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THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE CHOCTAW NATION OF OKLAHOMA

Serving 138,573 Choctaws Worldwide www.choctawnation.com August 2003 Issue Fishing legend films show with Choctaw leaders Promoting an anti-substance abuse message is one thing that Choctaw Chief Gregory E. Pyle and world-famous professional fisherman Jimmy Houston have in common. Another thing in com- mon is that they teamed up recently to film a fishing excursion for ESPN. While casting for the big bass in a Bryan County water- shed, the Chief and fishing legend Jimmy Houston talked nonstop, with topics ranging from “best lures” to moral and spiritual issues. Chief Pyle and Mr. Houston were joined by Assistant Chief Mike Bailey in the Bass Tracker, launching the boat shortly after day- light. As Chief Pyle reeled in the first catch of the day, the discus- sion turned to ways that people could be encouraged to “get hooked on fishing, not drugs.” This subject has been a hot topic with Jimmy Houston since news articles were printed this year about Jimmy Houston’s announcement that he refused to wear a Busch beer logo on his clothing and put the beer sponsor’s decal on his boat. This refusal means that the fishing legend has opted out of the running for BASS Angler of the Year, which he has won twice before. Houston was quoted in a Baptist Press article that he could not comply with endorsing the beer sponsor because of “ethical, moral and scriptural reasons.” When asked if he had prayed much about his decision, Houston said he hadn’t needed to pray about it at all – the decision had been made long ago not to be involved with spon- sorships from alcohol distributors. He said that he did not sell beer in his store, and he did not think it would be a good example to others to have a beer decal on his boat. “I admire the conviction of Jimmy Houston to be a living testi- mony against the use of alcohol and drugs,” said Chief Pyle. See HOUSTON on Page 3 HHS Deputy Secretary visits Choctaw tribal programs It was an historic occasion this week when U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Deputy Secretary Claude Allen visited with tribal leaders of sev- eral Oklahoma tribes, including the Choctaw Nation, Cherokee, Chickasaw, Absentee Shawnee, Citizen Potawatomi and Sac and Fox Nations. Deputy Secretary Allen is the second highest-rank- ing official at HHS, headed by Secretary Tommy Thompson. It was the first time an official from HHS of this high ranking visited the Choctaw Nation. Wednesday evening, June 25, and Thursday, June 26, were fo- Eric O’Kelley is presented a Choctaw Nation Tribal cused on the Choctaw Nation. Scholarship by Executive Director Jack Pate for be- The Deputy Secretary and other Dale Keel, Oklahoma City IHS Area Director, along with Regional Director Linda ing one of this year’s top JOM students. leaders from HHS met with tribal officials and directors on issues Penn and Deputy Secretary Claude Allen of HHS came to Choctaw Nation to visit and concerns affecting tribal with Chief Gregory E. Pyle and other tribal leaders. members who receive services Top students honored from the Choctaw Nation. Secretary, and Patrik Johansson, Deputy Secretary Allen. themselves what our tribe has to Top Johnson O’Malley students in the The HHS team present in- Minority Health Disparities In- “The Council and I were offer.” Choctaw, Chickasaw, Cherokee, Semi- cluded not only people from tern, Office of Minority Health. thrilled to have the opportunity The tour of Choctaw Nation nole and Creek nations were honored Washington, D.C., but from the “Native Americans are the first to show Deputy Secretary Allen included the field office, manu- July 11 in Tulsa during the quarterly regional and area offices as well. citizens of this country,” said the Choctaw Nation programs facturing complex, travel plaza meeting of the Inter-Tribal Council of the Linda Penn, Director of HHS for Deputy Secretary Allen when and facilities,” said Chief Gre- and gaming center in McAlester, Five Civilized Tribes. Eric O’Kelley and Region VI is the Secretary’s di- addressing the group. “In my job gory E. Pyle. “It was an honor to the Choctaw Nation Hospital in Joy McConnell are the outstanding rect representative responsible with the Department of Health let him, Regional Director Penn Talihina and site of the new clinic graduates awarded by the Choctaw Na- for guidance and coordination of and Human Services, we deal and others with the group see for being constructed in Stigler. tion this year. policies. Region VI, officed in with a multitude of issues, includ- Eric, the son of Buddy and Janelle Texas, facilitates in Arkansas, ing managing the fifth largest O’Kelley, is a graduate of Haileyville Louisiana, New Mexico, Okla- budget in the world.” He ex- Renovations okayed for travel mart High School. His honors include Okla- JOY McCONNELL homa and Texas. plained that he was visiting In- In Regular Session July 12th, the Choctaw Nation Tribal Council homa Academic Scholar, Oklahoma In- Dale Keel, the Acting Director dian Country to see the issues agreed to appropriate funds to renovate a recently purchased travel dian Honor Society and an Academic Team member for three years. of the Oklahoma Area Office of first hand. The Deputy Secretary mart facility in Heavener. The operating systems will be upgraded The team was regional and conference champions for 2002-03. Eric Indian Health Service, also ac- said that major concerns included as well as the appearance of the store. was also a member of the Speech Team, Native American Club, Fel- companied the team to the Choc- diabetes and hypertension. He Council members approved placement of Bryan County property lowship of Christian Athletes and FFA in which he served as Chapter taw Nation. Others joining them also vowed to continue to work in Trust status, and also agreed to give a right-of-way easement in President. Eric enjoyed volunteering for church activities and par- included Eric Broderick, Senior toward increasing resources as favor of Oklahoma Gas & Electric Co. ticipating in food drives. He will be attending college at the Univer- Advisor for Tribal Health Policy, they are available to priority ar- Also approved were: a hay baling permit in Talihina, a recreational sity of Oklahoma in Norman, majoring in business. Intergovernmental Affairs, Gena eas. lease in Bennington, budget and supplemental funding for Head Start, Joy is the daughter of Mike and Pam McConnell. She graduated Tyner-Dawson, Senior Advisor “We want to partner with you audit services and discretionary funds for Council. Battiest High School at the top of her class. She was a member of for Tribal Affairs, Willis Morris, and hear your concerns. We also The next Regular Session is scheduled for Saturday, August 9, 2003 National Honor Society, Oklahoma Indian Student Honor Society, Senior Advisor to the Deputy want to hear your solutions,” said at 10:00 a.m. Gifted and Talented program, the Scholastic Team, Quiz Bowl Team and was Student Council Class Representative for four years. She was also captain of the basketball team, voted most valuable player, Run-off election scheduled for voters in McCurtain County a member of the McCurtain County All Conference Team, and a mem- A run-off election is scheduled ber of Fellowship of Christian Athletes. She is active in her commu- August 2, 2003 for Choctaw vot- Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Election Results - July 12, 2003 nity, participating in several programs including Reading Mentor, ers to select a Tribal Council rep- DISTRICT 1 COUNCIL MEMBER Adopt-a-Kindergartner, Youth Outreach, holiday programs for se- resentative for District #1, which Candidate Name Idabel Valliant Absentee Total % nior citizens, Roadside Beautification Project and Read Across encompasses the southern part of John Wesley Epperson 26 13 49 88 10.824 America. She plans to attend Oklahoma State University in Stillwa- McCurtain County. Candidates Harrington Ward 78 34 252 364 44.772 ter, attaining her accounting degree. are Harrington “Hap” Ward and John Williams 42 5 48 95 11.685 In other business, the Inter-Tribal Council passed a resolution sup- Thomas Rhea Williston. In the porting the efforts of the Oklahoma Coalition of Title VII directors July 12th election, Ward received Thomas Rhea Williston 115 11 59 185 22.755 and coordinators who are requesting that the original intent of the a total of 364 votes and Williston Jason Michael Baker 8 0 31 39 4.797 Indian Education Act be followed. Parental involvement and provi- received a total of 185 votes. Reginald Don Williams 14 3 25 42 5.166 sion of educational and culturally related academic needs of Native Four other candidates were in the DISTRICT 2 COUNCIL MEMBER American children should remain a top priority of all Indian Educa- race. Candidate Name Bethel Broken Bow Absentee Total % tion programs. The Inter-Tribal Council also supported the Native District #2, North McCurtain Michael Allen Amos 29 156 278 463 53.096 American Youth Leadership Development Initiative, designed to rec- County, voted to keep incumbent Gary DeWayne Noah 1 20 31 52 5.963 ognize the needs and enhance the skills of Native American youth in Michael Allen Amos, who re- Kenneth Wayne Ashalintubbi 1 45 35 81 9.289 Oklahoma. The youth can assemble with peers and train through work- ceived 53.096% of the votes cast Billy Paul Baker 29 92 74 195 22.362 shops and seminars, providing tribes an opportunity to develop lead- in that area. Jeffery Jefferson 26 27 28 81 9.289 ers from within for future generations. The choice for District #8 DISTRICT 8 COUNCIL MEMBER Also on the agenda and approved by the Council were resolutions Tribal Council representative Candidate Name Boswell Ft. Towson Hugo Absentee Total % supporting an annual American Indian Veterans Day; one Saturday continues to be General Perry each year in April as a National Day of Prayer and Fasting; Timmy Thompson, who received General Perry Thompson 44 18 249 435 702 84.375 See INTER-TRIBAL on Page 11 84.375% of the vote. Lorn Adel Hampton 13 0 22 108 130 15.625 August 2003, BISHINIK, Page 2 Excellent care received Army Ranger Letters Dear Editor, I would like to take this opportunity to express our thanks to the sends message Choctaw Nation Health Care Center and staff for the excellent care Dear Chief Pyle, and treatment that our loved one, Donnie Ben, received during his Your support is heartfelt and your Comfort given at time of loss lengthy illness. efforts to the tribe are noble and true. Dear Editor, Our hearts are very grateful and appreciative of all who stood by My strength is my God. I am married I would like to thank the Choctaw Nation for all the help they gave our side during the loss of our son, father, “Super Paw,” brother, with kids. My wife’s name is Wendy. my mother through the years. She was so proud of her heritage. Viola uncle and great friend. We will never forget you for comforting us. My son is eight years old and my Gibson Blevins, daughter of Adam and Winnie Pope Gibson, went to A special thank you to Dr. Sutton, Dr. Chin, Med. Surg., ER staff daughter is ten. This fall my son will be with our Lord, Jesus Christ, on May 18, 2003. I would like to and all other departments for the great care Donnie received while he strap on the pads like I did back in 1977 thank Councilman Bob Pate and wife, Terri, for their visit and words was hospitalized. This means a lot to all of his family. in Bethany, Oklahoma. Whoever of comfort. The Donnie Ben Family thought I would go on to be named three times as an All American Edna (King) Falkenstein Defensive Back. Now I’m a U.S. Army Ranger! McAlester, Oklahoma Hard-working staff I come from a long line of warriors. I am currently in “Mosil”, north of Baghdad. I serve for the 101st Screaming Eagles. I am very Dear Chief Pyle, fortunate to have lived the life I’ve lived. I am thankful for the many Support means a lot On May 30, I was travelling from Santa Fe to Hugo and stopped in gifts God has given me. I’m looking forward to coming home in Dear Chief Pyle, Durant. I had no idea that the headquarters closed at 4:30 and the September ‘03. Please send my family a message for me, that I love I am in the U.S. Army in the 4th Military Police Company with the time was 4:30 p.m. A lady leaving work asked me if she could help, them and miss them. 4th Infantry Division in Iraq. I received the care package the Nation and when I told her my problem she called the security guard and he Roy Gene Amos, Jr. sent me. I wanted to thank you and the Nation for your support. It got Brenda Hampton. I told her that my family and I were returning Clarksville, Tennessee means a lot to me. I hope we are back home for Labor Day. Once to Santa Fe on Sunday and it would be impossible to wait until Mon- again, thank you for all of your support. I am proud to be Choctaw day. She and a coworker stayed and got my nephew and his children Researching family and an American. registered. That’s three more Choctaws on the census, thanks to the Dear Editor, PV2 Shane G. Harper efforts of those two hard-working ladies. I am writing the BISHINIK for help in connecting me with mem- As a Choctaw veteran, I really appreciate what you and the Nation bers of my family and/or with someone who may. My ancestors are do for the vets. The jackets and especially the caps are most wel- Package is appreciated of the Choctaw Nation. Their Indian name is Berryhill and their En- come. I wear mine with pride. Dear Choctaw Nation, glish name is Hardrige. On my mother’s side, my great-great-grand- Mike Nelson I would just like to thank you for all you have done. It is greatly mother was Charity. Her husband was Monday. My great-grand- Santa Fe, New Mexico appreciated! You are wonderful people. I can’t thank you enough. mother was Dicy, born 7-10-1878. Her husband was Stroy Hardrige, Pfc Misty Williams born 11-12-1874. My grandmother was Martha Rosie, maiden name Grateful for support Berryhill, and married name Barnett. My mother is Rose Marie Support is generous Dear Chief Pyle, Hardrige. I have received the care package you sent to me in Iraq. We are Dear Choctaw Nation, Doy Bowie C-27267 grateful that everyone back home in the states is so supportive of our We would like to take the time to thank the Choctaw Nation and Box 921 / C5-109 mission, to give freedom back to the people of Iraq. I can’t tell you in the Choctaw Gaming Center for their support of the Garvin County Imperial, CA 92251 words what kind of impact this has on soldiers, to get care packages 4-H and FFA students at our Spring Premium Sale at Pauls Valley, or letters from somebody back home, just to let them know that some- Searching for information Oklahoma. Because of your generous support, many of us will be one is thinking of them and about the job they’re doing. It means a able to achieve more of our goals that we have set for ourselves in Dear Editor, lot to my squad that everyone is thinking of us. I’ll come see you in the livestock show program. Again, we would like to thank you for I am searching for information on my grandfather, Joseph “Joe” person when I get home. I would like to shake your hand and meet your support of us and the other students and take this time to invite Taylor. He was a full-blood Choctaw and I was told that he played on you face to face to tell you thanks for remembering us over here you to join us at Pauls Valley next spring. We greatly appreciate all the Choctaw Indian baseball team many years ago. He died in the doing what the 101st Airborne Division does best – bringing free- you do for Choctaw people everywhere. early 1970s. He moved to the Sasakwa, Oklahoma area and married dom to all who seek it. Jesse and Justin Gosnell my grandmother, Edna Harjo. They had five children, one was my Spc Timothy Turman, Jr., Pfc Ronald Pinion, Jr., mother who died in 1968. Joe Taylor lived in Sasakwa until his death Pfc Paul Shay, Spc Timothy Kotchian, Sgt Aaron Oliver, and he is buried at the Spring Baptist Church. I am looking for any Saddle Sgt Erik Hill, Pfc David Masoner and Pfc Jacob Bell information about my grandfather and really interested in him play- ing baseball for the Choctaw team. Thank you for the circulation of donation Boys enjoy receiving materials the BISHINIK. It is a great paper for information on the Choctaw people. Dear Chief Pyle, Dear Chief Pyle, Gayla D. Norman I am the mother of Chaylen Thank you ever so much for your immediate and kind response to P.O. Box 405 Marshall. I want to thank you for my request for Choctaw Nation materials that could be passed out to Eufaula, OK 74432 donating a saddle for the Benefit Native American kids here at the Chino Boys School for troubled [email protected] Roping that was put on for our youths. family to help pay his funeral The Choctaw Nation seal stickers were an enormous hit along with Grunstad is invaluable employee bills. Thank you so much for your the colorful calendars and the entire package. The Choctaw Code Dear Chief Pyle and Assistant Chief Bailey, donation. I am a single mother on Talkers are of special interest to these kids as it helps them to iden- I am sure that you know, but just to inform you that others know a fixed income and the unex- tify with something good instead of all the bad stuff that is out there also, this is regarding Charlene Grunstad. She is an invaluable em- pected death of my child was a in the world. ployee and asset to the Choctaw Nation. Her kindness and compas- great burden, but thanks to the James D. Hawkins sion to our fellow Choctaws are unsurpassed. Also, the prompt re- roping we raised money to help Trabuco Canyon, California with the situation. Again, please sponse from her office is amazing. accept my thanks and the certifi- Seeking information I appreciate Charlene and her staff so much. cate along with the picture of the Loyce Bell Dear Editor, winner as a small token of our Red Oak, Oklahoma While reading your newspaper, I came across the name of a Marlena appreciation. Dolores Varela. I am from Southern California, born to David Varela, Grateful for care packages Connie, LaTisha and Sr. and Floria Rita Castenada Varela. My mother’s father’s name is To everyone who contributed, Sabrina Wyrick Enacio Fortunado Castenada. My mother’s mother, Eva, lived in Los Thank you so much for your recent care packages. I was able to Atoka, Oklahoma Angeles in a city called Ingelwood. I was born in Los Angeles on share many of the enclosed items with the young airmen in my office September 2, 1959. I am requesting any information on the Varela and everyone was very grateful. Thank you for your support to the Items are greatly needed family. Thank you. U.S. Military. Dear Chief Pyle and the Choctaw Nation, David Varela, Jr. Jennifer Berenger-Battles I would just like to thank you for the care package. All of the items #86608 3/C/31 will be used with care and the greatest of thanks. I can’t explain how SMU - 1 Eyman Jones shooting team takes the bronze much it means to me. As a troop overseas, in and out of combat, it is P.O. Box 4000 Dear Assistant Chief Mike Bailey, sometimes hard to get the items that are greatly needed. The Choc- Florence, AZ 85232 The Jones Academy Shooting Team took the bronze medal in 3P taw Nation has been there for me if there was ever anything I truly Spooter Shooting at the World International Competition in needed. If anything is ever needed of me, I shall be quick in response. Package, prayers are welcome Willington, North Carolina. This was the first year for us to shoot 3P Thanks again, Chief Pyle and the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. Dear Chief Pyle, Spooter. Spc Jason Steiner Thank you so much for your package and your prayers. Both are I would like to thank you for your support and as coach of Jones greatly appreciated. I am a member of the 478th Combat Engineer Academy Shooting Team I will do my best to make sure that mem- Donation appreciated Battalion (mechanized), an Army Reserve Unit based in Ft. Thomas, bers of the team are taught safety in gun handling. Dear Choctaw Nation, Kentucky, across the Ohio River from Cincinnati, Ohio. I serve as Roger Wolf Thank you for your recent donation at the 2003 Leflore County the squad leader with an armored engineer squad; 2nd Squad, 1st Jones Academy Youth Director and Shooting Team Coach Junior Livestock Show. It was greatly appreciated. Platoon, B Company. Hailey Raines, Wister 4-H We hope to be home by mid-July, at which time I’ll drive to Bro- Appreciate help after tornado ken Bow to see my grandma and parents, Opal, Fred and Doris Bray To all the people of the great Choctaw Nation, Contribution at premium sale on the Mt. Fork. It’ll be great to spend some relaxing time in south- My family and I would like to tell you how much we appreciate east Oklahoma! your help during the time the tornado came in McCurtain County. Dear Choctaw Nation, Sgt David Bray We will never forget your kindness. A special thank you to John Thank you so much for your contribution at the Pittsburg County Townsend, Mr. Jessie, Vicki and all you guys who came to help! God Premium Sale. The Choctaw Nation has always been there to sup- Thankful for care items bless all of you! port me. I will never forget what you have done for me. Melodie, Kyle and Kendra Beavers Eric O’Kelley Dear Choctaw Nation, Broken Bow, Oklahoma I wanted to thank you personally for the care package from the Nation. Please give my thanks to all who helped get it together. Ev- Researching family history Gregory E. Pyle Mike Bailey erything sent will either be useful or a very nice luxury. Dear Editor, Chief The Official Assistant Chief Once again, thank you, and hopefully I will be home in time to Caren Chatham-Heller is a proud member of the Choctaw Nation Monthly Publication make the Pow-Wow next year. and was born April 26, 1945 in Lubbock, Texas to John Edwin “Buck” of the Sfc Michael Tyre Jackson and Jesse Loyce Hawkins Jackson of Oklahoma City. Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Caren lived her first 12 years in Munday, Texas. Her father’s fam- Judy Allen, Editor A pleasure to serve country ily business was in cotton delinting. Her paternal grandfather, Samuel Lisa Reed, Assistant Editor Dear Chief Pyle, Bartlett Jackson, invented the Kem Gas process of delinting cotton Vonna Shults, Webmaster Thank you for the thoughtful care package. I am Spc Michelle and he invented a wetting agent used in cotton fires. Caren’s paternal Brenda Wilson, Technical Assistant James out of Ft. Campbell, Kentucky. It is my pleasure to serve my grandmother, Irma Lorna Cannady Jackson, was of Choctaw heri- Melissa Stevens, Circulation Manager country, the greatest country in the world, as my forefathers did be- tage. Her maternal grandparents were Jesse Howard Hawkins and Faye Self, Community Liaison fore me. Thanks again. God bless. Lily Belle Moore Hawkins of Enid, Oklahoma and Oklahoma City. Spc Michelle James Caren’s family moved from Texas in 1957 to California then to P.O. Drawer 1210 Oregon to ranch. Caren married young to Beuford Chatham of Mis- Durant, OK 74702 Thank you for support souri. She became an actress and model while raising her two daugh- (580) 924-8280 • (800) 522-6170 ters alone. Caren took care of her ill mother for years. She divorced Fax (580) 924-4148 Dear Choctaw Nation, in 1967 then later married Paul W. Heller. They had a son, Chase S. www.choctawnation.com Thank you very much for your support in the Premium Sale at the Chatham-Heller. Caren gave of herself to many charities and received e-mail: [email protected] Leflore County Jr. Livestock Show this spring. This was my first many awards for her tireless efforts on behalf of abused women, the The BISHINIK is printed each month as a service to Tribal Members. time in the Premium Sale. I am a member of the Poteau 4-H. homeless and abused or abandoned children. She adopted an orphan- The BISHINIK reserves the right to edit submitted material which it finds Michael Billy age in Bogoto, Columbia, South America. She received the Ken- inaccurate, profane, offensive or morally unacceptable. Copy may be tucky Colonel Award for community service. Caren loves to enter- edited for proper grammar and punctuation. Copy will be accepted in Pictures to share any readable form, but where possible, it is requested that material be tain and was famous for her parties, USO shows and charity fund- typewritten and double spaced. You must include an address or phone Dear Editor, raisers. Her business, Applause Events, produced large charity events number where you may be reached. I have some pictures of Pete Leroy Brown taken in 1955 when we in Orange County, California. Caren had worked for the senior vice If you are receiving more than one BISHINIK at your home or if your were in the Navy. If any of his family are interested I would be glad president in charge of talent at NBC for 13 years in Beverly Hills address needs changed, we would appreciate hearing from you. to send them. Thank you. while modeling and acting. The BISHINIK is a nonprofit publication of the Choctaw Nation. Cir- Leroy Harper The family is researching the Chatham, Moore and Hawkins his- culation is monthly. 4284 FM 2225 tory. Any information would be appreciated. Please contact Caren BISHINIK® 2003 Quitman, TX 75783 Chatham-Heller, 23592 Windsong Apt. 59-G, Aliso Viejo, CA 92656. August 2003, BISHINIK, Page 3 From the desk of Chief Gregory E. Pyle Heroes come from every walk of life – sometimes with a rod and reel It is nice to meet a real-life hero, and sometimes we meet them in the dealership had polished up his boat and displayed it in the show- the most unexpected places. I have been privileged to meet people room. The first thing he thought of was how glad he was that there of all ages whom I can define as “hero”. These heroes include, but was no beer decal on the boat – he didn’t feel that would give a good are certainly not limited to, men and women who have served our testimony to the young people who would see it. nation in the military, people who volunteer their time for the needy, As I said earlier, I have met a tremendous number of people whose and people who work on a daily basis to improve lives of others. A life is a heroic standard to others through their values and morals. hero in the shape of a fisherman emerged on the national scene about Jimmy Houston is just one example of someone I have met recently 30 years ago, and has become a wonderful role model for young who impressed me greatly. We met before sunrise one day with our people to follow. rods and open face reels to film a show for ESPN, and throughout This fisherman, the most well-known bass angler in the world, is the morning as we laughed, talked and fished, we found a common Jimmy Houston, an Oklahoma native who recently hit the press with thread of caring for young people. Assistant Chief Bailey and I talked his announcement that he refused to endorse Anheuser-Busch, con- about what the tribe was doing at Jones Academy for youth, how the sequently refusing to wear a beer patch on his clothing or put a beer drug prevention programs throughout Choctaw Nation are accom- decal on his boat. Refusal to endorse Busch went hand in hand with plishing a decrease in alcohol and substance abuse and about the giving up fishing for points needed to get in this year’s Bassmasters housing and education programs that can improve the future for all Classic tournament and compete for Angler of the Year, which Hous- of our citizens. Houston was especially interested in a youth basket- ton has already won twice. According to Houston, he never thought ball camp sponsored by the tribe at Southeastern Oklahoma State twice about it. The money that would have resulted from the beer University that same day. We found out later that he stopped by the sponsorship wasn’t important – his values and Christian beliefs were camp after our fishing excursion and spoke to the 110 kids who were the significant issues. there, encouraging them to better their lives, to stay off drugs and Houston told us that his decision was validated shortly after the alcohol and to live life as a person they could be proud of. news hit the papers. He was doing a show in Florida and needed a I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who is a positive place to leave his truck and boat while he flew to California for a ten role model for young people. Every word we say is heard by some- day trip. A local dealership agreed to let Houston leave his truck and one and every move we make is seen by someone. I aspire to live a boat on the lot. When Houston returned ten days later, he found that life my children and grandchildren can be proud of.

From the desk of Assistant Chief Mike Bailey Jones Academy begins holding classes on campus Jones Academy will add a in 1891, and the Choctaw Nation the upcoming school year, and homa is very excited about the page to Choctaw history this took over the administration of a teacher will work full time opportunity to teach the students August - the first and second the school from the Bureau of with the young children. There about the language of our tribe grades are being taught on cam- Indian Affairs in 1984. will also be a full time Teacher’s and the Indian culture. Albert pus beginning with this semes- Over the years, Jones Acad- Aide on staff. The academic Einstein once said, “Education is ter. Over the next six years, emy has become a National Resi- program at Jones will have the a series of prejudices acquired by classes will be added until all dential Model, effectively oper- latest technology, and will offer the age of eighteen.” Children are twelve grades are taught at Jones ated by Administrator Brad distance learning on numerous influenced immensely by the Academy. There are usually be- Spears and his staff. They work subjects for the children. The people around them and what they tween 180 - 200 students housed very hard on behalf of the stu- new library and computer lab see and hear. We feel the tribe is at Jones, and since the 1950s, dents. will be utilized for the classes much more qualified to teach the they have ridden the school bus The Choctaw Nation has in- and meals will be served in the Native American students in ways to Hartshorne to attend classes. stalled a modular building to cafeteria. that are culturally sensitive and Jones Academy was established house the classrooms needed for The Choctaw Nation of Okla- will improve their self-esteem. Chaplain’s Corner By the Rev. Bertram Bobb, Choctaw Tribal Chaplain

We thank God for the oppor- Christ as his Savior at the age of tunity and privilege to share 56 years. With a third grade edu- something from His Word with cation, Jess was determined to you each month. May He bring learn how to read both in the En- you closer to Himself is my glish and in his Cherokee lan- prayer. guage – he prayed and trusted the In the Book of Joshua we dis- Lord to help him. Then he took cover that Canaan is a place of his English New Testament and warfare. Because of these Cherokee New Testament and records of military battles laid them side by side and Canaan cannot be and is not a learned how to read in both lan- picture of Heaven. The Book of guages. Brother Jess would say, Joshua is a picture of the Chris- “If a man wants to learn about tian and his enemy with whom the Lord, God will help him.” he is fighting during all the days Now in the Book of Joshua, at he is on earth. Gilgal, in Chapter 5, we learn The interpretation of this Old some very important basic truths Testament book is found in the for the Christian. Houston continued from Page 1 Epistle to the Hebrews and in First, in the lesson of the two “The Choctaw Nation has programs that battle advocates of healthy lifestyles. We have consis- the Epistle to the Ephesians. In memorials of stones, we learn are over, the food that suited the substance abuse, and it is great to hear spiritual tently supported sports activities being sponsored the third and fourth chapter of that the basis of our Christian life wilderness journey is finished. strength from a national sports hero such as Jimmy by the Choctaw Nation as well as backed programs Hebrews we find that the Land is the death, burial, and resurrec- The people take a new life in the Houston. The message he is sending to youth across to prevent drug and alcohol abuse.” of Canaan is a picture of the tion of Jesus Christ. (I land of blessing. Just as a born America shows that faith and commitment are Houston’s television fishing shows air on ESPN spiritual rest and victory which Corinthians 15:1-4). It was only again Christian has new re- much more important than worldly things.” with “Jimmy Houston Outdoors” and on ESPN 2 may be enjoyed here on earth by the shed blood of Jesus Christ sources in our Risen Lord Jesus “It is heartening to team with Jimmy Houston to with “Jimmy Houston’s Sportsman Digest,” a part by every believer, a rest of faith that has taken away the sin of the Christ. encourage better quality of life for youth by being of the ESPN 2 “Outdoor Block.” He also airs a in the Lord Jesus Christ. world. (John 1:29; I Peter 1:18- There is something else we involved in sports and other activities rather than TV series, “The Bass’n Gal Tour,” dedicated to In the letter to the Ephesians 19). learn here at Gilgal. The Israel- submitting to drugs and alcohol,” said Assistant the women’s professional tournament trail. (Ephesians 1:3), we learn of life Secondly, we learn here at ites are almost ready for the Chief Mike Bailey. “The Chief, Council and I are Airtime of the show will be announced later. “in the heavenly places,” not in Gilgal a lesson in the circumci- battle. Joshua has gone out to heaven, but in the experience of sion of the flesh that there must look over Jericho. Verses 13 and being one with Christ and His be death to ourselves and we 14 of Chapter 5 says, “And it Work continues on Capitol Museum victory while we are on earth. must be completely yielded to came to pass, when Joshua was A study of this Book of Jesus Christ. A completely by Jericho, that he lifted up his Submitted by objects from the museum’s col- life from the earliest days in Joshua will reveal to us what yielded life is a problem of many eyes and looked, and, behold, Nancy Lowe-Clark lection when they visit the Okla- Mississippi through the Trail of God can do in and through the Christians today. We want to there stood a man over against Museum Consultant homa Room on the second floor. Tears are still in progress in the life that is completely sold out hold on to a pet sin, a lust of the him with his sword drawn in his Our Choctaw heritage and his- Exhibits on the Code Talkers, elevator room. Several artifacts or yielded to Him. flesh, and will not turn this sin hand: and Joshua went unto him, tory developed very slowly over Choctaw Schools and Churches will be added in this area, as well The children of God had loose and commit our all to Jesus and said unto him, Art thou for thousands of years. Putting to- and Every Day Life will be well as Gwen Lester Coleman’s re- crossed the river Jordan and Christ. us, or for our adversaries? And gether a museum which repre- under way, even as research con- moval mural. The museum faces there was panic among the en- Joshua 5:11, 12 reads: “And he said, Nay; but as captain of sents the Choctaw people of tinues to add new information to a challenge with these exhibits, emy because they saw the su- they did eat of the old corn of the the host of the LORD am I now Oklahoma means taking careful, each exhibit and the museum which are planned to open in late pernatural power of God among land on the morrow after the come. And Joshua fell on his face thoughtful steps in order to re- continues to seek donations of 2004, as it has only a few his- His people. But the Lord was Passover, unleavened cakes, and to the earth, and did worship, and spect our heritage, to preserve the objects that will help tell the sto- torically accurate objects repre- not eager for his people to rush parched corn in the selfsame day. said unto him, what saith my objects from our past and to edu- ries of Choctaw life in Oklahoma. senting this part of our history. ahead and attack Jericho just And the manna ceased on the Lord unto his servant? cate museum visitors about our The museum continues to look Countless hours have already because the enemy was panic- morrow after they had eaten of This was a blessed truth that lives both past and present. Any- for historical objects from the been spent trying to locate the stricken. the old corn of the land; neither God himself had come to lead his thing less would not properly original Choctaw Code Talkers. At proper artifacts and many, many In this Book of Joshua, Chap- had the children of Israel manna people to victory. The Captain of honor our ancestors or respect our this time we have Joseph more hours will be needed to ter 5, at Gilgal, God taught His any more; but they did eat of the the Lord’s host is, of course, tribal members today. Oklahombi’s medals and his bow, best tell this part of our cultural people lessons which were go- fruit of the land of Canaan that none other than that Great Cap- Museum work, like history it- several certificates recognizing the heritage. ing to decide all the future year.” tain of our salvation, the Lord self, tends to move slowly. Many, Code Talkers and a Code Talker Additionally, during the Labor course of warfare in the land of Notice there are three days’ ac- Jesus Christ Himself. many work hours went into com- telephone. To complete this ex- Day Festival, a basket display is Canaan. The lessons taught at tivity mentioned in these two When Joshua worshipped be- pleting Phase One at the museum hibit, the museum needs other planned for the Art Gallery up- Gilgal are the basic and neces- verses. On the fourteenth day fore this great commander and for Heritage Day. Major interior original objects belonging to indi- stairs, along with the current sary lessons for living a victo- they kept the Passover, the very fell at his feet, he accepted His renovations, like the heating and vidual Code Talkers like a uni- photo display of all the Choctaw rious Christian life. next day they ate of the corn of leadership in this attack on the air conditioning system, were form, or any part of one, that was Chiefs. The Art Gallery will Gilgal became a key place for the land, and the day after that enemy. If we would only accept extremely important for the long- actually worn by a Code Talker. eventually house the art collec- the children of Israel – a place the manna ceased. This is how the truth that God has won our term care of our cultural objects. Additionally, the museum tion of the Choctaw Nation and of learning. I believe this is God responds when we are obe- spiritual battles in Jesus Christ, Planning how to use the interior would like to find insignia provide space for temporary ex- where many of us fail. Some dient to His Words. The manna and as we make Jesus Christ our space helps us meet the needs of patches or medals, anything that hibits as well. Christians just don’t have a de- was wilderness food. It was for commander we would know the the museum now, and as it con- a Code Talker took with him Everyone involved with the sire to study God’s Word to their journey in the wilderness secret of victory. The battles that tinues to grow in the years ahead. when he joined the service, or museum project considers it an learn. If you have a sincere de- and this was continued until the we face as Christians here now Basic repairs to the walls and used during his service, and/or honor to be a part of such im- sire to study God’s Word, ask corn was available. There is is the Lord’s battle. floors and building exhibit spaces letters written to or from family portant work. While the work is God to help you. He will reveal never any break between God’s May God bless you in a very create the right setting for visi- and friends during the war. Work ongoing, we look forward to a to you the truths He would have supplies for His children. special way. Remember to pray tors to enjoy learning about our is ongoing to produce a life-size brief break in order to enjoy you know. Here at Gilgal the wilderness for America. Pray for Native culture. photo mural and an audio ele- sharing the progress thus far I recall, in the mid-fifties, in journey has come to an end. The Americans. Pray for our leaders, During Labor Day visitors will ment for the exhibit. with visitors during the Labor Tulsa, a full-blood Cherokee, Jess murmuring and complaining and both our government and spiri- see many historical and cultural Other exhibits representing Day Festival. McLemore, came to know Jesus the desires of the things of Egypt tual. August 2003, BISHINIK, Page 4 Miss Oklahoma Kelley Scott advocates healthy lifestyle Miss Oklahoma Kelley Scott to participate in the pilot pro- was a guest speaker at the July gram,” she said. “We are recruit- meeting of the Diabetes Multi- ing homegrown celebrities such Resource Task Force. Ms. Scott as Kelley Scott and Garth Brooks accompanied Turning Point rep- as spokespersons for ‘Walk this resentative Carol Bush to address Weigh,’ promoting public health the task force on the importance around physical activity.” of increasing physical activity in The program’s objectives in- our youth. clude raising public awareness An outstanding softball and through a fun and innovative ap- basketball player, Kelley created proach to positive weight man- the KIX program (Kids into agement, achieving optimal fit- Xercise) five years ago after re- ness levels and advocating for alizing that kids were spending nutritional and physical activity too much time on TV and video policies and standards in schools, games. KIX has four basic com- worksites and health care sys- ponents – exercising with activi- tems. Each community takes its ties outside, eating from the five own unique approach to imple- food groups, limiting TV and menting the program. video to one hour a day and com- The task force also voted pleting the KIX Club obstacle unanimously to change the name course. of the group to “Healthy Ms. Bush updated the group Lifestyles Task Force,” reflect- on the “Walk this Weigh” cam- ing the continued focus on im- paign. “The Choctaw Nation is proving and maintaining a good one of eight communities chosen physical condition.

REACH 2010 sponsors Youth Wellness Camps CHOCTAW NATION

The fourth annual Youth Well- homa Highway Patrol discussed GED CLASSES ness Camps, coordinated by highway safety laws and allowed Bryan County CNHCC REACH 2010, were questions and answers from the Beginning August 18, 2003 held June 18 and 19 at the Choc- kids. He also demonstrated a Mondays and Wednesdays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. taw Nation Tribal Grounds in “stinger” and how it assists the Choctaw Nation Tribal Complex Tuskahoma. A total of 141 chil- Highway Patrol when they are South Building, Downstairs dren attended the one-day involved in a chase. Durant, Oklahoma camps, learning about healthy Ernie Ables of the U.S. Forest lifestyles, safety and overall Service provided information on Pittsburg County wellness while having fun. the environment, different trees, Beginning August 18, 2003 Gary Batton, Executive Direc- poisonous plants and what to do Mondays and Wednesdays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. tor of Health Services, welcomed if you come in contact with these EOSC Campus, 1802 E. College Ave. the attendees and reminded them plants. He also provided a goody McAlester, Oklahoma of the importance of staying bag for the kids. LeFlore County healthy and learning about dia- The children also enjoyed a Beginning August 19, 2003 betes. cultural awareness session, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. The “Snake Man,” Albert which included an arrowhead Choctaw Nation Family Investment Center Chambers, once again started the hunt, provided by Darran Coo- Poteau, Oklahoma day off with snake safety. He pre- per, Choctaw/Cherokee Native McCurtain County sented his collection of poison- American artist. Beginning August 19, 2003 ous and nonpoisonous snakes. Dayla Amos gave the Lord’s Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. The poisonous reptiles in- Prayer in Choctaw sign language E.T. Dunlap Higher Education Center trition, diabetes, exercise and chopper and ask questions of the cluded a timber rattler, dia- before lunch each day. Lunch Idabel, Oklahoma mondback rattlesnake, and a healthy lifestyle. Air Evac staff. This was quite was followed by Native Ameri- copperhead. The kids were in- Gary Lawrence presented a exciting for both the kids and can dance led by Mr. and Mrs. The class will meet 2 days each week for approximately 3 months. structed on how to avoid program on bike safety and first adults. Harry James of the Talihina In- Books, supplies and testing fees are provided. In addition, a $10 (per snakes, what to do if you come aid. John Hotubbee and his co- dian Club. day) transportation stipend is paid to those who attend classes on a upon a poisonous snake and Due to weather conditions the worker from the Choctaw Nation Doris and Teresa from regular basis and attempt the GED test. If you have turned in an appli- what to do if you are bitten. first day, Air Evac wasn’t able to Recovery Center provided a ses- REACH 2010 led the physical cation with our Adult Education Program for GED classes and wish to The Salad Sisters from the be in attendance but the kids who sion on drug awareness. Some of activity sessions with water bal- attend the upcoming class, please contact our office. If you have not Diabetes Wellness Center made were at camp the second day the youth got to experience the loon games, tug-o-war, and vol- applied and wish to attend these or future classes, please contact Linda their appearance, providing were able to see the Air Evac drunk driving goggles. leyball with the four-foot Tyler or Felicia Carnes at the Durant office or call 800-522-6170 or song, dance and education on nu- Helicopter land, look inside the Duane Johnson of the Okla- omniball. 580-924-8280, ext. 2319. Also, you may register at the first day of class. A Certificate of Degree of Indian Blood (CDIB) is required. Tumbler places at USTA Nationals Candace Carter, 11, a Choc- taw member of Newalla, Okla- homa, competed in the U.S. Tumbling and Trampoline Asso- ciation, USTA Nationals. The competition was held in Rapid City, South Dakota June 18-22. Candace is a member of the KC Power Tumbling and Trampo- line National Team out of Shaw- nee. She competes in all three events, Power Tumbling, Tram- poline and Double Mini Trampoline. She brought home three med- als and three trophies. She placed second in each of the three events in her flights and overall received third in Double Mini, fourth in Trampoline, and eighth in Power Tumbling out of 41 competitors. Candace joined the National Team after earning her position by com- peting at the Oklahoma State Competition. At State, she placed first in both Power Tumbling and Double Mini and received overall cham- pion in two divisions. Last year, Candace went to the AAU Jr. Olym- pics in Knoxville, Tennessee and brought home a medal for Double Mini Trampoline. Candace had a support group of 14 family mem- bers who followed her to South Dakota – her mom and dad, Cindy and Patrick Stewart; brother, Kurt Carter; NaNa and PawPaw, Paul and Julie Oakes; uncles and aunts, Shane and Gail Allen, Paul and Diane Oakes, and Mike Oakes, and cousins, Shane, Tyler, Trae and Kolton. Her family originated from Hugo. They presented her a big bouquet of flowers and lots of hugs. Congratulations Candace on all your accomplishments. You are a rising star.

Homebuyer Education Workshop Do you dream of owning your own home? The Choctaw Nation Home Finance Department offers a variety of programs to help you become a homeowner. FREE workshops and homebuyer counseling services provide the information you will need to help you become a homeowner. THESE SERVICES ARE AVAILABLE TO ANY NATIVE AMERICAN – ALL INCOME LEVELS Issues Covered: • Budgeting • Insurance • Realtors • Lending process • Credit issues Classes will be held in the following locations: Idabel August 12 McAlester August 14 (evening class) Mesquite, Texas August 18 (evening class) Atoka August 21 (evening class) To register for a class or get more information please call Nancy Kirby at the Choctaw Housing Authority 1-800-235-3087, ext. 301 August 2003, BISHINIK, Page 5

Hospital Administrator Bob Blum, Top Clinic Pharmacist Eddie Hospital Administrator Bob Blum and Hos- Hospital Administrator Bob Blum, officer John Winn and Pharmacy Director Don Branham. pital Pharmacist of the Year Ross Green. Beardon and Pharmacy Director Don Branham. CNHSA names Pharmacists of the Year Each year, the Choctaw Nation recognizes pharmacists from the Health macist of the Choctaw Nation Indian Health Center in McAlester. Besides Care Center and field clinics for their efforts and accomplishments. the normal duties as a pharmacist, Eddie has the responsibility of ordering For the year 2002, LT Ross Green has been selected as the CNHSA Hospi- pharmaceuticals and other pharmacy supplies, ensuring the pharmacy is al- tal Pharmacist of the Year. Ross is an excellent staff pharmacist who has ways properly stocked. aggressively taken on the duties of Assistant Director of Pharmacy. Ross is Pharmacist Winn has also served as Assistant Facility Director. He was the primary pharmacy recruiter and a liaison with Southwestern State School recently called upon for extra duties in the pharmacy as the Chief Pharma- of Pharmacy. He oversees the vaccine program, is actively seeing patients in cist, was named interim Facility Director and spent many hours outside the the anticoagulation clinic and is constantly looking for ways to improve ser- pharmacy with other duties. He is a proven leader outside the Indian Health vices. Center, serving as Chairman of Deacons at the First Baptist Church of McAl- LCDR Eddie Winn of the McAlester Clinic has been selected as CNHSA ester. Clinic Pharmacist of the Year 2002. Eddie has been a faithful, dedicated Also recognized were newly commissioned officers Scott Hawkins, a phar- Hospital Administrator Bob Blum and pharmacist for the Choctaw Nation for 12 years, starting at the hospital in macist who is working at the Hugo Clinic, and John Bearden, a pharmacist at officer Scott Hawkins. 1991 and working in the clinic since 1995. He serves as Deputy Chief Phar- the Choctaw Nation Health Care Center in Talihina. Eating fruit the “rainbow” way FOOD DISTRIBUTION There’s every reason in the provide potassium and more fi- world to eat fruit – health, taste, ber. One regular kiwi equals a 5- and beautiful colors. In fact, a-day serving, as do most me- color is a great way to choose WOMEN, INFANT & CHILDREN dium fruits. Poteau produce. By eating a rainbow of 5. Eat YELLOW fruit. Poteau (M-Z) 9-2 fruits (and veggies), you’ll get a there’s more good nutrition Golden pineapple is probably (A-L) 9-2 Coalgate healthy dose of all the news: Dried fruit counts toward America’s favorite yellow fruit. Stigler 9-10:30 phytonutrients you need to fight your 5-a-day (one-quarter cup Fresh, or canned in its own juice; Labor Day 9-2 Atoka 12-2 disease and stay strong! equals a serving). pineapple is a nutrition favorite, 1. Eat RED fruit. 3. Eat BLUE fruit. too. Just one-half cup equals a 5- Bethel Red fruits, like strawberries, Blueberries are one of the a-day serving – and packs a Broken Bow Talihina 9-10:30 raspberries, cherries, water- richest sources of disease-fight- healthy punch of vitamin C (and 9-2 9-12 Smithville 12-2 melon and ruby grapefruit, ing antioxidants in the produce some fiber, too). National Grandparents Day contain lycopene – a potent can- department. Fresh, frozen, 6. Eat ORANGE fruit. cer-fighting phytonutrient. And, canned and even dried – sprinkle Oranges are an obvious Wright City it’s easy to work toward your 5- them on cereal, add them to pan- choice – but there are also apri- 9-10:30 Idabel a-day servings: one-half cup of cakes, toss them in salads, or just cots, peaches, and cantaloupes. Hugo 9-12 fresh, frozen, or canned fruit enjoy them as a yummy 5-a-day Whole fruits have significantly Independence12-2 Day (Mexico) equals a serving. snack. more benefits than juice (like fi- 2. Eat WHITE fruit. 4. Eat GREEN fruit. ber) – but six ounces of 100 per- Even fruits that are white in- Green comes in a variety of cent fruit juice can also count side – bananas, apples, and delicious fruit flavors, like green towards one of your 5-a-day pears – offer nutrients that your grapes, honeydew melon, and Rosh Hashanah servings. Autumn begins at sundown Rosh Hashanah body craves: potassium, phyto- kiwis. These versatile fruits are Used with permission of Eat Right nutrients, and more fiber. And, high in vitamin C – and they also Montana.

Choctaw Food Distribution Sites ANTLERS – Choctaw Com- WRIGHT CITY – Choctaw uled, please notify the Food Dis- modity Warehouse, 306 S.W. Head Start Building. tribution Office at 580-924-7773 Nation WIC “O” St. The Food Distribution Pro- or 800-522-6170 so that you can ATOKA – National Guard Ar- gram workers will take a 30 be rescheduled to go to Antlers, Serving the Choctaw Nation at 14 sites mory. minute lunch break from 11:30 Durant or McAlester. BETHEL – Choctaw Nation to 12 noon. The Food Distribution Pro- Community Building. Please bring boxes to pick up gram does not discriminate be- SITE PHONE HOURS DAYS BROKEN BOW – Choctaw your commodities. cause of sex, race, color, age, Antlers 580-298-3161 8:30-4:00 Tuesdays Nation Family Investment Cen- If you cannot pick up com- political beliefs, religion, handi- Atoka 580-889-5825 8:00-4:30 Every Mon., Thurs. & 1st, 3rd, 4th Wed. ter. modities when you are sched- capped or national origin. Bethel 580-241-5458 8:30-4:00 1st & 3rd Tuesday COALGATE – Choctaw Com- Boswell 580-566-2243 8:30-4:00 1st & 2nd Friday munity Center. DURANT – Choctaw Com- Broken Bow 580-584-2746 8:30-4:00 2nd & 4th Tues., every Wed. & Thurs. modity Warehouse, 100 Waldron Bass pro Coalgate 580-927-3641 8:30-4:00 2nd Wednesday Dr. Durant 580-924-8280 x 2255 8:00-4:30 Daily HUGO – Housing Authority. to visit Hugo 580-326-5404 8:00-4:30 Mon., Wed., Thurs., 3rd & 4th Fri. IDABEL – Choctaw Village festival Idabel 580-286-2510 8:00-4:30 Monday and Friday Shopping Center. McAlester 918-423-6335 8:00-4:30 Mon., Tues., Thurs., 4th Wed. McALESTER – Choctaw Don’t miss Team 7- Poteau 918-647-4585 8:00-4:30 Mon., Tues., Wed., 4th Thurs., Fri. Commodity Warehouse, 1212 S. Up pro bass fisherman Mark Goines at the Stigler 918-967-4211 8:30-4:00 1st, 2nd & 3rd Wednesday Main. POTEAU – Choctaw Nation Choctaw Nation Labor Talihina 918-567-7000 x 6792 8:00-4:30 Tuesday and Friday Family Investment Center. Day Festival. Goines Wilburton 918-465-5641 8:30-4:00 1st, 2nd & 3rd Thursday SMITHVILLE – Big Lick will be at the kids’ fish Church. pond to sign auto- STIGLER – Choctaw Com- graphs and answer munity Building. questions about fish- TALIHINA – Boys & Girls ing. WELLNESS CENTER SCHEDULE Club. September 2003 Date 10 a.m.-12 noon 1-3 p.m. September 2 Clayton - Gee’s Lake Store Clayton - Gee’s Lake Store September Calendar Cholesterol, diabetes & blood pressure screenings; Alzheimer’s & dementia education & prevention VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION September 4 Goodland - Main Street Grant - Choctaw Gaming Center AND PROJECTS WITH INDUSTRY PROGRAM Cholesterol, diabetes & blood pressure screenings; Alzheimer’s & dementia education & prevention Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday September 9 Panama - across from Burger Run Spiro - Sunset Corner 1 2 3 Stigler 4 5 6 by appt. only Cholesterol, diabetes & blood pressure screenings; Alzheimer’s & dementia education & prevention Durant Idabel McAlester 10 am-2 pm September 11 Garvin - Main Street Millerton - Main Street 10 am-12 noon 10 am-2 pm Cholesterol, diabetes & blood pressure screenings; Alzheimer’s & dementia education & prevention 7 8 9 10 Atoka 11 12 13 Talihina 9-11 am Broken Bow September 16 Hotubbee - Store Stapp-Zoe Community Center Coalgate 10 am-2 pm 9:30 am-2 pm Cholesterol, diabetes & blood pressure screenings; Alzheimer’s & dementia education & prevention 12 noon-2 pm 14 15 16 17 Crowder 18 19 20 September 19 Golden - Post Office Wright City - Car Wash by appt only Antlers Durant Poteau McAlester Cholesterol, diabetes & blood pressure screenings; Alzheimer’s & dementia education & prevention 11 am-1:30 pm By appt. only by appt only by appt only September 23 McAlester - Choctaw Travel Plaza McAlester - Choctaw Travel Plaza 2122 2324 25 26 27 Cholesterol, diabetes & blood pressure screenings; Alzheimer’s & dementia education & prevention Bethel Wright City September 25 Hartshorne - Across from Post Office Hartshorne - Across from Post Office by appt only By appt. only Cholesterol, diabetes & blood pressure screenings; Alzheimer’s & dementia education & prevention 28 29 30 A Vocational Rehabilitation and Projects With Industry represen- September 30 Hugo - Little Dixie Headquarters Hugo - WalMart Parking Lot Wilburton tative will be available at the locations listed. A representative is available Monday thru Friday 8-4:30 except for holidays at the Cholesterol, diabetes & blood pressure screenings; Alzheimer’s & dementia education & prevention 10:30 am-2 pm Hugo office. August 2003, BISHINIK, Page 6 CHOSEN Choctaw Nation Labor Day

Friday, August 29 thru Monday, September 1 FRIDAY 10 a.m. Arts & Crafts Exhibits open 12 noon-1 p.m. Broken Bow Youth Choctaw Social Dance on Capitol Lawn 12 noon-3 p.m. Health Expo next to Council Building 12 noon-5 p.m. Quilt entries accepted at the Museum 1:00-5:00 p.m. Choctaw Nation/SOSU Basketball Clinic at the courts 1:30-Midnight Annual Intertribal Pow-Wow on the Capitol Lawn 1:00 p.m. Choctaw Social Dance 2:00 p.m. Gourd Dance 5:00 p.m. Break 6:00 p.m. Choctaw Social Dance 7:00 p.m. Grand Entry 7 p.m. Fast Pitch Tournament begins at Red Warrior Park CONCERTS – All Concerts are free of charge 4 p.m. Cooder Graw 5 p.m. Glen Bonham 7 p.m. Tammy Cochran 9 p.m. Rocking Roadhouse Tour featuring Joe Diffie, Tracy Lawrence and Mark Chestnutt SATURDAY 6:30-7:45 a.m. 5K Registration at Hwy. 271 8 a.m. 5K Run starts at Hwy. 271 Fast Pitch Tournament 3-on-3 Choctaw War Hoops Basketball Tournament begins 9 a.m. Playground supervised Co-ed Volleyball Tournament at Red Warrior Park Horseshoe Pitch on Capitol Lawn Quilt Show opens in the Museum 10 a.m. Princess Pageant at Amphitheater 10 a.m.-noon Kids beadwork project on playground 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Health Expo next to Council Building 11 a.m.-dark Supervised activities on playground 11:30 a.m. McKinney’s Choctaw Dancers on Capitol Lawn 2 p.m.-4 p.m. Buffalo Tours (catch the bus next to Council Building) 2:30 p.m. McKinney’s Choctaw Dancers on Capitol Lawn 6:30 p.m. Tough, Tough Choctaw Contest (Registration conducted during the Horseshoe Tournament) CONCERTS – All Concerts are free of charge Labor Day Gospel Singing 5 p.m. Roy Clark 7 p.m. Brian Gowan Sunday, August 31 9 p.m. Neal McCoy Groups are not in order of performance time 11 p.m. Dwight Yoakam Chantri Harper John Cruise SUNDAY Tribesmen Master’s Touch 8 a.m. Choctaw Nation Golf Tournament, Nashoba Golf Course Yoder Family 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Health Expo Sounds of Victory Dominoes and Checkers Registration at Information Booth James & Inez Johnson Joyful Noise 11 a.m. Worship Services at Amphitheater Norris Family McKinney’s Choctaw Dancers on Capitol Lawn Bill Amos 12 noon Gospel Singing begins at Amphitheater The Orphan Family Battiest Family Quilt Show in Museum Crossroads 1 p.m. Dominoes and Checkers Tournaments begin Faith, Hope & Love McKinney’s Choctaw Dancers on Capitol Lawn Bubba Johnson Chosen 2 p.m. Terrapin Races/Best Dressed Terrapin Contest on playground Heavenly Places 2 p.m.-4 p.m. Buffalo Tours (catch the bus next to Council Building) Mel Gaines Quartet 4 p.m. Broken Bow Choctaw Social Dance on Capitol Lawn Shelia Graver The Taylor Family 5 p.m. Stickball Games on Capitol Lawn 6:30 p.m. Gospel Singing continues with featured guests, The Whites, Tulsians Whites Christlike Christlike, Cross Road, Chosen, Jody Brown Family

Jody Brown Indian Family MONDAY The Whites 10 a.m. Posting of our flag by the Choctaw Nation Color Guard New Creation The Lord’s Prayer by the Choctaw Princess Welcome and announcements Wright City Singers Storyteller Tim Tingle Friends of Tulsa 11 a.m. Inauguration of elected officials State of the Nation Address by Chief Pyle Ivan & Ivanna Door Prizes Battiest 12 noon Free meal to everyone Pick up quilt entries by noon Jimmy Tushka Family Tushka Homma, Oklahoma Singing Buck Family Eastern Gate Events throughout the Festival Choctaw Hymns • Carnival Rides Free, courtesy of Chief Pyle and the Tribal Council If you feel that your name has • Cultural Demonstration at the Village 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday & Saturday, 1-4 p.m. Sunday been omitted from the list and you • Mechanical Bull and Miniature Car Racing • Rob Robinson Pig Show are scheduled to sing, please call • Stationary Wall Climbing • Vortex Tunnel Brian McClain or Sabrina Turner • “Let’s Go Fishing” Bass Tank Demonstration • Vertical Reality at 1-800-522-6170 • Barreda Elephant Show • Jurassic Park Slide • Frog Jumping Championship • Russell Turner, Magician

TOUGH, Chief Gregory E. Pyle TOUGH Golf Classic CHOCTAW Labor Day Festival Golf Tournament CONTEST Sunday, August 31, 2003 6:30 p.m. Nashoba Valley Golf Course Nashoba, Oklahoma Choctaw Saturday, August 30 9-hole course, par 36 Nation $5.00 Entry Fee 4-man Teams • 18 teams One Class Only 36 golfers for each start Sign up by calling Entry fee: $50 Labor Day 1-800-522-6170 – Limited to first 72 golfers – Festival Jeremy Loper, ext. 2407, or Freda For more information, Nixon, ext. 2406 call Kevin Gwin T-shirt or e-mailing 580-775-3982 [email protected] August 2003, BISHINIK, Page 7 People You Know Happy Ida Lewis Turner turns 97 birthday My mom and best friend, Ida Lewis Turner, known to us as Pokeni, turned Channin and Dylan 97 years old on July 14th. My sons, Parker would like to Tony Enriquez and Mario Morales (a Two have July birthdays wish their big sister, GI currently stationed in Iraq), and “Chele,” a happy 15th her great-granddaughter, Antonia Happy birthday to Korey David birthday on June 22 Enriquez, want to wish her a richly Mueller who turned three years old on and also wish her con- deserved happy birthday. July 15 and to Haylee Elizabeth gratulations on win- She was born in Glover, Oklahoma Mueller who turned one on July 11. ning 1st Runner-up in in 1906 and just missed being an original enrollee. Raised in Golden, Korey and Haylee celebrated their the District 7 Choctaw Oklahoma, she attended and graduated from Wheelock Girls Acad- birthdays together with a party on July Nation Princess Pag- emy. She credits the good wholesome cooking and rigorous exercise 12. Happy birthday to both of you – eant held in Wright regime at Wheelock for her longevity. Her parents were David and love, Mommy, Daddy and Bryce. City. Lena Lewis. Chele is the daugh- Up till the last few years, she made and sold Choctaw Indian dolls. Charles is finally 18 ter of Stacy and Tina Her dolls reside all over the United States and in many countries, Parker of Wright City. including France, England, Wales, Scotland, Germany, Australia and Charles Simpson’s niece, Bristina Grandparents are Virgil and Carolyn (Willis) Bohanan of Wright who knows where else. Colbert, and nephews, Billy Simpson City and Lee Parker of Hugo, Oklahoma. She is the great-grand- We are very proud and have been greatly blessed to have her. Love and Kenan Battiest, would like to wish daughter of Robert and Melissa (Peters) Bohanan of Bethel, Okla- you, Mom. him the best happy 18th birthday. homa and the late Dixon and Melba (Benton) Willis of Wright City. Charles turned 18 on July 11. He en- Happy 93rd, Myrtle! joys welding, fishing, bull riding and Maxwells Myrtle Adelia (Willey) McBroom hanging out with friends. celebrate celebrated her birthday recently. His parents are William and Myrtle was born June 16, 1910 in Melinda Simpson. He has one brother, birthdays Newcastle, Oklahoma. Her father was Bud, and two sisters, Linda and Anoli Maxwell and Orren L. Willey and her mother was LaDonna Simpson, all of Golden, Miko Maxwell both Josephine (Suds) Bench, an original Oklahoma. His grandparents are Mary celebrated big birth- enrollee of the Choctaw Nation. Carterby and the late John Amos days in May, with Myrtle now lives in the little town Carterby of Golden and Mary Lee of Anoli turning five and of Fruita, Colorado where her children, Eagletown, Oklahoma. Miko reaching the big grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, three. The children are siblings of Kalan Maxwell, who just cel- family and friends celebrated the occasion. ebrated the end of kindergarten at Bowen Elementary School in Happy 16th, Bud Myrtle thanks everyone for the cards, calls and visits. Louisville, Kentucky. They are the children of Zach Maxwell of We love you, Mom, from all your kids. Bud’s nephews and niece, Billy Texarkana, Texas. Grandparents are Karol Carnes of Hugo, Okla- Simpson, Kenan Battiest and Bristina homa and Steve Maxwell of Eagle Pass, Texas. Great-grandmother Colbert, wish Bud a happy 16th birth- is Hellen Hickman of Hugo, Oklahoma. Happy 85th birthday day on June 21. He enjoys being Thirty-four family members gath- around his family and friends. Kobe turns one! ered at Tenkiller Lake near Tahlequah, Bud’s parents are William and Oklahoma to honor Pauline E. Rob- Melinda Simpson. He has one brother, Happy birthday to Kobe Gene ertson on her 85th birthday. Pauline Charles, and two sisters, Linda and Anderson from his Dad and Mom, was born July 14, 1918 in Durant, LaDonna Simpson, all of Golden, brother and sister, Nana and Papa. Oklahoma to Virgil and Pearl Labor. Oklahoma. Grandparents are Mary Kobe turned one year old on July She has lived most of her life in Colo- Carterby and the late John Amos 30. rado and is now residing in Califor- Carterby of Golden and Mary Lee of nia. She is very proud of her heritage Eagletown, Oklahoma. and would also like to thank the Choctaw Nation for helping several of her grandchildren with their higher education. Look who’s two Cody wishes his PePa Billy Jack Simpson’s grandparents, a happy birthday! Dylan turns eleven William and Melinda Simpson, would like to wish him a happy second birth- Cody Wayne Elliott would like to Chele and Channin would like to day on July 16. Have a happy birth- wish a happy birthday to his PePa, Toy wish their brother, Dylan Parker, a day, from all of us, Grandma, Papa, Marlow of Durant, Oklahoma. happy birthday on August 18. brother Kenan Battiest and cousin Mr. Marlow turned 72 years old Dylan is the son of Stacy and Tina Bristina. He has two uncles and an on July 25th. L. Parker of Wright City, Oklahoma. aunt, Bud, Charles and Linda He is the grandson of Virgil and Simpson. All are from Golden, Okla- Brandon Lee turns three Carolyn Bohanan of Wright City and homa. Great-grandparents are Mary Lee Parker of Hugo, Oklahoma and Happy birthday to Brandon Lee Carterby and the late John Amos the great-grandson of Robert and Me- Felihkatubbe who turned three on July Carterby of Golden and Mary Lee of lissa Bohanan of Bethel, Oklahoma 24, 2003. Brandon was born in Eagletown, Oklahoma. and the late Dixon and Melba (Benton) Wildomar, California to Robert and Willis of Wright City. Bristina turns two Dinah Felihkatubbe, who all now live in Monroe, North Carolina. Brandon Bristina Cheyane Colbert turned is Choctaw, Irish and German. He is Happy birthday Little G two years old on May 26. She cel- the apple of all our eyes and we love Steven Gene Qualls turned one year ebrated with her cousins at the Bea- him very much. old on July 18. His parents are Gene vers Bend Resort Park. We would all Happy birthday, Dannie! and Penny Qualls. He has one sister, like to wish her a happy belated birth- DeAnna. His grandparents are day. Her parents are Linda Simpson Johnnie and Christina Masterson Cornelious and Janice Tonihka, all of of Golden, Oklahoma and James Col- would like to wish their little girl a Idabel, Oklahoma. Also, Mike Will- bert of Broken Bow, Oklahoma. very happy birthday. Danielle iams, Carol Qualls, and the late Steven Grandparents are Hilda Colbert of Masterson turns four on July 17. Ray Qualls, all of Clovis, New Broken Bow and William and Danielle is the granddaughter of Mexico. His great-grandparents are Melinda Simpson of Golden. She has three uncles and an aunt, Charlie Shari Vowell of Junction City, Oregon, Joe and Minnie Berry of Broken Bow, Colbert of Broken Bow and Bud, Charles and LaDonna Simpson of Pat Garcia of Van Buren, Arkansas, Oklahoma. We all love you very much. Golden. Her great-grandparents are Mary and the late John Amos and Louise Masterson of Corona, Cali- Carterby of Golden and Mary Lee of Eagletown, Oklahoma. fornia. Dannielle is the great-grand- daughter of Frank and Martha Vowell of Vian, Oklahoma. Jera turns three Happy birthday Dannie enjoys her Barbies and books. She loves going to school Jera JuliAnne Davis of Texarkana, Mady and Kaden Mullens recently and watching Choctaw dancing. Texas celebrated her third birthday on celebrated their birthdays. Mady June 27. She is the daughter of Keith turned three and Kaden turned one, Moma’s li’l slugger and Sharon Davis of Texarkana. Her both on May 23. They shared a We would like to wish a happy 6th grandparents are Earl and Ann Davis Sponge Bob Squarepants themed birthday to Kayleigh Dawn Powell. and Donald and Bobbie Scott of Ida- birthday party. Helping them celebrate She will turn six on August 26. Proud bel, Oklahoma. Jera’s great-grand- were Nana and Papa James, Granny moma is Monica Blaine of Durant, mother is Evelyn Mills of Atlanta, and Pepaw and Grandpa and Grandma Oklahoma. Kayleigh also has a big Texas. Mitchell. Mady and Kaden’s parents brother, Cody. Grandparents are Silas are Dustin and Mandy Mullens of Durant. Grandparents are James and Lorene Blaine. She has a very spe- He’s growing up! and Denise Mitchell of McKinney, Texas and B.J. and Lisa Mullens cial aunt and uncle who reside in Tish- Nicholas Cole is going to be six of Armstrong, Oklahoma. Great-grandparents are Marvin and omingo, Oklahoma, OHP Trooper Joe years old on August 28. Nicholas is Bobbie Mitchell and the late Jim and Doris Adcock, all of Durant. Jefferson and his wife, Teresa. the son of Carri and Steven Cole of Kayleigh would like to wish her special Uncle Junior and cousin Li’l Atoka, Oklahoma. He is the great- Happy fifth birthday Joe a very happy birthday in September. grandson of Adam Betsey of Atoka and Annie Betsey of Durant, Okla- Randall would like to wish his Happy birthday brother, Jordan Isaac, a happy fifth homa. We love you. May God bless birthday on June 4. He celebrated at Melody Thorne turned two years old you in the years to come. his home with a cookout with all of on July 21. Her sister, Aire, turned his family and friends. Jordan gradu- eight on April 14. Their parents and ated from Chickasaw Nation Head grandparents wish them very happy Look who’s turning 11! Start in Ada. He enjoys playing vol- birthdays. Happy birthday Dylan Cockrill from leyball and swimming. The girls are the great-granddaugh- your mom, Glenda; dad, John; sisters, His parents are Ricky and Rolena ters of the late William T. and Ella Angie and Jessie; brothers, Chris and Bohanon of Ada. He is the grandson Murphy of Idabel, Oklahoma. John, Jr., and Grandma Satterfield. of the late Isaac and Lula Bohanon of Paris, Texas and the late Josh Dylan turned 11 years old on August and Minnie Wallace of Pauls Valley, Oklahoma. All of Jordan’s uncles, Belated birthday wishes for Peggy Scruggs 20. auntie and cousin would like to wish him a big happy birthday and Belated wishes for a happy birthday are sent to Peggy “Granny” He is an A and B honor student at tell him we love him. Scruggs of Rush Springs, Oklahoma. She turned 70 on June 10. She Haworth Elementary and All-Star mi- is the best grandma anyone could ever have. She has seven grand- nor baseball player. Happy birthday children, seven great-grandchildren and three great-grandchildren on We all love you! Keep up the good the way. We love you Granny! work. Happy birthday wishes are sent to Charlie Ray Simpson, Jr. of Pullman, Erica turns 14 Washington who turned 19 years old Look who’s 21! We would like to wish a belated in April. Happy birthday to Mark Dean happy birthday to Erica Estrada who Charlie says “Hello” to his Uncle Tushka who turned 21 years old on turned 14 years old on June 7 and to Frank Simpson of Eagletown, Okla- June 12. We love you very, very much her big brother, Terry, who turned 20 homa and all of his cousins in Broken – from Mom, Leo, Patty, Eric, years old on April 15. Bow, Oklahoma. Grandpa and Grandma. We love you very much, from Mom Mark is the son of Peggy Jefferson and Dad. and the grandson of Barrentine and Nancy Tushka all of Broken Bow August 2003, BISHINIK, Page 8 John Barrett Eagletown’s commissioned valedictorian John Everidge Barrett was commissioned as a Second Lieu- Congratulations to Crystal Ashalin- tenant in the U.S. Army on May tubbi, valedictorian of this year’s se- 23, 2003. John attended the Uni- nior class at Eagletown High versity of New Hampshire under School. She is the daughter of Mr. and the ROTC program and gradu- Mrs. Kenny Ashalintubbi. ated with a Bachelor of Arts De- Crystal has a 4.0 grade point aver- gree in History. age and was president of her FFA John is the son of John Louis Barrett and Martha (Shirn) Barrett of chapter and of her senior class. She was secretary of the National Pelham, New Hampshire. He is shown with his grandmother, Lula Honor Society and a member of both the Oklahoma Honor Society Belle (Everidge) Shirn. John is the great-grandson of Edward and and the Oklahoma Indian Honor Society. Pearl Everidge (deceased) who lived near Hugo, Oklahoma. Edward She plans to attend Eastern Oklahoma State College where she Everidge was an original enrollee of the Choctaw Nation. will receive the full Presidential Scholarship. Crystal was also awarded the Otha Grimes Agriculture Scholarship, two land judg- Herring receives ing contest scholarships, the Jade Ashalintubbi Memorial Scholar- leadership scholarship ship, the Jeremy Short Memorial Scholarship and the Teresa Black Memorial Scholarship. She will be majoring in animal science. The Eastern Oklahoma State State Champions College Development Founda- Missouri boy Choctaws Lance Wallace, Tony Colungo, Chance Wallace and (not tion held its annual awards as- pictured) Marvin Wallace were members of the State Champion sembly recently on the Wilbur- is growing up USSSA team. They are pictured with their coach, Antoine Colungo. ton campus. Patrick Herring, Danny Betsey II is going to be five right, of West, Texas received the years old on August 20. Mom, son are All-American Collegiate Scholars George Nigh Leadership Schol- Danny’s parents are Danny and arship presented by Eastern Linda Betsey of Granby, Missouri. He Karen L. Poehler and Michael D. Poehler of Vero Beach, Florida President Dr. Bill Campion. Herring will be a sophomore majoring is the grandson of Shirley of Granby, have been named All-American Collegiate Scholars by the U.S. in Criminal Justice and was elected by the student body at Eastern to Adam Betsey of Atoka, Oklahoma and Achievement Academy. Karen, who attends Indian River Commu- be the new Student Senate President for the 2003-04 school year. He Annie Betsey of Durant, Oklahoma. nity College, is the daughter of Roy and Barbara Gardner of Vero was also very active and held office in various campus organizations Happy birthday! Beach. Michael also attends Indian River Community College and is including the Criminal Justice Club as Activities Director, Photogra- the son of Karen and Mike Poehler. His grandparents are Roy and phy Club Student Senate Representative as well as a member of the Happy 84th birthday Barbara Gardner of Vero Beach and Rosalie Poehler of Flora, Florida. Aggie Club. Blaine places Herring also represented the Native American Student Associa- Lee Fowler turned 84 on July 16. His great-grandmother, Ida Stew- tion as a Student Senate Representative. He was involved in campus art was an original enrollee. Lee is husband to Lois, a father, brother, second in activities ranging from the Christmas toy drive to helping with live- uncle and grandfather. Happy birthday! Your family across this na- golf tourney stock shows. In addition to his many activities, he was selected to the tion wish you well! Dean’s Honor Roll. Cody Blaine competed in the Gardner Durant Daily Democrat Annual Award-winner joins Red Sox Jr. Golf Tournament in July. He placed second in the 11- to 12- Cheyenne Fields received several The Boston Red year-old division with a score of awards at Shields Heights Elementary Sox drafted Jarrett 86. He is one-quarter Choctaw School – music award and medal, Gardner of Moore, and proud of his heritage. Cody reading award and medal, Indian Edu- Oklahoma in the will also compete in the Jr. Na- cation trophy, citizenship medal, 4th/ 19th round of the tive American National Golf 5th grade Talent Search ribbon from 2003 MLB draft Tournament in Sante Fe, New Duke University and a Certificate of conducted on June Mexico later this month, repre- Achievement from Jim Thorpe Bright 3. Jarrett, the son of senting the Choctaw Nation. Proud mother is Monica Blaine and Path Club. She also made all A’s on Gary Gardner and grandparents are Silas and Lorene Blaine. His sister, Kayleigh, and her report card. the grandson of the family would like to wish him good luck as he competes in Sante Fe. Cheyenne’s mother is Darlene Bohanon Fields. Her grandparents late Chief David are Danuta Bohanon and Sammy Bohanon. She is the great-grand- Gardner, was a 1999 daughter of Robert Bohanon and Myrtle Bohanon. Her great-great- graduate of Moore High School and coached by Chris Crosbie. He grandfather was original enrollee Sam Bohanan and great-great- received All-State honors while in high school as a shortstop and grandmother was Lou Ella Blevins Bohanan Baucom. attended Rose State College after graduation. He played shortstop/ pitcher for the Raiders in the 2000-01 season. He was an All-Confer- Congratulations! ence pitcher and played shortstop/pitcher for the Raiders in the 2000- The family of Sue Stevens would 01 season. He was an All-Conference pitcher and shortstop while at like to congratulate her on all of her RSC under Lloyd Cummings. accomplishments while attending the From there he was recruited by the University of Arkansas as a Hugo Kiamichi Technology Center. pitcher. He began the 2002 season as the closer for the Razorbacks, Sue received a certificate for perfect but soon moved into the starting weekend conference role. attendance for the school year, an Ex- This 2003 season, Jarrett was the Friday night starter as well as Tupelo Students of Today cellence Award certificate, a certificate one of the captains for the Razorbacks. On March 10, he was named for 65 hours of community service, the SEC Pitcher of the Week and the NCBWA National Pitcher of the Congratulations to Tupelo Students of Today Brittanie Williams being elected into the National Voca- Week after recording a save against Kansas and a win against South and Trenton Walkup, Jr. High, and to eighth grade graduates Amanda tional Technical Honor Society and Carolina in the same week. Jarrett ended his season with a 4.63 ERA McClure, Samantha Guffey and Brittanie Williams. receiving a plaque for her dedication, willingness to serve and lead- and setting a new record for Arkansas and the SEC for the fewest ership skills. She earned a certificate of completion for Phlebotomy walks in a season. He pitched 86.1 innings with three walks and 53 Eeds going Technician and Clinical Medical Assistant while maintaining an A strikeouts in the regular season. After the SEC tournament and to Nationals average. regionals he ended the year with 93.1 innings, 5 walks, and 58 Sue is the wife of Rick Stevens and the mother of Matthew Sam of strikeouts. Kari Jo Eeds, a Boswell, Oklahoma. He left June 8 for Lowell, Massachusetts to start his minor league graduate of Merritt career and will return in September. Jarrett will return to Arkansas in High School and the Lusk on Oklahoma the fall to finish his college education and graduate in December daughter of Ray and Gold baseball team with a degree in kinesiology. Congratulations, Jarrett! Nancy Eeds, earned a position on the Yukon High School’s Clint Lusk O’Kelley named Oklahoma High was infielder for Oklahoma Gold in salutatorian School Rodeo Team the Seventh Annual Junior Sunbelt and a trip to Farm- Eric Chase O’Kelley was named the Classic, held in McAlester and ington, New Mexico salutatorian for the graduating class of Hartshorne in June. He was a starter for the 55th An- Haileyville High School for 2003. Eric at shortstop for the Millers as a sopho- nual National High attended Haileyville Schools for 13 more and a junior. School Finals Rodeo years. He has been named as an Okla- Clint is the grandson of Ruby Faye in the goat-tying event. She was named goat-tying champion at the homa Academic Scholar by the State Walker. Oklahoma High School Finals Rodeo in June. Superintendent’s office. His other The NHSFR features over 1,500 contestants from 39 states, five achievements include being a member Jr. high honor graduate Canadian provinces and Australia vying for over $125,000 in prizes, of the National Honor Society, Okla- John D. Hale graduated Jefferson Jr. homa Honor Society, the OK Indian Student Honor Roll, an All- more than $150,000 in college scholarships and the honor of being High School with honors on May 23, American Scholar, Who’s Who Among American Students and the named the National High School Rodeo Champion. 2003. He played the National Anthem National Honor Roll. Eric will attend the University of Oklahoma in solo for the graduation program with the fall where he will major in business. Eric is the son of Buddy and Student completes “future astronaut training” his trumpet. John received the Ameri- Janelle O’Kelley of Hartshorne and the grandson of Jimmy and Roena Aaron Reynolds, son of Juliana James Reynolds of Tulsa, attended can Legion School Award in recogni- O’Kelley of Hartshorne and Bill and Ann McCullar of Gowen. His level one of the Future Astronaut Training Program at the Kansas tion of his high qualities of courage, great-grandparents are Arvil and Ima Barnes of Hartshorne. Cosmosphere and Space Center in Hutchinson. Developed by honor, leadership, patriotism and Cosmosphere staff, the intense week-long program incorporates ac- scholarship. He also completed the National honor student tual astronaut training with briefings on subjects ranging from how Texas Rural Leadership Program and the body reacts to spaceflight to principles of rocketry. Campers also received a Certificate of Completion and Accomplishment. John re- The U.S. Achievement Academy receive up-to-date human spaceflight news including status of the ceived the Jefferson Jr. High Band Award for 8th grade Outstanding has announced that Tyler Michael space shuttle Columbia accident investigation. The nationally recog- Top Brass and Perfect Attendance Certificate, 2002-03 school year. Sands of Okemah, Oklahoma has been nized camp strives to motivate and inspire careers in space-related He’s a man with a plan! recognized for academic achievement as a National Honor Roll Award win- industries in an environment that emphasizes teamwork and prob- Elkins is New Mexico’s All-Around Cowgirl ner. Tyler, 12, who attends Noble lem solving. For more information on the Future Astronaut Training Middle School, will appear in the Program, call 1-800-397-0330, ext. 304, or visit the Cosmophere’s Kelsi Elkins, 16, has earned her fourth All-Around Champion saddle academy’s official yearbook, which is website at www.cosmo.org. this year in New Mexico’s High School State Finals Rodeo at Red published nationally. Rock State Park in Gallup. After just missing out on qualifying for He is the son of Mike and Barbara Elsik High School grad the NHSFR last year, Kelsi grabbed the barrel racing state title and (Baker) Sands of Okemah. Grandparents are Elton and Josephine Jenifer Brixey recently graduated also qualified for nationals in the pole bending and goat tying. She Baker of Idabel, Oklahoma and Jonah and Bertha Sands of Castle, magna cum laude from Elsik High also nailed down the season girls’ all-around state title and the state Oklahoma. School in Houston, Texas. Jenifer is finals girls’ all-around title. the daughter of Jack and Juliana Competing in five events, Kelsi, who plays basketball during the All-American scholar Brixey, granddaughter of Ella (Frazier) three-month break from rodeoing, finished first in the barrels and The U.S. Achievement Academy Smith and great-granddaughter of third in both the poles and goats. She also competes in breakaway announced that Nakisha Zilliox of Noah Frazier of Tushka, Oklahoma. and team roping. A sophomore at Aztec High, she is on her way to Wright City, Oklahoma has been She was vice president of the Elsik nationals for the second year in a row. named an All-American Scholar. A Orchestra and plays the same violin Kelsi is the daughter of Ron and Jana Elkins, the granddaughter of student at Wright City High School, that her great-grandfather played. She Carol Bandy and the great-granddaughter of original enrollee Laura Nakisha was nominated for this na- is a member of the National Science Winnie Stowers of Madill, Oklahoma. tional award by Penny James. Nakisha Honor Society, danced in the Alief BISHINIK deadline will appear in the All-American Jazz Ballet troupe, and was president Scholar Yearbook, which is published of the German club. Jenifer recently tested for her second-degree Articles to be submitted for publication in the BISHINIK nationally. black belt in Tae Kwon Do. She has received a Carter Revard Schol- need to be received by the 10th of the month for the following Nakisha is the daughter of the late Duke and Terri Zilliox. She is arship from Washington University in St. Louis where she will study month’s edition. the granddaughter of Mary E. Watson of Wright City. mechanical engineering. August 2003, BISHINIK, Page 9

Nursery News

Randol Lee Chance Aunquoe McKenzie Rose Loma Randol Lee Chance Aunquoe was McKenzie Rose Loma was born on born at 11:45 a.m. on June 18, 2003 at February 1, 2003 at Stillwater Medical the Women’s Center of Medical Center Center in Stillwater, Oklahoma. She of Southeastern Oklahoma in Durant. weighed 7 pounds, 2 ounces. Her proud He weighed 7 pounds, 7 ounces and parents are Daniel and Dawn Loma of measured 20 inches in length. Parents Stillwater. McKenzie has two brothers, are Gregg and Amber Aunquoe of Ben- Brennan and Taylor. Her grandparents nington, Oklahoma. He has a sister, are Glenda and Edward Loma of Batti- Shelbi Lynn. est, Oklahoma and Jean and Harold Hite of Stillwater. Great-grandparents are Velma Johnson of Stillwater, the late Carlo and Esien Wade, and the Jenna Amielle Gardner late Sarah Obe of Broken Bow, Oklahoma. Making an entrance is Jenna Amielle McKenzie would like to wish her Daddy a happy birthday on July Gift for Chief Gardner, born January 17, 2003 in Du- 1st! rant, Oklahoma. She was 7 pounds, 6.2 A beautiful homemade quilt was presented as a gift for Chief Greg ounces and 19 inches long. Jenna is the Kathleen Elizabeth Battiest Pyle by Ofsie Horne, Raymond Dillard, Mozelle Dillard Hunter and daughter of Ronald and Teresa Gardner Nadine Dillard Lewis. Kathleen Elizabeth Battiest was born of Durant. She is also the granddaugh- Sunday, April 27, 2003 in Lawton, Desiree Noah wins ter of Stanley and Divina Gardner of Las Oklahoma. She weighed 8 pounds and Vegas, Nevada, Charles and Mary Holt beauty pageant awards was 20.5 inches long. Proud of their first of Durant, and Sabrina and Troy Blake born are her parents, Walker and Jamie Desiree Denisa Noah of Bro- of Madill, Oklahoma. She has an older Battiest of Duncan, Oklahoma. Proud ken Bow, Oklahoma has won a sister, Mercedes Garcia, who is ten years old, and she has a twin set grandparents are Debbie Battiest and the crown and a trophy in the 5-and- of brother and sister, Andrew and Alexus Garcia, who are nine. late Allen Battiest and the Rev. Ronald up age division of the Magical and Veta Howard, all of Duncan, and Seasons Miss Spring Blossom Jessica Marie Hyland Flora Howard of Marlow, Oklahoma. 2003 pageant in Broken Bow. She received a trophy in the pho- Dustin and Joshua Hyland would like Angelina “Angel” Maree togenic competition and earned to announce the arrival of their new medals for prettiest eyes, hair, baby sister, Jessica Marie Hyland. Jes- Angelina “Angel” Maree was born at smile and best fashion. sica was born at 1:14 p.m. on June 16, 1:30 p.m. on June 7, 2003 in Idabel, She also won first runner-up in 2003 at the Choctaw Nation Health Care Oklahoma to a very proud mama, the Magical Seasons Miss Ameri- Center in Talihina, Oklahoma. She Amanda “Red” LeAnn Willis of Batti- can Spirit 2003 pageant held in weighed 7 pounds, 8 ounces and mea- est, Oklahoma. Angel weighed 6 Wright City. sured 18.75 inches long. Proud parents pounds, 8 ounces and was 18 inches are Frank and Janice Hyland of Grant. long. Grandparents are Elesten and Desiree graduated from Choctaw Nation Head Start in Broken Bow. Grandparents are Janet “Gan-Gan” Phillips of Unger, Oklahoma and Nima Willis, Jr. of Broken Bow, Okla- She enjoys singing gospel music and is looking forward to singing at Minnie and Jerry Gaither of Hugo, Oklahoma. We would like to wish homa and Charlotte Willis of Battiest. this year’s Choctaw Labor Day Festival at Tushka Homma. a late Happy 11th Anniversary on June 20 to Moma and Daddy. Great-grandparents are Lillie Willis of She is the five-year-old daughter of Kenneth and Katie Noah of Battiest and Delois Farley of Gillham, Arkansas. Great-great-grand- Broken Bow. She has two sisters, Tia and Krystal, who love her very mother is Gladys Price of DeQueen, Arkansas. much. Her grandparents are Lena Battiest and the late Esau Battiest Paige Madison Williams of Broken Bow, Annie Noah of Battiest, Oklahoma and the late Lee Paige Madison Williams was born Teagan Demcy Smith Noah, Sr., Helen Battiest and the late Isaac Battiest, Sr. of Broken March 25 to Preston and Dana Williams Bow. of Oklahoma City. She weighed 7 Teagan Demcy Smith was born at Desiree and her sisters want to wish their daddy a very special pounds, 8 ounces. Grandparents are 10:02 p.m. on June 11, 2003 at Unity happy birthday. We love you daddy! Mark and Donna Concienne of Broken North to Tara and Eric Smith of Shaw- Arrow, Oklahoma and Michael and Gay nee, Oklahoma. She weighed 7 pounds, Celebrating 65th Williams of Oklahoma City. She is the 8 ounces and was 20 inches long. Mr. and Mrs. H.D. Blythe, Jr. great-granddaughter of Nell Wilson of Grandparents are Bennie and Deloris of Amarillo, Texas celebrated Marlow, Oklahoma; great-great-grand- Bender of Shawnee and David and their 65th wedding anniversary in daughter of Billie Ireland of Duncan, Oklahoma and the great-great- Michelle Smith of Hominy, Oklahoma. July. H.D. Blythe and Claudia great-granddaughter of original enrollees Thompson Wilson and Great-grandparents include Nora Fox of Flowers were married on July 24, Nellie Hayes Wilson. Paige says, “Chahta sia hoke!” Shawnee, Ella Bender of Cromwell, Oklahoma, Orville and Nadean 1938 in Hereford, Texas. They Myers of Bartlesville, Oklahoma and Pete and Nancy Smith of have four daughters, nine grand- Meladee Leelayn Allison Barnsdall, Oklahoma. children and eleven great-grandchildren who love and adore them and are so grateful to have them in their lives. They have been an Chad and Jeaniene Allison of Lind- Kaya Faith Selman inspiration to all their family. Mr. and Mrs. Blythe are very proud of say, Oklahoma are proud to announce their Choctaw heritage and have instilled that pride in their children, the birth of their daughter, Meladee Cheyenne Selman would like to wel- grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Their family wishes them Leelayn, born April 23, 2003 at Carl come her new baby sister, Kaya Faith, many more wonderful years together. Albert Indian Hospital in Ada, Okla- to the family and to God’s big world. homa. Meladee weighed 8 pounds, 2 Kaya was born May 13, 2003 at Valley 55th anniversary ounces and measured 18.5 inches. View Hospital in Ada, Oklahoma to her The family and friends of Rob- Meladee was welcomed by three sis- very proud parents, William Ross and ert and Melissia Bohanan are de- ters and a brother, Saydi, Ellanee, Abbee Kerry Selman of Haywood, Oklahoma. She weighed 9 pounds, 3 ounces and was 20.5 inches long. Her proud lighted to wish them a happy 55th and Tanner. family includes grandparents, Nickey and Anna Mae Beal of Coalgate, wedding anniversary on July 24 Grandparents are Jean Work of Lindsay, Gary Work of Talihina, Oklahoma and Ross and Jo Ann Selman of Haywood; aunts Kim and would like to wish Melissia Charley and Debbie Allison of Hennipin, Oklahoma and Connie and Ybana of Tuttle, Oklahoma, Lisa Price, and Brenda Lankford of a happy birthday. Melissia turned Dennis Avance of Lindsay. Haywood, and great-grandmother, Joyce Ott of Haywood. 70 years old on June 2. She loves Great-grandparents are Loyd and the late Nellie Taylor of Lind- What a precious Mother’s Day gift from the Lord. to fish and hunt and to spend time say, Betty and David Allison of Elmore City, Oklahoma and Clarence with her kids and grandkids. and Wanda Pratt of Lindsay. Wishing their parents a happy anniversary are Virgil and Carolyn, Kylie Alyssa James Kenneth and Eunice, Youlanda, Melinda and Lyndell, Mary, Austin Guy Rowdy Brimage Cameron James would like to announce the birth of his baby sis- and Linda, Emilou, Jimmy and Betty, Tony and Brenda, Herbie, and Guy Rowdy Brimage was born at ter, Kylie Alyssa James, born on May 20, 2003. She weighed 7 pounds, Lois, their 26 grandkids and 24 great-grandkids. We love you very 10 ounces and was 20.5 inches long. Her parents are Abbie James II much! 10:25 a.m. on May 26, 2003 at Parkview Hospital in El Reno, Oklahoma to John and Atalya Noah. Golden years and Kim Brimage. Guy weighed 7 Armando Christopher Stewart Happy anniversary to Clark pounds, 4 ounces and he measured 19.5 and Peggy Holder of Dallas, inches in length. Armando Christopher Stewart was Texas. They celebrated their born June 6, 2003 at McCurtain Memo- golden anniversary on July 23. Reagan Nicole Harris rial Hospital in Idabel, Oklahoma to Thanks for 50 good years. Steven and Chrismina (Bicenti) Stew- Billy and Shalene Harris of Norman, art and big brother Stefano, all of Bro- Oklahoma are proud to announce the ken Bow, Oklahoma. Armando weighed birth of their daughter, Reagan Nicole 7 pounds. Harris, born at 5:36 p.m. on April 10, Proud grandparents are Louis and Wedding bells 2003 in Norman Regional Hospital. She Gloria Bond of Broken Bow, Louise Orvella Amos became the weighed 7 pounds, 14 ounces and was Bicenti of Pueblo Pintado, New Mexico, the late Henry Bicenti and bride of Glen Harjo on June 17, 19.5 inches long. Steven Jr., Steven Sr. and Eunice Stewart. Proud great-grandparents 2003 in a 4 p.m. ceremony at a Grandparents are Winford and Joanne include Barrentine and Nancy Tushka of Broken Bow. wedding chapel in Las Vegas, Coon of Lindsay, V.H. Harris of Nevada. Ninnekah, Oklahoma and Cheryl Harris of Enid, Oklahoma. Great- The bride is the daughter of grandparents include Gene and Dorothy Harris of Ninnekah and Joe Bill and Louise Amos of Garvin, and Maggie Hays of Kalispell, Montana. Reagan is also welcomed Oklahoma. She is employed at by many aunts, uncles and cousins. She is the descendant of Choc- Oklahoma Farmers Insurance in taw enrollee Amy Anderson. Oklahoma City. Glen is employed at Tinker Air Force Base in Okla- homa City. Justin Wyatt Cameron Following the ceremony, guests were treated to a buffet at Excalibur Little Budgie Glen Cam- Inn. After a short honeymoon in Las Vegas, the couple set up resi- eron would like to announce dence in Midwest City, Oklahoma. the birth of his baby brother. Congratulations from Mom and Dad, Mike and Vicky, Nancy and Justin Wyatt Cameron was Ron, Justin, Dayla, Derrick, Nikki, Zachary and Andrew. born May 29, weighing in at 7 pounds, 14 ounces and was Bender, Smith marry 19 inches long. Justin’s proud Tara Janell Bender of Shaw- parents are Robert “Budgie” nee, Oklahoma and Eric Ryan and Candace Cameron. Smith of Hominy, Oklahoma Proud grandparents are Robert and Gaye Cameron of Chelsea, Okla- Kailie Briane King were united in marriage May 17, homa, Tweety and Pamela Forbo of Vinita, Oklahoma and David 2003 at Peace Garden in Shaw- Newby of Alabama. Proud great-grandparents are Pat Lutz and the Desmine and Kenie King would like to announce the birth of their nee. late Glen Lutz of Chelsea, the late Cleo Creekmore of Jay, Okla- little sister, Kailie Briane King. Kailie was born April 6, 2003 at the The bride is the daughter of homa and Jessie and Marie Cameron of Battiest, Oklahoma. Choctaw Nation Health Care Center in Talihina, Oklahoma. Proud Bennie Joe and Deloris (Frazier) Justin was welcomed home by his half-brother, Dylan Robert parents are Kenneth and Christie King of Talihina. Grandparents are Bender of Shawnee. The groom Cameron of Mannford, Oklahoma; cousin, Dakota of Pryor; aunts, Anthony and Lynnidean King of Talihina and L.C. and Doylene is the son of David and Michelle Smith of Hominy. Eric and Tara Kiki, Brandy and Ashley of South Dakota, uncles, Travis and Josh; Heaton of Bengal, Oklahoma. Proud great-grandmothers are Dor- now reside in Reno, Nevada. special friends, Jeff and Carla Steel and family, and many others. othy Johnico-Melton and Velma Frazier-Angel, both of Talihina. August 2003, BISHINIK, Page 10 OBITUARIES

Stephen Dale Postoak Margaret Dodson Frey Ruth Jean Pilkinton Tech. Sgt. Stephen Dale Postoak, Margaret Dodson Frey, 73, of Hugo, Oklahoma passed away April Ruth Jean Pilkinton, 72, passed USAF, passed away May 9, 2003 at 10, 2003. She was born November 5, 1929 in Hugo, the daughter of away May 12, 2003. She was born Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma. He George Walter Dodson and Florence Lee (Oakes) Dodson. December 11, 1930. was born July 20, 1966 in Ardmore, Margaret lived in Hugo until her graduation from Hugo High School She was preceded in death by her Oklahoma to John and Mary J. in 1947. She married George Marvin Frey, Jr. on February 23, 1947. husband, Charles G. Pilkinton, Sr.; (Underwood) Postoak. She and her husband returned to Hugo in 1993. She was a retired daughter, Marilyn Richardson, and a A graduate of Ardmore High secretary and a member of the First Christian Church of Hugo. son, Ronnie Dee Pilkinton. School, he attended East Central Uni- She was preceded in death by her parents and two infant sons, Survivors include her sons, Charles versity, Oklahoma Baptist University George M. Frey III and Mikeal Wayne Frey. G. Pilkinton, Jr. and Grady Earl and Northeastern University. On Oc- Survivors include her husband of 56 years, Marvin Frey, of Hugo; Pilkinton, both of Durant, Oklahoma, tober 27, 1987, he and Lucille “Lucy” one son, Gary Neal Frey and wife, Christa, of Sugar Land, Texas; David Lee Pilkinton of Garland, Texas, Emarthla were married. He enlisted in two grandsons, Mikeal Ault Frey of College Station, Texas and and Daniel Norris Pilkinton of Tampa, the Air Force in 1988 and served 15 Jameson Neal Frey of Sugar Land; one sister, Willodyne Smith of Florida; daughters, Betty Ruth West years. During these 15 years, he and his family were stationed all Hugo; niece, Brenda Gray of Denison, Texas; nephew, Brian Smith and Georgia Fay Huffman, both of over the world, including England, Australia and Spain. of Sikeston, Missouri; and several other nieces and nephews along Dallas, Texas, Charlotte Baker of Durant and Loretta Larch of He enjoyed all sports, especially baseball and fishing. He was loved with many other family members and friends. Richardson, Texas; brothers, James E. Ludlow of Hartshorne, Okla- and respected by all who knew him and will be greatly missed. homa, Ellis E. Ludlow, Jr. of Broken Bow, Oklahoma, Willie Ludlow Survivors include his wife; a daughter, Marissa, and a son, Zachary; of Durant and Sham Ludlow of Farmers Branch, Texas; sisters, his parents, John K. Postoak of Ardmore and Mary J. Postoak of Clyde A. Pebworth Pearlyene Carnes of Durant and Merrill Thomas of Denison, Texas. Philadelphia, Mississippi; a brother, Ken Postoak of Philadelphia; Clyde A. Pebworth, 69, of Stonewall, Oklahoma passed away two sisters, Denise Taylor of Ardmore and Lynette Sykes of Phila- March 11, 2003 at Stonewall. He was born December 28, 1933 in Nicholas Griggs “Coach” Durant Coalgate, Oklahoma to Preston Grant and Vera Ethel Locke Pebworth. delphia. He is the grandson of Choctaw original enrollee Sam J. Nicholas Griggs Durant, “Coach,” was 55 years old, the son of the Mr. Pebworth was a Korean War veteran and 32nd degree mason. Postoak and great-grandson of Chickasaw original enrollee Hattie Rev. Forbis P. and Teola (Woolridge) Durant. The Rev. W.W. Witt of He married Linda Pebworth on November 9, 1974 in Nashville, Ten- Stout. the Oklahoma Indian Methodist Conference baptized him. He gradu- nessee. ated in 1966 from Atoka High School. He received his Associate of Survivors include his wife, Linda, of the home; three daughters, Charles Ora D. Teague Arts Degree at Eastern Oklahoma State College in 1968, his Bach- Erin Barton of Dubuque, Iowa, Marie Mulligan of Independence, Charles Ora D. Teague, 68, passed away June 14, 2003 in Kerrville, elor of Arts in Speech and Drama at Northeastern State University in Iowa and Shelly Lee of Minco, Oklahoma; four sons, Alvin Pebworth, Texas. He was born January 5, 1935 in Austin, Texas to George and 1973, and his Master of Arts in Health Physical Education and Rec- Leslie Pebworth and Ray Pebworth, all of Coalgate, DeWayne Octavia Teague. His father was an original enrollee. reation at NSU in 1976. Pebworth of Rattan, Oklahoma; three sisters, Ira Jean Pebworth of He was preceded in death by both parents; a sister, Jennie Teague, He began his teaching and coaching career at Albuquerque Indian Madras, Oregon, June Loretta Greenwood of Ada, Oklahoma, and and four brothers, Daniel, Bennie Lee, Cecil and Jack Teague. School, Albuquerque, New Mexico. From there he moved to Many Barbara Lavern Galloway of Tyler, Texas; two brothers, Louis Grant Survivors include his loving wife, Betty Teague of Kerrville; three Farms, Arizona where he taught and coached at Many Farms High Pebworth of Tupelo, Oklahoma and Alfred Grant Pebworth of Hous- children, Charles, Michael and Trisha Teague, all of Kerrville; three School in 1975-76. He moved across the country to Cherokee, North ton, Texas; and 13 grandchildren. brothers, David Teague and wife, Shirley, of Bandera, Texas, James Carolina to Cherokee High School from 1976-1978. Next he moved Teague of Houston, Texas, and Joseph Teague and wife, Peggy, of closer to home when he came to Bacone College in Muskogee, Okla- Oak Hurst, Texas; two sisters, Betty Jalufka of Kennedy, Texas and homa as instructor, coach, athletic director and division chairperson. Mary Hagan of Yoak, Texas; four grandchildren and one great-grand- Octavia (Locke) Grimes Rogers State College in Claremore, Oklahoma welcomed Coach child. He will be loved and missed by many other family members Octavia (Locke) Grimes, 91, Durant from 1982 to 1985. and friends. passed away June 26, 2003 in Lub- Finding his way back to Southeastern Oklahoma, Coach Durant bock, Texas. She was born Novem- moved to Eastern Oklahoma State College in Wilburton from 1985 Katherine James ber 14, 1911 in Hugo, the daughter to 1991. Coach left Eastern to move to Tahlequah and assume many Katherine James, 68, of Rufe, Oklahoma passed away July 17, of Wilson and Susan (Hampton) duties at Oaks Mission School. He was the Intern Teacher Supervi- 2003 at Hugo, Oklahoma. She was born November 1, 1934 in Ringold, Locke. sor, Entry Year Teacher Supervisor, Committee Mentor for Profes- Oklahoma, the daughter of Laymon and Marie (Holmes) Baker. She married Howard Grimes on sional Development, Committee Chairperson for the North Central Katherine lived in the Rufe area all her life and was a member of November 16, 1935. He preceded her Evaluation and dormitory parent. Six years ago, he became the coach the Hampton Chapel Methodist Church. in death. She was also preceded in of the Lady Vikings at Carl Albert State College in Poteau, Okla- She was preceded in death by her husband, Andrew James, Sr.; death by a grandson, Andy Wilson. homa. two sisters, Pearline Myers and Rosie May Baker, and two nephews. Mrs. Grimes was a member of the Some of Coach’s personal accomplishments include 1965 State Survivors include four sons, Andrew James, Jr. of Wilburton, Okla- Church of Christ, the VFW Auxiliary, Track Champion in the mile run and State Runner-up in the 800-yard homa, Michael James of Hinton, Oklahoma, Mark James of Hugo, and a proud member of the Choctaw run; 1966 State Track Champion in the 880-yard run; 1967-68 Col- Oklahoma and Patrick James of Rattan, Oklahoma; two daughters, Nation. lege State Track Champion in the 440, 880 and mile relay for East- Donna Justice of Soper, Oklahoma and Jacqueline Jennings and Kelly Survivors include two sons, Thurman Locke, Jr. of Whiteface, ern; 1967-68 National Qualifier in track for Eastern, and he was James, both of Hugo; 22 grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, Texas and Billy Jack Grimes of Lubbock; two daughters, Frankie Jo awarded the first Larry Stone Award, awarded to the Outstanding and one nephew. Grimes and Nancy Kay Jones, both of Lubbock; one brother, Ed- College Athlete while at Eastern. ward Locke of Purcell; one sister, Ernestine Locke of Hugo; nine Coach Durant brought to the world 25 years of coaching and teach- grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren and great-great- ing experience, 17 of working basketball camps and leagues, 15 of Joyce Nadine Williams grandchildren. coaching women’s basketball, 17 of football, and two of softball, Joyce Nadine Williams, 68, passed away March 29, 2003 in Dal- track and volleyball. Listed among his many coaching accomplish- las, Texas. She was born September 15, 1934 in Hugo, Oklahoma to ments, he was recognized for bringing “at-risk” students above the Albert and Elva (Chambliss) Oakes. William Joseph Roth 50th percentile on the ITBS in Social Studies in 1994; Conference Joyce had worked as a nurse’s aid administrator for the Hugo Manor William Joseph Roth, 81, a retired pilot with American Airlines, coach of the Year in Girls Basketball in 1978; Lake O’ the Cherokees Nursing Home for 37 years. passed away Saturday, July 12, 2003 at a Fort Worth, Texas care All Stars recognized him as the Winning Coach in 1994; Tri-County Survivors include her husband, David Williams, of Hugo; two sons, center. He was born on February 25, 1922 in McAlester, Oklahoma Champions with an undefeated season and Tri-County All Star Win- Steve Rouse and Paul Rouse, both of Hugo; two brothers, Doug Oakes to Francis and Ida Mae (Welsh) Roth. He was a graduate of McAl- ning Coach in 1996. He was an Oklahoma Native American All State of Arkansas and Jack Oakes of Shawnee, Oklahoma; one sister, ester High School and Wilburton College. North Team Winning Coach in 1996. He turned five losing programs Boodie Jo House of Soper, Oklahoma, and three grandchildren. William began working for American Airlines during World War into championship teams. He coached ten State Tournament appear- II, doing contract work for the U.S. Army Air Corps. He flew for ances. He established 15 Summer Basketball Camps and coached American Airlines for nearly 40 years, retiring on the Boeing 747 as four All-Americans and Region II runner-ups. The Talihina Indian Virginia Mae Williams #3 pilot. He remained an aviator during his 20 years of retirement. Club recognized him as Indian of the Year in 2002-03. Virginia Mae Williams, 64, of Atoka, Oklahoma passed away on Survivors include his wife, Margaret (Grable) Roth; daughter, Survivors include his wife, Sally, of the home; two daughters and Friday, July 26, 2002 at the Atoka Memorial Hospital. She was born Laurie Barnes of Maryland; brother, Gene Roth of Springfield, Mis- a son-in-law, Winona and Billy Johnson of North Miami, Oklahoma February 2, 1938 in Bentley, Oklahoma to Mose Boyd and Harriett souri; sister, Helen Roth Ball of McAlester; sister-in-law, Dilys Roth and Shelly Durant of Poteau; son, Nicholas II of the home; foster (Peters) Williams. of Fort Worth, and nieces, Melanie Milne and Glynis Roth. son, Howard Wahnetah of Cherokee, North Carolina; sisters, Kathleen In 1957, she married Donald Lee Criner in Atoka. Jackson of Muskogee and Katherine Prince of Miami; brother, Bill She dedicated many hours to caring for others. Virginia devoted Jacqueline “Tootsie” White Durant of Talihina; two grandchildren, Annie Durant and Dustin 24 years of her life helping to care for her three grandchildren. She Johnson; three foster grandchildren, two nephews, four nieces, one Jacqueline “Tootsie” White, 69, of Lewiston passed away peace- was also a nurse’s aide performing duties in numerous nursing homes, great-nephew, and one uncle, Ret. Col. Perry B. Woolridge and wife, fully with her husband and children by her side on Saturday, April including Colonial Manor in Atoka. She was a lifelong member of Maysille, and numerous relatives and loved ones and a host of be- 26, 2003 at her Lewiston home. She was born February 26, 1934 to the Cane Hill Methodist Church in Bentley. Virginia was exception- loved friends. ally proud of her heritage and ancestry. William Lewis and Georgia Marie Hodges in Nashoba, Oklahoma. Virginia was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Sylvester She graduated from Nashoba High School and attended South- Viola Blevins John, and sister, Marie Parker. eastern College in Durant, Oklahoma for two years. Viola Blevins, 77, of McAlester, Oklahoma passed away May 18, Survivors include her daughter, Pam Sefcik of Atoka; grandchil- Tootsie married James Rollins White on November 20, 1951 in 2003 at a local nursing center. She was born February 24, 1926 in dren, Patricia (Sefcik) Sharp of Kansas City, Missouri and Robert DeQueen, Arkansas while he was on leave from the Navy. They McAlester, the daughter of Adam and Winnie Katherine Pope Gibson. Sefcik and Felix Sefcik, both of Atoka; great-grandchildren, Ashton moved to Lewiston on January 1, 1955. She grew up and attended schools in Pittsburg County. She worked Sharp, Savannah Sharp, Nicholas Sefcik, Tanner Sefcik and Dylon Tootsie was a faithful homemaker and a loving wife and mother. as a seamstress at both Elsings and Seamprufe. Before becoming ill, Sefcik; sisters, Geraldean White of Victorville, California and With 11 children, battles were fought and won by our mother. She she worked as a receptionist at the Indian Health Center in McAl- Mildred Williams of Atoka; aunt, Addie Lewis of Ardmore; neph- achieved the rank of Lt. Major Mom. ester. She was a lifelong resident of Pittsburg County and a member ews, Larry Parker and Michael Williams of Atoka, and numerous She was a member of St. Stanislaus Tri-Parish in Lewiston. She of First Indian Baptist Church. other relatives and many dear and loved friends. enjoyed softball, horseback riding, quilting, watching sports on tele- She was preceded in death by her parents and a son, Gary Blevins, She will be missed by many friends and family. vision, crafts, going to the junk store, shopping on QVC, gardening and drying roses. in 1985. She was preceded in death by her mother, Georgia Marie Hodges, Survivors include her daughter, Kathy Falkenstein of McAlester; Florence Irene (Gould) Jones and a brother-in-law, Aaron Ballard. four sisters and a brother-in-law, Callie Choate of Watsonville, Cali- Florence Irene Gould Jones, 86, of Poteau, Oklahoma passed away Survivors include her husband, James White of Lewiston; six sons, fornia, and Ann Smith, Ada Lusk and Clara and Bud Blevins, all of Monday, October 15, 2001. She was born October 28, 1914 in Po- Michael White and Mitchell White, both of Moscow, Christopher McAlester; a brother and sister-in-law, Jim and Marie Gibson of teau to A.O. and Judy Brown Gould. Mrs. Jones was a proud mem- White of Vancouver, Washington, and Matthew White, Maurice White McAlester; five grandchildren, Lani Romine, Jessica Blevins, Am- ber of the Choctaw Nation. Her mother was an original enrollee. and Jonathan White, all of Lewiston; five daughters, Theresa Thurlow ber O’Daniel, Walter Gary Blevins and Rickey Hill; seven great- Our greatly beloved sister, wife, mother, grandmother and great- and Laura Denevan, both of Lewiston, Sara White, Melissa Garrett grandchildren, Gary Romine, Katie Romine, Stacey Hill, Jess Mar- grandmother was a talented musician who also loved painting, grow- and Melinda White, all of Clarkston; her father, Bill Hodges of Clay- tin Hill, Sierra Romine, Amber Hill and Stephanie Hill; a special ing flowers, feeding birds and especially watching bluebirds raise ton, Oklahoma; three sisters, Arilla Ballard, Billy Sue Allen and Mary friend, Lurena Walter of Mesa, Arizona, and several nieces and neph- their young in her back yard. Erwin, all of Oklahoma; 15 grandchildren; one great-grandchild, and ews. A dedicated Christian, her main goal in life was for her family Max the dachschund. and acquaintances to personally accept and know her Lord and Sav- James Edward Brown ior Jesus Christ. She was a 61-year member of the Poteau First James Edward Brown, 89, passed away May 31, 2003 at his home Church of the Nazarene where she had served as church pianist and Elvis Roebuck in McAlester, Oklahoma. He was born August 12, 1913 in Wilbur- substitute organist. Elvis Roebuck, 81, of Norman, Oklahoma, passed away June 22, ton, Oklahoma, the son of Able N. and Jennie (Wilcox) Brown. Mrs. Jones and her late husband, Maurice, established and owned 2003 in Norman. He was born June 13, 1922 in Soper, Oklahoma, He had lived most of his adult life in Fresno, California, moving the Maurice Jones Insurance Agency in Poteau from 1961-1988. the son of the late Oscar and Inez Roebuck. back to Blanco, Oklahoma upon retirement, then to McAlester. He She was preceded in death by her husband, Maurice, on May 10, Mr. Roebuck was a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving during World was a graduate of Jones Academy and graduated high school from 1992; her parents; a sister, Margaret Chitwood, and two brothers, War II in New Guinea, Southern Philippines and Japan. He received Chilocco. He worked for the Indian Department in Muskogee, Okla- Homer Gould and Bill Gould. the Purple Heart and the Philippines Liberation Ribbon. homa as a draftsman, later going to the Bureau of Reclamation in Survivors include a daughter, Connie Tucker of Poteau; grand- He was preceded in death by two brothers, Roy Roebuck of Okla- that same capacity. He married Virginia Winnie Patterson on Octo- son, Russell Gene Tucker of Poteau; granddaughter, Brenda Kay homa City and Fred Roebuck of Soper. ber 5, 1935 in McAlester. He was a member of McAlester First Bap- Pearce of Sallisaw; two great-grandsons, Travis Maurice Tucker and Survivors include his wife, Doris, of the home; a daughter, Judy tist Church and had served as a deacon in the past. Wesley Evan Pearce; one brother, W.H. “Ace” Gould of Poteau; and West of Orlando, Florida, Sharon Roebuck of San Antonio, Texas; a Survivors include his wife, Virginia Winnie Brown, of the home; three sisters, Frances Whiteaker of Fort Smith, Arkansas, Doris Drake special daughter, Kristanne Roebuck, of the home; four children by a one daughter, Winnie N. Cooke of McAlester; a son, Davis N. Brown of Ojai, California and Bette Erb of Puyallup, Washington; numer- previous marriage, Loretta Roebuck, Anthony Roebuck, Mary Roe- of Santa Clarita, California; four grandchildren; five great-grandchil- ous nieces, nephews, other relatives and loved ones; and many be- buck Stahl and Marvin Roebuck, and a brother, Melvin Roebuck of dren; two brothers, Paul Brown of Mena, Arkansas and Larry Brown loved friends. Soper. of Red Oak, Oklahoma, and one sister, Wanda Brown. August 2003, BISHINIK, Page 11 OBITUARIES

Daniel Sexton George A. Statham Floyd J. Baker Daniel Sexton passed away Tues- George A. Statham, 82, of Ft. Smith, Oklahoma passed away July Floyd J. Baker, 86, of Battiest, Okla- day, July 8, 2003 at Durant, Oklahoma. 6, 2003 in Ft. Smith. He was born December 2, 1920 at Spiro, Okla- homa passed away July 2, 2003 in He was born July 21, 1924 at Sulphur, homa to Frank T. and Allie Mae (Folsom) Statham. Tulsa, Oklahoma. He was born April Oklahoma to David Christopher and Mr. Statham was a retired vice president of Farmland Industries 15, 1917 at Battiest. He was a lifelong Bessie (Davis) Sexton. and a Marine veteran of World War II. resident of McCurtain County. He spent his childhood in Sulphur He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Dora Ella Floyd was a retired farmer and had until school age. He attended the Davis; one brother, Bill Statham, and his first wife, Bess James. raised many hogs. He enjoyed hunt- Goodland Indian School in Hugo, Survivors include his wife, Clara, of the home; two sons, Barry ing, gardening, and of course, spend- Oklahoma. While at Goodland, he met Statham and wife, Patty, of Wichita, Kansas and Larry Statham and ing time with his grandchildren. He Catherine Taylor who was to be his wife, Sherry, of Highlands Ranch, Colorado; one sister, Virginia Jo was a member of Bethel Hill Method- future wife. After completing the 11th Rhodes of Poteau, Oklahoma; four granddaughters and three great- ist Church. grade, he was inducted into the U.S. grandchildren. Mr. Baker was a U.S. Army veteran Army, where he completed artil- who served in World War II and was leryman training. He was then sent to Kelley Dale Swift awarded the Bronze Star for heroic Europe to serve with the 8th Infantry Division. He was actively in- achievement in action against the enemy in the Les Remabois Sec- Kelley Dale Swift, 54, passed away March 10, 2003 in Houston, volved in several campaigns while in Normandy, France, and tor, France. Texas. Rhineland Central Europe. Dan received many awards while over- The citation read, “For heroic achievement in action against the Survivors include his wife, Haila Swift; daughter, Amy L. seas in the military, including the American Theater Ribbon, Euro- enemy in the Les Remabois Sector, France, on 8 November 1944. Thompson of Lawrence, Kansas; son, Adam K. Swift of Wichita, pean African Middle Eastern Theater Ribbon, Bronze Star, World Pfc. Baker, while on a hazardous daylight patrol, moved over open Kansas; grandchildren, Rebecca, Matthew and Daniel Thompson of War II Victory Medal and the Good Conduct Medal. terrain 2,700 yards ahead of our lines. Upon encountering a hostile Lawrence; sister, Judy Mae Bourne of Elmore City, Oklahoma, and After returning to the United States, he married Catherine Taylor machine-gun emplacement which opened fire on it, the patrol re- mother, Helen Virginia Swift of Davis, Oklahoma. on August 7, 1945. Daniel was employed at various jobs until he turned the fire and withdrew in another direction. Having completed answered the call to serve the Lord as a full-time minister. He served its mission, the patrol returned over the open terrain, constantly meet- many churches in the United Indian Methodist Church Conference Randle Swink ing with withering automatic and small arms fire and with harassing until his retirement in 2003. Randle Swink, 81, of Swink, Okla- mortar fire. Pfc. Baker’s daring and courage in the face of extreme He was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Catherine Fixico; homa passed away June 23, 2003 at danger reflect great credit on himself and the Armed Forces of the his parents, David and Betty Sexton, and three sisters, Edith Green- the VA hospital in Dallas, Texas. He United States. He entered military service from Battiest.” wood, Beatrice Casey and Betty Watkins. was born March 19, 1922 in Swink, He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Bessie Baker; his Survivors include his wife, Catherine Sexton of the home; two the son of Bert R. Swink and Ina Lou parents, Robinson and Ennettie Noah Baker; his brothers, Anderson sons, Michael Sexton and Daniel Terry Sexton; two daughters, Lena (Stroud) Swink. Winship, Jimmy Baker, Daniel Baker and Walter Baker, and a sister, Maturino and Cleta Mata; eleven grandchildren and 16 great-grand- Mr. Swink was a World War II Navy Gladys Wade. children. veteran serving with the Seabees. He Survivors include a daughter and son-in-law, Priscilla Tonihka and Dan was a very special husband, father, grandfather and great- attended Swink School and Ft. Tow- Aniceto Trejo of Broken Bow, Oklahoma; grandchildren, Chicoty grandfather. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends. son High School. He was in construc- Shomo, Albert Shomo, Cameron Shomo and Mindy Shomo, all of tion most of life, most recently in Ha- Broken Bow; great-grandchildren, Eric Battiest of Bethel, Oklahoma Phillip Dean Stewart waii on the island of Maui where he and Hailey Black of Broken Bow; brothers, Aaron Baker of Battiest was a general contractor for 20 years. and Owen Baker of El Paso, Texas; sister, Edith Gem of Long Beach, Phillip Dean Stewart, 49, of Spiro, Oklahoma passed away June 3, California; step-granddaughter, Carmen Trejo of Broken Bow, and a 2003 in Spiro. He returned to Choctaw County briefly in the 1950s and worked for host of other family and friends. Survivors include his wife, Sharon; son, Frank Stewart of the home; the State Highway Department as supervisor for the Hugo District, his mother, Wanda Stewart of Spiro; and three sisters, Wythina Lovell, served as Post Commander for the American Legion in Ft. Towson, Marsha Rogers and Starla Clark, all of Spiro. and joined the Masonic Lodge. He was president of the Barstow, Ben Owens California Lions club and an officer in the Kihei Lions Club in Maui. Ben Owens, 85, of Heavener, Oklahoma passed away June 10, Randle retired to Swink in 1993 with his wife, Lila, and founded the 2003 in Talihina, Oklahoma. He was a retired rancher and a member Swink Historical Preservation Association which owns and operates of Heart O The Hills Baptist Church. the District Choctaw Chief’s House at Swink where his father was Tulsa penguin Survivors include his wife, Betty; two daughters, Diann Massey born. He served on the Board of Directors for Kiamichi County Travel and Wynema Luman, both of Heavener; a son, Benny Owens of Heav- Guide and was an original member of the EZ/EC and Champion ener; a stepdaughter, Orpha James of Bossier City, Louisiana; two gets Choctaw name Community Steering committees. He was a member of the Sons of sisters, Imogene Welch of Heavener and Wanda Stewart of Spiro, The anticipation is finally over! With almost 2,000 en- the American Revolution and can trace his Swink ancestors back to Oklahoma; a stepsister, Ann Osborne of Blue Jacket, Oklahoma; two tries sent in, the perfect name has been bestowed upon Tulsa the Revolutionary War. A lifelong Democrat, he was Swink Precinct brothers, H.B. Hayes of Spiro and J.B. Hayes of Pocola, Oklahoma; Zoo’s Ambassador penguin chick. Adrienne Thurston, Tulsa Chairman, served on the County Central Committee and this year seven grandchildren, several stepgrandchildren and nine great-grand- native who just graduated from University of Texas in Aus- was a county delegate to the state convention. children. tin, submitted Tallulah, Choctaw for “Leaping Water”. Survivors include his wife, Lila Swink; three sons, Burt R. Swink, Thurston, who is part Choctaw Indian, said, “since she is Jack R. Swink and David R. Swink, all of Maui; nine grandchildren, one of the first of her kind born in ‘Native America’ I thought five great-grandchildren; four first cousins and some 100 other rela- Larry William Hiberd a native name would be appropriate.” tives around the country and many friends near and far. Larry William Hiberd, 40, passed away June 2, 2003 in Dallas The winner was awarded a behind-the-scenes tour during Texas. A grandson of original enrollee Claude Hiberd, he was born a penguin feeding, a family membership to the zoo, a sign in April 13, 1963 in Chicago Illinois to Don and Willene Hiberd. front of the penguin exhibit, a penguin quilt donated by the Betsy Jo (Brownfield) Aaron A graduate of Bryan Adams High School, he worked in the com- Material Girls and a framed photo with the celebrity judges Betsy Jo (Brownfield) Aaron, 75, of Hugo, Oklahoma passed away puter industry most of his life. and Tallulah. June 26, 2003 at her residence. She was born February 18. 1927 in He was preceded in death by his mother, Willene. With a new name and the title of Ambassador penguin, Hugo, Oklahoma, the only child of Lee Nabors and Lizzie (Kaneubee) Survivors include his father, Don Hiberd of Dallas; brothers, Chuck Tallulah is finally ready to make her debut. She will be- Nabors. She had lived all of her life in the Hugo area. Hiberd and wife, Sharon, of Tyler, Texas and Gary Hiberd and wife, gin visiting with the public sometime in the near future. Mrs. Aaron was a homemaker and of the Baptist faith. Kathy, of Burleson, Texas; a stepson, Brandon, in the U.S. Navy; Survivors include two sons, Larry Brownfield of Valliant, Okla- and nieces and nephews, Kimberly, Chuck, Sabrina, Mike and Sara. homa and David Brownfield, and three grandsons. Larry will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

Crowder youth group formed “Alla Himmita,” which means young children in Choctaw, is the name of the Choctaw youth group at Crowder. The group in- cludes “youngsters” from age Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma three to 82 and meets from 9 a.m. to noon on the second Saturday Educational of each month. Coordinators are Dena Cantrell, Buster Garrett, ChoctawChoctaw NationNation Talent search Tonja Garrett, Ailene Mize and Julie Rose. Leonard Broke- All-IndianAll-Indian RodeoRodeo AssociationAssociation Educational Talent Search is a pre-college preparatory pro- shoulder is Director. During the gram funded through a grant from the U.S. Department of meetings, the youth learn that Education. they are “good for something, RegionRegion 88 FinalsFinals WinnersWinners ATTENTION good at something.” The “Circle of Life” is incorporated by God ALL-AROUND COWGIRL: Kasi Prather We are pleased to inform you that the Choctaw Nation first, caring adults, the wisdom ALL-AROUND COWBOY: Howard Edmundson Educational Talent Search is now in its recruiting phase. and expertise of local community SADDLE BRONC members, grandparents and el- The ETS program provides FREE services each year to se- Top Money Earner: Phillip Whiteman, Jr., N. Cheyenne ders. The group also learns about lected students in grades 6 through 12 or between the ages of STEER WRESTLING Choctaw culture, traditions and 11-27, to encourage them to have high expectations, to stay Top Money Earner and Average Winner: Howard Edmundson, Creek ceremonies that can provide a in school, to study hard and to take the right courses to be CALF ROPING framework for healthy lifestyles. admitted into college. Top Money Earner and Average Winner: Shane Slack, Choctaw Alla Himmita appreciates the BULL RIDING Support services include: counseling, academic enhancement, support that Chief Gregory Pyle Top Money Earner and Average Winner: Brad Fish, Creek tutoring services, career exploration, college campus visits, and the Choctaw Nation have BARREL RACING assistance with financial aid, help in preparing for the ACT, given. The group would also like Top Money Earner: Sherri Kelley, Cherokee and completing college admissions applications. These are a to thank the 22nd Biannual 517th Average Winner: Jennifer Weaver, Cherokee few of the services available. PRCT Reunion for inviting our BREAK-AWAY If you are a parent of a student with a desire for higher educa- group to perform. It is a great Top Money Earner: Kasi Prather, Cherokee tion and live within the 10 1/2 counties of the Choctaw Na- honor for you to choose our Average Winner: Brenna Winship, Choctaw tion and would like to be a part of this great opportunity, please group. TEAM ROPING HEADER call Linda Powers, Director, at 1-800-522-6170, ext. 2711, or Top Money Earner: Keith Bacon, Choctaw at the following outreach offices. Inter-Tribal TEAM ROPING HEALER Sarah Davis Tony Marris continued from Page 1 Top Money Earner: Mike Bacon, Choctaw Guidance Specialist Guidance Specialist Thompson as a traditional Native JR. STEER Family Investment Center McAlester Field Office American religious leader quali- Top Money Earner and Average Winner: Lane Scott, Choctaw PO Box 207 1632 S. George Nigh fied to fill a position on the Na- JR. BARRELS Broken Bow, OK 74728 Expressway tive American Graves Protection Top Money Earner and Average Winner: Micaela Carlile, Cherokee (cell) 580-920-6048 McAlester, OK 74501 and Repatriation Review Com- (FIC) 580-584-6372 (cell) 580-775-0758 mittee; the Prescription Drug and [email protected] [email protected] Medicare Improvement Act; CALL TODAY!! amendments to the Indian Health DON’T WAIT ANY LONGER Care Improvement Act, and TO PLAN YOUR FUTURE! changes to the Associated Inter- nal Revenue Code clarifying Tribal Governments as “Govern- ments.” August 2003, BISHINIK, Page 12 Choctaw tribal member nominated for Congressional Medal of Honor The bravery of a Choctaw sol- Roe also spent a tour in Viet- dier on the front line in Vietnam nam with a 5-man MAC-V team, saved many lives. Thirty-six living in a village in the Mecong years later, Tannie Floyd Roe has Delta for a year. been nominated for the Congres- Among his many awards, sional Medal of Honor. Master Sgt. Roe has received Born in Alabama in 1941, Roe two Bronze Stars for valor, a joined the U.S. Army at the age Purple Heart and the Legion of of 20. He devoted the next two Merit during his time in service. decades of his life to his coun- He also earned his nursing de- try, serving two tours in Vietnam gree. and two in Germany as well as A resident of Springfield, being stationed at several bases Florida, Roe and his wife, Ha- in the states. zel, have been married for 44 Roe spent one year in Vietnam years. They have five children, as a combat medic with the 11th “I kept thinking that I’ve got the enemy had been killed, but Michael, Debbie, Rebecca, Mark Armored Calvary Regiment. On wounded soldiers on the front of Roe’s unit, only 44 were and Loretta, and eight grandchil- Choctaw Ambassadors Patty Mink, Patricia Single- June 19, 1967, Spc. Roe was en- lines,” Roe recalled. “I would wounded, nine fatally. dren. ton, Stephanie Horn and Lena Johnson sang for the gaged in a battle during which drag one 100 yards off the line, Roe was discovered by other Congresswoman Karen medics and rushed to medical at- Thurman has submitted the rec- group attending the Joseph G. Moore dedication. he was wounded three times by treat him, and go back for an- mortar fragments in his arms and other. It went on for four hours.” tention where he underwent ommendation for Roe’s medal of legs. While wounded, he contin- Roe kept going, kept dragging emergency surgery to attend honor, recognizing his heroism. Dedication held at Moore gravesite ued running to his fallen com- men off the line until he passed his very serious wounds. Three A modest man, Roe feels that he Submitted by Ron D. Moore rades, pulling them one at a time out from loss of blood. months later, he was awarded the was only upholding the tradition Haunting flute music drifted on a brisk north wind, beautiful voices to safety. At the end of the battle, 750 of Bronze Star medal for heroism. of a Choctaw warrior. rose in song in the Choctaw language and the throbbing drumbeat and Indian songs echoed among the oaks. There was the rattle of muskets firing and finally taps sounded and there was silence once again on the prairie. A scene in the 1800s in the old Indian Terri- tory? No, the scene took place May 31, 2003, four and one-half miles southwest of Little City, Oklahoma on a grassy slope dotted with oak trees overlooking Lake Texoma. It happened in the Moore- Burney cemetery. Joseph G. Moore was born in 1833 on the Trail of Tears during the second forced migration of Choctaw Indians from Mississippi to the Indian Territory. The Moore family came to Boggy Depot and settled at a place called Buffalo Head near there. In 1854, Joe Moore moved with his wife, Mary Rider Moore, and son to a place on the Washita River four miles from Fort Washita. He settled there, built a ferry, furnished beef and vegetables to the fort, served as sheriff of Pickens County, and served as a Captain in the 1st Choctaw Chick- asaw Mounted Rifles during the war between the states. In 1855, Joe established a cemetery at the crossing that bore his name. In 1942, the Corps of Engineers moved the Joe Moore cem- etery and the burney cemetery to Aylesworth to prevent them from being under water when Lake Texoma was finished. They combined the two cemeteries and relocated them to their present site. Some- where along the way the cemetery was abandoned, the cows broke most of the grave markers and it grew over with brush and weeds. RememberRemember whenwhen ...... SeptemberSeptember 20,20, 19821982 In 1994, an amateur historian, Robert King, was researching the Moore family and discovered the graveyard in a state of ruin. Mr. The 1982 reunion of the Dixon-Durant family had some relatives traveling from as far away as California. King swung into action and as a result of his energy and persistence, along with money from his own pocket the cemetery is what it is today. A beautiful serene resting place where some of Marshall County’s earliest pioneers are buried. The ceremony on May 31 was a dedication of a new grave marker for the man who started the burial ground, Joe Moore, honoring his service as a Captain in the 1st Choctaw Chickasaw Mounted Rifled during the war between the states. But it was also a family affair to rekindle interest in ancestors and history and to put our ancestors to rest once and for all. Choctaw spiritual leader Preston Scott was on hand to bless the burial ground. Preston’s group also provided Choc- taw songs and flute music. Also on hand were the Choctaw Ambassadors consisting of Patty Mink, Patricia Singleton, Stephanie Horn and Lena Johnson. These Randle Durant and wife, young women sang three beautiful Choctaw songs in the Choctaw Margaret. language and a patriotic rendition of “I’m Proud to be an Ameri- can.” Also on hand were Sons of Confederate Veterans from the D.H. Cooper camp out of Atoka, Oklahoma and the Lee Bourland camp out of Gainesville, Texas. In full period uniform they fired a 21-gun salute. Then taps were sounded and there was a moving si- A special presentation with lence. Soon the silence came to an end with family and friends talk- Randle Durant, David Reese ing, laughing, children running everywhere. I’m sure there was a and honorable guest, Governor smile on Joe Moore’s face. George Nigh. Joe’s Moore’s gravestone was provided by the U.S. Veterans Ad- ministration. Mark Seabeck, great-great-grandson of Joe Moore, built a beautiful entrance gate and Ron’s other great-great-grandson and an artist donated a bronze sculpture of an Indian on his horse to go on top of the gate. In the coming months there will be two more Deadline nearing for FSA Disaster Loan Applications missing stones put up along with a marker by the gate in apprecia- Farmers and ranchers in the The amount of the loan is deter- tion of Robert King’s contribution. Farm Loan Manager, producers use the money for the most es- following Oklahoma counties mined by actual certification of There were well over 100 descendants in attendance and other in these counties have until Sep- sential operating and living are reminded of an upcoming loss less any compensation re- friends and guests and many descendants that were called but could tember 1, 2003 to apply. The costs,” Rankin said. To be eli- loan application deadline with ceived, repayment capacity of not come. There were family there from Colorado, Kansas, Texas counties were included in a Sec- gible for a loan, an applicant the Farm Service Agency: Atoka, the borrower, and availability of and Oklahoma and calls from California and Wisconsin. It is our retarial Natural Disaster Deter- must have suffered losses as a Bryan, Choctaw, Coal, Creek, security. hope that interest was generated in the young people so that never mination due to physical and direct result of the disaster and Delaware, Haskell, Hughes, Lat- Farmers and ranchers who be- again will they walk away from their ancestors. Go find your ances- production losses caused by be unable to obtain credit from imer, LeFlore, Lincoln, Mayes, lieve they can qualify may con- tors, clean their resting place, and interest your children in continu- drought that occurred May 1, other sources. Loans covering McCurtain, McIntosh, Musko- tact the County FSA Office for ing the tradition. I can tell you from personal experience that it will 2002, and continuing. As a result actual losses are at an interest gee, Okfuskee, Okmulgee, Ot- additional details. be spiritually uplifting and if you close your eyes and be very still of the Determination, loans are rate of 3.75 percent per annum. tawa, Pawnee, Payne, Pittsburg, your ancestors may speak to you and maybe they will have a smile available to assist farmers in re- Pontotoc, Pottawatomie, Push- on their face. covering from physical and pro- mataha, Rogers, Seminole, duction losses. 4th Annual Pow-Wow Winners in the Miss Choctaw Sequoyal, Tulsa, Wagoner and Emergency loan funds may be Washington. used to purchase seed, fertilizer, TRAIL OF TEARS Owa-Chito Pageant announced According to Roy Rankin, fuel and repairs. “A farmer can September 13, 2003 The 31st Annual Kiamichi and Lavon Tonihka. Morgan Steve Herman Dierks Park Owa-Chito Pageant for all Choc- In the Little Miss Division, DeQueen, Arkansas taw girls ages 8 to 18 was held winners were Morgan Steve of is reigning Little June 20 at Beavers Bend Resort Durant, Oklahoma, daughter of Point system used for Dance Contest - $6,000 in prize money Park in Broken Bow, Oklahoma. Morris and Kerry Steve; first run- Miss for District 9 Arts & Crafts, Indian Food and more! In the Senior Division, the win- ner-up, Heather Fox of Idabel HEAD STAFF: ner was Courtney Baker of Hugo, whose guardians are Nathaniel and Owa-Chito Master of Ceremonies: Orval Kirk (Kickapoo) South Head Singer: Otter Trail (Al Santos) the daughter of Tammy Baker. Holt and Mona Salinas; second Congratulations to Morgan Host North Drum: Thunderhorse (Robert Lincoln) First runner-up was Tiffany runner-up, Abigail McDonald of Steve of Durant, Oklahoma. Mor- Head Man Dancer: Justin Yearby (Choctaw-Creek) Shomo of Broken Bow, the Wright City, daughter of David gan is the current 2003 Choctaw Head Lady Dancer: Sharon Harrison (Comanche) daughter of Billy and Tina and Ruby McDonald, and third Nation District 9 Little Miss and Head Gourd Dancer: Randy Frazier (Choctaw-Potawatomi) Shomo. runner-up, Emily Williams the 2003 Owa-Chito Little Miss Arena Director: Tyrone Ketcheshawno (Choctaw-Kickapoo) Winners in the Junior Miss whose parents are John and Choctaw Princess. The Owa- Color Guard: Choctaw Nation Division were Amanda Williams, Suzan Williams. Chito Festival was held in June SCHEDULE: daughter of John and Suzan Wil- The winners appeared at many at the Beavers Bend Park near 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Gourd Dance liams, who took top honors; first events throughout the festival in Broken Bow. 2 p.m.-5 p.m. Grand Entry/Tiny Tots/Jr. Dance Contests runner-up, Shavannah Short, their traditional dress. They will Morgan attends Northwest 5 p.m.-6 p.m. Supper Break 6 p.m.-7 p.m. Gourd Dance daughter of Rodney and Johnna appear many times throughout Heights Elementary. She is the 7 p.m.- ??? Inter-Tribal Dance/Contests/Specials Short of Eagletown; second run- the coming year, representing daughter of Morris and Kerry Steve. Her grandparents are Willard All Veterans Welcome ner-up, Whitney Shomo, daugh- their Choctaw heritage and cul- and Sharon Polk of Bennington, Oklahoma and Jimmy and Vesta All Princesses Welcome All Singers and Dancers Welcome ter of Billy and Tina Shomo of ture, always keeping alive the Roberts of Boswell, Oklahoma. Her great-grandparents are Franch – For more information, contact – Broken Bow and third runner-up pride they show within their tribe. “Red” and Nora Johnico of Talihina, Oklahoma. Art & Betty Ketcheshawno - 580-326-4979 or DeQueen/ was Shineesta Tonihka of Wright Pageant directors were Pat Good luck in the Little Miss Pageant at Tuskahoma from all of Sevier County Chamber of Commerce at 1-877-574-0887 City, the daughter of Solomon Sullivan and Lynda Jessie. your family and friends!.