VOL. XLVI, NO. 6 , 39350 JULY/AUGUST 2016

Members of the Mis- the restoration of the people have visited to habitants of this land,” Tribe sissippi Band of Choc- mound and cave sites honor and pay respect said Anderson. taw Indians and guests back to the Tribe. to our ancestors for our Observes gathered on the grounds The ceremony, origi- legacy as the original in- ...... see MOUND, pg. 5 of the nally slated for Friday, Nanih mound in Winston Aug. 12, was resched- County on Friday, Au- uled due to inclement Waiya Day gust 19 to commemorate weather. Tribal Chief Phyliss J. Anderson welcomed all those in attendance to honor Choctaw heritage and celebrate the legacy of the mother mound, Nanih Waiya, which means “leaning hill” in Choctaw. Pictured above, from left, are Choctaw Tribal Coun- “For many centuries, cil members Troy Chickaway (Conehatta), Sharon the Nanih Waiya mound Johnson (Red Water), Joseph Wesley (Crystal Ridge), has been a cherished Chief Phyliss J. Anderson, Choctaw Indian Princess symbol of our tribe. Gen- Breanna Isaac, & Ronnie Henry, Sr. (Bogue Chitto). erations of our Choctaw BELOW, Choctaw social dances were performed on Sockey Sworn-In As Councilman the grounds of Nanih Waiya. Richard Sockey was officially sworn-in as Standing Pine representative to the Choctaw Tribal Council during a regular call meeting on Tuesday, July 12 at the Golden Moon VIP Room in Choctaw. Sock- ey won a special election on June 7 to fulfill the unexpired term of the late councilman Harrison Ben who passed away on April 9, 2016. Sockey, pictured left, was administered the oath of office by Secretary-Treasurer Stella York Willis. The term expires in 2019.

New Princess, Stickball Champions Crowned left. CENTER, Oka Homma Ohoyo (yellow jerseys) won their LEFT, Breanna Isaac, the 18-year-old daughter of Rebecca Steve first World Series Stickball (WSS) women’s championship with a of the Pearl River Community & the late Bert Isaac, was crowned 4-2 win over Bok Cito Ohoyo on Friday, July 15. Ashley Tangle the 2016-2017 Choctaw Indian Princess during opening night of was named MVP. RIGHT, Pearl River (navy blue jerseys) claimed the 67th Annual on Wednesday, July 13. She their first men’s championship since 1977 and fourth overall with was sponsored by the Jackson & Mattie Isaac Family. Breanna an exciting 2-1 victory over Koni Hata on Saturday, July 16. Jak was crowned by 2015-2016 Princess Emily Shoemake, pictured Logan was named MVP. PAGE 2 CHOCTAW COMMUNITY NEWS

Halito! our elders and children ternational Slam Dunk As we approach the who are most vulnerable Champion and member end of another busy to the heat. of the Choctaw Nation summer, I am very hap- of Oklahoma. py to look back on these 67th Annual I also had the great last few months at some Choctaw Indian Fair honor of welcoming of the great memories many of our special that were made. On July 13-16, 2016, guests and dignitaries to We celebrated many we celebrated our 67th the stage during opening occasions this summer, Annual Choctaw Indian and closing ceremonies. including the 67th An- Fair. There were a vari- Many of our winners Tribal Chief Phyliss J. Anderson attaches colorful nual Choctaw Indian ety of activities sched- of various fair competi- ribbons representing the eight Choctaw communities Fair, the Nanih Waiya uled throughout the day tions were recognized at to the memorial wreath which was then placed at the All-Star stickball game and into the night. As the stage including our base of the mound. and Nanih Waiya Day usual, our fair included stickball winners Koni Ceremony at the Mound. carnival rides, tribal arts Hata in the 35 & Over Every year it seems Shoemake for Fichik And as I write this letter, and crafts, professional Division, Oka Homma like our fair gets bigger Cito, Randy Jimmie for we have recently start- entertainment, tradition- in the Women’s Divi- and better. These suc- Fichik Malata, Brac- ed a new school year at al food, stickball, and sion, Koni Hata Himitah cesses are only possible ey Bell for Fichik Cito Choctaw Tribal Schools. social dancing. in the Tulli Okchi Divi- through the combined Ohoyo and Carl Hick- As we prepare for the Fairgoers also enjoyed sion, and Pearl River in efforts of many of our man for Fichik Malata fall, it’s important to re- some of our newer fair the Divi- tribal employees. I want Ohoyo. member that we are still additions, such as the sion. Later in the night to thank everyone who Celebrating the win experiencing some very Iron Warrior competi- we presented the trophy served on our Choctaw in the Women’s Divi- hot temperatures. While tions, Shawi’s Discov- to our Men’s Stickball Indian Fair Commit- sion was Fichik Malata we enjoy the waning ery Zone, the Scales, Division winner, Pearl tee. I know many long Ohoyo and receiving the months of summer, Tails and Teeth Gator River. hours were put into the Women’s MVP award please be mindful to show and the Rez Run. At the stage, we also planning and implemen- was Nashima Thomp- keep hydrated and cool. New to this year’s fair recognized our 2016- tation of this year’s fair son. In the Men’s Divi- Take precautions and be was a special appearance 2017 Choctaw Indian and I appreciate each of sion, Fichik Cito came especially watchful of from Kenny Dobbs, In- Princess Breanna Layne you. out on top with Keant- Isaac; Community ray Thomas receiving Booth Winner Standing Nanih Waiya Stickball the Men’s MVP trophy. CHOCTAW COMMUNITY NEWS Pine; Rez Run Winners and Celebration at the Congratulations to all Joseph Chebet, Meghan Mound our winners and thank The Choctaw Community News is available at no charge upon request. Donations to help cover the cost of Franks, Dustin Met- you to our organizers for printing, mailing are welcomed. Correspondence should tler, and Ashley Moy- On Tuesday, August their continued support be addressed to: er; Got Gospel Singing 9th, 2016, we enjoyed and work on this suc- COMMUNICATIONS PROGRAM Challenge Winner Ca- the 4th Annual Nanih cessful event. P.O. BOX 6010 leb Willis, Scavenger Waiya Stickball game at On August 19th, we CHOCTAW, MS 39350 TELEPHONE: 601-663-7736 FAX: 601-650-1565 Hunt Winner Callie Warrior Stadium. Some also celebrated the cer- Amos, and Iron War- of our best men’s and emony at the Nanih Brian C. Willis ...... Communications Manager rior Winners Dalton women’s players were Waiya Mound. We had Kathie Henry ...... Communications Writer Clegg (Men’s Division) selected for the teams a great gathering of trib- Taryn Carey ...... Communications Writer Darron Tubby ...... Communications Writer and Miranda Stamper and battled for the brag- al members and friends (Women’s Division). ging rights of All-Star at our Mother Mound Items of interest to the local and Native American Congratulations again to Champion. for the ceremony to pay community are welcomed. Letters to the editor should be signed; we reserve the right to edit material. this great group of win- Coaching the teams ners! this year were: Greg ...continued next page CHOCTAW COMMUNITY NEWS PAGE 3 respect and honor our policies and procedures We continue to see our unique Choctaw heri- and to refocus with classes becoming more tage. some great team build- adaptive to the current Lawsuit Filed By The program featured ing and communication workforce as we prepare remarks, placement of exercises. our tribal youth for high- Chief Anderson an honor wreath and I believe our meetings er education and careers. (CHOCTAW, Miss.) – On June 27, 2016, ribbons, Choctaw social have been successful We are very fortunate to Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians (MBCI) dancing, and a beauti- thus far and I look for- have a great school ad- Chief Phyliss J. Anderson filed a lawsuit in ful song presented by ward to the new Fiscal ministrative team and Choctaw Tribal Court on behalf of the Office of Ms. Deidre Tubby. After Year that starts October dedicated teachers and the Chief and on behalf of the Chief of Staff and the ceremony an Indian 1, 2016. Our programs staff. three Division Directors of MBCI against the taco lunch was served have presented well-or- I wish all our stu- MBCI Tribal Council regarding amendments to while guests enjoyed the ganized and thoughtful dents, teachers, staff, the Tribe’s Administrative Personnel Policies & sounds of the Southern budgets and goals for administrators, parents Procedures (the “Policies”) adopted by a major- Pine Drum group. the upcoming year that and guardians well as ity (9 members) of the council at a regular meet- Overall it was a great will better serve our new curriculum is being ing on April 12, 2016. day of gathering with growing tribal member taught and learned in The lawsuit alleges that certain amendments our tribal members population. our schools and homes. to the Policies are in violation of the MBCI and neighbors to mark As we close out FY16, Constitution and that an injunction should be the significance of the I believe we have seen Closing issued by the court against enforcement of the mound in our Choctaw a very productive year challenged amendments to the Policies. journey. Again, I offer with several great proj- In closing, I want to “I was elected by the Choctaw People to lead my thanks to our Tribal ects being completed encourage each of you this Tribe as the Tribal Chief, and I take those Maintenance and Nat- such as new and im- to continue praying for responsibilities seriously,” said Chief Ander- ural Resources depart- proved facilities across each other, our tribal son. “I believe it is my duty to protect the pow- ments for their help in the reservation. I am leaders, program and ers and duties of the Office of the Chief under preparing the grounds very appreciative to all department managers, our Constitution and to protect the interests of and tents for attendees our employees for the students, teachers, ad- all Tribal employees who work to provide nec- and to the Special Proj- work that is taking place ministrators and our essary programs and services for our Tribal ects office, Choctaw each day to improve ser- Tribe. As we enter a new members.” Day Training, Public vices. fiscal year and a new Although there were many amendments to Information and Admin- I challenge all our em- school year we will get the Policies adopted by the Council at the April istrative staff and volun- ployees to look around very busy in day-to-day meeting, the amendments that are being chal- teers for their service. your areas and see what tasks. It’s important that lenged in Court involve a requirement that cer- I look forward to an- you can do to make your we support each other tain “political appointee” employees who are other day at the mound workplace better. Share and provide help when directly hired and supervised by the Chief to be next year and I encour- your thoughts and ex- there are times of need. confirmed by the Tribal Council and, then, for age you to make plans to pectations with your I also hope you will take those same employees to be re-confirmed by the attend. manager and become in- time to enjoy the fruits Council in four years. vested in the success of of your labor with fami- Also being challenged are certain provisions Resort and Tribal your program. ly and friends. It is by the requiring the Chief to provide specific personnel Meetings Lord’s grace that we are action information to the Council Committee on New 2016-2017 blessed with our fam- Human Resources, Training and Development Recently, we have School Year ilies, jobs, and homes. on a quarterly basis. held a number of bud- I am so grateful to en- The lawsuit alleges that these amendments to get, board and training In August, we started joy the freedoms of our the Policies violate the MBCI Constitution by meetings. It is the time another school year at great tribe and country unlawfully infringing on the executive authority of year again when our Choctaw Tribal Schools and that we can openly of the Chief and by bestowing the Council with program and depart- and we are excited about worship and praise our authority not provided in the Constitution. ment directors provide our growing student God to give thanks for “While I respect the constitutional authority a review of the year and population. Through- all He has provided. of the Tribal Council to establish procedures plan for the upcoming out our Choctaw Tribal of the conduct of our Tribe, the exercise of the fiscal year. We also took Schools which encom- Many Blessings, Council’s authority must not unlawfully inter- time to provide a two- passes six elementary fere with the authority of the Tribal Chief to day workshop for tribal schools, a middle school manage, direct, and administer the operations of program directors and and high school, we the Tribal programs and services. That is what managers to get up-to- have 2,165 enrolled stu- Phyliss J. Anderson, this lawsuit is about,” said Chief Anderson. date on current MBCI dents. Tribal Chief PAGE 4 CHOCTAW COMMUNITY NEWS

Bank as administrative 16-075, approving Dr. agent and the lenders re- Jacquelyn Campbell ferred to therein; along and Dr. Bushra Sabri of with other agreements, Johns Hopkins Universi- forms, and certificates ty in collaboration with related to the amend- Dr. Catherine Burnette ed and restated credit of Tulane University to agreement, the limited conduct the Indigenous The following ordi- below is a brief sum- have a DOCUMENT waivers of sovereign Women’s Health and nances and resolutions mary and action taken. REQUEST FORM com- immunity contained Safety - The Danger As- were submitted to the Individuals wishing to pleted and submitted to therein; and other mat- sessment (DA) - Circle Choctaw Tribal Council request a resolution and/ the Policy and Legisla- ters related thereto, was Project, was ADOPTED for consideration. Listed or its attachment must tive Office. For more in- ADOPTED 16 YES (R. 16 YES, 0 NO, 0 AB- formation, call 601-650- Anderson, R. Bell, T. STAIN, 1 ABSENT. 7486. Chickaway, K. Edwards, Resolution CHO 16- R. Henry, Sr., R. Isaac, 076, revising the Missis- NOTICE REGULAR CALL S. Johnson, D. McClel- sippi Band of Choctaw HALITO TRIBAL MEMBERS: MEETING land, W. McMillan, H. Indians Vehicle Mainte- JULY 12, 2016 Nickey, L. Parkerson, In compliance with the Choctaw Tribal Code nance Policy and to re- R. Sockey, B. Steve, J. §22-3-6, the Tribal Enrollment Office is review- title it as the MBCI Ve- Resolution CHO Wesley, S. Willis, & D. ing enrolled member’s files to assure that all hicle Safety Policy, was 16-070, Wilson) required documents are in their files. approving the ; 0 NO; 0 AB- ADOPTED 16 YES, 0 (C. Many of our enrollment files were first modification of the term STAIN; 1 ABSENT NO, 0 ABSTAIN, 1 AB- Ben) approved by the Choctaw Agency before our sheet, engagement let- . SENT. Resolution CHO 16- Resolution CHO 16- Tribe contracted with the BIA for the responsi- ter, and fee letter, with 071 077 bility to oversee Tribal enrollment, and the doc- Trustmark National , designating Key , approving an affili- umentation in some of those files was lacking. Bank, as administrative Bank as a depository of ation agreement for clin- We have encountered problems with documen- agent of a proposed re- the Mississippi Band of ical experience between tation in these older files when we are reviewing placement facility to Choctaw Indians, was Mississippi State Uni- new applications that are relying on these prior $175,000,000 from ADOPTED 16 YES, 0 versity and the Missis- BIA files. $200,000,000 to be used NO, 0 ABSTAIN, 1 AB- sippi Band of Choctaw Tribal membership is a privilege, and our to refinance the 2014 SENT. Indians, was ADOPTED Resolution CHO 16- office is committed to making sure that all tribal secured facility and to 16 YES, 0 NO, 0 AB- 072, members’ files are fully completed so that trib- pay off the 7.25% se- designating Whit- STAIN, 1 ABSENT. Resolution CHO 16- al members receive the highest possible blood nior secured notes of the ney Bank as a depository 078 degree. enterprise; and approve of the Mississippi Band , authorizing the If a required document is absent from your the final negotiation of Choctaw Indians, was Mississippi Band of file, you will receive a letter from the Enroll- and execution, delivery ADOPTED 16 YES, 0 Choctaw Indians’ De- ment Officer, Angela Stevens, requesting the and performance by the NO, 0 ABSTAIN, 1 AB- partment of Family and particular missing document or documents to be Tribe and enterprise of SENT. Community Services, Resolution CHO 16- submitted to the Enrollment Office; our office the amended and restat- Elderly Center, to partic- 073 staff will be happy to assist you in contacting ed credit agreement and , approving revisions ipate in a Nation-Wide other agencies and departments to obtain docu- the other documents and to Choctaw Gaming Needs Assessment of ments if you request that we do so. certificates necessary to Commission regula- the Needs of Native El- The Enrollment Officer will be sending out consummate the modi- tions, was ADOPTED ders conducted by the the letters in the near future. In the event you fied replacement facil- 16 YES, 0 NO, 0 AB- Administration on Ag- receive a letter from the Enrollment Officer, ity, including the notes, STAIN, 1 ABSENT. ing, was ADOPTED Resolution CHO we ask for your cooperation in getting your file security agreement, de- 16 YES, 0 NO, 0 AB- 16-074 updated. pository agreements, , approving an STAIN, 1 ABSENT. Resolution CHO We are looking forward to working with and and springing deposito- extension request from 16-079 assisting each of you to update your files to en- ry agreements, by and Dr. Catherine Burnette , approving a sure that you and your family members receive among the Mississippi of Tulane University Memorandum of Un- all rights and privileges afforded to members of Band of Choctaw Indi- on “Bolstering Healthy derstanding between our Tribe. ans d/b/a Choctaw Re- Families Research Proj- the Mississippi Band of Thank you, sort Development En- ect,” was ADOPTED Choctaw Indians and Angela Stevens, terprise, The Mississippi 16 YES, 0 NO, 0 AB- the U.S. Department Tribal Enrollment Officer Band of Choctaw Indi- STAIN, 1 ABSENT. ans, Trustmark National Resolution CHO ...continued next page CHOCTAW COMMUNITY NEWS PAGE 5

MOUND ...... continued from page one CHOCTAW In the late 18th cen- Waiya was finally in the “The mound has al- Wesley, & Ronnie Hen- tury, the Choctaw lost Tribe’s possession. A ways been the heart of ry, Sr., affixed colorful CENTRAL their ancestral homeland proclamation was signed our Choctaw homeland. ribbons representing the CLASS OF due to demands for more that year celebrating I encourage all of you to eight tribal communities 1976 & 1977 lands by the non-Native the mound’s return and carry forth the stories, to the memorial wreath 40th Year Reunion populations encroaching declaring that Nanih the knowledge and the which was placed at the Plans Underway! onto Choctaw territory. Waiya would never be respect of our mother base of the mound. For more information, Nine treaties were sold, traded or negotiat- mound. Pass it to the An Indian taco lunch contact Paul Billie at signed between the ed with ever again. next generation so they was served afterwards. 601-692-6719 Choctaw and the U.S. “Through the tireless too will gather here in Government between work of tribal leaders the years to come just 1786 and 1830. In the and an important part- as we are today in cel- Treaty of Dancing Rab- nership with the state of ebration of our unique bit Creek in 1830, the Mississippi, our mound Choctaw identity,” said News from the Tribal Choctaw were forced to was finally returned to Anderson. give up 11 million acres its rightful owner, the Believed to have been Distribution Office of Mississippi territory, Mississippi Band of built between 100 B.C. TRIBAL DISTRIBUTION REMINDERS! including Nanih Waiya. Choctaw Indians. We and 400 A.D., Nanih Please help us make the process of receiving The process of return- celebrate the second Fri- Waiya is 25 feet high, your check easier by having the following in- ing Nanih Waiya, which day in August as Nanih 218 feet long and 140 formation current. (All of the following needs to was designated a state Waiya Day to mark this feet wide, suggesting be done and turned in to the Tribal Distribution park, back to the Tribe historic occasion,” said it was originally a plat- Office.) began in April 2007 as Anderson. form mound which • Over 18 years old (Photo I.D.) Mississippi Senate Bill Tribal officials re- eroded into the present • Custody change (Court Order) 2732 authorized the scinded Columbus Day form. • Name changes (Marriage/Divorce with new Mississippi Department as a holiday to offer the Anderson, along with name on your Social Security card) of Wildlife, Fisheries Choctaw people an ap- Choctaw Tribal Council • Address changes - (If you do a forwarding and Parks to transfer the propriate time to cele- members in attendance address with your local post office, please fill mound to the Tribe. brate the return of lands Troy Chickaway, Sha- out an application with our office also since the In August 2008, Nanih considered sacred. ron Johnson, Joseph forwarding time does have an expiration.) - Anytime you do an address change for yourself, always include all of your dependants. - We DO NOT accept address changes over of Veterans’ Affairs to vice Line Agreement for Resolution CHO 16- the phone. establish a program of Southern Light, LLC., 084, approving increase • Tax (W-4V) direct loans for Native to install fiber optic lines in blood degree for pre- American veterans liv- to #2 Choctaw Trail in viously enrolled mem- DIRECT DEPOSIT is still available! ing on trust lands, was Ocean Springs, Missis- bers, was ADOPTED Keep in mind if your check was captured for ADOPTED 16 YES, 0 sippi, was ADOPTED 16 YES, 0 NO, 0 AB- anything from the previous distribution, you NO, 0 ABSTAIN, 1 AB- 16 YES, 0 NO, 0 AB- STAIN, 1 ABSENT. will have to submit a new application to do SENT. STAIN, 1 ABSENT. Resolution CHO 16- Direct Deposit again. Resolution CHO 16- Resolution CHO 16- 085, approving Tribal UNCLAIMED CHECKS 080, granting right of 082, approving clarify- enrollments, was AD- Tribal Distribution Office will only hold your way easement to CSpire ing amendments to the OPTED 16 YES, 0 NO, check for 6 months. If you have not received along Highway 16 West Tribal Council Expense 0 ABSTAIN, 1 AB- your check, please contact Barbara Ben at 601- continuing to Recreation Allowance Policies, was SENT. 650-1522. The check will be returned to the Road to the Mississippi ADOPTED 16 YES, 0 Resolution CHO 16- General Revenue Fund after 6 months if not Band of Choctaw Indi- NO, 0 ABSTAIN, 1 AB- 086, appointing Rich- claimed. ans’ building on Indus- SENT. ard Sockey as Chairman The Tribal Distribution office is located on the trial Road in the Pearl Resolution CHO of the Committee on upper level of the Tribal Office building in the River Community, was 16-083, approving the Natural Resources and Finance Department. The forms are available in ADOPTED 16 YES, 0 relinquishment of mem- other committees, was the lobby or in the Finance Office and you can NO, 0 ABSTAIN, 1 AB- bership of a Tribal mem- ADOPTED 16 YES, 0 also visit www.choctaw.org. SENT. ber, was ADOPTED NO, 0 ABSTAIN, 1 AB- For more information, please contact Barbara Resolution CHO 16- 16 YES, 0 NO, 0 AB- SENT. Ben, Distribution Manager, at 601-650-1522. 081, approving a Ser- STAIN, 1 ABSENT. PAGE 6 CHOCTAW COMMUNITY NEWS Navajo Education Officials Visit MBCI

The Mississippi Band The Department of Florinda Jackson, Nava- of Choctaw Indians’ Dine Education is spe- jo Nation Dine Educa- Division of Education cifically researching var- tion Program Manager; hosted a delegation ious options for a new Darrick Franklin, Nava- from the Navajo Nation school system that will jo Nation Department of on July 19-20. MBCI provide more avenues to Dine Education Senior Division of Education access necessary funds Education Specialist; Director Willa Brantley to operate the schools and Norman M. Begaye, directed discussion of and be solely operated Navajo Nation Council- Members of the Navajo Nation’s Department of Dine what MBCI pioneered by the Tribe to better man. Education met with the MBCI Division of Education in order to successfully serve the educational Doug Weaver, MBCI to discuss ways to better serve the educational needs contract the Choctaw needs for their children Office of Finance and for their children. Tribal Schools. and future generations. Accounting Acting The Navajo Nation The Navajo education CFO, contributed im- Tubby, Choctaw Trib- This meeting was a is interested in estab- delegation included Dr. portant historical in- al Schools Exceptional positive encounter be- lishing similar funding Tommy Lewis, Super- formation such as what Education Coordinator; tween MBCI Division for their 32 Bureau of intendent of Schools; steps MBCI took in or- David Germany, Direc- of Education and the Indian Education (BIE) Matthew Tso, Depart- der to overcome barri- tor of Choctaw Tribal Navajo Nation Educa- operated schools located ment of Dine Education ers. Also present at the Schools; Fred Hickmon, tion Committee mem- on their reservation. Legislative Analyst; Dr. meeting were Sherry Choctaw Central High bers resulting in future School Principal; Dr. plans for a secondary William Brescia, TED visit to follow-up with Education Planner; and the MBCI Division of Lucretia Williams, TED Education staff. New Staff Project Coordinator. Members The MBCI Department of Edu- cation welcomes Project Coordina- tor Lucretia Williams & Education CYCC Members Planner Dr. William Brescia to their Lucretia Williams, William Brescia, Complete Program staff as part of the BIE-funded Trib- TED Project TED Education al Education Department (TED) Coordinator Planner (CHOCTAW, Miss.) activities in the morn- Grant. Funds from TED focus on – Fourteen members of ings and natural resourc- enhancing the division’s capacity to after several years of work at uni- the Choctaw Youth Con- es profession oriented better coordinate all Choctaw edu- versities culminating at the Univer- servation Corps (CYCC) classes in the afternoons. cational programs. sity of Health Science completed a four-week Participants also learned Williams, a Tribal member from Center as the Instructional Designer program of conservation about Choctaw culture the Pueblo of Santa Clara, is of Na- for the College of Medicine, where work at the Nanih Waiya with the help of the vajo, Hopi & Hopi-Tewa ancestry. he served for 9 years. He received cave mound on Friday, Department of Chahta She earned a Bachelor of Science his PhD from Indiana University in July 1. Immi’s Cultural Affairs degree in Business Management Instructional Systems Technologies One project partici- program. from Indiana University Northwest with a minor in Higher Education pants worked on was a “The CYCC is an ex- & has over eight years of experience (Philanthropy). walking trail originally citing, comprehensive in various entities of Tribal govern- He has extensive experience as created by the first con- youth work program ment, such as housing, human re- a proposal writer, having received servation corps in the designed to mold these sources, education, hospitality & support from federal, state & local 1970s. More work on the young students into be- tourism, economic development, governments, as well as foundation trail was done through coming devoted tribal community development, & profes- & corporate funders & as an admin- an Education through stewards of our natural sional development. istrator. He also served as director Cultural and Historical resources, while also Williams resides in Carthage with for projects at MBCI & American Organizations (ECHO) developing responsible her husband, Chris, & their three Indian-controlled nonprofit organi- grant in the early 2000s. and ethical work hab- children - Christopher, Olon & La- zations. The CYCC members, its,” said Mitzi Reed, vani. Dr. Brescia resides in Neshoba all high school students, Dr. Brescia returns to the Tribe County with his wife, Jimmie. participated in hands-on ...continued next page CHOCTAW COMMUNITY NEWS PAGE 7

the conference func- tion (Noxubee, Nesho- tary School (Ms. Wright YLC Held at BCES tioned as a peer-to-peer ba, Kemper Counties); & cafeteria, janitorial led conference. STEP under support staff), Choctaw Tribal The Choctaw Com- & Refer for Suicide Pre- On day two, students of Randy Tangle; em- Schools (Tony Steve & munity Planning Co- vention; participated in the “Walk cee Jasmine Hickman, Fred Hickmon), Choc- alition (CCPC), in • Being Tobacco Free, for Life” half-mile walk/ music DJs Daryl Wil- taw Behavioral Health conjunction with the Bullying (e.g. cyber-bul- run to promote suicide lis & Matthew Bell, Methamphetamine & lying & sexting); prevention & awareness. Bogue Chitto Elemen- ...... see YLC, pg. 8 Suicide Prevention Ini- • Drugs & the Teen Vendors participating tiative (MSPI), hosted Brain; in this year’s conference the 11th Annual Youth • A Motivated & Fo- included the 4-H Clubs, Leadership Confer- cused Teen; Choctaw Attorney Gen- ence (YLC) June 22-23 • Peers Influencing eral’s Office (We Tip at Bogue Chitto Ele- Decisions; Hotline), Mississippi mentary School. This • Teen Dating Vio- State University, Boys year’s theme was “Sav- lence, Texting & Driv- & Girls Club of the ing Lives & Building ing; MBCI, Choctaw Police Hope.” • Resolving Conflict Department, & MSPI. A total of 285 kids, Without Violence. Special thanks the ranging in age from 11- Topics were chosen by SYSP, Youth Opportuni- 18, participated as stu- CCPC youth members ty Program & the Choc- dents traveled from as who also volunteered taw Youth Conservation far as Memphis & Hen- as YLC peer educators. Corps for allowing their ning, TN, Newton, & As peer educators, the participants to attend the Meridian, as well as the youth provided educa- conference; Generation Choctaw communities. tional presentations to Free Team, under the This year’s conference their peers & attendees. sponsorship of Bever- topics covered: They were supported by ly Knox of Mississippi • Question, Persuade, adult mentors to ensure Tobacco-Free Coali-

Director of the Choc- me do something differ- taw Wildlife and Parks ent this summer. I got to Department. “Activities do things that I wouldn’t were geared to promote have done at home,” said personal growth, posi- CYCC participant Isias tive attitudes, team uni- Joe. “I wish the program ty, self-esteem through was longer so we could personal challenges, and have done more to the an appreciation of the trail.” outdoors.” The $100,000 two- Reed says the ulti- year grant for the CYCC ABOVE LEFT, CYCC participants completed research projects on topics they mate goal of the Corps program was funded by learned over the four-week program. Diajah York presented her project on the “Iti Hika Losa” Black Gum Tree. ABOVE RIGHT, While presenting his project on is to create tribal leaders the RESTORE Act (cre- the Speckled King Snake, Isias Joe used Choctaw Wildlife & Parks Director Mitzi that would return to the ated as a result of the Reed’s pet snake ‘Speck’ to show characteristics of the snake. Choctaw Reservation offshore oil spill in the BELOW, Pictured, front row from left, are Jim McAdory of MSU Extension Service, after pursuing higher Gulf Coast in 2010). Casey Bigpond of Department of Chahta Immi, participants Alice Keats, Alejan- education dra Eaves, Diajah York, Cy McMil- and expand lian, Xena Willis; middle row, Isias upon exist- Joe, Jayna Ben, Damien Mesteth; ing Tribal back row, Tyler Thomas, Gatorson programs in Wesley, Benjamin Baccus, Tim Pauls natural re- of Choctaw Wildlife & Parks, Hunter sources. Amos, Mitzi Reed of Choctaw Wildlife “I want- & Parks, & Bruce Jim. Not pictured ed to do this are participants Beeman Farmer & program be- Benlynncia Lewis. cause it let PAGE 8 CHOCTAW COMMUNITY NEWS

eled to Decatur, Union, formation on Choctaw participate in inter- Dekalb, & Scooba on music & dance, arts & views, identify Choctaw June 13-14 to provide crafts & posters written cultural and historical cultural services for in the material in local librar- Summer Reading Pro- promoting Choctaw her- ies and archives, and de- grams. itage. Videos on Choc- velop multi-media plans taw traditions were also to produce cultural ed- Huge Turnout At event. Louise Wallace, Bogue Homa Round displayed at the Cultural ucational material for Round Comb Phyllis McMillan, Pris- Comb Workshop Education Booth. Choctaw children. Workshop cilla Williams, & Emer- A Choctaw round The project team re- The Cultural Affairs son Billy also presented comb workshop was DCI SP/MP in Full cently shared informa- Program (CAP) hosted Choctaw cultural craft held in the Bogue Homa Swing with Oral tion about the project a round comb work- making demonstrations. Community on Aug. 1. History Project at each community de- shop on June 6 at the The activity was hosted In the fall of 2015, the velopment club meet- Pearl River Communi- Summer Brings by the CAP staff, co- Special Projects/Media ings this past March- ty Dance Ground. The Cultural Presentations ordinated by May Mc- Program (SP/MP) be- May. The presentations CAP staff was excited The CAP staff partic- Geisey. gan an oral history doc- proved to be beneficial at the record number ipated in several activ- Trudy Jimmie, Casey umentation effort called as few of the clubs en- of participants (75) & ities in June, such as: Bigpond, Sherrill Nick- the Choctaw Tribal El- tered into partnerships thank those who made traditional cooking for ey, & Youth Opportuni- ders Oral History Proj- with CTEOHP to help the workshop a success. various organizations; ty Program (YOP) in- ect (CTEOHP). with project activities. Boys & Girls Club tern DeAundre Williams The program was On May 23, SP/MP Choctaw Culture workshops; cultural helped participants awarded a $10,000 Cul- received news from Showcased at Festival training for Red Wa- complete decorations on tural Resource Fund the Multi Cultural Department of Chahta ter Development Club; their combs. (CRF) grant to recruit Immi (DCI) staff mem- Nanih Waiya work- The CAP staff rec- community elders to ...continued next page bers, along with several shops; workshop for ognizes Facility Build- Tribal members, trav- Social Services; & sash ing Coordinator Betty eled to Childersburg, AL making in the Bogue Sutton, Tribal Member for the DeSoto Caverns Chitto Community. Services Director Jer- Family Fun Park’s Na- DCI Coordinator emiah Harrison, Com- tive American Festival Rosemary John, Cultur- munity Youth Service June 11-12. The dance al Revitalization Spe- Aide Pearlie Thomas, & troupe performed before cialist Casey Bigpond Recreation Coordinator an estimated 5,000 spec- & Chahta Alla Youth Aline Thomas for as- tators over the two-day Council members trav- sisting with the venue & CAP Education & Outreach Coordinator Trudy Jim- making the workshop a mie assisted participants at the round comb workshop success. in Pearl River. YLC ...... continued from page seven The final round comb workshop for the fis- (CBH) Department & staff, Bogue Chitto Trib- cal year was held at al Council representative Davita McClelland, the Conehatta Facility Choctaw Police Department, chanter Bruce Jim, Building on Sept. 12. drummers Christopher “Speedy” Lewis, Speedy Those who attended Lewis, II & Seth Lewis for leading the walk/run received a new, repro- with the drum beats, & all who supervised & duced round comb for chaperoned to ensure this year’s conference was free. a success. Special thanks also for the donations from Cultural Resources the Choctaw Health Center Employee Associa- For Fair Goers tion, Alcohol Tobacco & Other Drug Prevention At the 67th Annual Program (Marquita Wilson-CBH), Geyser Falls Choctaw Indian Fair (July 13-16), DCI’s Water Park, MBCI Office of Special Projects, Attending the festival were Phyllis McMillan, Martina Boys & Girls Club of the MBCI, Nittak Himmo- Trudy Jimmie, Lorena Willis, Torah Shoemake, Priscilla Williams, Sherrill na Domestic Violence Shelter, Dominos (Phila- Alex, May McGeisey, Nickey, Eliza Willis, Louise Wallace, May McGeisey, delphia), Canal Place Cinema, & all individuals & Pricilla Williams dis- Sequoia Willis, Casey Bigpond, Treyton Ben, Emerson who donated. tributed hundreds of Billy, Curtis Willis, Jr., Ken Frazier, Adym Bigpond, & materials containing in- Gracie Jefferson. CHOCTAW COMMUNITY NEWS PAGE 9

Intermediary Collabora- tive Action Group that they were awarded an additional $40,000 from the CRF grant funding agency for a Phase 2 grant for the CTEOHP. On June 1, the proj- ect staff initiated its oral Tribal members participate in a round comb workshop history documentation at the Bogue Homa Community Center on Aug. 1. plans and resource gath- ering activities. A headband making class was held at the Conehatta For their first activity, Boys & Girls Club Unit on June 28. The CAP staff the CTEOHP group re- taught the basics of sewing to the participants (left). corded an interview & Ryleigh Anderson (right) tries on her headband for fit- presentation with Donna ting before sewing on the diamonds. Williams of the Bogue Chitto Community. The The CTEOHP staff Employment & Train- group, comprised of SP/ will continue record- ing’s Supplemental MP-CTEOHP staff and ing Tribal elders in the Youth Services Pro- YOP interns, teamed communities to capture gram to offer a Sum- with May McGeisey their experiences & per- mer Choctaw Language Trudy Jimmie & Lorena Alex provide resource hand- of the CAP and Laura spectives on Choctaw Class (Toffa Chahta outs to visitors. Horlings of the Choctaw culture. Annopa Ayikhana) to Bible Translation Com- teens in June. Thirty vocal about the online projects representing mittee to record Ms. Tribal Language young people participat- activity, the need for it Choctaw arts. Williams as she demon- Program ed and 27 completed the and its ease of acces- Participants learned strated the traditional The Choctaw Trib- month-long class. Stu- sibility. All who have 4-8 Choctaw words way of hominy corn al Language Program dents practiced speaking access are encouraged and two phrases at the preparation. (CTLP) partnered with and writing in Choc- to call the language pro- “Nátah Ik Imikshoh” taw while completing gram with any feedback Language Activity sta- a Choctaw mini-phrase or suggestions. The pro- tion. Abrianna Tubby book. gram hopes to give com- immersed participants in Peggy Williams, Patty munities access to the Choctaw as she taught Billie, DeLaura Saun- online activity in the four animal and four ders, and two YOP aides near future as more peo- Choctaw artifact names. facilitated the classes. ple have shown interest Participants took home Participants also learned in it. four cards with the an- more about the Choctaw Tribal members and imal and artifact names culture, including mak- visitors joined the CTLP so they can remember Priscilla Williams & YOP intern Santana Agurrie con- ing their own necklaces staff at the Shawi Dis- those words and teach ducted a presentation at the Crystal Ridge Community and bracelets. covery Zone during the their family members. Development Club meeting. The YOP requested 2016 Choctaw Indian CTLP to provide four Fair to make fun craft see DCI NEWS, pg. 10 one-hour workshops to new employees during May-July. A total of 158 teens and young adults listened to the impor- tance of valuing the Choctaw language, what they can do to increase their learning, and get- ting access to an online LEFT, Donna Williams demonstrates her skills in Choctaw language ac- preparing hominy corn. RIGHT, Priscilla Williams, tivity the program is Ozzie Willis, Jenisa Tubby, & Shane York document currently working on. Himittowa alhíha pakósh Toffa Chahta Annopa the hominy preparation process. Participants have been Áyikhana ittanówah tok. PAGE 10 CHOCTAW COMMUNITY NEWS

DCI NEWS ...... continued from page nine

De Saunders provid- Schools’ summer school aged to contribute to habínah - to receive ed different medallion language teachers for their child’s learning by as a gift; coloring pages at the their summer language asking questions about halíto - hello; Omiláyachi Station to teaching resource. The what they are learning, himittowa - young help visitors practice language program also encourage language people, teenagers (pl.); designing medallions. provided support to the teachers, visit family holbattoba - picture; Participants chose what CTS during the 2016- members who speak holisso - paper; design they wanted to 2017 school year. Choctaw, and most im- holisso áyikhana - color and even returned Students will contin- portantly, speak Choc- school or class; to continue coloring dif- ue receiving 30 minutes taw more frequently. holisso ittimanopolih ferent medallions. of Choctaw language The Choctaw Tribal - to read; The Hilha Unit instruction to increase Schools is making great holisso sokko - book; Achaka 2016 curric- usage of the language. strides in ensuring the icholih - to write; ulum was distributed Parents and community continued presence of ikbih - to make; to the Choctaw Tribal members are encour- the Choctaw language ikhanah - to learn; for generations to come imah - to give; and we encourage all to ishih - to have; help make these classes iti isht nipa - rabbit a success. Yakókih. stick; These are some of the kachílih - to cut; common Choctaw terms nakni - boy; that were introduced & nittak - day; practiced throughout the okla áyásha - commu- Chahta Annopa oklah icholih. summer language activ- nity; ities: omiláya - color; ábachih - to practice; omiláyachih - to col- abóha - inside the or; home, living room; osi - small; áhopóni - kitchen; ponóshi - thread; akmochih - to glue; ponóshi sokko - yarn; alla - child; shikalla innochi lobo anólih - to tell; - medallion; anopólih - to talk, sita - ribbon; speak; tahah - to be done, all At the Chokfi Awattah station, participants used au- awattah - hunt; gone; thentic Choctaw-made rabbit sticks (iti ishnipa) to Áyópisa Chito - tahlih - to be finished; target cloth rabbits. Kids threw the iti ishnipa at pa- Choctaw Indian Fair; tanah - to weave; per mache rabbits filled with surprises. Jason Lewis binílih - to sit; taposhshik - basket; moved the rabbit to create a more authentic experi- Chahta Annopa - tík - girl, female; ence as participants threw the sticks. Choctaw Language; lhopollichih - to go chihah - to sit (du.); thru; chokfi - rabbit; yakókih - thank you. chokka - home;

At the Sita Tanah station, Peggy Williams & Patty Bil- lie showed how to weave ribbons to imitate the weav- ing of cane in creating Choctaw baskets & using yarn to create a faux medallion. They practiced speaking Choctaw & taught words such as taposhshik (basket), Ná Powa hohchifo ikhanah toka ábachih. Alla alhíha shikalla innochi lobo (medallion) & colors. yokómíka shikalla innochi lobo omiláyachih. CHOCTAW COMMUNITY NEWS PAGE 11

ti Willis, Kyree Alex, Lacey Willis, WSS Stickball All-Star Game Held Aug. 9 LaHoma Conrad, Leslie Tubby, Ma- riah Hickman, Lana Tubby, Mariah A rain delay couldn’t hamper the spirit Heather Tangle, Hope Solomon, Hope Johnson, Marie Wilson, Melissa Thomas, of competition as the 4th Annual All-Star York, Jacobi Berg, Jada Sockey, Jalique Meritza Henry, Millie Chickaway, Missy Stickball Games, officially sanctioned by Williams, Jamaica Montoya, Jessica Bell, Nashima Thompson, Odessa Martin, World Series Stickball (WSS), were held Clemmons, Juanita Gibson, Jessica Hick- on Tuesday, August 9 at Warrior Stadium man, Kelley Sockey, Kristen Steve, Kris- ...see ALL-STAR STICKBALL, pg. 12 in Choctaw. Fichik Malata Ohoyo (Shining Star) de- feated Fichik Cito Ohoyo (Big Star) 6-3 in the women’s game. In the men’s contest, Fichik Cito defeated Fichik Malata 6-2. Selected as this year’s MVP’s were Nashima Thompson of Fichik Malata Ohoyo (her second consecutive All-Star MVP honor) and Keantray Thomas of Fichik Cito. Coaches were Carl Hickman (Fichik 2016 All-Star Women’s Stickball Team - Fichik Malata Ohoyo Malata Ohoyo), Bracey Bell (Fichik Cito Ohoyo), Greg Shoemake (Fichik Cito), & Randy Jimmie (Fichik Malata). All-Star participants must be enrolled members of the Mississippi Band of Choc- taw Indians and selected by a nominat- ing committee of qualified WSS officials. Qualifications included player’s sports- manship, skill & demonstrated spirit of the 2016 All-Star Women’s Stickball Team - Fichik Cito Ohoyo traditional game of Choctaw stickball. Selected players & coaches must be in good standing with the Choctaw Indian Fair WSS Committee in accordance to rules & regulations with no history of pen- alties & must have been a registered player or coach on a qualified Choctaw stickball team during the 2016 WSS tournament. Members of the Fichik Malata Ohoyo 2016 All-Star Men’s Stickball Team - Fichik Cito team included Asha Chickaway, Ashley McMillan, Ashley Edwards, Ashley Wes- ley, Bethany Johnson, Breanna Vaughn, Brooklyn Bell, Chantay Frazier, Charla Isaac, Chenice Ben, Danita Willis, DeAun- dre’ Williams, Deaundrea Johnson, Day- sianara Lewis, DoriAnne Dixon, Elyse Willis, Elizabeth Robinson, Ella’Gane’ Sam, Erica Phillips, Gabrielle Wilson, 2016 All-Star Men’s Stickball Team - Fichik Malata

Fichik Malata Ohoyo Honors - Coach Carl Hickman, pictured Fichik Cito Honors - Coach Greg Shoemake, pictured left, ac- left, accepts the Women’s All-Star championship award as Nashi- cepts the Men’s All-Star championship award as Keantray Thomas ma Thompson received the MVP honor. Presenting the awards were received the MVP honor. Presenting the awards were Tribal Chief Tribal Chief Phyliss J. Anderson, Choctaw Indian Princess Breanna Phyliss J. Anderson, Choctaw Indian Princess Breanna Isaac & WSS Isaac & WSS Commissioner Thomas Ben. Commissioner Thomas Ben. PAGE 12 CHOCTAW COMMUNITY NEWS

ens); Bok Cito (men’s WSS 35-over); Pearl River (Pushmataha Division, Champions ages 10-13); and Koni Hata Himitah (Tulli Ok- Crowned chi Ishko Division, ages From the first toss up 14-17). on July 7 to the finale on This year, WSS offi- July 16, the 2016 World cials made scheduling Series Stickball (WSS) changes for champion- brought forth 45 total ship games in four divi- games of tremendous, sions. The youth games exciting stickball action were played on Friday as part of activities of afternoon, July 15, rath- dian Fair. they went into sudden Nearly four minutes the 67th Annual Choc- er than Saturday and the Pushmataha death overtime to deter- into overtime, William taw Indian Fair. women’s and men’s 35- Division (10-13) mine a champion. McKinney scored the The following teams over title games were Championship After three scoreless winning goal for Pearl were crowned champion played on Friday eve- Pearl River 2, Koni quarters, Koni Hata Osi River for a 2-1 victory. of their respective di- ning, switching from Hata Osi 1 (OT) got on the board with Gage Wesley was vision on July 15 & 16 Tuesday evening. Pearl River had a a goal by Chris Lewis, named MVP. at Warrior Stadium on The men’s champion- chance for redemption Jr. at the 2:41 mark, but Tulli Okchi Ishko Di- the campus of Choctaw ship game was held on after last year’s loss in Pearl River answered vision (14-17) Central High School: Saturday evening, July the finals to Bok Cito. back 30 seconds later Championship Pearl River (mens); Oka 16, to conclude activi- This year, Koni Hata with a goal by Bryce Homma Ohoyo (wom- ties for the Choctaw In- Osi was the opponent as Jimmie. see CHAMPS, pg. 17

ALL-STAR STICKBALL ...... continued from page eleven

Randi Williams, Renate Ben, Quintinia Williams, Rakisha Chickaway, Jimmy Tangle, Derek Willis, Derrick Mingo, Robin Isaac, Shaneisha Willis, Anderson, Robin Routh, Se- Joey Stephens, Joshua Thom- Jr., Douglas Chapman, Drew Shanine McMillan, Shanita quita Phillips, Serena Stoliby, as, Justin Willis, Kanyon Jim- Tubby, Dustin John, Dustin Morris, Shiela Anderson, Shun- Shania Farmer, Shanise Steve, mie, Keantray Thomas, Kevin Polk, Earl Henry, Edison Jef- na Chapman, Thomasina Lind- Shannon Chandler, Sherina Grisham, Lance Thomas, Mar- ferson, Elton Shoemake, Ferris sey, Tiffany Thomas, Trinesa Wesley, Susan Steve, Synetha co Wickson, Matthew Brescia, Tubby, Frankie Garcia, Gabriel Isom, & Vanora Sockey. Tubby, Tamela Solomon, Ta- Melton Robinson, Michael Tubby, Gareth Cauthen, Garri- Members of the Fichik Cito mika Tubby, Taren Wallace, Briscoe, Michael Lyons, Mi- son Edwards, Gaylon Williams, Ohoyo team included Alexis Tarica Thomas, Thea Thom- chael Robinson, Miles Yazzie, Geronimo Shoemake, Gran- York, Ammery Smith, Audrey as, Vanessa Kaye, & Whitney Nathaniel Amos, Neal Vaughn, dale Tubby, Harold Sockey, Jr., Jimmie, Beth Frazier, Bran- Wesley. Neimiah Jim, Nicholas Dix- Isaiah Mingo, Jamison Wilson, di Alex, Briana Bell, Carle- Members of the Fichik Cito on, Ricky Denson, Jr., Rickey Jemison Solomon, Jr., Jeremy na Clemons, Cenitria Smith, team included Alan Edwards, Edwards, Jr., Ricky Thomp- McMillan, Jerrod McMillan, Chancie Anderson, Cindiria Anfernee Dixon, Antonio son, Jr., Rockky Isom, Ronnie Johnny Bell, Josh Willis, Julian Smith, Coby Willis, Chrisan- Hernandez, Beasley Willis, Reed, Jr., Sammy Clemmons, Williams, Justin Bell, Justin da Jefferson, Crystal Roach, Jr., Bjoin McMillan, Bracey Jr., Seymour Clemons, Sime- Peace Willis, Kinsey Henry, Denielle Phillips, Diana Alex, Bell, Cain Chickaway, Dalton on Willis, Tobiah Ben, Travis Sr., Lesley Morris, Lionel Bell, Emily Shoemake, Jashaunique Clegg, Damein Chickaway, Bell, Tyler Williamson, Tyrell Mason Tubby, Michael Mor- Steve, Jazzlynn Ben, Jana Dana Clemons, Darrell Cotton, Anderson, Wade Ben, Wauseka ris, Michael Williamson, Mike Chickaway, Johnita Conrad, Dart Willis, Delanovka Dix- York, Wilburn Williamson, Jr., Buffalomeat, Pierceson Farve, Joni Bell, Kandice Ben, Kar- on, Demetrius Williams, Djon & William Tubby. Ramsey King, II, Redhmond rigan Farve, Kenyetta Barojas, John, Donovan King, Dudley Members of the Fichik Mala- Dixon, Rian Willis, Ronnie Krista Cotton, Kyana Willis, Williams, Eric Billy, Jr., Fabi- ta team included Albert Char- Henry, Jr., Ryan Carson, Ry- LaCynthia Dixon, Laka Ander- en Anderson, Garrick Stoliby, lie, Anselm Henry, Benjamin land Wesley, Sage York, Satch- son, LeAndrea Morris, Linda Geno Mack, Germaine Isom, Farve, Bobby Mitch, Braden ell Willis, Stephen Wallace, Clemons, Marie Denson, Me- Gerren Isaac, Henry Dixon, Jr., Sam, Brandon Shoemake, Stuart Nickey, Tatum Morris, lina Solomon, Melinda Wal- Jake Chickaway, James Den- Brent Clemons, Coby Tubby, Tayshaun Mingo, Teddy Hick- lace, Melissa Nickey, Mildred son, Jamie Wesley, Jamison Curtis Chapman, Dakota Jef- man, Trey Lilly, Warren Dixon, Jimmie, Nandolyn Nickey, Johnson, Jamison Williams, ferson, David Denson, DeCar- & Willard Willis. Nina Frazier, Oretta Conrad, Jeremiah Robinson, Jeremy lo McMillan, Demando Mingo, CHOCTAW COMMUNITY NEWS PAGE 13

the person little Choc- Isaac Crowned New Choctaw Indian Princess taw girls want to be Breanna Isaac was the Mississippi Band of She will be a senior this sophomore this fall at when they grow up. crowned the 2016- Choctaw Indians. She fall at Choctaw Central East Central Commu- Contestants, be- 2017 Choctaw Indian was sponsored by the High School (CCHS) in nity College in Deca- tween the ages of 16- Princess during the Jackson & Mattie Isaac Choctaw. Wilson, of the tur. Chickaway, of the 19, are sponsored by opening night of the Family. She was also se- Pearl River Community, Conehatta Community, various organizations, 67th Annual Choc- lected Most Photogenic. was sponsored by the was sponsored by the such as community taw Indian Fair on Isaac, of the Pearl Riv- Gaming Properties of Non-Gaming Properties development clubs, Wednesday, July 13 er Community, is a 2016 Pearl River Resort. of Pearl River Resort. Tribal businesses & in at the Pearl River Am- graduate of Choctaw Autumn McMillan, Ga’Yu’Eze Morris, some instances, fami- phitheater in Choctaw. Central High School. the 17 year-old daugh- the 17-year-old daughter lies. Isaac, the 18-year- This fall, she will be a ter of Deanna McMillan of Jackie & Renata Mor- A panel next prin- old daughter of Re- freshman at Mississippi & Fabien Tubby, was ris, was the winner of cess by awarding becca Steve & the late State University (MSU) selected Second Alter- the essay competition. points based on com- Bert Isaac, is the 62nd in Starkville. nate. She will be a fresh- She will be a senior this munication skills, princess to represent Searra Wilson, the 17 man this fall at MSU in fall at CCHS. Morris, of poise, evening wear, year-old daughter Starkville. McMillan, of the Bogue Chitto Com- traditional dress, per- of Lucretia King the Tucker Community, munity, was sponsored sonality, & cultural & Vincent Wil- was sponsored by the by the Bok Cito Stick- understanding. son, was selected Youth Opportunity Pro- ball Team. The Choctaw Indi- First Alternate. gram. The Choctaw Indian an Princess, in turn, Kambree Chickaway, Fair began in 1949, but celebrates the Tribe’s Breanna Isaac is the 19-year-old daugh- the princess pageant accomplishments in congratulated af- ter of LaShannon Ferris did not become part of the forthcoming year ter being crowned & Karady Chickaway, the fair until 1955. The as a central figure at the 62nd Choctaw was selected Miss Con- first princess, Patsy Sam the tribal, local, state, Indian Princess. geniality. She will be a Buffington of the Tuck- & national levels. As er Community, was se- ambassador, she re- lected at the tender age represents the Tribe of 12 & thus beginning at ribbon cuttings, a distinguished legacy groundbreakings, which continues today. conferences, & other Each year, a special events. young lady is inducted With this year’s into an elite & exclusive princess, the journey circle with the honor & continues, preserving responsibility of repre- our culture, celebrat- senting her Tribe. At the ing our heritage & moment the princess is honoring the princess Pictured from left are Kambree Chickaway, Miss Congeniality; Searra Wilson, crowned, she becomes as a living tradition. First Alternate; Tribal Chief Phyliss J. Anderson; Choctaw Indian Princess not only the ambassador Breanna Isaac; Autumn McMillan, Second Alternate; & Ga’Yu’Eze Morris, for the Tribe, but also Essay Winner.

This year’s pageant contestants were, from left, Kassie Cox, Alanta Anderson, Emily Scobee, Jayasri Mitch, Searra Wilson, Bethany Willis, Breanna Isaac, Autumn McMillan, Kambree Chickaway, Jasmine Hickman, Ga’Yu’Eze Morris, & Tiara Joe. PAGE 14 CHOCTAW COMMUNITY NEWS CHOCTAW COMMUNITY NEWS PAGE 15 PAGE 16 CHOCTAW COMMUNITY NEWS CHOCTAW COMMUNITY NEWS PAGE 17

CHAMPS ...... continued from page twelve

Koni Hata Himitah 5, third for the 3-0 lead. quarter, Delanie Hick- Bok Cito 2 Jimmy Tangle was man put Pearl River on Much like Pearl Riv- named MVP. the board with his goal er in the previous game, Women’s Division at the 8:05 mark. Koni Hata Himitah had Championship Koni Hata, with a re- a chance to redeem Oka Homma Ohoyo 4, cord 23 WSS overall ti- themselves after last Bok Cito Ohoyo 2 tles, tied the game with year’s loss in the final to After being shut out Jordan Bell’s goal 1:34 the Warriors. Standing in last year’s champi- in the second quarter. in their way would be onship game to Bihhi Jamison Gibson rival Bok Cito. Ayasha, Oka Homma scored with 10:39 left in Bok Cito got on the Ohoyo was looking to the fourth as Pearl River board first with Brias make sure history did held on for the 2-1 win Bell’s goal 4:58 in the not repeat itself this year and fourth WSS overall first quarter. Koni Hata against Bok Cito Ohoyo. championship. would comeback with Less than 30 seconds Jak Logan was named goals by Caleb William- into the contest Tiffany MVP. son and Kashaun Bell Thomas scored for Oka Tiak Hikiya was for a 2-1 lead. Homma. Stacy Dixon named recipient of the After a scoreless sec- made it a 2-0 lead with Barry Ben Sportsman- ond quarter, Koni Hata her goal at the :54 mark. ship Award in the men’s made it a 3-1 lead in the Evangeline King made it division during the post- third with Jalen Willis’ a 3-0 lead with her goal game trophy presenta- goal at the 2:04 mark. with :01 left in the first. tion. Bok Cito cut the lead Oka Homma took a to one with Kendrick 4-0 lead in the second Wesley’s goal 7:31 in quarter with Kate Clem- Listed below is the or- 30:59; 7th, Taysia D. the fourth. Koni Hata mons goal at the 8:52 REZ RUN der and time of partici- Lewis, 33:50; 8th, Kate- added to their lead with mark. pants in their respective lyn Taylor, 47:46; 9th, goals by Keenan Mc- After a scoreless third Results age categories, accord- Teresa Vasquez, 49:26; Millan (4:04) and Isaiah quarter, Bok Cito added ing to ORION Racing. 10th, Allison Under- Billy (3:37) for a 5-2 two goals in the fourth The fifth REZ RUN wood; 52:19; 11th, Mia win. by Shanita Morris (6:03) was held on Saturday 5K AGE GROUP Alex, 57:42. Yunish Billy was and Candace Lasiloo morning, July 16 in RESULTS Female (Ages 15-19) named MVP. (3:04). Oka Homma Choctaw as part of the Female (Ages 0-14) 1st, Caitlyn Nodine, Men’s 35-Over held on for a 4-2 victory 67th Annual Choctaw 1st, Cyrenity Hardy, 24:25; 2nd, Taylor Ben, Division and their first champion- Indian Fair activities. 24:37; 2nd, Sierra Wal- 25:27; 3rd, Briana Wes- Championship ship. Over 200 avid runners lace, 25:43; 3rd, Ahnaya ley, 27:13; 4th, Trin- Koni Hata 3, Bok Cito Ashley Tangle was and walkers participated Williams, 28:33; 4th, ity Redhouse, 28:02; 0 named MVP. in a 5K, 10K or one mile Leia Phillips, 30:04; 5th, 5th, Alana Billy, 28:26; With the Koni Hata During the post-game fun run/walk through Mataeya Dixon, 30:20; teams going 1-1 in the trophy presentation, Bok the Choctaw Indian 6th, LilyRose Nodine, see REZ RUN, pg. 18 youth championships Homma was named re- Fairgrounds and Choc- earlier in the day, the cipient of the Barry Ben taw Reservation. Koni Hata men’s 35- Sportsmanship Award in Overall winners in the over team added to the the women’s division. 5K run were: (female) title collection with a Men’s Division Ashley Moyer with a 3-0 shutout over reign- Championship time of 23:03; (male) ing champion Bok Cito. Pearl River 2, Koni Dustin Mettler with a Jeremy Stephens Hata 1 time of 16:22. scored first with his goal With championships Overall winners in the 5:28 in the first. Lucas in 1970, 1976 & 1977, 10K run were: (female) Newly crowned Choctaw Indian Princess Breanna Thomas added a goal Pearl River can claim Meggan Franks with a Isaac congratulated REZ RUN male & female overall at the 9:42 mark in the the 2016 championship time of 41:26; (male) winners. LEFT, 5K winners were Dustin Mettler, left, second quarter. Yunnel as long overdue. Joseph Chebet with a & Ashley Moyer, right. RIGHT, 10K winners were Willis scored 1:32 in the After a scoreless first time of 34:27. Joseph Chebet, left, & Meggan Franks, right. PAGE 18 CHOCTAW COMMUNITY NEWS

REZ RUN ...... continued from page seventeen

6th, Jashaunique Steve, 38:36; 11th, Belinda Rush, 34:07; 6th, Amy bie Pickle, 42:47; 5th, Rey Barragan, 21:50; 29:09; 7th, Maleighia Cruz, 38:38; 12th, Son- Eubanks, 35:05; 7th, Paula Miller, 44:01; 5th, Tyler Bell, 25:44; Joe, 37:04; 8th, Rose- ya Willis, 43:00; 13th, Roberta Taylor, 35:54; 6th, Betty Dodd, 44:07; 6th, Hunter Kettering- lyn Vasquez, 49:15; 9th, Shameka Farmer, 48:58; 8th, Teresa Walker, 7th, Joanne Thompson, ham, 26:21; 7th, Key- Whitney Willis, 51:09. 14th, Danita Willis, 41:23; 9th, Clymene Ba- 44:52; 8th, Fannie Wil- shaun Nickey, 27:55; Female (Ages 20-29) 50:02; 15th, Coby Wil- con, 42:59; 10th, Elyse lis, 46:43; 9th, Nancy 8th, Levi Brown, 33:52; 1st, Rakisha Ander- lis, 52:40; 16th, Casey Willis, 46:39; 11th, Lac- M. Vaughn, 54:17; 10th, 9th, Bradley Tubby, son, 28:43; 2nd, Willard Stephens, 54:57; 17th, risha John, 58:55. Cathy Lindsey, 54:35; 38:33. Bacon, 28:55; 3rd, Sarah MyLyndie Bell, 54:59; Female (Ages 40-49) 11th, Sharon Gibson, Male (Ages 20-29) Newell, 29:06; 4th, Allie 18th, Audrey Gibson, 1st, Sharon L. Brown, 55:58. 1st, William Ka- Dear, 31:01; 5th, Shel- 56:00; 19th, Jessica 31:11; 2nd, Jennifer Female (Ages 60-97) zery, 16:45; 2nd, Mat- by Smith, 31:26; 6th, Dixon, 1:00:29. Reneker, 32:45; 3rd, 1st, Teresa Byars, thew Pham, 25:08; 3rd, Athina Merritt, 31:43; Female (Ages 30-39) Deirdre Hill, 38:40; 47:51; 2nd, Josephine Thomas Tubby, 26:31; 7th, Maleah Isaac, 1st, Winter Marti- 4th, Tanya Mosher, Morris, 56:40. 4th, Austin Newell, 35:32; 8th, Lacey Jack- nez, 31:38; 2nd, Emily 42:11; 5th, Jessica But- Male (Ages 0-14) 27:56; 5th, Will My- son, 35:33; 9th, Anna Massey, 31:47; 3rd, Pam ler, 42:25; 6th, Sher- 1st, Byan Henry, ers, 30:40; 6th, Quintan Harper Gowan, 37:48; Joyner, 31:57; 4th, Gwen ry Tubby, 43:26; 7th, 20:56; 2nd, Eli Joe; Billie, 31:54; 7th, Jor- 10th, Brittany Jenkins, Sorrell, 32:11; 5th, Dana Sherri Ferguson, 45:12; 24:21; 3rd, Nasho- dan Thompson, 32:35; 8th, Angie Alex, 49:15; ba Redhouse, 26:47; 8th, Peyton William- 9th, Michelle Graham, 4th, Nicolas Barragan, son, 36:04; 9th, Jayson 50:14; 10th, Alicia Wes- 26:53; 5th, Kearson Wallace, 36:35; 10th, Iron Warrior Winners ley, 52:08; 11th, Tan- Grisham, 41:06; 6th, Vik Morris, 45:12; 11th, ya Underwood, 52:21; Isaiah Rivera, 41:53; Damian Savage, 48:56; Dalton Clegg and Miranda Stamper captured 12th, Stephanie Allen, 7th, Dregen Denson, 12th, Jason Murray, top honors in the third Iron Warrior compe- 54:17; 13th, Lou Alex, 46:42; 8th, Anakin R. 54:49. tition during the 67th Annual Choctaw Indian 57:44. York, 47:37. Male (Ages 30-39) Fair on Saturday, July 16. Clegg placed first in Female (Ages 50-59) Male (Ages 15-19) 1st, Rob Stamp- the men’s final with a time of 3:05:20. Stamper 1st, Sue Ellen Smith, 1st, Cody Stevens, er, 22:29; 2nd, Jay won her second consecutive women’s title with 34:37; 2nd, Ruthie 19:12; 2nd, Taylor Cot- Etheridge, 26:54; 3rd, a time of 2:10:53. Bell, 36:43; 3rd, Betty ton, 19:14; 3rd, Imman- There were eight events for the men while Eaves, 39:03; 4th, Deb- uel Jimmie, 21:19; 4th, ...continued next page the women competed in seven. Events included tire deadlifts, atlas stones, farmer’s carry, sand- bag medley, keg carry, yoke carry, tire flip, and a truck pull (female participants pulled a RTV utility vehicle). Standing Giovanni Dale placed second in the men’s di- vision with a time of 3:12:33 and Lefus Tubby, Pine Wins Jr. was third with a time of 3:28:16. Maleah Isaac was second in the women’s divi- Booth sion with a time of 2:39:89 and Christin Meely third with a time of 3:06:13. Competition Standing Pine Devel- opment Club placed first in the community booth competition on Tuesday, July 12. Bogue Chit- to Development Club placed second, followed by Tucker Development Club third, Red Wa- Club seventh. design their exhibit to ter Development Club The competition is highlight community fourth, Crystal Ridge part of the cultural booth progress & accomplish- Pictured from left are Christin Meely, Maleah Development Club fifth, exhibition as develop- ments of their communi- Isaac, Miranda Stamper, Lefus Tubby, Jr., Giovan- Pearl River Develop- ment clubs in each of the ty members. This year’s ni Dale, & Dalton Clegg. ment Club sixth, & Choctaw tribal commu- theme was “The Choc- Conehatta Development nities participate. Clubs taw Spirit Lives On.” CHOCTAW COMMUNITY NEWS PAGE 19

Andrew Dellapenna, Male (Ages 50-59) Female (Ages 0-14) Wesley, 1:16:26. ans, 58:01; 2nd, Jason 30:34; 4th, Murray Col- 1st, Lee Smith, 26:57; 1st, Lucy Hardy, Female (Ages 50-59) Grisham, 1:00:57; 3rd, lum, 31:56; 5th, Ste- 2nd, Franklin Taylor, 50:22; 2nd, Taelor York, 1st, Glenda Lammers, Bj Morrow, 1:05:41; ven Flemming, 32:59; 27:24; 3rd, Kj Pou, 1:07:10. 1:11:58; 2nd, Scotti 4th, Kendall Grisham, 6th, Michael Redhouse, 30:26; 4th, Steve Smith, Female (Ages 15-19) Briscoe, 1:16:36. 1:05:59. 33:39; 7th, A. Momit 30:51; 5th, Antho- 1st, Leilani Wesley, Female (Ages 60-97) Male (Ages 40-49) Abi Bell, 34:11; 8th, ny DeLee, 32:05; 6th, 1:07:10. 1st, Cheryl Denson, 1st, John Miller, Drew Taylor, 35:46; 9th, Adolph Vivians, 34:06; Female (Ages 20-29) 1:23:36. 53:48; 2nd, Nathaniel Jonathan Denson, 43:39; 7th, Leonard H. Jimmie, 1st, Denise Powell, Male (Ages 0-14) Smith, 1:03:19; 3rd, 10th, Todd Stephens, 34:57; 8th, Phil Pick- 52:07; 2nd, Leah Tol- 1st, Alonso Henry, Michael Thompson, 45:18; 11th, Curtis Wil- le, 42:48; 9th, Rodney bert, 1:20:53. 48:46; 2nd, Kashton 1:04:05; 4th, Ryan R. lis, Jr., 47:05; 12th, Kyle Lindsey, 54:36; 10th, Female (Ages 30-39) Grisham, 1:07:11. York, 1:30:01; 5th, Massey, 49:45. Walter Willis, 1:10:32. 1st, Judy Simon, Male (Ages 15-19) Brenda Bell, 1:34:32. Male (Ages 40-49) Male (Ages 60-97) 51:35; 2nd, Carrie Mill- 1st, Preston Breazeale, Male (Ages 50-59) 1st, Ronald Barham, 1st, Daniel Mittan, er, 55:53; 3rd, Andrew 42:29; 2nd, Forrest Bil- 1st, Douglas Weav- 21:50; 2nd, Cal Hor- 35:04; 2nd, Matt Wes- Linne, 59:31; 4th, Shan- ly, 56:06. er, 57:13; 2nd, John lings, 26:43; 3rd, Lee son, 37:19; 3rd, How- non Morrow, 1:03:27; Male (Ages 20-29) Massey, 1:04:32; 3rd, Patterson, 38:08; 4th, ard Tucker, 45:33; 4th, 5th, Crystal Roach, 1st, Keith Riggen, Kim Wilson, 1:27:29. Ed Hill, 38:56; 5th, Bri- Ricky Metcalf, 47:33. 1:06:47; 6th, Dj Vaughn, 53:22; 2nd, LaTora Car- Male (Ages 60-97) an Willis, 40:11; 6th, 1:22:43. penter, 1:15:42; 3rd, Tia 1st, Steve Murray, Charles Mosher, 43:19; 10K AGE GROUP Female (Ages 40-49) Grisham, 1:16:40. 1:06:58; 2nd, Herbert 7th, Raymond Reyn- RESULTS 1st, Loriann Ahshap- Male (Ages 30-39) Miller, 1:25:01. olds, 1:07:21. anek, 1:12:24; 2nd, Jay 1st, Stephen Ev-

following Choctaw participants who placed Indian and received cash awards Fair for their en- tries at the Exhibitors 67th Annual Choctaw In- Premiums dian Fair. Awarded ADULT DIVISION Each year at the Choc- Gina Bell, taw Indian Fair, the ex- $119; Jared hibit hall consists of Jim, $103; booths containing proj- Peggy Da- ects in the Adult, Youth vis, $78; and 4-H Youth Develop- Kaylan Gibson, $71; Michelle Jim, $14; Dar- Leilani Wesley, $159; $35.75; Tracell King, ment Divisions. Exhibi- Deloris Bell, $57; Mage- ry Hickman, $10; Da- Isley Mingo, $104.25; $31; Toriah Shoemake, tors submitted items to line Truss, $56; Helena vita McClelland, $10; Gabriella Farmer, $98; $30; Teanna Thomas, be displayed, including Sanchez, $37; Miriam Emerson Billy, $10; Amiya Billy, $79.25; $28; Suwanie Willis, beadwork, paintings, Edwards, $34; Junie Laura Lewis, $9; Nora Bryceton McMillan, $27; Easton Turner, sewing items, wood- Cabara, $30; Reba Jim, Chapman, $8; Grandale $70.50; Nickolas Farm- $26.50; Eliza Willis, work, baked goods, and $25.75; Fannie Peoples, Tubby, $8; Sherri Isaac, er, $66.50; Alyssa Farm- $24; Kayden McMillan, produce, to name a few. $24.75; Josephine Mor- $8; Brenda Bell, $7.25; er, $66; Astin Eades, $23.50; Martina Willis, There were a total of ris, $24; Dora Nickey, Krystal Robinson, $5; $64.50; Sequoia Wil- $19; 31 participants in the $23.25; Rosie York, Una Denson, $4; Jacob lis, $47.25; Iley Eades, Tazanna Thomas, $18; adult division, 93 in the $22; Kathleen Thomas, Taylor, $3.50; & Nannie $46.50; Zachary Farm- Leslie Morris, $16; Lac- youth division and 50 in $20; Mitch, $3. er, $45; Jabastian Ben, ie Morris, $14.25; Ma- the 4-H Youth Develop- Teresa Chickaway, $39; Brylee Willis, teo Morris, $12; Beverly ment Division. $15; Mitzi Reed, $14; YOUTH $38.50; Nataysia Willis, Congratulations to the Kevin Edwards, $12; DIVISION $36.50; Kollier Thomas, see EXHIBITS, pg. 20 PAGE 20 CHOCTAW COMMUNITY NEWS

EXHIBITS ...... continued from page nineteen

Billy, $11.50; Tazzden ron Lewis, $3; Anarea $131.50; Tayjah Wilson, Natasha Cotton, $14; Wishork, $2.50; & Jali- Thomas, $10; Zay Faith Hernandez, $3; Zandler $116.25; Melanie Wil- Amria Tubby, $12; Jalia cia McMillan, $2.50. Shoemake, $10; Rosa Ben, $3; Cameron Ro- lis, $105.50; Jalen Wil- Cotton, $11.50; Tome- Shoemake, $10; Brook- driguez, $3; Tryeston lis, $105.50; Deshaylee chi Bell, $11.50; Pernil- lyn Dixon, $9; Ama- Thompson, $3; Cara Tubby, $96.75; Gay- la Arivzu, $10.50; Julius ri Smith, $9; Delayna Jones, $3; Daybron Joe, lon Willis, Jr., $96.50; Billy, Jr., $10.50; Gan- Duck Box Steve, $9; Dakirin Wil- $3; Brydon Wesley, $3; Chloe Wesley, $90.25; non Vaughn, $10; Evain son, $9; Malicah Thom- Camden Rodriguez, Xhaiden Dixon, $64; Frazier, $8; Selena Phil- Donated to as, $8; Xavier Sam, $8; $3; Belinda Frazier, $3; Zavian Tubby, $59.50; lips, $7.50; Quintin R. Daron Shoemake, $8; Jocelyn Bell, $3; Kalve- Katelyn Taylor, Willis, $7.50; Tyvick Wetlands Beyonce Smith, $7.50; niena Clemons, $3; $58.75; Ariela Jefferson, Cotton, $7.50; Jillian Thomas, $6; Hunter Farve, $3; Chloe $57.40; Kaisen Dixon, Jeremy Davis, $7; Discovery Morgan Monroe, $6; Thompson, $2.50;& $57.25; Alessondra Jef- Tushka Willis, $6.50; Jocelyn Wesley, Kristeena Thomas, $6; Caiplynn Hickman, ferson, $50; Miles Tay- Jaykwon Miller, $6.50; daughter of Jay & Dan- Hailey Briscoe, $6; De- $2.50. lor, $40.50; CiJi Vaighn, Jariel Cotton, $6.50; Sis- ielle Wesley of the laiah Billy, $6; Andrew $26; Kaegen Henry, sie Gibson, $6; Chaisen Standing Pine Com- Cotton, $6; Colt Wilson, 4-H YOUTH $24; Nalani Thompson, Jimmie, $6; Lacie Wil- munity, donated a duck $6; DEVELOPMENT $19.25; Nikitta P. Wal- lis, $6; Tayeasha Cot- box she built as part of Paige Lopez, $5; Elias DIVISION lace, $17.25; Summer ton, $5.50; Devree a 4-H wildlife project. Isaac, $5; Kaden Bell, Jocelyn Wesley, $185; Allen, $16.50; Nyshea Farve, $5.50; Daebrean The duck box will be $5; Scarlette Nickey, $4; Jaeden Wesley, $141.25; Hoskins, $15.50; Jamie Wallace, $4; Rikkiaya installed at the Wetlands Ashton Westmore, $4; Tiak Willis, $134.75; McCarty, $14.50; Miller, $4; LeDarrius Discovery Outdoor Jase Johnson, $4; Jai- Skyler Comans, Camryn Vivians, $14; Frazier, $2.50; Laylee Learning site in Cone- zlianna Ben, $4; Madi- hatta. son Charlie, $4; Bryant Jocelyn entered the Henry, Jr., $4; Jayceous duck box in the 2016 Amos, $4; Rickie Shoe- Choctaw Indian Fair’s make, $4; Tamaran 4-H Youth Development Thomas, $4; Daylon exhibit and placed first. Perkins, $4; Mattison She is a member of the Bell, $4; Chaston John- Standing Pine 4-H Club. son, $4; Tori Isaac, $4; Many 4-H Club mem- Brennan Henry, $4; bers are willing to assist Kabreana Lewis, $4; Ja- others and learn more mal Isaac, $4; Jaxston about the earth and Tubby, $4; Eric Martin, wildlife. Jr., $4; Brighton Jimmie, “Community pride is $3.50; Hannah Charlie, important. By making $3.50; this donation, the duck Adrian Frazier, $3.50; box will give a home Allison McMillan, $3; to some wildlife and Deelaynie McMillan, will assist students and $3; Ladianian King, teachers with a learning $3; Peyton Hernandez, tool when they come $3; Alleiyah Butler, $3; and visit the Outdoor Emjae Willis, $3; Silvio Learning Center,” said Morales, $3; Sanjaya Chickaway, $3; Ale- ...continued next page CHOCTAW COMMUNITY NEWS PAGE 21 NAYO softball, baseball tourney 8-U Girls Coach Pitch Champion - Lady Tigers 8-U Girls Coach Pitch Runner-Up winners Mississippi Sparks Congratulations to the following teams who won or placed runner-up in their respective divi- sion in the 2016 Native American Youth Organi- zation Baseball/Softball tournaments on July 21-23. The tournaments were held at Northside 8-U Boys Coach Pitch Champion - Code Red 8-U Boys Coach Pitch Runner-Up - Yankees Park in Philadelphia & on the campus of Choc- taw Central High School in Choctaw. (More team pics next page).

10-U Girls Fast Pitch Softball Champion - Elite 10-U Girls Fast Pitch Softball Runner-Up Intensity

10-U Boys Baseball Champion - Choctaw Storm 10-U Boys Baseball Runner-Up - Poarch Creek

Jocelyn Wesley proudly holds the duck box she built for her 4-H wildlife project. This past year was Jocelyn’s first year in the 4-H Club. 12-U Girls Fast Pitch Softball Champion 12-U Girls Fast Pitch Softball Runner-Up Lady Indians Poarch Creek Timothy Oakes of the USDA Natural Resourc- es Conservation Service. “Environmental edu- cation is needed to as- sist us towards protect- ing and serving as good stewards of tribal natu- ral resources.” 12-U Boys Baseball Champion - 7 Clans 12-U Boys Baseball Runner-Up - Choctaw Reds PAGE 22 CHOCTAW COMMUNITY NEWS

chases, according to a The same survey says problem comes later Avoid Impulse Buying joint study by faculty at that excitement, bore- when reality sets in & the University of Cali- dom, sadness, anger, & the satisfaction is short- Submitted by with electronics costing fornia & the University intoxication are factors lived. Susan Cosgrove, Area $5,000. And they did of Wisconsin. of impulse buying. But Making occasional Extension Agent, Family not even get half of what In a recent survey by that does not speak to impulse purchases are Resource Management they went to buy in the CreditCards.com, 77 what is happening inside not the end of the world. first place. percent of respondents our brain when we make We all buy things we “It seemed like a good This happens at so confessed to making an unplanned purchases. know we shouldn’t from idea at the time.” Have many places we shop impulse purchase within Psychologists say that time to time. When these you heard those words on a regular basis. Im- the past three months. this impulsive buying things happen on a regu- before, or perhaps spo- pulse buying is a budget Twenty percent admit- behavior makes us feel lar basis or they impact ken them yourself? A breaker. Even at regular ted to making an im- good, it is like an act of our ability to meet our family went into a ware- grocery stores, over half pulse purchase in excess empowerment. The ex- financial obligations, house shopping club to of all purchases are un- of $1,000. act feeling varies from then we need to take ac- get groceries & came out planned, impulse pur- Why do we do this? person to person. The tion. How do we take con- NAYO WINNERS ...... continued from page twenty-one trol of our impulse shop- ping behavior? Step 1: Identify when you are most likely to make impulse pur- chases. When are you most vulnerable to mak- ing rash spending deci- sions? Does this happen on pay day? Do you 13-15 Girls Fast-Pitch Softball Champion 13-15 Girls Fast-Pitch Softball Runner-Up shop when you are sad? Pitch Slap Seminoles Are you a sucker for good sales? Take a long, hard look at WHEN & WHY you spend outside your budget. Patterns will often emerge. Step 2: Identify the feeling you get when you make impulse pur- 13-15 Boys Baseball Champion - Poarch Creek 13-15 Boys Baseball Runner-Up - Dirtbags chase. Once you get a firm handle on your state of mind when you make impulse purchases, ask yourself what the act of spending feels like to you at that moment. Do you feel rewarded? Dis- tracted? Hopeful? When Senior Girls Fast-Pitch Softball Champion Senior Girls Fast-Pitch Softball Runner-Up you buy something on Native Pride Independentz impulse, it makes you feel a certain way. That feeling is ultimately WHY you are buying it. Step 3: Find alter- native ways to achieve that feeling. Once you understand the feeling you get from impulse Senior Boys Baseball Champion Senior Boys Baseball Runner-Up - Choctaw Baseball ...continued next page CHOCTAW COMMUNITY NEWS PAGE 23

violations reaching their Code) OR when acts pressure of unrealis- FOR THE parents. This is also a that would be a crime if tic expectations for the status offense. committed by an adult youth? RECORD It is important to note are “chronic” (occurring Running away is a Submitted by Daniel that Federal laws pro- repeatedly over a short very dangerous response Mittan, Director of Court hibit youth (or specifi- period of time), it may for our youth in this day Services, Choctaw Tribal cally - minors under the be necessary to inter- & time. One only needs Court age of 18 here on the vene with detention to to pick up the paper, lis- reservation) from being protect the public AND ten to the radio or watch Ever feel like running locked up in detention the offender. the news on television away? It is not against for these offenses. De- Running away from to understand – & these the law for adults to run- tention can be used for home is a special prob- dangers are here even in away from home. Some those youth “committing lem. It is usually very East Central Mississip- of us may feel like doing an offense that would be complicated. The Choc- pi. Running away can that from time to time, considered a crime by taw Tribal Youth Court, lead to further offenses, but we usually find an- an adult.” However, de- the Attorney General’s but can also turn offend- other way to deal with tention for youth should Office, Department of ers into victims. our frustrations. be considered a “last re- Public Safety, Court Additionally, it is the It is not against the sort” action. Services, Behavior- practice of Court Ser- law for anyone over 18 Research has been al Health, Children & vices to work with the to possess tobacco prod- shown that when a youth Family Services, & the Office of Attorney Gen- ucts. Most of us have is placed in detention, Choctaw Children’s Ad- eral in prosecuting any heeded the warnings & they are much more vocacy Center are ALL adult that harbors a mi- either refrain from using likely to return repeat- interested in discovering nor running away (un- Develop a plan. Every tobacco or to never start. edly. This rate multiplies the WHY behind a child less it is proven that the child is an individual. It is not against the exponentially the earli- or youth’s decision to minor ran away because There is no one response law for those 21 or old- er the age of the youth run away from home. of abuse or neglect). that will resolve this is- er to possess alcoholic upon first admission. Is it that the youth is You should call Choc- sue for every child or beverages. There are The current belief going through a rebel- taw Police at 601-656- youth. It is usually frus- legal, physical, & re- is that a strong reen- lious stage, or show- 5711 if a minor comes trating to address, but lational consequences try program can reduce ing independence to be to your door stating that this is important work. when consumed in ex- this effect. Still, when friends without regard they have been kicked Each child or youth cess. These laws that a youth commits a seri- for limitations? Is it be- out of their residence or is important. Court Ser- have age stipulations ous offense where loss cause the family is hav- are otherwise alleging vices & all other tribal are called “status offens- of life is possible (acts ing difficulties handling abuse or neglect. agencies & programs es” for the youth in our committed using weap- the loss of a loved one or If your child is running are always searching for communities. ons, acts concerning the loss of their home? away, talk to someone. answers & ways to be Many communities narcotics & dangerous Is it possibly because In fact, talk to people of assistance. The most across the U.S. have drugs, other Class A of- of some other trauma you feel you can trust. important response is to curfews for their youth fenses as determined happening like abuse or There is nothing wrong never give up. with consequences for by the Choctaw Tribal neglect? Is it from the with getting wisdom.

spending, the final step house can also make to a new method in this it. This is important for • Stay away from is to identify a replace- you feel productive, & situation may be diffi- grocery shopping as well money traps such as ment activity that gives does not cost a dime. cult. Find something to as going to any store, or your favorite bakery. you the same feeling, It is a process, & some achieve that “feeling” online shopping. • Use your rewards & but without the bud- alternatives work better that will have a positive • Wait at least a week use them wisely. get-busting expense. than others. Just as I tell impact on your life. It’s after you see an item in • Skip the mall. Have you ever gone participants in my bud- worth the effort when it a store (or online) before • Declutter before you to a certain store every geting sessions, for ev- puts you in a better posi- you buy it. buy. weekend, not because ery person in this room, tion to meet all your im- • Take you name off • Shop less often. you needed anything, each of us may have our portant financial goals. junk mail lists. (Contact For more information, but because you were own way of developing Some other tips to Extension Office for de- contact your local of- bored? Perhaps running our personal budget that control impulse buying tails.) fice of Mississippi State errands makes you feel works best. There is no include: • Pay in cash without University Extension. productive. Doing cer- “one size fits all.” • Always follow a the lure of “unlimited” tain chores around the So, finding & adapting shopping list, & stick to credit. PAGE 24 CHOCTAW COMMUNITY NEWS

She was preceded in mon, Jamona Solomon, Funeral service for death by her grandpar- & Melia Solomon; a Agnes E. Polk York, 69, ents, Philip & Zula An- son, Chancellor Solo- was held on Friday, July derson; parents, Londell mon, Jr.; sisters, Cynthia 8, 2016, from Hopewell Nickey & Vina Mae Jef- Thomas, LaTonya Wil- Baptist Church in Stand- Maybellene Solomon charge of arrangements. ferson; brothers, Calvert lis & Clarissa Nickey; ing Pine. Bro. Shelly Mrs. Solomon passed Jefferson & Richie Jef- brothers, Kenneth Nick- Peoples officiated. Funeral service for away on July 1 at An- ferson; an uncle, an ey, Jimmy Nickey, Greg Burial was in the Maybellene Solomon, derson Regional Medi- aunt, a grandson, & four Nickey, Alvin Nickey, Standing Pine Commu- 56, was held on Tues- cal Center in Meridian. infants. Shaunrey Jefferson, & nity Cemetery. John E. day, July 5, 2016, from She was employed Survivors include her Alvin Isom; an aunt; Stephens Chapel Fu- the St. Catherine Catho- as a security officer at husband, Chancellor 42 grandchildren; two neral Services was in lic Church in Conehatta. Pearl River Resort. She Solomon, Sr.; daugh- great-grandchildren; & a charge of arrangements. Burial was in the made stickball aprons, ters, Wanoka Solomon, host of nieces, nephews, Ms. York passed away church cemetery. John headbands & bandanas Quannah Solomon, She- relatives, & friends. on July 4 at Anderson E. Stephens Chapel Fu- & was a part of the Tali rina Solomon, Monica neral Services was in Ohoyo stickball team. Solomon, Hope Solo- Agnes E. Polk York ...continued next page

By allowing the elder- domestic violence, or Elderly Victims of Abuse: What ly victim to make their other forms of abuse. own choices, this helps These four concepts You Can Do To Help to empower the victim. are something any of us The elder then can begin can use in helping our Three to five million er, there are things you the elder may feel even to take back control of elderly victims of vio- elders experience some can do to help our elders more helpless. The el- his/her own life. lence. You may not be form of abuse each year, who have been abused: der may even feel he/ Minimizing the trau- a trained professional, according to statistics First of all, LISTEN. she has done something ma, but not denying the but there are ways you from the National Sex- Sometimes the most im- wrong. This is not the trauma, is something can help. For further in- ual Violence Resource portant thing we can do elder’s fault. each of us can help to do formation or questions, Center. is listen. This means tak- Third, HOLD THE in order to help our elder please contact Family The White House ing the time to sit down OFFFENDER AC- abuse victims when they Violence & Victim Ser- Conference on Aging, with the victim. Take COUNTABLE. The have experienced abuse vices at 601-650-1774. which takes place every time to listen to what victim is not to blame - such as sexual abuse or Yakoki! decade, issued in 2015 the elder is saying. One the offender is the one their final report declar- of the most important who deserves to be pun- ing the Department of things we can do is to ished. You can try to lift Justice (DOJ) would really hear what the el- the shame & discourage- create tools to help ad- der is telling us. By just ment of the elderly vic- vocates who work with listening, this lets the tim by saying something the elderly – particularly elder know that some- like, “I am very sorry those who experienced one cares & that his/her this happened to you,” physical or sexual abuse, thoughts are heard & or “You do not deserve financial exploitation, validated. to be treated like this.” neglect, or other forms Secondly, AVOID This very well could be of domestic violence. ASKING “WHY?” the starting point for that As a friend, caregiver The elder victim is not elderly abuse victim to or family member, you at fault - the offender begin to heal. may be concerned about is to blame. We should Finally, EMPOWER an elderly victim, but always avoid ask- THE VICTIM. The el- you might also feel frus- ing questions such as, derly victim may feel as trated or unprepared to “Why didn’t you say if his/her choices have help that elder through anything?” or “Why all been taken away by the crisis. didn’t you call the po- the perpetrator. There- You may not have the lice?” The elder may fore, it is important the tools or resources at your already feel powerless elder always be given disposal that was men- or helpless & by asking choices every step of tioned by DOJ; howev- questions such as these, the way in the process. CHOCTAW COMMUNITY NEWS PAGE 25

Regional Medical Cen- adopted brother, Gary She is preceded in Morgan Jones; step-son, Thomas; a son, Randall ter in Meridian. Chickaway; & a host of death by her parents, Brandon Denson; sis- Nickey; a brother, Mor- She was a member nieces, nephews, rela- Arch & Emma Mingo; ters, Fannie Lou Jones ris Jefferson; 19 grand- of Hopewell Baptist tives, & friends. brothers, Charlie Hick- & Annie Pearl Hickman; children; 47 great-grand- Church & was a Choc- man & Marzine Mingo; foster sister, Jessica children; five nieces; taw Bible teacher & en- Pauline Mingo & a sister, Lorene Cum- Lynn Hickman; broth- two nephews; & a host joyed Choctaw hymns. berland. ers, William Hickman, of relatives & friends. She served as Stand- Funeral service for Survivors include Sr., Randy Hickman, ing Pine representative Pauline Mingo, 64, was daughters, Diana Min- & Willie Jay Hickman; Sylius Drew Thomas to the Choctaw Tribal held on Sunday, July 10, go Smith & Jennifer foster brothers, William Council. 2016, from the Bogue Stevens; sisters, Maline Hickman, Jr. & Johna- Funeral service for She was preceded in Chitto Baptist Church. Bell & Laline Rush; a thon Lance Hickman; Sylius Drew Thomas, death by her parents, Deacon Kendall Wal- brother, John Mingo; four grandchildren; & a 17, was held on Wednes- Comeal & Emma Mc- lace & Rev. Doby Henry three grandchilden; two host of nieces, nephews, day, August 3, 2016, Millan Polk; husband, officiated. great-grandchildren; relatives, & friends. from the Macedonia Randy Rudy York; sons, Burial was in the four god daughters; & a Baptist Church in Cone- Reginald York & adopt- Bogue Chitto Commu- host of nieces, nephews, Clinton Jefferson hatta. Deacon William- ed son Irvin Jefferson; nity Cemetery. John E. relatives, & friends. son Isaac & Rev. Robert sisters, Grace Wallace, Stephens Chapel Fu- Funeral service for Patrick officiated. Louise Chapman & neral Services was in Lourean Hickman Clinton Jefferson, 79, Burial was in the Margaret Henry; & an charge of arrangements. Denson was held on Friday, Conehatta Community aunt. Ms. Mingo passed July 22, 2016, from the Cemetery. John E. Ste- Survivors include away on July 7 at An- Funeral service for Bogue Homa Baptist phens Chapel Funeral a daughter, LaMoni- derson Regional Medi- Lourean Hickman Den- Church. Deacon Billy Services was in charge ca York; sons, Warren cal Center in Meridian. son, 56, was held on Smith & Rev. Robert of arrangements. York, Ryan York, Melton She was employed at Sunday, July 17, 2016, Paul Tubby, Sr. officiat- Mr. Thomas passed York, & Randy York; Bogue Chitto School, from the Bogue Chitto ed. away on July 29 in five grandchildren; three Chahta Enterprise & Baptist Church. Deacon Burial was in the Conehatta. great-grandchildren; an Choctaw Greenhouse. Kendall Wallace & Rev. Bogue Homa Commu- He completed his ju- She enjoyed fishing, Doby Henry officiated. nity Cemetery. John E. nior year at Riverside In- playing bingo & social- Burial was in the Stephens Chapel Fu- dian School in Anadar- izing. Bogue Chitto Commu- neral Services was in ko, Okla., where he was nity Cemetery. John E. charge of arrangements. on the basketball, cross Stephens Chapel Fu- Mr. Jefferson passed country & track teams. neral Services was in away on July 18 at his He was a member of charge of arrangements. residence. the Koni Hata Himitah Mrs. Denson passed He enjoyed playing team that won the 2016 away on July 11 at her washers, fishing, base- Tulli Okchi Ishko Stick- residence in Irvin, TX. ball, watching stickball, ball championship. He She was a Baptist & & spending time with was also a member of attended Dallas Indian family & friends. the Mystic Wind social Revival Church. She He is preceded in dance group & loved his retired from Target & death by his parents, family. loved to garden, cook, Braxton & Dora Nickey He was preceded in listening to music, col- Jefferson; wife, Mary death by his grand- lecting family pictures, Lou Charley Jefferson; mother, Annistine Billy. & spending time with daughter, Jewel Jef- Survivors include his loved ones. ferson Frazier; sisters, mother, Christine Billy; She is preceded in Mary Ann Jefferson father, Stewart Thomas; death by her parents, Farmer & Geneva Jef- sisters, Janice Wilson John Mullet & Christine ferson Chapman; broth- & Tiffany Shoemake; Hickman; & brothers, ers, Sammy Jefferson & brothers, Tyrell Ander- Dale Hickman & Terry Baxter Jefferson, Jr.; & son, Christiansen Thom- Lee Hickman. two grandchildren. as, Greer Billy, Kodi Survivors include her Survivors include Thomas, Kollior Thom- husband, Ricky Denson; daughters, Gloria Nick- as, & Kansyn Thomas; daughter, Cherish Dawn ey Bell, Sherry Char- Vazquez; son, Clint lie Jim & Susie Charlie ...... see OBITS, pg. 26 PAGE 26 CHOCTAW COMMUNITY NEWS

OBITS ...... continued from page twenty-five a special companion, Comby, III, Samuel Choctaw. Bro. Ferron Stephens Chapel Fu- Dixon officiated. Mareanna Marquiz; & Comby, & Kernan Com- Oaks, Bro. Larry Muse, neral Services was in Burial was in the a host of relatives & by; sisters, Fannie Peo- Bro. Herb Boyles & charge of arrangements. Bogue Chitto Commu- friends. ples & Annie Sue Lew- President David Jar- Mr. Denson passed nity Cemetery. John E. is; 11 grandchildren; 1 nagin officiated. away on Aug. 12 at his Stephens Chapel Fu- Sarene Charlie great-granddaughter; Burial was in the residence. neral Services was in Comby & a host of relatives & church cemetery. John He was a Marine charge of arrangements. friends. E. Stephens Chapel Fu- Corps veteran & attained Mr. Amos passed Funeral service for neral Services was in the rank of Lance Cor- away on August 12 at Sarene Charlie Comby, John Benn, Sr. charge of arrangements. poral. He was honorably the University Medical 78, was held on Thurs- Mr. Tubby passed discharged in 1984 & Center in Jackson. day, August 4, 2016, Funeral service for away on Aug. 8 at his joined the U.S. Forestry He was employed at from Hopewell Bap- John Benn, Sr., 78, was residence. Department as a forest Pearl River Resort as a tist Church in Standing held on Monday, August He was employed with fire fighter. He enjoyed porter then in mainte- Pine. Bro. Shelley Peo- 8, 2016, from Chihowa I Choctaw Manufacturing interacting with people, nance. He enjoyed fish- ples officiated. Chuka Assembly of God Enterprise & enjoyed was skilled in automa- ing & being with family Burial was in the Church in Philadelphia. watching University of tive repair & was em- & friends. Standing Pine Commu- Rev. Bob Wilkerson of- Alabama football. ployed with Pearl River He was preceded in nity Cemetery. John E. ficiated. He was preceded in Resort’s maintenance death by his parents, Stephens Chapel Fu- Burial was in the death by his grandpar- department. He was a John Amos & Jeanette neral Services was in church cemetery. John ents, Effie Bell Tubby member of Hopewell Morris; sons, Keith charge of arrangements. E. Stephens Chapel Fu- & Lewis Tubby; father, Baptist Church. Amos & Dominic Ms. Comby passed neral Services was in Coburn Charlie, Sr.; He was preceded in Amos; a sister, Mary away on July 30 at the charge of arrangements. three aunts; three uncles; death by his parents, Ea- Louise Hickman; & Choctaw Residential Mr. Benn passed away & two grandchildren. slin Denson & Lucille grandparents, Waggoner Center in Choctaw. on August 5 at Hospice Survivors include Chickaway; & grand- & Rosie Amos. She picked cotton & Ministries in Ridgeland. his wife, Sally Tubby; parents, Willie & Beau- Survivors include later worked as a house- He enjoyed doing yard daughter, Synetha Tub- ty Anderson Denson, a son, Luther Amos; keeper at Madden Hos- work & helping others. by; sons, Nathan Tubby Houston & Edna Sam nine grandchildren; six pital, babysitter, Green He was preceded in & Tuskahoma Tubby; Lewis. aunts; an uncle; two Acres, & Choctaw Elec- death by his parents, mother, Myrtis Morris; Survivors include his nieces; a godson; & a tronics. She taught arts Monroe & Lorene Mc- eight grandchildren; daughter, Dusti Jimmie; host of great-nieces, & crafts in 4-H Clubs Millian Benn; sisters, sisters, Quannah Morris sons, Torry B. Denson great-nephews, rela- & was involved with Lula Mae Benn Farmer Bell, Kimberly Larney, & Jeremy Williams; tives, & friends. the Standing Pine Social & Minnie Lou Benn; Lisa Charlie, & Tressie sisters, Charlene Den- Dance group. & brothers, Willie Dee Charlie; brothers, Co- son Sam, Glenda Den- Ivan Jeffery Wilson She enjoyed fishing, Benn & Cicero Billie. burn Charlie, Jr., Darren son, Loriann Denson basket weaving, bead- Survivors include his Charlie & John Charlie; Ahshapanek, & Irene Funeral service for work, gardening, listen- wife, Catherine Tubby four aunts; three uncles; Tubby; brothers, Ricky Ivan Jeffery Wilson, 54, ing to gospel music, & Benn; daughter, Valerie & a host of nieces, neph- Lee Denson, Sr. & Ryan was held on Tuesday, spending time with fam- Benn Herrera; sons, Ma- ews, relatives, & friends. Kurry Chickaway; spe- August 16, 2016, from ily & friends. rio Benn & John Benn, cial friend, Georgia the Holy Rosary Cath- She was preceded in Jr; sisters, Eileen Bil- Jerry Lee Denson John; seven grandchil- olic Church in Tucker. death by her parents, lie & Inez Willis; three dren; & host of aunts, Father Bob Goodyear, Coyt & Sinnie Davis grandchildren; & a host Funeral service for uncles, nieces, nephews, S.T. officiated. Charlie; husband, Wil- of nieces, nephews, rel- Jerry Lee Denson, 57, relatives, & friends. Burial was in Mt. Zion liam Comby, Jr; sisters, atives, & friends. was held on Monday, Cemetery. John E. Ste- Irene Charlie, Nancy August 15, 2016, from James Dean Amos phens Chapel Funeral Charlie & Mattie Char- Nathaniel Lee Tubby the Hopewell Baptist Services was in charge lie; & brothers, Louie Church in Standing Funeral service for of arrangements. Charlie & Coburn Char- Funeral service for Pine. Bro. Shelly Peo- James Dean Amos, 59, Mr. Wilson passed lie, Sr. Nathaniel Lee Tubby, ples & Rev. Leonard was held on Tuesday, away on Aug. 12 at An- Survivors include her 49, was held on Thurs- Ben officiated. August 16, 2016, from derson Regional Medi- daughters, Marcia Com- day, August 11, 2016, Burial was in the the Bogue Chitto Baptist cal Center in Meridian. by & Sally Webb; sons, from the Greenhill Unit- Standing Pine Commu- Church. Rev. Richard Gordon Sam, William ed Methodist Church in nity Cemetery. John E. Farve & Rev. George ...continued next page CHOCTAW COMMUNITY NEWS PAGE 27

He enjoyed fishing, Williams; grandparents, Survivors include his & a host of relatives & enjoyed spending time watching wrestling, lis- Rufus & Nellie Wil- brothers, Edward Simp- friends. with family & friends, tening to country music, liams, Buck Shumake & son & Anthony Simp- playing guitar & sing- gardening, & spend- Annie Billie Shoemake; son; an aunt; & a host of Cokie Lamonte ing. ing time with family & a grandson; six aunts; & relatives & friends. McCombs He was preceded in friends. six uncles. death by his grandpar- He was preceded in Survivors include George Winston Funeral service for ents, W.C. & Josephine death by his parents, daughters, Vernaline Steve Cokie Lamonte Mc- Nickey; a son, Davin Gordon Jim & Sinee Williams, Berna Wil- Combs, 45, was held on Wilson; & a sister, Lati- Wilson; sisters, Trina liams & Matilda Wil- Funeral service for Thursday, September sha Lewis. Jim & Mattie Lou Wil- liams; sons, Shawn George Winston Steve, 1, 2016, from the Pearl Survivors include his son; & a stepdaughter, Williams & Damion 51, was held on Wednes- River Community Cen- daughter, Halle Wil- Deneetria Schrock. Williams; brothers, Gay- day, August 24, 2016, ter. Rev. Doby Henry & son; parents, George Survivors include his lon Williams & Marty from the Chihowa I Pastor Mark Patrick of- McCombs, III & Em- wife, Brenda K. Wilson; Williams; two aunts; an Chuka Assembly of God ficiated. maline Lewis; sister, a stepdaughter, Cor- uncle; 16 grandchildren; in Philadelphia. Rev. Burial was in the Old Tenisha McCombs Bon- nelius Dan; a stepson, & a host of relatives & Thomas Ben officiated. Mt. Zion Cemetery. ney; brothers, Kimo Ashley McMillan; three friends. Burial was in the John E. Stephens Chapel McCombs & Matthew aunts; an uncle; a niece; church cemetery. John Funeral Services was in Lewis; & a host of niec- seven nephews; & a host Leonard Dale Amos E. Stephens Chapel Fu- charge of arrangements. es, nephews, aunts, un- of relatives & friends. neral Services was in Mr. McCombs passed cles, relatives, & friends. Graveside service for charge of arrangements. away on Aug. 28 at Alexander Williams Leonard Dale Amos, 50, Mr. Steve passed South Regional Medical was held on Tuesday, away on Aug. 18 at Bay- Center in Laurel. Funeral service for August 23, 2016, from lor University Medical He was employed at Alexander Williams, 50, the Holy Rosary Cath- Center in Dallas. Pearl River Resort & was held on Tuesday, olic Church Cemetery He enjoyed fishing, August 23, 2016, from in Tucker. Father Bob playing cards, listening the St. Catherine Catho- Goodyear, S.T. officiat- to Alan Jackson, watch- lic Church in Conehatta. ed. ing the Dallas Cowboys, Father Bob Goodyear, John E. Stephens & spending time with S.T. officiated. Chapel Funeral Ser- family & friends. Burial was in the vices was in charge of He was preceded in church cemetery. John arrangements. death by his parents, E. Stephens Chapel Fu- Mr. Amos passed John & Maxine Steve; neral Services was in away on Aug. 10 at his sisters, Barbara Steve charge of arrangements. residence. Farve & Mary Jane Mr. Williams passed He enjoyed playing Steve York; & broth- away on Aug. 19 at An- the guitar & was a mem- ers, Gerald Lee Steve, derson Regional Medi- ber of several bands. He Charlie Steve & Harry cal Center in Meridian. enjoyed watching mov- Wayne Steve. He was employed as a ies & being with fami- Survivors include his live haul catcher then a ly & friends. He was a daughter, Arlana Gail porter at Pearl River Re- fan of the Pearl River Mingo; sister, Donna sort. He was an Alabama stickball team & was Mary Garcia; brother, Crimson Tide fan & en- employed at Pearl River Nathaniel John Steve; joyed fishing, watching Resort/Dancing Rabbit the Koni Hata stickball Golf Club. team play & spending He was preceded in time with family. death by his wife, Sally He was preceded in Dixon Amos; parents, death by his parents, Pe- Finis & Marie “Theresa” ter & Mary Shoemake McMillan Amos; sisters, Williams; wife, Janice Audria Simpson & Nita Williams; two infants; Amos; & grandparents, a sister, Lou Anna Wil- Anthony & Venie Com- liams; brothers, Elvis by McMillan, Willis & Williams & Willard Minnie Bell Amos. PAGE 28 CHOCTAW COMMUNITY NEWS

Happy 7th Birth- day to Miss Haylen C. Thomas on July 30th, 2016. With all the love in the world, giant hugs & big kisses from your Mom, Dad, & the Justice League (Renedra, Jeter, Dain, Q, Mya, & Lil Miss Emma Grace). Happy Birthday to our brother Auburn L. Jefferson (a.k.a. Arbs) on Aug. 22. He is a retired PR stickball player. Have fun & don’t overdo it. From your sisters, Baby Sis Karene J., Moss & family, Peggy W. & family, the Wilson family, & cousins & friends in B.C. Happy Birthday to Lavenia Shatoni Bell, from your family in B.C.

Henning, TN Grads Honored The parents and families of the Bogue Chitto-Henning, Tennessee Community would like to recognize the following members of the Class of 2016. Alisha Langford, daughter of Darrell Congratulations and Gwen Langford, granddaughter Alisha! of Cubert Bell, Sr. and Lacie Bell of From the Langford the Bogue Chit- family, Mom, Dad, to-Henning, TN & Deven. Community, graduated May 19 from Ripley High School. She will be attending Dyersburg State Commu- nity College this fall to study criminal justice. Sydney Moore, daughter of Shawn and Margaret Moore, granddaughter of Helen Thompson of the Pearl Riv- Congratulations er Community and the late Wayne Sydney! Thompson, graduated with honors We are proud of you May 22 in Memphis, TN. Sydney will with all our love be attending the University of Mem- & support. From phis in the Honors Program in the fall Mom, Dad, Josh, & to study physical therapy. Shelby. Jalil Jackson, son of Cornelius and Myra Jackson, grandson of Jaunita Thompson Gardinski and nephew of Jeremiah and Jarrett Thompson, grad- uated May 13 from Dyer County High School in Newbern, TN. He scored a 30 on the ACT & was ranked #1 in his class. Jalil plans to attend the Univer- sity of Tennessee-Knoxville this fall where he was accepted into the engi- neering program. Congratulations Congratulations to all graduates and Jalil! good luck in your future endeavors.