July 2021 Issue Cultural Center tells 14,000 year story

By Kellie Matherly in this gallery is called Long Ago: Stories of the Choctaw People. This exhibit is also designed to be The much-anticipated opening of the Choctaw an immersive experience. Cultural Center is scheduled for July 23. The A state-of-the-art collections area is devoted to Cultural Center, located on Highway 75 in Durant, caring for cultural items, collections and some of , uses interactive and immersive exhib- the Nation’s most important historical documents. its and cutting-edge technology to tell the story of This space is equipped with temperature and the Choctaw people, which spans over 14,000 years. humidity-controlled storage units as well as a cold More than a decade of research, planning and con- room for the decontamination of artifacts. In ad- struction went into making the dream a reality. dition to interior protections, these priceless items "I am excited about the Cultural Center grand are protected from the notoriously volatile south- opening," said Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Chief eastern Oklahoma weather by walls specifically Gary Batton. "The Center embodies the Chahta designed to withstand storms and tornados. Nowvt Aya, or Choctaw Journey, that we are Aside from the interactive landscapes and exhib- proud to share with our tribal members, neighbors its, guests can visit the Living Village just outside and friends." the main building, where they can see demonstra- The building spans over 100,000 square feet and tions of traditional Choctaw dances, stickball and houses two exhibit halls, an art gallery, auditori- a traditional heirloom garden. The Living Village um and children’s play area as well as a café and also offers a walking path around a mound modeled gift store. Guests will also be able to participate in after , the Mother Mound located in seminars and hands-on workshops in the class- the Choctaw homelands. rooms. “It is very humbling to have such a beautiful Even the smallest details have been crafted with facility dedicated to sharing our rich Choctaw the Choctaw people in mind. For instance, the heritage and culture. Our ancestors are smiling diamond and basketweave designs throughout the upon us as we honor them and their path of the past main lobby reflect important elements of Choctaw and present. I’m confident that future generations tradition, and stone used for the floor around the of and visitors alike will also come away Central Fire was quarried in Stigler, Oklahoma, with a sense of pride yet humbling experience,” located in the northern part of the reservation. said Assistant Chief Jack Austin Jr. Guests may also recognize some familiar faces For more information on the Choctaw Cultural as they make their way through the permanent Center or to plan a visit, go to choctawculturalcen- exhibits. Living Choctaw tribal members are re- ter.com or call 833-708-9582. flected in the life casts throughout the landscapes. Admission, Hours and Directions These life casts, created from 3-D scans and plaster Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma tribal members casts of tribal members, lend an even higher level will have complimentary admission. of authenticity to the exhibits. General admission for adults will be $12. Children are precious to the Choctaw people, Discounted admission will be available for chil- and the Luksi Activity Center was created espe- dren, veterans, senior citizens and college students. cially for them, their families and anyone else who Hours: Wednesday – Friday 10:00 a.m. -- 5:00 p.m.; is young at heart. The room features two different Saturday 10:00 a.m. -- 7:00 p.m.; Sunday 11:00 a.m. -- styles of Choctaw dwellings as well as a log slide 5:00 p.m.; Closed Monday and Tuesday. and a giant Luksi (turtle) where guests can sit and The Cultural Center is located at 1919 Hina Hanta hear traditional stories. Way in Calera, Oklahoma, 74730. The Center also includes a Changing Exhibition The entrance to the Cultural Center is off Choc- Gallery for traveling and community curated taw Road, west of the intersection of Choctaw Road exhibits and special events. The inaugural exhibit and Highway 69/75 in Durant.

Photos by Mekayla Monroe and Deidre Elrod The Choctaw Cultural Center, pictured above, will hold its grand opening on July 23. The story of the Choc- taw people can be seen, both inside and outside of the over 100,000 square feet facility. 2 July 2021 Sassafras Month – Kvfi Hvshi

Faith, Family, Culture

CNO launches initiative to consider Celebrating Independence Day tribal membership for Freedmen Summer is in full swing in the Choctaw Nation. The Choctaw Nation recently announced the In-person events are starting up again, and it is so launch of an initiative to consider tribal member- wonderful to see everyone begin to live life again. ship for . Changing the tribal Independence Day, better known to most as the membership requirements will require a Constitu- Fourth of July, is a federal holiday that commem- tional amendment, which will require a vote from orates the signing of the Declaration of Indepen- tribal members. To be successful, we’ll have to tell dence of the on July 4th, 1776. This the story of why we believe this is necessary and lis- year, America celebrates 245 years of independence ten to tribal members’ input. This initiative will en- from Great Britain. gage Choctaw Freedmen, the Department of Interior, Whether you are at the lake, in the stands watch- existing tribal members, our elected officials and ing a game, or at home grilling a meal, it’s a great membership department officials, and other Choc- time to spend with family and friends. On July 2, we taw proud in listening sessions to present findings will celebrate Independence Day with our annual and a recommendation to Choctaw elected officials. Boom in the Valley Fireworks Spectacular in Tvsh- ka Homma. This event features fireworks display I respectfully request that you take a moment to Assistant Chief Jack Austin Jr. read this open letter and learn more about how we beginning at dusk. This is always a special event, Chief Gary Batton have arrived at this critical juncture in both tribal and I hope to see you all there. and American history. While celebrating with fireworks, parades and cookouts are all fun ways for Our mission is, “To the Choctaw proud, ours is a people to get together and celebrate, we should never forget the true meaning sovereign nation offering opportunities for growth and prosperity.” Our vision of the holiday. Independence Day is more than sparklers and red, white and is, “Living out the Chahta spirit of faith, family and culture.” blue. It represents an unmatched determination of effort to earn and keep Our tradition of oral storytelling brings Choctaw history to life, and has long freedom that continues to this day. Our service members and veterans all took been one way we educate young Choctaw people. a vow to protect our country and keep us safe. While you celebrate this year, When I first learned of the US government’s plan to withhold promised fund- I encourage you to remember the sacrifices made to give us the freedoms we ing unless we changed our Constitution, I was frustrated. As you might imagine, enjoy every day. there is a lot of baggage in the relationship between Native Americans and the We at the Choctaw Nation believe in taking care of our people and helping US government. As chief, protecting tribal sovereignty is one of the most sacred our communities. We have held several job fairs in the past few months in honors and responsibilities entrusted to me. In this moment, I was focused on a hopes that individuals in our community get the opportunity to find a career threat to our sovereignty - that’s all I heard. The story of Choctaw Freedmen de- that is right for them. serves our attention and thoughtful consideration within the framework of tribal July 25th is National Hire a Veteran Day. Every day, military personnel leave self-governance. the service in search of civilian employment. National Hire a Veteran Day re- I, along with the Tribal Council, have meditated on the words of our mission minds employers to consider veterans to fill their open positions. and vision. We have reflected on the stories our elders have shared with us about The Choctaw Nation is committed to our Choctaw veterans. The Veterans the experiences of their parents, grandparents and great-grandparents. We have Advocacy program advocates for Choctaw veterans to receive benefits and unpacked some of the baggage and remember that while today in 2021, part of services on par with other veterans, so they don’t encounter barriers or imped- our tribal sovereignty is being able to determine tribal membership; that right iments in their attempts to access services, and they are treated with respect was also tarnished by the federal government 125 years ago. and dignity by Veterans Affairs service providers. The Veterans Advocacy The Dawes Rolls. Early in the 1830s, nearly 125,000 Native Americans lived on program will also serve Choctaw veterans by assisting with the eligibility and millions of acres of land in Georgia, , Alabama, North Carolina and entitlements of veterans and their dependents and contacting appropriate VA Florida. Land our ancestors had called home for generations. Among them, thou- service providers in their area. If you would like to know more about our Vet- sands of enslaved people were forced to provide manual labor along the way and eran’s Advocacy program visit www.choctawnation.com or call Roger Hamill at after arriving in what is now Oklahoma. The left an indelible scar 580-642-7934. on Choctaw people and on African American people among us. If you are a veteran and looking for employment opportunities with the In 1887, the US government, led by Senator Henry Laurens Dawes of Massa- Choctaw Nation, visit www.careers.choctawnation.com or text 22100 with the chusetts, passed the Dawes Act to take the land of Native American people, break keyword ‘CHOCTAW’ for an instant application. up our tribal governments and assimilate us. Like many other times in Native Have a safe and happy 4th of July everyone, God bless. history, the US government did not honor its treaties. According to Dawes Act language, Native Americans could apply to receive their due allotment of land. White people also applied for the Dawes Rolls to Ancestral Salvation get “free” land, at times using bribes to federal agents to be selected. History shows us that over 250,000 people applied for tribal membership and land, and “Not everyone that saith unto, Lord, Lord, shall enter a little over 100,000 were approved. Over half of the applicants were “rejected, into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of stricken, and judged to be doubtful.” The approved received an allotment of land. my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that Some Native Americans did not trust the US government and did not apply in an day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and attempt to protect their families from additional harm. For 10 years after Dawes in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I left the Senate, he worked to dissolve tribal governments and managed to take 90 profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye million acres of treaty land. In 1928, just 23 years after the Dawes Rolls closed, that work iniquity.” (Matthew 7: 21-23). President Calvin Coolidge’s administration studied the effects of the Dawes Act This refers to unrepentant Jews who thought that their and found that the Dawes Act had been used illegally to deprive Native Ameri- ancestry automatically entitled them to the kingdom of cans of their land rights. And yet no changes were made. God. They thought that they were assured of special favor Today our tribal membership is based on the Dawes Rolls — a poisonous legacy by God because of their ancestry and their good works. from 125 years ago that took root and caused a myriad of membership issues for Jesus is saying no one can enter the kingdom of heaven tribal nations, including Freedmen. unless they follow the will of God. What is the will of God? The CDIB Card & Blood Quantum Law. The US government’s Bureau of Indi- Jesus answered and said unto him, “Verily, verily, I say an Affairs issues a Certificate of Degree of Indian Blood, commonly known as unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the a CDIB card. According to the US government, “it provides a blood degree by kingdom of God.” (John 3:3). tribe.” These degrees are based on the Dawes Rolls. I respectfully ask you to take Pastor Olin Williams The will of God is that a person must be born again to a moment and reflect on that. This is a federal construct that has fueled division Employee Chaplain be able to go to heaven. A person must be convicted by and racism. To receive a CDIB card, a person must trace their “blood” ances- the Spirit of God that he is a sinner by nature and needs a try to the Dawes Rolls. At this time, the US government also does not recognize savior. He must repent of his sin of unbelief and pray the Freedmen in its CDIB enrollment process. This systemized measuring a person’s Lord to forgive him and convert him. “degree of Indian-ness” is fundamentally flawed, has heavily influenced mod- This conversion is accomplished by the work of the Spirit of God and not by one’s good ern-day tribal membership and should change. works or religious efforts. In the natural cognitive thinking, a person may believe his good This moment in Choctaw Nation history calls for courage and bravery. It is a works or religious practice earns merits toward entrance into heaven. Not so. The only moment to live out the Chahta spirit of faith, family and culture. We know that way is through the merit of Jesus dying on the cross in substitution for guilty Man. by calling for these reforms, we are peeling away layers of scar and are expos- Jesus continues to say that there are many who trust their own wonderful fruits of ing a deeply painful wound for tribes across the US. And we know it is the right labor to convince them of their eternal home. At last when an unrepentant individual thing to do. stands before God, trusting in his ancestry or good works, God will say, “I never knew Today we call upon the US government to also consider its moral and legal you, depart from me, ye that work iniquity.”(Matthew 7:23). obligations and review the CDIB process for Freedmen. CDIB enrollment for What does this mean? Is God not all knowing? What does he mean when he will say, Freedmen would mean automatic access to critical programs like tribal health “ I never knew you.” God is all knowing. He knows everything about us and even our care, housing programs and more. thoughts. Today we call upon the Choctaw proud to open dialogue on the issue of Choc- The same word “knew” occurs in Genesis 4:1. “And Adam knew Eve his wife; and she taw Freedmen. Ours is a sovereign nation offering opportunities for growth and conceived, and bare Cain, and said , I have gotten a man from the Lord.” prosperity. Our stories, Native American, African American, are inextricably The word in Hebrew is “yada.” It means to know, to experience, to learn, indicating the linked with European Americans, and with one another. Let us not be bound by most intimate relationship between a man and a woman, the marriage bond. an artificial construct of those who sought to take our lands, culture and digni- The Choctaw word is “ithana or ikhana’, meaning to acquaint, to embrace, to acquire ty hundreds of years ago. Let our sovereign nation reclaim what was taken 125 knowledge and experience. So what God is saying is, I know you but I never had personal years ago - the ability to determine tribal membership. relationship with you. Unless one is born again by the Spirit of God, he could never have Today we reach out to the Choctaw Freedmen. We see you. We hear you. We relationship with God, who is a spirit. Behavior modification, philanthropy, and church look forward to meaningful conversation regarding our shared past. activities are all good social endeavors, but they are not salvation of the soul. July 2021 Sassafras Month – Kvfi Hvshi BISKINIK 3

CNO programs help Choctaw students succeed

By Shelia Kirven ed college, technical school or university. “Higher Education assists any tribal Choctaw tribal members planning to member of the Choctaw Nation active- attend a vocational school, college or uni- ly pursuing a higher education degree. versity may qualify for extra support from Students must be working at a minimum Choctaw Nation’s Higher Education and towards an associate degree. Please contact Career Development programs. the Higher Education for further details to The Higher Education Program began in help you achieve your educational goals,” 1984, but in the past three years alone, the said Amanda Lee, Director of the Higher program has served over 16,000 students Education program. looking to obtain a college degree. The Career Development Program was Layla Freeman was one of those stu- established in 2007. Each year, the program dents. She graduated from Southeastern assists over 3,500 students. The goal of the Oklahoma State University with a Bach- Career Development Program is to en- elor of Arts degree in Communication hance the lives of Choctaw tribal members and a minor in Native Studies. According by providing opportunities for education to Freeman, both the Higher Education and training that lead to industry-recog- and Career Development programs were nized certifications or licenses and self-sus- tremendous resources, not only with fund- taining employment. ing but also with motivation and support, Program services include career including having a counselor help her iden- guidance services, assessment, academic tify and develop her educational plan. remediation, financial assistance for quali- Photos Provided Freeman said that Higher Education and ty training, soft skills training and employ- Jeremy Loper, Alexandria Folsom, Arie Young and Amanda Saxon recently graduated from Career Development provided scholarship ment services. the nursing program through ECU at SOSU. Jeremy started with Career Development back funds each semester based on her grades, Dylan Grant is a 28-year-old truck driver in 2016 and earned his Certified Nurse Aid license through Kiamichi Technology Center, and hours enrolled and class level. from Lebanon, Oklahoma, who obtained has worked as a CNA throughout college. He plans to start his master’s in nursing soon. Alex- Career Development also required the his CDL license through the Career Devel- andria began her college career at Grayson College before transferring to SOSU. Arie started completion of a certification related to opment Program. at Murray State College taking pre-requisite courses before deciding to go for her bachelor’s the degree pursued. The counselor helped Grant said he visited with a Career degree. Amanda got her CNA through KTC in 2009, followed by a certificate for Medical Office Freeman identify a certification, develop Development counselor who gave him a Assistant before deciding to pursue her bachelor’s degree in nursing. an educational plan, map out her degree career assessment test to determine his completion first, then the certification career interests after deciding that he was universities. The program also assists in ment or Higher Education,” said Manuel. completion. not interested in continuing in a college/ the purchasing of required uniforms. For She went on to say, “I’m very grateful for “I am extremely grateful for both pro- university setting. The counselor helped those who already have degrees and need it because I wouldn’t be able to come out grams and the support they provided me in him explore alternative options and asked a certification for their jobs, the program of OU debt-free without both programs. my journey,” Freeman said. if he had ever considered driving a truck. may help with that as well. Career Devel- I did work for the university, so that cut The Higher Education Program is a Though Grant said he had never ex- opment follows the student until they are my debt. But having the Choctaw Nation scholarship and grant program designed to plored that possibility previously, he decid- employed, as their status is not completed behind me and wanting to see me have a provide tuition assistance to enrolled Choc- ed he wanted to give it a try. Grant is now with the program until the participant has better education, especially after coming taw tribal members attending an accredit- employed with a food warehousing and completed training and becomes employed. from a poor place in McCurtain County redistribution company as Participants also receive assistance with and having the obstacles of being the first a driver. He has been there resumes, interview training and soft skills. person in my family to ever go to college, three years and is very hap- Career counselors are officed in the to being a person who was raised by their py with his career choice. largest counties in Choctaw Nation, the grandparents in a very rural area and not “They offered opportu- Oklahoma City area, in Ardmore and on being to do a whole lot of things, being able nities that I would not be the campus of Okmulgee OSU-IT. Walk-ins to go to such a prestigious university in able to access myself. Most are welcome. the state, and then going all the way to law people don’t have the mon- James said, “Career Development is school has just been amazing. I am grate- ey to try a truck driving helping tribal members to enhance their ful to both programs. I looked forward to school to see if they like it lives by career laddering or career lattic- applying for them each semester, knowing and find out they don’t and ing through short- or long-term training that I was going to have the assistance and stop doing it,” explained programs. It is paving the way for tribal the backing of the Choctaw Nation to help Grant. “I definitely would members to have substantial income for me achieve my goals.” never have done it myself themselves and their families by obtaining If you would like to see if one of our unless they had given me certifications and licensures to become educational programs can assist you, the opportunity. It ended up better employed.” contact the Higher Education and Career being a very good fit for me. Samantha Manuel was a participant Development programs to visit with staff Kelsey Plummer on her graduation from NSU. Kelsey began her It’s probably what I will do in both the Higher Education and Career concerning your educational goals. education journey at Carl Albert State College with the assis- until I retire.” Development programs. She went through For more information on the Career tance of her career counselor, Cynthia Martin. After graduating Penny James, the her undergraduate degree in three years, Development Program, call 866-933-2260 or with her associate’s degree from CASC, Kelsey transferred to program’s director, said having earned concurrent hours before visit https://www.choctawnation.com/trib- Northeastern Oklahoma State University where she pursued a that Career Development starting her degree program at the Univer- al-services/education/career-development. bachelor’s degree in education with a focus on Special Educa- assists with tuition, fees, sity of Oklahoma. For more information on the Higher tion. Kelsey was accepted to participate in the Teach 2 Reach and books at approved “Both programs have been amazing. Education Program, call 800-522-6170, or (T2R) grant which provides financial assistance in return for a career technology centers, I have had great outcomes every time I visit https://www.choctawnation.com/ service payback. licensures, colleges and spoke with anyone from Career Develop- higher-education-0. In-person events return in 2021 By Christian Toews James said that people have been very excited about the return of the Chances are that an event you were Labor Day Festival this year. planning to attend in 2020 was can- According to James, he and his team celed. Events large and small were will be able to focus on preserving and moved online canceled or due to the representing the Choctaw Culture. coronavirus pandemic. While this “Last year really gave us the oppor- might have caused some frustration tunity to refocus and add more cultur- and disappointment, there is good al elements to the festival,” he said. news. In-person gatherings are begin- Despite all the negative and frus- ning to come back, and the Choctaw trating ways the pandemic affected Nation is no exception. the world, James said that he has seen The first in-person event was the some good things come out of it. Trail of Tears Walk, held on May 15 at “Covid allowed us sort of hit the Tvshka Homma. reset button and to look at things Jon James, Tribal Events Director through a different lens and what is at the Choctaw Nation, said that he the best way to progress and move wasn’t sure what to expect but was forward. Our leadership here at the pleased with how many people come to Nation has been great about helping Photo by Christian Toews the event. us shape a return to in-person events The Trail of Tears Walk was the first in-person event to be hosted by the Choctaw Nation since “People were excited to start meeting safely,” said James. COVID-19 restrictions were lifted. Held on the historic capitol grounds of Tvshka Homma, together again, and that was proved Brian Prettyman, Reginal Director members and friends of the Choctaw Nation walked in remembrance of their ancestors who by how many people came out,” said of Marketing for the Choctaw Resort journeyed from their ancestral homelands in to the 190 years ago. James. and Casino in Durant, said that since According to James, the next event offering live entertainment again, the to look forward to will be Boom in the resort properties have been busier ley’s, and then we will have live music personal choice, we know the vaccine Valley on July 2 at Tvuska Homma. than ever. on the gaming floor periodically. But reduces your chances of getting Covid, James said that the success of last “We have initially thought it was a if you aren’t ready for the intimate ex- and if you do get it, the severity is far year’s event has led to the decision to pent-up demand for an entertainment perience, you can still come out to the less.” keep it a drive-in event for 2021. experience of any kind, but what we casino and enjoy yourself. There’s a lot Jon James commented on in-person James mentioned how special it is to have found is that we worked really to do here, not just gaming,” he said. events playing an important role in life see and hear the fireworks show in the hard during our closure to prepare for He mentioned that while the Covid and encourages people to come out to Tvuska Homma valley. reopening and to bring a better experi- restrictions have been lifted for the an event in the future. “The way it echoes through the ence and even better entertainment,” Choctaw Nation, they are still con- “The most impactful form of com- grounds, you just feel something spe- explained Prettyman. scious of health and safety. munication is still face-to-face–being cial about this show. It’s a unique fire- According to Prettyman, much of “We are cognizant of the fact that able to look someone in the eye and work show that you can’t get anywhere their efforts are focused on the grand there is a need to be smart. We are still see their smiles again. No matter what else,” explained James. opening of the new expansion of the encouraging masks and social distanc- piece of technology is invented next, James also talked about the opening Choctaw Casino and Resort in Durant ing,” said Prettyman. nothing is going to trump that. I think of the Choctaw Nation’s new Cultur- in August. As the Choctaw Nation returns to Covid really opened up people’s eyes to al Center. He is excited to see people Prettyman said the Durant casino in-person gatherings, Chief Gary Bat- the fact that we need each other,” said gather to celebrate the grand opening will be the third-largest gaming resort ton commented in a recent interview James. of this state-of-the-art facility. He in the world with the new expansion. about staying safe as we gather. For more information on these up- mentioned that there would be many “We have something for everyone. If “I would encourage everybody to be coming events and more, visit www. activities and unique events happening you want, you can see a concert in the vaccinated, for themselves and their Choctawnation.com and www.choctaw- during the grand opening on July 23. grand theater, enjoy live music at Gil- families,” said Batton, “While it’s a casinos.com. 4 BISKINIK July 2021 Sassafras Month – Kvfi Hvshi

CNO supports development Medical School Provides Tribal Training Opportunity of local communities through Purcell, Oklahoma – serve physical therapy, op- Community Partnership Fund Medical student, Ashton tometry, and case managers Gatewood gained more than working together to provide Last month, the Choctaw Nation patient care skills and clin- patients optimal healthcare awarded the city of Broken Bow ical knowledge during her interventions through all $12,300, Idabel $6,400, Garvin $4,40, Summer Tribal Externship the resources available. “I’m McCurtain County $13,500, the city at the Nation continuously impressed at Purcell Health Clinic. how much our tribal leaders of Wilburton $9,700, Talihina $15,000, Eddie Bohanan, Choctaw Nation Council Mem- During the two-week pro- have invested in healthcare, Latimer County $13,600, the city of ber District 3; Cody Covey, LeFlore County gram, Gatewood said that especially in rural settings,” Hugo $29,300, Boswell $11,900, Choctaw Commissioner District 2 and Delton Cox, Choc- she learned the importance said Gatewood. County $24,700, the city of Antlers taw Nation Tribal Council Member District 4. $19,800, Clayton $30,900, of forming meaningful phy- Gatewood is no stranger County $26,800, the city of McAlester sician-patient relationships to small towns. She grad- $13,500 and Pittsburg County $5,400. to facilitate lifelong health uated from Mustang High The Choctaw Community Partner and wellness for both pa- School and grew up visiting Fund contribution continues quar- tients and their physicians. her parents’ families in Mar- terly to cities and counties that host At the Purcell Health low, Oklahoma and Neosho, non-gaming businesses throughout the Clinic, Gatewood worked Missouri. Before going into Scholar and plans to return Nation’s territories. The expectation with Dr. Beth May, D.O., an medicine, she worked in sev- to IHS to work as a primary is for each local government to apply emergency medicine physi- eral healthcare roles within care physician upon com- the Choctaw Community Partner Fund cian practicing in the prima- Indian Health Services pletion of her training in contribution toward supporting and ry care clinic. “Being back (IHS), including pharmacy osteopathic medicine. developing the communities that serve Thomas Williston, Choctaw Nation Tribal Coun- in the tribal community technician, public health About Organization - tribal and non-tribal citizens. cil Member District 1; Craig Young, Mayor of reminded me of the purpose nurse, and healthcare ad- Oklahoma State University This is the 10-voluntary contribu- Idabel and Walt Frey, Idabel Industrial Devel- behind all the challenging ministrator. Center for Health Sciences tion from the Choctaw Nation, for a opment Authority. schoolwork, and Dr. May “I’ve been passionate and the Nation combined total of $336,100 to the cities has provided a role model about improving the health have established the na- of Broken Bow, Idabel, Garvin and to strive towards becoming and wellness of tribal mem- tion’s first tribally affiliated McCurtain County, $329,400 to the city like as a future physician,” bers throughout my pro- college of medicine in Tah- of Wilburton, Talihina and Latimer said Gatewood. fessional career. So, getting lequah, Oklahoma, which County, $577,250 to the cities of Hugo, Gatewood is a medical this opportunity to apply opened in August 2020 with Boswell and Choctaw County, $754,650 student in the inaugural knowledge gained through an entering class of 54 first to the city of Antlers, Clayton and class of 2024 at the OSU Col- the coursework by working year medical students. Pushmataha County and $171,950 to lege of Osteopathic Medi- among health care provid- The OSUCOM-CN is the city of McAlester and Pittsburg cine at the Cherokee Nation. ers and patients within my an extension of the OSU County. She is a tribally enrolled own community has been a College of Osteopathic The Choctaw Community Partner member of the Choctaw rejuvenating experience,” Medicine located in Tulsa. Fund began in 2019 and has put back Tony Ward, Choctaw Nation Tribal Council Nation of Oklahoma and she said. OSU College of Osteopathic more than $4 million into southeast- Member District 2 and Vickie Patterson, Broken descent of the Chickasaw “I benefited from mentor- Medicine is accredited by ern Oklahoma communities. Bow City Manager. Nation of Oklahoma. ship, financial support, and the American Osteopathic “I was excited to work professional opportunities Association’s Commission with an osteopathic phy- from my tribes’ programs on Osteopathic College sician in the tribal setting, and tribal community lead- Accreditation. Newly remodeled Stage 271 opens in Grant and Dr. May exemplifies im- ers; therefore, I feel the re- About Program - The plementing the osteopathic sponsibility of my position OSUCOM-CN Tribal Medi- tenets in her daily practice. as a future American Indian GRANT, Okla. (June 2, cine Track and the Summer She considers her patients’ physician to give back to the 2021) – Choctaw Casino & Tribal Externship Program work environment, family community whose invest- Resort – Grant is excited to prepare students to be situations, diet, and exercise ments have carried me to introduce their newly remod- highly qualified future phy- when forming treatment where I am today,” she said. eled entertainment venue: sicians within Indian Health plans, and works with pa- Gatewood will begin her Stage 271, formerly known Services, through cultural tients to achieve results that second year in medical as the Grant Event Center. and language coursework are meaningful to them.” school during the upcoming Choctaw Casino & Resort – along with clinical rotations While at the Purcell Health school year. She is a Na- Grant is located on US-High- at federal, tribal, or urban Clinic, she was able to ob- tional Health Services Corp way 271, making Stage 271 the IHS facilities. ideal name for the renovated entertainment space. “The venue has undergone a remarkable transformation into a spacious entertainment destination for live entertainment,” states Ken Eisele, Director of Marketing at Choctaw Casino & Resort – Grant. “We wanted a name that could be recognizable and connect us with the local community. It’s been over two years since the space has been used and we can’t wait to bring back live entertainment.” The new venue is an approximately 11,000 square-foot facility and can accommodate 1,200 people. Upgrades to Stage 271 include a new state-of-the-art entertainment system, a large pro- jection screen for easy viewing, concessions and restrooms. To kick off the new music venue, Choctaw Casino & Resort–Grant is proud to welcome for the first time the Eli Young Band (EYB) as they perform live at Stage 271 on Friday, July 2. Tickets went on sale Thursday, June 3 at 9 a.m. and start at $20. Tickets and can be purchased at https://tinyurl.com/6am98865. The concert on Friday, July 2 will begin at 8 p.m. and doors open at 7 p.m. Stage 271 at Choctaw Casino & Resort–Grant is located at 1516 US-271 Grant, Okla. To learn more, visit www.choctawcasinos.com/grant/. July 2021 Sassafras Month – Kvfi Hvshi BISKINIK 5

YAKOKE

My two sons and I are senior citizens. We thank the Choctaw Nation for the very generous Visa food cards each of us received. It helped to make the holidays and the extended peri- od much more enjoyable, especially during a time such as the pandemic everyone has been experiencing.

Mary Norman Wood

TakeTake a a strollstroll throughthrough Broken Broken Bow, Bow, Robbers Cave, and more. Robbers Cave, and more. ChoCtawCountry.Com ChoCtawCountry.Com

Southeastern Oklahoma Indian Credit Association & Choctaw Revolving Loan Fund

The Southeastern Oklahoma Indian Credit NEED TO CHANGE YOUR ADDRESS? Choctaw Nation Vocational Rehabilitation Association offers small business, home, home improvement and agriculture loans. The Choctaw Revolving Loan Program offers micro-loans, available for emergency home July 6 Wright City 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. improvements and small businesses. Contact the Choctaw Nation July 6 Poteau 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Circulation Department July 7 Antlers 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. July 9 Crowder By Appointment For more information, please contact Susan July 13 Broken Bow 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Edwards at (580) 924-8280 ext. 2161, ext. 2158 or 580.924.8280 x4028 July 13 Talihina 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. toll-free (800) 522-6170. July 14 Coalgate 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Read the Biskinik online at Southeastern Oklahoma Indian Credit Association Loan July 16 Atoka 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. To Be Eligible to Apply: CHOCTAWNATION.COM/NEWS July 20 Idabel 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. - Must live within the 10.5 counties of the Choctaw Nation July 21 McAlester 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. - Must possess a CDIB card from a federally recognized tribe July 21 Stiggler By Appointment July 27 Wilburton 10:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. Choctaw Revolving Loan Fund To Be Eligible to Apply: - Must live within the 10.5 counties of the Choctaw Nation Durant: Monday, Wednesday and Friday - Must possess a CDIB card from the Choctaw Nation

Call 580-326-8304 for an appointment If you are interested in applying for a loan Biskinik a representative will be available at the: Antlers Community Center Announcement Guidelines CHOCTAW NATION OF OKLAHOMA July 9, 2021 We accept milestone birthday greetings for ages 1, 5, TRIBAL COUNCIL 9:00 – 11:00 13, 15, 16, 18, 21, 30, 40, 50, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80 and above. REGULAR SESSION AGENDA Couples may send announcements of silver wed- June 12, 2021 ding anniversary at 25 years of marriage, golden anniversary at 50 years, or 60+ anniversaries. We do 1. CALL TO not post wedding announcements. Chahta Anumpa Aiikhvna News from graduates of higher education only and 2. OPENING PRAYER/FLAG SALUTE June Language Lesson sports submissions will be accepted as space allows. 3. ROLL CALL We welcome all letters from Choctaw tribal mem- Choctaw Verbs to Nouns bers. However, because of the volume of mail, it isn’t 4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES In Choctaw, the meanings of verbs can change by possible to publish all letters our readers send. Let- a. Regular Session May 8, 2021 ters chosen for publication must be under 150 words. adding prefixes and suffixes as well as adding We require full contact information. Only the writer’s 5. WELCOME GUESTS/SPECIAL RECOGNITIONS extra vowels and nasal sounds. An ‘a’ or ‘ai’ placed full name and city will be published. a. Veteran of the Month—Jack Mayo, District #9 before a verb changes to a noun meaning ‘a All events sent to the Biskinik will run the month of place of or a place to’. When the verb begins with a 6. PUBLIC COMMENTS - None the event or the month to the event if the event consonant ‘a’ is prefixed to the verb, when falls on the first of the month. 7. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES the verb begins with a vowel ‘ai’ is prefixed to the verb. This lesson will focus on verbs that begin Mail to: Biskinik 8. NEW BUSINESS with a consonant. P.O. Box 1210 a. Approve the Application and Budget for the Durant, OK 74702 Continuation of the Choctaw Nation Early or email: [email protected] Head Start – Child Care Program for FY Ex. nusi – to sleep impa – to eat 2020-2021. Vote Counts: YEAs - Unanimous; anusi – bedroom, aiimpa – table, dining Gary Batton Jack Austin Jr. Vote Result: Bill passed hotel, etc. room Chief Assistant Chief b. Approve the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 Abbreviated Indian Housing Plan for ikbi – v. to build: construct; create; make The Official Year FY 2021. Vote Counts: YEAs - Unani- Monthly Publication mous; Vote Result: Bill passed Banaha ikbi la chi. I will make banaha. of the c. Approve the Native American Housing As- Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma sistance and Self-Determination Act of 1996 aiikbi – n. a factory; a plant; workshop Indian Housing Plan for Year FY 2022. Vote Dara McCoy, Executive Director Counts: YEAs - Unanimous; Vote Result: Bill Sioshi yvt shulush aiikbi atuksvli. Kristina Humenesky, Senior Director passed My son works at a shoe factory. Kellie Matherly, Content Development Director Kendra Wall, Content Development Manager d. Approve Funding for the Expansion of and Chris Jennings, News Reporter the Purchase of Additional Equipment at the ipeta- v. to feed; nourish; to serve Christian Toews, News Reporter Choctaw Print Services Facility in Durant, Oklahoma. Vote Counts: YEAs - Unanimous; Wak vhleha ipeta tuk. He fed the cows. P.O. Box 1210 Vote Result: Bill passed Durant, OK 74702 e. Approve Funding for an Equity Investment aiipeta – n. a place to feed; trough; bird feeder; a 580-924-8280 • 800-522-6170 in, and Prepayment for Services to a Meat place to serve www.ChoctawNation.com Processing Facility to be Located Near Octa- email: [email protected] via, Oklahoma. Vote Counts: YEAs - Unani- Community center okla aiipeta tuk. mous; Vote Result: Bill passed They served at the community center. The BISKINIK is printed each month as a service to Tribal members. The BISKINIK reserves the right to f. Resolution Supporting Assistant Chief Jack Austin, Jr. to serve on the U.S. Department determine whether material submitted for publication anumpuli -v. to talk; to speak; say shall be printed and reserves the right to edit submitted of Veterans Affairs Advisory Committee material which it finds inaccurate, profane, offensive on Tribal and Indian Affairs. Vote Counts: YEAs - Unanimous; Vote Result: Bill passed Miko yvt chukka himona isht anumpuli tuk. or morally unacceptable. Copy may be edited for space, The chief spoke about new housing. proper grammar and punctuation. Copy will be accepted g. Approve an Amendment to a Service Line in any readable form, but where possible, it is requested Agreement in Favor of Oklahoma Natural aianumpuli -n. a place to speak from; podium, mi- that material be typewritten and double-spaced. You Gas Company, on Land Held by the USA in crophone, platform must include an address and phone number where Trust for the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma you may be reached. Due to space limitations and the in Bryan County, Oklahoma. Vote Counts: Aianumpuli ashaka hikia. quantity of article submissions, we are unable to include YEAs - Unanimous; Vote Result: Bill passed everything we receive. Items are printed in the order He is standing behind the podium. h. Approve Application for the Environmen- received. Faxed photos will not be accepted. tal Regulatory Enhancement Grant.Vote Counts: YEAs - Unanimous; Vote Result: Bill If you are receiving more than one BISKINIK or ittatoba – v. to trade; to swap; to shop passed your address needs to be changed, our Circulation De- Kaa il ittatoba tuk. We traded cars. partment would appreciate hearing from you at ext. 4028. 9. OTHER NEW BUSINESS 10. OLD BUSINESS aiitatoba– n. a place to shop; a market; a store; The BISKINIK is a nonprofit publication of the Choctaw commerce Nation. Circulation is monthly. Deadline for articles 11. ADJOURNMENT and photographs to be submitted is the first day of each 12. CLOSING PRAYER Aiittatoba mvt haksobish takali i lawa. month to run in the following month. All Council members were present (meeting was That shop has a lot of earrings. Editor’s note: Views and opinions in reader-submitted held in Council House) in person or via WebEx articles are solely those of the author and do not neces- (Perry Thompson). sarily represent those of the Choctaw Nation. www.choctawschool.com 6 BISKINIK July 2021 Sassafras Month – Kvfi Hvshi

Ernest Leroy Wood Mildred Jene Wells Lillian Faye Cagle

Ernest “Ernie” Leroy Wood, 87, Mildred Jene Wells, 86, passed Lillian Faye (Jones) Cagle, 69, passed away March 26, 2021. away April 26, 2021. passed away May 5, 2021. Ernie was born June 26, 1933, Mildred was born Dec. 21, 1934, Lillian was born Dec. 8, 1951, in in Norman, Okla., to Ernest and in Watson, Okla., to Herman and Centrahoma, Okla., to Clyde Jack Mary (Harris) Wood. Ollie Mae Lewis. and Edith Geneva (Martin) Jones. He was preceded in death by She was preceded in death by She was preceded in death by his parents; grandson Joshua her husband Albert; her parents; her parents; sister Sue Jones; and Morris; sisters Alline Hoyer, granddaughter Amber Dawn infant brother Randy Jones. Anna Faye Wood, and Louella Wells; great-granddaughter Sa- Lillian is survived by her Wood; and brothers Sherman Wood, Vernon Wood, and mara Wallis; and several brothers and sisters. husband Alvin Vernon Cagle Jr.; her children Jason Mac Wood. Mildred is survived by her children Darnette and Cagle and spouse Amy, Shane Cagle, Chey Anne Clifft Ernie is survived by his wife Keitha; son Stephen Larry Taylor, R.D. and Sherrie Wells, Danny and Rox- and spouse Jade, and Rachel Wood and spouse Jeremy; L. Wood and spouse Beth; daughter Marci Morris and anne Wells, Jannette Wells, Ronnie and Gerri Wells, and grandchildren Kaden, Briley, Gavin, Ashton, Cash, spouse Melvin; grandsons Stephen C. Wood and spouse Herman and Trish Wells; brother Cecil Lewis; sisters Hazin, Kynleigh, Parker, and Madison; sisters Nelda Amy, Justin Wood and spouse Sue, Tanner Wood, and Mackelene Clements and Charlene Battiest; grandchil- Osborn and Ginger Lynch and spouse Mike; brothers Tracye Wood; granddaughter Jessica Morris Scott and dren Melissa and Chet Patel, Duane and Kelly Wells, Billy Clyde Jones and spouse Pam, and Paul Jones and spouse David; great-granddaughters Sarah Wood, Au- Mitch and Tina Wells, Damon and Tanya Wells, Chris Amanda; numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and many drey Wood, and Paige Wood; great-grandsons Stephen Wells, Jeremy Wells, Brandy Wells, Cody and Rebecca dear friends. M. Wood and Elijah Scott; brothers Kenneth “Ken” Marie Wells, Jessica Wells and Briar Frady, Kyle Wells, For the full obituary, please visit Brown’s Funeral Service. Wood and spouse Georgia, and Gerald “Jerry” Wood and Terry Sprayberry; 19 great-grandchildren; and and spouse Michelle; along with many loved nieces and many other relatives and friends. Phyllis Ann Murphy nephews. For the full obituary, please visit Brumley Funeral Home. For the full obituary, please visit Sierra View Mortuary. Phyllis Ann (Benjamin) Mur- Donna Jean Wade phy, 82, passed away May 2, 2021. Bobby Dean Logsdon Phyllis was born July 6, 1938, Donna Jean Wade, 67, passed in Wardville, Okla., to Sampson Bobby Dean Logsdon, 69, away April 26, 2021. Simeon and Lura (Blair) Benja- passed away April 16, 2021. Donna was born August 30, min. Bobby was born Oct. 24, 1951, 1953, in Oklahoma City, Okla., She was preceded in death by in McAlester, Okla., to James T. to Oda Leon Wade and Mildred her parents; son Stacy Murphy; “Jim” and Leona Ruth (Hendrix) Delores (Wall) Wade. sisters Ruby Williams and Lillian Logsdon. She was preceded in death by Benjamin; and brother Buddy Blair Benjamin. He was preceded in death by her father; and daughter Beth Phyllis is survived by sons Sammy Dean Brook and his mother; and brother Jimmy Carrier. spouse Rachel, Buddy Brian Brook and spouse Sharon, D. Logsdon. Donna is survived by her son Dustin Wade Kusik; and Victor Nils Brook and spouse Kathy; daughter Bobby is survived by son Adam Hass and spouse grandchildren Grant Gaines and Kamber Carrier; her Ruby Renee Murphy; grandchildren Adam Brook and Jackie; daughters Hannah Hughes, and Candis Freder- mother; sister Becky Wyman and spouse Jim; brother Amanda Brooks, Alan Brook and spouse Tara, Syd- ick and spouse Bear; grandchildren Stoney Hass, Styner Bob Wade and spouse Frances; and many other loved ney Blair Brook, Hunter Brook, Audrey Brook, Olivia Hass, Steele Hass, Kyah Masters, Kase Frederick, and ones and friends. Brook, Averie Brook, and BJ Brewer and spouse Jenna; Hayden Hughes; his father; brother Donnie Lodgson For the full obituary, please visit Eisenhour Funeral Home. great-grandchildren Walker Brewer, Liza Leigh Brewer, and spouse Sherri; several nieces and nephews; spe- Abbey Brewer, Addison Brook, and Caleb Brook; along cial friend Cindy Riley; and other family members and Cinnamon D. LeFlore-Kelley with numerous nieces, nephews, and many dear friends. friends. For the full obituary, please visit Brown’s Funeral Service. For the full obituary, please visit Bishop Funeral Service. Cinnamon Dawn Leflore-Kelly, 52, passed away May 11, 2021. Weldon A. Brumley Linda Sue Welch Platt Cinnamon was born July 21, 1968, in Lawton, Okla., to Meb Weldon “Bud” A. Brumley, 89, passed away April 4, 2021. Linda Sue Welch Platt, 74, Jack and Peggy LeFlore. Bud was born Dec. 24, 1931, in passed away April 16, 2021. She was preceded in death by Stratford, Okla., to Jessie and Linda was born Aug. 25, 1946, in her father; brother Meb Jack Mabel Brumley. Stigler, Okla., to Olen Nixon and “Little Jack” Jr.; sister Sandra He was preceded in death by Viola Christy Haygood. Jackson; and stepdad Lewis “Son- his parents; and sisters Pauline She was preceded in death by ny” Timothy. Cox and Marg Nelson. her husbands Royce Welch and Cinnamon is survived by her husband Michael; her Bud is survived by his wife Jim Platt; her parents; stepdad mother Peggy; sisters Jacquelyn Lara and spouse Carolyn; daughters Jayna Eager and spouse Jim, Beth Jack Haygood; brothers Elbert Romero, Barbara Johnson and spouse Terry, and Ellen Eggleston, and Paula Evans; grandchildren Jason, Tim- and Gary Haygood; and nephew Dallas Jones. Conklin and spouse Joseph Jr.; brother David LeFlore; othy, Ethan, Tia, Talia, Emily, and Frank; great-grand- Linda is survived by son Bryan Welch and spouse special nephew Kyle “Kybaby” Fletcher; and traditional- children Claytin, Cambria, Wyatt, Willow, Poppy, Fox, Sonya; daughter Tamara Kinsey and spouse Larry; ly adopted brother Karl Beaston. and William; brother Ken Brumley. grandchildren Brandon and Brittany Welch; sisters For the full obituary, please visit Shipman Funeral Home. For the full obituary, please visit Biskinik. Erma Sallie and Shirley Jones; nieces Christy, Kelly, Dee Ann, Micki, Teresa, Brenda, Stephanie, and Alysa; and nephews Todd, Craig, Ron, and Kye. Billy Howard Talbot Anthony Lee Thompson For the full obituary, please visit Cornerstone Funeral home. Billy “Bill” Howard Talbot, 86, Anthony Lee Thompson, 70, passed away April 12, 2021. passed away May 1, 2021. Bill was born July 12, 1934, in Anthony was born July 6, 1950, Judy Ann Johnson Williams, Okla., to John Frank in Talihina, Okla., to Robert H. Talbot and Ruie Evelyn (Howard) Thompson Sr. and Susie Mae Judy Ann Johnson, 61, passed Wallet. (Polk) Thompson. away April 15, 2021. He was preceded in death by He was preceded in death by his Judy was born Feb. 16, 1960, his son William Patrick, his parents; paternal grandparents to Leonard and Tommie Jean parents; sister Mary Francis Hampton and Narcissa Thomp- Johnson. Hartness; aunt Francis Paolucci and her spouse Al; son; maternal grandfather Willis Cephus Polk; maternal She was preceded in death aunt Anna Mae Howard; and uncles Louie, Robert, and grandparents Stephen and Annie Eva (Carney) Roberts; by her infant son; her parents; J.D. Howard. brothers Harold Wayne Taylor, Robert H. Thompson Jr., brother Bruce Johnson; and niece Bill is survived by his wife Sharon; his son Mike Tal- and Leroy Thompson; and sister Diane Roberts. Cindy Johnson Martin. bot and spouse Rainey; daughter-in-law Michelle Talbot; Anthony is survived by his fiance’ Peggy Powell; Judy is survived by her husband Greg; son Michael and granddaughters Mackenzie Anne and Emily Paige daughters Malena Colby and spouse Darren, and Johnson and spouse Kati; daughter Alisha Speck and Talbot. Rochelle Bussey and spouse Will; grandsons Cruz and spouse Steven; brothers Tom Johnson and spouse For the full obituary, please visit Floral Haven Niko Colby, and Liam Bussey; brother Dean Thompson Peggy, and Mike Johnson and spouse Terrie; grandchil- Funeral Home. and spouse Sue; sisters Corliss Dwight and significant dren Hailey Wright, Trenton Johnson, Samara Johnson, other David Jacob, Laverne Tiger and spouse Jon, Deb- Gavin Johnson, Jacob Johnson, and Sophia Speck; along Donna Sue Ruble Stewart bie Wolfmule, and Phyllis Williston; numerous nieces with countless friends. and nephews; special friends Mack Jimmy, Delton Billy, For the full obituary, please visit Brown’s Funeral Service. Lester Noah, and Alicia and Tim Nevaquaya. Donna Sue (Ruble) Stewart, 61, For the full obituary, please visit Brumley Funeral Home. passed away Nov. 9, 2020. Christine Betsey-Benge Donna was born Jan. 16, 1959, in Fairbanks, Alaska, to Peggy James Lee Baker Christine Betsey-Benge, 88, Claudene Paddock and Richard passed away April 23, 2021. Cass Ruble. James “Jim” Lee Baker, 84, Christine was born July 11, She was preceded in death by passed away May 5, 2021. 1932, in Bentley, Okla., to Preston her husband Wayne Barrett; Jim was born March 23, 1937 and Frances (Wells) Bentley. her father; grandparents Claude in Lawton, Okla., and raised by She was preceded in death by and Maude Paddock; aunts Doris Thompson, Pauline his grandparents John and Ruth her parents; husband Eryon Les- Damron, Alieen Waffle; and cousins Teddy, Ronnie and Hayes. lie Benge; sons Marcellus Jobe Tommy Damron. He was preceded in death by his Benge and Edward Lee Pilcher; Donna is survived by her sons Dusty and Derrick grandparents; aunt Dr. Helen Har- siblings Alice Ward, Marie Baxter, Loretta Johnson, and Collins; grandson Ashton Collins; granddaughter Mkay- ris and spouse Dr. Edward Harris; Adam Betsey. la Collins; her mother; brothers Dale Ruble and Mike and his mother Mary Victoria McIntosh. Christine is survived by grandchildren Kryste Carter Ruble; sister Janet Hjermastad; and numerous cousins. Jim is survived by his wife Karen; his children James and spouse Jordan, Nathan Allen Benge, Elonka Ray For the full obituary, please visit Biskinik. Lee Baker Jr., John Rich, David Rich, Cindy Lessig and Voros, Maxwell Stern Dry, Joshua Lewis, and Desiree spouse Tom, Dr. Jonathan Baker and spouse Sharon, and Kinsley; 15 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and Karol Jean Hall LTC (P) Justin Baker and spouse Jennifer, grandchildren nephews; along with many dear friends and loved ones. Jeremy Rich, Matthew Rich, John Benton Jr., James Lee For the full obituary, please visit Brown’s Funeral Karol Jean Hall, 87, passed Baker III, Lawson Baker, and Bennett Baker; great-grand- Service-Atoka. away March 8, 2021. children James Lee Baker IV, Logan Rich, Lauren Rich, Karol was born Jan. 31, 1934, Avery Rich, Julianna Rich, Spencer Rich, and Corbin Rich; Sheryl Lynn Battiest in Tulsa, Okla., to Harry Edward nieces Dr. Rhonda Taylor and spouse Ron, Dr. Victoria and Marie (Taylor) Welsh. Gayle Harris, and Ruth Soucy JD and spouse Lewis; and Sheryl Lynn Battiest, 51, passed She was preceded in death by nephew Edward Harris and spouse Debi. away Feb. 7, 2021. her parents. For the full obituary, please visit Brown’s Funeral Home. Sheryl was born Nov. 18, 1969, Karol is survived by her chil- in Talihina, Okla., to Dorothy dren Mark Hall, Jana Pickles, Jean Battiest and Marcus Ray and Kary Crouch; their spouses Marilyn, Graham, and Obituary Policy Battiest Jr. John; and grandchildren Gavin Hall, Shelby Hall, Philip She is survived by daughters Welty, Tyler Welty, and Kristin Hymel. Obituary submissions are for Choctaw Nation tribal mem- Erica Battiest, Jessica Battiest, For the full obituary, please visit Floral Haven bers only and are free of charge. The Biskinik will only accept obituary notices from funer- Natalie Battiest, and Desiree Car- Funeral Home. rillo; grandson Christian Battiest-Andrade; sister Lisa al homes. Family members/individuals may submit funeral notices Battiest; and sons-in-law Sergio Andrade and Rafael David Wickson III as long as the notice is from the funeral home or printed in Crisostomo. their local newspaper through a funeral home service. For the full obituary, please visit Biskinik. David Dewayne Wickson III, 45, Full-length handwritten notices will not be accepted. The passed away Feb. 25, 2021. Biskinik strives to serve all Choctaws. Therefore, any hand- Helen Jane Edwards David was born June 13, 1975, written notices received will be searched online for official in Talihina, Okla., to David funeral home notices. If none are found, efforts will be made to contact the family and make arrangements for an official Helen Jane Edwards, 82, passed “Dave” Wickson Jr. and Shirley notice. away April 22, 2021. Noah Wickson. Due to space limitations, there is a 150 word limit for obit- Helen was born in Wauri- He was preceded in death by uaries. The online issue of the Biskinik will contain links to ka, Okla., to Eldon and Esther his parents; and sister Veanna the full obituaries. (Nowell) Garrison. Wickson. She was preceded in death by David is survived by his wife Sharon; Tyler Wickson Send official obituary notices to: her parents. and spouse Elisha; sisters Jackie Smith, Sharon Deal, Helen is survived by her hus- Rhonda Wickson, and Rachel Battiest; numerous nieces, Biskinik band Don; daughters Cathy Eley nephews, cousins, and a host of other family, friends PO Box 1210 and spouse Mark, and Cindy Tekobbe and spouse Chris; and loved ones. Durant OK 74702 10 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. For the full obituary, please visit Miller & Miller or email: [email protected] For the full obituary, please visit Biskinik. Funeral Home. July 2021 Sassafras Month – Kvfi Hvshi BISKINIK 7

Shirley Mae Summers Sharon Faye McNoel James Ray Loman

Shirley Mae Dees Summers, 80, Sharon Faye McNoel, 65, James Ray Loman, 77, passed passed away May 24, 2021. passed away May 20, 2021. away May 31, 2021. Shirley was born Sept. 25, 1940, Sharon was born May 8, 1956, James was born July 26, 1943, in Bee, Okla., to Edger Ralph in Fort Smith, Ark., to John and in Antlers, Okla., to Jimmy Lo- Dees Jr. and Ruby Mae Kin- Agnes (Tom) McNoel. man and Myrtle Wesley Loman. near-Bouse. She was preceded in death He was preceded in death by She was preceded in death by by her parents; sisters Melba his parents; and brothers Rich- her son Steven Eugene Wright, Woolard and Loretta Shipman; ard, Lloyd, Howard, Bobby, and and her parents. brother Billy King; and her J.W. Hampton. Shirley is survived by her husband Warren; sons special aunt Sina Ohler, who raised her, and she called James is survived by his wife Lucille; son Phillip Clifford Edwin Wright Jr. and spouse Brenda, and Kevin mom. James; daughters Kristy Lynn Cox and spouse Les, and Lynn Wright and spouse Nancy; granddaughter Bailey Sharon is survived by her sisters Mildred Gish, Betty Deborah Lynn Bentley and spouse Scott; grandchildren Erin Clovis and spouse Chipper; grandson Gage Wright; Karbo, Donna Robinson, Deborah McNoel, and Lisa Rayna, Raegan, and Bryce Bentley, and Hailey, Jordan, and great-grandson Banks Christopher Clovis. Schalski; brothers Floyd McNoel and Ricky Schalski; and Corey Cox; siblings Terry Loman and spouse Mer- For the full obituary, please visit Walker Funeral and numerous nieces, nephews, other family, and friends. ry, Clara Battice and Vic Eyachabbe, Paula Jones and Cremation Service. For the full obituary, please visit Mallory Funeral Home. spouse Jimmy, Ruby Theophilidis and spouse Steve, and Iwana Morris; as well as numerous nephews, nieces, June Loretta Greenwood Chiverle Ann Raymond and cousins. For the full obituary, please visit Serenity Funeral Service. June Loretta Greenwood, 95, Chiverle Ann (Bell) Raymond, passed away May 11, 2021. 69, passed away May 17, 2021. Robert Wayne Wagoner June was born Feb. 1, 1926, in Chiverle was born Jan. 27, 1952, Coalgate, Okla., to Preston and in Poteau, Okla., to Davis Wesley Robert “Robby” Wayne Wagon- Vera Ethel Locks Pebworth. Jr. and Gertie (Qualls) Bell. er, 54, passed away May 10, 2021. She was preceded in death by She was preceded in death Robby was born May 7, 1967, in her daughter Patricia Ann Tilus. by her sisters Aline and Mary; Oklahoma City, Okla., to Wayne June is survived by her grand- brothers Everet, Dee and J.W.; and Carmen Wagoner. children Brenda Williams, twin grandsons Marcus and Josh- He was preceded in death by Berenice Voss, Bonita Cleveland, and David Tilus; ua; and her mother. his grandmother Inez Woods; great-grandchildren Ashly, Nathan, Kayla, Cody, Chiverle is survived by daughters Latasha Carshall his parents; and brother Kevin Michael, Thomas, Rebeca, David, and Rachel; and and Rebecca, and Felisha Raymond; sons Stanley Ray- Wagoner. great-great-grandchildren Tyler and Mira. mond and spouse Paige, Dakota Raymond and spouse Robby is survived by his daughters Ashleigh Spaid For the full obituary, please visit Criswell Funeral Homes. Shalyn, Herb Raymond and Roger Raymond; grandchil- and spouse Lucas, Jaden Wagoner and boyfriend Uriel dren India, LaBryant, Tywon, Kaius, Tenten, Abigail, Baca; and Jett Wagoner and fiance Shawn Hampsten; Jeanette Lois Torres Easton, Miken, Graysin, and Emmarie; sister Bertha son Trey Wagoner; grandchildren Charlie and Chase Miller; and other relatives. Spaid, and Lydia Baca; extended family Dick and Bever- Jeanette Lois Torres, 66, passed For the full obituary, please visit Evans and Miller ly Hall, Robyn Wagoner and sons Nathan and Ty Smith; away May 10, 2021. Funeral Home. and a host of close lifelong friends and work associates. Jeanette was born June 21, For the full obituary, please visit Alan Clark Funeral 1954, in Talihina, Okla., to Sylves- Services. ter Emil Scott and Lonie Will- Karen Ilene Stundon mond Scott. She was preceded in death Karen Ilene (Wickham) Stun- Gerald Leslie James by her parents; husband Willie don, 74, passed away May 21, 2021. Juan Torres; daughter Gail Scott; Karen was born Nov. 26, 1946, Gerald “Jerry” Leslie James, grandson Damien Ruston; nephew Greg Tate; sisters in Los Angeles, Calif. to Charles 62, passed away May 27, 2021. Sisteline Kusler, Bobbie Scott, and Earline Marrie; and and Ilene (McCormick) Wickham. Jerry was born June 29, 1958, brothers Quincy Scott, Roy Scott, and Gary Scott. She was preceded in death by in Lone Pine, Calif., to Leslie Jeanette is survived by her children Chayo Torres, her parents. Roy and Geraldine “Jo” (Harris) Hershel Torres, Amy Milliron, Artenio Torres, and Karen is survived by Lee Lin- James. Marisela Torres; 16 grandchildren; six great-grandchil- nell; her children Kelly Buck and He was preceded in death by dren; sister Patricia Cly; numerous nieces, nephews, spouse William, Lora Johnson and spouse William, and his parents; and sister Regina and cousins. John Stundon and spouse Diane; grandchildren Tyler Gayle James. For the full obituary, please visit Watts Funeral Home. W. Stundon, Jessica Johnson, Kyle Buck, Jaimie Chris- Jerry is survived by sisters Marcia James and Jayson tensen and spouse Joe, Dawson Johnson and spouse Dailey, and Dodie Bowers and spouse Dennis; brother Rita Fay Scott Anna, Justin Stundon, Haley Stundon, and Jaren Buck; Garry James and spouse Shelly; nieces Carmen Futch, great-grandchildren Wyatt Johnson, Renly Christensen, Raeanna “Baby Rae” and Robert “Boo” Shoat, Leo- Rita Fay Scott, 66, passed away Gwyneth Christensen, and Remy Johnson; and sister na Ward and spouse Dustin, Leslie Clark and spouse April 11, 2021. Pamela Anderson and spouse Merlin. Daniel, Valerie James and Dustin Gomez, and Vanessa Rita was born July 16, 1954, in For the full obituary, please visit George Boom James and Ray Eidinger; nephews Frank Johnson, An- Marietta, Okla., to Frank and La- Funeral Home. thony James, and Zachary James; numerous great-niec- verne (Brokeshoulder) Johnson. es and great-nephews; other relatives, loved ones, and She was preceded in death by Rachel Mays friends. her parents; father-in-law Charles For the full obituary, please visit Evans Funeral home. Scott; brother-in-law Tim Scott; Rachel Mays, 70, passed away brothers Calvin “Sonny”, Jim May 19, 2021. Betty Carrol Shaffer “Tiny”, Ronnie, Bill, and Kenneth “Pookie”; nephew Rachel was born Aug. 9, 1950, in Bennington, Okla., to Boswell who was like a brother Russell; and sister-in-law Lavelle Betty Carrol (Pool) Shaffer, 84, “Buster” and Alice (Brokeshoul- Johnson. passed away May 23, 2021. der) Bully. Rita is survived by her husband Larry; daughter Betty was born Aug. 10, 1936, in She was preceded in death by Lesley Scott Rackley and spouse Lee; son David Scott Durant, Okla., to Ike and Margie her parents; brothers Paul Bully and girlfriend Dawn; mother-in-law Ann Scott Thomp- Lou (Wilson) Pool. and Bill Bully; and sisters Mary son; sisters Shirley Thompson and spouse Edwin, and She was preceded in death by Floyd and Margie Brown. Barbara Williams; in-laws Lorraine Johnson, Andrea her husband Jack; granddaugh- Rachel is survived by her husband Kenneth; son Kirk Johnson, Virginia Johnson, Tony and Robbie Scott, and ter Angie Trent; her parents; Mays; daughter Terri Mays; grandchildren Trenver Greg and Kathy Scott; many nieces, nephews, numerous brother Bill Pool; and sister Anne Mays and Covin Mays; brother Roy Bully; sisters Patri- great-nieces and great-nephews; and dear family friend Parker. cia Bully, Emma Bully, Marie Haag, and Donna Bully; Jane Dupy. Betty is survived by son Wayne Trent and spouse along with a host of other friends, family, and loved For the full obituary, please visit Biskinik. Eunice; daughters Carol Trent-Castrop and spouse ones. Tommy, and Beth Taylor and spouse Randy; grandchil- For the full obituary, please visit Miller and Miller Newana Carlene Ferrall dren Lonette VanMieghem, Andrew Yocum, Cory Trent, Funeral Home. Dillon Yocum, Kyle Podrecca, and Carson Taylor; and Newana “Bullet” Carlene eight great-grandchildren. (Crowder) Ferrall, 91, passed Cameron Ashley Parks For the full obituary, please visit McNeils Funeral away April 26, 2021. Home. Bullet was born Sept. 17, 1929, Cameron Ashley Parks, 27, in Blanchard, Okla., to Carl Ath- passed away May 22, 2021. erton Crowder and Nellie Myrtle Cameron was born Oct. 13, Loretta Connie Wooley (Madden) Crowder. 1993, in Hugo, Okla., to Shane and She was preceded in death by Andrea (Booth) Parks. Loretta Connie Wooley, 95, sons Carl Richard Ferrall and He was preceded in death by passed away May 23, 2021. Jim Wietelman. his paternal grandmother, Delta Loretta was born Oct. 15, 1925, Bullet is survived by her children Neshia Ronzello Anderson. in McAlester, Okla., to Wallace and Bill Wietelman; and nieces and nephews. Cameron is survived by his and Delphia (Pearce) Jefferson. For the full obituary, please visit Advantage Funeral parents; sister Samantha Parks; niece Harper Parks; She is preceded in death by and Cremation Services. paternal grandparents Lonnie and Pattie Parks; mater- her parents; husband Bob; sons nal grandparents Larry and Kathy Booth; many aunts, Roger Stone and Samuel Wooley; Ellis Ray Jefferson uncles, and cousins; and a host of other family, friends, daughter Bonny Lee Wooley; and loved ones. grandchildren Bobby Shannon and Laura Lee Shannon; brothers Wallace, Cleno, Ulis, Johnny, and Otis Jeffer- Ellis Ray Jefferson, 65, passed For the full obituary, please visit Miller and Miller son; and sister Ruth Jackson. away May 17, 2021. Funeral Home. Loretta is survived by daughters Iris Hallbert and Ellis was born Nov. 27, 1955, in spouse Chuck, and Carol Sibole and Donny James; DeQueen, Ark., to Elliston and James Larry Wood grandchildren Kim Mason, Annetta Grinnell, Carol Ella Mae (Baker) Jefferson. Ann Brummett, Charles Hallbert III, Robert Hallbert, He was preceded in death by James “Jim” Larry Wood, 69, Samantha Walker, Sam Wooley, Jason , and his parents; his first wife Theda passed away Dec. 30, 2020. Bretton Lee James; great-grandchildren Tyler Mason, Monahan Jefferson; sons Buddy Jim was born July 14, 1951, to Ashley Shannon, Casey Grinnell, Cody Grinnell, Caitlin and Anthony Monahan; sister James Daniel Wood and Mary Stubblefield, Johnny Brummett, Garrett Brummett, Debbie Jefferson; brother Williston Jefferson; and many Virginia Clyma Wood Sasser and Soren Hallbert, Seth Hallbert, Adrianna Hallbert, cousins and other family. was raised by his grandparents Caitlyn Wilson, Cyprus Hallbert, Cara James, Carsyn Ellis is survived by his wife Audrey Jefferson; sister James Ona and Martha Lou Zena James, and Coda James; 10 great-great-grandchildren; Jan Jefferson; grandchildren Savannah, Jordyn, Bran- Wood in Keota, Okla. brother Thomas Jefferson; sister Alice Marie Hayes; and dyn, and Ashlyn; daughter-in-law Dyanna Monahan; He is survived by his wife Di- numerous nieces and nephews. special cousins Austin Jefferson and Alton Noahubi; ane; children James Wood and spouse Anjeana, Victoria For the full obituary, please visit Brumley-Mills Fu- special friends Linda and Emerson Wilson; along with Wood and spouse Dustin Wallace, and Patrick Wood; neral Home. other relatives and many friends. grandchildren Michael Wood, Amanda West Laws, Da- For the full obituary, please visit Brumley Funeral Home. kota Wood, Niandra West Murillo, Sadie Wood, Cassidie Wallace, Baylee Wallace, and Katie Wallace; and four Geneva Ann Cole Tulsi Ann Courson great-grandsons. For the full obituary, please visit Cornerstone Geneva Ann Cole, 79, passed away Feb. 21, 2021. Tulsi Ann Courson, age 12 Funeral Home. Geneva was born June 27, 1941 to Roy Cole and Rena days, passed away May 17, 2021. Austin Cole. Tulsi was born April 25, 2021 in Benjamin Franklin Britton She was preceded in death by her parents; and sib- Houston, TX., to Brian Lee and lings Mattie Lois Ross, Odis Cole, and Lena Cole. Erica Nicole (Long) Courson. Benjamin Franklin Britton, 82, Geneva is survived by brother Raymond Cole and She was preceded in death passed away May 15, 2021. spouse Marilyn; nieces Deborah Cole, and Erin Alex- by her grandfather Robert Benjamin was born Feb. 27, ander and spouse Jonathan; several other “adopted” Wardrope. 1939 to Walter Britton and Pearl family members whom she loved and treated as her Tulsi is survived by her par- Battles-Britton. own; along with many friends. ents; siblings Blaydon, Brynleigh, Rocco, and Tucker He was preceded in death by For the full obituary, please visit Biskinik. Courson; grandparents Jason and Jerica Thompson, his parents; and his son Benny and Jason and Janice Stover; great-grandparents Ron- Britton. Melinda Dawn Dellinger nie Rainey, Cora Wardrope, and Sue Yarbrough; and Benjamin is survived by aunts and uncles Fisher and Gunner Stover, Kristen and his wife Mindy; six children; 12 grandchildren; 13 Melinda Dawn Dellinger, 52, passed away May 6, 2021. John Thompson, Kenley Thomson, Shacole Thompson, great-grandchildren; and sisters Juanita Burnett and Melinda was born Dec. 6, 1968. Dakota Judd, Rusty and Chelsea Long. Ann Stringer. She is survived by her son Brawn. For the full obituary, please visit Brown’s Funeral Service. For the full obituary, please visit Wulf-Ast Mortuary. For the full obituary, please visit Biskinik. 8 BISKINIK July 2021 Sassafras Month – Kvfi Hvshi Jones Academy Class of 2021

Shyanne Renee Donovan is the 18-year- onship for the First Annual Student Success old daughter of Angel Scott of Chickasha, Center Corn Hole Tournament. Damario’s Oklahoma, and Zak Donovan of Cordell, future plans include receiving training Oklahoma. She is a member of the Sem- from the Talking Leaves Jobs Corp Center inole Tribe of Oklahoma. Shyanne first in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. His attention to enrolled at Jones Academy in 2016. She was detail and focus will be invaluable as he inducted into the National at pursues a career in building construction. Hartshorne High School. Shyanne has been Shyanne Renee Donovan Alysia Gabriela Lewis Damario Jevon Lewis Jaylee Jean Moore Jaylee Jean Moore is the 17-year-old an active member of the Family, Career and daughter of Patrick and Jamie Moore Community Leaders of America, Harts- of Hartshorne, Oklahoma. Jaylee is an horne High School Student Council, and enrolled member of the Pawnee Nation of the varsity Color Guard team. She was also Oklahoma. During her time at Hartshorne the president of the Unity Youth Council at High School, Jaylee excelled both at basket- Jones Academy and active in the American ball and in the classroom. She was selected Indian Science and Engineering Society for the all-state teams of the Oklahoma . She was enrolled in Health Ca- Girls Basketball Coaches Association, the reers Certification classes at the Kiamichi Oklahoma Native All-State Association, and Technology Center and received licensing the Oklahoma Coaches Association 2021 All- as both a Certified Nursing Assistant and a Star by Class Girls Basketball Team. Jaylee Basic Medical Assistant. Shyanne has en- also made the All-Area team in the Pick rolled at Eastern Oklahoma State College in and Shovel Classic basketball tournament Jordan Alando Nash Muh-Jutheen Roberts Christefer Trejo Rains Wilburton, Oklahoma, where she will enter in Hartshorne. In her academics, Jaylee the RN program. was inducted into the Oklahoma Honor Alysia Gabriela Lewis has been a resi- Society. She served on the student council at homa. He was active in Family, Career and Academy in August of 2011. Christefer was dent of Jones Academy since August 2016. Hartshorne High School and was active on Community Leaders of America at Harts- the student president of both the Family, She is the 18-year-old daughter of Gregory the Unity Youth Council at Jones Academy. horne High School and was vice president Career and Community Leaders of America and Chanda Goings from Smithville, Okla- Jaylee has received an athletic scholarship on Jones Academy’s Unity Youth Council. at Hartshorne High School and the Student homa. Alysia is a member of the Choctaw to play basketball at Eastern Oklahoma He also participated in high school varsity Council. He has been a member of 4-H, Bot- Nation of Oklahoma. She completed her State College in Wilburton, Oklahoma, and basketball and track and field. Muh is a ball team, treasurer and member at large of Teacher Prep/Early Care and Education complete her general studies. Grass Dancer. Since his birth and before he the Unity Youth Council, and a member of course work at the Kiamichi Technology Jordan Alando Nash first enrolled at could walk, Muh and his family have partic- the American Indian Science and Engineer- Center in McAlester, Oklahoma, and did Jones Academy in 2012. He is the 19-year-old ipated in pow wows and tribal gatherings, ing Society at Jones Academy. Christefer her worksite learning at Jones Academy El- son of Courtney McClendon of Choctaw, traveling throughout 48 states and most of was in the Bio-Med Program at the Kia- ementary. Alysia was named as a KTC Star Mississippi. Jordan is a member of the Mis- Canada. He has dedicated his young life to michi Technology Center in McAlester, Ambassador in 2019-2020. She was an active sissippi Band of Choctaw Indians. During Grass Dancing, promoting and teaching the Oklahoma, and was active in the Health member of the Hartshorne High School his time at Jones Academy, Jordan was on rich traditions of his Indian culture. Muh Occupations Students of America. During Band and Color Guard for four years. Alysia the Hartshorne High School’s varsity foot- dances on weekends, during school holi- his senior year, he was selected as a finalist was named the 2021 Hartshorne Band ball and basketball teams. While at Jones days and summer breaks, in competitions for the Bill Gates Scholarship. Christefer Student of the Year. She has enrolled at Academy, he was Member at Large for the and exhibitions. He is proud of his Native has enrolled at East Central University this East Central University in Ada, Oklahoma, Jones Academy Unity Youth Council. In upbringing and heritage and honors his fall to begin his studies in pre-med. where she plans to study psychology. the fall, he will attend classes at the Talking ancestors through his passion for dancing. Damario Jevon Lewis is the 19-year-old Leaves Jobs Corp Center in Tahlequah, Muh plans to attend Haskell Indian Nations son of Gregory and Chanda Goings and the Oklahoma. Jordan dreams of operating his University in Lawrence, Kansas, and is Due to space limitations, the Biskinik grandson of Atheline Lewis and of Norman own landscape business. interested in sports medicine. doesn’t run high school graduation an- Goings. Damario is from Smithville, Okla- nouncements outside of Jones Academy. Muh-Jutheen Roberts is the 18-year-old Christefer Trejo Rains is the son of homa, and a member of the Choctaw Nation Jones Academy is a residential school for son of Dale and Rowena Roberts of At- Stephanie Rains and Lucio Trejo of Okla- of Oklahoma. He has attended Jones Acad- grades 1-12, tribally controlled by the Choc- wood, Oklahoma. Muh has been a resident homa City, Oklahoma. He is 19 years old emy for four years. Damario distinguished taw Nation of Oklahoma. of Jones Academy for two years and is a and a descendant of the Choctaw Nation of himself this year by winning the Champi- member of the Choctaw Nation of Okla- Oklahoma. Christefer first enrolled at Jones Ethan Williams Hibbs named Smith NWOSU qualifies for Udall Intern freshman athlete State of the year The Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall Founda- Ethan Williams, and his NWOSU Athletics an- tion and the Native Nations team qualified for the Texas nounced their 2021 North- Institute at The University High School State Champi- wespy . Emily Smith, of Arizona are pleased to onship at Lake Texoma. The a 2020 graduate of Holden- announce the selection of the 15-year-old Choctaw tribal ville High School, was named 2021 Native American Congressional Interns. The program’s member attends White Oak the Female Freshman Athlete of the Year at Northwestern newest class of Udall Interns comprises five students rep- High School in White Oak, Texas. He is an avid hunter and Oklahoma State University. Smith was the top cross-coun- resenting five tribes and five universities from around the fisherman. He has spent the last five spring breaks fishing for try runner for the Rangers at each meet this year. In track country. The Udall Interns were selected by an independent crappie at Atoka Lake with his Uncle Bob. and field, she set school records in the 100m-hurdles and the review committee on the basis of academic achievement, White Oak High School won the state tournament in 2018. 400m-hurdles and the 400 x 4 relay. Smith also received honors leadership and demonstrated commitment to careers in tribal During the tournament, competitors can only keep five fish as the Great American Conference Female Track Athlete of public policy. that are at least 14 inches long. The team that has the most the Week in April after the meet in Wichita, KS. Logan Hibbs is a member of the Choctaw Nation of Okla- total weight wins. Smith is also a scholar in the classroom, and she maintains homa and is currently pursuing a Juris Doctorate from the This year, Ethan’s team placed 147 out of 243 teams with a 4.0 GPA. She is majoring in music education at NWOSU. Em- University of Oklahoma College of Law. As an undergraduate four fish and a total weight of 9.05 lbs. ily is an enrolled member of the Choctaw Tribe of Oklahoma. at the University of Tulsa, Logan wrote two research papers analyzing the sociological and legal significance of the Indian Child Welfare Act and the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. Atoka Head Start students Logan previously interned for the Choctaw Nation’s Judicial Center and for the Native American Institute at Southeastern Jaxon Thorpe McCurtain participate in garden study Oklahoma State University. After graduating from law school, Jaxon Thorpe McCur- Logan hopes to represent tribal governments in litigation tain was born April 5, The Choctaw Head Start in Atoka participated in a garden focusing on economic development and tribal sovereignty. study over the past six weeks. The children planted lettuce in 2021, at Crouse Memorial the green house at the Choctaw Community Center. Hospital in Syracuse, Each week the children and staff made walking field trips Dr. Mark Yeary New York. He weighed six to water and pick the lettuce; the lettuce was harvested and pounds, five ounces and prepared for lunch for the children. Councilman Anthony receives was 19 inches long. Dillard also assisted in our gardening study. During this Jaxon is the son of Jay study children learned about fruits and vegetables, growing On April 27, 2021, Dr. and Brenda McCurtain of foods, harvesting foods, and cooking. Mark Yeary, a professor of Clinton, New York. He is Electrical & Computer En- the grandson of the late gineering at the University Jay Tee McCurtain and of Oklahoma (OU), re- Angelita Diaz of Texas. ceived the Award for Excel- Jaxon is the great-grand- lence in Research Grants son of the late Jim and Edna McCurtain. He is the from OU’s Office of the great-great-grandson of the late Jackson Haskel Sr. Vice President of Research and Ernestine McCurtain. & Partnerships. Dr. Yeary is the principal investigator on a new project titled “Near- field Scanner and Projects for Advanced Digital Radar” Dean graduates from the U.S. Department of Defense, Office of Naval Re- search. Under Dr. Yeary’s leadership with his large team, from East Central the project will allow for the development of a state-of- the-art antenna measurement system, host collaborative Elaine (Lainey) Dean experiments to enhance the nation’s security and train graduated from East Central the next generation of students. The three-year project University in May. She Wood celebrates 99 years will create the largest near-field scanner in the nation at graduated with honors and a university and will be housed at OU’s Advanced Radar was East Central Universi- Mary Norman Wood celebrated her 99th birthday Research Center (ARRC). The face of the scanner will ty’s Social Work Student of June 16. She is hoping to announce next year, that be 20 feet by 20 feet and will enable OU to characterize the Year. she has reached the milestone of 100 years. Mary its large mobile phased array radar systems. In brief, Lainey and her family is the granddaughter of Ida Stanley Norman and Dr. Yeary has been with OU since 2002, where he is a would like to thank the daughter of Alvy Norman who were original Dawes Hudson-Torchmark Presidential Professor and founding Choctaw Nation for helping enrollees. Mary is still active, plays bridge, and member of the ARRC. He serves as a Faculty Advisor to her achieve her dreams. Her lives in her home. She enjoys being with her two OU’s American Indians in Science & Engineering Society family is so proud of Lainey sons, daughter-in-law, three grandchildren and five (AISES) chapter. His parents are Jim and Gail Yeary of and are proud to be a part of great-grandchildren. 5.167” x 3” Biskinik Purcell, Oklahoma. the Choctaw Nation. CHAHTA VLLA APELA

Home-Based Parenting

For information call (800) 522-6170 or visit https://bit.ly/outreach-services July 2021 Sassafras Month – Kvfi Hvshi BISKINIK 9

ITI FABVSSA A New Chahta Homeland: A History by the Decade, 1880-1890

Iti Fabvssa is currently running a se- mines while still managing intrud- very design of the program. For the ries that covers the span of Oklahoma ers that did not have permits to be on U.S. government, which increasingly Choctaw history. By examining each Choctaw lands. This made the existing no longer wanted to deal with Indig- decade since the Choctaw government permit system more important than enous nations but still wanted their arrived in our new homelands using ever. In this system, all non-Choctaw lands, allotment would destroy the Choctaw-created documents, we will citizens were required to hold a permit “tribal way of life.” Traditional Choc- get a better understanding of Choctaw to live and work within the boundaries taws often opposed allotment precisely ancestors’ experiences and how they of the Choctaw Nation. By this time, because it would disrupt Choctaw laws made decisions that have led us into miners were the most common workers and governance. Choctaws who were the present. This month, we will cover coming to Choctaw Territory. Mining familiar with American culture and/or 1880-1890, an era in which Choctaw companies, which were often owned had a business oriented mindset were Nation worked to maintain sovereignty and operated by railroad companies, often pro-allotment. They often saw in the face of the growing influence of paid 25 cents per individual per month. allotment as an opportunity to advance non-Choctaws living within the Choc- This permit fee was usually deducted their own personal riches. Fortunately taw Nation. from each miner’s monthly earnings. for Choctaws and the other Five Tribes, Throughout the 1880’s, the Choctaw When miners went on strike in an the General Allotment Act did not ap- Nation faced increasing challenges to effort to gain better safety conditions ply to them. Because of the foresight of upholding our own laws within our for themselves, mining companies their leaders during removal, the Five lands. Due to the growth of the railroad used the Choctaw permit requirement Tribes’ treaties prevented the applica- and mining industries, the non-Choc- against the miners by stopping the tion of allotment to their territories. taw population soon outnumbered permit payment of striking individuals. But this did not stop the threat of Choctaw citizens. This put more pres- By stopping those payments, striking allotment altogether. Congress, the U.S. sure on the Choctaw government to in- miners were deemed to be intruders to Bureau of Indian Affairs, and individ- novate new ways to protect their lands. Choctaw Nation and could be removed. ual settlers pushed for Choctaw and In 1875, Chief Coleman Cole signed into To ensure people followed Choctaw other Five Tribes’ lands to be allotted, law the office of the National Agent, laws, Choctaw Nation continued to Four members of the Choctaw Lighthorse- and the negotiations became a defining who would “act as agent for the sale rely on their Lighthorsemen, the law men, circa 1928. Seated left to right are El- feature of the 1890-1900 decade that we of timber, stone and stone coal, to any enforcement in the Nation. lis Austin and Stanley Benton. Standing on will discuss in next month’s Iti Fabvssa. railroad company for the construction In 1824, General Council passed a the left is Peter Conser. Box 1, Otis Leader Next month, we will cover the period and repairing of said railroad, within law establishing the Lighthorsemen in Collection, Oklahoma Historical Society Re- of 1890-1900 when the Dawes Commis- the limits of the nation.” Such an indi- the homelands. After removal, Choc- search Division. sion went to Indian Territory to nego- vidual would help prevent people from taws used Lighthorsemen to maintain passed the General Allotment Act. Also tiate the possibility of allotment with going into Choctaw lands on their own the law and manage the courts. But known as the Dawes Act, the law was Choctaw leaders and the results of the and taking all the resources from the Lighthorsemen could only enforce developed by Senator Henry L. Dawes. allotment process which included the community. Choctaw leaders wanted to laws regarding Choctaw citizens. This law would divide up all Indian and the Curtis Act. be sure there was a balance of industri- Non-Choctaws were handled by the U.S. nations’ lands and force individuals to Additional reading resources on this al development and enough resources government. If a non-Choctaw broke a become private property owners. By period are available on the Choctaw Na- for the people. Choctaw law, a U.S. agent would have to owning land as private property, this tion Cultural Service webpage (https:// The non-Choctaw citizen population come and arrest them. But because of would assimilate Choctaws and other choctawnationculture.com/choc- within the Choctaw Nation grew rap- the distance between Choctaw Terri- Indigenous people into the U.S. politi- taw-culture/additional-resources.aspx). idly with the expansion of the railroad tory and Arkansas, where U.S. agents cal-economic system and make it easier Follow along with this Iti Fabvssa se- and the mining industries. Since the were based, the journey took a long for non-Natives to take their land. ries in print and online at https://www. Choctaw Nation wanted to use these time and sometimes US agents would Allotment increasingly became an issue choctawnation.com/history-culture/ industries as modes of economic not come at all that divided Choctaws. By dividing up history/iti-fabvssa. If you have ques- development, Choctaw officials faced Toward the end of this decade, land, it would fundamentally disrupt tions or would like more information the challenging task of balancing the allotment loomed as a threat to the the Choctaw way of life and their form on the sources, please contact Megan influx of migrant workers for the coal Choctaw Nation. In 1887, Congress of government. This was part of the Baker at [email protected]. Softball coach determined to beat cancer with help from team, community and Nation By Chris Jennings them to do the things that sometimes require extra According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), prodding when dealing Native Americans have a higher rate of cancer than with teenagers. white people in the United States. The CDC says the Jimmie’s mother, Karen most significant differences in cancer rates between Wyrick, said, “They got a Native American men and white men were found in little momentum up and Alaska, followed by the Southern Plains, Southwest, and said, coach, we’re going Northern Plains. to get this. They keep his Regardless of where you live, when a family member spirits up.” is diagnosed with cancer, it hits home. A recent cancer Another testament to diagnosis for Jimmie Wyrick stopped him in his tracks. the team’s tenacity came “It’s like the world just kind of stopped,” said Wyrick. when they told their coach Wyrick, the softball coach in Broken Bow, Oklahoma, they were going to win for was diagnosed with non-Hodgkins lymphoma in March him. Submitted photo of 2021 at the Choctaw Nation Healthcare Center in “They really stepped up Talihina. and said, hey, we’re good The 2021 Broken Bow Lady Savages State Champion team. enough to win. Let’s just go From the doctors in Talihina and Idabel to the trans- the players] elevated their game,” said Ward. win one for coach,” said Wyrick. portation department helping with traveling expenses Earlier in the season, the team had shirts with a And win, they did. Despite Wyrick missing the first to Paris, Texas, Wyrick is grateful for all the support he green lymphoma awareness made to honor their three games of the season for treatments, the girls were has received. coach. When girls from the competing teams asked what able to earn a trip to the state finals in Shawnee. Wyrick said, “I’m thankful for the Choctaw Nation that was about, the news of Wyrick’s diagnoses spread Often, when someone is diagnosed with cancer, it and everything they’ve done.” through the ball fields. knocks them down, and they have to come from behind When Wyrick told his softball team about his diagno- Karen Wyrick said what usually happens when a team to get ahead of the disease. It was no different with the sis, they were in a state of shock. loses in the finals is they’ll load up the bus and head Lady Savages softball team in the state tournament. “They were very heartbroken for about a week be- home. This year, though, several teams stuck around to Wyrick said, “We’re down eight to one in the first cause they thought that I wasn’t going to be with them. see what would happen and support the Savages’ coach. game, we were at risk of getting run-ruled, and then we I had to explain to them that, hey, this is something I’m Karen said, “When it came out he won, there wasn’t a came back to win nine to eight.” going to be able to endure; I’m going to have good days dry eye in the stadium.” The other games were no different; the Savages came and bad days,” said Wyrick. Tony Ward said to her that this was meant to be. from behind in every game, finally getting ahead to beat After treatments had started, the girls could see that Wyrick’s mother said one parent from another team their opponent each time, just as Wyrick is determined Wyrick was tired. When you have an entire team of even told her if they had to lose, they were glad it was to to beat his cancer. young women accustomed to working hard to achieve Broken Bow. Choctaw Nation Councilman Tony Ward, whose their goals, you can’t expect them to sit still and watch Wyrick has a simple message that he wishes to pass daughter also plays on the team, was present at the someone struggle. on to his girls. “I tried to let them see, just because life state tournament. Wyrick often tells his girls to button up the chin strap has dealt you a difficult situation, it doesn’t mean that “They did play for him; they got together as a team. and take their struggles head-on to remain as positive life is going to stop,” said Wyrick. It wasn’t just the all-stars that made the big plays in the as they can. After the initial shock, that’s just what they With the help of his team, his community and his tournament; people stepped up. I think that’s one thing did. From getting on the field for practice to carrying tribe, Wyrick has buttoned up his chin strap and is that they really don’t realize how, how much they [all gear, Wyrick said he doesn’t need to waste energy to get ready to face his cancer head-on.

Housing Headlines

By Bobby Yandell

On July 15, 2015, the Housing Authority of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma (HACNO) was the only Tribal Nation selected by the President of the United States and the U.S. De- partment of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to participate as one of 28 ConnectH- ome Pilot communities. The goal of the ConnectHome Program was to “Bridge the Digital Divide” that existed within the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma’s service area. This program was created to offer (HACNO) tenants residing in Affordable Rental units, Independent Elder and 202 PRAC elder units access to the internet and training services. The objective is to give them the ability to better their lives by taking schooling online, applying for jobs, and exploring all that the internet has to offer. This is all to achieve self-sufficiency through utilizing this essential free resource. The ConnectHome team has developed an educational program using the following: • Internet Safety and Security – Group Training • Basic Digital Literacy – One on One Training 5.1667x6 • Choctaw Nation Home site – Social Services and applications for additional services • Facebook – Reconnecting Families • ABC Mouse (for children) • KANO (computer kits) • EveryoneOn – Washington, DC (partner) • MyCNHSA – My Choctaw Nation Health Authority-Pharmacy Refill/Appointment CASTING CALL Scheduling • Choctaw Nation YAB (Youth Advisory Board) The ConnectHome Program started with a goal of 35% connectivity in the first year, with 379 total units. HACNO now has 920 units that the ConnectHome program is working with. We are looking for people who are Choctaw Proud to participate ConnectHome currently has 708 units connected to the internet. That is 77% connectivity with new sites currently under construction. The program currently has 601 children in upcoming commercials, radio spots and video projects. connected to the internet. HAVE QUESTIONS? EMAIL [email protected]

TO COMPLETE THE CASTING CALL FORM, VISIT WWW.CHOCTAWNATION.COM/CASTING-CALL 10 BISKINIK July 2021 Sassafras Month – Kvfi Hvshi

Family reunions good for mental and generational health

By Chris Jennings Tullier stresses that the important thing is to develop a supportive family who can be there for you Coming out of a year of limited contact, many when you need it. people have realized that it’s their weird, wacky, Reunions with family members have benefits be- sometimes frustrating family members they miss yond just finding out what’s been going on. Record- the most. As COVID-19 restrictions are beginning to ing family histories can have effects that last for be lifted, families are starting to plan their family generations. reunions. “Hearing the stories of different family mem- When many are struggling with different aspects bers, how they grew up or how they remember of getting their life back to normal, Choctaw Nation their grandparents or heard stories about their Integrated Care Project Manager Mary Ayn Tullier, great-grandparents is important,” said Tullier. “A RN., explained that support of other family mem- lot of families have really strong backgrounds with bers can help. their whole family praying for them down through “It’s really important to gather the support you the generations.” need for good mental health and get hope from your Hearing these stories of generational support can family members,” said Tullier. provide hope to those who need it most. According to Tullier, these reunions don’t have to These memories and histories of Choctaw fami- be elaborate affairs; Sunday dinners with immediate lies also help teach younger generations about their families are one way to stay in contact with those ancestors, philosophies, ways of life and values as closest to you. Choctaw people. As family elders age, reunions are You could host smaller family gatherings, month- an excellent opportunity to record these histories ly meetings or picnics with family members in a for future generations before they are lost. regional area. Then a yearly, larger reunion with Basic things like when and where were they were family members traveling from across the country born and important details about their life are just ensures consistent contact with a robust family sup- the start. Getting as much information from elders port system. These larger family reunions are also about the things they remember, including stories where relatives from across the country get the op- told to them by their elders, is key to preserving a portunity to meet new spouses and babies that they family’s Native culture. otherwise wouldn’t have. These larger gatherings “The way to develop [as a family] is to learn about also create a stronger bond with distant relatives each other, to gather stories about each other and to that give a sense of belonging. see how other family members have coped with dif- If you’re in an area with no immediate family ferent problems or experiences in their life... that’s nearby, Tullier suggests that it doesn’t have to be how you can grow emotionally to combat the differ- blood family. ent things that come up that hurt mental health,” “There’s a work family that you love and care for; said Tullier. there are different families [such as church families] For more tips and ideas on recording family histo- that you can get hope and encouragement from,” ries, see the Iti Fabvssa in the June 2020 Biskinik at explained Tullier. https://www.choctawnation.com/june-2020. Know the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke As summer temperatures begin to rise, it’s time to prepare for extreme heat. According to the Centers for Dis- ease Control, extreme heat is periods of high heat and humidity with temperatures above 90 degrees for at least two to three days. Extreme heat is the highest cause of weather-related deaths annually. Knowing the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke, along with what to do, can save lives. Heat Exhaustion Heat Stroke What to look for What to do What to look for What to do

• Heavy Sweating • Move to a cool place • High body temperature • Call 911 right away - • Cold, pale, and clammy • Loosen your clothes (103 or higher) heat stroke is a medical skin • Put cool, wet cloths on • Hot, red, dry or damp emergency • Fast, weak pulse your body skin • Move the person to a • Nausea or vomiting • Sip water • Fast, strong pulse cooler place • Muscle cramps Get medical help if: • Headache • Help lower the person’s • Tiredness or weakness • Dizziness temperature with cool • Dizziness • You are throwing up • Nausea cloths or cool bath • Headache • Your symptoms get • Confusion • Do not give the person • Fainting (passing out) worse • Losing consciousness anything to drink • Your symptoms last (passing out) longer than one hour

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This institution is an equal opportunity provider. Location Days Hours Antlers 1st & 2nd Tue. 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. 580-298-3161 Every Month Atoka Mon., Wed., 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 580-889-5825 Thur., & Fri. Battiest 1st Tue. of Every 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. 580-241-5458 Month Broken Bow Tue. & Thur. 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 580-584-2746 (except for Battiest & Smithville days) Durant Daily 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 580-920-2100 Mon. - Fri. x-83582 Hugo Daily 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. 580-326-9707 Mon. - Fri Idabel Daily 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 580-286-2600 Mon. - Fri. x-41113 McAlester Daily 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 918-423-6335 Mon. - Fri Poteau Daily 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 918-649-1106 Mon. - Fri Smithville 1st Thur. of 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. 580-244-3289 Every Month Spiro Wed., Thur., & 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 918-962-5134 Fri. Stigler Mon. & Tue. 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. 918-867-4211 Talihina Daily 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 918-567-7000 Mon. - Fri x-6792 Wilburton Mon. & Fri. 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. 918-465-5641 Mobile Clinic Tues., Wed., & 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. Thurs.

Building Healthy Families Through Good Nutrition

WIC van travel has been postponed. If you need assistance, please call 580-380-3628 or 580-380-9895 Ext. 83582. July 2021 Sassafras Month – Kvfi Hvshi BISKINIK 11

COVID-19: Stories of loss and survival

By Shelia Kirven and Christian Toews and then you give it to someone else, and they just can’t fight that off,” said Jerry and Shirley Lowman, beloved Dugger. Choctaw elders and highly respected Dr. David Young is an emergency teachers of the Choctaw culture, were room physician at the Choctaw Nation from a small community in McCurtain Health Center in Talihina. Not only did County, Oklahoma. Both contracted he get the virus himself, but he also lost COVID-19 in October 2020. They died both his grandmother and a cousin to eight days apart. Shirley was 73 and Jer- the virus. ry was 75, and they had been married Hospitalized for eight days, Dr. Young for 55 years. became seriously ill before the vaccine The Lowmans had been so careful to was available. keep themselves safe, rarely going out “Having to intubate patients with in public after the virus started going Covid due to their respiratory status, around. Then Jerry injured his knee, you are right in their face. Even though which caused an emergency room visit, you are gowned up and wearing an N95, a transfer to an out-of-state hospital and there’s the risk of getting it. I wish they surgery. would have had a vaccine before I had Because of visitor restrictions at the those types of exposures, but I just got Photo by Pollaro Video hospital, Shirley could not visit until lucky.” Shirley and Jerry Lowman both passed away from COVID-19 complications in 2020. The after his recovery from surgery. When Still experiencing side effects, Dr. Lowmans dedicated much of their lives to Choctaw traditional music, dancing and artistry. she was finally able to visit, she caught Young explained, “We need to start Both grew up in the hills of northern McCurtain County, where isolation allowed their cultural the virus, as did Jerry, and then so did taking it more serious. They are doing a traditions to stay intact. Both Jerry and Shirley spoke only Choctaw until they entered grade other family members. Jerry and Shir- really good job of making it (the vac- school. The couple met in high school, and soon after got married. ley ended up in the same hospital at the cine) available. People need to wake up same time. Neither knew the other had and understand the severity. It is not guidelines.” riving at the hospital. That was July 3, passed away. a joke. It is not influenza. People are Perry Thompson, Choctaw Tribal 2020. She was airlifted a few days later Jerry’s sister, Jackie, who lived within dying from it. You get a lot of stuff in the Councilman, has been in a continual to another hospital, where she stayed in walking distance, also passed away with media that is wrong or pushed; you get battle against the virus for over seven the ICU for around three weeks. what the family believes was the virus. a lot of rumors that this is just made up, months. He first became ill in November During that time, she remained un- After the deaths of her beloved family and a lot of people believe that stuff, so 2020. His wife, Gail, tested positive three conscious. members, the Lowmans’ niece, Keosha they choose not to be vaccinated. And days after he did, and then several other Her next memory was getting out of Ludlow, said she was one of the first others are just scared of it. They don’t family members did as well. ICU and going into a regular hospital to get the vaccine. She then worked to know what the side effects might be Low oxygen first sent Thompson to room. She said after leaving the ICU, it encourage other family members to get long-term. I think there are a variety of an emergency room. Over the next few was a miserable experience. She said vaccinated as well. reasons that people just don’t. But the months, he was in and out of multiple she could not eat or feed herself and Though some were skeptical, Ludlow best thing for us to do is push education hospitals, the first-time stay being for was incredibly weak. says they are now glad that they went and listen to people that deal with it and almost a month. When asked if she would have taken ahead and received the vaccine. have had it. I couldn’t express any stron- Gail said it was touch and go during the vaccine had it been available she “If the vaccine is offered to families ger for people to get vaccinated from it.” that time. According to Gail, the pulm- said, “Yes, I would have. It is better to or to tribal members, I encourage them For those who think they have the onologist said he was lucky to be alive get that shot than be in that kind of mis- to get it. Right now, it’s the right thing immunities because they may have had and that God must have another plan ery, knowing that you might not ever to do to protect yourself and to protect Covid, Dr. Young said, “Your natural for him. be able to walk again, might not be able others,” said Keosha. immunity you get from having Covid, Earlier this year, Thompson got pneu- to do anything again. Yes, I would have Tammie Dugger, an emergency room as far as what we know now, lasts 6-8 monia and was hospitalized for the third taken it.” RN at the Choctaw Nation Health Cen- months. Then you lose that immunity. time. During this winter’s ice storm, he Belinda calls her recovery a miracle. ter in Talihina, Oklahoma, said the last I think that having the vaccine will had just gotten to come home when his She said she still has several long-term year and a half of the pandemic has extend that immunity. I think there’s oxygen levels dropped again, requiring side effects she is dealing with, although been very hard. going to be a booster at some point. But the next hospital stay. she has been able to go back to work. “We would come in and hit the road we still recommend they get vaccinated. Within a few short weeks, he was As of June 6, 2021, ABC News re- running. Constantly patients were com- I was vaccinated after having Covid. admitted again, and then went on to a ported that over 300 million doses of ing from every angle,” said Dugger. They knew I had antibodies, but I want- rehabilitative facility for a few weeks. the Covid-19 vaccine had been given in She said it was a different situation ed to extend that out. Your immunity After being able to go home, he was the United States to more than 49% of with each patient, and they never knew may start to falter, and the vaccine will quickly back at a nearby hospital and eligible Americans, but it is not enough. how bad it would be or if the patient certainly boost that immunity.” was then transferred by airlift to a Tex- Oklahoma is still averaging around 100 would survive. Dr. Young stated that the vaccine as hospital. new cases of the virus per day, with “We were having to send people to will also have some immunities to the Doctors discovered he had a severe approximately 900 active cases going on Denver, to St. Louis, to Washington, variants that are coming out now. He infection that would require hospital- at any given time in the state. because there were no beds available,” explained that when vaccinated, you can ization for yet another two weeks and Statistically speaking, the fight to explained Dugger. “We’d never seen still get a virus variant, though most of high-powered medication to get the end the pandemic is far from over, and stats that low before. You would have a the time, your symptoms may not be as infection under control. Thompson is new cases of the virus are still popping very healthy person, and they would be severe as if you were unvaccinated. finally at home but still taking medica- up daily all over the world in alarming the one who passed away. And then you “But you still don’t want to run that tions, along with having tests to gauge rates. would have a person will comorbidities, risk. If you have COPD or some comor- his progress and physical therapy. The Research and statistics are proving and they would survive. There has been bidity, even a person who has had the virus nearly took his life. that the benefit of receiving the vaccine no rhyme or reason on who survived vaccine can still get really sick from Thompson said he wants the readers far outweighs the risk of contracting and who did not survive this.” it,” stressed Dr. Young. “The chances to know the importance of getting vacci- the virus. In addition, the vaccine has Dugger talked about the immense sad- of them having severe disease are less nated for this virus. been through all the same trials and ness associated with patients who were with the vaccine is what the studies are “I just hope everything goes back research as any other vaccine and has not able to have a loved one with them showing right now.” like it used to be because this is pretty been shown to be safe and effective. as they were in the hospital. People When asked about children getting rough.” If you need to schedule your vaccina- were dying in hospitals by themselves. the vaccine, Dr. Young said, “I think When asked if he would encourage tion, appointments are now available to Dugger herself lost her own mother that target population would be a huge people to get the vaccine if they are able anyone 18 years and older at any Choc- to the virus and had to watch her pass benefit to get vaccinated because they’re to, he said, “Yes.” taw Nation Clinic. Those 12-18 years old away through a glass door. not going to be spreading it as much as He also expressed gratitude, “I want can receive the Pfizer vaccine at our “We want to get the vaccine so we they are, because they don’t know they to thank everyone who prayed for me. Durant, Poteau and Talihina locations. don’t get back into that pandemic, that have it.” Thank you for that.” Appointments are encouraged and will state where we can’t let anybody back Dr. Young went on to say, “We are Gail said, as the wife of a survivor, be limited daily per clinic. here with their loved ones. That was definitely making progress. I do not she would tell others, “If they have any If you live outside of the Choctaw hard to watch,” said Dugger. attribute most of this to herd immuni- reservations about getting the vaccina- Nation, there are several ways to find a Dugger emphasized the seriousness ty. I think it is because of the vaccines. tion, they need to rethink it, because vaccine. of the illness for those readers who People need to look at that. They need this has been a rough seven months of Visit https://www.ihs.gov/findhealth- may not take the threat of COVID-19 to ask themselves why is it better? It is this, and it puts a stop to normal life. care/ to search for an Indian Health Ser- seriously or don’t feel that they need because the vaccine is working. What You just cannot do what you have been vice facility (IHS) near you. Search vac- the vaccine. more proof do you need than that? used to doing.” cines.gov, text your zip code to 438829, “You have to think about your loved People need to use common sense and Belinda Webb, a tribal member and call the National COVID-19 vaccination ones. You may be a carrier and not don’t think that it’s over.” He urged, CNO associate, said the last thing she Assistance hotline at 1-800-232-0233 or know it. Your viral load may be low, “Use common sense and follow the CDC remembers is getting an IV upon ar- contact your state’s health department.

US COVID-19 statistics as of June 14, 2021, according to he CDC’s COVID Data Tracker. 12 BISKINIK July 2021 Sassafras Month – Kvfi Hvshi Don’t stick to the rivers and the lakes that you’re used to: Visit Choctaw Country for your next water sport adventure By Christian Toews It gives you access to different areas than fishing from the bank and is a relaxing It’s an iconic image of the outdoor way to spend time on the water,” said Hed- experience: a kayak glides across a glassy rick. He also commented on a recent river stretch of water, its bow knifing through kayaking trip he enjoyed. “We had such a the water and its wake stretching out be- good time floating on the river and being hind. Imagine a canoe cutting through the able to have good conversation and enjoy river rapids on a warm summer morning. the river and the water. If you have never The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma holds taken a river trip, I highly recommend it,” the perfect spot for your next kayak or he said. canoe adventure. One of the best and most popular places According to the Oklahoma Water to canoe and kayak in the Choctaw Nation Resources Board’s website, Oklahoma has is the Broken Bow, Oklahoma area. It approximately 1,401 square miles of water doesn’t matter what type of water you area in its lakes and ponds and about want to be on; this area has it all, from the 167,600 miles of rivers/streams. fast-flowing rapids of the upper and lower Much of this water is located within or Mountain Fork River to the tranquil wa- bordering the Choctaw Nation. Oklaho- ters inside Beavers Bend State Park. Many ma’s largest lake in surface area is Eufau- kayak and canoe rental locations in and la, at 105,000 acres. This lake sits within around Broken Bow offer float trips in the the borders of the Choctaw Nation and area, and people travel from all over the offers a huge expanse of water to explore area to escape the ordinary and enjoy one by kayak or canoe. Lake Texoma is the of Oklahoma’s most beautiful areas. second largest, with an impressive 88,000 Broken Bow Lake is another fantastic acres. Lake Texoma sits on the border of location to take a canoe out on the water Choctaw Country but close enough to visit or kayak to a new location. This lake if you are in Durant. Maybe you want to covers 14,000 acres and has 180 miles of stay at the third-largest gaming resort in shoreline, so there is plenty of room to ex- the world and pop down to Lake Texoma plore. Whether you bring your own canoe to enjoy a sunset by kayak. You can do or kayak or you rent one when you are both by visiting the Choctaw Casino and there, don’t miss out on the opportunity to Resort in Durant, Oklahoma. enjoy this lake. Kayaking or canoeing on a lake or pond It doesn’t matter if you are a beginner can be a great way to explore without hik- to paddling or an experienced kayaker. ing around the shoreline. Having a small Choctaw Country has something to offer boat is also a unique way to go fishing. anyone who wants to escape the sum- Many people enjoy taking their kayak or mer heat and get on the water. For more canoe and fishing otherwise inaccessible information on area lakes and rivers, visit Photo by Christian Toews parts of a lake, river or pond. www.choctawcountry.com and explore the Trey Hedrick is an avid fisherman and many options inside the Choctaw Nation Trey Hedrick tries his luck from his kayak on a warm spring evening on one of the many fishing kayaker. He enjoys fishing from a kayak. of Oklahoma. spots in the Choctaw Nation. Kayaks and canoes provide access to unique fishing locations in “The kayak is a great fishing experience. southeast Oklahoma. CAMP CHAHTA What to expect from Camp Chahta • Move-in date TBD by campus • Access campus communications • Experience Cultural Events • Earn orientation credit • Develop new friendships • Resolve any enrollment and financial aid issues FOR MORE DETAILS PLEASE CONTACT THE LOCAL CAMPUS REP 800-522-6170 EXT 2292 [email protected]

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July 2021 Page 1:

Choctaw Cultural Cen- In This Issue ter to open July 23 2 Faith Family Culture 4 Notes to the Nation 5 News of the Nation 6 Obituaries 7 Obituaries 8 PYK 9 Iti Fabvssa Page 3: 10 Health Student successes with CNO programs.

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Biskinik COVID-19 vaccination can Mission Statement: save lives. To serve as the source of information for Choctaw Nation tribal members by delivering community news through a variety of

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