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BISKINIKThe Official Publication of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

August 2012 Issue CNO awarded at IHS Tribal Urban Awards Ceremony By LISA REED services staff, the Choctaw Nation Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma has several new programs aimed at educating us on improving our life- The ninth annual Oklahoma styles.” City Area Director’s Indian Health Receiving awards were: Service Tribal Urban Awards Cer- • Area Director’s National Impact emony was held July 19 at the Na- – Mickey Peercy, Choctaw Nation’s tional Cowboy & Western Heritage Executive Director of Health. Museum in Oklahoma City. Chief • Area Director’s Area Impact – Gregory E. Pyle assisted in present- Jill Anderson, Clinic Director of the ing awards to the recipients from the Choctaw Health Clinic in McAles- Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. Thir- ter. teen individuals and one group from • Area Director’s Lifetime the Choctaw Nation’s service area Achievement Award – Kelly Mings, were recognized for their dedica- Chief Financial Officer for Choctaw tion and contributions to improving Nation Health Services. the health and well-being of Native • Exceptional Group Performance Americans. Award Clinical – Chi Hullo Li, The “I would like to commend all who Choctaw Nation’s long-term com- are here today,” said Chief Pyle. prehensive residential treatment pro- “Their hard work and dedication gram for Native American women Choctaw Nation: LISA REED are exemplary. Thanks to our health See IHS Page 11

EPA awards Council meets Allen named among in July session tribe $75K water The Choctaw Nation Tribal Council met in regular session July quality grant state’s Top 50 Women 14 at Tvshka Homma. New busi- The Environmental Protec- By LARISSA COPELAND Gregory E. Pyle appointed Allen to ness began with certification of tion Agency has awarded the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma her current position as the Executive two new teachers of the Choctaw Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Director of Public Relations. language – Josh Riley and Steven $75,000 to provide continued The Journal Record named Choc- “I’ve known Judy for many Parish. support for the tribe’s water taw Nation of Oklahoma’s Judy Al- years,” said Chief Pyle, “and know Council bills addressed include: pollution control program. The len as one of 50 nominees for its her to be an outstanding individual • Application was approved to funds will be used to take water 2012 Woman of the Year “Making in every sense of the word. Her con- the U.S. Department of Education samples to assess surface water a Difference” award. Allen and her tributions to our community, the for the Promise Neighborhoods quality on tribal lands, compile fellow nominees will be honored at Choctaw Nation and to the entire Program. The new community data that may show changes the Journal Record’s Woman of the state of Oklahoma have been ex- and academic support program for over time and determine if a Year awards gala, where the Woman traordinary.” Photo by DAVID FITZGERALD children and youth will help to sig- more thorough watershed man- Over the last 28 years, she has nificantly improve educational and of the Year recipient will be named JUDY ALLEN agement program is needed. on Oct. 4 at the National Cowboy & taken the lead on numerous tribal developmental outcomes. Sampling data will determine Public Relations Executive Director, Western Heritage Museum in Okla- projects and ventures and takes great Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma • Approval of the funds and bud- whether water quality standards homa City. pride in knowing the Choctaw Na- get for the Tribal Homeland Secu- are being met, note any changes As the tribe’s Executive Director tion is now a household name. Al- festival held at the Smithsonian’s rity Grant Program. The CNO has in the quality or condition of of Public Relations, Allen guides len is upheld as the gold standard for National Museum of the American been awarded a grant by the U.S. the Choctaw Nation’s water and media and marketing, serving as a determination, a positive attitude, Indian in Washington, D.C. The Federal Emergency Management provide planning tools to im- voice for the Choctaw Nation, while ingenuity and initiative. Her leader- Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma was Agency in the amount of $449,653 prove the function and health of staying mindful of what is in the ship and participation in numerous the first Native American tribe to to strengthen our tribe’s capacity stream ecosystems. tribe’s best interest. projects throughout the years have hold such an event at the Smithson- to prepare for and respond to emer- The mission of the EPA is to Allen came to work for the Choc- helped to develop a sense of pride ian. The inaugural Choctaw Days in gency situations. The grant funds protect public health and the taw Nation in 1984, first serving and identity for the Choctaw Nation. 2011 was such a tremendous success will assist in the development and environment. The EPA supports as the assistant editor for the tribal Her most recent endeavor has that the NMAI has it scheduled as sustainment of prevention, pro- our nations’ tribes in all aspects newspaper before being promoted been the successful coordination an annual event and has asked other tection, mitigation, response, and of the work needed to improve to editor in 1986. In 1999, Chief of Choctaw Days, a four-day tribal See ALLEN Page 19 See COUNCIL Page 2 the water quality of tribal land watersheds. This cooperative spirit supports work to protect water quality that ensures the health of watersheds that cross state and tribal boundaries. Choctaw Code Talkers from WWI and WWII

Attention readers: We are restructuring print toChoctaw be Code inducted Talkers from served in into World War I wereMilitary Albert was born in SHallhawnee and raised of in Famethe Academy of Military Science in schedules over the next few World Wars I and II and Choctaw Billy, Mitchell Bobb, Victor Brown, Dale where she graduated from high Knoxville, Tenn., in 1981. months! Look for your next member Maj. Gen. LaRita A. Ara- Ben Carterby, Benjamin Colbert Jr., school. She attended Evangel Col- Rising through the ranks, she be- BISKINIK in October! gon (Ret.) are among heroes to be George Davenport, Joseph Daven- lege in Springfield, Mo., and Cen- came the first female commander of inducted into the Oklahoma Mili- port, James Edwards, Tobias Fra- tral State College (now University the Oklahoma Air National Guard tary Hall of Fame in November. The zier, Ben Hampton, Noel Johnson, of Central Oklahoma) in Edmond when she assumed command of the u What’s inside induction ceremony will be held at Otis Leader, Solomon Louis, Pete where Aragon earned a BA degree 137th Services Flight and a female 6:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 9, at Quail Maytubby, Jeff Nelson, Joseph in elementary education and a mas- Brigadier General. This made her Columns...... 2 Notes to the Nation...... 10 Creek Golf and Country Club, Okla- Oklahombi, Robert Taylor, Walter ter’s degree in guidance and coun- the first female of Native American Nursery News...... 4 homa City. Veach and Calvin Wilson, and the seling. Aragon was an elementary Ancestry to attain the rank of Gen- Food Distribution...... 4 Choctaw Code Talkers of World four Choctaw Code Talkers who school teacher and principal before eral Officer. In March 2003, she be- People You Know...... 6 War I and World War II left a lasting also served in the European Theater entering the Oklahoma Air National came the first female to command Education...... 9 legacy for the Choctaw Nation, the during World War II were Schlicht Guard in 1979 as an Airman Basic the Oklahoma Air National Guard. Obituaries...... 15-17 state of Oklahoma and the United Billy, Andrew Perry, Davis Pickens in the 219th Engineering Installa- She was promoted to Major General Iti Fabvssa...... 19 States of America. They were the and Forrester Baker. tion Squadron in Oklahoma City. in 2005. The Mission very first Native Americans to use Maj. Gen. LaRita A. Aragon, the She was commissioned in 1981. She Also being inducted are Capt. their native language on the battle- first female general in the Oklahoma became the first female to command John Lee Prichard, Frontiersman of the Choctaw fields against the German Army in Air National Guard and current Sec- the Oklahoma Air National Guard. Amos Chapman, Capt. Boyd L. Bar- Nation of Oklahoma World War I and again, briefly, in retary of the Oklahoma Department She joined the Oklahoma Air Na- clay, Col. Charles B. DeBellevue, To enhance the lives of all mem- World War II. Choctaw soldiers pio- of Military and Veteran Affairs, also tional Guard in 1979 as an Airman Maj. Kenneth D. Bailey, Command bers through opportunities designed neered the use of Native American will receive the Maj. Gen. Douglas Basic in the 219th Engineering In- Sgt. Maj. Everett Bagley Jr., Capt. to develop healthy, successful and languages as a military code. The Dollar Distinguished Service Award stallation Squadron in Oklahoma Vincent A. Kimberlin, and Lt. Col. productive lifestyles. nineteen Choctaw Code Talkers who for service to the military. Aragon City. She was commissioned through Orville O. “Bill” Munson. BISKINIK | August 2012 | Page 2 Medal design for Code Talkers ready for U.S. Mint From the Desk of tors and members of Congress! Chief Gregory E. Pyle I did not realize it would take such a length of time to get the medals designed and issued, once we had the law passed! The long overdue recognition for the Choctaw Code Talkers The U.S. Mint wants to make sure every single element of the has accomplished a victory over another milestone! In 2008, design is exactly perfect, and there are large committees who The Code Talker Recognition Act oversee the process. There are currently 21 tribes who will re- was passed by Congress, paving the ceive one gold medal each to represent the fact that Code Talk- way for a Congressional Medal to ers came from their tribe. be given to Native American Code Each family who has a Code Talker will receive one silver Talkers. After many months of work- medal, to represent the individual Code Talker. Bronze dupli- ing with various artists at the United cates of the medals are going to be sold by the U.S. Mint at States Mint, the design for the medal a cost of $39.95 plus 4.95 shipping and handling. As soon as has been collectively endorsed by these are available, we will let you know. both the Commission of Fine Arts and The medal for each tribe is unique. The the Citizens Coinage Advisory Com- front of our medal will feature a Choctaw sol- mittee! dier with serious expression, writing a word The U.S. Mint is completing the necessary notifica- on a tablet in our language that means “big tions to the Secretary of Treasury regarding the com- gun.” The soldier is wearing a World War I Photo by David Fitzgerald pleted list of tribes and recipients of the Congressional uniform and is listening on a field telephone. Medals. After this task is complete, they will forward The diamond border on the reverse is very Chief Gregory E. Pyle and Judy Allen discuss the differ- the designs immediately for the Secretary’s final ap- important to the Choctaw Nation of Okla- ent proofs of the design of the Choctaw Nation Code Talk- proval. homa, and appears as an iconic design on ers Congressional Medal. It has been a delayed and challenging path since beginning traditional clothing and art as a way to honor our surroundings. the crusade for acknowledgment of the efforts and success of The diamonds symbolize the diamondback rattlesnake to show the Native American Code Talkers in our military. I appreciate a consciousness for nature and awareness that people must be unstrung in times of peace, but are known to have “ready to friends and supporters like Congressman Dan Boren who con- careful to treat our surroundings with respect, caution, and pru- string in an instant, to protect home and family.” tinued the endeavors in Congress to obtain the medals. Many dence. The Choctaw Code Talkers were the original Code Talkers, thanks go to the team at Choctaw Nation who enthusiastically The reverse also has the Great Seal of the Choctaw Nation, and their success paved the way for the strategy of using Native worked on the effort, and to the descendants of the Code Talk- featuring three arrows representing historic warrior chiefs American languages as “code” in battlefield messages during ers and the Army National Guard generals who walked the Apukshunnubbee, Pushmataha and Moshulatubbee, a smoking World War I and World War II. Thanks to their efforts, many halls of Congress with me to lobby the effort! Most of all, thank pipe hatchet that would have been passed in ancient councils lives were saved, and many battles were won. Yakoke to our you to all the Choctaw people who called and wrote your Sena- of both peace and war, and the bow, which the Choctaws keep telephone warriors!

Choctaw Nation Chaplain’s Corner has many places In the world, but not of it May God bless our Choc- 10:10: “The thief cometh not, of interest for taws and friends. Thank you but for to steal, and to kill, and for your prayers. It is a privi- to destroy: I am come that they lege to share with you Words might have life, and that they families to visit from the Holy Bible. I look might have it more abundant- From the Desk of forward to visiting with you ly.” Assistant Chief Gary Batton during the Choctaw Nation And those that have been Labor Day Festival in Tvshka truly converted to Jesus Christ Each summer I enjoy seeing the many Homma. The Lord willing. know the meaning of the abun- guests who come to the Choctaw Nation Today we are going to look dant living. The Bible teaches Headquarters. The headquarters building is at the word “world” as used in that the worldliness is a spirit of the former Presbyterian College constructed the Bible. the world system that is in op- about the turn of the 20th century and is an ers as well as the names of those who gave Why? Because there is much position and in contradiction to confusion concerning the all that is godly and Christian. historic landmark in Durant, Okla. We have their lives while serving our country during meaning of the word and atti- Its goal is selfish pleasure, ma- been fortunate to use the beautiful facility military action in a major conflict. I am look- tude of Christians towards the terial success, and the pride of for administrative purposes and offices since ing forward to walking through the pathway world. life. It is ambitious, self-cen- 1975. around the new monuments to pay homage Some have said that if the tered. God is not denied. He is The museum at Tvshka Homma, our tribal to those who have given their lives for this church is to make its impact Rev. Bertram Bobb just ignored and forgotten. Capital Grounds, is about a one and a half nation and for us. on our generation it must be- Tribal Chaplain Christ designated Satan as hour drive from the Durant headquarters, so While traveling southeast Oklahoma, if come more worldly minded. the prince of this world system many guests from across the United States you are interested in our tribe’s history, a tour In a sense that is true, yet in another, Biblical three times. He said in John 14:30: “Hereafter visit both facilities while on vacation. The of Chief Thomas LeFlore’s House at Swink, sense, it is false. I will not talk much with you: for the prince of Capitol Building was the site of Choctaw Wheelock Academy in Millerton and Skul- The Bible teaches in the New Testament that this world cometh, and hath nothing in me.” Nation legislative action from 1884 to 1905, lyville Cemetery in Spiro are three great sites since we live in the world, we are involved John 16:11: “Of judgment, because the with the world. The Bible says in First John prince of this world is judged.” Again, he said and currently houses museum exhibits, a gift to put on your list. Vacation fun in our area 2:15: “Love not the world, neither the things in John 12:31: “Now is the judgment of this shop and the Tribal Court. isn’t limited to historic tours. Choctaw Na- of the world. If any man love the world, is not world: Now shall the prince of this world be The Capitol Grounds will host over 50,000 tion is also home to great lakes for families to in him.” cast out.” visitors during the Labor Day Festival as visit, including Sardis, Eufaula, McGee, Pine As we read the New Testament, it is clear The Bible is clear that the world’s inhabit- Choctaws reunite for our annual “family” Creek, Wister, Broken Bow, Robert S. Kerr that we are not to become entangled with the ants are either under the influence of this world gathering and welcome friends and relatives and Hugo. world. Now, the question we ask is, “What is system with its deception, and spell; or they are from all over to celebrate with us! It would The Choctaw Nation has hotels in Durant the world?” There are three meanings to this in Christ and under the direction of the Spirit of be an honor to greet you at this year’s event and Grant, and we encourage you to visit our word world. God. There is no neutral ground. The lines are at Tvshka Homma! places of business when you are in the area. First, the Bible says there is a created world. drawn by the Bible. Our Choctaw Nation Veteran’s Advocacy We would love to provide you with tremen- In Acts 17:24 we read: “God that made the But the Christian is not left defenseless in program has designed a new war memo- dous customer service and help make your world and all things therein…” this conflict. God provides the power to give us Second, there are people living in the world, victory over Satan. Paul said in Romans 8:37: rial for the entrance to the Capitol Grounds vacation memorable. Southeast Oklahoma whom God loves and for whom Christ died, “Nay, all these things we are more than con- that is absolutely magnificent. It bears the has a lot to offer families on holiday – check John 3:16, “For God so loved the world, that querors through him that loved us.” names of the soldiers who were Code Talk- us out! he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever We will never overcome by our social con- believeth in Him should not perish, but have cern or by identifying ourselves with resolu- everlasting life.” tions that are taking place in the world. We Third, there is the world system, which is read in Revelation 12:11: “And they overcame headed by Satan, based upon self, greed, and him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word pride. This is the world system, which Chris- of their testimony; and they loved not their tians are to hate and stay away from. lives unto the death.” The world was such a great danger to our We are involved in a spiritual conflict. This souls that this danger caused Jesus Christ, the is a battle between the forces of God and the Son of God, to go to the cross to deliver us forces of Satan, and we are involved in it. We from it. are asked to choose sides. As we read through the Bible, the lines are The Bible warns about being taken in by definitely drawn between the world of unbe- the evil of this world system. Satan’s lies are lievers and the world of the children of God. cleverly mixed with truth. Now we are not to We read in scriptures such as James 4:4: get our worlds mixed up. This is where the “Whosoever therefore will be of the world is confusion lies. God meant that we are not to the enemy of God.” mingle with the world, but we are to witness In this generation in which we live, it is not to the world. We are to love the world of men Choctaw Nation: LISA REED easy for the Christian to distinguish between whom God loves. We are to weep, suffer with Steven Parish of McAlester and Josh Riley of Durant receive certification to teach the that who is spiritual, and that who is worldly. those who suffer, and identify ourselves with In the Scriptures, Satan is called an “angel of the poor, the sick, and the needy. Choctaw language during the Tribal Council’s Regular Session on July 14. Pictured are light.” In II Corinthians 11:14 we read, “And This then is our problem: to associate with Councilmen Joe Coley and Bob Pate, Parish, Dora Wickson of the School of Choctaw no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed and love those who are involved in the world Language, Riley with daughter Milena, Councilman Ted Dosh, Council Speaker Delton into an angel of light.” without being influenced or swayed by them. Cox and Assistant Chief Gary Batton. He is a great imitator, and is not always This distinction can only be achieved by easy to distinguish between Satan’s world and a close walk with Jesus Christ, by contrast where God reigns. Jesus said, if it were pos- prayer, by seeking the Holy Spirit’s leadership conferences related to library services, and to sible Satan would deceive the very elect. “For every hour of the day. hire a consultant for an on-site professional li- there shall arise false Christs, and false proph- God has provided us with the power to resist brary assessment. ets and shall show great signs, and wonders; the world and be separated from it, and it is to • Approval of an application to the U.S. Ad- insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall appropriate that power every hour of our lives. ContinuedCouncil from Page 1 deceive the very elect.” (Matthew 24:24). As Christians we are in the world, but the ministration for Children and Families for the recovery for emergency situations. Affordable Care Act (ACA) Tribal Maternal, Many Christians are tricked into believing world is not in us. We come in contact with the that you cannot enjoy life except you are a world and yet we retain our distinctive king- • Approval of an application to the U.S. Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting member of the worldly crowd. dom character and refuse to let the world press Department of Health and Human Services Grant Program. The ACA program will help The happiest people I know are separated us into its mold. for the Elder Abuse Prevention Interven- provide high-quality, evidence-based home followers of Jesus Christ completely dedicated And finally Christians look for the end of the tion Program. The program addresses the visiting services to promote outcomes as im- to Him. They are not dependent upon artificial world. The Bible teaches that God is going to need to implement, test and measure per- provements in maternal and prenatal, infant, stimulants. They don’t have to resort to dirty renovate the world, rid it of its wickedness, and formance of new approaches for prevention and child development outcomes, improve jokes. They don’t have to abuse their bodies that Satan himself will be cast into the lake of of elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation and family socio-economic status, and reduce in- to relax their minds. The Bible says in Psalm fire and brimstone. (Revelation 20:10.) review those risk factors to enhance future cidence of injuries, crime and domestic vio- 16:11: “Thou wilt show me the path of life: in We are in the world but we are not of the prevention efforts. lence. thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand world. We are to love those for whom Christ • Approval of the funds and budget of • Approval of an application to the U.S. there are pleasures for evermore.” died. We are to pray for them, witness to them, a grant awarded by the Institute of Mu- Department of the Interior, Bureau of Indian To be a Christian is not a pious pose. It is not helping worthwhile projects we can. But we a long list of restrictions. It opens the windows are to strive to achieve the most difficult of seum and Library Services in the amount Affairs for the Water Resources Management, to the real joy of living. duty, not to be conformed to the world. This is of $6,000 to continue to support existing Planning, and Pre-Development Program. The world systems would have us believe the Christian’s stand; this is the Christian’s job. library operations and to maintain core The funds will assist the Choctaw Nation in that following Jesus Christ is nothing but “thou Will you trust Him and rely upon Him for library services. The grant will provide managing, conserving and utilizing water re- shalt nots.” The world system would have us everything? Choctaw Nation staff the ability to attend sources. believe that Christianity is a killjoy, a kind of Pray for America, pray for our leaders. Pray continuing education courses and training • Approval for the Fixed Assets Department life that is not natural. for our brave men and women in our armed workshops, attend or give presentation at to dispose of excess equipment. Jesus, the Good Shepherd, said in John forces. BISKINIK | August 2012 | Page 3 A new era in printingng New full-service commercial printing press means competitive advantage By CHRISSY DILL me an electronic file of a magazine or a brochure, Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and I can be on press in 6 minutes with it; that used to take a day to prepare and get the press It’s understood that the basics of a successful business in- ready to print. clude skilled staff, advanced equipment, extensive experience “In ’84 we had two to three weeks to produce and an effective leader. a job, now we have two or three days,” Marcum Being a family-operated business functioning for over 30 explained. years, Texoma Print Services (TPS) has all the essentials of a Marcum described the difference this new press Choctaw Nation: BRET MOSS profitable company that promises continued growth and excep- makes and what he’s observed through the years. tional service to its customers. “This is a four-color press. You would have to cre- TPS employees pose in front of the new Presstek 75DI press. TPS recently added a new press, the Presstek 75DI, to its ate four different films just to create four different facility as well as a new book maker and tools to make sure this plates, take those plates and hang them,” he ex- newly acquired equipment works smoothly. plained. “It was just a completely different process back then.” According to Marcum, being a part of this family has brought The company also moved into a new, much larger facility in The new press has altered the type of production for TPS as much stability to his company. “As far as financial and employ- January of this year, a helpful resource in its production and well. “We’re mostly doing catalogs right now, but we’re mak- ee stability goes, if you’re owned by the Choctaw Nation, it growth. ing a big push since we’ve gotten the press to get some smaller becomes much easier to gain employees and keep employees, Director of Texoma Print Services Russell Marcum has been magazines going,” said Marcum. because of the benefits that come with it,” he said. Coming head of the company since he graduated from Southeastern With the addition of the press and new tools, the TPS team with the Choctaw Nation was the ability to attract employees Oklahoma State University in 1984. The company was origi- has added four more employees, giving them 15 employees to- and keep their needs met, therefore increasing productivity and nally founded by Don Marcum in 1979. tal. maintaining a successful enterprise. Marcum joined TPS in a managerial and sales capacity, and Years of experience in the printing industry and effective The tribe has helped TPS grow substantially. “When the as a result, the customer base increased, the commercial print- customer relations come with the TPS team of employees. Choctaw Nation bought the company, at that time we were ing division developed, and by 1997, the business had doubled “Our staff gives us a competitive edge,” said Marcum. “I think bringing in about $3 million in sales a year,” said Marcum, in growth. the people we’ve assembled here, it rivals any other company “and this last year, we were at $7.5 million in sales.” According to Marcum, the new press and book maker will from Dallas to Oklahoma City when it comes to experience, Though TPS’ service area ranges from north Dallas, up to benefit the company a great deal. “Before we got the new press, what we can do and the knowledge we have here.” Tulsa on to Oklahoma City, the bulk of their work goes to we were outsourcing about $1.5 million worth of print that we Employees Susan Cummins and Kerry Prince have worked Choctaw Nation programs and businesses. couldn’t print in-house,” explained Marcum. “Bringing in the for TPS for 24 and 18 years. Aside from the four new hires, the “Of the $7.5 million we earned last year, right about half of new press has allowed us to bring most of that work here.” minimum number of years an employee has been with TPS is that was Choctaw related,” stated Marcum. “They’re by far our With additional hired help as well as the new machines, Mar- four years. biggest client.” cum expects the company to continue to grow. “I think we’ll Not only has this team of employees gained experience in TPS sales representative Jerry Hanson has been employed see growth in the first year,” he stated. “The major growth we’ll their time with TPS, several have been working in the printing with the company for 25 years and has seen it develop first- see in the first year may not be in total sales, but in total profit, industry throughout their professional career. Tammy Wagon- hand. “The Choctaw Nation has made the company grow even because we’ll see a lot of that printing that we outsourced come er, who has been with the company for six years, has 30-plus more to satisfy what needs to be done without us having to back here and be produced here, which makes it 30 to 40 per- years of experience, according to Marcum. Prince, production go outside of the company,” he said concerning the business’s cent more profitable in the long run. manager, also has 30-plus years of work in the print field, and previous outsourcing endeavors. “We expect to grow between 7 and 10 percent; that’s our Robby Syler, who has been with TPS for seven years, has 25 “Russell is a good guy and a good salesman,” said Hanson of goal,” he said. years of experience. his director. “He does well for this company. If he tells me he’s The new press opens up other sources of revenue for TPS, “There’s a lot of experience here,” stated a confident Mar- going to do something, he will get it done; he’s a good man.” not only print services, but packaging, said Marcum. cum. “I don’t mind entrusting things to other people here, be- With the help of the Choctaw Nation, Marcum’s leadership The new book maker allows them to print magazines and cause I know they’ll get it done. It’s a good crew.” and the experience, skills and knowledge of his team of em- newsletters. Marcum said when he first started working for TPS, the com- ployees, TPS has become a thriving small business that contin- “This new equipment is going to allow us to be much more pany was bringing in about $900,000 a year, “which was pretty ues to grow. “We’ve gone from a staff of three to a staff of 15, profitable and more timely,” said Marcum. “It enables usto good for a small printing company,” he said. and gone from 2,500 square feet to about 10,000 square feet,” compete with some companies we haven’t been able to com- “After I graduated from Southeastern and started actively said a pleased Marcum. pete with in the past.” marketing the company, we just started seeing it grow from Anyone interested in contributing to TPS’ business, or want- The printing industry as a whole has changed drastically year to year,” Marcum recalled. “From ’84 to ’04, we went ing to learn more about the company can call 580-924-1120 or since Marcum joined TPS in 1984, with the introduction of the from $900,000 in sales to just over $3 million in sales. That email [email protected]. digital age and traditional printing fading. is when the Choctaw Nation became interested in buying us.” TPS’ new location is at 2712 Enterprise Blvd. in Durant. “The need for speed is one thing that’s huge,” he explained. In 2006, TPS became a profitable part of the family of com- Find a brochure of the company’s services at its website, tex- “One thing that is really good about this press is you can send panies owned by the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. printone.com.

New casino and dental clinic open in Stigler By LISA REED Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

Ribbon-cutting ceremonies on Aug. 10 commemorated the addition of two new Choctaw Nation businesses in Stigler. Tribal and local officials along with several area residents gath- ered to celebrate the opening of the Choctaw Nation Dental Clinic and Choctaw Nation Casino. The dental clinic, located at 103 N.W. Ninth, fulfills a vital need in the area for tribal members. “Before we opened the clinic in Stigler, the closest dental services available to them were in McAlester, Talihina or Po- teau,” said Teresa Jackson, facility director of the Choctaw Nation Health Care Center. The dental clinic currently offers exams, extractions, some restorative work and walk-in emer- gency services. A doctor is available three days a week and is scheduled to begin full time next month. The facility will also Choctaw Nation: JUDY ALLEN be adding services such as preventative care for its patients. Chief Gregory E. Pyle, Assistant Chief Gary Batton, Tribal Council members and casino staff cut the ribbon at the of- The clinic’s hours of operation are from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. ficial grand opening of the new Stigler casino. That morning there were already eight walk-ins added to the schedule before the 10 a.m. ribbon-cutting. Councilman Ron Perry noted the tribe’s partnership with Ki- Bois. The building is leased from the community action group and several representatives were on hand for the grand open- ing. “We are thankful we could be here today and pleased we are able to expand our health services,” Chief Gregory E. Pyle told the audience. “Our clinics and hospitals are debt-free and it’s good to be able to offer more for the folks in this district.” The group next joined the festivities at the Choctaw Nation’s newest casino. One of eight casinos operated by the tribe, the 7,800-sq.-ft. center on Stigler’s Main Street began a three-day celebration that included hourly drawings for cash, fun promo- tional prizes and gifts like caps and T-shirts. “We’re excited to open the doors of our new casino and celebrate the grand opening with the Stigler community,” said Karen Terrell, general manager of the casino. “With promo- tional giveaways, and thousands of dollars in cash drawings, we look forward to making a splash in Stigler.” Terrell is a Sti- gler native and has worked for the tribe for seven years, trans- ferring from Pocola to the casino in her hometown. Senior Director of Gaming Tammye Gwin extended appre- ciation to the designers, Childers Architects, and builders Man- hattan Construction, and to sign vendor I-5 Designs and slot vendors VGT and GCG who were also involved in the project. The casino features 200 slot machines and plenty of parking. Councilman Perry stressed what a great opportunity the casino has provided in bringing jobs and adding an economic boost. Choctaw Nation: JUDY ALLEN The casino employs 27 associates from the Haskell County area, projecting an annual payroll of $700,000. It is open from Chief Gregory E. Pyle, Assistant Chief Gary Batton, Tribal Council members and clinic staff hold a ribbon-cutting at 8 a.m. to 2 a.m. Sunday through Thursday and 6 a.m. to 4 a.m. the new Choctaw Nation Dental Clinic in Stigler. Fridays and Saturdays. BISKINIK | August 2012 | Page 4 Choctaw Nation WIC Nursery News WOMEN, INFANTS Sloane Johnson-Byington Jayden Ebert and CHILDREN Sloane Parker Johnson-Byington Jayden “Teddy” Theodore Ebert was born on July 15, 2012, in Tor- was welcomed into this world on rance, Calif. The very proud par- June 9, 2012, weighing 8 pounds ents are Jason and Winter Johnson- and 3 ounces. Proud parents are SITE HOURS DAYS Byington. She is the granddaughter Ciara (Salmon) Flack and Adam Antlers 8:30-4:00 Every Tuesday of David and Sissel Byington and Ebert; grandparents are Richard (580-298-3161) she makes everyone around her bet- and Robyn (Salmon) Ebert, and Atoka 8:00-4:30 Every Mon., Wed., ter people. grandpa James Flack. His uncles (580-889-5825) Thurs. & Fri. are Zach and Joe Ebert; aunts are Molly and Hannah Ebert; Bethel 8:30-4:00 1st Tuesday and great-grandparents are Bill and Gail (Jones) Salmon, and (580-241-5458) Kinley Ludlow George and Jane (Hansleben) Ebert. Boswell 8:30-4:00 Every Friday (580-380-5264) Kinley Taloa Grace Ludlow was Broken Bow 8:00-4:30 Daily, except 1st Tues. born on June 3, 2012, at 4:39 a.m., (580-584-2746) & 2nd Thurs. weighing 5 pounds and 10 ounces, Miles Zaret Coalgate 8:00-4:30 Every Wednesday measuring 19 inches long. Kinley (580-927-3641) is the daughter of Elizabeth Baker Miles Doyle Zaret was born on Durant 8:00-4:30 Daily of Leflore; granddaughter to Rick May 29, 2012, in London, Eng- (580-924-8280 x 2257) and Debbie Lloyd of Summerfield; land. He weighed 7 pounds and 7 Hugo 8:00-4:30 Daily great-granddaughter to Woody Al- ounces. His proud parents are Dan (580-326-5404) len and Paula Locke of Indianola; great-great-granddaughter and Selena Zaret of Ann Arbor, Idabel 8:00-4:30 Mon., Thurs. & Fri. to the late Woody James Locke and Floy Locke of Indianola; Mich., and Los Angeles, respec- (580-286-2510) and the great-great-granddaughter to Paul and the late Juanita tively. Maternal grandparents are McAlester 8:00-4:30 Daily Ratliff of Purcell. A host of loving aunts, uncles and cousins Lonnie and Ruby Corley of Los (918-423-6335) welcomes her. The family would like to thank the staff at Choc- Angeles; and paternal grandparents are Philip and Barbara Za- Poteau 8:00-4:30 Daily taw Nation Hospital in Talihina for the care to both mother and ret of Ann Arbor. (918-647-4585) baby. Smithville 8:30-4:00 2nd Thursday (580-244-3289) Spiro 8:00-4:30 Every Wed. - Fri. Caleb Caldwell Make better beverage choices (918-962-3832) 10 tips to get started Stigler 8:30-4:00 Every Mon. - Wed. Michael Caldwell and Cathe- (918-967-4211) rien Clein would like to announce What you drink is as im- WIC Talihina 8:00-4:30 Mon., Tues., Wed., WOMEN, INFANTS the birth of their son Caleb Allen portant as what you eat. Many (918-567-7000 x 6792) & Fri. AND CHILDREN Caldwell. He was born on Feb. 28, beverages contain added sug- Wilburton 8:30-4:00 Every Thursday 2012, at 5:38 p.m. in Austin, Texas. ars and offer little or no nu- (918-465-5641) He weighed 5 pounds 15 ounces 6. Don’t forget your trients, while others may pro- dairy** and was 18.5 inches long. He was vide nutrients but too much When you choose milk or born 5.5 weeks early and is doing fat and too many calories. milk alternatives, select low- great! Here are some tips to help you fat or fat-free milk or fortified Back to school meal tips make better beverage choices. soymilk. Each type of milk 1. Drink water How to keep kids happy and healthy offers the same key nutrients Drink water instead of such as calcium, vitamin D, FOOD DISTRIBUTION sugary drinks when you’re and potassium, but the num- It is back to school time! what days they want to eat the thirsty. Regular soda, energy bers of calories are very dif- This phrase brings up all school meals, asking if they SEPTEMBER or sports drinks, and other ferent. Older children, teens, kinds of thoughts and emo- will eat everything offered. ANTLERS sweet drinks usually contain a and adults need 3 cups of tions. Some being: “What Then, on the days they want Market open weekdays Sept. 4-25. lot of added sugar, which has milk per day, while children 4 are my kids eating at school? to bring their own breakfast Sept. 5 : Idabel 9-11 a.m.; Broken Bow 12-2 p.m. (market open) more calories than needed. To to 8 years old need 2.5 cups Do my kids eat their breakfast and/or lunch have ready a Sept. 12: Bethel 9-10:30; Smithville 12-2 (market open) maintain a healthy weight, sip and children 2 to 3 years old and lunch at school? How can list of foods items they can Closed Sept. 26-28 for inventory water or other drinks with few need 2 cups. I help my kids eat healthy choose to pack a healthy and Cooking with Carmen: Sept. 10 & 21, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. or no calories. 7. Enjoy your bever- meals when at school?” nutritious meal. By using My 2. How much water Schools that serve children Plate your kids can fill the durant age is enough? breakfast, lunch and snacks spaces just like a puzzle. Market open weekdays: Sept. 4-25. When water just won’t do Let your thirst be your have to follow strict dietary Try this sample list to get Closed Sept. 26-28 for inventory — enjoy the beverage of your guide. Water is an important guidelines to meet calorie started: Cooking with Carmen: Sept. 4 & 17, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. choice, but just cut back. Re- needs and nutritional content • Grilled chicken wraps nutrient for the body, but ev- member to check the serving of the foods they serve the using multi grain, spinach or McAlester eryone’s needs are different. size and the number of serv- children in their care. tomato basil tortilla wraps Market open weekdays Sept. 4-25. Most of us get enough water ings in the can, bottle, or con- However, this does not al- with fresh sliced red, yellow Closed Sept. 26-28 for inventory from the foods we eat and tainer to stay within calorie ways mean that the children and orange bell peppers, fresh Cooking with Carmen: Sept. 6 & 19, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. the beverages we drink. A needs. Select smaller cans, will eat all that is served or baby spinach, cucumber, etc., healthy body can balance wa- cups, or glasses instead of POTEAU ter needs throughout the day. even any of it. Be it personal with fresh berries, mango, Market open weekdays Sept. 4-25. large or supersized options. taste, peer pressure or just be- plum or kiwi as a nice desert. Drink plenty of water if you 8. Water on the go Closed Sept. 26-28 for inventory. are very active, live or work ing homesick sometimes kids • Peanut butter on whole Water is always convenient. Cooking with Carmen: Sept. 14 & 24, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. in hot conditions, or are an will just pick at their food. wheat bread, baby carrots, Fill a clean, reusable water older adult. Packing a lunch from home apple sauce and light yogurt bottle and toss it in your bag is always an option, yet not (any flavor). 3. A thrifty option or brief case to quench your always practical due to time • Mini pizza, using whole Water is usually easy on the thirst throughout the day. Re- and finances. A combination grain flat bun, marinara sauce, FOOD DISTRIBUTION wallet. You can save money usable bottles are also easy on of school lunch and bag lunch part skim mozzarella, garden OCTOBER by drinking water from the the environment. can help to get your kids to salad and peaches. tap at home or when eating 9. Check the facts ANTLERS out. eat breakfast and lunch every • Spaghetti with meat sauce, Use the Nutrition Facts la- day while ensuring adequate green beans, salad and pear. Market open weekdays Oct. 1-26. 4. Manage your cal- bel to choose beverages at the nutritional intake. • Grilled chicken salad with Oct. 3 : Idabel 9-11 a.m.; Broken Bow 12-2 p.m. (market open) ories grocery store. The label con- With your child, review the fresh baby spinach, shredded Oct. 10: Bethel 9-10:30; Smithville 12-2 (market open) Drink water with and be- tains information about total school lunch menu for the carrots, kiwi, strawberries Closed Oct. 29-31 for inventory tween your meals. Adults sugars, fats, and calories to next week. Let them decide and wheat thins. Cooking with Carmen: Oct. 1 & 12, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. and children take in about help you make better choices. durant 400 calories per day as bev- 10. Compare what Market open weekdays: Oct. 1-26. erages; drinking water can you drink help you manage calories. Gregory E. Pyle Gary Batton Closed Oct. 29-31 for inventory Food-A-Pedia, an online Chief Assistant Chief Cooking with Carmen: Oct. 5 & 15, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. 5. Kid-friendly drink feature available at Choos- zone eMyPlate.gov/SuperTracker, McAlester The Official Make water, low-fat or fat- can help you compare calo- Market open weekdays Oct. 1-26. free milk, or 100 percent juice ries, added sugars and fats in Monthly Publication Closed Oct. 29-31 for inventory of the an easy option in your home. your favorite beverages. Cooking with Carmen: Oct. 8 & 19, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. Have ready-to-go con- Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma *100 percent juice is part of POTEAU tainers filled with water or the Fruit or Vegetable Group. Judy Allen, Executive Director Market open weekdays Oct. 1-26. healthy drinks available in Juice should make up half or Lisa Reed, Director/Editor Closed Oct. 29-31 for inventory. the refrigerator. Place them less of total recommended Melissa Stevens, Circulation Director Cooking with Carmen: Oct. 3 & 10, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. in lunch boxes or backpacks fruit or vegetable intake. Larissa Copeland, Assistant Editor for easy access when kids are ** Milk is a part of the Karen Jacob, Purchasing Coordinator away from home. Depending Dairy Group. A cup = 1 cup of Bret Moss, Copy/Production Assistant Chrissy Dill, Copy/Production Assistant Choctaw Nation Food Distribution on age, children can drink a milk or yogurt, 1.5 ounces of Open 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Monday thru Friday. half to 1 cup, and adults can natural cheese, or 2 ounces of P.O. Box 1210 Staff will take lunch from 11:30 to 12 noon. drink up to 1 cup of 100 per- processed cheese. For more cent fruit or vegetable juice* Durant, OK 74702 WAREHOUSES & MARKETS information, visit choosemy- (580) 924-8280 • (800) 522-6170 each day. plate.gov. Fax (580) 924-4148 Antlers: 306 S.W. “O” St., 580-298-6443 www.choctawnation.com Durant: 100 1/2 Waldron Dr., 580-924-7773 e-mail: [email protected] McAlester: 1212 S. Main St., 918-420-5716 Poteau: 100 Kerr, 918-649-0431 Recipe of the Month The BISKINIK is printed each month as a service to Tribal Members. The BISKINIK reserves the right to edit submitted ma- Food Distribution Sites terial which it finds inaccurate, profane, offensive or morally un- Bethel: Choctaw Community Building acceptable. Copy may be edited for proper grammar and punc- Broken Bow: Choctaw Family Investment Center RecipeBasil from Chicken Better Homes Wrapsand Gardens tuation. Copy will be accepted in any readable form, but where Idabel: Choctaw Community Center Ingredients: together 1/2 cup miracle possible, it is requested that material be typewritten and double Smithville: Choctaw Community Center • 8 - 8 or 9 inch plain, to- whip free, 1 tablespoon spaced. You must include an address or phone number where Stigler: Choctaw Community Center you may be reached. Due to space limitations and the quantity mato or spinach tortillas snipped fresh basil, and 1 In accordance with federal law and U.S. Department of Agri- of article submissions, we are unable to include everything we • 1/2 cup basil dressing small clove garlic, minced. receive. culture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on • 12 oz. thinly sliced If desired, stir in 1/8 tea- If you are receiving more than one BISKINIK at your home the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, political chicken or turkey, cut into spoon cayenne pepper. or if your address needs changed, we would appreciate hearing beliefs, or disability. To file a complaint of discrimination, write thin strips Makes about a half cup. from you. USDA, Director, Office of Adjudication and Compliance, 1400 • 1 large red sweet pep- Nutrition Facts: Per The BISKINIK is a nonprofit publication of the Choctaw Na- Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, or per, cut into strips serving: tion. call 800-795-3272 (voice) or 202-720-6382 (TDD). USDA is an Circulation is monthly. Article deadline is the 10th of the • Fresh purple or green Servings - 4, Calories - equal opportunity provider and employer. month for the following month’s edition. basil leaves 378, Total Fat - 25g, Cho- Editor’s note: Views and opinions in reader-submitted articles Directions: Prepare ba- lesterol - 23mg, Sodium - are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent sil dressing and spread 723mg, Carb. - 29g. those of the Choctaw Nation. onto tortillas. Arrange basil For more information leaves, chicken slices, and contact: Erin Adams, RD, sweet pepper on tortillas. Choctaw Nation Diabetes Fold up bottoms; roll into Wellness Center, 800-349- cones. Basil dressing: Stir 7026 ext. 6959. BISKINIK® 2012 BISKINIK | August 2012 | Page 5 Local pregnancy center takes message to Congress

Pregnancy Center of Bryan County has impact on Durant mother SPPT supports Choctaw teens By BRET MOSS Technology Center and board during pregnancy Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma member of PCBC, Penny Lovell, who was willing and The Choctaw Nation “Pregnancy Help Centers ready to help Shelly in any Support for Pregnant are good for America.” This way she could. and Parenting Teens Pro- is the message that four mem- Penny brought her to gram (SPPT) is designed bers of the Pregnancy Cen- PCBC, and as Shelly was to help young Native ter of Bryan County (PCBC) counseled, she found support American mothers dur- brought to the nation’s Capi- and hope. It brought her back ing pregnancy and the tol recently. They, along with from the brink of despair and months to follow. associates of pregnancy cen- gave her courage. She then Each client will be ters across the United States, had a support system and her able to learn about their were a part of Heartbeat Inter- fears began to subside. pregnancy though an as- national’s “Babies go to Con- Baby Kiree’s life was saved sortment of curriculums. gress,” an event, held in late when Shelly decided to see SPPT utilizes the Par- July, in which pregnancy cen- the pregnancy through. Af- ents As Teachers (PAT) ters across the country select ter the birth, the support of curriculum the greatest a client with a compelling tes- PCBC did not stop. They con- amount. According to timony to represent the center tinued to teach and counsel Parentsasteachers.org, and share their moving story Shelly, showing her how to “PAT develops curricula with America’s leaders. be the best mother she could that support a parent’s The star of PCBC team, be for her children. role in promoting school Shelly Louis, a mother of Since this experience, she readiness and healthy de- three and member of the has begun to share the same velopment of children.” Choctaw Nation of Oklaho- support that was given to her. This will teach young ma, shared her moving tes- She has shared her story to parents the techniques timony with many congress- others considering abortion, to give children a bright men and women over the steering them away from that future. two-day event, where she felt decision. “I am thankful and SPPT also provides she made a significant impact blessed that God has used me Injoy, a type of video on views about the impor- to continue the work of the education that will give tance of pregnancy centers. pregnancy center beyond its mothers a glimpse at all “We went to show Con- doors,” Shelly declared. the upcoming steps to gress that this country was Traveling with Shelly to Photo provided raising her child – from built on Biblical principals, “Babies go to Congress,” was Shelly Louis, Kiree Louis and U.S. Rep. Michele Bachmann on the capitol steps. prenatal care though that God knows us even in the her daughter, Kiree, Penny stages after the delivery. womb, to let them know we and Bridget Youngblood, who Positive Indian Parent- all have a purpose and abor- had counseled Shelly, and the ment funding it would have to care for mother and child said Penny. ing (PIP) is also a learn- tion is not the answer,” de- Executive Director of PCBC, to present abortion as an op- after the birth, are taught by Ultrasounds are also given ing device used by SPPT. clared Shelly as she spoke of Brenda Williams. tion, a choice PCBC is firmly counselors, as well as provid- in emergency cases when a This curriculum teaches her reason for participating in These four women not only against. ing support systems. future mother is seriously Native American moth- the conference. brought a message to Capitol PCBC is funded by private Clients have access to the considering abortion. Accord- ers how other natives Shelly was able to share Hill, but learned from others donations from individuals Mommy Market. This is a ing to Penny, 90 percent of fa- used to care for their her story in a personal setting as well. “I was just in awe and organizations such as the place where mothers or ex- thers who see the ultrasound children. It demonstrates many times – a message that of these young mothers, the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. pectant mothers can come and will turn down abortion, and how to utilize their cul- does an excellent job of dis- things they went through and “As a nation, we support the use their “mommy bucks” over 80 percent of mothers tural roots and pass it playing a pregnancy center at their courage,” stated Penny. sanctity of human life,” stated to shop for items such as who see it will also refuse to along to future genera- its brightest. They were able to meet per- Chief Gregory E. Pyle of the clothes, strollers, diapers and abort. tions. She was six weeks preg- sonally with U.S. Rep. Tom Choctaw Nation. This private other baby essentials. Mom- “We want them to know SPPT will provide nant with her now 1-year-old Cole of Oklahoma and U.S. funding allows them to have my Bucks are earned by par- exactly what they are doing home visits to an eligible daughter, Kiree, when she Rep. Michele Bachmann of prayers with clients, teach ticipating in the curriculum, so they can make an informed client and provide the needed the center the most. Minnesota, and many others. Biblical lessons and present all which entails discussions, decision that they won’t re- Injoy, PIP, and PAT cur- “Abortion was a very real op- “I brought home a feeling of new clients with Bibles. literature and videos provided gret,” said Youngblood, as riculums as well as Life tion for me,” Shelly said. She gratefulness that these lead- Anyone who seeks help by PCBC. she discussed why PCBC Skills Progression in was unmarried and unsure ers are supporting us,” said from PCBC will have access Several resources are pro- makes sure all who consider making short and long- about finances, a situation Shelly as she described the to a wealth of information, vided for expecting mothers abortion know all the facts. term goals. Home visits that put immeasurable stress support shown by the con- many resources that will help who are unsure about whether If you are in need of services will either be once or on the mother-to-be. gressional members. along the journey of parent- to abort the pregnancy. Dia- provided by PCBC or would twice per month depend- Just a few days before fol- PCBC, located on the cor- hood. PCBC provides a de- grams showing what the child like more information call ing on the need deter- lowing through with her de- ner of Second and Beech in tailed curriculum taught in looks like within the womb, (580) 920-2229, or toll-free at mined by the Life Skills cision to abort baby Kiree, Durant, provides help to any- classes over the length of the with toes developing at only (866) 924-2229. Progression tool, which Shelly felt an overwhelm- one who is a crisis pregnan- pregnancy and beyond. 10 weeks, are visible in the Or contact Pregnancy Cen- is used to asses the need ing feeling pushing her to cy. The center is not funded Lessons demonstrating office to show that what is in- ter of Bryan County at P.O. of parent and child. a breakdown. She turned to by federal dollars because how to care for a mother’s side them isn’t just a blob, but Box 1441, 308 N. Second The client will remain her instructor at Kiamichi in order to receive govern- body during the term and how a distinguished human being, Ave, Durant, OK 74702. in the program for 24 months to ensure that all curriculums are given. Once a month group vis- its will also be conducted in the area to allow cli- Sky is the limit for the ambitious ents to learn parenting By LARISSA COPELAND deal of time to perfect. skill, artists such as Mi- skills while networking Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Hayes is a juggler and a chael Moschen, Michael with other expecting or rather dexterous one, at that. Menes, Eric Bates, Andy parenting teens. Amon Hayes is not unlike “I started juggling dur- Gerpardt and Anthony Gatto. The SPPT hopes to aid most 19-year-olds just start- ing my senior year of high Hayes’ performance name – the client in establishing ing out in the world. school,” he says, and he has The Motion Menace – is one solid family support and He’s a young Choctaw man kept at it for the more than he chose in honor of Moschen base resources, improve with big dreams, but there two years ever since. and Menes. child health, improve is something about him that “I real- “I want to client education so the sets him apart from his peers. ized it de- be a profes- client can eventually im-

He works full-time at a lo- veloped my Whatever I sional per- prove socio-economic cal restaurant and he spends coordina- do, I want to formance art- status, and to improve his spare time dedicated to tion really “ ist,” he states. parenting practices relat- his hobby. Only his isn’t the well and I keep working “Often people ed to child development run-of-the-mill pastime that took to it “ mistake this through the implementa- comes to mind when thinking very fast.” to make myself with being tion of two of PAT and of a teenager, such as play- Though better and to a clown but PIP. ing video games or outdoor juggling is that’s not it. A In order to be eligible sports. His hobby is quite relatively share it. performance for SPPT, a candidate unique and requires a great new to the artist is one must be 21 or young- – Amon Hayes 2011 Du- who learns er, expecting a Native rant High this skill and #1 American baby, of any School graduate, it’s one he is puts it in a creative struc- federally recognized committed to becoming more ture. A lot of jugglers refer to Amon Hayes demonstrates toss juggling with a set of tribe, or have a Native proficient at and one that’s themselves as physical artists clubs. Toss juggling is one of the most recognized forms of American baby a year been primarily self-taught. and they want to create some- juggling, where multiple objects are thrown and caught in old or younger. Poten- “I’ve watched professional thing. I want to do that. I want succession. tial clients must also be juggling artists and a lot of to show the ability of human willing to pursue educa- videos online,” he says on skill.” Left, contact jug- tion, either high school learning the techniques. “A Hayes says he hopes to be gling, a style favored or college, and live in the lot of it, though, was just get- able to attend a performing by Hayes, focuses on Choctaw Nation service ting out there and trying it and arts college soon and eventu- the movement of ob- area. seeing what’s possible.” ally make a career out of his jects while maintain- If you are interested Hayes’ juggling special- hobby. ing contact with the and want to know more, ties include toss juggling (see “My brother, Joe, told me body. visit cnsppt.com, call photo #1), bounce juggling, something once that really 800-349-7026 ext. 6869, rings, devil sticks, diabolo stuck with me and gave me or email dshumphreys@ (see photo #2), cigar boxes the mind set to do something cnhsa.com. (see photo #4), and, his favor- good,” explains Hayes on If you are interested ite style, contact juggling (see why he works so hard on his but live outside the 10.5 #2 photo #3). juggling skills. “He said, ‘the #3 county service area, “Each style has a different world deserves better from Children First is a simi- Hayes performs with a dynamic of accomplishments each of us so we should be lar program provided diabolo, a prop consisting to offer and new goals to set better,’ and that’s what I try to Hayes juggles through the Oklahoma of a spool that is spun and and reach for myself,” he do. Whatever I do, I want to with cigar boxes, State Department of tossed on a string tied be- says. “There’s even more out keep working to make myself a prop common- Health for mothers ex- tween two sticks being held there I want to learn.” better and to share it.” ly used in what pecting a first child. For in each hand. He says certain perform- “I do this because I love be- is referred to as a more information on Photos by LARISSA COPELAND ing artists and jugglers in- ing in front of people and just “stop-and-start” Children First, call 405- fluenced him to pick up the love performing.” Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma style of juggling. #4 271-7611. BISKINIK | August 2012 | Page 6

PEOPLE YOU KNOW

Douglas birthdays James anniversary Happy birthday to the Doug- Tom and Charlotte James of Ben- las kids! Corey Douglas was nington celebrated their 50th wedding born July 17, 1992, and his sis- anniversary on July 8. They were mar- ter, Brianna Douglas, was born ried on June 15, 1962, in Cade. Their on July 7, 1995. children, grandchildren and church family honored the couple with a reception on July 8 at 1 p.m. at the Boswell Assembly of God Church. Friends and family were invited to the Mathias turns 4 celebration. Tom and Charlotte both worked for the Choctaw Happy fourth birthday to Mathias Nation and are now happily retired. Mills, from grandparents Debbie and District 7 princesses, Senior Miss Melissa Gueli, Junior John Williams of Durant. His parents are Miss Alisha Hardy and Little Miss Kalin Beller, are pic- Mary and Marcus Mills, and he has two Happy birthday, Jim tured with Councilman Jack Austin. younger siblings, Megan (2 years old) As his family and friends celebrated and Mace (8 months). His great-grandpa Jim Lewis’ 90th birthday on Aug. 2, they Woods celebrate 70th anniversary was the late E.J. Johnson of Atoka. recognized the accomplishments and con- Rev. John L. Wood and Priscilla Wood of Broken Arrow cel- Mary and Marcus are from Tushka. tributions he has made in all of their lives. ebrated their 70th wedding anniversary on June 20. They were Mathias was born June 18, 2008. Jim was born and raised in McAlester, the son of John Calvin Lewis, an original honored with a family luncheon on June 16 in Broken Arrow. enrollee, and great-grandson of Simon The event was hosted by their children. E. Lewis. Simon is mentioned on page The couple married June 20, 1942, in Stigler. They have Freeman 272 of Angie Debo’s book, “The Rise and Fall of the Choctaw seven children: Jo Ward of Broken Arrow, Eddie Wood and visits the Cubs Republic.” Family legend has it that one of Jim’s great-grand- wife Barbara of Catoosa, Jackie Nicolas and husband Carl of Ochelata, David Wood and wife Doresa of Sand Springs, Carol Freeman Taylor mothers was born under a wagon while en route to Oklahoma on the Trail of Tears. Holden and husband Steve of Fair Grove, Mo., Tommy Wood (left) and Dr. Leon- of Tulsa, and the late Philip Wood. They have 19 grandchildren ard Rascher (right) During World War II, Jim left Oklahoma to serve in the U.S. Marine Corps. After his service, he married Mary Francis and 35 great-grandchildren. were able to cheer on Rev. John, who retired as a jet engine mechanic with Ameri- the Chicago Cubs in Lambdin and they raised two boys in Carlsbad, N.M., where Jim worked for International Minerals Corporation, a potash can Airlines in 1982, is proud of his Choctaw heritage and of April at Wrigley Field in Chicago and get some signed base- the fact that his mother, Martha Lou Zena (Boatright) Wood, balls after the game. Both men are residents of Ringold. Free- mining and milling operation near there. He retired in 1984. Jim and Mary now reside in Sheridan, Ark. Their sons, James was an original enrollee. man was an athlete at Sunset High in Dallas with Rudy Ja- Priscilla, a homemaker, taught school at Gingles Mountain ramillo (center). Rudy is now the hitting coach for the Cubs and Ron, along with their families, choose this time to say thank you to Jim for the love, values and pride that he instilled in them near Keota in 1945. She was asked to teach at that time by the after years with the Texas Rangers. “Doc” moved to Oklahoma over the years. It is important to note that Jim has taught them local school board members, who were aware that she only to work with the Native American Bible Academy after living much, including how to take pride in their country and Choctaw had her high school diploma, because all of the other teaching several decades in the Windy City and cheering on the Cubs heritage. Happy birthday, Jim! May you celebrate many more candidates in the area had been drafted to serve in World War with his family. in the years to come. II. She considered it her contribution to the war effort. To this day, her family notes that she has always had the personality of a teacher. Happy birthday, Alpha Happy 87th birthday to Alpha Cochnouer Uptegrove on Aug. 27. Alpha is the daughter Dillon earns awards of Henry Clay Cochnouer, an original en- Dillon Short of Tyler, Texas, entered rollee. a regional competition held in the Tyler Convention Center. He won first, sec- ond and third-place ribbons for drafting. He went on to compete in a state-wide competition in Waco, Texas, where he re- Kylee competes in Pitch, Hit and Run ceived second and fourth-place medals. Congratulations to Kylee Sellers of Hugo, daughter of Khris- Dillon will be a junior at Chapel Hill David turns 80 ty Wallace Sellers, for being named one of just 24 selected na- High School in Tyler. His parents are tional finalists in the 2012 Aquafina Major League Baseball Shonda Steele of Ada and Scotty Short of Tyler. On March 4, David L. Roebuck of Sweet Home, Ore., cel- Pitch, Hit and Run competition. Kylee completed with the ebrated his 80th birthday. David’s seven-plus kids and grand- other 23 finalists at the National Finals during MLB All-Star children planned his party. Week in Kansas City, Mo. The competition was held July 9, Tamaka earns award David has resided in Sweet Home since 1953. He was the prior to Gatorade All-Star Workout Day on the field at Kauff- Congratulations to Oklahoma only child of William Sam Roebuck and Melvina (Cochanau- man Stadium. More than 685,000 youth participated in over Choctaw and magician Tamaka (Bob er-Blackwell) Roebuck. He was born in Boswell. He had three 4,000 competitions that took place across North America. For Bailey), who won the Jefferson Award brothers and one sister. Two of his brothers are still alive, all of the third year in a row, a nationwide Girls Softball Division from the local CBS station in San his siblings reside in Oklahoma. was part of the program, which allowed girls to compete and Francisco. Tamaka earned the award On Sept. 23, 1950, David married his late wife, Bessie L. advance separately from the boys throughout the competition. for his magic performances he co- Teterick in De Queen, Ark. In 1953, they had their first child, produces for the veterans and veteran David L. Roebuck Jr. He died at just a few weeks old. All homes in California and his fund rais- together, David and Bessie had over eight children: Glenda ing performances for different Native Moore, Danny Roebuck, Donna Barrett, Sandy and husband Jake receives All- American organizations. Also contrib- Randy Pendergraft, William (Billy) Roebuck, Rhonda Curtis Tourney Honors uting to his earning the award are his and Tannie Manning. All of David’s children and grandchil- Jake Collins, who will be language classes he teaches in San Francisco. dren reside in Sweet Home except for Donna and her family, a senior at Latta Schools, Tamaka is the son of Dorothy Durant, who lived in Holly who reside in Lea Burg, Ore. represented the gold Okla- Creek before moving out to California. Tamaka said this is a Through the years David and Bessie took in several children homa team in the Junior humbling experience and will be accepting the award on behalf as foster children. There are over 20 grandchildren, over 24 Sunbelt Classic Series that of the community language department of the Choctaw Nation, great-grandchildren and one great-great-granddaughter. was held in McAlester and for without them, this award would not have been won. He said David and Bessie were married for almost 47 years before Wilburton June 8-13. He re- thank you to Richard Adams for believing in him and mentor- she passed away in 1997. ceived All-Tourney Honors ing him as a teacher. David enjoys hobbies such as caring for his cats, Cooter- competing against teams Bell and Tigger; tinkering on cars and trucks; hunting and from Tennessee, Texas, Arizona, Colorado, Canada, Georgia, fishing when his health allows him; watching the news; and Missouri and Mississippi. spending time with his family. He enjoys telling stories and Jackie receives Kenneth “Pa-Pa” Battles (pictured with Jake) of Antlers is a watching the “greats” learn new things, such as walking, talk- proud supporter, as well as Tony Battles of Broken Bow, who ing and playing. honorable title was a coach in the series. He enjoys having meals together with family. He always en- Incoming worshipful Jake also plays for the Ambassadors, a team out of Oklahoma joys pestering, teasing and picking at people. He enjoys taking master, Claude Neal, City. The website, alifeworthfollowing.org, tells the story of a road trip every couple of years back to his roots in Okla- presented Jackie Mayo, this baseball team. The team traveled to the Dominican Repub- homa. While he’s there, he usually stocks up on sweet goodies, the outgoing worship- lic on a mission trip the end of July before returning to school. which the family looks forward to with much anticipation. His ful master, a plaque Also, happy birthday to Jake, who celebrated his 18th birth- next trip to Oklahoma will be sometime in September 2012. and medicine bag for day on July 1. While he’s there, he hopes to see all of his family and friends. being the first Native Pictured is David with his family. American to serve this position for a year at Billie Mosse Masonic Lodge in Denison, Texas. Jackie has been a part of the lodge for about five years, and he’s lived in Texas the last 10 years. His hometown is El Reno. Happy birthday, Lillie Happy birthday to Lillie Rob- erts of Durant on Aug. 10. Lil- Cousins place in lie is pictured with her daughter, Melissa Reich, and granddaugh- Jim Thorpe Games ter, Mia Reich. Congratulations to Choc- taw cousins, Dakota and Roderick Hornbuckle, who participated in the Jim Thorpe Games in Oklaho- Choctaw Seniors travel to Grand Canyon ma City. Roderick placed Forty Choctaw Seniors of District 9, Durant, recently re- first in the junior high di- turned from their tour of the southwest. The Bradley Museum vision and Dakota placed was on the itinerary as well as the Miraculous Winding Stair- second in the high school case in Santa Fe, N.M., with shopping on the Plaza. division. In the small town of Chimayo, The Sanctuario de Chimayo Brianna receives crown Church is home of the healing dirt, where scoops may be dug into containers, which is claimed to cure illnesses. The group Congratulations, Justin Congratulations to Brianna Kaylee traveled to Williams, Ariz., for the two-hour train ride to the Congratulations from his mother, Terrie (Parker) Lane, and Douglas, who was crowned as Stand- Grand Canyon for a tour. On the return trip, masked riders rode stepfather Clint Lane; his brothers, Ty and Dally Warner; and ing Bear Pow Wow Princess at the an- by the train until it stopped and the actors came onboard to his aunt, Dorothy (Parker) Skeen, all of Cooper, Texas, goes nual Standing Bear Pow Wow held in “rob” (donations) its passengers. to Justin Warner, who celebrated his 18th birthday on June 1 Bakersfield, Calif., on May 27 at the The last night was spent in Amarillo and the group attended and graduated from Cooper High School in Cooper, Texas, on Kern County fairgrounds. Brianna also the play, “Texas.” The outdoor performance was enjoyed by all June 2. celebrated her 17th birthday on July 7. at the amphitheater in Palo Dura Canyon. Part of the seniors Justin is the grandson of the late William Dixon Parker and Her family wishes her a happy birthday. performed their line dance to the upbeat western band play- great-grandson of the late Harrison and Susan Parker, formerly Brianna’s mother’s granddaughter, ing in the plaza. At the end of the program, when all stood for of Idabel. Serenity DeWoody, was crowned Little Miss Okla Chahta America the Beautiful, which was spectacularly played during Justin plans to continue his education at Southeastern State 2012-13 at an annual gathering in Bakersfield as well. Their fireworks, the Choctaw Singers spontaneously performed In- College or Paris Junior College in Paris, Texas. family is proud of both of their accomplishments. dian sign language to the song. BISKINIK | August 2012 | Page 7 2012

DISTRICT 2 SENIOR MISS DISTRICT 3 SENIOR MISS DISTRICT 4 SENIOR MISS Choctaw Nation of VICTORIA BATTIEST JOYCE CUMMINGS CALLIE CURNUTT Oklahoma Royalty Senior Miss District 2 The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Victoria “Girlie” Battiest of Broken Bow is Princess Pageant will be held at 7 p.m. the daughter of Kenneth and Kimberly Bat- DISTRICT 5 SENIOR MISS DISTRICT 7 SENIOR MISS DISTRICT 8 SENIOR MISS Aug. 30 in the amphitheater at Tvshka tiest. She graduated from Broken Bow High RACHEL HOGAN MELISSA GUELI SARAH THOMPSON Homma. The annual event brings to- School and will be attending Southeastern gether all of the princesses from the Oklahoma State University in the fall, major- Choctaw Nation’s 12 districts to vie for ing in psychology. the crowns of Miss Choctaw Nation, Jr. District 3 Miss Choctaw Nation and Little Miss Joyce Cummings of Whitesboro is the Choctaw Nation. daughter of Greg Cummings and Angela Sny- The young ladies have met with judg- der. She graduated from Whitesboro High es for interviews, and the judges contin- School in 2011. ue their job on Aug. 30, finalizing their District 4 decisions on the young ladies who will Callie Curnutt, daughter of Bruce and Fran- represent the Choctaw Nation through DISTRICT 9 SENIOR MISS DISTRICT 10 SENIOR MISS DISTRICT 11 SENIOR MISS the remainder of 2012 and into 2013. CHEYENNE MURRAY KAYLA MITCHELL CHERISH WILKERSON cine Curnutt, is from Wister and graduated from Wister High School in May. She is now Little Miss contestants will be judged attending Carl Albert State College to gain on personality, beauty/poise, traditional her bachelor of animal science degree to be- dress and accessories, and on how come a veterinarian. well they answer an impromptu ques- tion asked by the emcee. District 5 The Jr. and Sr. Miss Choctaw Nation Rachel Hogan is the daughter of Johnny princesses compete in the same cat- Hogan and Debbie Sewel and is a sophomore egories as well as performing a tradi- at Carl Albert State College studying pre- tional talent and expressing their goals medicine. as princess. DISTRICT 12 SENIOR MISS DISTRICT 1 JUNIOR MISS DISTRICT 2 JUNIOR MISS District 7 Everyone is welcome to attend the RAVEN OTT VANESSA MARTIN CHEYENNE SHOMO Melissa Gueli of Tuskahoma is the daugh- pageant and watch as the girls take ter of Clifford and Cathy Ludlow. She gradu- the stage, wearing beautiful traditional ated from Clayton High School in 2011 and clothing and jewelry. The band, Ingenu- Kiamichi Technology Center to become a ity, will serve as entertainment at the home health aide. pageant. District 8 Sarah Thompson of Hugo is the daughter of graduated from Atoka High School in 2007 Perry Thompson Jr. and Tammy Thompson. and studied culinary arts at Kiamichi Tech- She is a senior at Hugo High School. nology Center. District 9 District 11 Cheyenne Murray is the daughter of Belvia Cherish Wilkerson is the daughter of DISTRICT 3 JUNIOR MISS DISTRICT 4 JUNIOR MISS DISTRICT 5 JUNIOR MISS Murray of Durant and is currently a freshman Dwight Wilkerson and Christy Cantrell SCOUT SMITH BRIANNA BATTIEST BRANDY SOCKEY at Southeastern Oklahoma State University and is from McAlester. She graduated from majoring in nursing with a double minor in Crowder High School. Native Studies/Choctaw Language. District 12 District 10 Raven Ott is the daughter of Mel and Gina Kayla Mitchell of Atoka is the daughter Ott of Coalgate. She is a senior at Coalgate of Leny Mitchell and Roberta Williams. She High School. Junior Miss District 1 DISTRICT 7 JUNIOR MISS DISTRICT 8 JUNIOR MISS DISTRICT 9 JUNIOR MISS Vanessa Martin of Idabel is the daughter ter of Shirley Hardy and David Trusty. She ALISHA HARDY SARAH JAMES KAYLEIGH POWELL of Alfonso and Gwen Martin. She is attends attends seventh grade at Wright City Junior ninth grade at Idabel High School. High. District 2 District 8 Cheyenne Shomo of Broken Bow is the Sarah James, daughter of Tony and Brenda daughter of Billy and Tina Shomo. She at- James, is from Hugo and attends Hugo High tends Broken Bow Middle School and is in School in the 11th grade. the eighth grade. District 9 District 3 Kayleigh Powell is the daughter of Billy Scout Smith, daughter of Ricky Smith and Don Powell and Monica Blaine of Durant. Connie Phillips, is from Smithville and at- She is a freshman at Durant High School. DISTRICT 10 JUNIOR MISS DISTRICT 11 JUNIOR MISS DISTRICT 12 JUNIOR MISS tends Smithville High School in the 10th DECEMBER PITTMAN CHEYHOMA DUGGER NEIATHA HARDY District 10 grade. December Pittman of Atoka is the daughter District 4 of Brad Pittman and Julie Lambert. She at- Brianna Battiest of Poteau is the daughter tends Atoka High School in the 10th grade. of Michael Rodriguez and Christina Batti- District 11 est. She attends Poteau-Pansy Kidd Middle Cheyhoma Dugger is the daughter of Jerry School and is in the seventh grade. and Michele Dugger of Hartshorne. She at- District 5 tends Haileyville Public Schools and she’s in Brandy Sockey is the daughter of Leland the ninth grade. and Felicia Sockey of Stigler. She attends Sti- District 12 gler High School and is in the ninth grade. DISTRICT 1 LITTLE MISS DISTRICT 2 LITTLE MISS DISTRICT 3 LITTLE MISS Neiatha Hardy of Coalgate is the daughter WHITNEY GRIFFITH KALLI BATTIEST MELISSA CONLEY District 7 of Paula Carney. She is a ninth grader at Coal- Alisha Hardy of Wright City is the daugh- gate High School. Little Miss District 1 District 7 Whitney Griffith is the daughter of Jimmy Kalin Beller is the daughter of Brandon and and Paula Griffith of Millerton. She attends Crystal Beller of Ft. Towson. She attends Briggs Forest Grove Elementary and is in the fifth Elementary and is in the third grade. grade. District 8 DISTRICT 4 LITTLE MISS DISTRICT 5 LITTLE MISS DISTRICT 6 LITTLE MISS District 2 Savannah Herndon of Soper is the daughter AMBER BATTICE HEAVEN COVEY CHEYENNE HOLMAN Kalli Battiest, the daughter of Kenneth and of Thomas and Angela Herndon. She attends Kimberly Battiest, is from Broken Bow and school at Soper Public School and she’s in the attends sixth grade at Rector Johnson Middle fourth grade. School. District 9 District 3 Josephine Gilmore is the daughter of Kenneth Melissa Conley is the daughter of Patrick and Joyce Gilmore of Calera. She is going into and Debbie Conley of Smithville. She attends the sixth grade at Durant Intermediate School. sixth grade at Smithville. District 10 District 4 Liliana Leflore is the daughter of Consetta Amber Battice of Cameron is the daughter Leflore of Atoka. She attends school at Atoka DISTRICT 7 LITTLE MISS DISTRICT 8 LITTLE MISS DISTRICT 9 LITTLE MISS of Stephen and Stephanie Battice. She attends Elementary and is in the third grade. KALIN BELLER SAVANNAH HERNDON JOSEPHINE GILMORE fifth grade at Cameron. District 11 District 5 Alexis Futischa of McAlester is the daugh- Heaven Covey is the daughter of Leslie ter of Jonathan Futischa and Jacqueline Wash- Johnson of Stigler and she attends third grade ington and attends Emerson Elementary in the at Stigler Grade School. third grade. District 6 District 12 Cheyenne Holman of Wilburton is the Chayenne McCoy is the daughter of Thomas daughter of Crystal Holman and attends Pa- and Kelly McCoy of Coalgate. She attends Em- nola Elementary in the fifth grade. erson Elementary and is in the third grade.

DISTRICT 10 LITTLE MISS DISTRICT 11 LITTLE MISS DISTRICT 12 LITTLE MISS LILIANA LEFLORE ALEXIS FUTISCHA CHAYENNE MCCOY For full biographies of the princesses, visit the Choctaw Nation’s Facebook page! BISKINIK | August 2012 | Page 8

EDUCATION

Daniel earns Juris Doctor Congratulations, Ashleigh Leasa appointed to Associate Head Coach Daniel Kirk Zimmer graduated with Ashleigh Nagy, daughter of Luve- Congratulations to Leasa Ailshie of Claremore for being a Juris Doctor from Rutgers University nia Nagy of Mesa, Ariz., and student at named Associate Head Women’s Basketball Coach at Jack- School of Law in Camden, N.J. He also Rhodes Junior High in Mesa, received sonville College (JC). After serving as a graduate assistant at received the Dean’s Pro Bono Publico academic achievement awards for all Sam Houston State University, where she received her master’s Award for over 100 hours of pro bono four quarters of seventh grade and was degree, Leasa took over in July 2011 as assistant women’s bas- service and leadership awards from the on the principal’s honor roll for the year ketball coach at JC. After leading Claremore High School to Criminal Justice Association and the Fam- 2011-12. Ashleigh is the granddaughter three Class 5A state titles as a player, she played for Conners ily Law Society. He is the son of Susan of Barbara and John Nagy of Durant. Her State College for two seasons before finishing her collegiate and John Zimmer-Allen of Salisbury and Kirk Zimmer of Bir- family would like to wish her congratulations and tell her to career as a member of the Sam Houston women’s basketball mingham, Ala. His grandfather was the late Honorable Edward keep up the good work in eighth grade. squad. Starting in the fall, Leasa will share with Jacksonville’s Paul Snead Jr., a State District Court Judge in Roswell, N.M. head coach, Lynn Nabi, daily duties such as practice, handling Daniel thanks the Higher Education department for helping discipline, preparing game plans, etc. him follow in his grandfather’s footsteps. Megan graduates Leasa would like to thank the Choctaw Nation for the schol- Congratulations to Megan Larkin, arships she’s received through school. who graduated from Canton High School in Dearborn, Mich., on June 10. She is the great-great-granddaughter of Elisabeth graduates full-blood Choctaw/Chickasaw Lula Joshua graduates The family of Elisabeth Marie Wheeler Mae Brown Dodd. She plans to major Joshua Alexander Abbott Boucher, is proud to announce her graduation from in nursing at Eastern State University in great-grandson of Ausborn and Mar- Dr. John D. Horn High School in Mes- Dearborn. garet (Bell) Boucher, graduated from quite, Texas, on May 26. Bennington College in Vermont with During her freshman and sophomore two concentrations: political science years, she was very active in playing and photography. At Bennington, he soccer. The last two years of high school Anna receives Dean’s Honor Roll received a faculty scholarship and studied abroad in Pune, In- were spent on her studies and she is plan- Ann LeFlore of Davis, Calif., is a junior enrolled at the Uni- dia. ning to further her education at Richland Jr. College. versity of Oklahoma in Norman and was named into the Weit- Joshua will attend the University of Missouri this fall to Elisabeth is the daughter of Diana and Stephen Woodard, the zenhoffer Family College of Fine Arts Dean’s Honor Roll for begin a master’s program in photojournalism, where he has granddaughter of Claudine and Wendell Wheeler and the great- Spring 2012. According to OU’s College of Fine Arts, those received a graduate assistantship and will work in the study great-granddaughter of original enrollee Emiziah Bohanon. students who are recognized on the Dean’s Honor Roll are abroad office. students in Fine Arts whose talents, achievements and efforts reflect the highest academic and artistic standards. Anna greatly appreciates the grant assistance afforded her by the Choctaw Nation as she pursues her higher education Darrin excels academically goals at OU. Cooper selected as Darrin Blackston graduated May 18 from Putnam City High School in Okla- Teacher of the Year finalist homa City with honors, being third in Congratulations to Kyle Cooper, M.Ed., Barrett takes his class with a GPA of 4.5. Besides his as he has been selected as one of 12 final- academic success, Darrin also qualified ists for the 2013 Oklahoma Teacher of the second with speech for state competition in tennis, repre- Year. Cooper teaches Pre-Kindergarten at Barrett Tonubbee Corbin, son of senting his entire school in any sport as Coweta Public Schools, Central Elementa- Sherry Tonubbee, participated in the a senior. His main focus, however, has ry. He received his B.S. in Early Childhood Health Occupation Student Leader- been his love of playing video games and his dream of creating Education as well as his M.Ed. in Early Childhood Education, ship Association Speech Conference in them. He plans to pursue a degree in computer science/gaming both from Northeastern State University. He has been in his Oklahoma City, as a student of Green animation at Oklahoma Christian University this fall. current teaching position for eight years. County Technology Center and Ok- Proud parents are Keith and Lisa Blackston of Oklahoma Cooper said he could not have accomplished this without the mulgee High School, and took second place in the state on his City. Darrin is the grandson of Dorothy Turner of Bethany, Lee support of the Choctaw Nation. The scholarships he received speech, “When the Heart Beats for Another.” and Donna Blackston of Godfrey, Ill., and Charles and Sandy during his time at college were very much appreciated, and he Barrett will be a senior at Okmulgee High School and is the Shook of Reno, Nev. He is the great-grandson of the late Dora is proud to be a member of the Choctaw Nation. grandson of the late Empson and Lillie Tonubbee of Durant. Tims of Claremore. To the Youth of the Nation Courtney to attend leadership program By: Emily Wolfe, 2nd place, YAB Scholarship 2012 Courtney Louise Strickland has been awarded an LEDA Scholarship to Princeton University for a seven-week My arms were sore from about ourselves. We laughed filled with tears and others leadership program this summer. She is one of 60 students packing up the boxes of and talked happily on the way just sat in silence. We all nationwide to be awarded this scholarship for 2012. LEDA food and my lips were still to the last house. didn’t know what to feel. For offers high school students the chance to go to top classes chapped from the bake sale As we saw the house, our weeks these people were only that normally the average person would not be able to at- the day before. It was close laughter fell silent. The house genders, ages and clothing tend. Courtney, taking advanced classes, has maintained to Christmas one afternoon was small and dilapidated. sizes, and in a few minutes, at least a 4.0 GPA throughout high school. Chinese and at the Choctaw Nation Com- Its windows were covered in we obtained faces, names, Cherokee are the two languages she has studied. She is going to be a senior this coming fall munity Center, and all of our tin, making it look similar to personalities and most impor- at Ft. Gibson High School in Ft. Gibson, Okla. Courtney works, volunteers and is involved in YAB-sters were hard at work an abandoned garage. As a tantly, stories. extra-curricular activities in school. She is also involved in the preservation and promotion of trying to divide the donations matter of fact, if there weren’t I go into detail about this the Choctaw horses. She is a very caring person and her dream is to go to Yale University and for needy families into their children on the rickety, wood- particular YAB project be- study architecture. Her mother is Victoria Hicks of Muskogee. Her great-grandmother is the late correct baskets. As I worked, en porch, I might have mis- cause, for me, this is where Mary Jane (Jacob) Hicks of Caddo, an original enrollee. I kept thinking about all of the taken it for a garage. This my life took a turn. This is hours I spent on this project. I was a family of six, according where I stopped looking at worked harder and put more to our paper, including five people for what they wore, or Choctaw Nation thought into a Christmas for children and a mother. Three what they looked like, and fo- people I had never met than of these children watched us cused on who they were. Not Vocational Rehabilitation Calendar for my own family. Is this from the porch as if we were only in the needy, but in all madness? Am I overdoing all aliens while we got out of aspects of people who weren’t of this? We finished packing the van. We did our ritual of exactly in the “norm.” up the boxes and put them in unloading the gifts in almost This project also taught the van that was to be deliv- complete silence. just exactly how much lead- ered to the families tomorrow We walked on the porch ership and hard work can afternoon. and the loitering children mean. Being one of the older Talihina by Durant 8 a.m.- That night I was very anx- weren’t wearing shoes and YAB members, I constantly appt. 4:30 p.m. ious to give these families the wore short-sleeved shirts. It find myself explaining and gifts that the Youth Advisory was the middle of December coaching the other members. Board had been working so and none of the young chil- This project also inspired me hard on for weeks. I went dren were wearing a coat. We to create my own nonprofit Durant 8 a.m.- Antlers by Poteau by Broken Bow 8 over all the things the families knocked on the door and the organization, called “We 4:30 p.m. appt. appt. a.m.-4:30 p.m. Idabel by appt. would be getting: blankets, mother answered. She invited Dream Bigger,” with a few of food, toiletries, clothes and us into this tiny, drafty house my friends from other schools toys for the children. What where the children slept on and raise money for the Water Crowder by Wright City if they didn’t like it? What if the floor of the living room. of Life Project. I then present- McAlester 10 appt. a.m.- 2 p.m. by appt. they are allergic to the food? The woman saw all of the ed the project to YAB, who Stigler by appt. These are just some of the gifts and immediately started also raised money. questions my scatter-brained to cry. She asked us to stay as YAB has played a huge mind kept asking as I fretted they opened the gifts. Each role in my life these past few Durant 8 a.m.- Wilburton Atoka by over the coming day. Only a child’s face lit up as they were years, and I have spent count- 4:30 p.m. by appt. appt. Coalgate by appt. few more hours and I’ll un- told they had a gift to open. less hours on the many proj- derstand why I have spent They snacked on some of the ects and volunteer positions countless hours for people I food and draped out the blan- we have obligated ourselves don’t even know. kets on what I assumed was to. The program has made me O The time had finally come where each slept on the floor. love to help my community. Durant 8 a.m.- Antlers by Talihina by Broken Bow 8 to pass out the laundry bas- I have never seen this kind It has always made me under- C 4:30 p.m. appt. appt. a.m.-4:30 p.m. kets overflowing with gifts to of joy in anyone’s face be- stand the importance of help- Idabel by appt. our families. The YAB kids fore. These children hugged ing others. We have to help T loaded up in the van and we and thanked us as it was time each other when times are O Durant 8 a.m.- Poteau by McAlester 10 Broken Bow 8 made our way to the families. to leave. We were strangers rough. This world is full of 4:30 p.m. appt. a.m.- 2 p.m. a.m.-4:30 p.m. The first house must have to these children, but they problems, and unless we are B Stigler by appt. Idabel by appt. only been a few miles away, hugged us like family. It actu- willing to do something other but it felt like a five-hour ally kind of made me feel like than complain about it, noth- E drive. I was finally going to their family. ing is ever going to change. be able to put a face to the list When we were on our way I plan on going to the Uni- R of people that only contained out, the mother closed the versity of Central Oklahoma their gender, age and clothing door behind her and came after high school and I will sizes. I was finally going to on the porch with us in tears. inevitably apply the skills and Durant 8 a.m.- Atoka by be able to look into the eyes She said: “All they were go- lessons I have learned in YAB 4:30 p.m. appt. Coalgate of the people that I had been ing to get for Christmas this in my college life. I also plan by appt. working for weeks in order to year was one candy bar each. to expand We Dream Bigger make their gifts perfect. You gave them their first real and work on more projects We arrived at the first Christmas. You gave my ba- that help the community. Like Wilburton Wright City house, which was small with bies something I never could. most people, I am unsure of by appt. by appt. an old run-down car in the I could never thank you what the future holds, but I driveway. The children loved enough. God bless all of you. will always remember what Durant - Mon., Wed. and Fri.; Broken Bow - Mon., Wed. and Fri.; Idabel by appt. all the gifts and the parents Merry Christmas!” the past has taught me, and I Phone: 580-326-8304; Fax: 580-326-2410 were extremely thankful. This We then drove away in si- will never forget what I have Email: [email protected] made us all feel very good lence. Some of us had eyes learned in YAB. BISKINIK | August 2012 | Page 9 Honoring our legacy, securing our future By LARISSA COPELAND tions to generate logo to anything we take part in, we have to stay true to being Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma the storytelling. Choctaw,” says Fairchild. “And that’s always worked out for The equipment us.” is there with a When it came to designing the logo for the foundation, the The Chahta Foundation is a 501(c) 3 non-profit organiza- microphone, but decision was one made after much research, thought and input tion founded in 2000 with the goal of supporting Choctaws to we’re not even from many. “We wanted to merge the old with the new, the achieve their full potential and become self-reliant. To achieve in the room. It traditional with the modern, and still be true to who we are,” this, the Foundation unites with donors to “preserve our rich makes it more continued Fairchild. culture and to advance opportunities for Choctaw people in private and inti- The logo is a modern take on an eagle but also represents a their communities,” according to its mission statement. mate without a hand, which is an old Native American symbol, he says. “The The Chahta Foundation is a separate entity from the Choc- camera , and usu- CHAHTA hand is the oldest symbol they’ve found on Choctaw pottery,” taw Nation and is made up of a board of directors. Members ally, once they says Fairchild, “and it’s an artistic representation of what the of the Chahta Foundation Board of Directors are Chairman Jon get into it, they hand looks like. What it is believed to represent, according to Marshall, Chairman Emeritus Delton Cox, Vice-Chair John forget they are Ian Thompson [Director of Choctaw Nation Historic Preserva- Jackson, Treasurer Sonya Diggs, Secretary Kathy Carpenter even being recorded.” tion], is the passing of one group into the next life. and Board Members Greg Pyle, Gary Batton, Joy Culbreath, According to the Chahta Foundation, “Each story, each “The whole concept of what we’re doing here is legacy plan- Mickey Peercy, and Dana McDaniel Bonham. The Foundation voice, shared from one generation to another, is the one thing ning,” he continues, “having the foresight to set up endow- office employees three full-time staff members who run the we can leave that says we existed and that every life matters.” ments that will last forever, providing scholarships and cultural day-to-day operations – Stacy Shepherd, director, Seth Fair- Anyone interested in the storytelling project can contact the endeavors from now until the end of time. And the representa- child, assistant director, and Scott Wesley, scholarship special- Chahta Foundation to schedule a time to have his or her story tion of the bird is meant to be symbolic of the eagle’s swiftness ist. recorded. Also, Foundation members are scheduled to travel to and vision. It’s neat because you can see [the logo] from the “Chahta,” the original, cultural spelling of the name Choc- each of the community centers every Wednesday until Oct. 3 to perspective of a hand and also the viewpoint of the raptor.” taw, was chosen as the Foundation’s name as a way to empha- make presentations about the storytelling project. “We are hop- The logo was chosen from three designs and was overwhelm- sis a connection to ancestral tribal roots and to embrace and ing to get in contact with some of those elder tribal members ing picked by Choctaws when asked their preference by staff honor the memory of past generations. and set up times to bring their families together or have them members. “People would say, ‘something about that seems The language, traditions, and ceremonies of Choctaw ances- invite us if they are having some kind of traditional gathering Choctaw to me.’ So we had to go with [the current logo],” says tors are key identifiers to what made them who they were as and let us record their story,” says Shepherd. Fairchild. “It seemed to relate so much to our Choctaw cul- a people, and the preservation of those Choctaw ways of life Additionally, the Chahta Foundation will have trailers set up ture.” secures the legacy of the entire tribe for generations to come. during the Labor Day Festival to record stories for those inter- And finding the absolute perfect logo was significant because To ensure this, the Foundation focuses on three key aspects: ested in doing an interview. “They can contact us and schedule the staff wanted something that could stand alone and be in- culture, education and health. a time for their family to be recorded,” says Fairchild. “We can stantly identifiable. “We want the logo to get to the point where The culture of the tribe is deeply rooted in its people and transport people to and from their location at the festival. Signs it’s almost like the Nike symbol, very recognizable, when you knowing their stories is key to the preservation of the past. To will also be posted on the grounds.” see it you just know that it is Chahta,” said Shepherd. honor and celebrate the lives of Choctaw people and ensure Along with preserving the stories of Choctaw elders, the The Foundation is operated completely through donations those stories are never lost, the Chahta Foundation has initiated Foundation also emphasizes growth for its youth through edu- from both the tribe and generous gifts and contributions from a storytelling project in which they collect audio recordings cation. One way this is achieved is by awarding scholarships. private donors. It also accepts donations of artifacts. “We’ve from tribal elders. The Foundation currently offers the Apela Ima (Giving Help) had big donations, letters from former chiefs, cradle boards, Oral storytelling is “how our stories have always been passed Scholarship, a $2000 scholarship given to three graduating se- hundreds and hundreds of these really precious artifacts that we down by our tribe,” says Fairchild. “The goal is for them to not niors annually. store in a modern facility in Dallas,” says Fairchild. just tell us about the cultural aspects of their lives, but for them “We just awarded the scholarship for the first time this past Shepherd expands on this, to tell us what it was like and what it meant to live as a Choctaw May, and the response to it was amazing,” said Shepherd. “We saying, “ The Foundation is in their everyday life.” anticipated that we might get 20 applications, and we ended up capable of accepting dona- Foundation staff members coordinate with Choctaw elders with about 70 applicants. That is about one-fifth of the graduat- tions of artifacts, appraisal, and their families to collect audio recordings of their stories ing Choctaw seniors [within the 10-½ counties] that applied for and insuring. and make them available on the Chahta Foundation website, this scholarship.” “One thing that we would chahtafoundation.com. The recipients of the Apela Ima scholarship are Ashley like to take place in the future “We found a really modern way to capture their history and Carlisle of Broken Bow, Chance Beshear of Harshorne, and is to have our own storage share those stories with people all over the world,” says Fair- MaKayla Henry of Caney. facility where these Choctaw Photo provided child. The Foundation is also developing another scholarship, the treasures can be preserved in a Interesting though, the Foundation staff members do not con- Juanita Wilmouth Memorial Scholarship, in memory of Chief museum quality storage facil- One example of an arti- duct the interviews themselves. “The family members do the Gregory E. Pyle’s mother. The scholarship, which will be ity,” continues Shepherd. fact donated to the Chahta interviewing,” says Shepherd. “Family members are in a room awarded in 2013, will “provide nursing scholarships to Choc- Until then, a database is be- Foundation is this baby cra- together, and the younger generation is provided a list of ques- taw students striving to reach their potential in the medical field ing compiled of all the arti- dle board. and to meet the growing need for quality nurses in the next facts being preserved. “We are generation,” according to the Foundation. taking pictures of everything,” she says, “and it is all being put More information and eligibility requirements for the schol- into this database so eventually people will be able to access arships can be found on the Chahta Foundation website. it, read descriptions, see pictures of all these different things.” Another vital focus of the Foundation is the health of the Anyone wishing to make a donation of artifacts or a mon- current and future generations of Choctaws because it is “the etary gift to the Chahta Foundation can contact staff members foundation for all our achievements and aspirations in life,” ac- at 800-522-6170 or access its website to make online contribu- cording to the Chahta Foundation. It focuses on preventative tions. Donations are tax deductible. health care as opposed to primary health care and emphasizes “The Foundation was established so that resources can be exercise and living healthy lifestyles. secured to support tribal members regardless of the economic Videos, which were produced completely in-house, can be times,” says Shepherd. “We will pursue donations from private viewed online and depict how the Foundation is working to foundations, write for grants, and establish endowments. safeguard the rich heritage of the tribe and promote each facet “We have donors from the east coast to the west coast, people Photo provided of the Foundation. Staff members also produced a traditional who just want to give to the tribe in some way and support Mary Watson, center, shared her story as part of the dance DVD of the Choctaw Nation employee dance troupe, our mission,” says Shepherd. “Choctaw people want to be con- foundation’s storytelling project. She is joined by Pam Jef- which can be obtained by contacting the Foundation. nected and help us in honoring our legacy, and in turn, securing ferson, left, and Pat Gray. “Since the beginning, we said everything we do, from our our future as Choctaws.”

JA students inducted into Honor Society News from Jones Academy Four Jones Academy stu- dents were recognized for their academic achievements and citizenship by the Harts- Martin named horne Public Schools this past spring. Sophomores Billie Jo Teacher of the Year Nunn and Holly Andersen and seventh grader Seth Crow Jones Academy Elementary School teacher were inducted into the Okla- Brenda Martin has been chosen as the Harts- homa Honor Society, and Ju- Jones Academy students, from left, Billie Jo Nunn, Hol- horne School District Teacher of the Year for nior Melissa Sam was induct- ly Andersen, and Melissa Sam were all inducted into the 2011-2012. Ms. Martin who teaches a com- ed into both the National and Oklahoma Honor Society. Sam was also inducted into the bined third and fourth grade at Jones Academy Oklahoma Honor Societies. National Honor Society. was recognized by her colleagues for her dedi- Submitted photo The students were honored Seth Crow, at left, was cation to her students and professionalism in Ms. Martin is congratulated by Brad for their academic excellence, inducted into the Oklaho- the classroom. The devoted teacher has taught Spears, administrator of Jones Academy. character, and leadership in ma Honor Society and also seven years at the elementary school. She is the classroom. They received made the 2012 Southeastern known for “running a tight ship” and for draw- taught on the elementary and junior high level the awards at the Hartshorne Oklahoma Band Director’s ing out academic excellence from her students. in Haileyville. Honors Banquet in late Association Honor Band. Ms. Martin is a 1980 graduate of Hartshorne Ms. Martin is married to Johnie Dale Mar- March. Melissa and Billie Jo He plays the French horn High School. She received her Bachelor’s of tin and has two daughters Krystal and Jenni- are members of the Choctaw and was selected to perform Education from Southeastern Oklahoma State fer, and a grandson, Rowdy. She enjoys horse- Nation. Seth and Holly are in the Seventh Grade Sym- University in Durant and finished her master’s back riding and has competed nationally on members of the Cherokee and phonic Band at Southeast- degree at East Central University in Ada. Be- the rodeo circuit. Ms. Martin is a member of Sisseton-Wahpeton tribes, re- ern Oklahoma State Uni- fore coming to Jones Academy, Ms. Martin the Choctaw Nation. spectively. Submitted photos versity.

CNO Chahta Inchukka program begins home visitation services for ‘at-risk’ families Choctaw Nation is very etc. who reside within the information on parenting, Teachers serves as a voice for Teachers in improving chil- baby of any federally recog- excited to offer our Native 10.5 counties of the Choctaw child development and refer- early childhood development dren’s development across nized tribe. American families an oppor- Nation. The project provides ral to community resources and champions the critical multiple domains by increas- • Must reside within the tunity to take advantage of the comprehensive and integrated through bi-monthly home role of parental involvement ing school readiness, improv- Choctaw Nation 10.5 county new home visiting program in services to improve school visits tailored to the needs and early intervention in ing parents’ knowledge of service area which we are now taking ap- readiness of children, health of each particular child and the childhood development early childhood development • Must be determined to be plications for services. The outcomes for mother and in- their family. Parents learn and education continuum. and parenting practices, iden- in an “at-risk” situation due to Chahta Inchukka program fant, increase healthy parent- how to help encourage their Well-designed independent tifying developmental delays low income or poverty, sin- provides services to families ing skills, increase healthy child and promote healthy de- research studies support hun- and health issues and prevent- gle-parent family, substance or caregivers of children who parent/child interaction skills velopment intended to make dreds of thousands of fami- ing child abuse and neglect. abuse, domestic violence, are pregnant and/or parent- and provide opportunities their child more successful lies in all 50 states as well as To be eligible, clients must: military families, DHS/ICW ing a child under the age of for assessing each individual for learning by the time they many other countries through • Must be currently preg- involvement or previous in- one year and considered to needs of each participant and reach school age. Parents a proven parent education nant and/or primary caregiver volvement, etc. be currently living in an “at- linking them to resources As Teachers is an evidence model featuring intimate, in- of a child under the age of 1 For more information risk” situation. This program available. based home visiting model home visits with parents and year. contact: Program Director: can assist primary caregivers Using the Parents as Teach- that was developed more than children. These studies have • Must be parenting a Na- Brandi Smallwood at 877- including mothers, fathers, ers curriculum or Home 25 years ago. Through advo- consistently confirmed the tive American child or ex- 285-6893 or bsmallwood@ grandparents, aunt, uncles, Visiting Specialist provide cacy and outreach, Parents As effectiveness of Parents as pecting a Native American choctawnation.com BISKINIK | August 2012 | Page 10

Seeking friend from high school Tara thankful for help in reaching her goal Events William H. (Billy) Bailey is seeking information on Todd Thank you for helping me reach my goal of becoming a nurse. Keys. Billy is helping some of his fellow classmates from the Without the help of Jamie Hamil and the Career Development Choctaw Nation Community Center-Durant schedule Durant High School class of 1973 organize a reunion, and they Center, my goal would never have been reached. Thank you for The following events are scheduled to take place at the are seeking a way to contact Todd. ensuring my family’s life will be financially stable and forever Choctaw Nation Community Center, Durant location. If you have any information on Todd or have a way for Billy changed. I know my son’s life will be so much better due to the Mondays from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.: beading class (to be an- to contact him, please call Billy at 580-317-3114. Thank you. education I have been blessed with. I’m proud to say I took the state NCLEX and passed on June 22. Today, I am Tara LeAnne nounced); Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.: Carr LPN. Thank you so much for everything. Choctaw language class; Wednesdays: senior luncheons and activities; all day Sundays and Wednesday evenings 7 p.m. Thank you for support to 9 p.m.: Chihowa Okla United Methodist Church meeting. We would like to thank the Choctaw The community center offers several tribal services to those Nation for supporting the education of Thank you for scholarships needing assistance, including two community health repre- our son, Brandon Cometti. Brandon re- sentatives on hand, an Outreach Services employee, an em- cently graduated from Baylor College We would like to thank the Choctaw ployee representing the Vocational Rehab program and three of Medicine in Houston with the de- Nation for the scholarship support that employees working a transit program. The Councilman for gree of Doctor of Medicine with High our daughter, Rebecca Lett, received this district is Ted Dosh. Honor. during her four years at the University If you have any questions, feel free to call Melvis Wilson, We would like to extend a heartfelt of Southern California. Rebecca gradu- field office representative, at 580-924-7810. thank you for the generosity of the Choctaw Nation in its sup- ated in May and was chosen as a corps port of higher education for its members. member for Teach for America and will Zumba classes now offered at wellness center begin teaching this fall in Houston. Chuck and Debbie Cometti We couldn’t be more proud of her and The Choctaw Nation Wellness Center in Talihina is now wanted to let the Choctaw Nation know offering Zumba fitness classes. Zumba is a great way to have Appreciative of care package that those scholarships are helping kids accomplish great goals. fun and lose weight, and it doesn’t matter your age or fitness Thanks, again! level. Classes are located in Talihina at the youth center on I would like to thank the Choctaw Nation Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. and Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. You can for sending my son a care package during Laura Lett and family come or bring friends. Remember, every accomplishment his military deployment to Afghanistan. I starts with the decision to try. Classes are free to anyone will- know he appreciated it, and your thought- ing to participate. fulness means so much to me. Friendly family’s For further information, contact Cara Lowder at cdlowder@ Sandy Nease cnhsa.com. invitation We are Matt and Candace Wilson reunion, Smithville Woodroof, and we have just CNYEP Heritage 5K Run a success recently moved from Farmer- The descendants of Norwood and Taby Wilson will be The Choctaw Nation Youth Empowerment program spon- ville, La., to Moab, Utah, to meeting Sept. 1 at the Smithville community center at 11 sored the second annual CNYEP Heritage 5K Run and One serve First Assembly of God a.m. for their annual reunion. A business meeting will start Mile Walk on May 26 in Clayton. There were 120 participants as senior pastors. Our son, An- the day with lunch following at 12 p.m. An auction will then in this year’s event, ranging in age from 6 to 75. The event was drew Woodroof, turned 1 year take place. All friends and family are encouraged to bring a timed by Youth Empowerment staff using the Jaguar Cubby old on June 29. If any Choctaw covered dish and an item for the auction; serving pieces for Chip Timing System. families are in Moab, we invite you to join us at church for our food as well as drinks will be provided. Plan to attend and The CNYEP would like to thank the Choctaw Nation Youth worship services! join the fun. Advisory Board members, volunteers from Choctaw Nation Health Services, Tribal Police, the city of Clayton and the em- Impson family reunion ployees of the CNYEP for making this year’s event a great Seeking friend from past success. We would also like to give a special thanks to Chief All descendents of Caleb and Malina Impson are invited to I was in boot camp with a man named Steve Whalen. My attend the Impson family reunion on Sept. 1-2 at Comanche Pyle, Assistant Chief Batton and the Tribal Council for making spelling of his name may be incorrect, but he was a great friend events like this possible. in the Legion Hut building. For more information, contact of mine. He was a member of the Choctaw Nation. I’ve long Deborah Hunter at 580-475-5239, Rita Hice at 580-439-5643 since wondered what has become of him. We were in Company or Alton Smith at 580-439-6050. 227 of the Great Lakes Navy boot camp. He ran the 100-yard Thankful for assistance in time of need dash faster than a Mississippi state record holder. His family Choctaw Code Talkers Association annual meeting We would like to thank Chief Pyle and Assistant Chief Bat- couldn’t make it to our graduation, so he spent it with my fam- ily. ton for providing financial assistance when our home sustained The Choctaw Code Talkers Association wishes to invite If anyone can help me find him, I would be in your debt. My significant damage from a storm on July 26. The wind tore the those who are interested in becoming involved with the as- address is 44 Stackhouse Rd., Monticello, NY 12701 and my roof from the house and the tribe immediately stepped in to as- sociation or who want to learn more about the Choctaw Code phone number is 845-665-3532. Thank you. sist us in getting it repaired. Talkers of World War I and World War II to the 15th annual It’s hard to put into words to express our gratitude, but we Rob Piatt meeting on Sept. 2 at 1:30 p.m. in the Tribal Council Cham- would like to tell them just how very thankful we are for ev- bers at Tvshka Homma. CCTA president, executive board, erything. Thank you for help in time of need membership, fund raising and election committees will be Jerry and Deborah Buchanan available to answer any questions. Join members of the as- The family of Shirley Louise Williams Adair would like to sociation as they share the exciting news about the World War thank the Choctaw Nation for its help in their time of need. I and World War II Choctaw Code Talkers. Searching for missing family member A special thanks to Councilman Joe Coley, who went out of his way to make sure their paperwork got to the right people The Carney family is looking for a missing family member. in a timely manner, so they could attend the services for their Phase II: Choctaw Language Class Tara Cossey has been missing since June 6, 1979, from San mother in California. Pablo, Calif. Any information would be greatly appreciated The Phase II Choctaw Language Class will begin on Sept. and should be directed to Detective Melissa Klawuhn, Contra 11 at the Choctaw Nation Community Center in Durant. Class Costa County Sheriff’s Office, at 925-313-2657. For further time is 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. every Tuesday, taught by Ann Kania- information, visit charleyproject.org/cases/c/cossey_tara.html. tobe. For more information, contact Richard Adams in the School The Carney Family Crystal continues of Choctaw Language at 580-924-8280 or Ann at 580-916- to succeed 1819. Crystal Jensen would like to thank PUBLIC RELEASE STATEMENT FOR CHILD the Choctaw Nation for supporting her OK Tribal Alliance language courses educational efforts, specifically with AND ADULT CARE FOOD PROGRAM (CACFP) ongoing academic financial scholar- The Oklahoma City Community School of Choctaw Lan- The Choctaw Nation Head Start announces its participation in the Child and Adult ships. guage will resume on Sept. 11 at the OK Tribal Alliance at Care Food Program (CACFP). All participants in attendance are served meals, at no She is pleased to share that she is almost finished with all 5320 S. Youngs. All phases, language, culture, traditions, extra charge to the parents. In accordance with federal law and United States De- but the dissertation portion of her Doctor of Learning Tech- hymnal singing and social dancing will be covered. partment of Agriculture (USDA) policy, participating institutions are prohibited from nologies program at Pepperdine University. She’s also recently There will also be a Choctaw language class held at the discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability. been honored with several news articles and scholarly experi- Shawnee community center located at 804 S. Park on Sept. Procedure for Filing Complaints of Discrimination 13 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. 1. Right to File a Complaint: Any person alleging discrimination based on race, ences and wanted to share her recognition with the Choctaw color, national origin, sex, age, or disability has a right to file a complaint within community. If you have any questions, call Norris Samuels at 405-672- 180 days of the alleged discriminatory action. Under special circumstances, this Crystal is a learning technology consultant whose Native 5653. time limit may be extended by OMA. American roots have led her to research and develop methods 2. Acceptance: All complaints must be in writing and signed by the complainant. of incorporating technology in urban and rural areas that will All complaints shall be accepted by the CACFP institution, Oklahoma State Depart- strengthen the capacity of Native American schools and com- Grateful for support ment of Education (the State Agency), or Food and Nutrition Service Regional Of- munities. She has traveled the world in an effort to research The family of Orble Frank Labor would like to extend a spe- fice (FNSRO). The complaints will be forwarded to the FNSRO (as applicable), and methods used in other countries and to network with educa- cial thank you to Councilman Jack Austin and his staff for the then forwarded at once to the CR Division. It is necessary that the information be use of the Choctaw community center and the food that was sufficient to determine the identity of the agency or individual toward which the tional leaders in a variety of forums. She is also president and provided during their time of grief. They are extremely grateful complaint is directed and to indicate the possibility of a violation. Please see a Civil founder of Integrity Technologies and CERCLE, two organiza- Rights Complaint Form. The person who has allegedly been discriminated against tions designed to provide 21st Century capacity building for for the warm, cordial support, especially on such short notice. must complete and sign a Complainant Consent/ Release Form – this form must communities in need, thereby helping bridge the digital divide. Edward Walker and family accompany the Civil Rights Complaint Form. To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Office of Adjudication, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC, 20250-9410, or call toll-free 866- 632- 9992( Voice). Individuals who are hearing-impaired or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at 800- 877- 8339 or 800- 845- 6136 (Spanish). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer. In A Good Way: Homesteading Now and Then event In A Good Way is excited to announce its first Homestead Event, and caring people volunteering to help will make the November 10! event successful. This event will be the introduction of In A Good Way to the community. In A Good Way’s event listing can be found on Mother Earth’s website by going to moth- erearthnews.com/homesteadeducation/registration. By click- ing on ‘location’ and choosing ‘OK,’ In A Good Way will be displayed. Mother Earth magazine will sponsor many other homesteading events, but In A Good Way’s is the only one in Oklahoma. During the Homesteading Now and Then event, diversified Admission is free demonstrations showing homesteading of yesteryear and today to the public over 12 years of age. “...we’ve seen more and more students applying to the Ivy will be presented. The event will take League schools and highly selective schools, and we’ve Demonstrations and presentations include hoop house con- place Sept. 29 from seen more and more get accepted.” struction, rainwater harvesting and solar panel construction, raising chemical-free bees, food preservation, canning and so- 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at In -Jo McDaniel, Choctaw Nation Scholarship Advisement Program Director lar dehydration, alpaca displays and a quilting bee. The Choc- A Good Way Farm, taw Cultural Preservation Department will be showcasing located at 13359 SE choctawnation-sap.com pottery making, basket weaving, beading, tool making, story 1101 Ave. in Talihina. 800-522-6170 ext. 2523 telling, flute making, and dressmaking. A map will be sent to registered participants and the road [email protected] Food and beverage will be available for purchase. will be marked with streamers. BISKINIK | August 2012 | Page 11 Choctaw Artists bring culture alive on Project Youth Youth across the country are in danger. Youth and young adults are experiencing Labor Day brochures, posters alarmingly high levels of abuse in their “It’s Culture…It’s History… a representation of all dating relationships. Native youth are at It’s Language…It’s Choctaw!” is those stories…think- an even greater danger. The statistics are the theme for the 2012 Choctaw ing about how things daunting at all levels and ages, but particu- Labor Day Festival. Cultural Ser- were in the past and larly so in Indian country. Native Ameri- vices Executive Director Sue Fol- the importance of those cans experience the highest ate of violence som says, “In thinking about our stories for the future.” of any group in the United States. goals with the theme this year, Folsom adds, “The col- Project Youth works with young adults we wanted to highlight the many ors, content, historic ages 13-24, addressing the problem of special things our tribal members nature of the image and sexual assault, domestic violence, dating are doing. Choosing original art the storytelling aspect violence and stalking. We will assist these by two of our tribal artists for the convey exactly what victims in achieving a safe environment brochure and art show poster was we want our guests to and safe relationships. The communities to one way we could showcase the experience at the festi- be served are all those who fall within the fine work our artists are creating. val. It’s a place to reconnect with being art. It is functional, but it is show will be on view inside the boundaries of the Choctaw Nation services Plus, both images highlight spe- people, places, and activities that also beautiful and very challeng- Capitol Museum starting at 10 area. All clients will be selected for partici- cial aspects of Choctaw culture.” make you proud to be Choctaw.” ing to make in the traditional way. a.m. Sept. 2 to 2 p.m. Sept. 3. pation because of their need for intensive When Grandfather Speaks, a Hawk Water Vessel, a piece of Pottery was essential to the lives “We hope that these art pieces services and their high risk for future vic- painting by Jim Town, Okla., art- pottery by Atwood, Okla., art- of Choctaw ancestors. Today, we reach out to all of those who get a timization. ist Nancy Rhoades, is the focal ist Edmond Perkins, graces the can experience those artistic and brochure or see an art show post- Choctaw Project Youth compliments point of the Labor Day brochure 9th Annual Choctaw Indian Arts creative roots through replica er. They are a great way to start many other programs under Randy Ham- and inspired the design of this Show poster. “I wanted to repro- pieces like the Hawk Water Ves- the conversation about the impor- mons, Executive Director of Outreach ser- year’s event T-shirt. The image duce, as closely as possible, the sel or through taking part in mak- tance of the past and the excite- vices and Senior Director Linda Goodwin. portrays a peaceful and color- AD 1300 vessel I had seen pic- ing pottery in the same way they ment of the future for the Choc- We know we can make a difference in ful landscape with a Choctaw tures of in the Moundville Ala., did so many years ago,” says Art taw Nation,” concludes Folsom. the lives of these young victims, and with couple looking out over a tra- collection. The vessel’s thin walls, Show Coordinator Shelley Tate To learn more about Choctaw the funding from OVW, Choctaw Project ditional village. Rhoades com- symmetrical shape and decorative Garner. arts and culture, visit the Choctaw Youth is grateful to be out in the communi- ments, “Grandparents often tell etchings are great examples of The Choctaw Labor Day Fes- Nation Cultural Services Division ties assisting our young people in achiev- stories of their childhood. Their the skill and artistic abilities of tival will be held at the Choc- website at www.choctawnation- ing a safe environment, full of safe rela- words put you in a frame of mind our ancient Choctaw ancestors,” taw Capitol Grounds in Tvshka culture.com. For details on the tionships and free from abuse. to visualize the world as they states Perkins. “Many times peo- Homma Aug. 30 to Sept. 3. The Labor Day Festival, visit www. Contact Jennifer Woods, Deputy Direc- experienced it. The painting is ple don’t think about pottery as 9th Annual Choctaw Indian Arts choctawnation.com. tor at 800-522-6170 or 918-465-9884 for more information.

nee Baughman and Tammy cist for the Choctaw Nation Stamps. Hugo Clinic; Katrina West, Choctaw Nation Going • Merit Award – Tribal – Ja- Pharmacy Technician at the net Green, a family practice Choctaw Nation Stigler Clin- Green Poster Contest IHS physician at the Choctaw Na- ic; Candice Smith, not pic- Contest Description: CNO recipients tion Health Clinic in McAles- tured, Choctaw Referred Care The Choctaw Nation Going Green Team is sponsoring a Water ter. Specialist at the Choctaw Na- Conservation poster contest. The theme of the contest is practicing recognized for their • Peer Recognition Awards tion Atoka Clinic; and Joanna and educating others about water conversation by submitting an en- dedication and – Tiffany Segotta, Radiology Ryan, Radiology Technolo- try into the poster contest in a way that represents the Nation and the Department Supervisor at the gist and Assistant Facility Di- Going Green team. Each division winning poster will be printed as contributions to Choctaw Clinic in McAles- rector at the Choctaw Nation a Christmas card to be used by the Going Green team. improving the health ter; Elizabeth Morgan, not Poteau Clinic. Eligibility: pictured, Switchboard Opera- • Length of Service Award – and well-being of tor Supervisor at the Choctaw Loyce Wright was recognized Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Tribal Members in school, grades Pre-K through the 12th Native Americans Nation Health Care Center; for 30 years of service. Loyce grade. Rhonda Harvey, Nursing Su- is an RN and a Community The following grades will fall into four divisions: Pre-K thru 2nd grade; 3rd grade Continued from Page 1 pervisor at the Choctaw Na- Health Nurse operating out of thru 5th grade; 6th grade thru 8th grade; and 9th grade thru 12th grade tion Health Clinic in Idabel; the McAlester Clinic. You will enter by what grade you are enrolled for the 2012-2013 school year. who suffer from alcohol and Kimberly McKinney, Medi- Instead of plaques, each re- Prizes: other drug use and trauma. cal Clinic Nurse at the Choc- cipient received a piece of art- Accepting the award for Chi taw Nation Health Clinic in work by featured artist Dylan Each first place division winner will receive an electronic tablet. Hullo Li were Krista Finch- Broken Bow; Shawn Sanders, Cavin, a member of the Choc- Contest Deadline: er, Tiffani McCurtain, Re- not pictured, Chief Pharma- taw Nation. All Entries must be postmarked no later than September 12, 2012. Winners will be announced on October 15, 2012. Rules: - All posters must be submitted on 8.5 inch x 11 inches white paper. - Use only original artwork. - Do not write name on front of poster. - Must include copy of Tribal Membership card with entry. - All posters must have the following, written in PENCIL, on the back of the poster: - Student’s first and last name, grade, address, phone number and email. - No trademarked, copyrighted materials, computer generated artwork or copy machine aided work can be used. - Reproducibility of the poster will be a factor in the judges’ decisions. - Only one entry per tribal member. - All media are accepted. Chalk, charcoal and pastel entries should be sealed with a fixa- tive spray to prevent smearing. Do not laminate entries. - Three-dimensional entries will not be accepted. Nothing may be glued, stapled, or at- tached to the artwork in any way. - Artwork should be done on a flexible material, so it can be rolled for shipping in a mail- ing tube. Do not fold poster. - Participants accept all responsibility for late, lost, misdirected or illegible entries. - Entries send with insufficient postage will be disqualified. Choctaw Nation of Okla- homa is not responsible for entries damaged, destroyed or lost during the judging process. Entries cannot be acknowledged or returned. All entries submitted become property of Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. Submitted photo How to Enter: Honorees Eddie Woods, Jerry Tomlinson, Joe Coley, Anne Brooks, Anita Risner, Repre- Mail entry to: sentative R.C. Pruett and Dr. Daniel Boatright gather with Eastern Oklahoma State Col- Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma lege President Dr. Steve Smith at the 2012 Sapphire Ball. The event raised approximately Attn: Green Team $8,000 for student scholarships. P.O. Box 1210 Durant, OK 74702 Questions ? ? ? Email: [email protected] Eastern Oklahoma State College holds third annual Sapphire Ball Choctaw Properties Eastern Oklahoma State and other donors,” said Treva Dr. Daniel Boatright of Okla- Unclaimed College’s third annual Sap- Kennedy, director of Institu- homa City (Class of 1972) OPEN TO THE PUBLIC phire Ball raised approxi- tional Advancement. “Their and Anita Risner of Yukon funds ELDERLY RESIDENTIAL HOUSING mately $8,000 for deserving support of the Sapphire Ball (Class of 1967) received Dis- The Accounting Department of the students while also honor- and the Sapphire Scholarship tinguished Alumnus Awards; Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma is try- ing outstanding employees, will create opportunities for Eddie Woods, professor of ing to contact the individuals listed be- In Hugo, Idabel, Atoka, Durant, & Po- alumni and community sup- more students to attend East- forestry, received the Presi- low. Choctaw Nation is in possession teau is accepting applications for porters. ern and realize their dream of dent’s Excellence in Teach- of unclaimed funds (non-cashed payroll One Bedroom Apartments Eastern rolled out the red earning a college degree.” ing Award; and Anne Brooks, checks) that may be due to these indi- carpet on April 28 for “An Kennedy said students academic advisor, received viduals. If you are an employee or for- Includes: Evening Among the Stars,” a applying for the Sapphire the J.C. Hunt Award for staff mer employee of the Choctaw Nation of Hollywood-inspired evening Scholarship will be evaluated excellence. Oklahoma and your name is listed be- Stove, Refrigerator, Central Heat & Air that included dinner, enter- on their leadership skills and “We’re honored to recog- low, please contact: On Site Laundry Room tainment by students and lo- potential, scholastic achieve- nize these very special indi- Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, PO Safe Room cal community members, a ment, community outreach viduals, which include East- Box 1210, Durant OK 74702, Attn: Community Room live auction, dancing and the and/or family responsibilities, ern employees, community Betty Shoemake, Payroll accountant, Income Based awards presentation. credit hour completion and fi- leaders and alumni, for their or by phone at 580-924-8280 ext. 2167. Attended by 170 guests nancial need. exceptional service, leader- HUD section 202 properties serves this year, the Sapphire Ball Also during the event, East- ship and commitment to im- Deborah Baker Michale Holmes persons aged 62 years or older is Eastern’s largest annu- ern President Dr. Steve Smith proving the quality of life for Sara Baugh Aarom Ogle al scholarship fundraising honored five individuals and the citizens of southeastern Zachary Billy James Schlote event. Proceeds from the one organization that have Oklahoma,” Smith said. “It is Taylor Booth Bradley Scott Applications may be obtained online at event will fund Eastern’s Sap- been instrumental to the suc- the total makeup of employ- Jenna Browne Whitnnie Taylor choctawhousing.com under services, phire Scholarship for deserv- cess of the college. ees, community and alumni Ronnie Edwards Joshua Townsend supportive housing for the elderly or by ing students. The Choctaw Nation and that support Eastern’s mission Jeffrey Enriquez Henry Ward calling the Housing Authority “We appreciate the support Representative R.C. Pru- to educate students of all ages Erin Grider Dianna Workman at 1-800-235-3087 and patronage of our alumni, ett (D-Antlers) received the and help them be successful Jerald Hillhouse faculty, staff, local businesses Community Spirit Award; in life.” BISKINIK | August 2012 | Page 12 Honoring our veterans Community centers hold lunches to thank Choctaw veterans 2012

Antlers Atoka Veterans honored at Antlers include Bertram Bobb, John Underwood, Folsom Veterans honored at the Atoka center include Sherman Armstrong, Gary Armstrong, White, Fred Pipping, David Chavez, Victor Eyachabbe, Charles Keeler, Wallen John Burlison, Forrest Calvert, Joe Hayse, Theodore LeFlore, Rayson Nicholas, Snake McKnight, Andrew Choate, Roy Earl Jackson, Floyd Peters, Bill Jackson, Harlon Pe- Norman, Ronnie Scott, Kenneth Wilson, Carl Tucker, James Bates, Anthony Loyd, Bob ters, James Buddy Dunlap, Stephen Billy, John Roebuck, Wrightsman Thomas, Roger Dickie, Don Bingamon, Carl McBrayer, Don McBrayer, Raymond Kerr, Donald Price Wright, Jack Austin Sr., Wayland Carter, Abraham Jones, Raymond Wright, Jack and Roy Byrd. Work, M.T. Greenwood, John Hooser, Bobby Dunlap, Lloyd Luman, Angus Willis- ton, Leo Smallwood, Levi Choate, Hershel Wall, Ted Peters, Carl Oldham, Charles Greenwood, Hank Baker, Joe D. Chavis, Joe Martin, Roger Lessenger, Virgil Blan Veteran photos by LISA REED, LARISSA COPELAND, MACKENZIE DILLS, RUBYE TAYLOR, Jr., and Virgil Silvey. KAREN JACOB, CHRISSY DILL AND BRET MOSS | Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

Broken Bow/Bethel Coalgate Veterans honored at the Broken Bow/ Bethel center include Austin Battiest, Rob- Veterans honored at the Coalgate center include Roger Barnes, Lu Bauer, Reuben ert Frazier, Randy Jacob, Silas McKinney, Melvin Tom, Raymond Touchstone, Jonah Burge, Noah Burris, Carnes Ellis, Thomas Cosper, Louis Daniel, Ernest Dutton, Char- Ward, Teddy Ward, Tom Williams, Louis Battiest, Lyman Choate, Ruby Choate, Sinak- lie Echols, Gary Echols, Marvin Hampton, James Harris, Nellie Hunter, Richard Kin- lin Forbit, Joe James, Willis McKinney, Billy Nelson, Noel Sanders, Jerry Shomo, dig, Lowell Mason, Edward Mayer, Roger McAnally, Arvard McLellan, Bruce Miles, Sherrill Shomo, Newman Tisho, Gary Tom, Benny Tushka, Randall Watson, Mary Dwayne Miles, Lyndal Miles, Harold Mitchell, Tommy Morgan, Leamon Morris, Jerry Williams, Thomas Williams, Buck Byington, Maurice White and Corky Nelson. Nanney, Donald Standberry, Billy Stiles, David Styles, Arvard Ward, Bobby Willard, Adrian Wilson and Henry Wilson.

Durant Veterans honored at the Durant center included Carole Ayers, Gordon B. Schulze Jr., Ann Grant, Richard Adams, Roger Scott, Robert Green, Milton W. Brown, Isaac Crowder Sexton, Frank Watson, Terry Cole, Joshua Sexton, Gene Loftis, Roy Cooper, Tim Sex- Veterans honored at the Crowder center include Eddie Barker, Reece Crabtree, ton, David Perriman, James Wayne Cotton, Mozelle Shoemake, Paul Price, James W. Lloyd Morris, Martin Killingsworth, Neal Trobaugh, Walter Phelps, Troy Smith, Ar- Cox, Albert Simon, Richard Sidles, Ted Dosh, John Smith, Phillip Smith, Glenn Estes, nold King, Bill Scherman, James Charles, Jerry Feck, Carl Garis, Ed Violett, Eddie Lewis Smith, Eudis St. John, Dennis Ferguson, Ralph Smith, Ralph St. John, Howard R. Smith, David Drancis, Virgil Lewis, Alvie Carney, Matthew Kemp, Larry Ivy and Frazier, William Smith, Arvel Shults, Michael Folsom, Jackie Martin, William Starnes, Robin Harry. Melvin Gaines, Jerry Thompson, Oscar Sutton, Truman Heron, Kenneth Turner, Rich- ard Wade, Homer Issac, Willie Wally, Tommy Wade, William Butch Jackson, Charles Wesley, Jarvis Johnson, Donald White, Troy Keithley, Michael Duckett, Edward Law- “I think there is one higher office than rence, Donald Ayers, Jeremiah LeFlore, Joe Beshirs, Alan Perry, Silas Blaine, Joe president, and I would call that patriot.” Peters, Ralph Brady, Chester Pittman, John Henry Choate, Earl Price and Franklin Choate. -Gary Hart

Hugo Idabel Veterans honored at the Hugo center include J.D. Carter, Ray Caldwell, R.W. Veterans honored at the Idabel center include Leo Jefferson, Harvey Allen, Walker Nored, William Floyd Himonubbe, Dutch Crews, Art Southard, David Hunter, John Davis, Ronald Williston, Sammie McGowan, Joel Holt, Melton Baker, Joe Mills, Eual Harlen, Floyd Rueben, Danny Belvin, Henry Rodriquez, Randy Short, Bud Davis, Kelly, William Tonihka, Lawrence Battiest, Truman Jefferson, Nathan Holt, Roy Har- Timothy Frazier, George Robinson, Lauren Hudson, Ron Springs, Dante Belvin, Iscae ley, Ben Williston, Deroy McKinney, Jimmie Paxton, Florence Spalding, Bill Lambert, Simpson, Guy Bradshaw, Arnold Crain, Carol Parker, Cecil Bell, Bobby Bell, George William Amos, Jack Touchstone, William Jessie, Jimmy Washington, Louis Clark, John Webster, R.D. Payne, Phillip Payne, Charles Pence, Larry Battiest, Robert Garrett, Epperson, Edison Elliott, Cornelius Tonihka, Belton Walker, James Kaniatobe, James Rom Wheelus, David Wilkie, Charles Battiest and Lyndell Finch. Haddock, Simon Amos, Sandra Moore, Carlo Wilson, William Denison, Don Wil- liam, James Long, Ben Franklin, Herbert Jessie, Benny Frazier and Leon Wesley. BISKINIK | August 2012 | Page 13 Community centers hold lunches to thank Choctaw veterans 2012

McAlester Poteau Veterans honored at the McAlester center include Walter Amos, Jimmie Neal, Veterans honored at the Poteau center include Joseph Moore, Jerry Byous, Shirley Thomas Anderson, Charles O’Leary, Curtis Baker, Thurman Pitchlynn, Vincent Dale Mantaghi, Floyd Simmons, Curtis Lloyd, Dave Butler, Ovie Austin, John Campbell, Baker, Max Quinn, William Billy, David Ranklin, Dale Cantrell, Dennis Sam, Dennis Ray Luman, Bill Luman, Sam Moore, Robert Taylor, Randy Steelman, Odice Luman, Cantrell, George Scott, Homer Cantrell, Jones Smith, Joseph Clagg, Emanual Sex- Kenneth Ferguson, Phil James, Jack Owen, Floyd Mortinson, Herman Billy , Cal- ton, Tex Cope, Ronnie Silmon, Forest Cross, Cleveland Sweet, Johnnie Cudd, Eugene vin Billy, Russell Kelly, Marvin Williams, Phillip Steelman, Doug Quals, Lynn White, Sweet, Harlow Cunningham, Lake Wilson, Frank Cuzalina Jr., Trey Ardese, Lannie Wayne White, Mike Logan, John Thornburg, Steve Eagle Mendoza, Don Goiens, Ellis, Robert Pate, Louis Ellison, Dewitt Farrell, Norman Frye, Earl Folsom, Billy Gib- Delton Cox, Charles Redden and Abram Castanania. son, James Green, Stephen LeFlore, Jack Haynes, Homer Cantrell, Thomas Hendrix, Calvin Durant, Joseph Homer, Buck Durant, Elgie Hosay, James Impson, Kenneth Hotubbee, Ronnie Silmon, Larry James, Otis Jefferson, Joseph Clagg, Thomas Jef- “As we express our gratitude, we must never ferson, David Ranklin, Randolph Jefferson, Bob Kanimaya, Chester Johnson, James forget that the highest appreciation is not to Kanimaya, Johnny Jones, Zachary Love, Raphael Jones, Ronald Love, William King, James Mordecai, Roy Labor, Windal Muse, Jack Lee, Max Quinn, Charles Lester, utter words, but to live by them.” Kenneth Major, Frank McMurtrey and Ronnie Meadows. -John F. Kennedy

Spiro Smithville Veterans honored at the Spiro center include Jim Fry, Leon Mize, Malcolm Ste- Veterans honored at the Smithville center include Meg Scott, Bill James, Alvin phens, Milton Stephens, JB Adams, Clennon Sockey, Jo Randal, William Harris, John Moore, Dean Hudson, Margie Watson, Cordell Hudson, Nathan Watson, Greg Hud- Casey, Harold Perry, Tom Pat Swafford, Jan Randall, Paul Perry, Grady Adams, Jes- son, Kenneth Ludlow, Eugene Hudson, Bobby Ludlow, Tommy Blake, Leroy Wilson, sie Northcutt, Alton Gail Chaddwick, Joel Perry, Doug Barkley, Ronnie Parent, Bill Richard Wilson, Eugene Ludlow, Wanda Leet, Con Cusher, Z.B. Anderson, Lowell Coleman Jr., Bill Coleman Sr., Bobby Coleman, Bill King, David Ashby, George Smith Nichols and Kenneth Smith. and Harold Bryant.

Talihina Veterans honored at the Talihina center include Virgil Sam, Edward Carter, John Anderson, John Emmert, Cecil Watson, Franch Johnico, Jeral Watson, Harry James, Stigler Carl McIntosh, Sylvester Moore, Marion McCurtain, Monty Olsen, Gary Crank, Veterans honored at the Stigler center include Bert Perry, Kenneth R. Harmon, Dallas Seeley, Walter Dye, Allen Dukes, Wilburn Bacon, Marie Waggoner, Everett Gerald Perry, Elmer Buckner, Jerry Perry, Danny Hoyt, Eugene Branham, Matthew Wood, Eugene Felker, Don Lanning, Daryl England, Jewett Potts, Vernon Himes, Jack Kemp, Dixon Lewis Jr., George Davis, Julias Morris, Gary Lewis, Bill Cummings, Solo- England, Jimmy Miller, Michael Sexton, Cecil Brown, Lloyd James, Russell Transue, mon Jim Morris, Larry Franklin, Kenneth Spears, Lawrence McCann, David Howard, Paul Massey, Sherman Ward, Fred Humphreys, Cornelius Winship, Jack Parks, Perry Joe Wilson, Jerry Scantlen, George Bohanan, Patrick Rose, Donald McAlvain, Don- Durant, Thomas Wall, Bob Emmert, Richard Hollenbeck, Ronnie Steward, Don Wol- ald Busse, Wendell Dennis, Ken Burge, Robert Maxwell Jr., Michael Scantlen, Darryl vertoon, Joe Jones, Roy L. McCormick, A.C. Ritter, Bill Johnson, CJ Perera, Ronny Colwell, Phillip McCann and Kenneth W. Harmon. Hammer, Olen McRorey, Charles Waggoner, Larry Ross, James Robinson, Curtis Morgan, Jan Richardson, Clarence Mars, Gilbert Brewer and Bob Bacon.

Wilburton Wright City Veterans honored at the Wilburton center include Alfred Harley, Bob White, Mar- Veterans honored at the Wright City center include Benny Ray Austin, Cyrus Bat- vin Ginn, Ray White, Sequoyah Roberts, Jimmy Labor, Bill Hall, Al Collins, Deroy tiest, Luther Battiest, Presley Battiest, Daniel Herndon, Leila Jefferson, Frank Nah- Pope, Joe Coley, Charles Swaffard, Leo Jack, Cleveland Jefferson, Margaret Rizor, wooksy, David Davis, Cecil Tom, Ernest Snow, Albert Tom Jr., Honathan Wilson, Cornelius Sam, Homer Noley, Eric Newman, Robert Prock Jr., James Noley, Bill Mc- Audie Gibson, Alvis Donaldson, Robert Thompson, Bobby Mussett, Charles Holt, Cord, Ronald Woodruff, Ron Phipps, Leonard Draper, Rick Pate, John Hart, CJ Ad- John Shelton, David Keyes, Isaac Jacob, Billy Harkins, Bill Jennings and Bill Guillar. cock, Wayne Scott, Jerry Cantrell. BISKINIK | August 2012 | Page 14 Choctaw Nation creates scholarships with $350,000 gift to OSU through Branding Success campaign “Branding Success” – The “The Choctaw Nation has a degree.” campaign for Oklahoma always been a very giving The Choctaw Nation and State University has attracted tribe,” said Shauna Williams, OSU have an established re- record support to the uni- scholarship development spe- lationship through services for versity with nearly 850 new cialist for SAP. “We have so Native American students, in- scholarships created since many students attending OSU cluding the Native American the campaign began. Now the that we wanted to do more.” Student Association, which Choctaw Nation Scholarship SAP’s gift is split into the works to promote Native Advisement Program (SAP) Anne Jones Slocum Scholar- American heritage through is partnering with OSU to pro- ship and the Choctaw Nation events; Phi Sigma Nu frater- vide even more opportunities Business and Leadership Fel- nity, which provides a sense of for students. lowship. The undergraduate unity among tribes; and Ket- SAP recently donated scholarship honors Slocum, a chum House, which is used $350,000 to endow schol- Choctaw Nation member and to promote Native American SAP co-hosts Pre-College Workshop arships and graduate fel- OSU alumna. The Business culture among students. lowships at OSU. With the and Leadership Fellowship “There are a lot of benefits forThe ChoctawNative Nation Americanof tended the college Students prepara- cost-free. at UT Pickens Legacy Scholarship will provide continuing aid to to the gift, but among them, Oklahoma Scholarship Ad- tion event this year. Students were given in- Match, the gift will have a graduate students. it brings cultural awareness visement Program and the Planning for college can struction covering a wide total impact of $1.05 million, “There is a lot of money and engages students,” said University of Tulsa co-spon- be an overwhelming task, range of college prep topics, allowing more students to af- for freshmen to get them to Kirksey. “The gift will further sored a three-day program and starting the process early including test preparation, ford a quality education. The the school, but as the students diversity on campus and help for Native American college- gives students an advantage. which was lead by Princeton first SAP scholarships will be get older, they face more chal- retain those students who pos- bound students on June 17- SAP strongly encourages Review, creating a student awarded in fall 2012. lenges,” Williams said of the sess skills and qualities to be- 19. high school students to attend resume, the application pro- Chief Gregory E. Pyle says fellowship. “We wanted to come leaders.” The TU-based pre-college college admission workshops cess, how admission deci- the partnership with OSU and provide them with additional SAP believes this gift will workshop for Native Ameri- as part of their college prepa- sions are made, scholarship the Pickens Legacy Schol- support in their later college positively influence its next can students was designed to ration and planning process. opportunities, researching arship Match has given the years.” generation. “These students give high school students the There are many great sum- colleges and more. A tour of Choctaw Nation an opportu- The gift presents a chance are the future leaders of our tools and knowledge needed mer programs that assist stu- the Gilcrease Museum and nity to provide more higher for students to further their ed- tribe,” said Williams. to navigate their way through dents in preparing for college, an awards luncheon wrapped education opportunities. Pyle ucation, fulfilling the univer- Kirksey feels this gift the complex college admis- but SAP and TU aspired to up the program on Tuesday believes the endowment en- sity’s mission as a land-grant strengthens the tie between sion process. Students from create something specifically afternoon. All students re- sures current scholars and fu- institution and adding to the the Choctaw Nation and OSU Oklahoma, Missouri and Ar- for Native students, held lo- ceived certificates of comple- ture generations of students a Branding Success campaign. and will create a lasting lega- kansas represented the Choc- cally at a selective university tion of the camp curriculum. chance to follow their dreams. “The gift from the Choctaw cy for the tribe, the university taw, Cherokee, Modoc and and at a price that is afford- For more opportunities like In addition to higher educa- Nation provides great oppor- and the students. Pawnee tribes. able for families. SAP spon- the Pre-College Workshop tion, the Choctaw Nation sup- tunities,” said Jason Kirksey, “This is all a part of our Nine Choctaw students sored all Choctaw students for Native American Stu- ports local charities, churches, OSU’s Associate Vice Presi- commitment to excellence were among the 15 Native who attended the program, dents, go to the SAP website nonprofit organizations and dent for Institutional Diver- and our ability to produce American students who at- which enabled them to attend at choctawnation-sap.com. public safety agencies. SAP sity. “As the leading institu- that level of excellence,” said works with high school and tion in the country for Native Kirksey. “OSU is excited and college students to provide American graduates, OSU is honored to receive this gift Shami earns LPN license, thanks CAB program college preparation and reten- dedicated to supporting any- that will benefit OSU students Congratulations to Shami a lot of money tion services. one who dreams of achieving now and in the future.” Fowler! With the help of to do that. Be- Choctaw Career Develop- fore I knew ment, she recently graduated about CAB, all Boyd earns title of LPN school and obtained her I could think Texas State Trooper LPN license. about was how Shami does not plan on stop- much it was When asked as a child what ping with her LPN license, but going to cost he wanted to be when he grew knows that continuing her ed- me in student up, Jake Clark Boyd would ucation is going to be expen- loans. Once I tell you a Texas State Trooper. sive. Her Choctaw Career De- learned about Few people get the opportunity velopment counselor, Penny CAB, I knew to live their dreams, but Boyd, James (pictured left), encour- that if I waited until I got a started soon. “Join it now. If 23, of Durant has been given the great Choctaw Nation. Foremost, I would aged her to take advantage of job, I probably wouldn’t qual- you think you will have to be that chance. He graduated from Durant High like to thank God my Lord and Savior. If it the Choctaw Asset Building ify for the program,” she said. out any money in the future School in 2007 and obtained a bachelor’s weren’t for Him, I would not be the person I (CAB) program while she was A CAB requirement is to on your training, then start degree in criminal justice from Southeastern am today. still in LPN school. complete a financial educa- putting in immediately. I’ve Oklahoma State University in 2011. “Second are my family, friends and es- CAB is an income-based tion workshop, in which par- talked to several people who On June 20, after a strenuous 21 weeks at pecially my fiance, Savannah. Without all matched savings program that ticipants learn budgeting skills waited until it was too late the Texas Highway Patrol Academy in Austin, of their love, support, encouragement and can help Choctaw tribal mem- and how to manage their fi- to join, and they are kicking Texas, Boyd’s dream had finally come true. In prayers, there is no way I would have made it. bers who live in Oklahoma or nances. “One of the surprising themselves! Putting in the addition to earning the title of State Trooper, “Of course much recognition and apprecia- in certain counties in Texas or things to me was how much minimum each month is much he was also elected by his fellow recruits as tion goes to the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. Arkansas save for a first-time I spend on things. During easier than being out those Vice President of the Academy, and also re- Without assistance with tuitions and scholar- home purchase, education or the training, we had to keep big loans later on, even if you ceived the coveted Physical Fitness Award, ships from the tribe, it would have been very for a small business. track of our spending. Before have a job. presented to only one recruit per academy. difficult for me to achieve my college degree. I Shami joined CAB while I did this, I couldn’t tell you “I’m very excited that I Boyd knows there are many people he owes would like to send a special thank you to Rob- she was still in LPN school where my money was going,” have CAB to fall back on with his accomplishments to, but there are a few in Counce and the entire staff of the Career so she would be prepared to said Shami. “All I knew was prerequisites that I will be fin- special people he would like to thank. “As an Development department. Without their time, pay for RN school. “I knew it going out much faster than ishing up on this coming year. American Indian, as I walked across the stage effort and dedication, I would not have been that I would want to climb the it was coming in. Once I got Thank you, CAB! Thank you to accept my badge, I was proud to represent able to receive the scholarships and many oth- health career ladder past my the proof in black and white, it Janie and Dawn for all your my chosen field of law enforcement, but also er opportunities I was given.” LPN, and I know that it takes was much easier to start plan- help!” ning a budget. Check out choctawcab. “The class was excellent in com for more information on Labor Day Festival helping with budgeting. The how CAB can help you with ideas are simple and very easy your financial goals, and go Sunday gospel lineup to follow,” said Shami. to choctawcareers.com to see She would advise tribal how Career Development 12:00 p.m. Gwenda Taylor 4 His Glory members who are thinking can help you with your career 12:15 p.m. Kenneth Gilmore, Apostle Tommy Roberts about joining CAB to get goals. 12:30 p.m. Ben Alexander 12:45 p.m. Barbara Battiest Singspiration 1:00 p.m. Johnnie Emartha Family 1:15 p.m. Crosby Family Memory Clinic 1:30 p.m. Randy Farmer Southern Gospel 1:45 p.m. Gwenda Taylor, Aaron Williams 2:00 p.m. Paul “Choctaw” Vancil conducting research 2:15 p.m. Tommy Owens Mirror’s Image 2012 Choctaw Princesses – Junior Miss Callie Cur- 2:30 p.m. Edward Capers nutt, Little Miss Summer Moffitt and Miss Choctaw Healthy Male Research Subjects 2:45 p.m. Jose Diaz 7th Day Adventist Nation Amber Tehauno – had the opportunity to meet Needed 3:00 p.m. Kate Baker, Desiree Noah country/Western singer Jo Dee Messina at the Missis- We are looking for the following: 3:15 p.m. Alan Burris, The Servants sippi Choctaw Indian Fair. 3:30 p.m. Jason Calicoat, Jason and James Band • Ages 18-50 3:45 p.m. Cynthia Shupert, The Shuperts Bucky Ensey, left, of • American Indian volunteers w/ CDIB Card 4:00 p.m. Ivan Battiest Community Based Social • High school graduate or GED 4:15 p.m. The Stones Work and Anna Hamilton • Read and speak English fluently 4:30 p.m. Dustin Grammar of Choctaw Nation Support • No history of brain injury, substance abuse or 4:45 p.m. Phillip Harrison, New Creations for Pregnant and Parent- mental illness 5:00 p.m. The Scotts ing Teens showing off the 5:15 p.m. Time commitment: One 90-minute session Rebecca Taylor, The Orphan Family cash donations collected to 5:30 p.m. Devin Fobb, Master’s Touch go towards helping under- If you are interested in participating in a research 5:45 p.m. Maye Trio privileged children for the study of computerized tests examining attention, 6:00 p.m. Choctaw Hymns annual Solemates event, or- memory and reasoning that will aid men and women 6:15 p.m. Jerry Tims ganized by the Youth Out- in the Armed Forces, please call: 6:30 p.m. The Johnsons reach program. For more 7:00 p.m. The Kingsmen information about Youth 8:00 p.m. Britt Nicole Outreach, call 580-326-8304 918-448-6796 9:00 p.m. Newsboys ext. 6064 or 6062. Choctaw Nation Come save your Labor Day RV Gate Check-In Times Memory Clinic Sponsor Institution: Check-in times for RVs will be as follows. Please make ar- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center spot for Labor Day! rangements to arrive and check in at your respective RV gate during one of these times. Study PIs: The opportunity to reserve/ C. Munro Cullum Ph.D. and Myron F. Weiner, M.D. mark your RV or tent area for the 2012 Choctaw Nation Labor Day Wednesday (8/29) 7 a.m. - 10 p.m. Contact PIs at 214-648-4427 Festival at Tuskahoma will open Thursday (8/30) 7 a.m. - 10 p.m. Participants will be compensated on Aug. 25, 2012, no sooner. If you have any questions, Friday (8/31) 7 a.m. - 11 p.m. for their time upon please call grounds keeper Clif- Saturday (9/1) 7 a.m. - 11 p.m. completion of the study visit ford Ludlow at 918-569-4978. Sunday (9/2) Noon - 10 p.m. with a $50 gift card to Walmart. BISKINIK | August 2012 | Page 15 OBITUARIES Helen Wright Billie Jean Butler Lois Southard Helen Joyce Wright, 84, of Beth- Billie Jean (McLellan) Butler Lois Marie (Battles) Southard, 77, any, passed away on June 23, 2012, passed away on July 23, 2012, at of Red Oak, passed away on July 24, at home surrounded by family. She Healdton. She was born April 11, 2012, at home. Lois was born on June was born on Feb. 3, 1928, in Idabel, to 1930, at Claypool to the late Frank 19, 1935, in Battles. She was a wife, original Choctaw enrollee, Harrison Black McLellan and Clara Mae mother, grandmother, great-grand- and Ethel Jones. (Moore) McLellan. Billie was raised mother, helpmate, gardener, cook, She married Roy L. Wright Sr. on in Claypool attending a school there. and house cleaner. Jan. 29, 1946. They were married 66 She married Kenneth Raymond But- She is preceded in death by her par- wonderful years. They raised two ler on May 30, 1949, in Henryetta, ents, John and Annie Battles; father and children, R. Leon Wright Jr., with Texas. They made their home in Ring- mother-in-law, Walter and Clara South- wife Betty of Yukon, and Angela Helton with husband Phil of ling where they enjoyed raising their children. Billie was a de- ard; great-grandson Remington Stacy; grandson Joshua Peeples; Newport, Wash. She was blessed with five grandchildren and voted homemaker who cooked wonderful pecan pies. She also son-in-law Earl Duncan; brother-in-law Paul Eugene Southard; five great-grandchildren. She was proud of her Choctaw heri- ironed for the public and could iron some of the stiffest jeans in sisters-in-law, Bea Cates, Ruby Lardi and Christeen Ramsey. tage. She was a seamstress by trade. Her hobbies were sewing town. She was baptized in the Church of Jesus Christ in Ring- She is survived by her husband of 58 years, James “Jack” and quilting and enjoyed teaching these two crafts to the young ling in 1950. She enjoyed going to church and doing what she Southard; daughter Leota Southard of Idabel; sons, Charles and old. She was a wonderful wife, mother and grandmother. could for others. She loved her family very much and adored Southard of Rodgers, Ark., Donald Southard with wife Su- She will be dearly missed. She loved to travel. She was for- her grandchildren. zanna of El Reno, and Shermon Southard with wife Mary tunate to travel to Hawaii, Key West, the western states of the Preceding her in death were her parents; son Derral Ray Nell of Nashoba; grandchildren, Rebecca, Russell, Michelle, U.S. and Okinawa, Japan. To her amazement, while in Japan, Butler; daughter-in-law Judy Lynn Butler; and granddaughter Kevin, Andrew, Joseph, Crystal, Michael, Karissa, Jesse, Ja- the Okinawa men would bow to her, being the tradition of lo- Amanda Jean Butler, all of whom died on March 23, 1984; cob, James and Amber; 12 great-grandchildren; sister Johnnie cals considering her white hair a sign of wisdom. husband Kenneth on July 8, 2003; son Lee Roy Butler on July Patty of Kiowa; many nieces, nephews; and host of friends and She is preceded in death by her parents, Harrison and Ethel 23, 2010; and five brothers, Abner David, J.W., George, Roy loved ones. Jones; five brothers, Harrison Jones Jr. of Oklahoma City, Gene and Gail. Jones of Norman, Richard Jones of Ada, Robert Jones of Del Survivors include daughter Stephanie Lynn Butler of the Earl Taylor City, and Jack Jones of Shawnee; a sister, Dorothy Mead; two home; son Billy Roy Butler with wife Deana of Amarillo, Tex- nephews, Clifford Wayne Jones Jr. of Oklahoma City, and Greg as; grandson Roy Lee Butler; sister Mary Collins of Ringling; Earl Dean Taylor, 64, of Elk City Jones of Tuttle; and a niece, Tommie Jean Rangel of Del City. and numerous nieces and nephews and other family. and formerly of Wright City, passed away on June 30, 2012, in Elk City. He Aleckton Davis Joe Cunningham was born Jan. 15, 1948, in DeQueen, Ark., to Amos and Effie Ward Taylor. Aleckton O.Nubby Davis, 84, Joe Steven Cunningham passed away on July 8, 2012, while As a teenager, he moved to Enid to re- passed away on July 29, 2012, at his paddle boarding with his wife and son on White Rock Lake in ceive special care for his health condi- home in Shawnee. He was born at Dallas. He was born Feb. 8, 1955, at the U.S. Army Hospital in tion. He always received loving sup- home on Dec. 14, 1927, in Valliant, to Sendai, Japan, to Lt. and Mrs. Joe Cunningham. Joe, a descen- port from his family. He lived in Enid parents, Patterson Aleckton Davis and dant of three original enrollees, graduated from the University until moving to Elk City where he lived until his death. Lizzie Thompson. He was a beloved of Oklahoma with a B.A. Ed. and a Master’s in Education, Cur- Earl was preceded in death by his parents; paternal grandpar- father, grandfather, great-grandfather riculum and Design from the University of Texas, El Paso. ents, Phelan and Lincie Tisho Taylor; maternal grandparents, and friend to many and a respected el- A competitive sportsman, he achieved a 14,411 ft. climb of Mose and Elizabeth Hiakunubbi Ward; niece, Cheri Wallace; der, whose strong Christian faith saw Mt. Rainier and for several years Joe was a participant in the and a nephew Derek Watkins. him through hardships and pain as Bataan Death March commemorative in New Mexico. He leaves to cherish his memory his three loving sisters, Ma- well as happiness in his life. A man who loved his family with Per his wishes, Joe was cremated. Fittingly for a 4-year Navy rie Watkins with husband Charles, Virginia Wesley with hus- all his heart, who inspired us to live our life to the fullest with veteran, his ashes will be scattered in the waters around the band Williston Jr., and Susie Reyes, all of Wright City; nieces dignity and grace as he did, in the Choctaw tradition. His jour- Hawaii ‘an Islands. and nephews, Chris Wallace of Oklahoma City, Damien Jacob ney here is done. The reward for his steadfast faith in Christ is Joe was preceded in death by his father Lt. Col. (Ret) Joe of Tulsa, Kimberly Proctor of Tahlequah, Kristen Jacob, Val- the joy of heaven. There was never any doubt in his heart that Cunningham and younger brother, Francis Scott Cunningham. entina and Victoria Reyes and Hope Tom, all of Wright City. he would see Jesus and be reunited with family that passed Joe is survived by, to quote him “The best thing that ever before him. He was deeply loved by many. Stories about him happened to me”, his beloved wife Debbie; their son, Joseph will be told, so his memory will go on. We will miss him so Scott; his mother, Angelyn Cunningham; sister Camille, with Jackie Spring very much. Goodbye “Gramps” her husband Bee and daughter Christine; brother Cody with Jackie “Jack” Lynn Spring, beloved husband of 50 years, He was preceded in death by his first wife, Laverne Sadie wife Stacy and their children, Caylee and Joe’al; uncle Ray- father of Jackie Spring, Chance, and Baby, went to be with Ishcomer; second wife of over 50 years, Wanda Proctor; his burn Hesse; and aunts, Bonnie Cunningham Woodrow and Pan his Heavenly Father on Dec. 2, 2011. Jack was a retired Chief parents; daughter Bobbie Haney; and son Larry Davis. Cunningham Rockwell; Debbie’s mother, Lois; Debbie’s two Master Sergeant with the U.S. Air Force, retired from Nortel, He is survived by daughter, Ann Harry of Oklahoma City; sisters and their families, and her two brothers and their fami- and a third career as a teacher at Bonham State Jail. His passion granddaughter Stephanie Yazzie of Shawnee; grandsons, Ja- lies. in life was teaching young open minds and giving them a new son and Robin Harry of Oklahoma City; great-granddaughters, start at life. Jack picked his wife of 50 years from the chow hall Alexis and Shamia Martin of Shawnee, and Brittany Paige Cynthia Young line at McChord AFB. He was a strong man and when he made Parker of Norfolk, Va.; sister Josephine Gonzales of Albuquer- up his mind and his hands went on his hips that was it and you que, N.M.; brothers, Joel Davis of Shawnee, James Davis of Cynthia Cathleen (Haynie) Young, best know it. The baby of a large family, mainly sisters to spoil Oklahoma City; and many nieces and nephews. 54, of Centennial, Colo. passed away him, he remained a quiet, peaceful man who enjoyed his home. on July 22, 2012, in Burlingame, Anytime you came to call you could find him in his chair with Calif. She was born Oct. 3, 1957, two little dogs, reading and watching a western. Jack was a Cornelius Henry in Barstow, Calif. Cindy was an ex- registered Choctaw, hence his love of westerns. Jack will be traordinary seamstress and founder of missed. Rest in peace my sweet man. Cornelius Dennis Henry, a Redding Designs By Choctaw Moon, a manu- Surviving to greatly miss this sweet, gentle man are his resident of 30 years, passed away at facturer of commercial and residential wife, Bonnie Hingle Spring; his forever baby girl, Jackie (Kie) home on July 7, 2012. He was the custom built window treatments and Spring with her boyfriend Lee Jarrett of Sherman Oaks, Calif.; only child of Modie L. Dennis and bedding. She also founded Ofi’s Beds three of eight siblings, Lois Faye Spring Ingram and Margie Alexander Henry. He was born in Lat- ‘N’ Stuff, a manufacturer of pet supplies made from recycled Nell Spring Williams of Quinlan, Texas, and Susie Spring West imer County. He moved to California materials. of Mena Ark. Also to be included are so many special young as a young man and lived for many She is preceded in death by her father Lowell. people he mentored during his life and a special young fam- years in Humboldt County where he She is survived by her husband Todd; mother Betty; siblings, ily in Commerce he grew to love and think of as his extended worked in the timber industry. Before Susie and Scott; children, Sarah and Christopher; grandchil- family. his health began to fail he enjoyed dren, Xander, Warren, Noah, Cathleen; and numerous cousins. gardening. He had showcase gardens at all of his homes. He Gordon Gamble also loved hunting and fishing. He had many talents and inter- ests. He was an accomplished artist/painter. He was an excel- Vicky Mayfield Gordon Durward Gamble, 88, of lent cook, specializing in pastries and pies. He did many crafts Spiro, passed away on July 26, 2012, including Indian beadwork. He had the ability to fix or repair Vicky Jo Mayfield, 64, passed away on Aug. 10, 2012, in in Houston. He was born on Jan. 5, anything. When he worked in the timber industry he invented Durant. She was born July 23, 1948, in Madill, to Cecil and 1924, in Heavener, to the late Ora something to be used on vital logging machinery that helped Hyahwahnah (Beames) Ned. Gertrude (Smith) and William Roscoe it operate more efficiently. He was very proud of his Choctaw Vicky attended and graduated from Midwest City High Gamble of Spiro. He was very proud heritage and he was a decorated veteran of World War II. He School and later married John Lee Mayfield on March 17, 1978, of his Choctaw heritage. In his early traveled to Oklahoma in November 2011 to take part in a Vet- in Norman, and they were blessed with two daughters, Grace years, Gordon would deliver pre- eran’s Ceremony where he was honored. and Sara. Vicky was a loving and dedicated daughter, sister, scriptions to the residents of Spiro as He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Lo- mother, grandmother and friend to many. She was the past pres- well as working as a soda jerk at the rene Rose Henry; and his second wife, Helen Short. ident of the Durant Indian Education Association for 12 years local drug store. After graduating from high school in 1942, He is survived by his daughters, Shirley Henry Dills with and a member of Stone Creek Baptist Church. She enjoyed sew- he joined the Navy and was stationed in the Philippines as an husband Charles, and Deloris Henry Henry with her husband ing, crocheting, Indian beadwork, cooking and canning. aviation mechanic. After returning from the Navy he attended Steve; four grandchildren, Angela Dills Williams with husband Vicky was preceded in death by her parents and sister Char- Oklahoma A&M (currently Oklahoma State) in Stillwater. He Roy, Kevin Dills with wife Debbie, Sage T Henry with wife ley Graham. met his wife, Bobbye, when visiting Fort Smith, Ark., looking Cecelia, and Vanessa Henry Branstetter with husband John; six Vicky is survived by her loving husband, John Mayfield of for a place to have his watch repaired. After one look at the great-grandchildren, Sharon Henry, Ryan Dills, Sage K. Henry, the home; daughters, Grace Culbreath with husband Thomas beautiful girl behind the jewelry store counter he was deter- Grant and Gabriel Branstetter and Arianna Henry. of Conroe, Texas, and Sara Mayfield of the home; grandsons, mined to marry her. Less than a year later on Dec. 25, 1950, Hayden and Quentin Culbreath of Conroe; sister Jamie King Gordon married his dream girl. After teaching and coaching with husband Martin of Midwest City; brother-in-law Lee Gra- for several years, Gordon went to work for Sinclair Oil Com- Jean Hess ham of Moore; beloved dog, Gigi; and numerous nieces, neph- pany located in Tulsa. After being promoted with Sinclair Oil, ews, extended family and many friends. Gordon and his family had the opportunity to move to Houston Jean M. Hess, 63, of Corry, Pa., in 1962. Gordon served as purchasing manager for many years passed away July 18, 2012, at her and through many mergers. In 1978, he founded Choctaw En- home. She was born Nov. 28, 1948, Shirley Adair terprise Inc., an industrial supply company originally catering in Corry, the daughter of the late Utah to the oil field and refinery industries. He not only took pride in and Elizabeth A. Monroe Jackson. Shirley Louise Williams Adair his business, but truly relished the friendships he made during Jean was raised and educated in Cor- passed away on April 6, 2012, in his career. His expertise and the company’s dependability and ry, graduating from Corry Area High Whittier, Calif. reliability led his company to be named the Boeing Company’s School in 1966. She was born May 24, 1940, in Ta- National Supplier of the Year. Gordon had a passion for build- After graduation, she went to beau- lihina. ing, anything from toy boxes to houses. You could always find tician school in Erie. She had owned Shirley was preceded in death by Gordon in the garage tinkering with something, where he spent and operated Jean Hess Beauty Shop in Corry for more than 27 her grandmother, an original enrollee, hours engineering his next project. He enjoyed golf and was a years. Later, she began working at Corry Manor as a nurse’s Caroline James Speers; mother Cora longtime member of the Inwood Forest Country Club. He was aide and took classes in Warren to become a licensed practical Lee Peniska; father Hurley Eugene a member at St. Giles Presbyterian Church of Houston. Gordon nurse. Jean worked at the Corry Manor as an LPN and then at Gross; husband Lonnie Williams; was a wonderful son, brother, husband, father, grandfather and Corry Memorial Hospital, where she stayed until retiring in brothers, William Gross and Ramsey Lee Thompson Jr.; sister friend. He was a force for what was just and right in society. 2009. Jean enjoyed being with her family and following her Sharon Christine Gross; and daughter Judith Christine Streeter. Gordon loved the Lord, his family, his family of faith and his grandchildren in their school and sports activities. Shirley is survived by her husband, Clayton Edward Adair; country. His faithfulness and responsible attitude toward life In addition to her parents, Jean was preceded in death by her daughter Elaine Marie Sam; son-in-Law Carlos Ray Sam; was a testimony to his faith and a great example for us all. Even former husband, Charles Hess, and her grandmother, Mamie daughter Angela Meade Williams; sons, Lonnie Williams Jr., as we miss him, we may rejoice that he has entered into his re- Reddout of Centrahoma. and Charles Eugene Williams; daughter-in-law Betty Wil- ward and is safely with our Lord and Savior as we all await the Jean is survived by three daughters, Sonya Carlson of Spar- liams; son-in-law Steve Streeter; brothers, James Gross and day in which we will be reunited in the Kingdom of God’s love, tansburg, Pa., Candy Hess and Brenda Barnett, both of Corry; Joel Gross; sisters, Yvonne Thompson Arriola and Evylena never to be separated again. son Charles Hess with wife Tonya of North Pole, Alaska; three Thompson; 13 grandchildren, Jerry Anderson Jr., Sarah Sam, Gordon leaves behind his wife of 61 years, Bobbye (Bas- brothers, John Jackson with wife Nancy of Clifton Forge, Va., Christine Ramirez, Catherine Sam, Christopher Streeter, Lyle inger) Gamble; daughter Marion Arrington; son Bret Gamble Jay Jackson with wife Becky of McMurray, Pa., and Jeffery Streeter, David Williams, Joshua Williams, Andrew Williams, with wife Kathy; daughter Zoe Roper with husband Daryl; six Jackson with wife, Darlene of Corry; nine grandchildren, Kyle, Kimberley Williams, Lorin Warner, Thomas Foley and Hubert grandchildren, Jennifer with husband Larry, Ashley, Matthew, Sara, Abby, Breanna, Jestine, Erika, Kolin, Timmy and Ashlee; Terry; 13 great-grand-children; and numerous other relatives, Taylor, Kyle and Anthony; three great-grandchildren, Ayden, and several nieces and nephews. including nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles and friends. Ethan and Jace; and many close nieces and nephews. BISKINIK | August 2012 | Page 16 OBITUARIES Linda Brooks Clovis Duke Carroll Dunagan Linda Lou Allen Brooks passed Clovis Lavada Duke, 80, a long Carroll Edward Dunagan, 98, of away on April 5, 2012. She was born time resident of Atoka, passed away Pueblo, Colo., passed away on July on Nov. 24, 1943 to Henry and Mattie on May 17, 2012. She was born on 3, 2012. He was born Aug. 31, 1913, Allen. Sept. 10, 1931, to Henry Harrison in Pittsburg Co., to Snow B. Duna- She was preceded in death by her and Sarah Belvin in Boswell. She at- gan and Elizabeth Juanita Rozell Du- parents and brothers, Joephine Allen tended Boswell Schools. Lavada was nagan. His mother was an original and Aaron Allen. a housewife and former WIC special- enrollee of the Choctaw Nation of She is survived by her husband, ist with the Choctaw nation. She mar- Oklahoma. His grandfather, Condy Charley R. Brooks, of Atoka; daugh- ried Edgel Mitchell Frazier on Aug. Sully Dunagan, served in the Confed- ter Dimitria Jolene Dickson of 20, 1949, in Grayson County, Texas. erate States Army in Company “A,” Tishomingo; grandchildren, William Allen Powell with wife He preceded her in death in 1984. She married Fred Duke of Jackman’s Missouri Cavalry during the Civil War and was Courtney of Coalgate, Monica Beth Moore and Angela Jolene on Sept. 24, 1988, in Coalgate. He preceded her in death on later a candidate for U.S. House of Representatives from Mis- McElmurry, both of Tishomingo; brother Steven Belvin Allen June 2, 2011. Lavada was an active member, First Elder and souri and a participant in the 1889 Oklahoma Land Rush. The of Durant; sister Bernice Anderson of Pueblo, Colo.; special Adult Sabbath teacher of the Coalgate Seventh Day Adventist Dunagan and Rozell families have connections to the Stanton aunt, Judith Perry of Boswell; and several nieces, nephews and Church. and Brashears families that date back to the original Choctaw other relatives and friends. Lavada was proud of her Choctaw heritage. Her uncle Jim- homeland in Alabama, and are related by marriage to Choctaw my (Harry J.W. Belvin) was Chief of the Choctaw Nation for Chief Pushmataha. Morris Amos Jr. a number of years, and her uncle Frank (Dr. B Frank Belvin) Mr. Dunagan enlisted and served in the U.S. Army during worked tirelessly to nurture the spiritual development of not World War II. He was sent to Germany on the Queen Mary, Morris West Amos Jr., 69, passed only his people, but all people. Lavada’s son, James Frazier, which had been converted into a troop transport ship during the away on June 13, 2012, in Oklahoma is the Choctaw Nation Dist. 12 Councilman and continues to war. After the war ended, he returned to Colorado and settled City. work for the benefit of the Choctaw people. Lavada was also in Alamosa, where his sister and family resided. He worked on Morris was born on March 20, proud of her children and loved them deeply, always praying the Narrow Gauge Railroad for a time; assisted his brother-in- 1943, in Lawton to Morris Amos Sr. for them. law, Lee Burgess, in a business he owned -- the Morning Glory and Minnie (York) Amos. Morris Lavada enjoyed gardening, visiting with her family and Coal Company. He then put his medical training to use and graduated from Belmont High School friends and readying. Most of all, she enjoyed studying the moved with his wife to Anaheim, Calif., where he worked as a in Los Angeles in 1961. He lived most Bible and spending “her” time with the Lord each morning. hospital orderly for many years at the Garden Grove Hospital of his life in the Oklahoma City area. She was totally committed to Jesus and never missed a Sab- until he retired. Upon his wife’s death, Mr. Dunagan moved He worked as a machinist for CMI bath until she was no longer able to walk or sit. Lavada did as back to Pueblo. He was a long-time member of the B.P.O.E. Large Equipment for several years. Morris enjoyed fishing and the commandments teach to love God first and other second. He was a recipient of the Cross of Military Service presented to playing pool. He loved family gatherings and spending time She was loving, kind, caring and generous to all. Her guiding him by the United Daughters of the Confederacy. with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He thoughts and wisdom will truly be missed and her smile will Mr. Dunagan was preceded in death by his parents; a sister; was a member of the First Indian Church of the Nazarene. never be forgotten. a brother; and his wife, Goldie Fern Black Dunagan, whom he Morris was preceded in death by his parents; granddaughter Lavada was preceded in death by her parents; three broth- married in 1942. Aryel Danielle Amos; four brothers, Mitchel, Bobby, Vernon ers, Baby Boy Belvin, Henry “Poochum” Belvin and Vernon He had no biological children, but is survived by a half-sister, and Roy Amos; niece Charlotte Amos; and nephew, Preston Belvin; husbands, Edgel and Fred; daughter Carolyn Hall Ned; Doris Daniels and family of Veneta, Ore.; step-daughter, Rosalie Meely. and grandson Timothy Pickens. Schiffer and family of Pueblo; niece, Shirley Burgess Vander- Survivors include, two sons, Morris Amos III with wife Jen- She is survived by her children, Deloris Lewis with husband beck of La Verne, Calif.; and nephews, Robert Dunagan of West- nifer, and William Amos with wife Candy, both of Oklahoma Gaylon of Stratford, Pamela Cole with husband Carey of Phil- minster, Calif., and William Dunagan of Cheyenne, Wyo. City; three daughters, Alma Grogan with husband Dave of lips, James Frazier with wife Vickie of Coalgate, William Fra- Tuttle, Arlene Longbrake with husband Tom of Norman, and zier with wife Sheila of Atoka, Stephen Frazier with wife Mar- Joseph Dick Roberta Vandyke with husband Randy of Oklahoma City; kette of Wardville, and Lucinda Kuykendall with husband Billy 16 grandchildren; three sisters, Ellen Jones of Bridge Creek, of Cartwright; five brothers, Virgil Belvin of Valiant, Dante A. Joseph Dick, 94, passed away on Armetta Looney of Davis, and Arnetta Autaubo of Oklahoma Belvin of Boswell, Johnny Belvin of Boswell, Richard Belvin June 10, 2012, in San Jose, Calif. He City; along with several nieces and nephews. of Hugo and Solomon Belvin of McCloud; two sisters, Sarah was born to Josephene and Taylor Virginia Rutledge of Millerton and Debra Bacon of Boswell; Dick on Aug. 7, 1917 in Coalgate, and Jonathan Hotema 17 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; a great-great-grand- was the seventh of eight children. His child; and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. parents, four brothers and three sisters Jonathan Matthew Hotema, 27, of preceded him in death. Ada, passed away on June 27, 2012, He met and married Jessie Mae as the result of an automobile acci- Maggie Payne Hampton on March 8, 1946. They dent. He was born on June 9, 1985, in celebrated their 71st wedding anni- Maggie Ruth Payne, 85, passed away on June 25, 2012, in Dallas, to James Hotema and Debo- versary in March. To this union was born four children; son Ada. She was born on July 24, 1926, in Pauls Valley to Walter rah (Taylor) Hotema. He grew up in Billy Wayne and three daughters, Betty Jo, Orvie Jean and L. and Sylvia K. (Gay) Richardson. Maggie and James Doyle Mill Creek, and attended school there. Joyce Dean. From these children were born 12 grandchildren, Payne were married on April 22, 1968, in Murray County. He Afterward, he attended and graduated 18 great-grandchildren and two great great-grandchildren. preceded her in death on April 20, 1982. from the Roadmaster Truck Driving Joseph and Jessie moved to Julia, Texas in 1946, and joined Others preceding her in death include her parents; two for- School. Jonathan was working as a the Mediterranean Baptitst Church were Joseph was baptized. mer husbands; six siblings; and granddaughter, Connie Griffith. commercial truck driver at the time of his death. They moved to San Jose, Calif., in 1976, and joined the Church Maggie spent her life as a homemaker. She was a very loving He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Cyrus and of the Foot Hills. Joe and Jessie became members of Grace mother and grandmother. She enjoyed spending time with her Georgine Hotema. Baptist Church in September of 2002. Jonathan is survived by three daughters, Carlee Rene Ho- family, especially her grandchildren. In her spare time Maggie tema and Jordan McKenzie Hotema, both of Tulsa, and Akaya enjoyed crocheting, going to garage sales, taking walks and Jadlyn Davenport of Ada; his fiancé, Kiri Scroggins of the playing bingo at the Sulphur Senior Center. Vicky Frye home, who is expecting their child; his parents, James and Ja- Survivors include three daughters, Judy Griffith of Ardmore, mie Hotema of Mill Creek; three brothers, James Montana Ho- Kay Unsicker with husband Frank of Oklahoma City, and Vicky Frye, 64, passed away peacefully on June 4, 2012. She tema of Selah, Wash., Thomas Christopher Hotema of Chico, Donna Benge with husband Mitch of Yukon; four sons, Leon was born Aug. 15, 1947, in Hugo, to Gene and Jessie Frazier. Calif., and Michael Lester Hotema Jr. of Ardmore; and other Autrey of Oklahoma City, Larry Autrey with wife Mary of Yu- She earned and associate degree in business and worked as a relatives and friends. kon, George Autrey with wife Lyndel of Blanchard and Randy judicial clerk for the Napa Court System for 27 years. A 35 Chapmond with wife Angela of Davis; 25 grandchildren; nu- year resident of American Canyon, Vicky was most proud of Anthony Clampet merous great-grandchildren; and two great-great grandchil- her Choctaw Nation heritage and was a certified teacher of the dren. Choctaw language. Her quick wit and laugh will be missed by Anthony “Tony” Glade Clampet her family and friends. passed away on June 27, 2012, in She is survived by her daughter, Kristina Kalinic; grandchil- Temple, Texas. He was born on Oct. Leon Bohanan dren, Kara, Joshua and Jacob Dillon, all of Tennessee; brothers, 26, 1942 in Haworth to Lawrence and Jesse Frazier of Rhode Island and Gregory Frazier of Califor- Isabel (McClure) Clampet. He mar- Leon J. Bohanan, 71, of Watson, nia; and special life partner, Sam Howell of American Canyon. ried Barbara Green on Sept. 4, 1965, passed away on June 11, 2012, at his home. He was born on Jan. 5, 1941, in Redland. He was a 9-year veteran Jonathan Jones of the U.S. Army. Anthony and his in Talihina, and was a test technician at U.S. Motors for 34 years. He was wife made their home in Belton in Jonathan Wesley Jones, 40, of Huntington, formerly of Okla- united in marriage to Jency Willis. 1972. He was a graduate of the FFA homa, went home to be with the Lord on July 3, 2012, in Cabell Leon was a member of the Buffalo Academy in Oklahoma City and he worked for many years as Huntington Hospital. Presbyterian Church and was a certi- an electronic technician with civil service at Ft. Hood. He was He was an employee of Victors Cleaners in Huntington and a fied Lay Preacher and also a member a member of the Belton Church of Christ, serving as a deacon former employee of Swiss Cleaners in Oklahoma. of the Choctaw Agency Evangelism for a few years. He is preceded in death by his father, Albert Jones; and Committee. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, He is the grandson of the late Alex McClure and Sibbie By- grandparents, Vernon and Dink Yeaman. brother and friend. He will be greatly missed by his family and ington (McClure) Milam, both original Choctaw enrollees. Jonathan is survived by his loving wife, Heather Rinehart friends. He is survived by his wife; mother; son Brian Clampet with Jones; mother Betty Yeaman; son Dalton Jones; sister Beverly He was preceded in death by his biological parents John and wife Melody of Academy; daughters, Stacy Clampet Roberts Shultz; and brother Jason Ringwald. with husband Mike of Bentonville, Ark., and Stephanie Scott Lottie Dwight Stevens; adoptive parents, Mixton and Katie with husband Wes of Plano; brothers, Steve Clampet and Bohanan; and special uncle, Willie Bohanan. Jerry Paul Clampet, both of Haworth; sisters, Sandra Holt of He is survived by his wife, Jency Willis Bohanan of Watson; Jimmy Taylor Haworth, and Cheryl Hopkins of Idabel; six grandchildren, son Edrin Bohanan of Watson; daughter Anita Baker with hus- band Donald R. of Watson; grandchildren, Casey Don Baker Jimmy Randolph Taylor, 51, of Russellville, Ala., passed Shelby, Bailey, McKenlee, Ransom, Fielder and Blakely; and a away on May 27, 2012, at his home. He was born Dec. 1, 1960, host of aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces and cousins. with wife Rebecca of Durant, and Sierra Baker of Watson; sister Janice Bohanan of Lexington, Ken.; half-brother Aaron and was a member of the Church of Christ. Miko Shomo Hardy of Oklahoma City; half-sister Rowena Hard of Hugo; He was preceded in death by mother, Sue Loyd; and grand- special sister-in-law, Fran Williams of Battiest; and cousin, parents, Ruby and Allen Dickens. “Let the little children come to me, Clara Taylor. Survivors include his son, Mark Taylor; father James Taylor; and do not hinder them, for the king- and sister Debra Handley. dom of God belongs to such as these.” – Luke 18:16. John Bradshaw Robert Krebbs Miko Shomo entered his heavenly home on July 1, 2012. John (Chic) D. Bradshaw passed away on May 10, 2012. He Robert Krebbs of Flora Vista, N.M., was born July 13, 1956. He was preceded in death by his entered this life June 24, 1931. He slipped away into the presence of his Lord on June 27, 2012. great-grandmother, Juanita Bell Ton- Chic graduated from Red Oak High School and spent most Robert was an avid outdoorsman who loved to camp along any hika; great-grandfather Johnny Ray of his adult life in the Red Oak area. His military service was in stream with a view and enjoyed using the elements of creation Ludlow; great-great-grandmother the Army and he served in the Korean War. Chic and Charlene as lessons for his family, leaving the great outdoors in better Ruth Hardy; and great-grandmother Linda Sue Billy Willis. Gallagher were married July 30, 1953, and had four children; shape than when he enjoyed it. Miko leaves to treasure his life, his mother, Carmalita Ludlow Lyle, Glenda, Curtis and Carla. Robert was employed by PNM at the San Juan Generating of Broken Bow; father Justin Shomo of Broken Bow; grandpar- Chic liked to played his guitar and sing, play softball, ride Plant for 34 years and developed many endearing friendships ents, Kiamita Ludlow Lopez of Broken Bow, Melvin Noahubbi horses, hunt, fish with quail hunting and crappie fishing be- there. of Idabel, and Geneva Shomo of Texas; great-grandmother ing his favorites. He enjoyed his ranch and watching the cattle Robert was preceeded by his father Wayne Krebbs; and Linda Ludlow of the Oak Hill community; great-great-grand- roam. He was a welder and member of Local 29 Union of Fort nephews, Matthew Garnett and Perry Krebbs. mother Lucy White of Pickens; great-great-grandmother Emma Smith, Ark., for 58 years. He was a member of the Red Oak Robert is survived by his wife of 34 years, Theresa; daughter Wilson of Broken Bow; great-great-grandfather John Ludlow First Baptist Church. He loved spending time with his five Bethanie Watson with husband Clay of Bloomfield, N. M.; son of Honobia; brother Justin Max Shomo Jr.; a host of aunts and grandchildren; Baron and Brase Bradshaw, Dane Evans, Eric Jeremy Krebbs of Harrisburg, Penn.; daughter Rebecca Armes uncles, Priscilla Tonihka, Rachel Shomo, Shawn Shomo, Sylvia and Brandon Vanhook. with husband Trey of Farmington, N.M.; four grandchildren, Shomo, Fausto Coyote, Dustin Shomo, Falcon Shomo, Hous- Chic leaves behind his wife of 58 years; children; daughter- Abby, Heath, Kailah and Audrey; mother Evelyn Walker; sis- ton Shomo, Tremain Shomo, Ronelius Shomo, Geanetta Toni- in-law Brenda Bradshaw; son-in-law Bill Vanhook; grandchil- ters, Tina Saenz and Tammy Garnett, both of Dumas, Texas; hka, Cornelius Tonihka, Matthew Ludlow, Sebastian Paredes, dren; sister, Shari Maxwell and Debbie Willsonsixth; nephews, brothers, Dr. Ronald Krebbs of Dumas, and Mark Berg of Aus- Antonio Paredes, Carmen Paredes, Jessica Martinez, Miguel Homer J. Davidson, Hal Davidson and Scott ward. tin, Texas; brothers-in-law, Randall Derrick, Darrell Derrick Martinez Jr., Jeffrey Ludlow, Julian Behrens, Cameron Ludlow, A special thank you to Lyle, for the years he cared for his dad; and Wendell Derrick with their families; as well as a great and Donita Overturf, Lisianna Hall, and Tiamekia Willis. Judy Hilburn his home care aide and Latimer Home Health. varied extended family and friends. BISKINIK | August 2012 | Page 17 OBITUARIES Joan Lane Gary Bob Wilson Melvin Larney Joan J “Jody” Lane passed away in Gary Bob Wilson, 58, of Texarkana, Melvin “Wayne” Larney, 60, of her sleep on June 18, 2012, after a year Ark., passed away on July 15, 2012, Oklahoma City, passed away on July long illness. Jody was born in Weed, at Christus St. Michael in Texarkana, 14, 2012, in Oklahoma City. He was N.M., on Sept. 6, 1931, as one of six Texas. He was born on July 22, 1953, born March 25, 1952 to Melvin Ste- children born to William and Florence in Talihina, the son of Grant and Jean vens and Marie Larney in Oklahoma Campbell. In 1942, the Campbell’s (Short) Wilson. He lived in McCurtain City. Wayne was a self-employed auto moved to Santa Barbara, Calif., where County most of his life, served his mechanic and enjoyed watching all Jody would remain for the majority of country in the U. S. Marines and was kinds of sports. During his youth, he her life. She attended local schools in- affiliated with the Assemblies of God. was an avid fast pitch softball player, cluding the Harding School and Santa He received his B.A. and master’s de- playing the position of catcher. Barbara High School, later working 16 years for Washburn gree from Southeastern Oklahoma State University in Durant, He was preceded in death by his father and brothers, Joe Chevrolet on Chapala Street from 1961 to 1977. She was also and was a proud member of Delta Chi Delta Fraternity. Gary Cunnish and Jimmy Cunnish. a long time member of the Santa Barbara Elks Club. Jody mar- Bob had many achievements throughout his basketball coach- Wayne is survived by LaFreda Whitebuffalo; his mother, ried twice over her years; fist to Loy Meraviglia and later to ing career. He had the privilege to coach in Cameron, Bat- Marie Lewis of Oklahoma City; daughter Maurissa Perez with Clarence Lane. Both of her spouses precede her in death. Jody tiest, Eagletown, Broken Bow, Checotah, Atoka, Valliant and husband Javier of Gainesville, Texas, and her children, Alexan- was a great mother and grandma, and will be sorely missed by Arkansas High. During those years he had six state qualifiers dra, Alondra and Maria; son Marcus Larney of Oklahoma City, all who knew her. in Oklahoma, two state qualifiers in Arkansas, coached seven and his son Christopher; and sister Deloris (Cunnish) Garner She leaves behind her siblings, Glibert Campbell, Norma All-Star games, the Kiamichi Classic, McDonalds All-Amer- of Sulphur. Pressly and Marilyn Pelot; many nieces and nephews spanning icans and Indian All-State to name a few. Gary Bob brought from Redding and Sea Beach, Calif., to New York; her son, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes to each school he coached, Ola Maye Draper Charlie with wife Lynda; grandchildren, Charlyna and Austin; except for Cameron. He started Hog’s for Christ at Arkansas stepdaughter Roberta; and long-time friend and companion, High. He enjoyed coaching his students in the game of basket- Ola Maye Draper, 90, of Wilburton, Ron Anderson. ball, but loved leading them to Christ. Many know of the time passed away on July 11, 2012, at the he went to Amarillo and ate the 72oz steak and how proud he Latimer County General Hospital. Nathan Pierce was. Nothing could compare to his three children and grand- She was born in Howe, on Aug. 20, son Asher – the pride and joy they gave to his life. Gary Bob 1921, a daughter of the late Watson Nathan Gene Pierce, 32, of Bo- loved his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, his family and many, Benton and Sophia (Moore) Billy. She swell, passed away on July, 12, 2012, many friends. was the wife of the late Edward Drap- in Wichita Falls, Texas. He was born He was preceded in death by his father, Grant Wilson; two er. They were married on July 3, 1948, July 27, 1979, in Talihina, OK, the son sisters, Tiajuana Morris and Glenda Ferguson; brother-in-law in Poteau. Ola was a member of the of Jimmy Pierce and Barbara Pierce John Westbrook; grandparents, Calvin and Cornelia Wilson, First United Methodist Church of Wil- Todd and had lived in the Boswell, OK Calvin and Lutie Preas; and adopted grandmother, Maggie burton; past Worthy Matron of the Eastern Star; and a member area and Sherman, TX most of his life. Short. of the Choctaw Senior Citizens. She enjoyed arts and crafts. Nathan enjoyed kickboxing and was Gary Bob is survived by his mother, Jean Wilson of Bethel; In 1979, Ola was on an election board to over see the speacial a member of the Fight Time Club. He two sons, Cam Wilson and Caleb Wilson, both of Broken Bow; election of the Choctaw Tribal Council. She was also a member also enjoyed weight lifting, fishing, daughter Patience with Jared Graham of Broken Bow; grand- of Latimer Co. Council from 1979 - 80. singing and spending time with his nieces. He also liked to son Asher; siblings, Janet with Rev. Grady Smalling of Spring- She is survived by her sons, Calvin Draper with wife Gail hike and run. Nathan was a member of the Cowboy Church in field, Mo., Ellen Westbrook of Broken Arrow, Michael with of Fort Worth, Texas, Leonard Draper of Wilburton, and Billy Southmayd, Texas. He will be truly miss by all who knew him. Audrey Wilson of Bethel, and Stephanie Wilson of Branson, Draper with wife Christine of Casa, Ark.; grandchildren, Lyle He is survived by his father, Jimmy Pierce of Boswell; moth- Mo.; and a host of other family and friends. Draper, Stacie Draper and Lance Draper, all of Fort Worth, er Barbara Pierce Todd of Sherman, Texas; stepmom Caroline “If God heals me I win, If he takes me home I win, either Stephanie Phillips of Nashville, Tenn., Susan Draper of Tahle- Harris of Boswell; brother Joe Clay Harris of Boswell; sister way I Win!” – Gary Bob Wilson. quah, Christina Clawson and Ada Draper both of Wilburton; Nikki Pierce of Sherman; nieces, Rumor Joe Harris, Chealsey and numerous great-grandchildren. Cox, Makaylah Cox, Alyssa Buell and Cheyenne Buell; along with many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends from Texas to Claude Billy Helen Kyser Oklahoma. Claude Billy, 76, of Chicago, passed Helen Ruth (White) Kyser, 55, of McAlester, passed away away on Jan. 28, 2012, in Chicago. He on July 13, 2012, at McAlester Regional Health Center. She Margie Bell was born on Feb. 8, 1935, in Manning was born to Richard and Lou (Ford) White on Sept. 10, 1956, to Minerva (Billy) Fobb. He grew up in Bartlesville. Margie F. McFarland Bell passed in the Bennington area until joining She attended McAlester High School. Helen worked for away on July 15, 2012. She was born the U.S. Navy. After his time in the Marilynn’s restaurant and Angel’s Diner as a cook. She en- March 6, 1930, in Hugo, to Rev. Mal- service, he made his home in Chicago. joyed cooking and baking cakes and pies. As a youth she at- com N. (Brother Mac) and Levena Claude loved to play the guitar and tended New Hope Free Will Baptist Church. Frances (Aunt Sis) Oakes McFarland. watching old western shows on TV. She was preceded in death by a son, Jimmy Lee Wright. She graduated from Hugo High School The family would like to express She is survived by a special friend, Craig Hill of the home; in 1948 and Southeastern Oklahoma appreciation to the Tribal Membership Department, the Burial daughters, Gabrielle White of the home, and Ashley Kyser of State University in 1964. She worked Assistance Program, Outreach worker, Connie Courtwright El Paso, Texas; father Richard White of Talihina; mother Lou as a telephone operator for Southwest- and the Bennington Senior Citizens Center for their help dur- Irvin with husband Pete o Seguin, Texas; siblings, Michael ern Bell Telephone Company for 15 ing a time of need. White with wife Linda of McAlester, Ray Irvin with wife Gra- years until she started teaching elementary school in Denison He was preceded in death by his mother; and brothers, Ar- cie of Seguin, David White with wife Linda, Barbara White in 1964. She taught at Peabody and Houston Elementary until nold Bully and Charles Joseph Fobb. and Richard White Jr., all of Oregon, Gloria McClish with hus- she retired in 1990. Her maternal great grandmother, Harriet Claude is survived by one brother, James Pamplin of Fort. band Jim of Oologah, Frances Eldridge with husband Charlie Everidge, came to Oklahoma on the Trail of Tears. Worth, Texas; sisters, Bernice Williams with husband Olin of of Indianola, and Jackie Jones with husband Bill of Alabama; Music was a big part of Margie’s life. She sang in many gos- Bennington, Verna Mae Peters with husband Paul of Pampa, along with numerous nieces, nephews and other family mem- pel quartets and loved to attend gospel singings. After retir- Texas, Phyllis Knight of Bennington, Eleanor Palmer with bers and friends. ing Margie enjoyed traveling and most of all babysitting her husband Edward of Durant, JoAnn Frank with husband Austin beloved grandson, Jacob. She also loved to play 42 and never of Terrell, Texas, and LouElla Fobb of White Oak, Texas; and Elizabeth Warren turned down a game when presented with the opportunity. numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, David Elizabeth Sue Warren, 85, of Shaw- McFarland, Lawrence McFarland, E.L. (Sug) McFarland; and Orble Labor Jr. nee, passed away on June 4, 2012, sisters, Irene McFarland and Fairy Wheelus. with family at her side. Elizabeth was She is survived by daughters, Susie Bell Marshall with hus- Orble Frank Labor Jr., 66, of Mead, born on April 22, 1927, in McAlester, band Reed of Arlington, Texas, and Donna Bell of Denison, passed away on July 25, 2012, at his to Elmer Horace Gotcher and Frances Texas; grandsons, Jacob Raney of Denison, and Josh Marshall home in Mead. Frank was born Aug. (Lester) Gotcher Collum. She was of Arlington; great-grandchildren, Karlie Marshall and Blaze 23, 1945, in Durant, to Orble Frank raised in Shawnee by her mother and Reed Marshall of Arlington; brother Malcolm McFarland of and Helen Winfred (Smith) Labor Sr. stepfather Rev. Charles Lee Collum. Placerville, Calif; along with several nieces, nephews, cousins Mr. Labor was a member of the VFW. Elizabeth was a homemaker most of and friends. Frank enjoyed farming. He loved his her adult life. A special thanks to the loving staff at Crawford Street Place animals, gardening, country music, She and family lived in many locals, including Midland, Assisted Living and to Changing Seasons Home Health for the playing cards and socializing with Texas; Homer, La., Amarillo, Texas, Littleton, Colo., Ever- wonderful care they gave our mother in the last years of her his family and being with his grand- green, Colo., and Houston, Texas, before her husband retired life. We feel truly blessed to have had all of these amazing children. Frank loved food! He loved to BBQ and loved home in Shawnee. She was quite artistic, and made lovely pottery people to help take care of our mother and she appreciated and cooked meals. and baskets, and painted beautiful china pieces. Elizabeth was loved all of them. He was preceded in death by his parents, and a brother, Wyn- an avid reader. del Labor. She was preceded in death by a granddaughter Jessica Su- Glenna Detter Frank is survived by his son, Orble Frank Labor III of Dal- zanne Olsen; and a sister, Eleanor Ann Griffith of Hebron, las; daughters, Sheron Kelm with husband Seth of Waxahachie, Ohio. Glenna Sue (Speegle) Detter, 82, Texas, and Shannon Parker with husband Jim of San Antonio, She is survived by her husband, Charles Wayne Warren; of Bartlesville, passed away on Feb. Texas; sisters, Marqutia Westerman with husband James of sons, Robert Wayne Warren of Forest Park, and Charles Da- 25, 2012, at the Jane Phillips Medical Allen, Texas, Juanita Mitchell with husband Jimmy of Plano, vid (Chuck) with wife Jackie Sabo Warren of Salmon, Idaho; Center. Texas, twin sister, Stahr Terrazas with husband Ervin of Blue daughter Cynthia Sue with husband Roy McElfresh of Shaw- Mrs. Detter was born in Dewey, on Ridge, Texas, and Karen White; grandchildren, Danielle, Mad- nee; grandchildren, James (Jim) Warren Olsen with wife Wen- March 12, 1929, the daughter of Lyon elyne, Tristan, Gavin, Ethan and Brody; and numerous nieces dy of Norman, Erik Justen Olsen with wife Sherri of Tecumseh; Speegle and Lena (Williams) Speegle. and nephews. Kelsea Suzanne McElfresh of Shawnee; Elsbeth with husband She grew up and received her educa- Aaron Vance of Idaho, and Hilary with husband CJ McKinney tion in Bartlesville, attending Bartles- Harold E. Cox of Idaho; great-grandchildren, Erik Justen Olsen Jr., Rachael ville schools and graduating from Col- Marie Olsen, Matthew Warren Olsen, Jonathan Dakota Olsen, lege High School in 1947. She was employed for a time with Harold E. Cox, 75, of Summerfield, Natalie Elizabeth Olsen, Andrea Murray Weeks, Gabrielle Phillips Petroleum Company until she was married to Clyde passed away on June 12, 2012, in Murray and Shelby Murray; great-great-grandchildren, Bran- Detter at the First Baptist Church in Bartlesville on August 28, Summerfield. He was born Aug. 21, don Weeks and Abigail Weeks; nieces, Dana Lynn Griffith, 1949. They made their home in Norman where Mr. Detter was 1936, in Summerfield, to John Chris- Paula Jean Linter of Ohio, and Marsha Townsend of Pa. a student at the University of Oklahoma and Mrs. Detter was topher and Ora (White) Cox. He was employed as a secretary in the Petroleum Engineering Depart- a retired glazier from the construction Jerry Bray ment at OU. They returned to Bartlesville to make their home industry. in February of 1952, where she was an active homemaker and He was preceded in death by his par- Jerry Don Bray, 44, of Broken Bow stay at home mother. In the early 1970’s she was employed ents; first wife and mother of his chil- passed away on June 9, 2012, at his with Rathbone’s Flair Flowers for several years until returning dren, Bonnie (Crusha) Cox; four broth- home. He was born on Nov. 13, 1967, to Phillips Petroleum Company where she retired on Oct. 1, ers, Orb, Ivan, Dale and J.C. Cox Jr.; and a sister Reba Loyd. in DeQueen, Ark., the son of Clarence 1985. She was a member of the First Christian Church, Hon- Harold is survived by his wife Doris Marie (McGowen) Cox “Peck” and Gloria Jean Laxton Bray. eybee Quilters, Jubilee Quilters and the Tulsa Heirloom and of the home; sons, Harold Cox Jr. with wife Earlene of Nor- Jerry Don enjoyed hunting, fishing, Smocking Guild. She enjoyed handwork such as smocking and man, Michael Cox with wife Tracie of Summerfield, Brent Cox collecting guns and target shooting. embroidery. She was very proud of her Choctaw heritage. Her with wife Sheila of Noble, Jim Cox with wife Michelle of Ra- He is preceded in death by his family would like to express their appreciation to the Choctaw mona, Calif., and Daniel Lloyd with wife Toby of Greenwood, parents; brother Robert Allen; and a Nation for aiding in funeral expenses. Ark., and Glenn Lloyd with wife Paula of Summerfield; daugh- great-nephew, Hunter Bray. She was preceded in death by her parents and one sister, ters, Gayle Reynolds with husband Raymond of Newalla, Nilas He leaves to cherish his memory, his fiancé, Tina Bray of the Jacque Fisher. Ellis with husband John of Bengal, Rhonda Steelman with hus- home; his mother, Mavis Bray of Holly Creek; stepsons Craig Mrs. Detter is survived by her husband, Clyde Detter of the band Gary of Richert, Sandra Granniman with husband Tom Chaney of Broken Bow, James Carver of Bennington, and home; daughters, Janet Margul with husband Michael of Plano, of Krebs, and Lisa Vines with husband Marshall of Hackett, Quentin Takacs of Tulsa; stepdaughter Cara Chaney of Broken Texas, and Gay Cooper with husband Lee of Bartlesville; son Ark.; brothers, Jim Cox of Bonita Springs, Fla., Sherman Cox Bow; granddaughter Riley Faye Carver; brother James Olen Michael Detter with wife Alicia of Broken Arrow; brother, L.E. of Oklahoma City, and Delton Cox of Pocola; sisters, Freda with wife Kathie Bray and their children, Bradley, David and Speegle Jr. of Maumelle, Ark.; six grandchildren, Lisa Margul, Barrick of Phoenix, Ariz., and Louise Earls of Ponca City; 30 Brittany Bray, all of Athens, Ark.; sister Sandra with husband Ashley Cooper, Branden Cooper, Kelsey Mackin, Jena Detter grandchildren; 40 great-grandchildren and one great-great- Shawn Baker and their children, Khristen and Shawn Baker of and Lena Detter; great-granddaughter, Ella Mackin; and many grandchild; as well as a host of other family members, friends the Oak Hill Community; special friend David Armer; numer- nieces and nephews. and loved ones. ous aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives and friends. BISKINIK | August 2012 | Page 18

Choctaw Nation: LISA REED Tvshka Homma Two Oklahoma teams play in annual Mississippi games Tvshka Homma warriors advance to second round

By LISA REED Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

All heads turned as the sound of the drums herald- Choctaw Nation: LISA REED ed an historic meeting on the field – two Oklahoma teams were scheduled to play in the World Series of Team Tvshka Homma is pictured at top with Assistant Chief Gary Batton Stickball, and they were to battle each other. and Councilmen Anthony Dillard, Thomas Williston and Delton Cox prior The bleachers were packed and families filled the to the July 7 game at the World Series of Stickball at Choctaw, Miss. Above, sidelines for the July 7 game between Tvshka Hom- Tvshka Homma and Okla Hannali battle on the opening night game and at ma and Okla Hannali, or “Six Town.” left, Tvshka Homma players fight Unified for possession of the ball. It wasn’t the first time the two groups have met on a stickball field. It was, however, the first for many of them to participate in the World Series in Choc- Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma taw, Miss. Tvshka Homma returned this year for the third time and it was Okla Hannali’s first appearance 2012 Labor Day Festival at the 49-year-old tournament. “We had some new players and a good group of 2nd Annual Stickball Tournament experienced ones who taught the new ones and gave them advice,” said Tvshka Homma Coach Les Williston. “We were all shooting for one goal – to win. It is more than a game. It’s sacred, August 31-September 2 it’s traditional.” Tvshka Homma won its first game in the World Series competition, 7-0, bringing the match 6 Team Double Elimination to an early end in the fourth quarter because of the “mercy rule.” The points made by Joey Tom, Daman Polk, Clovis Hamilton, Myron McMillan, Luther Amos and the two by Josh Willis were a result of the hard work of all players and coaches. Thirty players are on the field for each team, divided into defense, center and offense. Tvshka Homma’s year of dedicated practice had paid off. Advancing to play Unified in the second round was a challenge they welcomed. Williston said they know it is an uphill climb to beat a Mississippi team whose members have been playing practically since they learned to walk. The Tvshka Homma defense held Unified during the first quarter of the July 11 game, but was overcome by the much more experienced team, losing 8-0 with the mercy rule ending the third quarter. “We see improvement with every game we play,” Williston said of the Oklahoma players. “We are focusing on our next games including our tournament at the Labor Day Festival.” Regular practices are held at Broken Bow and Durant with extra gatherings in Tvshka Hom- ma or Hugo. The team is discussing beginning to open practices in the Atoka and Poteau areas. Williston said he knows the boys are practicing at home, too, because he sees them developing their skills. Recruitment is important to bring in younger men and to have more available for games. Often, as the men learn, they form their own stickball teams. This means more competition, a lot more games, and helps them all get better. The Labor Day Festival Tournament will be hosting six teams – Tvshka Homma, Okla Han- nali and Chikasha Toli, all from Oklahoma, and Unified, Warriors and Konihata from Missis- sippi. The first game of the double-elimination tournament will be at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 31, at the stickball field north of the carnival on the capitol grounds. There will be four games per night with the finals scheduled for Sunday, Sept. 2. “We are excited about how we have grown and expect twice as many teams next year,” said Cultural Services Executive Director Sue Folsom. “Several groups have shown an interest – the Coushatta from Alabama and Louisiana, the Jena Band of Choctaws, and the Seminole and If you are interested in participating, please fill out following release form and turn in to Cultural Services staff at the tournament. Creek teams want to play but want to have more time to develop their skills. “Culture is important to us,” she continued, “and stickball is a very important part of that culture.”

Choctaw Nation GED Classes North LeFlore County Bryan County Beginning date and time: Beginning date and time: Aug. 27, 2012 Aug. 27, 2012 Mondays and Wednesdays Mondays and Wednesdays 9 a.m.-12 p.m. 1-4 p.m. Choctaw Nation Choctaw Nation Tribal Complex Family Investment Center South building, downstairs Poteau Durant Choctaw County Latimer County Beginning date and time: Beginning date and time: Aug. 28, 2012 Aug. 28, 2012 Tuesdays and Thursdays Tuesdays and Thursdays 1-4 p.m. 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Choctaw Nation Choctaw Nation Community Center Community Center 408 N. “M” Street 515 Center Point Rd Hugo Wilburton The class will meet two days each week for approximately 13 weeks. Books, supplies and testing fees are provided. In addition, a $10-per-day transportation stipend is paid to those who attend classes on a regular basis and attempt the GED test. If you have turned in an application with our Adult Educa- tion Program for GED classes and wish to attend the upcoming class, please contact our office. If you have not applied and wish to attend these or future classes, please contact Neal Hawkins or Kathy Springfield at the Durant office, 800-522-6170, ext. 2319. Also you may register at the first class. A Certificate of Degree of Indian Blood (CDIB) is required. BISKINIK | August 2012 | Page 19

TheOn a crisp fall Choctaw blowgun a good blowgun. This is done by hold- morning, a Choctaw ing each crooked area over hot coals un- boy glides almost til the heat makes the cane pliable. Each noiselessly through crooked part is individually straightened the underbrush, arriv- Iti Fabussa and held in place until it cools, then the ing at an oak tree, full next crooked area is worked on, until the of acorns. Leaning against the tree’s trunk in utter stillness, the cane is completely straightened. River young hunter’s thoughts creep through his mind about his fam- cane is naturally hollow, except for the ily at home, who are depending upon his skill to provide them solid node areas, spaced at regular inter- with some fresh meat. Not long after he becomes stationary, the vals down the cane’s length. 100 years birds resume their singing. Eventually, some squirrels venture ago, Choctaw blowgun makers would Fig. 3: Tvshkachito with blowgun (Bushnell 1909: plate back out onto the limbs of the tree above him, collecting acorns punch out the nodes of green cane, using 20). for their winter stores. When one of the squirrels moves into a sharp-pointed skewer, made either from an open area on a branch, the hunter begins raising a straight- the root end of a long, narrow shoot of blowgun dart makers tease apart cotton balls and use the fi- ened, hollow piece of river cane. He raises it very slowly; so cane (Nash 1960:3), or from a hardwood bers as fletching material. To keep the fletching from extending slowly that an observer wouldn’t even perceive its motion; so sapling. One such implement can be seen over the back end of the dart and potentially getting caught slowly that the squirrel does not notice as the cane points at today in the collections of the National in the shooter’s mouth, the ends are sometimes trimmed off. him. The chirping of the birds is momentarily quieted by an Museum of the American Indian (cat. This was traditionally accomplished by sliding a newly made almost cough-like sound, as the hunter exhales a short blast #018889.00). These implements would dart into the blowgun, and then using hot coals to burn off the of air into the hollow cane, sending a dart rocketing out of the be forced down the length of the cane, fletching material that protruded out the base of the blowgun hollow cane and upwards towards the squirrel. There will be punching out one node after another until (Nash 1960:5). The Euro-American literature contains no doc- meat in the stew tonight! the cane was completely hollow down its umentation that Choctaw blowgun darts were ever poisoned. The blowgun, eloquently dubbed “the breath of death,” by length. Today, some Choctaw blowgun In hunting small game, these large darts are more than affec- some English speakers, is a weapon that Choctaw hunters have makers accomplish the same thing by tive without poison. However, some Choctaw oral historians in been using to bring down small animals including squirrels, heating up a pointed piece of steel rebar Mississippi maintain that far back in the past, Choctaw blow- rabbits, and birds since time immemorial. Some, including until it glows orange, and burning out the gun darts were tipped with poison, and that they were some- the author, still hunt with the ancient Choctaw blowgun to- nodes. Then, the rough edges of the rebar times used on the battlefield (York 2012:129). day. are used to sand out any rough areas that While men did make some use of the blowgun in the past, Blowguns have been developed and used by a number of may still exist on the interior of the blow- it was primary a weapon for boys, who are said to have been Indigenous groups around the globe. Generally all of these gun. After the interior of the blowgun quite deadly with it out to 20 yards (Romans 1777:77). In blowguns, including the Choctaw version, function on the has been hollowed out and smoothed, its shooting, many Choctaw blowgun hunters hold the blowgun Fig. 2: 100- same basic ballistic principles. The blowgun itself is a hollow ends can be cut off at a node to reduce the with one hand near the mouth, and the other slightly farther year old Choc- tube, much like a section of pipe. The blowgun dart consists of chances of them splitting. down the gun. Darts are fired with a short, very forceful blast taw blowgun some type of hard, pointed shaft with fluffy material wrapped Today, a beautiful 100-year-old Choc- of air. In hunting, it is best to use the blowgun at a close enough darts, fletched around its base. When the dart is placed in the breach of the taw blowgun can be seen in the collection range that the animal cannot see the dart coming. In the hands with thistle hollow blowgun, this material, plugs up the hole. When the of the National Museum of Natural His- of a practiced marksman, a Choctaw blowgun is an extremely down (NMAI hunter blows on the breach end of the blowgun, the dart is tory (cat. # E304038). Unlike most cane accurate and effective weapon that still provides meat for some cat# NMAI forced through the gun and outwards at a high velocity. available today, the cane from which this families. The Choctaw term for blowgun is “uski hlumpa” (Byington #242285.000) blowgun is made, is perfectly round in 1915:360), which literally means “pierced cane.” The cane se- cross section, with no flat edges. Even lected for Choctaw blowguns, is mature, has a large diameter, after 100 years, the blowgun is still absolutely straight. and is as close as possible to being perfectly round in cross sec- The Choctaw term for blowgun darts is “shumo holutti” tion, even near where (Byington 1915:335), meaning literally “fletched with thistle.” the branches attach As with the Choctaw term for blowgun, this term alludes both to the main stalk of to the material and form of the darts. Blowgun darts intended the cane. Functional for hunting are usually made from splints or hardwood or yel- Choctaw blowguns low pine. These splints are carefully shaved down to have an are usually 6 to 9 even, round cross section, and sharp point. Choctaw blowgun feet in length. Shorter darts of a century ago were sometimes more than 20 inches blowguns are easier in length (Laubin 1991:164). Fine darts with intricate twists to take through the can also be made from flat splints of river cane (Nash 1960:5), woods, while longer although these light-weight implements are usually better for implements are more target practice than hunting. powerful, if the hunter As the Choctaw name for blowgun darts implies, the bas- has sufficient lung ca- es of darts are often fletched with thistle down (e.g. Bossu pacity to fill them. 1768:103). To do the fletching, a thin piece of string isat- After the cane is tached to a notch cut in the base of the dart shaft. This string is cut and the branches wrapped around the shaft in a spiraling fashion, binding down removed, the cane tufts of thistle down to the shaft. Pieces of deer hide, cloth Fig. 1: A 100-year old Choctaw must be carefully (Bushnell 1909:18), and short lengths of cotton thread have Fig. 4: Choctaw youth with blowgun and darts (Boisseau blowgun (NMAI #018871.000). straightened to form also been used to fletch Choctaw blowgun darts. Today, some 1847).

In addition to her commitment to her career, Allen devotes her time to personally making a difference in her community, serving on numerous boards and committees. She recently Chahta Anumpa Aiikhvna ALLEN graduated from Class XXV of Leadership Oklahoma and is on uuu uuu Judy Allen nominated for Journal Record’s 2012 the Board of Directors of the Choctaw Code Talkers Associa- Lesson of the Month Woman of the Year ‘Making a Difference’ Award tion, Creative Oklahoma and the Oklahoma Arts Institute. She also serves on committees for Choctaw Nation Natural Re- Continued from Page 1 sources, Tribal Donations, and Employee Benefits. Vm vlhtaha! Some of her past honors include awards for Preservation of tribes to replicate the Choctaw festival. Choctaw Culture from the Okla Chahta Clan in 2000 and the Pronounced: She’s also been a champion for the recognition of the Choc- Meritorious Service Award from the DFW Native American Ahm ahthl-ta-ha taw Code Talkers, blazing the trail in having the Code Talkers Chamber of Commerce in 2009. She was also honored to serve Recognition Act of 2008 passed in U.S. Congress. She never as Faculty in Residence in 2012 for the National Education for I’m ready! gave up despite the Act’s failure to pass with a two-thirds vote Women’s Leadership Initiative at the University of Oklahoma. Context: twice in previous years. Her firm leadership and unyielding She and Ray, her husband of 33 years, reside in Coleman and lobbying ensured the Code Talkers, who were unrecognized together have one son, Phillip. They are also grandparents to 1) I’m ready as in I’m ready to go somewhere. during their lifetimes, received the proper acknowledgment five beautiful grandchildren. or and decoration for their vital contributions to our country and Both Ray and Phillip have diabetes and often struggle with 2) I have finished or completed a task. our nation’s military during World War I and II. Due in no the complications associated with the disease. Allen has been small part to her dedication and tireless efforts, legislation was an advocate for them and all diabetics. She’s also active in her Word Meaning: finally passed to honor the Choctaw Nation Code Talkers, as church, and says sharing her trust in God is an extremely im- well as Code Talkers from 11 other Indian tribes. This was both portant part of her life. vm – I am historical and monumental to the tribe and the families of all Allen’s philosophy is simple: “Be kind to others,” she says, vlhtaha – v. n., to be ready; to end; to finish; the Code Talkers. “say thank you with sincerity, give more than you take and She also led the team to begin the first Commemorative always have a positive attitude.” Choctaw Trail of Tears in 1992, and the Choctaw Nation Veter- Assistant Chief Gary Batton, one of many who nominated ans Day ceremony, which are both now annual heritage events Allen for the Woman of the Year Award, stated, “I believe Judy attended by thousands of Choctaws. is a wonderful wife, mother and grandmother who excels at Vm vlhtaha tuk! The Public Relations department, under her strategic leader- balancing those duties with a career as a leader in her tribe, Pronounced: ship, has more than quadrupled in size since she first stepped community, and the state of Oklahoma.” Ahm ahthl-ta-ha tuk! into the position. She is at the helm of a diverse department that Allen joins a long list of esteemed Woman of the Year nomi- includes public relations, marketing, the tribal newspaper, Bis- nees representing those who are “making a difference” in a vast I was ready! kinik, the circulation department, genealogy, the website and and diverse array of backgrounds and career fields throughout social media, and Texoma Print Services. the state of Oklahoma. Context: 1) I was ready. or 2) I finished or completed as task. Trail of Tears Association announces 2012 Conference and Symposium to be held in Norman Vm vlhtaha chi! The Trail of Tears Association announc- thoughtful, authoritative presentations delving into the history Pronounced: es the opening of registration for its 17th and modern day implications of the Trail of Tears. Highlights Ahm ahthl-ta-ha chi(n). Annual Conference & Symposium to be include a tour of the Chickasaw Cultural Center in Sulphur held in Norman, Okla. The four-day event and an evening at the Oklahoma History Center in Oklahoma I will be ready. will take place Oct. 22 - 25, 2012, at the City. The event brings together those interested in the history Context: Riverwind Casino and Hotel. Details, in- of American Indians, historic preservation, and those wanting 1) I will be ready. cluding special hotel room rates and how to to protect the trail for future generations. register are at the Trail of Tears Association The Trail of Tears Association is a non-profit, membership or website: www.nationaltota.org. organization formed in 1993 to support the creation, develop- 2) I will prepare to be in a state of readiness. The Chickasaw Nation is co-hosting the ment, and interpretation of the Trail of Tears National Historic week’s events along with TOTA’s Okla- Trail. The upsilon character, represented with a ‘v’ in this lesson homa chapter. Designated as a national historic trail by Congress in 1987, has the sound of a quick ‘ah’. The Choctaw Nation is also a major the Trail commemorates the forced removal of the Chickasaw, sponsor and is hosting a reception at the evening event at the Choctaw, Cherokee, Muscogee (Creek), and Seminole people Oklahoma History Center in Oklahoma City. from their homelands in the southeastern United States to In- www.choctawschool.com Participants will be immersed in lively social events and dian Territory (present-day Oklahoma) in the 1800s. BISKINIK | August 2012 | Page 20 Entertainment Free to the public Friday night Saturday night

Hankerin’ 4 Hank promises By age 21, Ricky Skaggs was already considered to hold true to the original ar- a “recognized master” of one of America’s most de- rangements and style of Hank manding art forms, but his career took him in other Williams Sr. These incredibly directions, catapulting him to popularity and suc- talented musicians are taking cess in the mainstream of country music. His life’s a step back in time in present- path has taken him to various music genres, from ing these tunes in the style where it all began in bluegrass music, to embark- that Hank wrote them. You will ing on new musical journeys, while still leaving his experience the look and the musical roots intact. sound of Hank Williams as he 2012 marks the 53rd year since Ricky struck his performed in 1951. Hankerin’ first chords on a mandolin, and this 14-time Gram- 4 Hank provides the “Drifting my Award winner continues to do his part to lead the Cowboy” sound that backed recent roots revival in music. With 12 consecutive Hank, complete with the doghouse bass and honky tonk guitar and steel that so much Grammy-nominated classics behind him, all from his defined the music of that era. own Skaggs Family Records label, the diverse and masterful tones made by the gifted Skaggs come from a life dedicated to playing music that is both fed by the soul and felt by the heart.

Six years after her first studio album, Sara Evans released “Stronger,” her newest record that is filled with the kind of gutsy explorations on life and love that have made her one of the most compelling fe- After two decades in the music business, Martina Mc- male vocalists of her generation. Bride has made some changes, now signed to Republic Sara’s continually remained a favorite at country Nashville, with new management, a new co-producer radio thanks to such hits as “Born To Fly,” “Suds In and newly spotlighted song-writing skills, having penned The Bucket,” “I Keep Looking,” “Perfect,” “No Place over half the songs on “Eleven,” her newest album. That Far” and “A Real Fine Place To Start.” “Teenage Daughters,” Martina’s debut single for Re- Her newest album’s lead single, “Stronger,” is just public Nashville, was released the week after Country the latest jewel in an already stellar career. Sara has earned numerous accolades, Radio Seminar, and fans immediately recognized Mar- including the Academy of Country Music’s Top Female Vocalist honor in 2006 and the tina’s personal stamp in the lyrics. Her follow-up single, Country Music Association’s Video of the Year prize for “Born To Fly.” Her previous “I’m Gonna Love You Through It,” wasn’t penned by the studio albums have been strong sellers. Her sophomore set, “No Place That Far,” has singer, but touched Martina personally. been certified Gold; 2001’s “Born to Fly” is double-Platinum and 2003’s “Real Fine In a career that has already taken her to breathtaking Place To Start” and “Restless” are both Platinum. heights (four Country Music Association Female Vocalist of the Year trophies, three Academy of Country Music Female Vocalist awards, a Grammy win, numerous nation- al magazine covers and features and appearances on such shows as VH1’s “Divas,” “Today Show,” “20/20,” “American Idol” and “Dancing with the Stars,” Martina is ready to take it up a notch with the help of her new label. Cracker Barrel Old Country Store presents Josh Turner, with his deep voice and catchy, while meaningful, lyrics. Schedule is subject to change. No drugs or alcoholic beverages allowed on tribal grounds. The singer-songwriter was months away from sched- uled recording sessions when he first heard “Why Don’t We Just Dance,” which became the debut single from his fourth studio album, “Haywire.” Since earning a standing ovation as an unknown singer Bring your quilts and lawn chairs and enjoy on the Grand Ole Opry stage in 2001 with his impressive delivery of “Long Black Train,” he has established himself the Choctaw Nation’s exciting lineup this year! as one of the most identifiable male vocalists in country music. Concerts take place at the amphitheater on the Josh has sold more than 4 million albums, with his de- Choctaw Nation Capitol Grounds in but album was certified platinum for more than one million copies sold, and his sophomore album, “Your Man,” was Tvshka Homma, Oklahoma. one of only four country albums to reach double-platinum status in 2006. Six years after his Opry debut, he was inducted into the prestigious organization, becoming one of the youngest artists to receive such an honor. Sunday night If there’s one group whose name inspires thoughts of pure, passionate, solid and true music, it’s The Kingsmen. They’ve encouraged and uplifted listeners with their unique style since the conception of the group in 1956. With countless records and compilations sold, Grammy nominations, four Dove Awards and an induction into the “Gospel Music Association’s Hall of Fame” (class of 2000), “The Christian Music Hall of Fame” (2008), this certainly solidifies The Kingsmen as Christian music’s most predominate group. The momentum has not stopped as the group continues to help define the Southern Gospel genre for a whole new generation of music lovers, perhaps more so than any other group. There aren’t too many groups today who can boast the kind of far-reaching legacy that comes with more than a five-decade career as one of gospel music’s most in- fluential artists. The Kingsmen emerged in the 1950s with their own distinct style, unleashing music that would solidify them as pioneers in the southern gospel music field. They continue to carry on that legacy today, with their music holding a mes- sage of Christ, touring year in and year out to spread their music and that message across the country.

A native of Salisbury, N.C., Britt Nicole has al- This Grammy-nominated and Dove ways had a heart for reaching people and has long Award-winning band has sold close to 8 mil- used music as the vehicle to change lives. She lion units, has garnered five Gold albums began singing in church at age 3 and by the time and 28 number-one radio hits. Newsboys she was in high school, she was appearing on her released their most recent CD on Nov. 15, church’s daily television program and logged a 2011 - the highly anticipated project, “God’s performance at New York’s famed Carnegie Hall Not Dead.” This rock-driven worship album with her school’s advanced chorus. finds front man Michael Tait and his band Boldness is generally associated with youth and mates, who have played together for two they say wisdom comes with age, but rarely does decades, with some of today’s most widely one person simultaneously possess both in abun- church-embraced modern worship anthems dance. However, Britt isn’t your average twenty- as well as several original and never-before- something as she clearly demonstrates on her released worship songs written by some of vibrant sophomore album, “The Lost Get Found.” today’s biggest worship songwriters. In listening to Britt’s music, it’s obvious she pos- Renown for their heart-pumping live con- sesses wisdom beyond her years and a spiritual maturity not often seen in one so certs, the tight-knit Newsboys unit continues young. Yet she’s very much the playful girl next door and those equally intriguing to headline gigs in the U.S. and around the sides of her personality merge seamlessly on “The Lost Get Found.” world.