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The Offi cial Publication of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

July 2015 Issue

Tribal Council holds regular session The Choctaw Nation Tribal Council met in regular session June 13 at Tvshka Homma. The fol- lowing council bills were unanimously approved: • Application to Depart- ment of Agriculture for Distance Learning Program • Approve a limited waiver of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma’s sovereign immunity to available insurance coverage. • Authorize the Chief to place property in Photo by Deidre Elrod Bryan County in Trust Status with the United States of America. • Disposal of surplus President Obama pledges to do equipment • Approve adoption of the Choctaw Nation Traffi c Code • Approve adoption of the Choctaw Nation better by our ‘fi rst Americans’ Public Health and President visits Choctaw of America’s fi rst Promise Zones a little over a Gathering and opportunities for young Na- Safety Code year ago. The Promise Zone areas are where the tive boys and girls. The president called out to • Approve the adoption Nation to unveil new federal government teams with local communities 16-year-old Kelsey Janway in the audience. Jan- of the Choctaw Nation and businesses to create economic development way is a member of the Choctaw Youth Council Juror Code program and meet with and to jump-start job creation, expand educa- who represented the Choctaw Nation at the White • Approve the adoption tional opportunities, increase aff ordable housing, House. President Obama made note that her fam- of the Choctaw Nation Choctaw youth and improve public safety. ily could only get phone reception at their home Juvenile Code The ConnectHome initiative will take the Prom- in Heavener if they stood on a certain rock. She • Approve participa- By RONNI PIERCE ise Zone designation even further. laughingly agreed and many of the audience who tion in the U.S. Choctaw Nation ConnectHome will use partnerships to bring were from rural areas were nodding their heads Department of Justice, broadband, technical assistance, and digital in understanding. The president emphasized National Institute of Chief Gary Batton, the Choctaw Nation, and the literacy training to students living in public and that kids like Kelsey have big dreams, that we Justice (NIJ) Vio- city of Durant were host to a historic event on July assisted housing across America, according to the need to invest in those dreams through advanc- lence Against Women 15. Tribal youth and elders were invited to join the White House. ing technology in rural and low-income areas. He (VAIW) National Chief, Council, and community members to hear Chief Batton said, “The ConnectHome initiative said, “When we make those commitments to all of Baseline study. our children, the great thing about it is the bless- For detailed meeting fi rst-hand as President Barack Obama announced is about helping our people who are in poverty- information on these a new initiative that will ensure digital opportuni- stricken areas, to help them gain access to broad- ings are returned back to us—because you end up resolutions and council ties for all Americans. ConnectHome will expand band Internet because so many of our tribal mem- having a workforce that is better educated, which bills, go to http://www. high-speed broadband Internet services to fami- bers do not have access to the world like everyone means suddenly companies want to locate, which choctawnation.com/gov- lies in the Choctaw Nation and 27 other commu- else does. And so in our low-income housing and means businesses start booming, which means ernment/tribal-council- nities across the country. in our elderly living sites that’s what this is going businesses start hiring, which means everybody bills/2015-council-bills/ After taking the stage and shouting out an to be about—to help them get an education and to does better.” The Tribal Council enthusiastic “Halito!” to nearly 1,000 people fi nd employment. This is only the second Native American com- meets at 10 a.m. on the gathered in the Durant High School, the president “The ConnectHome initiative will link our munity President Obama has visited during his second Saturday of each thanked Chief Batton and the other tribal leaders homes to a world beyond southeastern Oklahoma, term in offi ce. In June 2014 the president visited month in the Council for their attendance. and tie our lives to greater opportunities.” the Standing Rock Sioux Indian Reservation in Chambers at Tvshka The president acknowledged the fact that some The president and HUD Secretary Julián Castro North Dakota. And this is only the second time Homma. American communities “have been neglected and announced 27 cities and the Choctaw Nation will a sitting president has visited this community. fallen behind. And as part of that, I said we’re go- participate in ConnectHome. President Theodore Roosevelt passed through ◆ What’s inside ing to do better by our fi rst Americans. The communities were selected through a com- Durant during a whistle stop tour on his way to “Now, we can’t reverse centuries of history— petitive process that took into account local com- San Antonio in 1905. President Obama’s visit Columns ...... 2 broken treaties, broken promises. But I did be- mitment to expanding broadband opportunities. last week is the fi rst time a current president has Notes to the Nation ...... 5 lieve that we could as partners and Prior to the event, President Obama and Chief made an offi cial visit to our tribal nation. Health & Nursery News ...... 6 forge a new path based on trust and respect.” Batton met with a group of Native youth and See more pictures of President Obama’s his- Food Distribution ...... 6 He spoke of naming the Choctaw Nation as one discussed the recent White House Tribal Youth toric visit on page 4. People You Know ...... 7 Obituaries ...... 8 Meet the Artist ...... 16 Sports ...... 17 Iti Fabvssa ...... 18 ChiefBy RONNI PIERCE & Gary Batton wins in landslide The Mission LISA REED of the Choctaw Choctaw Nation Nation of Oklahoma Current Chief Gary Batton has defeated opponent Deborah Jan Batti- est-Tomasi with 86.52% of the vote compared to her 13.48% in the 2015 To enhance the lives election for Chief of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. Surrounded by of all members through family, friends, and supporters, Chief Batton was announced the winner opportunities designed to at approximately 8:45 p.m. on Saturday, July 11. develop healthy, successful and productive lifestyles. “First and foremost, I want to give thanks to God for the blessings He has bestowed upon me and my family. My prayer is for His continuous ◆ Get your digital copy! blessings for the Choctaw people and Southeast Oklahoma. “This has been a great week, with the Choctaw Council passing a bill Scan this code with your agreeing to accept a settlement on behalf of the Choctaw and Chickasaw smartphone to go online for Nations from the U.S. Government on an asset accounting case. This will this issue and archive copies go a long way toward building up our economy and providing services to of the ! our tribal citizens. http://www.choctawnation. “Now is the time of opportunity and we must seize it so we can make a com/news-room/biskinik- diff erence in the lives of our people and southeastern Oklahoma.” Photo by Ronni Pierce newspaper-archive/ Chief Batton took offi ce after Chief Gregory E. Pyle announced his Chief Gary Batton accepts the win in the race for Choctaw Nation retirement 15 months ago. He took the oath of offi ce on the steps of the Chief. Chief Batton won with a large margin over his opponent, headquarters complex on April 28, 2014. 86.52% to 13.48%. During his fi rst term the Choctaw Nation saw the distribution of Choc- taw Nation car tags, the groundbreaking for the 143,000-square-foot District 2’s Council race in northern McCurtain County has resulted regional health clinic in Durant, the completion of the chapel at Tvshka in a runoff between Jonathan Anthony Ward who received 41.47% and Homma, the creation of the Council on Wisdom, and expansion of the Michael Allen Amos with 37.55% of the votes. Four other candidates storm shelter program to include tribal citizens age 55 and up, among rounded out the voting: Greene Dale Davis 6.33%, Ivan Lee Battiest other initiatives. 6.02%, and Taloa Ossi and Kenneth Karl Battiest, both with Saturday’s election also resulted in the re-election of incumbent Bobby 4.32%. The run0ff will be held on Aug. 8, 2015. Pate in Pittsburg County’s District 11 Council seat. Pate received 56.49% Chief Batton and Councilmembers from Districts 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, and of the votes, Nellie Marie Sam Meashintubby 21.56%, Henry Phillip By- 11 will take the oath of offi ce at the L abor Day ceremonies in Tvshka ington 16.37%, and William Jennings Frye 5.59%. Homma on Monday, Sept. 7, 2015. 2 BISKINIK | July 2015 FAITH, FAMILY AND CULTURE Lifting up the Nation Chaplain’s Corner Thank you for the confidence you have placed in me by selecting me to serve another four years as your Chief. Let our light shine The Choctaw Nation is poised for even greater success than we have already achieved, and I am prepared to do “And they that be wise his God. my part to provide opportunities for all . shall shine as the bright- Talk about a mission Throughout history, Choctaws have always made the ness of the fi rmament and fi eld being a hard one, see most of opportunities that come our way. When Presi- they that turn many to how the Apostle Paul shone dent Obama selected the Choctaw Nation as the first righteousness as the stars for God as he went out, tribe designated as a Promise Zone, he took the first step forever and ever.” the fi rst missionary to a in moving our Nation-to-Nation relationship to a Nation- This is a testimony of an heathen world telling them to-Nation partnership. The Promise Zone designation is old man and one who had of the God whom he served, one of the latest opportunities for the Choctaw Nation. the richest and deepest ex- and Who had sent His Son President Obama’s visit on July 15 was the first time a perience of any man living to die a cruel death in order sitting U.S. president has been in Durant as a guest of the on the earth at the time. to save the world. Choctaw Nation. I was glad to see a president recognize his government-to-govern- Daniel was taken to Bab- Men reviled him and his ment responsibilities and come here on Choctaw soil. ylon when he was a young teaching, they laughed him So far, under our Promise Zone designation, the Choctaw Nation has prepared man, some Bible students to scorn when he spoke and supported dozens of applications that have resulted in more than $51 million think he was not more than of the crucifi ed one but in federal tax credits and grants being awarded to recipients in the Choctaw Nation 20 years old. he went on preaching the Promise Zone by federal agencies, including Department of Justice, Department of Rev. Bertram Bobb If anyone had said, when gospel of the Son of God. Education, USDA, HUD, Treasury, and others. We recently received a $5 million fed- Tribal Chaplain this young Hebrew was He was regarded as a poor eral grant to reduce teen pregnancy, meaning more young people can finish school carried away into captivity, tent maker by the great and and get better jobs. The Choctaw Nation of he would outrank all the mighty ones of his day but President Obama discussed the ConnectHome initiative to provide Internet to Oklahoma is growing both mighty men, probably no no one can tell the names of disadvantaged tribal members. The pilot program is launching in 27 cities and we are in population and economi- one would have believed it. his persecutors or of those the only tribal nation! It will initially reach over 275,000 low-income households— cally. Yet, for 500 years no man who lived at that time, un- and nearly 200,000 children—with the support they need to access the Internet at The Choctaws have had a whose life is recorded in less their names happened home. rich Christian heritage even history shone as did this to be associated with his ConnectHome is just one of the partnerships recently started. We broke ground prior to the Indian Remov- man. He outshone Nebu- and they were brought into this month on a new clinic in Durant that will provide about 200 jobs in the area. al Act in the early 1830s. chadnezzar, Belshazzar, contact with him. Choctaw Nation has expanded its summer learning programs that help all students Will you continue to Cyrus and Darius and all Now the fact is, all men catch up in public schools. Choctaw Nation has widened early learning opportuni- pray for the spiritual life the princes and mighty like to shine. We may as ties in its region with the award by Health and Human Services of a multi-year Early well acknowledge this fact. Head Start-Childcare Partnership Grant with Promise Zone preference. In 2014, with of our nations to grow, men of his day. Choctaw Nation’s assistance, 13 schools and communities in southeastern Oklahoma remembering “Blessed is We hear and often say See how men struggle to received Community Facilities Grants from USDA Rural Development with Promise the nation whose God is that the mission fi eld we get into the front ranks. Zone preference for school gardens, fitness equipment, and facility upgrades. the LORD; and the people are laboring in is hard, Everyone wants to outshine There are a lot of needs out there. We need to create capacity just to grow. We whom he hath chosen that it is a diffi cult one. But his neighbor or his com- need to develop businesses inside and outside of the Choctaw Nation to sustain for his own inheritance.” think of the fi eld in which petitor. our government and member services—to create social programs to help give tribal (Psalms 33:12). Daniel had to work. He was There are very few who members a leg up when they need it and help them succeed in life. Expansion is A nation can rise no not only a slave but he was shine in the world. needed in several programs including our summer school programs, the reintegra- higher, can be no stronger, held captive by a nation But in the Kingdom of tion program, housing, health, and education. and be no better than the that hated the Jews, the God, the very least and This can be accomplished if we all work together to become a healthier, more self- individuals which compose Hebrews, Israelites. He did the weakest may shine, if sufficient nation. As we grow we can increase tribal members’ sense of connected- that nation. know the language, he was they will. Not only one can ness. We are family, we are Choctaw. There is nothing wrong among idolaters – people obtain the prize but all may with the nation, the trouble who worshipped other gods. have it, if they will. How lies with the nationʼs Yet, Daniel began at once empty and short are the people. If the nation is bad, to shine, he took a stand for glory and the prize of this then the people are bad. If God from the very fi rst and world. Our youth, our culture the nation is confused the stood with Him through his If we are wise, we will people within the nation whole life. He gave his life live for God and for eterni- President Obama stopped in Durant on July 16. More are confused. If this is a as a youth to God and he ty. We will forget ourselves than 970 people packed Durant High School to participate godless nation then the continued faithful right on and will care nothing for in this historical visit. The majority of President Obama’s people are godless. until his ministry was fi n- the honor and glory of this speech focused on investing in this country’s youth and Today people are looking ished. Notice that all those world. If any man, woman ensuring they have the tools they need to succeed. for joy in life and I would who have made a deep or child by a godly life live He said, “We’re in this together. We’re bound by a like to share with you and impression on the world an example can win one shared commitment to leave a better world for our chil- challenge you with a joy have shone most brightly soul to God their life will dren. We’re bound together by a commitment to make that can be yours. have been men who lived in not have been a failure. sure that that next generation has inherited all the bless- This joy can be yours as a dark day. God has left us down ings that we inherited from the previous generation.“ you lead a person to accept Look at Joseph, he was here to shine. This earth, The Choctaw Nation places high priority on encouraging Jesus Christ as his or her sold as a slave into Egypt if we are a Christian, is not the growth and development of its youth. personal savior—this could by the Ishmaelites. our home, our home is in Choctaw Nation Head Start Centers have been named be your loved one, your Yet he took his God heaven. an “Excellent 2015 Certifi ed OK Healthy Early Childhood friend, or anyone. To lead with him into captivity. Jesus Christ was the Program,” the fi rst year Oklahoma awarded in this category. Two new centers will open someone to Jesus Christ He remained true to the Light of the world, but men soon in McAlester and Bethel. and help him or her to grow last, he did not give up his put out that Light. Before We are seeing more Choctaw students graduate high school than ever before through- in Him is the joy of Chris- faith because he had been Jesus died on the cross, He out the Choctaw Nation due in part to the Making A Diff erence Program. This program tian service. taken away from home and said to His disciples: “You intervenes when there is a need and informs Choctaw students of opportunities to pre- It has been my privilege placed among idolaters. He are my witnesses, go forth pare them to achieve greatness after high school. Their one-of-a-kind database allows to see many sad troubled stood fi rm and God stood and carry the gospel to the Making A Diff erence counselors to track and work with Choctaw students to ensure high faces changed into a glow- by him. perishing nations of the school graduation. ing testimony of happiness Look at Moses who earth.” (Acts 1:8). Even the theme of this year’s Labor Day Festival refl ects our faith in the new genera- and satisfaction in the turned his back upon the So God has called us to tion of Choctaws—“Choctaw Youth: Connecting the Culture.” Lord. Only Jesus Christ treasures of Egypt and shine just as much as Choctaw tribal member Janie Semple Umsted is sculpting a statue commemorating can perform this kind of identifi ed himself with his Daniel was sent into our youth that will be unveiled Sept. 4 on the Tvshka Homma Capitol grounds. Janie is transformation and this is a despised and down-trod- Babylon to shine. We are to a descendant of former Chief Peter Pitchlynn. The statue of two girls, the older teaching living proof of the trans- den nation, choosing rather let our light shine. It does the younger, will inspire the hope we have in our young men and women carrying on the forming power of God. to suff er affl iction with the not say to make your light Choctaw culture. Along with the joy that people of God, than to en- shine. You do not have to “Connecting the Culture” is very appropriate. The festival is more than 50 years old. can be received in the joy the pleasures of sin for make your light shine, all The children scampering across the Capitol grounds in the 1960s are now watching their Lordʼs service now, there is a season. If a man ever had we have to do is to let it grandchildren have fun and learn about their heritage. another wonderful promise a hard fi eld, it was Moses, shine. The Choctaw Village has a variety of activities on Saturday during the festival that Pray for America. Pray demonstrates traditions handed down for centuries—pottery, basketry, beadwork, recorded in the Book of yet he shone brightly, he fl intkanpping. I’ve watched the dancers and remember when the young man leading was Daniel 12:3: never proved unfaithful to for our Spiritual leaders. a small boy following the steps of his older cousins. Stickball skills are shared in the vil- lage, on the stickball fi eld, and on the Capitol lawn. The Choctaw games are a lot of fun. I’ve had some practice throwing a rabbit stick and it isn’t easy! The corn game is a favorite. They are both being played in the village on Oklahoma Saturday and Sunday. The best part of the festival is the fact that families have been sharing the experience Choctaw for years. Tribal Learn the Alliance

Miti! (Come!) 2nd Annual Storytelling Event Join us for the next exciting year! Storyteller and author Stella Long will be hosting her 2nd Annual Storytelling Event FREE ONLINE CLASSES 5320 S. Youngs Blvd., Oklahoma City August 15 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Registration is now open for Concluding with a . 2015 Fall – 2016 Spring In Honor of Choctaw author Greg Rodgers Friend and noted storyteller Tim Tingle will play fl ute and drum and share www.choctawnation.com memories of Greg. Other artists, singers, and dancers will share their stories. OR Concessions will be available for purchase. We may have room to hear your www.choctawschool.com story. Let us know. For more information contact Stella Long at her website or call Phyllis Been at (405) 600-5694 or Please use the available student checklist email [email protected]. or call us for assistance. 5320 South Youngs, Oklahoma City, (405) 681-0869 1-800-522-6170 X 5163 for J. T. OR X 2101 for Lillie Upcoming Events: Senior Meal 7/31 at Noon Beading Class 8/1 from 10 a.m. - Noon BISKINIK | July 2015 3

Grand Opening of the

Photo Provided by Ackerman McQueen An example of clear-cutting on former trust lands in the Choctaw Nation. GrandBy CHARLES CLARK eater Choctaw Nation Celebs add glam to noteworthy event at Choctaw TimberBy ZACH MAXWELL trust lawsuiting and an equitable settled restoration of the Casino Resort Choctaw Nation trust. “I’m very excited that the Choctaw It’s not unusual to fi nd fun and excitement in the Choctaw Casino. But June 28 saw even The Chickasaw and Choctaw Nations and Chickasaw Nations, Gov. Bill Anoa- more thrills and glitz, as the new Grand Theater was opened with a ribbon cutting at- have settled a decade-old federal lawsuit tubby, along with myself, and the U.S. tended by Chief Gary Batton, Choctaw Nation offi cials, and one of America’s most legendary regarding former tribal trust land, as government have agreed to a settlement rock’n’roll bands, . announced by Chief Gary Batton. Terms of the timber trust account case,” said No fewer than 200 people—members of the Choctaw Nation, local dignitaries and the of the early July settlement have not Chief Gary Batton. “This settlement public—were on hand to witness the occasion. been released, pending official approval will begin the healing process for many Chief Batton addressed the turnout noting it was an important and joyous milestone in from both tribal governments. of our tribal members. This is the first the long and diffi cult trail of the Choctaw people. Amid the glee of the occasion, Batton’s A partial settlement was reached in time that the federal government and comments brought gravitas and a sense of pride in this latest accomplishment of Choctaw May on a portion of the suit. The settle- tribal Nations have worked on a settle- enterprise. He also pointed out that the 400 construction workers and now 300 added staff ment was approved by Choctaw Nation ment of some of these dark pages of members have brought 700 Tribal Council at its May meeting, but history.” new employment opportuni- details were not available due to a non- Batton said the settlement funds, ties to southeast Oklahoma. Executive Director of disclosure clause. whose sum remains undisclosed at this Choctaw Gaming Janie Dil- At issue was an accounting of the time, will be used to improve the lives of lard said, “It’s not over yet,” tribal trust lands taken by the U.S. gov- Choctaw and Chickasaw tribal members as she zestfully listed the new ernment after Choctaw and Chickasaw through economic development and features of the facility, which governments were dissolved more than social service programs. Many of these opened along with the Grand a century ago. The Nations filed suit programs are new innovations aimed at Theater. against the U.S. government in 2005, improving the lives of low-income tribal Vocalist , seeking that long overdue account- members. guitarist and other members of Aerosmith were on hand to help those at the ribbon cutting ceremony “Dream On.” Attention shifted in all directions as rock stars, top leaders of the Choctaw Nation, fl ashing lights of the casino, and the bling of new spa hallways, competed for the eyes and ears of the crowd. The three suites and 3,000 seats of the Grand Theater had sold out days in advance for the concert by platinum-recording artists Aerosmith. Barely two weeks into its Blue Army 2015 Tour, Aerosmith wowed cheering head bangers in an energy-fi lled, 90-minute parade of hit songs that included “Cryin’,” “Rag Doll,” “Jaded,” “” and “.” Sounds from their 1970’s wild youth-style, through the MTV video star-years, to the perfect- ing of their rock classics in stadiums took fans on a journey of nostalgia while demonstrating the lexicon of their infl uence. Dillard said that acts are booked at the venue through December. Standing in the wings are Kenny Rogers and Wynonna, who are in concert Aug. 6; Three Dog Night and Nazareth, Aug. 8; Boston, Aug. 27; Nickelback, Sept. 4; BJ Thomas and The Righteous Brothers’ Bill Medley, Sept. 19; and the “Queen of Country” Loretta Lynn, Oct. 3. The Band Perry, Aretha Franklin and more are scheduled before New Year’s Eve arrives. The new Spa Tower off ers a luxury experience for those needing a getaway. While stay- ing in a choice of hundreds of rooms and suites, guests may enjoy a hair salon, barber- shop, mani-pedi nail care, chemical peels, and state-of-the-art fi tness center found in the 25,000-square-foot facility. Robes and sandals are provided for those who enter the co-ed mineral baths area. Water terraces over tiles, into the soaking mineral salts from Savoy, Hun- gary. And if that doesn’t get you relaxed enough, massages, facials and light refreshments can be ordered up. One example is the naturally refreshing cactus toning wrap and foot revital- izing treatment. Business travelers can make use of a new Conference Center. The 14,000-square-foot Magnolia Grand Ballroom has its own kitchen, which can accommodate more than 800 din- ers. Versatile private suites and 16 fully equipped meeting rooms allow for the needs of any size gathering. From bridal parties, couples retreats and business seminars to the casino excitement of world poker tours and today’s favorite musical entertainment, the Choctaw Casino Resort is an oasis in southeast Oklahoma—and the Grand Theater rocks. To go: The Choctaw Casino Resort and the Grand Theater are located at 4418 S. Hwy 69/75 in Durant. It is suggested that those interested in attending a particular concert not delay in making reservations. Several of the upcoming shows are nearly sold out. At this writing, for example, fewer than 50 seats remain for Boston. For Box Offi ce information, call (800) 628- 1403 or visit online choctawcasinos.com. OFFICE SITES: Choctaw artists

Durant create original (580) 924-7773 décor

Antlers Hotels often display art. (580) 298-6443 But it’s usually from mass printings, mundane in McAlester nature—just something to (918) 420-5716 break up lengthy walls of taupe. Poteau MissionTo assist Tribal Members reach the next step of Not so at the Choctaw (918) 649-0431 Casino Resort’s new Spa self-sustainment through supplemental food vouchers, Tower, where original Broken Bow financial fitness and healthy living. creations by fi ve contemporary Choctaw artists adorn the new expansion. A good starting point is always at the beginning. To view the nouveau art at Choctaw Ca- Coming Soon! * Participants are required to complete training set by Call (800) 522-6170 initiative guidelines. sino Resort, guests need only to approach the registration desk. Five impressive works can be ext. 2334 for more found directly behind check-in. The Choctaw Nation Next Step Initiative was successfully launched April 2015! This supplemen- information. Chief Gary Batton is quoted in a brochure on the project: “I am excited to see our Choctaw tal food voucher program is meant to assist Tribal Members reach the next step of self-sustainment Eligibility Requirements: artists highlighted in the interior design of the Durant resort expansion… We invite you to Please call to through supplementalOne food Tribal vouchers Member in Householdas well as fi nancial fi tness and healthy living. visit the art displays and learn of the great heritage and culture of the Choctaw people.” schedule an This Initiative is designedReside in toChoctaw help Nation the working Service Area poor by providing families food supplements as in-person intake Must be a Working Household More one-of-a-kind pieces can be observed when strolling the hallways from the lobby into well as assorted trainings to help them reach the next step. These trainings include, but are not interview. Over income for Food Distribution up to $200 the new 25,000-square-foot facility. limited to, fi nancial budget training, food demonstrations, holiday spending webinars and other The Artists trainings that best suit the household needs. DYLAN CAVIN The Norman artist has said he prefers painting over graphic design: “For Eligibility Requirements include: me, the artwork was and still is my main connection of my heritage… It forces me to go back • One Choctaw Tribal Member in Household and to read and to do research and to go through the history, and to me that connects me • Reside in the Choctaw Nation Service Area more with my past and it comes around that way.” • No one in household can be participating in SNAP NORMA HOWARD As a child, the Stigler artist used to go home and draw the toys that • Must be a Working Household unless on Social Security or Disability her classmates had: “I live the Choctaw life, so I know it’s from within.” • Over Income for Food Distribution Eligibility GWEN COLEMAN LESTER Now calling Claremore home, the artist can’t remember a To sign up for the Next Step Initiative, the participant should call a Next Step Social Worker at a location listed below to arrange an interview fi rst. This guarantees participants bring all required time when she didn’t draw: “I like to put Choctaw language in there whenever I can.” documentation with them. Eligibility cannot be determined without all documentation present. DG SMALLING The Oklahoma City-based artist travelled the world as a child of mission- Offi ces and Social Workers are located at the following fi ve locations: aries: “Rather than something being an interior design project, the Nation now has for the • Durant Food Distribution Center (580) 924-7773 fi rst time in hundreds of years a defi nitive body of work to represent what Choctaw Nation is • Antlers Food Distribution Center (580) 298-6443 at this point in the 21st century. That’s the importance of this collection, the standard that it • McAlester Food Distribution Center (918) 420-5716 establishes for other artists.” • Poteau Food Distribution Center (918) 649-0431 JANIE UMSTED Calling Durant her home, the artist came by it naturally, receiving art • Broken Bow Outreach Services Building (580) 584-3832 instruction from her mother since age 3: “…This has become a project that I think about all the time. It really has taken over my life in a very good way.” 4 BISKINIK | July 2015 President Obama in the Choctaw Nation

An estimated 970 people attended President Barack Obama’s visit to the Choctaw Nation at Durant High School on July 15, 2015. This was the first presidential visit in our tribal territory in more than a century. The president was greeted by Chief Batton, Choctaws in traditional clothing, dignitaries, invited guests and an assemblage of me- dia members. The excitement overflowed to the Choctaw Event Center, where many gathered to watch history unfold via live streaming on giant screens.

Gary Batton, Chief of the Choctaw Nation, delivers remarks welcoming Presi- dent Barack Obama to the Choctaw Nation, at Durant High School on July 15, 2015.

President Obama exits Marine One after landing in Durant. The president flew into Denison’s North Texas Re- gional Airport-Perrin Field, met with the mayor and other dignitaries before departing for Choctaw Nation.

Elissa Hamil sings the National Anthem at Durant High School on July 15. The Choctaw princesses file She was the last person at the podium before President Obama. past scores of television sat- ellite trucks as they prepare for the president’s speech.

An excited crowd, many in traditional Choctaw clothing, await President Obama at Durant High School.

Photos by Deidre Elrod, Payton Guthrie, Brandon Frye, and Zach Maxwell

Choctaw youth, guests and program directors applaud President Obama on July 15, 2015.

Nikki Amos, Miss Choctaw Nation, sang a version of the Lord’s Prayer in the Choctaw language as part of opening ceremonies. Junior princesses Summer Moffitt and Kyra Wilson (not pictured) accompanied Amos with sign language.

A student from Chickasaw Nation shows off his ticket to the presidential visit.

Choctaw elders pose before journeying to Durant High School to hear the presi- dent’s remarks.

Choctaw Hymn 48 was sung by Brad Joe, Lillie Roberts, Jennifer Parish and Eager ticket holders waited in the sweltering heat to get inside the high school. Bubba Johnson. Nearly 1,000 people were in attendance. BISKINIK | July 2015 5 NOTES TO THE NATION Honoring Anderson King EVENTS I am enclosing a photo of myself, Kenneth Earl King, with Chief Batton at the recent Inter-Tribal Bakersfi eld Gathering May 2-3. I had the op- Celebration Singing Aug. 29 portunity to speak with him for a while along Arts and Crafts Choctaw Nation Community Center with Councilmember Ron Perry who presided Beading 707 Bond Street over the recently renovated King Cemetery. It Crowder was an honor for me to be able to honor my Class 5:30 p.m. – Fellowship Supper third great-grandfather, Anderson King, who EVERY Thursday 7 p.m. – Singing was a Sergeant with the 1st Regiment Co. A 6 - 9 p.m. MC : Herb Billy of the Choctaw-Chickasaw Mounted Rifl es Sound provided by ReDefi ned during the Civil War. This was done during the Choctaw Community Hosted by : The Family and ReDefi ned Honoring of our Choctaw Veterans. Several Center All are Welcome others also came forward to honor those 1203 W. Liberty Rd. Choctaws who are vets and no longer with us Atoka OK or unable to be present. Public is welcome to It’s my hope this photo along with a mention Family Gathering for of Anderson King will fi nd it’s way in the next come learn Bully • Cole • Carnes issue, this will I hope enable me to also connect tribal beadwork. with other bloodline King family members. Beads and thread Aug. 15, 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Durant Community Center Kenneth Earl King, 5th great grandson available for purchase. 2752 Big Lots Parkway of Chief Moshulatubbee Descendants or relatives of Allen Carnes Bacon Stigler safe room descendants or relatives of Salas Bacon, I want to thank the Choctaw Nation very much for our who was married to Sophia Jones Jr. safe room. It has been a godsend. We really appreciate the Choctaw Nation giving us the grant for the safe room. God Food is pot-luck, banaha and tanchi labona. bless the Choctaw Nation, the Chief, and the Assistant Chief. There will be a drawing for the oldest person there and for the one who came the furthest and possibly Wayne Frazier we will have Chahta social dancing. Anyone have any ideas, let me know. Bring your camera and bring pictures you want to share. Let’s make this a fun and Youth of the Nation memorable family gathering and time to get acquainted or reacquainted. For more information, call Laura Belt Luke Green, YAB member, Hugo Chapter (580) 380-1408 or Debra Belt (580) 380-5407. If no answer, leave a text or message, we will get back to you.

Hello, my name is Luke Green. I am a senior at Hugo High School. I am the son of Don and Becky Green. Musical thanks Noel Baker & I have lived in Hugo all of my life, attending Hugo Roxie Loman Baker Schools and I am enrolled in the Pre-Engineering Pro- Dante Miller of Quinton and Marra Juarez of Wilburton gram at the Kiamichi Technology Center. When I was in are extremely grateful for the recent support by the Choc- Family Reunion Aug. 7 & 8 eighth grade, I joined YAB. Through this program I have taw Nation. Dante and Marra are members of the Okla- Durant Community Center found encouragement to grow and always do my best. It homa Kids-Stigler group, a division of American Kids, Inc. 2752 Big Lots Parkway does a great job of providing young people with a chance They have performed in both solo and group acts in various (near Big Lots Center) to volunteer their time and energy for others. When I fi rst venues throughout Oklahoma as well as Branson, Missouri, Bring tea, pop, or Kool-Aid and a covered dish. joined YAB it was because I had seen the opportunities and Eureka Springs, Arkansas. The Stigler group per- Toni Bowers will provide paperware and meat for meal. my brother, Micah, had been given and how much he en- formed their 70’s Disco Act in May at Walt Disney World in For more information, joyed it. Though I was hesitant at fi rst, I soon discovered Orlando, Florida. call Toni Bowers at (903) 892-4513. the organization is amazing. There is something about Bring prizes for drawings! the feeling you get when helping others. To know that Choctaw Nation leads the way you have made a diff erence, whether it is through passing I have thought to write a letter to the Biskinik for years out food at a soup kitchen, picking up trash, giving a kind but until now have not done so. I am not Choctaw but word or being a mentor for second-graders, YAB has pre- my wife and children are. For several years my wife and I First Annual Nebraska sented me with many opportunities to make a diff erence. lived and worked in South Dakota for the U.S. Forest Ser- Blake/Parnell I especially enjoy Falvmmichi* and the smiles on the kids’ vice Job Corps program. About 40 percent of our student faces when we enter the classroom. This is what I feel Family Picnic population was Native American from the various reser- Aug. 29, 8 p.m. - 10 p.m. that YAB is truly about; instilling students with a sense of vations in that area. We both had fi rst-hand experiences service and self-worth; building character. It is the work Louisville State Park Nebraska on the reservation with reservation leadership as well as for the family of I have participated in that has shaped my views. I have the residents of those reservations. What I want to say, always felt that actions speak louder than any words. This Luther Blake and Grace M. Parnell Blake (Choctaw) and I hope you will publish this letter, is that the Choctaw Amy Blake or Parnell family members welcome is one of the core foundations of YAB and it is why this Nation is light years ahead of what we saw is being done organization creates leaders. Because of my experience All descendants of Robert and Becky Hontubby Parnell on the reservations in South Dakota and Montana. You, (Choctaw) and Isaac and May Blake are welcome through YAB I would like to continue to serve in whatever as a Nation, should be a positive learning tool for every community I am living. This is one major reason why I Contact Gene Blake at (402) 734-5903 for more reservation leader, tribal council, whatever, particularly in information. plan to be a mechanical engineer. There are few organi- the South Dakota area. God Bless. zations that have impacted me the way YAB has. I will always be grateful for all that the Youth Advisory Board David Bevil has done for me. Thank you very much. You are cordially invited to attend . . . *Editors Note: Falvmmichi is an antibullying mentor- Fails earns bachelor’s degree ship program sponsored by the Choctaw Nation. I am a Choctaw living The Choctaw Nation in the Philadelphia area. of I am so thankful for all of Oklahoma’s Legal Assistance Events the help I received from the Choctaw Nation! I am a single mother, I work Samantha Guinn, a licensed attorney, will be full-time, and went to col- available to provide assistance with simple legal Gary Batton Jack Austin Jr. documents. This service is free to all Choctaw Chief Assistant Chief lege full-time. I attended the 2015 Commencement members. Examples of matters she may be able to at Springfi eld College in assist with are: Springfi eld on May 17. I was e O cial • Family law (adoption, divorces, custody, child Monthly Publication proud to graduate Magna support) Cum Laude and thrilled of the • Contracts and leases to have some of my Okla- • Guardianships and modifi cations Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma homa family there to watch. Community Center Schedule Thank you to the Choctaw Nation for the grants and the Judy Allen, Senior Executive O cer laptop program, it really helps adult students returning July August Lisa Reed, Executive Director to college! • 23rd Broken Bow • 6th Bethel Vonna Shults, Media Director • 30th Smithville • 13th Coalgate Ronni Pierce, Editor Lana Fails • 18th Atoka Charles Clark, Assistant Editor Corrections for June Biskinik • 27th Wright City Zach Maxwell, Reporter/Photographer Carolyn Young was mistakenly identifi ed in the Chahta Red 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. - 3 p.m. Brandon Frye, Reporter/Photographer Earth article as Carolyn Jones. Kendra Germany, Reporter/Photographer Please contact the community center to confi rm she will be there King Cemetery is located in Haskell County not Latimer Payton Guthrie, Social Media Coordinator before traveling. Currently we are not providing representation in County as referred to in the Cemetery Clean-up story. court or assisting in criminal matters. P.O. Box 1210 Durant, OK 74702 UNCLAIMED (580) 924-8280 • (800) 522-6170 Choctaw Nation Vocational Rehabilitation FUNDS August 2015 Fax (580) 924-4148 The Accounting Department Durant - Mon., Wed. and Fri. www.choctawnation.com Broken Bow - Mon., Wed. and Fri.; Idabel by appt. of the Choctaw Nation Phone: 580-326-8304; Fax: 580-326-0115 Email: [email protected] e-mail: [email protected] of Oklahoma is trying to e BISKINIK is printed each month as a service to contact the individuals listed Tribal Members. e BISKINIK reserves the right to edit below. Choctaw Nation is submitted material which it  nds inaccurate, profane, in possession of unclaimed o ensive or morally unacceptable. Copy may be edited for funds (uncashed payroll proper grammar and punctuation. Copy will be accepted checks) that may be due in any readable form, but where possible, it is requested to these individuals. If you that material be typewritten and double spaced. You must are an employee or former include an address or phone number where you may be employee of the Choctaw reached. Due to space limitations and the quantity of Nation of Oklahoma and article submissions, we are unable to include everything your name is listed below, we receive. please contact: If you are receiving more than one BISKINIK at your The Choctaw Nation of home or if your address needs changed, we would Oklahoma appreciate hearing from you. P.O. Box 1210 e BISKINIK is a nonpro t publication of the Durant, OK 74702 Choctaw Nation. Attn: Angie Ansiel, Payroll Circulation is monthly. Article deadline is the 10th of and Employee Services the month for the following month’s edition. Accoutant or by phone, Editor’s note: Views and opinions in reader-submitted 580.924.8280 x2467. articles are solely those of the author and do not necessar- Taylor Johnson ily represent those of the Choctaw Nation. Nicole Ellis Jamie Jeans Ravidkumar Patel Darren Watts 6 BISKINIK | July 2015 HEALTH

NURSERY NEWS Health and Wellness: Lives Depend On It Halito, Lila Kate Rogenmoser July is the time to get out and enjoy the great outdoors and what better way to do this than to go to our parks and Lila Kate Rogenmoser was born recreations and pack a picnic lunch. This is a moving letter from Detrick Stanford, CPRP, Chair of NRPA’s Board of December 24, 2014, at 9:29 a.m. Directors, about our health and wellness. I hope you enjoy these words as much as I did. at St. Frances Cabrini Hospital in Fortunately, in recent years health and wellness awareness and initiatives have begun to take center stage in com- Alexandria, Louisiana. She was 8 munities throughout our nation. We, in the park and recreation profession, are fortunate to have within our inventories pounds 8 ounces and 20 inches and reach an incredible number of resources to provide opportunities for health and wellness at any age. This greater long. Her parents are Justin and access to resources means we also have a larger responsibility to emphasize the impacts of healthy choices related to Sarah Rogenmoser of Alexan- our Health and Wellness Pillar as if lives depend upon it—because they do! dria and her sister is Parker Ann We all know about the many studies that prove, time and time again, the value that active play, exercise and outdoor Rogenmoser. Her grandparents are activities have in curbing a long list of chronic diseases that impair both physical and mental health. In addition, we Robby and Barbara Rogenmoser of have proof that parks and recreation activities and facilities build connections among residents, help strengthen the Boyce, Louisiana, and Barnie and economy of a community, and ultimately lead to a better quality of life for all. As we continue to nurture and develop Valerie Bond of Hot Springs, Ar- future generations, we must understand the opportunities and challenges of health issues facing our youth. Throughout kansas. Her great-grandparents are the nation young people are facing an obesity crisis. Today we are seeing too many diseases that were, not too long ago, Bob and Wanda Rogenmoser of Boyce. Her aunt is Caitlin rarely linked to young people (e.g. high blood pressure, diabetes, etc.). It appears to me that today’s rapid advance- Rogenmoser and uncles are David Rogenmoser and Ryan ments, whether in the fi eld of technology or environmental changes in our communities, are inherently linked to and Rogenmoser. encourage sedentary lifestyles. So, what can we do to advocate for change? How do we, as leisure professionals, become agitators for advancing an enhanced, healthier direction for future generations? • Tell better stories about the concrete benefi ts in the relationship among health, wellness and leisure activities. • Be creative in programming and providing outdoor recreation areas specifi cally designed to promote healthy out- Case Parrish comes. • Work toward making sure all communities have equal access to services based on established national standards. Case Parrish was born on April 1, 2015, at 7:50 a.m. Through the concerted eff orts outlined above, we can be the diff erence makers within our respective communities. weighing 8 pounds 4.5 ounces and 20 1/2 inches long. And, when we are asked the question, “What is your profession,” we can respond with a resounding, “We save lives for Parents are Trent and Jamie Parrish and grandparents a living.” are Renee Jones, Rick and Treva Parrish, and Steve Jones.

Detrick L. Stanford, CPRP, is the Chair of NRPA’s Board of Directors.

Recipe of the Month Avery Irene & Clare Ilene Miller Tim and Sarah Miller would like Turkey and Bean Wraps to announce the Recipe from Diabetic Living arrival of their twin daughters. The girls were born May 12, Ingredients: dium heat until meat is brown and onion is 2015, in Oklahoma • 8 7-8 inch flour tortillas tender, using a wooden spoon to break up City. Avery weighed meat. Drain off fat. Stir beans, salsa, and chili 3 pounds 13 ounces, • 1 pound ground turkey breast powder into meat mixture in skillet. Heat and 17 inches long. Clare weighed 5 pounds 2 ounces, and • 1 cup chopped onion through. 17 1/2 inches long. • 2 cloves garlic, minced The proud grandparents are Mel Cannon of Midwest 3. Spoon about 1/3 cup of the fi lling onto each City, Brenda and Dennis Mathes of Yukon, and Tim and • 1 cup no-salt-added black beans or pinto beans, tortilla; top each with 1 tablespoon cheese and Hilda Miller of Midwest City. The proud great-grandpar- rinsed and drained 1 tablespoon lettuce. Roll up tortillas. ents are Lewis and Kathy Otwell of Choctaw, the late Ilene • 1/2 cup salsa ‘’Mema” Geisler of Nicoma Park, and the late Vincent and 4. If desired, serve with Pico de Gallo. Eunice Miller of Midwest City. The girls also have many • 2 teaspoons chili powder Makes: 8 servings aunts, uncles, and cousins that love them greatly! • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (2 ounces) Serving Size: 1 burrito with 1/3 cup fi lling, 1 • 1/2 cup shredded lettuce tablespoon cheese, 1 tablespoon lettuce, and 1 • Fresh Pico de Gallo (optional) tortilla Deacon Wesley Baker Nutrition Facts: Per serving: 250 calories, 6 g total fat (3 g sat. Deacon Wesley Baker was Directions: fat), 35 mg cholesterol, 412 mg sodium, 27 g car- born at 2:21 p.m. on June 3, 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Stack tortillas; bohydrates (15 g fi ber, 1 g sugars), 22 g protein 2015, in Oklahoma City to Daniel wrap in foil. Heat in the oven for 10 minutes and Leslee Baker of Minco. He to soften. I hope you all enjoy this cool and refreshing weighed 8 pounds 15 ounces and recipe! For further information you may contact was 21 inches long. Proud grand- 2. Meanwhile, for fi lling, in a large skillet cook Erin Adams, RD, LD Choctaw Nation Diabetes parents are Gary and Lesa Shriver turkey breast, onion, and garlic over me- Wellness Center (800) 349-7026 ext. 6959. of Yukon and John and Lynny Baker of Minco.

Choctaw Nation Breastfeeding Classes Come join us for a breastfeeding class in your area! Many mothers want to learn more about breastfeeding so that they can feel more con dent in their decision to breastfeed. This breastfeeding class will address the following topics: • Latch • Positioning Jacoby Lance Vineyard • Frequency of feedings • Growth spurts Jacoby Lance Vineyard was born June 11, 2015, weighing 7.15 • Breastfeeding resources pounds and 20.5 inches long to Ericka Vineyard at the Choctaw Durant Poteau McAlester Nation Health Care Center in Ta- August 12 • October 14 September 2 • November 4 September 9 • November 18 lihina. Maternal grandparents are 1pm - 3 pm 9am - 11am 1pm - 3pm Eric and Deana Vineyard of Po- teau. Maternal great-grandparents Choctaw Nation WIC O ce Family Investment Center Choctaw Nation Health Clinic are Tammy Kinsey and Johnny Talihina Idabel Downstairs Conference Room Shepherd of Poteau and Jona August 5 • October 7 August 19 • October 21 Ritter and the late Gary Ritter of Phoenix, Arizona. Paternal great- 9am - 11am 9am - 11am grandparents are the late Charles Choctaw Nation DWC Choctaw Nation Clinic Education Rm. and Dodie Vineyard of Poteau, and great-great-grandparents Phil and Wanda James of Sponsored by Choctaw Nation WIC Poteau. His aunt is Alyssa Vineyard and her uncle is Jar- rod Vineyard of Poteau. Jacoby is the 5th generation and For more information or for breastfeeding help, plase call Erin James, IBCLC 1-800-522-6170 ext. 2507. a member of the Choctaw Nation. Choctaw Nation WIC WOMEN, INFANTS CHOCTAW NATION FOOD DISTRIBUTION and CHILDREN WAREHOUSES & MARKETS * * * HOURS * * * Antlers: 306 S.W. “O” St., (580) 298-6443 Open 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Durant: 2352 Big Lots Pkwy, (580) 924-7773 Wednesday, and Friday; Site Hours Days McAlester: 1212 S. Main St., (918) 420-5716 10:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Thursday Antlers 8:30-4:00 Every Tues. Poteau: 100 Kerr Ave, (918) 649-0431 (580) 298-3161 Atoka 8:00-4:30 Every Mon., Wed., FOOD DISTRIBUTION SITES (580) 889-5825 Thur., & Fri. Bethel: Choctaw Community Center ANTLERS Bethel 8:30-4:00 1st Tues. Market open weekdays August 1-31, except for: Broken Bow: Choctaw Community Center (580) 241-5458 August 5: Idabel 9-11:30 a.m.; Broken Bow 1-3:30 p.m. (market Boswell 8:30-4:00 Every Fri. Idabel: Choctaw Community Center open) (580) 380-5264 Smithville: Choctaw Community Center Broken Bow 8:00-4:30 Daily, except 1st Tues. & August 12: Bethel 9-10:30; Smithville 12-2 (market open) (580) 584-2746 2nd Thurs Closed: August 27, 28, & 31 for inventory Coalgate 8:00-4:30 Every Wed. The U.S. Department of Agriculture prohibits discrimination against its customers, employees, and applicants for employment on the basis of race, color, national Cooking with Carmen: August 10, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. (580) 927-3641 origin, age, disability, sex, gender identity, religion, reprisal, and where applicable, Durant 8:00-4:30 Daily political beliefs, marital status, familial or parental status, sexual orientation, or all (580) 924-8280 x 2257 or part of an individual’s income is derived from any public assistance program, DURANT Hugo 8:00-4:30 Daily or protected genetic information in employment or in any program or activity Market open weekdays August 1-31, except for: (580) 326-5404 conducted or funded by the Department. (Not all prohibited bases will apply Idabel 8:00-4:30 Mon., Thur., & Fri. to all programs and/or employment activities.) If you wish to le a Civil Rights Closed: August 27, 28, & 31 for inventory (580) 286-2510 program complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Cooking with Carmen: August 13, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. McAlester 8:00-4:30 Daily Complaint Form, found online at http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_ ling_cust. html, or at any USDA o ce, or call (866) 632-9992 to request the form. You may (918) 423-6335 also write a letter containing all of the information requested in the form. Send McALESTER Poteau 8:00-4:30 Daily your completed complaint form or letter to us by mail at U.S. Department of (918) 647-4585 Agriculture, Director, O ce of Adjudication, 1400 Independence Ave., S.W., Market open weekdays August 1-31, except for: Smithville 8:30-4:00 2nd Thur. Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, by fax (202) 690-7442 or email at program.intake@ Closed: August 27, 28, & 31 for inventory (580) 244-3289 usda.gov.Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have speech disabilities Cooking with Carmen: August 4, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Spiro 8:00-4:30 Every Wed.-Fri. may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339; or (918) 962-3832 (800) 845-6136 (Spanish). For any other information dealing with Supplemental Stigler 8:30-4:00 Every Mon.-Wed. Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) issues, persons should either contact the USDA SNAP Hotline Number at (800) 221-5689, which is also in Spanish or call the POTEAU (918) 967-4211 State Information/Hotline Numbers (click the link for a listing of hotline numbers Market open weekdays August 1-31, except for: Talihina 8:00-4:30 Mon., Tues., Wed., by State); found online at http://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/contact_info/hotlines.htm. (918) 567-7000 x 6792 & Fri. Closed: August 27, 28, & 31 for inventory Wilburton 8:30-4:00 Every Thur. USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer. Cooking with Carmen: August 6, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. (918) 465-5641 BISKINIK | July 2015 7 PEOPLE YOU KNOW Maxwell earns internship with design Palmer celebrates 85th birthday Anoli Maxwell took first Happy birthday to John place in a T-shirt design Palmer, who turned 85 on contest for the City of June 20. Webster (Texas) National Palmer was born in the Public Works Week. She Horton Community. His was recognized at the parents were Leon Palmer May meeting of Webster and Lorene (Spring) Palmer. City Council, where she He was a Korean veteran received a plaque and was in the U.S. Navy, serving awarded an internship from 1951-1955. He gradu- with the Public Works ated from Commerce High Commission. Anoli is the School in 1947. All five of his daughter of Zach Maxwell children want to wish him a of Durant and Laura Agu- WWII veteran honored in Hugo happy birthday. irre of Webster, Texas. The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Elders and Vet- Varner wins Pinewood Derby erans recognition event was held on April 29 at the District 8 Community Center in Hugo. Kelton Varner recently Army veteran Capt. Roy Lyles, 91, spoke about serving won grand champion in the 45th Division during WWII and Korea. The audi- in the annual Northeast ence gave Captain Lyles a standing ovation and Chap- Texas, Southeastern Okla- lain Ed Griffin led the attendees in prayer. homa Boy Scout Counsel Pinewood Derby race on April 11. The event Bledsoes celebrate 53 years was held in Paris Texas. Larry and Carolan Bled- Kelton is the grandson of soe of Yukon, Oklahoma Larry and Patricia Varner will celebrate their 53rd of Powderly, Texas and wedding anniversary on a member of Pack 2 Cub Scouts NeTseO Trails July 28. They have four Council of scouting. children: Tamra Keeney and husband Walter of Tucson, Arizona, Lesa Group completes intermediate Choctaw Shriver and husband Gary Robert Bailey, Choctaw community language teacher, of Yukon,Oklahoma, Wes gives a certificate of completion for intermediate Choc- Bledsoe and wife Karen taw to Dee Wilson on May 30. Pebbles Robinson and of The Colony, Texas, and Rick Shelton also finished the course. Chuck Bledsoe and wife Brenda of Warr Acres, Oklahoma. They have five Head Start students explore trucks grandchildren Tawnya, Leslee, Alan, Sara and Rachel and four great-grandsons Grant, Gavin, Garet and Deacon. Burris made Vice-President of Funeral Directors Association Idabel community Choctaw language Jeremy Burris, of Coal- class graduates gate, was recently elected as vice-president of the Community students with the Idabel community lan- Oklahoma Funeral Direc- guage class finished one level of Choctaw language stude- tors Association during ies. Teacher Eleanor Caldwell taught students Sharon the annual convention in Logan, Louise Laney, Karen Logan, and Mary E. Watson. Tulsa. Burris graduated from Olney High School Students with the in 1992, Bethel University Choctaw Nation Head in 2003, and the Dallas Start Center of Hugo Institute of Funeral Ser- visited City Body Shop vice in 2005. Burris is the and explored wrecker Funeral Director in Charge trucks firsthand. for Brown’s Funeral Ser- Above: Emma and vice in Coalgate. Isaiah get to see inside of a big wrecker for the first time. Left: Caleb takes the seat of a big wrecker driver as a professional watches.

Photo courtesy of Bobby Hamill Webb earns Je erson Scholar Book Award Councilman Thompson throws rst Melissa Webb, a junior at Bayside High School in pitch at youth baseball tourney Virginia Beach, Virginia, District 8 Councilman Perry Thompson threw out the has earned the Jefferson first pitch at the Babe Ruth/Cal Ripken Baseball Tourna- Scholar Book Award. ment held in June at Red Warrior Ballpark in Grant. This The award is the top in was the first major event hosted at the ballfields, which her school and only one are a Choctaw Nation facility. There were 18 teams from student in each high school all over Oklahoma participating in this event. in Virginia is a recipient. Shared heritage found in Navy Melissa is also a member Huggins awarded rank of Eagle Scout While on assignment in Tunisia during May of 2015, of Bayside High School’s members of the U.S. Navy, David Krigbaum and Ray- Gifted Program. She is the Philip Huggins was mond Alley, met and discovered their shared Choctaw granddaughter of Jean Li- recently awarded the rank heritage. It was a chance encounter. Krigbaum and Alley tchfield and a descendant of Eagle Scout from Troop were participating in an annual exercise known as Phoe- of original enrollee Ida 114, Littleton United Meth- nix Express working with 13 partner nations. Mae Cummings. odist Church, in Littleton, Shaw places second at science fair, Colorado. Bearpaw to compete in history competition Huggins’ Eagle service earns two scholarships project was “Stories of Eighth-grader Amaiya Trent Kitchell, 16-year- WWII Veterans” in con- Bearpaw, a Choctaw and old from Hartshorne FFA, junction with American Cherokee attending Jay competed in the State Legion George C. Evans, Middle School, qualified Greenhand Quiz. Only Post 103, Littleton. The for a State History Day 50 students out of 5,000 video documentary totaled competition in Oklahoma qualified for state. Trent nine hours of video, which City. She, along with her won his district competi- was condensed to a final partner Madison Weise, tion. Trent is the son of JC product of one hour, with will be competing in May. and Julie Kitchell. the inclusion of photos, video clips and music.

For over 2 ½ years, the Choctaw Nation and the American Indian Diabetes Prevention Center at University of Oklahoma Health Science Center has part- nered in The MOVE Study. Physical activity is important to protect against Hardman honored with awards diabetes, cardiovascular disease and other health problems. The MOVE Study is Bailey Hardman re- a research project designed to encourage young native people to be more active ceived numerous awards by incentivizing their effort. To date, The MOVE Study has successfully en- for the 2014-2015 school rolled over 50 participants. These youth, from the Hugo and Talihina area, have year, completing 4th grade learned important health habits while earning a little extra money. To be eligible on the Honor Roll. for this study, participants must be 11-20 years old, overweight, and not currently She received an award in a sports or exercise program. The participants are enrolled in the study for a for straight A’s all year, year and encouraged to exercise at the wellness center within their communities. a certificate of excellence in the math-a-thon, a Recently an additional arm was added to the study. Now The MOVE Study is Principal’s Math Award able to include youth who did not meet the eligibility described above. The study staff is looking for participants for Division, as well as for who are 11-20 years, have average body weight, and are generally healthy. Students who are eligible for the new Multiplication. She also arm of the study will not join the exercise program. They will be asked to complete a few tests to measure their fit- received a certificates for ness level and to give a fasting blood sample. These tests can be completed in one or two visits. an Accelerated Reader goal of 100 points and for For more information about the MOVE Study and to find out if a child might be able to participate, please contact participating in choir. the study coordinator, Mary Ayn Tullier, RN at 918-567-7000 ex 6593, [email protected].

The director of the MOVE Study is Dr. Kevin Short, from the Department of Pediatrics at OUHSC. The MOVE The Sextons celebrate 46 years Study is part of a larger project called the American Indian Diabetes Prevention Center (AIDPC). The AIDPC is Tim and Shirley Sexton have been together in mar- supported by a research grant from the National Institutes of Health. The director of the AIDPC is Dr. Neil Hender- riage for 46 years. They recently celebrated this occa- son (Choctaw), from the Department of Health Promotion Sciences at OUHSC. To learn about the other projects sion. Kim Sexton and the rest of their family wish them and activities supported by the AIDPC, please go to: http://aidpc.ouhsc.edu. a happy anniversary. 8 BISKINIK | July 2015 OBITUARIES Ima Jean McCarter George W. Estill Jr. Steve Kent Wade Jean McCarter, 87, of Belling- George W. Estill Jr., age 45, died Steve K. Wade, of Wynnewood ham, Washington, passed away at on May 9, 2015. He was born in Inde- and Pauls Valley, passed away home on Jan. 6, 2015. pendance, Missouri, on Feb. 12, 1970, May 22, 2015, in Shawnee, Kansas She was born on Dec. 15, 1927, and was a resident of Albuquerque at the age of 87. in Centrahoma, Oklahoma. Jean since 1979. He worked in the film Steve, known as Sonny Boy had four siblings, Theda (Homer) industry for years as a grip and was until the age of 18 when he legally Mitchell, Ruby (Armand) Larive, a long time member of the IATSE adopted the name Steve Kent, was Charles Bunch and Judy Vail. At Local 480 union. He was a member born Sept. 4, 1927, in Ringling, to age 15, Jean married Louis Fox of several organizations, including a A.C. and Cleo Inez (Hammons) and moved to Wenatchee, Wash- local volleyball group. Wade. He grew up in the Ringling ington, to raise her children near George was preceded in death and Mountain Home areas. her mom and siblings. After her second marriage, she by his grandparents Harry and Grace Estill and George and At the age of 13, he moved with his family to Wyn- moved to Entiat, Washington, and raised her last two chil- Edith Michie from McAlester. He is survived by his parents newood. Steve graduated from Wynnewood High School dren. She was there until her last move to Bellingham. George W. Estill Sr. and Catherine Estill; sisters Elizabeth Estill and then attended Coyne Electrical School in Chicago, Jean worked at many places, including Counsel on Ag- of Tahlequah, Ruth Donoghue and husband Luke, Michelle Illinois, where he trained to be a radio repairman. ing in Wenatchee, Safeco Insurance in , Cordell’s Estill of Oklahoma City; and his two beloved dogs Miroku and Steve returned to Wynnewood and in 1949 married restaurant in Entiat and filled in part-time as playground Maiko; as well as countless friends in the community. Edith Baxter. They moved to Tulsa where Steve worked attendant for the Entiat School. She dearly loved the Lord. In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite church, in radio repair at Tulsa Battery and Electric. In 1964, he Gardening, cooking, reading, playing games, coffee with organization or charity on behalf of our beloved son, brother, bought the radio repair business and established Steve’s friends, and sharing time with family filled Jean’s days. cousin, godfather and friend, George. Electronics, which he operated with several employees for She was always quick with a tease, if she liked you, and There will be a memorial service on July 25 at 10:30 a.m. at more than 25 years. she was blessed with a green thumb and healing hands. Crossway Baptist Church, 230 North St., Tahlequah. Please Steve and Edith were married for more than 50 years Jean is survived by her children, Wanda Vammen, come and share your memories. before Edith’s death in 2001. They enjoyed living both in Sherry (Chuck) Akers, David (Holly) Fox, Jon Fox, Shan- Tulsa and later on the “farm” in Coweta where they raised non (Greg) Wadden, and Heather (Brian) Waterhouse; Juanita Harland-McMinn a few horses, dogs and the grandkids loved to play. grandchildren, Greg, Jonathan, Kristin, Kim, Jami, Cor- Juanita Harland-McMinn “Nita” In 2007 he married Ethel Simmons of Wynnewood rine, Benjamin, Emily, Carter, and Cole; great-grandchil- was born on Jan. 6, 1921, in Rush and they enjoyed 4 years together before Steve’s ill health dren, Joshua, Marco, Marciela, Mateo, and June; sisters, Springs. As a young woman, Nita separated them in 2011. Theda and Ruby; brother, Charles; and many loving rela- met her husband, Luster McMinn, Steve was an avid fisherman, who loved to sing, yodel tives and friends. in San Diego while he was stationed cowboy-style, and in his younger days he played and sang A memorial service was held for Jean on May 9, 2015, at the Navy base there. They were in a family band with his dad and older sister, Oneta. He at Orchard Street Church of Christ in Wenatchee. Follow- married in 1950 and in 1953 had had a private pilot’s license and enjoyed flying his Cessna ing the memorial service, Jean’s brother, Charles Bunch, their one and only child, a daugh- 2-seater. Later, he also enjoyed owning and racing a few helped with her interment in Centrahoma Cemetery. ter. Over the 30 years Luster was horses on some of the smaller tracks in Oklahoma. Jean was proud of her Choctaw heritage. She was in the Navy, they were stationed in Family was important to Steve. He traveled regularly returned to her beloved grandmother, Matilda Maytubby numerous military bases around the with and to visit his daughters and their families. He also Carter. country including: Florida, Tennessee, two tours in Hawaii, enjoyed traveling with his sister Myrna and brother-in- Midway Island, and a variety of cities in California. Nita law Gilbert and the members of the Chickasaw Indian Site Leyvoice Wesley enjoyed golfing, achieving a hole-in-one, cooking, dancing, in Pauls Valley until his failing health prevented it. Leyvoice Wesley, 74, of Batti- volunteering at the Palo Alto Veterans Hospital, being with His wife, Edith Wade and sister, Oneta K. Goss, pre- est, went to her heavenly home on her family, and shopping. Nita was extremely proud of her ceded Steve in death. Feb. 8, 2015, in Idabel. She was Choctaw heritage and spoke of it often. Her mother, Fannie Surviving family include his daughters Debra Duffe and born July 17, 1940, in Battiest, the Jane Wright, was half Choctaw and an original enrollee in husband, Bruce of Portland, Oregon and Nancy Simmons daughter of Daniel and Belinda the Choctaw Nation Rolls. Nita’s grandmother, Flora Alex- of Shawnee, Kansas; grandchildren Brandon Simmons Baker. She had lived in Battiest ander, went to Oklahoma in the Trail of Tears, as a child. and wife Rebecca, Ian, Kristine and Erin Duffe; great- all of her life and was a teacher’s Nita leaves behind a brother, two sisters, her daughter, grandchildren Landry and Brock Simmons; his sister, assistant for 32 years at the Bat- son-in-law, and two granddaughters. She was loved by many Myrna Morris and husband, Gilbert of Pauls Valley and tiest School. She was a member and will be dearly missed by her family and friends. She left nephew Tim Morris and wife, Cindy; niece Amy Somers of the Bethel Hill United Method- to be with Jesus on May 13, 2015. and husband Daniel; and grandnieces and nephew Ashton ist Church in Battiest. Leyvoice Morris, Ryan and Lauren Somers. loved going to singings and revivals, reading her Bible, Walter Lee Holzboog A private interment was held at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Pauls Valley under the direction of Stufflebean-Coffey volunteering at Bible school, attending cultural events, Walter Lee Holzboog, born Nov. Funeral Home. watching the children play basketball and attending fam- 27, 1952, passed on to a better ily gatherings. She was a member of the United Method- place on May 16, 2015, due to a Vera Mae Mitchell ist Women and held many church offices throughout the heart attack. years. She was a Sunday School Teacher and a member of Walter is survived by his wife Vera Mae Mitchell, a resident the Choctaw Senior Citizens. of 44 years, Lamona; children, of Durant, passed away on May She was preceded in death by her parents, Daniel and Angela, Richard, Jonathan; and 25, 2015, at the age of 58 years Belinda Baker. grandchildren. six months and four days. She Leyvoice leaves to cherish her memory, husband, Lenis Walter was a proud, loving was born to Robert Williams and Wesley of the home; step-daughters, Ramona Wesley, father and will be deeply missed. Myrtle Virginia (Peters) Mitchell in Verna Washington and husband Jamie, Sandra Williams The laughter he brought us all over the years with his kind Lane on Nov. 21, 1956. and husband Johnny, Nadine Wesley, Wanda Noah and heart will be cherished. Walter was a great man who was Vera had many interests, such husband David; step-sons, Buck Wesley and wife Janis, always there when you thought you were all alone. Wal- as going to yard sales looking for David Wesley and wife Karen and Tommy Wesley and ter’s passing is an utter struggle for us all, but the thought bargains and treasures, eating out, wife Debra; special close cousin, Deloris Baker; numerous of him smiling down on us brings us to bear this moment and going to the casino. She loved other relatives and many special friends. of sadness. dancing and listening to . But most of all Interment was at the Bethel Hill Cemetery in Battiest. Vera loved her family and especially looked forward to any Verbie Lee Olen Robinson time spent with her grandchildren. Shirley Ann Payton Freeman Verbie Lee Olen Robinson, 79, Mrs. Mitchell is survived by her children, Kisha Mitchell, Shirley Ann Payton Freeman, of Louisville, Kansas, died May 18, Kenny French and wife Carrie Millard and Ralph French; 79, passed away on March 26, 2015, at his home. He was a long- grandchildren, Destiny Maxey, Dakota Maxey, Sonya 2014, at her residence following a time resident of the community. Maxey, William Maxey, Sierra French, Brianna French and lengthy illness. She was born on Verbie was born March 3, 1936, Violet Anastasia (Truett) French; brother, Leroy Mitchell. her father’s Indian allotment in in Ada, the son of Elmer and Lucille Mrs. Mitchell was preceded in death by her mother, Waurika on Oct. 15, 1934, the only Glover Robinson. He attended local Myrtle Virginia-Peters Mitchell and father, Robert William child of Walter Payton and Flo Do- schools and then served in the 45th Mitchell; sisters, Sue Ann Lee, Shirley Ann Munoz and ten. She was half Choctaw Indian Infantry of the United States Army Nancy Mitchell; brother, Lee Ray Mitchell. and proud to be a member of the in Korea. He then served in the Air Interment was at Bentley Cemetery located close to Lane. Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. Force. Services under the direction of Holmes-Coffey-Murray She is survived by her daugh- He worked for 36 years as a welder for Caterpillar, Inc. in Funeral Home of Durant. ter, Kim Freeman of Yuma, Arizona; son, Stephen Dale Wamego, Kansas. He retired in 2008. Verbie was a member Rita Potter Freeman of San Diego, California; two grandchildren, of the American Legion and the NRA. He enjoyed hunting, Payton Dale Freeman and Jena Caitlin Freeman. She was fishing and target shooting. He loved spending time with his Rita Potter, 63, of Soper, passed preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Dale family, especially his grandchildren, and the occasional trip away on May 22, 2015, in Muskogee. Freeman. to the casino. Rita Potter was born Dec. 18, Shirley graduated from Somerton Grammar School and Verbie married Betty Tommie in 1956. They were later 1951, in Springer, the daughter of Yuma High School in 1952. divorced. He then married Esther Jantz on Aug. 21, 1965, in Sonny Patton and Bernadine (Cates) She retired from the Yuma County Sheriff’s Depart- Oklahoma. She survives at their home. Patton. Rita grew up in Springer ment in 1984. She was the first female officer in Yuma He is also survived by his daughters; Johnita Smith and and had lived in the Soper/Antlers County to retire from the Arizona Public Safety Personnel husband Stan, Jeannette Knight-Crowell and husband area since 1993. She married John Retirement System. She served for three sheriffs, Sheriff Darrin, both of Porterville, California, Becky Bratcher and Potter on Feb. 4, 1971, in Ardmore. Newman, Sheriff Yancey, and Sheriff Phipps with 22 years husband Rocky of Holton, Kansas; Julie Price and hus- Rita enjoyed fishing, loved animals, of service. band Ricky, of Manhattan, Kansas, and Christy Pease and liked to shop and enjoyed spending Interment was at Desert Lawn Memorial Park. Arrange- husband Chad, of Girard, Kansas; his son, Mike Wallace, of time with her family, especially her grandchildren. She was a ments under the direction of Funeraria del Angel, Yuma, Pittsburg, Kansas; his brothers, Bob Robinson and wife Con- homemaker and was of the Baptist faith. Arizona. nie, of Clovis, New Mexico, Joe Robinson and wife Jackie, Her parents preceded her in death. She was also preceded of Cleburne, Texas, Leon Parker of Louisville, Kansas; his in death by two brothers and one sister, James Patton, Hack Michael ‘Sean’ Daniel sisters, Phyllis Coburn, Susie Robinson, of Farwell, Texas; 13 Patton and Wilma Warren. Michael “Sean” Daniel, 46, grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. He was preceded Survivors include her husband, John Potter; two sons, of Goodwater Community in in death by his parents and brother, David Robinson. J.P. Potter and companion, Tara Flint of Coalgate and Haworth, passed away May 6, John Eugene Potter of Buckhorn; daughter Angela Hokett 2015, in Goodwater. He was Marie A. Gibson and husband David of Antlers; one sister, Barbara Agan of born Nov. 27, 1968, in Greenville, Marie A. Gibson, 84, died May 17, Ardmore; grandchildren, Kaci Hokett, Taylor Hokett, Hugh Kentucky, the son of Gail Daniel 2015, in Oklahoma City. Hokett and Jasper Hokett; along with many other relatives Williamson. Marie A. Gibson was born Feb. 15, and friends. Sean and Cassie Wilkerson 1931, at Celestine, Oklahoma to J.D. Interment was in the Potter Family Cemetery in the Buck- were united in marriage on Dec. and Mille (Staples) Selman. She horn Community, north of Soper. Arrangements entrusted 9, 1996, at the Stateline Baptist married Jim Gibson on Nov. 4, 1950, to Miller & Miller Funeral Home of Hugo. Church in Cerrogordo, Arkansas. Sean attended Broken in McAlester. She was a seamstress Bow High School and later graduated from Tiger Weld- for Komar and retired after 30-plus Obituary Policy ing in Tulsa and became an excellent welder. He enjoyed years of service. She loved her kids Obituary submissions are for Choctaw tribal members and are free of fishing, hunting and riding his motorcycle. and grandkids and was a member of charge. The Biskinik will only accept obituary notices from funeral homes or other official sources. Family members/individuals may still submit fu- Sean leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Cassie the Haywood Baptist Church. Daniel of the home; four sons, Dustin Pace of Idabel, neral notices as long as the notice is from the funeral home or printed Survivors include her husband, Jim Gibson; three daugh- in their local newspapers through a funeral home service. Full-length Skyler Bates of El Dorado, Arkansas, Connor Daniel and ters, Janie Lampkin, Debbie Workman and husband Fred, handwritten notices will not be accepted. The Biskinik strives to serve all Gavin Daniel both of Goodwater; his mother, Gail Daniel Althea Johnson and husband Doug; 11 grandchildren, Jim Choctaws, therefore, any handwritten notices received will be searched Williamson of Lukfata Community; one sister, Karen Wil- David and Kim, Jana, Angela and Dave, Randy and Gareth, online for official funeral home notices. If none are found, efforts will be liams and husband, Randy of Lukfata; two grandchildren, Casey, Dana, Laticia and J.R., Tabatha and Shaun, Dixie, made to contact the family and make arrangements for an official notice. Notices may be edited for space limitations. Willy Pace and Logan Pace both of Idabel and a special Daniel and Lori, Melissa and John; 22 great-grandchildren; niece, Ashley Carlisle Bark; other relatives and friends. Send official obituary notices to: one brother, Ross Selman and wife Joann; three sisters-in- Biskinik He was preceded in death by his father, John Henry law, Caldonia Choate, Ann Smith, Clara Blevins; numerous PO Box 1210 Williamson; maternal grandparents, Melba Daniel and nieces, nephews and cousins; special friends, Wesley and Durant OK 74702 Henry Daniel; nephew, Tristan Carlisle. Rosemary Parham, Nora Marco, and Lucy Allen. or Interment was at Philadelphia Cemetery, Goodwater She was preceded in death by her parents, son, James email: [email protected] Community, Haworth. David Gibson and grandson, Christopher Lampkin. BISKINIK | July 2015 9 OBITUARIES Racheal Jean Wiest Nelyn Lorene (Garvin) Kellam Shelita ‘Shellie’ Jean Wear Racheal Jean Wiest was born Dec. Nelyn Lorene (Garvin) Kellam, Shelita “Shellie” Jean Wear, 40, 29, 1998, in Wichita Falls, Texas, 80, Lakewood, Wisconsin, passed an Atoka resident, passed away on and on May 25, 2015, Racheal was away June 6, 2015, at her home June 11, 2015, at Atoka. unexpectedly and tragically taken with her husband at her side fol- She was born on Oct. 9, 1974, to from her family and friends. lowing a courageous two-year battle Randy Wear and Gloria (Betsey) Racheal was a 16-year-old with cancer. Loftin, at Clinton. She attended sophomore at Nimitz High School Nelyn was born to Lucyle (Hud- Bentley grade school and Atoka High in Irving, Texas. She was an AP son) and Lloyd Garvin on Feb. 26, School. Shellie was a homemaker. and A/B Honor Roll student and 1935, in Dibble. She graduated from Shellie was of the Baptist faith. She determined to become a Sooner Alpaugh High School in Califor- loved riding horses, four-wheelers, at Oklahoma University. She was nia with the class of 1953 and was and cooking for her family. a country girl at heart, loved to dance and express herself proud to be an enrolled member of the Choctaw Nation. She is survived by a daughter, Kirsten Daniels of McAl- with her genuine Southern girl charm. Racheal was very While attending college in Corvallis, Oregon, she met the ester; sons, Jakus Wear of Oklahoma City and Kyle Daniels proud of her Choctaw heritage and her Choctaw name was love of her life, Jerry Kellam, a U.S. sailor. After two years of McAlester; daughters, Jeri Walker and Kelsie Walker of Hashi Okatula which means Setting Sun. Her smile would of dating they were married on June 13, 1955, in Yuma, Atoka; mother, Gloria Loftin and husband James of Atoka; light up a room and her laugh could warm your heart. Arizona. After his discharge they moved to Green Bay, Wis- sister, Willa Wear of Atoka; brother, Randy Wear of Atoka; Racheal is survived by her father and step-mother, Billy consin, where their first son, Garry, was born in 1956. The husband, Jerry Walker of Atoka; father, Randy Wear of Ada; and Tracy Wiest; her mother, Heidi Arrington; her grand- couple moved to Menomonie, Wisconsin, in 1957, where three grandchildren; grandmother, Annie Betsey of Durant; mother, Bobbie Gable; paternal grandmother, Sherley Nelyn worked as a waitress to help put Jerry through col- along with nieces, nephews, other relatives and dear friends. Zaicek; maternal grandfather Edward Thomas; maternal lege. In June of 1957, their second son, Gregg, was born. In Shellie was preceded in death by a grandfather, Adam grandparents Mike and Jennie Smith; three sisters, Crystal May of 1960, their third son, Glenn, was born. The family Betsey; aunts, Linda Henderson, Janie Betsey, Jo Funnanda Cavaness, Amanda McKellar and Robin Arrington Griffin; moved to California in November of 1960 and lived in vari- Baker; nephew, Joey Baker; and cousin, Leslie Hamilton. four brothers, Charles Stubbs, Trent McKellar, Dalton Wi- ous places including Alpaugh, San Francisco, Newhall, Sau- Interment was held in Bentley Cemetery, Atoka, under the est and Ashton Jury; numerous aunts and uncles, a great gus, and Simi Valley. In Saugus, their fourth son, Griff, was direction of Brown’s Funeral Service in Atoka. deal of cousins, lots of nieces and nephews and an abun- born in 1962. In 1965, they moved to Simi Valley. Having dance of friends. four boys she started a Cub Scout Pack and served as a den Ernest Elwood Ladd She is preceded in death by her cousin Autumn Dawn mother. Jerry and Nelyn moved to Sobieski, Wisconsin, in Ernest Elwood Ladd, 88, of Wiest, Bobby Wiest, Donald Zaicek, and Jake Zaicek. 1970. Together they built their house, which took two years. Norman, formerly of Blanchard, In lieu of flowers, the family ask that donations be made For 10 years she enjoyed working with Sharon Budz, died June 8, 2015 at his home. The to: http://de.gofund.me/RachealWiest. Delores Behringer, Sandy Leisch, Patty Exferd and Penny eighth child of nine, Elwood was Doris Kaye ‘Saucie’ Taylor Holman in Oconto at the “Reminder Newspaper.” She also born Sept. 22, 1926 in Blanchard, worked for Blazie Meat Market in Duck Creek. In 1972, Jerry to Walter David Ladd and Nettie Doris Kaye “Saucie” Taylor, 60, worked for the Green Bay and Western Railroad and ac- Mahala (Beal) Ladd. passed away on May 28, 2015, at quired a caboose, which they put on their land in Lakewood, In 1943, Elwood left school Ardmore. Graveside services were Wisconsin, using it as a cabin until 1996. In 1996, after and went to work for a shipyard held on June 1, 2015, at Durwood Jerry’s retirement, the couple added a house onto the ca- in Oakland, California and then Cemetery with Reverend Robert boose. Jerry and Nelyn also bought a house in The Villages, went to work for Douglas Aircraft Taylor officiating. Florida. They became snowbirds, living there in the winter in Oklahoma City. Elwood entered the U.S. Navy and Saucie was born on Jan. 6, 1955, and in Lakewood in the summer, for the next 10 years. Nelyn served during World War II. He then returned to Dibble to Edward Lawrence Taylor and had her own golf cart and loved to golf. In 2005, she got her Schools and graduated with the class of 1947. Elwood Alice (Tubbee) Taylor in Talihina. one and only hole in one. met the love of his life, Donna Zell Jackson in 1946 and She was raised in Oak Cliff, Texas, Nelyn always thought about others before herself. The they were married in October 1947. He was employed by where she attended and graduated greatest love she had was for her children, grandchildren, the Dibble school system as a bus mechanic during the from Adamson High School and later she attended and and great-grandchildren. She loved to play cards, espe- 1947-48 school year and in August of 1949 he went to graduated from Allstate Business College. Saucie worked cially with her card club. She also loved her pontoon boat, work for Tinker Air Force Base. In 1951, Elwood entered for Stromberg-Carlson and worked on the production line. and took many tours with loved ones on the Silver River in the U.S. Air Force and was assigned to Tinker Air Force She later took a position with Lake Murray Lodge in house- Florida enjoying the wildlife, which included monkeys and Base. After his discharge, Elwood worked at Tinker as keeping and then took a position at Elmbrook Nursing alligators. She loved to travel, especially in her 1972 Avion an aircraft mechanic until 1965. From 1965 to 1978, he Home in housekeeping until her health forced her to retire. trailer. She visited every state except Alaska and Hawaii. taught auto mechanics at Dibble High School. In 1972, he She enjoyed cooking, working word puzzles, listening In 2010, Jerry and Nelyn purchased a park model trailer earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Trade and Indus- to her music, and playing with her nieces and nephews. in the Pioneer RV Resort in Arizona, becoming snowbirds trial Education from Oklahoma State University. In 1978, She accepted Christ into her life in 2010 and placed her again. Nelyn worked for the resort until cancer set in. Elwood decided to open his own business, Ladd’s Brake membership at Durwood Missionary Baptist Church where Nelyn is survived by her husband of 60 years, Jerry; four and Alignment Service, located in Blanchard and was she was a member of WMU and held the office of Assistant sons: Garry, Sarasota, Florida; Gregg, Sarasota, Florida; there until he retired in 2006 at the age of 80. In his spare Secretary. Glenn, Winslow, Arizona; and Griff and wife Michelle, time, Elwood enjoyed playing dominoes and made it to She is preceded in death by her parents; and two broth- Hobart, Wisconsin; two brothers: Loran and wife Alice, a few state domino tournaments. Elwood was a member ers, Ed Taylor and Danny Taylor. Phoenix, and Carroll and wife Gail, Scottsdale, Arizona; of the Blanchard Lion’s Club for 21 years and served as Saucie is survived by her sisters, Geraldine Taylor, Mar- one sister, Barbara, Phoenix; nine grandchildren; 11 great- President in 1982-83. He was a former member of Pleas- gie Taylor, Letha Taylor, Valerie Taylor, Jennifer Taylor, grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and ant Hill Baptist Church in Blanchard where he served as Eileen Hughes and husband, Chris, Stephanie Frank and friends. She had a special place in her heart for her dear a deacon. Later in life, he and his wife faithfully attended husband, Norman; brothers, Winston Taylor and Richard niece, Brenda. Nelyn was preceded in death by her parents; Skyline Church in Norman. In 2003, Donna was diag- Taylor and wife, Sandra; aunt Josephine Taylor; and nu- and two brothers, Leland and Sidney. nosed with Alzheimer’s and he took great care of her until merous nieces and nephews. The family would like to extend a special thanks to the her death in 2013. staff of Unity Hospice for their exceptional care. Elwood was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Phyllis Ruth (Bully) Knight Burial will take place in Lena Cemetery at a later date. of 66 years, Donna Zell (Jackson) Ladd; his eight siblings, Phyllis Ruth (Bully) Knight, a Nina Johnson, Winifred Ladd, Johnny Claude Ladd, Oleta beloved and longtime resident of Billie Marie Lincoln Rogers, George Ladd, Charlene McIntosh, Oneita Haley, Bennington, Oklahoma passed Billie Marie Lincoln, 73, de- and Laura Lynn Fisher. away in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, parted this life on June 1, 2015, He is survived by his two daughters, Kayla Gilbert of on Monday, April 13, 2015, at the in Wagoner. She was preceded in Norman and Karla Loader and husband, Brian, of Colo- age of 75. She was born in Talihina, death by her grandmother, Ella rado; two sons, Allan Ladd and wife, Lynette, of Florida Oklahoma, on October 22, 1939, to Gibson; her parents; and her for- and Kevin Ladd and wife, Deborah, of Mustang; seven George and Minerva (Billy) Bully. mer husband, John G. Lincoln. grandchildren, Derek Jones of Norman, William “Thom” Phyllis loved her Durant Com- Billie was born June 7, 1941, in Ladd and wife, Melissa, of Louisiana, Nanette Allen and munity family. She enjoyed taking trips with her senior Talihina to William and Rebecca husband, Joe, of California, Natalie Oakes and husband, citizens group. Phyllis loved to sew for herself and others, (Durant) Watt. She was a resident Larry, of New York, Noelle McWilliams and husband, going to gospel singings and planting and caring for the of Chouteau and a member of the George, of New Jersey; Brooke Ladd of Colorado, and grounds around her home. She was an independent, strong Word Fellowship Church. Billie Trevor Ladd of Mustang; nine great-grandchildren; a host Choctaw woman. was a valued employee of Wagoner Community Hospital of nieces and nephews; and many other loved ones and Mrs. Knight is survived by her grandsons, Brian Ham- where she worked as a pharmacy clerk for many years. friends. mond of Bokchito, Oklahoma and Michael Hammond of She was a proud member of the Choctaw Nation of Okla- Burial with military honors was in the Dibble Cemetery. Bennington, Oklahoma; sisters, Verna Peters of Pampa, homa. Arrangements are under the direction of Eisenhour Fu- Texas, Eleanore Palmer of Durant, Oklahoma, Bernice Her loving family who survive her include two daugh- neral Home of Blanchard. Williams of Bennington, Oklahoma and Lou Fobb of White ters, Johnna (Lincoln) Beck and her husband, John and Oak, Texas; brother, James Pamplin of Ft. Worth, Texas; Cydni (Lincoln) Osborne; one son, Robert Lincoln and Edyth Geneva (Stafford) Walsh great-grandsons, Julian and Jonathan Hammond and his wife, Shema; her grandchildren, Christopher and Joni Edyth Geneva (Stafford) Walsh Riley Minchey and numerous nieces and nephews. Beck, Chad and Jacy Beck, Cory and Cassi Beck, Rebecca entered the Gates of Heaven on Mrs. Knight was preceded in death by her father, George (Lincoln) and Keith Neal, Kyle and Ashley Lincoln, Seth June 15, 2015, in Denison, Texas, Bully and mother, Minerva Fobb; sons, Larry and Mike Osborne, Taylor Lincoln, Adrianna Lincoln, Warren at the age of 67 years, 9 months, Hammond; sister, Joann Frank; brothers, Claude Billy and Lincoln, Jackson Lincoln, Colt Lincoln, and Esley Lincoln; and 20 days. Edyth was born on Arnold Bully. 10 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews, and August 26, 1947, in McAlester, to Interment was at the Bennington Cemetery. Services other family. Glenn and Mary (Semple) Staf- are under the direction of Holmes-Coffey-Murray Funeral Interment was in Fisher Cemetery. ford. She married Robert Lee Home, Durant, Oklahoma. Walsh in Caddo, on March 7, 1975, (Corrected notice from June edition of Biskinik.) Darryl Scott Cook and they have spent 40 wonderful Darryl Scott Cook went to be years together. Johnny Lee Threet with our Lord on June 6, 2015, Edyth has been a resident of Bryan County for most of Johnny Lee Threet of Durant, at the age of 51. He was born on her life. She attended Caddo Schools and Grayson County passed away May 23, 2015, at his April 22, 1964, in San Antonio, College. She worked for 35 years in Production and Union home. He was born April 19, 1938, in Texas, to Leonard and Linda Cook. Steward, QA, and forklift driver for Johnson & Johnson. Weathers, to Cephus Joe Threet and He is survived by his father, Leon- She was involved in many organizations such as 4-H, Thelma Louise Ervin Threet. ard Clay Cook, Jr., (Choctaw) and FHA, Campfire, Den Mother, Order of Eastern Star, Circle Johnny was a musician (drum- his step-mother; Nanette Chopin J and Perfection Club. Edyth was a member of the Caddo mer) and loved music, especially Cook; his sister Melissa (Cook) Presbyterian Church in Caddo. She also enjoyed raising jazz. He loved dancing and “club- Lane; maternal grandmother, cattle, crafts, taking pictures, traveling, and gardening in bing” with friends in his younger Edith Beard and numerous cous- her spare time. days. He was honorably discharged ins. Edyth is preceded in death by her grandparents, Wil- from the National Guard of Okla- He was preceded in death by his paternal grandmother liam and Cordelia Stafford, Lena Bell, and Charlie “CC” homa on April 10, 1955, and went into the United States Air Clara June Barton Cook (a Choctaw) and grandfather Semple; parents Glenn and Mary Stafford; and sister Force April 26, 1955. He was honorably discharged from the Leonard Clay Cook, Sr., and his mother Linda E. Baird. Virginia “Ginger” Brown. Air Force Feb. 24, 1959. He later became a truck driver and He left this world and his family behind at an early Edyth is survived by husband Robert Lee Walsh of the traveled around making many lasting friendships and he age. Darryl loved to joke and laugh and was a “hoot” to home; sons, James R. and wife Diane of Howe, Texas, retired from driving after about 30 years on the road. He was be around. He always had a story to tell about things he Keith D. and wife Becky of Howe, Texas, and Glenn E. very caring and involved in the lives of family and friends and had experienced in life. He was a very compassionate Walsh of Durant; sisters, Billie Frances Robinson and will be deeply missed. man who worked for Adult Day Care Centers where he husband Benny W. of Spokane, Washington, and Laura He was preceded in death by his sisters, Bettye Sue Oxford loved the individuals who came to spend the day. He was L. Hider and husband Marty M. of Caddo; grandson and Billie Jo Morris; nephews, Roy Oxford and Andrew Ox- a seventh generation grandson of Moshulatubbe, one of Jesse Walsh of Sherman, Texas; granddaughters, Tonya ford; and niece, Crystal Oxford. the original Choctaw chiefs in the early 1800’s. He was a Walsh of North Dakota, Krista Williams and husband Johnny was a bachelor for all of his 77 years and is survived sixth generation grandson of Robert Clay Freeny (1812) Tyler of Kentucky, Bailey Walsh and Savannah Bryant by his niece, Barbara Nagy and husband John of Durant; and Sarah Freeny (Moshulatubbe’s granddaughter) who both of Durant; step-grandson Zach McKnight and wife nephews, Jimmy Oxford and wife Yolanda of Cass Lake, came from Mississippi during the movement of the Five Amber of Van Alstyne, Texas; step-granddaughter Krystal Minnesota, and Kenneth Oxford of Durant; great-nieces and Civilized Tribes to Oklahoma. When he was younger, he McKnight of Plano, Texas; and great-grandchildren, Kylin nephews, Valorie, Jennifer, Luvenia, Stephanie, Janell, Bobby, moved to Bromide, Oklahoma, in the 1980’s to live with Walsh, Zora Williams, Hayden McKnight, Hudson McK- Shenowa, Jimmy Jr., Kimberly, Ian, Donavon, Aaron and his grandmother Clara June Barton Cook’s sister Bobbie. night, and Harper McKnight. Ashleigh; and numerous great-great-nieces and nephews. We He will be missed by all that knew him. Darryl was a one Arrangements are under the direction of Brown’s Fu- all love you Uncle Johnny and will miss you so much. of a kind person. neral Service, Durant. 10 BISKINIK | July 2015 EDUCATION Language school prepares Choctaw community teachers By BRANDON FRYE Choctaw Nation resa Billy, Assistant Director of the School of Choctaw Language. Roughly 50 Choctaw community lan- Topics like grammar, storytelling, lesson guage instructors strengthened their under- planning, and student engagement were standing of the language during this year’s discussed, and interacted with in small Choctaw Language Community Teachers groups. Workshop held at the School of Choctaw Special guest speakers Linda Skinner, Language in Durant from May 18-19. Barbara Routledge, and Freddie Bowles The purpose of the event, now in its instructed the two-day event with insight, third year, was to bring community teach- tips, and tricks they developed over their ers together to provide tools, resources, teaching careers. Combined, the three and materials to enhance their teaching hold 75 years of teaching experience and skills and further their understanding of wisdom. the structure of the Choctaw language. The Skinner shared some personal stories, Photo by Brandon Frye next step is for these community teachers including her ongoing desire to learn to spread their knowledge and increase the more about the Choctaw culture, as well Guest speaker Linda Skinner shares examples of incorporating history and interactivity in learn- ing the Choctaw language. She holds a custom, decorated Choctaw edition of the game Scrabble speaking abilities of our language learners as showing off the Choctaw art and poetry she made herself using a standard game set. overall. some of her students crafted over the “The better equipped we are as language years. She also provided examples of how involved with the language and culture. learning more Choctaw. For example, the teachers, the better we are as teachers to incorporate history and culture into “You made it possible for a little girl who game Scrabble can be played using only to ‘breakdown’ and ‘simplify’ the teach- language lessons. grew up wanting it to get it,” she said. Choctaw words to make learning fun, and ing of the language as we continue on the Speaking to the room full of language Though the lessons were aimed at com- creating poems and stories using Choctaw mission to perpetuate and revitalize the instructors, Skinner said it was people like munity instructors, much of the knowl- helps solidify an understanding of the lan- language for future generations,” said Te- them who made it possible for her to get edge would help anyone interested in guage while keeping Choctaw art alive.

Cleveland earns master’s degree Pierce earns diploma, plans for college Carrie Cleveland graduated from Lewis University Congratulations to Cecilia Pierce, granddaughter of on May 9. Carrie received a Master’s Degree in Organi- Carole and Don Ayers. Cecilia graduated in May from zational Studies, with a concentration in International Westmoore High School in Oklahoma City. Coaching. At Westmoore, Cecilia was a member of the Pride Carrie is employed as a paralegal in the income of Westmoore Marching Band, Latin Club, National support division for the State of New Mexico. She also Honor Society, Advanced Drama, and represented the has a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology. Carrie is the Choctaw Nation in numerous Native American cultural daughter of Fred and Fay Cleveland, and sister and performances during her high school years. Cecilia was sister-in-law to Fred and Martina Cleveland. Carrie is crowned as Westmoore’s Band Queen. Cecilia has been aunt to Max, Natalia and Sebastian. accepted into Oklahoma State University’s Honors Col- lege this fall where she will pursue a degree in liberal studies before attending law school.

Austin graduates from Carl Albert Clark Austin graduated from Carl Albert State College this May as a pre-pharmacy major. The son of Jack and Batton Scholar Spotlight: Kendra Germany Philisha Austin, Clark came to Carl Albert from Tali- hina. He plans to transfer to Southeastern Oklahoma State University in the fall. “I made highest honors for graduation and I’m in the Scholars Program,” Austin said. “I have enjoyed life on the small campus of Carl Albert. I spent most of my free time at the BCM and playing volleyball at the Vike House.” In addition to the Scholars Program, Austin is in- volved with Phi Theta Kappa, Native American Association, intramural sports, and the Vikes Club. Williams earns diploma and honors Christian Williams graduated from Norman North High School. He was number one in his class, and belonged to the National Honor Society, Student Indian Education Honor Society, was a National Merit Com- mended Student, and graduated with a 4.0 GPA. His Honors English study group started its own YouTube channel called Humorosity. He was president of his Teen Advisor’s of Norman service group with United Way. He will attend Dartmouth College in the (Editor’s note: This is the second in a Family Scholarship. In 2013, she gradu- fall. series about the six recipients of the Bat- ated with her journalism degree. ton Family Scholarship, which has been “It was an honor to be chosen. I was re- offered since 2012 to Choctaw students ally thankful and proud that I was select- who are close to graduating at Southeast- ed,” said Germany. “I’ve just always liked LeFlore earns bachelors from OU ern Oklahoma State University.) writing. I want to be somewhere in media, Anna Priestley LeFlore graduated from the University whether it be newspapers or magazines.” of Oklahoma in May, with a bachelor of fine arts degree Kendra Germany has always wanted to She is currently working as a reception- in drama from the Weitzenhoffer Family College of Fine be a writer. ist at her brother Dr. John Germany’s Arts. Anna is the daughter of Claire and Rick LeFlore of And her mother always urged her to chiropractic office in Durant. She also Davis, California and middle sibling of sisters Monica and Adrienne. Anna is proud of her Choctaw heritage, seek out an education after graduating recently accepted an opportunity to be a with LeFlore ancestors from the Kiowa, Oklahoma area. from Coleman High School. With those contributing writer for her tribal newspa- With much appreciation to the Choctaw Nation for her two goals in mind, she set her sights on per, the Biskinik. higher education financial assistance, Anna will be join- a bachelor’s degree in journalism from The Germany siblings are the second ing the Disney College Program in Orlando, Florida in Southeastern Oklahoma State University. generation of Choctaws in their family August. She used a combination of OHLAP to attain college degrees. Their mother, funds and Choctaw Nation Higher Educa- Sheila, is a teacher at Coleman. tion grants to get most of the way through “My mom is the reason I got an educa- the financial portion of a four-year degree. tion,” Kendra said. “She made sure we put But she needed that extra push to pave the education first.” way for her senior year. That guidance has helped steer the In 2012, she was named one of the first Germany siblings toward their goals and recipients of the Gary & Angie Batton dreams.

Join Us At Jones! Jones Academy is accepting applications for the 2015 Fall Semester. We have openings in specific grades 1-12. Tuition, travel, and services are cost free to families. Tour our elementary school facilities and dormitories.

Come Join Us • Be a Part of the Future CCC 2015 is the Choctaw Nation Higher Education Program’s annual Choctaw student recruitment event. Students will have the opportunity to Take advantage of the residential program benefits: meet one-on-one with recruiters from colleges and universities from around • Tutorial Assistance for All Grades (1st-12th) the country as well as in your own backyard. • Rewards for Academic Achievement • High School Graduation Expenses Paid/Scholarships You can expect to find the following colleges: • Career Counseling/College and Post-Secondary Preparation Bacone College • Voc-Tech Training Cornell University • Summer Youth Work Program University of North Texas • Medical and Counseling Services Provided Southern Methodist University • Alternative Education Program Oklahoma State University • Traditional/Cultural Activities Syracuse University • Recreational Activities & Educational Trips Duke University • Agriculture Program

Remember to mark your calendars for Saturday November 7th, 2015 to Please call for a tour or an application @ toll free (888) 767-2518 or access www. attend CCC 2015 at the Choctaw Event Center in Durant, OK. jonesacademy.org or write to: Jones Academy Like the Choctaw Nation Higher Education Program HCR 74 Box 102-5 on facebook for up-to-date details! Hartshorne, OK 74547

BISKINIK | July 2015 11 EDUCATION

Wirtz graduates with high honors Roshala graduates from San Diegutio Brianna Wirtz graduated High School with honors from University of Illinois Justice Roshala gradu- with high honors in May. ated with honors from She received a bachelor of San Diegutio High School science degree in adver- Academy in Encinitas, tising with a secondary California. interest in psychology. Justice Graduated with Brianna’s awards include honors, maintaining a 3.9 the dean’s list, public rela- GPA. He played water polo tions certificate, U of IL all four years as goalie, and Board of Director for the was captain of the team his multi-cultural funding fee senior year. Justice was also committee and the Native member of Young Leaders American House academic in Healthcare. Curnutt graduates as valedictorian scholarship. Adrianna Curnutt, senior at Wister Public Schools, Justice plans on attending graduates as valedictorian of her school’s class of 2015. the University of California, She is the reigning Miss Wister High School and is an Davis earns numerous awards Los Angeles in the fall as a Sierra Davis, daughter avid goat shower. freshman majoring in Biology. of Travis and Beth Davis, Curnutt represented Wister Public School at the Okla- He is proud to be Choctaw and is grateful to Chief Batton was awarded the Optimist homa Youth Expo in Oklahoma City during March and and the Choctaw College Connect Program for their inspira- Club Junior TexAnne had two class winners, a Division I Grand Champion tion and continued support. of the Year Scholarship. Breeding Doe winner. She also earned second place in She attended the state the 17-year-old division for showmanship. competition for band She has won numerous banners, plaques, ribbons, Barnard graduates to become LPN ensemble receiving a “1” and belt buckles in her 10-year showing career. Adri- Marriah Barnard, Superior Rating, as well anna is the daughter of Bruce and Francine Curnutt. daughter of Stephanie and as choir solo. Sierra was Stephen Battice of Cam- also a member of a one- eron, graduated in the act play for Gainesville Kiamichi Votech Licensed High School, where they Practical Nurse program’s advanced to regionals. class of 2015. Marriah would like to thank the Choctaw Nation Bairos receives academic awards for all the opportuni- On May 5, Morgan ties it has given her and Bairos received awards for appreciates the Career Outstanding Achievement Development department in Language Arts, Excel- for helping her pursue her lence in Physical Educa- dreams as a nurse. tion, maintaining a 4.0 GPA throughout his entire junior high career and a Slabaugh graduates from Howe medal for school honors. Military Academy with many awards Morgan has set a high Jered Slabaugh, of Syra- Jones earns high school diploma cuse, graduated from the Sunset Rose Jones graduated from McMinnville High standard for himself and Howe Military Academy. School in Oregon on June 5. She also went to state com- is determined to continue Jered was awarded the petition with her symphonic choir. his pursuit of excellence in high school. He also was ROTC Medal of the Sons invited and attended an of the American Revolu- extra-curricular science tion, the Senior Award excursion to represent his school’s Science Department in for Computer Proficiency, April. the Air Force Association Morgan was able to achieve all of this while playing Cyber Patriot Award, Par- baseball and working as a Little League umpire. ents’ Association Awards for academic progress, 12th grade (Gold) and Cassie Lewis graduates from Rose State the President’s Award for Cassie Danyale Lewis Educational Achievement graduated from Rose for maintaining a GPA State College on May 7 between 3.50 and 3.74. Jered is the son of Steven and Jea- with honors in business netta Slabaugh. management. She will further her career at the University of Oklahoma in the fall of 2015, pursuing Wells and Fairless earn undergraduate a master’s degree in order degrees from Dartmouth to be a certified public ac- Preston Wells and Elizabeth Fairless graduated from countant. Dartmouth College with bachelor of arts degrees on June Lewis is the mother of 14. Preston is from Hugo, and majored in Native Ameri- seven-year-old daughter, can studies. Elizabeth is from Sand Springs, and majored Matilda Lewis. in neuroscience with a minor in Native American studies. Preston and Elizabeth would like to thank their fami- lies for their love and encouragement, and are grateful for the Choctaw Nation’s support of their education.

Leal earns bachelor’s degree Brandy Leal graduated from Texas A&M University at San Antonio, Texas on May 15, with a bachelor’s degree in history. Her plans are to become a teacher. Brandy is a proud member of the Choctaw Nation. Her proud parents are Benny and Roxanne Beal of Hondo, Texas and Terri Miller of Oklahoma City.

White earns State Superintendent’s Award for Arts Excellence in Dance Cheyanne White, of Jackson earns diploma and honors Idabel High School Class Bailey Jackson, daughter of Stephen Jackson and of 2015, was one of five granddaughter of Gene Jackson, graduated from Ameri- students in the state to Archuleta graduates from Lincoln High can Canyon High School in the Napa Valley, California on Tori Archuleta graduated from Lincoln High School in receive the State Superin- June 5. Stockton, California on June 4. tendent’s Award for Arts She received an academic honor cord and Wolf Pack Archuleta was Junior Miss Okla Chahta 2011/2012 and Excellence in Dance. She Honor Roll certificate for completing her high school Miss Okla Chahta 2013/2014. has been named as an experience with a 3.79 GPA. She was the recipient of the She is also a member of the California Choctaw Youth All-American Dancer two Napa Valley College Foundation Scholarship. Bailey was Association. Tori was a cheerleader for Lincoln High all times, and has participated recognized by her classmates by being voted into the four years of high school. in the Disney Christmas prom court for senior prom. She will be attending Napa Tori plans to attend Kansas State University in the fall Parade and the Macy’s Valley Junior College in the fall where she hopes to decide majoring in early childhood education. Thanksgiving Day parade. whether or not to pursue her love for the culinary arts or She is planning to attend transfer to University of California to study English. Oklahoma State Uni- Polk graduates from Arkansas University versity. Cheyanne is the Casey Polk gradu- Dr. Sharpley graduates medical school daughter of Jason White and Reesha McDaniel-Eidson. ated cum laude from the Dr. Michelle (Allen) University of Arkansas Sharpley, M.D./Ph.D., on May 9 with a bachelor graduated from the Uni- Farnsworth rst generation graduate of science in chemical versity of California, Irvine Joanna Farnsworth engineering. School of Medicine on graduated from Central While in college, he May 30. Michelle earned Washington Univer- was involved in Arkan- her undergraduate degree sity this spring. Joanna sas Engineers Abroad as a Dean’s Scholar from received a bachelor’s of and traveled to Belize to San Jose State University, science in interdisciplinary design and construct a obtaining a B.A. in systems studies social science and water tower that provided physiology. Michelle a minor in psychology. She clean drinking water for a graduated with a Ph.D. in graduated with honors, small village. neurobiology and behav- maintaining a 3.7 GPA. Polk traveled to Las ior, and a M.D. in medi- Joanna is a first genera- Cruces, New Mexico to cine. She is the daughter of tion college graduate. She participate in the International Environmental Design Rayson and Marie (Dorry) is the daughter of Joseph Contest. He and his team won first place for their Oil Allen and the great granddaughter of Fulsom Jacob, Mar- and Lisa Toscano. Joanna Water Separation project. He accepted a job offer in tha Cole, and Maseline Jackson, all original enrollees. is the wife of Tylar Farn- 2014 and will begin his new career in June of 2015. Michelle has been accepted to practice at the University sworth, and they have two Polk is the son of Melaina Whittaker and David Polk of Southern California Los Angeles Medical Center as a children Lila and Atlas. She plans on attending graduate and the grandson of Emerson and Trula Bohanan. doctor of child neurology. school to pursue a master’s in social work. 12 BISKINIK | July 2015 Veterans Meals

Paul Perry, a veteran of both the District 5 Little Princess Mya Thomas Marine veteran Steve Veterans honored at the appreciation dinner US Navy and the US Air Force, was presents a blanket to a member of the Mullins with great niece in Poteau. speaker at the luncheon in Spiro. Choctaw Color Guard. Bailey Hardman visiting from Oakdale, Calif. at the Wilburton apprecia- tion dinner.

Veterans from the Coalgate area gather for a group Veterans gathered at the appreciation dinner photo at their appreciation luncheon. in Spiro. Stigler area veterans gathered for a photo at their apprei- cation dinner, hosted by Councilman Ron Perry, himself a military veteran.

Veterans in attendance at the appreciation luncheon in Antlers. Choctaw artist, Linda Parrish, is pictured with Chief Gary Batton and Assistant Chief Jack Austin, Jr., at the luncheon in Veterans in attendance at the appreciation luncheon in Photos by Zach Maxwell, Anita Bentley, honor of District 9 veterans in Durant. Wright City, including Councilman Jack Austin, Sr. Karen Jacob, and Vonna Shults

her own and strives to learn from others. She culture. She has also helped date back families Dianna loves talking about her own tribe’s admits she is a perfectionist and it carries out into the 1700s in the region in connection to culture and about art. She said, “Today, I see not only in her art, but in everyday situations. the names through history and ancestry. the young people making pottery in the old At the age of 17, Dianna knew she wanted Though she has mastered many areas over ways, and I understand that it is more than a to become an artist. She started art classes at the span of her 47-year career, Dianna con- connection to the art. It is also a connection to Wichita State University, paying for her fi rst siders her primary art fi eld as portrait paint- the land. And our heritage is as much about semester of college with babysitting money ing. Dianna says her paintings are monu- the land as it is about the language. It instills she had earned at fi fty cents an hour and a mental in scale, and they satisfy her soul. in us a sense of belonging.” She hopes to soon summer job with a pilot program of Head One was an 8-foot portrait of her mother’s begin work on a painting of Chief Pushmataha Start, working as the assistant teacher. It was father with his fi ddle at age 19. Even though at the Treaty of Dancing Rabbit Creek. Dianna through that job that Dianna learned the love her paintings are extremely detailed, Dianna says she feels a special connection to Chief of teaching. At one point, she struggled with is known for painting an entire large portrait Pushmataha because of her family line. whether she should become an artist or a in fi ve to seven days, with the refi ning and Dianna has one son, Matthew Kale and teacher. Little did she know her future would fi nishing processes taking another week. She one granddaughter, Marie, who the family be a combination of the two. Having received has an ability to sit before a blank canvas and tragically lost earlier this year at the age of a rare fi fth year degree, a Bachelor of Art already have an idea of what the composition 23. Matthew often sat with his mother as she Education from Wichita State University, will be when fi nished. Some special projects taught art classes, and he in turn taught his she went on to complete her Master’s Degree call for studies beforehand, but most times daughter. Matthew is a “maker”, someone Photo courtesy of Perry Adams and all but her dissertation toward a doctoral she relies upon her own expertise. Dianna who solves problems through design. Marie degree in Art Education from the University chooses not to make her art into prints, post- was a sculptor who was very proud of being Dianna (Perkins) Adams with a of Oregon. cards or greeting cards, as she prefers to keep Choctaw and carried the Choctaw name, large photo of her portrait of Mary At the early age of 27 years old, Dianna her work exclusive and one-of-a-kind. meaning “fi re cloud.” (Qwasawa) Finkbonner. The painting became Director of Art Education at Oregon She has also over the years enjoyed work- Dianna credits her husband and son for in the photo is actually a smaller ver- State University. ing on her pieces in public areas. Being able much of her success, as she says they have sion of the 5’ by 7’ original. She later worked as case manager for the to tune out the interruptions, or sometimes endured the disruptions to their lives and her largest sexual discrimination case in the drawing them in as needed, she says people marathon painting sessions. She also notes that country involving women’s equity in salary, have enjoyed watching her work live. She in addition to her family, her connection with tenure and assignment, taking the case all particularly enjoyed doing so in the Lummi a small group of other artists over the years has Choctaw artist the way to the Supreme Court. Tribal School foyer, where she loved talking helped her to get to where she is today. Dianna went on to be hired by the Univer- to the children of all grades who came to her Today Dianna lives in Washington State, sity of Oregon as advocate for people who asking about what she was doing. She says where she and her husband are both retired. creates lifetime had suff ered racial discrimination, and as a she even let the children help a bit on her Dianna and Perry are in negotiations to counselor. She continued her commitment pieces in order to teach them. develop their own art studio. In their shared legacy for social change and also continued to paint Dianna is most pleased with her work space, Dianna will work on her art, hoping to By SHELIA KIRVEN and draw, even teaching night classes. when she knows that it moves someone. She expand into sales for art galleries and Perry Choctaw Nation Eventually, Dianna decided she wanted to considers her greatest compliment being af- will work on carving mortuary canoes. You may have seen the image in the back- work primarily with Native American stu- ter her work was completed of a portrait of a Dianna refl ects that in going back to her ground of this photo when reading about dents. After a short time with the University of warrior she did that hangs in a tribal school, days of teaching art education, she feels that Choctaw Nation’s monthly Heritage Day Minnesota as Senior Counselor of the Ameri- grandchildren of the man came in to approve all teaching must begin with the question of events. The original is a painting of Mary can Indian Learning Resource Center, she took the painting and they were each brought to “why do I believe this is important?” Dianna (Quasawa) Finkbonner, a Lummi elder and a position on the Lummi Reservation to work tears over the likeness. In addition, a shaman has answered this question many times over great-grandmother-in-law of Choctaw artist at Northwest Indian College as Director of who was in the school to perform a ceremo- in her own work. From single working mother Dianna Perkins Adams, the painter of the Admissions and Director of Talent Search. nial cleansing saw one of her paintings and to the people’s advocate, art teacher, artist, portrait (also shown in the photo). Two years ago, Dianna married the love off ered a plate of food to it through dance. administrator and tribal volunteer, working The oldest of fi ve children, Dianna is the of her life, Perry Adams, a member of the She is grateful for her ability to communicate 80-100 hours a week most of her professional daughter of Harold and Nell (Richardson) Lummi tribe, after 40 years of being single. feelings and emotions through her work, life, Dianna Perkins Adams has indeed created Perkins. Her father was born in Atoka, Dianna and Perry married at an elder’s saying it “speaks to the heart of people.” She a legacy. Oklahoma the year that Oklahoma became a dinner on the Grand Ronde Reservation in believes that in her art, if she has done what (Artwork by Dianna Perkins Adams is listed state. He was a truck driver, mostly for gaso- Oregon with over 400 elders from tribes all she set out to do, her work speaks for itself. under the name of Dianna Kale). line companies. Her parents met when her over the Northwest in attendance. The couple father, then driving a taxi, drove his soon-to- had met after she began working at North- be wife to where she worked as a waitress. west Indian College eighteen years ago where Dianna’s grandfather, Hugh Henry Perry served as Chair of the Board of Trust- Perkins, was the owner of a livery stable in ees on two occasions. He was also a Tribal Atoka. He moved his family to Wichita, Kan- Councilman, Vice-Chair for several years and sas where he became a bookkeeper. director of his tribe’s Veterans program. Her great grandparents were Lyman Dianna has volunteered with the Lummi “L.H.” and Hattie (Stewart) Perkins, do- tribe since meeting Perry, leaving her regular nators of land for the town and school at employment after getting involved with Indianola. Lyman was a member of the the tribal elders. Her areas of volunteer Mission: To ensure Native American Veterans receive benefi ts and servic- Tribal Council and believed to be a Choctaw work with the tribe have included teach- es on par with other Veterans, make sure they encounter no barriers or Light Horseman. Lyman’s parents were ing classes to tribal elders of the Dislocated impediments in their attempts to access these services, and are treated George Perkins and Jane Folsom (niece of Fisherman’s Program, painting an original with respect and dignity by VA service providers. Peter Pitchlynn). George Perkins was noted art series called “The Grandparents of the Any Native American Veteran or family member of a Native in history for taking a case against the federal Grandparents” and helping to keep Native Eligibility: American Veteran is eligible for services from the Choctaw Nation Vet- government to the Supreme Court in regard American children from being fostered out erans Advocacy Program. Must be a member of a federally recognized to illegal selling of Indian lands. off the reservation. She continues to do work tribe. The love of art fi rst came when Dianna was for a research institute she founded called the 10 years old. In school, she felt she had tal- Lacqtomish (People of the Sea) Research In- Assistance with: VA claims, applications, referrals, care packages, cell ent, but always thought someone else could stitute where family structures of the Coastal phones for soldiers, and other services as requested. do a better job than her. She says that even Salish People are studied. She has aided today, after all her years in the art fi eld; she many individuals in learning how to fi nd their Contact: Local (580) 924-8280, Toll Free (800) 522-6170 constantly sees work she feels is better than Indian names, a vital part of the northwest extensions 2163, 2160, 2735, or 2369. BISKINIK | July 2015 13 LABOR DAY FORMS & FUN

3-on-3 Basketball Team Name ______Contact ______Sept. 5 Address ______Category / Division City/St/Zip ______FASTFAST PITCHPITCH TOURNAMENTTOURNAMENT circle one: Phone ______AugustAugustSeptember 30-September30-September 4-5-6 11 Entry form must be postmarked by August 28: atat the the Choctaw Choctaw Capitol Capitol Grounds Grounds Labor Day 3-on-3 Basketball , ATTN: Kerry Steve inin Tvshka Tvshka Homma, Homma, Oklahoma Oklahoma P.O. Box 1909, Durant, OK 74702 – Deadline for entry is August 9 – or fax to 580-920-0024 – Deadline for entry is August 9 – Co-Ed teams must have either 3 boys and 2 girls or 3 girls and 2 boys. ForFor more more information, information, please please call call 580-924-8280 580-924-8280 Players who are 18 must still be in high school oror toll-free toll-free 800-522-6170, 800-522-6170, ext. ext. 2224, 2224, or or fill fill outout the application below and return to our office. LIMITED TO THE FIRST 20 TEAMS the application below and return to our office. NameName of of team team ______ContactContact Person Person ______Horseshoes AddressAddress ______City/State/ZipCity/State/Zip ______Chief Batton’s Saturday, Sept. 5 Registration 8 to 9 a.m. PhonePhone ______Youth Fitness Challenge Single elimination E-mailE-mail ______tournaments begin Friday, September 4 at 9:30 a.m. PleasePlease circle circle one: one: on the Council Chambers lawn Men, Women, Youth (up to 13) and Seniors Men’sMen’s team team or or Women’s Women’s team team Event is for youth 8 to 18 years of age will start at the same time andand return return to: to: Registration at 5 p.m. – Contest starts at 6 p.m. and play concurrent. LarryLarry Wade Wade There is a limit ChoctawChoctaw Nation Nation of of Oklahoma Oklahoma A T-shirt will be given to each participant who fi nishes of 32 women and children, P.O.P.O. Box Box 1210 1210 the challenge. This event is for anyone looking to and 64 men (seniors play Durant,Durant, OK OK 74702-1210 74702-1210 improve their fi tness level and have a great time doing it. with the men’s group). It is open to all fi tness levels, athletes to non-athletes. A singles tournament will be For more information, call Jason Campbell held for women, youth and at 800-522-6170, ext. 2787. men (seniors), a doubles tournament for women and 13th Annual men (seniors), and a ringers championship for women, Chief Batton Tough, Tough Choctaw youth and men (seniors). Labor Day Golf Tournament Saturday, September 5 4th Annual on the Council Chambers lawn Stickball Date: Sunday, Sept. 6, 2015 Registration at 4 p.m. • Contest starts at 5 p.m. Prizes awarded for fi rst and second places. Tournament Anyone under 18 years of age Friday, September 4 must have parent sign waiver. thru Free T-shirts to participants. Sunday, September 5 For more information call Jeremy Loper Teams to be announced. at 1-800-522-6170, ext. 2407, Women's exhibition game to be held prior or e-mail [email protected]. to Sunday's Championship Game Watch ChoctawNation.com and Facebook for more information!

Labor Deadline to Enter: Aug. 14, 2015 Day 2015 Shirts & 13th Annual Chief Batton Labor Day Tourney Souvenirs Children Shirt Size Choices: Labor Day Children S (6-8), M (10-12), L (14-16) Adult Shirt Size Choices: T-shirts Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, XXX-Large, XXXX-Large OCTAW Size Color Quantity Subtotal CH Heather Navy or Kiwi Green x $15 = NATION x $15 = LABOR DAY x $15 = FESTIVAL 5K x $15 = 20 5 1 x $15 = Labor Day Caps Color Quantity Age as of September 5, 2015 ______Black x $12 = Pre-Registration: Free ______M____ F____ Race Day Registration: Free Charcoal/White x $12 = Print Name Labor Day Race day registration is from ______6:30 a.m. until 7:45 a.m. at Color Quantity Signature Date Visors the race starting line, located Navy x $12 = at the Capitol Museum. ______Labor Day Address Color Pre-registration for all en- Bags Quantity trants must be post-marked ______by August 28, 2015. Navy x $10 = City State Zip Gray x $10 =

Grand Total = $ Phone: (_____)______Send Entry Form To: To order, send payment in the form of cash, money order, or Choctaw Nation cashier’s check with completed form to: Labor Day T-Shirt Attn: Shane Haddock Contact: * * * NO PERSONAL CHECKS * * * 5K Road Race/Walk 1 (800) 522-6170 or (580) 924-8280 PO Box 1210 P.O. Box 1210 Ext: 2258 or 2122 Durant, OK 74702 Durant, OK 74702-1210 Applications for Minors Accepted Only With a Parent’s or Guardian’s Signature. Name: WAIVER FOR ENTRY FORMS I know that running a road race is a potentially hazardous activity. I should not enter and run unless I am medically able and properly trained. I also know that although police protection will be provided, there will be a possibility of traffi c on the course. I assume the risk of running in traffi c. I also assume any and all other risks associated with running this event including, but not limited to falls, contact with other participants, the effects of the Address: weather, including high heat and or humidity, and the conditions of the roads, all such risks being known and appreciated by me. Furthermore, I agree to yield to all emergency vehicles. I also am fully aware that pushing, pulling, dragging, wearing, carrying or leading any thing or anyone is strictly prohibited. This includes strollers, joggers, pushed wheelchairs, roller blades, skateboards, wheels of any kind (except competitive wheelchairs), animals, fl ags and head-phones, I agree not to have them on the course. I am fully aware that it is a fraudulent act to buy, sell, switch, or in any way wear someone else’s number or allow anyone to wear City: my number. Furthermore, I agree not to go back onto the course after fi nishing the race or relay leg and I agree not to cross the fi nish in a relay unless I am running the fi nal leg. Furthermore, I agree not to hold hands, embrace or touch other participants or connect two or more runners (i.e. centipedes). I am also aware that this waiver applies to sanctioned races and fun runs. Knowing these facts, and in consideration of your accepting my entry, I hereby for myself, my heirs, executors, administrators or anyone else who might claim on my behalf, covenant not to sue, and waive and release and discharge any and all race sponsors, race offi cials, State: Zip: volunteers, local and state police including any and all of their agents, employees, assigns or anyone acting for or on their behalf from any and all claims or liability for death, personal injury, or property damage of any kind or nature whatsoever arising out of, or in the course of, my participating in this event whether same be caused by negligence or fault. This release and waiver extends to all claims of every kind of nature whatsoever, foreseen or unforeseen, known or unknown. The undersigned further grants full permission to sponsors and or agents authorized by them to use any photographs, videotapes, motion pictures, recordings or any Phone: other record of this event for any purpose. Minors accepted only with a parent or guardian’s signature. 14 BISKINIK | July 2015 2015 PRINCESS PAGEANT

e 2015 Choctaw Nation Labor Day Festival begins with the Princess Pageant on September 3 Junior Miss Division Little Miss Division at the amphitheater in Tvshka Homma. Each tal- Aryza Impson, District 1 Baylee Byington, District 1 ented young lady will compete within her respec- Aryza Impson is the daughter of Aaron Baylee Byington is the daughter of Impson and Shacola Wilson. She attends Presley and Suzanne Byington of Idabel. tive division for the titles of Little Miss, Junior the 8th grade at Idabel Middle School. She enjoys participating in pow wows as Miss, and Miss Choctaw Nation 2015-2016. She enjoys playing softball where she a jingle dress and southern cloth dancer Each contestant qualiˆed to appear in the pag- plays 3rd and 1st base she enjoys singing, with her dad, playing softball, roller skat- swimming and playing basketball. ing, and attending children’s church. eant by winning their district pageant. ey have also ˆnished their interviews with the pageant judges before the pageant at the festival. ey will each be judged in personality, goals as princess, Alexia Tisho, District 2 beauty and poise, traditional dress, traditional ac- Desiree Noah, District 2 Alexia Tisho is the daughter of Isaac cessories, and correctly answering an impromptu Desiree Noah is the daughter of Reggie Tisho Jr. and Lemanda James of Broken question. All junior and senior contestants are and Katie Baker. She is a sophomore at Bow. She attends 4th grade at Bennett Elementary School. She enjoys reading, also required to compete in the traditional talent Broken Bow High School. Desiree was named to the honor roll and is a member spending time with her family, riding category. of the American Indian Youth Leader- her bike, and learning more about her ship Council (AILYC). She enjoys reading, culture. singing contemporary gospel music, and Senior Miss Division talking with friends. Mandy Steele, District 1 Maggie Smith, District 3 Mandy is the daughter of Roger and Jade Cossey, District 4 Maggie Smith is the daughter of Kevin Shanna Steele of Idabel. She recently Jade Cossey is the daughter of Kelly and Malinda Smith of Talihina. She graduated from Haworth High School. McGee. She attends the 8th grade at Spiro attends 4th grade at Whitesboro Public Mandy enjoys spending time with her Middle School. She has received three School. Maggie is part of the Superin- family and friends, as well as running, years perfect attendance, 1 ½ years A&B tendent’s Honor Roll, Choctaw STAR and lending a helping hand to others dur- honor roll, Honor band alternate. She student, and a two year winner of the ing times of need. enjoys track, basketball, and band. Talihina American Coloring Contest.

Gennavie Tom, District 2 Gennavie Tom is the daughter of Jimmy Brookelan Mattox, District 4 Brookelan Mattox is the daughter of Jesse and Betty Tom of Broken Bow. She is Juanita Gonzalez, District 5 and Lacey Mattox of Howe. She attends employed by the Boys and Girls Club Juanita Gonzalez is the daughter of 4th grade at Howe Public School. She has of McCurtain County. Gennavie enjoys Victoria Gonzalez of Stigler. She attends recently developed a strong interest in her beadwork, dancing, playing stickball, 9th grade at Stigler Schools. She earned cultural heritage. and spending time with her family and a Student of the Month Award, and was friends. given the class titles of “Most Clumsy” and “Most Helpful” for this past year. Juanita enjoys going out with friends, being an active member of YAB, helping her mom, and playing stickball. Rachel Hogan, District 5 Mya Thomas, District 5 Rachel Hogan is the daughter of Johnnie Loren Crosby, District 7 Hogan and Deborah Sewell of Keota. She Mya Thomas is the daughter of Lynsey Loren Crosby is the daughter of Kenneth currently attends Northeastern State Uni- and Sammie Thomas of Stigler. She at- and Elizabeth Crosby of Wright City. She versity and is majoring in Biology. Rachel tends 3rd grade at Stigler Grade School. attends 9th grade at Wright City High enjoys working as a nurse’s aide, fishing, She also is an avid singer and dancer that School. Loren participates in the STAR and actively volunteers at the Cherokee is now learning to sing in her Choctaw Program, Choctaw language competition, County Humane Society. language with help from her Grandma. JOM math awards, Show Choir and All State District Choir.

Melissa Sam, District 6 Melissa Sam is the daughter of Morris and Abigail Muncy, District 6

Germaine Sam of Wilburton. She current- Kylee Sellers, District 8 Abigail Muncy is the daughter of Dustin Kylee Sellers is the daughter of Roger ly attends Northeastern State University and Megan Muncy of Red Oak. She at- and Khristy Sellers of Hugo. Kylee was with a major in Mathematics. She enjoys tends 4th grade at Red Oak Elementary. awarded honors at Soper schools for fast being with family and friends, meeting Abigail is part of the Superintendent’s pitch and Defensive Player of the Year, new people, and learning about different Honor Roll, received a reading award, and is on the Honor Roll. She enjoys her cultures. enjoys biking, swimming, and reading. church youth group and spending time with family and friends.

LaTisa Davidson, District 7 Melissa Wren, District 7 LaTisa Davidson is the daughter of Aubrey Josephine Gilmore, District 9 Melissa Wren is the daughter of Earl and and Jennifer Davidson of Antlers. She Josephine Gilmore is the daughter of Carlynn Wren of Clayton. She enjoys currently attends Southeastern Oklahoma Kenneth and Joyce Gilmore of Calera. She reading, biking, playing softball, basket- State University and is majoring in Nurs- attends 9th grade at Durant High School. ball and stickball. She is currently learn- ing. LaTisa was 2015 Miss Indian SOSU, Josephine has been honored by the House ing how to make beaded jewelry and how senior class valedictorian, and is a hospice of Representatives at the Annual Literacy to sew traditional Choctaw dresses. volunteer. Meeting. She enjoys making Choctaw pottery, playing stickball, competing in pow wows, 4H, YAB, and playing softball.

Rebeckah Boykin, District 8 Kamryn Sellers, District 8 Rebeckah Boykin is the daughter of Callie Jo Armstrong, District Kamryn Sellers is the daughter of Roger Robert and Jana Boykin of Hugo. She 10 and Khristy Sellers of Hugo. She attends currently attends Southeastern Oklahoma Callie Jo Armstrong is the daughter 4th grade at Soper Elementary. She is State University and is majoring in Busi- of Mike and Mandy Lawson of Caney. currently learning beadwork and painting ness and Marketing. She enjoys social She attends 10th grade at Caney Public from her Mom. dancing, stickball, and soccer. She is Schools. Callie is a member of the Na- active in her church, and enjoys spending tional Honor Society, BPA, FCA, FCCLA, time with family and elders. Talent Search, MVP and all conference basketball. Kenzie Wilson, District 9 Kayleigh Powell, District 9 Lauren Nichols, District 11 Kenzie Wilson is the granddaughter of Kayleigh Powell is the daughter of Billy Pam Wilson of Durant. She attends 6th Lauren Nichols is the daughter of Thomas Powell and Monica Blaine of Durant. grade at Durant Intermediate School. and Latrisha Nichols of McAlester. She She currently attends Southeastern Okla. Kenzie enjoys baking, cooking, tradi- attends 7th grade at Krebs Junior High State University and is majoring in Na- tional Choctaw foods, church, piano, and School. Lauren has been on the State tive American Management. Kayleigh is singing. Kenzie one day hopes to own her Superintendent’s Honor Roll, Student of a volunteer for Meals on Wheels and she own restaurant where she would be the the Month, placed in the Soft-Seven Math values her time spent with family and head chef. friends. Race, and was the Spelling Bee Champion of Krebs Schools. She enjoys sports and attends Calvary Baptist Church. Kylee Hampton, District 10 December Pittman, Kylee Hampton is the daughter of Ronnie District 10 and Corina Hampton of Caney. She at- December Pittman is the daughter of Carmen Albarado, District 12 Carmen Albarado is the daughter of Selso tends 6th grade at Caney Public Schools. Bradley and Julie Pittman of Atoka. She Albarado and Amanda Rector. She at- Kylee enjoys learning about all aspects of is a recent graduate of Stringtown High tends 7th grade at Coalgate Schools. She her culture, participating with her District School and was voted Most Outstanding enjoys singing Choctaw hymns, playing 10 youth group, community service, hunt- in her senior class. She is an active citizen basketball, being active in District 12 ing, gymnastics, and spending time with in her community and values her time youth activities, attending church, and her family. spent with family and friends. spending time with family and friends.

Cheyhoma Dugger, Ariana Byington, District 11 Ariana Byington is the daughter of Twan- District 11 na Byington of McAlester. She attends the Cheyhoma Dugger is the daughter of 5th grade at Parker Elementary. Ariana Jerry and Michele Dugger of Hartshorne. is a member of the First Baptist Indian She is a 2015 graduate and valedictorian Church, enjoys singing, movies, shopping, of Haileyville High School. Cheyhoma Attention All Former softball, basketball, and stickball. She is was voted Student of the Year 2014 and active with beading, arts and crafts, pow 2015 and made the Superintendent’s Choctaw Nation Princesses wow dancing, and native pageants. honor roll. If you served as Miss Choctaw Nation Neiatha Hardy, District 12 of Oklahoma, please send your contact Cherokee McCoy, District 12 Neiatha Hardy is the daughter of Paula information to: Cherokee McCoy is the daughter of Carney of Coalgate. She is a recent gradu- Thomas McCoy of Coalgate. She attends ate of Coalgate High School. Neiatha 4th grade at E.E. Emerson Elementary. was on the Superintendant’s Honor Roll. Shelley Garner, Cultural Services Cherokee is on the Superintendent’s She enjoys spending time with her family Honor Roll and enjoys playing softball, and friends, teaching Sunday school, and Email: [email protected] going to church, being active in District 12 playing softball. She is an active member (800) 522-6170 Ext. 2636 youth activities, and spending time with of FCA, FFA, and District 12 activities. family and friends. BISKINIK | July 2015 15 A conversation with Choctaw lmmaker Mark Williams Mark Williams, 38-year-old full-blood Choctaw from would try his hand at short films, music videos, and eventu- Oklahoma, and has been shown at festivals across the Oklahoma, created a screenplay in 2004. He had earned a ally put work into a full-length feature film. country. For example, at the 2012 Red Fork Native Ameri- finance degree, but his interest in storytelling led him in an- He has entertained and also informed with projects like his can Film Festival in Tulsa, Williams’ “The Adventures of other direction: teaching himself how to write for movies. documentary series, “Native American Paranormal Project,” Josie the Frybread Kid” won Audience Favorite. At this During many evening visits to Barnes & Noble, Williams which attempts to capture real Native paranormal foot- same festival, as well as at the 2012 Mvskoke Film Festival, studied and practiced, eventually finishing a screenplay age with a Native team at locations scattered across Indian “The Unrest” received the Best Feature award. His newest for a movie titled “Closure.” It was his first step into a film Country. film, “Violet,” is currently making the film festival circuit, career which would have him writing, directing, producing, His movie-making adventures were mostly a friends and being shown at Los Angeles and Canada. It has also been and editing movie creations of his own making. family affair in the beginning, but since 2005, Williams has nominated for Best Cinematography, Best Thriller and Williams would explore stories meant to frighten, as well led his own production company, Native Boy Productions. Best Oklahoma Film at the Bare Bones International Film as tales aimed at drawing out laughter from his audience. He Williams’ work has found success at film festivals in Festival.

the kind of movies showing before mine, I at once? It has meant I come from a proud and thought I had made a mistake. They were It can be very difficult. For example, strong people. There’s a common vibe with high budget movies, great quality, awesome on the day of a shoot as a producer I am being Native. We can appreciate each other locations. Mine had my family and was making calls, picking up props, picking up without knowing one another. No matter shot in my living room as well as a friend’s wardrobe if need be, just running errands the tribe. And our humor is one of a kind. apartment. that a producer would do and get every- Non-natives don’t get it. I love hearing us But when the audience jumped and thing situated. The night before I am mak- laugh. screamed and looked away at my movie, I ing calls, getting the call sheets ready and knew then and there this is what I wanted sent out again, doing all things a producer Is it important for other Natives to to do. To see another person entertained, to or first assistant director would do. Then get involved with movies, or storytell- elicit an emotion from someone with some- when we get on set I am still in producer ing in general? thing you created was an awesome feeling. mode and finally when all is set then I can I think Natives are natural storytellers. To this day I still don’t get tired of it. go into director mode and start thinking And with today’s technology and with ac- about our scene and what we need to do. cess to equipment getting easier, I don’t see What would you say makes your Days before that I’ve already discussed why more Natives can’t pursue it. There’s films unique? with my director of photography about our pride in it, there’s sacrifice in it, there’s joys One of the things I really liked about my shots, but I’m going over them one more in it. All positive stuff. We have a voice now. latest movie, “Violet,” is it is primarily an time and may make changes or may go with We can tell our stories the way we want to. all Native American cast, but there isn’t one it. Throughout the day, I will be going from thing mentioned about it in the film. producer to director. So after 10 plus hours Do you see yourself as a role model? There aren’t any images, clothing, noth- on set, I get home drained. To be honest I’ve never seen myself as be- ing that would reflect that these characters I recently made a comedy where, for the ing a role model, because there are so many How did you get your start making are Native other than their skin of course. very first time, I was not the producer. It other people I look up to, there is so much films? This is something I wanted to purposely do. helped a lot. I was able to focus on my ac- for me to still learn. But if some kid wants Growing up I always had an interest and I wanted “Violet” to stand on it’s own as a tors and scenes. to grab a camera and make something hap- a gift to write and be creative. Storytelling universal, scare-the-pants-off-you enter- is something I picked up from my dad. He taining movie. It just so happens Natives would always tell us stories from when he are cast in it. grew up back home on the reservation in Don’t get me wrong, I love Native cin- Mississippi. They were outlandish at times ema. I make films with Native content, and but always entertaining. I never thought it also make some which don’t. I am friends would be something I’d pursue though. with a lot of Native directors and fans of I went to college for a finance degree their work. But it’s more than okay to go and was working at a bank when I wrote outside of that and make a movie that my first screenplay. It was a horror fea- doesn’t take place on the Rez. ture titled “Closure.” I’d never written one before and I’d never been to film school, Do you find yourself sticking to any everything was self-taught. specific genres or styles? I had the story in my head. Characters, I get asked a lot if I just like making dialogue, and everything but didn’t know thrillers, horror films. I admit I’ve made a how to turn it into a script. I really didn’t handful. For example, producing the docu- want anyone else to do it so I taught myself mentary series “Native American Paranor- and finished it sometime in 2004. mal Project.” But, I like to think I can go out After that I didn’t know what to do with and tell any type of story. Photo Provided it. I was told by a friend about screenplay I do have a children’s comedy series out contests online so I did some research, titled “The Adventures of Josie the Fry- Mark Williams takes a break from directing “The Unrest” with some of the found one in Los Angeles that I could afford bread Kid.” It’s the furthest thing from a actors for his film. The children portrayed ghosts in the thriller. the entry fee and mailed it in. About six scary movie you can get. months later I got an email saying I was a finalist. Why filmmaking and not some other There are benefits and drawbacks. I love pen because they saw it can be done from form of storytelling? being hands on and being a part of every- my work, then that makes me happy. If that Where did things go from there? I gave book writing a shot. I even began thing when it comes to the production, but some young kid is Native then, well, I don’t We went and shot “A Treasure for Two.” a novel before I wrote my first screenplay. I the duties and stress can be high. I’ve since mind having that role. I do know our Native And by we I mean my wife at the time and got about 60 pages into it before I realized, been putting together a really good team youths need positive outlets, and if media my nephew and niece. It was a short film, “Hey, you’re writing a script more than you I trust and they take a lot of those duties. or filmmaking turns out to be one of them, a comedy about a young man finding a are a book or a novel.” The action and dia- Even then, all the crew are still wearing I’d be happy to chat with them. treasure map in his basement. He goes logue resembled a script more than a novel. multiple hats. on a quest. It was a mixture between “The Where would you point people to if Goonies” and “Indiana Jones.” It was pretty If you were granted an unlimited Would you say being Native has influ- they wanted to watch your stuff? bad, okay it was really bad, but I really budget for a film project, what would enced your filmmaking? Right now the best way to follow any- enjoyed it. you do with it? In some projects, yes. “The Unrest” was thing I do would be on my Facebook page Then I wrote a little longer one titled An epic and truthful story about the Trail about the tragic events that happened at www.facebook.com/nativeboyproductions. “The Dare.” It was a thriller that I handed of Tears or about Native genocide. Our cul- Native boarding schools. My documentary On it, you will see announcements, festival out to my friends and family. The produc- ture and our struggles to who we are today series is about Native locations. The com- updates, behind the scenes of current and tion value and quality weren’t great, as you are often overshadowed by the hardships edy, “The Adventures of Josie the Frybread past projects. We are planning on having a can imagine, but I thought the story and of what other races went through. Society Kid,” is an uplifting story about our favorite really big year and some pretty big an- scares were pretty good. Apparently, others knows of their struggles because there are topic, frybread. “Violet,” “The Dare,” “Her nouncements coming up, so be one of the did too, as a few months later I got a call films about it. Slavery, the Holocaust, to Last Text: The Hailey Rose Story,” and a first to hear about it on that page. Please from a film festival in Tulsa saying they got just name a few. couple of others were thrillers that hap- “like” it, comment on it, share pictures or their hands on a DVD copy and wanted to pened to have a Native cast. the page. Yakoke. screen it. You write, produce, direct, and edit When I arrived to the 2006 Red Fork your films. What are the perks and On a personal level, what has being See the complete story on the Choctaw Na- Native American Film Festival and saw pitfalls of fulfilling all of these roles Native meant for you in life? tion website.

FamilyThe descendants ofof Allen Wright,Chief a 19th-century Allen chief Wright visits Choctaw Tribal Complex of the Choctaw Nation, visited their tribal complex for a first-time tour in June of 2015. Peggy Reid, the chief’s great-great-granddaughter, prints a quarterly newsletter for the family and counts 229 living descendants of Chief Wright and his wife, Har- riet Newell Mitchell Wright. Nearly 50 of those made the journey from across the USA to the annual Wright family reunion. This time, part of the group also took in a tour of the Choctaw Nation complex in Durant. Some were from California, most from Texas and scat- tered points across Oklahoma. Peggy Reid brought two thick books, one with photographs of the Chief and his Photos by Kaleigh Powell descendants, the other with the newsletters containing Descendants of Chief Allen Wright unfurled a 28-foot long family tree at the Choctaw Nation Complex dur- articles about the Chief and his descendants. And then ing a family reunion and visit in June. there was the 28-foot scroll with Chief Wright’s family tree – showing his 10 children and then every descendant up,” Harvey said. “We would go to Wapanucka and talk living and dead, down to the hundreds of people in the Choctaw.” current generations. Curtis Wilson is now president of the Chief Allen Wright Spread end-to-end, the scroll occupied almost the entire Family Reunion, which by all accounts was a success for length of the south conference room of the tribal head- 2015. Peggy Reid also pointed out that Harriet Wright’s quarters complex. ancestors came to America aboard the Mayflower: “I like The family was able to see Chief Wright’s portrait hang- to think of us as a melding of Pilgrims and Indians,” she ing in the Hall of Chiefs. Several tribal employees shared says. Choctaw history, language and culture with the group. Chief Allen Wright is recognized as one of the great In turn, family members told their stories and shared Choctaws who bridged the gap from the Trail of Tears information from the great family archival book. They into the modern era. He was born in Attala County, Mis- have been gathering at Boggy Depot–the site of Chief sissippi and his given name was Kiliahote. Rev. Cyrus Wright’s grave–since 1959. Kingsbury took in the orphaned youth and renamed him Notable descendants include Frank Hall Wright, a for Rev. Alfred Wright, a noted missionary of the day. Presbyterian minister among the Plains tribes; World War Wright became one of the first Native Americans to earn II pilot Donald “Pappy” Davis; and noted historian Muriel a master’s degree. He was elected to the Choctaw Tribal H. Wright. Council and served as chief in post-Civil War Choctaw Na- Harvey Wright recalled summers spent with J.B. Wright tion from 1866-70. of McAlester, the Chief’s youngest son. Harvey recently He was also known as a translator of sacred texts into Family members and Choctaw Nation Genealo- relocated from Poteau to The Colony, Texas. Choctaw and Chickasaw, a newspaper editor, and a char- gists Vicki Prough and Gwen TakesHorse look over “I spent my summers with him when I was growing ter member of the first Masonic Lodge in Indian Territory. scrapbooks made by Peggy Reid. 16 BISKINIK | July 2015 Stickball World Series

Oklahoma Youth Stickball team, drummers and supporters line up before their exhibition game at the World Series of Stickball in Mississippi on July 3.

Photos by Robert Gipson

Meet the Artist Sarah Elisabeth Sawyer

Tvshka Homma Iksa, the offi cial stickball team of the Choctaw Nation, on the fi eld at the World Series of Stickball in Mississippi on July 4.

Chahta Anumpa

◆◆◆ Aiikhvna ◆◆◆ Lesson of the Month The previous three month’s lessons have focused on possessive pro- noun/markers with nouns to show ownership. vm, a – ‘my’ chim, chi – ‘your’ im, i – his, her its

The same pronoun/markers serve as indirect objects with a verb to show ‘to whom’ or ‘for whom’ something is done. ‘vm’ or the ‘m’ form is used before verbs that begin with a vowel. vm – pronounced ‘ahm’ 1. Svshki yvt okhissa vm akami tuk. By BRANDON FRYE Tingle and Greg Rodgers showed her what My mother closed the door for me. it meant to tell the traditional stories of a Choctaw Nation 2. Ofi vm apesachi tuk Sarah Elisabeth Sawyer, 29-year-old tribal people. He/she took care of the dog for me. Choctaw author with four published titles “At the same time, they showed the 3. Abinili himona vm isht vla chi. under her belt, recently visited the Choc- value of telling and writing our own sto- taw Nation to publicize her newest novel, ries,” Sawyer said. “I credit them for light- He/she will bring a new chair to me. “The Executions,” the fi rst book in a series. ing that fi re. Because of their work, I can 4. Kvta hosh nan annoa vm anoli tuk? She took the opportunity to reconnect connect the writing I do with the tradition Who (was it that) told me a story? with her tribal roots in Oklahoma. Sawyer of storytelling that is so much a part of our heritage.” stopped in to take part in the monthly a – or the ‘n’ form (nasal underline), is used before verbs that begin Heritage Monday at the Choctaw Nation Sawyer sees being Choctaw as an honor, with a consonant. opportunity, and responsibility. She said Tribal Complex, molded some clay at a tra- a – pronounced ‘anh’ ditional pottery class, and spent June 27 she is a descendant of people who forged a 1. Issi nipi a bushla chi. at the Choctaw Welcome Center in Colbert path through their own pain and injustice He will slice the venison for me. during her Meet the Artist event. to give her a heritage. She feels a respon- Sawyer was born and raised in Texas sibility to remember, preserve, and share 2. Kaa himona a chompa chi. and has been creatively writing since she their legacy of faith and endurance. He will buy me a new car. was fi ve. Her father was born in Mead, Her “Choctaw Tribune Series” deals 3. Hattak mvt a holabi tuk. and her Choctaw heritage comes from her with times of injustice and bitter fi ghts That man lied to me. over cultural, racial, and legal issues. “The mother, Lynda Kay Sawyer. 4. Aiimpa ma a kanvllichi. “My mother is my biggest fan, my harsh- Executions” is book one in the series, with Move that table for me. est critic, and my most enthusiastic cheer- an expected three parts. leader,” Sawyer said. “I dedicated my fi rst Sawyer said, with “The Executions,” novel to her and my great-aunt Evelyn. she followed her characters along on vm, a – ‘to whom’, ‘for whom’ svshki – my mother okhissa - door ‘The Executions’ is dedicated to the two their journey through a Choctaw execu- akami – to close kvta hosh – who? (is it that) ofi - dog women who taught me the importance of tion, whiskey running, a witch-hunt, and kaa – car himona – new isht vla – to bring meeting an Irish mail-order bride before preserving the past for the future.” aboha – room hattak - man achi – future tense She said she had always wanted to write fi nding an end at a lynching across the Red yvt – subject marker nan annoa - story tuk – past tense marker Choctaw stories, and when she did, one of River in Texas. She added, the heroine of anoli – to tell issi nipi - venison bashli – to cut them won a small competition. This was the story Ruth Ann concludes her journey a jumping board for Sawyer’s career and with the discovery of her place as a young abinili – chair chompa – to buy aiimpa - table would lead her to meet other Choctaw art- Choctaw woman in an increasingly white mvt. ma - that holabi – to lie ists and storytellers. Indian Territory. kanvllichi – to cause to move apesachi- to care for, watch Her fi rst experience with other Native To learn more about Sawyer and her written work, visit her website at http:// writers and storytellers was at the Five www.choctawschool.com Tribes Story Conference in 2010. Tim sarahelisabethwrites.com/books/ BISKINIK | July 2015 17 SPORTS

Meyer siblings aiming higher Running for Chiefs in hoops Winchester takes Sooner success to the next level The brother and sister By ZACH MAXWELL tandem of Austin and Choctaw Nation Mariah Meyer are following in the athletic footsteps of James Winchester, of Washing- their parents. ton, Okla., is the latest Choctaw to Austin Meyer is a 6-9 “go pro” in the world of sports. junior from Mustang and Winchester hails from a family was the starting center on known for its success in athletic the Mustang High School efforts at the University of Okla- basketball team this past homa. Winchester, his father and season. The Broncos went both sisters have all made their 28-0 this season and seized marks on the Oklahoma Class 6A Sooner sports. basketball title. He is taking Austin also plays bas- it to the next ketball in the summer for level as a deep Mokan Elite, a Nike EYBL snapper for team. He is, understand- the Kansas Austin Meyer, of the state cham- ably, receiving lots of inter- City Chiefs of est from multiple Division pion Mustang Broncos, is shown with his sister Mariah Meyer the NFL. Win- 1 (large school) collegiate WINCHESTER after winning the 6A title. chester programs. will be on two of those seasons, as well as Mariah Meyer is a 5-8 the roster for training camp and academic all-state honors. shooting guard for the Lady Ti- likely well into the pre-season as Their father, Patrick Meyer, gers of East Central University. he competes with another deep played basketball at ECU as well She just completed her fresh- snapper for the only position on man year. as Murray State College. Mom the squad. Photo courtesy Kansas City Chiefs After one season at Tuttle, Amber DeGiusti also played “There’s not a spot available Choctaw tribal member James Winchester on the field for the Mariah’s family moved to hoops at Murray State and she every year, so it’s a ‘right place at Kansas City Chiefs. He expects to see action this fall as a long Pflugerville, Texas, where she was part of the first women’s the right time’ sort of thing,” he snapper for the NFL team. played three years at Hendrick- cross-country team at ECU. She said. “It’s been my goal and dream son High School. She earned helped them win the conference to play in the NFL, so I’m thankful several NFL teams in 2013, sign- Cure, a “dragon boat” race in first-team all-district honors for title. for this opportunity to go to work ing with the Philadelphia Eagles Oklahoma City. He assisted friend every day and make this dream a but losing the coveted spot to a Seth Fairchild, from the Chahta reality.” longtime veteran. Foundation, as well as former OU He was a punter at Washington Winchester found himself back teammate Jordan Eagle Road and High School, just like his father in roughneck country in Okla- his brother Billy in this effort to Michael was at OU for their 1985 homa, but he kept working out at raise funds and awareness in the national championship. high school weight rooms or any- fight against breast cancer. But James also dabbled in the where he could find in the remote His first NFL community world of quarterbacks, giving oil and gas fields. service event was also special, him the foundation to be a long “It’s tough to stay in shape when he said. The “Punt, Pass & Kick” snapper at OU. He “won the job” your career is taking you outside event was held in Lawrence, for the first three games of his of football,” he said. He tried out Kansas in conjunction with the freshman year in Norman and re- for the Colts and Browns, and American Indian Center of the mained with the team through the attended a free agent camp in Great Plains recently. 2011 season as its deep snapper. Arizona. “I met a lot of Choctaw kids, He tried out for the NFL at the Finally, he signed with the so it was neat for it to be my first 2012 Kansas City rookie camp, Chiefs in March of this year and community service event,” Win- but was told he needed to bulk up has been involved in a strength chester said. his 6-foot-4 frame. While working and condition program since His sister Rebecca was a walk- on this, he also tried his hand in April. on for the OU rowing team and the oil and gas fields of southern Winchester’s involvement with eventually earned scholarships in Multi-sport standout Oklahoma. Choctaw Nation included a role the sport, as did another sister, Bailey Bray of Idabel quali- And, he didn’t give up on his as part of a tribally-sponsored Carolyn, in Lady Sooners basket- fied for the state tourna- dream. He caught the attention of rowing team at Paddle for the ball. Arkansas wrestler ments in both track (discus) Carson O’Neal of Rogers, and powerlifting. He was the Ark. placed fourth in the first student from Idabel to 2015 Arkansas State JV to State for powerlift- Wrestling tournament. He Back-to-back State champ ing in 20 years. Bailey is also is the son of Renona and a member of the Idabel War- Christopher “Bubba” Pete Crowden and Kendall riors football team, which Roberts is a pitcher for O’Neal, grandson of Mol- went to the second round of Silo High School but lie and Harrell Turner, and the playoffs this season. also plays third base Brenda and Jackie Sweeten. and shortstop. He is a junior and was part of the state champion Rebels team last fall and this spring. He was named MVP of the fall tournament.

Tiera Brumfield was a four-year mem- Don’t see your Choctaw ber of the varsity softball and basketball Champion here? teams at Arkoma High School. Tiera was Don’t despair! Many also a cheerleader. In 2013-14 basketball season Tiera was part of the girls team more to come in future that went to state. During the 2014-15 editions, as well as on softball season, she was a member of the our Facebook page and district champion fast-pitch softball and ChoctawNation.com basketball teams. Tiera has a 3.56 grade point average and will be playing basket- ball at Eastern Oklahoma State College. Hall of Fame coach Alan Simpson retires on top Alan Simpson, who is half Choctaw, retired after his Byng Fighting Pirate tennis ChoctawZachary Hodge of Poway siblings High School lovein Poway, lacrosseCalifornia, is team won back-to-back boys 4A state tennis the latest Choctaw to excel in the Native American-inspired sport championships at the OKC Tennis Center of lacrosse. Hodge just finished his junior year and collected 28 on May 16. They also won the 4A academic goals and 16 assists for his team, which reached the status of league state championship with a 3.95 GPA. champion and San Diego CIF Champion. He received the Sports- His girls tennis team was state runner-up manship Award and was named to the San Diego All-Academic for the second straight year. Team, and Second Team All-League. Hodge plans to play collegiate Alan was a teacher and coach for 42 lacrosse and study to become a nurse anesthetist. His sister Justeen, years, with 35 being at Byng. He had also a freshman, also plays lacrosse. Proud parents are Mike and Jocelyn been a boys basketball coach at Byng for 21 Hodge. years, retiring from that in 2001. His teams won 3A state titles in 1986 and 1992, and lost in the finals in 1987. Altogether, he took Reed selected to play in Oil Bowl teams to state nine times. Tanner Reed, a senior at Vista Ridge In 24 years as head coach, his teams High School in Cedar Park, Texas, was won 476 games at Byng and Hugo, for an chosen to play in the Oil Bowl on June The Byng boys tennis team poses with their Class 4A state average of 20 wins per season. Alan was championship trophy, flanked by coaches including Choc- 13, in Wichita Falls, Texas. selected Oklahoma Basketball Coach of the taw Nation member Alan Simpson (far right). Simpson, Year in 1986 by the Daily Oklahoman, and He has won numerous awards this who recently retired from educating and coaching, led the same honor by the Oklahoma Basket- past season: soccer, first team all-district teams to victory in boys basketball, boys tennis and girls ball Coaches Association in 1992. and offensive MVP; football, District tennis over his 42-year career. 25-5A all-district team; and academic In tennis, he was selected Oklahoma all-district. Tennis Coach of the Year by the OCA in 2006, 2012, and 2014. In 2014, he was also selected USTA High School Coach of the Ashton Pick excelsAshton at Pick, competitive originally from herswimming passion. She has competed Year, OTCA Coach of the Year, and NFHS Wilburton, has made her mark in three years at State for the YMCA Southwest Boys Coach of the Year for a five- the realm of competitive swim- either in individual events or on state region. ming in Wisconsin. relays and recently competed in Alan has been inducted into the Okla- After moving to Wisconsin four a national competition in North homa Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame years ago, Ashton decided to start Carolina. (2006), the Oklahoma Coaches Association TANNER REED swimming competitively to stay Her relay team from Chippewa Hall of Fame (2009), and the Murray State in shape during the off season of Falls High School competed in College Athletic Hall of Fame (2011). softball. 2013 and 2014 at the state level Alan said “Chata hapia hoke:” It is good ASHTON PICK Swimming has now become where they placed 10th in 2014. to be Choctaw! 18 BISKINIK | July 2015

Iti Fabυssa e Battle of Massard Prairie For this month’s edition of Iti Fabvssa, we are going to go back in time to an im- portant battle that involved a number of Choctaw soldiers during the later stages of the American Civil War. First, a bit of background. At the beginning of the American Civil War, fed- Photo by Kendra Germany eral military units had with- drawn from their outposts The original manuscript by Dr. James Morrison on Schools for the Choctaws is shown with other materials and examples of photos desired for an upcoming in Choctaw Nation. By doing fi nished version of the book. so, the federal government broke a treaty agreement to protect the Choctaw people, and left the Choctaw Nation Photos needed for Choctaw book essentially surrounded by By ZACH MAXWELL If you have any of the following photo- Confederate forces. The only Choctaw Nation graphs that we can scan and return to you, choices left to tribal leader- A literary eff ort four decades in the mak- please contact us at (580) 924-8280 / ext. ship were to be destroyed, ing will soon be completed, shedding light 2308 or 2516 or email kathyc@choctawna- to leave the area as war on the early legacy of educating Choctaws. tion.com refugees, or to join the Schools for the Choctaws, based on a Confederacy. Many of the manuscript by Dr. James Morrison, is List of needed photos for the Old Choc- taw Schools book individuals who interacted expected to be published in early 2016. Alexandra Talley with the Choctaw on behalf Choctaw Nation Director of Special Educa- Alfred Wright of the Confederacy were the tion Projects Joy Culbreath received the Anna Burnham same Southern men with manuscript from Dr. Morrison’s family. It Charles C. Copel whom the Choctaw had dealt was written in 1975. Charles Wilson as representatives of the Culbreath is asking tribal members and local history buff s to contribute photos of Chief Apukshunnbbee United States government Photos by Nick Wallace Choctaws, missionaries, educators, and Chief Hoomastubby during the years before the boarding schools from the golden age of Chief Puckshunbee war. With no more promis- 1st Regiment Choctaw Mounted Rifl e re-enactors early Choctaw education. Choctaw Academy in Kentucky (1818) ing alternative, the Choctaw await the mock battle at Massard Prairie. Below, a (For a list of desired photo subjects, see Chuwahla at Pine Ridge Nation signed a treaty with re-created camp scene at the reenactment. the end of this article.) Chuwahla Seminary the Confederacy on July 12, “Education has always been important Dr. Alanson Allen 1861. Among its 64 articles to the Choctaw people and we want our Ebenezar Folsom were pledges that Confed- were probably hungry and surrendered, Stand Watie history to show that our interest began as Edmund Folsom erate forces would protect frustrated and wanting to (a Cherokee) at Doaksville, early as 1818 with the establishment of the Eleazor Wheelock the Choctaw Nation at all attend to their families at June 23, 1865. Choctaw Academy in Kentucky,” Culbreath Elizabeth Jacobs Quenton cost from a Union invasion home. It might seem that In terms of personnel, said. Fort Coff ee Academy if one were to occur, that they had no real reason to several prominent Choc- Historical documents from this era will Harriet Bruce Wright Choctaw forces would not be leave Choctaw Nation to taw Nation leaders fought help illustrate the important people and Henry C. Benson conscripted to fi ght outside risk their lives fi ghting for at Massard Prairie. Col. places that were instrumental in early Iamubbee Seminary of Indian Territory, and that the Confederacy once again. Simpson Folsom was noted eff orts to get Choctaw youths into school. Ianubbee at Eagle Town a Choctaw/Chickasaw del- Yet, they had something for his bravery in pressing They will also help bridge the 40-year gap Jared Olmstead egate would be a part of the powerful within them; the the attack on the Union from the time the manuscript was written John Edwards House of Representatives sprit and determination of a camp. Col. Jack McCurtain in 1975, off ering people in the here and John Eloit, of the Confederate States of Choctaw warrior. “Tvshkahoma,” was wait- now a chance to contribute to Dr. Morri- Ebenezer Hutchin America. Ultimately, very On the 26th of July, 1864, ing with a Choctaw force to son’s legacy. John Pitchlynn few of these promises were Confederate Col. Douglas ambush any Union forces Culbreath, the former executive direc- Koonsha at Good Water kept. Cooper got word that Union that may have pursued tor of education for Choctaw Nation, Koonsha Seminary During the Civil War, troops were camped out in Folsom and the others into worked with Dr. Morrison at Southeastern Moses Perry Choctaw men were repeat- vulnerable positions around Indian Territory. McCurtain Oklahoma State University. She gained a Mr. and Mrs. Loring S. Williams edly asked to leave Choctaw Fort Smith, Arkansas. He would later become the familiarity with his work. Nathanel Folsom Nation to fi ght federal forces sent a force of about 600 Chief of the Choctaw Nation, Many years later, Culbreath was given Nathaniel M. Tabbott in Missouri, Arkansas, and men, comprised of Choctaw and would lead the nation the manuscript and took on the task of New Hope Seminary other areas of what is now soldiers, Chickasaw soldiers, through Reconstruction; creating a book about Choctaw education Rev. A. Biggs Oklahoma. With the men’s and soldiers from Texas, to the Choctaw Council House as a tribal special project. Rev. and Mrs. Joseph Smedley absence, it was diffi cult for attack one of these camps. and the town of Tuskahoma, As part of this eff ort, Culbreath worked Rev. E. B. Ames people back home to get full Plans changed as the situa- are both named after him. directly with the staff s of Jones Academy Rev. Eben Tucker crops planted and harvested. tion developed, but ultimate- William Cass, “Tiakhomma,” and Goodland Academy, the two remain- Rev. Wesley C. Browning As the war progressed, ly, this force, commanded a signatory to the 1858 Choc- ing Choctaw schools still in operation Rev. William H. Goode refugees from tribes farther by Brigadier General R. M taw constitution, served as today. In fact, Goodland Academy was Robert Cole Robert Quld to the north, including Gano, attacked the camp of the chaplain for the Choctaw established in 1848 and is recognized as Thomas McKinney the Cherokee and Musco- the 6th Kansas Cavalry (200 troops at the Battle of Mas- the oldest agency in continuous operation Thomas Myers gee moved into Choctaw men) at dawn a few miles sard Prairie. He lost his life in the state of Oklahoma. W. L. McAlister country, putting a heavier southwest of Fort Smith. The in this engagement, while Dr. Morrison passed away in 1977. He Wiley Ledbetter strain on already short food attack happened so swiftly, leading an attack and is studied at the University of Oklahoma and William Armstrong supplies. To make mat- that the cavalry was unable likely buried on the battle- dedicated his career to Southeastern. He started as an associate history professor William Bay Rabe ters worse, in early 1864, a to round up its horses, which fi eld. “Red Pine,” the English and retired in 1973 as Dean of Instruction. Union army under Maj. Gen had been grazing in the pas- translation of “Tiakhomma,” Blunt invaded the western ture. The Union troops were is a modern street in Fort Choctaw Nation, pushing all forced to fi ght on foot. Smith named after this man. Farmers Market Nutrition Program the way to the Red River. As After putting up initial As for its legacy, the Battle WIC and for Seniors Choctaw homes and fi elds resistance, the 6th Kansas of Massard Prairie has been e WIC Farmers Market Nutrition Program and the Farmers Market Nutrition were destroyed in the army’s Cavalry was routed and and continues to be seen as path, some non-Choctaw driven 2 and ½ miles across a testament to the resilience Program for Seniors will both start May 1, 2015. Choctaw Nation WIC participants Confederate forces sat in the prairie. More than 100 of Choctaw soldiers who can pick up their checks from the paraprofessionals at the WIC clinic sites. You do safety on the south side of Union men were captured, faced incredible hard- not have to wait for your WIC appointment to receive them. Just call your WIC site the river. Thereafter, many along with 200 rifl es and ship during the American and say that you would like the farmers market checks before they are gone. ey Choctaw citizens were des- 400 pistols. The Confederate Civil War. To the best of will be distributed on a “ rst come,  rst serve basis” until they run out. titute, hungry, and suff ering force lost seven men. After the author’s knowledge, the Seniors’ checks were mailed out at the end of April to those who completed appli- continuing depredations the quick attack, Gano’s men Battle of Massard Prairie cations and sent them back in. Applications are still being accepted so if you have from bandit gangs. headed back to Oklahoma represents the last major not  lled one out you still have the opportunity to do so. This brings us to the virtually unscathed. They victory attained by Choc- Some areas have received an abundance of rain causing farmers who supply the Battle of Massard Prairie, hoped to ambush any pursu- taw units fi ghting with the fresh produce to be late this year on the harvesting. Please feel free to call the farm- an event that demonstrates ers along the way. Confederacy, and in broader something special about the Looking back, the Battle of terms, it also represents the ers in your area from the farmers’ list that was provided to participants to inquire Choctaw character. By this Massard Prairie is signifi - last time in Choctaw history as to when they may have produce available. point in the war, Choctaws cant in Choctaw history on that a victory was attained by For more information, please contact: had been fi ghting for three multiple levels. In terms full Choctaw military units. Peggy Carlton years; promises made by the of the American Civil War, Today, despite encroaching FMNP for Seniors Coordinator Confederacy to the Choctaw the top-of-the-line weapons development, a portion of 800-522-6170 x2303 people had been broken; that were captured from the the battlefi eld is preserved in houses and crops had been 6th Kansas Cavalry helped the Massard Prairie Battle- You do not have to be a participant to purchase fresh produce from the farmers, the destroyed, and Choctaw the poorly supplied Choc- fi eld Park, maintained by public is welcome to purchase from the farmers also. citizens were suff ering taw units keep up armed the town of Fort Smith. Each As soon as produce becomes available, the farmers will be back out at the Choctaw considerably. Because these resistance until the bitter year, a reenactment is held, Nation community centers in Choctaw soldiers received no end. In fact, it was within on-site, with Choctaw tribal Durant, McAlester, Hugo, Atoka, Broken Bow, Idabel, Antlers & Stigler. pay and very little provisions the Choctaw Nation that members as regular partici- Please call the community center and make sure the Wednesday you plan to go that a from the Confederacy, they the last Confederate general pants. farmers is there as produce is harvested at di erent times and may not be available which means they may not be there every Wednesday.

2015 Bow Shoot Schedule

Aug 8 Oct 10 Registration, 10:30 Competition, 11:00 Long Bow 5 & under; 6-8; 9-13; 14-16; 17-19; 20 & over Sept. 6, Labor Day Festival, 8am & Turkey Shoot, Nov. 14 Prizes for each age group at the end of each shoot. Final prize awarded at end of year for overall points. Information, please call Sue Folsom (800) 522.6170x2134 or Pam Waugh (580) 775.7862 BISKINIK | July 2015 19 Choctaw Nation and Indian Health Services partner on regional health clinic in Durant By LISA REED participate. Choctaw Nation RADM Kevin Meeks, IHS Area Di- A ground breaking ceremony was rector for the Oklahoma City Area, held July 6 to celebrate a Joint Venture described the partnership, explaining between the Choctaw Nation and Indian the Choctaw Nation provides funding Health Services (IHS) to construct and for construction of the facility and IHS operate a regional health clinic in Du- works with Congress to obtain funding rant. for staffing to operate the facility. The medical campus will include “I commend the Choctaw Nation for Rendering by Childers Architects a 143,000-sq.-ft. clinic, 17,000-sq.- your commitment, for your investment The Choctaw Nation medical campus as seen in a rendering by the architectural ft. administration building, and an in the health care of Native American fi rm. The facility in Durant will be located adjacent to the new tribal headquar- 11,000-sq.-ft. facilities building to be patients,” said RADM Meeks. “The ters just north of the Choctaw Casino & Resort and is expected to open in Janu- located north of the Choctaw Nation real reason we are here is because of ary 2017. Community Center and Child Develop- the commitment to improve the health ment Center off Big Lots Road. of our patients who utilize the Indian The medical campus will be adjacent Health Care system in the Choctaw Na- to a new tribal headquarters building on tion.” which construction is expected to begin Choctaw Nation Health Senior Execu- this fall. tive Officer Teresa Jackson said this is The investment is for the tribal people, the first tribal IHS program to have an said Chief Gary Batton. “It’s to create a outpatient ambulatory surgery clinic. better way of life and to create jobs. It’s Other services will also include primary about making sure their life is longer.” care, dental, pediatrics, a lab, diabetes He recognized the Tribal Council and the care, community health nurses, optom- many individuals who worked diligently etry, radiology services (including MRI, to make this possible. CT, bone density, mammography, ultra- Joint Ventures between tribes and sound, fluoroscopy and x-ray), pharma- IHS are very competitive. There were 36 cy, behavioral health, physical therapy, applications from across the country for and numerous specialty care services. a Joint Venture this year. The Choctaw Construction of the health center is ex- Nation was one of three to be selected to pected to be complete in January 2017.

Photo by Brandon Frye Surrounded by local dignitaries and clinic physicians and staff , Chief Gary Bat- ton cuts a ribbon symbolizing the grand opening of the expansion to the Rubin White Health Clinic in Poteau.

Poteau’s Rubin White Health Clinic expansion opens By BRANDON FRYE tive Director of Health Operations, the Choctaw Nation health clinic was already offering servic- Chief Gary Batton cut through a red es such as a family practice, pediatrics, ribbon July 2, 2015, at 10 a.m., symbol- and pharmacy prescription refills—but Photo by Brandon Frye izing the opening of an extensive expan- the expansion has made more services Wilburton local Blake Cawley takes advantage of the brand new basketball half sion to the Rubin White Health Clinic in available. court just opened at the Wilburton Wellness Center while a crowd inspects and Poteau. These new services include an employ- exercises on the new machines in the workout room behind him. Dignitaries, including Mayor Jeff ee clinic, offering emergency health care Shockley, Poteau city council members to employees, their spouses, and their Jimmy Holstead and Tommy Robinson, children. This new employee clinic will and District 4 royalty Junior Miss Jase draw in worker from the travel plazas, Wilburton Wellness Center Cassey and Little Miss Gracie Mattox, casinos, recycling center, and everyone attended the ribbon cutting. else working for the Choctaw Nation in opens this summer Representatives from Manhattan and around Poteau. Group Construction, which built the new New also is the optometry office, By BRANDON FRYE made of vinyl to be more resilient—is facility, were also present alongside the which will provide two optometrists for Choctaw Nation available and connected to the weight physicians and staff of the clinic. tribal members. Chief Gary Batton, Assistant Chief Jack room. Teresa Jackson, Senior Executive Of- A physical therapy program is now Austin Jr., District 6 Council Member Joe “When the Chief, Assistant Chief, and ficer for Choctaw Health Services, said housed at the back of the expansion. Coley, and local dignitaries cut the ribbon Council proposed an initiative to take care this expansion was needed in Poteau Included in the rehabilitation equip- signaling the grand opening of the Wilbur- of our elders and help them maintain their because it will provide many of the ment is a physical therapy pool with a ton Wellness Center on July 2. independence, enhance their wellness, we services found at the hospital in Talihina treadmill and current-based resistance— The new center off ers a range of new started building these wellness centers,” to locals, without their having to make a a first for the tribe. workout potential for citizens in the Wil- Chase Henson, Northern Wellness Man- longer drive. Behavioral health was expanded and burton area, including four elliptical ma- ager for the Choctaw Nation, said. “We “This is for you, our tribal members,” will now offer more counsellors to tribal chines, two stationary bikes, a resistance also like to tie into our communities, take Chief Gary Batton said. “We want to members. training machine, a full set of free weights, care of all tribal members, and take care of provide the best health care to our Open for recreational use as well as four treadmills, televisions for entertain- the employees of the Choctaw Nation.” members. We want to improve health so rehabilitation are the new wellness ment while working out, and lockers to The wellness centers benefi t youth, el- you can have long life, that’s what it’s all center and half-court basketball gym. keep valuable safe while being active. ders, members, and employees, by assist- about.” Treadmills, free weights, and other Additionally, a basketball half-court— ing them in enhancing their own health. According to Todd Hallmark, Execu- workout machines are now available.

Antlers Job Fair Looking for Travel Plaza Employees Antlers Community Center, 402 SW “O” Street Tuesday, Aug. 4, 9 a.m. -5 p.m. For more information, call (800) 522-6170 x2189 careers.choctawnation.com

The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Needs Choctaw Resource Parents

The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma is currently needing Choctaw resource families in Oklahoma. As a Choctaw resource family you will serve as a temporary parent to a Choctaw child or children placed in your home. Not only will you provide for their basic needs, food, shelter, clothing, and safety but also help to preserve the child’s Choctaw Cul- ture and Heritage. Our children grow by teaching and providing stable, loving homes for them. For more information about the requirements to become a Choctaw resource family, please contact our office at:

Choctaw Children and Family Services P.O. Box 1210 Durant, Oklahoma 74702 Larry Behrens or Justin McDaniel (800)522.6170 or (580)924.8280 [email protected] [email protected]

View our website at: www.choctawfamilyservices.com 20 BISKINIK | July 2015

Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma 2015 Labor Day Festival September 3rd - 7th Thursday 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.-Capitol Museum Opens 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.-Museum Gi Shop Hours 7:00 p.m.-Princess Pageant, Amphitheater Friday 8:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.-Capitol Museum Hours 8:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.-Museum Gi Shop Hours 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.-CCA, Cra s for youth at playground 10:00 a.m.-Arts and Cra s exhibits open 11:00 a.m.-Choctaw social dance on Capitol lawn Noon-5:00 p.m.-Quilt entries at Information Center Noon-6:00 p.m.-CDIB/Membership/Photo ID open Noon-8:00 p.m.-Healthy Living Expo, next to Council Chambers Capitol Museum & Gift Shop 2:00 p.m.-Gourd Dancing on Capitol lawn 5:00 p.m.-Registration for Chief Batton Physical Choctaw Nation Fitness Challenge, on Council Chambers lawn Museum Hours 6:00 p.m. Chief Batton Physical Fitness Challenge 6:00 p.m.-Gourd Dancing on Capitol lawn ursday 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m.-Sculpture unveiling at Heritage Garden Friday 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. in front of the Capitol Building Saturday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. 7:00 p.m.-Stickball Tournament at Stickball Field Sunday 12 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 7:00 p.m.-Pow Wow Grand Entry on Capital lawn Monday 8 a.m. - 10 a.m. 7:00 p.m.-Fast-Pitch Tournament at Red Warrior Park 7:00 p.m.- Easton Corbin, Amphitheater 9:00 p.m.- Chris Young, Amphitheater Saturday 6:30 a.m.-7:45 a.m.-5k registration, Capitol Museum Inter-Tribal 8:00 a.m.-5k Race begins and ends at Capitol Museum Pow Wow 8:00 a.m.-Fast-Pitch Tournament continues Capitol Grounds 8:00 a.m.-9:30 a.m.-3-on-3 Choctaw War Hoops Basketball registration 8:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.-Healthy Living Expo, next to Council Chambers Friday, Sept. 4 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.-Daycare & YAB, Cra s for youth at playground 2 p.m. Gourd Dancing 5 p.m. Break 9:00 a.m.-Horse Shoe Tournament 6 p.m. Gourd Dancing 9:00 a.m.-Co-ed Volleyball Tournament 7 p.m. Grand Entry 9:00 a.m.-Quilt Show at Information Center 9:45 a.m.-Terrapin Race Registration at playground 10:00 a.m.-3-on-3 Choctaw War Hoops Basketball Tournament 10:00 a.m.-11th Annual Choctaw Nation Art Show opens, second oor of Capitol Museum 10:00 a.m.-Noon-Bualo Tours, load bus at Capitol Museum 10:30 a.m.-Terrapin Races, playground 10:00 a.m.-2:15 p.m.-Choctaw Village activities (see schedule) 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.-Capitol Museum Hours 10:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m.-Museum Gi Shop Hours 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.-CDIB/Membership/Photo ID open 4:00 p.m.-Tough, Tough registration on Council Chambers lawn 5:00 p.m.-Tough, Tough contest on Council Chambers lawn 7:00 p.m.- Neal McCoy, Amphitheater Basket Weaving 8:00 p.m.-Stickball Tournament at eld north of carnival 9:00 p.m.- Reba, Amphitheater Social Dancing

* Member’s Photo ID Booth|Quilt Show|Souvenirs Dominos & Checkers Concession Stand Tribal Police Going Green Tent First Aid Tvshka Homma Gi Shop Sunday

LOCATED ON STICKBALL Labor Day Oce Primitive 7:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m.-National Day of Prayer & Worship, Chapel Parking Camping HWY 271 FIELD Healthy Living Expo General Store & Choctaw Store 8:00 a.m.-Bow Shoot, Choctaw Village PARKING Smoke Shop Council Building 8:00 a.m.-Fast-Pitch Tournament continues

PARKING 8:30 a.m.-Golf Tournament, Sycamore Springs Course,

County Rd . Wilburton Vendor Parking HANDICAP BALL BALL BALL PLAYERS PARKING FIELD FIELD CAMPING AND Ice PARKING 10:00 a.m.-Worship Services at Chapel VETERAN’S House

4355 CEMETERY Acts Noon-Gospel Singing begins at amphitheater

Novelty Novelty BALL BALL FIELD FIELD Cafeteria CARNIVAL Noon-Domino/Checker Tournament registration RV PARKING Noon-4:30 p.m.-Capitol Museum Hours Stage * Noon-4:00 p.m.-Museum Gi Shop Hours Bathrooms Basketball TOUGH, Volleyball Kids Arts & TOUGH EVENTS Cra s Horseshoes Noon-5:00 p.m.-Healthy Living Expo, next to Council Cham- PLAYGROUND & Food Booths A BUFFALO TOUR BUSES rt CHILDREN’S EVENTS C s & raf TARRAPIN RACES bers Bu ts ild Capitol ing Museum Noon-6:00 p.m.-CDIB/Membership/Photo ID booth open Pow Wow Grounds RV AND 1:00 p.m.-Domino/Checker Tournament CAMPGROUND War ENTRANCE #2 1:30 p.m.-Golf Tournament, Sycamore Springs Course, Wilbur- Memorial Choctaw Village ton RV Parking Parking Lost 1:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m.-Choctaw Village activities (see schedule) Amphitheater Child 1:30 p.m.-3:00 p.m.-Choctaw Code Talker Association Board, Capitol No Parking Entrance Council Chambers RV 2:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m.-Bualo Tours, load bus at Capitol Museum Info Booth *Can purchase ice 4:00 p.m.-Choctaw Dancers, Capitol lawn Chapel Trash at all concession stands Dumpsters 5:00 p.m.-Stickball exhibition, Capitol lawn RV AND CAMPGROUND ENTRANCE 7:00 p.m.-Children’s stickball exhibition, stickball eld Labor Day Festival 2015 Housing 7:00 p.m.- Jason Crabb, Amphitheater LAKE ROAD (COUNTY RD. 1640) Employee Parking Clayton, OK 8:00 p.m.-Women’s stickball exhibition, stickball eld 9:00 p.m.-Championship stickball game, stickball eld 9:00 p.m.- Matt Maher, Amphitheater Monday 8:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m.-Capitol Museum Hours 8:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m.-Museum Gi Shop Hours 9:00 a.m.-Noon-CDIB/Membership/Photo ID booth open 10:00 a.m.-Labor Day ocial ceremonies, amphitheater - Posting of Flags-Choctaw Nation Color Guard - e Lord’s Prayer in Sign Language-Choctaw Royalty - Storytelling-Tim Tingle - Introduction of Tribal Council and Judges - Swearing-In Ceremony - State of the Nation Address by Chief Gary Batton - Door Prize Drawings 11:30 a.m.-Free lunch for everyone, cafeteria Noon-Pick up quilts from Quilt Show

Chahta Hymns Choctaw Village Activities Saturday Sunday 10:00 a.m.-Choctaw Dancing 1:00 p.m.-Rabbit Stick row 10:30 a.m.-Stickball Skills 1:30 p.m.-Storytelling Stickball 10:30 a.m.-Choctaw Hymns 2:00 p.m. Corn Game 11:00 a.m.-Storytelling 11:30 a.m.-Rabbit Stick row 1:00 p.m.-Stickball 1:30 p.m.-Language 1:45 p.m.-Corn Game Choctaw Nation Capitol Grounds 2:15 p.m.-Choctaw Dancing Tuskahoma, OK For more information call 800.522.6170 or 580.924.8280 choctawnation.com