Okla Outreach Wilburton Chahta at the holds wild Gathering Beach onion dinner

Page 2 Page 10 Page 11

bisKinik CHANGE service requested Presort STD p.O. Box 1210 AUTO Durant OK 74702 U.S. POSTAGE PAID CHOCTAW NATION

BISKINIKThe Official Publication of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

June 2012 Issue

WalkingWalking toto zx See event photos on Page 16 honorhonor ourour ancestorsancestors

Choctaw Nation: LISA REED The Choctaw Nation Color Guard leads hundreds of walkers in attendance at the 2012 commemorative Trail of Tears Walk on May 19 in Tushka Homma. Hacker to Choctaw feature art at culture Choctaw Days By LARISSA COPELAND celebrated Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Choctaw Days at the Smithsonian Institute’s National Museum of the at State American Indian (NMAI) is sure to be an educational, tradition-packed experience for anyone looking to get Capitol a peek at a Native American culture that is not only alive, but is thriving. By BRET MOSS Choctaw Nation: LISA REED Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Choctaw history, art, dancing, lan- Choctaw Nation held a ribboncutting for 13 one-bedroom energy-efficient housing untis for qualified Choc- guage, music, food, and more will be taw Nation senior citizens. There is also a 2100-sq-ft community area, office, laundry and safe room to ac- The Choctaw Nation of showcased by those who understand commodate 60 persons. Each housing unit is 550 square feet. Construction began in September 2010 and was Oklahoma assembled a group it best…the passionate teachers, art- completed in July 2011, a full three months ahead of schedule. This project is our most energy-efficient effort of cultural experts and artists ists, dancers and craftsmen, who to date. at the Oklahoma State Capitol make conserving Choctaw heritage building on May 15 to bring the a way of life. Choctaw experience to the peo- One such person is Paul Hacker. ple of the Oklahoma City area An award-winning artist, Hacker and the leaders of the state. has a wide range of traditional, cre- Brightly clothed Choctaws ative enterprises in his artwork arse- filled the capitol’s second floor nal. Amassing decades of knowledge rotunda in their traditional and skilled artistic ability, he focuses clothing ready to leave an im- his talents on handcrafted historical pression on guests of the Capi- pottery, flutes, ledger art, custom tol. As soon as booths were set collector knives, and parfleche (bags up and ready to go, guests were or pouches made of tough rawhide). eager to get involved with what A native of Oklahoma with both the Choctaw Nation had to of- Choctaw and Cherokee ancestry, fer. Hacker draws inspiration and influ- Exhibits of various staples ence from his own people, as well as of Choctaw heritage were on from tribal people in locations scat- display, including stickball, tered across the country. pottery, flute making and bead- The quality and details he puts work. The Choctaw museum into his handiwork makes him a Choctaw Nation: LISA REED had an exhibit giving a back- highly sought-after artist in the Na- ground on the history of the A ribboncutting was held May 30 for the new 7,800-sq.-ft. Choctaw Nation Community Center in Atoka. tive American art community. This people, and Choctaw Language The center, located north of the Choctaw Nation Health Clinic on West Liberty Road, has a seating capacity is evidenced by his many pieces be- teachers gave guests of the of 250. Several offices are located at the center for the benefit of tribal members. There are representatives ing featured in prestigious galleries, capitol a sampling of the native from Tribal Police, CHR, Transit, Indian Child Welfare, Family Preservation and Community-Based Social exhibitions and museums stretching Continued on Page 15 Work as well as the District 10 Councilman and Field Office. There is also a conference area used for meet- the globe, including, most proudly to ings and GED classes. See HACKER Page 11 zx See event photos on Page 15

u What’s inside Many miles traveled on the seat of a bicycle Choctaw Nation Bicycle Team rides from and many other struggles throughout history, Columns...... 3 while at the same time upholding a healthy Nursery News...... 4 Mississippi to Oklahoma to commemorate lifestyle, staying active and keeping a good bal- Food Distribution...... 4 Trail of Tears, maintain a healthy lifestyle Notes to the Nation...... 5 ance between the mind, body and spirit. People You Know...... 6 By CHRISSY DILL The team was initially formed last summer Education...... 8 Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma in June when bicyclist Nancy Jefferson had the Iti Fabvssa...... 12 idea that she wanted to ride her bike from Phil- Obituaries...... 13 “To honor my family and my Choctaw ances- adelphia, Miss., to Oklahoma on the Trail of tors…to challenge myself to do something that Tears as a tribute to her mother and her Choc- Choctaw Nation: CHRISSY DILL The Mission I may never do again…to exercise for health taw ancestors. “I had been reading my mother Team members include, front from left, Eli Tul- and well being,” are some reasons members of of the Choctaw and grandmother’s journals and recollections of lier (with bike), Nikki Eagle Road, Teresa Eagle Road, the Choctaw Nation Bicycle Team would give their grandmothers’ stories from the Trail walk Nancy Jefferson, Melanie Lanning, Donna Tawkoy- Nation of Oklahoma you if you were to ask them why they have en- and believed that this is what I needed to do,” ty; back from left, Billy Eagle Road II, Jordan Eagle To enhance the lives of all mem- dured hundreds of miles on bicycle. said Jefferson. Her vision quickly became a re- Road, Greg Barrs, Mary Barrs, Phillip Tawkoyty. Not bers through opportunities designed The Choctaw Nation Bicycle Team is a group ality. pictured- Tammy Griffith, Tracie Lake, Tony Stolzfus, Stuart Winlock, Brian and Brianna Johnston, Johnnie to develop healthy, successful and of individuals who are invested in honoring Throughout the past year, Jefferson has been productive lifestyles. Anderson, Billy Eagle Road III, Cheyenne Murray, Roy their ancestors’ hardships on the Trail of Tears See BICYCLE Page 14 Griffith, Dean Lanning. BISKINIK | June 2012 | Page 2

Cultural activities highlight of Okla Chahta gathering

Okla Chahta Vice President Mike Bryant, Assistant Chief Gary Batton, Okla Chahta Liaison Theresa Harrison and Okla Chahta President Bill Harrison present a shawl as a gift of appreciation to Cultural Services Executive Director Sue Folsom.

Assistant Chief Gary Batton presents the Okla Chahta board members with gifts of appreciation from the Choctaw Nation. Pictured are Victo- ria Harrison, Bill Harrison, Mike Bryant, Aaron Wilkins, Pam Reeder, Brenda DeHerrera, Debra Dean, Ron Reeder and Theresa Harrison.

Rayne DeWoody plays stickball Getting ready to play stickball. with a little help from dad David.

The Choctaw Color Guard posts the colors at the event in Bakersfield, Calif. Entering the circle with them are all of the veterans present at the event. Left, Les Willis- ton lets a group see a stickball up close. Below, Daniela is making a beaded choker at a make- and-take table sponsored by the Choctaw Nation Cultural Services department. Leroy and Ada Merryman visit the gathering again, three years after be- ing married in a traditional Choctaw wedding on the grounds.

Ida Wilson of San Francisco, originally from Smithville, Okla.; Assis- tant Chief Gary Batton; and Ida’s granddaughter, Pebbles Robertson; daughter, Dee Wilson, and son, Anthony Wilson.

Above, Diana Folsom and Historic Preservation Director Ian Thompson make bowls in the tradi- tional Choctaw way. Right, Maribell Thomas Princesses perform the Lord’s and Shelley Thomas make Prayer in sign language. stickball sticks to take home.

New Okla Chahta Royalty for 2012-13 – Little Miss Seren- ity DeWoody, Jr. Miss Tori Archuleta and Miss Okla Chahta Taylor Archuleta, pictured with Assistant Chief Batton.

Left, Curtis Wyrick of Sanger, Calif., and Assistant Chief Gary Miss Choctaw Nation Amber Tehauno, Jr. Miss Adri- Batton. anna Curnutt and Little Miss Summer Moffitt. Virginia Ervin, Councilman Kenny Bryant and Frankie Ervin.

The Traditional Dancers and Chanter perform at the festival. Photos by LISA REED | Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma BISKINIK | June 2012 | Page 3

Bringing in the colors for this year’s Choctaw Days in D.C. muson is Southeastern Okla- We have an elite group of Thursday and Friday evenings Tribe to honor homa State University’s Choctaw artists who have there will be a stickball dem- military history Theatre Department. This agreed to show their work at onstration at the Reflecting talented group has produced Choctaw Days 2012 – DG Pool at the U.S. Capitol, just during June event short plays expanding on Smalling, Jane Semple Um- a short walking distance from From the Desk of the theme, “To Us It Wasn’t sted, Theresa Morris and Paul the National Museum of the Chief Gregory E. Pyle Code.” The performers are Hacker. They are each experts American Indian. The D.C. all Choctaw students from in their own unique methods area is known for its love of There has been a frenzy of SOSU. of creating lasting works of lacrosse and it is a privilege activity in the last few months The production will also art. They have focused on to be able to show them the as staff finalizes plans for cover other Choctaw tribal as- providing original works re- origins of this sport that is Choctaw Days in Washing- pects such as stickball, basket- flecting our military history gaining popularity across the ton, D.C. Last year, we were making and language. especially for this event. United States. the first tribe to hold a festival Daily activities will include Last year’s make-and-take Stickball is a Choctaw at the Smithsonian’s National Choctaw singing, dancing, sessions provided by the tradition. It has been called Museum of the American In- flute playing, storytelling and Choctaw Cultural Services “little brother of war” because dian and even before that suc- a wide array of booths featur- staff were one of the favorite ancient Choctaw communities cessful event concluded, we ing traditional baskets, pot- activities among the visitors would often turn to the game were working with NMAI of- tery, beadwork, moccasins, to the museum. Everyone is to solve problems. It could ficials on the 2012 version. weapons and more. invited to participate so they carry on for days, hundreds of Choctaw Days begins on can have their own men on each team, and their June 20, the day of sum- handmade Choc- wives cheering them on and mer solstice, the one day taw crafts to take betting their household goods of the year that the sun and home with them. that their team would be the the museum’s eight large Thousands of people will Special presentations Five classes will strongest, the best. prisms are in perfect align- visit the museum and learn are also scheduled in the be held each day On Saturday, visitors will ment and project dazzling of the strength inherent to the Rasmuson Theatre to in- on how to make be able to see Choctaw horses color. Our distinguished Color Choctaw. Men and women form visitors of the Choc- beaded chokers in a fenced area off Maryland Guard will bring in the colors have fought on front lines, taw Code Talkers, World and corn husk Avenue across from the mu- of our great Choctaw Nation patched the wounded, re- War I’s “telephone war- dolls and staff will seum. The versatile Choctaw and the United States, post the paired the vehicles, fueled the riors,” and their contribu- also have airbrush horse is a rare strain of Span- flags in an opening ceremony bombers, shuffled files and tion to winning that war. Choctaw-design ish mustang. Two mares from and start the four-day celebra- supported combat in hundreds Artist DG Smalling, the tattoos for anyone Cumberland Valley Equine tion. of ways. It takes a lot of peo- great-grandson of Calvin interested. Service – Windrider’s Sha- The Color Guard is a famil- ple to keep one fighting group Wilson, one of the origi- The make-and- lontaki “Cricket” and Chahta iar group to us all. The Choc- supplied and ready for battle nal Code Talkers, will takes are so popu- Chunkash “Choctaw Heart” taw veterans have opened and we salute you all. share the history of the lar it is necessary – will be part of the cultural over 1,000 events around the Among our guest speakers first group of men to use to pick up a free experience. country and their appearance is Lt. General Leroy Sisco their language as a key ticket to ensure a We are thankful to have the always brings honor and rev- (ret.) who will join tribal of- strategy to confuse the spot in one of the opportunity to educate the erence to any occasion. It is ficials in the Potomac Atrium enemy who were listen- classes. world about the multi-faceted especially fitting this year as for a presentation at the height ing to their transmissions. We are excited Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma we highlight our military his- of the light show through the Also included on the about our outdoor through venues such as Choc- tory at Choctaw Days. museum’s windows. schedule for the Ras- action this year. On taw Days at NMAI.

Chaplain’s Corner

We reap what we sow

The Bible has much to say about sowing But we can’t think, as many people do, that and reaping. going to church on Sunday is enough. Open- First, we must sow to reap. All walks of ing a Bible to read a couple of verses during the life have sowing and reaping. Lawyers and week and say a little prayer during the day is doctors and teachers spend long years in enough. We think we are all right but we are not. study. You reap and do good if you sow ef- The Bible says in Romans 6:23: “The wages fort, but you have to sow to reap. of sin is death.” There is a high price to pay for We read in Jeremiah 4:3, “…Break up the low living in sin. Sin is no respector of per- your fallow ground, and sow…” sons. The only way for sin to be taken away is In Psalm 126:6 we read: “He that goeth at the cross. forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, Fourth, ignorance of what you are sowing shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, will not keep you from reaping. We read in Le- bringing his sheaves with him.” viticus 19:19: “Thou shalt not sow they fields Evangelism is like that. We are to go out with mingled seed.” and sow the seed of the Word of God. Then The Devil sowes tares. That is his business. we will come in, bringing in sheaves. The Word of God is proclaimed, then the Devil Growing with pride, Hosea says in Hosea 10:12: “Sow your- comes along and sows tares. selves in righteousness. Reap in mercy: break There is a Devil, there are demons, they are up your fallow ground: for it is time to seek real. They are dangerous. We read in John 3:8: hope and success the LORD: till he come and rain righteous- Rev. Bertram Bobb “He that committeth sin is of the Devil and for From the Desk of ness upon you.” Tribal Chaplain the Devil sinneth from the beginning. For this pur- Assistant Chief Gary Batton It is time to seek the Lord. Many of your lives pose the Son of God was manifested that He might are in pieces. You are mixed up; you are confused. You need destroy the works of the Devil. Chief Pyle, the Tribal Council and I enjoy seeing the tribe Jesus Christ to put your life together again. We can live a Christian life only with the help of the Holy grow with pride, hope and success! Just recently we were in- Second, if you sow, you will reap. Spirit. The Holy Spirit comes into our hearts when we receive vited to take part in ribbon cuttings at two examples of tremen- In Galatians 6:7 we read: “Be not deceived; God is not Jesus Christ. He lives the Christian life through us and produces dous growth in Atoka County. The Senior Citizens’ housing lo- mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” the fruit of the Spirit, which is, “…love, joy, peace, longsuf- cated behind the former Sheffields furniture store is extremely In Numbers 32:23 we read: “…Be sure your sin will find you fering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance…” nice, and the new community center adjacent to the Choctaw out.” (Galatians 5:22) Health Clinic in Atoka is one of the most beautiful we have A story is told about a father who told his son, “Don’t go into No one can live the Christian life on his or her own. If we try ever constructed. that watermelon patch, the melons are not ripe yet.” Then the to do it by ourselves, we will fail. Satan is too powerful. The The Choctaw Color Guard began the ceremony to officially father drove into town. The boy went out to the watermelon Devil is after us daily. That is the reason it is important to read open Councilman Dillard’s new center in Atoka County by patch and found one melon that he knew was ripe. He pulled the Bible every day. When Jesus met the Devil and the Devil hoisting the flags and standing at attention. It was a great re- it, broke it and ate it. He knew he had done wrong. He knew he tempted Jesus, it was real temptation. He tempted him to turn minder of the contributions our Native American warriors have had disobeyed his father, be he hadn’t been caught. stones into bread. Jesus could have done this, but He was here made to this Nation! Several weeks passed. As the father was driving a cow up to take people to heaven to give them eternal life. And He could I appreciate all of the progress that is being made across the from the pasture, he saw a strange thing on the other side of do it only by going to the cross and taking their judgment and Choctaw Nation and I thank each and every employee for the the fence. He saw little watermelon sprouts. He dug by the new their hell. From the cross He was saying, “I love you. I love you. hard work that you do to make brighter futures possible for plant and saw the old rinds with the seeds sprouting. He knew Whoever you are. Whatever nationality you are. Whatever tribe yourselves and others! Yakoke! what had happened. The boy was caught. you belong to.” The Bible teaches that Satan is a great deceiver. God is Lord He would have died on that cross if you had been the only of the universe but there is also a force of evil in the universe person in the whole world. He loves you. You are important to called Satan. He is called the Devil by Jesus. Him. Council holds May session The Bible warns us: “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: Jesus Christ is Savior but someday He will be Judge. He came Choctaw Nation Tribal Council met in regular session on for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he reap. For he that in order to defeat Satan in your life if you let Him. Yield your May 12 at Tushka Homma. New business discussed included: soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption…” (Gala- life to God or are you going to yield to the Devil? The Devil • Extending certain health services to all resident of the Ta- tians 6:8). makes a lot of promises. He will promise you everything in the lihina area; God knows the thoughts and the intents of the heart. All of us world if you will follow him and bow down to him. • Two revocable hay bailing permits; have sinned. And we all need the mercy of God. That is why Je- But the Bible says in I John 4:4: “ Greater is he that is in you, • Approval of funds and budget for Assets for Independence sus came and shed His blood for our sins. He died on the cross than he that is in the world.” Grant Program; and rose again. God loves us in spite of our sin. And He will When you come to Christ, you have the power within you • Approval of funds and budget for the Water Resources forgive us if we come by faith to His Son, Jesus Christ. that is greater that the power of the Devil. That power is the management, Planning and Pre-Development Program; Samson fell by lust with Delilah, and the Philistines put out Holy Spirit. • Approval of the KEDDO Outreach budget; his eyes. (Judges 16:1-21) Hamen erected a gallows to hand Fifth, you will reap more than what you sow: “For they have • Approval of KEDDO KNAP budget; Mordecai only to be hanged on those gallows himself. (Esther sown the wind and they shall reap the whirlwind…” (Hosea • Approval of Administration on Aging, Title VI (A) budget; 6:4) Daniel was thrown in the lion’s den but God shut their 8:7) • Approval of Administration on Aging’s Nutrition Services mouths and they didn’t hurt Daniel. The next morning when the Have you ever seen a tornado? The wind starts with a gentle Incentive Program budget; king ordered the accusers of Daniel thrown into the den, they breeze. The clouds gather and the winds pick up. • Approval of Administration on Aging’s Native American were killed by the lions. (Daniel 3:23) The things that you are sowing now as a young person or Caregiver Support Program budget; Whatever a man or woman sows he or she will reap. That is middle-aged person, you will reap when you get older. Then • Approval of the application to the United States Federal a law of nature, and it is the law of God. you will ask: “Why didn’t I change the direction of my life?” Emergency Management Agency for the Tribal Homeland Se- Third, we will reap what we sow, Job says in Job 4:8: “They Do you know Jesus Christ as your personal Savior? Have you curity Grant Program; plow iniquity, and sow wickedness, reap the same.” trusted Jesus Christ as your Savior? If there is a doubt in your • Approval of an inventory list for the Choctaw Nation Trans- We see people everyday who have been sowing wrong deeds, mind or heart that you really know Christ, ask Him into your portation Program with specific projects listed and to approve a lust, jealousy, lying, taking drugs, shoplifting or cheating on life now. Will you do that? modification to the 20-year Long-Range Transportation Plan; their income tax. The scripture says in Proverbs 28:13: “He that Continue to pray for America. Pray for the health, strength • Approval of the disposal of surplus vehicles. covereth his sins shall not prosper, but whoso confesseth and and wisdom of our leaders. Remember our men and women in All were approved. forsaketh them shall have mercy.” our armed forces. BISKINIK | June 2012 | Page 4

Recipe of the Month Nursery News

Open-faced blackened Taylie James Benjamin Coxsey catfish sandwiches Taylie Brooke James was born We thank the Lord for the bless- Ingredients: high heat or camp fire. Add on Dec. 19, 2011, at the Choctaw ings He has bestowed in 10 little 1 3/4 teaspoons paprika oil to pan; swirl to coat. Add Indian hospital in Talihina. She fingers and 10 little toes. Benjamin 1 teaspoon dried oregano fish; cook four minutes on weighed 8 pounds 8 ounces and Lee Coxsey was welcomed into 3/4 teaspoon ground red each side or until preferred. was 20.5 inches long. Her proud this world at 8:14 p.m. on Feb. pepper 2. Combine yogurt, juice, parents are Johnny and Jara James 11, 2012, in Durant. He weighed 1/4 teaspoon salt and honey in a medium of Wilburton; maternal grandpar- 7 pounds 4.5 ounces and was 20.5 1/4 teaspoon freshly bowl. Add cabbage and ents are Greg and Tina Sims of inches long, but he has grown ground black pepper cilantro; toss well to coat. Wilburton, as well as Mark Tucker of Wilburton; maternal much since. His proud parents, 4 (6 oz.) catfish fillets Top each bread slice with great-grandparents are Jim and June Young of Buffalo Valley, Melissa Stevens and David Coxsey, thank God for the privilege 2 teaspoons olive oil about 1/2 cup slaw and one and Helen (Nadine) Tucker of Sherman, Texas; paternal grand- of raising this little angel. 1/3 cup plain fat-free fillet. Top each fillet with re- parents are Johnny James and Peggy James, both of Higgins. Greek yogurt maining slaw. Jade Tackett 3 tablespoons fresh lime Nutrition Facts: Servings: 4 Hatapushik Ramsey juice Richard “Ricky” Tackett and Amount per serving 1 tablespoon honey Sarah Woodral Tackett would Calories: 362 Hatapushik Ramsey was born on 2 cups packaged cabbage- like to announce the arrival of Fat: 16g at 2:30 p.m. on March 30, 2012, carrot coleslaw baby Jade LouAnn Tackett who Sat fat: 3.4g weighing 9 pounds 5 ounces and 1 cup chopped fresh ci- weighed 6 pounds 7 ounces and Mono fat: 7.8g measuring 21.5 inches. She is the lantro measured 19 inches long. She Poly fat: 3.2g daughter of Michael and Heather 4 (1 oz.) slices sourdough was born at the Choctaw Nation Protein: 31.3g Ramsey of McAlester and is Okla- bread, toasted Hospital in Talihina. Directions: Carbs: 22.6g homa and Mississippi Choctaw. She 1. Combine first five in- Fiber: 2.2g is welcomed to this world by her gredients in a small bowl. Cholesterol: 80mg sisters, Nayukpa, Emma Ray and Pakanli Faye; grandparents, Sabrina Choate Sprinkle both sides of fish Iron: 2.4mg Jon and Sherry Foster, Janet and Matthew Sam, and Thomas with paprika mixture. Heat Sodium: 414mg Billy; along with countless cousins. Sabrina Jaedyn Choate was a large cast-iron skillet over Calcium: 63mg born at 7:45 a.m. on May 17, 2012, at Stillwater Medical Cen- Victoria Cobb ter, weighing 9 pounds 13 ounces and was 21 inches long. Her par- Victoria Rose Cobb was born ents are Jerold Lance and Kristie April 5, 2012, in Newark, Del. (LeRoy) Choate of Pawnee. Pa- She was 9 pounds 1 ounce and ternal grandparents are Floyd and was 21.25 inches long. Victoria is Kaye Choate of Pickens; paternal the daughter of Goodwin Keener great-grandparents the late Everidge and Edna Choate and the Cobb IV and Maria Cobb; the late Culbertson and Ora Noah; maternal grandparents are Jarvis granddaughter of the late Good- and Linda LeRoy of Pawnee; maternal great-grandparents are win Keener Cobb III who worked the late Henry and Evelyn LeRoy of Ponca City, and the late for the Bureau of Indian Affairs in Washington, D. C.; and the Philip and Louise Mathews of Pawnee. Sabrina was welcomed great-granddaughter of the late Goodwin Keener Cobb II (GK) home by her sister Addyson along with other sisters and broth- and Mary Cobb, who worked as a professor and curator of the ers, La Rena, Xander, Ericka, baby Jarvis and Tsa La Gi Brady. Indian Museum at Haskell Indian College in Lawrence, Kan. Victoria’s great-uncle and aunt are Charles and Nell Cobb of Photo provided Crosby, Texas. Justin McKinney Choctaw Color Guard posts the colors before the confer- ence begins. Justin Wayne McKinney was born on Nov. 6, 2011, to Paige Ryan Jones and Derek McKinney. He is the grandson of Lile Harmon Choctaw Nation attends and Doris Jones, both of Texas, and Angela and Edwin Jones of Arling- 7th Generation Conference ton, Texas. His aunt Sandy and The 5th annual Preparing Heart Association. uncle Ronnie from Newport, NC., for the 7th Generation, The Sessions included such are very proud of him. Journey Continues in Com- topics as smoking cessation mercial Tobacco Control and reduction in pregnancy, conference was held in Mid- public health infrastructure, west City, at the Reed Center, misuse of tribal images as re- 10 tips April 17 – 19, 2012. This year lated to commercial tobacco, Isaiah makes five generations the Choctaw Nation Color 1-800-quit now, Americans Isaiah Tanner Moore was born Feb. 13, 2012, in Houston, Guard proudly presented the for nonsmoker’s rights, treat- weighing 6 pounds 6 ounces and measuring 19 inches. His to smart shopping posting of the colors on April ing commercial dependence proud parents are Elisha and Alaina Moore. Maternal grand- 18, followed by Miss Choc- and many more. parents are Charles and Diana Tanner of Luther, and his pa- taw Nation Amber Tehauno, The conference hosted such for fruits and veggies ternal grandparents are Herman and Janet of Liberty, Texas. who opened with the Lord’s speakers as Cynthia Hallett 5. Buy small amounts His maternal great-grandparents are Allen and Mary Green of Prayer in sign language. from the American’s for Non- frequently Luther, and paternal great-grandparents are Edward and Fran- WIC CNHSA Wellness Dept. staff smokers Rights, Tim Mil- WOMEN, INFANTS Some fresh vegetables and cis Tanner of Monroe La.; and his great-great-grandmother is Doris Winlock and Jamie brandt from the Mayo Clinic, AND CHILDREN fruits don’t last long. Buy Edith McMinn of Stigler. King provided fitness break Louise Strayer, University of small amounts more often to It is possible to fit veg- activities. Arizona HealthCare Partner- ensure you can eat the foods etables and fruits into any The conference is spon- ship, Cherokee Nation gam- without throwing any away. budget. Making nutritious sored by the Choctaw Na- ing Commissioner and many FOOD DISTRIBUTION choices does not have to hurt Buy in bulk when tion, Cheyenne and Arap- other great speakers. 6. ANTLERS your wallet. Getting enough items are on sale aho Tribes, Osage Nation Members of the planning Market open weekdays July 2-26 of these foods promotes For fresh vegetables or MPOWER, Cherokee Nation, committee from Choctaw July 11 : Idabel 9-11 a.m.; Broken Bow 12-2 p.m. (market open) health and can reduce your fruits you use often, a large Chickasaw Nation, OSDH, Nation include Teresa Davis July 18: Bethel 9-10:30; Smithville 12-2 (market open) risk of certain diseases. There size bag is the better buy. CDC, American Legacy, CNHSA Wellness Coordi- Closed July 4 for holiday and July 27-31 for inventory. are many low-cost ways to Canned or frozen fruits or Muskogee (Creek) Nation, nator and Crystal Frizzell, meet your fruit and vegetable vegetables can be bought in OUHSC College of Public MPOWER tobacco control Cooking with Carmen: July 13 & 23, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. needs. large quantitites when they Health, and the American coordinator. durant are on sale, since they last Market open weekdays: July 2-26, except for: 1. Celebrate the season much longer. Closed July 4 for holiday and July 27-31 for inventory. Use fresh vegetables and Cooking with Carmen: July 9 & 16, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. fruits that are in season. They 7. Store brands equal Choctaw Nation WIC are easy to get, have more fla- savings McAlester vor, and are usually less ex- Opt for store brands when WOMEN, INFANTS Market open weekdays July 2-26, except for: pensive. Your local farmer’s possible. You will get the and CHILDREN Closed July 4 for holiday and July 27-31 for inventory. market is a great source of same or similar product for a Cooking with Carmen: July 6 & 25, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. seasonal produce. cheaper price. If your grocery POTEAU store has a membership card, 2. Why pay full price? sign up for even more savings. Market open weekdays July 2-26, except for: Check the local newspaper, SITE HOURS DAYS Closed July 4 for holiday and July 27-31 for inventory. online, and at the store for 8. Keep it simple Antlers 8:30-4:00 Every Tuesday Cooking with Carmen: July 3 & 20, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. sales, coupons, and specials Buy vegetables and fruits (580-298-3161) that will cut food costs. Often, in their simplest form. Pre- Atoka 8:00-4:30 Every Mon., Wed., you can get more for less by cut, pre-washed, ready-to-eat, (580-889-5825) Thurs. & Fri. Choctaw Nation Food Distribution visiting larger grocery stores and processed foods are con- Bethel 8:30-4:00 1st Tuesday Open 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Monday thru Friday. venient, but often cost much (580-241-5458) Staff will take lunch from 11:30 to 12 noon. (discount grocers if avail- Boswell 8:30-4:00 Every Friday WAREHOUSES & MARKETS able). more than when purchased in their basic forms. (580-380-5264) Antlers: 306 S.W. “O” St., 580-298-6443 Stick to your list Durant: 100 1/2 Waldron Dr., 580-924-7773 3. Broken Bow 8:00-4:30 Daily, except 1st Tues. Plan out your meals ahead 9. Plant your own (580-584-2746) & 2nd Thurs. McAlester: 1212 S. Main St., 918-420-5716 of time and make a grocery Start a garden—in the yard Coalgate 8:00-4:30 Every Wednesday Poteau: 100 Kerr, 918-649-0431 list. You will save money by or a pot on the deck—for (580-927-3641) Food Distribution Sites buying only what you need. fresh, inexpensive, flavorful Durant 8:00-4:30 Daily Bethel: Choctaw Community Building additions to meals. Herbs, (580-924-8280 x 2257) Don’t shop when you’re hun- Broken Bow: Choctaw Family Investment Center gry. Shopping after eating will cucumbers, peppers, or to- Hugo 8:00-4:30 Daily Idabel: Choctaw Community Center (580-326-5404) make it easier to pass on the matoes are good options for Smithville: Choctaw Community Center tempting snack foods. You’ll beginners. Browse through Idabel 8:00-4:30 Mon., Thurs. & Fri. Stigler: Choctaw Community Center (580-286-2510) have more of your food bud- a local library or online for In accordance with federal law and U.S. Department of Agri- McAlester 8:00-4:30 Daily get for vegetables and fruits. more information on starting culture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on (918-423-6335) a garden. the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, political Try canned or frozen Poteau 8:00-4:30 Daily 4. Compare the price and Plan and cook smart (918-647-4585) beliefs, or disability. To file a complaint of discrimination, write 10. the number of servings from Prepare and freeze veg- Smithville 8:30-4:00 2nd Thursday USDA, Director, Office of Adjudication and Compliance, 1400 (580-244-3289) Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, or fresh, canned, and frozen etable soups, stews, or other Spiro 8:00-4:30 Every Wed. - Fri. call 800-795-3272 (voice) or 202-720-6382 (TDD). USDA is an forms of the same veggie dishes in advance. This saves (918-962-3832) equal opportunity provider and employer. or fruit. Canned and frozen time and money. Add left- Stigler 8:30-4:00 Every Mon. - Wed. items may be less expensive over vegetables to casseroles (918-967-4211) than fresh. For canned items, or blend them to make soup. Talihina 8:00-4:30 Mon., Tues., Wed., choose fruit canned in 100% Overripe fruit is great for (918-567-7000 x 6792) & Fri. fruit juice and vegetables smoothies or baking. Wilburton 8:30-4:00 Every Thursday with “low sodium” or “no salt Go to www.ChooseMyPlate. (918-465-5641) added” on the label. gov for more information. BISKINIK | June 2012 | Page 5

Thank you, Carlee Events Choctaw Nation Chil- dren and Agriculture tour and drought Gibson and Pope family reunion Family Ser- vices would management workshop The families of the late Adam and Winnie Pope Gibson will have their annual reunion on June 16 at the Choctaw Commu- like to ex- An Agriculture Tour and Drought Management Workshop nity Center, 1636 S. George Nigh Expressway in McAlester. tend a thank will be held on June 21. A meal will also be served. The tour Friends and family members are invited. Doors will open at you to Car- will begin at 3 p.m. and will depart from the OSU Extension 9:30 a.m. Lunch will be served at noon. Contact Clara Gibson lee Caldwell. Office located at 1901 S. 9th Ave. in Durant. Two veterinarian Blevins at 918-423-4766 for more information. Carlee has clinics will be visited on the tour. These include Dr. Mills and turned 8 Dr. Ferguson’s clinics. Wayne Carter’s Feeding Operation will years old re- also be toured. The late Dock Nail and cently and had a birthday party at Ash Creek Church in Pitts- Pre-registration is required for the tour. You may call 580- burg County and donated all toys brought in by her friends to 924-5312 to register. The tour will conclude at the Choctaw Lewis Henington reunion the Choctaw Nation Foster Children for the Foster Christmas Nation Community Center at 4202 South Hwy 69-75, located The late Dock Nail and late Lewis Henington reunion will party. Again, we all at Children and Family Services would north of the Choctaw Nation Casino and Hotel in Durant. The be held at Card Point again this year on July 7 through July like to say thank you to Carlee for her donation, and if anyone community center is located east of the Big Lots Warehouse. 15. Come and camp out or come at least one day during the has any questions about donating gifts for the Foster Christmas The guest speaker for the Drought Management Workshop week. party, please contact Larry Behrens at 800-522-6170 ext. 2331 will be Clay Jones, member of Bryan County Conservation Everyone is invited to come and visit. or Justin McDaniel at ext. 2539 for more information. District and retired OSU Extension Agent. The Farm Bill pro- You may call the following numbers for more information grams and other programs will also be discussed by Natural Lillie Henington at 918-429-3382, Benjamin Henington at Resources Conservation Service, Farm Service Agency and 918-470-5885, or Pat Henington at 918-470-3997. Rural Development. An RSVP is required for the tour and/or workshop by noon Seeking family members on June 19. You may call the OSU Extension Service at 580- First off, happy belated birthday goes to Thurman Hudson, 924-5312 or NRCS at 580-924-8280 ext. 5134, or email to one Roy Willis from all his brothers, sisters, daughters, nieces, nephews and of the following addresses: [email protected], ann. retirement reception grandchildren. His big day was May 19. [email protected] or [email protected]. A retirement reception for Roy I would like to find the burial location of Roosevelt Hud- The tour and workshop are sponsored by the Oklahoma Trib- A. Willis of Muskogee is planned son. I believe he was buried somewhere in Idabel. He was the al Conservation Advisory Council, Natural Resources Conser- by wife Debra and children Kerry brother of my father, Dixon Hudson of Smithville. vation Service, Farm Service Agency, Bryan County OSU Ex- Willis, Kristy Willis, Gerald Wil- I would also like information on Leroy Hudson, last known tension Service and the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. lis and Racquel (Rocky) Willis on location somewhere in New York. He is the son of Roosevelt. June 23 beginning at 8 p.m. I am also seeking information on Rayburn Randle Hudson. I Bryan County Singing Convention The reception will be held at think his last known location was in Indiana. He also went by Bethel Hill United Methodist Church near Battiest. The high- the nickname, “Yogi.” He, too, was raised around Idabel. Sulphur Springs UMC, located three miles south of Ben- light of the reception will be the giveaway of achievement If anyone has information they can share with me, my ad- nington on Jennings/Sulphur Springs Road, will host the Bryan plaques to immediate family members of the late Frances Wil- dress is HC 15 Box 6060 Smithville, OK 74957, and my phone County Singing Convention on June 24. Singing will begin at lis, Roy’s mother, for success in college and technical insti- number is 580-244-7454. 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. All singers and listeners are welcome to tutes. come and enjoy good gospel singing and fellowship. The invi- Corinne Hudson Also on this same night, Bethel Hill Church will host its tation is open to all. 42nd annual gospel singing; several groups are scheduled to Caleb, Malina Folsom Impson reunion perform. Henry Battiest of Broken Bow will emcee. Roy is retiring after 31 years of federal service that included A family reunion for the descendants of Caleb and Malina two years in the U.S. Army. He is full-blood Choctaw and a Thankful for Folsom Impson will be held Sept. 1-2 in Comanche, Okla. Vietnam veteran. educational support Please RSVP to [email protected]. For questions, call Debra at 405-250-3088. We would like to thank the Choctaw Nation for supporting our son, Zach- ary R. Cattell’s, education. He recently graduated Cum Laude from the Univer- sity of South Dakota, College of Arts and Sciences, with a Bachelor of Arts Choctaw bicycle team makes successful journey degree in economics and a minor in We wish to thank everyone that sup- Spanish. ported the bicycle team and had faith We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you for the gener- in our efforts in this tremendous ac- osity of the Choctaw Nation. complishment of four states, six days and 434 miles. We averaged 70-90 Joseph H. and Regina A. Cattell miles per day, many involving hills. We had 19 riders and four SAG teams. The SAGs were responsible for moni- toring our progress, safety and well- ness. This distance did take its toll on Searching for relatives our bicycles, tires, equipment, muscles This is concerning Ike Jones and his family: Ike’s daughter, and joints. Ora May (Lou) Jones, married James Woodruff in 1948 in Los We paralleled the Choctaws’ trail Angeles, I believe. Karen Anita Woodruff was born to Lou and from Mississippi, on into Arkan- Jim in 1951. I did not keep in touch with them, and Jim passed sas, and into Oklahoma. As children, away. I do not know where Lou or Karen are. My name is Jim we’ve heard the stories of the Trail of Monck, I am Jim Woodruff’s nephew. Karen is my first-cousin. Tears; only as adults did we begin to She would be about 59 years old as of now. understand the adversities our ances- Ike Jones is a full-blood Choctaw. Does anyone know the tors faced. The determination, per- whereabouts of Karen Woodruff or Lou? Perhaps there are severance and resiliency of our team members mimic those Nikki Eagle Road, Jordan Eagle Road, Billy Eagle Road II, relatives or acquaintances who know something about them. I qualities of our Choctaw ancestors. We, as a group, have a Dean Lanning, Roy Griffith, Stuart Winlock, Brian Johnston, would appreciate hearing from them. If you have any informa- better understanding and significance of the Trail of Tears. Phillip Tawkoyty and not pictured is Cheyenne Murray. tion you can give me, my phone number is 559-706-5144. Pictured are Mary Barrs, Tony Stoitzfus, Greg Barrs, Brian- If you are interested in looking at photos of the trip, visit the na Johnston, Billy Eagle Road III, Teresa Eagle Road, Melanie team’s Facebook page. Lanning, Eli Tullier, MaryAyn Tullier, Tammy Griffith, Nancy Gregory E. Pyle Gary Batton Jefferson, Johnnie Anderson, Tracie Lake, Donna Tawkoyty, Choctaw Nation Bicycle Team Chief Assistant Chief The Official Thank you for Admiration for Tribal Chaplain Monthly Publication scholarship This Cherokee fellow is blessed by being married to a beau- of the tiful Choctaw maiden. We were privileged to meet Chief Pyle Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma assistance both in Phoenix and Bakersfield in 2001; what an honor it was. I would like to thank The tribal pride is second to none. I enjoy reading the Biskinik Judy Allen, Executive Director Clione Ramos and the every month. It reflects a culture that is almost removed from Lisa Reed, Director/Editor whole office for helping the cruel world we live in. It’s almost a safe haven to escape Melissa Stevens, Circulation Director into where there is joy and peace. Larissa Copeland, Assistant Editor with Morgan Markham’s Karen Jacob, Purchasing Coordinator (center) Indian Preference The main purpose of this letter is focused on the Tribal Bret Moss, Copy/Production Assistant IHS form for the Indian Chaplain, Bertram Bobb. We are never short of amazement at Chrissy Dill, Copy/Production Assistant Health Scholarship, which the spirituality of this fine man of God. He doesn’t sugar-coat had a deadline of May 7. Her dream is to become a physician things in an appeasement manner, but tells it like it should be, P.O. Box 1210 and work for the Choctaw Nation. She already has a $40,000 in a straight-forward, live right or be lost, delivery. I believe Durant, OK 74702 scholarship to the University of the Ozarks and would like to that’s the way God means it to be preached. We believe if you (580) 924-8280 • (800) 522-6170 adhere to his instruction, you will truly have what you need to Fax (580) 924-4148 finish at the University of Oklahoma Medical Sciences Center www.choctawnation.com in Oklahoma City. I told Clione I would add her to my Christ- attain your eternal reward. His instruction is stern, as it should e-mail: [email protected] mas card list because she and I talked on an almost daily basis. be, but is done in Godly love. We greatly admire this man and I can’t thank her enough. Also helping with the scholarship ap- thank God for him. The BISKINIK is printed each month as a service to Tribal Members. The BISKINIK reserves the right to edit submitted ma- plication is the Indian Health Scholarship coordinator, Keith Gary and Christine Walker, Morro Bay, Calif. terial which it finds inaccurate, profane, offensive or morally un- Bohanan, in the Oklahoma City office. This is such a wonder- acceptable. Copy may be edited for proper grammar and punc- ful scholarship opportunity, and my family is so blessed to be tuation. Copy will be accepted in any readable form, but where Choctaw. Thank you. possible, it is requested that material be typewritten and double Nancy Holloway, Morgan Markham and family Choctaw Nation to spaced. You must include an address or phone number where you may be reached. Due to space limitations and the quantity of article submissions, we are unable to include everything we aid with loans receive. Thank you for helping Irish ancestors If you are receiving more than one BISKINIK at your home The Southeastern Oklahoma Indian Cred- or if your address needs changed, we would appreciate hearing I live on the west coast of Canada in British Columbia. I it Association offers small business, home, from you. found out about the historical contribution that the Choctaw home improvement and agriculture loans. people made to the Irish during the famine in the 1840s. My The BISKINIK is a nonprofit publication of the Choctaw Na- To be eligible to apply, a person must tion. ancestors came to Canada from Ireland in the 1820s after being Circulation is monthly. Article deadline is the 10th of the taxed off their land; however, some family members of mine reside within the 10-1/2 county service month for the following month’s edition. would have been affected by the famine back in Ireland. area of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Editor’s note: Views and opinions in reader-submitted articles I must say that I am shocked today to find out about the gen- and must possess a Certificate of Degree are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent of Indian Blood (CDIB) from a federally those of the Choctaw Nation. erosity of the Choctaw people during the famine; I had never heard about it before. I felt compelled to send a thank-you note recognized tribe. to the Choctaw Nation. A huge, sincere thank you for being so For more information, please contact

PRESS AS A SO M C kind and considerate to a group of people you would not have O I H A Susan Edwards at 580-924-8280 or toll- 2010 T A I L O

K

AWARD N O WINNING had a personal connection with at the time. Thank you. NEWSPAPER free 800-522-6170. ® BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST BISKINIK 2012 M. English Cooper

PRESS AS A SO M C O I H A 2010 T A I L O

K

AWARD N O WINNING NEWSPAPER

BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST

PRESS AS A SO M C O I H A 2010 T A I L O

K

AWARD N O WINNING NEWSPAPER

BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST BISKINIK | June 2012 | Page 6

PEOPLE YOU KNOW

Happy birthday, Congratulations, Kaela Caleb turns 2 Barrett brothers Kaela Ann Humphrey is the Caleb Hood celebrated his daughter of John and Mandy Hum- second birthday on March Happy 11th birthday to phrey of Arlington, Texas. Her 26. He is the son of Christie twin brothers Triston and grandparents are Ronnie and Sandy and Thomas Hood, grandson Trevor Barrett on June 15. Nixon of Newport, N.C. Her grand- of Linda and Lee Knight and Their parents are Tommy parents and parents are so very Kathy and Charles Hood. He Barrett and Tami Easley, proud of her. In the second grade, is the little brother of MaKay- and their grandparents are she has won a scholarship of $1,000 to the Arlington Museum la Hood and Dakota Hood. Gayle and Pat Beams of Longview, Texas. of Art, designing clothing and shoes, which is her hobby. He celebrated with family and friends. Happy birthday, MaKayla MaKayla Hood celebrated her Bakers’ 50th anniversary eighth birthday on March 8. She is On March 10, Curtis and Lilly the daughter of Christie and Thomas Baker celebrated their 50th wed- Hood, granddaughter of Linda and ding anniversary. Married in McAl- Lee Knight and Kathy and Charles ester, the couple moved to Del Rio, Hood. She is the big sister of Dakota where Curtis was stationed in the Air and Caleb Hood. She celebrated with family and friends. Force. After Curtis finished his time in the service, the couple moved back to their hometown of McAles- Happy birthday, Jaden ter, where they raised their four chil- dren. Friends and family gathered On Feb. 18, Jaden Storie, of Ellijay, on March 31 at a ’50s-themed party Ga., celebrated his third birthday. His Ada natives participated in the Relay for Life tourna- given by the couple’s four children sister, Hannah, helped him celebrate. ment on April 14. Pictured from front left are Kelly Short to honor their parents. Food, live His parents are Jeff and Darlene Storie. (Choctaw), Tyler Robertson (Chickasaw), Mark Francis music and a cake made to look like their wedding cake were His guests were a little boy and girl from (Chickasaw/Choctaw/Creek); pictured from back left are enjoyed by all. pre-school. Other guests included his Steve Robertson (Chickasaw), Kody Kaniatobe (Choctaw) grandma, Betty Work of Farris, and his grandpa, Larry Storie and Koi Kaniatobe (Navajo). of Mayville, Tenn. His brithday theme was “choo choo trains.” Pizza and cake were served, then they played games. Everyone Happy birthday, Jennifer had a great time. Jennifer Lynne Williams of Idabel Talihina celebrated her 19th birthday on May Farmers Market 14. She also graduated high school on Family birthdays May 11. She is the daughter of Barry 5K a success and Linda Williams of Idabel. Her “Genny” says happy birthday to Joe’al. Joe’al Cunningham, Several people turned grandparents are the late Arvel and the son of Cody and Stacy Cunningham, celebrated his fifth birth- out to participate in the an- late Pauline Williams of Summerfield day on June 7. Big sister Caylee and Joe’al are descendants nual opening of the Talihi- and Donald and Bobbie Scott of Idabel. of Forbis LeFlore and his second wife, Rebecca Fisher. Both na Farmers Market and 5K Forbis and Rebecca walked the Trail of Tears. run. Despite a cool, damp Also celebrating on June 4 is Joe’al and Caylee’s cousin, Jo- start to the day, runners, Happy birthday, Taylor seph Scott Cunningham, son of Steve and Debbie Cunningham. walkers and market mem- Miss Okla Chahta 2012-13 Taylor “Granny C” says happy birthday to her number one grandson. bers alike were filled with Archuleta will celebrate her 16th birth- both excitement and eager day on June 13. Taylor is a junior at anticipation. Lincoln High School in Stockton, Ca- First place winner of the lif. All her family wishes her a happy Congratulations, Natalie men’s division of the 5K birthday and a wonderful year. They Congratulations to Natalie Nicole was Tom Brennen with a are very proud of her. Jones, who has danced herself into the run time of 19:08. Second place went to Chris Montgomery Sundancers of Martin High School. Nata- with a finishing time of 20:32. Third place went to Kevin Davis lie is the daughter of Edwin and Angela with a run time of 24:46. Jones and the niece of Sandy and Ronnie In the women’s division, the first place winner was Keisha Nixon of Newport, N.C. Her grandpar- Brown, whose time was 24:44. Second place was Eva Fenton, ents are Lee Harmon and Doris Jones, both of Texas. finishing with a time of 25:57. Karen Sumpter took the third place slot with a finishing time of 26:15. Finishing the 3.1 miles in an impressive time of 26:37 was Happy first birthday 8-year-old Chasey Lloyd, who claimed fourth place in the Happy birthday, Becky Tucker Ingle will celebrate his men’s division. First place for men and women who walked Celebrating her 50th birthday first birthday on June 10. Tucker is the route were Eddie Davis (46:42) and Donna Davis (47:17). is Choctaw citizen Becky Riddle. the son of Larry and Michelle Ingle Both were given a certificate in appreciation for their participa- She is pictured with Presley By- of LeFlore, the grandson of Melanie tion. All place runners were given certificates and cash awards. ington while attending Choctaw Morris of Talihina and the late Larry They also received this year’s lime-green T-shirts donated by Days at the Oklahoma State Capi- Ingle Sr. of LeFlore. Happy birth- the Choctaw Wellness Center and Choctaw WIC programs. tol on May 15. Becky had a won- day, from mom, dad and big brother The members of the market wish to express their gratitude to derful birthday while at the capitol Trystan. Wade “Pogo” Thomson for his time and equipment in timing building. the participants of this year’s 5K, Gwen Muse for her help in record keeping, the employees of Spiro State Bank for their Happy birthday generous monetary donation and continued support, the Choc- taw Wellness Center and Choctaw WIC program for their gen- Happy birthday to a mom, grandma, erosity in donating T-shirts again this year and Kasey Wheeler great-grandma, great-great-grandma, for volunteering his time and help in making this year’s run a sister and aunt on June 28. Her fam- success. ily says they have been blessed to have Pictured are men and women’s first place winners Tom and Grandma Brown in their lives for 94 Keisha receiving their certificates and cash awards. years.

Amos Happy birthday, Eugene Forrest Eugene Youree celebrated anniversary his 90th birthday on April 21 with a Congratulations to host of family and friends at his home Mike and Vicky Amos on in Sherman. The event was hosted by their anniversary on May his children, Gary and Elaine Youree Going Lean program participates 28. They were married of Heavener, Lanny and Lisa Youree on May 28, 1994, at Kul- of Denison, John and Becky Enders of in OKC Memorial Marathon lichito Methodist Church. Sherman and Paula Youree of Denison. The Choctaw Nation “Going Lean” initiative was estab- They have three children, In attendance also were his three sisters, Myrtle Faye Carr lished in October 2010 to address the rising cases of diabetes, Dayla, Nikki and Andrew, and one granddaughter, Milena. and husband R.C., Dean Sweeney and husband Leonard and heart disease, high blood pressure and other diseases linked Pat Trostle along with many grandchildren and great-grand- to poor nutrition and obesity. children. Everyone wore Oklahoma State orange T-shirts to Through Going Lean, a running group was formed. Mem- honor Eugene’s beloved university. Multiple friends from his bers joined for different reasons, including weight loss, church and his former employment also shared in the celebra- someone making them, to lead a healthy lifestyle for their tion. Also nieces and nephews from Indiana attended the party. children and some joined because they had a past history of Finger foods, cake and refreshments added to the festivities. running. Tammy Cannady, Director of the Diabetic Wellness Eugene was born April 22, 1922, in Bryan County to Harry Center, joined as a way to spend time with her daughter, Ash- and Myrtle Youree. Myrtle Opal Beal, his mother, was an origi- ley Kennedy, who also runs for Going Lean. Although each nal enrollee as was her father, Thomas Turner Beal. Eugene member joined with a different reason in mind, they all had grew up near and attended school at Utica. A farm boy with one goal in mind: to run. five sisters, he grew up around their original land allotment in The running group began to participate in area 5K runs, in- Bryan County. It was there he met and married the love of his cluding the Green Frog Run in Wilburton and the Rocket Run life, Berniece Ruth Martin. They married Feb. 11, 1942, and in Talihina, just two of many. It was not long before 5K runs soon after he joined the U.S. Army Air Corps. He was assigned were not enough, and the group anxiously began preparing to the 2072nd trucking company and was shipped to England for bigger challenges. On April 20, members of the Choctaw in July 1943. He landed in Omaha Beach on June 9, 1944, and Nation Going Lean program participated in the Oklahoma drove a truck supplying aircraft fighters and supplying Patton City Memorial Run, a run that became an accomplishment as across France, Belgium and Germany. He arrived back in the well as an inspiration for future races. States December 1945 and was awarded the Good Conduct The Oklahoma City Memorial Run is held each year to District 4 crowns Medal and the Silver Campaign Star and Ribbon. remember those who were tragically affected on April 19, After the war, he resumed his education at Oklahoma State 1995, by the Oklahoma City bombing. The Choctaw Nation Choctaw princesses University. He was a vocational agriculture teacher in Cobb, Going Lean program brought 40 members to this run; 20 The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma presented the District 4 Okla., until he became an administrator. From there he spent members competed in the half-marathon (13.1 miles), while Princess Pageant on May 12 at the Choctaw Nation Field Of- three years in Estancia, N.M., followed by time at Plainview the other 20 competed individually or with a relay team for fice, located in Poteau. Delton Cox, councilman for District 4, School near Ardmore. He then moved to Sherman where he the marathon run (26.2 miles). crowned the 2012-13 princesses that will be representing Dis- served as administrator for the high school vocational program. Herve Lucier, PA-C was one of the members who ran the trict 4 at the Labor Day Festival pageant in August. Little Miss After retiring, he served on the Sherman school board and was marathon. Herve has been running since 1986, and the Okla- was Amber Battice, Junior Miss Brianna Battiest and Senior active in real estate sales. homa City Marathon Run marked his 30th full marathon. Miss Callie Curnutt. Entertainment for the pageant was the In December 2011, he lost his wife Berniece. Eugene pres- Although Oklahoma City Memorial Run is finished for an- Choctaw Youth Dancers, led by Karl McKinney. Guest speaker ently resides in his home where he is still active socially, teach- other year, the Going Lean team is not. The team members for the event was Miss Adrianna Curnutt, reigning Choctaw es a Sunday school class and lives an independent life. Now his are already attentively preparing for the next challenge. Nation Junior Miss. She shared some of her experiences and great joy is time spent with his family. He is very aware of what Anyone who is interested in joining Going Lean, you can stories with the audience. a very blessed life he has had. contact Tammie Cannady at 918-567-7121. BISKINIK | June 2012 | Page 7 Ivy League and Friends provides education options and opportunities to college-bound Native American students By CHRISSY DILL and scholarship applications, since it is such a notable event. Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma “It is one of the largest Native American recruitment events in the nation,” she said. Across the United States, the importance of a diverse student With SAP being a nationwide program, McDaniel and her body with individuals of various ethnicities is upheld in many staff do not have the pleasure of working with some SAP par- universities and colleges, whether it is a two-year college or ticipants in person. “Because so many of them don’t live in an Ivy League school. In fact, according to Choctaw Nation Oklahoma or the area, this may be the one time a year they get Scholarship Advisement Program (SAP) Director Jo McDan- to visit the headquarters of the Choctaw Nation,” said McDan- iel, “Colleges are trying to diversify their student bodies and iel, saying Ivy League & Friends serves as an opportunity for their campus, and Native Americans are heavily recruited.” Be- those students not only to meet with the schools at the event but cause of this, Ivy League & Friends Choctaw Student Recruit- also interact with the SAP staff. ment was formed by SAP. McDaniel continued, stating that many college representa- Ivy League & Friends is a recruitment initiative for Choctaw tives and even educational organizations involved with the students so they may have the opportunity to learn about pres- being able to choose which session most interests them. Within event will testify about how special it is that the Choctaw Na- tigious universities and speak with representatives from those the one-day event, a student could attend up to six sessions. tion is willing to invest in an event such as this for its students. schools as well as familiarize themselves with the application Attendees of past Ivy League & Friends have exhibited “Impressive – that is the one word that comes to mind about process of college, scholarship opportunities, general financial positive remarks about the event. Frank Semple of Denver, the Ivy League college fair,” stated one of the college repre- aid and graduate school opportunities. Colo., brought his daughter, Erin, to the 2010 Ivy League & sentatives. Ivy League and Friends began in 2008 when SAP invited Friends, claiming it was “a great way to target half a dozen of Other college reps called the event, “very well organized” Harvard to come and speak to the tribal members in Durant, the schools we were interested in” and it was “the best way to and “high class all the way around,” saying it “is one of most the university bringing representatives of several of its colleges learn more about a school short of visiting the campus.” well-run and engaging events for Native American students.” and also its Native American program. “I thought everything was planned out great and there’s not According to McDaniel, admissions officers from a variety “With the event drawing in over 100 individuals interested in really anything to improve. You get to talk to college reps one- of universities advise students to attend college recruitment the esteemed university, the SAP recognized the powerful po- on-one and they provide you with some extremely helpful in- fairs because they provide an inside track on whether a school tential of that type of session,” said McDaniel. “We saw that it formation, and it’s Ivy League colleges, which is a plus. I am is a good fit for the student’s goals and gifts, a clear picture of meant a lot to the tribal members to have Harvard come to Du- very glad that I attended,” said an anonymous student. what the different schools look for in an application as well as rant and they wanted more information about other Ivy League Another student said their parents benefited from the experi- offer a sense of what funding opportunities might be available schools, thus the initial Harvard event turned into Ivy League ence as well. “My parents attended the Undergraduate Admis- and how to take advantage of them. and Friends.” sion and Financial Aid session and the Parent Panel session. “Recruitment fairs hosted by Native American organiza- The following year, SAP prepared for a successful Ivy They thought the Parent Panel was very helpful in understand- tions also provide a second advantage,” continued McDaniel. League and Friends much like the year before, this time ex- ing that it was possible to afford to send me to an Ivy League “College representatives at the SAP’s events come prepared to tending invitations to seven other schools and programs, in- school.” speak to Choctaw students. This means that they are better able cluding Yale, Columbia, Penn, Dartmouth, Johns Hopkins and A parent attendee stated, “The presenters seemed very ex- to tailor their advice and comments to members of the Choctaw Berkeley, but this time, over 300 participants from 10 states cited to be there and to present their information and were able community, something students will often miss in their guid- were in attendance. to answer all questions quickly and in a format that was easy to ance counselor’s office and on a standard campus tour.” In 2010, the event grew into a full day affair, complete with understand.” Another parent said this event “is by far the best The SAP especially encourages the families of high school breakout sessions tailored for both students and parents with because it was the most intimate… other college fairs have 20 students, even freshmen, to attend Ivy League & Friends, said topics ranging from planning and financial advice, college prep students standing around the table and there doesn’t seem to be McDaniel. “The advice provided on admissions, financial plan- advice and presentations from university representatives. Over the one-on-one experience.” ning and scholarships is valid for students at any point in their 500 guests from 14 states attended, responding enthusiastically Not only does the event feature informational recruitment secondary education,” she explained. SAP has found that the to both the sessions and the opportunity to meet with delegates representatives from Ivy League schools, there are sessions earlier students learn their options and start setting goals, the from 20 undergraduate and 17 graduate programs located to benefit a student who may not interested in attending such better prepared they will be when the time comes to send out throughout the U.S. schools and are likely to attend a state or regional university or those applications, make a few tough decisions and do some “Since we’ve had our first event, we’ve seen more and more even a community college. “You don’t have to be interested in planning. students applying to the Ivy League schools and highly selec- those [Ivy League] schools, you can still learn a lot about col- “Every journey may begin with one step, but when your tive schools, and we’ve seen more and more get accepted,” lege admissions and financial aid,” explained McDaniel. planned destination is a college degree, good advice and care- stated McDaniel. “We feel like we’re helping make those con- “We’ll support the students no matter where they want to go ful preparation can get you a lot further down the road, and the nections.” to college,” said McDaniel. “We have scholarships available to SAP’s mission is to walk with its students every step of the Growing from the first event in 2008, the most recent Ivy students attending all types of colleges, but by attending this way,” stated McDaniel. League & Friends welcomed almost 40 schools for Choctaw event, I think you learn a lot more than just requirements to get Mark your calendars for the 2012 Ivy League & Friends, students to experience and interact with. “It’s our signature in to Harvard; there are other learning opportunities.” which is scheduled for Nov. 10 in Durant at the Choctaw Re- event; it’s our biggest event of the year,” said McDaniel. “In An example of these learning opportunities of which all stu- sort. Pre-registration is recommended and can be completed 2011, we had over 100 students, more than 150 parents and dents could benefit were included at last year’s event, as seen through SAP’s website. guests and nearly 40 college representatives attend the event.” in the following session titles: Undergraduate Admissions and If you are interested in this event, watch in the Biskinik for When a prospective student attends Ivy League and Friends, Financial Aid, Graduate Student Panel, SAT/ACT Success: news, updates and important information, and for additional many opportunities become available to them and they have Getting Your Best Score and Keys to a Successful Graduate information about Ivy League & Friends or other opportunities the freedom to choose which session to attend. Since there was Application. through SAP, visit choctawnation-sap.com, contact 800-522- a large number of schools that held these sessions, five different According to McDaniel, not only can the student learn a lot 6170 ext. 2523 or email ScholarshipAdvisement@choctawna- sessions were held within a 45-minute time period, the students at the event, they can include their attendance on their resumes tion.com.

Program demonstrates to students dangers of impaired driving By LARISSA COPELAND Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

Typically, driving over road cones and running the vehicle off the designated path would be cause for failing a driving course, but that wasn’t the case recently for a group of Durant High School students. On May 17, they took part in a simulated impaired driving course set up in their school parking lot that was meant to warn the students about the dangers of Submitted photo drinking and driving. Hosted by Choctaw Nation’s Injury Prevention Department, the program was taught with the use of a modified, remote controlled go-cart called SIDNE District 2 crowns (Simulated Impaired DriviNg Experience) and DHS freshman Jair Gonzalez, driving, and “drunk goggles,” giving students a firsthand under- Whitney Scott, 11th grade, try out the impaired 2012 Choctaw princesses driving simulation go-cart as Carey Lester from standing about drunk driving. The winners of the District 2 Choctaw Nation princess pageant are Injury Prevention follows. Injury Prevention Coordinator Carey Lester Little Miss: Kalli Battiest; Jr. Miss: Cheyenne Shomo; and Sr. Miss: led the instruction and, as the students took turns Victoria “Girlie” Battiest. driving the course, he followed with the go-cart’s Photos by LARISSA COPELAND | Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma remote. With a flick of a switch from “normal” to “impaired,” Lester was able to make the go-cart change from pinpoint accurate handling to drunken COME JOIN US THIS FALL! weaving due to a nearly one second delayed reac- tion time from their steering wheel and pedal com- mands. The students found themselves knocking over cones and greatly over-correcting the go-cart to compensate. Lester explained that it is important to target this particular age group before they get behind the

wheel of an actual vehicle. “I feel working with kids before they get their Enroll Now @ Jones Academy! license or soon after, gives them an experience of We are accepting applications for the 2012 Fall Semester. We have openings driving under the influence in a safe environment, in specific grades 1-12. Tour our elementary school facilities and dorms. and will show them how easily a vehicle can get out Come Join Us! Be a Part of the Future! Take advantage of the residential of their control,” explains Lester. DHS freshmen Madi Brure and Liddy Lahman program benefits: The group also performed simple tasks such as try out the “drunk goggles,” which produce warped st th walking a straight line or bouncing a ball while vision to duplicate the effects of being drunk. • Tutorial Assistance for All Grades (1 -12 ) wearing the “drunk goggles” to demonstrate the • Rewards for Academic Achievement changes in their visual perception and motor skills paired driving by experiencing its effects firsthand. • High School Graduation Expenses Paid/ Scholarships while impaired. The students experienced blurred “They seemed to understand the dangers of alco- • Career Counseling/College and Post- Secondary Preparation • Voc-Tech Training and warped visual acuity while wearing the gog- hol,” said Lester. “A lot [of the students] were saying • Summer Youth Work Program gles, which are meant to duplicate the effects of be- they would never drive or get into a car with someone • Medical and Counseling Services Provided that has been drinking.” ing drunk, leading to stumbling and being unsteady • Alternative Education Program on their feet. According to Lester, the goal of the Injury Preven- • Traditional/Cultural Activities “Hopefully these students will take the experi- tion department is to prevent injuries before they can • Recreational Activities & Educational Trips ence along with them when they are out and will occur. “We work with schools and law enforcement, • Agriculture Program remember before they get behind the wheel, or in a and are trying our best to educate about the dangers of vehicle with someone that has been drinking.” drinking and driving and distracted (texting or talk- Please call for a tour or an application @ toll free (888) 767-2518 or access The course received a positive reception from the ing) driving,” he says. “Accidents are preventable www.jonesacademy.org or write to: students. Several of those taking part in the program with the proper education, and that is what we are try- Jones Academy said it helped them to understand the dangers of im- ing to accomplish.” HCR 74 Box 102-5 Hartshorne, OK 74547 BISKINIK | June 2012 | Page 8 EDUCATION

Danaka graduates Congratulations to Danaka Mowdy, who graduated from Vanoss High School. In the fall she plans on attending East Central University in Ada and plans on majoring in nursing. She carried a 3.87 GPA all four years of high school.

Browns open business thanks to CAB Congratulations to new busi- ness owners Casey and Toni Brown. The Browns, both tribal members who participated in Choctaw Career Development, were each able to open savings accounts with the Choctaw Asset Building (CAB) program. Casey and Toni saved $2,000 each and received matching funds of $4,000 each from the Sixth annual Native American Graduation ceremony and CAB program, giving them a total of $12,000 to start their own reception held at Southeastern Oklahoma State University business, CT Brown Investments, LLC. “I am thankful we were given the opportunity to participate Southeastern Oklahoma can students graduated from Native American Center for cent), Southeastern offers a in the CAB program. It was very beneficial to us, and it helped State University held its 6th Southeastern. Student Success. “Because minor in Choctaw Language, teach us the principles of good money management. I know annual Native American Guest speakers for the of their academic abilities a minor in Native American that using what we learned from the CAB program that my Graduation Ceremony and event were Southeastern and their desire to earn a Studies, a Chickasaw Lan- wife and I can provide a good future for our family. We are Reception on May 9 in the president Larry Minks; Joy college degree, they keep guage and Culture course using these principles to maximize our savings. Our finances Glen D. Johnson Student Culbreath, Executive Direc- Southeastern in the national and a Native American Stu- are in much better shape today, and the matching funds have Union. tor for the Choctaw Nation rankings of producing Na- dent Association. helped us get closer to our goals,” said Casey. Thirty-four Native Ameri- of Oklahoma; and Lisa John, tive American graduates. We Wesberry’s staff members While the Browns were saving, they received personal fi- can students representing 10 Administrator for the Divi- are proud of them for accom- include Chantelle Stand- nancial education, learned about good money management and tribes were present, joining sion of Education for the plishing their goals of being efer, Jennifer Kemp, Hannah developed good saving habits. They also completed training more than 80 guests, includ- Chickasaw Nation. graduates and wish them the Blackwell, Blaine Parnell that helped prepare them to become business owners. ing family members, friends “We congratulate each of best.” and Amy Gantt. You can con- It was not always easy to meet their monthly savings goal. and tribal representatives. our Native American stu- Along with a high per- tact them at 580-745-2376, “The most important lesson we learned is that no matter your During the 2011-12 academ- dents,” said Chris Wesberry, centage of Native American 580-745-2812 or SE.edu/ financial situation, you can still save money. During our time ic year, 256 Native Ameri- director of Southeastern’s students enrolled (30 per- native-american-center. we saved in the CAB program, we had to prioritize our spend- ing. There were months that we didn’t think we would be able Randa graduates to save, but we just had to decide on what was most important Randa Roberts graduated from to us. I am thankful that we learned the principles of saving the University of Oklahoma money during our participation in CAB,” said Casey. Health Science with a bachelor’s For more information about how CAB can help you with degree in Dental Hygiene on your financial goals and dreams, go to choctawcab.com. May 11. She would like to thank the Choctaw Nation Scholarship Advisement department as well as Career Development’s Penny James for the support provided for her education. She has main- tained dean’s honor roll status during the two years of the dental hygiene program. Randa now resides in Edmond. Randa graduated as salutatorian of Haileyville High School Masonry students place in state contest in 2006. She is the daughter of Lee Ann Griffin and grand- daughter of Jane Sherrill of Hartshorne. Kiamichi Technology Center masonry students recently competed in the State SkillsUSA masonry competition. Chris- tian Rodriguez, pictured left, won first in the post-secondary division. He won several prizes and tools for his accomplish- Brothers graduate Pictured are Battiest YAB members Paden Wood, Taylor ment. He will be competing in the National SkillsUSA mason- Congratulations to brothers Brandon Noah, Mariah Noah and Michael Noah with Larry Cheek, ry contest in Kansas City this summer. and Tyler Fugleberg for their gradua- McCurtain County Memorial Veterans Museum Vice Brandon Arnt, pictured right, won third place in the high tion on June 1 from Allen D. Nease High President. The students are presenting Larry with a check school division. He was awarded several prizes as well. They School in Florida. coming from a change drive they had at Battiest Schools to won trowels, levels, tool chests, tool bags and various other Brandon, 19, is a high-functioning Au- raise money to help add a Choctaw Code Talker section to masonry tools. tistic who also developed Type I Insulin the museum. Brandon and Christian are pictured with their instructor, Jeff Dependent Diabetes when he was 14. He Dunn. was held back one year, so he is able to Mykah graduates graduate with his brother, Tyler, who is James graduates 18. Brandon will join a year of volunteer eighth grade His family would like to wish service on a Native American Reservation The proud family of Mykah Elaine James Tyrone Wallace congratu- in New Mexico through AmeriCorps then Crose would like to announce her grad- lations on his graduation from pursue a degree in the medical field for uation of the eighth grade class of Red Idabel High School on May 11. Pancreatic research. Oak. Mykah is the 2012 class saluta- James is the son of Priscilla and Tyler will graduate with honors and torian. She is the daughter of Michael the grandson of Truman and Ber- has been appointed to the Merchant Marine Academy at King- Crose and the late Jennifer (Harris) Crose. Her grandparents tha Jefferson and the brother to a spoint, N.Y., and will play football for the academy along with are Brenda and Larry Harris and Billy and Judy Crose. Con- very wonderful sister, Whitney Jefferson, all of Idabel. months of sea duty while earning his engineering degree. gratulations and keep up the good work!

The STAR Program staff would like to remind all Hunter takes first place parents with students in second through 12th grade Hunter Turnage recently won first place in chem- CHOCTAW that the deadline to have documents submitted is ap- istry at the Oklahoma Tournament of Champions proaching. The deadline for children to be awarded Curriculum Contest in Oklahoma City. In order to for the Spring 2012 semester is October 1. Required qualify for the tournament, Hunter had to place first STAR forms are listed below: or second at one of the collegiate curriculum con- • STAR online application (one-time application) tests. He takes AP Chemistry through the pre-engi- • Grade and attendance verification form (to be neering program at Kiamichi Technology Center, completed and returned once per semester) Idabel campus. His chemistry instructor is Ricky • Copy of the spring semester report card Alford, who has taught several state winners in math and science. Both Hunter (left) and Mr. Alford are There is also a new policy change within the STAR Program. Previously, for stu- proud members of the Choctaw Nation. dents 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 feel this is no longer a fair standard that we can equally apply to all of our students. Therefore, at this time we Choctaw Nation will be awarding based solely on the actual grade listed on the report card. We do regret the negative impact that this may cause to some students, but believe it to be Vocational Rehabilitation Calendar in the best interest of our students as a whole. For more information about the STAR Program, please visit star.choctawnation. com or call 800-522-6170 ext. 2787. Durant Broken Bow 8 a.m.-4:30 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. p.m. Idabel by appt.

Durant Antlers Tuskahoma Wright City To the Youth of the Nation 8 a.m.-4:30 by appt. 8 a.m.-4:30 by appt. By: Jenny Williams p.m. p.m. Talihina McCurtain County chapter, Idabel by appt. “What YAB means to me” Durant McAlester 10 Broken Bow Choctaw Nation Youth Advisory Board (YAB) is a group of teenagers all over the Choc- 8 a.m.-4:30 a.m.-2 p.m. 8 a.m.-4:30 taw Nation working to make a difference. They help in their community and they promote p.m. Stigler by appt. p.m. Idabel healthy lifestyles. by appt. I became a part of YAB my freshman year in high school, and I am currently a senior. YAB has taught me a lot of things and has given me many different opportunities. I have Durant Poteau Atoka by appt. learned how to run a meeting correctly and how to inspire teenagers to do things in their 8 a.m.-4:30 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Coalgate by community. I have worked with the different non-profit organizations, and they love having p.m. appt. teens that are willing to dedicate their time to help put on an event. YAB also raises money for and helps out worthwhile causes that they find. My YAB group has had the privilege to help the Veterans Museum in Idabel by hosting coin change drives Wilburton 9:30 a.m.-2 at all the county schools. p.m. I say all of this to tell you what YAB means to me. YAB is one of the best things the Choctaw Nation has put together and supports. It keeps the teens off the streets and out of Durant - Mon., Wed. and Fri.; Broken Bow - Mon., Wed. and Fri.; Idabel by appt. trouble. If I had never been a part of YAB, there is no telling what I would be doing in my Phone: 580-326-8304; Fax: 580-326-2410 community. With YAB, I am able to help my community become a better place to live. Email: [email protected] BISKINIK | June 2012 | Page 9

Andrew to earn master’s Brittany graduates Lee graduates Andrew J. Baer will graduate Congratulations to Brittany Anne Feest Congratulations to Lee Stevens on from the University of Oklahoma of Racine, Wis., who graduated from the her graduation from the South Caro- this summer with a master’s degree University of Wisconsin Parkside on May lina Governor’s School for Arts and in Library and Information Studies. 12. Brittany graduated with a Bachelor of Humanities. In addition to earning a He earned his B.A. in Letters with Arts-Criminal Justice degree with a mi- 4.0 GPA, Lee served as student body Distinction from the University of nor in Sociology. president, student ambassador, repre- Oklahoma in 2010. Brittany is the daughter of Albert sentative to the Honor Council, found- Andrew will intern this summer at and Claudine “Denie” Feest, the grand- ing president of the Gay Straight Al- the Herbert Hoover Presidential Li- daughter of Wilma LaTrelle (Layman) liance and participated in Connecting brary in Iowa. He is a member of Helvpe ceremonial grounds. Boundreau and Raymond Loveless, the great-granddaughter Arts through Service as well as several His parents are Jeremiah and Sherri Lynn Fields Baer. His of Charlie and Thelma (Beames) Layman; the great-great- other school and community activities. She was honored with maternal grandmother is the late Nina Elix Fields Canoe. granddaughter of original enrollee Josiah and Minnie (Sauls) the Lipscomb Foundation Award and received state and region- Beames and the great-great-great-granddaughter of James and al honors for her artwork, some of which will join permanent Amy (Folsom) Beames. collections. She will be attending Amherst College, where she Brittany is proud of her Choctaw heritage and a proud mem- plans to major in biology and art. Lee is the great-granddaugh- ber of the Choctaw Nation. Her family is very proud of her, ter of original enrollee Jewell Dillard Stevens. from mom, dad, Tyson, Michelle, Shardae, Stacey, Jerry, Kay- la, Kylee, Alexis, Kameron, Eli and Dean. Ellyott earns master’s Ellyott Lucas graduated from the Ronnie graduates University of Oklahoma on May 12 Congratulations to Ronnie Smith with her master’s degree. She re- Jr., who graduated on May 15 from ceived the Bill and Melinda Gates Krebs Schools. Ronnie would like to 10-year scholarship upon graduating thank his parents and sister, Danielle from Holdenville High School with R. Smith, as well as his aunt Annett top honors as one of the seven vale- Johnson, grandparents Evelyn John- dictorians. She graduated from Okla- Pictured are Durant Choctaw Seniors, Marilynn Mitch- son of Ardmore, Effice Smith of Sher- homa City University in 2010 with ell, Phyllis Knight and June Sidles, who enjoyed their trip man and the JOM at Krebs School, his her Bachelor of Science degree. She would like to thank Chief to the State Capitol building in Oklahoma City for the friends and relatives. Pyle and the Choctaw Nation for the financial help in higher Choctaw Heritage Day event. education she received.

Tommy graduates Janica graduates Wright City graduate Tommy Chesney graduated on May 20 Patrick, Loren Janica Williams graduated from with a record-breaking 14 years perfect attendance. He is the Murray State College Nursing Pro- son of Tommy and Mary (Suzie) Chesney of Wright City, the graduate gram with an associate’s degree in paternal grandson of the late Fred and Audrey Chesney of Mil- Patrick Intolubbe-Chmil and registered nursing on May 11. lerton and the maternal grandson of the late Tom and Minerva Loren G. Intolubbe-Chmil of Janica would like to thank the Byrum of Wright City. In the fall, Tommy will continue his Charlottesville, Va., are the great- Choctaw Nation, Chief Pyle, Assis- education at OSU IT in Okmulgee. grandchildren of the late Earl and tant Chief Batton, District 9 Coun- Velma Intolubbe of Durant. Pat- cilman Ted Dosh, Freda Scott of the rick graduated in May 2012 from Higher Education Department and Zoe to attend Stanford the University of Vermont with a Jami Hamill in Career Development for all the assistance and B.A. in Environmental Studies, support they have given her during her time in school. Zoe Grace White of Carlsbad, and Loren earned her Ph.D. from Janica is the daughter of Donna Williams of Bokchito and Calif., recently received admittance the University of Virginia in May 2011. the late Dannye Williams. Her plans after passing the NCLEX to Stanford University in Palo Alto, test is to work in a hospital emergency room and her goal is Calif., for Fall 2012. Currently, to be at Baylor Hospital in Dallas working in the trauma unit. 17-year-old Zoe is a senior at Carls- bad High School. For the past two Danielle graduates years, she has been a member of the Congratulations to Danielle R. ASB, varsity girls basketball team Smith, who graduated on May and varsity track team while a mem- 18 from McAlester High School. Ariana graduates ber of the tribal STAR program. Her Danielle will attend Southeastern Ariana Nicole Hudson, Magnolia West community service work included Oklahoma State University in the High School class of 2012, will be at- representing the city of Carlsbad at community events such as fall. She would like to thank her tending Southern Methodist University, Miss Teen Carlsbad. parents, her little brother, Ronnie Meadows School of the Arts, in the fall. Zoe is the great-niece of the late Roy Folsom and grand- Smith Jr., her aunt Annett John- Ariana is the recipient of the prestigious daughter of Choctaw artist George “Shukata” Willis. George son, grandparents Evelyn John- Provost Scholars Scholarship, received a was the Indian Arts and Crafts Association Artist of the Year in son of Ardmore and Effice Smith performance scholarship and will enter 2000 and National Veteran’s Creative Arts Festival first place of Sherman, the JOM of McAlester High School, friends and as a Hilltop Scholar. winner in jewelry and carving in 2010. relatives.

Chayla excels academically Chayla Rowley, daughter of Robert Glenn and Darla Rowley of Powhatan, Va., was honored with a Pendleton blanket robing at a Native graduation ceremony held May 9 at the University of Colorado Boulder campus. Drums were performed by the Denver Singers and a luncheon, catered by Tocabe, an American Indian eatery in Denver, followed the ceremony. Chayla graduates in December 2012 with an M.A., Civil and Environmental Engineering for Developing Communities degree. As an enrolled tribal member, she continues to receive support from academic scholarships provided by the Choctaw Nation. Chayla’s paternal great-grandmother is the late Ruth Anderson Hokit of Talihina, and her grandmother is Beda (Hokit) Rowley of Okemah. Chayla and family offer much gratitude and thanksgiving to the Choctaw Nation for supporting and encouraging her in her academic en- deavors. Students travel to Washington, D.C. for the preservation of sacred places On May 13, a group of Native American students, including two members of the Choctaw Nation of Okla- homa (Wayne Yandell and Leonard Lowery), a Navajo elder and conscientious ad- vocates from the Univer- sity of Kansas and Brown University are journeying primarily on-foot with their “mascot,” Willy the dog, from Lawrence, Kan., to Washington, D.C., in an ef- Submitted photo fort to spread awareness of contemporary Native Ameri- of the walkers. 850 Potawatomi tribal mem- can and internationally rele- The Trail of Broken Prom- bers’ sacrifices, consterna- vant socio/ecological issues. ises, as this odyssey is being tion and victory over extinc- Issues include destruction of called, is endorsed by for- tion that offer inspiration for vital, thriving ecosystems, mer president Bill Clinton’s current and future genera- Jones Academy students learn specifically the proposed Global Initiative (CGIU/ tions of Americans from all highway construction over CGIA), the general assembly walks of life. the Wakarusa Wetlands, of the United Nations Decla- The group carries a bill the value of lessons taught at school a 700,000-year-old home ration on the Rights of Indig- approved by the National Jones Academy fifth pan, Truvon Willis respond- was creating a lower pres- to hundreds of species of enous People, and supported Congress of American In- grade ran a compression ed, “Oh, so that is how the sure in that cylinder. Lena unique migratory birds, rep- by proponents of nearly 50 dians that would amend the test on a twin cylinder pistons are able to move in Goodbear showed off a few tiles, mammals and plant life communities as well as a American Indian Religious Onan motor because the the cylinders!” He was able wrenches and understood and a place where traditional number of eco-conscious or- Freedom Act of 1978. motor had lost some power to see how the pistons were how measurements learned Native American ceremonies ganizations from Kansas to Upon arriving in Wash- and had some blow-by. Stu- attached to the connecting in fifth grade apply to the are performed. In addition, the capitol. ington, D.C. on July 9, they dents realized one cylinder rod and crankshaft. Its shape real world of mechanics. the wetlands are the pur- Traveling an inverted route will propose the Protection had more compression than allows the movement of the A kit was ordered to re- ported burial site of upwards of the Potawatomi Trail of of Native American Sacred the other. They then used pistons back and forth in the pair the motor and hopeful- of 1,200 “missing” children Death, a little known but Places Act, a piece of legis- tools, including wrenches, cylinder. ly it can get fully repaired who were taken to the board- greatly tragic path of forced lation drafted by activist and sockets, ratchets, screw- After pulling the pistons and the garden tractor can ing school that was eventu- emigration convergent to writer Susan Harjo, “to pro- drivers, a compression tes- out of the engine, students be used to till some soil for ally converted into Haskell what is now Highway 24 vide a right of action for pro- ter, a mic gage and some el- saw that the compression a garden. Indian Nations University, from Indiana to Kansas, the tection of Native American bow grease, to remove the ring was stuck to the pis- Jones Academy fifth the only inter-tribal college members of the journey seek Sacred Places,” such as the motor from a garden tractor ton, which was allowing the grade students say: “Have a of its kind for Native Ameri- to show appreciation for Wakarusa Wetlands and oth- and evaluate what needed compressed air/gas mixture great summer, and use what can students of federally communities protecting and er landscapes that are price- repair. to pass between the cylinder you learn in a positive and recognized tribes across the maintaining markers of re- less to indigenous people and After removing the oil and the piston, which in turn productive way.” country, which is the “home membrance along the way, citizens “from sea to shining away from home” for several giving honor to the nearly sea.” BISKINIK | June 2012 | Page 10 Outreach at the Beach 2012

Frisbee by the lake serves as a fun ac- tivity among the beach going crowd.

DeeAnn Ply, Brittany Jackson, Keosha Ludlow, Linda Goodwin, Whether in the water or on the playground, everyone was hav- Reggie Baker and Angela Dancer make sure everyone gets an Out- ing a good time in the sun. reach at the Beach T-shirt.

Family members Kendra Work, Jor- dyne Work, Austin Harley, Acacia Pe- ters, Jayme Harley and Natia Vester en- joy a day at the beach.

Brooke Rangle and Lacey Many of the Tribal Council members came to the event Carpino make sure every- to show their support. one stays safe in the water.

The water slide was a big hit with all the youth attending the event. Bruce Frazier, Rick Braziell and Casey Ervin keep the food coming for Assistant Chief Gary Batton helps Joey Tom Having a great time playing on the everyone in attendance. Photos by BRET MOSS | Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma flip some burgers. slide!

Senior Day 2012 showcases fun times for Choctaw elders

Winners in the women’s division of the hat contest are from left, 2nd place, Anne Parent, Spiro; 1st place, Shirley McClain, Durant; and Sue Roberts, McAlester.

The Broken Bow/Bethel group won First Place in the Gospel Singing on Senior Day.

Hat contest winners in the men’s division are Hugo Tay- lor of Atoka, 3rd place; Walker Davis of Idabel, 1st place; and Dean Turner of Atoka, 2nd place.

Name Tag contest winners: 1st Place: District 9 (pictured) 2nd Place: District 4 3rd Place: District 10 Assistant Chief Gary Batton, Council- Maudie Stubblefield of District 11 Dorothy Ward Henson of Dis- man Bob Pate and District 11’s 2012-13 models her hat. trict 1 is all smiles. Photos by LISA REED Little Miss Alexis Futischa. Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

Winning Second Place in the Gospel Singing was Wright City. Smithville singers won Third Place in the singing contest. BISKINIK | June 2012 | Page 11

Leon and Shirley Cloud enjoy the company of LaNell Rullard, right.

Councilmen Joe Coley and Bob Pate join a table with Marga- Photos by BRET MOSS | Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma ret Rizor, Paula Motley and Betty Thomas. Photo provided PAUL HACKER Wilburton hosts HACKER Continued from Page 1 wild onion dinner him, the Smithsonian’s NMAI. He has been honored with more than 170 awards for excellence over his extensive 33-year career. Hacker attends art shows and galas in locations all across the Esterline Atkins, Geraldine Isabell, Ladon- country. He makes his living as a full-time artist by selling his na Luna, Elivia Luna and Norma Sam are pieces at these exhibitions and with commission work, but a large greeted by Joe Coley. portion of his earnings come from the prize money he receives from the numerous awards he has been honored with at the shows. When he was just starting out as an artist Hacker entered one of his flutes into a show in Anadarko, Okla., his first contest ever, with encouraging results. “I got first place and I was very excit- ed,” he says. More exciting to him though, he says, was the person who presented him with his award – Allan Houser, one of the most Wanda Ru- Jim Blair is on banjo and Virgil Bon- renowned Native American painters, bronzers, and sculptors of sand Bob Pate ham on guitar, providing the evening’s the past century. sell share a laugh. entertainment. “Everyone was telling me what a big deal it was to have him present me my first award,” says Hacker. “I was new to it though Left, Bill and Betty and didn’t realize the significance until later. I’m proud that I can Hall are happy to say Allan Houser gave me my first award!” see Councilman Joe Another art show in Colorado stands out to him in particular. Coley before the wild Paulette McCord presents Assistant Chief Batton “Representatives from the Smithsonian were the judges and I won onion dinner. with a card on behalf of the Wilburton seniors. two 1st place awards in the show,” Hacker says proudly. “The Smithsonian also purchased three of my flutes that day for their Below, Ralph and collection.” Mary Adcock visit But exactly where those three flutes ended up within the Smith- with friends before sonian’s expansive collection, he’s not certain, but he hopes to the wild onion dinner find the answer soon. Hacker’s trip this month to the nation’s capi- on May 24. tol, and to the NMAI specifically, will be his first. “I’ve done so much traveling with my art and performed con- certs all over the United States,” he says “I’ve been very blessed, but in all my travels I’ve never made it to Washington, D.C.” As a visitor, the experience at the NMAI will be awe-inspir- ing, Hacker says. As a presenter for this occasion though, he gets choked up trying to put into words the emotions he feels on being asked to represent his tribe. “It’s an awesome feeling that I could Diane Coley, Matthew Sam, Heather Coley, Rose reach that plateau,” in the Native art field, he says choking up. Ellison Margie Johnson and Mary Coley make the “It’s really, really an honor.” dinner possible with their hard work in the kitchen. During Choctaw Days at the Smithsonian, Hacker will display his artwork and give demonstrations of his techniques, such as his most recent focus, ledger art. His ledger art pieces are drawn or painted on accounting ledger book pages that were commonly used by Plains tribes in the past. Choctaw Nation officers take part in His work also includes 4-, 5-. and 6-hole flutes he hand-makes from cedar or redwood. He takes pride in the fact that his 6-hole Plains-style flutes are almost identical in sound to those he’s ‘Click It or Ticket’ seat belt campaign played that date back to the 1880s. By LARISSA COPELAND checkpoint, resulting in 25 cita- Visitors to the NMAI will also get to experience the serene, Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma tions and 47 warnings issued to tranquil music he creates while performing on his handmade the motorists. Additionally, of- flutes. As not only a flute maker, but also a player, Hacker has Choctaw Nation Public Safety ficers also performed 11 child recorded seven full-length flute albums and captivated audiences is once again joining up with its safety seat inspections and with countless shows performed around the world. Southeastern Oklahoma Traffic served six warrants. Additionally, Hacker creates pottery, bowls and jars, each hand- Safety Coalition (SOTSC) partners The main push for “Click It or made in styles reflecting numerous tribal influences. Another for this year’s “Click It or Ticket” Ticket” ran from May 21-June 3. specialty is his intricately detailed knives. His knives consist of seat belt enforcement campaign. Officers were out day and night carved deer antler, buffalo or elk horn, with some inlaid with a The operation kicked off with a patrolling Oklahoma roadways variety of precious stones. press event on May 14 at the Atoka and running checkpoints to crack Hacker credits numerous people for the talents he’s able to share High School, and was followed by Choctaw Nation: LARISSA COPELAND down on seat belt violators. with Native American art enthusiasts. He specifically mentions a a police checkpoint to ensure driv- Choctaw Nation Public Safety Officers Lt. According to the National Cheyenne Arapaho man, Charles Pratt, for teaching him the flute- ers and vehicle occupants were in Brant Henry of Atoka, in foreground, and Highway Traffic Safety Admin- making trade, and Comanche flutist Doc Tate Nevaquaya, whose compliance of the state’s seat belt Sgt. Mike Johnson of Durant work a police istration, seat belts are the most music inspired him to learn to play. laws. The checkpoint was operated check point in Atoka on May 14. effective vehicle safety feature As an adamant believer in keeping Native American culture and by Choctaw Tribal officers and law ever invented, yet so many of traditional artistic methods alive, he is always eager to share the enforcement agencies from Idabel, Hugo, Calera, and Atoka those hitting the road still fail to buckle up regularly. The knowledge he has gained throughout the career he has dedicated Police Departments, as well as the Atoka County Sheriffs De- goal for this year’s “Click It or Ticket” blitz is to increase to these crafts. “I want it to be a learning experience,” he says. “I partment and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol. the seat belt use percentage of Oklahoma motorists and hope the people like my work. I’m open to doing whatever I can to In total, 844 vehicles passed through during the two-hour occupants to at least 90 percent. contribute,” to the visitors’ experience at Choctaw Days.

William Edington Grand Champion Steer - Red Choctaw youth show Oak 4-H. in Latimer County Livestock Show Choctaw participants in the Latimer County Livestock Show, pictured above, are, back row from left, District 6 Councilman Joe Coley, Stormy Dull, Mikey Gauzdausky, Cody Austin, Mollie McGee, William Hollan, Heather Edington, Kareesa Kennedy, Emily Shaw, Catelyn Grey, Kristyn Adams; middle row from left, Jacy Muncy, Kris- ten Hollan, Blake Dull, Cody Bull, William Edington, Kyleigh Hilburn, Justin Duggan, Chase Martin, Kelsey Brown, Shane Fry, Dustin Duggan, Flint Shaw; front row from left, Jera Brown, Emma Lawson, Asher Kauk, Submitted photos Clayton Lawson, Grant Shaw, Titus Montgomery, Grace Emily Shaw Reserve Grand Kareesa Kennedy Grand Montgomery, Courtney Adams, Ward Vinson, Lexi Champion Lamb - Buffalo Val- Champion Swine - Buffalo Valley Zurovetz, and Lauren Rader. ley FFA. FFA. Jacy Muncy Grand Champion Heifer - Panola 4-H. BISKINIK | June 2012 | Page 12 Traditional Choctaw agriculture (Part II) May’s edition of Iti Fabvssa gave a broad pumpkins, melons history of Choctaw agriculture by describing (obtained from Af- how and when, through the centuries, ances- ricans), and per- tral Choctaw farmers began growing different haps some other types of domesticated plants. This month’s Iti Fabussa vegetables. Located edition will add some depth to that broad out some distance overview by providing a snapshot of Choctaw from the village, the standing dead trees and set it on fire. The agriculture at one specific point in time: 300 these patches were Sketch by Ruby Bolding years ago. fire would burn through the dry wood and fell a prime target for From information presented last month, it is the trees. Sometimes, parts of the fallen dry hungry birds and Choctaw women working a communal field with traditional tools. clear that one of the factors that has always trees would be hauled off and used to keep the mammals. To help helped Choctaw agriculture to develop is ex- sacred fire burning in the village. Most of the combat them, plat- rest would be burned up on the spot. If new change with groups of people living outside forms 6 feet in height were built. During the ened, the community held the Green Corn Cer- saplings popped up while the field was in use, of the Choctaw homeland. Outside influences growing season, women sat on these platforms emony (Luak Mosholi). In September, when workers would cut them down, pile them up on Choctaw farmers were strong in the 1700s. during the day, working on handicrafts and the corn matured “Tachi Nona” dances were on living roots, and burn them. They would re- At this time, Choctaw society supported itself scaring away birds or animals that tried to en- held (York personal communication). Har- peat the process as long as the roots kept send- with a form of native, corn-centered agricul- ter the patch. vesting would continue up until frost, com- ing up saplings. Ultimately, the traditional ture that had been practiced since AD 1000. The large communal field was not planted bined with feasts intended to use up old food Choctaw method of field clearing put a great However, by this time, Choctaw farmers until May, when the woods had plenty of wild stored over from the preceding year. Families deal of rotten wood, ash, and charcoal directly were also experimenting with and selectively edibles to attract the birds and other animals harvested their own gardens and pumpkin into the soil, where it acted as fertilizer. adopting a variety of new domesticated plants away from the crops. A respected elder man patches. The community worked together to Choctaw-made gardening tools included the brought into the Choctaw homeland from Eu- would announce ahead of time the day that harvest the communal field. After drying and afore-mentioned stone-bladed axes, hoes with rope, Africa, and Central and South America, work in the communal field would commence. preserving their share of the harvest from the blades made of a mussel shell or deer shoulder by European colonists. Choctaw farmers suc- Everyone in the community was expected to communal field, families took a portion of it bone, and digging sticks. Digging sticks re- cessfully adapted ancient farming techniques work together to get the field planted for the to the community storehouse. This food would sembled wooden staffs with a sharpened fire- to some of the new crops with great success, mutual benefit of all. An able-bodied person be used by families whose crops had failed or hardened point at one end, which was used to while other issues, like keeping newly ac- who refused to help was asked to leave the who had run out of their own food, used to poke holes in the ground for planting seeds, quired livestock out of the fields, brought new village. Work, which began after sunrise, was feed visitors, to assist other towns in need, and and to pry under weeds in order to uproot challenges. made more enjoyable by the presence of an to provision war parties. them. Metal axe and hoe blades were some of In the early 1700s, Choctaw villages were entertainer who came out into the field, sing- After years of use, the fertility in Choctaw the first trade items brought into the Choctaw concentrated in east/central Mississippi. The ing songs, telling stories, and making jokes as fields would begin to diminish. At that point, homeland by Europeans. By the mid-1700s availability of fertile land for farming was an the community worked. locations for new fields would be selected. the use of these metal tools in Choctaw agri- important consideration in deciding where to The backbone of the community fields was The old fields would be allowed to revert back cultural fields was commonplace. build a village. Most villages were located corn, planted in hills that formed rows, spaced to a natural state. It would be years before the The family garden plot, was planted in on elevated land, adjacent to a stream with one yard apart. Squash, watermelons, and sun- forest canopy would return to the state it was March, when the ground became sufficiently stretches fertile bottomland that could easily flowers were planted in the spaces between in before field clearing began. In the interim warm. Opening the earth and planting seeds be farmed. Other than the fortified villages po- the cornrows. Beans and peas (obtained from the old fields supported crops of blackberries, were considered to be very spiritual acts, sitioned on the eastern border with the Mus- Africans), were also planted in these fields, strawberries, and other wild edibles that grow which combined with adequate rain and sun- cogee tribe, most Choctaw settlements were sometimes on climbing scaffolds made of riv- in areas of disturbed soil. light, would do nothing less than provide spread out, with houses located 200 yards er cane. Unlike the family garden patches, the The communal field embodied an ideal of the food that would sustain the community from each other or more. Three hundred years large community fields were unfenced. Had working together for the benefit of all. It was through the next year. ago, Choctaw communities maintained three someone attempted to do this, their actions a Native American at its core. Sometime in Special dances (Hashi Atahhli Holitobli) types of agricultural fields: small family gar- would have been viewed as childish, since this the early 1700s, Choctaw farmers quit main- were performed in preparation for planting den plots planted between the houses in a vil- field was for the benefit of the whole commu- taining community fields, and began growing (Kennith York personal communication). lage, large community fields located down in nity. and harvesting crops as separate families, like Family members worked together to get the the bottom land adjacent to the village, and Tending the planted fields was the respon- their Euro-American neighbors. The old fields gardens prepared and the seeds in the ground. patches of pumpkins and melons, located at sibility of the women. While this task might could still be recognized as cleared places In these gardens, they planted large and small some distance from the village. seem burdensome, according to a first hand on the landscape for years after. Some Euro- beans, field peas (obtained from Africans), Preparation of agricultural fields began far observer; “In sober fact, on account of its so- Americans favored these cleared areas for the small, quick-ripening variety of corn, and in advance of planting. Large trees were re- cial features, there being unlimited opportu- building their own houses, settlements, and probably also leeks, garlic, and cabbage (all moved through a slow, patient technique that nities for gossip, the Indian women, banded fields. After the Trail of Tears, many of the obtained from Europeans). Garden plots were minimized back-breaking work. Men first together in the cornfield, really looked upon Choctaw who remained behind in Mississippi given some protection from horses and hogs girdled and killed the large trees by chopping their labor there as a kind of frolic” (Halbert became low wage workers on Euro-American (both obtained from Europeans) by fences through the bark all the way around the tree’s n.d.). In certain instances, the services of spe- farms and plantations, cultivating land that made of stakes driven into the ground, at- base using stone bladed axes. These girdled cialists were also employed as the crops grew. had been worked and improved by Choctaw tached to cross pieces of split hickory or oak trees would be left either to rot and fall to earth, Rain-makers were called upon to break crop- farmers for centuries, but which now was con- saplings. Horses that persisted in entering the or stand and dry out. Workers would return to damaging droughts. Twins were believed to trolleds by someone else. the spot, a year or more later, gather up fallen family garden plots were scolded by the wom- have special abilities to rid fields from cut- wood and brush, and cut down new saplings. en, sometimes violently. worm infestations (Cushman 1899: 272-276). Unless otherwise noted, information con- They would pile this material at the bases of The pumpkin patch was used for growing When the fast-maturing variety of corn rip- tained in this article comes from Adair (1771)

World Series of Stickball July 2-14 in Philadelphia, Mississippi Iti Fabussa M e n If you have any questions concerning Choctaw history or culture, please mail to Iti BOK CITO Tvshka Homma will be participat- Fabussa c/o BISKINIK, P.O. Box 1210, Durant, OK 74702, or e-mail to biskinik@ ing again, representing the Choctaw choctawnation.com with “Iti Fabussa” in the subject line. NUKOWACHI MONDAY Nation of Oklahoma for the third 8:30 P.M. time. Another Oklahoma team, Okla JULY 9 THURSDAY Hannali, is also entered in the series. 8:30 P.M. Both play on July 7. For more infor- JULY 5 mation on the tournament, log on to www.choctawindianfair.com. WARRIORS Chahta Anumpa Aiikhvna THURSDAY BEAVER DAM 10:00 P.M. uuu uuu JULY 12 Lesson of the Month FRIDAY 8:30 P.M. JULY 6 Chi afama li kvt sv nayukpa. I am happy to meet you. NANIH WAIYA TUESDAY 10:00 P.M. TUCKER JULY 10 Word Meaning: chi – you FRIDAY afamma– to meet 10:00 P.M. li – I JULY 6 kvt – subject marker SATURDAY sv - I am WAR EAGLES 10:00 P.M. JULY 14 nayukpa – happy TVSHKA HOMMA ano – as for myself akia - also SATURDAY 8:30 P.M. JULY 7

OKLA HANNALI WEDNESDAY Äno akia, chi afama li kvt sv nayukpa. 10:00 P.M. OKA HOMMA JULY 11 I am happy to meet you as well. SATURDAY 10:00 P.M. Note: Sometimes Choctaw words do not match up verbatim with English, JULY 7 but the content of the Choctaw meaning will be close to the English transla- FRIDAY tion. UNIFIED 10:00 P.M. JULY 13 PEARL RIVER www.choctawschool.com

THURSDAY 10:00 P.M. JULY 5 Are you Choctaw? MONDAY 10:00 P.M. Do you need a CDIB card? TIAK HIKIA JULY 9 How about a Tribal Membership/Voter Registration card? Or even both? Have you lost any of your cards and need a replacement? KONI HATA If so, you can now access our applications online at www.choctawnation.com BISKINIK | June 2012 | Page 13

Charles Thomas OBITUARIESRuth Anderson Vance Templin Charles Kenneth “Chuck” Thomas, Ruth Anderson, 81, passed away on Vance E. Templin, 28, passed away on May 22, 2012, in 71, of Foster, passed away on Oct. 29, April 8, 2012. She was born on Dec. Tulsa. He was born Nov. 30, 1983, in Arlington, Wash. He was 2011, at the Duncan Regional Hospi- 3, 1930, in DeLeon, Texas, to Mary employed by Nordam. tal in Duncan. He was born on Nov. and Andrew A. Goats. He was preceded in death by his grandfathers, Arron Alexan- 28, 1939, in Talihina, to the late Noah Ruth graduated from Hendrich der and Norman McAlvain; step grandfather John Harris; aunt Thomas and Blanche Huffman Thom- Memorial Nursing Scholl in Abilene, Paula Bowlan; and cousin Joshua McAlvain. as. Chuck was raised in Antioch and Texas, with the class of 1949. She He is survived by his wife Anna Templin of the home; sons, graduated from Madill High School also received her B.S. of Psychology Mason Alexander, Samuel Philip and Paul Norman Templin, in 1958. He joined the U. S. Army from St. Edwards University. She was all of the home; parents, David and Valerie Templin of Tali- on July 10, 1964, and served proudly a long-term care chief nurse for 24 hina; brother Leo Templin of Arlington; grandparents, Joyce during the Vietnam War. He also graduated from Southeast- years with the Texas Health Department. She was very proud and David Templin, and Betty Harris; uncle Bo Bowlan; sister- ern Oklahoma State University in Durant, where he earned a of her membership with the Choctaw Nation and loved to at- in-law Laura Eccles with husband John of Tulsa; along with bachelor’s degree in business administration. He worked for tend the Trail of Tears and Labor Day Festival at the Choctaw numerous loving family members and friends. the Department of the Interior, Bureau of Indian Affairs, under Nation Capitol Grounds. Ruth was a dear friend to many and the deputy assistant secretary and management in Albuquer- loved her family dearly. Ernest Hooser que, N. M. He served as the chief, division of operations and She was preceded in death by her husband, W.D. Anderson, maintenance, office of facilities management and construction, and sister Buelamae Goates. Ernest Hooser, 94, a long time resi- and was responsible for managing the national Operations and She is survived by her children, Raymond Anderson with dent of Durant, passed away on May Maintenance Program of over 5,000 buildings comprising wife Susan, and Mary Pierce with husband Larry; sister Ethel 22, 2012. Ernest was born on Oct. more than 26 million square feet of federally owned property Owen; grandchildren, Chandra Acosta with husband Charlie, 8, 1917, in Tuskahoma. His parents located at 350 locations in 26 states that included 186 schools of Jared Anderson with wife Kelly, Jennifer Anderson, Mike were N. H. “Newt” Hooser and Helen the Bureau of Indian Education’s tribal school system. Chuck Ryan with wife Susan, and Patrick Ryan; and five great-grand- Amanda (Hudson) Hooser. Ernest’s worked with almost all of the 550 federally recognized Tribes, children. mother was 3/4 Choctaw. Ernest grew and was greatly honored to do so, for he had a great love for up with two sisters and three broth- his people, and all nations. Chuck was very proud of his Choc- Charles Prentice ers and they attended elementary taw heritage and lived his life in the Indian ways. He was an and high school in Tuskahoma. After example to his family and friends. Honor, courage and respect Charles Edward Prentice passed graduating high school in 1936, Ernest attended Murray State for all things were his guiding principles and he lived by these away on Nov. 14, 2011, in Eufaula. School of Agriculture in Tishomingo and graduated two years principles. He retired in December 2009, and soon thereafter He was born on Dec. 26, 1928, in later. He went on to Oklahoma A & M College (now Okla- returned to Oklahoma with his wife, Mary Frances Thomas, Bokchito, to Della Mae (Harrison) homa State University) in Stillwater and earned his bachelor’s whom he married on Dec. 31, 2004, in Rio Rancho, N. M. He (Prentice) Autrey, and Priestly Pren- degree in math and science. He began his teaching career in was affiliated with the Baptist faith and a member of the VFW tice. Stigler in 1940. On Sept. 21, 1940, Ernest married his college Post 1192, DAV, American Legion and the Moose Lodge 2202. He lived in the Oklahoma area until sweetheart, Helen Woolard, in Tishomingo. Helen was an artist Chuck loved his family, friends, playing golf, hunting, fishing his early pre-teen years when with his and through the years she completed more than 2,600 beautiful and living life to the fullest. He had a beautiful personality and mother, brother, Manuel, and sister, paintings including many national landscapes. people were drawn to him. He had a strong respect for educa- Peggy moved to California. He joined The Choctaw heritage runs deep in this family, going back tion and took great pride of his accomplishments and there- the Army in 1946, and was stationed in Germany. After his to the Trail of Tears with his great-great-grandmother, includ- fore always encouraged the young folks to strive to acquire the time with the army, he traveled around the United States until ing her three children and their families. While Ernest’s great- highest education possible. he stopped in Modesto, Calif., where he met the love of his life, great-grandmother passed away on the Trail, her three sons sur- Chuck was preceded in death by his parents; brother Wendel Beverly Bernice (Goodwin) Prentice while driving for Red Top vived and established new residences in the Indian Territory. Thomas; and granddaughter Patricia Jay Thomas. Taxi. They married on July 2, 1952, and raised four children Originating from the Choctaw family names of Hudson and He is survived by wife Mary Thomas of Foster; children, in California. Together they ran the Trailways Bus Depot in Bohanan, Ernest’s’ family was established near Tuskahoma, on Tammy Thomas Chasse with husband Peter of Hawthorne, Ca- Modesto. After retiring from the depot together they opened the Indian allotment land of his mother, of which the family lif., Judy Thomas Claborn with husband Larry of Lone Grove, “Draggy’s Drive In.” Draggy was Charles’ nickname growing still owns. This is where he spent his days as a young boy with Terri Thomas Booth and husband Bob of Alamosa, Co., and up. In 1992 they decided to return to Oklahoma. They settled his brothers and sisters. His mother would send them on ad- Robert Wendel (R.W.) Thomas of Landrum, S. C.; two grand- in Henryetta and stayed there until Beverly became ill in 2010 ventures to climb the trees that were near their home to retrieve children, Craig Booth and Jerree Booth Canty; brother, Rob- and had to be moved to Eufaula. His loving wife of almost 59 the bark at the top. His mother would use the inside scrapings ert Lee Thomas of Dickson; sisters, Pearl Downey of Duncan, years past away on April, 2011. of this bark to make medicine. They would also dig up “snake Betty Blancett of Dickson, and Christine Woodruff of Manns- Charles was also preceded his mother, Della Mae; stepfather root” to be used for medicine. His parents didn’t own a car ville; and many nieces and nephews. Charlie Autrey; sister Peggy Cox; father Priestly Prentice; and nephew Mike Cox. until he was a junior in college, so they walked or rode their Charles is survived by his children, Deborah Villa with Joe horses wherever they needed to go. They were a blessed family Jesse Ward of Eufaula, Sharon Warda with Pat of Ceres, Calif., Diane Par- during The depression because they had plenty of farm ani- sons with Mark of Winlock, Wash., and Kevin Prentice with mals to keep them well nourished. Something important Ernest Jesse Paul Ward, 26, of Poteau Brenda of Eufaula; brother Manuel Prentice with Sharon of remembers his mother telling him and his siblings is “You are passed away on May 2, 2012, in Po- Alaska; seven grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; along going to college!” It was very important to her that they gain a teau. He was born on Feb. 16, 1986, with many nieces and nephews. good education, and that’s just what Ernest did. in Edison N.J. to Terry and Beth After earning his degree and teaching in Stigler, he became (Faulks) Ward. Hesse was a stay- the high school principal in Tuskahoma in 1943. He became at-home dad. Jesse built an 86 Ram Jack Morris principal of Antlers High School in 1944 and earned his mas- Charger 4x4. He liked the outdoor, ter’s degree from Oklahoma A & M College in 1949. He was Jack Favor Morris, 72, lifelong fishing and camping. He was the best working towards his doctorate, but decided to focus more on Seminole resident passed away on dad in the world. his current career in education and administration. He said he March 16, 2012, in Oklahoma City. He was preceded in death by his did not regret quitting pursuing his doctorate, and he soon be- He was born Jan. 11, 1940, in Semi- brother, John Ward. came the superintendent of Eagletown Public Schools. nole, to Harry Oakes and Vaden Eliz- He is survived by his wife Brandy, of the home; daughters, Four years after serving as superintendent for Eagletown, abeth (Smith) Morris. Jack married Ashley Rhayne and Riley Nicole; father Terry Ward of Poteau; Ernest began teaching at Durant Jr. High School and made Du- Alfreida Clarice Harris on Sept. 2, mother Beth Ann Howard with her husband Kenneth of Val- rant his home. He taught many math and science classes and 1961, in Seminole. liant; sisters, Cheyenne Duncan with husband Steven from eventually was put in charge of and directed an educational Jack was a graduate of Seminole Union, S.C., Vanessa Ward-Frazier and Megan Ward of Broken television station coming out of Durant Public Schools. He High School in 1958 and went to East Bow; brother Matthew Ward of Valliant; aunt Lisa Ward Val- said he really enjoyed the TV. It was a television station for the Central University where he graduated with a B.S. degree in combe; uncle, Jeff Ward of Shady Point; niece Jade Chesnee of students, by the students. Ernest enjoyed working with televi- math and physics in 1961. He later attended the University of Broken Bow; nephews, Jon Michael Martin and Dalton Ward sion production and attended some television teaching studios Oklahoma where he graduated with a master’s degree in com- of Broken Bow; grandparents, Joe and Peggy Ward of Shady in east Texas for a time. puter science. Jack was a member of the First Christian Church Point; along with other relatives and loved ones. He also worked at KXII Studios one summer. Not only was in Seminole. Jack retired from Seminole State College after Ernest involved with television, he’s been a photographer as 25 years of teaching math and physics. Prior to that he worked well. He developed his first roll of film in 1937. He taught a Rebecca Noah for Phillips Petroleum and General Electric as a computer pro- night-photography class at Southeastern Oklahoma State Uni- grammer. Rebecca Pearl Noah, 95, passed versity. He wanted to earn his living by doing things he loved, Jack was a direct descendant of original enrollee Susan from this life May 3, 2012, in Antlers. not working at something he didn’t enjoy. With his work in (SueK) Oakes Morris and two principal chiefs of the Choctaw She was born Feb. 9, 1917, in Finley, teaching children, school administration, directing students in Nation, Apuckshunnubbee and Hopia Iskitinia. Jack and Cla- to Josephus M. and Rena Pearl (Mill- television program production and photography, Ernest lived rice were well-known throughout Oklahoma and at Quartzsite, er) Sherred. his life doing the things he loved most. Ariz., for “Jack’s Indian Taco’s.” He enjoyed traveling, meet- Rebecca was married to Webster Something that Ernest thought was important to do is to read ing people and was an animal lover who loved his pet, Annie. Noah until his passing on Aug. 25, to children. He made an effort to read to all of his children, Jack is survived by wife Clarice Morris of Seminole; sons, 1993. She worked in many different grandchildren and great-grandchildren. It brought him great John Michael Morris of Oklahoma City, and David Gregory positions – as a seamstress, and at the pride for his children and grandchildren to say to him, “I re- Morris with wife Rachel of Moore; brother and sister-in-law, Naval Ammunition Depot in McAl- member you reading us stories.” He would read to his six great- Harry Phillip and Ann Morris of Seminole; and sister Mary ester, until she earned her Master’s of Education. Rebecca grandchildren as much as he could and they say to him, “Big Lou Duggins with husband Stan of Woodward; grandchildren, spent her entire teaching career as an elementary teacher at the Papa, tell us stories!” Ernest loved reading to his great-grand- Josh and Devon Morris; and great-grandchildren, Hadley and Teec Nos Pos Boarding School in Teec Nos Pos, Ariz., work- children, and he shared his stories with as many people as he Kainen. ing there until her retirement. Although Rebecca and Webster could. Since Ernest came to Durant in 1959, he was close with had no children together, she loved her nieces, nephews and the Choctaw Nation. And tried to be involved in everything extended family as her own and thoroughly enjoyed spending he could. Ernest traveled to various schools and read Choctaw time with them. Larry Cole stories to students. He has read both to elementary and high Rebecca was preceded in death by her husband; parents; school students and enjoyed teaching people about the Choc- brothers, Warren Sherred, John Dixon Sherred and Josephus Larry Gene Cole, 63, a Caddo resi- taw heritage. Ernest encouraged young people to go out and Sherred; sister Ethel Williams; nephew Harvey Williams; and dent, passed away on May 9, 2012, get an education because it will be very helpful to them later in niece Edna Gibson. in Atoka. He was born on May 13, life. Ernest advised the youth of today to study and know more She is survived by her nephews, Bennie Gibson of Norman, 1948, to Eulis and Joyce (Gossett) about their people by studying native language and heritage. Kerry Sherred of Farmington, N.M., and John D. Williams of Cole, in Bakersville, Calif., and He wanted people to be proud of whoever they are, even if Lane; nieces, Norma Choate with husband Andy, Lou Billy, graduated High School. He worked they’re not Choctaw. both of Finley, and Mary Williams of Broken Bow; great-neph- as a police officer in the Oklahoma Ernest Hooser was an honorable Choctaw elder who was ad- ews and great-nieces, Michael Gibson with wife Karen of Nor- City area then became an inspector mired by many. He was an incredibly kind man who lived to man, and their children, Joshua, Justus and Jessie, Karla Heri- for CSI compressor systems. He mar- love, and learned and pass his wisdom to those around him. He tage with husband Gilbert of Beaumont, Texas, Warren Choate ried Thelma (Davis) Cole in Little recently closed a speech, receiving a well-earned standing ova- of Durant, Edward Choate of Muskogee, Jacquelyn Quiver of Rock, Ark. Larry was a member of the Voca Baptist Church. tion by over 100 listeners, by stating, “I am a proud Oklahoma Mesquite, Texas and her children, Holly with husband Michael He enjoyed hunting, fishing, spending time with his family and Choctaw Indian. I am a proud American Indian.” Mejorado, and Kari Quiver, Rebecca Jane “Janie” Choate of playing dominoes with Chip Johnson. Larry was a big Caney Ernest was named the “Choctaw Outstanding Elder” of the Mesquite, Texas, Harvey “Ted” Williams with wife Lisa of Baseball fan. Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma in 2004. Ernest’s brother, John Durant, and his children Alyssa, Lauren, Gabrielle, Brett, Jer- He was preceded in death by his wife Thelma Cole; father A. Hooser, also received the “Choctaw Outstanding Elder” ry Williams and Nettie of Antlers, and his children, Jerry, Jr., Eulis Cole; daughter Cynthia Ann Booth; and grandparents, award in 2006. Sapphire, Jordan, Ethel Louise and Maurice Baker of Durant, Earl and Mrs. Cleo Gossett. Mr. Hooser was preceded in death by his parents and wife. and her children, Melanie, Jillian, Britten, John Kenneth Wil- He is survived by his son, Hunter Mills of Caney; stepchil- He is survived by his son, Carl Hooser with wife Lou Ann of liams of Topeka, Kan., and his children, Bailey, Cale, Taryne dren, Michael Edward Kitchens with wife Charity of Oklaho- Durant; daughter Patricia Ann Morgan with husband Leonard and Jonna Lynn Williams of Antlers, and her daughter, Krys- ma City, and Lori Ann Evans of Caney; of Durant; grandchildren, Leiann Bahe with husband Tim of ten, Garry Lee Williams of Topeka, Kan., and his children, mother Joyce Gossett of Oklahoma City; brother Bob Cole Plano, Texas, Layne Morgan with wife Pam of Durant, and Les- Elizabeth and Vivien, Jonathan Dale Williams with wife Car- with wife Amy of Texas; aunts, Alma Gossett of Caney, Vir- lie Prentice with husband Walter of Bokchito; great-grandchil- rie of Cypress, Texas, and their children, Jon Michael and Ja- ginia Farmer of Stringtown; cousins, Virginia Burditt, Carolyn dren, Dillon Bahe and Madison Bahe of Plano, Texas, Alysse lyn, Justin Glenn Williams with wife Ana of Bryan, Texas, and Jackson, Sue Ishmael, all of Caney, and Marty Gossett with Morgan and Asheley Morgan of Durant, Katheryn Prentice their children, Anika, Ariana and Milliana, Steven Wayne Billy wife of Oklahoma City; grandchildren, Morgan Booth of and Kaitlyn Prentice of Bokchito, and Melisse Prentice of Du- with wife Rosa of Finley, and their children, Titus, Gabrielle, Houston, Katie Booth, Victoria Kitchens, Shelby Kitchens and rant; twin sister Ernestine Hunkapillar of Broken Bow; brother Christian and Tyler, and Mark W.O. Billy of Norman; numer- Sydney Kitchens, all of Oklahoma City; great-granddaughter John A. Hooser with wife Lucille of Clayton; niece Rosemary ous great-great nieces and nephews; as well as many other rela- Brooklyn Kitchens of Oklahoma City; along with numerous Hooser of Clayton; and long-time family friend, Judy Allen of tives and friends. nieces, nephews, other relatives and dear friends. Durant. BISKINIK | June 2012 | Page 14

ChoctawChoctaw Nation GED class participants Nation finished the require holds- GED class graduation ceremony ments to receive their diplomas this May and were recognized with a graduation ceremony at Eastern Oklahoma State Col- lege. Assistant Chief Gary Batton and members of the Choctaw Council were in attendance to show support for the step for- ward these Choctaws have taken in their education. The graduates include Kelsey Barrick, who had the highest GPA of the class, Sasha Archer, Sandra Baker. Rhonda Beard, Jonathan Beaucamp, Brook Belknap, Chinah Bernal, Audra Bittner, Rowen Blake, Caress Brown, Colin Brown, Christina Brownfield, Dasan Browning, Charity Bussell, Sarah Byford, Danielle Caddell, Tessila Cagle, Joey Camp, Erin Carper, Jimmy Case, Christopher Center, Savannah Chapman, Chris- topher Cleckler, Kayla Coleman, Tyger Collins, Lisa Cook, Harley Davis, Brytany Davis, Dillyn Davis, Brandon Dry, Vanesa Drywater, Christopher Duncan, Donald Ellis, Janice Evans, Kaleb Fails, Patricia Gibson, Stormey Golden, Spencer Graves, Kerry Green, Rebecca Gregory, Chandren Gregory, Tiffany Hale, William Harden, Gage Harris, Tiana Harris, Sa- Choctaw Nation: BRET MOSS mantha Hayes, Charlie Hazlin, Ty Hendrickson, Carla Hen- drix, Alisia Hernandez, Joey Hernandez, Ronnie Hicks, Ashlee Higgins, Magen Hill, Amber Holden, Autumn Holt, Shiloh Blake McKinney, Danica McKinney, Terry Morrison, Anthony lee Tatum, Terrie Taylor, Dalton Teague, Nicholas Tejo, Stacy Holt, Brooke Hudson, Billy Hunter, Amanda James, Flora Noah, Lisa Noah, Shana Nowlin, Maranda Parker, Greggory Thames, Reona Thorn, Lacey Tillery, Kassandra Thouchstone, James, Kelsie Kemp, Jennifer Leal, Staci Lewis, Shyla Lud- Remy, Christine Rider, Christana Riley, Tracy Ritter, Jimmy Justin Tucker, Ross Vice, Jessica Walton, Zach Ward, Katelyn low, Tabitha Majors, Francisco Martinez, Tyler May, Amber Ryan, Melenda Scouten, Travis Shepard, Crystal Smith, Dustin Welch, Micaah Williamson, Melissa Wilson, Ashley Wood, Maye, Dustin Mayfield, Clayton McClour, Ashton McKibben, Smith, Kari Smith, Danielle Sephenson, Malissa Suchan, Hay- Tammy Wortman, Anthony Wyatt Jr. and Kristi Young.

The team shared stories, flats, wrecks, sore muscles, hills, ends, unless they are training for a special event. rain and wind, but through it all, had a wonderful time, said Though the ride from Mississippi to Oklahoma has been the Winlock. “The ride was an experience of a lifetime, and as I team’s most-loved trip thus far, there are plans for upcoming BICYCLE rode the same paths that my ancestors had trod many years trips in the works. In June, they will participate in the event, before, I really appreciated what they endured to leave a lasting Tulsa Tough, riding through the city streets of Tulsa. Other up- Bicycle team rides to honor legacy of the best of the human spirit, and to not only survive coming events the team will take part in include the Tour de in their new lands but to thrive against all odds.” Cure in Tulsa, which raises money for the American Diabe- fallen Choctaw ancestors The distance and determination to finish each day of the Trail tes Association; the MS 150, a two-day riding event (75 miles of Tears ride by each of us was tough, said Teresa Eagle Road. per day) to raise funds for Multiple Sclerosis; and the team’s Continued from Page 1 “It was fun, and I am ready for this ride again.” Breast Cancer Awareness: Bike, Trike, Walk fundraiser for “We accepted this challenge and were determined to com- breast cancer research. able to gain a total of 23 members for the Choctaw Nation Bi- plete this physically demanding event to experience our own “Other team projects include our Veteran’s Day Run and cycle Team, most riders employees of the Choctaw Nation and Trail of Tears,” Jefferson stated. We reminded ourselves that our New Year’s Eve Run that provide a healthy alternative to its Healthcare Center, others tribal members, one Cherokee and our ancestors survived, and so can we; the strengths of our team, bringing in the New Year,” said Jefferson. one Kiowa. Some members are spouses and college students, both physical and character, brought our people back home, she Though hundreds of miles of road on top of a bicycle may several nurses and medical providers, schoolteachers, a facility said. “For many of us, this distance, the difficulties we encoun- seem grueling and physically demanding to some of us, mem- director, a state facility administrator, as well as friends and tered, the personal pain that we endured and those barriers that bers of the Choctaw Nation Bicycle Team have found the prop- family. Most members are from Talihina and also come from we overcame brought the history of the Trail alive.” er inspiration to complete the task. “I am proud and honored Wilburton, Durant, Atoka and even San Antonio. Another goal of the team deals with weight loss and improved to have ridden with the Choctaw Nation Bicycle Team,” said Included are four Support and Gear (SAG) team members, cardiovascular fitness of all team members before and during Donna Tawkoyty. which have vehicles and provide water, fluids with electro- the ride from Mississippi and to motivate coworkers and oth- Jefferson described how the cyclists successfully completed lytes, nutrition, rest stops and check riders for fatigue during ers in the community to increase their physical activity. “Our their Trail of Tears ride by building friendly relationships with the rides. These members provide medical care, transport bike second goal to promote wellness and disease prevention was one another, in turn producing effective teamwork. “On Day 1, and rider if necessary and work on maps for the next day’s ride. visible and it’s ongoing,” said Jefferson. This goal coincides we were just a group of people riding the same ride. Overnight, The SAG members also serve as “bike mechanics” that keep with the Choctaw Nation Going Lean Project goals as well as these people from different cities and different backgrounds the bikes in proper working order. the Preventive Medicine Division at Health Services Authority. transformed into a formidable team,” she explained. “On Day Members of the Choctaw Nation Bicycle Team are as fol- A third goal the team has set is introducing cycling as an 2, all riders were in sync with another, pace lines formed, cy- lows: Johnnie Anderson; Greg and Mary Barrs; Billy Eagle alternative form of transportation to reduce car exhaust and clists sped through the back roads and city streets to the Mis- Road II (SAG); Billy Eagle Road III; Nikki, Jordan and Teresa pollution. The team has met with the mayor of Talihina and sissippi River. It was an incredible sight.” Eagle Road; Roy (SAG) and Tammy Griffith; Cheyenne Mur- the town is now favorable to making bicycle routes and has The members thank God for the opportunity and for bring- ray (SAG); Dean (SAG) and Melanie Lanning; Tracie Lake; pledged to review future road construction to allow for bicycle ing them safely home. “We attacked Louisiana roads and the Nancy Jefferson; Brian and Brianna Johnston; Tony Stoltzfus; lanes, according to Jefferson. “This goal furthers the ideal of humidity of the delta,” described Jefferson. “The team climbed Donna and Phillip Tawkoyty; MaryAyn and Eli Tullier; and the Going Green Project at the Choctaw Nation,” she added. hill after hill across Arkansas to Oklahoma.” Stuart Winlock. The team’s final goal focuses on the importance of injury Choctaw Nation Hospital Administrator and continuous sup- According to Jefferson, the team has set several goals for it- prevention. Members implement this idea by always wearing porter of the Choctaw Nation Bicycle Team Teresa Jackson ex- self. “The first goal was to identify the needs of our team to ‘go protective gear, such as helmets. “Our team serves as an ex- pressed her great pride in the team’s efforts and their trip from home’ to our Mississippi Choctaw homeland and ‘come back ample to children and adults that this sport demands helmets Mississippi. “I am so proud of this team, they have put in many home’ to Oklahoma,” she said. and even experienced riders fall; the wearing of protective gear hours training and preparing for this trip. The dedication they The symbolic Trail of Tears bicycle ride from Mississippi promotes a favorable outcome,” said Jefferson. The University have shown has been outstanding.” to Oklahoma was not only great exercise, but also served as of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center as well as Kohl’s stores Jackson descried they day the team arrived to their final des- a learning opportunity. The trip allowed the team the chance provided the team with free helmets and literature for children tination in Oklahoma, saying the sight was priceless. “To be to learn more about Choctaw culture and history through the on bicycle safety and injury prevention. able to see the look on their faces and sense the feeling of ac- members’ discussions and shared storytelling of what they had According to Jefferson, most of the Bicycle Team members complishment they had cannot be put into words.” learned as children. began the symbolic trip from Mississippi to Oklahoma with If you are interested in learning more about Choctaw Nation “We discussed my grandmother’s journals about the Choc- much previous experience. “Nearly all riders had completed a Health Services Authority or the Going Lean Program, you taws’ migration to Oklahoma,” said Jefferson. “We had the op- metric century ride (62 miles) prior to the onset of this event. may visit cnhsa.com. portunity to view the environment and terrain that our ances- Many have participated in road races, criteriums and time trails, Also download the free Going Lean app by Choctaw Na- tors walked and discovered much about ourselves.” as well as other week-long rides, such as the Oklahoma Free tion Health, which features a simple calorie counter, listings Team member Stuart Winlock was very excited upon hearing Wheel and RAGBRAI (Ride across Iowa), the Hotter N Hell of health-oriented events within the 10.5 counties of the Choc- about Jefferson’s idea for the Trail of Tears ride. “When I first Hundred in Wichita Falls and RAM, a distance time trail of 540 taw Nation, listings of restaurants and grocery stores that have heard of this ride commemorating our ancestors’ journey from miles, taking place over Labor Day weekend in Missouri.” good selections of healthy food, listings of healthy and simple Mississippi to Oklahoma, I jumped at the chance and am very Jefferson said routine daily rides for members are 10-15 recipes and maps of fitness centers within the Choctaw Na- grateful I did,” he said. miles in length and longer rides of 35-40 miles on the week- tion’s borders.

Horse tails for Choctaw stickball warriors Contributed by “thundered” behind us. FRANCINE LOCKE BRAY The horses donated some of their tail Southwest Spanish Mustang hair, not all – just enough to adorn at Association Research Consultant least the sticks of 60 players and prob- ably more. A number of us attended and Those helping Bryant were Francine participated in the Choctaw Trail Locke Bray, James Stephens, Stanley of Tears Walk on May 19. After Carter and George Lankford. Bryant the walk, we were asked if we and George cut while Stanley and Fran- could provide Choctaw Horse cine knotted. Jim took pictures. tails for adornment on the stick- Following the cutting of the tails, the ball warriors’ sticks. The stickball Submitted photos group said a prayer, thanking the Cre- warriors are doing demonstrations ator for the Choctaw people, the horses, at the Smithsonian Choctaw Days in Washington, D.C in Gilbert Jones and Bryant Rickman for their dedication and June and are also participating in several upcoming games. commitment to the preservation of this rare equine. The tails They want their regalia to be as traditional as possible. were delivered the next day to the Choctaw Nation offices Bryant Rickman, president of the Southwest Spanish in Hugo. Mustang Association, agreed that this was a very important “Good luck and safe play,” is extended to the players from request so he gathered a group of helpers and rounded up not only the Choctaw people but now from the Choctaw the horses, leading them up the road to Chahta Isuba. They horses as well. Choctaw Nation: LISA REED Tail hair is given for adornment on the Choctaw stickball warriors’ sticks. In the past, it was believed that adding adornment would im- District 9 crowns prove the skills of the Choctaw players. The Choctaw horse is known for its agility, alertness, Choctaw 2012Nation’s District royalty 9 held its annual Princess Pag- courage, endurance and strength. eant on June 1 in conjunction with the Magnolia Festival in Choctaw stickball warriors, in Durant. Reigning in Bryan County for 2012-13 are Sr. Miss common with the Choctaw horse, Cheyenne Murray, Little Miss Josephine Gilmore and Jr. must possess these qualities. Miss Kayleigh Powell. They are pictured with Councilman Choctaw stickball warriors know Ted Dosh. The princesses from all 12 districts will vie for that, like the undefeated Choc- the Miss Choctaw Nation titles in the three age categories taw horse, they make their people on Aug. 30 at Tushka Homma. proud in their competitions. BISKINIK | June 2012 | Page 15 Choctaw Nation brings heritage to the state capitol Oklahoma State Senate declares May 15, 2012, as ‘Choctaw Day’

Continued from Page 1 words. Artists whose work has been featured throughout the Choc- taw Nation were also on display. Artists included Jane Umsted and Dylan Cavin, whose work has been featured on various Choctaw publications, as well as Paul King, the creator of the branding image for the 2011 Choctaw Days in Washington D.C., and Theresa Morris, whose “Windstar” design has been widely used for Choctaw events and publications. Many people also enjoyed visiting a booth featuring the Choctaw Code Talkers that reminded patrons of the service to Photos by BRET MOSS | Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma their country. The Choctaw Nation group after meeting with the State Senate. Storytellers Greg Rodgers and Stella Long told Choctaw tales to eager ears and the Choctaw princesses demonstrated Randy Ham- the Lord’s Prayer in sign language, a familiar activity of Choc- mons and Michael taw events. Scott lead the Traditional dancers got the audience involved with the Steal- Walk Dance while ing Partners Dance and the Snake Dance. Throughout the day, Eugene Taylor they demonstrated many other traditional dances including the keeps rhythm with Walk and War Dance. his distinct Choc- Many members of the Choctaw Tribal Council were in atten- taw voice. dance to enjoy conversing with the guests and show their sup- port for the spreading of the Choctaw culture. Assistant Chief Gary Batton addressed the crowd, proclaiming how proud he was to see the Choctaw Nation on display in such a venue. Lieutenant Governor Todd Lamb followed Batton, and men- tioned he was happy to see the Choctaw Nation spreading its heritage and teaching people of the Oklahoma what it means Right, Lau- to be Choctaw. ren Kitchen of Senator Josh Brecheen spent time with members of the Moore leads Choctaw group and, as the event came to a close, made a mo- Judy Allen dur- ing the Snake tion before the Oklahoma State Senate that this day be recog- Above, Choctaw artist Theresa Dance. nized as “Choctaw Day.” This motion was accepted and Batton Morris, left, shows Naomi LeFlore addressed the senate showing his appreciation for the honor her work. Below, Presley bestowed on the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. Byington plays To view more photos of the Choctaw Day activities visit Right, Assistant Chief Gary Bat- flutes he made Choctaw Nation’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/choc- ton addresses the Oklahoma State for the guests of tawnationofoklahoma. Senate. Choctaw Day.

A crowd gathers in the second floor rotunda to witness the Raccoon Dance – a social dance that was used to introduce young Choctaws. Randy Hammons and Mandy Lawson lead the Four-Step War Dance. At right, Choctaw language teacher Lilly Roberts talks with a guest about the native language.

Ryan, Jack and Brenda Tankley from Edmond get a lesson on stickball from expert Olin Williams.

Deloris Samuels of Idabel joins Rose Steffens along with Larry Wade during the Stealing Nic and Macy McIntire from Partners Dance. Moore pose with Assistant Chief Batton.

Charity, Emma, Neraeh, Kylah and Kelsey Daniel, along with Erin Shanahan, all of Okla- homa City, are happy to meet with Assistant Just one of the many guests who Chief Batton. were interested in the lessons about Choctaw pottery offered. Left: Jonathan Kitzrow of Oklahoma City ac- companies Judy Allen during the Stealing Pat- ners Dance. BISKINIK | June 2012 | Page 16 20th Annual Trail of Tears Walk

The 2012 Choctaw Nation Princesses perform the Lord’s Prayer in sign language for the crowd.

Brad Spears and his son, Stetson, are pic- tured with Stetson’s grandmother, Rhonda Willmontt, member of the Choctaw Nation Color Guard.

Photos by LISA REED, CHRISSY DILL, KAREN JACOB Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

Isiah and Reuben Marris and Josephine Gilm- ore enjoy their time at the Trail of Tears Walk.

Cecil Anderson enjoyed his time at the walk with Te- resa Anderson. The Johnson Family Singers entertain the crowd. Pic- tured from left are Moses Johnson, Lena Scott and Bubba Johnson.

Kendra Cryer and Aaric Cryer Quannie Austin, Nita and Ellis Taylor and Wil- were excited for their first time to the lis Wesley talk with Assitant Chief Gary Batton Trail of Tears Walk. before the walk began.

Ready for the walk are Joe Watkins, Junior Miss Adrian- na Curnutt, Little Miss Summer Moffitt and Miss Choctaw Nation Amber Tehauno.

The winner of the 2012 Trail of Tears Bow Shoot was Josephine Gilmore made Team 3; pictured are team members Tim Taylor, Cyndi a cute little turtle at the pot- Houser and Tommy Lewis. tery table. Miss Choctaw Nation Am- ber Tehauno performs the Lord’s Prayer in sign lan- Resting after the walk under the trees are Jan West, guage. Bruce West holding Bryce West, Daynna Puckett and Rick West.

Noah Wayne Baker and his grandmother, Pearline Baker, enjoy watching stickball.

The Choctaw Nation Color Guard pose for a photo with Tyrese Barnett, Verdie Triplett and James Triplett.