Paying respect, Labor Day and much, Festival much more at information Choctaw Days

Jones Academy Throughout Page 8 Pages 12-13 this edition

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BISKINIKThe Official Publication of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

July 2012 Issue

Choctaw Nation: LISA REED Choctaw Days in Nation’s Capitol Council holds Military Stickball June session The Choctaw Nation Tribal team takes Council met in regular session honored June 9 at Tvshka Homma. In the meeting the Choctaw at second top prize Nation Boys and Girls Club By SHELLEY GARNER application for a grant was dis- Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma cussed, this year marking its annual event 15th anniversary, having 580 By LISA REED Team Tvshka Homma, the members at the Broken Bow Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma’s location. The organization con- official stickball team, captured ducts several programs, includ- Choctaw Days in Washington, the first place trophy at the First ing drug eliminations programs D.C., opened on the first day of sum- Annual Chikasha Stickball and diabetes awareness. The mer with the multi-colored lights of Tournament on May 19. The program promotes academic Choctaw Nation: JUDY ALLEN prisms dancing on a celebration of tournament was hosted by the success, good character, good Choctaw culture. Assistant Chief Gary Batton, right, and Councilman Thomas Willis- Chickasaw Nation at their cer- citizenship and healthy life- The sun’s rays burst through ton, center, place a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier during emonial grounds in Kullihoma, styles. the unique windows of the Smith- a ceremony June 21 at Arlington National Cemetery. Okla. Team Tvshka Homma, The Summer Youth Program sonian’s National Museum of the team Okla Hannali (community has grown since last year, gain- American Indian (NMAI), adding playing the centuries-old game. Choctaw team), and team Chika- ing 200 more participants. Stu- zx See event photos on Pages 12-13 their rainbows to the vibrant colors Inside the museum, displays also sha To’li (Chickasaw Nation) dents are allowed to work five of traditional Choctaw clothing and held information on the Choctaw competed. weeks, 40 hours per week, and jewelry. Dancers filled the circle and Cemetery, the Congressional Cem- Code Talkers and each of the fea- Jeremy Wallace, Chikasha Ka- the program houses 40 coun- performances ranged from singing etery and the war memorials. tured artists – Jane Semple Umsted, putcha To’li’ Coach, presented selors to aid participants. This to flute playing during the four days Stickball exhibitions were held D.G. Smalling, Paul Hacker and the trophy to Josh Riley, represen- program, directed by Angela of the festival, June 20-23. near the reflecting pool by the U.S. Theresa Morris – created new works tative of team Tvshka Homma, at Dancer, exists to enhance the The ceremonies didn’t stay within Capitol building. Visitors to this na- honoring veterans. Smalling, the the Jim Thorpe Native Games on lives of all members and help the walls of the NMAI. As part of tional landmark were drawn by the great-grandson of Code Talker Cal- June 10. Teams Okla Hannali and them grow proud, strong and this year’s focus on Choctaw mili- sound of the drums and whoops of vin Wilson, gave a presentation on Chikasha To’li took second and independent. tary history, delegations traveled to the players. They were thrilled to the Choctaw Code Talkers daily in third places respectively. Selected Council members approved honor veterans at Arlington National watch the Choctaw men and women See CHOCTAW DAYS Page 12 members from all teams partici- the following items on the agen- pated in the Jim Thorpe Native da, among several other issues: Games in Oklahoma City on June • Grant program budget al- 15 and 16. lotted by the U.S. Department Choctaw stickball was recently of Justice Office on Violence Tribal newspaper recipient of featured as integral part of Choc- Against Women Legal Assis- taw Days at the Smithsonian’s tance for Victims Grant Pro- BISKINIK eight Oklahoma Press Association National Museum of the Ameri- gram (Choctaw Legal Assis- can Indian in Washington, D.C., tance for Victims). Better Newspaper Contest awards honored on June 21 and 22. Several mem- • Grant program budget allot- bers of team Tvshka Homma, ted by the U.S. Department of as well as other Choctaw tribal See COUNCIL Page 2 By LISA REED Award, 120 first sues are presented members, participated in exhibi- Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma place plaques to keep readers tion games at the Reflecting Pool u What’s inside were presented up-to-date. Other on the National Capitol grounds The Choctaw Nation of Okla- during the ban- awards included to demonstrate the basics of play Columns...... 2 homa’s newspaper, Biskinik, has quet and news- two third places – and educate about the long-stand- Notes to the Nation...... 3 joined the ranks of other outstanding papers receiving News Writing and ing tradition of stickball. Team Nursery News...... 4 tribal programs and ventures and has second, third Sales Promotion. Tvshka Homma’s next competi- Food Distribution...... 4 been recognized for its efforts with or fourth place The Biskinik en- People You Know...... 6 tive game was at the World Series Education...... 9 eight awards from the Oklahoma received certifi- tered its pages of of Stickball hosted by the Missis- Iti Fabvssa...... 10 Press Association Better Newspaper cates. Labor Day infor- sippi Band of Choctaw Indians in Obituaries...... 11 Contest. The Biskinik competed in Di- mation and brochure in the Sales Philadelphia, Miss., on July 7. OPA held an awards presentation vision 8, which is for Sustaining Promotion event. The Biskinik also To learn more about stickball, The Mission program June 8 at the Reed Center Memberships. First place awards placed fourth in Sports Coverage visit the Choctaw Nation of Okla- of the Choctaw in Midwest City as part of its three- were received for In-Depth Enter- for stickball and Labor Day tour- homa Cultural Services Division day annual convention. The contest prise, a continuing series of history/ naments, Advertising and Personal Nation of Oklahoma website at www.choctawnation- drew 937 entries from 98 newspa- culture columns provided by the Columns by Chief Gregory E. Pyle culture.com. To enhance the lives of all mem- pers and was judged by members Choctaw Nation Cultural Services and Assistant Chief Gary Batton. bers through opportunities designed of the Nevada Press Association. department; Editorial Comment; The Choctaw Nation’s newspaper to develop healthy, successful and The top winners in each of the 10 and Community Leadership for the is mailed to more than 80,000 tribal zx See photos from Cultural Service’s productive lifestyles. recent Stickball Camp on Page 10 divisions took home the Sequoyah informative manner water rights is- See BISKINIK Page 5 BISKINIK | July 2012 | Page 2 Getting ready for Labor Day Festival Combined efforts have extraordinary results From the Desk of Chief Gregory E. Pyle

The summer days are passing quickly which means our La- bor Day Festival is just around the corner. The festival has grown tremendously over the years and is now one of the larg- est events in the area. Drawing thousands of visitors a day, the festival has a major economic impact on nearby towns where most business owners spend months preparing for the increase in customers. The revenue earned during this time is a sig- nificant amount of many local businesses’ income for the year. Our staff has also been busy ordering supplies and making plans for the five days at Tvshka Homma. Crews have visited the Capitol grounds and started getting their areas ready. The behind-the-scenes preparation, coordination and just plain el- bow grease aren’t always evident to those who are enjoying the judges. what the festival has to offer. It takes tremendous teamwork The pageant is just one of several opportunities to enjoy our and I’ve witnessed the extraordinary results of their efforts heritage and culture. The Choctaw Village, open Saturday and year after year. Sunday during the festival, is a great place to learn about how only an example of our own cultural reawakening, it has The Princess Pageant on the festival’s opening night is a the early Choctaws lived, the housing, food, clothing, pottery, strengthened our bond with other tribes. very fitting start to the holiday weekend. The young ladies baskets, arrowheads and everyday tools. Among the many ac- The round of stickball games will begin Friday night along have traveled from every district in our 10 ½ counties to tivities in the circle are social dancing, games and storytelling. with the annual Inter-Tribal Pow Wow on the Capitol lawn, the compete for the titles of Sr. Miss, Jr. Miss and Little Miss. New, permanent lights have been erected on the stickball first games of fast pitch at the softball field, and the first of a They exemplify the Choctaw Nation. They walk onstage with field, ready for our second annual tournament. The Tvshka great lineup of entertainers in the amphitheater. such poise, wearing traditional dresses and jewelry, carrying Homma team recently won first place in a tournament hosted The Assistant Chief, Tribal Council and I hope you are able shawls, baskets or fans, all often made by family members in by the Chickasaw Nation and will participate in its third World to attend this year’s festival with your family. There really the audience. Each of the young ladies is a beautiful, dignified Series of Stickball in Philadelphia, Miss., this month. isn’t a better time or place to experience Choctaw tradition representative of our districts and it’s always a tough job for The revival of stickball among our tribal members is not and all-around fun.

Chaplain’s Corner By the way of the cross

The Gospel of Jesus Christ total affection, and the total is the good news of salva- will. tion or conversion. The Bible There have been many teaches that God is a Holy people who believe the entire God and He is a righteous Bible. They believe all about God. He hates sin. Sin sepa- Jesus, but they have never rates. Sin brings the wrath of been really converted to him. God upon the human soul. A Jesus demands a change in the man separated from God can- way you live – and if your life not and will not find God until does not conform to your ex- he finds the way back to God. perience, then you have every Jesus Christ made the way reason to doubt your experi- back to God by his death on ence. the cross. He purchased man’s There will be a change redemption by the shedding in your emotions when you of his blood. His death and come to Jesus – hate and love resurrection completed God’s will be involved, because you Choctaw Nation: LISA REED plan of salvation. You cannot will begin to hate sin and love Councilman Thomas Williston and Assistant Chief Gary Batton lay a wreath at the think your way back to God. righteousness. Your devotion Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington Cemetery. You cannot worship your way Rev. Bertram Bobb to him will know no bounds. back to God because man is Tribal Chaplain Your love for him cannot be a spiritual rebel. You cannot described. In conversion as Event spreads moralize your way back to it is impossible to live up to the you stand at the foot of the Choctaw Days God, because you are spiritu- Sermon on the Mount. Why? cross, the Holy Spirit makes ally dead in sin. We read in Romans 3:23: “For you realize that you are a sin- knowledge of Now when we think on all have sinned, and come ner. He directs your faith to the focuses on culture, these things, these questions short of the glory of God.” Christ who died in your place. tribe around come to us: What shall we do? Examine or look into your You must open your heart and military history Where shall we begin? What own heart honestly before you let him come in. the world is our road back to God? say a religious conversion is At this moment the Holy From the Desk of I enjoyed hearing them talk about their fa- There is only one way back all right for some but not for Spirit performs the miracle Assistant Chief Gary Batton ther, grandfather or great-grandfather. These to God and that is by the way you. Probably there is more of the new birth. You actually men gave their all for their country, as have of the cross. Jesus said each of confusion about this subject become a new creation. You The duties of Assistant Chief have provid- so many who have followed in the steps of us must accept His plan of sal- “conversion.” What is conver- become a partaker of God’s ed many opportunities for me. This year’s Choctaw warriors for centuries. vation personally. He said in sion? What is involved in it? own life. Jesus Christ, through Choctaw Days is one of the most memora- The humbling story of the small group Matthew 18:3: “Except ye be Why must you be converted the spirit of God, takes up ble. I felt as if we were experiencing the re- of Code Talkers remained on my mind as I, converted, and become as lit- in order to go to heaven? The residence in your heart. God birth of our culture. The Smithsonian’s Na- along with Councilman Thomas Williston, tle children, ye shall not enter word conversion means: to has made the way of salvation tional Museum of the American Indian was was honored to participate in a wreath-lay- into the kingdom of Heaven.” turn around. To change one’s so plain and I read in Isaiah filled with men and women in traditional ing ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Jesus demanded a conversion. mind. In the realm of Christi- 35:8 that “…The way faring Choctaw dress. From the time the museum Soldier in Arlington Cemetery. Riding in the This is how to begin! This is anity it has been explained as: men, though fools, shall err opened until it closed, thousands of people shuttle through the cemetery, seeing row- your way back to God. to repent. To be regenerated. therein.” No man shall ever from all over the world witnessed Choctaws upon-row of tombstones, is a very sobering Now what takes place be- Conversion can take many dif- be barred from the kingdom of making baskets, pottery and jewelry. experience. And there are no words to de- tween the sinner and God ferent forms. It may follow a God because he did not have Table after table filled the Potomac Atri- scribe how I felt as we set the wreath in its through Jesus Christ, which great crisis in a person’s life. the capacity to understand. um with information on our language, his- place of honor. Jesus called conversion? Conversion can be as sudden The rich and the poor, the so- tory, beautiful artwork and flutes. Choctaw We are often faced with problems, and There are many people who as the conversion of pagans phisticated and the simple – all stories were told to the children. Some were to us they may seem insurmountable at the confuse conversion with the who transfer their affection can be converted. To sum it funny and some serious, but all were told in time. I felt very lucky to be a Choctaw from keeping of the law. The Law and faith from idols of stone up, conversion simply means the Choctaw way of teaching a life lesson. Oklahoma. I thanked God for the men and of Moses is set forth in the and wood, to the person of Je- that you are changed by the I saw people taking pictures of our posters women who have been able to return home Bible and the purpose of the sus Christ. spirit of God. A converted per- so they could remember the interesting facts from fighting. I was thankful our Code Talk- law is made clear. We read in Not all conversions come son may even withdraw from they were reading. ers returned to raise families and I prayed for Romans 3:19: “Now, we know as a sudden, brilliant flash that his worldly companions, not Choctaw Days paid special tribute to our all who never came home or were wounded that what things soever the we call a crisis conversion. because he despises them, for military history. It was very moving to hear in battle. law saith, it saith to them who There are conversions that many of them will be very our country’s National Anthem sung in the Later that day, my son, David, and I joined are under the law: that every come at a moment of a long decent, but because there is Choctaw language by Sarah DeHerrera, a other Choctaws in a game of stickball, the mouth may be stopped, and all period of gradual conviction more attraction for him in the tribal member who traveled to D.C. from “little brother of war.” We played with the the world may become guilty of their need of the plan of sal- fellowship of other Christians her home in California to be a part of the soaring dome of the Capitol building in the before God.” The law has vation. This process results in of like mind. The converted event. Several descendants of the Choctaw background and enjoyed every minute of it. given a revelation of man’s the acceptance of Jesus Christ person will love what he once Code Talkers also attended, flying in from as Sharing the culture of our tribe is done unrighteousness, we read in as personal savior and in the hated, and hate what he once far away as the state of Washington. best when we are living it. the 20th verse of Romans 3: yielding of his or her life to loved. There will even be a “Therefore by the deeds of him. change of heart about God. the law there shall no flesh be Repentance and faith are in- There will be reverential fear justified in his sight; …” It is volved in conversion. Repen- of God, a constant gratitude to impossible to be converted tance is the starting point in God, a dependence upon God, participants with access to special matched by the keeping of the law. We conversion, the turning from a new loyalty to Him. Righ- savings accounts in which qualified partici- read the rest of verse 20 of Ro- the former life. Faith is turn- teousness and living the Chris- pants receive support from the federal grant COUNCIL mans 3: “... For by the law is tian life will be placed above Continued from Page 1 and Choctaw Nation to encourage partici- ing to Jesus Christ, the objec- pants to save earned income for the pur- the knowledge of sin.” tive point of conversion. Then, all other concerns, for pleasing Justice for the Rural Domestic Violence chase of a home, business capitalization, or The law is like a mirror. We there is another point of con- Christ will be the only thing of and Child Victimization Enforcement Grant to attend higher education or training. see ourselves as sinners, and version, the new birth – we are real importance. Program (Choctaw Project SAFE), which • Budget for fiscal year 2012-13 as set by the law condemns but does not born again or we are regener- Today, you can become a assists in elimination some of those chal- the Department of Health and Human Ser- convert. It points the finger but ated. new person by trusting Jesus lenges by supporting projects designed to vices under the Administration for Children does not offer mercy. There is Now in order to get to heav- Christ as your own personal address and prevent domestic violence, dat- and Families Office of Head Start for the no life in the law. There is only en, Jesus said: “Except ye be Savior. You can trust him as ing violence, sexual assault and stalking. Choctaw Nation Head Start Program. death, for the law said “... The converted, and become as little your Savior right now, by • Application to the Native Asset Build- The Choctaw Nation Tribal Council holds soul that sinneth, it shall die.” children, ye shall not enter into faith. Will you do that today? ing Initiative, which will enable individuals its regular session at 10 a.m. on the second (Ezekiel 18:4) There are those the kingdom of heaven.” (Mat- Pray for America. Pray for and families to become economically self- Saturday of each month in the Council who say that their religion is our leaders. Pray for our men sufficient for the long-term by providing Chambers at Tvshka Homma. thew 18:3) True conversion the Sermon on the Mount but will involve the total mind, the and women in armed services. BISKINIK | July 2012 | Page 3

Newfield Exploration Thank you for educational assistance Events Mid-Continent, Inc. drilling space I have signed an employment contract with the Iowa Nation of Oklahoma, Perkins Family Clinic, to become a full-time em- FSA County Committee nominations To the heirs of original enrollee Daniel Sanders and heirs of ployee once I am certified and licensed by the Oklahoma Board Mary Sanders (Fobb): Newfield Exploration Mid-Continent, of Nursing as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, Certi- The Oklahoma Farm Service Agency (FSA) recently an- Inc. has filed an application for a Multiunit Horizontal Well fied Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner. nounced that USDA will soon begin accepting nomination Cause CD No. 201203476-T in the 640-acre horizontal drill- I cannot thank all of you from the Career Development Pro- forms for eligible candidates to serve on local FSA County ing and spacing units formed for the Sycamore, Woodford gram and the CDIB Administration office enough for your as- Committees throughout Oklahoma. The nomination period is and Hunton separate common sources of supply in Sections sistance for my higher education and employment. June 15 - Aug. 1, 2012. Almost anyone participating or as- 3 and 10, Township 6 North, Range 3 West, McClain County, sociated with agricultural land and who is of legal voting age Bethany “Crolee” Rollins Oklahoma. The surface hole will be in Section 15, Township 6 can be nominated as a candidate. Tribal members are con- North, Range 3 West with laterals in Sections 10 and 3, Town- sidered landowners if their tribe has an agricultural interest ship 6 North, Range 3 West and the bottom hole will be in in the Local Administrative Area (LAA) and they live within Section 3, Township 6 North, Range 3 West, all in McClain Appreciative of Choctaw Color Guard the LAA. All nomination forms must be received in a Coun- County, Oklahoma. On behalf of our entire family, we would like to say thank ty FSA Office or postmarked by Aug. 1, 2012. Voting takes Newfield Exploration Mid-Continent, Inc. is also seeking to you or the service the Choctaw Nation Color Guard performed place between Nov. 5 and Dec. 3, 2012. establish 640-acre horizontal spacing units for the Sycamore, on behalf and in honor of our brother. The professionalism and For more information about the election or to obtain an Woodford and Hunton common sources of supply in Sections 21-gun salute was just beautiful. We so much appreciate their election map, you can contact your local FSA office in Atoka, 3 and 10, Township 6 North, Range 3 West, McClain County, being able to attend, due to short notice. Hugo, Idabel, McAlester, Poteau or you can contact the Bryan Cause CD No. 201203475-T. They will be vacating 80-acre Our family will always be grateful to the Color Guard for County FSA office in Durant at 580-924-4131 ext. 2, which standup and 160-acre Hunton units. The Andrews #1 well is making this service so special, from Mike and Myra Pierson serves as the local FSA contact office for the Choctaw Nation. producing from the Hunton and that spacing will not be va- and family of Tuttle, Okla., Verda and son David Haines of cated. Tuttle, Jon and Kathy Thompson and family of Blanchard, the Mountain Fork Gospel Singing Convention The hearing is set for Aug. 13 at the Corporation Commis- Spencer family of Tuttle, the Pickens family of Tuttle and Betty sion, Eastern Regional Office, 440 South Houston in Tulsa at Wolfe and family of Moore. The Mountain Fork Gospel Singing Convention meets on 8:30 a.m. For information concerning this action, contact Ron the third Saturday of July and January. The event will be held M. Barnes, Crutchmer and Barnes P.L.L.C., 1648 S. Boston at the Choctaw Nation Community Center in Smithville on Ave. Ste. 100 Tulsa, OK 74119 or at 918-382-8686 or contact July 21 starting with a morning singing at 10 a.m., a potluck Beverly J. Brown, Newfield Exploration Mid-Continent, Inc., Thank you for meal at noon and an afternoon singing at 1 p.m. One Williams Center, Ste. 1900 Tulsa, OK 74172 or at 918- If you have any questions, call Ben and Helen Caldwell, 582-2690. financial help President and Vice President, at 580-244-7370 or Meg Scott, I would like to say thank you to Secretary/Treasurer, at 580-244-3073 or at P.O. Box 154 the Choctaw Nation for all of the Smithville, OK 74957. financial help that allowed me to Thank you for enter the LPN program at KTC-Po- commitment to education teau. I just graduated on June 14 at OILS Free Wills Clinic the age of 58, so it is never too late The story goes that one of my rela- Oklahoma Indian Legal Services, Inc. (OILS) will be hold- to pursue a dream, and thanks again tives donated the land for the Deni- ing a Free Wills Clinic. We will prepare your will at this clinic to the Choctaw Nation for making son Commentary in Idabel, which on July 31 at the Choctaw Nation Community Center located it possible. A special thanks to Cyn- is where my family hails from. My at 1632 George Nigh Expressway in McAlester as well as thia and Bryan Martin, Choctaw Career Development counsel- great-grandmother was a full-blood Aug. 6 at the Choctaw Nation Community Center located at ors at KTC and CASC in Poteau. They do a great job guiding Choctaw; my grandfather, Henry C. 2408 E. Lincoln Rd. in Idabel. Choctaw members in getting the help they need. Denison, and my grandmother, Vollie To register for the clinic, call 800-658-1497 or 580-272- Dyer, married in Idabel June of 1914. David Carmack 0038. Registration is limited, so call as soon as possible. My mother, Edith H. Denison, was born the following year. My OILS is one of two civil legal service programs operating in mother married Lloyd E. Westbrook in June of 1932, also in Oklahoma funded principally by the Legal Services Corp. For Idabel. Both parents, now deceased, are buried in the Denison Thank you for medical help additional information regarding other legal services, please Commentary, along with my aunt, Lavern Howard Willis. As On Nov. 14, 2011, my wife Linda was exhibiting symptoms call OILS at 800-658-1497. you can see, my roots are in McCurtain County. I am proud of of a heart attack at our home in Tushkahoma. Linda is blonde my Choctaw heritage. and fair, with no CDIB, but I decided to bring her to the Choc- Baker family reunion I would like to acknowledge the Choctaw Nation for its com- taw Nation Hospital in Talihina because it is nearest to us. On All descendents of Noel S. and Roxie Loman Baker, their mitment to higher education and for providing grants for my the way, I called the ER to inform them of our situation and she families and all relatives are invited to the Baker family re- educational journey. I just graduated in June from Fuller Theo- was admitted without hesitation. union, which will be held July 27-28, 2012 at the Choctaw logical Seminary in Pasadena, Calif., with a Doctor of Ministry After stabilizing her condition and conducting a battery of Nation community center in Durant, located three miles south degree. Thank you, Choctaw Nation. tests, attending physician, Dr. Work, recommended she be of Durant at 2750 Big Lot Parkway, behind the Big Lots I have been in Christian ministry for the past 25 years. I serve flown to OSU Medical Center in Tulsa, where they have a top warehouse off Enterprise Rd. as a local pastor in Montclair, Calif., and a police chaplain. I cardiovascular team, which I found out later to be absolutely For more information, contact Mary Dale Frazier at 580- am using my education to train young ministers at the King’s true. 298-9842; Tony Bowers at 2260 Woodlake Rd. Denison, TX University, Van Nuys, Calif. Nov. 16, Linda underwent triple bypass surgery and we 75021; Jim Baker at 608 W. Cheyenne Stillwater, OK 74074, Vicki J. Brobeck brought her home Nov. 23. Needless to say, Thanksgiving 2011 or 405-377-6826, (cell) 405-612-1099; or Cora Frazier Stew- was indeed a day of Thanksgiving for our family. art at 918-812-8839. Linda is fully recovered and doing great. I would like to ex- press my gratitude to Dr. Work and the staff of the ER at the Roberts family reunion Compliments to Choctaw Choctaw Nation Healthcare Center in Talihina, and the Choc- taw Nation. The Roberts family reunion will be held Aug. 25 at the Conference from Jena Band Coalgate Community building from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. I would like to take this time and thank you for allowing Folsom White your cultural department and Ms. Sue to participate in our first Choctaw conference of the three Choctaw tribes. It was a Admiration huge success. I really felt a relationship with both Oklahoma Amanda graduates and Mississippi Choctaws at the end of the day, as we are Amanda Kay Warlick, daughter for Chief Pyle really one tribe. We were shown how much our customs, lan- of Bob and Lauren, graduated from On May 24, 2012, I grad- guage and traditions are much the same, we are just located in California State University Fuller- uated from Harvard Univer- different states, but our beginnings were the same. ton in May of 2012. She earned her sity. I would like to offer bachelor’s degree in communica- my sincerest thanks to the Chief B. Cheryl Smith, leadership of the Choctaw Jena Band of Choctaw Indians tion, with an emphasis in entertain- ment studies. Nation for making this pos- Amanda would like to thank the sible. In particular, I would Choctaw Nation department of Higher Education for its finan- like to thank Chief Pyle. Like him, I came from a very modest Gregory E. Pyle Gary Batton cial support through scholarships over the past four years. background. It was his inspiration and example that enabled me to realize that through hard work and determination, I could Chief Assistant Chief achieve my goals. I will never forget, and I shall be eternally grateful. The Official Victim Assistance program Monthly Publication Shannon Morrow of the holds annual training Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma The Choctaw Nation Victim Assistance program, along with Dianne Barker-Harrold, Unified Solution Tribal Development Scholarship assistance Judy Allen, Executive Director Group held its annual training for Victim Service Providers on I recently graduated from the Lisa Reed, Director/Editor April 23 during National Crime Victims’ Rights Week. The Melissa Stevens, Circulation Director University of Central Oklahoma. I Larissa Copeland, Assistant Editor training was held in the Choctaw Nation Tribal Services Cen- received a Bachelor of Arts degree Karen Jacob, Purchasing Coordinator ter located in Hugo. Those in attendance were from the Okla- in Public Relations. I would like to Bret Moss, Copy/Production Assistant homa Department of Human Service (Adult Protective Service thank the Choctaw Nation for the Chrissy Dill, Copy/Production Assistant Unit), Choctaw Nation Finance Department and other tribal past four years of scholarship funds programs. The attendees were trained on sexual assault aware- it provided. The support has been P.O. Box 1210 ness, elder abuse and teen bullying. greatly appreciated. Durant, OK 74702 The Choctaw Nation Victim Assistance program collabo- (580) 924-8280 • (800) 522-6170 rates with many different tribal and non-tribal agencies within Tandra Worthen Fax (580) 924-4148 www.choctawnation.com the Choctaw Nation service area to provide crime victims with e-mail: [email protected] immediate Victim Assistance during their time of crisis. The program is part of the Choctaw Nation Victim Services Unit, The BISKINIK is printed each month as a service to Tribal under the division of Choctaw Nation Outreach Services. The Members. The BISKINIK reserves the right to edit submitted ma- Seeking relative program is located in Hugo but provides services throughout terial which it finds inaccurate, profane, offensive or morally un- My name is Avo Brown. I am trying to find Hettle Rose, a acceptable. Copy may be edited for proper grammar and punc- the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma service area. To contact the sister to Richard Monds. She had a son, Charley Rose; he was tuation. Copy will be accepted in any readable form, but where Choctaw Nation Victim Assistance program by phone, call a doctor in Texas. possible, it is requested that material be typewritten and double 877-285-6893 ext. 6038 or ext. 6036 or by email at vperez@ If you have any information, my address is 10321 Restful Dr. spaced. You must include an address or phone number where choctawnation.com or [email protected]. Mulberry, AR 72947 and my phone number is 479-997-1215. you may be reached. Due to space limitations and the quantity of article submissions, we are unable to include everything we receive. If you are receiving more than one BISKINIK at your home Come save your or if your address needs changed, we would appreciate hearing Labor Day RV Gate Check-In Times from you. The BISKINIK is a nonprofit publication of the Choctaw Na- spot for Labor Day! Check-in times for RVs will be as follows. Please make tion. arrangements to arrive and check in at your respective RV Circulation is monthly. Article deadline is the 10th of the The opportunity to reserve/ gate during one of these times. month for the following month’s edition. mark your RV or tent area for Editor’s note: Views and opinions in reader-submitted articles the 2012 Choctaw Nation La- Wednesday (8/29) 7 a.m. - 10 p.m. are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent bor Day Festival at Tuskahoma those of the Choctaw Nation. Thursday (8/30) 7 a.m. - 10 p.m. will open on Aug. 25, 2012, no sooner. Friday (8/31) 7 a.m. - 11 p.m. If you have any questions, Saturday (9/1) 7 a.m. - 11 p.m. please call grounds keeper Clif- BISKINIK® 2012 ford Ludlow at 918-569-4978. Sunday (9/2) Noon - 10 p.m. BISKINIK | July 2012 | Page 4 Plan fun and healthy Nursery News Amaziah Doyle Benjamin Coxsey picnics this summer Amaziah Joel Doyle was born We thank the Lord for the bless- July is National Picnic there are a few things to re- at 8:15 a.m. on Dec. 29, 2011, at ings He has bestowed in 10 little Month. Whether you are go- member to keep the food the Choctaw Nation Health Center fingers and 10 little toes. Benjamin ing to the park, the foot hills fresh and safe. in Talihina, weighing 6 pounds, 5 Lee Coxsey was welcomed into or the beach, a picnic is a • To keep cold foods colder ounces and measuring 18.25 inch- this world at 8:14 p.m. on Feb. wonderful way to share time than 40°F, when packing a es long. Proud parents are Christy 11, 2012, in Durant. He weighed and make memories. When cooler try some of these tricks: and Lawrance Doyle. His brother, 7 pounds 4.5 ounces and was 20.5 picnicking not only can you • Take only the amount of Lawrance II is happy to welcome inches long, but he has grown savor good foods, there are food you think you will use him to the world. Grandparents are Jamee and Leon Page of much since. His proud parents, also a lot of fun activities too (proper portions) Jay, and Richard Doyle of Sulphur Springs, Ark. James Turn- Melissa Stevens and David Coxsey, thank God for the privilege be enjoyed: • Make sure all the food is bull of Jay is his great-grandpa. of raising this little angel. • Taking a walk or hike to cold when placing it in the your picnic location cooler. • Playing catch with a foot- • If the food can be frozen, Allie Cross Nashoba Supernaw ball, baseball or any type of freeze it and then place in the Nashoba Waylon Supernaw was ball cooler. Allie Danielle Cross was born born at 3:58 p.m. on May 23, 2012, • Playing Frisbee • Pack the food so to limit at 4:09 p.m. on April 11, 2012, in at the Claremore Indian Hospital • Take a nature hike and any free space and layer with Tulsa. She weighed 7 pounds 11 weighing 7 pounds 5 ounces and pick flowers ice, freezer packs and or fro- ounces and measured 20.5 inches measuring 21 inches. His proud • Play with the kids on the zen bottles of water. long. Welcoming her to the world parents are Casie Renee and Wil- playground Below is a cool and refresh- are proud parents, Shawn and Net- liam “Son” Supernaw IV. He is Whatever activity you de- ing fruit salad, from Better tie Cross of Jenks; grandparents, the first child for both parents. He cide to do will be beneficial Homes and Gardens, which Ronnie and Therese’ Scarberry is the grandson of Barbara Jefferson-Lester and the late John for your heart, mind and soul. would be a wonderful addi- and Eugene and Sandra Cross; and great-grandparents, Ilene Lester. He is the great-grandson of the late Theodore “Teddy” When packing a picnic tion to any meal. Scarberry, Erman and Nettie Sands, Lucille Stovall and Clif- ford Cross. Jefferson and Dorothy Wilson-Jefferson. He is the great-great- grandson of the late D.W. and Edith Wilson, as well as the late Perry Jefferson and Evalina Winship-Jefferson. He is also the Recipe of the Month Anna DeGiacomo great-great-great-grandson of the late Willis Wilson and Anna Shoney-Wilson. Anna Gayle DeGiacomo was born on Jan. 4, 2012, in Tulsa. Her Fruit Bowl Salad with proud parents are John and Ande Cam Marable DeGiacomo. She is the grand- Honey-Mint Dressing daughter of Sarah Weger-Hipsher Cam Luke Marable was born Makes 9 servings and Terry Hipsher and the great- at 8:56 a.m. on Feb. 29, 2012, in granddaughter of the late Wood- Talihina. He weighed 8 pounds 2 Ingredients: and remove the seeds. Use row and Orah Hardy. Her brother ounces and measured 19.7 inches 2 tablespoons snipped a melon baller to scoop Aidan also welcomes her to the world. long. Welcoming he to the world fresh mint out fruit. Add melon balls, are proud parents are Denis and 2 tablespoons lime juice strawberries, grapes, and ki- Wendy Marable of Bethel; sister 2 tablespoons orange wifruit to dressing in bowl; Tori; brother Kaden; grandparents, juice toss lightly to coat. Serve FOOD DISTRIBUTION Eugene and Sandra Cross, Kay and Rick Wilson, and Mike and 2 tablespoons honey immediately or cover and Mary Marable; and great-grandparents, Lucille Stovall, Bill 1 small cantaloupe melon chill up to 3 hours. ANTLERS Marable and Clifford Cross. 1½ cups strawberries, Nutrition Facts: Per 1 Market open weekdays Aug. 1-28, except for: hulled and halved or quar- cup serving: Aug. 1 : Idabel 9-11 a.m.; Broken Bow 12-2 p.m. (market open) tered Calories: 68, Protein: Aug. 8: Bethel 9-10:30; Smithville 12-2 (market open) ¾ cup red seedless grapes 1gm, Carbohydrate: 17gm, Closed Aug. 29-31 for inventory Dietary fiber: 2gm, Vita- Choctaw Nation WIC 4 kiwifruit, peeled and Cooking with Carmen: Aug. 3 & 15, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. cut into ½ - inch pieces min A: 1409IU, Vitamin C: 64mg, Folate: 24ug, durant WOMEN, INFANTS Directions: Sodium: 9mg, Potassium: Market open weekdays: Aug. 1-28, except for: and CHILDREN 1. For the dressing: in a 294mg, Calcium: 20% DV. Closed Aug. 29-31 for inventory large bowl, whisk together For more information Cooking with Carmen: Aug. 10 & 20, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. mint, lime juice, orange please contact: Erin Adams, McAlester juice, and honey. RD Choctaw Nation Diabe- SITE HOURS DAYS Set aside. tes Wellness Center. 800- Market open weekdays Aug. 1-28, except for: Antlers 8:30-4:00 Every Tuesday 2. Cut cantaloupe in half 349-7000 ex - 6959 Closed Aug. 29-31 for inventory (580-298-3161) Cooking with Carmen: Aug.17 & 22, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. Atoka 8:00-4:30 Every Mon., Wed., POTEAU (580-889-5825) Thurs. & Fri. Bethel 8:30-4:00 1st Tuesday Market open weekdays Aug. 1-28, except for: (580-241-5458) Closed Aug. 29-31 for inventory. Boswell 8:30-4:00 Every Friday Make celebrations fun, Cooking with Carmen: Aug. 1 & 13, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. (580-380-5264) Broken Bow 8:00-4:30 Daily, except 1st Tues. Choctaw Nation Food Distribution (580-584-2746) & 2nd Thurs. healthy and active Coalgate 8:00-4:30 Every Wednesday 10 tips to create healthy active events Open 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Monday thru Friday. Staff will take lunch from 11:30 to 12 noon. (580-927-3641) Eating healthy and be- WAREHOUSES & MARKETS Durant 8:00-4:30 Daily ing physically active can Antlers: 306 S.W. “O” St., 580-298-6443 (580-924-8280 x 2257) WIC Hugo 8:00-4:30 Daily be a fun part of parties and WOMEN, INFANTS Durant: 100 1/2 Waldron Dr., 580-924-7773 (580-326-5404) events. Great gatherings AND CHILDREN McAlester: 1212 S. Main St., 918-420-5716 are easy to do when tasty, Idabel 8:00-4:30 Mon., Thurs. & Fri. Poteau: 100 Kerr, 918-649-0431 (580-286-2510) healthy foods from all the veggie tray and make fruit Food Distribution Sites McAlester 8:00-4:30 Daily food groups are offered in kabobs, layer yogurt and fruit Bethel: Choctaw Community Building (918-423-6335) a fun, active environment. to create a sweet parfait. Use Broken Bow: Choctaw Family Investment Center Poteau 8:00-4:30 Daily Above all, focus on enjoy- whole grains and veggies to Idabel: Choctaw Community Center (918-647-4585) ing friends and family. make a savory, healthy salad. Smithville: Choctaw Community Center Smithville 8:30-4:00 2nd Thursday 1. Make healthy habits 6. Make moving part of Stigler: Choctaw Community Center (580-244-3289) part of your celebrations. every event. In accordance with federal law and U.S. Department of Agri- Spiro 8:00-4:30 Every Wed. - Fri. Food and beverages are a Being physically active culture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on (918-962-3832) part of an event, but they do makes everyone feel good. the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, political Stigler 8:30-4:00 Every Mon. - Wed. not have to be the center of Dancing, moving, playing beliefs, or disability. To file a complaint of discrimination, write (918-967-4211) the occasion. Focus on activi- active games, wiggling, and USDA, Director, Office of Adjudication and Compliance, 1400 Talihina 8:00-4:30 Mon., Tues., Wed., ties to get people moving and giggling add fun to any gath- Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, or (918-567-7000 x 6792) & Fri. enjoy being together. ering. call 800-795-3272 (voice) or 202-720-6382 (TDD). USDA is an Wilburton 8:30-4:00 Every Thursday (918-465-5641) 2. Make foods look fes- 7. Try out some healthier equal opportunity provider and employer. tive. recipes. Decorate foods with nuts or Find ways to cut back on seeds or use new shapes for sugar, salt, and fat as you vegetables. Add a few eye- prepare your favorite recipes. catching fruits to a favorite Try out some of the recipes on Cleaning coils can conserve coin dish, serve up a new recipe, ChooseMyPlate.gov. or add a sprinkle of almonds 8. Keep it simple. A dirty evaporator coil can ficiency and make it appear or green onions to add just an Have others participate by greatly diminish cooling ef- as if you need a new air con- extra something. contributing a prepared dish, ficiency. Evaporator coils ditioning unit. Fortunately, a 3. Offer thirst quenches helping with the clean up, or should be cleaned periodi- good evaporator coil cleaning that please. keeping the kids active and cally to ensure your air con- can restore your system to op- Make fun ice cubes from moving. ditioner is efficiently blowing erate as if it were new. 100% juice or add slices of 9. Shop smart to eat cold air. Dirty evaporator coils will fruit to make water more ex- smart. Evaporator coils in homes restrict air flow and make it citing. Create a “float” by Save money by offering and commercial buildings are all but impossible for your air adding a scoop of low-fat sor- foods that fit your budget. located inside the building conditioner to properly heat bet to seltzer water. Buy in-season produce when and are generally difficult to or cool your home. An air 4. Savor the flavor. it costs less and tastes bet- get to. Because of this evapo- conditioning system with a Take time to pay attention ter. Plan in advance and buy rator coils are seldom cleaned dirty evaporator coil will need A clean and efficient coil. to the taste of each bite of foods on sale. in normal preventative main- to run longer to cool your food. Make small changes in 10. Be a cheerleader for tenance programs. Failure to home and it will also have to your old recipes or try dishes healthy habits. clean the evaporator coil can run longer to heat your home. from another culture to liven It’s never too early for result in damaging and costly This cost you money in wast- things up. adults to set an example. freeze-ups (see picture) ed energy dollars. 5. Use ChooseMyPlate. Keep in mind that child fol- The evaporator coil is lo- In addition to reduced effi- gov to include foods from low what the adults around cated in the airstream of your ciency, dirty evaporator coils the food groups for your them do—even at parties. HVAC equipment and 100 are a major cause of poor in- party. Go to www.ChooseMy- percent of the air that heat or door-air. The primary reason Offer whole-grain crackers, Plate.gov/bday/celebrate. cools your home or commer- for this is the coils produce serve a spicy bean dip and a aspx for more information. cial building travels through condensation, and when add- this evaporator coil. This ed to caked-on dust and dirt, means that a dirty evapora- becomes a haven for mold tor coil adversely affects your and mildew. These combi- cooling and your heating sys- nations of contaminants are A dirty and inefficient coil. tem. unhealthy in homes, office A dirty evaporator coil can buildings, schools and com- Information submitted by Doug Wood, Choctaw Nation En- greatly diminish cooling ef- mercial buildings. ergy Manager. BISKINIK | July 2012 | Page 5 Marilynn Mitchell sparks energy with Choctaw Center By BRET MOSS Mitchell, as he died in 1917 during the flu epidemic. Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma She lived with Lou Ella after completing high school at Du- rant and began her education at SOSU, where she was a cheer- Elders are of high value and significance to Choctaw culture. leader and still associated with Coach Sullivan. During this time, They link the past with the present, keeping aspects of heritage she went to work part-time for attorneys during college, which alive in the coming generations. turned out to be the start of a long legal career. After four years Choctaw senior Marilynn Mitchell is a woman who values as a cheerleader, she married her high school sweetheart, Joe this connection of past to present and future. She is very instru- Lee Byers. mental in keeping elders involved with the Choctaw Nation and They moved to Kansas and 11 years later, had a baby girl helping share their stories, and like so many of those Choctaw named Pamela. The family then moved to Garland, Texas, to be elders, has an intriguing story to tell. closer to family, where they would stay for 30 years, however Like many Choctaws, she was born in the Talihina Indian she and Joe divorced in 1983. During this time Marilynn contin- Hospital and mainly raised in Durant. Her parents, A.D. Mitch- ued her career as a legal secretary, trial assistant and paralegal. ell and Elizabeth Moore-Mitchell, were school instructors, her Her natural knack for leadership began to shine in her career. father a coach and teacher and mother a home economics teacher While in Kansas, Marilynn was a charter member and first presi- and school lunch consultant. dent of the Garden City Legal Secretaries Association. After They were attending Southeastern Oklahoma State University moving to Texas, she took her talent for motivating and organiz- (SOSU) during wartime and later married. Because of a lack of ing colleagues with her. instructors, schools hired them to teach before they graduated. She created the Legal Link, which was a newsletter for the Schools would call on her parents, then “they would go teach Mesquite/Garland Legal Secretaries Association. While serv- somewhere, and then come back and go to school, if there was ing as its president, the organization won the Altrusa award for another call they would go,” said Marilynn. This led her to spend their volunteer work with the girls at the Dallas County Juvenile “Indian Elvis” gives Marilynn a good laugh at the Senior a great deal of time involved in sports and associating with edu- Home. It is a prominent commendation bestowed on organiza- Spring Fling. cators. tions that make a positive impact on their communities. She even Instead of riding a bus became the Mesquite/Garland Legal Secretary of the Year. to school, she rode in a car After a successful career, Marilynn moved back to Durant. dressed to impress and relived a night like a high school prom

pool of teachers, one of She had remarried the late Leslie Ben Moorman of Denton. Pa- – complete with prom pictures. which was Lucille Belvin, mela had married, earned her master’s degree, and grandchildren The group of seniors, under Marilynn’s leadership, has hosted

the wife of former Choc- were on the way. an Elvis dance, where a Native American Elvis impersonator taw Chief Harry Bel- After her husband’s death in 2009, Marilynn took her lively came to sing as the seniors danced. They have hosted an auto- vin, who was also Bryan personality and energy to the Choctaw Nation Community Cen- “ graph party with prizes where everyone could accumulate signa- County Superintendent. ter and did what she tures and get acquainted. Marilynn and her parents had done all her life: These events, combined with a host of fundraising activities became good friends with light a spark of ac- I’d love to search back and trips, make for a very busy group of Choctaws, and that is the Belvins, and began tivity. to Mississippi... back to just the way Marilynn likes it. Much like during her career, she going on outings such as She began attend- liked to keep everyone involved and informed. fishing trips and Choctaw ing the Choctaw my Choctaw Name. Being in the position of president requires her to get to know meetings. Senior gatherings all the members of her group quite well, an aspect in which she One such occurrence “ – Marilynn Mitchell takes delight. Marilynn is interested in the history of the Choc- at their Community that stands out in her Center in August of taw Nation, and asks, what better way to learn history than from mind was during an an- those who lived it? Councilman Ted Dosh and 2009 and went on a trip to Nashville in December. Within that nual Labor Day Festival She talks with her group, learning their past and lineage, Marilynn on stage as senior of- time, she had socialized a good deal, and was asked by Monica on the Choctaw Capitol sometimes even doing write-ups for others to read and learn. She ficers are sworn into office. Blaine, a coordinator for senior activities for Choctaw Nation, to Grounds. It was a much assist with the trip. Marilynn was a natural. has always been fascinated with her heritage and has continued smaller celebration in As she got to know everyone even better on the trip, the se- to research her family history in order to preserve her ties to the 1949 than it is today, but as a little girl, she remembers it fondly. niors took favor of her charisma and, “Low and behold, when Choctaw Nation. She and her parents were able to sleep in the Council House, on March came around, when they elected officers, they asked me “I’d love to search back to Mississippi… back to a Choctaw cots, along with the Belvins, an act she counts a privilege. to serve. I didn’t know I was qualified,” Marilynn said laughing. name,” she said, speaking of her research. She would like to doc- Marilynn was also introduced to notable basketball coach, “They put me in and I’m still here,” she said with a giggle. ument and preserve as much as she can so her family will have Bloomer Sullivan, for whom the gym at SOSU is named. Her Being the president of a group of approximately 120 Choctaw access to information about their heritage. father played for him and modeled his coaching style after Sul- seniors can be an in-depth duty. Not only does Marilynn plan, In an effort to get closer to her past, she traveled to the Nanih livan. “Dad was a true full-blood Choctaw athlete and talented in organize and coordinate events, but she also must keep usual Waya Mound in Mississippi - the location believed to be the ori- many sports,” said Marilynn as she proudly spoke of her father. activities fresh and fun. “Our officers and senior volunteers are gin of the Choctaw people. The basketball atmosphere was one she became accustomed wonderful. I dream up things to do, they implement it and do a There, she climbed to the top of the mound, removed her to and played very early in her life. “I grew up sitting on a bas- fine job. We are grateful for our Councilman, Ted Dosh, who is shoes and felt the sacred earth beneath her bare feet, experienc- ketball at his games,” said Marilynn referring to following her always generous and supportive of our activities,” stated Mari- ing a great connection to her ancestors. father’s career at Paoli, Cobb, Amber and Mead. lynn. After her visit, she Marilynn’s parents were not the only strong influence in her Accomplishments and challenges during her career lend a wrote a short narrative life; her grandmother, Lou Ella Battiest-Mitchell, served an im- high dose of experience in this aspect of keeping everyone in- describing her experi- portant role in developing her knowledge and pride of her Choc- volved and included. “My legal career has helped me a lot just ence. In it she says, “As taw heritage. Marilynn’s time with her grandmother was full of in my life. It helps you to analyze things better; be aware of both I solemnly climbed the memories. sides… especially if you are in a capacity where you are leading stairs, I viewed the terrain Lou Ella had a horse-plowed garden, as well as chickens and people,” said Marilynn. “More importantly, I have a strong and about me to see the trees a milk cow. Marilynn remembers helping her tend to the garden, powerful faith in the Lord. I pray to be an example and possess and hills and imagine canning produce, churning butter and tending to chickens. “We positive leadership qualities all while maintaining a friendly and what my ancestors felt rode a bus to Caney attended church services under a brush arbor fun personality,” she continued. as they, too, made their with singing and dinner on the ground,” mentioned Marilynn as She has learned to play off the strengths of those around her. voyage to the top of the she talked about activities with her grandmother. “We went to She knows where others will shine brightest, and places them mound… on that day, I overgrown grave sites of family to clean off graves,” she added. in positions where they will do just that. She attributes many of was living in the 1700s.” Lou Ella was a proud Choctaw and taught Marilynn the Lord’s the successful events to her team of officers and efforts of the In her present, Mari- Prayer in Choctaw, as well as Choctaw songs. “When Indian group as a whole. They are the life-blood of the organization in lynn is a strong link be- family and friends came to her house, Choctaw was spoken. I her eyes. tween the past and the was never forced to speak Choctaw, but I wish I would have,” “We have the pledge of allegiance, exercise, singing, an- future... Keeping things said Marilynn as she talked about her grandmother’s Choctaw nouncements, programs and prayer every week with some varia- energized and enter- roots. “She was so influential as a grandmother and a Choc- tions,” said Marilynn as she explained the usual happenings. She taining all while serv- Marilynn shares a dance with taw. She was really important to me,” she continued. This was then continued to tell of special events, like Going Green Gar- ing the Choctaw Se- her grandson, Weston Smith, at because she never knew her grandfather, original enrollee Isaac den, cookouts, Spring Fling and Senior Prom, where the seniors niors of District 9. the senior prom.

Travel Plazas, Southeastern Electric Co-Op partner with direct-pay kiosks BISKINIK By LARISSA COPELAND that’s convenient for them,” she says. HELP WANTED Tribal newspaper honored Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma “They don’t have to hurry down [to with eight OPA awards the utility company or other business- Seeking Choctaw CDIB members! Soon, residents throughout the es] to make payments during their Continued from Page 1 Choctaw Nation will have added op- business hours. They can pay them on tions and flexibility when it comes to their own time at the kiosks. We were Choctaw Casino Resort in Durant, Okla., is looking to increase members every month. Its name aptly re- paying their utility bills. Choctaw Na- happy to be able to provide this ser- flects the legend of the Choctaws’ “little tion Travel Plazas have partnered with vice to our customers.” our Choctaw applicants’ database news bird.” Biskinik would live around Southeastern Electric Cooperation to So, the Choctaw Nation and U.S. for the following: Choctaw homes and let them know when add direct pay site kiosks inside two Payments, the company providing the Full-Time positions someone was approaching, tapping out of its stores in Calera and Atoka. kiosks, then made an agreement for messages on trees. The small, watchful “We were looking to give our mem- placement in the Calera and Atoka Please submit applications and resumes for positions such as yellow-bellied sapsucker would also ac- bers the ability to be able to pay their locations. company hunting or war parties. bills 24 hours a day, seven days a The self-serve payment kiosks ac- Hotel Shift Managers The Biskinik strives to continue keep- week,” said Randy Cloyd, director of cept check, credit card, and cash, have Call Center Manager, ing the Choctaw members abreast of office services for Southeastern Elec- clear instructions and touch screens, current events, beneficial information on tric Co-Op. “Other than going online and provide receipts to customers at IT Positions healthy lifestyles, opportunities to im- to pay, there was no other way for the time of service. Commercial Laundry Technician prove education, program benefits and people to do that.” Patrons will also be able to make and supervisors for varied departments news from Choctaws around the world Acknowledging the fact that not all payments to dozens of other utility to share with others. Its office is located the customers have access to the in- providers and companies on the same and in the tribal headquarters in Durant with ternet, the idea of a pay kiosk came to kiosks. Usage fees, payment types, numerous part-time positions five staff – Editor Lisa Reed, Assistant mind. “We just wanted to find a way and posting times vary and are deter- Editor Larissa Copeland, Reporter/ to make it easier for our members to mined by each company offering the Production Assistants Bret Moss and pay their bills,” Cloyd said. service. Customers making South- Choctaw Casinos is owned and operated Chrissy Dill and Purchasing Coordinator Cloyd says he wanted a high traf- eastern Electric Co-op payments will by the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. Karen Jacob. The Biskinik is a division fic location with 24-hour access as a have no fees assessed to use the ser- Position will give preference to Indians in of the Public Relations Department un- location to place the kiosks. Then a vice and payments are posted imme- der Executive Director Judy Allen and light bulb came on, he says. “Choc- diately. accordance with Section 7(b) of the Indian Self-Determination Act. includes many PR activities on its daily taw Travel Plazas. I called [Council- According to Byington, kiosks in schedule. men] Ted Dosh and Anthony Dillard additional travel plazas are a pos- Please attach copy of CDIB Card if applicable. Press releases and on-the-spot news and told them my ideas and they said sibility. “We will see how these two are also posted to the Choctaw Nation’s the tribe might be interested in part- work out over the next few months Apply in person at Choctaw Ca- Facebook page and in the News Room nering with us.” and if it does go over well, we will on the Choctaw Nation’s website, www. Upon hearing the idea, Travel Plaza look at eventually placing them in all sino Human Resource Office. 4216 Hwy 69/75, Durant, OK choctawnation.com. Director Lisa Byington felt it would of our other travel plaza locations,” New technology has provided many be a good fit for the stores and an she said. or opportunities to provide digital commu- added convenience for the customers. The kiosks in the Calera and Atoka online @ http://careers.choctawnation.com nication and another way for Biskinik to “Since we’re open 24 hours, people Travel Plazas should be delivered and for jobs with any of our Choctaw Casinos. spread the news. can come in a pay their bills any time ready for business this summer. BISKINIK | July 2012 | Page 6

PEOPLE YOU KNOW

Fred named Happy birthday, Nayukpa Happy birthday, Mark Happy 11th birthday to Nayukpa Happy 30th birthday to Mark Dean Collegiate Lacrosse All American Ramsey on May 21. She is the daughter of Tushka on June 12. Wishing him happy Fred Whistle III was recently named Collegiate Lacrosse All Michael and Heather Ramsey of McAles- birthday are his brother, Eric, and his sis- American. His father would like to thank the Choctaw Nation ter. She has an older sister, Pakanli Faye ter, Patty Tushka; his mother, Peggy Tush- for helping make this possible for his son. Fred attended Grand Ramsey, and two little sisters, Emma Ray ka of Broken Bow; and his grandparents Canyon University on an academic scholarship provided by the and Hatapushik. Her proud grandparents Barrentine and Nancy Tushka of Broken tribe and he will graduate this summer. are Jon and Sherry Foster and Janet and Matthew Sam and Bow. Thomas Billy.

Maci to attend Happy birthday, Bryant national hockey festival Family birthday wishes Bryant Morris will turn 12 years old Maci A. Hoskins, daughter of Mike Family birthday wishes from their mother, sister, grandma on June 9. Bryant’s favorite sport is Hoskins and Patricia Hill-Hoskins, and aunt, Janice Ward, for July and August. She hopes they all baseball and he is chosen every year has been selected to attend the USA have a wonderful day and many more to come. to play on the all-star team. His fam- Hockey National Select Festival. Happy birthday to Janice’s sons Rusty and Dusty on July 2, ily cares so much about him and they Maci, a 15-year-old Oklahoma nephew Lucas on July 3, sisters Cendy and Wendy on July 4, wish him happy birthday, from mom, City youth hockey player, will represent Oklahoma this year at brother and nephew Buddy and Brandon on July 8, nephew dad, Jason, Trish, brother Kendal and the 2012 USA Hockey’s Girls National Select Festival Camp, Charlie on July 14, sister Sue on July 16, niece Summer on Grandpa Eldon. which will be held in July at St. Cloud State University in St. July 19, granddaughter Tina on July 22, sister Dorthy on Aug. Cloud, Minn. Maci has played for the OKC Youth Hockey As- 3, sister Gail on Aug. 8 and sister Lee on Aug. 14. sociation since 2001, and this past season played on the Alli- ance Lady Bulldogs 16U girls team out of Dallas. Last March, Happy birthday, Buddha she participated in the Texas Affiliate Camp, where she was se- His mother would like to wish her favorite son, Caden Nel- lected from the pool of players to advance to the Rocky Moun- Alexandria turns 1 son, a very happy ninth birthday. She and Akierra say he is awesome and they hope he has lots of fun on his special day. tain District Camp, where the top 3 percent of the players in the Libni and Brenton Coffman are proud district participated in skill evaluation sessions with hopes of to announce the first birthday of their advancing to the USAH Select Festival. Maci was among those daughter, Alexandria Ivy Coffman, who selected to advance to the 2012 USA Hockey Select Festival was born in McAlester on the fourth of Happy birthday, Princess Camp, where she and the other U.S. athletes will showcase July in 2011. She is the first grandbaby Her mother would like to wish her beautiful and favorite their talent in front of many scouts from Division I and III col- of the proud grandparents Ivy Altamira, daughter, Akierra Nelson, a very happy eighth birthday. She leges as well as junior teams and prep schools from around the Vickie Patrick and Ernie Coffman. Al- and Caden hope Akierra has a super fun day on her birthday. country. Congratulations and good luck to Oklahoma City’s exandria’s great-grandma, Susana Ol- Maci Hoskins! vera, is coming from Mexico to join the celebration as well. Her loving family in the U.S., Mexico and France want her to Happy birthday, know how much they care about her and they wish her a great, Garrett Lenis’ birthday a success blessed life. Happy birthday, Alexandria! You are a blessing to Garrett Morris turned 39 on your family. Lenis Wesley celebrated his 84th July 4, and his mother and fam- birthday on June 3 at Goodwater ily would like to wish him happy Church in Sobol. His children pro- birthday. While he was growing vided free lunch after church service Happy birthday, Sydney up, he played soccer and coached that day. After lunch, there was a soccer in high school and junior singing and Johnny Calwell served Sydney Anderson-Cullum celebrated her college. He still plays on several as the emcee. Everyone had a great ninth birthday on June 24. Sydney enjoys adult teams as does his wife, Erica. His 4-year-old son, Gavin, time wishing Lenis a happy 84th birthday, and they all wish acting, dance, cheer leading, learning Choc- plays soccer, too. Garrett is proud of his Choctaw heritage as him many more birthdays to come. Happy birthday, Lenis, taw, singing in the church choir and model- are all of the Morris’. from your daughter, Nadine Wesley. ing. She attends Moore Schools where she is in the Choctaw Nation STAR program. Her recent modeling job will be in the Ty- son Chicken Nugget ad, which will be in People magazine’s Happy ninth birthday July 16th issue, Parent magazine’s August issue and in Times Trystan Ingle celebrated his Happy birthday, Square in New York City from July 16-22. Sending her birth- ninth birthday in Branson, Mo., Margaret day wishes are her mom and family. on July 22. Trystan is the son of A birthday singing in Larry and Michelle Ingle of Le- honor of Margaret Billy’s Flore and the grandson of Mela- 91st birthday was held May nie Morris of Talihina and the 5. Her birthday was May Happy birthday, Roslyn late Larry Ingle Sr. of LeFlore. 2. Her children and family Roslyn Faith Reese celebrated her Happy birthday, Trystan, from had a gospel singing at her first birthday on July 7. Roslyn is the dad, mom and little brother Tucker! home in Sobol. They provided a free supper for everyone, and daughter of Destiny Pebworth and they are all looking forward to next year’s event. They wish the late Weston Reese of Stringtown. Margaret many more birthdays, from her children as well as Her maternal grandparents are the late Happy birthday, Jerimiah Lenis Wesley’s children. Barry Pebworth and Sonja Pebworth Happy birthday to Jerimiah Octaui- of Stringtown. Her paternal grandpar- ano. He is the fourth generation of his ents are Pamela and Tommy Reese of Stringtown. Uncle and grandfather, Henry Clay Cochnouer, aunt Matt and Jenna Pebworth of Stringtown and uncle Lucas who was an original enrollee. Regina places in Reese of Stringtown all wish her a happy birthday. Roslyn is grappling competition the great-granddaughter of Wade (Sonny) Pebworth of String- Congratulations to Regina Arnold, town and Margarito and Monika Torres of California. She is who took home second place at the the great-great-granddaughter of original enrollee Thomas Jef- North American Grappling Associa- ferson Pebworth. tion in Dallas. It was her first grap- Happy birthday, pling competition and her family is PaPa very proud of her. Regina, the daughter of Tracey and Robert Risner of Eagle- Record attendance for 25th annual The family of Jess town, is 28 years old and grew up in Eagletown. She serves Youngblood would like as the Wellness Outreach Coordinator for the Choctaw Nation Lewis Armstrong family reunion to wish their amazing Wellness Center in Hugo. Her whole family lives in McCur- Submitted by: Patricia Gayle Armstrong Sapp PaPa a happy birthday; tain County. She moved out of the county to pursue her health they say he is the best June 9 was the 25th Lewis Armstrong family reunion, held grandparent a kid could and physical education degrees at OSU Stillwater, where she at Harmony Elementary Cafeteria. There were five states rep- graduated with her bachelor’s and then continued to receive ever want and they love resented this year. Some attendees had not been present for 20 spending time with him. They would like to tell him thank you her master’s degree in secondary education from Southeastern years and this was the first year for others. Some enjoyed eat- Oklahoma State University. She landed a job with the Choctaw for always making them feel like the most important thing in ing catfish on Friday night at the truck stop and Mexican food his life and for always giving so much of himself to the entire Nation Wellness Center in Durant and was transferred to the at El Adobe for a change on Saturday night. It was so nice to Hugo Wellness Center when it opened. family. He is a treasure to them all, and they all hope he has a meet the first-timers and we sure hope they make it back often. wonderful birthday. Love, Sydney and J.D. Regina trains with Oklahoma Combat Sports of Poteau in Attendees included: Virgal and Marva Armstrong of Cotton Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, The Pit of Poteau in Hawaiian Kempo Wood, Ariz.; Richard and Patsy Jones, Caleb, Jamie, Railey, and she teaches cardio kickboxing at the wellness center. She Asher, Josh, Brittany and Elijah Berney of Shreveport, La.; signed up in the Novice division at North American Grap- Starla Hayes of Benton, La.; Gary L. and Eva Armstrong, Dan pling Association and was bumped up to the beginner division, and Tabitha Armstrong, Marvin and Joy Cochran, Darrell and where she came in second. She will now compete in the inter- Marleah Cochran and Hildred Marlow, all of Atoka; Sarah, mediate level at her next NAGA competition. Emma and Lily Johnson of Blanchard; Brenda Brown of Choc- taw; Tom and Reva Harrold; Floy Crawford of Jones; Sherman and Delloise Armstrong and Donita Martin-Price of Lehigh; Bill Armstrong, Faye Ayers, Adam and Adalynn Klein, Bran- don, Rachel and Megan Seals and Pam Tipps, all of Mustang; Darrell and Gayle Sapp of Oklahoma City; Gary W. and Lori Armstrong, Chandra and Daylan Potter and Presli and Ciara Sherrard, all of Tushka; Darrell G. and Leslie and Lexie and Laynie Sapp of Tuttle; Scarlet, Brooklyn and Corey Swails II of Yukon; Neal and Ann Armstrong of Corinth, Texas; Rick Armstrong of Enumclaw, Wash.; and Dick and LaDon Wagner of Lynnwood, Wash. We had lots of good food, picture-taking, visiting and got to Casey-Ward cousin reunion a success look at pictures taken from years gone by. Our reunion started Those attending the Casey-Ward cousin reunion on June 9 in 1985 at Boggy Depot, moved to Cedar Circle and now to were: Johnnie and Chelsea Bourne of Spiro; Wally and Loretta Harmony Elementary. Over the years, we have lost a lot of our Thames of Bartlesville; Chad, Zac and Traci Arnold of Avant; loved ones, but they live on in our memories and the pictures Bettie and Melvin Reynolds of Tulsa; Bob and Anna Denny we share each year. of Edmond; Ron and Brenda McCelland of Ft. Smith, Ark.; The eldest attending this year was Hildred Marlow, who still Sammie Hankins of Kentucky; Garlena and Mike Vickers of looks great. The youngest attending was Elijah at 10 months Heavener; Haleigh, Cindy, Jastyn and Michael Vickers of Con- District 12 crowns old and crawling around really well. The ones traveling the fur- way, Ark.; Lakota and Sada Vickers of Heavener; John and Sue thest were Rick, Dick and LaDon, all from Washington. Geampietro of Spiro; Geneva Neal of Ft. Smith; John Casey On Saturday afternoon, Bill Armstrong played his guitar and of Spiro; Laura Rodgers of Scottsdale, Ariz.; Raymond Lester ChoctawChoctaw Nation District 12 princessesheld its annual Princess Pageant sang, which was very enjoyable, and a few played dominoes. and Dustie Harris of Sallisaw; and Sherry and Skip Butler of on May 25. Representing District 12 for the 2012-13 year are We want to thank Gary W. and Lori for always having every- Spiro. A potluck dinner was enjoyed by all as well as a great Miss Choctaw Nation Raven Ott, Junior Miss Neiatha Hardy thing open, cooked, warmed up and ready to go, and Pam for time looking at old family pictures and visiting. The family and Little Miss Chayenne McCoy. The princesses will repre- mailing out the cards letting everyone know the date and times. met at the Choctaw building in Spiro. The next reunion will be sent District 12 at the Choctaw Nation Princess Pageant at Tus- Our reunion is always held the second weekend in June and held the second Saturday in June 2013 at the Spiro Choctaw kahoma on Aug. 30. always at Harmony Elementary Cafeteria. building. BISKINIK | July 2012 | Page 7 LABOR DAY FESTIVAl AUGUST 30-SEPTEMBER 3 • TVSHKA HOMMA, OKLAHOMA

Chief Pyle’s Horseshoes Choctaw Nation Saturday, September 1 Youth Fitness Challenge Labor Day Plyometric Boxes • 40 Yard Dash • Sled Pull • Agility Drills Registration 8 to 9 a.m. Festival Single elimination tournaments begin at 9:30 a.m. Friday, August 31 Men, Women, Youth (up to 13) and Seniors will start at the same time and play concurrent. on the Council Chambers lawn There is a limit of 32 women and children, Event is for youth 8 to 18 years of age and 64 men (seniors play with the men’s group). A singles tournament will be held for women, youth Registration at 5 p.m. – Contest starts at 6 p.m. and men (seniors), a doubles tournament for wom- A T-shirt will be given to each participant en and men (seniors), and a ringers championship who finishes the challenge. This event is for for women, youth and men (seniors). anyone looking to improve their fitness level and have a great time doing it. It is open to all fitness levels, athletes to non-athletes. For more information, call Jason Campbell 3-on-3 5k Run at 800-522-6170, ext. 2787. Basketball Race Begins at 8 a.m. Tough, Tough September 1 September 1 Category / Division Tvshka Homma, Oklahoma Choctaw • Kids Co-ed 10-13 • Teen Co-ed (HS only) Race day registration is from 6:30-7:45 a.m. Saturday, September 3 • Men - Young Guns north of Crossroad Cafe • Men - Old Timers on the on U.S. Hwy. 271, 5 miles north of Clayton. Council Chambers lawn Team Name______All entries must be postmarked by Aug. 27. Contact______Registration at 4:30 p.m. • Contest starts at 5:30 p.m. Prizes awarded for first and second places. Address______Age Categories and Awards City/St/Zip______Anyone under 18 years of age must have parent sign waiver. Age 12 & under • 13-15 years • 16-19 years Phone______Free T-shirts to participants. and succeeding 5-year age brackets For more information call Jeremy Loper Mail entry form by August 28, 2012, to: up to 70 and older for women and at 1-800-522-6170, ext. 2407, Labor Day 3-on-3 Basketball or e-mail [email protected]. 75 years and older for men. P.O. Box 1909, Durant, OK 74702 Top three finishers in each age bracket for men and women will receive medallions.

Dominoes Race Director Neal Hawkins – 580-924-8280, Ext. 2319 & Checkers Race Coordinator – DG Productions, LLC

Sunday, September 2 I know that running a road race is a potentially hazardous activity. I should not enter and run unless I am medically in the Cafeteria able and properly trained. I also know that although police There will not be a separate kids tournament this protection will be provided, there will be a possibility of traf- fic on the course. I assume the risk of running traffic. I also year. All entrants will play in the same tournament. assume any and all other risks associated with running this Numbers will be drawn for opponents. 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 known and appreciated by me. Furthermore, I agree to yield Choctaw Nation to all emergency vehicles. I also am fully aware that baby Youth Empowerment / Youth Advisory Board strollers and wheels of any kind (except competitive wheel chairs), animals (aside from canine participants in canine Labor Day Schedule and human race) and head phones are strictly prohibited and I agree not to go back onto the course after finishing. Know- Saturday, Sept. 1 ing these facts, and in consideration of your accepting my Crafts at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m., & 4 p.m. entry, I hereby for myself, my heirs, executors, administra- Closes at 5 p.m. tors or anyone else who might claim on my behalf, covenant not to sue, and waive and release and discharge any and all Sunday, Sept. 2 race sponsors, race officials, volunteers, Choctaw Nation of Crafts at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., & 1 p.m. Oklahoma employees and volunteers, tribal police including Closes at 3 p.m. any and all of their agents, employees, assigns or arising out of, or in the course of, my participation in this event. This *Crafts include Native American bracelet, fall bag, release and waiver extends to all claims of every kind of nature patriotic magnets, visors and wooden maracas. whatsoever, foreseen or unforeseen, known or unknown. The undersigned further grants full permission to sponsors and/or agents authorized to them to use any photography/videotapes, motion pictures, recordings or any other record of this event Choctaw Nation for any purpose. Co-Ed Please Print Volleyball Name______FAST PITCH Tournament Signature______August 31-September 2 Saturday, September 1 Waiver must be signed Date______at the Choctaw Capitol Grounds First 12 teams accepted in Tvshka Homma, Oklahoma Maximum 10 players per team Applications for minors accepted only with a parent’s or guardian’s signature. – Deadline for entry is August 10 – Team Name______For more information, please call 580-924-8280 Address______or toll-free 800-522-6170, ext. 2224, or fill out Team Captain______the application below and return to our office. City/State/Zip______Address______Name of team______Telephone______City/State/Zip______Contact Person______Home Phone______Age as of September 3, 2011______Sex Address______(M/F)______Work Phone______City/State/Zip______Tribal Member (Y/N) ______Mail entry to: Phone______Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Co-ed Volleyball Tournament Check one T-shirt size only Please circle one: P.O. Box 1210 (Adult) S____ M____ L____ XL____ XXL____ Durant, OK 74702 Men’s team or Women’s team Attn: Rebecca Hawkins Detach and send entry form to: Deadline for entries: and return to: Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma 4:30 p.m. August 10 Larry Wade Attn: Neal Hawkins Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma For more information: 5KM Road Race/Walk P.O. Box 1210 580-924-8280, Ext. 2212 or 2258 P.O. Box 1210, Durant, OK 74702-1210 Durant, OK 74702-1210 BISKINIK | July 2012 | Page 8

EDUCATION

Martina Daryl Delaware, age 18, is the daughter of Jer- ry and Josephine Williams of Hartshorne. Martina is a mem- ber of the Kiowa tribe of Okla- homa. She has attended Harts- horne Public Schools for three years and was on the varsity basketball and softball teams. After high school, Martina plans to attend Eastern Okla- homa State College and major in psychology.

Mariss Lynn Smith is the 18-year-old daughter of Mi- chael and Jerri Harshbarger of McAlester. She is a member of Jones Academy the Choctaw Nation of Okla- Alyssa Michele Trujillo, Joshua David Sam the homa. Mariss was active in the age 18, is the daughter of Mi- 18-year-old son of Morris Choctaw Nation Youth Advi- chelle Hamilton and Harold Sam of Hartshorne and Ger- sory Board while a resident Trujillo of Chamisal, N.M. maine Sam of Baldwin Park, of Jones Academy. In the fall, She is a member of the Pueblo Calif. His grandparents are she will attend classes at the of Picuris tribe in Penasco, Cornelius and Norma Sam of Kiamichi Technology Center N.M. Alyssa transferred from Salonia Community, and the in McAlester and study nurs- Penasco High School her se- late Jerry and Roberta Jean Or- ing. nior year. She took all of the nelas. Joshua is a member of Oklahoma End-of-Instruction the Choctaw Nation of Okla- tests required by the state and homa. He was a participant Lucinda Fay Roberts, age met the standards for gradua- in the Choctaw Nation Youth 18, is the daughter of Suzette tion. Alyssa is planning to at- Advisory Board, the JA Writ- Roberts of Tuskahoma and the tend Northern New Mexico College this fall to complete her ers Journalism Club and the varsity track team. Josh received granddaughter of the late Rob- general studies. the Robert Woods Scholarship for his academic and athletic ert and Frena Snyder. Lucinda achievements. He plans to attend the Dallas Institute of Art to is a member of the Choctaw pursue a career in graphic arts. Nation of Oklahoma. She has Courtney Nicole Wallace, attended Hartshorne Public age 18, has attended Jones Schools for six years. Lucinda Academy and Hartshorne Loreanna Rose Williams was a member of the Harts- Public Schools since the sixth is the 18-year-old daughter of horne High School Band and grade. Her guardians are her Stacy Lefler of Logan, Utah. Color Guard for four years. She is planning to attend Eastern maternal aunt, Tonya Wallace, She is a member of the Choc- Oklahoma State College and pursue a career in music. and her grandfather, J.D. Wal- taw Nation of Oklahoma. lace of Oklahoma City. Court- Loreanna became a resident ney is a member of the Choc- of Jones Academy her se- David Lee Gordon is the taw Nation of Oklahoma. She nior year of high school. She 19-year-old son of Glenn and lettered in fast-pitch softball transferred from Van Buren, Mickey Gordon of Tulsa. Da- and made the principal’s honor Ark. Loreanna met all of her vid is a member of the Chero- roll. Courtney was also active Oklahoma End-of-Instruction kee Nation. He has been a in the Jones Academy FFA hog show program. She plans to tests requirements for gradua- resident of Jones Academy enroll at Oklahoma City Community College. tion. She was a member of the and attended Hartshorne Pub- Hartshorne High School Choir. Loreanna plans to be gainfully lic Schools for three and a-half employed this fall and enroll at the Institute of American In- Tasina Genyia Lone Elk years. He has enlisted in the dian Arts in Sante Fe, N.M., the following spring. She is inter- U.S. Marine Corps. is the 18-year-old daughter of ested in becoming a museum curator. Emory and Riva Red Feather of Pine Ridge, S.D. She is the granddaughter of Genevieve Shane Richard Black is the Chase In Sight of Pine Ridge. 18-year-old son of Kawa Black Edward Allen Gaddis III Tasina is a member of the Jr. and Sharon Newbreast of El is the 18-year-old son of Ed- Oglala Sioux Indian tribe. She Reno. He is a member of the ward Jr. and Nadine Gaddis of has been a student of Jones Cheyenne and Arapaho tribes Poteau. He is the grandson of Academy and attended Harts- of Oklahoma. Shane has at- Stacey Lefler of Logan, Utah. horne Public Schools for four tended Jones Academy and He is a member of the Choctaw years. She was a member of Hartshorne Public Schools Nation of Oklahoma. Eddie the Hartshorne High School since eighth grade. He was se- participated in the Hartshorne Choir for three years and a participant in the Learn and Serve lected as Jones Academy Out- High School Band. He will at- Program at Jones Academy. Tasina was voted the Most Help- standing FFA Student this year. tend classes this fall at Carl Al- ful Student at Jones Academy two years in a row and designed After high school, Shane will bert State College in Poteau to the logo for the Rhythm Nations Against Bullying Program. attend Eastern Oklahoma State study culinary arts with plans Tasina is planning to join a branch of the armed forces and College in the fall with plans to to become a professional chef. serve her country. major in psychology.

Jones alumni earns bachelor’s degree Jones Academy students Former Jones Academy student Sunny Clifford has received her Bachelor of Arts in Literature/Communications from Oglala Lakota chosen as Boys, Girls State delegates College in Kyle, S.D. Her graduation date was June 24. Sunny and her twin sister, Serena, were 2003 graduates of Hartshorne High School. Two Jones Academy students were Since graduation, Sunny has been gainfully employed as park ranger for selected as representatives of the the National Parks Service in Pipestone, Minn., and the Oglala Sioux American Legion Boys State and Parks and Recreation Authority (tribal parks) in the south part of the American Legion Auxiliary Girls State Badlands National Park. This region is slated to be one of the first tribal camps this summer. Melissa Sam was national parks. nominated as a Girls State delegate for Sunny attended a decentralized college and had to travel, sometimes over 80 miles, one way to Hartshorne High School at the Univer- get to school. She rarely missed class and maintained a 3.82 GPA throughout her college career. sity of Oklahoma campus in Norman. Sunny also studied literature abroad in England at Oxford in the summer of 2011. She spent time Justin Jefferson was the Boys State in London and Paris, in her own words, “doing hands-on literature.” representative at Northeastern Okla- Her immediate plans include becoming a teacher of English and working as a park ranger in homa A&M College in Miami, Okla. the summers. She is the first person in her family to attain a bachelor’s degree. She considers it These symposiums were held con- an honor to share her accomplishments with the Choctaw community, and she is grateful for the currently during the week of May 26 opportunities afforded her by the tribe and by Jones Academy. through June 2. During the conferences the students were tutored on the workings of state gov- ernment and developing leadership skills. The delegates were also encouraged to participate in public service and practice good citizenship. In several sessions, guest speakers and state rep- Choctaw Nation resentatives spoke to the students about civic duties and making a difference in life. Governor Mary Fallin and former Governor George Nigh lectured at the Norman congress. Vocational Rehabilitation Calendar Students were also challenged to participate in simulated campaigns by running for political office. Melissa was in a race for State Treasurer while Justin was active in an election for a ju- Broken Bow Durant 8 a.m.- dicial position. Both Melissa and Justin expressed that they thoroughly enjoyed the experience 8 a.m.-4:30 4:30 p.m. and were grateful for the opportunity. p.m. Idabel by appt.

Nunn participates in page Durant 8 a.m.- Antlers Tuskahoma 8 Wright City by Are you 4:30 p.m. by appt. a.m.-4:30 p.m. appt. program Talihina by According to the Choctaw? appt. Oklahoma House of Representatives High Crowder by McAlester 10 Broken Bow 8 School Page Program Do you need appt. a.m.- 2 p.m. a.m.-4:30 p.m. website, hundreds of Stigler by Idabel by appt. a CDIB card? appt. students from across the state have the op- How about a Tribal portunity to take part Membership/Voter Durant 8 a.m.- Poteau Atoka by appt. in the yearly intern Registration card? Or 4:30 p.m. 10 a.m.- Coalgate by 2 p.m. appt. program during the legislative sessions. This year, even both? Jones Academy student Billie Jo Nunn was se- Have you lost any of lected to serve as an intern from April 16 through your cards and need a Durant 8 a.m.- Wilburton 19. Some of her duties included running errands, 4:30 p.m. 9:30 a.m.-2 delivering supplies, and dispatching messages and replacement? p.m. documentation to various parts of the capitol. Pag- If so, you can now access es also participated in the House Page Mock Leg- our applications online at Durant - Mon., Wed. and Fri.; Broken Bow - Mon., Wed. and Fri.; Idabel by appt. islature during the week. Billie Jo reported that the www.choctawnation.com Phone: 580-326-8304; Fax: 580-326-2410 experience taught her more about how legislation Email: [email protected] works and how laws are passed. BISKINIK | July 2012 | Page 9

Choctaw Nation Upward Bound program provides To the Youth of the Nation By: Jennifer Williams students with skills, motivation to succeed educationally 3rd place, YAB Scholarship 2012 By CHRISSY DILL through high school, into col- I became a part of the Youth Advisory Board my fresh- Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma lege and graduate college,” stated man year of high school. I helped start the Idabel YAB The Choctaw Nation endorses Amos. and saw it continue to grow. We searched for different educational success in its student If the student is a Choctaw and new things to do in Idabel. Before long, we had over population, seeking to continu- member, Amos provides further 35 members in our Idabel YAB. We hosted trash pickup ally provide them with opportuni- assistance. “We refer our students days at local parks, tobacco compliance checks, senior ties to aid in completion of their and their families to other pro- citizen proms, we made Thanksgiving dinner for the plan for the future. The Choctaw grams within the Choctaw Nation JOM and put on puppet shows at the elementary schools. Nation Upward Bound program that would benefit them,” he said. We did a lot of after-school tutoring at the elementary assists high school students by in- Upward Bound is a highly suc- schools, too. As a freshman, having to step up and lead troducing them to activities they cessful pre-college preparatory the group was a learning experience for me. Little did I know that I was growing to become a leader. will experience at college as well (2010) Photos provided program for high school students. as providing guidance and counseling to help them shape their Challenging academic instruction, After the Idabel YAB merged with the Broken Bow future. individual tutoring, academic and career counseling and guid- YAB, I lost my group. My fellow members didn’t want to Upward Bound is available to all interested students, not just ance are offered to participants as well as enhanced core cur- go anywhere near Broken Bow and work with our county Native American or Choctaw members, and comes at no cost riculum and college credit hours to those students who qualify. YAB. That was a difficult time for me as a leader of a to participants. Currently, the program has 56 active students. Participants also have the opportunity to attend field trips that new group because of the loss of my local group. I had High schools served by the program include Antlers, Atoka, help them relate to the curriculum and explore their career op- to learn how to adjust and adapt to the situation. All the Broken Bow, Canadian, Hartshorne, Haworth, Idabel, Indiano- tions. These trips can cover many areas, including educational, things we did in the Idabel YAB were not possible with la, McAlester, Pittsburg, Rattan and Wilburton, and the pro- motivational, career, social and cultural enrichment activities the county group because we were too far apart. So I had gram is held at Eastern Oklahoma State College. to better prepare students for their future college experience. to find other things for us to take on. We partnered with The program Depending on the educational attainment level of the indi- groups and made videos that spoke out against abuse and staff selects stu- vidual student, enrichment courses are offered at EOSC in the passed ordinances in towns against social host houses. dents who have following subjects: Pre-Algebra through Calculus, Laboratory We brought attention to the Great American Smoke Out met the federal Sciences, Computer Sciences, English Composition and Writ- each year by displaying scenes and posters on heavily selection criteria ing, Foreign Language, Literature and various other college traveled areas of our city. Lately we have been raising – two-thirds of courses. Students have the opportunity to earn up to 12 credit money for the new Veterans Museum and Water for Life all students must hours through Upward Bound before they enroll at the school. to help bring clean water to people in Africa. Anything be low income “The favorite part of my job for me sometimes comes after that we can help within our county, we grab onto the and first genera- the students have graduated college or are still in college,” ex- chance to make a difference. tion and one-third plained Amos, “when they come back and say that if they had I say all of this because without YAB, I never would must meet one of not been in the Upward Bound program, they probably would have been able to go to Chicago and attend a great lead- these two catego- not have even gone to college, yet alone graduate.” ership camp, or have been able to help pass a social host When classes are finished for the day, ries. Selected stu- Amos said the program shows students that there are people ordinance, make friends from all over the state, or go to students have some fun time. Partici- dents must show out there who care about them and want to see them succeed. the State Capitol to celebrate the Choctaw Nation’s ac- pants pictured decided to have a game a high degree of To apply for Upward Bound, a student and his or her par- complishments. of volleyball. maturity and wish ent/guardian must complete and submit an application to their YAB is growing bigger and better and I cannot wait to to pursue a col- school counselor with a transcript. Students selected will cur- see what it will do statewide. Through YAB, I have had lege degree in the future. rently be in the ninth through 11th grade. Recommendations the opportunity to put my name out in the community Upward Bound seeks the student whose potential abilities of school counsel- and participate in many worthwhile causes. I hope to be may be nurtured and encourages and motivates the student to ors and teachers are able to be involved with YAB in the future. I know being apply their talents and energies to achieve long-term educa- considered in the involved with YAB has definitely changed my future as tional success. selection process. well as my life. Tim Amos, Director of Choctaw Nation Upward Bound, has The program plenty of experience in helping prospective students, having staff strives to The STAR Pro- worked for the tribe for 16 ½ years and Upward Bound for 15. choose applicants gram staff would like With the help of three full-time employees, it is his responsi- who are genu- to remind all parents CHOCTAW bility that the program runs smoothly and help participants as inely interested in with students in sec- much as possible. improving their ond through 12th Some of Amos’ duties as director include hiring summer chances for suc- grade that the dead- teachers and tutors/mentors, overseeing the staff, conducting cess in secondary line to have docu- recruitment presentations and interviewing potential new par- and postsecondary Students conduct an experiment in ments submitted is ticipants, he said. education by work- a biology lab during class time at Up- approaching. The “I also enjoy living in the dorms during the summer with ing hard and pre- ward Bound at Eastern Oklahoma deadline for children the students,” said Amos. This enables him to get to know the paring themselves State College. to be awarded for the Spring 2012 semester is October students better on a personal basis, “rather than them seeing me for college while in 1. Required STAR forms are listed below: as the guy who makes the rules,” he explained. the Upward Bound program. Amos said recruitment through The purpose of the Upward Bound program is to generate school counselors begins in late August. • STAR online application (one-time application) • Grade and attendance verification form (to be in students who are in grades 9-12 the skills and motivation If you are interested in learning more about the Choctaw Na- completed and returned once per semester) necessary for successful completion of high school and enroll- tion Upward Bound program, you may contact Tim Amos at • Copy of the spring semester report card ing and graduating from a postsecondary educational program. P.O. Box 1210 Durant, OK 74702-120 or at 800-522-6170 ext. “The main goal of Upward Bound is to get our students 2297 or 2302. There is also a new policy change within the STAR Program. Previously, for students enrolled in Honors classes, we have counted C’s as B’s and B’s as A’s. Un- fortunately, due to the national growth of the program, we Mya graduates feel this is no longer a fair standard that we can equally Kara graduates The family of Mya Dawn McBrayer apply to all of our students. Therefore, at this time we will Kara Synhorst graduated with want to congratulate her on her recent be awarding based solely on the actual grade listed on honors from Ironwood Ridge High graduation. the report card. We do regret the negative impact that School in Oro Valley, Ariz. In high Mya graduated from Rogers State this may cause to some students, but believe it to be in school, Kara was active in visual University on May 5 with a Bachelor the best interest of our students as a whole. arts, especially photography, and of Science degree in Medical Mo- For more information about the STAR Program, please was voted most artistic by her lecular Biology. She is the daughter visit star.choctawnation.com or call 800-522-6170 ext. classmates. of Dustin McBrayer and Toni Wray, both of Idabel. She is the 2787. At church, Kara was an active granddaughter of Harold and Ruth McBrayer and Mac and member of her youth group and was lead soprano of the Praise Claudia Wray and the late Melba Wray, all of Idabel. Team Choir. This summer, she will go on her second mission Mya has been accepted into the University of Oklahoma Pike-Pierce now a homeowner trip to Crownpoint, N.M., in the Navajo Nation and perform Health Science Program in Tulsa, where she will study Occu- home repairs. pational Therapy. with help of CAB program This fall, Kara will attend Southern Methodist University Congratulations to the Pike-Pierce family for becoming new and will be a part of the Hilltop Scholars program. homeowners! Kara is the granddaughter of Charles McClure of Dallas Concerned about supporting her family, Beth Pike-Pierce and the great-granddaughter of original enrollee, the late Ruby SAP announces two upcoming joined the Choctaw Asset Building (CAB) program in April Marx McClure. 2010. “When I first became acquainted with CAB, I wasa scholarship opportunities single parent providing for two children. I wanted to be self- sufficient and responsible for my family. I did not want to rely Tvshka Chunkash (Heart of a Warrior) on family members or the government to help me support my family. CAB provided an opportunity for me to help my family COME JOIN US THIS FALL! Scholarship in a short amount of time with an awesome return: a safe home. This is a $1,000 scholarship created by Capt. Teri Scroggins Although I was relying on the CAB program for assistance, and provided through the Choctaw Nation’s Scholarship Advise- I was still being held responsible and able to contribute my ment program. Offered on behalf of all the veterans of the wars in part,” said Beth. Afghanistan and Iraq, this award is presented every fall to a stu- Beth opened her CAB account with $50 and saved at least dent whose life and educational goals have been affected by these $25 each month. Some months, she was able to save more. In wars and the veterans who have served in them. This scholarship two short years, she had reached her goal of $2,000, which was is awarded to one student at the beginning of every fall academic matched with an additional $6,000. year, and presented at the CNO Veterans Day ceremony, on Nov. While she was saving, Beth received training that prepared 12, 2012, in Tushka Homma, Okla. her to become a homeowner. “I learned about credit scores and Enroll now at Jones Academy! To be eligible to apply, students must be a member of SAP, at- rating, applying for a home loan and the different title fees, We are accepting applications for the 2012 Fall Semes- tending an accredited college or university and submit an essay. insurance, etc. I learned that it is very important to ‘shop’ for a The essay should be an original 500-word essay discussing the ter. We have openings in specific grades 1-12. Tour our home loan, since banks and companies offer different options,” following topic: Is there an individual, event, or story from the wars she said. elementary school facilities and dorms. Come join us! Be in either Iraq or Afghanistan that has impacted your life? Please Budgeting and saving money can be a struggle, especially a part of the future! Take advantage of the residential pro- explain how this individual, event, or story may or may not have for single parents, but CAB was able to help Beth with the gram benefits: impacted decisions on your education and/or future goals. encouragement and discipline she needed to reach her finan- • Tutorial assistance for all grades (1-12) Tina Willis Memorial Scholarship cial goals. “The most important thing I learned from participat- • Rewards for academic achievement Two students will be selected this fall to each receive a $500 ing in CAB is how important and helpful it is to save money. • High school graduation expenses paid/scholarships scholarship. Last year’s recipient and the first ever recipient of this Although I did grow up with learning to save, when you are • Career counseling/college and post-secondary prestigious award was Sara Higley of Keota. Sara graduated in on your own, it seems extremely difficult to save any amount of money. With CAB, you are held accountable and are able preparation May 2012 from Northeastern State University in Tahlequah. This competitive award is a $500 scholarship available to to save a minimum amount or contribute more, depending on • Voc-tech training your financial ability,” explained Beth. • Summer Youth Work program Choctaw students majoring in Criminal Justice or Social Work. In addition to being Choctaw and majoring in one of the two fields, Beth is an educator with the Little Dixie Youth Build pro- • Medical and counseling services provided candidates must be a resident of the 10 ½ counties tribal service gram and has been able to pass on what she has learned to • Alternative education program area, have at least a GPA of 2.5, submit an application and write her students. “Another wonderful thing I learned from CAB • Traditional/cultural activities an essay describing, “Why do you want to obtain a degree in social is budgeting and how to set attainable goals. While taking the • Recreational activities and educational trips work or criminal justice? What does it mean to you to be Choctaw financial class, we participated in several goal-building activi- • Agriculture program and how will you apply the social work or criminal justice degree to ties and were given a super-efficient budget sheet. As an edu- your Choctaw community?” cator, I have since transferred setting attainable goals into a Please call for a tour or an application at toll free 888- Power Point lesson and presented it to learners. I also offer the More information about both scholarships, including the 767-2518 or access jonesacademy.org or write to: budget sheet to interested students,” she said. applications, can be found at http://www.choctawnation-sap. Jones Academy For more information about how the CAB program com/cnoscholarship.shtml The deadline to apply for both of HCR 74 Box 102-5 can help you reach your financial goals and dreams, go to these scholarships is Aug. 1, 2012! Hartshorne, OK 74547 choctawcab.com. BISKINIK | July 2012 | Page 10 Choctaw Tattoos Tattoos (“hakshup in- chuwa” in the Choctaw lan- guage) are a fairly popular topic at the Choctaw Nation historic Preservation Depart- Iti Fabussa ment. Staff are contacted at least once a month by people eastern war- tattoos in the who are interested in learning riors were red following way: about Choctaw tattoos. Some or black. Be- “…commonly just want to add to their gen- ing tattooed in the sun, moon, eral knowledge of Choctaw the traditional and planets oc- traditional culture, while oth- way usually cupy the breast; ers may be interested in get- made people zones or belts, or ting tattoos that express their physically beautiful fanci- Choctaw identity or that con- sick for a few ful scrolls, wind nect them with ancestors who days (Du Pratz around the trunk wore tribal tattoos in the past. 1758). of the body, Choctaw Nation: LISA REED For our ancestors, tat- It was com- dividing the toos had a deep significance. mon for a body into many A group of Jena Band of Choctaws travels from Louisiana to attend the Choctaw Na- Young men had to earn the proven Choc- fields or tablets, tion of Oklahoma’s first stickball camp. Sitting are Christopher Darby and Lane Norris. right to wear a tattoo by over- taw warrior to which are filled Standing, first row, are Dustin Guin, Teddy Hartley, Kaitlyn Masters and Maura Allen; coming an enemy on the bat- have his fam- with represen- second row, Jacob Kimball, Katelyn Hartley, Awstun Chapman, Nathan Stephens, Jena tlefield. After returning home, ily symbols tations of ani- Band Tribal Princess Abby Guin, Cheyenne Fisher and Candess Chapman; back row, such a young man would be tattooed on mals or battle...” Jena Band Councilwoman and Cultural Director Dana Masters, Choctaw Nation Council- given a warrior name and his stomach, Fig. 1, Choctaw (1853:19). man Thomas Williston, Choctaw Nation Cultural Services Executive Director Sue Folsom, tattoos so that everyone saw chest or arms. warrior with painted Warriors were Choctaw Nation Councilman Tony Messenger and Hailee Roberts. him would recognize him as Unfortunate- face and tattooed neck not the only an accomplished warrior who ly, we don’t and torso (De Batz ca. members of had risked his life to protect know a lot 1732). Choctaw society The place to be? Apparently ... his community. Back on the about the spe- that wore tattoos. battlefield, a tattooed warrior cific designs Women from the would be immediately rec- of these tattoos. To the au- Sixtowns district commonly ognized as a powerful fight- thor’s knowledge, only one wore blue facial tattoos that er. He might be avoided by surviving depiction exists consisted of straight lines some enemies, but others who of a tattooed Choctaw war- running from the corners of wished to test themselves or rior (Fig. 1). His tattoo is a the mouth down the side of Stickball camp who enjoyed a good fight, simple geometric design that the chin (Fig. 2). Choctaw might very well seek him out. goes around his neck, and bone-pickers also had their Southeastern tribes made down onto his chest. It is own distinguishing tattoos, or Summer fun their tattoos by first tracing possible that other Choctaw possibly brands. Presumably, the designs on the skin, us- warriors may have had much the bone-picker tattoos were in the sun ing charcoal to make the de- more elaborate tattoos, like distinct from those of the war- signs visible. Then, a bone their Muscogee neighbors to riors, but we currently know By LISA REED needle or a garfish tooth was the east. William Bartram absolutely nothing about their Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma employed to put many small described Muscogee warrior specific design. punctures in the surface of the The temperature – 100. The skin within the area that had hottest thing – a stickball. been traced, until the blood The Choctaw Nation’s first started to flow. Right after ever summer stickball camp the punctures were made, the for youth was attended by skin would be rubbed with a close to 200 boys and girls on pigment. Some of this pig- each of its two days at Tvshka ment, would become lodged Homma in spite of sweltering in raw, exposed portions of heat. the epidermis, making a per- Buses rolled in early June manent, colored design in 24th and 25th, bringing the the person’s skin. One of the young people in from all di- most common pigments was rections. The coaches split the made from the soot that is attendees into five groups – created when pine sap burns. age 8, 9, 10, 11-12 and 13-up This made a bluish tattoo. Fig. 2, Sixtowns Choctaw women with facial tattoos (Bod- – to teach the fundamentals. Choctaw Nation: LISA REED Other tattoos worn by South- mer 1834). Instructions such as “move side to side,” “communicate!” Stickball Camp Coach Kerry Willis watches with a smile could be heard repeatedly as the kids try to be the first to grab the ball with their and the kids responded with sticks. Housing Authority holds Heritage Day an obvious desire to become stickball players. They raced develop their own talents.” Mississippi and Louisiana Staff at the for the ball, learned to catch A group from the Jena Choctaws) have been work- Housing Au- and throw, and to take it away Band of Choctaws traveled ing a lot together.” thority in Hugo from an opponent. from Louisiana to attend the “The revitalization of our set aside June “We plan to keep the camp camp, bringing 13 of their games is a huge accomplish- 13 to celebrate going every year and as a youth from age 8 to 15. They ment,” Folsom added. “It’s Choctaw cul- ture. They result, we will have more arrived Sunday, June 24, to good to see all our kids in- enjoyed tradi- teams,” said Cultural Services attend the June 25-26 camp. volved and wanting to learn. tional, arts and Executive Director Sue Fol- “We are excited to be a part “Someday, we will see crafts, artwork, Choctaw Nation: LISA REED som. “The kids are enjoying of the camp,” said Dana Mas- them walking around with dancing and Doris Ross cooks a pot of Shelley Garner, right, demonstrates learning the sport or working ters, Jena Band Councilwom- sticks as naturally as they learning about pashofa to add to the day’s how to make a corn husk doll for Val- on becoming more skillful. an and its Cultural Director. do today with basketballs or stickball. traditional lunch items. erie Powell. The coaches will help them “The three tribes (Oklahoma, baseballs.”

Healthy Male Research Subjects Needed We are looking for the following: • Ages 18-50 Chahta Anumpa Aiikhvna • American Indian volunteers w/ CDIB Card uuu uuu • High school graduate or GED Lesson of the Month • Read and speak English fluently • No history of brain injury, substance abuse, or mental illness Time Commitment: One 90 minute session If you are interested in participating in a research study of com- Anonti, falamvt ish vla chike! puterized tests examining attention, memory, and reasoning that Pronounced: will aid men and women in the Armed Forces please call 918.448.6796 Ah-non-teh, fah-la-maht ish ah-la che-keh! Choctaw Nation Memory Clinic Sponsor Institution: University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center You come back again! Study PIs: C. Munro Cullum, Ph.D. and Myron F. Weiner, M.D. Contact PIs@ 214.648.4427 Participants will be compensated for their time upon completion of the study visit with a $50 gift card to Wal-Mart. Word Meaning: anonti – again falamvt – return ish – you vla – to arrive chike – will be, may be

Ome, chi pisa la chike! Pronounced: O-meh, che pe-hn-sa la che-keh! Yes, / Very well, I will be seeing you. or Yes, / Very well, I will see you later! Word Meaning: ome – yes chi – you pisa – see la – I (changed from li to la for future tense) chike – will be, may be Note: “Ome” cannot be used to answer a question in the affirmative. To answer a question, we respond with “A, sa hochchifo yat Bob.” – Yes, my name is Bob.” “Ome” is used to respond in agreement or acknowledge- ment to a statement, conversation, or leave-taking expres- sions.

www.choctawschool.com BISKINIK | July 2012 | Page 11 OBITUARIES Warren Kemp Charles Wear Marcus Battiest Warren V. Kemp, 41, of Fort Tow- Charles T. Wear, 62, of Paris, Marcus Ray Battiest, 64, of son, passed away on May 10, 2012, passed away at 6:40 p.m., on March Downey, Calif., passed away on April in Tulsa. 16, 2012, at Paris Regional Medi- 19, 2012. He was born on June 28, Warren was born May 12, 1970, cal Center-South. Charles was born 1947, in Talihina, the son of Marcus in Oklahoma City, the son of Will V. April 15, 1949, in Lamar County to and Rachel Watson Battiest. Kemp and Lila (Lewis) Kemp and William Bailey and Gracie Mollie He was preceded in death by his had lived in the Fort Towson area Honnel Wear. He married Bettye Sue parents; brother Kenny Battiest; sis- since 1988. Warren graduated from Love on Aug. 8, 1969. Mr. Wear was ters-in-law Georgia Nehka; and cous- Atoka High School in 1988. He mar- an insurance salesman for American in Carrie Louis. ried Tammy Parrish in Fort Towson National Insurance Company for 22 Marcus is survived by his daugh- on Feb. 26, 1996. He enjoyed sports, liked to talk and play years, retiring in May of 2011. He was a member of the Paris ters, Lisa Marie Battiest and Sheryl L. Battiest; granddaughters, softball and enjoyed attending pow-wows and singings. War- Church of God. Erica Marie Battiest-Andrade, Hessica Angel Battiest, Natalie ren was proud of his Choctaw heritage and had worked for the He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Rose Battiest and Desiree Battiest, of Oklahoma; son-in-law Choctaw Nation Housing Authority for 16 years. Jimmy Ward. Sergio Andrade; great-grandson Christian Battiest-Andrade; He is survived his wife Tammy Kemp; son Joseph Wilmer Mr. Wear is survived by his wife, Bettye Wear; daughters, sisters, Naomi Carrillo and Oleta Martinez, both of Oklahoma; Kemp of Ft. Towson; daughter Kimberly Dawn Kemp of Ft. Angela Schroeder with husband Steve, and Priscilla Darnell sisters-in-law, Serena Bond and Betsy Bond, both of Okla- Towson; parents, Will and Lila Kemp of Ft. Towson; three with husband Wes; grandchildren, Paul Dalton Darnell, Conor homa; many cousins, nieces, nephews; and many friends and aunts, June Baker, Carol Kemp and Wanna Moore, all of Okla- Jace Darnell, and Brianna Brooke Schroeder; brothers, Billy coworkers. homa City; cousins, Rondel Kemp and Darren Kemp of Okla- Wear with wife Nancy, Melvin Wear with wife Wanda, Ray- homa City; along with many other relatives and friends. mond Wear with wife Lisa, Donald Wear with wife Ruth, and Bobby Wear with wife Joy; sisters, Lemmie Mae Chennault, Curtis Lewis Jeanette Jones Juanita Hooten and Greta Baker with husband Bobby; and sev- Curtis Harold Lewis, 78, of Heav- eral nieces and nephews. ener, passed away n March 29, 2012, Jeanette Cole Jones, 90, of Oklaho- in Tulsa. He was born on Sept. 3, ma City, passed away May 5, 2012, at Joy Rastall 1933, in Petros, (Hodgen) to Ray- an Oklahoma City nursing home. She mond Curtis and Lillie Belle (Kel- was born on Sept. 20, 1921, in We- Joy Bernice Rastall, 78, an aircraft ley) Lewis. Curtis worked in the coal woka, to Sampson and Sara Brown assembler, passed away on May 16, mines. Cole. She graduated from Gerty High 2012, in Fort Worth. Joy was born He was preceded in death by his School and attended Oklahoma City May 23, 1933, in Wapanucka to parents; brother Donald Lewis; sister Community College. She married Reeves Bruce and Hazel Harrison Betty Allen; and nephew Joey D. Byrd. Thomas Jones. He preceded her in Bigger. Joy was a member at large He is survived by his daughter, Linda Hall with husband Jeff death on Aug. 25, 1997. Mrs. Jones of the order of Eastern Star, Crowley of Heavener; grandchildren, Kelley and Jennifer Sayahnejad of was a licensed practical nurse at St. Anthony Hospital in Okla- Chapter. Wichita, Kan., Samantha and Adam Cox of Gainesville, Texas; homa City. She was of the Baptist faith and a domino player. Survivors include her husband, RH great-grandsons, Thomas Cox, Waylon Cox, Owen Cox and She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; and chil- Rastall of Crowley; son Rodney L. Cooper Sayahnejad; sister Ema Mae and R.B. West of Heav- dren, Patricia Moore, Rosa Lee Gilbreath and Jimmy Moore. Rastall with wife Regina of Memphis, Tenn.; grandchildren, ener; and niece, Sharon Evens of Fort Lauderdale, Fla., along She is survived by son, J.R. Moore with wife Kathy of Moore; Sophie and Lucas of Memphis; nephew Bobby Joe Bigger of with other relatives and many friends. daughters, Patty Timmons with husband David of Gerty, and Crowley, La.; sister Helen Niles with husband Jerry of Corpus He was laid to rest in Hodgen Cemetery following a full Kandi Allman with husband Michael of Ada; 11 grandchildren; Christi, Texas; and extended family and friends. military service and 21 gun salute. 19 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; and other loving relatives and friends. Emanuel Gage Lynn Perry Dewayne Gibson Emanuel “Buck” Gage Sr., 89, of Lynn Allen “Dick” Perry of Heavener, passed away on May Martinsburg, W.V., passed away on 6, 2012. He was born June 2, 1941, in Talihina. Dick was the Dewayne Carl Gibson, 62, passed June 19, 2011, at the Carolina House son of original Choctaw enrollee Raymond Perry and Lula away on June 11, 2012, in Tulsa. He of Durham, N.C. after a prolonged (Thorne) Perry, a Cherokee. was born Feb. 24, 1950, in Hugo, battle with Alzheimer’s dementia. Dick had lived in Heavener since 2009. Prior to living in to Rev. Pipkin Phillip and Rendy He was born on Sept. 25, 1921, in Heavener, Dick had called the mountains south of Heavener (Frazier) Gibson. Dewayne was a Keota, and was the son of the late home, as he dwelt in his primitive cabin near Cedar Lake. Al- member of the Bobb-Myers United Monroe Gage and Ethel Cole Gage. though he preferred to live alone, once you gained his trust Methodist Church. He enjoyed fish- Buck attended and was raised at Jones and respect, one could not have a finer individual to claim as ing, walking his dog Lunka, watch- Academy by the Choctaw Nation. He a friend. ing Rick and Rodney play football was a veteran of the U.S. Army Infantry, 45th Division, serving He cherished the times he spent visiting with his many for Jones Academy and watching his in World War II. He was honorably discharged and awarded the friends around the country. Dick quietly went about serving nephew Jaren Richards play football during the 2008-2010 Purple Heart, the Bronze Star, and the Combat Infantry Badge. other folks. He was the type of person who would come by seasons. Dewayne loved life and he loved spending it with his He considered Martinsburg, W.V., his home and was well just to “check on you” to see how you were doing. If you had a family and friends. respected within the community. He was an avid hunter and need, he would help you any way he could. Dick was devoted Dewayne was preceded in death by his parents; and brother sportsman. Buck retired from E.I. DuPont with 35 years of to documenting his Indian ancestry and had a truly amazing Pipkin Gibson Jr. service. He was an honorable man who loved his family and knowledge and memory of the times and events that shaped his He is survived by his sisters, Mary Wilson of Antlers, Agnes friends. He was very proud of his Choctaw heritage and his family’s lives. Ward of McAlester, and Elaine Gibson of Antlers; brother-in- service to his country. He is survived by his daughter, Tasha Rust Callahan and law Norman Going of Smithville; nieces and nephews, Latajah In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his her daughter, Haven of Heavener; sisters, Mona Lea Perry of Baker and son Blaine of McAlester, Jaren Richards of Durant, wife of 65 years, Mary Jeanette Meiser Gage. Belton, Mo., and Patricia Caughern of Heavener; and brother Timothy D. Baker of Antlers, Rodney Richards and his chil- He is survived by son Emanuel “Bucky” Gage Jr.; wife Amy; Charles Hardy Perry of Hodgen. dren, Tara, Ayliah, Shayla and Jaylen of Antlers, Rick Richards grandson Hunter James Gage of Saginaw, Mich.; and daughter with wife Cheryl and their children, Pipkin, Brianna and Justin Patti Szymborski with husband Tom of Durham, N.C. of Idabel, Renelle Richards of Chickasha, Ted Williams with Rachel Shomo wife Lisa and their children, Bret, Lauren, Gabriella and Alys- Gertrude Curtis sia of Durant, Jerry Williams of Main, Weegie and Maurice Rachel Shomo, 78, of Broken Bow, Baker and their children, Jill, Bretton and Melanie of Durant, Gertrude Logan Curtis, 78, passed away on April 9, 2012, passed away on June 15, 2012, at her Vanessa Williams Johnson and her children, Jordan, Jerry and at her home in Ada. She was born on Sept. 12, 1933, in the home. She was born April 28, 1934, Sapphire of Durant; great-nephew Jaden, son of Randy and Lula Community in Pontotoc County, to Roosevelt Logan and in Broken Bow, the daughter of the Christy Hammons of Rattan; great-niece Taria Smith, daughter Elzona Colbert Logan. late Green and Luanna (Billy) Ale- of Dusty Smith of Antlers; step-nieces and nephews, Andrea Gertrude attended Napier Public Schools and was a member mohtubbi. Going and her children, Gavin, Andrew, Misty and Kayla of of Reaper Baptist Church, where she served faithfully as an Rachel was a member of Kulli Chi- Dequeen, Ark., Collette Ludlow with husband Daryl and their usher. to United Methodist Church in Bro- children, Sarah, Ashley, Matthew and Gabrielle of Smithville She married Walter Curtis Jr. in 1958, in Ada. Together they ken Bow. She was a homemaker, and and Broken Bow, Lance Going with wife Chandia and children raised three children. Walter passed away on Aug. 17, 1988. enjoyed sewing, baking and spending time with her grandchil- Alexander, Damario and Alysia of Broken Bow, Brian Going She worked as a caregiver of children and the elderly most dren and family. with wife Nanju and their children, Scott, Joseph, Shaun, Katie of her adult life. Her true passions were caring for her children, She was preceded in death by her husband; brothers, Elus and Brian of Fort Leavenworth, Kan., with Brian stationed in parents and many other family members and the joy she found Alemohtubbi and Preston Billy; sister Virgie; and grandchil- Afghanistan, and Jon Going with wife Cristal and their chil- in serving the Lord. She enjoyed fishing, watching ballgames dren, Shane Michael Tollison and Mathew Wayne Tollison. dren, Sarah and Zachary of Dallas. and playing Yahtzee and dominoes. She is survived by her sons, Glenn Tollison with wife Julie, She was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and step- and Raymond Tollison with wife Angela, all of Broken Bow; father, Jodie Brown. daughter Janis Anderson of Broken Bow; sister Eula Lufkin Shirley Elliott She is survived by her two sons, Urban J. McCarther with of Ada; eight grandchildren, Raymond Jr., Cody, Brandon, wife Charlene, and Michael Curtis with wife Maria, both of Amy, Renea, Porshla, Shawnee and Angenia; six great-grand- Shirley L. Elliott, 79, passed away Oklahoma City; daughter Elzona Curtis of Ada; brother Clif- children, Ricky, Isaiah, Breanna, Jessica, Kylie and Gabriella; on May 15, 2012, in Oklahoma City. ford Logan with wife Shirley of Dallas; sister Bernice Gordon special friend and cousin, Iris James; and a host of other family Shirley was born in Ada to Jane L. of Oklahoma City; five grandchildren; three great-grandchil- and friends. (Bigger) and James A. Elliott. She dren; and a number of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins graduated from Pleasant Grove High and friends. School in Seminole. She received a Glenda Loma B.S. Ed from East Central State Col- lege (now East Central University) in Charles Pickens Glenda Jean (Wade) Loma, 62, 1954, in Ada and an M.E. from Loyala of Pickens, passed away on June 7, University in 1962, in New Orleans. Charles Johnson Pickens, 65, 2012, at her home. She was born She attained 30 additional graduate hours as well. During her passed away on March 29, 2012, in Jan. 11, 1950, in Battiest, the daugh- summers, she would pursue these additional credit hours at Norman. Charles was born Nov. 23, ter of the late Carlo and Esien (Cobb) such schools as the University of Southern Mississippi, Cen- 1946, in Concho, to Charles J. and Wade. Glenda was affiliated with the tral State College (now Central State University) in Edmond, Minerva (Gibson) Pickens. He was Baptist faith. She was a nurse aide, Louisiana State University and the University of Oklahoma. raised in Blanchard and South Okla- enjoyed quilting, helping others in Learning was as important to her as teaching and she always homa City. Charles worked for Cli- need and loved to take care of her enjoyed meeting and working with the younger students be- matemasters in Oklahoma City for grandchildren. cause it helped her relate to the students she was teaching. She several years. He attended college She was preceded in death by her parents; sister Betty Sul- taught 3 years at Butner High School in Wewoka, before mov- at Haskell for four years and gradu- livan; grandmother Jincy Ingram; aunts, Geraldine Jones and ing to Louisiana. In Harvey, La., she taught business educa- ated from there. While in attendance at Haskell, he played Nora Long; cousin Eastman Wade; uncle Sam Rivers; broth- tion at West Jefferson High School from 1956 to 1964, and football for the school. On June 18, 1968, Charles joined the ers-in-law, Ryman Battiest and Winston Davis Jr.; son-in-law later served at the school as counselor for three years. Then she U.S. Army. While in Vietnam, he was dropped in the hot zone James Reynolds; mother-in-law Sarah Obe; and several aunts moved to L. W. Higgins High School in Marrero, La., where and was missing in action for about two months. He received and uncles. she served as an assistant principal from 1967-1975 before re- the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, She is survived by her husband, Edward Loma of the home; turning to West Jefferson High as assistant principal for an- Vietnam Campaign Medal, Bronze Star Medal, Combat In- son Daniel with Dawn Loma of Stillwater; daughters, Alicia other 20 years. Ms. Elliott retired from West Jefferson in 1994, fantry Badge, Expert Infantry Badge, Vietnam Cross of Gal- with Bobby Noah of Pickens, and Rhonda Reynolds of Bat- and returned to Oklahoma, the land she always loved. She was lantry with Palm, Good Conduct Medal and Expert Rifle. He tiest; brothers, R.C. with Dona Wade of Las Vegas, and Cecil especially proud of her Choctaw heritage. After returning to was honorably discharged Aug. 14, 1978, with the rank of Staff with Adrienne Wade of Noble; sisters, Mary Jane Battiest of Oklahoma, she worked for 10 years with H&R Block. She was Sergeant. Charles was active with the Veterans and he enjoyed Wright City, Minnie with Larry Spearman of Gardenia, Calif., a member of Kappa Kappa Iota Chi Conclave, Kappa Delta movies, pow wows and all sports, especially football. Nancy with Ron Smith of Slaughterville, Matilda with Jimmy Pi, Delta Kappa Gamma, Louisiana State Teachers Association Charles is preceded in death by his parents; brother Kirk Paxton of Valliant, and Marilyn Thomas of Idabel; grandchil- and Jefferson Parrish Principals Association. She enjoyed play- Pickens; and grandmother Magdelene Edwards. dren, Kasi Jo Noah, Mckenzie Loma, Alexis Reynolds, Sen- ing duplicate bridge and she was an accomplished artist and Survivors include his siblings, Betty Wolfe of Moore, Eu- eca Loma, Derek Noah, Brennan Long and Taylor Long; aunts quilter. gene Pickens of Wilson, Kathy Thompson with husband John and uncles, Jerry and Sally Ingram of Illfield, N.M., and Leona Shirley is survived by brother James Elliott with wife Joyce of Blanchard, Verda Haines, Maynard Spencer and Myra Pier- Rivers of Battiest; special nieces and nephew Keosha Ludlow, of Tecumseh; and sister Leota with husband Dr. Ted Violett of son with husband Mike, all of Tuttle; and numerous nieces and Nakisha Ludlow, and Jerry Ludlow; a special friend, Rusty Eufaula. nephews. Storm Stuart; and a host of other relatives and friends. BISKINIK | July 2012 | Page 12

ChoctawJUNE 20-23 IN WASHINGTON, D.C.Days

Paul Hacker presents one of his hand- made knives to NMAI Director Kevin Gover.

Juan Graciano, far right, along with son, Tony Graciano, and grandson Hunter, all of Delaware, are all smiles along with The beautifully detailed NMAI building towers behind Assistant Chief Batton, and Councilmen Anthony Dillard and artist Jane Semple Umsted. Thomas Williston.

CHOCTAW DAYS Continued from Page 1 the Rasmuson Theater. Also in the Rasmuson, members of the Southeastern Oklahoma State University Theatre Department brought “To Us It Wasn’t Code” to the stage every afternoon. The young performers, all Choctaw, acted out the story of how Choctaw soldiers in World War I be- Artist and presenter D.G. Smalling enjoys the Choctaw Days festival. came the first to develop a code with their native language. Smalling is the great-grandson of a Choctaw Code Talker. The Johnsons – Moses, Lena and Bubba – sing Choc- During a special presentation on June 20, Lt. Gen. Leroy taw hymns at Choctaw Days. Sisco (Ret.) of the Military Warriors Support Foundation and Assistant Chief Gary Batton surprised James Rivera of Jacksonville, Fla., with the keys to a new home provided by the program Homes 4 Wounded Heroes. Rivera, who was a sergeant in the Marine Corps, was driving a Humvee in Iraq that was hit by an improvised explosive device in 2004. The veteran had no idea he was to be the recipient of the new home. Emotions played out on his face, beginning with shock and gradually as realization replaced surprise, he hugged both Sisco and Batton and thanked everyone for a gift that will make a tremendous difference in his life. Al Cherry, chief pilot for the tribe, provided information on the Veterans Airlift Command, a program the Choctaw Bruce Frazier, Alicia Frazier, Beth Lawless, Chantelle Nation has been involved in for years. The video he played Standefer and Brad Gernand were among those in atten- in the Rasmuson Theater gave a description of the many dance at the opening night reception. Bruce, Alicia, Beth veterans and their families who have been assisted. and Chantell are among the descendants of Choctaw Greg Rodgers plays the flute and Tim Tingle beats ona The Color Guard posted the flags of our tribe, our state Code Talker Tobias Frazier. and our nation every morning. They flew over each day’s drum during a presentation at Choctaw Days. activities, a testament of the Choctaw Nation’s long his- tory and its strengths. The fourth flag brought forth was the black MIA/POW flag. As the accomplishments of veterans were honored, it reminded participants of the many war- riors who haven’t come home. Yakoke, to our Tvshka Chahta, our Choctaw warriors. Choctaw Days in our nation’s capitol has spread the knowl- edge of what Choctaw veterans have done for our country.

Susan and John Allen Zimmer of Artist Theresa Salisbury, Md., have a great time at Morris takes a mo- the festival. ment to show off Kendra King, originally a piece of warrior Frankie Dodd, right, of Penn Valley, Calif., takes from Clayton, and Karissa artwork. a break from the activities to spend time with her Bowes make a cornhusk grandson Steven Cobb, of Chantilly, Va. doll. Choctaw Nation Labor Day Annual POWWOW August 31, 2012 Tuskahoma, OK

STAFF SCHEDULE Head Man - Adam Nordwall 2:00-5:00 pm Gourd Dance Head Woman - Yvette Goodeagle 5:00-6:00 pm Break MC - Tim Tallchief 6:00 pm - Gourd Dance Councilman Ted Dosh, right, and Lt. Gen. Leroy Head Gourd - Randy Frazier 7:00 pm - Grand Entry AD - Bill Takes Horse Gary Cobb marks a spot on the map. Sisco (Ret.) visit with Leslie Croson of Centerville. Color Guard - Choctaw Nation Host Southern Drum - RoanHorse Host Northern Drum - The Horses

ADULT GOLDEN AGE MEN AND WOMEN 50 AND OVER 19-50 YEARS MENS - Straight-Traditional-Fancy Dance-Grass WOMENS - Cloth-Buckskin-Jingle Dress-Fancy Shawl

1st - $500 • 2nd - $400 • 3rd - $300 • 4th - $200 • 5th - $100

SENIOR JR BOYS AND GIRLS BOYS AND GIRLS 13 - 18 years 7 - 12 years

Boys - Straight-Traditional Boys - Straight-Traditional Fancy Dance-Grass Fancy Dance-Grass Girls - Cloth-Buckskin-Jingle Dress Girls - Cloth-Buckskin-Jingle Dress Fancy Shawl Fancy Shawl

1st - $150 • 2nd - $125 • 3rd - $100 1st - $125 • 2nd - $100 • 3rd - $75 Tiny Tots 0-6

Call Willard Polk or Sue Folsom @ 580/924-8280 for more information. Call for booth fee information. PowWow is FREE, bring your own chairs, drums welcome. Princesses are invited •••ALCOHOL /DRUGS ARE NOT TOLERATED - NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THEFT or ACCIDENTS ••• BISKINIK | July 2012 | Page 13

Evaline Steele works her magic Brad Joe chants for fun participation in the Stealing Partners dance. with baskets.

Stickball at the Nation’s Capitol. JUNE 20-23 IN WASHINGTON, D.C. Log on to Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma’s Facebook page Choctaw Days for more photos of Choctaw Days at the Flute player Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian. and maker Presley Byington.

Sarah DeHerrera sings the National Anthem in the Choctaw language.

Lt. Gen. Leroy Sisco (Ret.) and Assistant Chief Gary Batton present the keys to a new home to Marine Corps veteran James Rivera from Homes 4 Wounded Heroes.

Photos by CHRISSY DILL, LISA REED, ‘Bringing in the Colors’ JUDY ALLEN & BRAD JOE Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma A tribute to our military history

The Choctaw ponies, like Kashi, were a big hit with guests. Trainer Alanna Salisbury, in background, holds the lead rope as a young girl leans in to pet the pony.

Miss Choctaw Nation Amber Te- hauno, Jr. Miss Adrianna Curnutt and Little Miss Summer Moffitt placed bouquets of flowers at the Vietnam (right), Korean and World War II (above) War Memorials and the grave sites of Pushmatahah and Peter Pitchlynn.

Choctaw Color Guard posts the flags to open each day.

Nuchi Nashoba, Ruth Frazier McMillan and Jane Semple Umsted enjoy the reception.

Director of Cultural Services of the French Embassy in the United Mitsitam Executive Chef Richard Hetzler demonstrates States Roland Celette, Councilmen Ted Dosh, Thomas Williston and cooking Choctaw-inspired dishes. Anthony Dillard and Assistant Chief Gary Batton.

The cast of “To Us It Wasn’t Code” – Dustin Curry, Chantelle Standefer, Twahna Choctaw historian and storyteller Olin Williams Kemp-Finley, David Batton and Brenner Billy. The series of short plays is pro- tells a group of children about Tiak Osi’s Rabbit duced by Southeastern Oklahoma State University for this year’s Choctaw Days at Les Williston’s booth on traditional weaponry and tools is Hunt, a tale of a boy’s coming of age. the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian. a favorite of visitors at Choctaw Days. BISKINIK | July 2012 | Page 14 Entertainment August 31 through September 2 Free to the public Friday night Saturday night Hankerin’ 4 Hank 5:30 p.m. Ricky Skaggs 7 p.m.

Hankerin’ 4 Hank promises By age 21, Ricky Skaggs was already considered to hold true to the original ar- a “recognized master” of one of America’s most de- rangements and style of Hank manding art forms, but his career took him in other Williams Sr. These incredibly directions, catapulting him to popularity and suc- talented musicians are taking cess in the mainstream of country music. His life’s a step back in time in present- path has taken him to various music genres, from ing these tunes in the style where it all began in bluegrass music, to embark- that Hank wrote them. You will ing on new musical journeys, while still leaving his experience the look and the musical roots intact. sound of Hank Williams as her 2012 marks the 53rd year since Ricky struck his performed in 1951. Hankerin’ first chords on a mandolin, and this 14-time Gram- 4 Hank provides the “Drifting my Award winner continues to do his part to lead the Cowboy” sound that backed recent roots revival in music. With 12 consecutive Hank, complete with the doghouse bass and honky tonk guitar and steel that so much Grammy-nominated classics behind him, all from his defined the music of that era. own Skaggs Family Records label, the diverse and masterful tones made by the gifted Skaggs come from a life dedicated to playing music that is both fed Sara Evans 7 p.m. by the soul and felt by the heart. Six years after her first studio album, Sara Evans released “Stronger.” her newest record that is filled with the kind of gutsy explorations on life and love Martina McBride 9 p.m. that have made her one of the most compelling fe- After two decades in the music business, Martina Mc- male vocalists of her generation. Bride has made some changes, now signed to Republic Sara’s continually remained a favorite at country Nashville, with new management, a new co-producer radio thanks to such hits as “Born To Fly,” “Suds In and newly-spotlighted song-writing skills, having penned The Bucket,” “I Keep Looking,” “Perfect,” “No Place over half the songs on “Eleven,” her newest album. That Far” and “A Real Fine Place To Start.” “Teenage Daughters,” Martina’s debut single for Re- Her newest album’s lead single, “Stronger,” is just public Nashville, was released the week after Country the latest jewel in an already stellar career. Sara has earned numerous accolades, Radio Seminar, and fans immediately recognized Mar- including the Academy of Country Music’s Top Female Vocalist honor in 2006 and the tina’s personal stamp in the lyrics. Her follow-up single, Country Music Association’s Video of the Year prize for “Born To Fly.” Her previous “I’m Gonna Love You Through It,” wasn’t penned by the studio albums have been strong sellers. Her sophomore set, “No Place That Far,” has singer, but touched Martina personally. been certified Gold; 2001’s “Born to Fly” is double-Platinum and 2003’s “Real Fine In a career that has already taken her to breathtaking Place To Start” and “Restless” are both Platinum. heights (four Country Music Association Female Vocalist of the Year trophies, three Academy of Country Music Female Vocalist awards, a Grammy win, numerous nation- al magazine covers and features and appearances on such shows as VH1’s “Divas,” Josh Turner 9 p.m. “Today Show,” “20/20,” “American Idol” and “Dancing with the Stars,” Martina is ready Cracker Barrel Old Country Store presents Josh Turner, to take it up a notch with the help of her new label. with his deep voice and catchy, while meaningful, lyrics. Schedule is subject to change. No drugs or alcoholic beverages allowed on tribal grounds. The singer-songwriter was months away from sched- uled recording sessions when he first heard “Why Don’t We Just Dance,” which became the debut single from his fourth studio album, “Haywire.” Since earning a standing ovation as an unknown singer Bring your quilts and lawn chairs and enjoy on the Grand Ole Opry stage in 2001 with his impressive delivery of “Long Black Train,” he has established himself the Choctaw Nation’s exciting lineup this year! as one of the most identifiable male vocalists in country music. Concerts take place at the amphitheater on the Josh has sold more than 4 million albums, with his de- Choctaw Nation Capitol Grounds in but album was certified platinum for more than one million copies sold, and his sophomore album, “Your Man,” was Tvshka Homma, Oklahoma. one of only four country albums to reach double-platinum status in 2006. Six years after his Opry debut, he was inducted into the prestigious organization, becoming one of the youngest artists to receive such an honor. Sunday night If there’s one group whose name inspires thoughts of pure, passionate, solid and true music, it’s The Kingsmen. They’ve encouraged and uplifted listeners with their unique style since the conception of the group in 1956. With countless records and compilations sold, Grammy nominations, four Dove Awards and an induction into the “Gospel Music Association’s Hall of Fame” (class of 2000), “The Christian Music Hall of Fame” (2008), this certainly solidifies The Kingsmen as Christian music’s most predominate group. The momentum has not stopped as the group continues to help define the Southern Gospel genre for a whole new generation of music lovers, perhaps more so than any other group. There aren’t too many groups today who can boast the kind of far-reaching legacy that comes with more than a five-decade career as one of gospel music’s most in- fluential artists. The Kingsmen emerged in the 1950s with their own distinct style, unleashing music that would solidify them as pioneers in the southern gospel music field. They continue to carry on that legacy today, with their music holding a mes- The Kingsmen 7 p.m. sage of Christ, touring year in and year out to spread their music and that message across the country. Britt Nicole 8 p.m. Newsboys 9 p.m. A native of Salisbury, N.C., Britt Nicole has al- This Grammy-nominated and Dove ways had a heart for reaching people and has long Award-winning band has sold close to 8 mil- used music as the vehicle to change lives. She lion units, has garnered five Gold albums began singing in church at age 3 and by the time and 28 number-one radio hits. Newsboys she was in high school, she was appearing on her released their most recent CD on Nov. 15, church’s daily television program and logged a 2011 - the highly anticipated project, “God’s performance at New York’s famed Carnegie Hall Not Dead.” This rock-driven worship album with her school’s advanced chorus. finds front man Michael Tait and his band Boldness is generally associated with youth and mates, who have played together for two they say wisdom comes with age, but rarely does decades, with some of today’s most widely one person simultaneously possess both in abun- church-embraced modern worship anthems dance. However, Britt isn’t your average twenty- as well as several original and never-before- something as she clearly demoonstrates on her released worship songs written by some of vibrant sophomore album, “The Lost Get Found.” today’s biggest worship songwriters. In listening to Britt’s music, it’s obvious she pos- Renown for their heart-pumping live con- sesses wisdom beyond her years and a spiritual maturity not often seen in one so certs, the tight-knit Newsboys unit continues young. Yet she’s very much the playful girl next door and those equally intriguing to headline gigs in the U.S. and around the sides of her personality merge seamlessly on “The Lost Get Found.” world.