Choctaw artists – Cultural George Willis and gathering in Marcus Amerman Houston

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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

March 2014 Issue

Choctaw Nation awarded Choctaw Recycling tops Environmental Education Grant The Environmental Quality Education Com- mittee, working with the State of Oklahoma’s Department of Environmental Quality, has 5 million pounds awarded Choctaw Nation Recycling with a state- funded Environmental Education Grant. The grant is funded for this state program by funds By ZACH MAXWELL Durant and Poteau areas who allow us to pick that are generated by the purchase of Oklahoma Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma up their materials for recycling. We’d love to Environmental Awareness license plates. continue to grow and are happy to talk with The 1,000-dollar, one-year grant will be used The Choctaw Nation Recycling Centers anyone interested in recycling in their home, to purchase recycling containers to be placed in Summer camps exceeded their goal of collecting 5 million business, school or other organization.” schools throughout the 10-1/2 counties of the pounds of recyclable materials this January. Anyone with questions about these recy- Choctaw Nation. The “Green Team” hopes to applications Tracy Horst, Director of Project Manage- cling programs can call the recycling center in work with at least six school districts to create ment for Choctaw Nation, said the material Durant at (580) 920-0488. on-going recycling programs within the schools. now available collected represents a savings equivalent of A breakdown of the material recycled this ODEQ will also be partnering with the Choc- The Choctaw Nation of the energy consumption of 382 homes for a past January includes 39 percent cardboard, taw Nation to introduce their “Green Schools” Oklahoma Special Projects year. 34 mixed paper and 27 percent plastics, program. The program includes school visits Department offers a wide Horst said she appreciates everyone who electronics, tin, aluminum and shredded to speak about recycling and recycling contests variety of camps and events continues to utilize the Choctaw Nation paper. to help the students see how and what they can for Choctaw youth. Camps Recycling Centers as well as the staff mem- “All the recycling center staff and the do to make a difference. Several schools have offered during the summer bers at Durant and Poteau. Going Green Team want to say ‘Yakoke!’ in a expressed interest in the program and any other include cultural enrichment, “Many thanks go to the cities of Durant huge way for always recycling all that you can schools who would like to be considered can golf, softball, baseball, and McAlester who bring community and at work and at home,” Horst said. A celebra- contact the Choctaw Nation “Green Team” at basketball, football, and business recycling to us,” she said. “We are tion of recycling efforts is being planned for 580-920-0488. stickball. also grateful to the many businesses in the the spring. Registration forms can be picked up at the Cultural Events building located behind the Travel Plaza West in Durant, at any of the Choctaw Nation Community Centers or online at choctawnation.com or choctawnationculture.com New applicants must send copies of their Choctaw membership and CDIB cards. Applications will not be accepted without these documents. For more information call the Summer Youth Camp Program at 800-522-6170.

Choctaw Nation Youth Stickball Upcoming games for the Choctaw Nation Youth Stick- ball league are: March 22 at Wheelock Choctaw Nation: ZACH MAXWELL Academy, located between Mil- Assistant Chief Gary Batton swears in the Choctaw Nation Tribal Judges at the Feb. 8 Tribal Council meeting in Tvshka Homma. lerton and Garvin, at 1 p.m. The judges are, from left, P.L. “Pat” Phelps of Durant, Marion Fry of Talihina and Steven Parker of Tecumseh. April 5 in Broken Bow, be- side the McCurtain County Complex, at 11 a.m.

u What’s inside Tribal judges sworn in at regular February Council session

Columns...... 2 The Choctaw Nation Tribal Phelps as Judge for Court of • Approve business development Grant; and the Community Block Nursery News...... 4 Council met in regular session Feb. Appeals of Choctaw Nation of Okla- proceeding with negotiations to Development Grant Food Distribution...... 4 8 at Tvshka Homma. Council homa construct an aquaponic system in • Funds for budget for Promise Notes to the Nation...... 5 members voted on: • Letter of appointment for Atoka County Zone Initiative. Events...... 5 • Letter of appointment for Marion Fry as Judge for Court of • Approve applications for: The Tribal Council meets at 10 People You Know...... 6 Steven Parker as Judge for District Appeals of Choctaw Nation of Okla- Project Empower; the Comprehen- a.m. on the second Saturday of each Obituaries...... 10 Court of Choctaw Nation of homa sive Tribal Victim Assistance month in the Council Chambers Iti Fabvssa...... 13 Oklahoma • Approve Right of Way with PSO Program; Project Hokli Nittak; the on the capitol grounds in Tvshka • Letter of appointment for Pat on Choctaw Tribal land in Atoka Environmental Education Model Homma. The Mission of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

To enhance the lives of all members through opportunities designed to Choctaw Nation encourages ‘Native Vote’ develop healthy, successful and productive lifestyles. Legislative Advocacy Department outreach efforts aim to boost participation

u Get your digital copy! By ZACH MAXWELL ence,” Smallwood said. Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma The LAD is participating in a program called “Native Vote” through the Scan this code with your smartphone National Congress of American Indians, aimed at boosting native voter to go online for this issue and archive More than 1 million eligible American Indians and Alaska Natives were turnout nationwide. (For more information on this, visit www.nativevote. copies of the BISKINIK! not registered to vote in the 2008 presidential election. org) http://www.choctawnation.com/news- This accounts for more than one-third of native voters, which could Local events for the LAD include a career development event for high room/biskinik-newspaper-archive/ have an impact on the political future of all natives. school seniors in Idabel on March 12. In an effort to help natives have their voices heard, the Choctaw Nation Smallwood said native voters in Oklahoma have an opportunity to vote Legislative Advocacy Department is working on several fronts. Their ef- in at least three elections over the next six months. She said Chief Gregory forts include a voter registration drive targeting native youth and election E. Pyle and Assistant Chief Gary Batton urge participation in tribal, local, information sessions planned for later this year. state and national elections. “It helps people feel empowered when they go vote,” said Sara-Jane This year, voters will elect Oklahoma’s governor, several statewide of- Smallwood, public policy and research analyst with the Legislative Advo- fices as well as both U.S. senators. The latter two will play a major role in cacy Department. “We never want to tell anyone who to vote for, or how to shaping federal Indian policy, while the state-level officers will have an vote. But we do want to get natives registered. We want informed voters.” impact on the interaction of Oklahoma government with the Choctaws Recent examples of the impact of native voters come from Alaska and and other tribes. Montana, where swing votes from zip codes with high native populations For information on voter registration, upcoming elections and deadlines helped decide Senate and Congressional races. “These are really clear for elections and registration in surrounding states, contact the Legislative examples that when natives do turn out to vote, they make a huge differ- Advocacy Department at (800) 522-6170. 2 BISKINIK | March 2014 In the steps of our ancestors From the Desk of Territory. Alfred and Harriet Wright, missionaries who Chief Gregory E. Pyle traveled with the Choctaw from Mississippi, built Wheelock Mission School in 1832 to fill a void for many children. The The winter months are almost over. Several ice storms mission ceased being co-ed in the 1840s, becoming the made their way through the country this year and as I walked Wheelock Female Seminary. The seminary functioned until carefully down my drive during the last bout of freezing the beginning of the Civil War. weather I thought of the steps made by our ancestors on the Education is, and has always been, a top priority for the Trail of Tears. We read of the hardships and the disease, Choctaw Nation and by 1842 they had developed a school hunger and death along the trail. It is difficult for us to fully system. As the system continued to grow, the purpose of comprehend everything they endured. Approximately 15,000 Wheelock Seminary was changed to one of housing and Choctaws began the journey from Mississippi to the new serving Choctaw orphans. The Nation assumed control of the Indian Territory. There were three migrations during the school in 1893 until the federal government and other years 1831 to 1833. It is estimated 12,500 survived the entities took on administration of the school in 1898 and it removal. eventually became open to girls from other Native American The Choctaw Nation’s commemorative Trail of Tears Walk tribes. Wheelock Academy closed in 1955 while under the is held annually to honor those who died along the way and management of the Bureau of Indian Affairs, a decision made the men, women and children who survived to begin a new to integrate Native American students into public schools. life. The buildings stand testament to the perseverance of a This year’s Trail of Tears Walk on May 17 will begin at the people who believed in education. LeFlore Hall has been park in Millerton and end at Wheelock Academy. The grass renovated to house a museum and gift shop where photos will be green and the small lake behind Pushmataha Hall will line the walls and rooms hold the desks, books, and memora- reflect the tall trees surrounding the water. It’s a peaceful bilia of a century ago. location, and will come alive again that day with hundreds of We hope you are able to join us during the Trail of Tears people exploring the campus. Walk at Wheelock, a time to follow our ancestors’ path, a day This beautiful area in McCurtain County was one of the for fellowship, and an opportunity to learn more about the first to be settled by Choctaw people as they entered Indian history of the Choctaw Nation.

Trail of Tears Commemorative Walk is Saturday, May 17. An opening ceremony will begin at 10 a.m. at Redefining ‘determination’ Millerton’s city park and the approximately 3-mile walk will end at the historic Wheelock grounds. Please park at From the Desk of Wheelock where buses will be available to transport Assistant Chief Gary Batton participants to Millerton. Drivers will begin taking pas- sengers at 8 a.m. Lunch will be shared with everyone. The Choctaw Nation has an amazing Wheelock Academy is located at 1377 Wheelock Rd., group of elders who provide positive Garvin, OK. examples to us all. Carole Ayers is one such Choctaw lady who has redefined “determination.” Last year, Carole traveled with her District 9 group to Spiro and joined the 2013 Trail of Tears Walk at Skullyville Cemetery. At that time in May, 10 months Trail of Tears Walk ago, Carole needed a walker to support T-shirt Order Form herself. She used the walker along the roads from the cemetery to the Spiro 2014 T-shirts are blue. center, moving slowly, making frequent Sizes available are: stops to rest on its seat. She was the last Children – (2-4), (6-8), (10-12) and (14-16) to finish, hours behind everyone else, and Adults – Small, Medium, Large, she says it will be different this year. X-Large, 2X, 3X and 4X Carole believes determination is key to anything a person wants and she has Item Size Quantity Total Price been participating in the CrossFit strength and conditioning program at the One gentleman who is primarily confined T-shirt – $10 ea. ______Choctaw Nation Wellness Center in Durant. to a wheelchair shows his strength of mind Getting out of a chair used to take tremen- by standing during a portion of his center’s ______dous effort for Carole. She can now bend regular exercise classes. ______her knees and stand up without hesitation. There are also several active walking ______She has lost weight, her pain has dimin- groups and when the weather isn’t nice ished and she no longer needs a walker. enough to get outdoors, they do aerobics, Cap – $10 ea. ______Carole’s goal is to finish the Walk this year chair exercises or use exercise equipment with everyone else. Her willpower is an to stay in shape. The walking groups Name ______inspiration. compete with each other several times a Address ______Many of the Choctaw Community year, each team wearing its center’s colors Centers have routine exercise programs or and enjoying the competition with their City/State/Zip ______provide transportation for its senior friends. Phone Number ______citizens to nearby wellness centers. A Many health factors are beyond our E-Mail ______familiar face at the McAlester Community control. Yakoke to our elders who take Center is Joanna Hogan. Joanna is 93 years charge of their life and commit to a lifestyle Price includes postage and handling. Limited supply of Children and 3X sizes. “young” and rides a stationary bike 5 miles that not only improves their health and To order, send payment (NO PERSONAL CHECKS) with completed form to: as part of her routine. Joanna says her happiness, it enlightens everyone around longevity and wellbeing are because of them to the definitions of strength and Trail of Tears Walk T-shirt exercising and staying fit. self-sufficiency. P.O. Box 1210, Durant, OK 74702-1210

Chaplain’s Corner Protected by the Shepherd

Today we are going to study a very familiar He freely forgave us. What a (wolves) as well as from the blood. record in the Old Testament. price He paid for us! hidden enemy (serpent while Isaiah 53:6, “All we like the sheep have We are going to study about the shepherd At evening the shepherd grazing.) gone astray, we have turned everyone to his in Psalm 23. We are going to study ways in leads his sheep into the fold. Did you ever notice in own way; and the Lord hath laid on him the which a shepherd deals with his sheep. Keep According to the Bible pictures how the shepherd is iniquity of us all.” in mind this Shepherd is a type of the great dictionary, as each sheep in front of his flocks, Isn’t it wonderful to know that no matter and Good Shepherd – our Lord Jesus Christ. files in, the shepherd makes protecting them with his who we are or where we are or where we live, Sheep are considered to be stupid, but the sure that none of his sheep rod? the Lord Jesus hears us when we pray. shepherd lovingly cares for them. are missing. John 10:4, “And when he The sheepfold has a door – the shepherd He keeps himself between the flock and So it is with us. All of putteth forth his own sheep, himself. No wonder that the Lord Jesus said the wild animal. Jesus loves you and cares those, and only those, who he goeth before them, and in John 10:9, “I am the door; by me if any for you too. belong to the Lord Jesus, the sheep follow him for they man enter in, he shall be saved and shall go He cares for His flock and leads them to “will dwell in the house of know his voice.” in and out and find pasture.” the “green pastures” (verse 2). So the good the Lord forever,” (verse 6). Throughout our lives there Because He died on the cross, because He Shepherd feeds us. How does he do this for None will be missing. will be sins we recognize, calls, “Come unto me,” we know that He has us? How tenderly the Good and we must ask our promised to receive us, no matter how sinful Through His words, the Bible, God’s Word Shepherd loves His sheep. Shepherd to keep us from we are. is our food. The Psalmist explained in those sins. But there will be Paul writes in Philippians 2:6-8, “Who, Ezekiel 3:1-3, 1. “Moreover he said unto verse 4: “I will fear no evil: other sins like the hidden being in the form of God: But made himself me, Son of man, eat that thou findest; eat for thou art with me; Thy rod serpent which we will not of no reputation, and took upon him the REV. BERTRAM BOBB this roll, and go speak unto the house of and Thy staff they (will) recognize. form of a servant, and was made in the Israel. 2. So I opened my mouth, and caused comfort me.” Tribal Chaplain If we should willfully stray likeness of men: And being found in fashion me to eat that roll. 3. And he said unto me, With this rod, the shep- away from the Lord – not as a man, he humbled himself, and became Son of man, cause thy belly to eat, and fill thy herd protects his sheep from the wild reading His Word or praying or forsaking the obedient unto death, even the death of the bowels with this roll that I give thee. Then animals. With his staff he supports and assembling of ourselves, or many other ways cross.” did I eat it; and it was in my mouth as honey corrects his sheep. we should ask Him to draw us back from When you trust Jesus Christ, who died, for sweetness.” So our Shepherd protects us from Satan those things. was buried and rose again, you will be born 1 Peter 2:2 “As newborn babes, desire the and his evil forces. Throughout all of life He Do you see the lamb as in Luke 15 that again into God’s family. sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow supports us and, when we need it, corrects strayed off into his own way down the Your sins will be forgiven; you will become thereby.” us. The Lord Jesus is our Loving friend and hillside? a child of God. You can trust Jesus as your As we read the Bible, God speaks to our our Good Shepherd. As a shepherd searching for his sheep until Savior today. heart. This then is spiritual food. The shepherd has to defend (keep) his he finds it, so the Lord Jesus will search for Pray for our Nation and for our men and When the Lord Jesus arose from the dead, frock from the enemy that can be seen His own. Remember, He paid for us with His women serving in the Armed Forces. BISKINIK | March 2014 3

District 10 youth group registration My saltpork challenge The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma District 10 is starting a youth group and registration will take place on April 12 from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. If you miss this deadline, please feel In my 40 years on this earth, I Every so often I would peek free to contact: Marcia Hampton at (580) 889-1955 or Kendra Sparks at (580) 889-4881. have had the pleasure of over and watch her method of See registration form below. The areas that are covered in this youth group are: Pittsbug, discovering salt pork and preparing wild eggs. I am Kiowa, Stringtown, Atoka, Lane, Harmony, Tushka, Caney , Caddo, Coleman, and Wapa- through trial and error I am now positive I bothered her with my nucka. able to prepare it at home for my multitude of questions; family without the need to call however, Lorene answered each 911. Preparing salt pork to keep one with the true patience and Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma your immediate family happy grace not afforded to most Dist. # 10 Youth Group Registration would satisfy most folks and folks. they would be content preparing As the day wore on and Name: ______it for special occasions, such as a evening approached, many holiday or loved ones birthday, church members came by with D.O.B. ______Age: ______but not for me. VONNA SHULTS desserts, side dishes, fry bread, I wanted to know where my Guest Columnist vegetables, and drinks for the Address: ______skills stood against those who annual event. Other members have been cooking for the and guests had begun to gather Phone: ______Cell: ______masses for decades. The only way to find out outside the church fellowship hall to visit. was to cook salt pork at an event where there That’s when I first noticed the amount of Parent/Guardian: ______would be lots of hungry Choctaws willing to “FBIs” watching my every move in the eat what I had prepared. kitchen. Yes, the “FBI,” otherwise known as The solution came to me before I finished the “Full Blood Inspector,” whom would be Phone: ______Cell: ______the thought in my head where I could find inspecting how good or bad I did with the willing participants: wild onion dinner. preparation of the salt pork. Email: ______Wild onion dinners are a staple during the I could see them peering through the springtime and are a favorite food amongst screen door trying to figure out who I was. The youth group will meet the second Saturday of the month from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Choctaw Choctaws. These tiny onions are picked by They did not know this person Lorene had Nation Community Center in Atoka. We will work on cultural crafts and learn more about our heritage. This hand, individually cleaned and then pre- allowed into her kitchen. I could sense their will require parent’s participation as well as the youth. This group is intended to teach our youth about our pared by sautéing with scrambled eggs. concerns about my cooking skills without past and hopefully to set them on a path for a successful future. We want to ensure that our youth under- Sounds terrible, right? However, the mere them uttering a word. stands what being a Choctaw really means and embodies. The group is open to boys and girls, ages: 8-17 mention of them in the wintertime will elicit I knew then the task was either pass or fail yrs. of age. This is a service provided for our youth and we look forward to working with you. “ooohs” and “ahhhs” from any Choctaw and not only was my reputation on the line, Parent: within earshot. but Lorene’s as well. As a participation in the Dist. 10 Youth Group and all activities, I understand that the Choctaw Nation of Just like salt pork, everyone has a favorite Panic had set in and I wanted to run out Oklahoma, Councilman Anthony Dillard or any of the staff is not responsible for any personal injury or lost chef that can prepare wild onions better than the back door of the kitchen and pretend I or stolen property and by signing below I am agreeing to such. anyone else. I was not completely convinced was never there in Bennington, but I could anyone would allow me to cook alongside not leave my friends and family there to Parent/Guardian Signature: ______Date: ______him or her but one Friday afternoon an finish the dinner alone. So I stayed to face opportunity presented itself to me. my critics. Child: I had spent most of the day in Broken Bow Lorene knew every face that walked into To participate in the Youth Group I agree to be respectful and listen as well as participate in the exercises learning Choctaw dances from a Mississippi the church and as they came by to say hello, at the meetings. I agree to not cause harm or damage to another person or the facility. group and on my way home I stopped at she would take a minute from preparation to Sulphur Springs Methodist Church in introduce me to them. Most people there had Child Signature: ______Date: ______Bennington to see one of my favorite known my grandmother, Minerva Fobb. Choctaw chefs, Lorene Blaine. Several of my aunts had also came by that It was the night of their annual wild onion evening for the dinner and they were dinner and gospel singing. Unfortunately, surprised to see me standing watch over the The Durant Police Department and Choctaw there were many church members that had salt pork. Nation partnership against Impaired Driving attended a funeral many miles away and they My level of credibility had grown a little reminds you: were unable to help prepare the dishes until bit, but only a little. later that day. I offered to help and Lorene Time for dinner to begin and there was The driver is safer when the roads are dry; allowed me to help her son, Junior, prepare enough food in that kitchen to feed a small the roads are safer when the driver is dry. the salt pork. army. It never fails to amaze me the amount I felt like a Triple AAA pitcher who had of hospitality and fellowship that presents just gotten “the call” for the big league. itself whenever a group of Chahta come Don’t Drink and Drive. I became very nervous and immediately together. worried about everything that could poten- I would challenge anyone to look at a room tially go wrong. Junior was outside the full of Chahta people and find one person church and had a large cast iron Dutch oven who is not having a good time visiting with Seeking parents! ready for us to begin our task. friends and family. We worked together for several minutes The food was placed buffet style and each Choctaw Nation seeking parents who are expecting or recently had a native baby and I had expressed my trepidation of person was able to make their own plate and Halito! If you are expecting or just had a when your baby is twelve months old. cooking salt pork for so many Choctaws. many asked who had made the fry bread, Native American baby, we need you! You will get another $40 in fuel Junior assured me that everything would be beans, desserts and also, the salt pork. The Choctaw Outreach Services Better vouchers! just fine because they were coming for his I stood brave and admitted that I had been Beginnings Department are participating mom’s wild onions in the first place. the one to cook salt pork that afternoon and in a study to learn what services best meet Your private information will be Shortly, we brought the Dutch oven into to please let me know how I fared. I prom- the needs of our Native American families confidentially protected at all times. The the kitchen of the church, as Junior needed ised not to get my feelings hurt if they told with young children. surveys will only be used to compare the the flame outside to begin frying catfish. me they didn’t like the way I had prepared it You only have to do three things to difference in answers between groups of So there I was, elbow to elbow, with one of for them. participate and earn $100 in fuel! parents who participate in the study versus the most respected Choctaw ladies I have Finally, a man with the kindest face walked 1. Enroll. parents who do different activities. had the pleasure to meet. up to me, set his arm on my shoulder and You will receive a $20 fuel voucher Volunteers are needed to participate in Lorene had worked all day preparing batch said, “You cooked that meat just the way I for enrolling. this study to ensure its success! after batch of wild onions and eggs. Her like it. See you next year.” 2. Complete two short parent surveys If you or someone you know may qualify daughter, Teresa, had been frying potatoes in I asked Lorene if I passed the test and she when your baby is two months old that to participate in the study, please contact another room for several hours as well. I con- told me to go look in the bowl that held the asks how your child is doing and what the Director, Brandi Smallwood, or the tinued my careful watch over the salt pork; I finished salt pork. I looked in the bowl and you’ve learned as a parent. Choctaw Nation Better Beginnings Senior refused to let it burn on my watch. turned back to her and said, “It’s empty.” You will get $40 in fuel vouchers! Director, Angela Dancer, at (580) 326- I had become a little bit more comfortable She just smiled and gave me a quick nod 3. Complete the final parent surveys 8304 or (877) 285-6893. knowing I had my mentor right beside me. and I knew what she meant: I had passed.

Shutik Isht Ia!

Saturday, March 29, 2014 Tickets available at the gate: $10 per adult, $5 per child and Kids under 5 FREE! BRING THE ENTIRE FAMILY! An AVIATION EXTRAVAGANZA featuring: Celebrate with us as we honor those who have served and are still serving in our military forces. During the day be amazed by the Aviation Extravaganza featuring helicop- ters, a variety of airplanes, Commemorative Air Force, powered hang gliders & trikes, skydivers, radio controlled aircraft and more in static displays, demonstrations and flyovers! – Choctaw Nation Cultural Events! Wander through concessions of delicious foods, vendors, exhibits, displays, arts & crafts, Kids’ area, and take your own flight! Eat, Drink, Shop, Learn, Experience! Visit www.taketotheskiesairfest.com for more information. 4 BISKINIK | March 2014 Enjoy the Taste of Eating Right Nursery News While social, emotional and health factors play a role in the foods people choose to eat, the foods we Daniel Wear enjoy are the ones we eat most. That is why, as part Daniel Adam Wear was born Jan. of National Nutrition Month 2014®, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics encourages everyone to 9, 2014, at 12:03 p.m. at Durant "Enjoy the Taste of Eating Right." Medical Center at Durant. He weighed 6 pounds 5 ounces and was Each March, the Academy encourages Americans 19 inches long. His parents are to return to the basics of healthful eating through Na- Randy Wear Jr. and Evelyn Pineta tional Nutrition Month. This year's theme focuses on combining taste and nutrition to create healthy meals both from Atoka. Grandparents are Garr and Jeff Loftin and that follow the recommendations of the 2010 Dietary Patty Gutierrez, all from Atoka, Randy Wear Sr. of Ada and Guidelines for Americans. Adrian Pineta of Tijuana, Mexico. "When taste is the most influential factor driving what consumers eat, it is important that we find the balance between choosing the foods we like with JayD Enick those that provide the nutrients we need," said reg- istered dietitian nutritionist and Academy President Antionette “Pooie” Picard and Dr. Glenna McCollum. "This year's 'Enjoy the Taste Matthew Enick of Lapwai, Idaho are of Eating Right' theme reinforces that the two choices proud to announce the birth of their are not mutually exclusive." son JayD Theodore Enick, who was The Academy strives to communicate healthful born on Jan. 27, 2014, at 9:13 p.m. at eating messages that emphasize balancing food and St. Josephs Regional Medical Center beverages within an individual's energy needs, rather in Lewiston, Idaho. Baby JayD weighed 6 pounds 2.5 ounces and than focusing on any one specific food or meal. To was 19.5 inches in length. Maternal grandparents are Joanne this end, it is the Academy’s position that improv- Bohanan of Vancouver, Wash. and Andre Picard, Sr. of Lapwai, ing overall health requires a lifelong commitment to Idaho. Paternal grandparents are the late Leila Moore and the healthful lifestyle behaviors, emphasizing sustainable late Orrin Allen both of Lapwai, Idaho. Maternal great-grandpar- and enjoyable eating practices and daily physical ents are Newton Bohanan, Sr. and the late Marian Bohanan of activity. Kamiah, Idaho. Little JayD joins his big sisters, Jlee and Tecoa "Enjoying the healthy foods we eat and the physical and big brother Trysten. activities we engage in is key to developing a healthy lifestyle we can maintain for years to come," McCollum said. Orion McDonald "Every March, the Academy of Nutrition and Di- etetics takes time to strengthen its vision of optimiz- Orion Leslie McDonald was ing the nation's health through food and nutrition," advocates for advancing the nutritional status of Americans and welcomed into the world on Dec. 29, McCollum said. "As registered dietitian nutritionists and dietetic people around the world, the second Wednesday of each March 2013, at 10:18 p.m. He weighed 8 technicians, registered, our members have the ability to translate is celebrated as "Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Day." This year pounds 14 ounces and was 22 inches sound science into helpful nutrition information that people can Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Day will be celebrated March 12. long. His proud parents are Shawn and understand and apply to their everyday lives." As part of this public education campaign, the Academy's Delia McDonald. Delia’s mother, Initiated in 1973 as a week-long event, "National Nutrition National Nutrition Month website includes a variety of helpful Stephanie John-Schafer is the daughter of the late Stephen Timothy Week" became a month-long observance in 1980 in response tips, games, promotional tools and nutrition education resources, John. Orion is descended from Raymond and Adaline John and his to growing public interest in nutrition. To commemorate the all designed to spread the message of good nutrition based on the Great uncle is Cephus Coleman John of Killeen, Texas. dedication of registered dietitian nutritionists as the leading “Enjoy the Taste of Eating Right” theme. Gavin and Garet Woodworth Recipe of the Month Two-year-old Grant Woodworth is proud to announce the birth of Oven-Fried Parmesan Chicken his brothers. Gavin Michael and (Recipe from Recipe.com) Garet Mason Woodworth were born on Oct. 22, 2013, in Oklahoma City. Ingredients: prepared baking pans, making sure pieces dont touch. Gavin weighed 6 pounds and was • 1/2 c refrigerated or frozen egg product, thawed, or 2 Drizzle chicken pieces with melted butter. 18 inches long. Garet weighed 6.5 pounds and was 18.5 eggs, beaten 3. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes or until chicken is tender inches long. Proud parents are John and Tawnya Woodworth • 1/4 c fat-free milk and no longer pink (170 degree F for breasts; 180 of Yukon. Grandparents are Brent and Donna Woodworth of • 3/4 c grated Parmesan cheese degrees degree F for thighs and drumsticks). Do not Minco and Gary and Lesa Shriver of Cashion. Great grand- • 3/4 c fine dry bread crumbs turn chicken pieces during baking. Immediately parents include Larry and Carolan Bledsoe of Yukon. • 2 t dried oregano, crushed transfer chicken to a covered container; serve within 1 • 1 t paprika hour. (Or cover and chill chicken; transport in an Dominic Treece • 1/4 t ground black pepper insulated container with ice packs.) If desired, • 5 lbs meaty chicken pieces, skinned (breast halves, sprinkle with fresh oregano. Dominic Ross Treece was born thighs, and drumsticks) on Dec. 25, 2014, to Chris and • 1/4 c butter or margarine, melted Prep Time:30 mins Ashley Treece. He was 8 pounds 13 • Snipped fresh oregano (optional) Nutrition Facts: ounces and was 19 inches long. Directions: Amount per serving: 12 servings 1. Preheat oven to 375 degree F. Grease two large cal. (kcal) 198, Fat, total (g) 9, chol. (mg) 79, sat. fat (g) 4, shallow baking pans; set aside. In a small bowl, carb. (g) 6, fiber (g) 0, pro. (g) 23, sodium (mg) 363, combine egg product and milk. In a shallow dish, Starch () 0.5, Lean Meat () 3 Alan Trueblood combine Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, oregano, paprika, and pepper. I hope you all enjoy this recipe! For further information Alan Benton Trueblood was born 2. Dip chicken pieces into egg product mixture; coat you may contact: Erin Adams, RD, LD Choctaw Nation on Dec. 26, 2013. He weighed 5 pounds 14 ounces and was 17 inches with crumb mixture. Arrange chicken pieces in Diabetes Wellness Center 800-349-7026 ext.: 6959 long. He is the great-grandson of Helen Berniece and (the late) Emerson Willis Sr. of Temple, Texas. He is the grandson of Frank and Marinella Vasquez of CHOCTAW NATION Temple, Texas and is the son of Nathan Trueblood and Josie Vasquez of Temple, Texas. FOOD DISTRIBUTION Purchasing a New Home Open 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Monday thru Fri- Choctaw Nation WIC day. Staff will take lunch from 11:30 to noon. The first step in the home-buying process WAREHOUSES & MARKETS is attending a WOMEN, INFANTS Antlers: 306 S.W. “O” St., 580-298-6443 “Homebuyer Education Class” and CHILDREN Durant: 100 1/2 Waldron Dr., 580-924-7773 McAlester: 1212 S. Main St., 918-420-5716 PLAN TO ATTEND AT THE LOCATION Poteau: 100 Kerr Ave, 918-649-0431 NEAREST YOU COALGATE COMMUNITY CENTER FOOD DISTRIBUTION SITES MARCH 27,2014 4:30 p.m. SITE HOURS DAYS Antlers 8:30-4:00 Every Tuesday Bethel: Choctaw Community Center TALIHINA COMMUNITY CENTER (580-298-3161) Broken Bow: Choctaw Family Investment Center APRIL 29,2014 4:30 p.m. Idabel: Choctaw Community Center Atoka 8:00-4:30 Every Mon., Wed., (580-889-5825) Thurs. & Fri. Smithville: Choctaw Community Center IDABEL COMMUNITY CENTER Bethel 8:30-4:00 1st Tuesday MAY 15, 2014 4:30 p.m. In accordance with federal law and U.S. Department of Ag- PLEASE CALL HOME FINANCE FOR AN APPOINTMENT (580-241-5458) Boswell 8:30-4:00 Every Friday riculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discrimi- (800) 235-3087 EXTENSION 318 nating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma (580-380-5264) religion, political beliefs, or disability. To file a complaint of Broken Bow 8:00-4:30 Daily, except 1st Tues. discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Adjudication (580-584-2746) & 2nd Thurs. and Compliance, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Wash- Coalgate 8:00-4:30 Every Wednesday ington, D.C. 20250-9410, or call 800-795-3272 (voice) or (580-927-3641) 202-720-6382 (TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider Durant 8:00-4:30 Daily and employer. (580-924-8280 x 2257) Hugo 8:00-4:30 Daily (580-326-5404) ANTLERS Idabel 8:00-4:30 Mon., Thurs. & Fri. Market open weekdays April 1-28, except for: (580-286-2510) April 2: Idabel 9-11:30 a.m.; Broken Bow 12:30 - 3 p.m. (market open) McAlester 8:00-4:30 Daily April 9: Bethel 9-10:30; Smithville 12-2 (market open) (918-423-6335) Closed: April 18 and 25 for Tribal holiday and April 29-30 for Poteau 8:00-4:30 Daily inventory. (918-647-4585) Cooking with Carmen: April 14, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. Smithville 8:30-4:00 2nd Thursday DURANT (580-244-3289) Market open weekdays April 1-28, except for: Spiro 8:00-4:30 Every Wed. - Fri. Closed: April 18 and 25 for Tribal holiday and April 29-30 for (918-962-3832) inventory. Stigler 8:30-4:00 Every Mon. - Wed. Cooking with Carmen: April 11, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. (918-967-4211) Talihina 8:00-4:30 Mon., Tues., Wed., McALESTER (918-567-7000 x 6792) & Fri. Market open weekdays April 1-28, except for: Wilburton 8:30-4:00 Every Thursday Closed: April 18 and 25 for Tribal holiday and April 29-30 for (918-465-5641) inventory. Cooking with Carmen: April 7, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. POTEAU Market open weekdays April 1-28, except for: Closed: April 18 and 25 for Tribal holiday and April 29-30 for inventory. Cooking with Carmen: April 3, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. BISKINIK | March 2014 5 NOTES EVENTS Church to hold monthly gospel singing TO THE NATION A monthly gospel singing will be held at 7 p.m. on April 4 and repeat monthly on the first Friday of each month, at the Cornerstone Full Gospel Church, 316 N. Main, in Caddo. It is free admission and all singers and listeners are welcome. Grateful for Code Talker Highway Thank you for assistance with heating Concessions will be available. For more information, contact Bonnie Horn at 580-760-6127. Dear Chief Greg Pyle, Assistant Chief Gary Batton, Judy My name is Bill Hoover. My wife, Patricia, and I would like Allen, Ruth’s niece Beth Lawless, Rep. R.C. Pruett, Brian and to say yakoke to the Choctaw Nation for helping us with our Frazier Memorial Gospel Singing Chad from Oklahoma Department of Transportation, Stacey propane bill in January. We normally fill up our tank at the Shepherd, Nuchi Nashoba, Evangeline Wilson and all others end of October and it lasts until the middle of February or A Frazier Memorial Gospel Singing will be held at the who worked tirelessly to make certain the Choctaw Code March, but with the winter being so cold this year, we ran out Choctaw Nation Community Center in Crowder at 6:30 p.m. Talkers Highway came into being, my wife, Ruth Frazier in January. We are on a limited budget but with the Choctaw on March 28. The center is located at 707 Bond Street. Lu- McMillian, had a dream of having this done and it was Nation’s assistance we were able to buy more propane. Again, ther John will serve as the master of ceremony. Concessions thanks to all of you. She was able to attend this dedication yakoke! will be available and everyone is welcome to attend! and smiled throughout. She only lived 30 days after this but this was certainly a highlight of her life. Thank you again to Gospel singing and wild onion dinner all who helped. A gospel singing will be held at William Anderson Church Sincerely, Grateful for assistance in Hugo on April 12. A wild onion supper will start at 5:30

Jim McMillian p.m. with the singing to follow at 7 p.m. The emcees are Thank you for installing a storm shelter for my husband Bubba Johnson and Ben Alexander. For more information, and me. Also, thank you very much for my eyeglasses. Thank please contact the Rev. Charles Battiest at 580-326-7716. you, Choctaw Nation, for caring for the seniors. I am proud Looking for family members to be Choctaw! Horn Family Gospel Singing I’m looking for descendants of my family, John E. and Dixon D. Sumpter. Their father and mother were Jacob and Ruby Leighton The Horn Family is hosting its 35th annual gospel singing Nancy (Gibson) Sumpter. They lived around Foster, Paul’s Norman, Okla. on March 22 at 7 p.m. at the Chickasaw Community Center Valley and Palio, Okla. I would appreciate any information. Gym (behind the smoke shop) 1203 W. Raybrannon Tisho- My number is 580-475-6133. mingo. All singers and listeners welcome. Concession will be available. For more information: 580-760-6127. Jean Harper Appreciative for education assistance

I would like to express my gratitude once again for your Free will preparation clinic Thank you Genealogy Department on-going financial support through the fall 2014 semester. It Oklahoma Indian Legal Services, Inc. (OILS) will be is because of your generosity that I am able to focus on my holding a FREE Will Clinic to prepare wills at this Clinic on studies and make the best grades. I have never had below a Friday, April 11 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Choctaw Nation Halito! My cousin and I had traveled hundreds of miles high B in any of my classes so far thanks to your help. with only one afternoon to spend at the Choctaw Nation Community Center, 2408 E. Lincoln Road in Idabel. I am a in the Medical Assistant program at the moment. To register for the clinic call 800-658-1497. Registration is Headquarters in Durant. I chose this field because I have always been interested and We need to thank Vicki Prough and Gwen Takes Horse limited so call as soon as possible. have already received my HHA, CAN and my PCT with your Oklahoma Indian Legal Services, Inc. is one of two civil for all their help and hard work in our effort to discover new help. I did obtain employment at Waterman Hospital as a information for our Willis Family ancestors. Together those legal service programs operating in Oklahoma funded princi- flex HHA. But I was forced to cut back working to return pally by the Legal Services Corp. For additional information wonderful ladies were able to provide knowledge of how to to school this time so I could focus on my studies. Upon proceed and a direction to go in. regarding other legal services, please call Oklahoma Indian graduation, I hope to go on to ITT Tech and receive my BS in Legal Services, Inc. at 800-658-1497. We are truly grateful for their kindness and patience. Nursing. Additionally, I have received my Phlebotomy cer- tification. On behalf of all the students working to overcome Amber Friedman and Shannon O’Loughlin financial difficulties to achieve their dreams, I would like to thank you for all that you have done for myself and others. I American Indian Leaders Youth Council also would like to one day return the favor to others with an AILYC of Broken Bow Public Schools ongoing scholarship in my family name once I am finished McAlvain Family Reunion with my schooling. Thank you again. 18th Annual SPRING POWWOW April 5, 2014 The 55th annual McAlvain Family Reunion will be June Sincerely, 7-8 in Wister at the Activity building on the North side of Delana Boone PCT Dancingspirit, Fall 2014 McCurtain County Sports Complex Lake Wister. The family will meet on Saturday, at 10 a.m. Broken Bow, Okla. Lunch will be potluck, the meat portion of the meal will be provided. Each family is encouraged to bring a side dish, Schedule of Events drinks and an auction item for both adults and children. 10 a.m. Youth and Adult Stickball Games On Sunday, June 8, the family will meet at 9:30 a.m. at the 2 p.m. Gourd Dancing Kennady-McAlvain Cemetery in Wister, bring lawn chairs. Upcoming Cultural Gatherings 5:30 p.m. Choctaw Social Dancing Please RSVP by May 10 to: Curtis Pugh at 918-649-4064 6:30 p.m. Grand Entry March 24 – Lubbock, Texas March 25 – Ardmore, Okla. or email at [email protected]. HEADSTAFF 6-8 p.m. For Wister Lake State Park cabins, RV, camping informa- 6-8 p.m. Master of Ceremonies: JUAQUIN HAMILTON Ardmore Convention Center tion or directions, call 918-655-7212 or 800-654-8240. Overton Hotel & Conference Center Head Man Dancer: JUSTIN YEARBY 2322 Mac Davis Lane 2401 North Rockford Road Head Lady Dancer: EVELYN KASWORM Lubbock, Texas 79401 Ardmore, Oklahoma 73401 Head Gourd Dancer: TERRY ASHBY Arena Director: THOMAS MUSKRAT For more information please call (800) 522-6170, ext. 2747 or 2245. Host Southern Drum: Reuben Tehauno/POOR BOYS Seeking family information Host Northern Drum: Dion Redbird/THUNDERBOY I am seeking information about my family on my Choc- Host Color Guard: CHOCTAW NATION COLOR GUARD Mark your calendars for the 19th Annual taw grandmother’s side. She was born Ruth Isabel Boatright AILYC 2013-2014 SR/JR Princesses & in Oklahoma (1891 or 1892-1973). Her married name was Honorary SR/JR Head Man & Head Lady Dancers to be named at Atnip, married in 1909 to Ruben Edward Atnip (1890-1978). Royalty Night on March 7 I would be happy to receive any information that might be available. I can be contacted through email at ta10lr@hot- Special Invitation to all Princesses, Drums and Indian Clubs mail.com or by cell phone at 512-557-4227. $$$ CONTESTS $$$ MEN’S: Traditional/Straight & Fancy/Grass $200, $100, $50 Loyd Edward Taylor LADIES: Buckskin/Cloth & Fancy/Jingle $200, $100, $50 For more information TEEN BOYS: Traditional/Straight & Fancy/Grass $100, $50, $25 call (661) 393-OKLA TEEN GIRLS: Buckskin/Cloth, sponsored by Nikki Amos $100, $50, $25 or email [email protected] TEEN GIRLS: Fancy/Jingle, sponsored by Calen Brown & Gennavie Tom Gregory E. Pyle Gary Batton $100, $50, $25 Chief Assistant Chief JUNIOR BOYS: Combined, sponsored by Bryan Smith $50, $25, $10 JUNIOR GIRLS: Combined, sponsored by A’An Parra $50, $25, $10 RESEARCH INTERVIEWERS TINY TOTS: Combined, sponsored by Goodland Indian UMC Youth Group The Official GOLDEN AGE MEN & LADIES: Men Combined & Ladies Combined, Monthly Publication NORC, a social science research center is seeking reli- $125, $75, $50, sponsored by Southeast Thunder Stickball Team of the able, outgoing, persuasive people to conduct in-person TEEN BOYS MEMORIAL SPECIAL CONTEST Honoring GABRIEL interviews within the homes of residents of the Choctaw WILSON: $150, $100, $75 Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Nation March-June, 2014. Teen Boys Combined, sponsored by the Wilson Family Must be able to work 20+ flexible hours per week, in- Judy Allen, Senior Executive Officer *All Dancers must REGISTER & be in GRAND ENTRY to Compete* cluding late evening and week-end hours. Car, good driv- Lisa Reed, Executive Director Head Staff will not compete! Larissa Copeland, Director/Editor ing record and telephone is required. $13.41 per hour plus Melissa Stevens, Circulation Director .56 cents per mile. Interviewers must gain the coopera- For more information, please contact: Karen Jacob, Purchasing Coordinator tion of the residents of sampled households and maintain Dennis J. Parra (580) 584-3365, ext. 4069, and e-mail: dparra@ Deidre Elrod, Reporter/Photographer strict confidentiality standards. Census experience a plus. bbisd.org or Lisa Aaron (580) 314-6070 Zach Maxwell, Reporter/Photographer NORC is an affirmative action, equal opportunity Arts & Crafts Vendor Information: Wenona Jones 580-306-9625 employer that values and actively seeks diversity in the NO Drugs or Alcohol allowed – No Political Soliciting – No Videotaping P.O. Box 1210 workforce. Security provided Durant, OK 74702 TO APPLY: Visit our website: http://www.norc.org/ AILYC has exclusive rights for video and photography (580) 924-8280 • (800) 522-6170 Careers/ Fax (580) 924-4148 Click on Current Opportunities under the heading Job www.choctawnation.com Listings, click on Field Operations and search for Field e-mail: [email protected] Interviewer-NAHSG – Choctaw Nation, Durant, OK (or Choctaw Housing Authority The BISKINIK is printed each month as a service to Tribal call NORC Field Manager Patricia Maugherman toll free Members. The BISKINIK reserves the right to edit submitted at (800)994-2325. Affordable Rental Housing material which it finds inaccurate, profane, offensive or morally Bokoshe, Red Oak and Quinton are accepting applications for: one, two, three unacceptable. Copy may be edited for proper grammar and and four bedroom income based apartments. punctuation. Copy will be accepted in any readable form, but • Applicant must have a CDIB Card Choctaw Nation • Applicant household must meet income guidelines where possible, it is requested that material be typewritten and • Household members age 18 and over must pass OSBI criminal background double spaced. You must include an address or phone number can aid with loans check • Household members age 18 and over must pass local background check where you may be reached. Due to space limitations and the • Applicant must provide two previous landlord references including telephone quantity of article submissions, we are unable to include The Southeastern Oklahoma Indian Credit Association offers numbers and addresses everything we receive. • Applicant must have an income. small business, home, home improvement and agriculture loans. If you are receiving more than one BISKINIK at your home or if your address needs changed, we would appreciate hearing To be eligible to apply, a person must reside within the 10.5-coun- from you. ty service area of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and must Elder Residential Housing The BISKINIK is a nonprofit publication of the Choctaw possess a Certificate of Degree of Indian Blood (CDIB) from a Hartshorne is accepting applications for income based one bedroom apart- Nation. federally recognized tribe. For more information, please contact ments which include: stove, refrigerator, central heat/air, washer and dryer • These units are designed for a single person or a person and their spouse. Circulation is monthly. Article deadline is the 10th of the Susan Edwards at 580-924-8280 or toll-free 800-522-6170. • Each applicant must be able to live independently. month for the following month’s edition. If you are interested in applying for a loan from the • Applicants must be at least 55 years of age. • Age 62 and older receive preference. Editor’s note: Views and opinions in reader-submitted articles SOICA or the Choctaw Revolving Loan Fund, there will be a are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent • Tenant must be able to pay 15% of their gross adjusted income towards rent. representative from the Choctaw Nation Credit Department those of the Choctaw Nation. All applications may be obtained online at choctawhousing.com under ser- at the: vices, Affordable Rental Housing or by calling Tracy Archey at 580-372-4091

Choctaw Nation Community Center Affordable Housing is housing that is affordable to lower income households

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E P ® N R AWARD November 22 E G BISKINIK 2014 adjusted income for the household. The Hous- S N S WINNER I A N S IN ing Authority of the Choctaw Nation has 146 SO -W 9-11 a.m. and 1-2:30 p.m. C RD IATION AWA affordable rental units located within the Choctaw Nation boundaries. 6 BISKINIK | March 2014 PEOPLE YOU KNOW Roberts is crowned Boswell is a candidate for U.S. Presidential Scholars Program

Miss Indian OU McKenzie Boswell, a On Feb. 25, in Norman a graduating senior at Okla- A Salute former Ada High Student homa School of Science and 2012 graduate, was and Math, has been named crowned the 2014-2015 Miss one of more than 3,000 Indian OU (University of candidates in the 2014 U.S. Oklahoma). Presidential Scholars Pro- T’ata Roberts, 20, is a gram. The candidates were member of the Choctaw selected from nearly 3.4 & Chickasaw Tribes of million students expected Oklahoma and Taos Pueblo to graduate from U.S. high of New Mexico. She is the schools in the year 2014. daughter of Michael and The U.S. Presidential Rebecca Roberts of Ada and Scholars Program is one of the granddaughter of Wilson the highest honors be- and Sharon Roberts of Ada stowed upon graduating and Vincent and Judith high school seniors. Schol- Mondragon of Taos Pueblo, ars are selected on the basis NM. T’ata has two siblings, of superior academic and artistic achievements, leadership Paan Pai and Morning Star. qualities, strong character and involvement in community and T’ata is a sophomore at OU, studying criminology and school activities. Native American studies. She is the recipient of the Gates McKenzie is the daughter of Ken and Robin Boswell. Millenium Scholarship, the OU Presidential Leadership Award, the AT&T Native American Scholars Award, Stratford & Eleanor Tolson Scholarship and the McAlester Scottish Bryant named seventh president Rite Scholarship Award and was 2012’s OU Featured Future Student upon her arrival to the University of Oklahoma. of Redlands Community College Most recently, T’ata was named to the Dean’s Honor Roll for the 2013 Fall Semester. Jack Bryant, the son of Jack and Romaette Bryant of Allen, “Personally, I’ve tried my best to have a positive outlook on Okla., and grandson of original enrollee Mary Elizabeth Cran- every day life. I carry myself with great pride, knowing my ford, was appointed as the seventh president of Redlands Com- munity College by a unanimous vote of the Redlands Board of Pvt. Jordan N. Hargrow of Richardson, Texas, actions represent my families, my tribes and the University of Oklahoma. As MIOU, I will continue to carry myself in Regents during the December board meeting. Bryant has served completed basic training on Nov. 1, 2013, AIT on Dec. as acting president of the college since June 27, 2013. 17, 2013, and joined U.S. Army on Aug. 19, 2013. On a good way and serve others as a respectable role model. I hope to not only be a role model respectfully, but also aca- During his tenure as acting president, Bryant has led the Jan. 2 he was sent to Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas, which college into fiscal accountability by eliminating Redlands is his duty station. He is assigned to Old Ironsides demically and culturally, in order to prove how diverse and successful Native American Women can be,” says Roberts. outstanding debt by more than 90 percent. Regent Kent 1st Armored Division. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Carder said, “Bryant has done a great job of continuing to Montague Hargrow. Grandparents are Erma (George) take care of the debt and other problems as they have come.” Hargrow and John (Jo) Cothron and Uncle is Adrian Washington Irving Bryant has a diverse career in higher education spanning (Amanda) Hargrow. We are all so proud of you. more than 30 years. The majority of his career has been spent on community college campuses. He’s taught in the Elementary students recycle classroom; worked with special needs students; headed Garcia cheers at OU federal programs; and served as senior administration in Washington Irving Elementary students are shown helping student services, academic affairs and contract training. bring up recycling for pick-up. Choctaw recycling comes every Bryant has worked for Redlands twice. His first term from week to pick up recycling items at the school. WI students and 1990-94, included time as an instructor, grant writer and basketball game staff would like to say a big thank you for picking up recycling program coordinator. Bryant returned to Redlands 2001 as and helping our environment! Jaeley Garcia, 6, from vice president for contracted, continuing and online educa- Moore, was one of the tion. Since that time Bryant has served as the vice president cheerleaders for the ladies for workforce and economic development. basketball game at OU. OU Bryant’s ability to lead and advance change is a staple of his played Iowa State and unfor- career. Cherry Rain, President of the Faculty Association said, tunately lost, but half time “Faculty are very pleased to be moving forward and President was extra special with 5-and Bryant has done an incredible job the last few months rebuild- 6-year-olds doing the cheers, ing a solid, transparent and inclusive college environment.” Jaeley showed her ability “I have respect for President Bryant and know that he is by standing on top of the very passionate and dedicated in the vision of moving Red- girls in one cheer. She says lands forward” expressed Regent Richard Ruhl. she’s the future Miss OU “I am honored to be chosen to lead this college. I would cheerleader, Jaeley cheers like to thank the Redlands Regents for naming me presi- for the Moore Raiders team, dent,” said Bryant. “Together along with the faculty, staff, a little league football team students and community, we are building a stronger Red- in Moore. This is her second lands Community College.” year. STAR program achievement Bryant’s career spans numerous colleges, states and Jaeley is the daughter of Jarren Garcia and Danielle Marrs Eagles soar in the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma STAR Pro- leadership positions, with the majority of them right here in and Shauna and P.J. Pruitt, all of Moore. Her grandparents gram! Victory Life Academy celebrates the academic achieve- Oklahoma. He has implemented changes in workforce devel- are Sherri and Jamie Echols of Moore and Joe Garcia and ment of our Choctaw students! Students receiving the honor opment, distance education and higher education leadership. the late Tracey Garcia. Her great-grandparents are Tina and of STAR student are Sidney Montgomery, Aaron Wagnitz, Throughout his career he has worked to improve educational Dick Stubbs of Oklahoma City and Karen and Jimmy McCon- Madison Wagnitz, Justus Harris, Britta Montgomery, Elisabeth standards and college access opportunities for all students nell of Blanchard. Keep up the good work Jaeley, we’re all Presley, Emily Wagnitz and not pictured is Avery Burkhart. and serves diligently on community leadership and work- proud of you. force development committees across the state. Bryant is a proud member of the Choctaw Nation and a United States Navy veteran of the Vietnam War. Foster earns bachelors degree Valentine's Day Court Valentines day, King Congratulations to Bran- and Queen at Atoka Senior don Michael Foster who center are Margaret and has earned his Bachelors Nehemiah Gipson. of Science with a degree in Construction Science and Management from Univer- sity of Texas, San Antonio.

Choctaw Nation Vocational Rehab. HAPPY BIRTHDAY Choctaw Nation Vocational Rehabilitation FLORENCE SPALDING Feb. 28 Florence Spald- April 2014April 2014 ing celebrated her 94th birthday at the Oklahoma Durant - Mon., Wed. and Fri.; Broken Bow - Mon., Wed. and Fri.; Idabel by appt. Veterans Center at Talihina. Phone: 580-326-8304; Fax: 580-326-2410 Email: [email protected] She celebrated with four of her five sisters, Isabel Durant– Mon. Wed., & Fri. Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Clampet, Lee Foye, Betty Hunkapillar, and Virginia Broken Bow– Mon. Wed., & Fri. 1 2 3 4 5 Dodson. As well as fellow Idabel by appt. Broken Bow veterans. 8:00-4:30 Idabel by appt. MONTAGUE HARGROW Montague Hargrow, 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 son of Erma (George) Durant Talihina Antlers by appt. Wright City by Hargrow celebrated his 8:00-4:30 10:00-2:00 appt. 40th birthday on Feb. 20. Happy Birthday son.

13 14 15 16 17 18 19 MICHAEL BROOKS Durant Poteau McAlester Michael Lyn Brooks 8:00-4:30 11:30-1:00 10:00-2:00 turned 1 year old on Feb. 1. Stigler by appt. He celebrated his first birth- day at his home with his family. He is the son of Lyn 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 Thomas and Janie Brooks Phone: 580-326-8304 of Randlett. He is the Fax: 580-326-0115 maternal grandson of Louis Email: [email protected] Hutchinson of Iowa Park, Texas and the late Georgia 27 28 29 30 Gallaher of Randlett. His Crowder by appt. Wilburton by Atoka by appt. appt. Coalgate by appt. paternal grandparents are Mike & Peggy Brooks of Randlett and Lois and Gary Bartz of Perryton, Texas. BISKINIK | March 2014 7

Cadet Receives national scholarship to pursue military career in mental health University of Central Oklahoma monthly stipend. Strong was named a Distinguished hard work and the excellent educa- ROTC cadet, battalion commander “My dream job is to work at Wal- Military Graduate for 2014. The tion she has received at UCO,” said and senior nursing student Casey ter Reed National Military Medical honor is reserved for the top 20 retired Army Master Sgt. John Tay- Strong has been named as one of Center with soldiers who are am- percent of cadets and is based on lor, instructor of military science at five recipients of the U.S. Army’s putees or who are battling PTSD. I GPA, community service and lead- Central. F. Edward Hebert Health Services would like to specialize in this field ership in the ROTC. Strong will interview with the Professional Scholarship for stu- as many of my military years have “Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner University of Texas at San Anto- dents pursuing careers as nurse already enabled me to help many of is currently one of the hardest and nio, the University of Utah School practitioners. my friends with post-combat issues. most sought-after job specialties of Medicine and Western Kentucky Strong, originally from Wylie, This is my calling and I am very ex- and programs in the U.S. Army as University School of Nursing before Texas, will commission as a second cited and humbled at the thought of well as the ROTC U.S. Army Ca- deciding where she will pursue her lieutenant in May 2014 and imme- this opportunity,” Strong said. det Command for nurses. We are degree. diately afterward enroll in a nurse Strong has a family history of very proud of Cadet Strong and the Upon completion of her studies, practitioner program specializing both medicine and military service: prestigious honors she received. she will advance to the rank of cap- in the mental health field. her mother is a 1973 alumna of Hundreds vie for this scholarship, tain. The scholarship includes the Central’s nursing program and her and that she won it and earned the For more information about Cen- complete cost of tuition, as well as father served in the Army. designation of Distinguished Mili- tral’s ROTC program, visit www. books, equipment, most fees and a In addition to her scholarship, tary Graduate is a testament to her busn.uco.edu/armyrotc

Wilson-Hooper Veterinary Medicine Assistance Program sparks unique opportunities By BRET MOSS study, with funds matched by education of the scholars. The sponsor has provided each Choctaw Nation Scholarship Advisement Program SAP. “If money is holding them DVM student with a copy of Borror’s dictionary of Greek back, I will give them a leg up. But and Latin word roots and forms to assist in learning descrip- Dubai, UAE, and Glasgow, Scotland, are locations seldom they have to ride the horse them- tions behind muscles, bones and behavior, as well as species’ associated with the study of veterinary sciences, but are no- selves,” stated the sponsor. names. Money and expectations can be barriers, but a little table life experiences for members of the Choctaw Nation of The funds of the program are help can go a long way, the sponsor declared. Oklahoma (CNO) Scholarship Advisement Program (SAP). delegated among several students Wilson-Hooper’s sponsor has been actively assisting Choc- Along with a gathering of many scholarships, a multitude rather than a large sum to one taws since 2006, as a benefactor to the Jones Academy, a of connections to institutes of higher education and college- recipient so as to encourage edu- school for Native Americans, located in Hartshorne. Through prep resources, SAP is the proprietor of the Wilson-Hooper cation among many, thus maxi- this connection, the sponsor met CNO Executive Director of Veterinary Medicine Assistance Program. This scholarship, mizing the impact. The monies, Education Joy Culbreath, who introduced the sponsor to SAP named in memory of the sponsor’s parents, has assisted ranging from $1,000 to $4,000 in 2011. nearly a dozen students each semester since its implementa- when matched by SAP, awarded Learning of the considerable ways SAP assists Choctaws tion in the fall semester of 2012. to the students each semester can who desire higher education, Wilson-Hooper’s sponsor was “The Wilson-Hooper Scholarship has been a great bless- relieve enough financial pressure determined to make a difference. ing,” stated a recurring recipient who recently earned the for a student to devote full atten- “It’s always exciting for SAP to have the opportunity to title, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM). tion to academia. This can be the work with a tribal member and create scholarships for other During the final clinical year of education, students were deciding factor in completing a Choctaws. We are extremely grateful for the sponsor of this required to complete an externship. While others from class degree program, commented the scholarship and the vision they have in creating a pipeline of were limited, the recipient of the Wilson-Hooper was offered sponsor. Choctaw veterinarians,” stated Shauna Williams, donor and more freedom from financial constraints, resulting in a Another recurring recipi- scholarship specialist. month of study “in one of the world’s most impressive equine ent, currently in the third year of study at the University of “The fact that someone wanted to help students focusing hospitals in Dubai,” stated the recipient. “For that, I am Glasgow [Scotland] Veterinary School stated that with the on veterinary medicine was very encouraging; it let me know forever grateful because it was the opportunity of a lifetime funds provided by the Wilson-Hooper scholarship, they were that my hard work and dedication to veterinary medicine was and it prepared me to better serve my future patients as a able to fund extramural study programs required by the important and was appreciated,” said the recipient who has new graduate.” university. become a DVM. “If someone from SAP hadn’t reached out According to the sponsor, the program supports both These extramural studies include working in locations such to me and told me about the scholarship and what I needed students working toward a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine as as Malta and Ireland. “These experiences have not only made to do to apply, I would have never known about it,” they well as those working toward an Associate’s Degree in Veteri- my education better at applying my knowledge, but also continued. nary Technology. myself,” mentioned the recipient as they spoke of how learn- In efforts to project this opportunity into the foreseeable This designation is a nod to the value the sponsor places ing foreign cultures and customs has shaped perceptions of future, the sponsor and Choctaw Nation are working together on the traditional familiarity Native Americans feel toward education. “I would not be able to do this without funding.” to create an endowment. This will allow funds to renew over animals, noting the namesakes of the program had a great “I have correspondence with [the sponsor] and I keep time, enabling continual funding. love for animals. [them] updated with any places I visit and experience I get If you are Choctaw and would like to know about more As an illustration to this fact, the aforementioned recipient while I am out here,” stated the recipient. They also went on scholarships geared toward Native Americans, or would like spoke of riding horses in younger years, stating, “I grew up to inform that the sponsor arranged correspondence with to know how SAP can assist you toward the goal of higher riding horses, and as a high school student I was intrigued the Kansas State Veterinary Diagnostic Lab in order for the education, visit choctawnation-sap.com or call 800-522- every time the equine veterinarian came out to treat a horse.” recipient to speak on behalf of the Glasgow Pathology Club. 6170. Becoming a member of SAP is open to all Choctaws and The Wilson-Hooper is awarded to several students each As mentioned by the recipient, Wilson-Hooper’s sponsor is provides numerous resources such as an extensive database semester based on merit and overall passion for the field of dedicated to not only financial assistance, but to the overall of Native American Scholarships.

Are you over 18 years old?

Choctaw Nation GED Classes Don’t forget to If you have recently turned 18 or will be turning 18 within the next 60 days and update have not yet obtained your Adult Membership card please complete a new Tribal your tribal Membership application and return to the Choctaw Nation Tribal Membership membership Department. The application can be found online at www.choctawnation.com or McCurtain County Bryan County by contacting the Tribal Membership office at 1-800-522-6170 or 580-924-8280. Beginning Date: April 15, 2014 Beginning Date: April 15, 2014 card! Tuesdays and Thursdays Tuesdays and Thursdays 1-4 p.m. 6-9 p.m. Choctaw Nation Family Investment Center Choctaw Nation Tribal Complex, 210 Chahta Rd., Broken Bow South Building, downstairs, Durant

Pittsburg County LeFlore County Beginning Date: April 15, 2014 Beginning Date: April 14, 2014 Tuesdays and Thursdays Mondays and Wednesdays 9 a.m.-12 noon 9 a.m.-12 noon Choctaw Nation Community Center Choctaw Nation Family Investment Center 1632 S. George Nigh Expwy, McAlester 208 “B” Street, Poteau

The class will meet two days a week for approximately 13 weeks. Books, supplies and testing fees are provided. In addition, a $10-per-day transportation stipend is paid to those who attend on a regular basis and attempt the GED test. If you have turned in an application with our Adult Education Program for GED classes and wish to attend the upcoming class, please contact our office. If you have not applied and wish to attend these or future classes, please contact Neal Hawkins or Kathy Bench at the Durant office, 800-522-6170, ext. 2319. Also, you may register at the first class. A Certificate of Degree of Indian Blood (CDIB) is required. 8 BISKINIK | March 2014

Choctaw Nation Livestock Shows held in Durant and Wilburton Durant Livestock Show Results Berkshire Show Order 6. Bland Clinton, Dickson Yorkshire Show Order 5. Russell Carly, Bennington Lamb Show Order Class 1 7. Bland Brenton, Dickson Class 1 Class 5 Division 1 1. Avants Jayley, Tupelo 8. Jones James, Roff 1. Ake Corby, Tupelo 1. Mann Hunter, Sulphur Class 1 2. Upchurch CJ, Wapanucka 9. Russell Carley, Bennington 2. Chambers Kelsey, Tushka 2. Purkins Aaron, Caddo 1. Hackler Brasen, Kiowa 3. Weeden Jeremiah, Coalgate 1.0 Ford Colby, Choctaw 3. Wright Laura, Wynnewood 3. Purkins Aaron, Caddo 2. Dancer Madelynn, Soper 4. Hardy Neiatha, Coalgate Class 2 4. Whitlow Lillabeth, Ft. Towson 4. Jones Johnathan, Roff 3. Courtwright Bradyn, Rattan Class 2 1. Stoner Clay, Rock Creek 5. McGahey Lauren, Madill 5. Curtis Kameron, Rock Creek 4. Courtwright Hannah, Rattan 1. Davidson Hunter, Coalgate 2. Davidson Hunter, Coalgate 6. Dancer Taylor, Bennington 6. Curtis Kameron, Rock Creek 5. Gorden Jaylei, Rattan 2. Underwood Malori, Bennington 3. Houser Tylar, Caddo 7. Weeden Jeremiah, Coalgate Div 1 Champ: Hunter, Mann 6. Langley Emily, Hugo 3. Avants Jaedyn, Tupelo 4. Green Trenton, Holdenville 8. Mariel Bailey, Holdenville Div 1 Res Champ: Hunter Mann Class 2 4. Medders Blake, Battiest 5. Ross Macey, Caddo Class 2 Class 6 1. House Marie, Kiowa Breed Champion: Jayley Avants, 6. Hawkins Hunter, Rattan 1. McKinnon Hunter, Lone Grove 1. Barber Blaklyn, Silo 2. Crawford Makayla, Moss Tupelo Class 3 2. Comer Denton, Durant 2. Watkins Jaycee, Mt. Vernon 3. Whitlow Elizabeth, Ft. Towson Res. Breed Champion: Huter David- 1. Emert Devin, Bennington 3. Davidson Hunter, Coalgate 3. King Jaydon, Soper 4. Roebuck Brooke, Kiowa son, Coalgate 2. Bradley Hank, Caddo 4. Hammons Christian, Obuch 4. McKoy Tucker, Homeschool 5. Parsons Jaely, Soper Chester Show Order 3. Mason Keona, Tish 5. Hembree Holli, Antlers 5. Dill Kylie, Boswell 6. Stricklen Kindal, Bennington Class 1 Breed Champion: Devin Emert 6. Robison Kaleb, Moss Class 7 Class 3 1. Haynes Kayona, Choctaw Res. Breed Champion: Clay Stoner 7. Bailey Kaylea, Antlers 1. Watkins Jaycee, Mt. Vernon 1. Chambers Taylor, Tushka 2. Clardy Alexia, Haworth Hampshire Show Order 8. Ford Colby, Choctaw 2. Barben Blaklyn, Silo 2. Holder Lexi, Ft. Towson 3. Goodwin Aubree, Rock Creek Class 1 Class 3 3. Coe Jackie, Caddo 3. Bryan Hadley, Mulhall Class 2 1. Whitley Baylee, Colbert 1. Wood Cooper, Rattan 4. Jones Jacob, Roff 4. Nichols Mason, Achille 1. Roebuck Brandon, Wapanucka 2. Bowen Dillon, Silo 2. Boyett Tyler, Rattan 5. McKoy Tucker, Homeschool 5. Crawford Kallie, Moss 2. Bradley Tad, Caddo 3. Wood Cooper, Rattan 3. Leathers Marlie, Rattan 6. McClain Beth Ann, Ft. Towson 6. Hackler Alex, Kiowa 3. Anderson Damien, Rock Creek 4. Robinson Alexander, Rock Creek 4. Emert Mason, Bennington 7. Phillips Mason, Durant 7. Dancer Madelynn, Soper Breed Champion: Brandon Roebuck 5. McGahey Lauren, Madill 5. Bradley Bailey, Caddo Class 8 8. Chapman Alyson, Coalgate Res. Breed Champion: Tad Bradley 6. Robison Kaleb, Moss Breed Champion: Hunter McKinnon 1. Long Chesney, Haworth 9. McKee Tyna, Soper Cross Show Order 7. Ake Corby, Tupelo Res. Breed Champion: Corby Ake 2. Long Chesney, Haworth Division Champion: Taylor Cham- Class 1 8. Collins Jase, Wapanucka Grand Champion: Colt Conner 3. McKoy Chace, Homeschool bers, Tushka 1. Whitley Baylee, Colbert 9. Dancer Taylor, Bennington Res. Grand Champion: Colt Conner, 4. McKoy Chace, Homeschool Res. Divison Champion: Marie 2. Braudrick Zane, Caddo 10. Gossett Kirsten, Caney Bronze: Baylee Whitley 5. Bacon Bryant, Boswell House, Kiowa 3. Ake Corby, Tupelo 11. Luck Riley, Tushka Jr. Showman: Tyler Boyet 6. Burton Tyler, Ft. Towson Division 2 4. Bland Brenton, Dickson Class 2 Sr. Showman: Hunter McKinnon Class 9 Class 4 5. Stoner Clay, Rock Creek 1. Whitley Baylee, Colbert Wether Show Order 1. Mann Hunter, Sulphur 1. Jones Bonnie, Thackerville 6. Rubio Josh, Bennington 2. Ake Blaine, Tupelo Division 1 2. Jones Jacob, Roff 2. Bryan Hadley, Mulhall 7. Robinson Alex, Rock Creek 3. Lawless Jacob, Tish Class 1 3. Long Chesney, Haworth 3. Mize Colton, Springer 8. Hardy Neiatha, Coalgate 4. Davis Ross, Dickson 1. Couey Amber, Tupelo 4. McKoy Cutter, Homeschool 4. Feuerhelm Brittney, Atoka 9. Goodwin Aubree, Rock Creek 5. Birdsong Blake, Tushka 2. Nelson Ty, Rattan 5. Burton Denise, Fort Towson 5. Robison Jaycee, Moss Class 2 6. McGahey Holden, Madill 3. Barker Kason, Boswell 6. Cress Blake, Boswell 6. Stricklen Kindal, Bennington 1. Comer Denton, Durant 7. King Macy, Wapanucka Class 2 Div. 2 Champ: Hunter Mann 7. Nichols Zachary, Achille 2. Medders Blake, Battiest 8. Brown Kaeleigh, Battiest 1. Purkins Aaron, Caddo Div. 2 Res. Champ: Jaycee Watkins 8. Stafford Canton, Madill 3. Davis Ross, Dickson 9. Maxwell Macy, Hugo 2. Edwards Natley, Hugo Grand Champion: Hunter Mann Class 5 4. Anta Jaylee, Obuch 10. Bland Brenton, Dickson 3. Kelso Nick, Caddo Reserve Grand Champion: Hunter 1. Bennett Emily, Yukon 5. Coker Ty, Bennington Class 3 Class 3 Mann 2. Holder Alexis, Ft. Towson 6. Bailey Kattie, Antlers 1. Keeler Brandon, Tushka 1. Mobbs Peyten, Tushka Bronze: Jaycee Watkins 3. Chambers Taylor, Tushka 7. McGahey Holden, Madill 2. Robinson Dylan, Rock Creek 2. Kelso Nick, Caddo Wilburton Livestock Show 4. Tisdell Dayton, Tupelo 8. Rogers Laney, Tish 3. Collins Jase, Wapanucka 3. Arpealer Samantha, Antlers Results 5. Crawford Kallie, Moss 9. Stephens Tannah, Tushka 4. Weeden Jeremiah, Coalgate 4. McClain Beth Ann, Ft. Towson Sheep Show Order 6. Dossey Mckenzie, Haworth Class 3 5. Huddleston Hannah, Kiowa Division 1 Champ: Peyton Mobbs Division 1 7. Carlile Macey, Hugo 1. McKinnon Hunter, Lone Grove 6. Behrens Maggie, Caddo Division 1 Res. Champ: Amber Couey Class 1 8. Stafford Canton, Madill 2. Avants Jayley, Tupelo 7. Hudson Tell, Ft. Towson Division 2 1. Bailey Medlock, Tupelo 9. Stafford Canton, Madill 3. Davis Ross, Dickson 8. Bonds Trevor, Soper Class 4 2. Nicole Dobbs, LeFlore Class 6 4. Goodwin Aubree, Rock Creek 9. Bruesch Arlis, Choctaw 1. Mobbs Peyten, Tushka 3. Cheyenne Kinney, LeFlore 1. Chambers Taylor, Tushka 5. Broughton Lindsey, Tushka Class 4 2. Moody Lexie, Moss 4. Irish Alex, LeFlore 2. Roebuck Brooke, Kiowa 6. Hembree Holli, Antlers 1. Conner Colt, Tuttle 3. Hokett Taylor, Antlers 5. Rio Alex, LeFlore 3. Fowler Shelby, Yukon 7. Hall Caelan, Tushka 2. McKinnon Hunter, Lone Grove 4. Carter Jacob, Moyers 6. Darlen Dobbs, LeFlore 4. Bryan Hadley, Mulhall 8. Broughton Cole, Tushka 3. Stoner Clay, Rock Creek 5. Arpealer Samantha, Antlers Class 2 5. Mann Hunter, Sulphur 9. Tonihka Enchil, Battiest 4. Birdsong Blake, Tushka Class 5 1. Savannah Lantz, Holdenville 6. Mize Colton, Springer Class 4 5. Anderson Kylee, Caddo 1. Mobbs Peyten, Tushka 2. Caden Sumpter, Red Oak 7. Copeland Taylor, Antlers 1. Clardy Alexia, Haworth 6. Jones James, Roff 2. Chambers Kelsey, Tushka 3. Juleah Hollingshed, Checotah 8. Matthews Alyssa, Bennington 2. Bell J.B, Madill 7. Coker Ty, Bennington 3. Barber Blaklyn, Silo 4. Challis Johnson, Panama 9. Pierce Jared, Durant 3. Bell Taylor, Madill 8. Lawless Gracie, Tish 4. Reed Racee, Wapanuka 5. Baylie Bray, Haworth Division Champion: Taylor Chambers 4. Wood Rowdy, Coalgate 9. Maxwell Tyler, Hugo 5. McKay Kelsey, Tupelo 6. Brandon Hooper, Cameron Res. Division Champion: Emily Ben- 5. Coe Jackie Jo, Caddo Class 5 Class 6 7. Mikey Mefford, Canadian nett 6. Crawley Chloe, Kiowa 1. Davidson Hayden, Coalgate 1. Chambers Kelsey, Tushka 8. Hannah Maxwell, Talihina Division 3 7. Hudson Mackenzie, Ft. Towson 2. Christian Bridgett, Lone Grove 2. McKay Alanah, Tupelo 9. Lexi L 4ingston, Porum Class 7 8. Hudson Tell, Ft. Towson 3. Bowen Dillon, Silo Division 2 Champion: Peyton Mobbs 10. Wauker Hollingshed, Checotah 1. Bennett Emily, Yukon 9. Brown Kaleigh, Battiest 4. Hall Caelan, Tushka Division 2 Res. Champion: Lexi 9. Lexi L 4ingston, Porum 2. Carter Hannah, Calera Class 5 5. Morris Jessaymn, Gladewater Moody 10. Wauker Hollingshed, Checotah 3. Jones Bonnie, Thackerville 1. Conner Colt, Tuttle 6. Burton Denise, Ft. Towson Grand Champion: Peyten Mobbs Class 3 4. Courtwright Cassidy, Rattan 2. King Macy, Wapanucka 7. Davidson Hunter, Coalgate Res. Grand Champion: Lexi Moody 1. Savannah Lantz, Holdenville 5. Courtwright Cassidy, Rattan 3. Houser Nathan, Caddo 8. Bonds Trevor, Soper Bronze: Peyten Mobbs 2. Emily Shaw, Buffalo Valley 6. Chapman Alyson, Coalgate 4. Lawless Gracie, Tish Class 6 Jr. Showman: Blaklyn Barber 3. Gavin Clunn, Hartshorne 7. Labor Regan, Kiowa 5. Bland Clinton, Dickson 1. Weger Walker Colbert Hamp Sr. Showman: Kelsey Chambers 4. Hannah Maxwell, Talihina Class 8 6. Clardy Alexia, Haworth 2. Underwood Malori Bennington Doe Show Order 5. Riley Sumpter, Red Oak 1. Tucker Seth, Lindsay 7. Robinson Dylan, Rock Creek Hamp Class 1 6. Mackenzie Maxwell, Talihina 2. House Marie, Kiowa 8. Green Trenton, Holdenville Breed Champion: Colt Conner 1. Nichols Mason, Achille 7. Ashlyn Donaho, Wister 3. Hackler Alex, Kiowa 9. Brown Kaleigh, Battiest Res. Breed Champion: Hunter McK- 2. Hedgecock Tayler, Durant Class 4 4. Huddleston Hannah, Kiowa Class 6 innon 3. Pierce Jared, Durant 1. Peiper Rogers, Spiro 5. Scroggins Colton, Soper 1. Conner Colt, Tuttle Poland Show Order 4. Loman Colton, Hugo 2. Brenna Fry, Buffalo Valley 6. Tisdell Dayton, Tupelo 2. Wood Cooper, Rattan 1. Ford Colby Choctaw, Class 2 3. Flint Shaw, Buffalo Valley 7. Annable Tanner, Kiowa 3. Christian Bridgett, Lone Grove 2. Jones James, Roff 1. Allen Bailee, Silo 4. Grant Shaw, Buffalo Valley 8. Dossey Mckenzie, Haworth 4. Wright Laura, Wynnewood 3. Mason Keona Tishomingo 2. Reeves Kes, Kingston 5. Bailey Medlock, Tupelo 9. Roebuck Sam, Soper 5. King Lance, Wapanucka Breed Champion: Colby Ford 3. Loving Gloria, Kingston 6. Mackenzie Maxwell, Talihina Class 9 6. Hill Faith, Soper Res. Breed Champion: James Jones 4. Nunn Madyson, Thackerville 7. Shane Fry, Buffalo Valley 1. Bennett Emily, Yukon 7. Thompson AJ, Hugo Spot Show Order 5. Barrett Kyle, Boswell 8. Sara Lawson, Canadian 2. Courtwright Cassidy, Rattan 8. Hammons Conner, Antlers Class 1 6. Loman Casey, Hugo 3. Mann Hunter, Sulphur 9. Burton Tyler, Ft. Towson 1. Braudrick Jayci, Caddo Class 3 4. Brown Sydnee, Calera 10. Huddleston Hannah, Kiowa 2. Robison Kaleb, Moss 1. Mann Hunter, Sulphur 5. Huddleston Hannah, Kiowa Class 7 3. Robinson Dylan, Rock Creek 2. Tucker ShiAnn, Kings- 6. Long Joshlynn, Haworth 1. Hembree Holli, Antlers 4. Emert Mason, Bennington ton 7. Ross Karley, Caddo 2. Davidson Hayden, Coalgate 5. Mason Keona, Tish 3. McKoy Cutter, Home- 8. Ross Karley, Caddo 3. Shaw Reed, Rattan 6. Hardy Neiatha, Coalgate school Division Champion: Emily Bennett, 4. Russell Levi, Bennington Class 2 4. King Jaydon, Soper Yukon 5. Bradley Hank ,Caddo 1. Wood Rowdy, Coalgate 5. McKay Alanah, Tupelo Reserve Division Champion: Seth Breed Champion: Colt Conner 2. Nelson Shelby, Choctaw 6. Burton Denise, Fort Tucker, Lindsay Res. Breed Champion: Baylee Whit- 3. Medders Blake, Battiest Towson Grand Champion: Emily Bennett ley 4. Gossett Kirsten, Caney 7. Burton Tyler, Ft. Yukon Duroc Show Order 5. Emert Devin, Bennington Towson Res. Grand: Taylor Chambers Tushka Class 1 Class 3 Class 4 Bronze: Seth Tucker Lindsay 1. Adair Alli Caddo 1. Bradley Bailey Caddo 1. Allen Braden, Silo Jr. Showman: Taylor Chambers, 2. Reeves Haylea, Tupelo Breed Champion: Rowdy Wood 2. Jones James, Roff Tushka 3. Wood Rowdy, Coalgate Coalgate 3. Price Colton, Caddo Sr. Showman: Emily Bennett, Yukon 4. Ake Blaine, Tupelo Res. Breed Champion: Bailey Bradley 4. Russell Stormie, Ben- Swine show Order 5. Rogers Laney, Tish Caddo nington Peyton Mobbs – Grand Champion goat

Emily Bennett – Grand Champion Brandon Roebuck – Breed Cham- Rowdy Wood – Breed Champion Colby Ford – Breed Champ Poland Lamb pion Chester Spot

Devin Emert – Breed Champion Du- roc Hunter Davidson – Champion Berk- Colt Conner – Grand Champion Hamp- Hunter Mann – Grand Champion shire shire goat BISKINIK | March 2014 9

(Continued) 5. Haylee Billingsley, Poteau 6. Charity Thomas, Red Oak 9. Dakota Gragg, Quinton 1. Jay Johnson, Talihina 9. Jessie Matthews, Canadian 6. Allison Benefield, Heavener 7. Triston Short, Eagletown 10. Lauryn Rader, Wilburton 2. Clayton Lawson, Buffalo Valley Division 1 Champion: Savannah 7. Brock Cooley, Haileyville Class 3 Class 7 3. Catelyn Grey, Buffalo Valley Lantz 8. Luke Spradlin, Porum 1. Ethan Shoemake, Porum 1. Shania Spears, Wilburton 4. Brittney Shockley, Spiro Division 1 Reserve Champion: Sa- 9. Lauryn Rader, Wilburton 2. Levi Hill, Smithville 2. Sarah Sales, Bokoshe Division 1 Champion: Taylor Pratt vannah Lantz Breed Champ: Sarah Palmer 3. Taylor Pratt, Broken Bow 3. Michael O’Kelley, Hartshorne Division I Reserve Champion: Lexi Division 2 Reserve Breed Champ: Cody Hugle 4. Chas Fairless, Buffalo Valley 4. Stormy Dull, Wilburton Livingston Class 5 Hampshire Breed Champ: Grace Palmer 5. Morgan Wilcox, Albion Division 2 1. Grace Dewbre, Buffalo Valley Class 1 Reserve Breed Champ: Sara Snead 6. Madison Hill, Talihina Class 4 2. Juleah Hollingshed, Checotah 1. Noah Palmer, McCurtain Co York 7. Emma Lawson, Buffalo Valley 1. Emily Jackson, Hartshorne 3. Chekota Medlock, Tupelo (Home School) Class 1 8. Ryan Holder, Porum 2. Cheyenne Robison, Checotah 4. Levi Odom, Whitesboro 2. Braylin Harper, Spiro 1. Railey Spears, Hartshorne Class 8 3. Jameson McNiel, Bristow 5. Kaytie Cash, Porum 3. Chance Leathers, Talihina 2. Dakotah Bear, Calvin 1. Braylon Spears, Hartshorne 4. CeeJay Robison, Checotah 6. Flint Shaw, Buffalo Valley 4. Lane Williams, Idabel 3. Bradon Kitchens, Panola 2. Hannah Palmer, McCurtain Co. 5. Courtney Adams, Red Oak 7. Chekota Medlock, Tupelo 5. Hadley Morgan, Pittsburg 4. Braylin Harper, Spiro 3. Blaize Herriman, Warner 6. Ethan Sisk, Clayton 8. Mackenzie Maxwell, Talihina 6. Zeke Baxter, Whitesboro 5. Makenzi Potts, Talihina 4. Rachel Beames, Howe 7. Kiefer Holloway, Haileyville Class 6 7. Tayton LeMay, Whitesboro 6. Lane Williams, Idabel 5. Grant Dawson, Eufaula Class 5 1. Savannah Lantz, Holdenville 8. Jracee Ayers, Moyers 7. Justin Duggan, Panola 6. Dylan Bush, Quinton 1. Macy Willis, Bristow 2. Hailey Varnell, Porum 9. Hannah Garrison, Tuskahoma 8. Cole Wilson, Talihina 7. Blake Dull, Wilburton 2. Jay Johnson, Talihina 3. Garrett Clunn, Hartshorne Class 2 9. Brevon Harper, Spiro Class 9 3. Chloe Carver, Bokoshe 4. Madison Daniels, Quinton 1. Isaac Bryant, Talihina 10. Zachary Stafford, Eagletown 1. Jaycee Cox, Spiro 4. Lexen Cook, Hartshorne 5. Emily Shaw, BuffaloValley 2. Brevon Harper, Spiro Class 2 2. Garrett Clunn, Hartshorne 5. Mikayla Stilley, Wilburton 6. Isaac Walden, LeFlore 3. Makenzi Potts, Talihina 1. Faith Palmer, (Home School) 3. Emily Yandell, Heavener 6. TeganTilley, Wilburton 7. Ethan Shoemake, Porum 4. Kaitlynn Sebo, Spiro 2. Mesa Adams, Porum 4. Rilee Miller, Porum Class 6 Class 7 5. Emilie Cox, Talihina 3. Markus McClurg, Sequoyah 5. Chase Martin, Red Oak 1. Lexen Cook, Hartshorne 1. Taylor McGill, Tuttle 6. Cambri Coleman, Whitesboro 4. Jarit Baxter, Buffalo Valley 6. Chad Bush, Quinton 2. Logan Carver, Bokoshe 2. Mikey Guazdausky, Wilburton 7. Brittney Fairless, Buffalo Valley 5. Zabre Pound, Porum Breed Champ: Braylon Spears 3. Makinsie Pebley, Cameron 3. Kagen Monks, Panama 8. Tucker LeMay, Whitesboro 6. Cole Wilson, Talihina Grand Champion Swine: Rachel 4. Tegan Tilley, Wilburton 4. Bailey Medlock, Tupelo 9. Chazz Brewer, Red Oak 7. Chas Fairless, Buffalo Valley Beames Division 2 Champion: Emily Jackson 5. Kinsey Ellis, Panama 10. Ryan Holder, Porum 8. Tanner McAlester, Wister Reserve Grand Champion Swine: Division 2 Reserve Champion: Macy 6. Kaytie Cash, Porum Class 3 Class 3 Hannah Palmer Willis Class 8 1. Jaycee Cox, Spiro 1. Rhett Pursley Locust Grove Bronze Champion Swine: Braylon Grand Champion Wether: Emily 1. Taylor McGill, Tuttle 2. Austin Jestis, Durant 2. Braylon Spears Hartshorne Spears Jackson 2. Mikey Guazdausky, Wilburton 3. Lilly Bernal, Jones Academy 3. Kaitlynn Sebo Spiro Junior Showmanship: Faith Palmer Reserve Champion Wether: Macy 3. Hailey Varnell, Porum 4. Joe Simpson, Jones Academy 4. Grace Montgomery Red Oak Senior Showmanship: Hannah Willis 4. Baylie Bray, Haworth 5. Noah Palmer, McCurtain Co 5. Tucker Morrow Hartshorne Palmer Bronze Champion Wether: Taylor 5. Isaac Walden, LeFlore (Home School) Breed Champ: Railey Spears Goat (Doe) Pratt 6. Madison Daniels, Quinton 6. Gracie Pate, Heavener Hartshorne Division 1 Junior Showmanship: Railey Spears Class 9 7. Tucker McClurg, Sequoyah Reserve Breed Champ: Rhett Pursley Class 1 Senior Showmanship: Emily Jackson 1. Payne Reavis, Broken Bow Class 4 Cross 1. Railey Spears, Hartshorne 2. Taylor McGill, Tuttle 1. Markus McClurg, Sequoyah Class 1 2. Shelby Tamplin, Valliant 3. Kagen Monks, Panama 2. Lexus Sewell, Jones Academy 1. Markus McClurg, Sequoyah 3. Rachelle Hatcher, Indi- 4. Hannah Maxwell, Talihina 3. Cody Clark, Jones Academy 2. Lexus Sewell, Jones Academy anola Division 2 Champion: Taylor McGill 4. Kensley Yandel, Heavener 3. Sarah Palmer, McCurtain Co Class 2 Division 2 Reserve Champion: Payne 5. Dalton Towe, Warner (Home School) 1. Adrianna Curnutt, Wister Reavis 6. Kirklan Loman, Jones Academy 4. Khloe Hatcher, Indianola 2. Macy Willis, Bristow Grand Champion: Taylor McGill 7. Jacob Price, Spiro 5. Broc Rogers, Spiro 3. Isaac Walden, LeFlore Reserve Champion: Payne Reavis 8. Noah Bryant, Talihina 6. Lane Trevino, Eagletown 4. Chloe Carver, Bokoshe Bronze Champion: Savannah Lantz 9. Sarah Sales, Bokoshe 7. Hadley Morgan, Pittsburg 5. Hailey Varnell, Porum Junior Showmanship: Taylor McGill 10. Grace O’Neal, Clayton 8. Chastain Cannady, Talihina Class 3 Senior Showmanship: Savannah 11. Destiny Duggan, Panola 9. Jracee Ayers, Moyers 1. Alex Anderson, Eufaula Lantz Class 5 10. Sydney Hust, Buffalo Valley 2. Brittany Conley, Smithville Berkshire 1. Aubri Coleman, Whitesboro Class 2 3. Hailey Varnell, Porum Class 1 2. Kirklan Loman, Jones Academy 1. Noah Bryant, Talihina 4. Brynn Bibee , Stigler 1. Autumn Gamble, Broken Bow 3. Kaitlynn Sebo, Spiro 2. Baylor Jestis, Durant Division 1 Champion: Adri- 2. Quade McGee, Whitesboro 4. Hayden Bell, Bokoshe 3. Kelsey Brown, Buffalo Valley anna Curnutt 3. Sadie Snead, Broken Bow 5. Lane Williams, Idabel 4. Krystal McClendon, Eagletown Division 1 Reserve Champion: Braylon Spears – Cross Breed 4. Makenzy Stafford, Eagletown 6. Truvon Willis, Jones Academy 5. Shane Garrison, Clayton Alex Anderson Champ 5. Autumn Battiest, Broken Bow 7. Javen Potts, Talihina 6. Jarit Baxter, Buffalo Valley Division 2 6. Desirea Duggan, Panola 8. Shelby Heflin, Clayton 7. Dustin Duggan, Panola Class 4 Class 2 9. Justin Duggan, Panola 8. Zabre Pound, Porum 1. Railey Spears, Hartshorne 1. Rhett Pursley, Locust Grove Class 6 9. Emilie Cox, Talihina 2. Adrianna Curnutt, Wister 2. Hunter Mason, Hartshorne 1. Rachel Beames, Howe 10. Morgan Stroup, Poteau 3. Kenzie Davis, Wister 3. Hunter Mason, Hartshorne 2. Hannah Palmer, (Home School) Class 3 4. Brynn Bibee, Stigler 4. Taylor Pratt, Broken Bow 3. Noah Irwin, Hartshorne 1. Sam Cox, Talihina Class 5 5. Tanner McAlester, Wister 4. Kelsey Brown, Buffalo Valley 2. Rachel Beames, Howe 1. Cheyenne Robison, Che- Breed Champ: Rhett Pursley 5. Ty Pilkington, Heavener 3. Cody Clark, Jones Academy cotah Reserve Breed Champ: Autumn 6. Chloe Rogers, Spiro 4. Payne Reavis, Broken Bow 2. Alex Anderson, Eufaula Gamble 7. Grant Dawson, Eufaula 5. Drew Spradlin, Porum 3. Brittney Shockley, Spiro Chester 8. Samantha Brunson, Talihina 6. Joe Simpson, Jones Academy 4. Sheleigh Swearingen, Buf- Class 1 9. Cody Bull, Panola 7. Samantha Craig, Whitesboro falo Valley 1. Ethan Bean, Broken Bow Class 7 8. Mikey Mefford, Canadian Class 6 2. Kirklan Loman, Jones Academy 1. Noah Irwin, Hartshorne 9. Jessie Matthews, Canadian 1. Ceejay Robison, Checotah Railey Spears – Poland Breed 3. Lilly Bernal, Jones Academy 2. Isaac Bryant, Talihina 10. Brock Cooley, Haileyville 2. Adrianna Curnutt, Wister Champ 4. Krystal McClendon, Eagletown 3. Ashlyn Moody , Heavener Class 4 3. Jaren Cook, Quinton Class 2 4. Adison McLaughlin, Eufaula 1. Araceli Ortiz, Jones Academy Class 7 1. Suzy Snead, Broken Bow 5. Michael O’Kelley, Hartshorne 2. Dillon Price, Spiro 1. Cheyenne Robison, Che- 2. Hayden Bell, Bokoshe 6. Lexen Cook, Hartshorne 3. LaRae NewHoly, Jones Academy cotah 3. Sam Cox, Talihina Breed Champ: Rachel Beames 4. Bryar Kitchens, Panola 2. Ally Stanley, Wister Breed Champ: Ethan Bean Reserve Breed Champ: Hannah 5. Ty Pilkington, Heavener Division 2 Champion: Chey- Reserve Breed Champ: Suzy Snead Palmer 6. Hunter Mason, Hartshorne enne Robison Duroc Poland 7. Jade Fairless, Buffalo Valley Division 2 Reserve Cham- Class 1 Class 1 8. William Hollan, Panola pion: Railey Spears 1. Grace Palmer, McCurtain Co. 1. Charity Thomas, Red Oak 9. Ricky Jiles, Wilburton Grand Champion Doe: Chey- 2. Hannah Palmer, McCurtain Co. 2. Dakotah Bear, Calvin Class 5 enne Robison 3. Cody Clark, Jones Academy 3. Ricky Jiles, Wilburton 1. Lexus Sewell, Jones Academy Reserve Champion Doe: 4. Adison McLaughlin, Eufaula Class 2 2. Sarah Palmer, McCurtain Co Railey Spears 5. Stormy Dull, Wilburton 1. Railey Spears, Hartshorne (Home School) Bronze Champion Doe: An- Rachel Beames – Hampshire Breed 6. Scout Smith, Smithville 2. Chase Martin, Red Oak 3. Noah Bryant, Talihina drianna Curnutt Champ 7. Darian Sharp, Spiro 3. Jakob Labor, Wilburton 4. Adanya Sewell, Jones Academy Goats (Wether) 8. Jracee Ayers, Moyers Breed Champ: Railey Spears 5. Jake Dewbre, Buffalo Valley Division 1 Class 2 Reserve Breed Champ: Chase Martin 6. Michael O’Kelley, Hartshorne Class 1 1. Sarah Palmer, (Home School) Spot 7. Hayden Bell, Bokoshe 1. Taylor Pratt, Broken Bow 2. Cody Hugle, Hartshorne Class 1 8. Javen Potts, Talihina 2. Lexi Livingston, Porum 3. Allison Beames, Howe 1. Ryley Labor, Wilburton 9. Anthony Jackson, Buffalo Valley 3. Rachelle Hatcher, Indianola 4. Allison Beames, Howe 2. Garrett Pinley, Buffalo Valley Class 6 4. Kristen Brown, LeFlore 5. Dustin Duggan, Panola 3. Khloe Hatcher, Indianola 1. Braylon Spears, Hartshorne 5. Kristen Brown, LeFlore 6. Parker Thomas, Red Oak 4. Autumn Battiest, Broken Bow 2. Railey Spears, Hartshorne Class 2 7. Peiper Rogers, Spiro 5. Sage Anson, Wister 3. Faith Palmer, McCurtain Co 1. Makinsie Pebley, Cameron 8. William Hollan, Panola 6. Gage Clark, Clayton (Home School) 2. Brandon Hooper, Cameron 9. Shaylin Midgley, Poteau Class 2 4. Manning Willis, Jones Academy 3. Stephanie Seyler, Wister Class 3 1. Grace Palmer, McCurtain Co. 5. Grace Palmer, McCurtain Co 4. Sheleigh Swearingen, Buf- 1. Brenna Stinnett, Porum 2. Sara Snead, Broken Bow (Home School) falo Valley 2. Ryan Holder, Porum 3. Blaize Herriman, Warner 6. Mesa Adams, Porum 5. Sheleigh Swearingen, Buf- 3. Tanner McAlester, Wister 4. Blaize Herriman, Warner 7. Makenzi Potts, Talihina falo Valley Rhett Pursley – Berkshire Breed 4. Allison Beames, Howe 5. Chloe Rogers, Spiro 8. Payton Emmert, Hartshorne Class 3 Champ

Taylor McGill – Sheep Grand Cham- Grace Palmer – Spot Breed Champ Emily Jackson – Grand Champion Railey Spears – Breed Champ pion Wether

Cheyenne Robison – Grand Champion Rachel Beames – Grand Champion Sarah Palmer – Duroc Breed Champ Ethan Bean – Chester Breed Champ Doe Swine 10 BISKINIK | March 2014

Anita Faye Jay OBITUARIESLena Baker Elmer 'Dutch' Crews

Anita Faye Jay, 82, of Orange Lena Baker, 90, of Battiest passed Elmer “Dutch” Crews, 98, was passed away Jan. 18, 2014, in her away Jan. 14, 2014, in De Queen, born Oct. 26, 1915, in Hugo to Jo- home. She was born in Soper on Ark. She was born on Dec. 31, 1923 seph Alfred and Leta (Thorpe) July 23, 1931. Anita was the daugh- in Battiest, the daughter of Calvin Crews. He passed from this life ter of Andrew Jackson McKee and Carney and Leason Watson Carney. Jan. 23, 2014, in Hugo. Sarah Beatrice (Butler) McKee. She She was a member of the Battiest Dutch was born and raised in was a member of the Little Cypress Baptist Church in Battiest. She en- Hugo and attended Goodland Baptist Church. Anita enjoyed shop- joyed attending Choctaw singings, School. He served his country in ping but her all-time favorite activity sewing, yard sales and spending the United States Army during was spending time with her grand- time with her grandkids and great- World War II in France then settled children and great-grandchildren. grandkids. down in southern California. He She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Pau- Lena was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, married Barbara Jean Thomas in Inglewood, Calif. Dutch line Crouch; brother, Thomas McKee; and nephew, Charles Tommy Baker; a son, Elwood Baker; three daughters, Phyllis, has lived in this area for the past 15 years and was proud of Crouch. Leila and Leona Baker; and a brother, Wallace Carney. his Choctaw heritage. He was a member of the Elks Lodge Anita is survived by her husband of 66 years, Clois Jay; sons, Lena leaves to cherish her memory, daughters, Lula Sand- and the VFW and a member of the First Baptist Church of Greg Jay, Donnie Jay with wife Pat, Joey Jay with wife Nikki; ers with husband Bob of Broken Bow, Wanda Bohannon with Hugo. Dutch loved bowling, going camping and in his earlier daughter, Gayla Roberts; brother, Stanley McKee; grand- husband Doug of Battiest and Cynthia Ford with husband years he enjoyed Indian dancing at various pow wows and children, Jill Jay, Jennifer Chitty, Cory Jay, Sam Dougharty, Mike of McAlester; sister, Annie Noah of Battiest; five grand- played parts in movies. Amanda Jay, Christen Trahan, Justin Dougharty, Shai Greer, sons, Brian Sanders with wife Denise of Broken Bow, Michael Dutch was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara Jean Chelsea Greer, Jessica Jay, Josie Jay; great-grandchildren, and Brandon Bohannon of Battiest, David and Michael Wil- (Thomas) Crews in 2001; sister, Aileen (Crews) McKenzie; Skyler Scott, Slayde Jay, Allie Jay, Laikyn Trahan, Hannah liamson of McAlester; two granddaughters, Vickie Sanders brothers, Cecil Thompson, Arlie “AV” Vernon and Oliver Chitty, Baylee Jay, Mason Jay, Cameron Dougharty, Zane Tra- Rhyne with husband Steve of Broken Bow and Juanita Wil- “Bub” Crews. han, Cayse Dougharty, Makayla Dougharty, Brenton Trahan, liamson of McAlester; 16 great-grandkids; one great-great He is survived by sons, Edward with wife Rose Anne Weston Dougharty; and numerous nieces and nephews. grandson; and a host of friends. (Stevens) Crews of Medford, Ore. and Gary with wife Kim (Walker) Crews of Crescent City, Calif.; daughter, Barbara Anthony Wayne Willis Donald Eugene Horton Jean (Crews) Plotner with husband Rick of Hugo; brother, Oliver Joseph Crews of Dallas; eight grandchildren; two Anthony Wayne Willis, 58, passed Donald Eugene Horton, 77, of Bo- great-grandchildren; as well as other relatives and friends. away on Jan. 13, 2014. He was born koshe passed away Jan. 11, 2014, in in Talihina on Nov. 18, 1955. his home following a lengthy illness. At 18 he joined the Army and was Donald was born Aug. 19, 1936, in stationed in Germany and received Milton, to Guy Quincy and Montie Leona Ruth Wilson an honorable discharge. The majority Olean (LeFlore) Horton. Donald de- of his career was as a dialysis tech- voted his life to his wife and family. Leona Ruth Wilson was born nician. For the past 10 years, Tony He worked for many years in a fertil- in Antlers on Sept. 28, 1935, the focused on various volunteer work izer plant and later years in the oil daughter of Dickey John and within his community. In 2007, he field, pumping gas wells. He enjoyed Myrtle Bohanon Impson. She married Terilyn, who shared his life’s hunting, fishing and golfing when died on Dec. 2, 2013, in Okla- passion for helping others. Another passion of Tony’s was find- younger. As age came along most of his life was devoted to homa City. ing homes for dogs he had come across throughout the years. clearing the farm land where he lived and working with the Leona grew up in Antlers where Tony is survived by his wife, Terilyn; mother, Lillie; aunt, cattle. He was baptized into Christ at the Bokoshe Church of she attended Goodland Academy Ann; niece, Megan; two sisters; brother; and many friends. Christ. and later graduated from Antlers Donald was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Jerry High School. Horton; sister, Lena Ann Walker. In 1955, she married Randall Bryan Derek Beall Donald is survived by his wife of 55 years, Melba of the Wilson in Antlers. They were home; two sons, Donald Jr. with wife Susan of Muldrow, married for 50 years until his death in 2005. Bryan Derek Beall, 38, passed Randy Horton of Bokoshe; three grandsons, Jason, Jonathan After their marriage they moved to Chickasha, where she away on Jan. 10, 2014, in Hugo. and Jacob Horton; two granddaughters, Stephanie Ortiz and worked as an inspector at Maremont which later became Ga- Bryan Derek Beall was born Feb. Julie Anderson; two step grandchildren, Makayla & T.W.; briel. She retired from Gabriel after many years of service. 17, 1975, at Lakenheath Air Force four great-grandchildren; brothers, Loren Horton of Bokoshe, Leona was a member of St. York Baptist Church in Marlow. Base, England. He had lived most Joe Horton with wife Sharon of Rogers, Ark.; sisters-in-law, Leona was a cancer survivor for over 10 years. She enjoyed of his life in Hugo, graduating from Joy Arter with husband Phillip of Bokoshe, Billye Vincent of reading her Bible, and making and buying jewelry. She deep- Hugo High School in 1993. He at- Bokoshe and Delcina Saling with husband Tracy of Bokoshe; ly loved and enjoyed all of her grandchildren. tended SOSU after high school and brother-in-law, Tim Tanksley with wife Sharon of Bokoshe; She was preceded in death by both parents, Dickey John has worked at the Choctaw Casino nieces, nephews, and many friends. Impson and Myrtle Bohanon Impson; her husband, Randall in Grant for the past seven years, Wilson; one sister, Mildred Daisy Walker; four brothers, currently as a Slot Shift Manager. Dickey John Impson Jr., Finis Ewing Impson, David Warren Bryan married Amanda Farnsworth on Oct. 17, 2009, in Ruth Ann 'Moie' Coleman Impson and Preston Wayne Impson; as well as two infant Hugo. He loved his family and friends, playing with his kids siblings. and watching football as he was an avid OU fan. Ruth Ann “Moie” Coleman, 83, of She is survived by four daughters, Margaret McWilliams He was preceded in death by one brother, Stephen Beall Fort Smith, Ark. passed away Aug. with husband Larry, Tracy Wilson and Sandy Wilson all of Jr.; grandparents, Gene and Gladys Prater, David and Pau- 31, 2013. Oklahoma City and Donna Tawkoyty of San Antonio; one line Beall and Robert Farnsworth; uncles, Don Prater, and She was born on July 29, 1930 in son, Michael Wilson with wife Nancy of Waukesha, Wis.; Michael Beall. Spiro, to Willis and Lula Mae (Ev- ten grandchildren, Caleb, Zachary, and Kendall McWilliams, Bryan is survived by his wife, Amanda Beall of the home; ans) Broom. She was a retired sur- James Johnson, Jared Wilson, Phillip Tawkoyty, Benjamin, his children, Brandon Lee Beall and Tayla Marie Beall of the gical nurse from Sparks Regional Sarah, Abigail and Katherine Wilson; and five sisters, Clau- home; mother, Marti Beall of Hugo; father, Stephen Beall with Medical Center and formerly active dine Wheeler, Sophia Linda Impson, Emma Lee Nelson, wife Melody of Bonham, Texas; in-laws, Ricky and Nita Farn- in the Choctaw Senior Citizens Cen- Elizabeth Ann Impson and Marchelene Davis. sworth of Soper; grandmother-in-law, Lavonn Farnsworth of ter in Spiro and was of the Catholic Hugo; great-aunt, Martha Moody of Lewisville, Texas; stepsis- faith. ters, Melissa Harper of Hugo, and Cheryl Cooper of Bonham, She is survived by her husband Billy Gene Coleman of Fort Texas; brother-in-law, Kevin Farnsworth of Hugo; numerous Smith, Ark.; two sons, Billy D. Coleman with wife Ruth of Lavada (Crutchfield) Parker cousins, other relatives, and a host of friends and co-workers. Fort Smith, Ark. and Bobby G. Coleman with wife Martha of Fort Smith, Ark.; two sisters, Madge Carter of Spiro and Lavada (Crutchfield) Parker, 84, Shirley Koci of Topeka, Kan.; four grandchildren, Christi of Bokoshe was born Dec. 20, 1929, Deborah 'Debby' Lynn Young Mathews, Carrie Hill and Alex Coleman all of Fort Smith, in Bokoshe to Edward and Velma Ark. and Nicholas Coleman of Dallas, Texas; and four great- (Pulliam) Crutchfield and passed Deborah “Debby” Lynn Young, grandchildren, Noah and Jeremiah Mathews and Coleman away Jan. 7, 2014, in Claremore. 50, was born on Feb. 2, 1963, in and Chloe Hill. Lavada retired from McDon- Rockland, Maine to Loren Arthur alds after 30 years. She was a very and Julia Merlene (Redden) Young Richard Douglas Swaim friendly person who met no strang- and passed from this life on Dec. 23, ers. She was a giving person and 2013, in Durant. Richard Douglas Swaim, 59, loved to go to Choctaw Pow-Wow's Debby moved to Bryan County in passed away Dec. 24, 2013 after a in Oklahoma. She enjoyed camping 1985. She then moved to Boone, NC two year battle with cancer. and fishing. in 2000 to be closer to her daughter Richard was born in Phoenix She was preceded in death by her parents; two nephews, and grandchildren and she returned to Daniel G. Swaim and Patricia Kenen Crutchfield and Ronnie W. Cloud; and one brother- to Durant in Nov. 2013. She worked Swaim. Richard was raised in the in-law, Paul Dill. in retail as a cashier and was of the Church of Christ Faith. Valley and graduated from Bour- She is survived by one daughter, Ronette Parker of Tulsa; She enjoyed jigsaw puzzles, playing Scrabble and cards and gade High School. Richard was a one son, James P. Parker with wife Shirley of Broken Arrow; watching comedies, romantic movies, going to the beach and printer all of his adult life. Richard five sisters, Wanda Riley with husband Austin of Panama, collecting lighthouses and coins and listening to rock music. loved to fish and camp out in the Shelba McConnell of Brea, Calif., Barbara Fowler of Lake Her favorite group was Pink Floyd, but above all she dearly mountains, especially with his son, Forest, Calif., Beverly Carey with husband Ralph of New cherished her children and grandchildren and family. Daniel. Richard was proud to be a member of the Choctaw River, Ariz. and Karla Dill of Owasso; three brothers, One- Debby was preceded in death by her father, Loren Arthur Nation of Oklahoma. al Crutchfield of Downey, Calif., J.E. Crutchfield with wife Young Sr.; brothers, Clyde and Loren Young Jr.; stepfather, Richard was preceded in death by his father, Daniel Mary of Tulsa and W.T. Crutchfield with wife Glenda of Mc- Eddie Hider; and grandparents, Clyde and Ilene Young and Swaim; and grandparents, B.J. and Murler Black of Prescott. Curtain; five grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; nu- Jess and Pearl Redden. Survived by mother, Patricia Semlich with stepfather merous of nieces, nephews, friends and loved ones. Debby is survived by her children, David Capri with wife Charles Semlich of Chino Valley, Ariz.; brother, William Sarah of St. Louis, Mo. and Amy Freeman with husband Ray Swaim with wife Edwina of Phoenix; sister, Sharon Led- of Boone, NC; mother, Julia Hider of Caddo; sisters, Loretta better with husband Jim of Phoenix; four children, Amber Joe 'J.E.' Crutchfield Payton with husband William of Balsam Grove and Susan Olmstead with husband Larry of Woodstock, Ill., Eva Paiva Lawson of Durant; brother, Robert Young of Mead; grandchil- with husband Matt of Florida and Lilly Swaim and Daniel dren, Dyllan Walls, Jonas Austin, Zachariah Capri, Lela Capri Swaim in Glendale, Ariz.; three grandchildren, Caleb, Aidan Joe “J.E.” Crutchfield of Catoosa, and Cheyenne Capri; half-sister, Marjorie Smith; and numer- and Leah of Woodstock, Ill.; several aunts, nephews, nieces, son of the late Edward and Velma ous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and friends. cousins especially cousin, Philip Swaim and nephew Jason (Pulliam) Crutchfield, died on Jan. Lugo of Phoenix; he also had many friends; Kevin and The- 17, 2014, in Catoosa. resa who took care of Richard in their home, also Jackie. Born and raised in Bokoshe with Jerry David eight siblings, J.E. was an avid St. Louis Cardinals and OU fan. He Jerry David, 59, passed away on Rhonda Glover Easley coached pee wee baseball and loved Dec. 25, 2013 in Sawyer. to go catfishing with friends and Jerry was born on Nov. 27, 1954, Rhonda Glover Easley, 48, of family. J.E. was a member of St. in Odessa, Texas to Wyndle and Canadian went to be with the Lord Thomas More Catholic Church. He Nadean David. In 1973, Jerry gradu- on Feb. 21, 2014, in Atlanta, Texas. served in the Navy from 1952-56 and was a Korean War vet- ated from Fort Towson High School. Rhonda was born Dec. 5, 1965, eran. After the war, he married Mary Restine and moved to He was a member of the Fort Tow- at Little Rock Air Force Base, Jack- son State Champion basketball team sonville, Ark. She was employed California before returning to Oklahoma. J.E. worked as a and the MVP of the Tournament of with Choctaw Defense and attend- machinist until retirement at age 65. Champions. After graduation, he ed Lakewood Christian Church in He was preceded in death by his son, Kevin Crutchfield; attended Southeastern Oklahoma McAlester. sister Lavada (Crutchfield) Parker, Virginia (Smith) Crutch- State University. She is survived by her husband, field, Paul Dill and Ronnie W. Cloud. Jerry was trained as an EMT and worked at David’s Health Bob Henry of Canadian; her par- He is survived by his wife Mary Crutchfield of the home; Center. He enjoyed to visit with his family and friends. Al- ents, Sue Parlier with husband Ron daughter, Theresa Martin with husband Doyle of Locust though Jerry faced many challenges in his life, his faith and of Atlanta, Texas, Charles Glover with wife Linda of Florida; Grove; son, Steve with wife Kathryn of Wagoner; brothers, his commitment to family remained strong. one son, Tyrel Robison of Hartshorne; three daughters, Ali- Oneal Crutchfield of Bokoshe and W.T. Crutchfield with wife He was preceded in death by his grandson, Michael Coker. sha Mouser with husband Curtis of Queen City, Texas, Ra- Glenda of McCurtain; five sisters, Wanda Riley with hus- Jerry is survived by his children, April Beene of Sawyer, chel Landrum with husband Brandon of Redwater, Texas band Austin of Panama, Shelba McConnell of Brea, Calif., Nancy and Carlos Castillo of Sawyer; parents, Wyndle and and Brittany Easley of Van, Texas; two brothers, Dale Glover Barbara Fowler of Lake Forest, Calif., Beverly Carey with Nadean David of Sawyer; siblings, Doug David of Idabel and of Bossier City, La. and James Glover of Three Rivers, Texas; husband Ralph of New River, Ariz. and Karla Dill of Owasso; Cathey and Larry Hooker of Clayton; and numerous other three grandchildren, Riley Payne, Dean Landrum and Avery six grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and numerous family and friends. Landrum; and a number of other relatives. cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. BISKINIK | March 2014 11

Choctaw Business Development Center uniquely positioned INCUBATOR STATS to spark job creation for Southeast Oklahoma As local, state and national solely on efforts to attract existing ized entrepreneurial workshops still a relatively new industry, government agencies examine businesses from other locations, and training for business owners programs around the world have ways to create jobs and turn many organizations like the through its facility in Durant and racked up impressive results that around the struggling economy, Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma are through partners and community demonstrate the important role = business incubation programs are recognizing the need to help local centers throughout the 10.5-coun- incubators play in stimulating featuring prominently in the residents build new businesses ty tribal area. The facility will also economic growth and creating jobs. FOR EVERY 47-69 LOCAL debate – as well they should. from the ground up through offer affordable office space and For example, the National Business $10K INVESTED JOBS CREATED Entities like the Choctaw Business business incubators. working areas for members. Incubation Association estimates U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration Development Center (CBDC) help By focusing on developing a A 2008 study conducted by that in 2005 alone, North American entrepreneurs turn their ideas new generation of entrepreneurs consulting firm Grant Thornton incubators assisted more than into viable businesses, promote – most of whom have ties to the for the U.S. Department of 27,000 start-up companies that $744.00 innovation and job creation by 10.5-county tribal area – commu- Commerce Economic Develop- provided full-time employment for PER JOB providing emerging companies nities are helping to build ment Administration found that more than 100,000 workers and with business support services companies that will create jobs business incubators produce new generated annual revenue of more and resources tailored to young and spark economic growth in the jobs at a low cost to the govern- than $17 billion. firms to increase their chances of region for years to come. And ment. The report, Construction According to Assistant Chief Gary success. because these programs provide Grants Program Impact Assess- Batton, “Like many others, I have

As any entrepreneur can attest, targeted business assistance to ment Report, found that for every faith in the ability of entrepreneurs INCUBATORS starting a new business isn’t an young firms at their earliest stages $10,000 in Economic Develop- to jump-start our economy by $126.00 INFRASTRUCTURE easy task. of development – when they’re ment Administration (EDA) funds generating revenue and creating new PER JOB Most business owners know most vulnerable – business invested in business incubation jobs. But many times, they need a every detail of their product or incubators help support new programs, an estimated 47 to 69 guiding hand to help them turn their INCUBATORS VS INFRASTRUCTURE service, but many lack all of the ventures that have a greater-than- local jobs are generated. As a ideas into viable businesses. The SPENDING skills they need to turn their ideas average chance of success. result, business incubators create CBDC is one of the important U.S. Department of Commerce Economic into successful companies. For the Choctaw Nation, jobs at far less cost than do other initiatives we are undertaking to Development Administration Business incubation programs are encouraging and supporting EDA investments, such as roads create real and sustainable opportu- uniquely positioned to help entrepreneurship is critical to and bridges, industrial parks, nity for the Choctaw Nation.” 27,000 STARTUPS entrepreneurs access resources creating sustainable opportunity commercial buildings, and sewer As government agencies at all GENERATED $17 BILLION through the incubator, business for its members. The goal of the and water projects. In fact, the levels continue to debate how to IN ANNUAL REVENUE community, local colleges and CBDC is to contribute to a self study found that incubators revive the economy, it’s important National Business Incubation Association universities, and other business perpetuating economic “engine” provide up to 20 times more jobs that incubators – a critical compo- assistance programs to help them for the Choctaw Nation by than community infrastructure nent of the entrepreneurial support develop the skills they need to promoting and creating economic projects at a federal cost per job of infrastructure that have proven grow successful companies. development, sustainability and between $126 and $144, com- themselves to be significant Around the world, entrepre- prosperity among small business pared with between $744 and generators of new jobs – be at the neurs are playing an increasingly entrepreneurs and owners. $6,972 for other infrastructure forefront of these discussions. important role in transforming The CBDC offers one-on-one projects. Learn more about the CBDC at economies. Rather than relying mentoring, coaching and special- Although business incubation is www.ChoctawMeansBusiness.com. Winds of Change 2014 Career Expo

Choctaw Nation Going Green booth. Keynote speaker, Brian Aspell raps to the audience.

Winds of Change Career Expo was a success with 2100 attendees that meet with 140 training facilities and employers at the McAlester Expo Center.

Photos by DEIDRE ELROD | Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Chase Thompson, a Leflore High School student, Chief Pyle welcomes at- uses a welder stimulater at the career expo. tendees to the expo.

Southeastern Oklahoma State University recruit- ers Hope Zachary, Jennifer Kemp and Emily Patter- son talk with attendees.

Cheyhoma Dugger, Olivia Johnson and Ashlee Sartin from Haileyville High School stop by the Choctaw Nation Going Green booth.

Students try to solve the puzzles at the Native American Business Resource Cen- ter booth.

Students learn about the botball robotics.

Students join in as keynote speaker Brian Aspell Kiamichi Technology Center Pre-Engineering pro- Students sign the buffalo to commit to raps to the audience. gram allows students to enter into robotic races. exploring career options. 12 BISKINIK | March 2014 Through a New Lens Choctaw Jewelry maker, George Willis George Willis heads to Choctaw days in Summer By DEIDRE ELROD hand. Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Willis closed his retail store in 1990 Jewelry maker George Willis is one the Choctaw artists and started who will feature his work at Choctaw Days "Through a traveling and doing New Lens" on June 27-28 at the Smithsonian’s National Indian art shows. Museum of the American Indian in Washington, D.C. The first competi- Willis was born in Guanha, Texas, and graduated high tion that he school from Abernathey, Texas. He attended the Univer- entered was sity of Texas on an athletic scholarship and majored in Inter-Tribal Indian Art. “My last semester, I took a jewelry class, the only A+ Ceremonial in 1990 I made in college.” he says, laughing, “I sort of found my where he won three niche there.” awards. “The prize After college Willis spent several years in the Marine money wasn’t that Corps and was later discharged with a service-connected great but the disability. ribbons were He then went to a trade school to learn jewelry making pretty,” he said. as a trade. He said, “the university was very strong on Throughout the years, he has Choctaw Nation: Bret Moss design and very weak on mechanics and the trade school George Willis sets up his booth at the San Diego Breast Plate made by George Willis, show- was just the opposite.” traveled and community meeting. cased at the San Diego community meeting. In 1966, he opened up his own shop where he worked showed his work in with other jewelry stores repairing jewelry. Later, he had 19 states and won awards in nine of them, though not all the opportunity to take over a retail jewelry business so were competitions. jewelry I didn’t have any conditions to follow or restrict he moved to Rancho Santa Fe, Calif. He eventually At Red Earth, he won first place in the 1990s and then a me,” said Willis. relocated his company to Carlsbad, Calif., where he couple of years later he won best of division. In 2000, he In his designs, he uses the diamond pattern that is used currently resides. was Indian Artist of the Year at the Indian Arts and Crafts on traditional Choctaw clothing and stickball themes. He In the late 1970s, through the Rehabilitation Act Willis Association. And in 2010 he won two awards through the also incorporates horses, birds, buffalos and other animal received work through the Veterans Affairs teaching, VA where he won first place in jewelry and carving for the designs in his jewelry. Willis has also used buffalo horns disabled veterans the jewelry trade. He said, “It was sort visual and performing arts occupation. to carve into pendants, earrings and bracelets. of my opportunity to put water back in the well.” Some of his work has been on display at the Renwick Willis is looking forward to the experience at Choc- Willis said his most challenging student was a triple Gallery at Washington, D.C. The Renwick Gallery is an taw Days this summer. amputee, blind in one eye and deaf in one ear. After extension of the Smithsonian American Art Museum for “It’s one thing to be recognized by these various working with him for a while, the student was able to set contemporary American artists. places I’ve been around the country,” he says. “It’s a stone, smaller than a pencil eraser, with his other “Within the Choctaw tribe, since we didn’t make even bigger to be recognized by my tribe.” Multi-media artist, Marcus Amerman Choctaw Artist, Marcus Amerman returns to Choctaw Days By ZACH MAXWELL Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Multi-media artist Marcus Amerman will be returning to Choctaw Days at the Smithsonian's Museum of the American Indian this June, together with his brother Roger Amerman. Amerman, born in Phoenix and currently living in Idaho, is looking forward to the cultural experience in Washington, D.C. While he describes his recent time as a “sabbatical,” he is collaborating with other well-known native artists such as glassblower Preston Singletary and Chickasaw artist Dustin Mater. “I work in a lot of mediums so I’ve always got a few things going,” Amerman says. One of those “things” falls into his theory that “art is war:” A series of 30 occupational helmets with various animal antlers attached for an upcoming performance. “Almost anything is material for inspiration,” he says. “When I first moved to Idaho, I saw this guy selling all these deer horns.” The imagery inspired Amerman’s latest project as a Photo Provided David Fitzgerald response to humanity’s “herd mentality” in restless, freedom- Amerman shows his photo-realistic portrait renderings in beadwork. Pottery done by Amerman. starved locations like the Ukraine and Venezuela. The accompanying shields are made from the hubcaps of classic cars (“sort of an Indian Mad Max,” Amerman describes, sors of his own Choctaw people. beadwork, his fashion has appeared in ELLE magazine, a borrowing from the iconic Mel Gibson character). “I’m fond of the Smithsonian for recognizing the shirt collection at the American Museum of Natural Together, the helmets and shields create “little totems of relevance of my tribe and its contributions,” he said. “It’s History and a runway show in South Africa. power,” Amerman says. He often “feeds on the world” for fun to be there, to visit with all the Choctaws and partici- As a performance artist and creator of “Buffalo Man,” artistic inspiration, but often with homage to the timeless pate in the (social) dances.” Amerman has performed on the stages of the Santa Fe legacy of pre-contact native expression. Amerman received his B.A. in fine arts from Whitman Opera and the National Museum of the American Indian. In his work with Singletary, he is drawing on the artistry College. His most renowned work is in photo-realistic He was also featured on the cover of “Indian Country,” a of mound-building cultures – the Mississippian predeces- portrait renderings in beadwork. While best known for this photography book.

Jones Academy Jones Academy students receive technology gift When Hartshorne High School U. S. support of research instruments and receives History teacher Tony Skinner assigns his facilities, research collaborations, and 11th grade class the obligatory 15-page integrated education and research pro- term paper, the task usually engages Jones grams. memorialJones Academy recently received quilt a Academy students, tutors, dorm and At this time, the equipment is servicing Lakota Star Quilt in honor of Alan R. administrative staff. If there are 20 Jones approximately 120 Jones Academy junior Lovesee, a former member of the Jones Academy students in that class (like this high and high school students and 55 Academy Foundation Board of Directors. Photo Provided year), that means students and staff must elementary students in grades 1-6. The gift The quilt was initially given to Lovesee in plan for 20 term papers. The students are is an invaluable resource in assisting the 1986 by Dr. Lionel Bordeaux, president of extension,) thus symbolizing immortal- assigned different subjects, each topic with students to develop their learning and Sinte Glaska University, as a gift for Mr. ity.* Lovesee was honored to show the a minimum of 15 resources to be used. This academic skills. Recently, the Choctaw Lovesee’s many years of service in govern- quilt to elementary schools in Maryland requires hours of research and various types Nation IT Department installed some of ment and policy-making for Native Ameri- and to teach them about Native Ameri- of materials and equipment to process the the computers at the elementary school cans. Sinte Glaska University was one of the can culture. He passed away on Sept. 1, assignment. The key is having the tools and and uploaded the desktops with age-ap- first tribally-controlled colleges in the United 2012. the technology to accomplish the task. propriate software to reinforce classroom States. In his lifetime, Lovesee served as Lovesee had wanted the honorary gift to Now, thanks to a contribution from the instruction the students were receiving. Counsel to the U.S. House of Representatives’ be given to Jones Academy so that all U.S. Corp of Engineers and the Oklahoma Superintendent of Jones Academy Brad Committee on Education and Labor. He was children there might enjoy its beauty and NSF EPSCoR Program, Jones Academy Spears expressed his appreciation to Gina a champion for Native Americans’ interests in reverent meaning. The school was grateful students will have the resources on campus Miller, the Outreach Coordinator for education. He also authored and advocated to receive this gift from Lovesee’s widow, to complete their research projects. The Oklahoma NSF EPSCoR Program in a legislative initiatives for the Choctaw Nation. Rose Ann Lovesee. It hangs prominently at National Science Foundation (NSF) and letter. “As an administrator, I am always The Owinja, which means quilt in the the entrance of the Inez Sitter Elementary the Oklahoma Experimental Program to pressed to find ways to improve our efforts Lakota dialect, is an expression of respect Library and Media Center. It is a reminder Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR) and provide our students with the resourc- and recognition. The figure of the of the sacrifice and service that the Love- recently donated 13 laptops and 23 es they need in this fast-paced and ever- morning star is an important symbol in sees have rendered to Native Americans computers (each including desktop, changing world of technology.” Spears Sioux ceremonies, feasts and memorials. across the United States including the monitor, mouse and keyboard) to the went on to thank Ms. Miller, NSF EPSCoR, It represents the direction from which Choctaw Nation. The gift also speaks of school. According to the website, EPS- and the U.S. Corp of Engineers for their spirits travel to earth and is a link Alan and Rose Ann Lovesee’s devotion to CoR’s central goal is to increase the state’s generosity and immense help in assisting between the living and the dead (in children and education. research competitiveness through strategic Jones Academy students. BISKINIK | March 2014 13

attacking across the Red River. By the end of supplies and force at Boggy Depot, some 10 1863, a stalemate had been reached with miles away, Phillips pushed his force down Union forces in control of Indian Territory the old Butterfield Road (AKA Boggy Depot north of the Arkansas River, and Confeder- Road) to Boggy Depot. The two to three hour Fort McCulloch ate forces south of the river. Fort Smith had delay at Muddy Boggy was sufficient time for fallen and General Blunt moved his head- the remaining supplies to be removed from quarters there, leaving Phillips in command Boggy Depot and the Confederate force to A mostly forgotten Choctaw historical site of the Indian Regiment at Fort Gibson (being make a hasty retreat towards Fort Washita. rechristened as Fort Blunt). Confederate Unlike the majority of places along his route, setbacks in much of the Trans-Mississippi Phillips spared the houses and property at Fort McCulloch Editor’s Note: This Department (including Indian Territory) Boggy Depot, in pursuit of the Confederate was built shortly provided an opportunity to take Indian force ahead of him. after the Battle of month’s Iti Fabvssa is u Territory out of the war and strike a real Phillips continued on to Nail’s Crossing, a Elkhorn Tavern (as part one in a three-part Iti Fab ssa blow at Texas. The Phillips Expedition, as it stage station on the old Butterfield Road and it was known by series by James Briscoe has become known, called for a main strike went into encampment. Phillips dubbed his the Confederates or on Fort McCulloch. force moving through Indian Territory and encampment Camp Kagi. In a dispatch to Pea Ridge as the meeting up with fresh supplies and fresh Fort Gibson, Phillips described his position Union called it) in cavalry at Boggy Depot. From Boggy Depot, as ‘…safely encamped behind Pike’s ditch- the Spring of 1862. For a time, the post was there were a number of roads leading: south es…’, undoubtedly in reference to the then the largest and most fortified Confederate into Texas; east to Armstrong Academy unoccupied Fort McCulloch. On the 14th of position in Indian Territory, and yet so little (being used as the temporary Council House February, Phillips sent out letters to the was written about it that a traveler in 1870 of the Choctaw), Fort Towson, southern various tribes offering amnesty if they wrote in the diary of his trip down the Texas/ Arkansas and northern Louisiana; west renounced ties to the Confederacy. Butterfield Road, “Today we passed an towards Fort Washita, Fort Arbuckle and the It was clear by this point that Moonlight’s earthen fort with rifle pits. Whose it was and Great Plains; and southerly to Bonham, force was not coming. A larger concern was for what we did not learn.” The earthen fort Sherman, Dennison and elsewhere in Texas. the absence of Major Wright and his supplies The earthen fort Edmonds found on Joseph Edmonds spoke of was undoubtedly Phillips left Fort Blunt (Gibson) on Jan. (not to mention the 500 men with him). In the Texas/Butterfield Road. one of two gun positions guarding the west 29, 1864, with a force of between 1500 and his report of February 14, Phillips reported side of the crossing of Blue River on his trip 2000 men. The Second Indian Brigade, having a force of 1500 men and 4 field guns. down the old road. The two gun positions unsubstantiated fact. Supplies were scarce at under Major Moses Wright was sent east to With no hope of achieving the original goals, were a small part of a military post that Fort McCulloch and the quartermaster, as Rhea’s Mill to acquire grain and provisions Phillips decided to make a stab at Fort covered over two square miles and housed Woodruff recalls, came into the possession of for the expedition. Wright was to then march Washita, only 10 miles to the west. Phillips (for a time) over 3000 troops of Choctaw, a quantity of marble wall paper. The wall down the old Texas Road and meet up with hand-picked the best riders/fighters, best Chickasaw, Arkansas and Texas military paper was cut into pieces and printed up as Phillips at Boggy depot. Phillips’s plan also horses, best weapons from the force, along units. military script, redeemable in $5 lots. called for reinforcement by Col. Thomas with one field gun, for the planned attack. The fort was built by General Albert Pike, About two weeks after the arrival of the Moonlight and the Fourteenth Kansas The remainder of the force was sent back to who became the ranking Confederate officer Eleventh Arkansas Battery, the commander Cavalry at Boggy Depot, marching southwest Fort Blunt. On the morning of Feb. 17, in Indian Territory after the death of General of the battery decided that the guns needed from their camp at Skullytown. Wright’s Phillips led his force of 450 out towards Fort Benjamin McCulloch at the Battle of Elkhorn to be fired. The unannounced firing caused brigade would be needed to resupply the Washita. Tavern. Pike’s orders were to defend Indian pandemonium among the troops. The only expedition and Moonlight’s Regiment would The road between Blue River and Fort Territory and he personally did not believe other time that cannons were fired at the be needed as fresh troops for a push into Washita runs along a low-broad uplands that there were sufficient forces or supplies post occurred after the Plains Indians to the northern Texas. prairie flanked by numerous wooded gullies to defend the entire Indian Territory. His west heard of the earlier event. Since Pike The main historical opinion, at this point, and ravines and was still visible on aerial basic strategy was to defend the territory was eager to make friends with the Coman- is that Phillips started out from Fort Blunt photographs from the 1940s. The route was south of the Arkansas River, leaving a che, Kiowa, Plains Apache, Caddo, Delaware heading due west and then turned south and excellent for travel but was also vulnerable to smaller force north of the river for tactical and other groups living in the western part of headed for North Fork Town on the Texas ambush, as Phillips would have been well raiding and general harassment of Union the Indian Territory, a visit was arranged for Road. After hearing no word from Wright or aware. forces and supply lines by General Stand them at the fort. Pike had the Moonlight, Phillips marched Cooper was well aware of Phillips plans Watie’s Cherokee mounted regiment and battery take a section of cannon south on the Texas Road to its and had sent word for Col. W.P. Adair to William Quantrill’s guerillas. to the edge of the post and fire junction with the old Butterfield bring his regiment of Cherokee Mounted Pike arrived in the vicinity of Nails live rounds for their benefit. Road, southeast to Boggy Depot, Rifles down the Texas Road. Cooper was Crossing on the Blue River in late March, One of the more stoic leaders and then south to Nails Crossing going to slip his troops past the Federal 1862, with about half of the combined Indian commented that the gun ‘shoot on the Blue River. Phillip’s route column, join forces with Adair and force and Texas forces in the territory. The twice’ (as an exploding shell hit began with moving west (away Phillips south towards the Red River. As remainder of the troops, under Gen. Douglas and exploded half a mile away). from the Texas Road) into Creek Phillips was approaching Fort Washita, Cooper’s command, were left on the Arkan- Men with the battery were country as far as Hillabee and Cooper was trying to slip past him. Cooper’s sas River. Pike had chosen this location as surprised to find that the then south to North Fork Town troops were under strict orders not to engage the most defensible and important cross- gentleman spoke English. and then down the Texas Road. the Federals, but sniped and skirmished with roads in the Indian Territory. The bulk of Trade between the soldiers and A reconnaissance in force was them anyway. Some of the Texas troops both his troops and those of Cooper were the Plains Indians was brisk, sent farther west to Edwards (a initiated attacks on the Federal column and Choctaw and Chickasaw, and the placement particularly in handkerchiefs. A trading post community near old it didn’t take long for Phillips to suspect a of the new post was also (more than likely) short time later, General Thom- Camp Holmes) and then down trap was being set. Phillips wheeled his force intended as a gesture to the Choctaw and as Hindman, in command of Confederate Corps the old Dragoon trail from Camp and retreated north along the old Dragoon Chickasaw Nations that they were not being the Trans-Mississippi Depart- of Engineers Plan for Holmes to Boggy Depot. Road to avoid whatever force may be coming abandoned. ment, ordered the guns to Fort McCulloch. Southward from Hillabee to to meet him on the Texas Road. Phillips Work began on the construction of a series Arkansas. the Canadian River, Phillips arrived back at Fort Blunt on the 29th of of earthworks, strategically placed to protect The hey-day of Fort McCull- began experiencing skirmishes February. the troops and control traffic on the various och lasted less than eight months. In August, with small groups in ever increasing frequen- In the end, Union and Confederate roadways across the area. The first earth- 1862, Hindman ordered Pike to bring his cy. After Crossing the Canadian River, south commanders dismissed Phillips ‘invasion’ as works were fortified berms and ditches as troops to the defense of Fort Smith. Pike, of North Fork Town, his route was down the a minor and inconsequential raid. Feb. 29, detailed by the Confederate Corps of who had originally secured the treaties with Texas Road. Phillip’s main concern was 1864, was also the start of a major council Engineers. It is presumed that the drawing the Tribes of Indian Territory, found himself having heard no word from Moonlight’s with General Samuel B. Maxey, now in made by the Corps of Engineers was the in conflict with the terms of those treaties. force, upon which Phillips’ strategy depend- command of the Department of Arkansas ‘plan’ for the defenses rather than what Pike The Indian brigades were raised for self ed. Phillips was unaware of Confederate (and Texas and Indian Territory). The actually had constructed. The ‘plan’ shows defense and were not to be taken out of moves being made on Fort Smith and the Choctaw and Chickasaw Nations renewed four open sided earthworks on the high Indian Territory, according to treaty terms. redeployment of Moonlight’s cavalry to their support of the Confederacy and the terrace west of Nails Crossing, but only the The troops had been taken out of Indian Shullyville to counter it. Phillips left a store Plains Indians in the western part of the northwest feature matches where earthworks Territory for the Battle of Elkhorn Tavern in of corn for Moonlight at North Fork Town territory also pledged loyalty to the cause. were actually found. March and were unfairly criticized for and then headed southerly towards Per- Fort McCulloch, by the end of the Civil The basic design for the post was a series ‘savage’ behavior by Confederate officers. In ryville. From Perryville, Phillips followed the War, was mostly forgotten and has never of defensive points that generally supported lieu of disobeying a direct order or further old Texas Road south towards the Red River. been adequately researched by historians or the surrounding defensive points and breaking treaty stipulations, Pike tendered Phillips surmised (correctly) that Gen. D. H. archeologists. The impact this place had on included a series of raised platform star forts his resignation from the army. Cooper was assembling a large force at Fort the Choctaw and Chickasaw peoples, and entrenchments, and possibly make-shift Hindman withheld the letter from his Washita to block his intentions on the Red however, is immense because of its place in breastworks. The defensive locations superiors, most likely in hopes of embarrass- River. Phillips also knew that most of the history of both Nations, and in Oklahoma encircled (for the most part) the occupied ing Pike. Hindman didn’t have to wait long Cooper’s forces were dispersed throughout History in general. By the same token, the portion of the post, consisting of the Quarter- before Pike (thinking he was officially the region and that a blow to Fort Washita place is associated with a host of people master’s compound, unit-sized bivouacs, resigned) penned a tirade against the entirety would be a major blow to the Confederate important in Oklahoma History. On the mechanics shops and the headquarters area. of the Confederate officer corps, specifically hold on Indian Territory. National Historical stage, Fort McCulloch Work details spent the day excavating and those in command of the Trans-Mississippi One small rag-tag group (around 150 men) was one of the last encampments of Stand building the defensive points. This work was Department. Gen. Cooper, with Hindman’s under Cpt. Adam Nail was encamped at the Watie, the last Confederate general officer to difficult in the shallow rocky soil and half of blessings, sent an armed detail to Fort point where the old Butterfield and Texas surrender, ending the Civil War. Albert Pike the force was continually on sick call. Pike McCulloch and had Pike arrested for treason. Roads meet (near present-day Atoka) on the would go on to found the Masonic Grand commented on the absentee list and ended The troops at Fort McCulloch were sent Middle (now Muddy) Boggy River. On Feb. Lodge of the Scottish Rite in Washington up furloughing a percentage of his force, to elsewhere and the post was only sporadically 13, Phillips’ vanguard skirmishers under Cpt. D.C. and author of many important works go home and help with the planting and occupied through the remainder of the Civil Charles Willets found Nail’s encampment and translations of Sanskrit texts. William harvest chores. War. and launched a surprise attack. Forty seven Phillips would go on to become a U.S. Supplies and arms (much of which Pike The location was occupied by Union forces Confederates were killed in the brief melee Congressman from Kansas. paid for with his own money) were diverted under Col. William Phillips for a brief period but the rest were able to retreat after a brief to other locations, and pay for the troops was in February 1864 during a thrust aimed at defense. Hoping to catch the Confederate Article continues in April’s BISKINIK. virtually nonexistent. For the most part, Choctaw and Chickasaw troopers supplied their own horses and carried bows and arrows into battle. Hunting parties, traveling onto the prairies to the west, supplied much of the food for the post. The troops from Arkansas and Texas were clothed with issue uniforms while most of the Native American troops had jackets and caps (usually) over traditional clothing from home. The post was initially garrisoned with elements of the Choctaw and Chickasaw brigades, two Arkansas batteries and infantry units, and Texas cavalry. The Creek and Seminole light cavalry were ordered to patrol the Santa Fe Road and on raiding parties along the Kansas border. Smaller units were sent to garrison posts at Armstrong Acad- emy, Boggy Depot, Camp McIntosh and elsewhere. He had eighteen field cannons (including twelve parrot rifles) and a roster of about 1500 on the daily active duty roster at any one time. Anecdotes about the post are rare. The best source of information comes from W.E. Woodruff, who published a memoir in 1903 (http://catalog.hathitrust.org/Re- cord/009535740), of his reminiscences of his Civil War years with the Eleventh Arkansas Battery. Woodruff speaks briefly of how disagreeable the trench digging was (and the nature of the food). He also mentions that the site of Fort McCulloch was the location of a fight between the Frontier Rangers and Comanches in 1828 or 1829, an as yet 14 BISKINIK | March 2014

Choctaw gathering in

Houston Jewelry maker Gale Self of Terrell explains some of his pieces to JoAnna O’Neill of Cypus, center, and mother and daughter Janna and Savannah Johnson of Tomball.

Photos by LARISSA COPELAND | Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

Chief Pyle congratulates Beverly Brown of Friendswood for winning an iPad. Bev- Kenneth and Brittany Hayes Assistant Chief Batton visits with bring their daughter, Avry, to her erly was entered into the drawing simply Chief Pyle gets a cheery hello from Grif- Choctaw potter Carolyn Young of Weath- first Choctaw gathering. by pre-registering for the meeting online fin, 7, Zora, 3, and Glenna, 5. at choctawnation.com! erford. Assistant Chief Gary Batton and Judy Allen perform Choctaw dances at the gather- ing.

Billy Eagle Road and Mandy Lawson grab a young guest from the crowd for the stealing partners dance. Submitted photo Brooke Fendley, Chief Pyle, Aleta Fendley Gee, Bob Gee, Morris Fendley and Assistant Chief Batton pose for a photo after the meeting.

At left, Chief Pyle welcomes Mi- chael Brewer and wife Jun Yang of Sugar Land. The snake dance! Chahta Anumpa Aiikhvna Kashton Young, uuu uuu 2, and his mother, Lesson of the Month Elizabeth Tobias are A Traditional Choctaw Story all smiles. Little Ants Help Turtle Shokvni Iskitini yvt Luksi Apela At left, Judy Hopkins One day Turtle came by Mary’s house. Nittak achvffah ma, Luksi yvt Meli i chuk- teach Bob Loman and Mary was in the front yard playing with ka ant ia tok. Meli yvt wanuta tikba ma Ruth Hauer to bead Choc- a stick. She threw the stick into the air. iti tvpa isht washoha hosh anta tok. Iti taw earrings. It came down and hit Mary on the head. tvpa ya vba pit pila tok. Akka mintit Meli nushkobo isso tok. Mary began to cry. Turtle laughed at Mary and said, “Ha, ha, Mary is a cry- Meli yvt yaiyvt isht ia tok. Luksi yvt Meli baby.” Mary told Turtle to quit laughing i yukpah mvt, “Heh, heh, Meli yvt yaiya,” at her, but Turtle kept saying, “Ha, ha, achi tok. Luksi yvt i yukpvt issa chi ka Mary is a crybaby.” Meli yvt im anoli tok, kia Luksi yvt, “Heh, heh, Meli yvt yaiya,” ahanchi tok. Then Mary got mad. She picked up the stick and chased Turtle. Turtle could not Yohmi ma, Meli yvt nukowa tok. Iti tvpa run fast. Mary caught Turtle and hit him ma eshi cha Luksi hlioli tok. Luksi yvt hard with the stick. The stick cracked pvlhkit balila he keyu tok. Meli yvt Luksi turtle’s shell into little pieces and he be- hokli cha chitoli hosh iti tvpa ma isht isso gan to cry. Mary got scared and ran home. tok. Iti tvpa yvt Luksi i hakshup kolit bo- Turtle was all alone. shullichi na yaiyvt isht ia tok. Meli yvt nukshopa cha i chukka pit balili tok. Some little red ants were walking nearby Luksi yvt ilap bano tok. Stephanie John-Schafer and heard Turtle crying. “Can we help of The Woodlands attends Brenda Spence of Houston you, Turtle?” they asked. Turtle said, Shokvni homma iskitini kanohmi hosh to her grandson, 8-week- “Little ants can’t help a big turtle with a tries her hand at beading. bilika ittanohowa cha Luksi yvt yaiya ka old Orion McDonald. cracked shell.’’ The ants said, “Yes, we can hvklo tok. “E chi apela hinla ho, Luksi?” help you .” Then all the ants climbed onto okla i ponaklo tok. Luksi ash osh, “Sho Turtle’s shell and sewed it together. Turtle Sisters kvni iskitini yvt luksi chito i hakshup said, “Oh, thank you, little ants.” Carolyn kowa apela he keyu,” achi tok. Shokvni Lockwood, yvt, “A, e chi apela hinla,” achi tok. Yohmi When you look at a turtle, you can see Judy Jones, ma, shokvni vhleha yvt Luksi i hakshup where Mary cracked his shell and where Joyce Bar- aboyya cha ittachunli tok. Luksi yvt, the ants sewed it together. rett and Bet- “Shokvni iskitini, chi yakoke li.” achi tok. ty Henry are happy to get Luksi ish pisa hokmvt kanimma ho Meli together at yvt i hakshup koli tok micha kanimma ho the cultural Shokvni yvt ittachunli tok a ish pisa hinla. gathering. The ‘v’ represents the Choctaw short vowel ‘a’ which makes the ‘uh’ sound. The Choctaw alphabet does not have the ‘r’ sound, so the name ‘Mary’ becomes “Meli”. www.choctawschool.com