Choctaw Sidney’s San Diego and Nation Sticks Phoenix meeting Livestock of Choctaws Show
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bisKinik CHANGE service requested Presort STD p.O. Box 1210 AUTO Durant OK 74702 U.S. POSTAGE PAID CHOCTAW NATION
BISKINIKThe Official Publication of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma
March 2013 Issue
Partnership to benefit Native veterans Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and Department of Veterans Affairs enter Reimbursement Agreement
American Indian veterans will soon have increased access to health care services closer to home following a recent Choctaw Nation and Department of Veterans Affairs joint agreement. “Native Americans have served in the military at a proportionately high rate compared to other groups,” said Chief Greg Pyle. “The Choctaw Nation is committed to improving access to care for our Native veterans, as Choctaw Nation: LISA REED earned by their service to our country.” Choctaw Nation Health Services Executive Director Mickey Peercy, left, and As a result of the agreement entered on March 1, the Trail of James Floyd, medical center director of the Jack C. Montgomery VA Medical VA is now able to reimburse the Choctaw Nation for Center in Muskogee, sign a historic agreement on March 1 that allows for im- direct care services provided to eligible American Indian proved access to medical treatment for eligible Native American veterans. Tears Walk veterans seen at Choctaw health centers and at its hospital. VA co-payments do not apply to direct care services provided by the Nation to eligible American particularly in rural areas,” said Mickey Peercy, Perspective on the issue... to be held Indian and Alaska Native Veterans under this agreement. Choctaw Nation Health Services executive director. Native American veterans are more “The Choctaw Nation and the VA have worked for This agreement implements a critical provision in likely to lack health insurance and to in Spiro many months to come to an equitable agreement that the recently reauthorized Indian Health Care Improve- have a disability, service connected or would ensure access to quality health care would be made ment Act, passed as part of the Affordable Care Act, otherwise, than veterans of other races, available to our veterans living in our communities, allowing this partnership for reimbursement. according to a 2012 VA special report. The Choctaw T-shirt Nation will be honoring ances- order tors who made form the long journey on from Mississippi Page Tribal Council with a commem- 2 orative Trail meets in regular of Tears Walk on Saturday, February session May 18, at Spiro. An opening YAB leading the way ceremony will begin at 10 a.m. The Choctaw Nation Trib- at the historic Skullyville Cem- By BRET MOSS al Council met in regular etery and the approximately session on Feb. 9 in Tvshka 3.5-mile walk will end at the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Homma. Council members Choctaw Community Center at voted to: 19400 Aes Road off Highway 9 It is an ongoing effort, supporting and encouraging the • Approve application in Spiro. youth of a society, to rise from childhood and become for the Coordinated Tribal Please park at the commu- productive members and leaders within their communi- Assistance Solicitation Com- nity center where buses will be ties. The Choctaw Nation Youth Advisory Board (YAB) prehensive Tribal Victim available to transport partici- Program is an invaluable asset in that ongoing quest from Assistance Program pants to the cemetery. Drivers adolescence to adulthood. will begin taking passengers “I’ve learned a lot about leadership,” says Alice Ste- • Approve application for at 9 a.m. Lunch will also be phens, a junior at Howe High School and four-year the Native American Basic shared with everyone following member of YAB. She, along with hundreds of junior high Grant the walk. The Choctaw Nation and high school students across the Choctaw Nation, has • Approve application invites everyone to join in on access to a program that can utilize current leadership for the Coordinated Tribal this special day. talents as well as encourage and facilitate the development assistance Solicitation Com- of new skills. prehensive Tribal Justice “Our goal for YAB’sters is to help them find the leader Systems Strategic Planning. u in themselves, reach their full potential and teach them • Approved application for What’s inside how important it is to be a servant leader,” states Choctaw the Connecting Kids to Cov- Nation Youth Empowerment Director Martina Hawkins. erage Outreach and Enroll- Columns...... 2 This goal is reached by hosting community outreach ment (Cycle III) Grant Notes to the Nation...... 3 events such as fun runs and coat drives, as well as working • Approved application Events...... 3 with national charities and non-profits such as Salvation for the Native Youth and Nursery News...... 4 Army and Students Working Against Tobacco (SWAT). Culture Fund Food Distribution...... 4 The students are placed in roles in which they can lead Choctaw Nation: BRET MOSS • Approve application for People You Know...... 5 such events to success, all while under the guidance of the Senior Farmers’ Market Morgan Moffit and other YAB members make Education...... 8 Choctaw Nation outreach specialists. Nutrition Program Through the YAB program, communities across the sure the seniors stay safe and hydrated during a Voc-Rehab Calendar...... 8 • Approve application for Choctaw Nation are benefiting from the efforts of the senior citizen walk-a-thon. Obituaries...... 9 the Demonstration grants motivated youth. From elementary students learning that for the Indian Children Iti Fabvssa...... 11 violence in not the answer with project Falvmmichi, to ability to make everyone feel included and encourage new Program the environment seeing improvements through recycling members to be active. • Approve application and efforts, the YAB program has made a positive impact on Though only her senior year remains as a YAB student, proposed acquisition and The Mission communities throughout Choctaw Nation. Alice plans to continue her service to YAB after gradu- Holding of Title to Parcel in of the Choctaw The true merit found in YAB is not only the benefit the ation, helping in any way she can. “I don’t want it all to Trust by the United States Nation of Oklahoma community receives from the work of the youth, but also stop,” she exclaimes. “When I think of YAB, I think of for the Benefit of the Choc- the advantages the youth receive from their work with happy memories and fun,” she continues. taw Nation of Oklahoma each other. One such memory she holds in high regard is the an- (Antlers, Heavener and Mc- To enhance the lives of all mem- “It brought me out of my comfort zone,” states Alice, nual YAB retreat in Grapevine, Texas. “It was hands on… Curtain County) bers through opportunities designed a really great time for all of us,” says Alice. who says she use to be shy, but has since learn to be • Approve funds and to develop healthy, successful and Attending the same conference was four-year YAB outgoing and involved. Alice is the secretary of her YAB budget for Assets for Inde- productive lifestyles. chapter, and as such has acquired the duty of keeping member and Stigler High School senior, Jana Fagg, who pendence Grant Program the chapter organized. She keeps the minutes at monthly also remembers the event well, speaking of how she en- (CAB2) meetings, plans dates from various events and attends joyed meeting YAB students from many places. • Approve the articles of meetings outside her chapter, including Choctaw Nation’s Just like Alice, Jana has been active in many YAB incorporation and by-laws u Get your digital copy! Tribal Council meeting. events, hosting a senior citizens dance and working hard of Choctaw Defense Services Alice is particularly proud of her contribution to the with the Falvmmichi program. In the Falvmmichi pro- Inc. Scan this code with your smartphone Pink Zone project, where her YAB group cooperated gram, she works with second-graders teaching them about • Approve the Choctaw to go online for this issue and archive with Howe and Cameron schools to host a breast cancer non-violent ways to deal with conflict. “They get really Defense Services Inc. to copies of the BISKINIK! awareness fundraiser. As secretary, she took responsibility excited,” she says as she tells of how the children enjoyed http://www.choctawnation.com/news- for accumulating T-shirt orders from students, fans and the visits from the YAB students. authorize the submission of room/biskinik-newspaper-archive/ athletes, and assuring the merchandise was ordered in the Jana is also the secretary of her YAB chapter and is an application for certifica- correct amount. known as someone on which the group can depend. “I tion as an SBA 8(a) Busi- Her time in YAB began in the eighth grade, when both try to volunteer at everything I can,” mentiones Jana, ness Development Program her big brother and her YAB sponsor, Shonnie Hall, en- expressing how she is always sure to keep things running participant couraged her to jump into the action. She was reluctant in smoothly, ensuring that if something needs done, there The Choctaw Nation the beginning, but after participating in her first event, a is someone to do it or she is there to complete the task Tribal Council holds its Halloween trail of treats, she was hooked. herself. regular session at 10 a.m. on She has grown to be a source of encouragement and a Jana made note of how much YAB has got her involved the second Saturday of each social butterfly during her time in YAB. “She is very much with her peers and community, stating before YAB she did month in the Council Cham- an uplifter,” Shonnie states, speaking highly of Alice’s See YAB, Page 8 bers at Tvshka Homma. 2 BISKINIK | March 2013 Making investments in our people From the Desk of importance. With the help of the School of Choctaw Language, Chief Gregory E. Pyle we are making sure tribal staff are all learning some basic words in our Native tongue. On a regular basis, the school issues a The Choctaw Nation continues to grow with pride, hope and “word of the day” with an audio link so we can hear the word or success. The most important growth is shown by the investment phrase as well as see the written word. Choctaw words are we are making in our #1 resource - our people. available on choctawnation.com! We want to continue to create employment opportunities for The next time you call into the headquarters or visit one of as many tribal members as possible. Some of these opportuni- our offices, expect to be greeted with “Halito!” ties are through business development and expansions at Pride in heritage is obvious when I see several generations Choctaw Nation, and some opportunities are career growths teaching each other the art of basket weaving, pottery and made possible through education and vocational training beadwork. A recent public cultural awareness meeting had rapt programs. attention for storytelling and Choctaw dance. Stickball games The many education services offered by the Choctaw Nation have had a tremendous comeback in recent years. People are provide citizens of the tribe with tools for success. participating in events at cultural meetings in record numbers, Head Start classes, higher education scholarships, and career wearing their traditional dress. I am thankful to see people of all development certifications are just a few of the ways we are ages proudly proclaiming their Choctaw heritage! investing in the future of tribal citizens. Our Nation now is over 200,000 Choctaws strong, and our Heritage and culture of the Choctaw Nation are of optimal future looks bright! Chahta Sia Hoke!
The life and power of the Gospel Growth in tribe leads
Easter is the commemoration of When Adam ate of the forbidden the crucifixion and resurrection of Chaplain’s fruit in the Garden of Eden, he to economic success Jesus Christ. sinned, he died. He died spiritually From the Desk of My favorite Choctaw Hymn on Corner and eventually he died physically. Assistant Chief Gary Batton Easter is Choctaw Hymn No. 47. It is Since life is in the blood, when man entitled, “Christ Bled for Me.” This sinned, something happened to the Commerce development hymn describes the Gospel. I blood. Sin affected the blood of projects are vital to the translate only the first verse of three man. Choctaw Nation for many verses: “Jesus, my Savior Who gives For this reason sin is not in the reasons. Businesses life, was nailed to the Cross, He flesh, but in the blood. And flesh provide jobs, and also suffered as He hung there, He shed can only be called “sinful flesh” provide revenue to fund His Blood, He died in my place.” because it is nourished and fed and services for citizens. This Hymn is precious for those sustained by sinful blood. And sin is Successful economic who know Jesus Christ as their transmitted through the blood to all development ventures of Savior from sin. of Adam’s descendants. “For in that the Choctaw Nation, such The Bible is a Book of Blood. We one sinned all have sinned.” as the gaming operations, soon learn that as we read the You remember how Adam and travel plazas, print ser- Bible. And it is only the Blood that Eve after their sin had tried to make vices, manufacturing, gives life to our teaching and power fig leaf aprons to cover their shame. global staffing contract services and shopping to the Word of God. The Blood is That is the history of man, instead center, also provide the life and power of the Gospel. of realizing that sin needs not revenue that helps con- The Gospel is Good News described covering but to be taken away, man struct new facilities. in Paul’s letter in First Corinthians has ever after been trying to save Growth you will see in the 15:1-4. himself by the work of his own near future includes several new working hard to ensure continuation The Bible claims for itself it is a hands. wellness centers in districts across of services to Choctaw people regard- “Living” Book, and the only living Rev. Bertram Bobb Adam and Eve failed and man the tribal boundaries, to help with less of the federal sequestration. Being Book in the world, and is able to will always fail when they try to save Tribal Chaplain the goal of a healthier lifestyle for self-reliant through business revenue give life to those who will believe themselves by the work of their own our citizens. Plans are also on tap for is vital to continue meeting the needs with their hearts what it teaches. hands. After Adam and Eve’s sin additional Independent Elderly of citizens of the Choctaw Nation. The We read in Hebrews 4:12: and failure to cover their sin by Homes to alleviate the need to leaders of our tribe take honor in being “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and their own works God came to them and we read in housing for our senior citizens. They fiscally responsible for this generation sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to Genesis 3:21: “Unto Adam also and unto his wife are living longer, healthier lives, and and generations to come. We have an the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the did the Lord God make coats of skins, and clothed we want them to be in an affordable, ongoing hope that our tribe will joints and marrow and is a discerner of the them.” nice home they can enjoy. continue to grow and prosper. We are thoughts and intents of the heart.” In this first record of sacrifice, we have the whole The Choctaw Nation leadership is growing with pride, hope and success! The word translated from the Greek word “quick” story of the blood. Notice three things about this act in this verse, is “living” or “alive.” The Word of God of God which was a preview of His Plan of Salva- is a Living Word, wholly distinct from all other tion. books for just one reason, that is, it contains blood First, it must be God’s work and not man’s. God circulating through every page and in every verse. made the coat of skins. Salvation must be all of the Without the blood in the Bible it would be like any Lord. Salt pork and the pursuit of sweet tea other book, for the Bible plainly teaches that the life Second, salvation must be by death of an is in the Blood. This truth is given to us in Leviticus innocent substitute. Since these coats were made of Vonna Shults to the meeting. My 17:11: skins an animal had to die to provide the covering a Guest Columnist responsibility at the meeting was to take photos “For the life of the flesh is in the blood: and I substitute. Bacon. Bacon is of anyone who wanted a have given it to you upon the altar to make an Third, it must be the shedding of blood, for the everywhere. We see bacon photo with Chief Pyle. We atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that animal must be killed to give its skin and in this on our breakfast plates, would then print the photo maketh an atonement for the soul.” sacrifice the blood must be shed. Without shedding on our cheeseburger at out for you to take home Life, God said, is in the blood of the flesh, so that of blood there is no remission of sin. It is the blood lunch, wrapped around a that evening. there can be no life without the blood. No man ever that maketh an atonement for the soul. The blood filet mignon for dinner, It was at the beginning dies until his blood stops circulating. of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin. and we may enjoy of the photo session when All this is true of a physical body and it points to The teaching of blood shed in this first sacrifice bacon-flavored ice cream I realized my mistake in a greater spiritual truth. The Church of Jesus Christ runs like a scarlet line all through the Bible. Today for dessert. Folks love the eating so much salt pork is called His body, and born again believers “are we see on the Cross God’s perfect Lamb of which all flavor of bacon, have their – it makes you very thirsty. members of His body” and members one of the other lambs sacrificed were a picture and a type preference for the wood used to smoke Desperately, I searched to see if I had another. and we see the One who met the three conditions of it, and have a favorite brand. any sweet tea left to drink. It was In this body Jesus Christ is the head and all the Father. Chahta people love to gather empty. I then searched to see if my believers are the members. These members are Have you seen the uselessness of saving yourself together with friends and family to co-worker had any tea remaining. Her related by the blood of Jesus Christ. The life of each by your own efforts, your own good works? socialize with each other and more glass was also empty. At this point I member depends on His blood and is dependent for In closing, I ask, “Have you been washed in the often than not, food is shared. One of am desperate. My thirst had made my life, nourishment, cleansing and growth upon the Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ?” Repent means to the most popular Choctaw foods can mouth feel as dry as C-3PO’s joints as blood of the Lamb of God for “the Life is in the turn around, change your mind and receive Jesus easily be described as “bacon on he crossed the Tatooine desert. Blood.” These members may be separated in the Christ as your personal Savior. You can pray, “Lord, steroids” and we call it salt pork. I wondered why my fellow co-work- body like the hands and feet. I realize I am a sinner. I trust Jesus Christ as my My first experience with salt pork ers had not warned me as they sat So it is with the body of Christ the Church. They Savior.” Will you do that? came many years ago in the heart of next to me at dinner about the perils may differ in other ways but all who have trusted Thank you for your prayers. Pray for our Nations Jayhawk country in Lawrence, Kan. I of eating too much salt pork. I made a Jesus Christ, the head of the body, are brothers by and for its leaders. Pray for our brave men and had traveled there with a group of mental note to question them blood – the blood of our Lord Jesus Christ. women in our Armed Forces. fellow Choctaw Nation employees to thoroughly, but right now finding attend a community meeting with something to drink was my number nearby Choctaw families. one priority. While we were there, a local I turned to check on my waiting Choctaw group invited us to eat a guests, the thirsty part of me hoping traditional meal at their church. I was for a small line of people who were Trail of Tears Walk so excited because I never had the willing to wait their turn with Chief. T-shirt Order Form pleasure of enjoying a traditional No such luck, the line is out the door Choctaw dinner before. of the church. 2013 T-shirts are blue. As I watched them prepare the food, Finally, the last photo is taken and Sizes available are: I noticed one gentleman carefully printed. I sprint from the sanctuary of Children – (2-4), (6-8), (10-12) and (14-16) watching over a Dutch oven and ever the church and used their kitchen Adults – Small, Medium, Large, so often he would very carefully faucet as a drinking fountain. Never remove some sort of fried food. I was has there been a time that tap water X-Large, 2X, and 3X not close enough to tell exactly what tasted as good as what I was drinking he was preparing, so I assumed by the directly from the faucet, using my Item Size Quantity Total Price size of the portion and the hot grease hand as a cup. Did I even bother to that he was preparing fried catfish for wash my hands? I do not know, nor all of us to enjoy. I love to eat catfish, did I care. T-shirt – $10 ea. ______as most Oklahomans do, and I was As I was leaving the meeting, I felt thrilled to enjoy one of my favorite much better. As we walked out of the ______foods for dinner. church, I thanked the elders for the Finally, we were called over to eat. meal they had worked so hard to ______We were instructed to go through the provide for us and told them next time ______line to fix ourselves a plate. I stacked I would only eat two small slices of plenty of this “catfish” on my plate. salt pork. Cap – $10 ea. ______As I took the first bite, I noticed I told them what had happened to right away that it was very salty and me earlier and how much salt pork I tasted a lot like bacon! I made the had eaten. They were very gracious Name______comment to my co-worker about how and did their best not to laugh out Address______my “catfish” tasted and she immedi- loud at me. We then bid each other ately burst into laughter at my “chi pisa la chike.” City/State/Zip______ignorance. She quickly let me know I knew after that evening that salt Phone Number______that I was not eating catfish, but salt pork, in small portions, was a very pork. delicious addition to a meal. It is a E-Mail______I felt like a fool, but I was a happy true delicacy of the Chahta people. fool because in my mistake I had Only now I needed to learn how to Price includes postage and handling. Limited supply of Children and 3X sizes. gotten plenty of this delicious creation prepare it for my family… To order, send payment (NO PERSONAL CHECKS) with completed form to: for myself. I ate and savored every morsel. Watch the Biskinik for Vonna Trail of Tears Walk T-shirt After our dinner, we then greeted all Shults’ next column on how to cook P.O. Box 1210, Durant, OK 74702-1210 of the guests that had traveled to come salt pork. BISKINIK | March 2013 3 NOTES Events Chahta class held in Tulsa Stickball dates to mark! TO THE NATION A Chahta class will be held every Monday from 7 p.m. to Team Tvshka Homma will be participating in a stickball 9 p.m. from September to June at the Creek center in Tulsa tournament hosted by UKB-United Keetoowah Band on Choctaw Nation Health Services at 8611 S. Union Ave., one-half mile east of the Tulsa Hills April 27 in Tahlequah. Shopping Center. There is no charge for the class, but partici- Team Tvshka Homma has team practices in the Durant, has high level of professional care pants are asked to pay for workbooks. Children are welcome. Talihina and Broken Bow areas. There are currently fields in Dinner will be served the first Monday of the month and Durant, Atoka, Broken Bow, Idabel, Hugo, Wheelock, and a I was recently in the care of Choctaw Nation Health Services. snacks the other days. Students are responsible for bring- The level of professional care and attention I received was well temporary area in Talihina for practice and games. Tvshka ing snacks. Beri Gipson serves as the certified instructor. Homma is teaching stickball to anyone who wants to learn and beyond my expectations and far exceeded my prior experi- For more information, call Bill Hoover at 918-645-2299. ences elsewhere. From the director to the driver, everyone players are being recruited. Practice times are: made me feel as though my every need really mattered to Tishomingo gospel singing them, and it certainly assured me each day. I want to convey Talihina: every Sunday at 1 p.m. in front of CNHSA Hospital my sincere gratitude to all of the wonderful and kind staff who The 34th annual gospel singing at the Tishomingo Commu- Durant: every Sunday at 2:30 helped me recover. I will always be grateful for the many nity Center, located across from the Indian clinic, will be held Broken Bow: every Sunday at approx. 2 to 3 p.m. healing hands that touched my heart and body. With deep at 7 p.m. on March 23. All singers and listeners are welcome to For more information please call Billy Eagle Road III at appreciation and my warmest regards to all of you. attend. Due to limited seating, please bring your lawn chairs. 580-775-3368 or 580-924-8280 ext. 2410. Really hope to see new faces in the coming months! Yakoke. Gena Tyner-Dawson Concession will be available. Outreach to hold Idabel community event Career Development contributes CLEET Certified Human Trafficking Training to community, citizens Choctaw Nation’s Outreach Services are holding a commu- nity event 5-7 p.m. on March 19 at the Choctaw Community Choctaw Nation Children & Family Services Family Violence I would like to take the time to express my appreciation to Center in Idabel. Information will be available on Outreach Program is hosting a hands-on community forum for under- the Choctaw Nation and especially the Choctaw Career Services and other Choctaw Nation programs. There will also standing the complexities of Human Trafficking. An over-view Development for their contribution to their community and its be an Easter egg hunt for youth ages 0-4, 5-8 and 9-12. of Human Trafficking will be discussed and how it is related to citizens. I am an educator new to the southeastern part of our Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault. There will also be a seg- state and was recently afforded the opportunity to work in con- Writing workshop preserves Choctaw history ment on Law Enforcement response to Human Trafficking and junction with the Choctaw Nation and Choctaw Nation Career working with the victims. The “Writing Workshop: Historical Fiction, Preserving Development Counselor, Renee Cox, in providing continuing education courses at the Kiamichi Career Technology facility in Choctaw Removal Stories,” a workshop for Choctaw writers led April 16, 2013 April 18, 2013 Talihina. I was tremendously impressed with the Choctaw by author and storyteller Sarah Elisabeth Sawyer, will 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nation’s willingness to provide courses for its tribal members be held March 23 at the Choctaw Community Center in Durant. CNO Community Choctaw Casino & Resort and employees and to even open the doors to these classes to The workshop is supported by the Artist Leadership Program Center, Room C1 Durant, OK of the National Museum of the American Indian, Smithsonian their fellow citizens in the small communities that reside side Poteau, OK by side with the Choctaw Nation. I am appreciative and feel Institution and the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. fortunate to be working with an organization that is dedicated The workshop offers participants to learn key skills in writing There is no charge to attend this training and Choctaw Na- to this type of collaboration for the community. true stories in fiction form, while preserving their cultural and tion Children & Family Services will provide lunch. This train- historic integrity. The workshop is open to all Choctaw writers. Carrie Kirkes ing is open to the public. Space is limited and pre-enrollment is Attendees receive a syllabus containing research resources required. Please register by April 1, 2013. compiled in Washington, D.C., with sensory details to help The registration form and more information can be found on Member address updates needed bring settings and characters to life. Those attending the www.choctawnation.com or by calling 918-647-0770. workshop will have the opportunity for publication in a special With the 2013 Choctaw Nation Tribal elections quickly anthology of Choctaw removal stories. approaching all members need to ensure the Choctaw Nation Registration is free of cost, and pre-registration is required; Tribal Membership office has a current address on file. If you space is limited. For questions or to register, contact Sarah Attention need to update your address, please complete a new Tribal Elisabeth at [email protected] or 903-567-5024. Membership/Voter Registration application. Also, if you have Choctaw Artists reached age 18 and do not yet have an adult membership card Ribbon cutting ceremony in Antlers you will need to complete the application for one. These If you are interested in participating applications can be obtained online at www.choctawnation. A ribbon cutting ceremony will be held at 10:30 a.m. on in a Juried and Judged Choctaw Indian Art Show, com or through the Tribal Membership office at 1-800-522- March 26 to celebrate the opening of the new Choctaw 6170 or 580-924-8280. Community Center in Antlers. The new facility is located on let us hear from you! Southwest “O” Street across from the food warehouse. Please complete the following interest form in order to receive more information regarding the show which will be Coalgate appreciation dinner scheduled in Tvshka Homma, Oklahoma during the annual Labor Day Arrowhead Pow Wow Festivities. Included will be the following categories: Painting, District 12, Coalgate and Crowder, will be holding an Graphics, Cultural, Sculpture, Jewelry, Pottery, and Basketry. April 20 • McAlester Expo appreciation dinner for Councilman James Frazier on April 11 Please complete the form and return it to the address below. Hwy. 270 West of McAlester beginning at 6 p.m. at the Coalgate Community Center. Art information packets will be mailed beginning in April. Gourd Dancing: 3 p.m. - 5 p.m. All are welcome to attend. Grand Entry: 6:30 p.m. Name:______Honor dance for Choctaw Nation Phase I Choctaw language class in Muskogee Address:______District 11Councilman Bob Pate ______Choctaw Nation language instructor Abe Frazier will be Phone:______Choctaw Nation Color Guard holding a Phase I Choctaw language class each Monday at E-Mail:______Emcee: Archie Mason 6:30 p.m., located at 1100 Eufala St. in Muskogee at the Fife Artistic Category:______Head Singer: Michael Whitecloud - Cheyenne Arapaho/Choctaw Indian United Methodist Church. Those interested in Head Man: Michael Roberts - Choctaw/Chickasaw learning the Choctaw language, feel free to attend. You must be at least 17 years old and Head Lady: Evelyn Kasworm - Southern Cheyenne If you have any questions concerning the class, call Frazier have a membership card issued Head Gourd: Ira Kaulay Jr. - Kiowa at 918-685-0058. by the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma to participate. Arena Director: Bill Takeshorse - Crow Please return to: Shelley Garner All princesses Adults (16 and over) Cultural Events welcome. Fancy/Grass $300 $200 $100 45th Annual Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Contestants’ Tradition/Straight $300 $200 $100 PO Box 1210 registration Fancy Shawl/Jingle $300 $200 $100 Durant, OK 74702-1210 closes at 6 p.m. Talihina Festival Buckskin/Cloth $300 $200 $100 Contestants must For more information, call Shelley Garner Juniors (7-15) be in Grand Entry. Pow Wow at 1-800-522-6170, ext. 2377. Fancy/Grass $75 $50 $25 Craft booths: $35/ Tradition/Straight $75 $50 $25 table space and do- April 13, 2013 Fancy Shawl/Jingle $75 $50 $25 nation of craft item. Gateway to Talimena National Scenic Byway Buckskin/Cloth $75 $50 $25 McAlester Expo Talihina School Gymnasium, located on Hwy 1 and 271 American Indian Leadership Youth Council Tiny Tots (6 and under) will have the only concession. Schedule of Events of Broken Bow Public Schools Contact information: Dena Cantrell No drugs or 2 p.m. - Gourd Dance 918-423-1016 or 918-421-0368 alcohol allowed. 5 p.m. - Supper 17th Annual Spring Pow Wow 6 p.m. - Gourd Dance 7-10 p.m. - Grand Entry and Intertribal Dances April 6, 2013 Tiny Tots contest - 6 and under, McCurtain County Sports Complex – Broken Bow Gregory E. Pyle Gary Batton sponsored by Terry Ragland Schedule of Events: Chief Assistant Chief Head Staff 11 a.m. - Stickball Game MC: Vernon Tehauno (Comanche), Shawnee 1 p.m. - Gourd Dancing The Official Head Singer: Reuben Tehauno (Comanche/Choctaw), Shawnee 5:30 p.m. - Supper Break Monthly Publication Head Man Dancer: Presley Byington (Choctaw), Idabel 6:30 p.m. - Grand Entry Head Lady Dancer: Shauna Bushiey (Cherokee), Joaquin, Texas of the Head Staff: Head Gourd Dancer: Dusty Billie (Seminole), Tulsa Master of Ceremonies: Albert S. Old Crow of Irving, Texas Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Arena Director: Bill Takes Horse (Crow), Colbert Head Man Dancer: John Keel of Grant Honor Guard: Choctaw Nation Color Guard Judy Allen, Executive Director Head Lady Dancer: Shauna Bushiey of Joaquin, Texas Lisa Reed, Director/Editor Club Princess: Landry Danielle James Head Gourd Dancer: Mickey Weryackwe of Apache Melissa Stevens, Circulation Director Little Miss Club Princess: Haylee Brooke Himes Arena Director: Carl Poor Buffalo of Ada Larissa Copeland, Assistant Editor Honoree: Harry James, veteran of World War II and Korea Host Southern Drum: Ottertrail of Apache Karen Jacob, Purchasing Coordinator All veterans are invited to be honored. Host Northern Drum: Young Buffalo of Shawnee Host Color Guard: Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Bret Moss, Media Specialist • Arts and Crafts • Honorary Head Man Dancer: Kelly Anderson Chrissy Dill, Reporter/Photographer • Food Concession • Honorary Head Lady Dancer: Codi Winship • 50/50 • Jr. Honorary Head Man Dancer: Joseph Tolison P.O. Box 1210 • Raffles • Jr. Honorary Head Lady Dancer: Desiree Noah Durant, OK 74702 • Cake Walk • (580) 924-8280 • (800) 522-6170 • Door Prizes • AILYC 2012-13 Sr. Princess: Codi Winship Fax (580) 924-4148 AILYC 2012-13 Jr. Princess: April Battiest www.choctawnation.com The public is welcome and admission is free. Bring lawn e-mail: [email protected] chairs. All princesses, clubs and drums are also welcome. Special invitation to all princesses, drums and Indian clubs. For information or arts and crafts booth space, contact All stickball players welcome. The BISKINIK is printed each month as a service to Tribal Carol James at 918-567-2539. Arts and crafts spaces available. Members. The BISKINIK reserves the right to edit submitted $30 booth spaces plus an item donation. Competition: material which it finds inaccurate, profane, offensive or morally Tables and chairs are not provided. Men’s - Traditional/Straight and Fancy/Grass unacceptable. Copy may be edited for proper grammar and We are not responsible for accidents/thefts. Ladies - Buckskin/Cloth and Fancy/Jingle punctuation. Copy will be accepted in any readable form, but No firearms, drugs or alcohol are allowed. where possible, it is requested that material be typewritten and Teen Boys - Traditional/Straight and Fancy/Grass double spaced. You must include an address or phone number This event is sponsored by the Talihina Indian Club Teen Girls - Buckskin/Cloth and Fancy/Jingle with assistance of the Oklahoma Arts Council and where you may be reached. Due to space limitations and the Jr. Boys combined and Jr. Girls combined (sponsored by A’An Parra) the National Endowment for the Arts. quantity of article submissions, we are unable to include Tiny Tots (sponsored by Amber Tehauno) everything we receive. All dancers must register and participate in Grand Entry. If you are receiving more than one BISKINIK at your home Special: All men’s combined - $200 and jacket, winner takes all. or if your address needs changed, we would appreciate hearing Welcome to from you. Choctaw Farms Sponsored by: Weryackwe family The BISKINIK is a nonprofit publication of the Choctaw The Choctaw Casino & Resort offers a wide variety of Arts and crafts vendor information: Nation. delicious Choctaw Farms items in its gift shops! Wenona Jones, 580-306-9625. Circulation is monthly. Article deadline is the 10th of the Experience the very best in month for the following month’s edition. For more information, please contact gourmet gift items including Editor’s note: Views and opinions in reader-submitted articles Monica Billy at 580-584-3365 ext. 4069 handcrafted jams, preserves and are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent or Katrina Anderson at 580-236-1280. cheeses, all available at the those of the Choctaw Nation. Choctaw Casinos in No political soliciting, videotaping, drugs or alcohol allowed. Durant, Pocola and Grant. Security provided. AILYC has exclusive rights for video and photography. Now available online too! Visit Host motel: Broken Bow Inn (pow wow rate) BISKINIK® 2013 choctawfarms.com 580-584-9103 4 BISKINIK | March 2013 Eating right for Nursery News Emma and Gracie Sullivan your lifestyle Emma C. and Gracie M. Sulli- Eating right is essen- or whole-grain cereal. These van, born on June 21, 2012, are the tial to keeping your body also double as a quick grab- daughters of Amber Sullivan of Wil- running at its best. During and-go breakfast to wake burton, and granddaughters of Gary National Nutrition Month®, up your brain and muscles and Michele Vermillion and Alonzo the Academy of Nutrition for the day’s activities. and O’Kelley McKenzie. and Dietetics reminds you • At the cafeteria, salad to build an eating plan with bars are a great choice, just your unique lifestyle and go easy on the cheese, bacon, nutritional needs in mind. So creamy dressings and other Early Steps to Literacy instructor Chantay Lundry Casen Harvey whether you’re a vegetarian, high-calorie add-ons. Fol- helps youth begin reading at an early age. student, athlete, busy parent low the MyPlate guidelines Casen and Crystal Lee Harvey or a jet-setting executive, and make half your plate Early Steps to Literacy proudly announce the birth of their it’s important to “Eat Right, fruits and vegetables. son, Casen Walker Harvey, who was Your Way, Every Day.” Families – born on Dec. 26, 2012, in Arlington, “There’s no one-size-fits- Program begins sixth year Caring for family, whether Texas. He is the grandson of Clint all way to eat that’s right for children, elderly parents and Tracey Harvey of Mansfield, everyone,” says registered Director of Choctaw Nation Child Care Assistance Pro- or both, can be a handful. Texas; the great-grandson of Don dietitian and Academy gram Marilyn Williams would like to announce the Early However, family meals allow and Sandi Dillard of Mansfield, spokesperson Jim White. Steps to Literacy Program started its sixth year in Febru- parents to be role models the third great-grandson of the late “In reality if the diet doesn’t ary. This is a free education reading program to families to promote healthy eating. Rice Sumner and Gladys Dillard of Oklahoma, and the fourth fit with your lifestyle and with children under the age of six years, living in Choctaw And, just because a meal is great-grandson of the late Tandy Walker and Virginia Dillard unique needs, it won’t work or McCurtain counties, and who are currently receiv- made quickly doesn’t mean of Oklahoma. He is also the little brother of Alyssa and nephew in the long-term and can ing assistance from the Child Care Assistance Program. it can’t be nutritious. of Cassidy. even leave you missing out The program’s objective is to enhance early learning and • Keep things simple. on the nutrition you need to school readiness skills using a home visiting program with Build a collection of recipes get you through the day. no cost to parents. Early Steps to Literacy instructors will Kyler Bouher for quick and easy family “Americans have flexibility come to your home, read a book and do a fun activity re- favorites. Choose ingredi- in making choices to create lated to the book with you and your child. They will spend an Kyler Kaeden Bouher was born ents that you can use from a healthy eating pattern that average of 30 minutes in your home each week. After read- Nov. 10, 2012, in Fort Worth, Texas. more than one meal. For meets nutrient needs and ing the book, the instructor will leave the book and activ- He weighed in at 8 pounds 3 ounc- example, cook extra grilled stays within calorie limits.” ity for you to continue reading during the week. These free es, and measured 21 inches long. He chicken for chicken salad White offers the fol- books will help your child build their own home library. was welcomed by his parents, Jer- or fajitas the next day. lowing tips to eat right Instructors include Misty Dill in Choctaw County, with emy and Bonnie Bouher; grandpar- • Ask for help. Get the for your lifestyle: Donna Meeks, Chantay Lundry and Rhonda Vaught in Mc- ents Mark and Sherry Bouher, and kids involved making a Curtain County. If you are interested in the program for your Paul and Patty Delaughter; uncle salad, setting the table Career – child, please call Early Steps to Learn Coordinator Rhonda Tye Bouher; and great-grandpar- Busy work days and or other simple tasks. Vaught at 580-775-3869 to see if your child is eligible. ents Josephine Stewart with the late Wendell Stewart. business travel can lead Vegetarian – to on-the-fly meals. A vegetarian diet can in- • For desktop dining, clude just as many tasty vari- Gabriel Ferguson keep single-serve packages eties of foods as one including Recipe of the Month of crackers, fruit, peanut meat. For example, nutrient- Gabriel D. Ferguson was born on butter, low-sodium soup or rich beans are recommended Dec. 30, 2012, in San Diego, Calif., canned tuna in your desk. for everyone. Enjoy vegetar- Spicy Orange Chicken to Jonathan and Diane Ferguson. • Always on the go? Tuck ian chili, a hummus-filled He weighed 9 pounds 7 ounces portable, nonperishable Recipe provided by Better Homes and Gardens pita sandwich or veggie and measured 21.25 inches long. foods in a purse, briefcase or Paternal grandparents are David burger. Many popular items Ingredients: backpack for a meal on the a small bowl, combine the and Helena of Ohio, and maternal are or can be vegetarian – • 2 oranges run. Try granola bars, peanut 1/3 cup orange juice, the grandparents are Esperanza and pasta primavera, veggie pizza • 1 tablespoon canola oil butter and crackers, fresh soy sauce, honey, ginger, John of California. Gunnery Sgt and tofu-vegetable stir-fry. • 2 10 oz packages fruit, trail mix or single- cornstarch, and crushed red Ferguson (USMC) is the grandson of the late Minnie Voyles “Whatever your lifestyle, of baby spinach serve packages of whole- pepper. Set aside. Sprinkle of Talihina. Uncles are Vincent Ferguson of Pennsylvania and set yourself up for success • 1 tablespoon reduced- grain cereal or crackers. chicken with salt and black David Meadows of Minnesota. Gabriel was also welcomed by by working with a regis- sodium soy sauce pepper. Wipe out Dutch his first cousin, Anna Ferguson of Pennsylvania and numerous Athlete – tered dietitian to develop a • 1 teaspoon honey oven with a paper towel. In extended family members. Whether you are a com- personalized eating plan that • 1 teaspoon grated Dutch oven, heat the re- petitive athlete or just enjoy fits your unique nutritional fresh ginger maining 2 teaspoons oil over working out, what you eat needs and tastes,” says White. • ½ teaspoon cornstarch medium-high heat. Add Michael Brooks will affect your performance. As part of this public • 1/8 to ¼ crushed garlic; cook and stir for 30 • Your body needs fuel education campaign, the red pepper seconds. Add chicken; cook Lyn Thomas and Janie Brooks of to function, so eat a light Academy’s National Nutrition • 1 pound skinless, bone- and stir for 2-3 minutes or breakfast or snack before Month website includes a Randlett are excited to announce less chicken breast strips until chicken is no longer the birth of their first baby, Michael you exercise. Try low-fat variety of helpful tips, games, • ¼ teaspoon salt pink. Stir orange juice yogurt, graham crackers with promotional tools and nutri- Lyn Brooks. Michael arrived on • ¼ teaspoons freshly mixture; add to chicken in Feb. 1, 2013; he weighed 7 pounds peanut butter, a banana or tion education resources, ground black pepper Dutch oven. Cook and stir cereal with low-fat milk. all designed to spread the 14 ounces and was 20.5 inches in • 3 cloves garlic, minced until thickened and bubbly. length. Proud grandparents are • Before, during and message of good nutrition Directions: Cook and stir for 1 minute after exercise, replace fluids around the “Eat Right, Your Mike and Peggy Brooks of Rand- Remove peel and white more. To serve, arrange lett, Lois and Gary Bartz of Perry- with plenty of water or a Way, Every Day” theme. membrane from 1 of the orange sections on top of sports drink, if you prefer. The Academy of Nutrition ton, Texas, Louis Hutchinson of Iowa Park, Texas, and the late oranges. Section orange; spinach. Spoon chicken Georgia Gallaher; proud great-grandparents are George and Student – and Dietetics (formerly the set aside. Squeeze enough mixture over oranges and American Dietetic Associa- Gennive Gallaher of Duncan, and Donna Barlow of Amarillo, The student lifestyle can juice from the remaining spinach. Makes 4 servings. tion) is the world’s largest Texas. be fast-paced and low- orange to measure 1/3 cup; Nutrition Facts: organization of food and budget. Students can eat set aside. In a four-quart Per serving: Calories - nutrition professionals. The right on a budget with some Dutch oven, heat 1 teaspoon 207, Total fat - 6g, Sat. fat Academy is committed to savvy food shopping tips. of the oil over medium heat. - 1g, Cholesterol - 66mg, improving the nation’s health Stock smart snacks that Add spinach; cover and Sodium - 521mg, Carb. - 8g, Snack tips for parents and advancing the profession combine protein and carbo- cook for 4-5 minutes or just Fiber - 13g, Protein - 31g of dietetics through research, hydrates to fuel you like: until slightly wilted, stirring For more information education and advocacy. 10 easy ways to help kids snack better • Apples with peanut occasionally. Drain and you may contact: Erin Ad- Visit the Academy of butter, carrots and hum- transfer to serving dishes or ams, RD, Choctaw Nation Snacks can help children get Nutrition and Dietetics mus, hardboiled eggs and a serving platter. Cover and Diabetes Wellness Center, the nutrients needed to grow at www.eatright.org for fruit, banana and yogurt, keep warm. Meanwhile, in 800-349-7026 ext. 6959. and maintain a healthy weight. WIC more information. almonds with low-fat cheese Prepare single-serving snacks WOMEN, INFANTS for younger children to help AND CHILDREN them get just enough to satisfy FOOD DISTRIBUTION their hunger. Let older kids make their own snacks by keeping Choctaw Nation WIC ANTLERS healthy foods in the kitchen. Visit ChooseMyPlate.gov to help you and your kids select a satisfying snack. Market open weekdays April 1-24 , except for: Save time by slicing veggies WOMEN, INFANTS April 6 : Idabel 9-11 a.m.; Broken Bow 12-2 p.m. (market open) 1. Store sliced vegetables in the refrigerator and serve April 13: Bethel 9-10:30; Smithville 12-2 (market open) with dips like hummus or low-fat dressing. Top half a and CHILDREN Closed April 27-29 for inventory whole-wheat English muffin with spaghetti sauce, chopped Cooking with Carmen: April 5 &17, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. vegetables, and low-fat shredded mozzarella and melt in the microwave. SITE HOURS DAYS durant Mix it up Antlers 8:30-4:00 Every Tuesday Market open weekdays April 1-24, except for: 2. For older school-age kids, mix dried fruit, unsalted (580-298-3161) Closed April 25 for tribal holiday and 26-30 for inventory. nuts, and popcorn in a snack-size bag for a quick trail Atoka 8:00-4:30 Every Mon., Wed., Cooking with Carmen: April 4 & 12, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. mix. Blend plain fat-free or low-fat yogurt with 100% fruit (580-889-5825) Thurs. & Fri. juice and frozen peaches for a tasty smoothie. Bethel 8:30-4:00 1st Tuesday McAlester Grab a glass of milk (580-241-5458) Market open weekdays April 1-24, except for: 3. A cup of low-fat or fat-free milk or milk alternative (soy milk) is an easy way to drink a healthy snack. Boswell 8:30-4:00 Every Friday Closed April 25 for tribal holiday and 26-30 for inventory. Go for great whole grains (580-380-5264) Cooking with Carmen: April 1 & 19, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. 4. Offer whole-wheat breads, popcorn, and whole-oat Broken Bow 8:00-4:30 Daily, except 1st Tues. cereals that are high in fiber and low in added sugars, (580-584-2746) & 2nd Thurs. POTEAU Market open weekdays April 1-24, except for: saturated fat, and sodium. Limit refined-grain products such Coalgate 8:00-4:30 Every Wednesday as snack bars, cakes, and sweetened cereals. (580-927-3641) Closed April 25 for tribal holiday and 26-30 for inventory. Nibble on lean protein Durant 8:00-4:30 Daily Cooking with Carmen: April 8 & 15, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. 5. Choose lean protein foods such as low-sodium deli (580-924-8280 x 2257) meats, unsalted nuts, or eggs. Wrap sliced, low-sodium Hugo 8:00-4:30 Daily Choctaw Nation Food Distribution deli turkey or ham around an apple wedge. Store unsalted nuts (580-326-5404) Open 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Monday thru Fri- in the pantry or peeled, hard-cooked (boiled) eggs in the refrigerator for kids to enjoy any time. Idabel 8:00-4:30 Mon., Thurs. & Fri. day. Staff will take lunch from 11:30 to 12 noon. (580-286-2510) Keep an eye on the size WAREHOUSES & MARKETS McAlester 8:00-4:30 Daily 6. Snacks shouldn’t replace a meal, so look for ways to (918-423-6335) Antlers: 306 S.W. “O” St., 580-298-6443 help your kids understand how much is enough. Store Poteau 8:00-4:30 Daily Durant: 100 1/2 Waldron Dr., 580-924-7773 snack-size bags in the cupboard and use them to control (918-647-4585) McAlester: 1212 S. Main St., 918-420-5716 serving sizes. Fruits are quick and easy Smithville 8:30-4:00 2nd Thursday Poteau: 100 Kerr, 918-649-0431 Fresh, frozen, dried, or canned fruits can be easy (580-244-3289) Food Distribution Sites 7. “grab-and-go” options that need little preparation. Offer Spiro Every Wed. - Fri. Bethel: Choctaw Community Building 8:00-4:30 whole fruit and limit the amount of 100% juice served. Broken Bow: Choctaw Family Investment Center (918-962-3832) Consider convenience Stigler 8:30-4:00 Every Mon. - Wed. Idabel: Choctaw Community Center 8. A single-serving container of low-fat or fat-free yogurt (918-967-4211) Smithville: Choctaw Community Center or individually wrapped string cheese can be just Talihina 8:00-4:30 Mon., Tues., Wed., Stigler: Choctaw Community Center enough for an after-school snack. (918-567-7000 x 6792) & Fri. In accordance with federal law and U.S. Department of Swap out the sugar Wilburton 8:30-4:00 Every Thursday Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from dis- 9. Keep healthier foods handy so kids avoid cookies, (918-465-5641) criminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, pastries, or candies between meals. Add seltzer water to a cup age, religion, political beliefs, or disability. To file a com- of 100% fruit juice instead of offering soda. Prepare homemade goodies plaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of 10. For homemade sweets, add dried fruits like apricots Adjudication and Compliance, 1400 Independence Avenue, or raisins and reduce the amount of sugar. Adjust S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, or call 800-795-3272 recipes that include fats like butter or shortening by using (voice) or 202-720-6382 (TDD). USDA is an equal opportu- unsweetened applesauce or prune puree for half the amount of nity provider and employer. fat. BISKINIK | March 2013 5 PEOPLE YOU KNOW Pierce celebrates 30 years as Choctaw Nation employee
For Choctaw Nation employees,” she explained, new every day, which is her ing able to witness how fast “There are lots of opportu- Purchasing Director Donna “purchasing agents, the as- favorite part of her job. “It’s a the Choctaw Nation has nities in different areas.” Pierce, celebrating her 30th sistant purchasing director different thing every day, and grown as a whole for the Another positive aspect anniversary of being a tribal and shipping and receiving.” it’s anything,” she said. “You past 30 years of her employ- of her job, Donna said, employee on Jan. 31 was a Donna said the Purchas- learn a lot in Purchasing that ment has been a blessing. are her fellow co-workers. proud moment in her career. ing department plays an I think, in any other depart- “I feel very proud to have “In all my years here, I’ve When Donna, who resides important role in how the ment, you wouldn’t have worked for the tribe for all never met anyone with in Boswell, initially came to Choctaw Nation functions. the opportunity to know.” of these years,” said Donna. whom I couldn’t work.” work for the Choctaw Nation, “Employees have a central Not only does Donna have “I have a very good staff, In her spare time outside she began as an employee location to place orders and great opportunities present- Chief and Assistant Chief. It’s of the office, Donna said she of the Higher Education they always know where ed to her while working for always been a pleasure to get enjoys gardening and spend- department and from there their supplies are com- the Purchasing department, up and come to work here.” ing time with her grandkids. moved to the position of ing from,” she explained. being a Choctaw Nation Since Donna has en- When asked about retire- secretary for the assistant Donna continued, saying tribal employee has brought joyed her time as a tribal ment, she said she is still chief. She has since been a the tribe actually saves mon- her much joy in her life, she employee for 30 years, throwing around the idea. part of the purchasing de- ey by utilizing the Purchas- DONNA PIERCE said. Donna enjoys being she said she encourages “I haven’t made my mind partment for about 27 years. ing department. The team a service to the people and people who are interested up about retirement,” she As purchasing director, of purchasing employees are being involved in community in working for the Choc- said, “but even if I do, I plan Donna holds several re- well informed on where to our job, to save the programs projects. “I love meeting taw Nation to fulfill their on staying involved with sponsibilities and helps the get the best-quality supplies money,” said Donna. people inside and outside of wish. “There are so many the Choctaw community department maintain its for Choctaw Nation employ- Donna said she has the op- the office,” she continued. areas you can get into, not centers. I won’t be totally productivity. “I oversee 12 ees at the best price. “That’s portunity to learn something Donna also said that be- just office work,” she said. saying goodbye to the tribe.”
Tamaka Seneca turns 2 receives Seneca Sage Clark celebrated her Jefferson Award second birthday on Sept. 11 at her home in McAlester with her family. Congratulations to She is the oldest child of Bryan and Tamaka Bailey, son of Kogee Clark. Seneca is both Choc- Dorothy Durant, who taw and Creek. She is the paternal received the Jefferson granddaughter of Becky Hallford of Award. Tamaka is McAlester and Danny Clark of pictured with the Farmersville, Texas. She is the maternal granddaughter of co-founder of the Joyce Noon-Voice of Wetumka and the late William Morgan of award, Sam Beard, at Okmulgee. She is the paternal great-granddaughter of Walter the Jefferson Award and Sarah Amos of McAlester and the maternal great-grand- Ceremony, which honored those who volunteer their time and daughter of the late Lee Anna and Nathan Noon of Wetumka. effort for their communities. Tamaka received the award for The McAlester senior citizens have elected a new Her mom and dad would like to wish her the happiest of his fundraising productions for the veterans in California, his slate of officers. Pictured left to right are Treasurer birthdays. Buck Durant, Secretary Mary Wilket, Vice President Native American productions and teaching the Choctaw Eva Lanning and President Johnnie Kemp. language, which he also puts into his productions. President Kemp has designated the first Wednesday Tamaka hopes to eventually be able to bring his productions of each month as Cultural Day. The seniors are encour- into the Choctaw Nation casinos, community centers and the aged to wear Native American dresses, shirts, mocca- Labor Day Festival for the kids. If he is able, he would like to sins, beadwork, etc. They will be learning the Choctaw do fundraising shows for the Choctaw Nation veterans as well. language, the Lord’s Prayer in sign language and see demonstrations on making Choctaw dress. Tiffany and Christopher wed Congratulations to Tiffany Elizabeth Sue Goade, daughter of Happy birthday, D’shayla Helen Elizabeth Alexander and Richard D. Goade, and Christo- pher Andrew Stone, who were married on Feb. 14 at the D’shayla Marie Bohanan celebrated her Cleveland County Courthouse. The formal ceremony is set for 1 ninth birthday on March 9 along with her p.m. April 20 at the historic Fort Reno Wedding Chapel in El cousin, Hailey Cusler. Their family would Reno, reception to follow at same location. like to wish them both a happy birthday. D’shayla’s mother is also proud of her for making all A’s and B’s this semester. Happy birthday, Imaiya Imaiya Kyle’e Clark turned 1 year old on Jan. 11. She celebrated her birthday at her Happy birthday, home in McAlester with her family. She is the youngest daughter of Bryan and Kogee Clark On Feb. 14, Justine (Anderson) Starr celebrated Nadine of McAlester. She is the maternal grand- her 90th birthday with family in Phoenix, Ariz. Pic- daughter of Danny Clark of Farmersville, Happy Valentine’s Day tured are four generations of the Starr family, Justine Texas, and Becky Hallford of McAlester. Her maternal grand- and happy birthday to with several of her great-grandchildren and great- parents are Joyce Kogee Noon of Wetumka and the late Louis Nadine on Feb. 16 from her great-grandchildren. In all, Justine has four children, Morgan of Okmulgee. Imaiya is Choctaw and Creek. She is the children, Marilyn Taylor, eight grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and three paternal great-granddaughter of Walter and Sarah Amos of Larry, Debra, Matthew, great-great-grandchildren. Jefferson and Sherry McAlester and the maternal great-granddaughter of Lee Anna McDonald, who all thank and Nathan Noon of Wetumka. Happy birthday, “Bum Bum,” God for her. Her family and from mommy and daddy! friends wish her a happy Atoka Health Fair provides services, birthday as well. Drake turns 7 information to tribal members Drake Stubbs turned 7 years old on March 1. He celebrated at the Coalgate family fun center in Paris, Texas, ‘royalty’ with family and friends. Drake, your family is so proud of you and Maggie Anderson, you are a blessing from God. 88, and Otis Moore, Drake is the son of Cody and 95, were crowned Amber Ward of Swink and Jo queen and king for Stubbs of Boswell. He has a District 12 in Coal- brother, Xanden, and a sister, Dravon. Paternal grandparents gate at their senior are John and Rhoda Stubbs of Sunkist. Great-grandparents are lunch, held on Feb. John and Georgia Stubbs of Boswell and the late Clem 13. Shawhart and Betty Shawhart of Fort Towson. Maternal grandparents are Becky Peters of Hugo and the late Terry Happy birthday, Mason Ward and Brenda Ward of Sawyer. Happy 18th birthday to Mason Moran Cherish teaches Jennifer Wagoner and Norene Crow visit with on April 16. Mason is an excellent student Gary Jackson of Choctaw Nation Patient Relations and will graduate from Southmoore High Lord’s Prayer at the Atoka Health Fair on Feb. 13. School this year and enter college this fall. He enjoys golf, hiking and life. Happy Cherish Wilkerson, grand- birthday, from his family, grandparents, daughter of Dennis and Dena John and Donna Moran, parents, Mike Cantrell, took time out of her and Lisa Moran, and sister, Bailey Moran. day to teach the McAlester Choctaw senior citizens The Lord’s Prayer in sign language. Malia takes home the gold Cherish is a full-time student at Eastern Oklahoma State Col- We would like to acknowledge a small lege in Wilburton. She is the warrior in our midst. Malia Cardle reigning Pittsburg County Senior Princess and visits the senior competed Feb. 2 at the Sooner State center every Wednesday to teach the Lord’s Prayer. Games Judo competition in Moore. She brought herself, her immediate family and her Choctaw community great honor by winning the gold medal. Teena succeeds At 47 pounds, she’s quite the handful. She won both of her matches in 6 in chili cook-off seconds. Malia says all the hard training Teena Jayne Friedel of and running that her coach, two-time Olympian Patrick Irving, Texas, was named Choctaw Nation: KAREN JACOB Burris, makes them do makes the team stronger and faster. the 2012 reserve champion Choctaw Nation community health nurse Lois Malia turned 7 years old on March 9. Good job, Malia! in the one-person show Wright takes Bob Vickey’s blood pressure. category at the Terlingua International Chili Happy birthday, Championship. Last year, EDITOR’S NOTE: The BISKINIK is changing its policy on the Chili Appreciation birthday, anniversary and education announcements. Begin- Goodfellow sisters Society International sanctioned over 500 chili cook-offs ning with the May 2013 BISKINIK, we will accept milestone throughout the United States, Canada and the Virgin Islands Happy birthday to the birthday greetings for ages 1, 13, 16, 21, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80 and contributed over $1.2 million to charity. Each November, Goodfellow twins. Melody and above. Couples may send in announcements of their silver those who qualify by winning throughout the year are invited and Skylar Goodfellow will wedding anniversary at 25 years of marriage, golden anniver- to participate in the international championship held in turn 9 years old on March sary at 50 years or 60+ anniversaries. News from graduates of Terlingua, Texas. 29. Their grandmothers, higher education only and sports submissions will be accepted Teena Jayne, also known as Dream Catcher, is the 2011 Dottie Goodfellow and as space allows. We apologize for any inconvenience. This is a international show champion and has been competing since Grandma “Bo Bo” Long, as necessary adjustment due to rising production and mailing ex- 2006. well as their mom and dad penses. Please feel free to post all of your family’s special events For more information on cooking chili for charity, visit chili. wish them a very happy on the Choctaw Nation’s Facebook and Twitter pages. birthday. org. 6 BISKINIK | March 2013 2013 Wilburton Stock Show Mashburn, Woodland; 3. Heather Edington, Red Oak Breed Champ York: Braylon Spears, Hartshorne –Bovine– Continental Division Champ: Colby Cato, Savanna Reserve Breed Champ York: Railey Spears, Hartshorne Continental Reserve Division Champ: Michael O’Kelley, Hartshorne Cross Breed Class I: 1. Austin Jestis, Durant; 2. Railey Steer AOB Division Spears, Hartshorne; 3. Tee Trotter, Vian Class I: 1. Natalie Gibson, Afton Class II: 1. Noah Palmer, McCurtain Co.; 2. Chastain Class II: 1. Haylie McGowan, Colbert; 2. Mickael Stricklin, McCurtain Cannady, Talihina; 3. Danielle Murillo, Jones Academy Class III: 1. Bailey Henry, McCurtain; Class III: 1. Charity Thomas, Red Oak; 2. Grace 2. Dustin Finch, Canadian Palmer, McCurtain Co.; 3. Austin Jestis, Durant Class IV: 1. Kareesa Kennedy, Buffalo Valley; 2. Jaycee Class IV: 1. Daxton King, Hartshorne; 2. Jaycee Kitchell, Hartshorne; 3. Christopher Stricklin, McCurtain Cox, Spiro; 3. Marius McClurg, Sequoyah AOB Division Champ: Haylie McGowan, Colbert Class V: 1. Kaylee Cox, Spiro; 2. Braylon Spears, AOB Reserve Division Champ: Kareesa Kennedy, Buffalo Valley Hartshorne; 3. Javen Potts, Talihina Class VI: 1. Brookly Herriman, Warner; 2. Tuff Trotter, Vian; 3. Noah Palmer, McCurtain Co. –Swine– Class VII: 1. Tyler Lindley, Hartshorne; 2. Tucker LeMay, Whitesboro; 3. Kelsey Brown, Buffalo Valley Colby Cato of Savanna 4-H wins Market Steer Grand Class VIII: 1. Hayden Bell, Bokoshe; 2. Dillon Champion Price, Spiro; 3. Carsen McCoy, Tahlequah Class IX: 1. Jaycee Cox , Spiro; 2. Emily Jackson, Hartshorne; 3. Muranda Sales, Bokoshe Class X: 1. Austin Jestis, Durant; 2. Kaitlynn Sebo, Spiro; 3. Kaitlynn Sebo, Spiro Class XI: 1. Dylan Bush, Quinton; 2. Tayton LeMay, Whitesboro; 3. Harley Roba, Whitesboro Breed Champ Cross: Daxton King, Hartshorne Reserve Breed Champ Cross: Austin Jestis, Durant –Goats–
Braylon Spears of Hartshorne 4-H wins Market Christian McGowen of Colbert FFA wins Market Swine Grand Champion Steer Reserve Grand Champion
Kelsey Willis of Bris- Ceejay Robison of Che- tow FFA wins Meat Goat cota 4-H wins Meat Goat Grand Champion Reserve Grand Champi- on, Junior Showman.
Daxton King of Hartshorne 4-H wins Market Swine Grand Meat Goat: Kelsey Willis, Bristow Kayleigh Hilburn Walker of Quinton 4-H wins Heifer Reserve Grand Champion Reserve Grand Meat Goat: Ceejay Robison, Checotah Supreme Champion and Junior Showman Champion Bronze Medallion Goat: Emily Jackson, Hartshorne Grand Market Swine: Braylon Spears, Hartshorne Junior Goat Showmanship: Ceejay Robison, Checotah Reserve Grand Market Swine: Daxton King, Hartshorne Senior Goat Showmanship: Adrianna Curnutt, Wister Bronze Medallion Swine: Jaycee Cox, Spiro Junior Swine Showmanship: Jaycee Cox, Spiro Division 1 Senior Swine Showmanship: Hannah Palmer, McCurtain Co. Class I: 1. Catelyn Grey, Buffalo Valley; 2. Stephanie Seyler, Wister; 3. Kristen Brown, LeFlore Berkshire Breed Class II: 1. Railey Spears, Hartshorne; 2. Dylan Class I: 1. Noah Palmer, McCurtain Co.; 2. Hunter Wilson, Newcastle; 3. Dustin Finch, Canadian Mason , Hartshorne; 3. Andy Butler, Jones Academy Class III: 1. Kelsey Willis, Bristow; 2. Lexen Cook, Class II: 1. Hunter Mason , Hartshorne; 2. Asher Hartshorne; 3. Paige Sparks, Hartshorne Kauk, Red Oak; 3. Emilee Conner , Woodland Class IV: 1. Paige Sparks, Hartshorne; 2. Adrianna Breed Champ Berk: Noah Palmer, McCurtain Co. Curnutt, Wister; 3. Emily Jackson, Hartshorne Reserve Breed Champ Berk: Hunter Mason, Hartshorne Division 1 Champ: Kelsey Willis, Bristow Division 1 Reserve Champ: Lexen Cook, Hartshorne Chester Breed Christian McGowan from Colbert wins Reserve Su- Class I: 1. Bryan Hawkins, Jones Academy; 2. Katelyn Division 2 preme Heifer King , Hartshorne; 3. Angela Hill , Smithville Class I: 1. Ceejay Robison, Checotah; 2. Emily Class II: 1. Noah Irwin, Hartshorne; 2. Enrique Guerro, Jackson, Hartshorne; 3. Jaren Cook, Quinton Jones Academy; 3. Isaiah Rodriques, Jones Academy Class II: 1. Cheyenne Robison, Checotah; 2. Dylan Grand Market Steer: Colby Cato, Savanna; Breed Champ Chester: Bryan Hawkins, Jones Academy Wilson, Newcastle; 3. Brandi Moore, Haileyville Reserve Grand Steer: Christian McGowan, Colbert; Reserve Breed Champ Chester: Noah Irwin, Hartshorne Class III: 1. Alex Anderson, Eufaula; 2. Anna Bronze Medallion Steer: Haylie McGowan, Colbert; Park, Crowder; 3. Ally Stanley, Wister Grand Supreme Heifer: Kyleigh Hilburn, Quinton; Duroc Breed Class IV: 1. Kelsey Willis, Bristow; 2. Taylor Reserve Grand Heifer: Christian McGowan, Colbert; Class I: 1. Grace Palmer, McCurtain Co.; 2. Hannah Duerson, Warner; 3. Jessica Duerson, Warner Bronze Medallion Heifer: Kylie Powell, Porum; Palmer, McCurtain Co.; 3. Matt McFarland, Savanna Class V: 1. Jordan Hicks, Poteau Junior Beef Showmanship: Kyleigh Hilburn, Quinton; Class II: 1. Faith Palmer, McCurtain Co.; 2. Division 2 Champ: Lexen Cook, Hartshorne Senior Beef Showmanship: Haylie McGowan, Colbert; Dillon Weer, Vian; 3. Darian Sharp, Spiro Division 2 Reserve Champ: Emily Jackson, Hartshorne Class III: 1. Allison Beames, Howe; 2. Carsen McCoy, Heifer, English Division Tahlequah; 3. Grace O’Neal, Tuskahoma Class I: 1. Kori Burge, Eufaula; 2. Zachary Ilbery, Checotah Class IV: 1. Michael O’Kelley, Hartshorne; 2. Cade –Sheep– Class II: 1. Christian McGowan, Colbert; 2. Dalton McCoy, Tahlequah; 3. Ashley Bartolomei, Talihina Cantrell, Checotah; 3. Kori Burge, Eufaula Class V: 1. Cade McCoy, Tahlequah; 2. Tristen Class III: 1. Langston Upton, Wister; 2. Kaylan Cooley, Spiro; 3. Tanner McAlester, Wister Plemmens, Battiest; 3. Lani Monks, Panama Class VI: 1. Cody Hugle, Hartshorne; 2. Brice Cooley, Class IV: 1. Zachary Ilbery, Checotah; 2. Colton Gentry, Konawa Haileyville; 3. Alexandria Lerblance, McAlester English Division Champ: Christian McGowan, Colbert Breed Champ Duroc: Faith Palmer, McCurtain Co. Reserve Division Champ: Dalton Cantrell, Checotah Reserve Breed Champ Duroc: Cody Hugle, Hartshorne
Heifer, Continental Division Hampshire Breed Class I: 1. Kyleigh Hilburn, Quinton; 2. Dylan Cantrell- Class I: 1. Sarah Palmer, McCurtain Co.; 2. Tyler Shelton, Checotah; 3. Jacy Muncy, Panola Muncy, Panola; 3. Faith Palmer, McCurtain Co. Class II: 1. Cody Bull, Panola; 2. Julianna Blake, Class II: 1. Kaylee Cox, Spiro; 2. Sarah Palmer, Battiest; 3. William Edington, Red Oak McCurtain Co.; 3. Tyler Dressman, Jones Academy Class III: 1. Haylie McGowan, Colbert; 2. Roni Class III: 1. Jaycee Cox, Spiro; 2. Markus McClurg, Martin, Wister; 3. Samantha Pearce, Porum Sequoyah; 3. Lexen Cook, Hartshorne Class IV: 1. Cooper Wood, Rattan; 2. Kayla Class IV: 1. Austin Cole, Talihina; 2. Danielle Murillo, Taylor McGill of Tuttle Ross Turner of Hold- Harris, Keota; 3. Trent Kitchell, Hartshorne Jones Academy; 3. Hannah Palmer, McCurtain Co. 4-H wins Market Lamb enville FFA wins Mar- Class V: 1. Hannah Palmer, McCurtain; 2. Meagan Blake, Battiest Class V: 1. Kaylee Cox, Spiro; 2. Alex Chatkehoodle, Grand Champion ket Lamb Reserve Grand Continental Division Champ: Kyleigh Hilburn, Quinton Jones Academy; 3. Michael O’Kelley, Hartshorne Champion Continental Reserve Division Champ: Hannah Palmer, McCurtain Class VI: 1. Braylon Spears, Hartshorne; 2. Sarah Palmer, McCurtain Co.; 3. Hayden Bell, Bokoshe Grand Market Lamb: Taylor McGill, Tuttle Heifer, AOB Division Class VII: 1. Noah Bryant, Talihina; 2. Tucker Reserve Grand Market Lamb: Ross Turner, Holdenville Class I: 1. Tahsa Janway, Cameron; 2. Faith Palmer, McCurtain; Morrow, Hartshorne; 3. Chase Martin, Red Oak Bronze Medallion Lamb: Taylor McGill, Tuttle 3. Daniel Culwell, Bokoshe Class VIII: 1. Hannah Palmer, McCurtain Co.; 2. Junior Lamb Showmanship: Brooklyn Herriman, Warner Class II: 1. Abby Cato, Savanna; 2. Kaylan Plemmons, Battiest; Noah Irwin, Hartshorne; 3. Jade Fairless, Albion Senior Lamb Showmanship: Juleah Hollingshed, Checotah 3. Jenna Rae Simpson, Quinton Class IX: 1. Rachael Beames, Howe; 2. Tayton Class III: 1. Kylie Powell, Porum; 2. Daniel Culwell, LeMay, Whitesboro; 3. Paige Dorsey, Howe Division 1 Bokoshe; 3. Dakota Cantrell Shelton, Checotah Class X: 1. Kaitlynn Sebo, Spiro; 2. Emily Jackson, Class I: 1. Emily Shaw, Buffalo Valley; 2. Rynda Wilson, Class IV: 1. Sarah Palmer, McCurtain; 2. Breanna Hartshorne; 3. Chloe Rogers, Spiro Quinton; 3. Andrew Brown, Panama Moore; Haileyville Elliott, Quapaw; 3. Grace Palmer, McCurtain Breed Champ Hamp: Jaycee Cox, Spiro Class II: 1. Peiper Rogers, Spiro; 2. Grant Shaw, Class V: 1. Colton Gentry, Konawa; 2. Sarah Harris, Reserve Breed Champ Hamp: Braylon Spears, Hartshorne Buffalo Valley; 3. Madison Daniels, Quinton Webbers Falls; 3. Garrett Clunn, Hartshorne Class III: 1. Taylor McGill, Tuttle; 2. Paige Sparks, Class VI: 1. Raychel Harris, Webbers Falls; Poland Breed Hartshorne; 3. Brooklyn Herriman, Warner 2. Abi Marks, Buffalo Valley Class I: 1. Caitlin Allen, Jones Academy Division 1 Champ: Taylor McGill, Tuttle Class VII: 1. Hailey Henry, McCurtain; 2. Konner Upton, Wister Breed Champ Poland: Caitlin Allen, Jones Academy Division 1 Reserve Champ: Paige Sparks, Hartshorne Class VIII: 1. Kylie Powell, Porum; 2. Shelby Gentry, Konawa; 3. Hannah Beames, Howe Spot Breed Division 2 AOB Division Champ; Kylie Powell, Porum Class I: 1. Railey Spears, Hartshorne; 2. Charity Class I: 1. Taylor McGill, Tuttle; 2. Ross Turner, AOB Reserve Division Champ; Kylie Powell, Porum Thomas, Red Oak; 3. Destiny Duggan, Panola Holdenville; 3. Taylor McGill, Tuttle Class II: 1. Chloe Rogers, Spiro; 2. Harley Roba, Class II: 1. Brooklyn Herriman, Warner; 2. Kaytie Steer English Division Whitesboro; 3. Russ Angeli, Hartshorne Cash, Porum; 3. Gavin Clunn, Hartshorne Class I: 1. Trent Kitchell, Hartshorne Breed Champ Spot: Railey Spears, Hartshorne Class III: 1. Ross Turner, Holdenville; 2. Mikala Class II: 1. Christian McGowan, Colbert Reserve Breed Champ Spot: Charity Thomas, Red Oak Helm, Talihina; 3. Mikala Helm, Talihina English Division Champ: Christian McGowan, Colbert Division 2 Champ: Ross Turner, Holdenville English Reserve Division Champ: Trent Kitchell, Hartshorne Yorkshire Breed Division 2 Reserve Champ: Taylor McGill, Tuttle Class I: 1. Carsen McCoy, Tahlequah; 2. Raney Steer Continental Division Johnson, Wright City; 3. Jakob Labor, Wilburton Class I: 1. Colby Cato, Savanna Class II: 1. Jessie Matthews, Canadian; 2. Lexen A combined total of 550 Class II: 1. Breanna Elliott; Quapaw, 2. Jason Cook, Hartshorne; 3. Emilie Cox, Talihina students and 840 animals Gibson, Afton; 3. Natalie Gibson, Afton Class III: 1. Braylon Spears, Hartshorne; 2. Faith Whoa! Class III: 1. Jace Ford, Kinta; 2. Sam Stamper, participated in the livestock Palmer, McCurtain Co.; 3. Katlyn Smith, Vian Way to go! Beggs; 3. Courtney Sebo, Kinta Class IV: 1. Railey Spears, Hartshorne; 2. Grace Palmer, shows at Durant and Wilburton! Class IV: 1. Michael O’Kelley, Hartshorne; 2. Alexis McCurtain Co.; 3. Kelsey Brown, Buffalo Valley BISKINIK | March 2013 7 2013 Durant Stock Show –Bovine–
Lane Stewart wins Market Steer Grand Champion .
Jaycee Watkins of Calera wins Meat Goat Reserve Baylor Jestis of Durant wins Swine Reserve Grand Grand Champ and Junior Showman Champion Champion.
Berkshire Breed Division 1 Class I: 1 . Julie Fielder, Maysville 2. Rowdy Wood, Class I: 1 Blaklyn Barber, Silo; 2. Morgan Coalgate; 3. Jeremiah Weeden, Coalgate Veneble, Moss; 3. Mason Nichols, Achille Class II: 1. Sara Sneed, Broken Bow; 2. Makayla Class II: 1. Peyton Mobbs, Tushka; 2. Colton Crawford, Moss; 3. Chelsea Coker, Tuttle Mize, Springer; 3. Hunter Mann, Sulphur Breed Champion: Sara Sneed Class III: 1. Jaycee Watkins, Calera; 2. Taylor Reserve Breed Champion: Makayla Crawford Hedgecock, Durant; 3. Braden Allen, Silo Division 1 Champion: Peyton Mobbs Colby Jones wins Market Steer Reserve Grand Division 1 Res Champion: Jaycee Watkins Champion. Chester Breed Class I: 1. Justin Graham, Rock Creek; 2. Ethan Bean, Lukfata; 3. Hank Bradley, Silo Division 2 Grand Market Steer: Lane Stewart, Healdton Class I: 1 Bailee Allen, Silo; 2. Braden Allen, Reserve Grand Steer: Colby Jones, Coalgate Breed Champion: Justin Graham Reserve Breed Champion: Ethan Bean Silo 3. Kason Barker, Boswell Bronze Medallion Steer: Ashlyn Kellam, Silo Class II: 1. Hunter Mann, Sulphur; 2. Tucker Grand Supreme Heifer: Abbee Schoolfield, Kingston McCoy, OK Co. 4H; 3. Mason Phillips, Durant Reserve Grand Heifer: Kes Reeves, Kingston Duroc Breed Class I: 1. Macey Ross, Caddo; 2. Devin Emert, Bennington; Division 2 Champion: Hunter Mann Bronze Medallion Heifer: Merideth Behrens Division 2 Res Champion: Bailee Allen Junior Beef Showmanship: Ashlyn Kellam, Silo 3. Ivana Hensley, Stringtown Senior Beef Showmanship: Kody Silas, Tecumseh Class II: 1. Payne Reavis, Broken Bow; 2. Laney Sparks, Caddo; 3. Holden Bell, Madill Division 3 Class I: 1. Colton Mize, Springer; 2. Hunter Heifer, English Division Breed Champion: Payne Reavis Reserve Breed Champion: Macey Ross Mann, Sulphur; 3. Jaycee Watkins, Calera Class I: 1. Kody Silas, Tecumseh; 2. Hunter Class II: 1. Aaron Purkins, Caddo; 2. Carly Moore, Madill Pierce, Caddo; 3. Hunter Simco, Gunter Hampshire Breed Division 3 Champion: Colton Mize Class II: 1 Lane Stewart, Healdton; 2. Will Division 3 Reserve Champion: Hunter Mann Shelby, Madill; 3. Zachary Nichols, Achille Class I: 1.Baylor Jestis, Durant; 2. Kaitlin Fryer, Class III: 1. Merideth Behrens, Colbert; 2. Hunter Caddo; 3. Makayla Crawford, Moss Pierce, Caddo; 3. Samuel Fields, Wright City Class II: 1. Paden Stanley, Coalgate; 2. Taylor Class IV: 1. Ashlyn Kellam, Silo; 2. Tea Elliott- Pratt, Broken Bow; 3. Wyatt Williams, Idabel Fox, Tishomingo; 3. Hunter Simco, Gunter Class III: 1. Colt Conner, Tuttle; 2. Blaine Ake, –Sheep– Breed Champion: Kody Silas Tupelo; 3. Justin Graham, Rock Creek Reserve Breed Champ: Ashlyn Kellam Class IV: 1. CJ Conner, Tuttle; 2. Jase Collins, Wapanucka; 3. Laney Sparks, Caddo Heifer, Continental Division Class V: 1. Holli Hembree, Antlers; 2. Denton Class I: 1. Brooke Gibson, Morris; 2. Austin Gibson, Comer, Durant; 3. Marlie Leathers, Rattan Morris; 3. Merideth Behrens, Colbert Breed Champion: Baylor Jestis Class II: 1. Abbee Schoolfield, Kingston; 2. Ashlyn Kellam, Silo Reserve Breed Champion: CJ Conner 3. Faith Hill, Grant-Goodland Class III: 1. Jessica Williams, Ryan; 2, Landree Eaves, Harmony Poland Breed 3. Parker Mobbs; Tushka Class I: 1.Kalli Battiest, Broken Bow; 2. Keona Mason, Tishomingo Class IV: 1. Merideth Behrens, Colbert; 2. Will Shelby, Madill; Breed Champion: Kalli Battiest 3. Garrett Addingto, Clayton Reserve Breed Champion: Keona Mason Breed Champion: Abbee Schoolfield Reserve Breed Champ: Merideth Behrens Spot Breed Class I: 1. Sara Sneed, Broken Bow; 2. Payne Reavis, Heifer, Brahman Division Broken Bow; 3. Taylor Pratt, Broken Bow Breed Champ: Dustin Cochran, Tushka Class II: 1. Tad Bradley, Silo; 2. Summer Gamble, Reserve Breed Champ: Dustin Cochran, Tushka Broken Bow; 3. Stephanie Cusey, Coalgate Breed Champion: Sara Snead Heifer, AOB Division Reserve Breed Champion: Tad Bradley Class I: 1.Whitney Jackson, Silo; 2. Kara Stanglin, Savannah Lantz of Holdenville wins Market Lamb Colbert; 3. Kaleb Brown, Lindsay Yorkshire Breed Grand Champion Class II: 1. Lydia Fish, Kingston; 2. Kara Stanglin, Class I: 1. Baylor Jestis, Durant; 2. Wyatt Colbert; 3. Kell Brown, Lindsay Williams, Idabel; 3. Dillon Bowen, Silo Class III: 1. Kes Reeves, Kingston; 2. Taylor Mobbs, Class II: 1. Payne Reavis, Broken Bow; 2. Tyler Boyett; Rattan Tushka; 3. Parker Mobbs, Tushka 3. Lillabeth Whitlow, Grant-Goodland Breed Champion: Kes Reeves Breed Champion: Baylor Jestis Reserve Breed: Lydia Fish Reserve Breed Champion: Wyatt Williams
Steer English Division Cross Breed Class I: 1. Dakota Robinson, Caddo, 2. Judge Class I: 1. Madelynn Phillips, Boswell; 2 Corby Ake, Tupelo Hartin, Madill; 3. Harmony Lee, Durant 3. Dillon Bowen, Silo Breed Champion: Dakota Robinson Class II: 1. Baylor Jestis, Durant; 2. Cole Broughton, Tushka; Reserve Breed: Judge Hartin 3. Jadyn Wills, Kiowa Class III: 1. Holden Bell, Madill; 2. Kaylea Bailey, Steer Continental Division Antlers; 3. Jaysa Northcutt, Tishomingo Class I: 1 Ashlyn Kellam, Silo; 2. Lane House, Class IV: 1. Wyatt Williams, Idabel; 2. Trevor Tishomingo; 3. Taylor Dancer, Bennington Bonds, Soper; 3. Tori Stephens, Tushka Class II: 1. Lane Stewart, Healdton; 2. Colby Jones, Coalgate Class V: 1. CJ Conner, Tuttle; 2. Makayla Crawford, 3. Austin Gibson, Morris Moss; 3. Chelsea Coker, Tuttle Class III: 1. Dakota Robinson, Caddo; 2. Jacob Hartin, Madill Class VI: 1. JB Bell, Madill; 2. Tad Bradley, Breed Champion: Lane Stewart Silo; 3. Dillon Bowen, Silo Reserve Breed Champ: Colby Jones Breed Champion: Holden Bell Hadley Bryan of Mulhall wins Market Lamb Reserve Reserve Breed Champion: Baylor Jestis Grand Champion Steer AOB Division Grand Market Lamb: Savannah Lantz, Holdenville Class I: 1. Ridge Stephens, Tushka; 2. Kaci Trentham, Coalgate Reserve Grand Lamb: Hadley Bryan, Mulhall-Orlando Breed Champion: Ridge Stephens –Goats– Bronze Medallion Lamb: Savannah Lantz, Holdenville Reserve Breed Champ: Kaci Trentham Junior Showmanship: Taylor Chambers, Tushka Senior Showmanship: Hadley Bryan, Mulhall-Orlando
Division 1 –Swine– Class I: 1. Brooke Roebuck Kiowa, 2. Ethan Bean, Lukfata; 3. Tyna McKee, Soper Class II: 1. Bonnie Jone, Thackerville; 2. Julie Fielder, Maysville; 3. Daytona Trammell, Savanna Class III: 1. Taylor Chambers, Tushka; 2. Hadley Bryan, Mulhall- Orlando; 3. Alyson Chapman, Coalgate Division 1 Champion: Taylor Chambers Division 1 Reserve Champion: Hadley Bryan
Division 2 Class I: 1 Savannah Lantz, Holdenville; 2. Shelby Newton, Tolar; 3. Bonnie Jones, Thackerville Class II: 1. Hadley Bryan, Mulhall-Orlando; 2. Zachary Nichols, Achille; 3. Mercedes Brown ,Velma-Alma Division 2 Champion: Hadley Bryan Division 2 Reserve Champion: Savannah Lantz
Division 3 Class I: 1. Savannah Lantz, Holdenville; 2. Mercedes Brown, Velma-Alma; 3. Daytona Trammell, Savanna Class II: 1. Savannah Lantz, Holdenville; 2. Julie Fielder, Maysville; 3. Jaely Parsons, Soper Division 3 Champion: Savannah Lantz Peyton Mobbs of Tushka wins Meat Goat Grand Division 3 Reserve Champion: Savanah Lantz Champion Holden Bell of Madill wins Swine Grand Champion Division 4 Grand Meat Goat: Peyton Mobbs, Tushka Class I: 1. Brooke Roebuck, Kiowa; 2. Chace Grand Market Swine: Holden Bell, Madill McCoy, OK Co. 4H; 3. Alex Hackler, Kiowa Reserve Grand Market Swine: Baylor Jestis, Durant Reserve Grand Meat Goat: Jaycee Watkins, Calera Bronze Medallion Goat: Hunter Mann, Sulphur Class II: 1. Hadley Bryan, Mulhall Orlando; 2. Hunter Bronze Medallion Swine: Payne Reavis, Broken Bow Mann, Sulphur; 3. Tucker McCoy, OK Co. 4H Junior Swine Showmanship: Colt Conner, Tuttle Junior Goat Showmanship: Jaycee Watkins, Calera Senior Goat Showmanship: Colton Mize, Springer Division 4 Champion: Hadley Bryan Senior Swine Showmanship: CJ Conner, Tuttle Division 4 Reserve Champion: Brooke Roebuck 8 BISKINIK | March 2013 EDUCATION Apply now for Chahta Foundation scholarships! Collins signs letter of intent YAB Congratulations to Jake Learning leadership The Chahta Foundation will continue Collins, who has signed a letter from YAB experiences offering the Apela Ima scholarship for the of intent to play baseball at Continued from Page 1 upcoming 2013-14 school year as well as Eastern Oklahoma State College not volunteer much, but introducing five new scholarships. This in Wilburton. Jake is a senior at now she has fun lending her means over $55,000 in donated funds is Latta High School and was time to worthy causes. ”I going directly to support Choctaw tribal recently named Oklahoma have made a lot of friends members. These scholarships are for Baseball Coaches Association with people I wouldn’t students ranging from graduating high “Player of the Year.” usually talk to,” says Jana school seniors in the 10-1/2 county tribal Jake is the grandson of as she spoke about all the service area (deadline: April 12, 2013) to Kenneth Battles and his wife, benefits to her volunteer undergraduate, graduate and doctorate Royce Battles, of Antlers. He is work. level students nationwide (deadline: pictured with his parents, Ed “YAB helps us to become March 31, 2013). and Tammy Collins, and head better people and come out Please call the Chahta Foundation with coach Craig Price, standing. of our shell,” continued your scholarship questions at 800-522-6170, ext. 2546. Scott Jana. She holds her time in Wesley, scholarship specialist, or any Chahta staff member, is YAB in high regard, saying eager to assist you. For information and applications visit that it is a great way to have chahtafoundation.com/education or email the foundation at fun and help the commu- [email protected]. All eligible applicants are Board creates new office to nity at the same time. encourage to apply! YAB was founded in 2004 with only 13 members preserve American Indian heritage in its ranks. It has grown to 415 members and graduates Choctaw Nation On Jan. 23 the Oklahoma director of the office will be management, museum around 60 seniors a year. Historical Society Board of William D. Welge, longtime exhibit development, and oral There are 17 YAB chapters to aid with loans Directors approved a new director of the OHS Research history best practices. Tribal with locations in McAlester, program with the sole Division and Indian archivist officials and elders will offer Hartshorne, Panola, Stigler, The Southeastern Oklahoma Indian Credit mission of reaching out to since 1982. “For more than an understanding of their Poteau, Howe, Battiest, Association offers small business, home, home American Indian tribes, 35 years, I have collected, own heritage. “We need to Idabel, Clayton, Talihina, improvement and agriculture loans. associations, and families to preserved, and shared know how Indian people Antlers, Hugo, Soper, To be eligible to apply, a person must reside preserve cultural artifacts, American Indian history as want to record and share Boswell, Durant, Atoka and within the 10-1/2 county service area of the archival documents, oral part of my duties at the their own history,” said Coalgate. histories, and historic sites. Historical Society,” said Blackburn. “We will work Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and must possess a More events facilitated by “American Indian cultural Welge. “The creation of this with them no matter where YAB students include Toys Certificate of Degree of Indian Blood (CDIB) from preservation has been a new office will allow me to the collections are located a federally recognized tribe. for Tots, food drives, major part of OHS programs spend all of my time and use and stored. The critical task is nursing home activities, For more information, please contact Susan since 1907,” said Dr. Bob L. all of my contacts to build collecting and preserving adopt-a-grandparent, Edwards at 580-924-8280 or toll-free 800-522- Blackburn, executive director new bridges of communica- those collections so they can awareness campaigns, 6170. of the Society, “but we have tion and collaboration in be shared today and in the trash-off days, after prom never had a specific working Indian country.” According to future.” Among the services lock-ins, and coat drives. If you are interested in applying for a loan from unit dedicated to that task. Welge, the central mission of offered by the OHS office will the SOICA or the Choctaw Revolving Loan Fund, YAB also partners with The creation of the OHS the office is to create a be training sessions, assis- other Choctaw Nation there will be a representative from the Choctaw Office of American Indian two-way exchange of assis- tance with grant requests, programs to provide Nation Credit Department at the: Cultural Preservation gives us tance. The OHS will offer on-site consultation, and services such as child care that opportunity.” The experience in archival cooperative agreements. Choctaw Nation Investment Center for the foster/adoption in Poteau families with Choctaw March 25 from 9:30-11 a.m. and 12-1:30 p.m. Nation Children and Family Services, assist recycling projects with Choctaw Nation Recycling Program, and participate in teen Choctaw Nation July 10-12, 2013 dating violence awareness projects with Choctaw Summer Youth Camps 2013 * Registration will be made available soon.* Nation Project SAFE. To join YAB, students Transportation will be provided. Campers will be required to must live within the 10 1/2 Participants must live within the stay the night at this camp. county service area of the Choctaw Nation’s 10 1/2 counties. Choctaw Nation, be in the [ ] 8th-12th grade, a U.S. What to citizen or on a student visa and have a heart to serve expect: their community. “YAB is an amazing Call Raina Sparks at 918-423-8440 ext. 31071 opportunity for every age or Tammie Cannady at 918-567-7121. group to do what they thought they couldn’t, “ says Alice, who mentions that anyone who is able be a Pathways to Success... part of YAB, should. Transportation available to A Choctaw Tradition The 2013 Summer Camp tribal members in Southeast booklet is now available online and Career Expo 2013 at the Choctaw community centers. OK! Register by March 22nd For more information, call the at 866-933-2260! Summer Youth Camp Program at 1-800-522-6170. April 3rd Registration forms are available online at choctawnation.com or choctawnationculture.com. 10:00am to 2:00pm Congratulations to Deadlines for each camp are as follows: John Troussel, who has Golf Camp- March 29 Southeast Expo Center been named to the Dean’s Baseball, Softball, Stickball, 4500 W Hwy 270 Honor Roll for the fall Cultural Enrichment, Basketball and Football- April 19 McAlester, OK C74501 2012 semester at Eastern New applicants must send copies of their Oklahoma State College. Guest Speaker Choctaw Membership Card and CDIB. choctaw nation John is the son of Chris Mr. Grant Baldwin and Kim Troussel of 866-933-2260 ● choctawcareers.com AREERDEVELOPMENT McAlester. Choctaw Nation GED Classes C ● Meet with over 150 business CHOCTAW COUNTY Choctaw Nation Beginning: March 19, 2013 and training facilities from Tuesdays and Thursdays Vocational Rehabilitationacross Oklahoma! Calendar 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. Choctaw Nation Community Center 408 N. “M” St. – Hugo ● Business will be accepting resumes LeFLORE COUNTY Antlers Broken Bow by appt. and interviewing on site.8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Beginning: March 25, 2013 Idabel by appt. Mondays and Wednesdays 9 a.m. - Noon ● Explore career and training options. Choctaw Nation Family Investment Center 208 “B” St. – Poteau Durant Crowder Talihina Broken Bow LATIMER COUNTY 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. by appt. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Beginning: March 26, 2013 Idabel by appt. Tuesdays and Thursdays 9 a.m. - Noon Choctaw Nation Community Center 515 Center Point Rd. – Wilburton Durant McAlester Atoka by appt. 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. Coalgate by appt. BRYAN COUNTY Stigler by appt. Beginning: March 26, 2013 Tuesdays and Thursdays 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. Choctaw Nation Tribal Complex Durant Poteau Wright City 529 N. 16th, South Building – Durant 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. by appt. The class will meet for approximately three months. Books, supplies and testing fees are provided. In addition, a $10 per day transportation stipend is paid to those who attend classes on a regular basis and attempt the GED test. If you have turned in an application with our Adult Education Program for GED classes and wish to attend the upcoming Wilburton class, please contact our office. If you have not applied and 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. wish to attend these or future classes, please contact Neal Hawkins or Kathy Springfield at the Durant office, 800-522- 6170 or 580-924-8280 ext. 2319 or 2122. Also, you may reg- ister at the first class. A Certificate of Degree of Indian Blood Durant - Mon., Wed. and Fri.; Broken Bow - Mon., Wed. and Fri.; Idabel by appt. (CDIB) is required. Phone: 580-326-8304; Fax: 580-326-2410 Email: [email protected] BISKINIK | March 2013 9 OBITUARIES Pauline Fish Linda Bointy Ben Filmore Jr. Pauline Fish, 77, of Hartshorne, Linda Sue Bointy, 69, of Carnegie, passed away on Nov. 23, Ben H. Filmore Jr., 63, passed away on Dec. 20, 2012. He was passed away on Feb. 10, 2013, at the 2012, at her home. She was born Oct. 22, 1943, to William born on Sept. 3, 1949, in Oklahoma City and attended Rock- McAlester Regional Health Center. Raymond and Dorena Dolly (Jones) Slinker in Idabel. In her wood Elementary, Jackson Jr. High and graduated from Capi- She was born on March 23, 1935, in teens she moved to Oklahoma and graduated from Anadarko tol Hill High School. After graduations, he attended a Masonry Talihina, to Crawford and Angeline High School in 1962. She was united in marriage to R.H. (Hess) school to become a bricklayer. Ben laid brick on many Okla- McIntosh Billy. She attended school Bointy in 1973, in Galveston, Texas. Linda was a member of homa City buildings, several upper floors of Southwestern Bell, in Talihina and married Frank Fish the Cache Creek United Methodist Church and involved in the the veterans hospital emergency room at OU Medical, many on April 28, 1973, in Durant. Pauline quilting group at church. She also enjoyed making crafts and of the housing additions all over Oklahoma City and several was a homemaker most of her life and was a certified beautician. churches. He then attended OSU Okmulgee. He studied elec- was a member of the Assembly of God She was preceded in death by her parents. tronics and worked at Terry’s Two-Way Radio and TV Repair. faith. She loved watching sports on TV She is survived by her husband R.H. of Carnegie; son Wil- Towards the end of his life, he had been interested in computers such as the Dallas Cowboys and the OU Sooners. Pauline also liam H. Bointy of Carnegie, grandson Shawn Slinker of Carn- and computer repair. enjoyed gardening and raising flowers. She also loved to listen egie; brothers, Charles Leon Slinker Sr. and Edwin Robinson Ben never married or had children. He was the oldest son of to Choctaw hymns. Slinker, both of Oklahoma City; sisters, Betty Slinker Seidner eight children. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, of Midwest City, and Patricia Ann Franceschini of Fort Lauder- He was preceded in death by his parents Juanita Mae Cass- Frank Fish; daughter Earlene Dowell; sister Christine Billy; and dale, Fla.; special son, Wallace Bointy Jr., of Carnegie; and nu- Filmore and Ben H. Filmore Sr.; sisters, Sheila Ameila Filmore, brothers, Joshua Hickman and Jerry Hickman. merous nieces and nephews. Margaret A. Long, and Debra Sharon Filmore; and brothers, She is survived by her sons, Darrell Nichols with wife Tammy, Mark Filmore and Millard Filmore. Ron Nichols with wife Peggy, all of Antlers, and Bobby Nichols He is survived by sisters, Priscilla M. Clark, and Carla De- with wife Becky of Hartshorne; brother Dallas Seeley with wife Buddy Taylor Coteau; nephews, James Clark and Jamie DeCoteau; nieces, Cynthia of Talihina; sisters, Debbie Watson with husband Ed- Monica M. Clark, Felicia Wells and Ciani Filmore. die of McAlester, Nancy Ondersma of Phoenix, Ariz., and Geor- Buddy Boins Taylor, 76, passed away on Feb 2, 2013, in Ant- gia Ann Frazier of Talihina; precious friend and honorary fam- lers. He was born June 26, 1936, in Nashoba, to Agnus Taylor. ily member, Kelly Billingsley; and numerous grandchildren and Buddy lived in Southeastern Oklahoma all his life and worked Cathy Taylor great-grandchildren. as a ranch hand for many years. He married Evelyn Jones in Yanush. Buddy was affiliated with Greenhill Baptist Church and Cathy Lynn Taylor, 44, of Bethel, Big Lick Church at Divide Community. He enjoyed ball games, passed away on Jan. 12, 2013, in Bro- Lillie Armstrong playing sports, and watching sports. He had a good time telling ken Bow. She was born June 28, 1968, Lillie Pearl Armstrong, 73, passed jokes, fishing, playing piano, and listening to Choctaw hymns. in Dallas, the daughter of Melton away on Feb. 10, 2013, in Oklahoma Buddy is preceded in death by his mother, Agnus Taylor; wife James Taylor and Louise (Push) Tay- City. She was born May 6, 1939, in Evelyn Taylor; grandfather Julius Choate; and sister, Mary Par- lor. Cathy was a member of the Agapa Rattan, to Elmer Lee and Cora (Stowe) ish. Church in Broken Bow. She loved Colley. He was survived by his daughter, Peggy Taylor Nichols of Ant- spending time with her family and Lillie lived in the Rattan area most lers; grandchildren, Teela Walton and Tamara Nichols, both of friends and enjoyed listening to mu- of her life. She worked as a cook at Antlers, and R.J. Nichols of Hugo; seven great-grandchildren, sic, cooking and computers. Rattan School for 10 years. She at- Lailah Walton, Tiana Nichols, Carmen Nichols, Evan Nichols, She was preceded in death by her tended church at Spencerville, and Billy Nichols, Dante and Tyrese Nichols, all of Hugo; sisters-in- father; brother Jeffrey Craig Taylor; and nephew Joey Allen enjoyed her church family. Lillie loved law, Margie Jones of Talihina, and Lizzie Siener of Sante, Calif.; Taylor. to listen to gospel music and especial- numerous nieces and nephews; as well as many other relatives Cathy is survived by her mother and stepfather Don of Beth- ly enjoyed listening to her great-granddaughters sing. She en- and friends. el; sons, Alex Ferrell of Broken Bow and Cameron Ferrell of Ala- joyed cooking, camping, fishing, shopping, visiting with friends, bama; daughter Lisa Ferrell of Alabama; sisters, Teresa Taylor and her greatest joy was taking care of her great-grandchildren. Andrew Scott Longoria with husband Mike of Atoka, and Connie Taylor of Lillie was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Broken Bow; brother Michael Taylor of Idabel; one grandchild; Bobby Armstrong; daughter Peggy Armstrong; son Rickie Gene Andrew Orville “Scotty” Scott, 85, of Noble, passed away and several nieces, nephews and friends. Armstrong; granddaughter April Dawn Armstrong; sister Lou Dec. 27, 2012. He was born May 27, 1927, to Joseph and Effie Armstrong; and brother Ronnie Colley. Scott. Andrew proudly served his country in the U.S. Marine She is survived by her daughters, Gail Hudson with husband Corps. In addition, he worked in the oil field and also worked Christopher Rawls Jimmy, and Jackie Woodruff with husband William, all of Rat- as a contract painter. He enjoyed deer hunting and fishing. He tan; nine grandchildren, Shannon Hudson, Shawn Hurlburt, also enjoyed working on his 1966 Nova Sport Coupe, which he Christopher “C.J.” Jay Rawls, 35, James Hudson, Justin Scott, Tanner Woodruss, Tina Arm- gave to his first daughter, and she still has it today. He was the a Centrahoma resident, passed away strong, all of Rattan, George Armstrong of Fort Worth, Texas, grandson of Amanda Isabella Sumpter Barnett and the son of on Dec. 14, 2012, in Coalgate. He was and Kyle Armstrong of Spencerville; 15 great-grandchildren, Effie Barnett Scott, both original enrollees. born Oct. 22, 1977, in Denton, Texas, Jordan, Kaylie, Kasey, Briar, Charlie Jo, Gracie, Easton, Tricity, He is preceded in death by his parents; grandson, Aaron to Glenn Franklin and Bernice “Rab- Carlie, Zoey, Patrick, Arora, Amanda, Samantha and Stormy; Scott; and brother, Scott. bit” (Homer) Rawls. He attended brothers, Robert Colley of Broken Bow, and Roy Colley of Rat- He was survived by his wife of 62 years, Verna Scott; daugh- Panola school and married Brandie tan; sisters, Mary Johnson of Moore, Joyce Chappell of Broken ter Carol Scott; sons, Donald Scott, Billy Scott and Ronnie DeAnn Webb on Dec. 2, 1999, in Coal- Bow, Stella Rowell of Noble, Trelma Joslin of Rattan, and Dar- Scott; adopted daughter, Mary Tippitt; three granddaughters; gate. He was a baptized at Sulphur lene Rogers of Texas; sister-in-law, Jimmie Jo Gross of Antlers; two grandsons; four great-grandsons; one great-granddaugh- Springs Baptist Church in Wilburton. numerous nieces and nephews; as well as many other relatives ter; and sister Amanda Taylor. C.J. was an artist and enjoyed draw- and friends. ing tattoos. Orville Snyder He was preceded in death by his son, Gabriel Michael Mor- Mary Lou Taylor mon Rawls; and niece Jarrah Lynn Lawrence. Orville Evan Snyder passed away He is survived by his wife, Brandie Rawls of Centrahoma; chil- Mary Lou Taylor, 94, of Tempe, on Jan. 26, 2013, in Phoenix, Ariz., dren, Josh Ford of Wilburton, Samantha Ford of Coalgate, and Ariz., passed away on Dec. 8, 2012. from an agent orange related bone Jessie Ford of Quinton; grandchildren Shakota and Sky Fisher She was born on Sept. 6, 1918, in Bok- cancer. Evan was born on March 8, of Coalgate; siblings, James Franklin Rawls and Valerie of Cot- chito to Lena F. Puckett, an original 1948, in Williams, Ariz., the son of tonwood, Felicia Ann Lawrence and Justin of Longtown, and enrollee of the Choctaw Nation. Mary Orville Homer Snyder and Geraldine Marvin Homer and Sheila of Atoka; nephews and nieces, Jo- Lou was an educator for 29 years. She W. Snyder of Stigler. Evan traveled seph Cooper, C.J. Cooper and Jamie Cooper, all of Atoka, Ocean was a wonderful person who enjoyed much of the United States with his Rawls and James Rawls, both of Cottonwood, and Kora Ann teaching and learning. She received parents during his childhood. He Lawrence, Javen Lawrence and J.J. Lawrence, all of Longtown; her bachelor’s degree in 1952 with her settled in Phoenix at the age of 17 mother Bernice Homer with f’iance George Clark of Longtown; master’s following in 1959. In 1964, and enlisted in the U.S. Navy. When mother-in-law Regina Cunningham with husband Nathan of she and her husband George were two he graduated from Naval Recruit Training Center in San Diego, Centrahoma; father Glenn Franklin Rawls of Longtown; along of the first members of the South Side Baptist Church, later he was posted to Camp Pendleton, Calif., where he received in- with numerous aunts, uncles and other relatives. named Cross Point Tempe. She was a leader of the 39ers Senior fantry training and then was posted to Port Hueneme, Calif., Group for a number of years. They lived in Arizona since 1959 where he joined the Sea Bees with MCB-3. He was given in- and moved to Tempe in 1962, into a temporary home as she struction as a heavy equipment operator. After instruction he Dixon Dyer taught in Phoenix at Alhambra district and he taught in Gilbert. was posted to Adak, Alaska, in the Aleutian Islands to await his Dixon Lee Dyer Jr., 74, of Sand She enjoyed painting, cooking, sewing, quilting, planting and battalion in preparation for deployment to the Republic of Viet- Springs, passed away on Feb. 16, her flowers. Her hobbies included playing the piano by ear, en- nam in 1965. He served honorably in many places in the I-corp 2013, in Tulsa. A beloved husband tertaining her friends and playing cards. At one time, she col- area of operations including; Da Nang, Chu Lai and Phu Bai. and father, Dixon was born in Pawnee lected angels. She loved to travel and was a very talented lady After returning to the U.S., he married Barbara Batroff and they to Dixon Lee Dyer and Levisa Mor- who loved life and people. had a son, Michael Evan Snyder. Soon thereafter he entered the ris Dyer on June 15, 1938. He and his Her husband, George W. Taylor, and son Ricky Gene Taylor home remodeling field and continued working his entire life wife Peggy were due to celebrate their preceded her in death. until he no longer could handle the stresses applied to his body. 27th anniversary in March. They met She is survived by her daughter, Marylyn L. Griffith (Ward); In 1999 he moved to Long Beach, Calif., with his wife and son. through Dixon’s sister, Eloise Wib- son Richard G. Taylor (Elizabeth); grandchildren, Walter Ward He lived there until 2011 when he moved back to Arizona to ben, married after years of courtship III (Annie, Brian, Melissa, Patrick (Misty); and five great- live in Phoenix again. Evan loved the outdoor life and enjoyed and became the proud parents of two grandchildren. fishing, hunting, kayaking, hiking, camping, free-dive spear- daughters, one of whom was recently wed. fishing, listening to music, cooking, going for long drives, and Dixon learned to appreciate the opportunities afforded Patricia McIntosh playing video games on his PC. He was preceded in death by his through education and mentoring after attending and living in parents and his brother, Harvey Farrell Snyder. He is survived the Goodland Presbyterian Children’s Home in Hugo and later Patricia Sue McIntosh, 74, passed by his wife, Barbara Snyder; son Michael; sister Jerry Squire; at Chilocco Indian School located near Ponca City from the age away on April 23, 2012, in Long Beach. and many nephews and nieces and their children. of five through high school. He took part in and enjoyed many She is survived by her husband of 57 sports including football, baseball and track, appreciating the years, Richard L. McIntosh; daugh- personal attention and guidance provided by coaches as well as ter Lori Lee Pistey with husband Celia Thomas Briard his teachers. He also participated in the National Guard 45th Wayne of Long Beach; sons, Richard Infantry Division Charlie Company and assisted his family by D. McIntosh and David P. McIntosh Celia Ann Thomas Briard passed working summers at a local flourmill and sending money home. with wife Cindy of Monument, Colo.; away on Jan 8, 2013. She was born Dixon’s thirst for education took him to the Cowley County brother John F. Casey of Spiro; seven on Aug. 16, 1988, in Yankton, S.D., to Community College in Arkansas City, Kan., with athletic schol- grandchildren; four step grandchil- Rick and Joyce (Martin) Thomas. She arships supporting his education and remaining at Chilocco for dren; and many nephews and nieces. attended elementary and junior high his room and board. In track, Dixon set a record the two-mile school at Santee Public School, gradu- run that stands to this day. His education at Cowley and later at ating high school from Niobrara Pub- Northeastern State University where he completed a Bachelor Betty Pineda lic School in 2006. While she was in of Arts Degree in Criminal Justice led him to entrance into the school, she competed in Junior Olym- Tulsa Police Academy and a 20-year career in law enforcement. Betty Ruth (Lewis/Perry) Pineda pic Boxing in Nebraska. In the sum- Dixon’s commitment to lifelong learning resulted in his pur- passed away Dec. 14, 2012, in Chula mer of 2006, she graduated from Na- suit of advancement opportunities and training after moving Vista, Calif., She was born Jan. 28, tional Indian Youth Police Academy in Wisconsin and received to American Airlines through a Tulsa Technology Center cer- 1928, to Izora Alice (Perry) Lewis the Team Leader Award. Celia married Jake Briard in 2007 and tification in Aircraft Maintenance. Later he developed a repu- and Samuel Thomas Lewis of Heav- was enrolled in the Santee Sioux National Americorp Program. tation for his excellence as a “cooler mechanic” and finished a ener. While attending Heavener High She attended Northeast Community College in Norfolk, Neb., career in aviation maintenance with American after 24 years. School during World War II she was in 2008. In 2009 she worked for the Madison, Neb., Juvenile He was active in the Fraternal Order of Police including holding the class president. Betty was the Detention Center. She was employed at Feather Hill until 2010 leadership positions, was a 32nd Degree Mason, as well as an third oldest daughter of four which and attended Nebraska Indian Community in Santee, Neb., in Akdar Shriner. He also was active in the Alumni Associations included sisters Aletha, Dorothy and 2011. Celia was currently employed at the Santee Sioux Nation for Chilocco both locally and nationally. A hands-on father who Martha Dean. Her mother, Izora Alice Ohiya Casino. was devoted to his two daughters, Dixon managed his own ca- Perry, is listed on the original Dawes Roll. Celia was the proud mother of her 4-year-old daughter, Sicily reer while being supportive of Peggy and his daughters in their During World War II the Lewis family moved to San Diego Marie Briard, who was the love of her life. She cherished her pursuits. Though ill and hospitalized, Dixon participated in Ra- following the oldest daughter, Aletha, in search of jobs. The Dakota and Choctaw cultures and traditions; at a young age she chel’s wedding through Skype technology. family settled in National City, Calif., where her father was a won the title of Miss Santee Sioux MIA. Celia was a fancy shawl He was preceded in death by grandson Lloyd Dixon, his par- general contractor and her mother worked at General Dyman- dancer and a traditional sun dancer. She had a heart of gold and ents, and brothers Herman Dyer, Morris Dyer, David Dyer, Dal- ics. Betty met her husband, Edward Eugene Pineda in 1947, was always willing to give a helping hand to anyone in need. Her las Gilstrap, Jack Gilstrap, Kenneth (Bud) Gilstrap, and Robert when he was discharged from the Navy. The two were married great sense of humor would light up any room and will be for- Gilstrap. Dec. 12, 1947, and had two sons, Mike and Tom. Betty was a ever loved and greatly missed by her daughter, parents, broth- Dixon is survived by wife Peggy; daughters, Millie Dyer, of stay-at-home mother until the mid 60s when she earned a de- ers, sister, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Oklahoma City, and Rachel Dyer Hilligoss with husband Austin gree as a dental assistant. She worked in the dental field until She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Albert and of Sand Springs; siblings, Stella Long of Oklahoma City, Eloise her retirement. She was proud to see both of her grandsons par- Linda Thomas, and Celia Martin; brothers Richard Jr. and He- Wibben with husband Charlie of Hugo, Fleeta Nelson with hus- ticipate in lacrosse. pan Thomas; uncles, Daniel Thomas, Gary Thomas and George band Coleman of Muskogee, and John Gilstrap with wife Carla She was preceded in death by her parents, husband and sis- Thomas; aunt Dawn Starlin; special brother, TaCanku Thomas; of Stigler; nephews, Timothy Long with Chris Herbert of New ters, with her being the last of the Perry side of the family in and cousin Tony Thomas. York City, Charlie Bob Wibben, Johnny Roy Gilstrap, Gregory California. She is survived by her daughter Sicily; husband Jake; par- Gilstrap, Rob Gilstrap, Cale Gilstrap and David Gilstrap. Nieces She is survived by her two sons, Mike and Tom; grandsons ents, Rick and Joyce Thomas; brothers, Wakiyan Thomas, Ce- are Lisa Long with husband Nick Koumoutseas of Derwood, from Tom are Christian Daniel, now attending St. Johns Uni- dric and Issac Denney; sisters, Ronette Thomas and Stephanie Md., and Dedra Gallegos with husband Mike of Hugo; mother- versity in Queens, New York, and Matthew Nathaniel, a junior Thomas; as well as aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and in-law Mildred Dumas; sister-in-law Lucile Dyer; and brother- in high school. many friends. in-law Don Dumas with wife Paulette of Stigler. 10 BISKINIK | March 2013 A trip with Papa
By FOLSOM WHITE
Sidney Johnston White was born to John Walker and Pauline McCurtain White, Oct. 22, 1889, in San Bois, Choc- taw Nation, Indian Territory. I have to Sidney White’s knowledge of the game of stickball point out as Daddy always did, Paulina was ingrained in his very being as deeply as the is pronounced with a long “I” sound. Daddy was the mid- texture weaving through the hickory he molded dle of three children, older brother Hiram Edmund “Bud” and baby sister Lizzie. They grew up in the A painting of Sidney White by Cathy Rutledge area around present- hangs in the Choctaw Nation Museum. day Whitefield, Kinta and Stigler. By LISA REED to get them to play. Sidney This is a story Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma would have been about 80 Daddy used to tell me years old at that time. of his early childhood. It was a team sport, but He came with his “Sidney White sticks” – It’s a term synonymous with perfection to most who more about one-on-one father into Kinta, play stickball. competition back then, which was something Born in 1889, Sidney White lived a long and active life and is well-known for utilizing each player’s of an adventure to his expertise in many things, but especially for the strong, distinctive sticks he individual skills. Sidney travel with “Papa” made for stickball players. There aren’t many of Sidney’s sticks around any would line the kids up and Choctaw Nation: LISA REED without the rest of more. Those in possession of them know what a treasure they have. let them know who was the family. After all A pair of Sidney’s sticks hangs in the Choctaw Nation Capitol Museum. responsible for defending Sidney White’s son, Folsom, talks about his he was only 8 years “Daddy never made a pair of sticks he didn’t intend to be played with,” said another player. father’s skill. The sticks he holds, he says, old. After Papa had Folsom White of Clayton, remembering the care his father put into creating Sidney taught them how aren’t his dad’s best but are among the few conducted business each one. Folsom and his mother, Mary, recently sat in the living room of her to throw, how to pick up the pair left in existence. and the wagon was home in Tuskahoma and shared memories of ball with the sticks while on loaded with supplies, working alongside Sidney. Their main contribu- the run. He taught them to he received a special tion was to cut hickory trees and split the wood. play hard but wouldn’t tolerate intentionally hurting other players. treat. He was al- “We didn’t have chainsaws,” Folsom ex- “When (David) Gardner was elected chief, Cleland Billy and a teacher from lowed to select a few plained about this time as a young boy in the Jones also got involved,” Folsom said. “Once other adults were involved, a pieces of hard candy ’60s and ’70s. “We used crosscut saws, wedges, stickball team was put together. During warm months we would meet at the for brother, sister sledge hammers. Me and Mama would use the Council House.” and himself. Papa crosscut saws to cut down the trees.” Folsom was among a small group invited to play stickball during the United said he could have Mary chimed in with a laugh and said she States’ Bicentennial Celebration on July 4, 1976, in Washington, D.C. one now but save was always scared of the falling trees. Folsom “For a young country kid, it was something else,” Folsom said, still feeling the rest until they and Mary did what they could to help, though. the excitement of being a 17-year-old on a trip across the country to the were home. As they Once the tree had been split and Sidney had nation’s capitol. “It was a good experience. All of the Civilized Tribes had a walked towards the rasped a piece down to the thickness he wanted, team there.” wagon, he fumbled he rubbed used motor oil on the wood. The stickball teams took turns in round-robin play where each team com- with the small bag of Mary White Sidney would build a fire, heat the stick then peted against each other once, demonstrating the game of their ancestors candy trying to make rub the motor oil deep into the grain, heat then beside the Reflecting Pool on the National Mall. up his mind which rub. He started bending one end a little at a time to form the cup, adding just “We had some good games,” Folsom remembered, “and the Creek team gave piece to enjoy on the the right bit of flare to make the stick better at handling the ball. us some competition,” he added with a laugh. trip home. Suddenly “The prettiest sticks Daddy made were when he used heat and oil,” Folsom “We started showing off a bit and would get set up with someone on the his concentration described. The oil would seep deep into the wood and as the sticks aged, the oil other team. We would knock each other into the pool. We also broke the goal was shattered by the would become dark-ribboned patterns. down once. We had a great time!” crash of gunfire. Papa “He would go to boot shops and different places to get good scrap leather,” A difference noted in the game then compared to today’s way of playing is grabbed him and Folsom said. “He had a little knife about that long,” his fingers drawing a 3- to that no one blocked the goal. It remained open. Sidney would tell the players shoved him into the 4-inch half-of-a-heart-shaped blade in the air. “Daddy would tie the leather that hitting the goal was part of the skill they wanted to show each other and tight space between around a tree or something stationary, hold that knife straight out in front of the public. To make a score or “kill the ball” it should strike the pole on the two buildings and him and walk backwards – 100 to 200 feet if he had room. That’s how he cut facing side and fall to the ground in the inner court. Teams now have goalies. told him to stay there the strips of leather.” Also in Sidney’s time, players could throw the sticks and the ball up against until he returned for The leather is used to make a lacing inside the cup and for holding down the the goal to score which isn’t allowed today. him. After some time end of the stick as it loops around. Choctaw historian Olin Williams said change comes with every generation. and things had qui- Every one of Sidney’s sticks took on a unique shape. He didn’t make them in “Anything that’s alive grows and changes,” Williams explained. “After etened, Papa returned pairs. He would finish one and set it aside. When he was ready – sometimes stickball became looked at more as a sport, changes began taking place. Each to find Daddy crying. two, three or four weeks later – he would make a stick to pair with another. generation adds something they see of value.” Papa thought the “When he made sticks that were a good pair, you could set your hand down Sidney White added more than his share to stickball during his lifetime. He tears were from fear on that thumb,” Folsom’s left hand met his right thumb as he held two sticks contributed to the history of the tribe’s ancestral game both in the ways he of what had just oc- up, “and the cups would fit together, with one about 3/4 inch longer.” taught and in the beautifully crafted sticks, testament to his deep understand- curred. There was Sidney’s knowledge of the game was ingrained in his very being as deeply as ing of what it means to play. at least one man the texture weaving through the hickory he shot and bleed- used. He wrote two publications about the ing in the street. game, “Stickball” and “Tolih.” However they A descriptive excerpt from “Stickball” reads: weren’t tears of fear, “In my time an Indian ball game was equal but tears of heart- to a county picnic. A lemonade stand or two break, for during were set up. A watermelon farmer would bring the excitement and a wagonload of melons and sell out during the jostling about he had game. A hard-fought or well-matched game dropped the small bag would often last a whole afternoon. of candy into the dirt “The people would travel in wagons, buggies and all were lost. He and on horseback and pitch two separate was also afraid of the campgrounds near springs or on the banks of scolding he was sure two clearwater streams in order to have good to receive from Papa camp water. because money was “Small personal articles were bet on a game too hard to come by of tolih. A man rode at high speed on a good to be lost in the dirt, horse from camp to camp to collect the bets. even a few pennies. Horses were bet and guns of all styles and Photos provided But, Papa didn’t calibers. Then all articles were put in a bounty scold. They returned wagon near the middle ground...” Folsom White is among a group of young men asked to represent Indian tribes during the to the store for an- Folsom said there wasn’t a lot of interest in 1976 Bicentennial Celebration on July 4 in Washington, D.C. Pictured above are Able Frazier, other bag of candy. playing stickball when he was young, but his Gary Gardner, Roy Jefferson, White, Cleland Billy and Glen Billy. Below, the boys play stick- dad would gather up some of the boys and try ball on the lawn by the Reflecting Pool.
18th Annual Okla Chahta Choctaw Gathering May at Bakersfield College in Bakersfield, California 4th & 5th Saturday, May 4 in Bakersfield uu Visit with Chief Pyle & Assistant Chief Batton History & Culture u Heritage Booth u Traditional Items on Display Join in Traditional Dance u Learn about Traditional Weaponry Make-and-Take Classes on Traditional Dressmaking, Lace Collar Necklace, Basket Making, Pottery and more Also on Saturday – A Traditional Wedding and Stickball Our choice hotel: and Tribal Membership/CDIB will have a booth available. Double Tree Hotel 3100 Camino Del Rio Ct., Bakersfield, CA Sunday, May 5 661-323-7111 Church Services Make your reservations early! Contact us to participate in running For more information: Hotel only holding rate of $86 until April 1. Ask for Choctaw rate. for our Okla Chahta Princess 661-368-2067 or [email protected] BISKINIK | March 2013 11 Beautiful works stand as a testament Shell Gorgets to high level attained in early Choctaw art Every Labor Day, Choctaw 1915:324, also see artists display their work in Thompson the annual Choctaw art show 2008:458). The at Tvshka Homma. Even a Busycon species used causal visit to this event Iti Fabussa for gorgets produce makes it clear that our Tribe light-colored spiraling has many creative and artistic shells as great as 18 people. These abilities have inches in length. This not arisen overnight, but have material was so highly come out of a very deep prized that Native Figure 1. Pickett-style tradition. Choctaw people communities traded it Figure 9. Engraving a design with gorget made by author who lived before European all the way from the arrival made many beautiful, west coast of Florida, a stone-tipped tool intricate, and highly skilled where it was ob- pieces of artwork. Today, it is tained, up to the rare to see these early pieces, Canadian provinces of Manitoba and Saskatchewan (e.g. because most of them have Montgomery 1908:38-39), a distance of roughly 1700 miles! returned to the earth from Making a shell gorget is not a task to be undertaken lightly. which their raw materials Busycon shell is extremely hard, tough, and is even somewhat came. One exception are resistant to heat. One hundred thirty years ago, an anthropolo- beautifully executed shell gist wryly marveled: gorgets. Made from durable Figure 5. Stone saw being used to cut mussel shell Let anyone who thinks lightly of such a work undertake, material, some of these without machinery or well-adapted appliances, to cut a ancient pieces still survive. groove or notch even, in a moderately compact specimen of Figure 2. Oktibbeha-style Today, these beautiful works from the neck as a pendant. Busycon, and he will probably increase his good opinion of gorget made by author stand as a testament to the Some gorgets are as simple as the skill and patience of the ancient workman if he does high level attained in early a plain disk of shell, but nothing else (Holmes Choctaw art. others are highly embellished 1883:286). Known as with delicate cutouts and Gorgets were made from “shaha” in the engraved designs. To look at the outer part, or whorl of the Choctaw language one of these masterworks of Busycon shell. This part is (Byington art is to appreciate it, removed from the rest of the 1915:324), these however this appreciation is shell by hitting it very hard gorgets were deepened in considering the but very carefully with a carved from large, ingenuity and patience that tough, round rock. Each blow flat pieces of shell, the artisans employed to removes a small chip of shell. with holes drilled make these objects from If the blows are aligned through them so tough materials without the sequentially, they can be that they could be use of power tools or even Figure 6. Mussel shell after used to cut the whorl away Figure 3. Three views of a Busycon strung and worn metal tools. cuts are complete from the rest of the shell (Fig. Figure 10. Oktibbeha-style shell Shell gorgets have been 4). gorget made by the author made for several thousand After the removal of the with only stone tools years in the American whorl, both Busycon and southeast, but the art came freshwater mussel shell were into full flower during the worked with basically similar processes and tools. First, the two centuries before Euro- shells had to be made into a roughly even shape. This was pean arrival (Brain and often done by dipping a flake of tough stone in wet sand, and Phillips 1996:1-2). Many of sliding it back and forth over the surface of the shell (Fig. 5). the gorgets were made Each stroke ground away a small amount of material. When according to regional styles. the sand fell off, more was added. Making major cuts with this Although quite a bit of technique took hours of patient work. After the general shape variability existed between of the gorget had been roughed out by cutting (Fig. 6), its Figure 4. Left: Busycon shell with a cut being made in different regional styles, the edges were finely shaped by grinding on a sandstone slab. it; Center and Right: the shell with the whorl removed gorgets within each specific Figure 7. Plain-style Plain-style gorgets were made by grinding the shell into a style are very similar to each Busycon shell gorget, made smooth, circular or oval shape and then drilling two holes for other. Three different gorget by the author with only stone stringing it on a necklace (Fig. 7). Some of the more fancy styles were made in the tools gorgets had fenstreations, or cutouts made into them. This was Choctaw homeland right done by first drilling round holes in the shell (Fig. 8) and then before European arrival. shaping the holes by using a rough-edged flake of stone to saw Scholars have labeled these the Pickett style (Fig. 1), the back and forth within the holes to make them the desired Oktibbeha style (Fig. 2), and the Tibbee Creek style (ibid. shape. Engraving was done using the same tool, carefully 26-27, 32-33). After European contact, plain undecorated sawing it back and forth over the slick, interior surface of the gorgets became the most common style in Choctaw country. shell to cut in the designs (Fig. 9). The engraved designs show However, Choctaws also continued to make a few engraved up better if they are painted (Fig. 10). shell gorgets. One example with an engraved stylized owl Today, the meaning that some of the ancient gorgets had to design dating to around 1900 is in the collection of the their makers and owners is not fully known. While interpreta- National Museum of the American Indian. Owl designs are tions exist for many of the symbols incorporated into the not very common on gorgets, and this piece probably be- gorget designs, they will not be discussed here. Together, the u longed to a Choctaw alikchi. symbols on some gorgets may tell stories from early oral Culture Ancestral Choctaw artisans history, or symbolize the accomplishments of their u utilized both freshwater owners or the tasks that they were responsible for History mussel shells from local doing. Beyond whatever other meanings they had, u rivers (see Iti Fabvssa 1/13) these gorgets were also highly valued items of Health and marine shells from the personal adornment and expression. In the early u ocean as raw materials for 1700s, one shell gorget was worth four tanned deer Education making gorgets. The most hides in trade (Lawson 1714). u commonly used marine shells Today, some gorget artists from other southeast- came from the whelk, ern Tribes are well known and highly respected for specifically from the genus their work. Several Choctaw people are experi- Choctaw Films Busycon (Fig. 3). Choctaw menting with shell carving and making a few artisans probably referred to gorgets. With the inherent beauty of the shell, the Choctawcinema.com these Busycon shells as deep tradition of gorget making among Choctaw “shaha toba” (Byington artisans, and the possibility of making some amazing new traditional works of art, the ancient art of gorget-making is just waiting to take off again in the Choctaw community.
Archived editions of Iti Fabvssa can be found at Chahta Anumpa Aiikhvna http://www.choctawnationculture.com/choctaw- culture/iti-fabvssa. If you have a question about uuu uuu Figure 8. Drilling holes with a stone- Choctaw history or culture, please email to Lesson of the Month tipped drill with a river cane shaft [email protected]. Impa chi bvnna ho? Pronounced: Im-pah chi bahn-nah ho? Do you want to eat? Word Meaning: impa – eat/ to eat chi – you bvnna – want/need ho – question marker Question markers o, ho, yo, come at the end of a question and the vowel “o’”is under- lined to show it has a nasalized sound. Rules to follow for correct usage of question markers. 1. o – follows a word that ends in a consonant 2. ho – follows a verb 3. yo - follows descriptive words/adjectives, numbers, etc. In previous lessons, we learned the Choctaw word for “I” is “li” and is preceded by a verb. The use of “chi” also means “you” and is in the second person singular form. This usage shows how “you - chi” is affected by an action or adjective. Ex. Ofi yät chi haklo tuk. The dog heard you. Chi chaha. You are tall.
In response to the previous question: Do you want to eat? A, impa sv bvnna. Keyu, impa sv bvnna kiyo. Yes, I want to eat. No, I do not want to eat. Pronounced: Pronounced: Anh, im-pah sah-bahn-na. Ke-yoh, im-pah, sah bahn-na ke-yoh.
Word Meaning: A - yes sv – I bvnna – want or need impa – eat /to eat keyu – no kiyo – not (negator)
www.choctawschool.com 12 BISKINIK | March 2013 Choctaw Nation spreads culture San Diego and Phoenix cultural community meetings
By BRET MOSS is also very precise in how he depicts his scenes. Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma “I have more research time than bench time,” he stated as he explained that a great deal of time goes into finding out how to correctly depict Choctaw Nation traveled west in February to visit his subjects. George elaborated on a particular tribal members in San Diego, Calif., and Phoenix, Ariz., piece, which included Choctaw Code Talkers, all in an effort to bring members of the tribe together saying he had to pay attention to every detail, and revive the ways of the traditional Choctaw. from the guns used to the hats worn in the set. Many Choctaws from both locations gathered to meet with George is also quite skilled with buffalo horn. Chief Gregory E. Pyle, Assistant Chief Gary Batton and cultural He is able to transform a rugged and harsh horn experts from among the tribe. Patrons who had signed up in into a beautiful piece of jewelry. Precise cutting advance were able to and sanding are involved in this work, which he attend a bead work- mentioned could create quite a stench. George ing class facilitated laughed as he told about the smell, but admit- by members of the ted the end product was well worth the toil. Cultural Services The meetings also featured an opening prayer, Department. presented in both English and Choctaw, a lan- “It’s fun, I think I guage lesson from Choctaw language instructor have a new hobby,” Lillie Roberts, dances from the Choctaw tra- said Kimberly Kogler ditional dancers and musical entertainment of Oceanside, Calif., provided by chanter and bead artist Brad Joe as she concentrated and Miss Choctaw Nation Cheyenne Murray. on her beading “It was really fun,” mentioned San Diego project. Kimberly at- resident Sara Shelden, who was “stolen” during the Stealing tended the event with Partners dance and tested her speed in the Snake dance. Sara Photos by LISA REED and BRET MOSS | Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Leilani Hernandez of Phoenix, her mother to satisfy was one of many audience members who were able to actively Ariz., tries her hand at creating a their yearning to learn participate during the demonstration of the age-old ways. pair of Choctaw earrings. more about their In the midst of the occasion, Chief Pyle and Assistant heritage. “We always Chief Batton spoke to their fellow Choctaws, telling them look for the Southern of the many strides the Choctaw Nation is making, not only California Choctaw events so we can go,” continued Kimberly. in keeping its culture alive, but flourishing in present cus- “I have always seen these [type] earrings and wondered toms. Chief Pyle spoke of the Choctaw businesses’ ability how they are made,” said Leilani Hernandez of Phoenix, who to turn a profit during a recession and the programs that came with her good friend, Summer Alahdali. Both girls were were made possible by the success of Choctaw endeavors. excited to learn a new skill, stating, “This might inspire me He made mention of programs such as the STAR Program to do more beading.” that encourages Choctaw Larry Lambert, a Phoenix students everywhere to resident and new member participate and try their best of the Choctaw Nation, was in school, leading to brighter also in attendance for the futures for the youth of the beading class. “It is an art nation. He spoke of opportu- and people that do that have nities provided by programs lots of patience,” he stated. and what it means in the “I couldn’t make it to lives of the Choctaw people. Oklahoma, so I am glad you Among all the activities came here,” said Larry, who provided, a favorite of the had looked forward to the crowd was getting to speak and meeting and learning about take a picture with Chief Pyle many different aspects of and Assistant Chief Batton. his Choctaw heritage. He Guests were able to meet and mentioned that he had visit with both before and after been reading a copy of the the meeting, sharing stories Choctaw dictionary, study- of their families, histories, The Cordova family – mom Julie, twins Anovk and ing the language of his tribe, as well as compliments and Isolde, and big brother Paikea – are happy to see Chief and was excited to speak concerns for the tribe. Pyle in La Jolla, Calif. with language experts. “It is always good to get a “If you are lucky enough perspective from our members to have ancestors who are who are not here in Okla- Native Americans, take homa. They are a big part of advantage of it,” said Larry the tribe and we want to reach as he discussed how proud out to them as well, stated he was of his lineage, Chief Pyle as he spoke about and the rich background Choctaw artist George Willis readies his display for the his trip west. “It was a great that comes with a family San Diego Cultural gathering. George exhibited breast- trip. I’m glad we are able to tree with native roots. plates, earrings and many types of Native American jewelry. bring our culture across the Along with the revived United States,” he concluded. traditions and knowledge brought by the Choctaw Nation to the west, another benefit Vedis Noah Mu- for patrons of these meetings was the gathering of locals with rillo of Phoenix similar heritage. As the meetings hit their attendance peak, tells Chief Pyle hundreds of Choctaws accumulated, displaying just how large she was from Pick- a portion of the local population shares the same background. ens, Okla., and her Two guests of the meeting with a distinguished history, mom, Siney Noah, Anna Hennessy and Barbara Weaver, attribute their friend- attended the Beth- ship to a Choctaw connection. Nearly two years ago, Anna el center. placed a note on Barbara’s car window telling her that she was Anna Hennessy, Assistant Chief Batton and Barba- Choctaw and left contact info. The two met up and have been ra Weaver visit during the cultural meeting Feb. 17 in friends ever since, attending Choctaw functions together. Mesa. “I was parked at a shopping mall parking lot, and when I came out I found a note on the window that said, ‘I am Choctaw also’,” stated Barbara. Anna knew of Bar- bara’s connection to the Choctaw Nation because of a Choctaw vanity plate. “I got out of my car, was walking across the parking lot, and right there, ‘Choctaw’,” ex- claimed Anna. “I could not pass that up,” she continued. Local Choctaw artist George Willis was able to demon- strate his talents to those in attendance of the San Diego meeting. George resides in Carlsbad, Calif., and is a craftsman who makes jewelry and small sculptures from an array of raw materials. “I work in a lot of different ways,” George stated. Many techniques are used in his pieces, including what he calls, “pierce and apply,” which he utilizes when creat- ing his pictorial artwork from multiple sheets of metal. Jennifer Graff and her The hat of George He cuts the scene from one piece of metal and then daughter, Cambria, par- Kanda Jackson lends her expertise to novice bead Willis boasts carefully applies it to another with a strong form of ticipate in the Stealing workers. solder, then adds the details and texture by hand. over 700 hours Partners Dance. When making scenic pieces, George always in- of craftsmanship cludes a piece of gold in a tiny detail in his work. He adorning its brim.
Larry Lambert of Phoenix shows off the beginning of his Young women of the Okla Chahta clan help Miss Choctaw Nation Cheyenne Murray fill the beadwork project. room with color.