Men ‘Walk Wheelock Continuing publication a Mile in Alumni of recorded interviews of Her Shoes’ Luncheon Choctaw elders from 2007

This month – Laura Jameson Page 5 Page 9 Page 10

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

BISKINIKThe Official Publication of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

May 2011 Issue Serving 205,930 Choctaws Worldwide Choctaws ... growing with pride, hope and success Choctaw Days in Washington, D.C. Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian hosting four-day Choctaw festival in June By LISA REED Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

Thousands of people from around the world will soon have the opportunity to absorb the sights, sounds and culture of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. The Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian (NMAI) and the Choctaw Nation are working together to pro- Photo provided: Dana Waldon Choctaw Nation: LARISSA COPELAND Choctaw Nation: LARISSA COPELAND vide a memorable experience for visitors and those who live in the Washington, D.C. area. The Choctaw Days event will be held Marcus Amerman works Flute maker Presley By- Shirley Barboan and Vonna Shults create Choctaw menu June 22-25 during NMAI’s height of the tourist season when an on beadwork creation. ington. items. average of 1,500 visitors come to the museum every day. “We are honored to be the first American Indian tribe zx Related articles on Pages 11 and 13 be featured every hour. from Oklahoma to have a festival of this kind at the NMAI Executive Chef Richard Hetzler is working with National Museum of the American Indian,” said Chief Gregory Vonna Shults and Shirley Barboan to provide 10 Choc- E. Pyle. “I remember when the museum opened on the National Choctaw Days will begin each morning with the melodic taw-related dishes in the Mitsitam Native Foods Café. Mall almost seven years ago and I have visited NMAI numer- chanting of Ron McKinney and the fluid movements of the The top-notch restaurant, located on the first floor of the ous times since. It is a remarkable place, showcasing hundreds Choctaw Youth Dancers in front of the museum’s east en- museum, features authentic Native foods found through- of tribes from South, Central and North America. trance. The boys and girls, in colorful traditional shirts and out the Western Hemisphere. During the week of Choctaw “We have assembled several of our best artists, dancers, sing- dresses, will perform the jump dance, the quick steps and Days, the menu will include fried salt pork, pinto beans, ers and cultural experts. We know that we will have a different shouts of the fast war dance, and the stealing partners dance tanchi labona, fried rabbit, rabbit gumbo, braised veni- audience than we are accustomed to and want to ensure that with audience interaction. The snake dance will end outside son, banaha Indian bread, grape dumplings, wild onions they all understand just how special our tribe is,” he said. but more singing, dancing, fluteplaying and storytelling will See CHOCTAW DAYS Page 16

Providing aid to Tushka tornado victims Tribe pledges up to $10,000 match in students’ penny drive for Tushka Schools By LARISSA COPELAND tions were pulling into town to pro- Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma vide aid to their neighbors in need. The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma is Though the April 14 tornado in proud to be one of those to answer Tushka lasted only minutes, the ef- the call as well, providing aid to fects of the devastation felt by the storm victims by offering resources residents will be long lasting. The for food, water, supplies and ser- storm, which the National Weather vices. Service rated an EF3 on the En- The Choctaw Nation is commit- hanced Fujita scale, tragically killed ted to helping the entire commu- two people and left 43 injured. It nity during this time of need. It has also affected 237 homes in the small joined forces with nine school dis- town in southeastern Oklahoma. Of tricts in southeastern Oklahoma to the homes affected, 33 will need help the Tushka School. The school repairs, 47 will need major repairs was reduced to rubble when the tor- before they will be livable, and truly nado ripped through the town and heartbreaking, 149 were completely students and faculty from neigh- destroyed. Of these homes, only 42 boring schools have organized a percent were covered by insurance, penny drive to help them rebuild. leaving many families in Tushka The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma wondering what to do next. has pledged to match up to $10,000 Almost before the storm cleared, brought in by the students in the fun- Choctaw Nation: LISA REED an outpouring of family, friends, draiser. An aerial look at some of the devestation in Tushka. The tornando affected 237 homes in the small com- churches, and numerous non-profit The schools that are participating munity, completely destroying 149. Choctaw Nation provided much needed aid in the aftermath, such as the and governmental relief organiza- See TUSHKA Page 12 tarps pictured covering the roofs of the homes left standing.

u What’s inside

Notes to the Nation...... 2 Culbreath a 2011 Oklahoma Women’s Hall of Fame inductee Columns...... 3 By JUDY ALLEN Obama appointed her last year to Nursery News...... 4 Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma serve on the No Child Left Behind Food Distribution...... 4 Negotiated Rulemaking Committee. People You Know...... 6 The Oklahoma Women’s Hall of When asked what the most im- Education...... 7 Fame has recognized a Choctaw portant work she has accomplished, Obituaries...... 14-15 legend – a Joy in both name and at- Joy will reply that her activity in her Iti Fabvssa...... 16 titude. Longtime Executive Director church and at home with her family of Education for the tribe, Joy Cul- has been the most important job she The Mission breath has been inducted into the has ever fulfilled. of the Choctaw Hall of Fame, honored as a pioneer Governor Mary Fallin and Secre- in her field who has made significant tary of Veterans Affairs Maj. Gen. Nation of Oklahoma contributions to the state of Okla- Rita Aragon (Ret.) of the Oklahoma To enhance the lives of all homa. Commission on the Status of Wom- members through opportu- The Choctaw Nation has always en were joined by Chief Gregory E. nities designed to develop known that Joy was a jewel, creat- Pyle at the Induction Ceremony for healthy, successful and pro- ing a successful adult education pro- Joy and the seven other honorees for ductive lifestyles. gram, a remarkable school of Choc- the 2011 event. taw language, and growing multiple Inductees in the 2011 Women’s Choctaw Nation: JUDY ALLEN other education programs and ser- Hall of Fame are Dr. Laura Boyd, Chief Gregory E. Pyle and Joy Culbreath, executive director of edu- The BISKINIK vices that provide opportunities for Minister Chloe Brown, Joy Cul- cation, pose for a photo at the 2011 Oklahoma Women’s Hall of Fame is printed on people across the United States. breath, Marcia Mitchell, Ardina induction ceremony. Joy and seven other honorees were recognized for Her talents and passion have recycled paper. Moore, Dr. Cindy Ross, Kathy Tay- their significant contributions made to the state of Oklahoma in their been noticed nationally – President lor and Helen Thompson. specific fields. May 2011, BISKINIK, Page 2

NOTES TO THE NATION

Thanks from Goodland Academy Thankful for disaster relief Birthday gospel singing Chief Pyle, thank you very much for the assistance. Some- State Representative Paul Roan would like to tell Chief Pyle, A birthday gospel singing for Joseph Wolf will be held at 7 times we never know how far reaching our spheres of influence Assistant Chief Batton and the Tribal Council members how p.m. May 28 at the Choctaw Community Center on Big Lots can be. I received a call from a pastor at The Potter’s House much he appreciates what the Choctaw Nation is doing for Road in Durant. Special groups in attendance include New Church in Dallas, a mega church whose pastor, Bishop T.D. constituents in Tushka. Creations, The Gastineaus and many more. Bring your groups, Jakes, is on national TV frequently. Pastor Wesley, from the and admission is free of charge. Supper will be served at 11 church, called us seeking to bring work groups and help sup- p.m. and concessions are available. For more information, call port our program. He informed me that he was related to two of 580-775-2065. our day students that started last fall. He told me that the posi- Thank you tive transformation that has occurred in their lives has been as- Thank you to Chief Pyle and the Choctaw Nation for the tonishing and that he wanted to be a part of the amazing things birthday cards, the newspaper and the precious Christmas or- LeFlore High School reunion that are happening here at Goodland Academy. Your support naments, which really add beauty to my tree. A letter about ed- The LeFlore High School Annual Alumni and Former Stu- has made our motto, “Striving for Excellence,” a reality! We ucation from my younger brother was in the paper once and a dents’ Association Banquet will be held May 7 at the old Le- want each of you to know when you give to Goodland, you picture of two of my children was in another issue of the paper. Flore High School gym. Registration begins at 5:30 p.m. and become a part of our success stories. I’ve lived in Missouri over 60 years, but I’m an Oklahoma Choctaw at heart. I’m glad you are making Oklahoma a better dinner at 7 p.m. If you are a former student or graduate of Le- David L. Dearinger place to live. Flore High School, make plans to come and get reacquainted with your old classmates. For more information, contact Susan Billie F. Kelley Cantwell at 918-647-6327 or email smcantwell2000@yahoo. Thank you for donation com. I want to sincerely thank Chief Pyle and the Choctaw Nation for your donation of baby wipes for our soldiers in Afghani- Thank you from Byington family stan. We are mailing them little by little, as postage is quite The family of Wanda Byington wish to express their appre- Casey/Ward reunion high. Once again, please accept our deepest thanks for your ciation to Brother Daniel Wind for his message and Chief Pyle, The Casey and Ward reunion will be held at noon June 25 generosity. Assistant Chief Batton and District 11 Councilman Bob Pate at the Choctaw Community building in Spiro. If you have any for their kind words spoken of their mother. They wish to thank Cara Dominick, Hugo High School questions, please contact John Casey at 918-962-2316 or 918- their friends and family who sang and The Choctaw Singers 774-4940. Thank you. with Jeremy Scott. Thanks to Presley Byington, who played his native flute; it Seeking information on cousin meant so much to them. To all the volunteers, co-workers and I am looking for information on my cousin, Darlene Bohan- friends of Choctaw Nation who prepared food and dropped it Beal reunion an Fields, who I lost contact with a few years ago. I am also off or called, thank you. Their support truly touched the fam- The Charlie and Minnie Beal family reunion will be held searching for any of the Bohanan relatives. My grandmother ily’s heart. May God bless all of them. Also, a special thank June 11 at Central Church, located at 4949 hwy 7 West be- was Lillian Dee Bohanan. Her siblings were Choice, Faye, you to Chaney-Harkins Funeral Home. tween Davis and Sulphur. The family will be staying at Turner Metta Juan, Daphanee and Ailene. Falls Inn from June 10 through June 11. For more info, please Any information or pictures would be greatly appreciated. contact David Deal at 806-676-6633, or Debbie Green at 806- My name is Tammy Vargas, and my number is 817-692-6307. Thanks to Career Development 676-6096. I wanted to express how incredibly thankful my son, Alex, and I are to Ken English and Bettye Bolen of the Career De- McAlvain reunion Thank you for support velopment Program. My son is trying desperately to obtain an education for the field he wishes to work in, and the Choctaw The 2011 Polk/McAlvain family reunion will be held in Wis- Jennifer Empron recently received her Nation has helped him overcome difficulties every step of the ter at the community/activity building on the north side of Lake bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary way. Alex was diagnosed with a severe form of optic neuritis Wister on June 4 at noon. There will be a potluck lunch, and the health services: occupational therapy and and lost a great amount of his vision. Following that, my hus- meat portion of the meal will be provided. Each family is en- graduated summa cum laude. She would band, Robert, passed away. couraged to bring a side dish, drinks, an auction item for both like to thank the Choctaw Nation for the Ken English and Bettye Bolen stepped into our lives and adults and children and lawn chairs. scholarship money to help her continue changed everything. They have helped us above and beyond Families are also gathering at the Kennady/McAlvain Cem- her education. the call of duty. Because of them, Alex will be able to com- etery in Wister on June 5 at 9:30 a.m. For further information, plete his education and begin work in his chosen field. They contact Val (McAlvain) Templin at 918-429-9925 or email at are incredibly quiet about it, too, just stating matter-of-factly [email protected]. For Wister Lake State Park cabins, “That’s what we do here,” but what they have done, and what RV, camping information or directions call 918-655-7212 or Thank you for the Choctaw tribe has done, is a miracle. Alex has a renewed 800-654-8240. sense of purpose and his drive and energy are now endless with blessings enthusiasm. He has always been a strong young man and a hard Shirley Picklesimer is worker but now he is even more so. Nail/Henington reunion grateful for the blessings All we ever hear as a society is bad news. The good news is The late Dock Nail and Henington reunion will be held June she has received from that there are people out there that care, and there is help for 28 through July 4 at Cardinal Point. The family invites relatives the Choctaw Nation. In people like us who don’t normally ask for help. My life and to camp out with them or come and go. All relatives of the late recent times Shirley has Alex’s life are like other people’s lives, filled with adversity. Dock Nail and Lewis Henington are welcome. For more infor- earned over 10 certifi- Ken and Bettye have made me realize that there is much good- mation call Lillie Nail Henington at 918-429-3382, Benjamin cates qualifying her for work in the culinary arts and plans to ness and kindness. We are blessed to be Choctaws. Henington at 918-470-5885 or Pat Henington at 918-470-3997. pursue even more. Bakery Assistant Certification and Cook’s Luann Wooley Hays Assistant Certification are a couple of the many credentials she has accrued that will make her successful in her life. Shirley would like to thank God first and foremost for all the Choctaw people and provisions he has placed in her life that have been Seeking photo of great assistance. “I would like to thank each and everyone I am trying to get a picture of my great-great-grandfather seniors who has been involved in my education,” says Shirley. James Darneal. I have been told he was a Light Horsemen sher- She extends great thanks to the Choctaw Nation Vocational stay fit iff for Judges Isaac Parker. Years ago I saw a photo, gun and The Choctaw Development Department led by Rita Workman and her staff. badge at Kerr Museum in Poteau. I went back a few years later She also is grateful for Sabrina Ralls, who is the director of Senior Citizen and the museum had been robbed, leaving no trace of those exercise class the Poteau Choctaw Community Center, and all those involved articles. None of my family has a photo and it is real important with the center for their assistance and encouragement. in McAlester in- that I find one of him of any kind. If you have any information, vites seniors to join them Tuesday and Thursday mornings at Coouncilman Delton Cox has also earned a special “Thank please contact G. Swift at 918-962-3955. You” for his continued aid with her future. 10 for fun, exercise and a salad lunch. They enjoy doing chair exercises, walking, using treadmills, cycling, using exercise DVDs and using elipticals. Pictured in the front from left to right are instructor Neatha Gregory E. Pyle Gary Batton Thank you Smith-Quinn and coordinator Jay Tisho, and in the back are Chief Assistant Chief I would like to offer my sincere thank you to the Choctaw Helen Key, Joan Hogan, Mary Ann Fabry, Sue Davis and John- Nation for its great ability and dedication in providing excel- ny Cudd. The Official lent health care as well as financial assistance. The positive benefits of exercising are weight loss, reduction Monthly Publication In October 2010, I was diagnosed with cancer. Because of of blood sugar, decreased risk of stroke and cardiac disease. of the the Choctaw Nation’s many available assistance programs, For more information, call Neatha Smith-Quinn at 918-423- Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma several of my personal needs were met quickly and graciously. 6965 or 918-423-1016. I would also like to give a great thank you to my Councilman, Judy Allen, Executive Director Joe Coley of District 6. Councilman Coley is a hard-working Lisa Reed, Director/Editor councilman who sees to the needs of the people he serves and Melissa Stevens, Circulation Director Larissa Copeland, Assistant Editor the Choctaw Nation. The Choctaw Nation administration, the Seeking address to send quilt pattern Karen Jacob, Purchasing Coordinator Choctaw Health Care and Councilman Coley are all highly re- On March 26 I visited with a lady at the McAlester Expo Brenda Wilson, Administrative Assistant garded by my family and me. Center who gave me her address on a napkin so I could send Bret Moss, Copy/Production Assistant Sheila Isabell her a Sunbonnet Sue quilt pattern; however, the napkin was Chrissy Dill, Journalism Intern left in my jeans pocket and was washed and ruined. I know the woman was from McAlester, and if she could, please contact P.O. Box 1210 Durant, OK 74702 Debbie Damron at 1-800-522-6170 ext. 2309 and I will mail (580) 924-8280 • (800) 522-6170 Buck succeeds at the pattern. Thank you. Fax (580) 924-4148 www.choctawnation.com premium sale e-mail: [email protected] Bailey Buck of Madill FFA The BISKINIK is printed each month as a service to Tribal is pictured with Mr. Spears Thankful Members. The BISKINIK reserves the right to edit submitted of the Choctaw Nation at the My family would like to sincerely thank the Choctaw Nation material which it finds inaccurate, profane, offensive or mor- 2011 Oklahoma Youth Expo and the Biskinik staff for making sure we get our monthly edi- ally unacceptable. Copy may be edited for proper grammar and Premium Sale. She would tion of the newspaper. We also appreciate the calendar and the punctuation. Copy will be accepted in any readable form, but like to thank the Choctaw Nation for its continued support. where possible, it is requested that material be typewritten and wonderful gift we received at Christmas time. It was a great double spaced. You must include an address or phone number way to explain to my son some of the culture of our tribe. where you may be reached. Due to space limitations and the I am also very thankful to have received a grant from the quantity of article submissions, we are unable to include every- Department of Higher Education, which is helping me achieve thing we receive. Thank you for help in time of need my goal of becoming a college graduate. May God bless our If you are receiving more than one BISKINIK at your home My name is Patricia Clarke Tom and I would like to thank nation and tribe, or if your address needs changed, we would appreciate hearing the Choctaw Nation for coming through for us at Christmas Seth S. Tom from you. time when we were in financial stress. My kids were able to The BISKINIK is a nonprofit publication of the Choctaw Na- have a good Christmas. tion. Circulation is monthly. Article deadline is the 10th of the I also wanted to share the good news that my husband was month for the following month’s edition. able to get a motorized chair for himself. I am still trying to Seeking family information gain financial help with a van and medical equipment and I am currently seeking my McClure family line. My mater- The Biskinik E-News is a digital version of your monthly attachments on the van so I can transport my husband to his nal great-grandmother was Narcissa McClure, who was half Biskinik. It is delivered to your e-mail inbox twice monthly and necessary doctor appointments, since he is having his above- Choctaw and married George Miflin Bond. Narcissa died about contains articles from the most recent BISKINIK newspaper the-knee amputation soon. We have had to move several times 1894. Her parents were Isaac McClure, a full-blood Choctaw, as well as links to the current BISKINIK and archives. Sign up since Christmas to locate a doctor who will do his procedure and Sarah Schemerhorn McClure. Family oral history has it today on choctawnation.com. and have finally moved to California. We have found a home that Isaac came to Oklahoma on the Trail of Tears and was PRESS AS A SO M C O I H A taken in and adopted by the McClure family. Please e-mail any 2010 T and are just waiting for surgery date. Thank you again to all the A I L O

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BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST May 2011, BISKINIK, Page 3 Disasters affect tribe and tribal members From the Desk of Chief Gregory E. Pyle As I walked through the areas hit by the storm, I was able to talk with residents who not only survived the storm, but were The entire nation has been riveted to the broadcasts of the still able to smile and talk about their future plans in the rebuild- heart-wrenching images of the devastation left behind from the ing of their homes - building back on the same site, in Tushka, April tornadoes that have repeatedly swept from Oklahoma and their home. Their stories of the night of the storm were inspir- Texas to the east coast. Just a few miles from the headquarters ing, with their values of God and family uppermost in the re- in Durant, in the hometown of some of our employees, one if counting of events. Each person I talked to was thankful their the first super-storms of Spring spawned a multi-vortex system family was safe, was thankful to God, and was busy cleaning up of tornadoes that ripped apart the school in Tushka, completely their property with a true Choctaw “warrior” spirit that not even destroyed 149 homes and damaged about 90 other homes. a tornado can chase away. Tushka is the Choctaw word for “warrior,” and I want to The sad situation in Tuscaloosa (Choctaw word for “black pass along to the rest of the world that the fighting spirit in warrior”) also affects the Choctaw Nation. We have tribal mem- this small town is strong! Minutes after the doors to the storm bers all over the world, including Alabama, and we are anx- shelters were opened, residents began the search and rescue iously awaiting word if any Choctaws were lost in this storm. for friends and relatives. Because of the advance forecasts and Just down the road from Tuscaloosa is Moundville, a historic warning systems, the Choctaw Nation and other agencies were site of our ancestors probably used for politics and ceremonies prepared with teams quickly in place to provide assistance. Two between the 11th and 16th centuries that includes 32 amazing precious lives were lost, but when viewing the miles of disaster earthen mounds, and now has a museum open for the public. We the churning tornado had appeared to chew up and spit back out, have been notified that the tornado was visible from Moundville it seems a miracle that more people were not killed. but did not damage them. The tribe set up a cooking area adjacent to the incident com- gency assistance. Partnering with the local churches, volun- The prayers of my family, the Council, the employees and mand center to provide 1,200 hot meals each day, as well as teers, American Red Cross, and other agencies, many resi- myself go out for all those who have been victims of storms and donating bottled water, toiletries, food items, cleanup and emer- dents were reached within hours to get help. other disasters this year.

Youth Activity Camps offer opportunities for development Chaplain’s Corner

From the Desk of Assistant Chief Gary Batton

The Choctaw Nation has a series of youth camps during the summer months that offer unique opportuni- Preparing for eternity ties for youth ages 8 – 18. Beginning the first of June, Again it is my privilege to share with over 500 youth are registered to take part in two days you something from the Word of God. I am of Cultural Enrichment camps at Tushka Homma.They reminded much of our Choctaw-speaking will be enthralled to learn the rules of stickball, how to preachers saying, “Achukmalit illa nukfilla use the ball sticks (kapucha) to throw and catch the ball shke.” (“Let’s meditate or think on these (towa) and actually compete in a stickball game. things.”) The Cultural Enrichment camps also teach archery The Bible indicates that this life we are with a long bow, Choctaw pottery-making, basketry, living is only for a brief period – preparing bead-working and tribal language. us for eternity. There are many who are liv- Sports camps are offered in golf, football, baseball ing only for today with little thought about and softball. These are free of charge, giving a tremen- the future life. The Bible has a great deal to dous advantage to the students so they can get great say about the future, one is the subject of instruction in sports of their choice. Multiple incentives hell. for attending these camps includes keeping in shape, In the record of the rich man in Luke 16, staying involved in sports that are enjoyable and being we have an example of a man who chose introduced to new sports. Students will also be shown to disregard God’s law and lived to regret it in a place that Jesus called hell. Jesus was how setting goals and self-discipline not only helps dents grow, the gloves and bats need to grow in size trying to picture what would happen if you their playing ability, but also helps in their life off the with the players. Basketball and football campers are left God out of your plans. Because He will field. given balls at the end of their instruction. bring judgment in the life to come. Rev. Bertram Bobb The instructor for the Golf Camp is Ed Bowe, the The tribe provided the bus ride when the camps are In Luke 16:22 we see that this man was Tribal Chaplain ESPN Golf Schools Director of Instruction. The staff at locations far from home. Lunches and plenty of Ga- rich, “...the rich man also died, and was bur- and instructors are motivated to teach each participant torade and water are available at all the camps. This has ied.” God does not condemn men because whether it be a first time or an advanced golfer. Each been a great opportunity for the youth of the Choctaw they are rich, nor does He justify a man because he is poor. Poverty is not a new golf participant gets a set of clubs to encourage Nation, and the Chief and Council have been proud that virtue nor are riches in themselves sin. them to continue the sport. The softball and baseball so many young people have been able to attend over the The altar of God is where the rich and the poor meet. There are no rich nor participants are being gifted gloves this year. Alternate past few years. We all hope that hundreds more will be poor in heaven and with one voice they say, “Nothing in my hands I bring, years, bats are given. Coaches explain that as the stu- at the camps this summer for a wonderful experience! simply to thy cross I cling.” Some of the finest Christians are men of means, but their bank accounts, like their lives, are consecrated wholly to God. But the rich man of whom Jesus spoke, lived selfishly. This rich man eventually found himself forsaken by the God he had ignored and by his friends whom he had neglected. Money with all its advantages can- Tribal Council meets in regular April session not buy everything. This rich man died and all of wealth could not buy one The Choctaw Nation Tribal Council met April 9 in • Kiamichi Economic Development District of more precious hour of life. regular session at Tushka Homma. Oklahoma (KEDDO) Outreach Budget, a grant that Think of the things that cannot be bought with money. It cannot buy health, friends, love, or peace of heart and mind. It cannot buy peace of soul. We come New business addressed included approval of: provides services to low income and economically dis- to the conclusion then, that money in itself is not worthy of the importance • Native American Housing Assistance and Self advantaged older persons. most people place upon it. Determination Act of 1996 (NAHASDA) 2011 Indian • A 90-acre grazing lease in Latimer County. This man’s sin was his selfish use of money. He placed it ahead of God and Housing Plan to be submitted to the U.S. Department • The disposition of assets from the Choctaw Nation because of that, his heart was conditioned for hell instead of heaven. of Housing and Urban Development. Housing Authority in accordance to existing policies. Notice in verse 23 of Luke 16 the place to which the rich man was con- • The funds and budget for the 2010 Environmental • Donation of excess land in Bryan County to Chi- demned, “And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham Protection Agency for the Climate Showcase Com- howa Okla “God’s People” United Methodist Church afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.” munities Grant Program where the federal govern- to be used to meet the spiritual needs of the people of I find no pleasure in the knowledge of the fact of hell, but it is my duty to re- ment has awarded a grant of $189,817 to assist the the area. mind you that the same book, the Bible, that proclaims the wonders of heaven Choctaw Nation in the enhancement of environmen- A sanctuary and fellowship hall are to be built on the also describes the terrors of an eternal separation from God in hell. tal, economic, public health and social conditions for land and ownership shall default back to Choctaw Na- The rich man carried all of his faculties with him when he went to hell. He the community. tion if the property ever ceases to be a church. saw, he felt, he heard, he remembered and he cried. • The Choctaw Nation Faith-based counseling for • A Right To Work provision, which limits certain A million years from today, for eternity, you will still be living somewhere. Crimes Victims in Indian Country Grant where the requirements of employees to the Choctaw Nation. The immaterial part of man, your memory, your hearing, your feeling, your federal contribution is $54,148, which is added to Tribal Council members meet in regular session sight, your taste, will be living somewhere forever according to the teaching $6,016 in tribal cash from the General Fund for a total at 10 a.m. on the second Saturday of every month at of the Bible. of $60,164. Tushka Homma. It is reasonable to believe that God the Father would not send His only Begotten Son to leave heaven, to come to this earth, to become man, to be mocked by an insane mob, to be spit upon by the rude rebels, to be nailed to the cross and to die shamefully upon the cross, if there were no danger of your soul being lost and going to hell. Choctaw Nation There are many people who feel that sermons on hell are intended to fright- of Oklahoma en the lost into accepting Jesus Christ. This is not my motive. This is what the Bible teaches, if our Lord Jesus Christ mentioned it over and over again it is important enough for me to mention. Notice how the rich man was punished in Luke 16:23, “And in hell he lifted Photo Contest Capture the Spirit up his eyes, being in torments, ...” It took the torments of hell to turn this rich of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma man’s thoughts toward others. What will people endure in the service of Satan and share your heritage and sin? See him descending down the social ladder in spite of the prayers of with tribal members around the world. friends and loved ones and the faithful convicting plea of the Holy Spirit. The rich man had the torment of memory. Abraham said in Luke 16:25, “... Winning entries will be used remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise in the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma’s Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented.” 2012 Calendar. I imagine also that this man had an opportunity to turn to God, but refused or neglected it and now he had the memory of those neglected opportunities. PHOTOGRAPHY SPECIFICATIONS: You remember the times that you drove by the church. You are going to • Digital images are preferred but not required. • remember the times that you saw the Bible and neglected to read it. You are High resolution 300 dpi RGB JPG files are preferred. • going to remember the times the Spirit of God spoke to you in the quietness of To be considered for a top inside calendar page images your heart, but you didn’t turn to God. You are going to remember throughout need to be at least 2 to 5 mb JPG files in horizontal eternity and that alone will be a torment that will drive you deeper into hell. format. Choctaw Nation This man squandered his opportunity. All photos must be received by July 1, 2011. Notice, the rich man had the torment of thirst. We read in Luke 16:24 “... he All photos must be accompanied by photographer’s to aid with loans cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he contact information including name, address, phone may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented number and e-mail address. in this flame.” Is there literal fire in hell? I answer, by reminding you again that The subject(s) of the photos must be identified. The Southeastern Oklahoma Indian Credit

Association offers small business, home, these are the words of Jesus. Jesus said, “in this flame.” The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma reserves the right This brings us to the last torment. The torment of separation in Luke 16:26, to use submitted photos in other publications. home improvement and agriculture loans. “And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they Watch future Choctaw publications and web sites: To be eligible to apply, a person must reside which would pass from hence to you cannot, neither can they pass to us, that Even if you don’t win this calendar contest, your im- would come from thence.” age may be used in future publications! within the 10-1/2 county service area of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and must pos- Sin separates God from man. It was man’s sin in the beginning which cre- A Grand Prize of $150 will be awarded to the person ated a gulf of separation between God and man. submitting the cover photo. Individual $50 prizes will sess a Certificate of Degree of Indian Blood But Jesus Christ, the Son of God, in the supreme act of atonement fashioned also be awarded each person whose photo is chosen (CDIB) from a federally recognized tribe. a bridge over the impassable gulf of separation, and reconciled God and man.

for calendar pages. For more information, please contact Su- This bridge was in the form of a cross and every man who comes to God must san Edwards at 580-924-8280 or toll-free come by the way of the cross. Will you trust Jesus Christ as your Savior today? E-mail entries to [email protected] or 800-522-6170. You do this by faith. mail to: Remember to pray for America. Pray for our leaders. May is Memorial Lisa Reed, PO Box 1210, Durant, OK 74702 month, pray for our Service men and women. May 2011, BISKINIK, Page 4 Nursery News

Gardens: a great way Joy Love Hall Grayson Prewitt to get physical Joy Love Hall was born on Grayson Alexander Prewitt was As spring rolls in, now Aug. 18, 2010. Her parents are born at Northside Hospital in At- is a wonderful time to WIC Jamie and Amy Hall of Ed- lanta, Ga., at 5:09 p.m. on Aug. 29, consider planting a fam- WOMEN, INFANTS inburg, Texas. Grandparents 2010, weighing 7 pounds 3 ounces ily garden. Depending on the AND CHILDREN are Ron and Mary Sieger of and measuring 20.25 inches. amount of space you have, Marietta and grandma Pricilla. His proud parents are Lindsey you could grow just a cou- Great-grandparents are the late (Shurley) and Mark Prewitt of Acworth, Ga. ple of fruits or vegetables or a lot. A family garden not James and Melvina Polk, and Grayson’s maternal grandmother is USAF Lt. Colonel Re- only provides you with delicious, homegrown produce, Leon and Delsie Dove of Edinburg. becca (Lowrance-Shurley) Gober stationed at San Antonio, it also offers a great opportunity to be physically active. Texas. His maternal great-grandparents are the late James Alex Tips for a Family Garden: and Mabel (Russell) Lowrance of Soper. Grayson’s maternal *Walk to the local nursery or store to select you seeds, plants Tatum Choate great-great-grandmothers, both Choctaw, are the late Dora and supplies. (Edwards) Lowrance-Boyd of Soper and the late Isabel (Best) *Spend family time designing the layout of the garden. Tatum Kay Lushoma Choate Russell of Rattan. *Assign each family member one of the fruits or vegetables was born at 5:52 p.m. on Oct. 16, to tend. 2010, and weighed 7 pounds 14 *Take turns watering all the plants; remember there is a va- ounces. Her parents are Nashoma riety of exercise that can be done in the garden such as raking, Choate and Amber Tiger of Tulsa. Cierra and Kierra weeding, pruning and digging. Grandmother is Lavon Choate, *Once your garden is ready to pick, research healthy recipes great-grandparents are Ron and Twin sisters Cierra Diane and Kierra Marie Knight were that you can cook using your homegrown produce. Mary Sieger of Marietta and Frank born Sept. 25 at the Choctaw Nation Hospital in Talihina. Cier- Having a family garden or visiting the local Farmer’s Mar- Choate and great-great-grandparents are the late James and ra weighed 4 pounds, 15 ounces, and Kierra weighed 5 pounds ket allows us to eat a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables and Melvina Polk. 7 ounces. They both were 18 inches long. Proud parents are helps us to eat all the colors of the food pyramid. Making your Ricky and Stacey Knight. Grandparents are Linda and Lee diet colorful is a great way to make your meal times fun and Knight. They have a big sister, Hannah. exciting and helps prevent burnout on certain types of foods. Kelsey Lee Springs Remember…eating right with fresh fruits and vegetables creates happy, healthy habits that last a lifetime! Kelsey Lee Springs was born on Jan. 27, 2011, to Patrick and Delia Kennedy Williams Springs of Artesia, Calif. Kennedy Olivia-Reese Williams Shaking that sodium sensation was born on Jan. 5, 2011, at Duke University Hospital in Durham, Warmer weather is on its way and we all know what that N.C. She weighed 6 pounds 9.6 means…grilling! Yet with grilling sometimes salt and sodium ounces and was 19 inches long. can find its way into and on our foods. Most Americans take in Proud parents are Kia and Maurice more salt then they actually need in a day. The current recom- Williams. She is welcomed with mendation for sodium intake is less than 2,400mg a day. This is Recipe of the Month: love by her grandfather, James M. the equivalent to 1 teaspoon of salt in a day. This is to include Williams, her great-grandmother, Kity Mae Williams and a the salt that is already in the foods we eat. Furthermore, the salt Stove Top Popcorn Ingredients: Turn the stove to medium host of family members, all of Oklahoma City. and sodium we are watching for is not just table salt, which 2 Tbs. vegetable oil high heat. includes Kosher salt and sea salt as well. According to the ½ cup of popcorn kernels • Listen for the first pop- National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) for some- Preparations: corn kernel to pop. one with high blood pressure, recent research has shown that • Place 2 Tbs. of vegetable • Start shaking the pan on Megan Moore people consuming diets of 1,500mg of sodium had even better oil in a heavy saucepan with top of the stove. Megan Alexis Moore was born blood pressure lowering benefits and can help blood pressure a cover. • Continue shaking the at 8:10 p.m. on Jan. 12, 2011, at medicines to work better. May is National High Blood Pres- • Add ½ cup popcorn ker- pan until the kernels stop Palomar Medical Center in Escon- sure Education Month and since one of the ways we can keep nels to cover the bottom of popping. dido, Calif. to proud parents Darrin blood pressure from rising is to reduce salt and sodium in the the pan in a single layer. • Remove the pan from the and Valerie Moore of San Marcos, diet, let’s take a look at ways to flavor our grilling selections • Put the lid on the pot. stove. without salt: Calif. She weighed 7 pounds 1 • Beef - Bay leaf, marjoram, nutmeg, onion, pepper, sage, ounce and was 20.25 inches long. and thyme FOOD DISTRIBUTION Grandparents are Cecil and Betty • Lamb - Curry powder, garlic, rosemary, and mint Moore of Lancaster, Calif., and Kristina Pofahl of Escondido. • Pork - Garlic, onion, sage, pepper, and oregano ANTLERS Great-grandparents are Joe and Jessie Dick of San Jose, Ca- • Chicken - Ginger, marjoram, oregano, paprika, rosemary, Market open weekdays June 1-28 , except for: lif., and the late Charles and Marian Case of Riverside, Calif. sage, tarragon, and thyme June 1 : Idabel 9-11 a.m.; Broken Bow 12-2 p.m. (market closed) Aunts Deborah Clipper and Theresa Moore also welcome Me- • Fish - Curry powder, dill, dry mustard, lemon juice, marjo- June 8: Bethel 9-10:30; Smithville 12-2 (market closed) gan into this world. ram, paprika, and pepper Closed June 29-30 for inventory • Carrots - Cinnamon, cloves, marjoram, nutmeg, rosemary, Cooking with Carmen: None held this month and sage • Corn - Cumin, curry powder, onion, paprika, and parsley durant Maycie Twitty • Greens - Onion and pepper Market open weekdays: June 1-28, except for: Omar and Shanda Twitty are • Peas - Ginger, marjoram, onion, parsley, and sage Closed June 29-30 for inventory proud to announce the birth of their • Potatoes - Dill, garlic, onion, paprika, parsley, and sage Cooking with Carmen: None held this month daughter, Maycie Alyse Twitty. She • Tomatoes - Basil, bay leaf, dill, marjoram, onion, oregano, McAlester was born on Dec. 7, 2010, at 8:58 parsley, and pepper Market open weekdays June 1-28, except for: p.m., at the Healthplex Hospital in • Squash - Cloves, cinnamon, curry powder, ginger, marjo- Norman. She weighed 8 pounds 1 ram, nutmeg, onion, rosemary, and sage Closed June 29-30 for inventory ounce and was 18.25 inches long. • Green beans- -Dill, curry powder, lemon juice, marjoram, Cooking with Carmen: None held this month She joins proud big sister Tayshia oregano, tarragon, thyme POTEAU Ry’Ann Smith. She is the granddaughter of Barbara Roebuck Market open weekdays June 1-28, except for: Smith of Norman, Lanier and Cynthia Parker of Norman, Lo- Closed June 29-30 for inventory. rine Twitty of Paris, Texas and the late Albert James Smith of Cooking with Carmen: None held this month Roanoke, Va. She is the great-granddaughter of the late John Recipe - Butternut Squash Kabobs “Jack” and Peggy Roebuck of Coalgate, Lanier Sr. and the late Choctaw Nation Food Distribution Sylvia Parker of Hugo, and Mary McDonald of Hugo. Makes: 8 servings, Prep: Open 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday thru Friday. We 30 minutes, Roast: 20 min- will take lunch from 11:30 to 12 noon utes WAREHOUSES & MARKETS Antlers: 306 S.W. “O” St., 580-298-6443 Lucas Hill Ingredients: Durant: 100 1/2 Waldron Dr., 580-924-7773 1 2-lb butternut squash McAlester: 1212 S. Main St., 918-420-5716 Lucas Minko Hill was born 3 Tablespoons butter melt- Poteau: 100 Kerr, 918-649-0431 at 7:46 a.m. on July 21, 2010 to ed or canola oil Food Distribution Sites Stephanie Hill of McAlester. Lucas 1 tsp curry powder Bethel: Choctaw Community Building was 8 pounds 13 ounces, measur- salt Broken Bow: Choctaw Family Investment Center ing 21.25 inches long. His family Idabel: Choctaw Community Center includes his grandmother, Barbara Directions: Smithville: Choctaw Community Center Hill; great aunt Wilda Taliaferro; 1. Preheat oven to 450 ars - 2g, Unsat. fat - 2g, So- Stigler: Choctaw Community Center cousins, Eric and Rachel Taliafer- degrees F. Cut squash in dium - 36mg. In accordance with federal law and U.S. Department of Agri- ro; great uncle Dennis Hill; his Durant family, Christy, Paula half lengthwise and remove For further information you culture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on and Betty Stark; and Alan Williams family. seeds. Peel squash. Cut may contact Erin Adams, RD, the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, political squash halves in 1 to 1 1/2- LD of Choctaw Nation Dia- beliefs, or disability. To file a complaint of discrimination, write inch pieces. Place in a 3-quart betes Wellness Center 800- USDA, Director, Office of Adjudication and Compliance, 1400 Elliot Banks rectangular baking dish. In a 349-7026 ext: 6959 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, or small bowl combine canola call 800-795-3272 (voice) or 202-720-6382 (TDD). USDA is an The Banks family is very proud oil and curry powder. Drizzle equal opportunity provider and employer. to announce the arrival of their over squash, tossing to coat. newest addition, Elliot Lee Banks. 2. Roast squash, uncov- Elliot was born March 15, 2011, at ered, for 20-25 minutes Nellis Air Force Base, Las Vegas, or until tender and lightly Choctaw Nation WIC home of the USAF Thunderbirds. browned, stirring once or She weighed 9 pounds 6 ounces twice. Serve immediately or WOMEN, INFANTS AND CHILDREN and was 21.75 inches long. She is let cool to tote. Store in an the daughter of Tech Sgt. Joel Banks and Christi Banks, grand- airtight container in the re- SITE PHONE HOURS DAYS daughter of Dave Banks, and great-granddaughter of Bobby frigerator up to two days. Antlers 580-298-3161 8:30-4:00 Every Tuesday and Betty Banks. 3. Serve squash at room Atoka 580-889-5825 8:00-4:30 Every Mon., Wed., Thurs. & temperature threaded on Fri. eight 8-inch skewers. Season Bethel 580-241-5458 8:30-4:00 1st Tuesday Tristin Limon to taste with a pinch of salt. Boswell 580-380-5264 8:30-4:00 Every Friday To reheat kabobs, grill on Broken Bow 580-584-2746 8:00-4:30 Daily, except 1st Tues. & 2nd David and Beatrice Bohanan a gas or charcoal grill di- Thurs. of Houston would like to an- rectly over medium coals (or Coalgate 580-927-3641 8:00-4:30 Every Wednesday nounce the birth of their first preheat gas grill to medium) Durant 580-924-8280 x 2257 8:00-4:30 Daily grandson, Tristin Jaden Lee about 10 minutes or until Hugo 580-326-5404 8:00-4:30 Daily Limon. Tristin was born at heated through, turning ka- 9:21 p.m. on March 11, 2011. bobs occasionally. Mon., Thurs. & Fri. Idabel 580-286-2510 8:00-4:30 His weight was 8 pounds 1.5 McAlester 918-423-6335 8:00-4:30 Daily ounces, with a length of 20 inches. He was born to the proud Nutrition facts Poteau 918-647-4585 8:00-4:30 Daily parents Joseph Limon and Jadira Betancourt of Houston, and Amount per serving Smithville 580-244-3289 8:30-4:00 2nd Thursday proud great-grandparents, Hack and Ella Bohanan of Bethel. Calories - 69, Total Carbs Spiro 918-962-3832 8:00-4:30 Every Wednesday - Friday Tristin was welcomed home by his aunt Tala Lynn and uncle - 7g, Total fat - 5g, Choles- Stigler 918-967-4211 8:30-4:00 Every Monday - Wednesday Robert of Houston. Tristin would like to say “halito!” to his terol - 12mg, Fiber - 1g, Talihina 918-567-7000 x 6792 8:00-4:30 Mon., Tues., Wed., & Fri. great-uncles Bobby, Stevie, Dana, Daniel Bohanan of Bethel, Sat fat - 2g, Protein - 1g, Sug- Wilburton 918-465-5641 8:30-4:00 Every Thursday and his great-aunts, Angela and Debbie. May 2011, BISKINIK, Page 5 Choctaw member to appear on Food Network’s new show By BRET MOSS Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

David “Famous Dave” An- derson is just what his name implies, famous, especially The Choctaw Nation Head Start in Wright City held its annual if you are privy to the art of barbeque. Anderson, a mem- Trike-A-Thon for St. Jude’s Children Research Hospital ber of the Choctaw Nation, is a notable character to the Since 2002 the Head Start barbeque game. students have been participat- He is the owner of the ing in raising funds for the publically traded company, hospital while learning em- Famous Dave’s of America, pathy and caring for others. which went public in 1996. Tribal Councilman Jack Aus- The company stemmed from tin helped out by purchasing his restaurant endeavors, Photo provided trike helmets for all the stu- which stemmed from his dents to wear in order to pro- “Famous Dave” first location, Famous Dave’s Anderson mote safety. BBQ Shack located in Hay- Center Supervisor Deborah ward, Wis. With over 180 founding Famous Dave’s of Dailey would like to encour- locations stretching across America, a restaurant chain age anyone who would like to the United States, Ander- of over 180 locations, being donate to St. Jude’s Hospital son’s chain of restaurants an Olympic Torch bearer in to please drop your donations has earned him considerable the 2002 Winter Olympics off at the Wright City Head clout in the field of barbeque. and founding the LifeSkills Start on 10th & Main St. or With this clout, Anderson Center for Leadership. call the Head Start at 580- was easy to recognize by Accorrding to Anderson’s 981-2634. the producers of the Food website, he has appeared on Submitted photos Network’s upcoming real- major networks NBC, CBS, ity show, “Best In Smoke,” ABC including: Regis and which pits some of the best Kathy Lee, CNBC’s The barbeque cooks in the nation Next Big Idea with Donny Men of the Choctaw Nation walk a mile in ‘her’ shoes against each other in a com- Deutsch, the Discovery Teams of Choctaw men and domestic violence shel- Tens of thousands of men April 9 at Market Square petition for $50,000 and the Channel, the Food Network, put on a pair of high heels ters. For a decade, men in the have worn heels to raise hun- in Durant and at 10 a.m. on title of “Best In Smoke.” FOX Morning Show, and The and joined the “Walk a Mile community have been taking dreds of thousands of dollars April 30 in Idabel with the The program premiered on Travel Channel. NASDAQ in Her Shoes” event to sup- a stand against sexualized for this cause. “Walk a Mile” walk starting at 12:30 from the Food Network at 9 p.m. honored Famous Dave’s of port local rape crisis services violence. events occurred at noon on the Courthouse. on May 8 and features six of America for the 15th year the best barbeque masters in anniversary by ringing the the nation as they attempt to NASDAQ Bell and fea- avoid elimination. tured Famous Dave’s on The Though competition will World’s Largest 10-Story TV be stiff for Anderson and his on Times Square! partner, Charlie Torgerson, Dave’s life story was fea- who is a Culinary Institute of tured on a special Oprah Win- America graduate and today frey Show honoring six indi- is Executive Chef and Direc- viduals who made a special tor of Culinary at Famous difference in the lives of oth- Dave’s of America Inc., they ers. Dave received Oprah’s have a lot of experience and Angel Award for his leader- credentials under their belts. ship work with at-risk youth. Anderson has spent over Dave has received a pres- 40 years perfecting his now tigious presidential appoint- award-winning famous reci- ment, which required a full pes that have captured over Senate confirmation serving 500 Blue Ribbons, Best of as Assistant Secretary for Class, and First Place Tro- the U.S. Department of In- Choctaw Nation: KAREN JACOB phies, including being award- terior in Washington, D.C. Choctaw Nation: KAREN JACOB Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma was presented with the trophy for the ed “Hottest Concept in Amer- Anderson has served several largest team to “Walk a Mile in Her Shoes.” Team Members were Larry Shane Haddock and Billy Stephens, ica!” by Nation’s Restaurant governors in advisory posi- Behrens, Billy Stephens, James Wallace, Shannon McDaniel, Shane Had- employees of ICW, are walking the walk News. Dave’s barbeque sauce tions regarding community dock, Bennie Robison, Daniel Marcy and John Hobbs. in the their red pumps. Rich and Sassy won Best economic development and Sauce in America in Kansas small business. Dave has also City at the prestigious Ameri- provided key testimony that can Royal Barbeque Contest has been used in Congress and Dave’s cookbook won and several U.S. Senate Se- Balloon release to remember child abuse awareness Best Barbeque/Grill Cook- lect Committees. Youth and adults from book in America by the Na- He has earned his Master’s across the Durant area tional Barbecue Association. Degree from Harvard Univer- gathered to release 100 Even though he grew up sity without an undergraduate blue balloons in an ef- in Chicago, Anderson has degree and has received an fort to raise awareness deep connections with the Honorary Doctorate Degree about child abuse, its south and the southern style for his life’s work. detremental impact on of cooking that comes with it. His success story has been young lives and preven- His father, an Idabel native, featured in many books, in- tion methods that can instilled the importance of cluding “Chicken Soup for be employed to help re- southern style eats in his son the Entrepreneur’s Soul.” He duce the number of child and passed on his passion for has authored his own books abuse cases across the such cuisine. as well, and takes his success Choctaw Nation. His father, James, taught story to the public through Assisstant Chief Gary him the importance of using motivational speeches and Batton spoke inspira- only the best and most fresh seminars. tional words just before ingredients in his culinary Though he has many rea- the crowd released the creations. James would often sons to be boastful, Anderson mass of balloons. travel south to get the spe- still says that, “Being asked Choctaw Nation: BRET MOSS cific ingredients needed for to participate on this Food May is National Foster his creations, displaying to Network Show is definitely a Anderson the importance of highlight of my career.” Care Month staying true to the recipe. Anderson was not able to Each May, National Foster Care Month provides an oppor- “I have lived my whole life disclose much about the show tunity to shine a light on the experiences of children and youth devoted to the blending of before it aired, but is able to in the foster care system. The campaign raises awareness about Southern spices and discov- tell that it was a grueling and the urgent needs of these young people and encourages citizens ering all the secrets of Real rigorous experience. “We from every walk of life to get involved – as foster or adoptive Pit Barbecue,” said Ander- all started at 5 a.m., which parents, volunteers, mentors, employers or in other ways. son as he described the pas- means we had to be picked With the help of dedicated people, many formerly abused sion his father passed on to up at 4:30 each morning and or neglected children and teens will either reunite safely with him at a young age. “My dad we had to start filming at their parents, be cared for by relatives or be adopted by loving taught me how important it 5:30, but the real kicker was families. was to make everything from that we didn’t get back to the Currently we have approximately 150 Choctaw children scratch using only the best hotel until midnight which placed out of the home in relative and foster homes in the 10 ½ and freshest ingredients,” he meant it was hard to get to counties of the Choctaw Nation. continued. sleep after being on your feet Choctaw Nation: LARISSA COPELAND Thanks to the many advocates, OKDHS workers and Indian His mother, who ran a fry all day,” described Anderson. Child Welfare staff, we are trying to reduce that number. Even bread booth at pow wows Though Anderson and his with reducing the numbers, we still need more Choctaw foster taught Anderson how to cook partner were the oldest team Honoring Earth Day homes for our Choctaw children. Our Choctaw children need – and work the business. With in the competition, he men- and deserve – caring adults who love and support them. the skills he learned work- tioned that he was able to We call on all Choctaws to join us in helping to change a life ing with his mother, he was hold his own against a young- one seed at a time of a child or youth in foster care. No matter who you are or how able to not only make some er crowd using his wisdom In honor of Earth Day, much time you have to give, you can help create permanent, of what is considered the best that he had acquired over his Durant Choctaw Head Start lifelong connections for these children and youth. barbeque in America, but was years in the business. students joined the Du- All children — including Choctaw children and youth in able to turn it into a lucrative “Whether I win or not… rant seniors to plant tomato foster care — deserve a safe, happy life and an opportunity to success. just being chosen means that plants in the community stay connected to their Choctaw culture. Young people in foster Anderson is not only a suc- I am already regarded as be- garden at the Choctaw Com- care especially need nurturing adults on their side because their cessful businessman in the ing one of the best barbeque munity Center. Pictured are own families are in crisis and unable to care for them. restaurant game, but a man cookers in America,” said Head Start students Hunter For more information about foster care contact: of many accomplishments in Anderson. Whether he wins Wingfield, front left, and Larry Behrens, Adoption/Foster Care various areas of life. Among or not, the Choctaw Nation is Ethan Factor. 580-924-8280, ext 2331 his numerous successful proud to claim such an inspir- [email protected] endeavors in life include, ing individual. May 2011, BISKINIK, Page 6

PEOPLE YOU KNOW

Happy birthday, Aire Kiera and Teagan Aire Sequoyah Thorne turns 16 years old on April 14. She is a sophomore at Moore meet Chief Pyle High School where she plays tennis. California Choctaws Kiera Her parents John and Marie and sisters and Teagan Sidles enjoyed Melody and Trinity wish her a happy birth- meeting Chief Gregory E. day as well as her grandparents, Gene and Pyle. They were in Durant LaHoma Murphy Cranthers of Oklahoma during their recent spring City. Aire is the great-granddaughter of the late William and break visiting their grandpar- Ella Murphy of Idabel. ents, Dick and June Sidles. They live in Clovis, Calif., along with their parents, Damon and Aimee Sidles. Their great- grandfather, Turner Silmon, was an original enrollee. Skye turns 2 Wanda James of Poteau, who is half-Choctaw, recently Celestial Skye Maxwell, Choctaw/ had all of her granddaughters and great-granddaughters pose in their original Choctaw dresses. Wanda made the Mississippi member, celebrated her Keylons celebrate 50th second birthday on Feb. 24. She is the dresses as well as their jewelry. Pictured from left to right daughter of Zach Maxwell of Sawyer. Congratulations to M.H. and Aileen aregreat-great granddaughter Kjyia Kinsey; granddaugh- Her siblings include Kalan and Miko Keylon who celebrated their 50th an- ters Carla Stacy, Ericka Vineyard, Deana Vineyard and Maxwell of Sawyer and Anoli Max- niversary on March 15 with a trip to Chelsea Brown; and great-granddaughter Ally Vineyard. well of Nassau Bay, Texas. She cel- Maui. ebrated her birthday in early March with dad and brother Miko M.H. and Aileen are both graduates in Philadelphia, Miss. of Hugo High School, M.H. from the class of 1959 and Aileen the class of Happy first birthday! 1960. They were married by the Rev. Ja’koiya S.L. Hankins turned a year old on April 26. Wishing her a happy birthday News from the OK Alton Webb at the First Baptist Church in Hugo. Aileen is the granddaughter of original enrollee Leta Thorpe. are proud parents Oliver and Patty Han- Choctaw Tribal Alliance M.H. and Aileen have three daughters, five granddaughters, kins; brothers Marquette and Jamaal Han- Halito! We have been busy here one great-granddaughter and three great-grandsons. M.H. has kins; and grandmother Peggy Tushka. at the OK Choctaw Tribal Alliance worked as an industrial maintenance engineer for over 45 years this past month. We placed an entry before he had to retire for health reasons, and Aileen retired in the Oklahoma City St. Patrick’s from the University of North Texas where she was a payroll Day Parade and won first place in accountant for over 20 years. Congrats, great- the float category, receiving a very Since their retirement, they enjoy traveling and attending car nice trophy. Congratulations to all those who participated in shows with their classic 1950 Mercury, just like the one M.H. grandfather this event. had on their first date in 1957. Congratulations to Morris Our wild onion dinner and monthly taco sales were a great W. Amos Jr. for becoming success, thank you for your support. Please join us for our next a first-time great-grandfa- taco sale on the second Saturday of the month. We’d also like ther. He is pictured with his to invite you to the Senior Outing/Luncheon held Fridays from Parks barrel races great-grandchildren Jaydyn 10 a.m.-3 p.m. We have been discussing Choctaw history with Ashley Parks is pictured as she Meeks-Hagle (left), born March 8, and McKinzee Grogan a bit of teaching of the Choctaw language in a unique form slingshots her horse through the first Crower, born March 1. that combines both topics. The seniors really seem to enjoy the barrel Saturday morning, Feb. 19, venue. We had a total of 55 attending on April 1. We had fried and finished with a time of 15.371, chicken, fried potatoes, salads and desserts. Curtis Stewert, the the best time of the day. Cowboys Alliance minister, has been teaching this part of the program and girls competed in the slack Happy birthday, Lauryne with Norris Samuels. portion of the Florida High School Happy eighth birthday on April 21 to Lauryne Dunsworth Storytelling is also on the agenda with Stella Long leading Rodeo. They competed in various “Sissy,” and happy 10th birthday on April 22 to Devyn Duns- the way. We are having a great time rediscovering our roots. events, including goat roping, team roping, breakaway, barrel worth. Lauryne and Devyn are the children of Marcy Love and The depth of the Choctaw language is so rich, we are just cov- racing and tie down at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion in Justin Dunsworth of Kansas; grandchildren of Mickey Robbins ering the surface of it but we are having fun doing it. Come join Ocala. Love and Joe and Cheryl Love of Wichita; and great-grand- us and leave full of both food and knowledge! We are located children of Karen Robbins Holden and Coe of Wichita. They at 5320 S. Youngs Blvd. in Oklahoma City. Yakoke! are the niece and nephew of Nick Love and David and Jessica Love, also of Wichita. Week of the Lauryne and Devyn celebrated their birthdays with family Young Child and friends. The babies and grandbabies would also like to Congrats, Justin wish a belated happy birthday to “Grammie” Mickey Robbins The Choctaw Na- Congratulations to Justin Bull, student Love. at Colbert High School, for winning an tion Child Devel- iPad at the 2011 Career Expo in McAles- opment in Durant ter. Colbert High School was one of the kicked off the “Week 25 high schools that attended the annual of the Young Child,” event. with a balloon release Happy birthday, Cephus on April 11. Happy birthday to Cephus John who The “Week of the turned 70 years old on April 18. He Young Child,” now was born in Golden, and he says it is in its 40th year, is an wonderful to be 70. He’s very proud Congrats, Johnathin annual celebration sponsored by the National Association for to be Choctaw, and says, “God bless,” to his friends in Broken Bow, Idabel, Congratulations to Johnathin Illapottubee for his graduation the Education of Young Children. The purpose of the “Week Golden and Goodland Church. from Moyers High School. His family is very proud of him, of the Young Child,” is to focus public attention on the needs from Aunt Jamie and cousins Jeraid, Rocky, Annie, Jessica and of young children and their families and to recognize the early baby Cruz. childhood programs and services that meet those needs. Other activities that will be enjoyed by the children and their parents are a teddy bear parade, family picnic, personal expres- Happy birthday, Danielle sion day (let the children pick out their own clothes) and parent Happy 17th birthday on May 20 to Happy first birthday, Adler appreciation. Danielle R. Smith, an 11th-grader at Adler Theodore Graff is the son of Adam McAlester High School. From mom and Jennifer Graff of Albuquerque, N.M. and dad; Ronnie Smith Jr.; grandpar- Adler was born on May 4, 2010, at Lovelace ents Evelyn Johnson and the late Eulus Hospital in Albuquerque. He has an older Congrats, Alyssa Johnson of McAlester. sister named Cambria. He is the grandson Congratulations to Alyssa Derby for her eighth grade gradu- of Wes and Judy Dunlap of Scottsdale, ation from Moyers High School, from her best friend Jessica Ariz., and Tom and Jan Graff of Wichita, Renteria. Kan. Adler’s maternal great-grandmother is Oteka N. Lund Happy birthday, Elijha and his great-great-grandmother is Lorma V. Montgomery of Elijha Kentley Roberts turned 1 year old Lawton, who is listed on the Dawes Roll for the Choctaw tribe. on May 10. He is the son of Tiffany Roberts Lorma died at age 98 and lived in Oklahoma all of her life. Congrats, Seth of Durant and the grandson of Willard and and Melissa Betty Crosby, also of Durant. Happy birth- day, Elijha, from mom, grandma, grandpa, Seth Sterling Tom and all your uncles and aunts and from your Melissa Ann Smith were cousin Anberlin. Happy birthday, Terry wed on July 8, 2010, in Wishing a happy birthday to Terry Wayne County, N.C. Pic- Donahue of Hobbs, N.M., who turned tured are Seth and Me- 60 years old on May 24. Terry is a lissa and two sons, Elijah Congrats, Mario Vietnam veteran formerly of Virginia Tom and Jeffry Clark. and now resides in Florida. and Karolee Congratulations to Mario Mo- rales and his soon-to-be bride Kar- olee. They took their first step to- Lawson turns 8 Congrats to the Loves wards happily ever after on April Lawson Paul Wilkins celebrated Congratulations to David Allen Love and Jessica Marie An- 23. his eighth birthday on May 7. He dre Love, who were married on St. Patrick’s Day. loves hunting, fishing and sports. David is the son of Mickey Robbins Love and Joe and Cheryl Lawson is an honor student at S.C. Love, all of Wichita, Kan. He is the brother of Marcy Love and Tucker Elementary in his hometown Nick Love; the grandson of Karen Robbins Holden and Coe; Happy birthday, Marcus of Danville, Ark. His proud family is and the nephew of Tammy Robbins, all of Wichita. Happy birthday to Marcus Burton, Paul, Susan and Gunner Wilkins. His David and Jessica are the parents of two little girls, Izzy and from his mom, father and family. Marcus grandparents are Joel Camp of Mead, Kathy Hanson and the Leah Love, and they make their home Wichita. will be 8 years old on May 19. late Roy Wilkins and Tyke Wilkins of Blue Ball, Ark. Lawson is proud to be a Choctaw. Congrats, Kaylee Kaylee Ann Daugherty just turned 16 Happy 15th! years old and has been accepted to attend Cottey College for a one-week program Kelsey Shea Preston of Paris, Texas, for careers in science, and she received a Madysen turned 15 on April 18. She excels in $300 scholarship to help her go. Kaylee Pictured is Madysen McKinney. This school and is very involved in debate, wishes are to be in medicine, and she’s photo was taken by her grandmother, choir and cheer. She is the daughter of very excited to attend this program and Linda Womack. Her grandfather is Mel- Donald and Julie Preston and the grand- have the chance to see this college up vin Womack. daughter of Don and Ruth Wear. Her close. Cottey is an all-girls college in Nevada, Mo., run under great-great-grandmother was Mary Irene P.E.O. Sisterhood for women, by women. This will be a great Brashear Wyers. Happy birthday, Kelsey, experience for her. from mom, dad, Donovan and Annie. May 2011, BISKINIK, Page 7

EDUCATION

Jackson receives two top scholarships

Oklahoma State Univer- care or tribal public policy. sity junior Blake Jackson of Only 80 students nationwide Hartshorne has received two are selected for this award of America’s top scholar- each year, and Jackson is the ships, capturing both the Har- 13th OSU student to earn it. ry S. Truman Scholarship and OSU was named Okla- the Morris K. Udall Scholar- homa’s inaugural Truman ship. He is the first OSU stu- Honor Institution because The Krebs Johnson O’Malley students, parents and guardians with Indian Education dent to receive both awards in of its production of Truman committee members took an educational and fun field trip to the Chickasaw Cultural Cen- the same year. scholars. The Truman Schol- ter in Sulphur on Saturday, April 9. “I feel extremely blessed to arship provides up to $30,000 be the recipient of both these in funding to college juniors awards,” said Jackson, an centrate his studies in envi- with exceptional leadership Congratulations to Ideal Home Care! agribusiness major. “I truly ronmental and Native Ameri- potential who are committed Winner of the Choctaw Nation 2011 Best of Show Award did not know what to expect can law. For students who to careers in government, the Ideal Home Care Family is one of the most precious gifts on Earth, and at Ideal Home Care family when applying for them. I are considering applying for nonprofit or advocacy sectors has been embraced as the cornerstone of their business. They are committed to helping families stay involved in the care of the ones they love. Operating under always told myself that I had either of these scholarships, or education. Jackson was the the principle that patients should be able to maintain happy, healthy lives in the Jackson said he would advise comfort and privacy of their own homes, they create a partnership for the well grown a lot through the pro- 16th OSU student selected for being of everyone involved. cess and that regardless of the them to go for it. this honor. Since 2004, Ideal Home Care has been devoted to providing the highest outcome, just applying was The Udall scholarship pro- Jackson will attend Truman standard of patient care. The company has always been RN owned and operated, and this extensive experience has contributed to their continued worthwhile because I had the vides $5,000 for educational Scholar Leadership Week in success. Built upon two guiding principles, compassionate patient care and employee satisfaction, they are able to establish trust and treat patients as chance to interact with a lot expenses to outstanding soph- Liberty, Mo., this month to extended family members. of people I wouldn’t have met omores and juniors who are introduce him to the Truman The Ideal Home Care sta is an invaluable resource and is dedicated to uphold- ing the standards of the company. Working together with patients and their otherwise.” studying environment-related community. He will officially families they are able to reduce stress and eliminate worry as they strive to assist fields or who are of Native their patients in reestablishing personal freedom with their health care issues. After graduating from receive his Udall award at the Pictured: Kelli Ostman, Marketing Coordinator for Choctaw Nation Career The ultimate goal is to contribute to a better life for the Ideal Home Care patient. OSU, Jackson said he plans American decent and pursu- orientation weekend in Tuc- Development (left) and Jimmy Tynes of Ideal Home Care (right) Contact Jimmy Tynes for more information at (580)224-7542. to attend law school and con- ing fields related to health son, Ariz., this August. www.choctawcareers.com

House named OSU Graduate of Distinction Years of agriculture leadership recognized Jody House is known naming him the 2011 Gradu- around the tribe as “The Voice ate of Distinction in Agricul- of Choctaw Nation” because tural Leadership. he is the voice heard over the Each year, the department loudspeaker at the Event Cen- faculty members recognize ter at all concerts and special alumni who have distin- activities. guished themselves profes- He earned a degree in Ag- sionally in the community, ricultural Education, Com- state and nation. Robert Terry, Photo Submitted munications and Leadership department head of Agricul- First-grader Zander Thomas, left, Mrs. Garvin, and sec- several years ago from Okla- tural Education at OSU said, Choctaw Nation: JUDY ALLEN ond-graders Madison Cheek, Melina Tushka and Lastenia homa State University in “We are thrilled that Jody has Dr. Bill G. Weeks, OSU agriculture education pro- Lainez-Ortiz. Stillwater, and just recently, been selected for the award of fessor, presents Jody House with the 2011 Graduate the university honored him by recognition.” of Distinction in Agricultural Leadership award. National Library Week at Jones Jones Academy elementa- Academy librarian, has done ry school students celebrated various activities with the National Library Awareness students throughout the year Lansdell graduates Conner to begin through the week of April including storytelling, color- with honors residency at OU 14. Students participated in ing contests, design a library Tawnya Lansdell is the grand- Andrew Conner, M.D., 2011 several activities in an effort theme T-shirt and motto, daughter of the late Lee Cusher Sr. graduate of Indiana University to observe the contributions reasoning games and library and Ennie (Tonika) Cusher of Broken School of Medicine is set to begin libraries make to our com- skills. This year, the elemen- Bow and the daughter of Charles and Neurosurgical Residency at the munities. tary students have learned Georgie Griffin of Horatio, Ark. Taw- University of Oklahoma Health The first and second grade the Dewey decimal system nya is an honor graduate of the Texas Sciences Center in Oklahoma City. elementary students did an and practiced their sign lan- A&M Corpus Christi campus Family Conner received a Bachelor of Science degree in Physi- arts and crafts project and guage skills. Mrs. Garvin has Nurse Practitioner Program and will walk in graduation cer- ology from Oklahoma State University in 2007 and gradu- learned about bears and tur- endeavored to teach the stu- emonies on May 14. She will be receiving her Master’s of Sci- ated from Seminole High School in 2004. He is the son of tles during National Library dents that learning and read- ence degree in Nursing and will be inducted through superior Rick and Tammy Conner, grandson of Ronald and Glenda Week. Elaine Garvin, Jones ing can be great fun. academic excellence into Sigma Theta Tau, the National Honor Conner, Orville S. and Ima Russell and the late June Rus- Society for Nurses. sell. He is the great-grandson of Essie J. Turner, all of Tawnya joined the staff at the Idabel Clinic as a registered Seminole. nurse in 2006. While working at the clinic, she found her devo- The department of neurological surgery at OUHSC ac- tion to nursing and the needs of the Choctaw people as motiva- cepts one physician per year to pursue a seven-year period tion to continue her education. In 2008 she completed a Bach- of intensive training in the surgical treatment of brain, elor in Nursing degree, became a certified Diabetes Educator spine and peripheral nerve disease. in 2009 and completed the Master of Science in Nursing in While pursuing his Doctorate of Medicine at Indiana 2011. Tawnya gives credit for her success to God, family and University School of Medicine, Conner was awarded the the Choctaw people. American Association of Neurological Surgeons Research “The Choctaw Nation has provided the financial and educa- Fellowship as well as the Indiana University School of tion assistance that made my endeavors successful, and I have Medicine Research Scholarship. His research dealt with a deep appreciation for our Choctaw leaders who have the fore- stem cell therapy as a treatment modality for spinal cord sight to fund all of the wonderful educational assistance pro- injuries. Further, Conner co-authored a chapter in the En- grams that are available,” she says. cyclopedia of Intensive Care Medicine entitled “Quad- “Being a Nurse Practitioner, I can now fulfill my lifelong riplegia.” It is due to be published in 2012. goal of helping people in the best possible way. I plan to use Conner would specifically like to extend his utmost Photo Submitted my success as an example of the opportunities available for gratitude to the Choctaw Nation Department of Higher Mrs. Garvin helps first grader Melvin Birthmark with those with the aptitude and motivation to make their commu- Education for their financial support through his -under his turtle. nity thrive, healthier and stronger,” she continued. graduate and medical training.

Congrats, Choctaw Nation awarded Choctaw Nation over $180,000 in Climate Andrew Showcase Communities Grant Vocational Rehabilitation Calendar Andrew Foster Shi The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency graduated May 14 (EPA) announced today the Choctaw Nation from the University of Oklahoma is receiving $189,817 in Cli- Broken Bow Broken Bow of Oklahoma Col- mate Showcase Communities grant funding 8 a.m.-4:30 8 a.m.-4:30 lege of Law with his to improve the energy efficiency of its health p.m. p.m. Juris Doctor and Price College of Business facilities through technology and behavioral Idabel by appt. Idabel by appt. with a Master of Business. Andrew was on change. This clear and effective strategy will the Dean’s honor roll for four semesters and serve as a much needed model for small and Broken Bow represented the university on the American rural communities across the United States. Durant Antlers by 8 a.m.-4:30 Bar Association National Appellate Advoca- The Choctaw Nation grant is a part of $8.3 8 a.m.-4:30 appt. p.m. cy Competition in Turkey and Cord, Ireland million in funding to 22 communities across p.m. Idabel by appt. and Boston. He was recipient of a Speaker the country, including three Indian Tribes, Award and Best Brief Award his first year, as to pilot innovative local strategies to combat McAlester Durant Talihina Crowder by well as the Am-Jur Award (Supreme Court climate change. These new grantees join 25 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 8 a.m.-4:30 10 a.m.-2 p.m. appt. Decision-Making and Int’l Human Rights). communities awarded funding in 2010. These Stigler by p.m. projects will target every aspect of a commu- appt. He was selected as vice president of his third year class, was on the Dean’s Council for nity’s carbon footprint, including energy use Mentoring to the first-year law class, section in homes, businesses, vehicles, waste manage- Durant Wilburton Poteau 11:30 Wright City by leader and Mentorship Program for Int’l Stu- ment practices, energy production, and land 8 a.m.-4:30 10:30 a.m.-2 a.m.-1 p.m. appt. dents chair. Andrew received the Choctaw use management. p.m. p.m. Nation Membership Grant for Higher Educa- Grantees estimate that by 2014 these proj- tion, the 2010-2011 Joseph F. Rarick Native ects will reduce about 167,000 metric tons of American Student Award. greenhouse gasemissions annually – equiva- Durant Atoka Broken Bow lent to the emissions from more than 33,000 9:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. 8 a.m.-4:30 Andrew is the son of Dr. A.H. Shi and Car- 8 a.m.-4:30 Coalgate ol Carter Shi of Seminole. He is the grandson passenger vehicles or 14,000 homes – and save p.m. p.m. 12:30 p.m.-2:30 p.m. Idabel by appt. of the late Clyde E. Carter Sr., member of the over $13 million per year in energy costs. The Choctaw Nation, and Esther Blalack Carter projects will also improve people’s health and Durant-Mondays • Broken Bow-Mon., Wed. and Fri. • Idabel-By appointment Naylor; and the great-grandson of original quality of life by improving indoor and out- Phone: 580-326-8304; Fax: 580-326-2410 enrollee Erma Eva Lillian Battle Carter and door air quality, increasing walkability, and Email: [email protected] Bessie Jackson Shi, Choctaw member. reducing household energy bills. May 2011, BISKINIK, Page 8 Red Eagle inspiring youth to soar above negative influences By LARISSA COPELAND I take the elders’ message and the time. He lived there until Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma put it in a form the youth re- he was about five years old, late to and understand. They and even spent a short period “When the police kicked don’t speak the same ‘lan- of time in foster care, until in my door I thought they guage’ anymore. I get to play coming back to live with his had the wrong house,” tells coyote, be a trickster. The father. He considers Oklaho- Jesse “Red Eagle” Robbins, Choctaw culture is so dope ma City and Norman home. a 25-year-old Choctaw from (cool). When kids hear it in His siblings are Tiffany York, Oklahoma City. That wasn’t the music, they hear how cool Seth Fairchild and Cheyenne the case though and it was in the culture is.” Murray; two of these three fact Robbins that the police He thinks that it’s someone he didn’t even know until he were after. like himself who is best suited reached adulthood. He was 20 years old at the for reaching this group of kids “My family life was part of time and had been on the Photo Provided too. “They want to hear me where my rebellion started,” wrong path for several years JESSE “RED EAGLE” say it, not some 50-year-old he admits, “but my culture is prior to that. “I got a felony Choctaw Nation: JUDY ALLEN ROBBINS they can’t relate to.” what set me straight.” drug charge, my first crimi- Another thing he tries to He considers himself for- Robbins, far left, walks on to the field at the 2010 Stick- nal charge ever, for dealing volved in gang activity. impress upon the youth he tunate for being raised by a ball World Series in Mississippi. drugs,” said Robbins. “I was “I was confused about visits with is the power of an father who immersed him in given five years of probation what a warrior was,” he said, education, as his father did to the tribal-cultural ways of the to Native Americans. It’s an on May 14 at Jones Academy and 100 hours of community explaining the attraction he him. His father, Dr. Rockey Choctaw at an early age. And opportunity for me to reach where he’ll be joined by fel- service. But by the time I got felt. “Gangs provide a false Robbins, is an associate pro- those roots stayed strong. kids, to tell them you can get low Choctaw hip-hop artist busted I’d already ‘woken up’ sense of belonging for kids. fessor at the University of His Choctaw name, “Onse through hard times, to turn to Chris Taylor and Anthony and finding my Choctaw cul- But they don’t protect – they Oklahoma in the educational Homma” or “Red Eagle” was the old ways. It’s my opportu- “DJ Pyro” Mnic’opa, a Da- ture is what saved me.” destroy. They provide a false psychology department. His given to him during an old nity to give the youth a voice, kota/Seminole. Together they The charge was for some- sense of identity. I thought focus is in multicultural coun- Choctaw traditional naming to just lend a hand to this will be performing as the thing old that he had done (at I was being different but I seling and according to Rob- ceremony; a ceremony that generation and help revive a group “Native Nation.” age of 18) but it didn’t matter was conforming. Gangs take bins, he has always instilled Robbins fears is being lost youth appreciation of our cul- Robbins has put out several in the eyes of the law. “I still you outside your culture. in him the importance of edu- through the generations. “My ture,” he says. mix tapes over the years. He got it and I’m going to use it I’m Choctaw but I was with cation. “Education is a ladder. grandfather gave it to me In addition to visiting mid- recently released a mix tape for good,” said Robbins. mostly Hispanics. They were My dad taught me that early when I was five years old,” dle schools and visiting with in New York entitled 1491 He does this by reaching my clan. I was striving for a on,” he says. “I tell that to the he said. “He walked out into youth, his music has created and is currently in the final out to the youth who may be tribe, an identity, a warrior kids too. I say to them ‘go the woods and when he came many other unique opportu- stages of another album. He’s on the same negative, con- role. A gang provided that, or to college.’ Some kids never back he told me that was my nities for him. Most recently also in the beginning phase fused path he went down so I thought.” hear that word at home.” name.” and according to Robbins, of producing a poetry album. as a young teen. “I travel to It was around the same age This is something Rob- From the time he was a one of the most interesting, His music can be heard on middle schools around south when Robbins was looking to bins took to heart himself. young child the ways of the was being invited in February his Youtube page, onsehom- Oklahoma City to speak to gangs for acceptance, he was After graduating from Little Choctaw always had deep to present in New York City at ma21, or his Facebook page, the kids about anti-gang and also turning to a more cre- Axe High School in 2004, meaning to him. Though he Columbia University’s pres- www.facebook.com/Jesse- anti-drug activity,” he says. ative outlet for his thoughts he enrolled in Oklahoma took a slight detour from tigious 28th Annual Cross- Robbins405. “I speak to them from expe- – writing poetry. City Community College. these ways during his late Cultural Winter psychology Just a few of his Native rience. When I was their age, “When I first started visit- He plans to transfer to OU in teen years, he soon realized roundtable, themed “Privileg- American themed songs in- I was so lost. I try to get to ing the schools I’d read my Norman in Fall 2011. the greatest limiting factor ing Indigenous Voices.” clude “Seventh Generation,” them in middle school. You poetry but the kids couldn’t Beyond setting the ground- to his connection to his tribe A Native American profes- “We got that Swag,” Wom- have to catch them young or really relate to that so I turned work for his culture and edu- was himself. “Now, I do what sor at Columbia heard his mu- en,” “Ain’t Your Mascot,” it’ll be too late.” to music,” he says, “and I cation, his father has been at I can to keep our old ways and sic and enjoyed the message it among many, many more. Robbins knows this first- can’t sing or play guitar…so his side during his hard times. our ceremonies alive. I want sent, leading to his invitation As heard in the lyrics to hand. He began to go down I guess you could say hip-hop “I’m lucky because my dad our people to speak our lan- to the university. He led the “Seventh Generation,” it’s the wrong path around the age chose me.” stands by me,” said Robbins. guage. I speak Choctaw, play youth plenary session, open- easy to know he walks the of 15. “I’ve never drank alco- Robbins has had much suc- “But I did come from a bro- stickball, go to the stomp ing the meeting by leading the talk when he says his music hol and I’ve never smoked or cess spreading his message ken home. I think that’s an- dances.” group with a Choctaw snake encourages his people to stay done drugs in my life because and connecting to the kids other reason the kids can con- Robbins was also part of dance. He then performed connected to who they are: I’ve seen what it’s done to through his music. “I repre- nect to me. Not all these kids the Choctaw Nation stickball half his presentation by read- “Keep the shells our people. I didn’t want that. sent a bridge,” he says. “I do have a great home life either. team that played in the 2010 ing his poetry and half by per- Keep the songs What I did though was get in- music to connect generations. I get that. I want my music to Stickball World Series in forming his hip-hop music. A Keep on stomping all be a positive mes- Mississippi. large photo slide show was night long sage in the ears of Today, Robbins considers projected on the wall behind Keep the dance those kids with himself an advocate for Na- him during his presentation, Keep the drum their headphones tive Americans everywhere displaying numerous images Keep the language on on, their heads and he uses his music to get of Choctaw people during your tongue” bobbing up and his point across. “Native various stages of history. He He takes that to heart and down, while their Americans need a voice,” he received a standing ovation lives it. By being someone parents might be explains. “I’ve been backed from the students and faculty the kids can relate to, Robbins in the other room into a corner. I am a warrior in the audience. plans to continue using his fighting.” and I will fight for our culture. In addition to radio airplay music to inspire and encour- Robbins never Peace and love scare people on numerous radio stations, age the youth to soar above had a relationship but a warrior is peaceful. Mu- Robbins performs his music negative influences. with his mother. sic is a form of protest and I live whenever possible. He But he doesn’t want peo- He was born in use it to be an activist for the was also honored to have ple to think that because his Durant but soon tribe.” been offered a position to subject matter is serious that moved to the Robbins considers him- play at the Gathering of Na- his music is all somber and Kickapoo Reser- self a modern day storyteller. tions Pow Wow in Albuquer- solemn though. “Humor is a Photo Provided vation in Kansas “Music is breath to me,” he que, N.M., in April but was huge part of my music,” he Robbins, far right, leads a group of students and faculty in the Choc- where his father says. “This is more than a unable to attend this year. His says, “and it just might make taw snake dance at Columbia University in New York City. was a teacher at hobby. Every song is catered next live performance will be you dance!”

2011 Andrew Massey, left, of McAlester Career Expo visits with Ken- ny Tolbert at the Scholarship Ad- visement Program Map Your Future booth. April 6 – McAlester Expo Center Tracy Horst is proud to show off the Choctaw Nation Go Green display.

Photos by LARISSA COPELAND Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

Karen Thomas, right, explains the Career Develop- Jackson Willhite of Poteau spins the wheel ment Program to for a prize at the Choctaw Casino booth as Anthony Turpin of Lisa Byington, right, and expo guests open plas- Kim Maxwell from the Durant Casino Resort Quinton. tic eggs to see the prize they’d won. Human Resources department looks on.

Dawn Hix, right, explains the Choctaw Asset Build- Jake Dolezel facilitates The Choctaw Public Safety team greets visitors to the expo. ing (CAD) Program to Ralph Adcock of Quinton. the breakout sessions. May 2011, BISKINIK, Page 9 The lyrics of an earlier age Former Wheelock students talk about their days at the Choctaw Nation boarding school By LISA REED Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

“Wheelock, Wheelock, we love you. We long shall remember and honor you, too! We’ll work for you, live for you, sing for you all through the years. Wheelock, we love you.” Photo provided Wanda Bohanan, Delores Johnico Dye, Wylene Wadley, Mary Edna Jacob Watson, Johnnie Marks McDaniel, Wheelock Academy closed Leona Marks Marshall, Paula Wilson Carney, Lois Pitts Brown, Eleanor “Lena” Cooper Caldwell and its doors in 1956 but the girls Laura Stephens Lewis are pictured in front of the old Pushmataha Hall on the Wheelock Academy campus. still remember the lyrics of the song they sang every day in music hour. The group gets and just laid on school days. Lois Pitts Brown, who attended the lun- smaller every year but the re- the stairway cheon with her son, Johnny Brown, and her granddaugh- maining Wheelock students try with the needle ter, Karen Brown Main, tells of an early impact in her to get together annually to visit sticking in her family. Lois’ mother was brought to Wheelock orphan- and reminisce with old friends. ear.” age before it was turned into a boarding school. Lois’ Fifteen attended an alumni lun- Paula’s voice mother was only 2 months old when her mother died cheon held in their honor April rose as she de- and her father thought it was the best thing for his infant Wylene Nicholas 1 at the Choctaw Community scribed the fun- daughter. When he remarried he took her home. Lois said Wadley loved mu- Center in Wright City before ny, but scary ex- her grandfather was remarried in the Wheelock church. sic hour where she dropping by the old school perience. Born in 1918, Lois attended Wheelock from 1927 to learned to sing and campus in the afternoon. “I tried to re- 1929, along with a younger sister. She took “homemak- play the piano. “We always had music,” said vive her and fi- Sisters Maxine Wilson McCrary ing” classes and learned to cook and to sew using a pedal and Ilene Wilson Sparks attended Wylene Nicholas Wadley. “We nally ran to get a sewing machine. “Whatever you cooked you had to eat,” Wheelock because the route to cold wash cloth. she said. Many of the girls would get up early to help would go in to music hour and regular school near their home was sing and sing! We had Easter She woke up and blocked by a river. cook breakfast in the kitchen. and Christmas cantatas and the wanted me to The lessons and skills learned there have served them people in the surrounding com- finish the other one,” she said, still marveling over the well for the past 60 to 70 years. The ages of the girls munities would participate.” escapade. when they were brought to Wheelock varied, some as Wylene learned to read mu- The events that happened young as Johnnie, some as old as 14 or 15 when they sic and play the piano. She has during their boarding school entered the boarding school. They came from different continued playing at church years stand out for many rea- backgrounds, different locations, but became one large throughout the years. She at- sons. family. The bonds made in youth have never been bro- tended first through eighth There is one day Maxine Wil- ken. The notes ring clear – “Wheelock … we long shall Paula Wilson grades at Wheelock and went son McCrary will never forget. remember.” Carney of Coalgate on to Haskell University in All of the girls were called into was introduced to Lawrence, Kan. Wylene re- the auditorium. They stood Christianity at Wheelock tired from nursing but is using solemnly around the tall radio Wheelock. Academy her skills to help out a fellow and listened quietly to Presi- is open Wheelock student, Theda Carnes, who has become blind. dent Roosevelt declare war on to the public 9 Wylene lives with Theda and they are facing the struggle Germany. She said she didn’t a.m. together. Leona Marks understand at first the implica- to 4 p.m. Paula Wilson Carney also learned to play the piano Marsh tion of the announcement or Monday during their music hours. She has sung and played the the impact it would have on our through piano all of her life and credits her classes at Wheelock. country. Friday. Paula’s fondest memory of her days at Wheelock, Maxine and her three sisters There is a were sent to Wheelock because though, is of one of her teachers. Paula was playing in museum and there was a river between their the yard and heard, for the first time, the lady praying. information/ home in the Ringold area and “She was calling out to God,” Paula said. “I was prob- gift shop on regular school. Their brothers ably in the third grade and had never heard anyone pray- the grounds. went to Jones Academy. The ing like that before. That was my first introduction to For more girls loved it at Wheelock, she Christianity.” information or said, and always tried to par- Humorous tales were plenty during the special day at to set up Assistant Chief Gary Batton says hello Wright City. Almost sheepishly, Paula recalls an incident ticipate in activities. She and a tour, to the oldest in attendance at the Whee- sister Ilene Wilson Sparks en- lock alumni luncheon at Wright City. that can be laughed at now but was a bit unnerving at the Johnnie Marks please call time. joyed Sundays when a minister Lois Brown of Hennessy turns 93 years Daniel 580-746-2139. young on June 28. Pierced ears were becoming popular with the girls. would come. They would have Without the fancy salons of today, they had to improvise. a different traveling minister “When someone wanted their ears pierced, we would all from different denominations take turns holding the earlobe real tight to numb it,” she stop in to deliver sermons ev- said while demonstrating the technique. When one of the ery Sunday. girls’ arms got tired, another girl would step in to hold Sisters Leona Marks Marsh the earlobe in a tight grip with her fingers. This would go and Johnnie Marks McDaniel on until the ear was numb, then a threaded needle would attended Wheelock in the early be used to pierce the lobe. ’50s. Johnnie was just 4 years “We would pull the needle through, cut the thread and old. Leona remembers Johnnie tie it off, then put Vicks on the ear and turn and turn and being brought in to the cafeteria turn,” Paula laughed. “They decided I was good at it so 30 minutes early to start eating. Eleanor Wanda Mary Edna they were always asking me to pierce their ears. Virginia Peters “She was a slow eater who “Lena” Cooper Bohanan started Jacob Watson “One day, a girl stopped me in the middle of the stair- Jefferson would take one little bite at a Caldwell attend- school at Whee- arrived on her way. She had everything we needed. I squeezed and time,” Leona said, stressing ed Wheelock in lock when she seventh birth- squeezed on her ear. Well, about the time I got the needle with her words how slow her sister ate. Often, one of 1946 and 1947. was 6 years old. day. She stayed pushed halfway through, she fainted! She fell backwards the other girls would take her food before she finished it. She was 14 when She was there through the “She was there when the others got there and sometimes she started. until the school seventh grade. still there when they left. She was the youngest one in closed in 1956. the school.” The sisters and their friend, Virginia Peters Jefferson, recall how they would go back to the barn after their day of classes to ride horses. Someone gave them a Red Flyer wagon to play with. They played with paper dolls, rode bicycles and played soccer, softball or basketball. “Someone donated roller skates to the school once,” said Leona. “We would take turns skating up and down.” Their memories also include having their hair cut when they were brought to the school. All of the girls’ long hair was cut and fashioned into a Dutch boy style. None of them were allowed to speak their native language. Listed right up there with the not-so-fond memories the Choctaw Nation Photos: LISA REED girls have of Wheelock was the time they were made to Assistant Chief Gary Batton listens to Theda Carnes take ballet lessons, a bit much for the tomboyish group. Laura Stephens Lewis, Christine Thomas Ludlow, during the Wheelock Alumni Luncheon in Wright City. Wheelock’s heritage goes years beyond the boarding Viola Obe and Delores Johnico Dye. May 2011, BISKINIK, Page 10 Crowder Fun Days Crowder senior citizens are keen on keeping active borhood and line dancing is The District 12 popular with the ladies. They like to decorate for group makes holidays and held an Easter having fun egg hunt in April. Everyone brought a prize and cor- a requirement responding numbers were By LISA REED placed in the “prize” eggs. Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Raffles are held every Wednesday, a project that helps fund their trips. They Today’s fuel prices have also hold events such as curtailed some activities, fish fries to get money for but the senior citizens of their excursions. the Choctaw Community “We’ve been to the Center in Crowder pack as Smoky Mountains, Bran- much into their Wednes- son and Nashville,” said days as they can. Walter Phelps, president They held a special bash of the senior group. “The Choctaw Nation Photos: LISA REED on March 23 – Crowder fuel prices have hampered Fun Days, when sun- our plans for a long trip this Assistant Chief Gary Batton, Keith Holman, the owner of the white 1959 Cadillac, Councilman James Frazier and glasses, rolled-up jeans, year but we take little trips. Chief Gregory E. Pyle are in the mood for Crowder Fun Days on March 23. leather jackets and poodle We go to concerts in Du- skirts were brought out rant whenever there is one for a 1950s theme. A band scheduled.” played old rock ‘n’ roll and The group hopped on the dance floor was bop- the bus for a recent jaunt to pin’. Muskogee where they vis- A special drag race be- ited the 5 Tribes Museum tween Chief Gregory E. and the Azalea Festival, as Pyle in a 1951 Ford and As- well as eating out and do- sistant Chief Gary Batton in ing a bit of shopping. a 1959 Cadillac highlighted They are also talking the afternoon. Councilman about taking a short trip to James Frazier told them to Van Buren, Ark., for a train start their engines, waved tour. them on and got out of the Once a month, they meet way. for breakfast so that the On normal Wednesdays, senior citizens who aren’t the seniors meet at 10 a.m. able to enjoy the bus trips to exercise. This doesn’t can have a special outing. mean just a few leg lifts or “We try to have some- arm waves. The group en- thing for everyone,” Walter Chief Pyle gives Troy and Pat Smith his The Crowder ladies demonstrate their line dancing skills. joys walking in the neigh- said. “Fonzie” smile.

Assistant Chief Batton says hello to Margaret Martin and Frances Killingsworth take the dance floor while the Yocco. He brought out his Clayton High School Leon and Shirley Cloud will celebrate their 56th wedding band plays old rock ‘n’ roll hits. jacket for the occasion. anniversary on May 14.

Laura Lucille Hancock Jameson shares her life story Laura Lucille Hancock Jameson was school in town. During their years together, Carl and Laura enjoyed going to born on July 26, 1921, to Annie Ensharkey Eufaula public school had a band, and the old time square dances. They enjoyed swing dancing with Hancock and Jefferson Lee Hancock near the bandmaster asked Laura to join, but she each other as well. Featherston, Okla. needed an instrument. Her father sent her a When World War II began to affect the country, a need for Her grandmother, Susan Kincaid Han- flute, which she eventually learned to play emergency war teachers came to her attention. The community cock Moore, a full-blooded Choctaw, took and made it in the band. asked if Laura would teach through the eighth grade, and she her to the church in which she grew up and The principal decided the school should accepted. was baptized. This was the Bascum Meth- have an orchestra, and they would travel to She taught at Courts School on Ash Creek Road, which later odist Church. Jones Academy to perform. The orchestra became Buffalo Mountain Road. The school is no longer there. Her father attended Jones Academy for was called the Eufaula White Socks. They She had eight boys in her class, from the first though the education. He also taught himself how wore all white, shoes and all. eighth grade. At recess time, a local mother would come and to read by subscribing to the McAlester After her time with help watch the children. newspaper. the public school, she She used a horse for her transportation to Laura’s mother was an orphan whose went to Haskell Institute. and from the school. On most occasions, it parents were both original enrollees of the While she was there the was Carl’s horse named Tony. She also rode tribe. She was part of an orphanage at Bacone College in Musk- bandmaster, who was a full-blooded Na- another horse, a grey mare. ogee. tive American of a northern tribe, told her, One a particular day, she was bringing Early in her life, Laura and her family moved to Buffalo “If you can play the flute, you can play the some needles and dresses to sew with her to Mountain near Krebs to her grandmother’s allotment. They piccolo.” She played that instrument from the school. The horse bucked and the nee- were the only Native Americans in the new location. then on at football games and other events, dles were thrust into her knee. She then had The children attended Rock School House, a one-room where her skills were complimented on var- to have an operation on her knee. schoolhouse that Laura and her brother, Solomon, had to walk a ious occasions. She only taught for about a year because great distance across a pasture and creek to get to. She stayed at Haskell until she was about she got pregnant. After her pregnancy, there Annie would make chicken and biscuits and stick them in a 18 years old. After her education there, she were always people needing help or a place syrup bucket for the children to take to school for lunch. She met Carl Jameson. to stay, so Carl and Laura would help them would also make their clothes by sewing together flour sacks. She and her friends were always talking out. Laura helped raise many children dur- Laura’s grandmother was a very big part of her early life. She about boyfriends. Her buddy told her that ing this time. could speak both English and Choctaw. Laura remembers one she would marry a white man, but Laura al- She later went to work at a prison as a instance when her grandmother took her to the bank, told Laura ways said she would marry an Indian. matron guard. She did very well in the pis- what she wanted in Choctaw, and in turn Laura conveyed the To her irony, she met Carl, who was tol training and was placed in the women’s message to the teller in English. Laura knew that her grand- white, not long after their conversation. ward, which was out in a pasture. She de- mother could have done it herself, but she wanted Laura to learn Once they met, they decided that they were scribed it as similar to working in a nursing something. good for each other, and eventually Carl de- home. When she was a teenager, the Indian Department of McAles- cided to make Laura his wife. During her time at the prison, she was in- ter decided to send her to a government school at Eufaula. She He came up to her one day, and said, “Let’s get married.” volved in a riot in which the National Guard was called in for and a girl named Lucy Wade traveled to the school together. “When?” replied Laura. He answered with, “Now. I’ve already aid. There, she made friends with a Creek girl who helped her with got the marriage license.” He then gave her some money and She then went on to work at Jones Academy as a guard. She the Creek language. said, “Go get a wedding dress.” worked there until 1984 doing split shifts so she could take care She lived in a dormitory, which had 15 cots per room. It had She went down to a department store in McAlester and got a of grandchildren in between. three stories and an attic which was used for parties. There was dress. It was light brown with checks. She was very happy with In her more recent years, Laura has attended many pow wows a matron who Laura didn’t care much for, but she did enjoy the her choice. The couple went down to the courthouse and got and Red Earth Festivals. One year, when land was being dedi- company of the school cook. married with two witnesses, which were the courthouse work- cated around the state capitol at the Oklahoma City Tribal Flag The children at the school were assigned different duties, ers. Plaza, Laura was honored to carry the Choctaw flag, while her and when it was time to change duties, the cook, Mrs. Calhoun, After they were wed, they lived in Carl’s apartment in McAl- brother, Walter Amos, danced. would always request Laura to come help her work. ester for a while. Carl worked as a ranch hand for a man named She has taught the Choctaw language at Crowder schools to While in the kitchen, Laura would work with dairy products, Freddie Browne, who had land at Jack Fork and also around the kindergarten through third grade levels. Her lessons were skimming cream and making butter. She would also use the Blocker and Quinton. taped and have been used after she left that job. large bread makers the school had, as well as potato peelers. Carl and Laura moved into a furnished house on the ranch. She was the president of the Choctaw Senior Citizens’ Group She would stay at the school for nine months and come home At the house they had a cow, chickens and a garden. They lived at Arrowhead Lodge before Choctaw Nation sold it. She later for the summer. She went to the Eufaula Boarding School there off and on for several years and over the years had five went on to the Crowder and McAlester centers, where she en- through the eighth grade. After she left, she attended a public children. joys all of the activities. May 2011, BISKINIK, Page 11 Couple to display their love and talents at Choctaw Days By LARISSA COPELAND “It was funny though, about instilled in him an interest there are so many variables Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma two weeks after the festival in the traditional arts in his that go with the clays, things he came by the Language De- youth and Ian’s passion for you add to it, the way it’s A small, tossed pebble was partment to be certified as a the art has grown exponen- shaped and the way it’s fired. where it started. Community Language Teach- tially over time. It’s hard. What I’d recom- The young Choctaw man er,” said Amy. “From the time I was seven mend to someone wanting to would toss a small rock to get “It completely surprised or eight I can remember mak- learn is to try to come to one the attention of the maiden to me,” said Ian. “I was waiting ing clay pots and trying to fire of our pottery classes and talk whom he was attracted. She to be seen and she came walk- them in bond fires outside and with the other students.” would respond positively or ing through the room. I didn’t they’d blow up because I had The pottery classes he’s re- negatively, thus setting in mo- know I’d ever see no idea what I was doing,” ferring to are the ones started tion the prelude to nuptials. her again after the said Ian. “I just stuck with it under the National Parks Two hundred years ago, Choctaw Nation: LARISSA COPELAND Labor Day Festival and kept experimenting with Service Heritage Preserva- when a Choctaw couple de- because I was still it on my own. I got into col- tion grant the Choctaw Na- Ian and Amy Thompson dis- cided to marry, the way they living in Missouri lege and met people who tion received last year for the play the traditional clothing went about their courtship at the time.” could teach me how to really classes. However, once the they’ll be wearing at the re- and wedding ceremony dif- They struck up do it. grant ran out, the classes con- enactment this summer. fered greatly from how it a conversation that “I took what they taught tinued in four locations with would typically happen today. day but they took it me, studied the ancestral tribal funding and with many, For some couples, integrating slow at first. They Choctaw pottery, interviewed many hours from dedicated those cultural traditions into will differ from their original didn’t begin dat- elders and looked at written volunteers. Ian and Amy are their own relationships and wedding, according to Ian, ing until about six accounts from different time co-instructors of the classes, ceremonies remains signifi- is, “I’ll chase the bride, we’ll months later. But periods as part of my disser- along with Brian Moreland cant today. One of those cou- do Choctaw dances, all will it didn’t take long tation research. After I gradu- and Karen Denham-Downen. ples is Ian and Amy Thomp- be wearing Choctaw cloth- before Ian knew ated, I started working full- The classes continue to be son. ing, and the service will be that Amy was time for Choctaw Nation and taught regularly in Durant, Ian, Choctaw Nation His- performed completely in the “the one.” Seven got a National Parks Service and Antlers, and at other loca- toric Preservation Depart- Choctaw language. Of course, months into their Heritage Preservation grant tions upon request. ment assistant director, and it’ll be different because we’ll Choctaw Nation: LARISSA COPELAND relationship, he and set up classes to help Ian and Amy will take their his wife, Amy, Choctaw Na- have a narrator explaining ev- proposed. revitalize Choctaw pottery,” skills as teachers of the art of The Thompsons on their wed- tion Language Department erything to the audience.” “He threw his he continued, explaining his Choctaw pottery when they ding day, April 10, 2010, pictured administrative assistant, were One aspect remaining pebble, I guess you experience and knowledge of travel to Washington, D.C., in their formal wear at the cer- married April 10, 2010. Their unchanged from their wed- could say,” said pottery. this summer. They will be emony. own wedding consisted of a ding to the re-enactment is Amy. Though Amy’s experience giving demonstrations to visi- mix of traditional Choctaw the minister officiating, Olin And in April may not be as long as Ian’s, tors on the Choctaw art using and western elements – from Williams, who is both their Amy began working for 2010, they became husband her passion runs just as deep. old, pre-European-contact the singing of hymns and friend and Ian’s co-worker in the Choctaw Nation in the and wife. An interesting facet She’s only been working with tools and hand-dug Oklaho- reading of scripture in both the Choctaw Nation Historic Language Department in to the re-enactment they’re pottery for about three years ma clays. They will also have English and Choctaw, to the Preservation Department. “A August 2008. It was that set to perform this summer now. In fact, it was Ian that a “make-and-take” section serving of traditional and lot of credit goes to Olin for next month, at the Choctaw came with the rehearsal. They taught her the art. Her inter- for children who want to get modern food side-by-side at revitalizing the traditional Nation Labor Day Festival, practiced for the wedding re- est peaked after a visit to Ian’s a hands-on feel for creating a the reception, the “old” and Choctaw wedding ceremony that she met her future hus- enactment nearly one year to home where she saw many of piece of Choctaw art. “new” blended flawlessly. in Oklahoma,” said Ian. band. Having done traditional the day from their actual wed- his handcrafted pieces lining The Choctaw Days festival This summer they’ll again The re-enactment will tell arts almost his entire life, ding. his walls. “The pieces were will be held in Washington, be performing a wedding the story beyond just the wed- Ian worked part-time at the The fact that they get to beautiful,” she said. “I just D.C., at the Smithsonian Na- ceremony together, however, ding ceremony. Choctaw Nation, teaching at experience this re-enactment thought, ‘What a beautiful tional Museum of the Ameri- this time they will be per- “It’ll start from the point of the Culture Camps and in the together has special meaning art’!” can Indian from June 22-25. forming a re-enactment of the courter tossing a pebble at Village teaching those arts to to the Thompsons. He taught her all she need- The festival will be four days an “old” Choctaw wedding, the person he’s interested in guests of the festival. “I’m feeling a whole mix- ed to know, literally from of food, workshops, and per- from the courtship phase and it’ll pick up at the wed- The Choctaw Language ture of emotions,” said Amy. the ground up. “We went out formances. Along with Ian up to the actual ceremony. ding,” said Amy. “So it’ll Department managed a book- “I’m excited and I feel hon- and hand-dug the clay and he and Amy’s Choctaw wedding The re-enactment will be show the whole courtship…” store on the grounds at Tushka ored.” had me to grind up my own re-enactment and pottery performed in play format at “…all in about three min- Homma during the festival. It “I’m excited about it too,” mussel shell just to start,” ex- demonstrations, the festival the Choctaw Days this sum- utes,” interjected Ian, laugh- was here that Ian and Amy said Ian. “It’s a special event plained Amy. “He’s showed will also feature stickball mer in Washington, D.C., in ing. first crossed paths. “I saw for us to do as a married cou- me everything up to the point games, Choctaw dancers, the theater at the Smithson- The real life courtship of Amy when she was working ple. We’re honored to get to of where I am now, making singers and storytellers, and ian National Museum of the Ian and Amy would take at the Language Book Store,” represent the Choctaw Nation pots and teaching others.” booths showcasing beadwork, American Indian, with well- much longer to tell than just explained Ian, with a smile. “I to a wider community there at “She’s a very, very patient flutes, the Choctaw language, known Choctaw storyteller three minutes though. With just kept coming by, buying the museum. We’re proud to woman,” said Ian, with both and tribal cooking. Tim Tingle narrating. just over a year of marriage, books from her.” get to show the beauty of the of them laughing. Something Ian hopes At the re-enactment, Ian they still have a newlywed “He’d ask about a particular Choctaw wedding.” When it comes to Choctaw people are able to take away and Amy will be leaving be- glow about them as they tell book and our conversations In addition to the wedding pottery, it’s not something a from the festival is the dis- hind the western aspects from how their relationship be- kept going on and on,” Amy re-enactment, Ian and Amy person can just pick up over- tinctiveness of the tribe. “We their own wedding, taking just gan. Amy grew up in Ravia, continued, also grinning. will also be holding Choc- night. The process is long and, want people to see how the the traditional components to Okla.; Ian in Independence, Even though the attraction taw pottery demonstrations according to Ian, learning it Choctaw people and Choc- give the audience an in-depth Mo. Though the distance may was clear, they didn’t ex- during the four-day Choctaw from scratch is somewhat dif- taw society really are, to have look at how their Choctaw an- seem far, it was their employ- change contact information Days festival. ficult. “When I was learning people get away from the ste- cestors might have carried out ment at the Choctaw Nation with each other and after the Pottery is a craft Ian has Choctaw pottery, I had 300 reotypes, and for them to see the ceremony. that would bring them to- festival ended, they both went been working to perfect since hours of work and a huge pile that we really are unique,” he Where the re-enactment gether. their separate ways. he was a small boy. His uncle of broken pottery because stated.

It’s a birthday bash! Choctaws of District 11 host joint birthday celebration for Chief Greg Pyle and Councilman Bob Pate Presley Byington plays the flute.

Choctaw Nation Jr. Princess Nikki Amos sings in Choctaw at the birth- day bash.

The birthday guests of honor – Chief Greg Pyle and District 11 Councilman Bob Pate. Chief Pyle’s birthday was on April 25 and Coun- The Idabel Seniors were invited to lead the Choctaw dancing at the party and they had a great time. Bob Pate is happy about his birth- cilman Pate’s was on April 22. day present. Photos by BRET MOSS Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

Jeffery Sam plays the guitar at the birthday Chief Pyle shows off a birthday gift. Chief Pyle, Chickasaw Governor Bill Anoatubby, and guests enjoy a dance at the bash. party. May 2011, BISKINIK, Page 12 dents where it can, it found it could also make a large impact TUSHKAby helping the aid organiza- Idabel tions that were there to help Tribe aids victims as well. It fulfilled requests of April 14 tornado from the Red Cross, churches and other organizations on the Appreciation Continued from Page 1 ground by providing $3,000 in large tarps and eight gener- in the penny drive are Krebs, ators to meet medical needs. Photos byDinner BRET MOSS Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Hartshorne, Pittsburg, Sa- The tribe delivered eight pal- vanna, Kiowa, Lakewood, lets of water immediately fol- Indianola, Crowder, and Ca- lowing the storm and another Choctaw Nation: BRET MOSS nadian. The penny drive ran 10 pallets were delivered the Durant Casino Resort employee Shawn Lyday, right, through May 4. following week, along with delivers hot meals to two Tushka residents affected by the The Choctaw Nation also diapers, baby wipes, tooth- April 14 tornado. offered immediate assistance brushes, toothpaste and vari- to the entire community fol- ous other hygiene items. It lowing the tornado at the also made a donation to the happy to provide to everyone say these donations will make Incident Command Center, Voca Baptist Church for affected by the storm – Indian the biggest impact, which is located first at the Tushka enough lunch sacks, sand- or non-Indian,” said Chief where the Choctaw Nation Fire Department, then at the wich bags, and chips to make Gregory E. Pyle, referring will turn its focus. Along with Tushka Baptist Church. A 4,000 sack meals. The church to the community assistance contributing to the student’s few of the services offered gave out approximately 800 the Choctaw Nation offered penny drive, the Choctaw Na- there were free meals, free sack lunches per day. the victims of the storm di- tion has set up tornado relief water, assistance with clear- The community center in saster. The debris removal, fund for those who would like ing drives and roadways, as Atoka was also turned into free meals, ice, tarps, and to help out. Donations can be Penny Jones, left, and Gena Fowler dis- well as support with other a temporary shelter over the immediate aid provided with made by calling Mandy Law- play their excitement at the Idabel appre- vital needs of the community. weekend after the tornado, boarding up windows and son at 580-271-1758, or in ciation dinner. With 2,700 people left providing a place to stay for doorways blown out by the person at the tribal complex without electricity in the days many displaced families. tornado are only part of the at 529 N. 16th in Durant. following the storm and no The tribe also held a clothing help mentioned by the Chief In addition to the aid being way to cook a hot meal, the drive to help those who lost that the Choctaw staff was provided locally, the White Choctaw Nation took to feed- everything in the storm. The able to provide. House approved Gov. Mary ing families and volunteers in clothing drive was a huge suc- At the current time, the tribe Fallin’s request for federal di- Tushka. Choctaw Nation em- cess, meeting the immediate is moving out of the response saster assistance related to the ployees grilled hamburgers needs of those impacted by phase in Tushka and moving tornado, meaning individuals and hot dogs, even delivering the storm. The tribal clinic in into the recovery phase. Em- and business owners impact- the warm meals to families, Atoka stayed open late in the ployees continue to volunteer ed by the tornado may now when needed. In the first 24 week following the storm to so that the clean-up process qualify for assistance with hours alone, the Choctaw Na- assist tribal members. Choc- will persist. Though the resi- repairs or temporary housing. tion served more than 1,000 taw Nation Health Services dents are now able to apply Victims of the storm can re- meals. Volunteers were giv- also provided services to the for assistance through FEMA, quest assistance from FEMA ing out approximately 1,200 entire community by setting their entire losses may not be by calling 1-800-621-FEMA hamburgers and hotdogs each up a mobile command unit. covered in some cases, mak- or 1-800-426-7585 for hear- County Sheriff Johnny Tadlock, center, John Martin, day the week after the storm. “The minor things the tribe ing monetary donations vital ing impaired, or by register- Idabel Police Capitan and Chief Pyle pose for a picture While the Choctaw Nation could help with like bottled to help fill the void. For those ing online at www.Disaster- after dinner. is providing support to resi- water and food – we were wanting to help out, officials Assistance.gov.

Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma recycling center locations District County Name of facility Address Hours of Operation District 9 Bryan Choctaw Recycling Center 3108 Enterprise Blvd., Durant manned 8:00-­‐4:30 M-­‐F (roll off unmanned 24 hr.) Harvey Allen and Dorothy Cunningham Roll Off Bins: are pleased to attend along with many other District 1 McCurtain Idabel Field Office 2408 E. Lincoln Road, Idabel unmanned 24 hr proud Choctaws. District 2 McCurtain Idabel Shopping Center 1421 E. Washington Idabel unmanned 24 hr. District 2 McCurtain Broken Bow Field Office 210 Choctaw Road Broken Bow unmanned 24hr. District 3 Le Flore Choctaw Hospital One Choctaw Way Talihina unmanned 24 hr. District 4 Le Flore Poteau Health Clinic 109 Kerr Ave. Poteau unmanned 24 hr. District 5 Haskell Stigler Field Office 120 N. Broadway Stigler unmanned 24 hr. District 6 Latimer Wilburton Field Office 515 Center Point Road Wilburton unmanned 24 hr. District 7 Pushmataha Antlers Field Office 4001/2 SW St. Antlers unmanned 24hr. District 7 Tuskahoma Choctaw Capital Grounds Tuskahoma unmanned 24 hr. District 8 Choctaw Choctaw Tribal Services 304 Chahta Circle Hugo unmanned 24 hr. District 8 Choctaw Choctaw Gaming Center-­‐Grant Rt. 1, Box 17-­‐1 Grant unmanned 24 hr. District 10 Atoka Choctaw Gaming Center 895 Hwy 69/75 N Stringtown unmanned 24 hr. District 10 Atoka Atoka Field Office 1410 S. Gin Road, Atoka unmanned 24 hr. District 11 Pittsburg McAlester Field Office 1632 George Nigh Expway unmanned 24 hr. District 12 Hughes Crowder Field Office 707 Bond St. Crowder unmanned 24 hr.

Trailers: District 4/5 LeFlore Spiro field Office 19400 AES Road Spiro unmanned 24 hr. District 7 McCurtain Wright City Field Office HC 74 Box 1760 Wright City unmanned 24 hr. District 9 Bryan Travel Plaza East 4015 Choctaw Road Durant unmanned 24 hr. Whitney Griffith is excited to share a moment with (cardboard only) Chief Pyle and Assistant Chief Batton. District 9 Bryan Food Distribution 100 Waldron Dr. Durant unmanned 24 hr. (cardboard only)

Chilocco reunion to be held at Choctaw Casino Resort The Choctaw Nation will serve as host for the 117th annual reunion of the Chilocco Indian School National Alumni Association at the Choctaw Casino Resort, June 9-11. Planning with the resort marketing staff is completed and everyone is looking forward to this eventful week- end. Chilocco closed as an off-reservation boarding school in 1980 after 96 years of operation. During this tenure 5,542 Indian high school students from 124 different tribes received a high school diploma. Of this number, 609 were members of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. The surviving members of the alumni have continued the tradition of an annual reunion and continue to draw from 200-275 attendees each year. The reunion has traditionally been in a met- ropolitan setting. Now the reunion coming to Durant will enjoy a country and tribal atmosphere. According to Jim Baker, this reunion will not continue much longer as the youngest alumni is now 49 years old. T-shirt Order Form The reunion begins Thursday, June 9, with a reception for members arriving early. On Friday, 2011 T-shirts are white. Sizes available are: a golf scramble will be held at the Silverado Golf Club. Any Indian senior age 55 plus is wel- come to participate and may call Charley Johnson at 918-607-5022. A pow wow will be the fea- Children – (2-4), (6-8), (10-12) and (14-16) ture event on Friday, with the Gourd dance and specials in the afternoon and the intertribal dance Adults – Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, 2X, and 3X and adult dance contests in the evening session, all to be held at the Choctaw Event Center. This pow wow is free admission and everyone is welcome to participate. The Choctaw Tribal Color Item Size Quantity Total Price Guard has been invited to lead the Grand Entry at 7 p.m. The primary activity of the reunion is the annual Business Meeting and the Banquet, both held T-shirt – $10 ea. ______on Saturday. The day closes with the dance immediately after the banquet. This year there will be no Chilocco Hall of Fame induction ceremony as no nominations were ______submitted. A memorabilia room will be set up with Chilocco puctures, yearbooks and various ______items donated by former staff and students for display. This will be in the Yannish Room of the Choctaw Inn. The reunion will close on Sunday with a worship service. ______Cap – $10 ea. ______Choctaw Moccasin Class Name______– Oklahoma City – May 21st at 5 p.m. at the OK Choctaw Tribal Alliance, 5230 S. Youngs. Blvd. Address______Enrollment Limited City/State/Zip______Phone Number______Choctaw Traditional Pottery Class E-Mail______– Durant – Price includes postage and handling. Limited supply of Children and 3X sizes. May 16th, June 6th, June 20th – 5-9 p.m. To order, send payment (NO PERSONAL CHECKS) with completed form to: Pottery Studio behind Cultural Events Building, 4451 Choctaw Rd. – Antlers – Trail of Tears Walk T-shirt May 19th, June 9th, June 30th – 6-9:30 p.m. P.O. Box 1210, Durant, OK 74702-1210 Antlers Library and Community Building, 104 S.E. 2nd Street May 2011, BISKINIK, Page 13 Dills earns astounding Gates scholarship By CHRISSY DILL great financial award. “We Stephanie Hodge-Gardner. Success 101, Faith Seeking ing golf and swimming. Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma had to wait three weeks after “With a resumé of community Understanding and study of However, of all her hobbies we found out I was a finalist. service and leadership activi- the New Testament. she enjoys bettering the com- On April 15, Durant High It was about 1,000 pounds of ties like Mackenzie’s, writ- “I love the Christian side munity around her the most. School senior Mackenzie Dills relief when we got it!” ing a recommendation was to OBU,” said Dills, “and “Helping the community and received a much-anticipated Dills, a Choctaw member, an easy task,” said Stephanie. learning with the Bible as an participating in my student letter in the mail, and what explained the criteria the GMS “But her resumé is more than influence.” On a visit to the organizations are my hobbies, she read gave her assurance Program searches for in its a list of good deeds, it’s a clear university, Dills witnessed that’s just what I’ve always that her years of dedication to inductees. “They only help reflection of her dedication to scripture as being a start to the done.” advance her education did not minorities,” she said. “They serving others.” OBU student’s day. “Educa- Without the accomplish- come without a reward. pay anything that the school Dills was also recommend- tion is important to me, but my ment of earning the Gates Dills has been selected as doesn’t, all the way up to grad- ed for the scholarship by her Christian faith is more impor- scholarship, gaining her de- one of the 1,000 Gates Millen- uate school.” YAB sponsor Leslie Raines, tant,” she stated. sired education would be sig- nium Scholars. This scholar- The application process who had to complete about “I’ll probably major in edu- nificantly more difficult for ship provides her with funding for the Gates Millennium six essay questions addressing cation or psychology,” said Dills. “It would have been for her education through the Scholarship proved to be de- MACKENZIE DILLS Dills’ participation and com- Dills. She continued by say- a lot harder and I probably master’s and doctoral levels manding for Dills, consisting munity involvement, accord- ing the two will blend together wouldn’t be able to get my and allows her to attend any of about 15 essay questions (YAB) and Family, Career ing to Dills. well with what she wants to do master’s,” she said. “Now I U.S. accredited college or uni- examining her strengths and and Community Leaders of Dills plans to attend Okla- in her future. won’t have to worry about versity of her choice. weaknesses, involvement and America (FCCLA) as well as homa Baptist University in “I’ve always wanted to working to support my school- This scholarship Dills has what has made her stronger Students Working Against To- the fall, where she will focus teach,” she said, “but I love ing.” earned is especially notable throughout the years of her bacco (SWAT) and 2 Much 2 on her studies and participate psychology and child devel- Dills would like to thank her in context of the more than schooling. “They look at com- Lose (2M2L), a student orga- in a learning committee. “I opment.” family for their support and 23,000 students who applied, munity service, leadership and nization that promotes under- look forward to the new atmo- Dills plans to work with for being there for her through making this year the largest academic achievement – those age drinking prevention and sphere and meeting new peo- child development and funda- her educational career and this and most competitive group are the three main things they where Dills served on the state ple,” she said. “I’m ready for mentals in her future. “I love scholarship process. She is of candidates in the program’s look at,” Dills explained. youth council. the change and a new spot.” kids,” she said. “Being with also grateful for Stephanie and history, according to Dills’ ac- “They kind of wanted to During high school, Dills In this learning committee a child and inspiring them to Leslie for their prompt and ceptance letter. know your life story and how was also busy getting a jump- meant for incoming freshmen try different things has been a praising recommendations. “This is wonderful news, being Native American has af- start with college courses be- at OBU, she will spend time passion of mine for years.” “Mackenzie is an outstand- Mackenzie and her family fected your life,” she contin- ing a concurrent student at with several other first-time Dills also stated that she ing student with a heart for should be very proud,” com- ued. Southeastern Oklahoma State college students. “We will may continue her education fellow Choctaw people and mented Chief Gregory E. Dills has had experience University. meet and discuss do cam- with a Master’s of Education I know this opportunity will Pyle. “This could only happen with many organizations dur- Currently, Dills is employed pus events together,” she ex- or gain a doctoral to become a allow her to reach her high- after years of study and hard ing her time at Durant High with the Choctaw Nation plained. teacher. est potential,” commented work,” he added. and has contributed a positive Scholarship Advisement Pro- Dills will also share class In her spare time, Dills likes Stephanie. “This program will “I put all that hard work influence in her community. gram, working closely with time with these new students, to experiment with photog- change her life, and I am eager into it,” said Dills, describ- She is a member of the Choc- her Gates scholarship nomina- all being enrolled in OBU’s raphy and practice her scrap- to see all that she accomplish- ing her surprise to receive this taw Youth Advisory Board tor and fellow SAP employee required courses Philosophy, booking. She also enjoys play- es because of it.”

King contributes Choctaw artwork By CHRISSY DILL closer to Choc- ing on a graph- Days, being put on many T- Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma taw tradition. ite and colored shirts and posters. Paul creates pencil piece, “Whatever piece I’m work- “I’m thankful to the Choc- his artwork using describing his ing on at the moment is my taw Nation for bringing us a variety of tech- process with the favorite,” said Paul, but his all together with pottery, arts niques, includ- first step taking work, “Buffalo Tribute,” is and basket weaving,” said ing pen and ink, a photo through particularly special to him, Paul King, chosen to display acrylic on can- the fence at the having earned him a Choctaw his work at Choctaw Days at vas, ink wash on Choctaw vil- Heritage Award in 2009. the National Museum of the illustration board lage in Tushka Paul has held several posi- American Indian in Washing- and even acrylic Homma. He then tions throughout his life that King’s work, “Skilled,” has been chosen as an identity ton, D.C., this summer with on leather base- PAUL KING will use colored require his creativity as an piece for Choctaw Days at the National Museum of the many other talented Choctaw ball. “I like it pencils to draw artist. In 1974 to 1975, he American Indian this summer. artists. all,” commented the background was employed by the Okla- “I’ve been creating my Paul, “but my favorite right through the fence and graph- homa Publishing Company that many of his former stu- is a good resource,” he said. art for a while,” said Paul, now is my work with pencils, ite pencils for the foreground, in Oklahoma City as an il- dents continue to work in the He was also surrounded though is wasn’t until 2004 colored and graphite.” “symbolizing the old and lustrator, editorial and ad- graphic design industry. Be- by artistic influences when that he began creating Choc- If you were to examine new,” he explained. vertising artist. This position cause of his dedication as an he was growing up, his sis- taw artwork. He entered his his portfolio of artwork, you Paul also enjoys combin- included illustrations for The educator, Paul received a na- ter participating in dance and first Choctaw piece entitled would see many impressive ing type and illustration in Daily Oklahoman, and Paul tional award as Advisor of the drawing and his brother a “Champions” in the Choctaw works by Paul, created by us- his work, he described. “I designed and created client- Year in 1998 and Tulsa Tech singer. “I’ve always appreci- Nation Art Show, for which ing many different methods. always try to put a Choctaw based advertising in addi- Teacher of the Year in 1996. ated the encouragement I’ve he received third place. “There’s not much medium word into my pieces,” he tion to color separations of Today, Paul is employed received from my family,” Some of Paul’s awards re- I don’t like,” he said. “I re- added, which can be seen in a full-color comics page, at as a Career Advisor at Tulsa said Paul. ceived at the Choctaw Na- ally like acrylic but it requires his work, “Skilled,” which that time the only one in the Technology Center, his re- Paul gives credit to his tion Art Shows include: first more time than pencils.” has been chosen as a branding nation. sponsibilities including high parents as well for their help place with “Skilled” in 2005, According to Paul, work- or identity piece for Choctaw Not only does Paul create school recruitment, events throughout his life in pursuit second place with “Genera- ing with pencils and graphite his works of art to retain some and tours. He also trains a of becoming a successful art- tions” in 2006 and first place is less difficult because he of his heritage and out of pure team of recruiters to make ist. “They always encouraged with “CHAHTA” in 2008. “I is able to set down his tools enjoyment, he has contributed presentations on behalf of me to do what I wanted to always strive to do better with and come back to work on his his skills as a teacher as well. Tulsa Tech to schools, busi- do,” he said. my work,” he stated. piece at a later time, unlike “I’m an educator by choice,” nesses, and he participates in “To display my art at The Though Paul has earned acrylic paints. he said. From 1975 to 2000 he various events within Tulsa Smithsonian’s National Mu- many honors throughout his Paul utilizes his photogra- taught graphic design courses County. seum of the American Indian time as an artist, he does not phy as a tool in his painting at two institutions, Charles Paul has gained much in- is an honor,” said Paul. “I am create his pieces for the glory. and drawing process, photos Page High School in Sand spiration and encouragement overwhelmed and thrilled “I do it to reclaim some of my being a “key part of his re- Springs and Tulsa Tech. from his family members. He with the opportunity.” Paul heritage,” he explained. Paul search for his work,” he said. Paul challenged his stu- remembers watching his un- plans to display over 12 of wasn’t able to participate “My ideas are all in my head,” dents so they’d gain experi- cle draw when he was young. his pieces in Washington, in many Choctaw activities he described. “It goes through ence and explore their cre- “I was fascinated by it,” he D.C. “As an artist, you gain when he was young, so com- transformations before I com- “Buffalo Tribute” earned ativity through a variety of said. His sister is interested in that feeling of accomplish- pletion of his Choctaw-in- plete it.” King a Choctaw Heritage Award mediums and artistic tech- Choctaw genealogy and gives ment when your work is dis- fluenced artwork brings him Paul is currently work- in 2009. niques. He is proud to say him ideas for his pieces. “She played,” he said happily.

French woman looking for family of Oklahoman killed in World War II By BRYAN DEAN a tribute to the men who gave Meunier said she lies of American was like before he died. The Oklahoman their lives to liberate France. wants to know more soldiers killed in Little information on Har- Reprinted with permission As her annual ritual to honor about the two men World War II. kins is available. His death Harkins approaches, Meunier whose graves she The group’s pri- was reported in the Aug. 20, Catherine Meunier visits is trying to find any living visits each year. All mary goal is to help 1944, edition of The Oklaho- the grave of Wilburn R. Har- relatives who can tell her she knows is was family members at- man. He is listed as the son kins every Memorial Day. about the man she has come what was printed tend memorial ser- of Silas G. Harkins, of Hugo. She is looking to find out to regard as part of her fam- on the white cross- vices in Europe for He attended Soper School more about Harkins, who ily. es that mark their loved ones killed in and worked at the factory be- grew up in southeast Okla- graves. Harkins’ WILLIAM R. the war. But Stuard fore enlisting in 1940. homa before joining the U.S. Honoring soldiers cross shows his HARKINS also works closely A newspaper clipping from Army before World War II. rank, tech sergeant; with like-minded the Oklahoma Historical So- Wilburn R. Harkins was a Meunier is part of an ef- his unit, 23rd Infan- French groups, including ciety’s archives includes a member of the Choctaw Na- fort by a French group whose try 2nd Division; his home Flowers of Memory. photo of Wilburn Harkins tion who was born in the tiny name translates to “Flowers state, Oklahoma; and his date Stuard volunteered to help and mentions that his wife, town of Swink and worked at of Memory.” of death, July 26, 1944. Meunier try to find out more Edith, lived in Dallas. WILBURN HARKINS: Cathrine a peanut plant in Hugo before “The history of those “It would be nice to put a Meunier is a French woman who about Harkins and the other Wilburn Harkins is listed he enlisted in the U.S. Army. face to these two soldiers, has been putting flowers on the soldiers, who all left their soldier whose grave she vis- on the Choctaw Nation of grave of an American soldier ev- He died in July 1944 during country and families to fight and to get to know what their its, George Kashula. Oklahoma’s website on a ery Memorial Day for the past 18 the Allied invasion of Nor- in a country that they did lives were like before they “George Kashula has no page honoring Choctaw war- years. Meunier is looking for more mandy and is buried along not know, for our freedom, were lost. I find myself ask- living family,” Stuard said. riors who died in World War information about the soldier, Tech with 10,000 others at the should not be forgotten,” ing ‘Who was this man and “Lets hope that Harkins II. Sgt. Wilburn R. Harkins, who Normandy American Cem- Meunier said through an in- what did he look like?’” she is from Oklahoma. Harkins was does.” Meunier said she would killed July 26, 1944, and is buried etery at Colleville-sur-Mer, terpreter. “I knew of Flow- said. love to know more about the at the Normandy American Ceme- France. ers of Memory and that their Robert Stuard is trying to A few words man behind the name on the tery at Colleville-sur-Mer, France. Meunier places flowers on purpose was to honor these help. Stuard is president of cross where she places flow- Meunier isn’t asking for Meunier would like to see a photo Harkins’ grave, along with soldiers by putting flowers on the Lacey-Davis Foundation, ers each year. of Harkins and learn a little about that of another American sol- their graves each year. It was an American organization much. Just a photo and a few Contributing: Linda Lynn, The what he was like before he died. dier, every Memorial Day as a gesture of thanks.” that works with the fami- words explaining what he Oklahoman News Research Editor ORG XMIT: KOD May 2011, BISKINIK, Page 14 OBITUARIES Nancy Huddleston Jim O’Kelley Imogene Welch Nancy LouAnn Huddleston, Jim H. O’Kelley, 70, of Hartshorne Imogene Welch, 90, of the Reichert community passed from 58, of Talihina passed away on passed away on Feb. 23, 2011, at his this life to her eternal Heavenly home on March 20, 2011, sur- Feb. 7, 2001, in Talihina. home. rounded by many family members. She was born June 28, Nancy was born Aug. 2, 1952, Born Aug. 18, 1940, in Hartshorne, 1920, in Monroe to Robert and Belle (White) Owens. She in Edmond to Dennis and Billie he was the son of James Henry and married Claud Welch on Oct. 7, 1938. She was a member of Huddleston. She attended Poteau Dorothy (Reed) O’Kelley. He grew Pilgrim’s Rest Baptist Church. She spent her life as a house- Public Schools and worked for up in Hartshorne and graduated from wife and mother to their four daughters. She enjoyed teaching the Choctaw Nation Health Care Hartshorne High School. her children and grandchildren the hobbies she enjoyed which Center for the past 17 years in the He married Roena Barnes on Nov. consisted of ceramics on Monday at Tookies’ and quilting on Dietary Department. 25, 1960, in Poteau. They lived in Thursdays at the “center.” Cooking and sewing were some of She loved “spoiling” her only granddaughter, Kylee to whom Dallas for a short time where he was her favorites. She was a charter member of the Reichert quilt- she was known as “Nana.” Nancy never met a stranger and was a construction supervisor until they returned to Hartshorne in ing club. She enjoyed traveling with the Choctaw Seniors of a friend to everyone. She was one who would help in any way 1964. District 4 in Poteau and was proud of her Choctaw heritage. if need be. She was an avid OU Sooner fan and was Neal Mc- He was a police officer for the McAlester Police Department, She was named outstanding Choctaw elder in October 2007. Coy’s biggest fan. She enjoyed spending time with her family and then served as chief of police for the City of Hartshorne. She was preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, Claud and friends. Nancy will be truly missed. He had been working as a security guard for the Choctaw Na- Welch; one grandson, John Alan Ward; one great-granddaugh- She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Ben and tion at Jones Academy for the past 19 years. ter, Tayia O’Neal; son-in-law, Johnny Ward; and siblings, Hes- Gladys Huddleston and Jock and Minnie Standefer; and her He was also a well-respected horse trainer, helping not only ter Cogburn and R.L., Johnny, Paul, and Ben Owens. father, Dennis Huddleston. his kids, but others training their horses and teaching them how She is survived by four daughters, Shirley and Bill Ward of She is survived by her mother, Billie Huddleston; daughter to ride specific rodeo events. He thoroughly enjoyed going to Leflore, Edith Ward of Leflore, Claudette Hamner of Reichert, Staci and Travis Anderson; granddaughter Kylee Anderson; rodeos. He was of the Baptist faith. and Brenda and Jackie Sweeten of Cameron; nine grandchil- sister Freita Shockley; nephews, David and Sancie Bandy and He was preceded in death by his parents; two nieces, Melin- dren, Teresa and Dave Gadlage of Louisville, Ky., Kelly and Rodney and Lisa Bandy; niece Tammie and Cameron Swearin- da O’Kelley and Stacey O’Kelley; and a nephew, John Adams. Tim Thornburg of Wister, Shelley and Chris Kelley of Jones- gen; great nephews Arvil and Lane; great nieces Cristin, April Survivors include his wife, Roena O’Kelley; one daugh- boro, Ark., Susan and James Cantwell of Poteau, Keith and and Sheleigh; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and a host of ter, Rejeani Wilson with husband Gary; two sons, Buddy Deanne O’Neal of Summerfield, Anthony Ward of Kyle, Tex- friends. O’Kelley with wife Janell, and Michael O’Kelley with wife as, Shelia Hollan of Panama, Kendall and Vanessa O’Neal of Lana; grandchildren, Amber Armstrong and Robert, Lindsey Hartford, Ark., and Larindi Sweeten of Cameron; and 19 great- O’Kelley, Eric O’Kelley, Lori Lorene Martin and Ty, Scarlett grandchildren. She was a fifth generation grandmother to 12 Juanita Jefferson Wilson, Hunter Wilson, Dusty Willson and Sarah, Austin Will- great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by one sister, son and Sammie, Michael O’Kelley and John O’Kelley; one Wanda Dell of Spiro; and one brother, H.B. Hayes of Spiro; Juanita June Jefferson, 84, of Ta- great-granddaughter, Eelyn Bell Martin; four great-grandsons, stepsister Anna Bell Osburn of Bluejacket; and stepbrother lihina, passed away on March 30, Hunter and Gage Eastteam and Cameron and Logen Willson; Boyd Hayes of Pocola; several nieces, nephews, and other be- 2011, at her residence. Mrs. Jeffer- seven siblings, Frances Mordecai, Ann Rich, Mary Lou Clunn, loved relatives. son was born in Whitefield on June Patricia Smith, June O’Kelley, Bobby O’Kelley and Tommy 21, 1926, the daughter of the late O’Kelley; sisters-in-law and brother-in-law, Louise Brown and Wanda Dell Davis Benton and Annie (Jackson) Jeanie and Ed Wright; and numerous nieces and nephews. Folsom. She lived in Whitefield from Wanda Stewart Dell, 78, of Spi- 1926 to 1940 when she moved to ro, passed away March 28, 2011, in Tuskahoma where she lived for four Spiro. She was born Feb. 6, 1933, in years. She then moved to Talihina. Velma Toole Summerfield to Dommis Goforth and She completed elementary school in Whitefield, high school Velma Toole, 90, passed away at her home in McAlester on Nancy Bell (White) Hayes. in Tuskahoma and Draughan’s School of Business. She then March 4, 2011. She was born on Jan. 16, 1921 in Savanna, to She was a member of the Choctaw entered the workforce in a competitive culture. She learned to Samuel William and Priscilla (Pitchlyn) Lowry. Senior Citizens and the First Assem- speak English in school and taught her non-English speaking She graduated from East Central University in Ada with a bly of God Faith. She enjoyed church family and lived comfortably in both worlds. bachelor’s degree and worked as a social worker for Oklahoma and blue grass gospel singing, and She married a full blood Choctaw, Norman Jefferson, and Department of Human Services. She was a member of the First she loved to travel. God and family they had two daughters, Linda Kay and Nancy Ann. Juanita United Methodist Church. were her number one priorities. Her worked for Indian Health Services for 30 years from regis- She was preceded in death by her parents and 12 siblings. mission on Earth was to invite everyone to church, attending tration clerk to hospital administrator. She then moved to the She is survived by her children, Jack Toole, Van Toole, Joe church, and like she so often did, “take someone to church with Choctaw Nation Judicial Branch where she served as a judge Toole, Sue Walker with husband Kenneth, Sonja Rodgers, you.” for 22 and a half years. She served as president of Choctaw Sammie Johnson, all of McAlester, and John Toole with wife She is preceded in death by her parents; two husbands, Nation Health Service Authority for 14 years. Kathy of Oklahoma City; grandchildren, Misty Lalli, Jeremy William Stewart and Pete Dell, one son, Phillip Stewart; one After retirement she was a storyteller for the Choctaw Tribe Rogers, Kenneth Walker Jr., Robb Walker, Joedie Walker, Can- grandson, John Rogers; two sisters, Imogene Welch and Hester at churches, schools and elder centers. She also volunteered dice Toole, Damien Toole, Marketta Johnson, Mandy Johnson, Cogburn; four brothers, Johnny, Ben, Paul, and R.L. Owens. with the Talihina Public Library, Talihina Elementary School Samantha Toole, Tara Toole, Britt Toole, along with numerous She is survived by three daughters, Wythina Lovell with and District 3 Choctaw Community Center and was a teacher great-grandchildren and other family members and friends. husband Steve of Spiro, Marsha Sharp with husband Freddie of conversational Choctaw Language. She was past presi- of Muldrow and Starla Sober with husband Bryant of Spiro; dent of Talihina Business and Professional Women. Juanita daughter-in-law Sharon Stewart of Spiro; six grandchildren, authored a book, “Chatah, Remembering Our Roots” on the Shirley Reinhardt Brent Lovell, Brad Lovell, Jeff Clark with wife Dana, Michelle making of ceremonial dresses and shirts. She had accepted Graham, Ashley Jackson with husband Justin, and Frank Stew- Christ as her savior and was a longtime member of St. Paul’s Shirley Gene Choate Reinhardt art; three great-grandchildren, Caroline Clark, Kyle Jackson UMC-OIMC which was founded by the General Commis- passed away on Feb 1, 2010. She was and Cole Jackson; brother HB Hayes of Spiro; stepsister Anna sion on Race and Religion where she served as a director and born on Feb. 13, 1937, in McAlester. Bell Osburn of Blue Jacket; and stepbrother JB Hayes of Po- teacher, coordinated and directed singing Choctaw hymns and At the age of three she moved to Red- cola. held various offices. lands, Calif. She is survived by a daughter, Nancy Jefferson of the home; She spent her first year of high Osa Charles Judy Jr. grandchildren Lilly Geesling and children Jacob and Cassan- school in Fairbanks, Alaska. Her last Osa Charles Judy Jr., 86, of dra, Amy with husband Santiago Portillo and son Justin, Jen- three years she spent in San Diego, Wister,passed away on Nov. 26, 2010 nifer Bigpond and daughter Mariah Clarke, Norma Bigpond where she graduated with honors at his home. and son Xander; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. from Lowell High School in June of He was born on April 11, 1924, in She was preceded in death by her parents, Davis B. and An- 1955. Wister to Osa Charles Judy and Ruth nie M. Folsom; husband Norman; brother and sister-in-law On Oct. 29, 1955, she married William Charles Reinhardt. Anne (McDaniel) Judy. He was sim- Cooper and Lucille Folsom; two sisters in infancy, Geneva After the birth of her first child, Pamela Jean, they moved to ply known as “O.C.” to his family and and Flora; nephew Harry Folsom and daughter Linda Jeffer- French Morocco in Africa where they lived for two years. They friends. The Judy family was early son Bigpond. moved back to Oakland, Calif., in 1958. They had two more residents of Wister where they oper- daughters named Rebecca Kathleen and Brenda Lee. ated a farming and cattle operation She is survived by her husband, William; daughters, Pamela as well as a general dry goods store and pharmacy for many Patton with husband Al of California, Rebecca Howell with Vivian Blalack years. The pharmacy, known as Judy Drug became a landmark husband Shayne of Florida, and Brenda Riley with husband in Wister and O.C. was involved in the business until it closed David of Georgia; grandchildren, Cathryn Riley, Kevin Riley, Vivian Louise Scroggins Blalack, after the death of his parents. Bethany Howell, Nathan Howell and Kimberly Riley. 95, passed away on Dec. 28, 2010, in O.C. was actively involved in support of the Choctaw Nation Longview, Texas. and he was very proud of his Choctaw heritage. He is the great- She was the daughter of Freddie grandson of the Rev. Willis Folsom, a famous Methodist circuit Baxter Scroggins and Christopher Cassie Whitener rider pastor in Choctaw history. He was also the first cousin of Scroggins. Her father was an origi- “Wahoo” McDaniel, a notable professional football player and nal Choctaw enrollee in the Dawes Cassie Renee Whitener, 41, passed wrestler who passed away earlier. His mother was an original Choctaw Enrollment of 1896. She away on Dec. 18, 2010, in Fort Worth. enrollee of the Dawes Commission Rolls as were his grandpar- was born on July 3, 1915, on her She was born on Oct. 21, 1969, in ents, Mary Folsom McDaniel and Ed McDaniel who served father’s 1903 Choctaw allotment, Ardmore. several terms on the Choctaw Tribal Council. consisting of 160 acres at the Cedar She grew up in Ardmore and at- O.C. was also preceded in death by one sister, Ruth Anne Grove settlement near Francis. tended Ardmore High School, where Judy. In 1930, she joined her brothers, Ernest Lee Scroggins and she graduated in 1987. She played He is survived by Roy Lane and Adam Morris of the home, Edgar Scroggins, as a student at the Chilocco Indian School. the saxophone in the band and was along with many cousins and relatives. She was proud of her younger brother Ernest, who was vale- involved with the gifted and talented dictorian of the graduating class of 1930. Also in the Chilocco program. Her senior year, she entered Shreta Williams 1930 graduating class was her older brother, Edgar, who re- the Air Force and was stationed in San Antonio for basic train- mained at Chilocco and became its plant/building superinten- ing. She received an honorable discharge in October of 1997 Shreta Lorene Williams, 71, a Muskogee resident, passed dant from 1932-1957. after sustaining injuries to her ankles. She was very proud of away on March 23, 2010, in Muskogee. She was born March At his passing in 1965, he was honored by numerous tribal her service and was a patriotic woman. 24, 1938, in Grady to Irid and Dorothy Riley Hanks. councils for his service and dedication to the welfare of thou- Cassie was a very beautiful, talented and kind person. She Shreta grew up in Grady where she received her education, sands of Indian students attending Chilocco over a 35-year enjoyed singing and writing stories, especially Big Foot related later moving to California with her family at the age of 16, period. ones. She was a fabulous cook and had an admiration for na- where they settled in Hemet. After school she became a wait- At Chilocco, Vivian formed a lifelong friendship with her ture. She loved collecting butterflies and was touched when she ress. She met, fell in love and later married Boyd Williams on roommate, Vera Whitby, which friendship continued until discovered the symbol for cervical cancer is the teal colored Dec. 24, 1965, in Las Vegas. They moved to Arizona where she Vera’s death in 2009. butterfly. It became something of beauty to her as well asa became a homemaker. After their retirement they moved to the While residing in Home Three, Vivian was a home mate reminder to her of the battle she was in for her life. Checotah area where they lived before moving to Muskogee. with the two daughters of the famous Indian athlete Jim Thor- She collected people too. She had friends everywhere. Cassie She enjoyed spending time with her husband, fishing and danc- pe. She would speak of the times Mr. Thorpe would come to had a heart for misplaced kids; taking them under her wings and ing and was known to always read a good book. She loved visit his daughters and take all the girls in Home Three for ice helping them get back on track. Cassie was active in church. raising flowers, especially roses. Shreta attended the Baptist cream, while the boy students would gather at a distance to She was the assistant to the pastor and the church secretary. Church. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her. observe Mr. Thorpe. She was a Choctaw and very proud of her heritage. She was She was preceded in death by her parents; a step-son, Frankie Vivian was also proud that several of her ancestors served a descendant of William Durant, for whose family the city of Williams; and one great-granddaughter, Layni Williams. the Confederacy during the War Between the States by enlist- Durant was named. She is survived by her husband, Boyd of the home; daughter ing with the 1st Chickasaw-Choctaw Mounted Rifles, C.S.A., Cassie worked for Kort Water in Weatherford for 10 years Shelia Hathaway with husband Donnie of Richardson; a son, which was the last Confederate land unit to surrender to Union then went to work for American Pipe and Steel in Weatherford. Keith Williams with wife Jami of Austin; two stepchildren, forces in July of 1865. She worked there until her health no longer permitted. Jacque Lawson with husband Wayne and Jerry Williams with Vivian’s strong ties to her Chickasaw-Choctaw heritage was She was preceded in death by grandparents, Perry N. and wife Sally, all of Muskogee; three grandchildren, Samantha evidenced when her son, Joe Ray Blalack, was a candidate Ovella Phillips Whitener, and Dock Monroe and Lojuana Hart- Hathaway, Kellie Williams and Logan Williams; eight step- in the 1975 Choctaw election in which David Gardner was man Loving. grandchildren, Bryan Lawson, Mark Lawson, Mallori Wil- elected principal chief. She is survived by father David Jack Whitener of Pine Bluff, liams, Shelbi Williams, Kati Williams, Maddi Williams, Jenni- In 1931, Vivian married Hoe C. Blalack of Wilburton, who Ark.; mother Betty Lee Loving Owens of Gainesville, Texas; fer Hamzy and Casey Hamzy; seven great-grandchildren; three died in 1966. brothers, Lowel Keith Grimes, Tyson Whitener, David Vowell brothers, Leo Hanks with wife Sharon, Roland Hanks with She is survived by her two children, Joe Ray Blalack and and Brian Vowell; sisters, Sheri Vowell Saulter and Lacy Whit- wife Sharon and Cletus Hanks with wife Gina; many nieces, Janet Blalack Johnson, and four grandchildren. ener; special cousins, Carla Payne and Lojuana Slovack. nephews, other extended family and a host of friends. May 2011, BISKINIK, Page 15 OBITUARIES B. Dale James Shelva Moore Harold McAlvain B. Dale James, 82, of Shady Point, Shelva Sue Moore, 73, passed away Sgt. Maj. Ret. Harold ‘Mac’ McAl- passed away on March 28, 2011, in on March 12, 2011, in Hugo. She vain passed away on March 1, 2011, Shady Point. Dale was born Feb. 25, was born May 16, 1937, in Hugo, the in Nocona, Texas. Mac was born Dec. 1929, in Calhoun to Cornelius and daughter of Fred and Mary (Locke) 15, 1932 in Oologah, to Sarah “Lou- Ella M. (Priest) James. He worked in Parker. She was raised in the area and ise” Woodside and William “Polk” the oil field. He was a veteran of the then moved to Ashdown, Ark., where McAlvain. U.S. Army. she lived about 25 years before mov- Mac graduated from Oologah High Dale was preceded in death by his ing back to the Messer area in 1999. School in 1950 and then joined the parents; grandson, Travis Reed; great Shelva was kind, generous, and loved service and served his country in both grandson, Jordan Martin; and brother, by all who knew her. She was a won- the U.S. Air Force and then the U.S. Hampton James. derful cook and enjoyed cooking for friends and family. Shel- Army. He retired after 33 years of service at the rank of Ser- Survivors include his wife, Betty Ruth James of the home; va’s proudest accomplishments were her six children in whom geant Major. He was active in the VFW Bowie Post, the DAV, daughters, Patricia with husband Neil Donathan of Shady she instilled her strong work ethic and love of family. Shelva and the American Legion Post 252 of Bowie, where he served Point, Mona with husband Kirk Reed of Mountainburg, Ark., was a lifelong member of the Church of Christ as well as a as commander. He was a faithful member of Jean’s Men’s Bi- Ruth with husband Steve Burrows of Edmond; one son, Robert proud member of the Choctaw Nation. ble Class in Nocona, Texas, and enjoyed the social coffee hour. James with wife Linda of Shady Point; eight grandchildren, She was preceded in death by parents; husband Judson Nipp; Mac was very active in the Nocona Cemetery Association and David Donathan, Shannon Lee, Ashley Goff, Robbin Stockton, one sister, Maleace Hill; one brother, Dwight Parker; one great- a proud member of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. Chris James, Stephanie Martin, Stacy Christopher, Joshua Bur- granddaughter, Kailey Montgomery. Mac was preceded in death by his parents Polk and Louise rows; 13 great-grandchildren, Steven Lee, Alyssa Lee, Court- Shelva is survived by six children, Susan Turner with hus- McAlvain; brother James McAlvain with his wife Helen Wom- ney Lee, Joseph Lee, Nickolas Donathan, Kenedi Ross, Izac band Fred of Orlando, Rebecca Miller with husband Johnny ack McAlvain in 1999. Goff, Louden Stockton, Kagan Stockton, Dakota James, Jaxon of Ashdown, Ark., Terry Nipp with wife Kiandra of Chidester, Survivors include children, Richard McAlvain, Patricia James, Savannah Martin, Aiden Martin; brother Robert Ken- Ark., Kelly Nipp with wife Brenda of Stillwater, Bobbie Lynn London with husband Bill, Kevin McAlvain with wife Tammy, nedy with wife Sue of Roland; sister-in-law Betty Jo James Smith of Ashdown, Ark., Tammy Embry with husband Alan all of Oklahoma City, Carrie Haslacker with husband Steven of Shady Point; six special nieces and nephews, Beverly and of Crossett, Ark.; 15 grandchildren, Kristina Turner Waggoner, of Clarksville, Texas; stepchildren, Sherry King with hus- Harry Killian, Gary James, Danny James, Debbie and Wayne Nikkole Turner Montgomery, Jeremy Miller, Shaine Miller, band Dale of Bridgeport, Texas; Tony Martin with wife Lisa McDonald, Janie and Kevin Sims, Bryan James; other relatives Jennifer Miller Scarborough, Cortney Miller Jaggears, T.J. of Sanger, Texas; Leslie Martin with wife Charlene of Wyn- and loved ones; and many beloved friends. Nipp, Aria Nipp, Logan Nipp, Ashley Nipp, Katharine Nipp, newood; 11 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren; brother Joshua Smith, Kymberly Smith, Zackary Smith, Lexie Em- Edward L. McAlvain of Wichita Falls, Texas; and sister-in-law bry; eight great-grandchildren, Tyler Waggoner, Bayley Mont- Jackie McAlvain of Seminole. Virginia Blansett gomery, Addysen Montgomery, Michala Scarborough, Pey- ton Scarborough, Chloe Jaggears, Mackenzie Smith, Mataya Eva Parish Virginia Marie Wallis “Ginny” Blansett passed away at her Smith; other survivors include three brothers, Adrain Parker of home on Feb. 11, 2011, her family by her side until the end. Slaten, Texas, Jim Parker, of Hugo, and Caral Parker of Saw- Eva Felihkatubbee Parish, 79, She was born June 5, 1943, in Bristow. yer; one sister, Ann Shannon of Hugo; as well as numerous of Riverside, Calif., passed away She was preceded in death by both parents; a daughter, nieces and nephews. peacefully on Feb. 17, 2011, with Rhonda Blansett; another daughter, Elizabeth Blansett; and a her family at her side, on a beautiful granddaughter, Amanda Ames. afternoon in a place she loved to be, Her surviving family includes husband Douglas Blansett; Elvin Jaquess Forest Lake, Ariz. daughters Jada Henley and Nona Colegrove; grandchildren Elvin Virgle Jaquess, 80, of Pick- Eva attended Center Point Elemen- Joshua Colegrove, Allen Scott Mooreland, Mellisa Colegrove, ett, passed away on March 22, 2011, tary School in Atoka County and at- Cassie Colegrove, Justin Renolds and Elizabeth Colegrove; at his home. He was born June 2, tended Chilocco Indian School. She and great-grandchildren, Autunm Colegrove, Nick Colegrove, 1930, in Earth, Texas, to Leo Haskell met and married Coleman Ray Felih- Kaleb Ames, Allen Mooreland, Conner Colegrove, Wyatt and Frances Joella Bartee Jaquess. katubbee in Antlers. They were relocated to Southern Califor- Colegrove, Aron Mooreland and Gracie Renolds. Elvin’s maternal grandparents were nia in 1955. She lived most of her adult life in Southern Califor- Andrew Pearce Bartee and Mary nia close to the Pacific, which she loved to be near. Mom was Cordelia Stowers Bartee of Madill, known for her shopping and she enjoyed travelling back and Kyle Rule who received an original land allot- forth to Oklahoma where she liked to gather wild onions with Kyle Martin Rule of Henryetta went ment with the Choctaw Tribe. Pa- Betty Lou. She also liked spending time with her daughter, Ro- to be with the Lord on Dec. 7, 2010, ternal grandparents were Lansdon Wilburn Jaquess and Emma berta and her family on the Navajo Reservation in Pinon, Ariz. after a battle with leukemia. He en- Agnes Cowan Jaquess. She liked to sing in English and Choctaw, go to her daughter tered this world Aug. 30, 1972, in Elvin and his family moved five miles west of Ada where he Eva Jean’s house to eat with family and friends, and just enjoy Oklahoma City. attended Pickett Grade School and graduated from Ada High life to the fullest. Mom worked and retired in June 2010 from Kyle was a member of The General School. After graduation, he married his childhood sweetheart, Sherman Indian High School in Riverside, Calif. One of her Assembly and Church of the Firstborn. Sue Norvill on Dec. 26, 1950. He graduated from East Central most enjoyable times was working with the students at SIHS He graduated from Graham School in State College with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Industrial and was known to them as “Grandma.” Her last wish was to go 1990 and later attended Tulsa Welding Arts. Following a two-year stint as a teacher in Union Valley to the Navajo Reservation in Arizona where she spent much of School graduating in 2009. Kyle en- High School (south of Waurika), he returned to Pickett and her time. She always had an adventurous side to her and any- joyed playing his guitars with friends or alone, trying out new joined Jaquess Brothers Construction Company which was in- time we’d ask her to go somewhere, she was ready to go! She tunes or playing the old ones gave him pleasure in his music. strumental in developing the Pickett area. was a very spiritual and religious woman who prayed and read He also enjoyed cooking and was very particular on how it was Elvin was a long-time member of the Diamond “K” Kiwanis her Bible daily. Even with humble beginnings, she was a very done; you just didn’t serve a dish that wasn’t perfect. Club and served as its president for one year. As a Kiwanis strong woman who stood with integrity and honor and yet was Kyle’s greatest passion in life was fishing. He was always member, he loved driving the train and merry-go-round at Win- a very compassionate and thoughtful. She liked to write poems ready to be at the water’s edge no matter what. You just knew tersmith Park and delivering Meals-On-Wheels. and short stories and everyone remembers her as a storyteller. that if he wasn’t at home he was most likely fishing at the lake Elvin and Sue were members of the Ada Hereford Whirl- When we were little we didn’t have a lot of books and mom or a pond nearby. It gave Kyle great joy to supply his family ers Square Dance Club for over 20 years. He was active in always made up her own stories, which were always one of a and friends with plenty of fish for all the fish fries. Once he the Pickett Methodist Church where they were married over 60 kind. She touched the lives of many people throughout her life. even supplied fish for a benefit for a person that had the same years ago. They later joined the First United Methodist Church Eva was born Feb. 18, 1931, in Darwin and she is preceded illness he had. Kyle kept his life simple but the most cherished in Ada. He was a member of the Fellowship Sunday School Class. in death by her grandparents, Elias Parish and Melissa Parish; legacy he left us all was his faith in God. He never got mad He was preceded in death by his parents and his younger her father, Faulker Austin of Valliant; mother Zarina Parish of nor asked “why me?” He spoke to his sons telling them to read sister, Oneta June Jaquess. Darwin; brother Irvine Austin; sons Coleman Ray Felihkatub- in their Bible and keep reading to learn and understand God. Survivors include his wife, Sue Jaquess, of the home; his two bee Jr., Luke Felihkatubbee; and grandson Loman Felihkatub- While in the hospital he wrote a prayer thanking God for his daughters, Janelle McKnight with husband Wayne of Eufaula bee of Carson, Calif.; uncles Sham, Noah, Samson and Elijah illness to help him humble himself to God. and Sharon Butler with her husband Charles of Englewood, Parish of Darwin; and sister Bertha Wilson of Sacramento, Calif. He was preceded in death by grandparents James and Goldie Colo.; two grandchildren, Bonnie Parker with husband Jon of Eva is survived by her brother, Buddy Austin with wife Betty Rule and nephew Nahman White. Aurora, Colo., and Allie Murphy with husband Michael of Tus- of Valliant; brother Benny Austin with wife Queenie of Val- Kyle is survived by his sons, Jordan Rule of the home and caloosa, Ala.; two great-grandchildren, Noah and Eli Parker of liant; aunt Elizabeth McKenzie of McAlester; daughter Eva Aaron Parker of Grandville, N.Y.; parents, Tom and Patty Rule Aurora, Colo.; two sisters, JoAnn Prince with husband James Jean Felihkatubbee with husband Scott Roebuck of Corona, of Henryetta; one sister, April with husband Jason White of Ur- of Pickett and Linda Brown of Norman. Calif.; son Rodney Felihkatubbee with wife Glenna of Lake bana, Mo.; grandparents, George and Rose McKinney of Mid- Elsinore, Calif.; daughter Roberta Ashiking with husband Al- west City; one niece, Makenzie White; nephew Jaxson White; Wanda Harrison lan of Forest Lake, Ariz.; son Robert Felihkatubbee with wife and many aunts, uncles and cousins. Dinah of Moreno Valley, Calif.; grandchildren, Toshia Felih- katubbee, LaTisha Felihkatubbee and children, Milyssa Chino Wanda Marie (Ritter) Harrison, 83, and son Mark Chino, Albert Ashiking, Jennifer Felihkatub- of Bokoshe, passed away on March 28, bee and children, Daniel Felihkatubbee, David Felihkatub- Ethel Hill 2011. She was born March 22, 1928, bee, Abraham Felihkatubbee, Brandon Felihkatubbee, Jason, to Jim and Mattie (Belt) Ritter. Wanda Joshua, and Carey Felihkatubbee; niece, Linda Wilson of Sac- Ethel Mae Hill, 84, homemaker, was a factory worker for many years. ramento, Calif.; nephews, Tony Wilson of Durant, Chiefie Wil- passed away on March 16, 2011. She was preceded in death by her son of Pacifica, Calif., and Jonathan Wilson of Texas; cousins, She was preceded in death by parents; son Lewis Lawson; brothers, Rosie Gilmore of Durant, Lillie Roberts of Durant, Ruth Ann husband Barton. Survivors include Charles, Don, Son and Roy Ritter; sis- Trump of San Diego, Calif., Betty Lou Thomas of MacAlester, children, Jolene (Ed) Snyder, Patri- ter, Evonna Kelley; and great-grand- Lillie Mae Leja of MacAlester, Dena Marris of Durant, Loretta cia (Richard) McCluney and Gerald daughter Kristy Thompson. Cuper of Antlers, Tom Parish of Darwin, Steve Parish of Ada, (Dorthea) Hill; brother, Mack Barker; She is survived by her sisters, Betty with husband Jack Brew- Jennifer Barnett of Ada, Linda Parish of Durant of Helen May sister, Mildred Brazell; grandchildren, er of Bokoshe, Yvonne with husband Marlin Forrester of Spiro; Parish of Korea, Samuel Parish and numerous other cousins Morgan, Emile, Shane, Megan, Mat- brother James Ritter of Spiro; her grandchildren, Melissa Harris and friends. thew; and great-granddaughter Emma. of Roland, Melinda Thompson of Panama, and Presley Law- son of Spiro; five great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews, other relatives and loved ones; and many beloved friends. Quay Myers Billy Newkirk Quay Gibson Myers, 71, of Wright Billy Lee “Skully” Newkirk, 72, an Ralph Nail City passed away on March 25, 2011, Atoka area resident passed, away on at Paris Regional Medical Center. April 2, 2011, in Durant. He was born Ralph G. Nail, 75, of Hampton, The daughter of Boyd and Fannie on Feb. 7, 1939, in Daisy to Joseph and Ga., passed away on Feb. 25, 2011. (Jacob) Gibson, Quay was born April Josephine (Clay) Newkirk. He attend- He was born in Durant to the late 29, 1939, in Wright City. ed Redden and Stringtown Schools Edward Leslie and Oreta Margaret Quay was a member of the World- and went on to be a truck driver after Gibson Nail. He was also preceded in wide Church of God and loved the serving in the military, where he was death by his daughter, Ruth Ann Nail. Lord. She enjoyed fishing, garden- stationed in Korea. He married Janice Mr. Nail was a member of Way Of ing, animals, especially her two cats, (Latham) on June 3, 1966, in McKin- The Cross Baptist Church where he Nakita and Tushka Lusa, crossword puzzles, gathering wild ny. He was of the Baptist faith. also served as a deacon and taught onions, traveling and reading. She was proud to be Chahta. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Janice Newkirk; Sunday School. Ralph was ordained She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Wil- Aunt Sophia Impson; and grandson Seth Davis. as a deacon in 1962 and has taught liam Myers Sr.; a sister, Faye Gibson; and an infant son, Baby He is survived by his children, James Van Newkirk with wife Sunday School for over 50 years. Mr. Nail retired from the Fed- Boy Myers. Debbie of Weatherford, Texas, Emily Newkirk of Atoka; Stet- eral Aviation Administration after 33 years. Ralph was an avid She leaves to cherish her memory, four sons, Orlando Gib- son Newkirk of Atoka, Chip Davis with wife Linsey of Weath- outdoorsman who loved to hunt and was a jack of all trades son of Ringold, Audie Gibson with wife Lucy of Wright City, erford, Texas, Chandra Newkirk of White Settlement, Texas, and known as a prankster. Mr. Nail was a veteran serving in Dorsey Myers of Oklahoma City and William Myers Jr. of Du- Tiffany Coates with husband Matt of Tushka, J.J. Newkirk with the U.S. Marine Corps. Most important to him was his church rant; two daughters, Greta Myers-Solis with husband Paul of wife Emanda of Oahu, Hawaii; great-grandchildren, C.J. Da- and family. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. Idabel, Dawn with husband Desmond Walls of Idabel; a broth- vis, Justin Davis, Toby Davis, all of Weatherford, Texas, Ketch Mr. Nail is survived by wife Betty Joyce Nail of Hampton, er, Berie with wife Rena Gibson of Tulsa; three sisters, Doro- Coates of Tushka, Kollin Coates of Tushka, Colten Newkirk of Ga.; son Steve with wife Elaine Nail of Hampton; daughter, thy Gibson-Van Horn with husband Ron of Lawton, Eleanor White Settlement, Texas, and Lila Newkirk of Oahu, Hawaii; Joyce with husband Chris Cannon of Hampton; grandchildren, Gibson-Caldwell of Wright City and Terry with husband Curtis cousins, Carl Clay of Atoka and Fred Clay of Missouri; along Grant Nail, Ashley Richter and Craig Scott; great grandchil- Billy of Durant; 13 grandchildren, including two of the home, with other relatives, friends, and McGee Valley Baptist Church dren, Shelby Nail, Hunter Ralph Nail, Cade Richter, Laina Sarah Williston and Matevier Thompson; 13 great-grandchil- family. Richter, Allie Richter, Ashtyn Richter and Lauren Scott. dren; several nieces, nephews other relatives and friends. May 2011, BISKINIK, Page 16 Women – The givers and supporters of life May is the month of Moth- that is truly inspiring. Women fleeing enemies, and carrying ers’ Day, and it is fitting for Iti were the primary creators and their husband’s quiver of ar- Fabvssa to honor our Choctaw custodians of the Choctaw arts rows and shouting encourage- mothers for their love, talents, of basketry, textiles, and pot- ment to him on the battlefield. and their quiet, capable work tery. Choctaw girls practiced In 1541, at a place called Ma- that has supported generations Iti Fabussa these arts so that they would billa, a battle was fought be- of Choctaw families, making be able to have their pick of tween the ancestors of today’s the very existence of the Na- young men for a husband Choctaw people and an army tion possible to this very day. when they came of age of Spanish Conquistadors led We will do this by presenting Women often went with by Hernando De Soto. The a little bit of what is known their men on diplomatic mis- Spanish chroniclers record about the daily lives, roles, sions to other tribes and to that after most of the Choc- and personal character of early Euro-American groups. Some taw warriors had fallen, the Choctaw women. European commentators be- women picked up their fallen Before colonization, wom- lieved that it was a mark of husband’s and father’s weap- en held positions of great savagery for Choctaw men to ons and fought the Spanish respect, esteem, and power Photo Provided bring women with them, rath- to the last woman rather than in Choctaw society. Women er than leaving them at home give up their liberty and honor. were recognized as the givers Choctaw women con- where they would be protect- To this day, the Choctaw war and supporters of life. We can tinue to love and support ed. However, from a Choctaw dance, unlike those of many get some idea of the sacred- their families. Melissa perspective, this was simply other tribes, involves women ness in which this role was Reich, above, reads to a sign of the importance that as well as men. viewed, through the Choctaw son Jace. women had in Choctaw soci- With colonization, Euro- word “hollo,” which refers to ety, and of the confidence that pean ideas and ways of do- the feminine essence. From went with the mother’s family, was placed in these women. ing things were forced on the this term, stem other Choc- not with their father. Sometimes in order to es- Choctaw people. During the taw words such as “ihollo,” Choctaw women worked tablish friendly relationships 1800s, many segments of Eu- meaning to love, “hullochi”, hard to support their families with other groups at these ro-American society believed to sanctify, and “holitopa,” be- with a particular confidence meetings, a ceremony was that women were intellectu- loved or holy. In the tradition- and dignity. Women produced conducted in which Choctaw ally inferior to men, undeserv- al Choctaw way of thinking, the majority of the food eaten women adopted individuals ing of formal education, and women in general and moth- by their families. Assisted by from the other group into their unworthy of a formal vote in ers in particular, were likened males during field-clearing own clans, making them fam- community decisions. The de- onto the earth, which makes and harvest, it was only fitting ily. This not only necessitated rogatory term “squaw” also life possible by providing gifts that women, the givers of life, the presence of women at such came into use. Some pretty de- of sustainance, shelter, and tona, which means “she who In traditional Choctaw soci- had sole charge of the fields meetings, but also meant that termined attempts were made even the physical bodies we seeks and arrives.” These and ety, family lines followed the during the growing season. In they had a real say in what was to push these Euro-American live in. Women did the same other names show us that early female rather than the male fact, according to some Choc- taking place. Similarly, it was views about women onto for their families. A common Choctaw women were re- side, exactly the opposite from taw oral traditions, it was a women who made the choice Choctaw society. It is amaz- name for Nvnih Waiya, the spected for demonstrating the Euro-American society. Choc- supernatural woman, Ohoyo- of whether or not to adopt war ing, from the vantage point of most sacred place on the land- virtues of generosity, industry, taw individuals inherited their osh Chishba, who gifted corn captives into their families, 100 years later how far things scape for early Choctaws was and perseverence. Iksa and clan from their moth- to the Choctaw people in the and ultimately into the Choc- have come towards full circle, “Holitopa Ishki,” or “Beloved Just as today, early Choctaw er. During tribal functions, the first place. Besides gardening, taw tribe. with women earning some of Mother.” Clearly Choctaw women fulfilled many vital children sat at the fire of their women gathered greens, fresh Choctaw women often the rights and respect in Euro- women were beloved. roles for their communities, mother’s family, while the fa- fruit, vegetables, tubers and served as motivators for their American society, that Choc- Some of the virtues that families, and tribe. Central to ther sat at a separate fire with nuts from the woods to bal- families and communities, and taw women have always pos- Choctaw society valued high- all of these roles was that of his own siblings, and the chil- ance their families’ nutrition. did whatever was necessary to sessed. ly in women and mothers are life-giver. Expectant women dren of his sisters. The family They prepared and served it support them. Some women Our Choctaw mothers are evident in common names that were revered. Husbands fasted house and most of what was too. Although they got a lot served as Alikchi, or doctors. descended from a beloved and Choctaw women carried. A for them, and children who inside it was considered to be accomplished, their domestic Sometimes, Choctaw women honorable line of forebearers. number of these names con- dared to poke fun at an expect- the property of the women. If work was not that of a slave to temporarily accepted the role Today, just as they always tain the word “ima” meaning ant mother’s growing belly a couple chose to break up, the their husbands. Far to the con- of chief when their husbands have, Choctaw mothers con- “to give.” For example, Hoti- stood the risk of being repri- man would take his weapons trary, Choctaw women often died; hereditary power is said tinue to love and support their ma means, “she who looks for manded severely by elders. and move into the house of his worked in groups with sing- to have been passed to girls families, and make vital con- and gives,” Pisatima means Women secluded themselves own family, and the children ing, laughter, and gossip that when there were no male heirs. tributions to their communi- “she who sees and gives,” at the time of delivery. This would go with the mother. If made the tasks enjoyable. Although it was the man’s ties, country, nation, and the Chumpatima, “she who buys was considered the height of a wife died, the property went Many early Choctaw wom- role to protect the community, world. They are the roots that and gives.” Other common the female power, and men to her children and biological en were fantastic artists. They fight, and if necessary, kill, keep Choctaw society on solid Choctaw women’s names end were not allowed in the vicin- family, not to her husband. made basic, everyday utensils there are records of Choctaw ground and nurture it to help it with “ona,” meaning, “to ar- ity for fear of harm coming to Similarly in the event of a and articles of domestic life women carrying weapons to fulfill its future potential. Holi- rive here.” An example is Ho- them and to the baby. mother’s death, the children with a creativity and artistry protect their families, tracking topa hachiahoke!

Choctaw Days Thousands Featured during of visitors Choctaw June 22-25 at the Smithsonian’s Days National Museum of the American Indian expected Washington, D.C. Choctaw Royalty at NMAI Miss Choctaw Nation Continued from Page 1 Kristie McGuire, Daily Activities and eggs, and pumpkin soup. Jr. Miss Nikki Amos and Chef Richard will also bring Little Miss Mahala Battiest a portable station out among w 10:45 a.m. traditional dancing begins u u u u visitors to cook samples of the in front of the museum with the dishes at 11:30 a.m. on both Choctaw Youth Dancers Jump Dance, Fast War Dance, Wednesday and Saturday. with chanter Stealing Partners Dance and the Booths will be set up in and Ron McKinney Snake Dance around the Potomac circle u u u u just inside the museum’s front doors where visitors can view Flutemaker, flutist Singing, dancing, fluteplaying, the intricacies of basket weav- Presley Byington storytelling, pottery, basketweaving ing by Eveline Steele, modern u u u u and more are featured every hour. and traditional bead work- Artists Gwen ing by Marcus Amerman and Coleman Lester Roger Amerman, flute making and Paul King by Presley Byington, and pot- David Fitzgerald Photo Make & Take u u u u tery making by Ian and Amy Regina Green shows museum items to be on display. Classes will be held on the third floor. Thompson. Modern and traditional All ages are invited to create a basket, Cultural exhibits by Regina beadwork by Green, director of the Choc- p.m.-4:30 p.m. available. Marcus Amerman and clay pot or piece of beadwork. taw Nation Museum in Tush- “It is a great chance for the “There will also be a com- Roger Amerman 10 a.m.-12 p.m. ka Homma, and traditionalist whole family to do something puter set up so that visitors u u u u 2 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Les Williston will explain the together,” said Cultural Events can have the opportunity to craftsmanship and skills our Executive Director Sue Fol- interact with a language in- Items on display from the ancestors displayed in ev- som, “and they will have a structor in Oklahoma, similar Choctaw Nation Museum Rasmuson Theater eryday life with such items small sample of Choctaw cul- to our One-Net classes held in by Regina Green as tools, weaponry, clothing, ture to take home with them.” schools throughout Southeast- u u u u Films shown throughout basketry and pottery. The “Choctaw Code Talk- ern Oklahoma,” he said. Language instructor Two of the Choctaw Na- ers” and “The Long Walk” A favorite of any festival Wednesday, Thursday, Lillie Roberts Friday & Saturday tion’s many exceptional artists films will loop continuously in is its storytellers and two of will have their work show- the Rasmuson Theater on the Choctaw Nation’s finest have u u u u w Choctaw Code Talkers cased at this festival. Paul first floor of the museum. At agreed to be at Choctaw Days. Storytellers w The Long Walk King, whose award-winning 1:30 p.m. Saturday, the videos Tim Tingle and Greg Rodgers Tim Tingle and work is featured as the brand- will be turned off for a theatri- are not only recognized for Greg Rodgers Join us at 1:30 p.m. Saturday ing image of Choctaw Days cal re-enactment of a Choctaw their unique tales, personal u u u u 2011, will have several piec- wedding. From the first glance appearances and books. They for a re-enactment of a es on hand. Gwen Coleman shared between the couple to have been instrumental in Basketweaver Eveline Steele Choctaw Wedding in the Rasmuson Lester, another exemplary the wrapping of the blanket sharing both the history and u u u u Theater on the first floor. award-winning Choctaw art- around their shoulders and the recent accomplishments of Potters Dr. Ian and ist, will have several paint- wedding dance, visitors will the tribe with school children Amy Thompson ings, prints and hand-painted have the opportunity to watch throughout the United States. gourd Christmas ornaments the centuries-old symbolic ac- Choctaw Days at the Smith- u u u u u u u u on display. tions of a traditional Choctaw sonian’s National Museum of Cultural experts The Choctaw Nation Cul- wedding. the American Indian is a cel- Les Williston tural Events Department will “The revival of the Choctaw ebration of the strength and and Olin Williams For more information call the be holding make-and-take culture and language is some- perseverance of an excep- u u u u Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma sessions on the third floor of thing we are proud of,” said tional people, combining the Choctaw Singers 800.522.6170, ext. 2249, the museum. All ages are in- Chief Pyle. “Online language old and the new so that all will The Johnsons or National Museum of the American Indian vited to create a basket, clay instructor Lillie Roberts will leave with an enlightened per- pot or piece of beadwork. The have a table with information spective of a tribe who contin- and 202.633.1000 daily sessions will be held 10 on the different types of Choc- ues to grow with pride, hope Brad Joe a.m.-12 p.m. session and 2 taw language classes that are and success.