogan and Amanda civil service, four years of which Choctaw Language, presented each language student with a Johnson. Following the exchange of vows, a reception was were with the Army Department certificate of completion for their accomplishment. One of the held in the fellowship hall. The Singles Class at Calvary gave of Engineering and Housing and students, Marilyn Jefferson, was presented a certificate of per- the reception as a wedding gift. Cheryl Gooding decorated the 26 years in Air Force Civil En- fect attendance and a Choctaw hymn book. fellowship hall’s tables with lovely lavender and yellow flower gineering. Their goal in retirement is to travel and spend more Pictured are (back row left to right) Alton Noahubi, Emerson arrangements. Serving at the reception were Joan Ackerson, time visiting their daughter, Rachael, who is married to An- Wilson, Richard Adams, Roger Scott and Bob Ludlow. Front Morene Phipps, Shirley Purser, JoAn Boston, Lucy Harper and thony Wieland of Glorieta, N.M., and son Shawn, wife Beth, row, left to right, are Marilyn Jefferson, Darlene Noahubi, Vir- Billie Robertson. Following their honeymoon, the couple is and granddaughters, Miranda and Abby of Jonestown, Texas. ginia Jefferson, Melissa Bohanan and Katie Noahubi. making their home in Durant. July 2011, BISKINIK, Page 7

EDUCATION

To the Youth of the Nation Academic Awards Jones staff By: Daniele Karr Banquet a success members graduate Youth Advisory Board, McCurtain County Chapter The 2011 Academic Awards Banquet Jones Academy graduates was a splendid success, celebrating its 25th were not the only ones to be Do you know how a smile can affect a life? Most people anniversary. The combination of outstand- congratulated for their aca- take smiling for granted. A smile can show love, happiness ing honorees, Master of Ceremonies David demic achievements in May. and fun for many people. For some, smiling is looked down Boren and Keynote Speaker Michael Bloomberg all made this Some Jones Academy staff on. gala one of the best ever. also walked across the stage In Japan, if you smile you are looked down on. They ac- A highlight of the evening was the presentation of a Tribute and received their diplomas from schools of higher learning. tually have “smiling school,” where they take bashful kids Book to Founder and Chairman David Boren. The book exhib- Staff members Freddie Jones (elementary boys’ dorm), Bon- and teach them to smile. How do they do that? Well, they ited the 25-year history of the foundation through photos and nie Smeltzer (elementary girls’ dorm) and Kim Russell (recre- take a chopstick and bite it. While biting the chopstick they memories by trustees, honorees and staff. Pictured is New York ation supervisor) all reached academic milestones. Mr. Jones are told to relax their muscles and loosen up. To be honest, City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, who was also a hit with the received his Bachelor of Arts in Counseling/Psychology at East just thinking about it makes me smile. audience, delivering the keynote address. Central University, while Mrs. Smeltzer and Ms. Russell each You try to think about yourself biting a chopstick while The Choctaw Nation’s support of a scholarship for Courtney earned an Associate of Arts in Psychology at Eastern Okla- your best friend is acting dumb. Hard, isn’t it? Smiling isn’t Winchester was critical to the ability to reward academic excel- homa State College. By their example of determination, these just good for the soul, it also helps you let out emotions. lence in such grand style. We thank you for the part you played staff members are practicing what they preach; getting a good When you smile you share joy with the world. It is a proven in helping Oklahomans honor the “best of the best” in public education is of utmost importance. fact that it takes more facial muscles to frown. Why frown education. Pictured are Kim Russell, an honors graduate, and Bonnie when you can turn it around and smile? Smeltzer. Smiling isn’t just for pictures or to let someone know you’re happy. You can change a life. You may never know Melanie graduates who you are smiling at, but one smile to a stranger may Melanie Lucas has recently attained her change their whole day. You may have been the only one bachelor’s degree in interior design from the Laura graduates to notice them that day. That stranger may have the worst University of Northern Arizona. She and her Laura K. Blackston graduated with honors home life or the worst day of their life. They might have family would like to express their sincere ap- from Putnam City High School in Oklahoma even failed a math test but just one smile can show that you preciation to the Choctaw Nation for the schol- City with a GPA of 4.304. She received two care. Have you ever thought about that? arships and grants provided throughout her special medals of recognition; one for pass- So stop frowning, people! Change a life. Be a hero and degree. The confidence and support she received through this ing five or more college credit tests (she start smiling. You never know how blessed you truly are. scholarship has directly contributed to her success. passed six) in her honor classes, and one for her overall academic honor achievement throughout high school. She was also the Student earns Bakers graduate recipient of numerous scholarships and assistance for college Congratulations to the through the OHLAP program, grants and OBU. broadcasting award Baker family, who re- She was a member of the National Honor Society for two Jessica Gann of Hugo, a senior cently had several grad- years and participated in leadership classes, often volunteer- at Southeastern Oklahoma State uates. Casey Baker grad- ing in community service for the elderly and fundraiser drives University, was recently named the uated from the teacher’s for cancer research. Her grades regularly reflected man hours Broadcasting Student of the Year and education program at of dedication and hard work, but she also found time to have received the Ben Chappell Scholar- Southeastern Oklahoma many friends and be involved in other activities at school such ship Award at SE. State University with a as cross-country and track, and at her church, Cherokee Hills Gann has worked at three of the seven eastern Oklahoma Bachelor’s of Science in Baptist Church, in the youth group. This summer she has at- radio stations in the Payne Radio Group, based in Hugo, over health, physical education and recreation. Anita Baker gradu- tended a special leadership camp. Sponsored by Oklahoma the past seven years and will intern at Dark Horse Recording ated from the nursing program with her associate’s degree Baptist University, called Super Summer, which develops Studio in Nashville this summer. from Carl Albert State College. Rebecca Baker graduated from Christians into seeking leadership roles in their community. “Music and radio production are my two main areas of in- Southeastern Oklahoma State University with a Bachelor of She has also enjoyed Falls Creek, a popular Baptist church terest,” said Jessica. “I hope to one day be a station general Arts in general education studies, and Sierra Baker graduated camp, in the past, and returned again in late June. Laura en- manager or work in a major production company.” from Smithville High School. joys music and texting. She has a warm, magnetic personality Gann says she enjoys all types of music, and she currently The Bakers say they would not have accomplished this mile- that others are immediately attracted too. She is independent hosts a mid-day rock music show. stone without God’s strength. They also received sacrifice and and confident in her future goals. She plans to attend OBU this The scholarship, which is awarded to students or prospective support from Donald Baker, who served in Iraq and returned fall and major in accounting. Laura is a member of the Choc- students seeking a degree in mass media, is named for the late with God and family on his mind. He put in overtime at work taw Nation, tracing her heritage back to her recently departed Dr. Ben Chappell. During a 41-year career as a university pro- and provided words of encouragement throughout their educa- Choctaw great-grandmother, Dora B. Tims of Claremore, and fessor of communication, Chappell earned numerous awards. tional drive. through her grandmother, Dorothy Tims Turner of Bethany. He taught at Southeastern from 1975-1996 and at Southern The Choctaw Nation provided assistance in various areas She is also the daughter of Keith and Lisa Blackston, being Mississippi, Texas Christian University and North Texas State of need that helped them out greatly, they said. The Bakers the oldest with three younger brothers and the granddaughter University (now the University of North Texas). would also like to thank everyone else who helped and sup- of Lee and Donna Blackston of Godfrey, Ill., and Charles and ported them, including their families, friends and significant Sandy Shook of Reno, Nev. employees of the Choctaw Nation. Congrats, Karlee Congratulations to 14-year-old Karlee La- Congrats, Dylan Jerra receives honor than, daughter of Misty and Jeff Lathan, of Dylan Ray Cockrill graduated from Howe student Jerra Washington has been Midwest City. She was named a member of Haworth High School on May 15, being on nominated and accepted as a 2011 student the National Junior Honor Society, being in the principal’s honor roll and earning de- ambassador. Acceptance into the program is the top 10 percent of her class. She has also fensive player of the year in baseball. He based on a demonstration of leadership and received the Presidential Academic Award, is the son of John and Glenda Cockrill of citizenship. Jerra recently graduated eighth received all A’s this year and received an the Redland community and the grandson grade at Howe Elementary School with A’s academic letter for community service. of Alamae Satterfield of Atoka and the late Coleman Ray Feli- and B’s. As a student ambassador, Jerra will be traveling to Karlee is the great-granddaughter of John C. Dorsey and Lo- hkatubbe of Perris, Calif. Australia in July. By venturing beyond our local borders, she rence Dorsey. She attends Carl Albert Middle School in Mid- Dylan plans to continue his education at college in the fall. will represent the very best of our community to the rest of the west City and is in the eighth grade. He is planning to pursue a career in law enforcement. world. She is a proud member of the Choctaw Nation and is very honored to be allowed to represent our tribe as she travels to Australia. Jerra is the daughter of Lisa Washington and the Tvshka Chunkash (Heart of a Warrior) Scholarship granddaughter of Clara and the late Everett Washington. What is Tvshka Chunkash? Day ceremony on Nov. 11 in Tvshka Chunkash means Tuskahoma. “heart of a warrior” in Last year’s award recipient Congrats, Sidney Choctaw. The scholarship was Cara Caldwell of Ovilla, Sidney Leigh Gardner, daughter of Clark is $1,000, created by Capt. Texas, who is now a Texas Buck Gardner Jr. and Kelly Dickerson, graduat- Teri Scroggins and provided Tech University senior. ed May 17 from Wayne High School in Wayne. through the Choctaw Nation’s For any questions about this She is proud of her Choctaw heritage. She is the Scholarship Advisement Pro- scholarship, please contact SAP at great-great-granddaughter of original enrollee gram (SAP). Offered on be- 800-522-6170, ext. 2383, or email Victoria Reed, and Mississippi Choctaws Er- half of all the veterans of the ScholarshipAdvisement@Choctaw- nest and Katie Farve. Her great-grandparents, wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, Nation.com. the late Mation and Evelyn Farve Gardner, and her grandfather, For other scholarship opportuni- this award is presented every the late Clark Buck Gardner, resided in Ardmore for many years. ties and more information about the fall to a student whose life Scholarship Advisement Program, Sidney is a pianist and was an outstanding softball and basket- and educational goals have ball player. She is currently attending Oklahoma City Community Pictured left to right are Shauna Williams, Donor please visit www.ChoctawNation- been affected by these wars SAP.com. College where she plans to become a registered nurse. and the veterans who have and Scholarship Specialist; Capt. Teri Scroggins; and served in them. Jo McDaniel, Director of Scholarship Advisement. How do I apply? to ScholarshipAdvisement@ including assistance in the af- Choctaw Nation To be eligible, you must: ChoctawNation.com--other termath of Hurricane Katrina; Vocational Rehabilitation Calendar • Be a SAP member, and formats will not be accepted. and in IKD-M (Intelligence • Be a current Choctaw stu- Where does this scholar- Knowledge Development dent at an accredited college ship come from? and Directorate-Moleworth, or university. Capt. Teri Scroggins came United Kingdom) as part Durant Broken Bow Broken Bow of the United States Africa 8 a.m.- 8 a.m.-4:30 8 a.m.-4:30 For your application, you to SAP with the idea for this 4:30 p.m. p.m. p.m. must write an original 500- scholarship in 2009 with Command, first as an analyst, Idabel by appt. Idabel by appt. word essay on the intention then Officer-in-Charge and how the war to honor the Dynamic Targeting Officer. She has a Master’s of Ed- Durant Antlers by Talihina Broken Bow in Afghanistan service of all 8 a.m.- appt. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 8 a.m.-4:30 or Iraq has af- ucation degree with a con- 4:30 p.m. p.m. her fellow ser- Idabel by appt. fected your life vice members centration in Early Child- and educational and veterans hood Development and an goals, includ- in addition to Endorsement for American Durant Wilburton McAlester Broken Bow ing how this ef- Indian Leadership from Okla- 8 a.m.- 10:30 a.m.- 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. support the 4:30 p.m. 2 p.m. Stigler by appt. Idabel by appt. fect has shaped education of homa City University and a your future and Choctaw stu- Bachelor’s of Science degree how you ap- dents. in biology from East Central proach your education. Capt. Scroggins is a highly University, as well as mul- Durant Poteau Crowder by Wright City 8 a.m.- 11:30 a.m.- appt. by appt. A complete information decorated military officer tiple courses and trainings in 4:30 p.m. 1 p.m. sheet with guidelines, fur- who has served in the Okla- military education and crimi- ther content suggestions, and homa National Guard and Ar- nal and operation legal issues. scoring rubric is available to kansas National Guard; two Is there anything else I Durant Atoka 9 a.m.- download and print at Choc- 8 a.m.- 11 a.m. combat tours in Iraq, as a Le- should know? 4:30 p.m. Coalgate 12:30 tawNation-SAP.com/cnos- gal NCO with the Judge Ad- This scholarship is awarded p.m.-2:30 p.m. cholarship.shtml. vocate General Corp. as well to one student at the begin- Applications are due by as on a peacekeeping tour ning of every fall academic Durant-Mondays • Broken Bow-Mon., Wed. and Fri. • Idabel-By appointment Aug. 1, 2011. The essay must in Bosnia and Herzegovina; year and presented at the Phone: 580-326-8304; Fax: 580-326-2410 be submitted electronically multiple U.S. assignments, Choctaw Nation Veteran’s Email: [email protected] July 2011, BISKINIK, Page 8 Choctaw Nation GED Classes ChoctawSubmitted by horse todayher horse also finished fourth Bryan County North LeFlore County MONIQUE SHEAFFER in the featherweight division. Beginning date and time: Beginning date and time: Sheila’s son, Gunn, who July 25, 2011 July 26, 2011 Our people’s connection rides a Spanish Mustang stal- Mondays and Wednesdays Tuesdays and Thursdays to the Choctaw horse, a rare lion named Locomotive, was 1-4 p.m. 1-4 p.m. strain of colonial Spanish awarded second in the ju- Choctaw Nation Tribal Complex Choctaw Nation horse, runs deep in our past nior division. Even Sheila’s South building, downstairs Family Investment Center history but is also alive and youngest son, Gatlin, and Durant Poteau well in today’s world. The his horse, Spotted Wolf, are Choctaw horse remains “crit- involved in all the fun. Gat- Bryan County Latimer County ically endangered” by The lin and equine partner were Beginning date and time: Beginning date and time: American Livestock Breeds awarded third in the junior July 26, 2011 July 25, 2011 Conservancy (www.albc-usa. division. Tuesdays and Thursdays Mondays and Wednesdays org) with less than 250 pure- The whole family is very 6-9 p.m. 1-4 p.m. bred animals left in the world. involved with the horses. Choctaw Nation Tribal Complex Choctaw Nation Yet, there is hope they will Sheila’s husband, Gared, and South building, downstairs Community Center survive and once again be an his horse, Hezekiah, have also Durant 515 Center Point Rd important part of our tribe’s been very competitive and Wilburton culture and future. ate a series of cones set only finished second in the heavy- This is an important time slightly wider than the car- weight division in 2009. The class will meet two days each week for approximately 13 weeks. Books, supplies and testing fees for the horses and much de- riage without touching any of Gared and Hezekiah were are provided. In addition, a $10-per-day transportation stipend is paid to those who attend classes on pends on those active in the them. Precision is required. also awarded the Oklahoma a regular basis and attempt the GED test. If you have turned in an application with our Adult Educa- conservation effort enlist- Combined driving requires AERC Challenge Trophy for tion Program for GED classes and wish to attend the upcoming class, please contact our office. If you ing additional people to get skill, stamina and smarts - all the high mileage Oklahoma have not applied and wish to attend these or future classes, please contact Neal Hawkins or Kathy involved. Spreading the of which Ty has in abundance. horse in 2009. The Dales stat- Springfield at the Durant office, 800-522-6170, ext. 2319. Also you may register at the first class. A knowledge about the Choc- In the course of training, ed, “Our horses are very loyal Certificate of Degree of Indian Blood (CDIB) is required. taw horse to new individuals Paul and Ty developed a and versatile, and have been is paramount in saving them. strong bond. Once she learned used for various disciplines, Yakoke to the many tribal to trust him, they became a including ranch rodeo, trail USDA notice to women and Hispanic members who supported our very strong team and the af- riding, and working cattle.” Windrider Farm Choctaw fection she feels for him is Francine Locke Bray is a farmers and ranchers: compensation Horse Conservation effort obvious. Because of her trust, descendant of the Locke fam- at the 2008 and 2010 Labor she has progressed rapidly ily who has a long history for claims of discrimination Day Festivals where we had and will try all kinds of new with the Choctaw horse. Ger- If you are a female farmer/ McMullen, State Director of call 1-888-233-5506, or visit an education booth and horse obstacles under his guidance. ry Locke, Francine’s brother, rancher or a Hispanic farmer/ Rural Development (RD) in www.IndianFarmClass.com. demonstrations. We look for- In her first competition, Ty of Mesquite, Texas, owns a rancher and you believe that Oklahoma, who serves as this African-American farm- ward to returning this year as finished in the top half of her small herd of Choctaw po- the United States Depart- year’s chair of the SFAC. ers who submitted a request well. See you there! group and the McConnells nies. His stallion, Scotty, is ment of Agriculture (USDA) The SFAC is comprised to file a late claim on or be- We met many tribal mem- were very pleased with her known far and wide for his improperly denied farm loan of state-level agency heads tween October 13, 1999 and bers and attendees who were performance. gentleness and beautiful off- benefits to you for certain of the three USDA partner June 18, 2008 under the 1999 unaware of this important Her second competition spring. time periods between 1981 agencies–RD State Director settlement in the earlier class tribal animal’s tentative situa- was at the Elk Creek Com- Victoria Hicks of Oklaho- and 2000 because you are a Ryan McMullen, Farm Ser- action known as Pigford v. tion. We are looking forward bined Driving Event held at ma is owner of Chief Tandy, a female, or because you are vice Agency (FSA) State Ex- Glickman (“Pigford”) and to returning to this year’s fes- Fair Hill, Md., a property 3-year-old Choctaw stallion. Hispanic, you may be eli- ecutive Director Francie Tolle who did not receive a merits tival to continue the effort to once owned by Jamie Mc- His picture has been featured gible to apply for compensa- and Natural Resources Con- determination of their dis- get other tribal members in- Connell’s grandfather. Ty and in the American Livestock tion, the USDA State Food & servation Service (NRCS) crimination claim should call volved in the conservation of Paul won the Single Pony Breeds Conservancy (ALBC) Agriculture Council (SFAC) State Conservationist Ron 1-866-950-5547 or 1-866- our horses. Training Division and she newsletter. Victoria and her in Oklahoma announced in a Hilliard–with membership 472-7826 or visit www.black- There are many individu- was declared champion. It family have eight Choctaw joint news release. from other USDA agencies in farmercase.com. als across the country who was only her second competi- horses and are well pleased You might be eligible if: Oklahoma. NRCS is an equal opportunity are working hard at keeping tion and all were with the gentle provider and employer. All programs • you sought a farm loan If you want to register your and services of NRCS are provided the Choctaw horse alive and thrilled with her nature of these or farm-loan servicing from name to receive a claims in a nondiscriminatory manner. The well in today’s world. There performance. amazing ani- USDA during that period; and package in the female and U.S. Department of Agriculture are conservation herds in dif- Ty’s third mals. • the loan was denied, pro- Hispanic farmers claims pro- (USDA) prohibits discrimination in ferent areas of the country. event was the Choctaw all its programs and activities on the vided late, approved for a cess, you can call the Farmer basis of race, color, national origin, There are four main herds Katydid Com- pony ancestors lesser amount than requested, and Rancher call center at age, disability, and where applicable, located in California, Okla- bined Driving sailed the Atlan- approved with restrictive 1-888-508-4429 or access the sex, marital status, familial status, pa- homa, Pennsylvania and Vir- Event held in tic Ocean 600 conditions, or USDA failed to website: www.farmerclaims. rental status, religion, sexual orienta- ginia. Conservationists are South Carolina. years ago. Many tion, genetic information, political provide an appropriate loan gov. beliefs, reprisal, or because all or a diligently working towards Again, she won and had her trod the Trail of Tears carry- service; and This announcement fol- part of an individual’s income is de- bringing population num- second championship. This ing their beloved people and • you believe these actions lows the Obama Administra- rived from any public assistance pro- bers up with respect to the spring, Ty will compete in possessions 200 years ago. A occurred because you are fe- tion’s settlement of litigation gram. (Not all prohibited bases apply attributes that have made the several more combined driv- few even crossed the Pacific to all programs.) male or Hispanic. brought by Native American Persons with disabilities who Choctaw horse or Choctaw ing events. She is moving up Ocean in 1803 as a gift for the “We want all producers farmers and ranchers and require alternative means for com- pony the versatile equine it is. to the preliminary division King of Hawaii. who may be eligible to be African American farmers. munication of program information Here are some selected sto- and will face stronger com- Doug, Monique and Matt aware of this claims pro- Any Native America farmer (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) ries about what the Choctaw petition. When asked by a Sheaffer of Windrider Farm, should contact USDA’s TARGET cess for female and Hispanic or rancher who was denied a Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and horse is doing all across our competitor, how much horses Pa., purchased their Choctaw farmers and ranchers, as well Farm Loan or Loan Servicing TDD). To file a complaint of dis- great nation. like Ty sell for, Paul Maye an- horses from the Overstreet- as the recent settlements with by the USDA between Jan. 1, crimination write to USDA, Director, Terramoto, known as Ty, swered, “She’s priceless!” Kerr Historical Farm in Keota Native American and Afri- 1981, and Nov. 24, 1999, may Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Indepen- is a 5-year-old dun mare of Ty has developed her own in 2008. They shipped this ex- dence Avenue, S.W., Washington, can American farmers and be eligible for benefits from D.C. 20250-9410 or call (800) 795- Native American breeding, following and group of fans isting conservation herd east ranchers, so they can come a Class Action Settlement. 3272 (voice) or (202) 720-6382 mostly Choctaw. She is the who run between obstacles to to their farm in Loysville, Pa., forward and participate in To request a claims pack- (TDD). USDA is an equal opportu- first Native American horse watch her performance. to get involved in the con- these processes,” said Ryan age or for more information, nity provider and employer. to become a combined driv- This January, the McCo- servation of the rare equines. ing event champion. She was nnells sent another horse Both Monique and Matt are bred by Bryant and Darlene to Paul Maye, a 3-year-old Choctaw tribal members and USDA accepts Farm Service Agency County Rickman in Soper and is cur- buckskin colt. Paul thinks this felt called to honor their heri- rently owned by Jamie and horse, Summer, has enormous tage by helping save these Committee member nominations Mary McConnell of Summer potential and that he will do as horses for their people. The Oklahoma Farm Ser- 1, 2011. political beliefs, reprisal, or Duck Wood in Rapidan, Va. well as Ty in driving events. Today their horses are do- vice Agency (FSA) recently Voting takes place between because all or a part of an in- Ty is handled by Paul Maye The McConnells think their ing well and many have announced that USDA will Nov. 4, 2011, and Dec. 5, dividual’s income is derived of Fairfield, Va., who is a Choctaw horses will show moved into new homes to soon begin accepting nomi- 2011. from any public assistance well-known combined driv- their endurance, courage, spread the word about these nation forms for eligible can- For more information about program. (Not all prohibited ing trainer. This mare was se- high level of human affilia- versatile, people-oriented and didates to serve on local FSA the election or to obtain an bases apply to all programs.) lected by Bryant Rickman for tion and intelligence in these hardy horses. County Committees through- election map you can contact Persons with disabili- her potential as a cattle horse. events. Another mare, Minti, was out Oklahoma. your local FSA offices in Ato- ties who require alternative When she came to Virginia in Jamie and Mary McCon- purchased by a lady in Mus- The nomination period is ka, Hugo, Idabel, McAlester, means for communication of 2008, the McConnells were nell also have a medicine hat tang and shipped back to her June 15 through Aug. 1, 2011. Poteau or you can contact the program information (Braille, impressed with her tempera- colt who is getting ready for home state in 2010. She has Almost anyone participat- Bryan County FSA office in large print, audiotape, etc.) ment and her beautiful gaits. his first show jumping events begun training and at last ing or associated with agri- Durant (924-4131 ext. 2) who should contact USDA’s TAR- In the fall of 2009, she went this summer. He can jump the check was progressing nicely. cultural land and who is of serves as the contact office for GET Center at (202) 720- to Fairfield to work with Paul fences in between the pad- Her owner hopes to ride and legal voting age can be nomi- the Choctaw Nation. 2600 (voice and TDD). To file Maye. Paul is a young trainer docks and loves jumping in compete with her in various nated as a candidate. “The U.S. Department of a complaint of discrimination who has won national success the ring. equine events with hopes to Tribal members are consid- Agriculture (USDA) prohib- write to USDA, Director, in combined driving events. They have also had a young breed her within the conser- ered landowners if their tribe its discrimination in all its Office of Civil Rights, 1400 He began to work with Ty and veterinarian acquire two of vation breeding program as a has an agricultural interest programs and activities on the Independence Avenue, S.W., in the spring of 2010 he en- their Choctaw horses–one for 5-year-old. in the Local Administrative basis of race, color, national Washington, D.C. 20250- tered her in her first combined endurance and one for use as The Sheaffers sold a filly Area (LAA) and they live origin, age, disability, and 9410 or call (800) 795-3272 driving event. a whipper-in horse for fox from last year’s foal crop to within the LAA. where applicable, sex, marital (voice) or (202) 720-6382 Combined driving is a com- hunting. This vet has been their local trainer. Na Hata, All nomination forms must status, familial status, paren- (TDD). petition that consists of three involved at international lev- black and white tobiano, is a be received in a County FSA tal status, religion, sexual ori- USDA is an equal opportu- parts: dressage, a marathon, els of endurance riding and yearling and could not have Office or postmarked by Aug. entation, genetic information, nity provider and employer. and an obstacle course. Dres- previously rode Arabs but has found a better home for her- sage is a test of driving skill now become a real advocate self as well as the advance- Help Wanted and accuracy and the perfor- for the breed. ment of the breed. The trainer Seeking Choctaw CDIB Members mance of the horses – their Shelia Dale of Oklahoma and his wife are very active in appearance, suppleness, their and her family have been trail riding and hope to have If what you seek is an exciting career opportunity, look no further. We are motion and its fluidity. The active participants of The this little girl out and about able to offer many opportunities for growth, challenge and excitement. style of both horse and driver American Endurance Ride when under saddle. are important to the outcome. Conference since 2004. She Conservation is not just We have the following immediate openings: The marathon is the most and her family ride Spanish about breeding more Choc- Graphic Artist important part of the com- Mustangs, also known as Co- taw horses, though that is IT Help Desk petition. It consists of five lonial Spanish Horses, in 50- much needed. It is just as sections in which the course important, if not more so, to Valet Supervisor mile endurance races. They crosses over roads and tracks, had a very productive and spread the word about the Bingo Staff/Marketing Coordinators (Dual Role) water, hills and around tight exciting year in 2010 where plight of these rare equines Hotel Housekeeping Staff corners. The horse and driver they competed in the Central so that others become aware Casino Environmental Services Staff must negotiate several sets of Region, which is a six-state of their tenuous survival. In obstacles and some of these area. addition, these versatility, Choctaw Casinos is owned and operated by the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. Position will give pref- involve water. Speed, endur- Sheila’s horse, Blue By hardiness, low maintenance, erence to Indians in accordance with Section 7(b) of the Indian Self-Determination Act. Please attach ance and accuracy are all You, was awarded the Okla- smart, people-oriented horses copy of CDIB Card if applicable. needed to be successful in homa AERC Challenge Tro- can show what truly unique this event. horses they are. Come see us Apply in person at Choctaw Casino Human Resource Office at phy for being the high mile- The obstacle event requires age horse in the state in 2007, at the 2011 Labor Day Festi- 4216 Hwy 69/75 Durant, Okla. the horse and driver to negoti- 2008 and 2010. Sheila and val and see for yourself! July 2011, BISKINIK, Page 9

June 22-25 event in D.C. memorable for everyone Tribal members in traditional dress greeted visitors to the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian, guid- ing them either to entertainment in the Potomac, productions in the theater, make-and-take sessions on the second level, or language classes on the fourth floor. It was a pleasure to talk with travelers, share information and make new friends from around the globe as the Choctaw Nation and NMAI hosted the first Choctaw Days June 22-25 in Washington, D.C. Sounds filled the dome, attracting people on all of the floor levels to look down on the dancers, singers, flutist or storytellers. Exceptional artistry from beadwork to paintings to Choctaw baskets and pottery were set up inside the Po- tomac as well as historical and cultural booths. We hope you enjoy this special pull-out section in which we have included a few of our memories.

Choctaw Youth Dancers dance in the Potomac Circle.

Roger Amerman works his beads onto a buckskin jacket.

Moses Johnson, Brad Joe, Lena Johnson and Bubba Miss Choctaw Nation Kristie McGuire performs Johnson sing Choctaw Hymn 11 at the June 22 reception. the Lord’s Prayer in sign language.

Les Williston explains the best technique of shooting a bow.

Vonna Shults helps Christo- pher Burica, 4, of Minnesota pound corn in the kittee. Storyteller Tim Tingle adds a rhythmic beat to his Choctaw tale.

Marcus Amerman, above, creates his unique beadwork.

Eveline Steele, left, shows how to weave a Choctaw basket.

At right, Dr. Ian Thomp- son, Amy Thompson and Dayla Amos demonstrate Presley Byington plays one of his many flutes.

CHOCTAW DAYS 2011 DAYS CHOCTAW pottery making. July 2011, BISKINIK, Page 10 Sites, sounds of Choctaw Nation fill National Museum of the American Indian

The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma was honored with the presence of Press Secretary Myles Geiran of the Irish Embassy at the Choctaw Days reception on the evening of June 22. The Choctaw and Irish people have a long history beginning with the tribe’s assis- tance to them during the 1847 potato famine. The stealing partners dance is enjoyed by everyone as the dancers pull in participants from the audience.

U.S. Congressmen Tom Cole and Dan Boren attend the open- ing night reception. They are pictured with Chief Gregory E. Pyle and Assistant Chief Gary Batton. Chanting for the dancers – Alethia McKinney, Ron McKinney, Janice McKinney and Karl McKinney. Clara Jones Lavender of Lamont, Pa., was born in Antlers and attended Whee- lock. She was one of the last girls to at- tend Jones before going on to Haskell in 1960.

Councilman Ted Dosh and Chief Gregory E. Pyle say hello to for- Little Miss Mahala Battiest, Junior Miss Nikki Amos and Miss mer Bennington resident, Pauline Whitworth, seated. Also pictured Choctaw Nation Kristie McGuire. are Paula Craft, Pat Nelson, Julia Gibson and Morgan Gibson.

Rozetta and Deon Govender, Shanleigh and Shanique, of Johannesburg, South Africa, visit with Roger Amerman.

Visitors gather around Eveline Steele’s basket table. Eveline David Batton adds finishing touch- displays several finished baskets as well as unfinished ones she Presley Byington explains the different styles of flutes. es to his piece of pottery. uses to demonstrate the art form.

Ronston McKinney. Greg Rodgers holds the audience’s attention with one of his stories.

Sous chef Jerome Grant has whipped up a pot of rabbit gumbo, Choctaw-style, and is giv- ing everyone a taste of the dish. Xavier Almondovar. Marcus Amerman brings a wide variety of beadwork for Choctaw Days. July 2011, BISKINIK, Page 11

Photo provided: David Fitzgerald A group of Choctaw Nation Tribal Councilmen visited the Congressional Cem- The Johnson Family – brothers and sister, Moses Johnson, etery while in D.C. for Choctaw Days. Pictured at Pushmataha’s gravesite are, Lena Scott and Bubba Johnson – harmonize on Hymn #48. All of knealing, Thomas Williston and Bob Pate; standing, Perry Thompson, Jack Aus- Brad Joe sings Choc- the hymns were sung in the Choctaw language during the event. tin, Anthony Dillard, Delton Cox, James Frazier and Joe Coley. taw Hymn #35, the a cap- pella notes rising to fill the dome.

Ara Carbonneau of Alexandria and her Dad, Gary Carbonneau of Grant- ville, Kansas. Les Williston has several Choctaw cultural tools and weapons on display. Kanda and Kay Jackson wear their Choctaw Days T-shirts.

Roger Amerman presents Presley Bying- Karl McKinney explains the game of stickball. ton with a gift of appreciation.

Ron Gragg, Concetta Gragg, Katie Abbott, Kyle Abbott, Holly Bowlan and Annetta Abbott.

Make-and-take classes filled up with participants at every session.

Gwen Coleman Lester shows her artwork.

These young boys enjoy learning about the kittee from Shirley Barboan.

Showing how to catch a stickball.

Amanda Linares, Lindsey Linares and Evelyn Cornelas attend the reception.

Audrey Goodwin, Isabel Holliday, Eugene, Naomi and Olin Williams uses cutouts to embellish Catalina enjoy listening to Choctaw storytellers. Micah Frazier invites audience members to dance with the group. his story for the audience. July 2011, BISKINIK, Page 12

Mary Babb of Moore and Debbie Thompson Cousins Travis Yoder and Ava Lou and Andrew Thompson, both of Baltimore, visit Dunkel enjoy Choctaw Days. with Assistant Chief Gary Batton.

A re-enactment of a Choctaw wedding is a highlight of Choctaw Days.

Vonna Shults hands out leather pouches of Choctaw corn at the food booth.

Judy Allen helps present museum Director Choctaw members Claire and Paige Kevin Gover with gifts of a flute and Pendleton Finley show off their baskets made in the blanket. make-and-take workshop. Regina Green is all smiles.

Paul King autographs T-shirts for museum visi- tors. His artwork was used for the branding image of 2011 Choctaw Days. Mississippi Choctaw dancer Tecumseh Youssef stops to pose with Ronston McKinney.

Sisters Judy Barnett Dutterer and Leigh Barnett Walker of Maryland. Their great-grandmother was an original en- rollee.

A Choctaw family, above, wears traditional clothing. At left, Bob Sturgill of California plays Tim Tingle’s drum as he and Greg Rodgers entertain the crowd.

Krista Keith and her daughter, An- nabelle, originally from Texas, reside in North Carolina.

Taking time to visit. The pottery demonstration booth was a favorite of museum-goers.

Karinda and Jamie Deal of Harrisburg, Va.

Finding just the right flute. Lana Sleeper and Alethia McKinney. Krystal Gardner of Bos- ton makes a pottery hat.

Language instructor Lillie Roberts and Director Jim Parrish.

Dollie Hood, originally Ciera McCrae, 6, of Moore admires the from Oklahoma City, re- Tracy Horst welcomes Mary Lou and Helmut Speckheuer to Choc- Carolyn Perry of New bracelets at Marcus Amerman’s table. sides in Maryland. taw Days. Jersey. July 2011, BISKINIK, Page 13 District 12’s Ward Morrison shares memories Ward Morrison was born inside the craft. Ward took a with 25 cents to their name. on Sept. 7, 1922, to Alice great amount of shrapnel. Soon after the marriage they moved to Denver, where Nor- Ward and Alford Morrison A considerable portion ma’s mother lived and from there, Ward earned a job on a cattle on his mother’s Choctaw al- of the men in the boat lost ranch in Gunnison, Colo. lotment in Olney. He was the their lives instantly. Only a Eventually the work on the ranch ran out and Ward had to second of five children. handful were alive after the look for other employment. He reluctantly went to work in a He began his education at initial blast and most passed coal mine. He spent 18 months there and, at times, wished he Olney and continued there away soon afterward. He was were back in military combat. though the eighth grade. one of the very few who had In 1951 they moved to California and Ward got a job as a When Ward and his siblings enough life left to get out and chinchilla farmer. He was charged with taking care of the ani- had all started school, his later recover. mals. Their fur is a very fine fur that is used to make coats. mother went back to school He was taken to an emer- The fur is so light that it will float in air and a person can and finished. She became a gency ship where they re- breath it without even knowing it. Eventually Ward experi- substitute teacher after her moved the shrapnel. He was enced respiratory problems and had to leave that job to main- graduation. only given a local anesthetic tain his health. After the eighth grade, as the doctors removed the He then went on to be a salesman, a job that he disliked and Ward went to work on a farm. larger pieces. Records show stayed for only a short while. He eventually worked for a cattle He then began work at a CC that they eventually removed ranch in California at Big Bear Lake. Camp in 1937 and stayed un- nearly 400 pieces of shrapnel, At this job, many of the other employees rode in the rodeo, til 1939. Then, in October of mostly small pieces. so Ward decided to try his hand at it. Once, while he was about 1940 he joined the Marine They placed him on a hos- to begin a run on a bucking horse, a personal friend and doctor Corps. Ward Morrison and Hot Cross Buns. pital ship bound for the Navy told Ward that he was not to ride and needed to come with him. He didn’t know much about hospital. It was already loaded Norma had a child recently and the baby was in trouble. the Corps, but he knew he did not want to go home. He wanted so heavy that they had to put Ward and the doctor had to drive to a hospital at Arrowhead, more adventure in his life. He went to training in San Diego. him in the amputee room. He where the child was awaiting an ambulance to take him to a Following this, he traveled to Kodiak, Alaska, and to his plea- was the only man who could better hospital. sure, stayed for two years. manage to move around at It was the Fourth of July holiday and traffic was congested. He came back as a machine gun operator along with two least a bit. The ambulance picked up the baby, but was not able to make it other corporals. He would teach a class of 64 men at a time. While the ship was sailing, back through the holiday travelers and the child did not make it. His first class consisted of Texans and New Yorkers. Ward de- it went astray off its course The couple was running low on money at this point. Ward scribed it as “a constant fight to keep them separated.” and hit a rock at 1 a.m. The heard of an organization called the Old Miners’ Association. He traveled to the Pacific Islands following his time as a ma- crew thought the ship might They were hosting a contest that whoever could walk a bur- chine gun instructor. He met with the men who had come over sink, so they sent out an SOS, ro 50 miles uphill from the desert up to Big Bear Lake in the the Guadal Canal in Australia. This group had lost many men, but as daylight and help ar- shortest time would receive $500. and needed to add to their ranks, so Ward joined with them. rived, they realized they Ward entered that contest and got a good burro. Out of 57 After joining with the men, they went into extensive training would not have to evacuate. contestants, Ward was the first of the 11 that passed the finish for combat in New Guinea. Once trained, he went on to New The watertight doors held and line. He did so in 10 hours and 36 minutes. He took the $500 Britain Island, where he saw first combat. Ward and Norma Mor- the ship sailed on at a slow and paid off some bills immediately. He came via ship and went ashore on a landing craft. He rison. pace. Ward went back to work on the cattle ranch and was able to remembers meeting very heavy fire upon landing on the shore. Morrison came to the Navy live in a house on the ranch. It was in very bad shape. The water “You go ashore and hope you can get there without getting hospital on Russell Island. He waited there until he was well heater was a cause for concern and would scare Norma because hurt,” mentions Ward. enough to travel home. Many ships were being sunk in those she thought it might explode. For the first eight or nine hours Ward and the men with him days, so he had to wait for one to take him back. Ward eventually quit work at the ranch and worked on bull- were in a very deep swamp. Before they exited the swamp, one He received two purple hearts for his military service. He dozers and other heavy equipment in Victorville. That business of their own planes confused them for Japanese and dropped was given the first one while in bed. The usual ceremony for a eventually went under, so Ward and Norma moved back to bombs on them. This killed three men who were out in front. purple heart was cut short due to the amount that were given. Oklahoma. They came out of the swamp in late evening and came into The officers had to resort to just passing them out at the time. Ward began to work on pipelines and traveled all over Okla- intense fighting. For 13 days and nights it rained, and on Jan. 7, Eventually he made it back to the states and stayed at a Navy homa. They had to move a considerable amount, but he eventu- 1944, Ward was hit in the left leg and left wrist by a machine hospital in San Diego for six months. He held a job there while ally got a job building FHA houses. He built his current resi- gun. It was a gruesome injury that caused him to lose much he was being treated until he got liberty to return to his home. dence and moved in around Christmas of 1975. blood and become very weak. Ward went on to Kansas to work for cow ranchers and wheat For four or five years Ward build many different buildings. He spent six months in Australian hospitals for surgery and farmers for a couple of years. This is where he met his wife, He had his hand in auditoriums, gymnasiums and other com- recovery. He was about to write his mother during his stay, but Norma Jean Wyer. They were married in 1949 at a small church mercial buildings. it was hard for the letters to travel back and forth due to the in Cimarron, Kan., near Dodge City. The couple went on to have nine children including the boy amount of ships being sunk. The preacher and his wife were the only ones at the wedding. they lost in California. He had thought he would be going home, but they shipped When it was done, Ward asked, “How much do I owe you,” During his time on the cattle ranches, Ward learned how to him back to the same company. After only a couple of weeks, and the preacher said, “Whatever you think it is worth.” Ward break horses well, so when he retired he would break horses his company ran into nasty opposition in the Peleliu Islands. handed him his only 20-dollar bill, hoping to get some change. because he enjoyed it. At one time, he took two mustangs to a The boat he was on barely made it to land before being hit. The preacher took it all and said, “Thank you very much.” wild horse show in Texas. He got two girls to show his horses The ramp was not even let down before the bomb went off That was his only money and the newlyweds went back home and they won him eight ribbons.

Choctaw Royalty Miss Indian Oklahoma City join in the Red Earth Stephanie Tehauno. Grand Entry, above.

At right, Miss In- The Choctaw Color Guard leads the 2011 Red Earth Festival dian Bacone Ashton Parade on June 3 in Oklahoma City. This is the 25th anniversary Rachelle DiNardo. for the Red Earth Festival.

Below, members of the OK Choctaw Tribal Alliance.

Paul Hacker wins a third Miss Indian OU Ashlyn place in the 2011 Red Earth Choate. Art Show for his war bonnett cylinder.

Choctaw artist Carole Ayers is pictured with her grand- daughters, Amelia Ayers and Elora Ayers, left, and her daughter, Cindy Larby, right. Cindy’s jingle dress is from Mary Ann Allen, Checotah Fulks, Joyce Robison, D.J. the 1880s. Choctaw stickball players provide a demonstration. Battiest and Rosalie Bovine. July 2011, BISKINIK, Page 14 Senior veterans honored at Choctaw community centers Antlers Atoka

Veterans honored at Antlers include Victor Eyachabbe, David Chavis, Abraham Veterans honored at Atoka include Sherman Armstrong, Gary Armstrong, John Burli- Jones, Roy Earl Jackson, Councilman Jack Austin, Bobby Dunlap Sr., Wayland Carter, son, Forrest Calvert, Curtis Harjo, Joe Hayse, Theodore LeFlore, Thomas LeFlore, Ray- Leo Smallwood, W.W. Thomas, M.T. Greenwood, Harlon Peters, Bennie Gibson, Roger son Nicholas, Snake Norman, Ronnie Scott, Kenneth Wilson, Carl Tucker, James Bates, Wright, John Hooser, John Roebuck, Loyd Loman, Folsom White, Bertram Bobb, Floyd Anthony Loyd, Bob Dickie, EJ Johnson, Don Bingamon, Carl McBrayer, Don McBrayer, Peters, Jack Work, John Underwood, Olen Durant, Ted Peters, Raymond Wright, Andrew Raymond Kerr, Donald Price and Roy Byrd, accompanied by councileman Anthony Dillard. Choate, Angus Williston, Wallon McKnight, Perry Felihkatubbe, Stephen Billy, Charles Greenwood, Joe Martin, Billy Alex Jackson, Buddy Dunlap, Roger Lessenger, Charles Keeler, Buford Sipes, Virgil Silvey, Virgil Blan Jr., Fred Pipping, Donald Rosson and Ran- Land of the free dy Lessenger. Broken Bow/Bethel Coalgate

Veterans honored at Broken Bow include as pictured, Robert Frazier, Willis McKinney, Veterans honored at Coalgate include Rueben Burge, Roget Barnes, Ellis Carnes, Thom- Louis Battiest, Marry Williams, Thomas Williams, Lawrence Battiest, Ed Worchester and as Cosper, Ernest Dutton, Jesse Frederick, Evelyn Guffey, Nellie Hunter, Richard Kin- Buck Byington. dig, Lowell Mason, Jack Mathews, Ed Mayer, Roger McAnally, Arvard McLellan, Harold Mitchell, Tommy Morgan, Jerry Nanney, Donald Stanberry, Bobby Willard, James Harris, Arvard J. Ward, David Stiles, Billy Stiles, Noah Burris, Marvin Hampton, Henry H. Wil- HOme of the brave son, Dwayne E. Miles, Bruce L. Miles, Lyndal G. Miles, Lu Bauer and Adrian T. Wilson. Crowder Durant

Veterans honored at Crowder are as pictured, Walter Phelps, James Charles, David Veterans honored at Durant include Richard Adams, Terry Cole, Truman Heron, Jer- Francis, Ted Violet, Ed Barker, Lloyd Morris, Martin Killingsworth, Alvie Carney, Jerry ry Thompson, Willie Walley, Councilman Ted Dosh, Jarvis Johnson, Robert D. Sanders, Feck and Troy Smith, accompanied by Councilman James Frazier and State Representa- Gordon B. Schulze Jr., Ollie Wilson, Troy Keithley, Michael Folsom, Alan Perry, Ernest tive Donnie Condit. Hooser, Jeremiah LeFlore, Tim Sexton, Dennis Ferguson, Howard Frazier, James W. Cox, Kenneth W. Turner, Lewis Smith, Glenn Estes, Ralph Smith, Albert E. Simon, Donald White, William C. Smith, Roger Scott, John Smith, Chester Pittman, Charles Ladd, James “The cement of this nation is the heart- Mintz, Mozelle G. Shoemake, Isaac Homer, Melvin Gaines, Isaac Sexton, Richard Sidles, Silas Blaine, Robert Green, Oscar Sutton, Eudis St. John, Robert Stocker, Arvel Shults, blood of every American” William Starnes, Don Ayers, John Henry Choate, Edward Lawrence, Ralph Norman, Da- vid Perriman, Paul Price, Richard Wade, Ralph Brady, Tommy Wyche, Gene Loftis, Ann – President Thomas Jefferson Grant, Frank Jones, Ryan Taylor, Byington Taylor, Jim Kimbrough, Otis Wesley and Rex Mitchell, accompanied by Joe Hill and Assistant Chief Gary Batton.

Hugo Idabel

Veterans honored at Hugo include E. “Dutch” Crews, Art Sourhard, David Wilkie, Har- Veterans honored at Idabel are as pictured, Sandra Riley, Flo Spalding, Truman Jeffer- rison Frazier, Bobby Bell, Cecil Bell, Henry Rodriquez, R.W. Nored Sr., R.W. Nored Jr., son, Benjamin Williston, Joe Mills, David Lewis, Walker Davis, Sammy McGowen, Jack George Robison, Larry Battiest, David Hunter, Isaac Simpson, Phillip Payne, R.D. Payne, Touchstone, Leon Wesley, William Tonihka, James Haddock, Nathan Holt, Belton Walker, Chris Jones, Sally Payne, Eddie Wall, Larry Davenport, Dennis Smith, Lauren Hudson, Jimmy Paxton, Bill Lambert, John Epperson, Lawrence Battiest, Benny Frazier, Ronald Doyle Hunter, Lyndel Finch, Henry A. James, Floyd Reislin, Tim Frazier, Melton Ray Williston and Herbert Jessie. Caldwell, Councilman Perry Thompson, George Webster, Ron Springs, Bud Davis, Jack Eddleman, Arnold Crain, Carol Parker, Charles Pence, Robert Garrett, Tom Wheelus, Charles Battiest and Jordan Harkin. July 2011, BISKINIK, Page 15 Senior veterans honored at Choctaw community centers McAlester Poteau

Veterans honored at McAlester include Emanuel Sexton, Lake Wilson, James Wilson, Veterans honored at Poteau are as pictured, Floyd Mortenson, Jack Owen, Steve Men- James Green, Sonny Billy, Harlow Cunningham, Walter Amos, Jack Haynes, Tex Cope, doza, Curtis Lloyd, Dave Butler, Virgil Sam, Robert Taylor, Phil James, Joseph Moore, Kenneth Majors, Alvie Carney, Thomas Hendrix, Daniel Mumaw, Jonny Cudd, Otis Jef- Odice Luman, Ollie Austin, Kenneth Ferguson, Councilman Delton Cox and Randy Steel- ferson, Cleno Jefferson, Daniel James, William Joe Amos, William King, Curtis Baker, man. Forest Cross, Jimmy Dunn, William Frye, Marvin Sam, Dale Cantrell, Ray Tabor, Larry James, Ronnie Silmon, John McMurtry, Joe McMurtry, Councilman Bob Pate, Dweitt Far- rell, Johnny Jones, James Kanimaya, Matthew Kemp, Dennis Sam, Eugene Sweet, Rickie Pate, Dan Tate, Vince Baker, Joseph Homer, James Impson, Dan James, Gary Dyke, Ron- “Where liberty dwells, there is my country” nie Phopps, Dennis Cantrell, Bill Gibson, Kenneth Hotubbee, Thomas Anderson, Gilbert Nail, Mike Cook, William Moore, Cleveland Sweet, Bob Kanimaya, Tim Tanner, Kenneth – Benjamin Franklin Battles, Charles O’Leary and Loyce Henry Labor. Smithville Spiro

Veterans honored at Smithville include Nathan Watson, Margie Watson, Kenneth Lud- Veterans honored at Spiro are as pictured, John Casey, Milton Stephans, William Har- low, Bill E. James, George Watson, Leroy Wilson, Tommy Blake, Ed McKinney, Bobby ris, David Ashby, Malcolm Stephans, George Smith, Gail Chadwick, Joe Randall, Council- Ludlow, Bobby Nichols, Alvin Moore, Marvin Goings, Meg Scott, Wanda Lect, Kenneth H. man Delton Cox, Jim Fry, J.B. Adams, Jay Northcutt, Gene Sockey and Jan Randall. Smith, Lowell Nichols, Z.B. Anderson, Con Cusher and Eugene Ludlow.

Stigler Talihina

Veterans honored at Stigler are as pictured, Matthew Kemp, Veterans honored at Talihina include John Anderson, Virgil Sam, Cecil Watson, Jearl Watson, Carl McIntosh, George Davis, Larry Franklin, Phillip McCann, Pat Rose, Wen- Marion McCurtain, Gary Crank, Walter Dye, Venson Going, Wilburn Bacon, Edward Carter, John Emmert, dell Dennis, Bill Clemmings, Dixon Lewis, Robert Maxwell, Dan- Everett Wood, Franch Johnico, Don Lanning, Harry James, Sylvester Moore, Monty Olsen, Dallas Seeley, Al- ny Hoyt, Roy Crittenden, Donald Busse, Eugene Branum and len Dukes, Jewett Potts, Marie Waggoner, Eugene Felkner, Jack England, Darryl England, Cecil Brown, Russell Mike Scatlen. Transue, Michael Sexton, Sherman Ward, Lloyd James, Cornelius Winship, Paul Massey, Perry Durant, Bob Emmert, Edna Johnico, Hagin Collins, Jimmy Miller, Bobby Coley, Ronnie Stewart, Joe Jones, A.C. Ritter, C.J. Perera, Francis Johnson, Fred Humphreys, Olen McRorey, Jack Parks, Charles Waggoner, Sharon Anderson, Dave Sparks, Larry Ross, Thomas Wall, Richard Hollenbeck, James Robinson, Don Wooverton, John McDonald, “This nation will remain the Harold Boye, Jan Richardson, T.K. Todd, Floyd Martin, Bobby Murray, Ed Nixon, Woodrow Allen, Clifford An- derson, James Weeden, Lee Gipson, James Abbott, Ted Ariola, Billy Ramer, Theodore Hines, Thomas Garrison, land of the free only so long Lawrence Branscum and Councilman Kenny Bryant. as it is the home of the brave” – Elmer Davis Land of Liberty

Wilburton Wright City

Veterans honored at Wilburton include Alfred Harley, Sequoyah Roberts, Ray White, Veterans honored at Wright City include Benny Ray Austin, Luther Battiest, Presley Bob White, Bill McCord, Marge Rizor, Pete Swaffard, Eric Newman, Wayne Scott, Ron- Battiest, Frank Nahwooksy, David Davis, Albert Tom Jr., Robert Thompson, Charles Holt, nie Woodruff, Cleve Jefferson, Jerry Cantrell, Kenneth Adams, Marvin G., James Noley, Daniel Herndon, Ernest Snow, Jonathan Wilson, Alvis Donaldson, Bobby Mussett, Frank Cornelius Sam, Homer Noley, Jimmy Labor, Leo Jack, Swain Jack, Robert Prock Jr., Ron Cunningham, John Shelton, David Keyes and Cyrus Battiest. Phipps, Leonard Draper, Bill Hall and John Hart. July 2011, BISKINIK, Page 16 Choctaw Nation

Labor Day Festival 5k Run Youth Fitness Challenge Plyometric Boxes • 40 Yard Dash • Sled Pull • Agility Drills Race Begins at 8 a.m. FAST PITCH Friday, Sept. 2 SEPTEMBER 2-4 September 3 on the Council Chambers lawn at the Choctaw Capitol Grounds in Tushka Homma, Oklahoma Tushka Homma, Oklahoma Event is for youth 8 to 18 years of age – Deadline for entry is August 12, 2011 – Race day registration is from 6:30-7:45 a.m. Registration at 5 p.m. – Contest starts at 6 p.m. For more information, please call 580-924-8280 north of Crossroad Cafe or toll-free 800-522-6170, ext. 2224, or fill out on U.S. Hwy. 271, 5 miles north of Clayton. A T-shirt will be given to each participant the application below and return to our office. All entries must be postmarked by Aug. 29, 2011. who finishes the challenge. This event is for anyone looking to improve their fitness level Name of team______Age Categories and Awards and have a great time doing it. It is open to all fitness levels, athletes to non-athletes. Contact Person______Age 12 & under • 13-15 years • 16-19 years For more information, call Jason Campbell Address______and succeeding 5-year age brackets at 800-522-6170, ext. 2787. up to 70 and older for women and 75 years and older for men. City/State/Zip______Top three finishers in each age bracket for men Phone______and women will receive medallions. Please circle one: RACE DIRECTOR Neal Hawkins – 580-924-8280, Ext. 2319 Choctaw Nation Men’s team or Women’s team Race Coordinator – DG Productions, LLC I know that running a road race is a potentially hazardous activity. Co-Ed and return to: I should not enter and run unless I am medically able and properly Larry Wade trained. I also know that although police protection will be provided, Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma there will be a possibility of traffic on the course. I assume the risk P.O. Box 1210 of running traffic. I also assume any and all other risks associated Volleyball Durant, OK 74702-1210 with running this event including, but not limited to falls, contact with other participants, the effects of the weather, including extreme cold and wind, and the conditions of the roads, all such risks being Tournament known and appreciated by me. Furthermore, I agree to yield to all emergency vehicles. I also am fully aware that baby strollers and Saturday, September 3 wheels of any kind (except competitive wheel chairs), animals Youth Advisory Board (aside from canine participants in canine and human race) and head First 12 teams accepted Members of the Youth Advisory Board/Youth Empower- phones are strictly prohibited and I agree not to go back onto the Maximum 10 players per team ment will be on the playground during the Labor Day Fes- course after finishing. Knowing these facts, and in consideration tival weekend. of your accepting my entry, I hereby for myself, my heirs, execu- Team Name______tors, administrators or anyone else who might claim on my behalf, Saturday, September 3 Sunday, September 4 covenant not to sue, and waive and release and discharge any and all race sponsors, race officials, volunteers, Choctaw Nation of Team Captain______8:30-9:30 a.m. – Craft 1:15-2:15 p.m. – Craft Oklahoma employees and volunteers, tribal police including any 9:45-10:45 a.m. – Craft 2:30-3:30 p.m. – Craft and all of their agents, employees, assigns or arising out of, or in Address______11-11:45 a.m. – Craft 3:45-4:30 p.m. – Craft the course of, my participation in this event. This release and waiver 12:15-12:45 p.m. – extends to all claims of every kind of nature whatsoever, foreseen or City/State/Zip______Scavenger Fitness Hunt unforeseen, known or unknown. The undersigned further grants full 1-2 p.m. – Craft permission to sponsors and/or agents authorized to them to use any photography/videotapes, motion pictures, recordings or any other Home Phone______2:15-3:15 – Craft record of this event for any purpose. Work Phone______Please Print RV GATE CHECK-IN TIMES Name______Mail entry to: Check-in times for RVs will be as follows. Please make arrangements to Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma arrive and check in at your respective RV gate during one of these times. Signature______Co-ed Volleyball Tournament Wednesday (8/31) 7 a.m.-10 p.m. P.O. Box 1210 Waiver must be signed Date______Durant, OK 74702 Thursday (9/1) 8 a.m.-12 midnight Attn: Rebecca Hawkins Friday (9/2) 8 a.m.-12 midnight Applications for minors accepted only with a parent’s or guard- Saturday (9/3) 8 a.m.-12 midnight ian’s signature. Deadline for entries: Sunday (9/4) 8 a.m.-10 p.m. 4:30 p.m. August 19, 2011 Address______For more information: City/State/Zip______580-924-8280, Ext. 2212 or 2258

Telephone______3-on-3 Basketball Age as of September 3, 2011______Sex (M/F)______2011 Labor Day September 4 3-on-3 Category / Division Tribal Member (Y/N) ______Team Name ______• Kids Co-ed 10-13 Contact ______• Teen Co-ed (HS only) Address ______• Men - Young Guns Basketball Entertainer Schedule City/St/Zip ______• Men - Old Timers Check one T-shirt size only Phone ______Mail entry form + $40 Cashier’s Check or Money Order (Adult) S____ M____ L____ XL____ XXL____ by August 28, 2010, to: Friday, Sept. 2 Labor Day 3-on-3 Basketball September 3 P.O. Box 1909, Durant, OK 74702 ALL PERSONAL CHECKS WILL BE RETURNED Detach and send entry form to: 6 p.m. - Neal McCoy – NO EXCEPTIONS 8 p.m. - 38 Special Category / Division Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma 10 p.m. - Clay Walker Attn: Neal Hawkins Team Name______• Kids Co-ed 10-13 5KM Road Race/Walk Saturday, Sept. 3 Contact______• Teen Co-ed (HS only) P.O. Box 1210, Durant, OK 74702-1210 6 p.m. - Ronnie Milsap Address______• Men - Young Guns 8 p.m. - Jamey Johnson City/St/Zip______• Men - Old Timers Phone______10 p.m. - Gary Allan Sunday, Sept. 4 Mail entry form by August 28, 2011, to: Labor Day 3-on-3 Basketball 9 p.m. - Third Day TOUGH, TOUGH P.O. Box 1909, Durant, OK 74702 CHOCTAW

Saturday, September 3 on the Council Chambers lawn Registration at 4:30 p.m. • Contest starts at 5:30 p.m. Prizes awarded for first and second places.

Anyone under 18 years of age must have parent sign waiver. Free T-shirts to participants. Mulligans 2/$10 For more information call Jeremy Loper at 1-800-522-6170, ext. 2407, or e-mail [email protected].

8th Annual Art Show September 3, 10 a.m. - September 4, 2 p.m. on the second floor of the Choctaw Capitol Museum. Artist applications must be postmarked by July 31, 2011. Pieces will be accepted until August 20, 2011. July 2011, BISKINIK, Page 17

Benny Barcus Sr. OBITUARIESArvil O’Roark Anthony Cole Atoka area resident, Benny Bar- Arvil L. O’Roark, 68, of Broken Atoka area resident, Anthony Grant cus Sr., 50, passed away on May 11, Bow passed away on May 10, 2011. Cole, 41, passed away on May 17, 2011, in Atoka. He was born on May Arvil was born Nov. 28, 1942, in 2011, at Denison, Texas. 23, 1960, to Elmer and Ruby (Sexton) Buckeye, Ariz., the son of George He was born on Aug. 5, 1969, to Barcus, in Ruidoso, N.M. He attend- and Edith (Ellis) O’Roark. He and Irvin and Norma (Scott) Cole, in Tal- ed school in Ruidoso and went on to Barbara Steenburgh were united in ihina. He graduated from Atoka High work at the B&B lumber yard for 13 marriage in Modesto, Calif., on Nov. School in 1988. He was a product as- years and had his own lawn service. 10, 1960. Arvil was a U.S. Air Force sembler for New Horizons and was a Benny married Dawn (Whitmire) on veteran and had lived in Ceres, Calif., member of Coal Creek Cumberland April 8, 1985, at Atoka. He was of the for 63 years before moving to Broken Presbyterian. Anthony enjoyed read- Baptist faith and loved deer hunting and spending time out- Bow in 2006. Over 40 years, he served in the ministry as a ing and collecting comic books, watching sports, western mov- doors. Church of God pastor and teacher. Arvil was presently serv- ies and spending time with his friends and family. He was a He was preceded in death by his parents; brother Marvin ing as an usher and teacher at the Broken Bow Church of God member of the Choctaw District 10. Anthony was a huge Star Barcus; and children, Nita Barcus and Benny Barcus Jr. where he was a member. He was a very hard worker, a prayer Wars fan. He is survived by his wife, Dawn Barcus of the home; chil- warrior, and enjoyed fishing and tinkering in his spare time. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister Donna Mayo; dren, Katrena Barcus, Lance Barcus, Brett Barcus, Brock Bar- He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Edith and great niece Isabinda Cole Anderson. cus and Tabitha Barcus, all of Atoka; grandchildren, Tamia O’Roark. He is survived by his siblings, Ernest Lee Cole, Sherman Shaw, Devan Shaw and Dominic Shaw, all of Atoka; siblings Arvil leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Barba- Edward Cole and Irvin Cole Jr., all of Wardville, Lorene Scott Elmer Barcus Jr. and Lee Carnes of Caney, Marian Davis of ra, of the home; one son, Arvil O’Roark Jr. with wife Angela of of Tupelo, Pay Mayer with husband Edward of Coalgate, Terry Dallas, and Anita Leflore with husband Leon of Atoka; spe- Broken Bow; three daughters, LaDawn Self with husband Rick Leon Cole with wife Pam of Phillips, and Regina Anderson cial nephews, Ricky Leal with wife Lisa of Atoka, and Mi- of Cloudy, Geneva Keck with husband Steve of Idabel, and and Gary of Ada; brother-in-law Eugene Mayo of Texas; aunt chael Barcus of Broken Bow; good friend Donna Burleson of Rebekah Sturgeon with husband James of Broken Bow; three and uncles, Betty Johnson of Antlers, Charlie Scott of Atoka Stringtown; and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and other brothers, Harold O’Roark of Tulsa, Fred O’Roark of Ceres, and Leroy Scott with wife Christine of Atoka; along with spe- relatives and friends. Ray O’Roark of Henryetta; 12 grandchildren; five great-grand- cial cousins, numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives and children; along with numerous nieces, nephews and friends. friends. Anna Sweat Benny Phelps Anna Sue Sweat, 78, of Hartshorne passed away on April 9, 2011, at a local nursing home. Aiden Willis Benny Dale Phelps, 68, of Old Al- Born Jan. 15, 1933, in Haileyville to Jesse Charles Huskey lison passed away on April 22, 2011, and Nevada Belle (Crow) Huskey. She married Eugene Sweat Aiden Tyrese Willis, infant son of Amy Willis, was born May after a brief battle with cancer. He on March 15, 1950, in Fort Smith, Ark., and moved to Cali- 23, 2011, in Idabel. Jesus said in Luke 18:16, “Let the little was born Oct. 3, 1942, in Durant to fornia that year. She raised her family there and returned to children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom Ted and Lois (McDaniel) Phelps. Hartshorne in 1987. She was a member of Haileyville Baptist of heaven belongs to such as these.” Benny graduated from Achille Church and the Eastern Star. She loved to work with her hands. He was preceded in death by his maternal great-grandpar- High School in 1960. He married his She was very proud of her Choctaw heritage. ents; one aunt, Belinda Willis; and one cousin, Nathan De- childhood sweetheart Marvetta Kim- She was preceded in death by her parents; her grandson, Wayne Willis. brough at Bushnell Baptist Church on Robert Eugene Odom; and sister Nevada Pearl Barker. Aiden leaves to cherish his memory, his mother, Amy Wil- June 24, 1960. He retired from Chev- Survivors include her husband, Eugene Sweat of the home; lis of Idabel; grandparents, Racheal E. Shomo and Carmelo ron Oil Company in 1996. He was a deacon and long-time three daughters and sons-in-law, Diana and Steve Bayley of Martinez, both of Eagletown; a sister, TaJarae Hart of Idabel; member of Fairview Baptist Church. Benny loved to play golf Valley Springs, Calif., Kathryn Morrow of Hartshorne, Betty four aunts, Nikisha Willis of Idabel, Laquanta Willis of Idabel, and was a member of the Durant Country Club. It was there he and Gary Lane of Port Townsend, Wash.; a son, Victor Sweat Martika Willis of Oak Hill, and Amber Shomo of Eagletown; achieved two holes-in-one for which he was very proud. Ben- of Haileyville; five grandchildren, Lena Odom, Michael Houk, four uncles, Michael Willis Jr. of Durant, and Jimmerson Wil- ny was proud of his Choctaw/Chickasaw heritage and was a Matthew Mullin, Jennifer Tomaras and Zach Morrow; five lis, Chimon Willis and Ambrocio Shomo, all of Eagletown; nu- member of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. He also enjoyed great-grandchildren, Trey Wilson, Skylar Moncur, Mikayla merous great-aunts, great-uncles and cousins. antiquing, tending to his plants in the greenhouse and spending Odom, Kadianna Tomaras and Tucker Tomaras; one brother time with his family and friends. and sister-in-law, Jesse Charles and Jean Huskey, of Chandler; Jimmy Coleman Benny was preceded in death by his parents, Ted and Lois and numerous nieces and nephews. She will be greatly missed. Phelps; brother Billy Phelps; and sister Pat Edelen. Jimmy Dale Coleman, 78, of Ro- Benny is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Mar- Garland Richards land passed away on April 27, 2011, vetta; daughter Gina Harris with husband Steve of Old Al- in a Fort Smith hospital. He was a lison; son Jason Phelps with wife Angie of Old Allison; son Garland L. Richards passed away on May 11, 2011, at Mer- retired U.S. Army Master Sgt. and a Rayford Phelps with wife Melissa of New Allison; grandchil- cy Memorial Health Center in Ardmore. He was born July 4, veteran of Korea and Vietnam where dren, Whitney Malott with husband Keith, Tanner Anderson, 1934, in Gas City to Dewey and Opal Nelson Richards. Gar- he was awarded a Bronze Star. He Shelbi, Jaron and Jaxon Phelps, all of Old Allison, and Trevan land married Geraldine Mays on April 30, 1960, in Lawton. He was a member of the Army Histori- and Mallory Phelps of New Allison; great-grandson Maddox graduated from Comanche High School in 1955 and worked at cal Society and the American Legion Anderson of Old Allison; brothers, Bob Phelps with wife Ann High Sierra in Velma. He enjoyed going to the lake and ball- Post 0213. Mr. Coleman was also a of Old Allison, and M.J. Phelps with wife Billie of Garland, games with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He also retired schoolteacher from St. Boni- Texas; sister-in-law Myrna Albert of New Allison; step-grand- enjoyed going to pow wows, trade days and loved horse racing. face Catholic School and a member of Blessed Kateri Catholic children, Ashley Pamplin with husband Nathan of Tishomingo, He was the grandson of Nellie Mae Spain, who was an original Church. Steven Harris of Ada, and Lauren Harris of Ada; step-great- enrollee. He was preceded in death by his two wives, Rhea Coleman grandchildren Blakelyn and Kendall Pamplin of Tishomingo, He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Jack and and Sue Burns Coleman; and by his son, Jimmy David Cole- Hunter and Jagger Harris of Ada, and Alex Townsend of Potts- Jerry Richards; and a son, Gerald Null. man. boro; and many other nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Garland is survived by his wife, Geraldine of the home; chil- Survivors include his two daughters, Tresa Daniel of Lib- dren, Shirland Jo Pike with husband Bob of South Lake, Texas, erty, and Beverly Clay of Muldrow; two stepdaughters, Mary Creson Watson and Billy Null with wife Donna of Boise, Idaho; sister Nell Carolyn Harper of Otis, Ore., and Debra Helms of Greenwood, Jo Bowen of Comanche; grandchildren, Kim Zaher of Haslet, Ark.; one stepson, Jim Burns of Fort Smith, Ark.; one broth- Creson Watson, 93, passed away Texas, Chanley Pike of South Lake, Texas, Chris Null and Lyd- er, Billy Coleman of Fort Smith; three grandchildren and one on Jan. 19, 2011. He was born Sept. ia of Wesville, Mandy Null of Oklahoma City and Kristie Null great-grandchild. 8, 1919, in Bethel, the son of Robert and Jammie Null of Boise, Idaho; great-grandchildren, Nathan and Ella Battiest Watson. He married Carson, Kenzlee Zaher, Kylee Zaher, Kaden Affleck, Graeson Nadine Parker Susan Kaniatobe Watson on Feb. 29, Garcia, Tyler Moore, Blade Null, Jace Null and Chance Null. 1948, and they were married for 34 Nadine S. Parker, 83, passed away years. on Nov. 29, 2010. She was born on He enlisted in the Army on March Nov. 3, 1927, in Caddo to Eulin G. 20, 1945, and served as a patrolman Vernon Bryant and Jewell L. (Dillard) Stevens. She and sharp shooter in the 45th Infantry. graduated from Phillips High School He was awarded several accommodations for his service in- Vernon Noah Bryant, 73, of Bokoshe, passed away May 3, in 1944 and continued her education cluding the Asiatic Pacific Theatre Campaign Ribbon, an Army 2011, at The Oaks Nursing Home in Poteau. Mr. Bryant was at Freed-Hardeman College in Hen- Occupation Ribbon (Japan), Victory Ribbon and one overseas born in Oklahoma City on March 9, 1938, the son of the late dersonville, Tenn. She worked most service bar. After being discharged on Jan. 3, 1947, he started Melvin and Wina (Thomas) Bryant. He worked as a Union Iron of her life as a nurse until her retire- working as a mechanic. Creson was a laborer most of his life Worker. ment. She moved to Bryan County in and instilled hard work and discipline in his children. He is survived by Kitrena Roberson of the home; brother April of 2005 from Amarillo. She was a member of the North- Creson was a man of faith who encouraged his children Howard Bryant of Bokoshe; sister Louwanda Bryant of Okla- west Church of Christ and the Choctaw Seniors and she en- to have faith and love in God. He enjoyed playing the piano homa City; and a host of relatives and friends. joyed reading, crossword puzzles, crocheting, arts and crafts, at Brighter Day Church in Los Angeles, and sang in a gos- gardening and cooking, but her greatest joy in life was her fam- pel quartet in the late ‘60s and early ‘70s. He had a wit about ily. Nadine will be greatly missed by all who knew her. him and loved his family dearly. His grandchildren and great- Doki Jack Nadine was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Jim, grandchildren were his pride and joy. He always prayed for Bill, Dow, Grover, John and Garland Stevens. safe travels for his family when they visited him in the nursing Doki Jack, 71, passed away on May She is survived by her daughter, Judy Coley with husband home. His last prayer was incoherent but they got the message. 6, 2011, in Amarillo. Doki was born Jim of Colorado Springs, Co.; son Thomas R. Parker with wife He was preceded in death by his parents; his wives, Susan on Jan. 12, 1940, to Lucille and An- Cheryl of Houston; sister Mary Ellen Evans with husband Don Kaniatobe Watson, Vivian Watson and Mary Watson; and a drew Jack on the Indian reservation of Amarillo; three grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and son, Charles Alan Watson. in Wilburton. Doki moved to Ama- many other relatives and a host of dear and loved friends. Creson is survived by sons and daughters-in-law, Randall rillo with his family at the age of 17. and Rita Watson of Broken Bow, Hank and Barbara Watson of He joined the Navy in 1958 and was Virgil Cantrell North Glenn, Co., George Watson of Idabel, Amon and Jean- stationed in California. He married nie Watson of Albuquerque, N.M., and Chris Watson of Dallas; Carolyn Cochran in 1961 and they Virgil Anthony “Tony” Cantrell, daughters and son-in-law, Hannah Bryan of Durant, Pamela continued to live in California and 50, passed away April 22, 2011, at Gutierrez of Allen, Texas, Christina and Stanley Loretto of Je- raise their family there. Doki worked in maintenance at Colum- Denton, Texas. mez Pueblo, N.M., and Andrea Yellowfish of Mesquite, Texas; bia College until retirement in 2000. Doki and Carolyn moved Virgil was born on Sept. 20, 1960, 27 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; many other relatives back to Amarillo in 2005. in Artesia, N.M., to Louis LaVern and a host of friends. Doki loved his Lord and was very active in his church. He Cantrell and Josephine (Sewell) also loved to go camping and returning back to Oklahoma Cantrell. Beverly Thornton to visit relatives. He always looked forward to attending the Tony attended Dickson Schools as Choctaw Labor Day Festival with his family. He loved each a child. He was a carpenter by trade Beverly Charlene Thornton, 71, and every one of his grandchildren and looked forward to their and worked throughout the area. He of Houston passed away on May visits. Doki and Carolyn celebrated their 50th wedding anni- served his country by enlisting in the Oklahoma Army National 10, 2011, after a brief illness. Bev- versary on April 9, 2011, with family and friends in Amarillo. Guard and served until he received his honorable discharge. erly was born to Watie and Lovie Doki was preceded in death by his parents, Lucille and An- Tony enjoyed working crossword puzzles and was a movie Plumlee on Feb.13, 1940, in Okla- drew Jack; brothers, Doyle Jack and Ricky Jack; sister Bobbi buff. His heritage as a Mississippi-Choctaw and his family homa City. She was a devout Chris- Jack Thomas; and great-niece Tamra Kennedy. were very important to him. tian her entire life. Doki is survived by his wife, Carolyn Jack; two daughters, He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Nettie New- Beverly retired after 20 years of Doni Jack, and Tish Jack Caddell with husband Scott Caddell man, Teena Coppedge; brothers, Lenny Cantrell, Wiley Gene employment with Tideland Signal. of Anchorage, Alaska; son Michael Jack of Amarillo; grand- Sewell; and nephew Adam Waltz. Beverly was a proud member of the children, Derek Jack and Briana Jack of Sonora, Calif., Alex- Virgil is survived by his daughters, Haley Amanda Cantrell Choctaw Nation. She is remem- andria Caddell and Remy Jack Caddell of Anchorage; brother of Tulsa, and her two children, Tommy James Millsap II with bered by all as a woman with a joyful zest for life and a strong Leo “Sonny” Jack with wife Janeice of Amarillo; nephews, wife, Taylor Shea-Lynn Millsap, of Dickson, and Angela Dun- love for her family. Beverly enjoyed traveling and never met Bruce Thomas with wife Janet, Curtis Thomas of Amarillo, can and her two children of Wichita, Kan.; one brother, Eddie a stranger. She loved to sing, play the piano, paint and sketch. Shane Thomas with wife Christina of Borger, Texas, Randy Cantrell with wife Mary Kay of Ardmore; three sisters, Tanda Beverly is survived by her son, Stephen McLeod; grand- Jack with wife Donna, Cody Jack with wife Ronda of Pan- Duncan with husband Danny of Madill, Iva Jo Jones of Ard- daughter Che’ Ward; great-grandchildren, Andrew and Bran- handle, Texas; nieces, Connie Jack Kennedy with husband, more, and Camille Bean of Ardmore; nephews, Jay Hoskins, don Ward; sisters, Delores Fennell and Kathryn Reichardt; Tommy, Angie Jack Melton of Amarillo; aunt Skeet Labor with Bob Newman, Tim Maxville, Dustin Keith and Charlie Bean; nieces, Linda Janney, Debbie Fitzhenry, Cynthia Cicchetti, husband Peachy of Pittsburg; uncle John Labor of McCurtain; nieces, Cheryl Kay Hudson, Mary Butler, Audra Bell, Jessica Laura Reichardt, Angela Webster, Karen Strong; and her neph- and numerous cousins. Bean, Molly Cantrell; and a multitude of friends. ews, Terry Burke, Michael Burke and Larry Reichardt. July 2011, BISKINIK, Page 18

Florrainia Kniss OBITUARIESDelores Pike Edward Wilson Jr. Florrainia J. Kniss passed away on Delores Anne Pike passed away on Edward Lewis Wilson Jr. passed May 11, 2011. She was born on July May 7, 2011, in Victorville, Calif. She away on March 18, 2011, in Dallas. 28, 1923, in Shady Point, the young- was born on April 2, 1973, at Antelope He was born Jan. 13, 1920, in Valiant est of Moses and Pearl Folsom. Her Valley Hospital in Lancaster, Calif. to Nina Selph and Edward Lewis. He father was an original enrollee of the She was married to her husband was a graduated of Woodrow High Choctaw Nation. Frank, for 19 years. She was very out- School and received a degree in Ar- She graduated from high school in going and also a caring mother who chitectural Engineering from Texas Tulsa. She was in the last cadet class enjoyed her time with friends and A&M. He married his sweetheart, of nurses at Hillcrest Hospital in Tul- family. She was proud of her Choctaw Jean Marie Haley, before serving in sa during World War II. heritage. Europe in the 6th Armored Division. After finishing her nurses training she went into government She is survived by her husband Frank; sons, Jeremy, Gabriel, After returning from World War II, he established Edward L. service with the U.S. Public Health Branch of Indian Affairs. Frank Jr., Dustin, Daniel and Dylan; daughter Tiffany; broth- Wilson Consulting Engineers, where he was responsible for the She started her nursing in Indian Service at Claremore Indian ers, Thomas, Mark and Robert; sisters, Kely and Brooke; par- initial layout of Brook Hollow Industrial District and Stem- Hospital. She worked in all positions from staff nurse to Direc- ents Carla Gough and Roy Hockenberry. mons Freeway as well as over 300 schools, many country clubs tor of Nurses during her 10 years of service in Hoopa, Calif., and hospitals across Texas and the Mid-South region includ- Phoenix, Ariz., Talihina and Tahlequah. ing the current Dallas VA Hospital. He was awarded the 1990 She left government service in 1958 to be at home with her Associated General Contractors Building of the Year Award. family. The family moved to Texas in 1963. She worked part James Bruner Ed was a member of the Highland Park UMC for over 60 time in several different areas of nursing while the daughters James Henry “Jim” Bruner, 80, years, where he served as a scoutmaster for Troop 82 and on were at home. In 1981, she took a full-time position as health passed away on Jan. 25, 2011, in the church board. He was active in his community as a town counselor to a large generic group and retired after 10 years Antlers. He was born Sept. 13, 1930, councilman for Highland Park, an early sponsor of the Dallas because of health problems. in Holdenville to Arthur J. and Izora American Indian Methodist Church and member of the Dallas She took interest in money organizations and volunteered a (Walker) Bruner. Country Club. great deal of time at Richmond State School, now termed Rich- Jim married Jody Nabors at the He was preceded in death by his parents; sister Jane Wilson mond State Supported Living Center, in Fort Bend, Ark., long First Baptist Church in Holdenville Hooper; wife Jean Marie Haley Wilson; and son William Haley term disability committees and served on the advisory commit- in 1949. He was of the Baptist faith Wilson. tee of the Department of Human Services in Texas. and enjoyed singing and spending He is survived by his sister, Ruth Wilson Keeton; son Edward She was proud of her Indian heritage, collected Indian art, time with family and friends. Lewis Wilson III; daughter Sarah Wilson Andry with husband pottery and baskets. She compiled a fair size library of books Jim was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Richard; grandsons, Samuel Hayes Wilson, Thomas Lewis of Indian history. She will be missed by friends and family who Johnny Lee Bruner, Leon Bruner and Tippie Bruner; and two Wilson and John Christopher Andry; granddaughters, Gretchen knew her over a period of 87 years. sisters, Johnnie Mae Kalinich and Minnie Ruth Faxon. Andry Reynolds and Amber Zumbro Hunt; and great-grand- She was preceded in death by her parents and both sisters. He is survived by his wife, Jody of the home; brothers, daughters, Yarden Andry Reynolds and Blake Salome Andry. She is survived by her husband, Ken; daughters, Anita K. Arthur Bruner Jr. with wife Janelle of Tulsa, Jack Bruner Smith and Karen Kniss, both of Sugarland, Texas; grandson of Midwest City, and Harry R. Bruner of Seminole; sisters, Dovie DeBord Ronald L. Smith; former son-in-law Ronnie Smith; three niec- Cowena Sue Anderson with husband Jimmy of Shawnee, es and two great-nieces. and Doreen Buck of Holdenville; special cousins, Betty Kee Dovie Jean DeBord, born Dovie (Potter) of Antlers, and Jeanine Ferguson of Hugo; as well as Jean Le Flore, 74, passed away on Ruby Harman many other relatives and friends. April 15, 2011, in Ardmore. She was born Jan. 10, 1937, in Talihina Ruby Lou Blackwood Harman Odell Nichols to Wilmond Wallace Le Flore and passed away on April 4, 2011, exact- Lillie Hyatt Le Flore. She married ly one month after turning 96 years Odell Nichols, 77, of Smithville, James A. “Jimmy John” DeBord Sr. old. There was only one Ruby Lou passed away on Dec. 19, 2010. He on Dec. 26, 1957, in Ardmore. Blackwood Harman. She was proud was born Sept. 14, 1933, in Hatfield, Dovie was born the third daughter of her Native American heritage, Ark., to Austin Brown Nichols and in a family of 10 children in eastern being one-half Choctaw. She was a Ara Cusher Nichols. He was united in Oklahoma. She was raised by her older sisters after their moth- loving and giving person, and stood marriage to Edna Phillips on April 9, er died when Dovie was 10 years old. Her forefather walked strong in her faith and praised the 1960, Mr. Nichols was a truck driver the Trail of Tears with the Choctaw tribe. His parents drowned Lord in all that she did. She is a true by profession and owner and opera- while crossing the Mississippi River, leaving him with three al- inspiration to all that knew her. tor of Nichols Grocery in Smithville. lotments of land. Dovie Jean DeBord neé Le Flore was a direct Born March 4, 1915, in Foster, to Lucinda and Belve Black- He proudly served his country in the descendent of Greenwood Le Flore, who was once chief of wood, she lived on the same farm until she met and married U.S. Navy from Feb. 5, 1952, to Feb. 5, 1960. He was in the the Choctaw tribe. Greenwood was the son of a niece of Chief Albert. When she was a kid, she always wanted to “move like Korean War and served on the USS George Clumer touring Pushmataha. Dovie loved her children and had many hobbies my friends did.” She thought it would be fun to live in a differ- in China, Formosa, Philippines, Okinawa, San Diego, Pearl such as ceramics and her animals. She was proud that all of ent house after living on the same farm all of her first 18 years. Harbor, Japan and Korea. He was a member of the Big Lick her children graduated from high school. She was a volunteer She soon found out moving was no fun. Presbyterian Church. Mr. Nichols was a 32nd degree Mason. firefighter in Thackerville. After she met and married Albert, the moving started. They He was a loving father, grandfather, brother and friend. He She was preceded in death by her parents; one son, Billy G. lived in Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico and Illinois, in several enjoyed playing horseshoes, hunting and spending time with DeBord; son-in-law Larry Fleck; four brothers and two sisters. towns twice. She always found the church in the towns before his family and friends. He will be greatly missed. Dovie is survived by her husband, James Sr., of Thacker- she found a place to live. The last move was to Denver City, He was preceded in death by his parents, Austin and Ara ville; her children, Coy Sue Fleck, Emmitt W. DeBord, James Texas. Nichols. A. DeBord Jr., Jerry D. DeBord and Eugene DeBord; 11 grand- Albert passed away in December of 1987. She lived alone He is survived by his wife of the home, Edna; two daugh- children and one great-grandson. for 12 years, and then moved to Granbury, Texas, in a retire- ters, Debbie Conley with husband Patrick, and Donna Jones ment center for a while, then with her son, Walton. After her with husband Jesse, both of Smithville; three sons, Odell daughter-in-law passed away in 2004, they moved to Wimber- Nichols with wife Vickey of Smithville, Tony Nichols with Rachael Willis-Armstrong ley, Texas. wife Lisa of Hatfield, Ark., and Joseph Nichols with wife Ma- Rachael Marie Willis-Armstrong, Ruby had fond memories of her life, such as her first sight rissa of Broken Bow; sister Jean Bass of Poteau; two broth- 25, of Pittsburg passed away on May of an airplane and her first ride on a train. She would reminisce ers, Bobby Nichols with wife Barbara and Paul Nichols with 24, 2011, in Blanco. She was born of riding in a wagon rather than a car. She also lived through wife Nancy, both of Poteau; 13 grandchildren and three great- Feb. 5, 1986 in Oklahoma City to Carl the Great Depression and 14 presidential terms, from Hoover grandchildren. Wilson and Tina Marie Willis. She to Obama. graduated from Pittsburg High School She is survived by her son, Walton Harman with wife Ruthie; in 2005. She married Dustin Arm- daughter June Shipp; three grandchildren, Denise Shipp Say- Kenneth Sims Sr. strong on July 23, 2005, in Pittsburg. lors, Scott Harman with wife Ami, and Leslie Harman; two She attended Eastern Oklahoma State great-grandchildren, Mariah Saylors and Addison Harman; Kenneth Ray Sims Sr. passed College. She worked as a shift man- along with numerous nieces, nephews and friends. away May 11, 2011, at his home in Robertsdale, Ala., with his daughter, ager at the Tandy Town McDonalds. Rachael enjoyed working Launa Faye Medlock sister and niece by his side. He was and spending time with her children and family. born on Sept. 19, 1939, in Seagraves, She was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Launa Faye Medlock, 78, of Stig- Texas. Robert and Clara Willis; uncles, Matthew Willis and George ler, passed away on March 14, 2011, He was proud of his Choctw heri- Willis; and an aunt, Roberta Autauabo. in Bartlesville, with her daughters by tage. His grandmother, Sally Ken- She is survived by her daughter, Emily Armstrong, of the her side. She was born Oct. 29, 1932, nedy LeFlore Ward was an original home; her son, Andrew Armstrong, of the home; father of her in Stigler to Adam and Eliza (Jack- enrollee of the Choctaw Nation. His children, Dustin Armstrong of the home; mother Tine Marie son) Christy. grandfather was the late cattle baron, Walter Augustus “Gus” Wilson and Clifton Peterson of Krebs; stepfather Carl Wil- Launa began school in Cass and Ward of LeFlore. He was a man who loved the Lord Jesus son of McAlester; sister Angilena Willis and Casey Plyler of went on to graduate from Stigler Christ and wanted all to know Him as he knew Him. Krebs; aunt Sandee Holder with husband James of Kiowa; High School in 1952. After gradua- He was preceded in death by his mother, Nellie Marie Ward uncle Marcus Willis with wife Mandy of Ada; mother-in-law tion, she moved to Tulsa to work and Sims; father Denmon Alexander Sims; daughter Kelly Marie Sheryle Spear with husband Mike of Pittsburg; and numerous enjoyed being independent. She treasured the time she spent Sims; brother and sister-in-law, Jerry Denmon and Janet New- cousins, family members and friends with her girlfriends and often talked of their “single” days. brough Sims. She married James Kenneth Medlock on Oct. 17, 1953. She He is survived by his sons, Michael Keith Sims, Kevin Barbara Pierce-White fondly recalled a time early in their courtship when he walked Ward Sims and Kenneth Ray Sims Jr.; his daughter, Kimberly her home “all the way from town,” and gently held her hand. Ann Sims; sister Shirley Sims Tranum Krieger with husband Barbara “Bobi” Pierce-White, 78, After their marriage, Launa continued to live in Tulsa while Stephen Krieger; nephews, Jerry Sims with wife Karen, Rev. passed away on June 7, 2011, at her Kenneth traveled for his job with the Kansas City Southern Dennis Sims with wife LeAnne, and Jathan Sims; and two home in Billings. Railroad. They made their home in Stigler in 1957 when their nieces, Becky Sims Owens with husband Donald, and Lori Bobi was born on April 19, 1933, first daughter, Debbi, was born. Launa went on to work for the Fry. in Vernon, Texas. She grew up in Oklahoma Department of Human Services, and retired in 1990 Texas and New Mexico. She moved after 27 years of service. Cecil Carney to California after high school, and After Kenneth’s death in 1994, Launa continued to have a it was there that she learned to sell positive outlook on life. She loved to travel and took her fam- Cecil Chestine Carney, 55, passed aircraft parts and supplies. Through ily on many memorable trips. She enjoyed her close circle of away April 12, 2011, at Ardmore. sheer courage, determination and her friends, and thrived on the fun times she had with them. When Cecil was born June 10, 1955, in brilliant mind, she developed her knowledge and sales skills she was “gallivanting around” with her two sisters, Amelia and Lawton to Cephus Carney and Era and opened her own business, Kelly Jennings, which became a Delores, people often had difficulty telling them apart. Launa Mae (Underwood) Carney. multmillion-dollar operation in Burbank, Calif. will be remembered for her lively nature and teasing ways. Cecil attended Mannsville schools Bobi was a genius with words, a master at relationships and She loved animals and was especially partial to dogs and as a child. He worked for the City of sales, and an unconditional lover of people, especially her fam- cats. Over the years she provided a nurturing home to many. Ardmore most of his life and in the ily. People were drawn to her through her ability to listen with- Launa had moved to Bartlesville to be closer to family. She past four years he worked for First out judgment. There is no telling how much good she did for resided at the Sterling House. Launa was a proud member of Staffing. He was an avid wood carv- so many people, through her kindness and willingness to listen. the Choctaw Nation. er and was known for making walking canes and peace pipes. She was preceded in death by her father, Blackie “Chock” She was the beloved mother of two daughters, Debbi Ary Cecil loved riding his motorcycle and attending car shows. He Jennings; mother Eula; son Rocky; sisters, Paula, Gig and with husband, Terry, of Bartlesville, and Kim Wigger with hus- also enjoyed playing pool. Penny; brother Sonny; brothers-in-law, George and Darnell; band, John, of Naperville, Ill. She was the oldest sister to Ame- He was preceded in death by his mother; two brothers, Mel- nephews, Eric and David; and niece Donna. lia Steen with husband, Jim, of Stigler, Aglae Lawson with hus- vin “Gube” Underwood and William Tyson; an uncle, Andrew Bobi is survived by her husband Russell; her daughter, Mi- band, Marvin, of Eucha, and Sandra Leonard of Pittsburg, Kan. “Bud” Underwood; and aunt Geraldine “Babe” Mose. chele; granddaughter Sunshine; grandson Jack; great-grandson She was the cherished grandmother/awma to Jessica Ary, Kyle Cecil is survived by his one son, Waylon Gene Carney of David; sisters, Linda and Joy; her lifelong best friend, Fredye; Ary, Adam Wigger and Jackson Wigger. She is also survived Oklahoma City; father of Las Vegas; five brothers, Sonny Ty- beloved caregiver, Jeanne; and numerous cousins, nieces and by her brother-in-law, Herman Medlock of Holdenville and nu- son with wife Cindy, Charley Carney, Calvin Carney with com- nephews. merous nieces and nephews. panion Patricia, Richard Carney with wife Angie and Thurman The family is grateful to all those who have assisted Bobi Launa was preceded in death by her husband of 41 years, Carney with companion Linda; two sisters, Nora Lampkin with during her long illness, particularly Dr. Guzman and Marlene Kenneth Medlock; her parents, Adam and Eliza Christy; her husband Raymond and Gloria Battice with husband David; a at Billings Clinic, and the wonderful people from Riverstone three brothers, Gilmore Christy, Adam “Sonny” Christy and very special nephew, Brandon Battice; as well as numerous Hospice. May God bless you for each gift of kindness you have Haskell Christy; and one sister, Delores Holloway. nieces, nephews and cousins. given. July 2011, BISKINIK, Page 19 OBITUARIES Thomas Hyde Barbara Giddens Rena Canon Thomas Gordon Hyde, 78, a long- Barbara “Choo Choo” Giddens, 49, Rena Jeanette (Phipps) Canon, 53, time Atoka area resident passed away of Broken Bow passed away on June of Wilburton passed away on May 30, on June 15, 2011, in Atoka. He was 16, 2011, at her home. The daughter 2011, at her home. born on Oct. 18, 1932, to Thomas Lee of Elias Roberts Sr. and Josephine Rena was born July 2, 1957, to La- Hyde and Muriel (Thomas) Favors, (Bohanan) Roberts, she was born July vada Pate in Hartshorne. She grew at Atoka. He graduated from Tushka 23, 1961, in Talihina. up in McAlester and graduated from High School in 1951 and attended On July 8, 2005, in DeQueen, Ark., McAlester High School in 1976. Rena Murray State College and Southeast- Barbara and Willie B. Giddens were enjoyed writing poetry, gospel music, ern Oklahoma State University where united in marriage. fishing and cooking. he received his bachelor’s degree. Barbara was affiliated with the Rena was preceded in death by her Thomas served his country in the U.S. Air Force during Korea White Sands Church and was a lifetime resident of McCurtain mother, Lavada Pate; and brothers, Ruben Phipps and Rudolph and Vietnam. He was retired from the military, from the De- County. She enjoyed crossword puzzles, reading her Bible, and Phipps. partment of Human Services and the Department of CPS. He helping the elderly at the nursing home where she worked as a She is survived by her sons, David Alexander Canon with was an avid Tushka Tiger fan, a member of the Tushka Baptist CNA. She kept her family together, and she was known to put wife Angie, Glenn Mick Canon, Ronald Ross Canon, and Church, and he enjoyed raising horses. others first. She was a good wife, mother, and sister. Christopher Michael Canon, all of Baytown, Texas; daughter He was preceded in death by parents, Thomas Lee Hyde and Barbara was preceded in death by her parents; her two Brandie Nichole Wilcox of Baytown; brother Ronnie Phipps Muriel (Thomas) Favors; stepfather Juddie Favors; siblings, brothers, Marvin and Ricky Roberts; a sister-in-law, Burnett with wife Jill of Blocker; sister-in-law Elisa Holdrigde of Harlon, Roger Neal, and Donald Hyde, Barbara (Hyde) Had- Rhymes; and a nephew, Leonard Giddens. Grapevine, Texas; grandchildren, Abigail Canon, Samantha dock and Phyllis (Favors) Jensen. She is survived by her husband, Willie Giddens of the home; Canon and Ella Wilcox; uncles, Bob Pate of McAlester and He is survived by his children, Glenn Roger Hyde and Cor- one son, Johnathon Giddens of Broken Bow; a daughter, Cas- Jack Pate with wife Lucy of Talihina; aunt Lahoma Hottubee of rina Jayne Hyde, both of Atoka; siblings, Donna (Favors) sidy Giddens of the home; a brother and sister-in-law, Elias Tuskahoma; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and other Mulkey with husband Mike, and Sandra (Favors) Banker with Roberts Jr. and Phyllis Roberts, of Broken Bow; five sisters family and friends. husband Jacky, both of Tushka; brother-in-law Stan Jensen of and brothers-in-law, Evelyn and Nicholas Tom of Phoenix Tushka; sisters-in-law, Sue Hyde of Tushka, and Betty Hyde City, Ala., Donna and Domingo Rodriguez, Virginia and Mel- of Caddo; grandchildren, Ashley Nicole Hyde, Tiffany (Hyde) vin McCleskey, Faye and Wayne Anna, all of Wright City, and Mella Ponce Hokett with husband Jason, both of Atoka, and Jennifer Ann Betty and Willard Crosby of Durant; two grandchildren, Johna- Mella L. Ponce passed away on Eden of Caney; six great-grandchildren; along with numerous than Giddens Jr, and Ja’Kaybrean Giddens; numerous aunts, April 28, 2011, in Plano, Texas. She cousins, nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends. uncles, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins was born June 18, 1935, in Oklahoma. and friends. Mella had a long and pleasant life Danny Garcia filled with good friends and much joy. The world is a better place for many Danny “DJ” Garcia, 45, of Kinta Ellen Brewer people because she was in it. She will passed away on April 23, 2011, in Sti- be missed by all. She is now united Ellen Melvene Brewer, 64, of Talihina passed away on June gler. He was born on Aug. 16, 1965, for eternity with God and her beloved 11, 2011, at her residence. in Talihina to Loyd Perry and Alice husband, Joe, who preceded her in Mrs. Brewer was born on Dec. 17, 1946, in Divide, the Wanda (LeFlore) Mayhall. He loved death. daughter of the late Melvin and Florence (Alexander) Ben. being in the woods and enjoying the Mella is survived by daughter Julie Van Horn with husband She worked as a coordinator of the Choctaw Nation Hospi- outdoors. Bob; granddaughters, Kelsey and Jacque Van Horn; sisters, tality House at Choctaw Nation for several years. Her favorite He was preceded in death by his Carol Burke, Cecile Cowling with husband Cecil; chosen sis- hobby was going to garage sales. She cherished her family and parents; four brothers, James, Fred, ter, Watha Stroud; special friends, Natalie Gedney and Doris spending time with her grandchildren. She was the member of Larry and Franklin; and two infants. Bucey; and many nieces and nephews. He is survived by six sisters, Juanita Conkright of Checo- Assembly of God Church and enjoyed attending church and tah, Mary Garcia of McCloud, Mary Alice Cravens of Broken the activities. Bow, Virginia Lee of Oklahoma City, Mabel Lee of Keota, and She was preceded in death by her father, Melvin Ben; broth- Norris Meashintubby Anna James of Fort Smith, Ark.; three brothers, Carl Mayhall ers, Melton Moe Ben, Donnie Ray Ben; nephew Jeffrey Ben; of Stigler, Loyd Mayhall of McCurtain, and Boyd Dewayne grandparents, Granny and Dad Alexander; aunts and uncles. Norris Wayne Meashintubby, 28, Garcia of Boonville, Ark.; best friend Mark Wiedemann of Sti- She is survived by her sons, Tim Brewer of the home, Jason passed away on April 30, 2011, at the gler; along with numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and and Jenna Brewer of Talihina; mother Florence Ben of Divide; Choctaw Nation Health Care Cen- great-nephews. sister Janie and John Emmert of Talihina; brothers, David and ter in Talihina. He was born June 17, Janice Ben of Clayton, Ronnie and Janie Ben of Clayton, Ron- 1982 in Talihina. He lived in Talihina Mackey McBride nie and Thelma Miller of Lexington; father of her children, all his life and graduated from Tali- Gilbert Brewer of Talihina; special niece, Sheila Stegall; her hina High School. He enjoyed playing Mackey Joe McBride, 52, of Po- Shih Tzu, Annabell; grandchildren, Kirstie Brewer, Cloie Fau- sports and playing with his son, nieces teau passed away on June 12, 2011, in dere, Brody Harris, William Harris; numerous aunts, uncles, and nephews. He also enjoyed going Fort Smith, Ark. Mackey was born on nieces, nephews other relatives and friends. fishing. July 12, 1958, in Talihina to Wilmer He was preceded in death by his father, Archie Meashintub- Odes “Sam” and Drucille (Ritter) Mc- Georgia Coombs by; grandmothers, Lena Meashintubby and Reba Meashintub- Bride. He was a mechanic at Lum’s. by; stepbrother Roger James; and nephew Mark Meashintubby. He was preceded in death by his Georgia Lee Sanders Coombs, 91, He is survived by wife Austrina; son Norris Jr.; mother, Mary parents; sisters, Neva Tackett and of Baytown, Texas, passed away on Lou Meashintubby of Talihina; four brothers and three sisters- Cynthia Holderfield; and brother, Ray May 25, 2011. She was born in Choc- in-law, Norval and Delissa Meashintubby of Eugene, Ore., Na- McBride. taw County on Feb. 29, 1920, and than and Annette Meashintuby of Fort Smith, Ark., Neville and Survivors include his wife, Robbie “Billie” of the home; three married in Boswell on Aug. 12, 1940. Alicia Meashintubby, and Archie Meashintubby Jr. of Talihina; sons, James Black of Heavener, Daniel Black of Panama, and Two attributes define and describe two sisters, Sherry with Isidro Balderas of Fort Smith, Ark., David Black of Muldrow; 12 grandchildren; five sisters, Pat her journey in this life: she was an and Shirley Trejo from Talihina; four stepbrothers, George Vinson of Noble, Gail Mayer of Poteau, Shirley Picklesimer outstanding, devoted and dedicated James, Delbert James, Eddie James, all of Talihina, and Bobby of Poteau, Sammie Thompson of Panama, and Becky Maxell member of the “Greatest Generation,” James, of Oklahoma City; three stepsisters, Marilyn James, of Poteau; two brothers, Sam McBride of Carlsbad, N.M., and and she cherished her family above all Lisa Rodriguez and Renee Ludlow, all from Broken Bow; Tim McBride of Hackett, Ark.; along with numerous nieces, else. stepmom Christina Meashintubby from Talihina; five neph- nephews, other relatives and many friends. She was preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, James ews, Kyle, Nakoma, Brandon, Neville Jr. and Nehemiah; seven Norman Coombs. nieces, Jalonda, Dedra, Davita, Dalita, Melanie, Annissa and She is survived by her daughters, Jerri Lynn Grimland of Alyssa; great-niece Neela Meashintubby; three great-nephews, Nina Mae Eckel Cypress, Texas, Linda Marge Lubrick of Seabrook, Texas, Kamron, Isiah and Joshua; also, numerous family and friends. Dorothy June Hamel of Nekoosa, Wis., and Georgia Yvonne Nina Mae Eckel, 83, of Okla- Flanagan of Baytown; son Jimmie L. Coombes of Austin; 12 homa City passed away on June 27, grandchildren; and many great and great-great grandchildren. Jimmy Wade 2011. She was born Oct. 26, 1927, in Newalla to Edna Dee and Ervin Per- Jimmy Lee Wade, 59, of Calera, cival. She was married to William E. Linda Harris passed away June 10, 2011, at OU Eckel for 59 years and retired from Medical Center in Oklahoma City. Lucent in 1991. She attended the Linda Harris, 58, of Talihina passed The son of Hanson and Josephine Family Church of God. away on May 28, 2011, at Hillcrest (Fobb) Wade, Jimmy was born May She was preceded in death by her Medical Center in Tulsa. 2, 1952, in Talihina. He was a mem- parents, husband, and son Ronnie Mrs. Harris was born in Ludlow on ber of the Mt. Zion Church in Pickens. Eckel. June 2, 1952, the daughter of the late Jimmy loved being around his family, Survivors include son Mike Eckel; daughters, Lana Stewart Jackie and Emma (Smith) Williams. visiting (always having to have the with husband Bill, and Linda Houston with husband Bill; sev- She worked as a LPN at Talihina last word) and building relationships en grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and a great-great Veterans Center. She always enjoyed with new family members. He made bead medallions in Native grandson. and took pride in her job. She also en- American designs and enjoyed things such as fishing, squir- joyed being outdoors, gardening and rel hunting, watching football and Dodgers baseball, reading Fred Duke spending time with her family. She married Donnie Harris in Native American books and building 1957 Chevy model cars. 1972 at Tuskahoma. He was preceded in death by his parents, Hanson and Jose- Fred Duke, 94, a longtime Atoka She was preceded in death by both parents. phine Wade; and one nephew, Elijo Noah. area resident, passed away on June 2, She is survived by husband Donnie Harris of the home; Jimmy leaves to cherish his memory, one brother, Thomas 2011, in Durant. He was born on Oct. sons, Donnie Harris Jr. of the home and Shawn Harris of Ta- Noah Sr. of Battiest; one sister, Joyce Gilmore and Kenny of 24, 1916, in Winters, Texas, to Samu- lihina; six grandchildren; sisters, Ann Brown of Talihina, Do- Calera; two nephews, Thomas Noah Jr. and Kenneth Lee Gilm- el Roger and Nellie Kathryn (Glenn) risie Waggoner of Grand Prairie, Texas, and Winnie Brown of ore Jr.; four nieces, Chris Lee Noah, Geneva Josay, Josephine Duke. Campbell, Texas; along with numerous nieces, nephews and Rose Gilmore and Sgt. Tawny Marie Gilmore; several great- He attended Grapevine Schools other relatives and friends. nephews, great-nieces, cousins and friends. and went on to become a truck driv- er, a farmer/rancher and a member of Teamsters 745 Dallas. He retired Wanda Schwilling Irene Gibson in 1969. Fred married Beatrice Iva (Tomlinson) on Sept. 21, 1956, in Atoka. she preceded him in death in 1987. He later Wanda Louise (Foster) Schwilling, Irene Amos Gibson, 91, of Pauls Valley passed away May married Clovis Lavada (Belvin) on Sept. 24, 1988, in Coal 92, a resident of Carson, N.M., passed 31, 2011, in Pauls Valley. She was born Feb. 8, 1920, in Byars County. He was a member of the Coalgate Seventh Day Ad- away on June 22, 2011. She was to Bennett and Cornelia (Jackson) Amos. Irene attended the ventist and Teamsters local union # 745. born April 6, 1919, in Blanchard to Sequoyah Indian Boarding School near Tahlequah in Chero- He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Beatrice Iva Robert and Myrtle Foster. Her father kee County. She later married Raymond Gibson on March 22, (Tomlinson) Duke; brothers, James Roger Duke and Albert was an original enrollee of the Choc- 1939, in Stratford. Lee Duke; sisters, Mildred Mary Forshee and Opal Pauline taw Nation. Wanda graduated from Garvin County has been her home all of her life. She worked McPhail; nephews, Jeremy Glen McPhail, Jimmy McPhail, Blanchard High School and attended in Church Convention, WMU and Association. She was a and J.R. Duke; niece Beverly (Burns) Evans; and stepchild the University of Oklahoma majoring homemaker who loved her family and her pride and joy were Carolyn Hall-Ned. in home economics. her grandchildren. He is survived by his wife, Lavada Duke of the home in Ato- Wanda married Joseph Allen Schwilling and together they She was preceded in death by parents; her husband of 56 ka; stepchildren, Pamela Cole with husband Terry, James Fra- raised four children; Joseph Allen Schwilling Jr., Stephen years at his passing on Dec. 2, 1995, Raymond Gibson; a zier with wife Vickie and Rebecca Pickens with husband Eu- Foster Schwilling, Mary Sharon Wilbur, and Larry Douglas daughter, Ethel Wallace; two sons, Lester Gibson Sr. and Ches- gene, all of Coalgate, Delores Lewis with husband Gaylon of Schwilling. Wanda was a homemaker who loved gardening, ter Gibson; three grandchildren, Candice Gibson, Johnny Wal- Stratford, Joni Gonzalez of Purcell, William Frazier with wife sewing and making quilts for all her children and grandchil- lace Sr., and Jason Gibson; a daughter-in-law, Linda Gibson; Shelia of Atoka, Stephen Frazier with wife Marquette of Ward- dren. She instilled in her family the values of honesty, strength five brothers and three sisters. ville, Lucinda Kuykendall with husband Billy of Cartwright; of character, and kindness to others. Surviving family include her four sons, James and Darlene nieces, Frankie Jean Milner with husband George of Dallas, She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Al- Gibson of Pauls Valley, Clifford and Della Gibson of Durant, Judy Herriman with husband Eldon of Burleson, Texas, Nancy len Schwilling; her son, Larry Schwilling; grandson Joseph Joe Gibson of Wynnewood, and Anthony Gibson of Tonkawa; McPhail Ward with husband John of Leominster, Ma.; nephew, Schwilling III; three sisters; and a brother. one sister-in-law, Agnes Ned of Pauls Valley; 25 grandchil- Bobby Lee Duke with wife Emma of Bartonville, Texas.; along She leaves three children, 11 grandchildren, and nine great- dren, 46 great-grandchildren, 33 great-great-grandchildren, with numerous other relatives and friends. grandchildren to carry on her values. and a host of nieces and nephews. July 2011, BISKINIK, Page 20 Choctaw ‘arrowheads’ capture interest Archaeological sites of arrowhead finds should be recorded and protected for future generations

Hello, being hunted in the Choctaw I would like you to please homeland. tell me anything you can As time passed, different about Choctaw arrowheads. projectile point styles were Thanks, Iti Fabussa developed in different ar- Ed eas of the country. Around from southwest Alabama to 12,000-9,200 years ago Dal- Dear Ed, eastern Mississippi and can ton points (labeled “B” in Photo provided This is a great question be- be quarried in large blocks. picture) became the most cause arrowheads capture the Other types of stone that our common style in the Choctaw Different types of stone projectile points made through time in the Choctaw homeland. interest of so many people, ancestors sometimes used homeland, and across most of and also because answering for making projectile points the southeastern U.S. These the question requires us to include petrified wood and points are finely pressure look at Choctaw traditional certain types of quartzite flaked. Heavy resharpening lifeways and history in a way from local river deposits, suggests they were often used that can help dispel a few Fort Payne chert from the as knife blades. common misconceptions. middle Tennessee valley, After Dalton, a prolifera- Opening this discussion Coastal Plain agate from tion of different projectile might even raise awareness southern Alabama, Bangor point forms began to be used to help Tribal members bet- chert from northern Ala- in the Choctaw homeland ter protect our ancestral and bama, and clear quartz crys- and surrounding areas. A few sites. Thank you! tal (Allan 1983:139; Ensor of the most common point Let’s begin with a couple 1981:9-11). Choctaw people types include the Kirk Cor- of quick facts that may sur- living in Mississippi in the ner Notched point (“C” in prise some of our readers. early 1900s told John Swan- the photo), which dates from First, 99.9 percent of the ar- ton that their ancestors also 8,500-6,500 BP; the Little rowheads found in south- collected a “hard yellow or Bear Creek point (D), which eastern Oklahoma were not white flint” on the Pearl Riv- dates from 4,500-3,000 BP; made by Choctaw people, er in Mississippi and other the Mulberry Creek Point but rather by the ancestors stone from the Tallapoosa in (E), which dates to around of indigenous tribes, such as central Alabama (Swanton 4,000 BP, the Wade point the Caddo and Wichita, who 2001:49-50). According to a (F), which dates from 3,200- lived here for millennia be- second hand account given to 1,500 BP, and the Flint Creek fore the Choctaw arrived on a WPA recorder in the 1930s, point (G), which dates to the Trail of Tears. In Okla- after the Trail of Tears, some 3,000-1,700 BP. Photo provided homa, Choctaw arrowheads, Choctaws living in Okla- Most, if not all of the types particularly stone ones are homa traveled to the Salli- of these projectile points Choctaw arrow points, left to right; stone, deer antler (Type 1), deer antler (Type 2), gar very, very rare. Second, the saw area to collect stone for were made for use as knife fish scale, wooden fishing point, sharpened river cane, blunt wooden point, rolled metal majority of the stone “ar- making arrow points (Kelly blades, spearheads or the point. rowheads” that people find in 1937(2):391). heads of a kind of throwing Oklahoma really have noth- Just like car styles and spear known as the atl-atl (the ing at all to do with arrows, shoe styles today, our ances- atl-atl will itself soon be the In Choctaw country, the Vega, gives us a unique look what tribe made them. Un- but were actually used as tors designed and adapted topic of an Iti Fabvssa arti- thin, corner notched Collins into a Southeastern Native fortunately projectile points spearheads and knife blades. their projectile points to cle). Archaeological evidence points and Jacks Reef points quiver in the 1540s: made in the variety of styles Only the smallest ones, often meet available raw materials, suggests that the bow and may represent the first true … the Indian took his just described are not specific called “bird points,” were put needs, tastes, and arrow is not some- arrowheads. Thereafter, un- quiver and, placing it in to one tribe, but were shared on the end of arrows. developing technol- thing that Native notched, triangular Madi- front of him, drew out by different groups living in, Through time and space, ogy. This means that Americans have al- son (“G” in the picture) and very slowly, one by one, and sometimes far beyond the our ancestors and the peo- through time, pro- ways had, but rather Hamilton points began to be the arrows which were in Choctaw area. However, be- ple around them made their jectile point styles that our ancestors produced in great numbers. it, which were admirable cause projectile points styles projectile points (spear and have changed. The imported it or in- These were the type of stone for the refinement and can often be dated fairly ac- arrowheads) from a variety oldest stone pro- vented it, possibly points that tipped Choc- skill that had gone into curately, other information of available raw materials jectile points regu- several times in the taw arrows up into the early their making. They were can sometimes be brought including wood, river cane, larly found in the past. Although de- 1700s. all made of reeds: some into play to help make some bone, antler, and stone. Most Choctaw homeland bate surrounds the In the 1700s, some Choc- had heads made of the educated inferences about of the old projectile points are referred to by exact timing and lo- taws started using a new raw points of deer’s antlers their tribal origin. For ex- that people find today are archaeologists as cation of the bow’s material, bottle glass obtained finished to extreme perfec- ample, a rolled metal arrow stone. This is because this “Clovis points.” first appearance in from Europeans, to chip tools tion, with four corners like point dating to the 1850s, material is hard and durable, These are medium North America, it is (Voss and Blitz 1988:133), the points of a diamond; found in Pushmataha Co, has and the projectile points made to large sized lance- Photo provided clear that it did not and probably also arrow others had fish bones for a good chance of being Choc- from it have survived, while let shaped projectile become the domi- points. Nevertheless, during heads, marvelously fash- taw, because Choctaws were most of the points made from points with concave A prob- nant weapon in this century most Choctaw ioned for use as arrows. living in the area at the time, the other materials have long bases, and flutes, able Choctaw/ the Southeast until people quit using stone ar- There were others with and are known to have used ago turned to dust. or large flake scars Chickasaw around 1,300 years row points all together. Only the heads of palm wood arrow points like these. Simi- Stone projectile points are that travel from the arrow point ago. How do we a few stone arrow points are and other strange and du- larly, a 3,000 year old stone made only from special types base towards the from Boggy know this? known to have been found at rable timber that grows point found in the same coun- of rocks; many of these are tip of the point (see Depot, Atoka Around 700 AD, Choctaw settlements in Mis- in that country. These ar- ty is not likely to be Choctaw, very generally to as “flint” in Clovis point labeled County OK. Native American sissippi dating to the 1700s rowheads had two or three because our ancestors were English, or “tasvnnuk,” in the “A” in photo). (Confeder- communities in the and early 1800s, (e.g., Ward barbs as perfectly made living several hundred miles Choctaw language (Byington Clovis points are ate Memorial Southeast began to 2004:39), while they are in the wood as if they away in the Southeast at this 1915:342; also see Swanton also found in Okla- Museum) mass-produce a new common on contemporary had been of iron or steel time. 1998:24-25). These types of homa, and across type of stone pro- Chickasaw sites just to the (1993:190-191 [1596]). One final, and very serious stone have a high silica con- the United States jectile point. These north (Johnson 1997:226). Arrow points of all of these note: “Arrowhead” collect- tent, a very small grain size, from coast to coast and from points were much smaller, A few Choctaw individuals types have been found on ing is a hobby for many and a and an amorphous internal Canada down to Central lighter weight, and narrow probably continued to make Choctaw archaeological sites business for some. However, structure. This gives them America (Collins 1999:35). than most of the point styles stone arrow points after the dating to the period, and on every time a point is picked the glass-like properties of They date to about 12,900- that had come before. Experi- Trail of Tears in Oklahoma. Choctaw arrows that survive up and carried away, a little being hard, brittle, internally 12,300 years ago (BP) and mental research has shown Today, a number of Choctaw in museums. In addition to bit of the sacredness of that consistent, and smooth to the were made by people who that these points work effi- people are part of a nation- these, flaming arrows were ancestral spot is forever lost. touch. lived in small groups that ciently on arrows. Attach one wide renaissance in the art probably also sometimes em- If no permanent record is Like glass, these rocks traveled great distances by of the earlier, heavier point of stone-tool making, and ployed in warfare (Thompson made of where the point was also break with a conchoi- foot, making their living by styles to an arrow, and it will Choctaw-made stone projec- 2008:250-328). found, a little bit of the re- dal fracture. This means that hunting and gathering. The drag the light arrow to the tile points have become more Other less common ar- cord left by our ancestors is long, thin, sharp flakes can be world that they experienced ground a short distance after common than at any other row tip materials used pre- also permanently destroyed, chipped from the stone. All of was quite different from to- it is fired. Independent stud- time in the last 200 years. colonially in the Southeast along with the knowledge these characteristics allow a day’s, with, giant animals ies of the rare surviving early Choctaw arrow points were include native copper, bones that we could have gained skilled person to sequentially such as mastodon, ground stone-tipped arrows confirm and are made from many oth- from large mammals and fish about them. chip the stone in a predicable sloth, cave bear and glypto- the connection between small er types of material besides (Verazzano 1841:45 [1524]), Collectors and looters have way in order to shape it a dont living and sometimes stone points and arrows. just stone. Garciliso De la turkey spurs (e.g., Adair and still are destroying Choc- projectile point or other tool 1775:457), viper teeth (Spark taw sacred sites and burial (This complex process will 1906:121 [1565]), shell, grounds all too frequently, itself be the topic of an up- shark’s teeth (Barlowe, repro- often arrowhead by arrow- coming Iti Fabvssa article). duced in Swanton 1946:572), head. It is illegal to collect ar- Our ancestors collected and stingray spines (see Alley rowheads from the surface on rocks for making projectile and Hamm 1999:71). most federal lands and on all points in several different Finally, from at least the tribal property; digging them parts of the Choctaw home- mid-1500s on, some South- up is a felony. land. One of their favorite eastern arrows were tipped If readers know of archae- types of stone, today called with points made from iron, ological sites, we strongly “Tuscaloosa chert,” comes in brass, and steel obtained encourage them to contact the form of yellow or brown- from Europeans (Spark the Choctaw Nation Historic ish cobbles found in the grav- 1906:121 [1565]). The most Preservation Department (1- el bars of streams located in common type of point on 800-522-6170 ext. 2216), so northeastern Mississippi and surviving Choctaw arrows in that the site can be recorded northwestern Alabama, such Oklahoma, dating to the late and protected for future gen- as the Tombigbee River. A 1800s and 1900s, is a rolled erations of Choctaws. Please second type of stone, which conical point made from met- contact this same number for they commonly used, is to- al. Simpson Tubby, one of a list of the works cited in this day called Tallahatta Quartz- Swanton’s Choctaw consul- article. ite. The word “Tallahatta” ac- tants mentioned metal arrow If you have any questions tually comes from a Choctaw tips being fashioned from concerning Choctaw history term “tvli hatta,” meaning women’s corsets (2001:49). or culture, please mail to “white rock,” and is probably Sometimes Choctaws also Iti Fabussa c/o BISKINIK, the original name by which obtained metal arrow points P.O. Box 1210, Durant, OK our ancestors called this par- from blacksmiths. 74702, or e-mail to biski- ticular type of stone. Today, people often see [email protected] Photo provided Tallahatta quartzite out- or find projectile points, and with “Iti Fabussa” in the sub- crops in an area spanning Choctaw youth at Culture Camp (2007), learning to chip stone points. naturally begin to wonder ject line.