issue of the Biskinik continues Atoka Center Outreach This arts and crafts Safety publication of recorded interviews of classes Camp Choctaw elders from 2007. Page 12 Page 15 This month – Lizzie Carney Page 10
bisKinik CHANGE service requested Presort STD p.O. Box 1210 AUTO Durant OK 74702 U.S. POSTAGE PAID CHOCTAW NATION
BISKINIKThe Official Publication of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma
April 2011 Issue Serving 205,327 Choctaws Worldwide Choctaws ... growing with pride, hope and success
Choctaw Nation Drought related donates fuel sale Choctaw proudly takes fire dangers profits to Japan The recent lack of rain has left the residents of southeast Okla- relief effort homa concerned. Simple modi- charge as Durant fire chief fications can be made though to By LARISSA COPELAND By BRET MOSS protect one’s property from pos- Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma sible fire danger. According to Fire Chief Roger The Choctaw Nation held a In all towns across America, there Joines of the Durant Fire Depart- fundraiser at its 13 travel plaza are people who take charge of insti- ment, a few simple steps can sig- locations on the weekend of tutions that the public could not live nificantly decrease the chances March 19-20, donating all fuel without. Mayor, sheriff and fire chief of a fire around the home. sale profits made to support the are just a handful of positions lead- • Keep all the grass at a short relief effort in Japan. The amount ing the public’s essential entities. length around the home. Tall raised that weekend totalled The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma grass can increase the height and intensity of flames. more than $12,000. is proud to claim newly appointed With the ongoing earthquake, Durant Fire Chief Roger Joines as • Keep pine needles and other roughage cleaned from the tsunami and nuclear tragedy in one of its own. With more than 20 lawn. Japan, the Choctaw Nation, like years of dedicated service to the • Any burning should be done many in the area, wondered what department, Joines was selected to in a burn barrel with a screen it could do to help with the relief fill the position by the Durant city over the top to keep larger efforts. The relief organizations manager after the previous fire chief floating ash inside the barrel. and resources on the ground in Choctaw Nation: BRET MOSS retired. • Always keep a garden hose Japan say that monetary dona- Born in Idabel to Clifford and Durant Fire Chief and proud Choctaw, Roger Joines. handy on any and every occa- tions are of the best assistance. Margaret Joines, he soon moved to sion. And with rising prices of fuel and McAlester where he grew up spend- He spent 12 years as a mechanic be- something with more excitement, so By heeding these tips and us- with so many families hitting the ing time in the outdoors, hunting and fore taking up firefighting, and kept he picked up the paper and discov- ing caution in everyday practices, road for Spring Break, the Choc- fishing with his family. up mechanic work part-time after- ered an ad for a fireman’s position you will decrease the chances of taw Nation saw this as an ideal He lived across the street from a ward. in Durant. He had a friend who was fire dangers at your household. opportunity to turn the high fuel fire station and was intrigued by it. Joines moved to the Durant area in in the business and after a discus- Also, be mindful of any burn bans that may be affecting your area prices into a good cause. “I remember watching them work 1984 to be with the woman who is sion with them he was ready to try during droughts. The Choctaw Nation has a long and thinking they had a cool job,” now his wife, Dana, who was from his hand at it. In Oklahoma, to find out if your history of generosity towards said Joines as he spoke about his Caddo. His parents had moved to the The thought of being a fireman felt county is under a burn ban, visit others during difficult times. early interest in the occupation. area earlier, making the move a logi- exciting to Joines. “It’s not some- forestry.ok.gov/burn-ban-infor- “By giving during times of need When he was older, he went to cal decision. thing everyone does,” he said. “I’ve mation or contact your county we’re following the moral ex- school for automotive technology In 1989, as he tired of the me- commissioner. amples set by our ancestors,” on the campus of OSU Okmulgee. chanic career, he began to look for See FIRE CHIEF on Page 9 said Chief Gregory E. Pyle. “For example, in 1847, the Choctaw gathered $170 and sent it to the starving Irish people to aid them during the Irish Potato Famine. The Choctaw themselves had ex- Archers take aim as fifth perienced extreme hardships 16 years earlier on the Trail of Tears. bow shoot season begins “The Choctaw people have big By LISA REED hearts and are always willing Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma to lend a hand to a neighbor in need,” he continued. The draw was strong for several The money received from the participants who traveled from fuel sales at the Travel Plazas Tuskahoma, Fort Towson, Broken during the fundraiser was do- Bow and Idabel to be the first to nated to the American Red Cross Choctaw Nation: FAYE SELF start the Choctaw Nation’s fifth specifically for relief aid in Ja- bow shoot season on March 12. pan, whose main focus is feed- Chief Gregory E. Pyle congratulates Quinton superintendent Don Winners in their age divisions ing, sheltering and supplying ba- Cox as JOM coordinator Judy Needham, far right, and Vickie Simco were: sic needs for victims. look on. • 5 and under boys and girls: 1st, Choctaw Nation Travel Pla- Calvin Pamer; 2nd, Shyla Hatch- zas are located in Atoka, Broken er; 3rd, Datyin Tapley. Bow, Durant, Garvin, Heavener, Quinton Public Schools named • 6 to 8 coed: 1st, Memree Choctaw Nation: LISA REED Grant, Idabel, McAlester, Poco- Hatcher. Pam Waugh takes aim at a tar- la, Poteau, Stringtown and Wil- • 9 to 13 coed: 1st, Levi Hatcher. get during the first bow shoot. burton. 2011 JOM Exemplary Program • 14-16 boys: 1st, Korbin Rich. By CHRISSY DILL gram has 72 participating schools • 20+ men: 1st, Jody Waugh; second Saturday of every month Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and 9,700 students enrolled. Each 2nd, Darrell Palmer; 3rd, Joey through November and is open for u What’s inside year JOM honors an Exemplary Waugh. all ages. Registration is at 10:30 Quinton Public School was re- JOM Program from the Choctaw, • 20+ women: 1st, Pam Waugh. a.m. on the capitol grounds at Tush- Notes to the Nation...... 2 cently named 2011 Exemplary JOM Cherokee, Chickasaw and Musco- There were no entries in the 17- ka Homma. Shooting starts at 11 Columns...... 3 Program representing the Choctaw gee (Creek) Nations as well as the 19 girls or boys divisions or the a.m. Nursery News...... 4 Nation. According to CN JOM Par- Bureau of Indian Education. 14-16 girls division. ent Committee Liaison June Praytor, Quinton Public Schools employs The shoot will be held on the See BOW SHOOT on Page 11 WIC...... 4 Quinton has exhibited great organi- Don Cox as the superintendent and Recipes...... 4 zation with a timely manner and has Judy Needham as the school’s JOM Food Distribution...... 5 earned success with an extensive Coordinator. People You Know...... 6 drug awareness program for its stu- “Quinton Schools serve as a mod- Education...... 7 dents. el,” said Praytor. Currently, there Trail of Tears Walk set for May 21 Spring is here, a time for rebirth. The annual On Oct. 1, 1984, the Choctaw Na- are 209 students enrolled at Quinton A Salute...... 8 Choctaw Nation Trail of Tears Commemora- Obituaries...... 18-19 tion, under the jurisdiction of the who are a part of JOM. Praytor explained several reasons tive Walk is a time for remembering our an- Iti Fabvssa...... 20 Bureau of Indian Affairs, Muskogee Area Office, contracted the Johnson- why Quinton was chosen as an ex- cestors’ long walk from Mississippi and the O’Malley funds for the operation of emplary program. “They submit all rebirth of a nation. Chief Gregory E. Pyle, supplemental programs designed their documentation in a timely fash- Assistant Chief Gary Batton and the Choctaw T-shirt order form for ion,” she said. “This school meets its Nation Tribal Council would like to invite ev- The Mission to meet the specialized and unique this year’s walk can be needs of the eligible Indian students goals and objectives.” found on Page 5 eryone to participate in this annual event on of the Choctaw within the Choctaw Nation. Supple- Quinton Public Schools have May 21 at Wheelock Academy in Millerton. Nation of Oklahoma mental programs consist of special shown initiative with its efforts in a Everyone is asked to come early and park at Wheelock. Those who wish program support and educational drug awareness program. “The drug to join in the walk can ride a bus to the starting point at the park in Miller- T o enhance the lives of all support. awareness program, which is high- ton. The walk will begin at 10 a.m. with opening remarks by Chief Pyle. A members through opportu- These programs meet the edu- lighted during Red Ribbon Week, free meal will be served to all who spend this special day with us. nities designed to develop cational need of an individual by has been an ongoing program for healthy, successful and pro- utilizing needs assessments to de- several years,” according to Pray- ductive lifestyles. termine the greater need of the stu- tor. “It has proven to be successful.” dents within the school. Some of the Quinton Public Schools is not only Choctaw festival to be held in Washington, D.C. services provided include technical continuing this program but expand- The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma will be celebrating with a Choctaw assistance to the school administra- ing it as well. festival in Washington, D.C., at the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian on June 22 to 25. Featured during the four days will The BISKINIK tors, JOM staff and local Indian Ed- All the teachers in each class at ucation Committees. Other services Quinton hold discussions during be food, workshops and performances, including a re-enactment of a tra- is printed on include Parent and Youth Leader- the drug awareness program with ditional Choctaw wedding, stickball demonstration, dancers, singers and recycled paper. ship Conferences. storytellers, and booths showcasing beadwork, pottery, flutes, the Choc- The Choctaw Nation JOM Pro- See QUINTON on Page 8 taw language, and tribal cooking. April 2011, BISKINIK, Page 2
NOTES TO THE NATION Art Under the Oaks Market and Festival Seeking information McGehee appreciative A month of art and culture at the Five Civilized Tribes I am seeking information from anyone who knows a James for assistance Museum in Muskogee began with the Cultural Art Show, Darneal. It’s to my understanding that at one time he was a opening April 3. The museum is celebrating the unique style To the Choctaw Nation Office of Lighthorseman and maybe a sheriff in Oklahoma for Judge Is- of the Five Tribes – Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Mus- Career Development and Mrs. Lauren sac Parker. James is my great-great-grandfather, and I would cogee (Creek) and Seminole. This festive art show features English, thank you for the assistance I very much appreciate knowing more about him or obtaining a textiles, pottery, basketry, gourds, knapping and jewelry, all was awarded from the nation in order photo of him. reflecting the culture and history of the Five Tribes. “Every to complete my Oklahoma and Texas I noticed in the 2011 Choctaw calendar a picture of a group year I am amazed at the creative talents of this group of art- Certification as school principal. It is of Lighthorsemen, and I believe the photo came from the Uni- ists. It is a beautiful show with lots of texture and color,” great to be a Choctaw. Words cannot versity of Oklahoma. Perhaps I can gain more photos from said Mary Robinson, director. express the gratitude that I feel for the financial assistance and there. Art Under the Oaks Market and Festival will be held the the moral support I was given by Mrs. English. Everyone in the I would greatly appreciate anyone’s help. No one in my fam- weekend of April 16 and 17 on museum grounds. Each year, Career Development office is superb and was always so kind ily has a photo of him or very much information. I know at one in conjunction with the Muskogee Azalea Festival, the mu- and easy to work with. Thank you again and again! God bless time there was a photo of him in the Kerr Museum in Poteau seum hosts a cultural festival reflecting the culture, heritage our nation and the Choctaw tribe. having a gun and handcuffs but it has been stolen. and traditions of the Five Tribes removed from their home- Again, thank you for any information. My phone number is Mindi (Smith) McGehee, Denison lands in the 1830s to Indian Territory. 918-962-3955 and my address is 20746 A.E.S. Rd., Spiro, OK Entertainment will be provided throughout the weekend. 74959. Tommy Wildcat, Cherokee, will open the festival with his Gwen Dwift Proud grandmother original flute music. Dancers from the Choctaw Nation will perform tradi- My grandchildren are Doyce “Dusty” tional dances at noon on April 16. Performing in traditional E. Fielder IV and Catherine “Katie” Thank you for assistance Choctaw dress, the dancers will share with the audience R. Fielder. We get the Biskinik every their cultural dance traditions. I want to thank you for the assistance with my father Henry month and I enjoy reading it. I believe Will Hill, Muscogee (Creek), and Jehnean Washington, H. Whiteman’s funeral expenses. It was a big financial burden a child’s Indian heritage is very impor- Seminole, Euchee and Shoshone, will give two storytelling on our family and your help was a blessing to us. Thank you, tant. Katie is an A+ student, and she performances on April 16 at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. On Sun- again. gets awards from the Choctaw Nation day, April 17, Greg Rodgers, Choctaw, and Robert Lewis, Tommy V. Whiteman every year. Thank you so much for this Cherokee, will be featured storytellers. encouragement. She is so proud of Greg has presented and performed at the Native Ameri- them; she frames them all and hangs can Museum in Washington, D.C. As a storyteller he travels Thanks for the help them immediately. Her room is run- throughout the country sharing Choctaw stories, American I would like to extend my thanks to the Choctaw Nation for ning out of walls, and we can begin Indian tales, personal stories and the illustrious lore of Okla- helping us with our housing needs. Business was slow through hanging them in the hallway. Thank homa’s past. the winter months, and the nation’s help is so greatly appreci- you for everything you do for her. Historic re-enactors, Mike Berryhill, Muscogee (Creek), ated. Thank you to Krystal and all the girls. Dusty will be graduating from Pur- and Noel Grayson, Cherokee, will show what life was like cell High School in May. He is a good Charles Steiger in the 1800s. Dressed in period clothing, they will demon- kid with a kind heart and prefers to strate the art of primitive tool making. stay in the background. He has played Basket weaver Sandra Wilson, Muscogee (Creek), and Thanks the saxophone in the marching band Joann Rackliff Richmond, Cherokee potter, will share the Thanks so much to Hannah Peel and Jessica for assistance since sixth grade. This last year they skills of their trade. Materials will be available for those on my utilities. I appreciate the fast work and pleasant voices. were state champions. Dusty has joined the Air Force and will who want to try their hand at weaving or making a clay pot. Normette Moore go to basic training in June. His father, Doyce E. Fielder II, Saturday afternoon, Cherokee Adult Choir will entertain died in 1996. His grandfather, W.L. Bridwell, my husband, the crowd with songs in their native language. Weather per- died in January 2010. mitting, on Sunday afternoon at 2 p.m., a gospel singing will Dusty and Katie have overcome some very hard things in Congratulations to Tonya be featured on the south lawn. their young lives. I think this has made them strong, of course I have completed the LPN pro- Vendors for the market will have handmade items re- I may have spoiled them a little bit! I am very proud of both gram in Oklahoma City, and I’d like flecting the heritage of the Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, these kids. They are strong Choctaws and always will be. to thank the Choctaw Nation and the Muscogee (Creek) or Seminole tribes. Artists will sell origi- staff of Career Development for all Gloria Bridwell nals to prints in their booths. Visitors can enjoy a traditional their help and encouragement. Now Creek meal or a fabulous Indian taco. that I’ve passed my NCLEX and I’m Art Under the Oaks Market and Festival is provided with an LPN, I want to give back and work Thank you the assistance of the Oklahoma Arts Council. All of the fam- for an Indian facility. Thank you, The family of Charlotte Jackson wishes to express their sin- ily entertainment is free and open to the public. Choctaw Nation and Career Devel- cere thanks and appreciation to their many friends and to those For more information on this event and others at the Five opment for all the help, encouragement and scholarships I’ve who attended the service for the very warm and comforting Civilized Tribes Museum, please call 918-683-1701, visit received. I’m very thankful for the help from you all, God and words, phone calls, visits, cards, food, memorial contributions, the website at fivetribes.org or e-mail 5civilizedtribes@sb- all the prayers I’ve received from my friends and family. My beautiful flowers and most of all, prayers. A special thanks to cglobal.net. Museum hours for the festival weekend are 10 parents are Barbara Wilson-Holmes and Garry Wilson. Chief Greg Pyle, Assistant Chief Gary Batton and all the Coun- a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Tonya Wilson cilmembers, all the Choctaw Nation employees and co-work- ers and to the Choctaw Community Center for the wonderful meal you prepared. Thanks to all who visited, called or sent Seeking information cards and gifts during mom’s stay at the nursing home and in 4th Annual Native American on photo the hospital. May God bless each of you. 5K National Championships Halito, I need some help with Pat Jones and family, Kevin Jackson and identifying the gentleman in family, Betty Wiedemann and family and Community 5K Run this photo. I received this photo Come join us in a celebration for and with Gerald “Jerry” among my mother-in-law’s things Tuckwin and Esther Felipe at the 4th Annual Native Ameri- when she passed. The young lady Seeking Choctaw sign language speaker can 5K National Championships and Community 5K Run on June 18 beginning at 8 a.m. in Albuquerque, N.M. Jerry is is Geraldine Fraizer (Tiger). I The Choctaw seniors are searching for someone versed in have asked family members and a former Haskell Indian Junior College, Haskell Indian Na- Choctaw/Indian sign language for a current project. If you or tions University track and cross-country runner, coach, edu- no one seems to know who he is. if you know of someone that could help, please call and leave I believe this picture was taken in cator and athletic director. a message at 580-924-7810 during regular business hours. The race will be held on the campus of Southwestern In- the late ’40s. Please email me at Thank you. [email protected] if you have any information. Thank you. dian Polytechnic Institute located at 9169 Coors Rd. NW, Al- Gaylia Green buquerque, N.M. The course is a flat, paved, two-loop course Lena Tiger and is considered one of the fastest courses at altitude. If you are a fan of Haskell, we would like to know if you Looking for information plan to attend. Register early for huge discounts. Teams, Gregory E. Pyle Gary Batton I am writing to find information on the man pictured on the families, clubs, organizations and businesses are encouraged Chief Assistant Chief far left in the Lighthorsemen photo in the 2011 Choctaw calen- to participate. Contact SWTC to discuss discounts for mul- dar. I would also like to know what year the photo was taken. tiple entries. The Official If you have any information please call 903-663-0308. Thank This event is open to all United States tribes, federal and Monthly Publication you. state recognized. It is also open to Alaskan and Canadian of the Thomas L. Fulton Sr. tribal members. Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma For more information or to receive an entry form, email Judy Allen, Executive Director [email protected] or call 505-710-3323. Lisa Reed, Director/Editor Seeking family information Melissa Stevens, Circulation Director I have always been proud of my Native American heritage. I Larissa Copeland, Assistant Editor am currently seeking my Powell family line and they seem to Karen Jacob, Purchasing Coordinator be Choctaw. Sarah Henrietta Powell was my great-grandmoth- Choctaw Language Preaching Brenda Wilson, Administrative Assistant Bret Moss, Copy/Production Assistant er and died in 1913 in Texas. I know nothing of my people or at OK Choctaw Alliance Center Chrissy Dill, Journalism Intern traditions and would like to learn. My father, who will turn 91 The Oklahoma City Community School of Choctaw Lan- in April, said his father, Jackson May Williams, was to go to guage is hosting the 7th Annual Choctaw Language Preach- P.O. Box 1210 Oklahoma and claim his land but the horse and wagon didn’t ing at the OK Choctaw Alliance Center at 5320 S. Youngs Durant, OK 74702 make it. If you have any information, please contact me at Blvd. in Oklahoma City on April 30 beginning at 10 a.m. (580) 924-8280 • (800) 522-6170 [email protected]. Thank you. Fax (580) 924-4148 with Choctaw hymns, singing and English preaching at 11 www.choctawnation.com a.m. e-mail: [email protected] Lunch will be held after preaching, and after lunch at 1:30 The BISKINIK is printed each month as a service to Tribal Southeastern Native p.m., the Rev. Donald Gene Wilson will make his presen- Members. The BISKINIK reserves the right to edit submitted tation, as he was the one to make contacts, re-establishing material which it finds inaccurate, profane, offensive or mor- American Council Pow Wow and reconnecting Choctaw social dancing, which we enjoy ally unacceptable. Copy may be edited for proper grammar and today in the Choctaw country in southeastern Oklahoma. punctuation. Copy will be accepted in any readable form, but Saturday, April 16 It will be an interesting subject, the tradition and culture where possible, it is requested that material be typewritten and of the Choctaw Nation. For more information, please call double spaced. You must include an address or phone number Bloomer Sullivan Gymnasium 405-672-5653. where you may be reached. Due to space limitations and the Southeastern Oklahoma State University quantity of article submissions, we are unable to include every- thing we receive. Durant, Oklahoma If you are receiving more than one BISKINIK at your home 2 p.m. - 10 p.m. Upcoming event in Rufe or if your address needs changed, we would appreciate hearing Grand Entry - 7 p.m. from you. Power of the Word will be held at St. John Presbyterian The BISKINIK is a nonprofit publication of the Choctaw Na- Church in Rufe on April 30 through Sunday, May 1. Join tion. Contests Prize Money Raffles us at 10 a.m. on Saturday for a weekend of praise and Circulation is monthly. Article deadline is the 10th of the worship, preaching and testimonies. Various speakers and month for the following month’s edition. Emcee, Tim Tall Chief Head Singer/Drum, Pat Oyebi guests will be coming from Oklahoma and Texas, and a pot- luck lunch will be held on Saturday at 12:30. Bring your The Biskinik E-News is a digital version of your monthly Head Man Dancer, Stanley John Biskinik. It is delivered to your e-mail inbox twice monthly and favorite dish! contains articles from the most recent BISKINIK newspaper Head Lady Dancer, Mary Chanate as well as links to the current BISKINIK and archives. Sign up Head Gourd Dancer, Chris Chanate today on choctawnation.com. Arena Director, Bill Takes Horse ESS Saturday Singing at Jones Academy PR AS A SO M C O I H A 2010 T A I L Jones Academy is hosting a Native American Gospel O For additional details contact NAC President Bar- K
AWARD N O WINNING NEWSPAPER Singing at 6:30 p.m. April 30 in the gym. Everyone is in- ® bara Shope at 469-463-8249. BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST BISKINIK 2011 vited. Emcee is District 6 Councilman Joe Coley.
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BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST April 2011, BISKINIK, Page 3 Honored to care for those who serve From the Desk of Chief Gregory E. Pyle staff members employed in that division were called into ac- tive duty. Thanks to the dedication of tribal members and tribal staff, The Choctaw people have historically served the United there have been many awards and commendations presented States valiantly in great numbers, especially during wartime, over the years, yet one of the most meaningful is the United and our tribe has stepped up to the challenge as well. We have States Freedom Award from the Department of Defense. I am offered the use of our tribal airplane on the average of once so thankful for our veterans and our soldiers. Just recently, 11 a month through Veterans Airlift Command to be used by of the tribal employees said goodbye to their families because wounded warriors of the current war for flights to medical ap- they were deployed by the National Guard. I understand they pointments. These wounded soldiers are not usually able to use are heading to Afghanistan in June. I humbly request that all of commercial flights for various reasons so this is a tremendous you remember them and their families in your prayers. blessing for them and their families, and a greatly appreciated Several years ago, the Choctaw Nation began sending care service that we are happy to be able to provide them. The war- packages to our soldiers in active war zones and we continue riors have sacrificed willingly for us and for our country, and it to do so, not only to Choctaws, but to friends of Choctaws. We is an honor to be able to provide for them. have a Veterans Advocacy department and just recently placed You can learn more about this great effort at their Web site, a new person to serve in that office because all three of the veteransairlift.org.
Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Choctaw Defense, a leader Capture Photothe Spirit of the ContestChoctaw Nation of Oklahoma and share your heritage with tribal members around the world. of innovative technology for Winning entries will be used in the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma’s 2012 Calendar. PHOTOGRAPHY SPECIFICATIONS: • Digital images are preferred but not required. • High resolution 300 dpi RGB JPG files are preferred. • To be considered for a top inside calendar page images need to be at least 2 to 5 mb JPG our troops on the battlefield files in horizontal format. From the Desk of Assistant Chief Gary Batton All photos must be received by July 1, 2011. All photos must be accompanied by photographer’s contact information including name, address, phone number and e-mail address. The Choctaw Nation of Okla- The subject(s) of the photos must be identified. homa has numerous businesses, all of which are wholly owned by the The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma reserves the right to use submitted photos in other publications. Watch future Choctaw publications and web sites: Even if you don’t win this calendar contest, your tribe. One of the most fascinating is image may be used in future publications! Choctaw Defense, which is the na- tion’s leading Native American de- A Grand Prize of $150 will be awarded to the person submitting the cover photo. Individual $50 fense manufacturer. Just recently, prizes will also be awarded each person whose photo is chosen for calendar pages. the executive directors and I were E-mail entries to [email protected] or mail to: honored to be toured through the Lisa Reed, PO Box 1210, Durant, OK 74702 facility in McAlester and shown the latest in manufacturing technol- ogy that is helping produce items that support our troops overseas. The first part of the tour took us Happy Easter 2011 through the assembly line of the May God bless you and Medium Tactical vehicle replace- your loved ones as we cel- Chaplain’s Corner ment MTVR trailers. These trailers ebrate Easter 2011, the Res- are built in several designs in order urrection of our Risen Savior to haul whatever the soldiers need, – the Lord Jesus Christ. God two chapters, chapters whether it be water, generators, the Father was pleased with 17 and 18, in the Book ammo or other cargo (all while being able to handle an off-road pounding). They have a lot of the substitutionary death of of Revelation, in the special systems that allow for the unique conditions faced in Afghanistan and Iraq. His only Begotten Son. The Tribulation Period the We were shown the Improved Army Space Heater (IASH), a 14,000-BTU multi-field space third Person of the Trinity, professing church shall heater, which is used worldwide. Choctaw Defense has produced over 15,000 of these in the last the Holy Spirit, raised Him be based on an apos- 10 years. up from the dead. (John tate foundation. This Choctaw Defense began production of Battle Damage Assessment and Repair kits (some- 3:16; Romans 8:11 NIV) The apostate, false church times called “MacGyver Kits”) in 2002. These are used on the battlefield to make repairs on Apostle Paul wrote, “And if is described as a har- Army vehicles that have been damaged in battle. These battlefield repairs allow the vehicle to Christ has not been raised, lot, a prostitute. Her remain mobile and return to base. your faith is futile; you are name was “Mystery, It was great to hear the staff at the manufacturing facility say with confidence that they were still in your sins.” (I Corinthi- Babylon the Great, the committed to doing whatever they could to support the troops to help them return home safely. ans 15:17 NIV). Jesus said in Mother of Harlots and Choctaw Defense has been nominated for the Excellence in Innovation – Manufacturing In- the Book of Revelation 1:18 Abominations of the novations Award through the National Institute of Standards and Technology. Congratulations NIV, “I am the living One; I Earth.” (Revelation to the team at Choctaw Defense and “Thank you” to all of the 260 employees who work there was dead, and behold I am 17:5). I believe one of for all they do in support of the members of the United States military, as well as what they do alive for ever and ever! ...” the signs of the great to support the business vision of the Choctaw Nation! The grand theme of the Bible apostasy is the rise of is the Lord Jesus Christ. All false prophets around the blood sacrifices recorded us. There are those who in the Old Testament pointed deny the doctrine of the to the time when Jesus Christ Trinity, the doctrine of Rev. Bertram Bobb would come as the Lamb of Grace, the Inspiration Tribal Chaplain Tribal Council holds March session God and lay down His life and Inerrancy of the By LISA REED cling Center in Durant has and community poverty. for the sins of the whole world when He died Word of God, the Blood Atonement, the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma also enjoyed success since its • The U.S. Department of on the Cross. Now the New Testament looks Bodily Resurrection and the Second Com- opening in December 2010. Health and Human Services back upon this finished work of Christ on the ing of our Lord Jesus Christ. There are The Choctaw Nation Tribal The staff have been instru- Center for Medicare and cross. God’s Plan of Salvation was finished those that deny that Jesus Christ was born Council meets in regular ses- mental in saving the Choc- Medicaid Services Center at the cross, there is nothing else that can be of a virgin, that He is the Son of God. The sion monthly to address the taw Nation an estimated $1 for Medicaid and State Op- done or be added. God the Father’s Plan of Apostle John warned the Christians of the needs of tribal members and million with environmentally erations Children’s Health Salvation has been finished. We can only con- false prophets when he wrote concerning report on the latest happen- friendly tips and by under- Insurance Program Reautho- fess – agree with God – that we are sinners those who denied the deity of Jesus Christ ings in the Choctaw Nation. taking the extensive job of rization Act. This grant will and trust Jesus Christ as our personal Savior. in First John 4:1-3 NIV, “Dear Friends, do On March 12, committee changing out the light bulbs provide the tribe with the This is done by faith in His finished work. not believe every spirit, but test the spirits reports touched on a variety to conserve energy. ability to find eligible, yet This is the only way we can come into the to see whether they are from God, because of information about several The Choctaw Nation not enrolled Indian children presence of God, and this is the only message many false prophets have gone out into the tribal programs. Health Care Center in Tali- in Medicaid and CHIP with a of salvation we can preach. After Jesus fin- world. This is how you can recognize the Construction of a new hina is starting a new mar- particular focus on those who ished, God and the Father’s Plan of Salvation Spirit of God: Every spirit that acknowl- Head Start in Wilburton is un- tial arts program for youth in are the most difficult to reach He went back to Heaven and one day, soon, edges that Jesus Christ has come in the der way and the center is ex- Talihina this fall, an effort to and specifically the enroll- He will return for His own. He will come for flesh is from God, but every spirit that does pected to be open by the fall encourage young boys and ment of Indian children. His Church. The revelation of the Church was not acknowledge Jesus is not from God. session. The facility currently girls to get moving, learn self- • The U.S. Centers for Dis- not granted to the Prophets in the Old Testa- This is the spirit of the antichrist, which has 10 associates and 16 chil- control and confidence. Plans ease Control and Prevention ment. The mystery hid from them was the you have heard is coming and even now dren in the program. are to expand the classes to for the Affordable Care Act bringing together of Jews and Gentiles into is already in the world.” John continues in The Women, Infants and the Antlers and Broken Bow Childhood Obesity Research a body, the Body of our Lord Jesus Christ, verse 4, “You, dear children, are from God Children program (WIC) areas. Demonstration Grant will which we know as the Church. By a distinct and have overcome them, because the one is preparing for a 5 to 10 New business included provide the Choctaw Nation revelation of the Holy Spirit Paul understood who is in you is greater than the one who percent decrease in federal approval of applications for Wellness Centers with the and declared this mystery of Christ, namely is in the world.” If the Lord Jesus Christ is funds. WIC administrators grants: tools to ultimately prevent that Gentiles and Jews should be fellow heirs, coming soon, our question today is, “What are working to find ways to • The U.S. Bureau of Justice and reduce childhood obesity. and of the same body (Ephesians 3:1-9) We kind of life should we be living?” How does continue serving the 54,923 Assistance for the Encourag- • The Institute of Museum thank God for the New Testament which re- the soon coming of Jesus Christ affect your participants in the program. ing Innovation Field-Initiated and Library Services for veals to us the truth of the glorious Hope of life? More than anything else, God wants It is also time for the Farmers Program will better enable lo- the Native American Basic Christ appearing for the redeemed. There is, us to live expecting His return. Whatever Market Nutrition Program to cal criminal justice systems Grants and Basic Grants with for example, the Lord Jesus’ prediction that decisions we make we should make them begin its second year of utiliz- to prevent and respond to Education/Assessment Op- though He was to leave His own, He would in the light of the fact that the coming of ing local farmers’ goods and emerging and chronic crime tion will provide the Choc- return for them and take them to be with Him- the Lord is very near. Live expectantly. providing vouchers for the problems that affect commu- taw Nation library staff by self. He said in John 14:3, “If I go and prepare May God help us to live that kind of life. WIC participants to obtain nities in southeast Oklahoma. providing books, magazines a place for you, I will come again, and receive Perhaps the greatest thing you need to real- fresh fruits and vegetables. Funds from the U.S. Depart- and multimedia software as you unto myself that where I am, there ye may ize is this, that the coming of Jesus Christ The Career Development ment of Justice will assist the well as education courses and be also.” As we read our Bible we can know for His Church, the Rapture of the Church, Program reported to Commit- Choctaw Nation in eliminat- training workshops. that Jesus Christ is coming back and that His will cut off forever your eternal destiny if tee 1 that 1,813 people have ing some of those challenges • The U.S. Department of coming is very near. Right after the Church is you have not received Jesus Christ as your completed the program that by continuing to support proj- Justice’s Rural Domestic Vio- taken out of this world, there will begin a time personal Savior. You will in the words of II is designed to aid persons ects designed to address and lence and Child Victimization of Great Tribulation – a period of seven years Thessalonians 2, be compelled to believe a who wish to pursue an edu- prevent domestic violence, Enforcement Grant Program when God will pour out His wrath upon this lie, the lie of the antichrist. Do you know cation outside of attending a dating violence, sexual as- – Project SAFE – focuses on earth. Right at the beginning of this Tribula- Jesus Christ? Do you know the forgive- college or university. There sault and stalking. providing assistance to vic- tion Period the antichrist will appear. In the ness of the cross and the power of Christ’s are different levels in career • The U.S. Department of tims of domestic violence and Book of Revelation, in chapters 17 and 18, we Resurrection? (Read John Chapter 20.) Are readiness certification. Weld- Housing and Urban Develop- child victimization in rural have a picture of the professing church during you forgiven? Have you received new life ers and health care officials ment for the Rural Innova- areas. the Tribulation Period. As we look at this pic- – the Resurrection Life? Will you make are in most demand, while tion Fund Program. This will Also, in new business, a ture, I believe we will come to the conclusion your commitment to Jesus Christ today? engineering – a high-paying provide the Choctaw Nation Council Bill was passed ap- that the professing church today is very close God will help you, if you are willing. Re- job – has the least interest ex- support to address the need proving a grazing lease to to the condition that shall prevail in the pro- member to pray for America and for our hibited. to provide support for highly Billy Perrin for three years on fessing church during the Tribulation Period. leaders. Pray for our brave men and women The new Choctaw Recy- targeted rural housing distress property in Choctaw County. One thing for sure, from our studies in these in service. April 2011, BISKINIK, Page 4 Carrot & Orange Salad Nursery News Ingredients: 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated (about 4 cups) 2 oranges, navels or blood, fresh Braden Bazille 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice The family of Braden Mack 1 tbsp honey Bazille is proud to announce his ½ tsp ground cinnamon birth. Braden was born at 5:40 Directions: p.m. on Sept. 14, 2010, at Saint Place the grated carrots in a large bowl and set aside. Francis Hospital in Tulsa, to Blake Slice off the ends of the oranges, place each one, cut side and LaDawn Bazille of Mounds. down, on the working surface, and slice down the curved Braden was 21 inches long and sides with broad strokes all of the way around, positioning Earning certification in Parents as Teachers Curriculum weighed 7 pounds 6 ounces. He the knife just deep enough to remove the peel and all of Feb. 25 are Angela Dancer, Brandi Smallwood, Shauna has one brother, Brendon, and a sister, Brooklyn. He is the the white pith. Holding each peeled orange over the serving Humphreys, Ashley Norris, Becki Morris, Christi Ham- grandson of Bobby and Barbara Clyma of Mounds, and Val- bowl, slip a paring knife between the membrane and one of mons, Jessica Allred, Hope Tom, Mandy Allensworth, erie Bazille of Tulsa. He is the nephew of Ryan and Bavette the sides of each orange section, cut in toward the center Johnny Sue Kemp, Ruthie Cannon, Judith McDaniel. Miller of Owasso, and cousin to E.J. Leeper and Teagan Mill- of the orange, and then cut back out the other side with a er of Owasso. He is also nephew to Chris and Dana Clay of motion resembling a V. The orange section will fall into the Owasso, and cousin to Connor and Kayla. bowl. Repeat this process around the entire orange and then ParentsParents as Teachers as developed Teachers its evidence-based home visit- squeeze the juice from the membrane into the bowl. Com- ing model more than 25 years ago. Through advocacy and out- bine the lemon juice, honey, and cinnamon in a small bowl reach, Parents as Teachers serves as a voice for early childhood Alexandria and Sophia McFarland and pour over the carrot-orange mixture. development through the critical role of parental involvement and Crysta and Daniel McFarland welcomed identical twin girls Before serving, allow the salad to sit for at least 10 min- early intervention in the childhood development and education Alexandria Jo and Sophia Danielle into the world on Dec. 8, utes so the flavors mingle. continuum. Over the years, the premise of its four-component 2010. Alexandria was born at 7:33 a.m., weighing 5.2 pounds Nutrition facts model has remained solid and the core values upon which Parents and measuring 17.5 inches long. Sophia arrived at 7:35 a.m. Makes 4 servings as Teachers was built remain unchanged. Well-designed indepen- weighing 4.10 pounds and measuring 17.5 inches long. Their Amount per serving dent research studies support hundreds of thousands of families paternal grandparents are Carmen Winlock Parker and Silas Calories - 49.4, Total Carbs - 12.6g, Total fat - 0.2g, Po- in all 50 states as well as many other countries through a proven parent education model featuring intimate, in-home visits with A. McFarland. Thelma Daney Winlock is their paternal great- tassium - 127.1mg, Fiber - 2.6g, Sat fat - 0g, Protein - 1g, parents and children. These studies have consistently confirmed grandmother. Maternal grandparents are Donald Riley Sr. and Sugars - 7.6g, Unsat fat - 0.2g, Sodium - 21.8mg, the effectiveness of Parents as Teachers in improving children’s Ruby Cline Riley. Hope you enjoy this recipe! For further information you development across multiple domains by increasing school readi- may contact: ness, improving parents’ knowledge of early childhood develop- Erin Adams, RD, LD ment and parenting practices, identifying developmental delays Patience Haury Choctaw Nation Diabetes Wellness Center 800-349-7026 and health issues and preventing child abuse and neglect. ext: 6959 Choctaw Nation is very excited to offer our Native Ameri- Jessica Cockrill and Derrick Haury can families this opportunity to take advantage of the new pro- of Haworth are very proud to announce grams in which we are now taking applications for services. The the birth of their very precious daugh- program provides services to pregnant and parenting teens and ter, Patience Glanna Marie Haury, born women 21 years of age and under, their infants, male partners at 1:07 p.m. on March 9, 2011, at Ta- Steps to stop cancer and families who reside in the 10 ½-county service area of the lihina hospital. She weighed 6 pounds, April is National Cancer Control Month. The topic was ad- Choctaw Nation. The project provides comprehensive and inte- 13 ounces and was 19.1 inches long. dressed in February for National Cancer Prevention Month, grated services to improve health outcomes for mother and in- The proud grandparents are John and Glenda Cockrill of however, with new research recently presented addressing the fant, increase healthy parenting skills, provide opportunities for Redland Community and Evelyn and Jaime Casterjon of Ida- diabetes-cancer connection, this topic deserves a another look. assessing each client’s individual needs by resources available, bel. She is the great-granddaughter of Ilamae Satterfield of According to Karen Collins, MS, RD, CDN of the American and increase healthy parent and child interaction skills. Atoka, the late Coleman Felihkatubbe of Perris, Calif., and Institute for Cancer Research (AICR), a consensus panel of ex- To be eligible, clients must: Francis Willis of DeQueen, Ark. • Be 21 years of age or younger and around 24 weeks pregnant perts from the American Diabetes Association and American Patience is also welcomed into the family by numerous • Must be expecting a Native American infant Cancer Society issued a report on research which shows that aunts, uncles and cousins. • Must reside in the Choctaw Nation 10 ½ county service area diabetes is associated with a slightly higher increased risk of • Must be actively pursuing a high school education (GED or several types of cancer. The AICR reports high body fat as a high school diploma) convincing cause of several cancers, but research also suggests For further information please contact Director Angela Danc- that insulin resistance and other metabolic changes associated er, 580-326-8304 or 877-285-6893, e-mail angelad@choctaw- with pre-diabetes do increase cancer risk independently of obe- nation.com; Assistant Director Shauna Humphreys, 800-349- Tips for burping your baby sity. More research is being done to look further into this topic. 7026,ext: 6441, or e-mail [email protected]. You’ve survived nine months of pregnancy, you’ve been The good news is prevention has been shown to be a key factor through labor and delivery, now you’re ready to head home that can be worked toward. So, with the connection of diabetes and begin a new life with your baby. Many young parents tend and cancer, researchers have also found there is a connection in to panic at the slightest change in their bundle of joy including the prevention of diabetes and cancer. The Diabetes Prevention ‘Light Up a New Way of Life’ gas discomforts in the baby, but there is seldom any need to Program of 2002 found that lifestyle changes could decrease Development of the All participants in both groups, worry. incidence of diabetes by 58 percent. The AICR reports that re- Nations Breath of Life smok- a group intervention, cultur- search suggests that the lifestyle changes could also prevent ing cessation program began ally tailored smoking cessation Burping the baby about one-third of our most common cancers. when American Indian and program vs. individual stan- After feeding your baby it is important to burp him/her. • Weight/Waist circumference Management – 5-7 percent Alaska Native patients from dard care, non-tailored. Burping involves handling the baby in a way that the excess air weight loss if overweight is one of the primary recommenda- Kansas, part of the Oklahoma Group support sessions will swallowed by him/her during their feed is released. In addition tions. Weight loss is strongly related to reducing a marker of Area Office of Indian Service, consist of group members pro- to swallowing milk a baby also tends to swallow air. Air can requested a smoking cessation viding the majority of support inflammation which in turn reduces risk of cancer. get trapped in his system and cause the baby discomfort. program appropriate for their and advice, with help from the • Physical activity promotes weight management – Being When to burp your baby: ethnic groups. This sparked facilitator and educational ma- physically active for at least 30 minutes, five times per week collaboration between Ameri- terials. Educational curriculum - Every two ounces if you bottle feed of moderate to vigorous intensity working up to more time can can Indian and Alaska Native will provide the latest smoking - Every time you change breast if you breast feed improve weight management. colleagues, community mem- cessation methods with such - Anytime your baby seems fussy during a feeding • Diet – avoiding processed foods, focusing more on fiber- bers, Kansas University Medi- culturally specific elements as - At the end of every feeding containing plant foods supports lower risk of diabetes and can- cal Center, the American Lung traditional use of tobacco vs. If you have been burping your baby for a few minutes and cer. Association and the University commercial tobacco use, stress have not gotten a burp, try changing their position and try With these key preventative measures in place, the risk for of Oklahoma Health Sciences reduction and management us- again. type 2 diabetes and several types of cancer can be diminished. to create All Nations Breath ing American Indian flute mu- Here are three positions for burping a baby. No matter what The recipe that follows was given to Erin Adams, RD, LD, at of Life with funding from the sic meditation techniques. position you use, remember to be gentle. the CNO Diabetes Wellness Center by a friend who not only National Cancer Institute. The Once data is collected and (1) Baby sitting in your lap: position your baby sitting up in has type 2 diabetes but also is a breast cancer survivor. She study will conduct a two-arm analyzed, and if the interven- your lap with his/her body leaning forward. Support his/her acquired this recipe from dLife www.dlife.com a diabetic web group randomized trial at two tion is successful, the potential chest and head with one of your hands by placing your palm site with wonderful recipes. sites in Kansas and southeast- public health impact will be under their chin, be careful not to grip your baby’s throat, use ern Oklahoma to test the ef- significant because the preva- other hand to gently pat the baby’s back. ficacy of the program. This lence of smoking is the high- (2) You can lay your baby across your lap with his/her study is the first controlled est in this population. In ad- tummy down (keep upper body elevated or else the baby will trial to examine the efficacy of dition, this unique partnership Recipe of the Month: a culturally tailored smoking also offers the opportunity to vomit) for some time. cessation program for Ameri- provide insights into effective (3) You can lay baby upright against your shoulder (tummy Mini Pizzas can Indians and represents a collaboration across sites with against chest), while gently patting him/her on their back. Ingredients: partnership between two aca- both urban and rural American If the baby seems fussy while feeding, stop the session and 1 can of biscuits demic research centers Kansas Indian communities. Facilita- burp your baby and then begin feeding again. If your baby 1 cup of mozzarella cheese University Medical Center and tors are ready to sign up par- tends to be gassy try burping every ounce during bottle feed or ½ cup of pizza sauce the OU Health Sciences Cen- ticipants in the McAlester and every 5 minutes during breastfeeding, again always burp your ½ cup of sliced ham or turkey ter – the Choctaw Nation of Hugo communities, shortly baby when feeding time is over. Oklahoma and four reserva- to be followed by Talihina, Sometimes your baby may awaken because of gas: simply Preparations: tions in Kansas. Broken Bow and Idabel. Call picking up your baby and burping might put him or her back This study will use a group Melanie Johnson at (405) 271- Roll or press out biscuits. to sleep. As your baby gets older, you shouldn’t worry if your multi-site scientific research 2229, Ext. 50481, to find out if Top each pressed biscuit with pizza sauce. child doesn’t burp during or after feedings. Usually, it just plan for American Indian you’re eligible for the study. means that your baby has learned to eat without swallowing Place cheese and meat on top of pizza. smokers: (1) each site (Kansas For more information about Bake in oven for about 5-10 minutes at 375° excess air. and Oklahoma) will random- the project contact:Melanie A burping baby doesn’t have to live with that discomfort, ize 28 groups, resulting in 14 Johnson, project coordinator, learn how to get that burp and you will have a happier baby. Add a twist to your Mini Pizzas by adding: diced tomatoes, groups per arm of the inter- (405) 271-2229, ext. 50481. sliced green peppers, fresh mushrooms, shredded carrots and vention, with eight smokers in black olive slices. each group per site, for a total sample size of 448 American Contributed by Choctaw Nation WIC Indian smokers, and (2) for Choctaw Nation WIC WOMEN, INFANTS AND CHILDREN Spring into new eating habits incorporate some fresh new and dry your greens. SITE PHONE HOURS DAYS WIC foods that give you some real • Drink up!– Water, wa- Antlers 580-298-3161 8:30-4:00 Every Tuesday WOMEN, INFANTS energy? ter, water is still the mantra Atoka 580-889-5825 8:00-4:30 Every Mon., Wed., Thurs. & AND CHILDREN If you’re not already eat- for healthy living, make sure Fri. ing a large salad for lunch or you’re getting at least 8-10 Bethel 580-241-5458 8:30-4:00 1st Tuesday Spring is the perfect time to dinner, this is the season to cups of water each day. Boswell 580-380-5264 8:30-4:00 Every Friday freshen up your diet and give begin! • Cut back on caffeine- Broken Bow 580-584-2746 8:00-4:30 Daily, except 1st Tues. & 2nd your eating habits a make- 5 Healthy Eating Tips for Longer, sunny days ahead Thurs. over! With more choices in Spring: make it much easier to enjoy Coalgate 580-927-3641 8:00-4:30 Every Wednesday fresh fruits and vegetables • Reach for the raw- Raw a natural boost of energy. Get Durant 580-924-8280 x 2257 8:00-4:30 Daily available at the local farmer’s fruits and veggies are loaded outdoors and breathe in that Hugo 580-326-5404 8:00-4:30 Daily market and grocery store, with nutrients, vitamins and fresh air for a quick energy there is no excuse to skip minerals. Raw foods are great boost. Idabel 580-286-2510 8:00-4:30 Mon., Thurs. & Fri. those healthy treats. for a boost of energy and • Skip the processed sug- McAlester 918-423-6335 8:00-4:30 Daily Spring is a great time to can give you more nutrition ars- Sugar can really overload Poteau 918-647-4585 8:00-4:30 Daily load up on fresh fruits and than processed foods. your system and make it diffi- Smithville 580-244-3289 8:30-4:00 2nd Thursday veggies that you skimped • Pick those greens- Leafy cult to keep up with a healthy Spiro 918-962-3832 8:00-4:30 Every Wednesday - Friday on over winter; the warmer green vegetables are a great diet. Pick up healthier snacks Stigler 918-967-4211 8:30-4:00 Every Monday - Wednesday Mon., Tues., Wed., & Fri. months also make it easier to addition to your diet year like granola bars, fresh fruit Talihina 918-567-7000 x 6792 8:00-4:30 Wilburton 918-465-5641 8:30-4:00 Every Thursday simply eat less, so why not around. Don’t forget to wash and fresh raw veggies. April 2011, BISKINIK, Page 5
Applications available for 2011 Miss Indian The facts on leaks Fix a Leak Week is celebrated in March of each year as a time to remind Americans to check their household fixtures and Oklahoma and 2011 Jr. Miss Indian Oklahoma irrigation systems for leaks. The 2011 Miss Indian Oklahoma and 2011 Jr. Miss Indian The Facts on Leaks Oklahoma will be selected April 30 in McAlester. The Okla- • Leaks can account for, on average, 10,000 gallons of water homa Federation of Indian Women, a nonprofit organization OKLAHOMA FEDERATION wasted in the home every year, which is enough to fill a back- since 1969, will sponsor its annual festival of events featuring OF INDIAN WOMEN yard swimming pool. the 2011 pageant, a banquet honoring the current titleholders, • The amount of water leaked from U.S. homes could exceed recognize statewide award winners, an arts and crafts showcase CONTEST POW WOW more than 1 trillion gallons per year. That’s equivalent to the and an honor pow wow. The theme of the weekend is “Honor- Friday, April 29 annual water use of Los Angeles, Chicago, and Miami com- ing out Mother’s Journey by Keeping our Eyes on the Future bined. and Hearts in the Past.” The outgoing titleholders are Miss In- Lakewood Christian School Gym • Ten percent of homes have leaks that waste 90 gallons or dian Oklahoma Dayla Amos, Choctaw, of Broken Bow and Jr. 840 S. George Nigh Expressway more per day. Miss Indian Oklahoma Megan Larney, Seminole, of Wewoka. McAlester, Oklahoma • Common types of leaks found in the home include leaking The Miss Indian Oklahoma and Jr. Miss Indian Oklahoma – Grand Entry at 6 p.m. – toilet flappers, dripping faucets, and other leaking valves. All competitions will be held at S. Arch Thompson Auditorium on are easily correctable. April 30 and the pageant is open to the public. Miss Indian Head singer - Leonard Cozad Jr. Head Man Dancer - Gene Tsatoke • Fixing easily corrected household water leaks can save Oklahoma contestants must be ¼ or more degree of American Head Lady Dancers - Dayla Amos, 2010 Miss Indian homeowners more than 10 percent on their water bills. Indian blood, must be between the ages of 18-24 and must be Oklahoma and Megan Larney, 2010 Junior Miss • Keep your home leak-free by repairing dripping faucets, enrolled in high school or higher education or a high school Indian Oklahoma toilet valves, and showerheads. In most cases, fixture replace- graduate with at least a 2.0 GPA. Contestants will be judged on M.C. - TBA; A.D. - TBA ment parts don’t require a major investment and can be in- personal interview, essay, traditional dress, traditional talent, For more information contact Wehnona Stabler stalled by do-it-yourselfers. platform and an impromptu question. at 918-287-9300 or 580-309-4187 • The vast majority of leaks can be eliminated after retro- Jr. Miss Indian Oklahoma contestants must be ¼ or more fitting a household with new WaterSense labeled fixtures and degree of American Indian blood, must be between the ages other high-efficiency appliances. of 13-17 and enrolled in school with at least a 2.0 GPA. Con- For more information please contact Nicole Walls, 2011 Leak Detection testants will be judged on personal interview, essay, traditional Pageant Co-Director, 405-824-0878 or Andrea Kihega, 2011 • A good method to check for leaks is to examine your win- dress, traditional talent, platform and an impromptu question. Pageant Co-Director, 405-226-6958. Applications can be ter water usage. It’s likely that a family of four has a serious Miss and Jr. Miss Indian Oklahoma serve as ambassadors for found on the Oklahoma Federation of Indian Women Web- leak problem if its winter water use exceeds 12,000 gallons per all American Indian people in the state of Oklahoma. site, OFIW.Org. month. • Check your water meter before and after a two-hour period when no water is being used. If the meter does not read exactly YAB accepts Achievement Award at annual banquet the same, you probably have a leak. • One way to find out if you have a toilet leak is to place a Choctaw Nation Youth Advisory Board’s Hugo/McCur- drop of food coloring in the toilet tank. If the color shows up in tain County Chapter traveled to Oklahoma City on March the bowl within 15 minutes without flushing, you have a leak. 23 to attend the youth speak on bullying at the capital. The Make sure to flush immediately after this experiment to avoid group then went on to the Second Annual Prevention Award staining the tank. Banquet held by the Oklahoma Department of Mental Faucets and Showerheads Health and Substance Abuse where they received the 2010 • A leaky faucet that drips at the rate of one drip per second Outstanding Youth Leadership Achievement Award for ded- can waste more than 3,000 gallons per year. A home with Wa- ication and professional services. terSense labeled toilets could use that water to flush for six In addition, 19 Choctaw Nation Youth Advisory Board stu- months! dents from Hugo/McCurtain YAB were there to accept the • Leaky faucets can be reduced by checking faucet washers Submitted photo award and did a performance of the Turn Around Skit at the and gaskets for wear and replacing them if necessary. If you are Hugo/McCurtain YAB accept Outstanding Leadership banquet after accepting the 2010 Outstanding Youth Leader- replacing a faucet, look for the WaterSense label
T-shirt Order Form 2011 T-shirts are white. Sizes available are: Children – (2-4), (6-8), (10-12) and (14-16) Adults – Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, 2X, and 3X
Item Size Quantity Total Price
T-shirt – $10 ea. ______Cap – $10 ea. ______
Name______Address______City/State/Zip______Phone Number______Spend the day with our children from the Choctaw Nation Child Develop- E-Mail______ment Center, Durant, April 20th at 10 am. at the Choctaw Nation Community Price includes postage and handling. Limited supply of Children and 3X sizes. Center garden, Elders will be planting and showing our next generation the To order, send payment (NO PERSONAL CHECKS) with completed form to: importance of growing our own food, and taking care of our communities’ food supply. Our identity as Native Americans runs parallel with taking care of Trail of Tears Walk T-shirt the Earth and sustaining ourselves, most importantly for future generations. P.O. Box 1210, Durant, OK 74702-1210 April 2011, BISKINIK, Page 6
PEOPLE YOU KNOW
Adamson to compete in Townsend named director of Iowa Civil Rights Commission Iowa Gov. Terry E. Brans- rector, Beth was in private National American Miss Oklahoma Pageant tad announced on Jan. 20 that practice where she represent- Anastasia Lynn Adamson, and presentation. Emphasis Beth Ann Townsend will be ed individuals before fed- 11, has been selected to return is put on the importance of the director of the Iowa Civil eral and state jurisdictions, as a state finalist in the- Na developing self-confidence, Rights Commission. “Beth’s including the U.S. Supreme tional American Miss Okla- learning good sportsmanship experience representing indi- Court, in the area of civil homa Pageant to be held July and setting and achieving per- viduals before the commis- rights and employment law. 8-10 at the Marriot Hotel in sonal goals. sion over the past nine years Previously Townsend served Tulsa. She was selected as a The competition categories will serve her well as she as member of the Judge Ad- state finalist in the 2010 Na- are Community Involvement, makes the transition into her vocate General, U.S. Air tional American Miss Okla- Self-Introduction, Interview new role,” said Branstad. Force, where she prosecuted homa Pageant and was award- and Poise, which is evening The Iowa Civil Rights and defended airmen and ed four trophies, a crown and and air transportation to com- gown. Each girl has an op- Commission has a mission of most recently served as a mil- sash. She is returning this year pete in the National Pageant portunity to enter any addi- enforcing civil rights through mission in meeting the needs itary judge in her last reserve in hopes of achieving more in California, where she will tional category of her choice. compliance, arbitration, sup- of the citizens of Iowa to tour. She retired from the Air goals, awards and prizes. receive an exciting compli- The additional categories are port and education leading to ensure that discrimination is Force Reserve in Aug. 2010 Anastasia is the daughter mentary tour of Hollywood judged separate from the pag- safer, more inclusive com- ended where it exists and the as a Lieutenant Colonel after of Michael and Shannon Ad- and two V.I.P. tickets to Dis- eant by different judges. munities. process is fair and responsive 21 years of active and re- amson and granddaughter of neyland. Anastasia will be participat- “I am humbled to be asked to all parties before the com- serve duty. Townsend earned John and Diana Hays and Art The National American ing in the additional catego- to serve as the Director of mission.” her Bachelor of Science de- and Pat Adamson. Miss Pageant awards $1.5 ries, including Actress, Mod- the Iowa Civil Rights Com- Townsend is the daughter gree from the University of Anastasia will be compet- million in cash, scholarships eling, Talent, Photogenic and mission,” said Townsend. “I of Carol Townsend and the Nebraska-Kearney and a Ju- ing in the pre-teen age divi- and other prizes each year. All Spokes Model. believe strongly in the com- late Sam Townsend of Clay ris Doctor degree from the sion in the pageant, and the activities and competitions Families interested in learn- mission’s mission as I know Center, Neb., and the grand- University of Nebraska. Beth winner will receive a $1,000 are kept age appropriate. The ing more about this unique Gov. Branstad and Lt. Gov. daughter of original enrollee is the mother of one son, cash award, the official crown pageant program is based on and outstanding youth pro- Reynolds do as well. I look Clark Townsend of Valliant. Samuel Easer, and lives in and banner, a bouquet of roses inner-beauty as well as poise gram may visit namiss.com. forward to leading the com- Prior to being named di- Urbandale, Iowa.
Hopkins celebrate 65 Dorothy Glenn Sisters share years of marriage Dorothy J. “Dot” Glenn, 75, is birthday Thomas Lee and JoAnn Pat- the daughter of Henry and Wanetta Happy birthday to terson Hopkins of Caddo will Siddle Glenn. Her siblings are Billy, sisters Betty Heard be celebrating their 65th wed- Mary, Ray, Fayetta, Larry, Jack and Watson of McKinney ding anniversary on May 1. Parker, and they were all born at the and Suzanne Heard The couple was wed in 1946 home. To show respect to their moth- of Haileyville. The in Durant. They have seven er, they have the “White Buffalo” that girls were both born children: Alice and husband David Periman; Pamela and hus- stands in the front yard of their home. on March 23 although band Mark Taylor; Vicky and husband Robert Hammons; Jo Dorothy and her siblings were edu- there’s a few years be- and wife Shannon McDaniel; Connie Palmer; Thomas Hopkins cated in Hugo Schools, and they all excelled in sports. tween them. Jr. and wife Judy; and Mark Hopkins and wife Lori. They also Dorothy received a tennis scholarship to Victoria University have 32 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and one great- in Victoria, Texas. She then received her bachelor’s degree from great-grandchild. They will be celebrating at their home on Southeastern State Teacher’s College and went on to teach in May 1 from 2-4 p.m. All family and friends are invited to come Cushing for six years. She also taught in Omaha for 35 years. Happy birthday, Jarvis! honor them on this special day. No gifts are requested. While teaching at Cushing, Dorothy attended Oklahoma State Happy birthday to veteran Jarvis John- University in the summers and received her master’s degree in son of Utica, from the Johnson family. 1963. He will be 62 years young. Have a great Adamson to Over her 75 years, Dorothy has collected several honors: birthday, Jarvis! Choctaw Nation FCT-1861; member of the National Education compete in pageant Association; life member of Alliance for Health, Physical Educa- Miss Ceaira Adamson, 12, has been tion, Recreation and Dance; member of the National Education chosen as a state finalist in the National Association; Parent Teacher Association life member; member American Miss Oklahoma Pageant to of Network of Professional Indian People; member of the Mi- Big 13 be held July 8-10 at the beautiful South- nority Affairs Committee of the Nebraska State Education As- Happy 13th birthday to Ronnie Smith ern Hills Marriott in Tulsa. The National sociation; and a member of Phi Delta Kappa. Dorothy was also Jr. from his mom, dad and Danielle. Ron- American Miss pageants are held for girls named an admiral for The Great Navy of the State of Nebraska nie is the grandson of Evelyn Johnson of ages 4-18 and have five different age divisions. Ceaira will be in 1993. She was a professional teacher from 1958 to 1993, and Ardmore and the late Eulus Johnson of participating in the pre-teen age division along with other out- served as a park ranger for three years while in Omaha. She re- McAlester. standing young ladies from across the great state of Oklahoma. ceived an Eagle Feather from the Omaha and Dakota tribes of Ceaira’s activities include cheerleading and playing soccer. Omaha in 1991. She also enjoys reading. Her sponsors include relatives and Dorothy came back to Hugo in 2005 to spend time with her Congrats! friends of the family. Ceaira is the daughter of Daniel Adamson brothers and sisters. and Kristy Van Brant. Marcea Herron and Kelvin Young were wed March 11 in Oklahoma City. Marcea is a nursing student and Choctaw family Happy birthday, Gabriel registered Choctaw. Gabriel Louis will celebrate his 15th participates in KC birthday on April 22. He is in the ninth Challenge grade and enjoys football, basketball, track, Out of more than 2,000 school and video games. He loves going to Happy fourth birthday! families who applied, the Le- church and being with his family, friends and his dogs. Sending him birthday wishes Happy birthday to Colt! Colt Crader uschen family consisting of turned 4 on March 11. He celebrated Paul, Tamantha, Rebecca and are his mom and family. Gabriel would like to send birthday wishes to his uncle, Ray, and cousin, Caleb. with friends and family with a Batman- Allysa of Kansas City, Mo., is themed party. They are so blessed to one of three families who will have him in their lives! participate in the Fit KC Chal- lenge. Happy birthday, Jayde Partnering with the health experts at Saint Luke’s Health Happy 16th birthday to Jayde Fazier on System, Price Chopper selected the Leuschen family to par- April 4. Jayde is the daughter of the late Happy birthday, ticipate in a 12-week nutritional/fitness makeover that runs Aaron Frazier of McAlester. Her grand- Secada and Meggedo mother, Alice Fraizer, her aunts from through May. Participating families will receive $180 a week Jeremy and Jana Janowski McAlester, Stella, Lisa and Janice, and in Price Chopper gift cards to stock up on the freshest ingre- would like to wish a happy uncle Des would like to tell her happy dients and everything they need to create healthy, nutritious birthday to both of their won- birthday. meals. They will also receive individual consultation with derful and Godly children. Saint Luke’s fitness and nutritional experts. Cardiologist Dr. Meggedo Shayne Janowski Tracy Stevens will meet with the three Fit KC Challenge fami- (left) turns 7 on April 21, and lies, providing direction to living a heart-healthier life, and fit- Happy birthday, Secada Haley Janowski (right) turns 10 on April 2. ness coach Gayle O’Connell will oversee the families’ fitness Meggedo and Secada are the grandchildren of Frank and consultation during the 12-week challenge. In addition, Saint Pauline Stephanie Janowski (Grammy and Poppa) of Broken Arrow. Luke’s Health System dietitians will guide the families on their Pauline Pittman Whitworth Both children are very active in sports. Meggedo is a base- new nutritional direction. celebrated her 91st birthday ball fanatic and loves video games while Secada is a typical Families will receive enrollment in Saint Luke’s Heart on April 1. She is the daugh- tomboy that still loves to be girly. She plays soccer and can out- Health education program and access to Saint Luke’s Health ter of the late Oscar and Mat- read most adults. They know they will have a great birthday, System Center for Health Enhancement, a medically based fit- tie Pittman and was raised in from their parents. ness center. Bennington. Pauline gradu- Friends, family members and anyone wishing to follow the ated from Chilocco Boarding School and attended Southeast- journeys of the three Fit KC Challenge families may do so via ern College. She married Odis N. Whitworth and moved from mypricechopper.com and a Facebook page set up for each fam- Happy birthday, Shade Oklahoma. She’s lived in Boise, Idaho, and Wichita, Kan., fi- ily. After three months of working to live a healthier lifestyle Shade Cody’s parents, family and nally settling down in Colorado for the majority of her life. and utilizing all the resources mentioned above, Price Chop- friends would like to wish him a happy She has two daughters, six grandchildren and 14 great-grand- per and Saint Luke’s will select the winning family based on third birthday. His birthday was March children. She now resides in Virginia with one of her daugh- a weighted average from three sources: evaluation by a panel 10. Shade celebrated with a monster ters and family. She spends her days walking a mile, watching of fitness and nutrition experts, each family’s number of Face- truck-themed party with lots of friends TV and helping with yard work. Her birthday was celebrated book fans and consumer voting at checkout when a purchase is and family. His parents are Nick and with her daughter’s family, grandchildren and great-grandchil- made at Price Chopper. The Fit KC Challenge winning family Brenna Cody; grandparents are Ken- dren. will receive an all-expense paid family cruise, including air- neth and Dora Winship and Larry and fare, plus a $1,000 Price Chopper gift card. Sande Cody; great-grandparents are Georgia Cupit and Kathy You can follow their journey and vote for the Leuschen fam- Rhodes, all of Hugo. Also wishing Shade a happy birthday is ily via Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/leuschen.family. Happy 91st birthday his uncle, Duane Winship, his aunts and cousins. to Grandma Jake’s Lillie Willis turned 91 on March 25. She is a mother, grandmother, Happy birthday, Malachi turning 2! great-grandmother and great-great- Malachi Deshawn Valliere celebrated Logan Talan would grandmother. Her family feels great- his first birthday on Dec. 22. He is the like to wish his baby ly blessed to have her in their lives. son of Chris and Crystal Valliere of Du- brother, Jake Grizzly, She is truly an inspirational woman, rant and the grandson of Olin and Bernice a happy birthday. He and they are thankful for her life and Williams of Bennington and Robert and will be turning 2 on for which she stands. She is their “angel on earth,” and they Cynthia Valliere of Lafayette, La. Mala- April 19. Proud par- wanted to wish her a happy birthday. May God continue to chi would also like to wish his twin cous- ents of Jake and Logan are Allison and Brad keep her and bless her throughout this year; from Alice, Trea ins, Caryssa and Cynthia Bui, a happy Patterson of Red Oak. Happy birthday, Jake! and Trisha. birthday as they turned 8 on Dec. 18. April 2011, BISKINIK, Page 7 EDUCATION
Choctaw Nation GED Classes Wake Forest University partners with Choctaw Nation Choctaw County The Wake Forest Univer- WFU Master of Arts in Man- Additional benefits for the the CNO scholars, tutoring Beginning: April 18, 2011 sity Schools of Business and agement program. CNOSAP’s students include for all Choctaw scholars and Mondays and Wednesdays the Choctaw Nation of Okla- “We know the desire to at- mentoring and internships mentoring support from busi- homa Scholarship Advise- tend college and earn a de- 1:30-4:30 p.m. available through corporate ness professionals for Choc- ment Program are joining gree is strong among CNO’s sponsors. taw scholars as part of the Choctaw Nation Community Center forces to help Native Ameri- top student scholars,” said “The Wake Forest Uni- WFUSB Executive Partners 408 N. “M” St., Hugo cans earn an advanced busi- CNO Scholarship Advise- versity Schools of Business Mentorship Program. ness degree through the WFU ment Director Jo McDaniel. Master of Arts (MA) in Man- Applications for the Master Haskell County Master of Arts in Manage- “With this partnership with agement is designed specifi- of Arts in Management are Beginning: April 18, 2011 ment program, offered by the the Choctaw Scholarship Ad- cally for recent liberal arts accepted until June 15. For Mondays and Wednesdays Schools of Business. visement Program we now and science graduates; the more information, contact 1-4 p.m. Beginning in 2011, the have a broader approach to program broadens students’ Lance Bennett at the Wake Choctaw Nation Community Center partnership between the two helping our students earn im- education beyond the focus Forest University Schools of Hwy 82, Stigler entities focuses on long-term, portant post-graduate degree of their undergraduate stud- Business at 336-758-3849 or sustainable progress in the success.” ies,” said Steve Reinemund, email [email protected]. Pittsburg County Choctaw Nation members’ In their effort to promote Dean of Wake Forest Univer- Corporations or individu- Beginning: April 19, 2011 academic achievement, finan- the retention and graduation sity Schools of Business. als interested in becoming a Tuesdays and Thursdays cial, academic and advisory of Choctaw students, WFUSB The WFUSB/CNO part- sponsor or scholarship do- 6-9 p.m. support. WFUSB and CNO and CNO SAP will reach out nership will also provide the nor can contact the Scholar- Choctaw Nation Community Center Scholarship Advisement will to students as early as the following: up to two Choc- ship Advisement Program work together to promote eighth or ninth grade through 1632 South George Nigh Expressway, McAlester taw scholarships for the Mas- at 1-800-522-6170 ex. 2383 the retention and graduation the CNO SAP’s workshops, ter of Arts in Management or email shaunawilliams@ McCurtain County of Choctaw students toward college preparation testing Program beginning in 2011, choctawnation.com for more an advanced degree through and school visits. Beginning: April 19, 2011 full scholarship award for information. Tuesdays and Thursdays 1-4 p.m. Wilson successful Choctaw Nation Family Investment Center educator/administrator Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Broken Bow Ed Wilson is a proud gradu- Youth Advisory Board The class will meet for approximately three months. Books, ate of Carl Albert State College, supplies and testing fees are provided. In addition, a $10-per- from which he received an Asso- Scholarship for High School Students day transportation stipend is paid to those who attend classes ciate of Science Degree in May of on a regular basis and attempt the GED test. If you have turned 1989. He furthered his education Requirements: in an application with our Adult Education Program for GED at Southeastern Oklahoma State • Must have typed, double-spaced essay of 250- classes and wish to attend the upcoming class, please contact University, where he earned a 500 words describing your future educational plans/ our office. If you have not applied and wish to attend these or Bachelor of Science Degree and goals. future classes, please contact Neal Hawkins or Kathy Spring- his Master’s of Education Degree. • Must be a Choctaw tribal member living in the field at the Durant office, 800-522-6170 or 580-924-8280, He has 17 years experience in public education. While at ex. 2319 or 2122. Also, you may register at the first class. Heavener, Ed has served as Heavener elementary principal and 10 1/2-county-area ONLY. A Certificate of Degree of Indian Blood (CDIB) is required. assistant principal. • Must attain letter of admission from post sec- He began his career with Heavener Public Schools as the di- ondary education facility. rector of the In-School-Suspension program. He has taught sci- • All applications must be postmarked by June Family reunion ence and performed various coaching duties within the district. 1, 2011. He served as the district’s project director for Character Educa- • Attach list of activities you have been involved The Ritter family reunion will be held on June 11 at Wister tion Grant, and he chairs the Heavener School District’s Pro- in. Lake in the shelter by the pool. Any relatives of Issac (Ike) fessional Development Committee and the North Central Ac- • Provide: and Georgia Ritter or Frank and Lennie Ritter are invited to creditation Committee. During his tenure as an administrator attend. Please bring a covered dish and something to drink. for the district, he served on a task force of school discipline for GPA:______Class Rank: ______Any donations to help with the reunion are deeply appreciated. the Oklahoma State Legislature. He has been Heavener Public For further information, contact Imogene McCoy Odell at 507 Schools superintendent for the past six years. Chickasaw St. Poteau, OK 74953 or call 918-647-3791 or 918- Ed is a member of the Region 10 Superintendent’s Organi- ACT/SAT score: ______647-7596. zation, a member of the Cooperative Council of School Ad- ministrators and a member of Oklahoma Association of School • Winning applicants will be notified by June 30, King, Betsey, Frazier, Jones, Dailey reunion Superintendents, for which he chosen as the District 18 Super- 2011. intendent of the Year in July of 2010. A family reunion for the descendents of Issac King, Lena 1st Place - $500 Ed said CASC prepared him well for success. “Carl Albert Mae Betsey King, Nannie Betsey Barcus, Wilson Frazier and 2nd Place - $250 State College is an influential educational institute, and it is vi- Ella Jones Frazier Dailey will be held May 14 at the Choctaw 3rd Place - $150 tal to meeting the educational needs of area students,” he said. Nation Community Center, 707 Bond St. in Crowder. Dinner Ed is the son of Raymond and Dorothy Wilson of Wiston. will begin at 10:30 a.m. and will be served at 11:30. Name: ______He is the grandson of the late Eddie Wilson of Smithville, an Family recognition will be held from 2-6 p.m. at the gospel original enrollee. He is married to Yolanda Clubb Wilson, also singing starting at 1 p.m. The lake is close, so those who wish a CASC graduate, and they have twin daughters, Makenzie and Date of Birth: ______to fish or swim may do so. Those attending are asked to bring Makaylee. They reside in Heavener. His son, Tyler Wilson is a meat dish, a dessert and soft drinks. Bring pictures and me- also currently a student at CASC. Age: ______mentos of your family to share. For more information, contact Bryan Frazier at 918-421-0295, Janice Frazier Bitsoi at 918- 470-1481 or Leroy Sealy at 405-474-8657. Address: ______Ferguson named ______King family reunion Outstanding Senior The 15th annual King family reunion will be at 10 a.m. on The Outstanding Senior City: ______May 21 at the Choctaw Nation Community Building in Ta- Award recognizes students who lihina. If you are a descendant of Judy (King) Potts, Robert distinguish themselves through State: ______Zip: ______King, Lillie (King) McGee, Ada (King) Springs or William academic achievement; cam- Joseph King you are cordially invited to join the family for pus and community activities; Name of Current High School: a good time of sharing family trees, pictures, memories and a academic, athletic or extra-cur- potluck meal. For information contact Janelle Kirkes 918-522- ricular honors or awards; schol- ______4309, Vernis King 918-522-4410 or John Bull 918-522-4881 arships and work ethic during or [email protected]. their time at Oklahoma State Name of Post Secondary Education Facility you plan University. to attend: Gibson-Pope annual reunion The OSU Alumni Association Student Awards and Selec- tion Committee selected 12 winners after meeting with the ______The families of the late Adam and Winnie Pope Gibson will 41 Seniors of Significance selected in the fall of 2010 and re- hold their annual reunion on June 18 at the Choctaw Commu- viewing their applications. One of the 12 selected was Connor Please mail your application and essay to: nity Center in McAlester at 1636 S. George Nigh Expressway. Ferguson of Norman, a Choctaw tribal member. Connor has Choctaw Nation Youth Empowerment Lunch will be served at noon, and doors will open at 9:30 a.m. accepted a graduate research scholarship from the University PO Box 57 for more information call Clara Blevins at 429-0512 or 423- of Nebraska and will be moving to Lincoln in May to continue Clayton, OK 74536 4766. his studies. Thompson/McKinney Choctaw Nation reunion - Choctaw Asset Building - - Program of Events - The Thompson and Mc- You have a dream. Maybe it’s a home of your own. You can see it: Vocational Rehabilitation Calendar Kinney family reunion will be the front door, kitchen, small garden in the backyard. Or maybe it’s 9:15 am - Student Orientation a business idea that you’ve been kicking around a year or so. What- held Memorial Day weekend, ever it is, it probably seems out of reach. May 28, starting at 10 a.m. 10:00 am - OpeningDurant CeremonyAntlers by appt. Broken Bow Broken Bow Others who have been where you are have made it happen--and 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. at Clayton Lake, located six you can too. A savings account can help you cover the initial 8 a.m.-4:30 Idabel by appt. Idabel by appt. miles south of Clayton. There expenses, whil nancial education can help you utilize and keep Guestp.m. Speaker: Mr. Sam Glenn will be a potluck dinner, cake your focus. An Individual Development Account (IDA) might be the boost to assist you achieve the dream. walk, Bingo and horseshoes. 10:00 am - 2:00 pm - Exhibitors Open in Expo Hall The day will end with hot What CAB o ers: Durant Talihina Broken Bow Broken Bow 8 a.m.-4:30 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. dogs and hamburgers. • Financial Independence 11:15 am - 11: 45 am - Student Break-out Session Idabel by appt. • Financial Literacy Training p.m. Idabel by appt. • Matching Funds LeFlore High School 11:15 am - 2:00 pm - Job Seeker Break-out Sessions reunion www.choctawcareers.com/cab.html 12:00 pm - LunchDurant served Wilburton McAlester Broken Bow The LeFlore High School 8 a.m.-4:30 10:30 a.m.-2 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Annual Alumni and Former - Success Story- p.m. p.m. Stigler by appt. Idabel by appt. Students’ Association Ban- The CAB Program provided Donnie Flatt, owner of Donnie's Horseshoeing, the quet will be held May 7 at needed additional capital to transition his Map YourAtoka Future Durant the old LeFlore High School part-time business into a full-time horse- 9:30 a.m.-11 a.m. Wright City by 2011 Career8 a.m.-4:30 Expo Poteau gym. Registration begins at shoeing service, including hoof trimming, Coalgate 11:30 a.m.-1 appt. corrective horseshoes, and hot shoes. p.m. 12:30 p.m.-2:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m. and dinner at 7 p.m. While attending business workshops, p.m. If you are a former student Donnie continued to make his monthly CAB deposits and earned a match rate of 200% for his business. (The or graduate of LeFlore High match rate for a business asset is 2-1.) Once his requirements were School, make plans to come met, Donnie was able to cash out $6,000 for his business. This Antlers Crowder by and get reacquainted with based business o ers full horseshoeing services in appt. southeast and south-central Oklahoma, as well as your old classmates. For more southwest Arkansas and northeast Texas. The owner information, contact Susan travels by pickup and trailer to the customers' location where services are performed on-site. Durant-Mondays • Broken Bow-Mon., Wed. and Fri. • Idabel-By appointment Cantwell at 918-647-6327 or email smcantwell2000@ya- Phone: 580-326-8304; Fax: 580-326-2410 hoo.com. Email: [email protected] April 2011, BISKINIK, Page 8 Ron McKinney keeps them dancing to the beat of his own chanting By LARISSA COPELAND more school involvement. In the Ozarks and later enrolling United States and abroad. He Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma 1982, when Ron was a junior, at the University of Dubuque and his wife have raised their he and Carla began dancing Theological Seminary. It was family in a Christian environ- The snake dance. The rac- as part of a group in the Bro- while in seminary that he met ment as they’ve answered coon dance. The stealing part- ken Bow Public Schools. “We and married his wife, Danelle pastoral calls at several lo- ners dance…the list of Choc- were the first and only chant- C. Crawford, a member of cations around the country. taw dances keeps going and ers in the group,” at the time, the Sisseton-Wahpeton Da- They’ve made their home each dance is unique. And the he said. kota Oyate in northeast South in Flandreau for the past 12 person ultimately in control “That program continues Dakota. Together, they have years. of a group of dancers is the today,” he said proudly, say- three children, Alethia, 15, In December of 2008, Ron chanter. ing he visited recently. “It’s Madison, 12, and Ronston, 6. started his own dance group The pace at which the danc- a whole new generation now, Ron and Danelle have made in South Dakota, the Flan- ers do their toe-heel, toe-heel, some are the children of my sure that their culture has al- dreau Choctaw Dancers, of or the quick turns that make former classmates.” ways been an important part which his children are a part. the girls’ colorful Choctaw Curtis Billy spearheaded of their children’s upbring- They are a group of approxi- dresses spin with them, the the group when Ron was still ing. “It was natural to include mately 10 middle school and yells of “yeeeeaaa!,” or play- in high school, helping to se- them in it as they were get- elementary school aged chil- ful chases through rows of cure the details of the visits ting older,” he said, referring dren – “Choc-kotas,” a mix of their “corn stalk” play mates, they would make. “We’d visit to his teaching them the art Oklahoma Choctaw/Dakota, among many other motions, churches before Thanksgiv- of chanting and dance. They and Mississippi Choctaw/La- Photo provided are all directed by the chant- ing,” among the many loca- all are learning to speak and kota. They have performed at er. The words, the sounds, Along with sharing the story and culture with the next tions they visited, said Ron. read Dakota and Choctaw, local schools and churches, intonations and pitches, the generation of Choctaws, chanter Ron McKinney is also a “We performed at many lo- and grew up singing hymns and have become a regular verbal highs and lows, the husband, father, reverend and Native American Student cations. It was just the high in both languages. “It’s just fixture with the South Da- clicking of the sticks…these Advisor at South Dakota State University. school at first but then it always been a part of their kota State University (SDSU) are what provide the cues for grew. Later, it consisted of lives,” he continued. Upward Bound Summer pro- movements during certain the group to reconnect to their dance performances as well. Broken Bow high school, Over the years, Ron has led gram, and the SDSU Native dances and help the dancers Choctaw roots. The dance As the dance group con- middle school, and elemen- his family as he continues to American Heritage Month keep pace. group made many trips to tinued to grow larger, it be- tary school students.” share the stories and culture Events, according to Ron. Most Choctaw dancers Mississippi to learn the tradi- gan to form into two groups It was during this time in of the Choctaw people in “Some of the kids in my know the chants by heart in tional dances and chants from – an adult group that danced his life that he met a man schools, churches, and com- group are the grandchildren order to perform the dances their distant “family,” the in the evening and a youth who helped shape who he’d munity groups across the of Mississippi Choctaw who but the chanters know it’s Mississippi Choctaw. group that danced during the become as a chanter. “One moved up here to South Da- they who truly are in charge Back home in Oklahoma, day. “We had a really large of the most influential things kota in the 1970s so I feel of the dancers. the group gathered often to dance group with both adults that changed me as a chanter like I’ve gone full circle,” he One of these chanters is the give presentations, combin- and kids. Sometimes it was was a trip I took in 1984, the said. “From learning from the Rev. Ronald K. McKinney ing dancing with storytelling hard for the kids to keep up year I graduated high school,” Mississippi Choctaws to be- of Flandreau, S.D. Ron has to teach about the culture. because there were about 60 explained Ron fondly. “Cur- ing able to go to South Da- been performing Choctaw Chanting is a fundamental dancers,” said Ron. tis Billy arranged a trip for a kota to teach kids descended chants since he was a child aspect to their presentations. It was at this time that Ron group of us to go to Chucal- from them. I just feel like I’ve growing up in Broken Bow. Each dance is performed and his younger sister, Carla, issa in Memphis, Tenn., and been able to give back instead His parents, John McKinney with a specific chant, helping began to learn the Choctaw it was there I met a chanter of just receiving. It’s a good Jr. and Julia (Billy) McKin- them to identify the dance and chants. They learned the named Wood Bell. Even feeling.” ney, raised their six children knowing what steps and turns chants by listening to the though I learned from Pren- Ron will continue to “give attending the Oka Achukma to make next, furthering the recordings of Prentice and tice and Amy Jackson, I never back” this summer as he dis- Presbyterian Church. He story along. Amy Jackson made by Gene got to actually meet them. But plays his talents as a featured grew up in a tight-knit fam- Because dancing and chant- Wilson while in Mississippi. I got to talk to Wood Bell and chanter at the Choctaw Na- ily that participated in many ing go hand-in-hand, chanting Curtis Billy, a counselor at visit with him and ask him tion of Oklahoma festival church and cultural activities was just as key an element for their school in Broken Bow, questions. He shared some in Washington, D.C., at the together. the group to learn and bring who was part of the Choctaw of his wisdom with me about Smithsonian National Mu- During the 1970s, Ron back with them to Oklahoma dance group as well, also had chanting…telling me to ad- seum of the American Indian and his family were part of a as was the dancing. That task recordings of their chanting, just it to each group, speed from June 22-25. The festi- dance group that performed fell mostly on Jerry and Shir- allowing Ron and Carla an- it up, slow it down. It just all val will be four days of food, traditional Choctaw dances ley Lowman. They learned other perspective. They also depends on the group. They workshops, and performanc- and chants, as taught by the from the Mississippi chanters, picked up a lot from listening determine what I do but I es, including a re-enactment Mississippi Choctaw. That Prentice and Amy Jackson. first-hand to Jerry and Shirley change it up so that they don’t of a traditional Choctaw wed- group, the Okla Homma Gene Wilson made several Lowman at the group’s many get used to one thing and start ding, stickball demonstration, Chahta Hihla, was started by recordings of the Mississippi Choctaw dance gatherings. to anticipate moves. He really Photo provided Choctaw dancers, singers and the Rev. Gene Wilson as part chanters during their many In the early 1980s, as part taught me a lot.” Ron leads a group of storytellers, and booths show- of the ministry of the Choctaw trips, bringing them back to of the Johnson O’Malley pro- After high school, Ron left dancers by chanting at one casing beadwork, pottery, Parish churches in McCurtain continue learning from and gram, the dance group began Oklahoma for Arkansas, grad- of many cultural presenta- flutes, the Choctaw language, County. It became a way for for the group to use during a shift from the church to uating from the University of tions. and tribal cooking.
school attendance, which who communicates with the Exemplary JOM Program serves as another positive teachers and Parent Com- requires timely completion QUINTON aspect that contributed to mittee,” which Needham has of paperwork, meeting dead- their recent title of JOM Ex- thoroughly accomplished, lines and turning in documen- School named a JOM emplary Program. having served as the coordi- tation. “The only way to have Exemplary Program Praytor recognizes Quin- nator. a successful JOM program is A Salute ton’s JOM Coordinator Judy Quinton Public Schools the coordinator, Parent Com- Continued from Page 1 Needham for her great work received a plaque for their mittee and school administra- with the school. Needham’s recently received award and tion all working together and students. This leads to more long-time experience has each member on the Parent communicating,” said Pray- in-depth learning about the “proven invaluable in the Committee, Quinton Public tor. “We look for that model dangers of drugs, for the stu- strength of the Parent Com- Schools Superintendent Don school that is self-motivated.” Reynolds helps in Japan dents. They also have a mo- mittee,” said Praytor. “And Cox and Needham received There’s lots of work that Cody T. Reynolds of Ardmore tivational speaker visit, com- beneficial to the Indian stu- blankets from Chief Gregory goes into becoming a suc- is serving aboard the USS Ronald mented Praytor. They are an dents and the community as a E. Pyle and several Council cessful JOM program. “We Reagan in the Sea of Japan. Reyn- outstanding example of a pro- whole.” members. The members were look for people who are well- olds is a search and rescue swim- gressive school. According to Praytor, “suc- also recognized at the annual organized and understand the mer for the Navy. The USS Ronald Paired with Quinton’s drug cess truly comes from an ex- Oklahoma JOM Conference. importance of JOM,” added Reagan is serving as a base of op- awareness program is its perienced JOM Coordinator Receiving the honor of Praytor. erations during the Japanese catas- trophe. Reynolds is the son of Kent Reynolds of Oklahoma City and Michelle Patterson of New Mexico. He is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. George Prince Choctaw author, poet LeAnne Howe honored of Pontiac and Doyle and Ann Reynolds of Ardmore. LeAnne Howe, a member 2007] was Founder and director of of Words Author Award rep- of the Choctaw Nation of chosen by WagonBurner Theatre Troop, resents.” Oklahoma, received the Tulsa Hampton her plays have been produced Inaugurated in 2001, the Library Trust’s “American Universi- in Los Angeles, New York American Indian Festival of Indian Festival of Words Au- ty in Vir- City, New Mexico, Maine, Words Author Award recog- thor Award” March 5 at Cen- ginia as Texas, and Colorado. Her nizes literary contributions tral Library, Fourth Street and their 2010 one-act play, “The Mascot of outstanding American In- Denver Avenue. “Read-in” Opera, A Minuet” was part of dian authors. It is the first and Howe writes fiction, po- selection. a production at Mixed Blood only award given by a public etry, screenplays and plays Chapter Submitted photo Theater in Minneapolis. library to honor an American dealing with American Indian three of In 2003, she was the Louis Indian author. The award is experiences. Her works have Miko Kings is set at Hamp- D. Rubins Jr. Writer-in-Res- given in odd-numbered years, been translated in France, ton University and also docu- idence at Hollins Univer- alternating with the “Circle Italy, Germany, the Neth- ments the ethical challenges sity, VA. She has received an of Honor” award. Recipients Joe (right) and R.L. “Bob” West (left) are pictured erlands and Denmark. Cur- throughout Indian Territory Artist-in-Residence grant for receive a $5,000 cash prize with Chief Pyle at the Veteran’s Day celebration in rently, Howe is professor of in 1906. theater from the Iowa Arts and medallion. Past award- Tushka Homma last year. Joe and Bob live in Pontotoc American Indian Studies, “Evidence of Red,” [Salt Council. In 2004 she was the winners include: Joy Harjo, County near Ada. Their great-grandmother was Choc- English and Theatre, at the Publishing, UK, 2005] an Regents Distinguished Lec- Vine Deloria Jr., Leslie Mar- taw, and they both served in the 45th Division in the Ko- University of Illinois at Ur- introspective look at Ameri- turer at University of Cali- mon Silko and Carter Revard. rean conflict. bana-Champaign. She returns can Indian persistence and fornia, Riverside. She was “Oklahoma is my home to her ancestral home in Ada struggle, received the Okla- the John and Renee Grisham and where I grew up, so this each summer. homa Book Award for poetry Writer-in-Residence at the award means more to me than Text2Give to support Howe’s first novel, “Shell in 2006. University of Mississippi at anyone will ever know,” said Shaker,” [Aunt Lute Books, Howe also is active in Oxford, Miss., in 2006-2007. Howe. “So much so, that I Military Warrior Support Foundation 2001] received the American American Indian film produc- “LeAnne is the perfect ex- flew home to Oklahoma from Book Award in 2002. The sto- tions, serving as co-producer ample of a successful Oklaho- Amman, Jordan, where I’m Here’s your chance to help our wounded heroes with mortgage- ry is a parallel story of fami- along with Jim Fortier, “Play- ma author who connects the currently a William J. Ful- free homes and job assistance. lies in the mid-18th century in ing Pastime,” a 30-minute traditional ways and thoughts bright scholar.” With Text2Give, you can give a $10 tax-deductible donation and what is now Mississippi, and documentary of Indian Base- with scenes in the 21st cen- Howe went to Jordan to help change the lives of a wounded hero and his or her family. a twentieth-century Choctaw ball Leagues in Oklahoma; tury,” said Teresa Runnels, research her newest novel, Your generous donations will be supporting family in 1991. The French and screenwriter and on- American Indian Resource and to teach American Indian the Military Warrior Support Foundation. translation for “Shell Shaker” camera narrator of the PBS Center coordinator. “Through Studies at the University of was a finalist for Prix Medici documentary “Indian Coun- complex characters and mov- Jordan. Following Howe’s Text the word HERO to 85944 Estranger, one of France’s top try Diaries: Spiral of Fire,” ing imagery, she explains how presentation, the American Anyone with questions on the ways donations will be used can literary awards. a 90-minute documentary on we are all connected within Indian Festival of Words fea- go to www.militarywarriors.org Her second novel, “Miko the Eastern Band of Cherokee the natural cycles of life. She tured dancers, storytellers, Kings: An Indian Baseball Indians, aired nationally in is the perfect example of what as well as cultural and crafts Serving the heroes who have served for us Story” [Aunt Lute Books, 2006. the American Indian Festival programs for families. April 2011, BISKINIK, Page 9
Karl McKinney inspires next generation of Choctaw youth dancers By CHRISSY DILL got married and started fami- we’ve been.” “Some of the boys when they Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma lies, so the dancers took about At a Choctaw event in April started would say ‘I can’t do a five-year break and started 2001, Karl’s group’s dance this.’ I said, ‘Don’t say can’t, In the spring of 1996, plans again this April, bringing in was followed by a group from don’t ever give up’.” were being made to have a new dancers. Mississippi. Because of their The Choctaw Youth Danc- family reunion of John and Karl holds group practices great timing with their steps ers exhibit great pride in their Mulsey McKinney. Mulsey usually once a month, “de- in their dancing, Karl over- performances and have taken made a request to include pending on the event coming heard the Mississippi were their Choctaw heritage to Choctaw dancing, with her up,” he said. “Sometimes the afraid to follow his group’s heart as shown in their danc- grandchildren as the dancers. kids will say, ‘We need to performance. “If you put that ing. “I told the kids, I have She knew most of her grand- practice!’” kind of scare into a group a set standard and you need children could dance, because The youngest group mem- from Mississippi, you must to meet that standard,” said they were a part of Okla ber being only 4 years old, be doing something right,” Karl. “The older kids set a Homma Chahta Hihla back Karl has had plenty of expe- Karl told them. standard when people see in the 1970s. rience teaching Mississippi The Choctaw Youth Danc- them and see the way they Her grandson, Lyndon Karl Choctaw dances. “As time ers plan to perform several handle themselves.” McKinney Sr., assembled a goes on, they’ll pick it up,” he types of dances at the Smith- Karl expressed to his kids new generation of Choctaw said. “It’s kind of hard to get sonian this summer, includ- the importance of setting the dancers – Mulsey’s great- their attention and keep it, but ing the snake, raccoon, quail, standard for Choctaw tradi- grandchildren. They were if they want to get out there wedding, stealing partners, tional dance for other groups taught the Choctaw social, we don’t say no.” jump and fast war dances. as well. “What’s going to be animal and war dances of The dancers have been Karl’s brother Ron is the hard is for you to maintain their ancestors. invited to perform at many group’s chanter, and will be that standard,” he said. In the spring of 1996, Karl events. They’ve displayed traveling from South Dakota Though the youth danc- McKinney fulfilled his grand- their talent at school and to chant at the Smithsonian. ers consist mainly of fam- mother’s wish and the new church events, pow wows The kids have their types ily members and friends of dance group was formed. Choctaw Nation: CHRISSY DILL and community gatherings. of dances they enjoy per- the McKinney family, they They are known as the Choc- Karl McKinney is the head organizer and founder of the “We’ve gone to a family re- forming most. “A lot of them are open to recruit new par- taw Youth Dancers. Choctaw Youth Dance group, with the help of his wife, Ja- union in Dallas,” added Karl. I think like to war dance,” ticipants. “We’re open to Karl serves as the head or- nis. The dancers have also per- said Karl. This type of dance teach other kids, but we ex- ganizer and founder of the formed in Arlington at a Tex- was learned from the tri-com- pect them to pay attention youth dancers with the help of as Rangers baseball game in munity dancers from Missis- and have the willingness to his wife, Janis. “I just present and Janis’s sides of the family According to Karl, today 2002. “We were all over the sippi. “They learned to swing learn,” said Karl. “Be willing the dances and the interpreta- formed the first group. “It was there are about 23 different place,” said Karl. “No one and stomp their feet rather to be coached and taught.” tion of the dances,” he said. my grandmother’s dream,” Choctaw dance groups, each knew that we existed until we than just jump sideways.” The Choctaw Youth Danc- Karl also has taught the group said Karl. “She’s the main with their own variation and danced at a pow wow in 2000 The younger children like ers are most in need of male members the moves and steps reason we started dancing.” style. at Labor Day weekend.” the snake dance, because they dancers. “We’re looking for of all 11 dances. Growing up, Karl would When Karl first organized They’ve also danced at go in and out and around. kids who are willing to be dis- The Choctaw Youth Danc- attend Choctaw gatherings the youth dancers, his wife an Indian school in South “Growing up, stealing part- ciplined and do things right,” ers have been invited to per- and people would ask him Janis made all the dancers’ Dakota in 2009, traveled to ners was my favorite,” said said Karl. “Anybody who is form in Washington, D.C., at “what’s your dance, or what’s dresses and shirts. She still Bakersfield in 2003, danced Karl. “I’d go look in the audi- willing and wanting to learn, the Choctaw Nation of Okla- your song?” he recalled. “We makes them today with the at a village in Memphis and ence and see what girls I was we’re willing to teach.” homa Festival at the Smith- knew we were Choctaw, but help of her sister-in-law, Ma- performed at a pow wow in going to steal!” To become a Choctaw sonian’s National Museum of other than that, that’s all we rissa, and other dressmak- Denver in 2002. Not only does Karl pro- dancer you must take pride the American Indian in June. knew,” he explained. ers around the area. “It takes “A lot of the kids can tell vide the necessary disciplin- in your Choctaw inheritance; They plan to show their pride From that point on, when time,” said Janis.“There’s lots you about things that have ary and teaching skills for the pride that will be displayed in their Choctaw culture by Karl and his family made of times when we travel that happened,” laughed Karl, re- dancers, he offers great moti- when you perform, he says. performing several dances, their annual one-week sum- we work on belts. It’s a family membering the many trips vation as well. “I’ve always “We require the willingness including social, animal and mer trip to Mississippi, his effort.” made and dances completed. told them to take pride in who and the sacrifices you have to war. “All together right now interest in who he was as Janis makes the dresses by “These kids can tell you a lot you are as Choctaws, as Na- make to become a good danc- we’ll do nine,” said Karl. a Choctaw Indian became hand, and they are all tailor- of stories of the places that tive Americans,” said Karl. er,” said Karl. When the group members stronger. Karl would visit the made to fit with hand-torn were informed of their invita- mounds, caves, tree sites and fabric. She expressed the dif- tion, “they were excited and places with “historical signifi- ficulty in making silk dresses. scared,” laughed Karl. cance” in the homeland. “I’m on my second silk dress All of Karl’s four children Karl took an interest in now,” she said. “Made for the dance in the group and have Choctaw dancing in 1974 public.” been taught the importance soon after he watched Gene Along with their traditional of the Choctaw culture since Wilson’s Choctaw dance Choctaw dresses, the girls they were very young. His group performed at the Owa- wear aprons. “The apron is daughter, Stephanie, will be Chito Festival in Broken a sign of purity,” explained 29 and serves as the oldest Bow. Later on that summer, Janis. member of the youth dancers Karl began learning Missis- While the girls wear and his oldest son, Lyndon, is sippi Choctaw-style dancing aprons, the boys wear sashes 26. Johnathan will be 25 and from Prentice Jackson, who with their traditional Choctaw the lead dancer, Steven, will was from the Pearl River shirts and their slacks. The turn 21 years old soon. community in Mississippi, boys’ lead dancer wears one Most of the dancers are his wife, Amy, and Tony Bell. sash across his chest, indicat- from the Broken Bow area Karl’s father was a member ing his role, while the chanter with two coming from Po- of Gene’s group in the Pearl wears two. teau and five or six from the River community in Missis- “This is traditional dress in Smithville area. “All together, sippi. “The style from Pearl Mississippi,” explained Karl. I have about 20 to 25,” said River community, that’s the “As far as Oklahoma, there’s Karl. “The majority being style they taught us,” ex- not a style or standard. The girls.” plained Karl. “My brothers way we dress and our chants The first Choctaw Youth and sisters dance and my dad are Mississippi-style.” Dancers were formed in danced.” The current Choctaw Youth 1996. “I’d say we had 10 or In the ’70s, there were Dancers met and began prac- 12 at least,” said Karl. Steven seven Choctaw dance groups. ticing last year. The last group Choctaw Nation: CHRISSY DILL was just 6 years old. Both “Each one had their different of dancers Karl formed grad- Karl’s group, the Choctaw Youth Dancers, gathers for one of its regular monthly prac- nieces and nephews of Karl style and dance,” said Karl. uated, joined the military or tices.
which is the person stated Joines. we made. I’ve Joines has been the fire crisis. Fire Marshall Lisa in charge of over- In the down never regretted chief for about two months. Jackson and Administrative FIRE CHIEF seeing a substation. time between coming to work He is still in the beginning Assistant Deborah Davis are Joines was in charge of Sta- fire runs, Joines one day,” exalt- stages of laying out his plans crucial to the adjustment to tion Two, located near Du- and his col- ed Joines. for the fire department brand the new system, mentioned Choctaw Nation rant’s public pool while he leagues would Throughout of leadership. He is constantly Joines. proud to claim was a lieutenant. enjoy the peace his career Rog- reading leadership books and The City of Durant was Beyond the point of lieu- that came with er has saved studying ways to make his de- also chosen by the Depart- Durant fire chief tenant, Joines progressed to no fires with pastimes such property and given aid to partment run as smoothly and ment of Homeland Secu- captain, the second man in as basketball and ping-pong. many people. From removing efficiently as possible. rity to receive a considerable as one of its own charge on a shift. The captain About six years ago, the de- people from wrecks, to help- He strongly believes in amount of equipment to be goes out on all wrecks and is partment began doing medi- ing out mischievous children furthering his employee’s used in a state of emergency. Continued from Page 1 the lead man in that situation. cal runs. who have gotten into a small knowledge and says, “Lead- This equipment is shared over “If a truck is going, he is on This meant that if an am- amount of trouble, Joines ers are made through educa- a wide area and is located in always been kind of an adren- it,” said Joines. bulance goes, the firemen go has helped the community in tion.” Durant because of location aline junkie,” he continued. He only spent about four to the site as well. This move many ways. During every shift, training and manpower. Joines is In the beginning of his ca- months in that position before was meant to cut response He distinctly remembers sessions are held on various charged with training his men reer, he was forced to do the he moved to the deputy chief time in critical situations and one instance of pulling two aspects of duties to keep ev- how to use the equipment. grunt work, as is customary position. In this position, lend manpower when needed. people out of a fire and saving eryone fresh. Joines takes great pride in of all rookies in a new field. Joines assisted the fire chief The implementation of medi- a life. He does not brag about Joines also plans for con- his department and recog- He was charged with grocery with all his duties. This was cal runs greatly increased the it, just noting that it gave him stant training, in the hopes nizes the Choctaw Nation for duty and the occasional off- an eight-to-five job, which amount of time the firemen the feeling that he had made a that once the men master the its help in providing another the-wall task. “They used to exceedingly contrasted his spent out in the field. difference; a feeling that fuels duties of their classification, station to better serve the Du- put the new guys through the usual work schedule. Being in the field was what his ambition to do his job and they will begin learning the rant area. He also appreciates ringer,” remembers Joines. All fire fighters work in 24- he loved, but it also came serve his community well. next role. With this in place, the City of Durant for always He began doing work on hour shifts. They work for 24 with a sacrifice. He had to Joines has done a great deal if one man ever has to step up looking to better the commu- grassfires and shadowing straight hours and then have miss a good amount of time to improve the fire depart- to a position, he will be ready nity. someone with more experi- 48 hours off. “Every third day with his family. It was worth ment of Durant. After being for whatever situation arises. Joines and his family are ence to learn the ropes. After you work, holidays, Christ- it to Joines because he knew with the fire department for a With technology growing, active in their church, the a few months at the station, he mas, Thanksgiving. You miss his job meant something. number of years, Joines and the fire department is gaining Church of the Nazarene in was sent to OSU Fire Service a lot of time with your fam- Joines has two children, some colleagues attended a access to new and more ef- Caddo. Joines and his wife, Training. ily,” explains Joines. “You ac- Austin, 14, and Aurianna, ropes class, which led to ex- ficient ways to arrive on the Dana, do lessons with the After spending time as a ba- tually spend more time with 10. Austin was born in 1996 panding the rescue side of scene and control the flames. youth group and help with sic fire fighter, he was moved these guys than with your while Joines was briefly serv- the department, a useful tool Joines and colleagues are Wednesday night services. up to the position of a driver. family,” he continued. ing as fire marshal. He left in special cases where rescue learning the new methods in He loves to hunt and fish in This is the man who would Even though he has missed that position because it did would be required. hopes to better serve the com- his spare time and has been drive the truck and make sure family time, Joines was not not allow him enough work in “Special Rescue Team was munity. attending Durant baseball it was working properly to do without companionship. The the field, which he craved. something I was proud of,” Maps of the city, locations games where his son, Austin, what was required of it. firefighters build a great sense “We worked though it, it stated Joines as he speaks of of fire hydrants and building plays as a freshman. Joines After his time as a driver, of camaraderie in their time wasn’t always convenient… his accomplishments with the plans are all being digitized greatly enjoys spending time he moved up to lieutenant, together. “It’s like a family,” but, it was just a sacrifice Durant Fire Department. for easy access in times of outdoors with his family. April 2011, BISKINIK, Page 10 Poteau Community Center hosts an array of events to attract local Choctaws By BRET MOSS Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma
The Choctaw Nation Com- munity Center located in Po- teau is home to many smiling faces and the host of a num- ber of events in the northern part of the Choctaw Nation. Every Wednesday the Se- nior Citizens Group gathers for its weekly lunch, fol- lowed by a beading class. Betty Dickson shows off her door prize filled with Heavener resident Camela Luman, seated Raymond Mackey enjoys the company of There is also another beading candy as friends Shirley Mantaghi, Deloris Cox and left, poses for a picture with her nieces, Leona Christine Mackey and Barbara Sloan after time hosted on Monday after- Virginia Johnson accompany the proud winner. Qualls, Cheryl Lovell and Connie May. lunch at the Poteau Community Center. noons. Many classes, such as moc- spoke about the considerable casin making classes and pot- amount of funds the senior tery classes, are held at the group has been able to raise location to keep everyone’s for themselves. interests peaked. Regularly There are many exciting scheduled events and classes happenings scheduled to oc- like the GED classes and the cur this spring and in the near Choctaw Language classes future. The Youth Advisory keep the center ever moving Board and the seniors are and shaking. making plans to co-produce a Much learning occurs at community garden, a concept the center, but that is not all. that has become a success Good times and hard work are around the Choctaw Nation. also a key element in this lo- There are also plans to ex- cation. The seniors work hard pand the center by adding a together to raise money for larger kitchen and a new exer- their trips and activities. cise room to the facilities. The A spaghetti dinner to be center hosts many gatherings hosted on April 15 from 5 with attendance commonly p.m. to 8 p.m. to raise money reaching several hundred. Council Speaker Delton Cox takes time to Cylde Brown, a skilled beadworker, is careful to keep everything for senior activities is a prime The extra space will be fully chat with Kenneth Furguson. in line before beginning the task at hand. example of how the seniors utilized once added. are working toward goals This particular center also they have set for themselves. houses the Tribal Police of “You can tell we are work- the Poteau area, Children and ing together,” said Distric 4 Family Services, Outreach Councilman Delton Cox as he Services and CHR.
Wynema “Sissy” Luman, Shirley Mantaghi, Shirley Picklesimer and Tammy Morrison smile big for the cam- era after they serve the food on the Wednesday afternoon A group of Poteau’s Choctaws gather around for a picture after their weekly Lena Munoz proudly holds her gathering. activities. beaded creation. Lizzie Carney remembers what it was like growing up Choctaw Lizzie Winlock Carney with the doves, that room filled with days, so Lizzie, along with they approached the yard, was born on May 4, 1913, her folks began to many beds. The three friends stayed with the dogs began to bark. This about five miles south of Red call her “pachi,” the beds were made woman. scared Lizzie and alerted Oak. Like so many seniors, Choctaw word for of white iron. During her few days with Mary’s parents. Lizzie’s mind was filled with dove. The second the woman, school officials When Mary’s father asked stories of the past, stories In 1917 a flu floor was for the would come by and check them why they were not at that connect what has been to epidemic struck older girls and the on the children. One day the school, Lizzie thought it what now is. the area. Much of first was where woman came to the girls and would be amusing to tell a Most members of the Lizzie’s family died class was held. said, “Be ready tomorrow. fib and told him they had run Choctaw Nation are familiar around that time. Each floor had its You are going home on the away from school. Mary’s with at least a small amount Family members and own restroom. train.” father did not find it amusing, of Choctaw history, from the neighbors gathered The children The next day at the station, so “I changed my tune and Choctaw Nation’s roots with in attempts to help were responsible the school matron bought said ‘Our school burnt down the state of Mississippi and one another, but sad- for providing them a ticket. After giving the and they sent us home’,” said their journey to Oklahoma, to ly, many didn’t make their own clothes, matron a hug, Lizzie and her Lizzie. the attainment of sovereignty it. but since they friends boarded the train. Mary’s parents told her she in more recent years. Following the out- all had little, the They arrived at LeFlore could spend the night. They These are milestones in the break of flu, Lizzie school laundered just before dark. Lizzie re- made a fire for the girls that legacy that is the Choctaw and her mother their garments for members being happy that night, and in the morning, Nation. Members may know moved around be- them. it was not night yet because Mary’s father took Lizzie the these certain major facts that cause her mother In December of she and her friends had heard rest of the way home. support the native history, but would help people 1927 someone put ghost stories and were scared. When Mary first saw her the details that lie in-between she knew and be a paper in the fire- Some girls’ parents picked mother, she told her the truth are what creates the texture of provider for them. Lizzie re- Lizzie needed an education. place, which caused the wood them up at the station, but about the school immediately, Choctaws’ true history. calls that, “We didn’t worry When Lizzie told her aunt shingles to catch fire. This was Lizzie and three of her friends for she was scared to tell her Lizzie spent time sharing about money because my fa- Lena, who she called “Big about 3 p.m., while Lizzie and had to walk. Lizzie told them, mother the same story she stories of her younger days ther belonged to the Wood- Mama,” that she was going to the other students were in the “as long as we can cross Long told Mary’s parents. so that the future generations man’s Lodge and had insur- attend school, Lena insisted auditorium practicing for a Creek, we’ll be all right if it’s With Tuskahoma Academy of Choctaws may have better ance on my brother and me.” that her daughter, Rena, at- Christmas program. not overflowing.” out of services, many of the understandings of their an- Lizzie’s mother eventu- tend school as well. Once the fire alarm rang, the The girls laughed as they children were transferred to cestors. ally got remarried to William Lizzie, along with some children were told to get out- walked to their homes, but as Jones Academy or Chilocco. As a little girl, Lizzie led Gaines and bore five children other children, took the train side quickly. it grew closer Lizzie would attend Chi- a simple life that would be by him. Lizzie was not pres- to their future school. Along Lizzie did “ Sometimes a to nightfall, locco the following fall and considered a trial by today’s ent for the wedding though. the way, they had a few de- not even have child who knew they began to gain her education from 1927 standards. Her father, Johnnie She was with her uncle who lays because some of the time to grab a hurry. After through 1936. Winlock, passed away before had tuberculosis at the Tali- towns had been quarantined coat, but she both languages crossing the “I have to give credit to Chi- she was three, and her brother hina Indian Hospital, which for disease. was ultimate- would tell me creek, one of locco,” declared Lizzie. This Robert, who was almost 2 was called the Civilized In- Once they arrived at the ly one of the why I got my the girls left the is were she learned much of years old, died just near her dian Hospital. school, Lizzie had to adjust more fortu- group because her home management skills. third birthday. “I just barely While at the hospital, she to the language of the school. nate ones. hand spanked.” her house was She learned basket weaving, remember a thing about him,” was suffering from signifi- All her life, she had only Some of – Lizzie Carney close. This left pottery and beadwork. She said Lizzie as she thought of cantly painful headaches. heard the Choctaw language. the other stu- Lizzie and one even sold some of what she her brother from long ago. “The hospital said it was due Her mother never knew Eng- dents had to other friend, had made. Chilocco is also Following the death of her to my heavy hair,” Lizzie re- lish and the sermons in church come out- Mary Stallaby where she learned English. father and brother, Lizzie and called. She had such long hair were spoken in Choctaw. side, where it was raining and Newman, for the rest of the She would later marry El- her mother, Ada Jefferson that the weight would affect Lizzie recalls that, when sleeting without shoes. Lizzie trek. ton Lee Carney, who she Winlock Gaines, went to live her head. we got to the school, “we got recalled looking up at the Lizzie suggested to Mary called Dutch. She worked with her maternal grandpar- Lizzie’s mother was very spanked for speaking Choc- burning building and saying, that they run in order to beat for various people in differ- ents, Thomas and Bicey Jef- proud of her daughter’s hair, taw. I didn’t know my num- “I see my bed burning.” the approaching darkness. ent houses, using the knowl- ferson. and had difficulty letting it be bers or my ABC’s.” While they were outside, They ran until they came to a edge and skills she gained in During her stay with her cut by the hospital. Once her The teachers would spank the older girls began to hur- hill that they had heard ghost school to provide for the chil- grandparents, Lizzie spent hair was short, the headaches her hand with a ruler when ry the younger ones into the stories about. dren she had with Dutch. time feeding livestock with subsided. “After that I had she didn’t know the answer laundry room where it was At the foot of the hill, Lizzie’s story of her her grandfather and feeding my hair cut all the time,” said in the classroom. “Sometimes a bit warmer. Once all the Lizzie said to Mary, “let’s just younger years lends a peek doves that would fly into the Lizzie. a child who knew both lan- children were organized, the pray we make it.” The two at what it was like for Choc- barn. The birds she fed began Around 1923, Lizzie began guages would tell me why I school official had to act fast young girls said a prayer and taw children to become ac- to get accustomed to Lizzie her education at the Tuska- got my hand spanked.” to arrange where the kids then began to run up the hill, customed to the American feeding them. homa Female Academy. She Lizzie recalls that Tuska- would spend the night. braving their fears of what education system. This was After a while, “no matter was scared to leave her home homa Academy was one large A woman who lived nearby they had heard. a time of great change for where I went, those birds fol- for school, but her stepfa- three-story building built told the school administra- Once at the top, they could the inhabitants of Oklahoma, lowed me,” said Lizzie. She ther, who was more educated like a dormitory. She stayed tion that she could house four look down and see Mary’s and Lizzie’s memories tell of gained such an association than her mother, insisted that on the third floor, in a large girls in her home for a few house, and were relieved. As these times of change. April 2011, BISKINIK, Page 11
Wayne Lehew visits with Chief Gregory E. Pyle during Gary Hicks and son Bailey are pictured with Assistant Joyce Teakell, Tonia Smith and little Addyson Brown lis- the community gathering in Duncan. Chief Gary Batton and Roy Hicks at the March 22 meeting. ten to Chief Pyle speak at the Duncan event. Duncan meeting attracts 500 Choctaws Photos by JUDY ALLEN Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma
Sam Schornick and Alex Nowlin are delight- Geree Thompson and grandson Mia and Jace Reich smile for Aspen Norton is presented with a basketball for ed with the souvenir buffalo soap being given at Cabot Allen came from Ringling. the camera. assisting with door prizes for the approximately 500 the Choctaw Resort booth. Choctaws, family and friends who attended.
Area Choctaws enjoy the community gathering in Ardmore Photos by JUDY ALLEN Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma
Above left, 6-month-old Charslee O’Steen and Han- nah Messick of Ardmore.
Above right, Gillian and Elizabeth Coffman of Davis are guests at the Ardmore event.
At right, Chief Pyle ex- amines a unique artifact brought by Kay Byers – a Ucskcee rock containing Jose Alvarez helps Chief Pyle with door prize Chief Pyle smiles as he holds T.J. Harris for war paint, found in the drawings at the Ardmore meeting on March 8. a photograph. Ozarks. He’s given a basketball for his assistance.
tend and lunch will be BOW SHOOT provided. Please use the RV/tent camping en- Fifth bow shoot trance off Nanih Waiya Road. Several special shoots are season begins also on the calendar this year. Continued from Page 1 An Intertribal Bow Shoot for ages 20+ will be held Please bring your own bow. April 30 with everyone en- Long bows, recurves and self- joying a potluck dinner after- bows are allowed but no com- ward. Registration is at 1 p.m. Alta Mapp visits with Health Executive Mickey Peercy. Tyler and Donald Day say hello to Assistant Chief Batton. pound bows. The shoot starts at 1:30. Medals are awarded to win- There will be a shoot during ners in each division every the Choctaw Nation Labor month. In November, a grand Day Festival at Tushka Hom- prize handmade bow will ma. It will be held at 8 a.m. be awarded for most overall Sunday, Sept. 4, in the vil- points in the men’s and wom- lage. More information will en’s 17-19 and 20+ divisions. be announced on a Corn Stalk Trophies will be awarded in Shoot in October and on a 3D the younger divisions. Partici- Intertribal competition. The pants need to attend at least group is also invited to attend five shoots to be eligible for shoots hosted by other tribes. the grand prize at the end of For more information, the season. please call the Cultural Events Kathy and John Russell Payne have been married 44 Assistant Chief Batton welcomes Choctaw veteran Mil- Everyone is welcome to at- Department, 1-800-522-6170. years. ton Jones.
Are you ready to purchase a new home? The first step in the home-buying process is attending a Homebuyer Education Class Come to one of our Homebuyer Classes nearest you to learn the important steps in the home-buying process. You will become more aware of the benefits and risks associ- Choctaw Nation ated with owning your own home. We make to aid with loans the process fun and educational, so call us for an appointment today! To register, call The Southeastern Oklahoma Indian Credit Associa- Debbie Childers at 1-800-235-3087, ext. tion offers small business, home, home improvement 297, for one of the following classes: and agriculture loans. Jones Academy third quarter super students To be eligible to apply, a person must reside within Jones Academy Super Students are chosen every quarter by the classroom teachers • April 21 – Broken Bow Center the 10-1/2 county service area of the Choctaw Nation for their all around performance in the classroom and social skills. These commendable of Oklahoma and must possess a Certificate of De- • May 10 – Durant Center gree of Indian Blood (CDIB) from a federally recog- students represent six different tribes at Jones Academy. Pictured are, front row, Jenaro • May 17 – McAlester Center nized tribe. Lujano and Jose Lainez-Ortiz, both first-graders, and Kaylen Panteah, third grade. Back For more information, please contact Susan Ed- row, Bryan Hawkins, sixth grade; Gabriela Bernal, fifth grade; Mariella Chatkehoodle, • May 24 – Poteau Center wards at 580-924-8280 or toll-free 800-522-6170. sixth grade; Xynissa Thlocco-Deere, fifth grade; Lakota Dixon, sophomore; and Lena Goodbear, fourth grade. April 2011, BISKINIK, Page 12 Choctaw language courses offered through Internet By CHRISSY DILL ever, “the material is at least tion Bookstore, a Choctaw line have been experienced Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma for college-age students with language dictionary and a throughout the community grammar skills,” according to “definer” or a “learner’s word and the world at large. Roberts This year marks the 11th Roberts. Adults are the prima- book,” according to Roberts. has had the privilege of teach- anniversary of Choctaw Lan- ry participants in the classes, “The first two or three ing individuals who wish to guage classes available over with the youngest student be- weeks, you’re just learning learn more about the Choctaw the Internet. These classes ing 16 years old and the oldest the sounds,” explained Rob- culture from places including are conducted by Choctaw being 84. erts, of her online language Germany, Thailand, Ecuador, Language Instructor Lillie The average enrollment in classes. Students learn the Romania, England, Canada, Roberts, who has been teach- the online classes is “about Choctaw alphabet, conso- Mexico and Korea. ing Choctaw language for 12 265,” she said. Currently there nants and vowel sounds in the Roberts’ teaching style is years. are 350 total participants. beginning of the course. productive and effective yet Roberts is adequately When Roberts realized she Continuing from learning casual in its setting, leading to equipped to teach the Choc- wanted to teach the Choc- sounds, the participants learn the Choctaw language Inter- taw language in the online set- taw language, she was asked to put syllables together and net classes’ success. “I have ting. “Choctaw was my first to take a three-day teacher’s from syllables to forming no set-in-stone syllabus,” she language,” she said. “I don’t workshop, where she was in- words and sentences. They said. “I teach according to think I knew English before structed on how to become a then learn how to have con- how they’re learning.” the age of 6,” when she at- teacher of the language. “We versations in the Choctaw lan- If you are interested in en- tended boarding school. had to go in front of the lan- guage. rolling in Roberts’ online Roberts’ schedule consists of guage committee,” she ex- The classes take place 16 Choctaw language classes, three different levels of classes. plained. “They spoke to me weeks per semester and are enrollment will open on June Levels one and two occur on in Choctaw and noted how I conducted at least 50 minutes 1. Visit choctawschool.com Thursday nights and Monday, responded.” ued to write lesson plans, and taught using AVAcast (Audio a day. Classes usually start and click “Classes” at the top Wednesday and Friday morn- Roberts’ first semester the writer helped her make Visual Architecture), an easy- “about the third week in Au- of the page, then click “Inter- ings. Levels three and four are working for the Choctaw instructional videos shown to to-use interface where Rob- gust and end the last week in net.” “When registration is combined and take place on Language Department was in students. erts is able to interact with stu- April,” said Roberts. taking place, there will be a Monday, Wednesday and Fri- 1999. Soon after, the Internet When the Internet classes dents using a chat room, video While in the past new reg- link to a form they must fill day afternoons. classes began. She was asked began, Roberts used a video interface and other convenient istration was open every fall out,” said Roberts. In addition, Roberts teach- to teach and she accepted. camera and “video-streamed” forms of communication. and spring semester during Enrollment begins June 1 es language at Southeastern Roberts put much effort her lessons through the In- The classes are free of the 16 weeks of classes, the for Choctaw language online Oklahoma State University into making the Choctaw ternet to the students at their charge, and the only expenses last two or three years enroll- classes. With Roberts’ instruc- in the mornings through the language classes over the In- homes. At one point in time, paid are for the required learn- ment is open only in June, tion and experience, partici- distance-learning classes. ternet very effective for par- all Roberts had to teach with ing materials including a text- beginning June 1 through the pation in these courses will Anyone is welcome to en- ticipants. “I met several times was a chat room with her stu- book, “Choctaw Language end of August. lead to increased knowledge roll in Roberts’ online Choc- with the writer of the textbook dents. and Culture,” which can be The Choctaw language of the Choctaw language and taw language classes; how- we use,” she said. She contin- Today, the classes are purchased at the Choctaw Na- classes taught by Roberts on- culture.
2011 Choctaw Nation Princess Pageant schedule To the Youth It’s time once again for the more information, please call for entries is May 6. For more or Martha Polk, ext. 2326. Choctaw Nation District Prin- the center at 580-584-6372. information call 918-465-2389. of the Nation Di’Mehlia Deedee Adamson cess Pageants. Each contestant District 10 will hold its Youth Advisory Hugo Chapter must reside in the district in District 3 Princess Pageant District 7 will hold its Prin- Princess Pageant at 7 p.m. on which she is competing. Little will be held at 6 p.m. on May cess Pageant at 6 p.m. on May May 26 at the Choctaw Com- Fear of Death Miss contestants need to be be- 24 at the Choctaw Community 20 at the Antlers Community munity Center in Atoka. Dead- Center in Talihina. For more in- Center. Deadline for entries is 4 line for entries is May 6. For Death is silent, sad and heartbreaking. Many tween the ages of 8 and 12 by people are afraid of dying but many are not Sept. 1, 2011. Junior Miss con- formtation call 918-567-2106. p.m. on May 11. For more infor- more information, please call mation please contact Virginia 580-889-6147. afraid at all. Many would say, for example, testants need to be between the District 4 Princess Pageant “The older generation I go to church with is ages of 13 and 17 by Sept. 1, Hammons at 580-298-5501 or will be at 4 p.m. on May 28 at Maria Moore at 580-981-7011. District 11 Princess Pag- not afraid; they are prepared and will praise 2011. Senior Miss contestants the Choctaw Community Cen- eant is scheduled for 6 p.m. on until the time has come.” I’m not afraid, but I need to be between the ages of ter in Poteau. Deadline for ap- District 8 Princess Pageant May 13 at the Choctaw Com- would love to accomplish my dreams before 18 and 23 by Sept. 1, 2011. All plications is May 2. For more is scheduled for 6 p.m. on May munity Center in McAlester. I die. I had a friend to die today. She was an must be 1/16 degree Choctaw or information, please call 918- 27 at the Choctaw Community Deadline for applications is older woman I’ve known since I was a child. higher. 647-9324. Center in Hugo. Deadline for April 15. For more information, She died of cancer, and the last time the family District 1 Princess Pageant applications is May 13. For please call 918-423-1016. and myself saw her she said “This will be the will be held at 6:30 p.m. on May District 5 Princess Pageant more information please call last time I see ya’ll.” Why did she say that? I 14 at the Choctaw Community is scheduled for 12:30 p.m. on 580-317-4188. District 12 Princess Pageant don’t know to be exact. My fear is to hear and Center in Idabel. Deadline for May 11 at the Choctaw Com- is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. May see the death of friends, family and others. applications is May 9. For more munity Center in Stigler. Dead- District 9 Princess Pageant 27 at the Choctaw Community “Celebrate when a person dies and cry when information, please call 580- line for applications is April 13. will be held in conjunction with Center in Coalgate. Deadline for a baby is born,” is a very old saying. It means 286-6116. For more information, please Durant’s Magnolia Festival. entries is May 2. For more in- celebrate, because the person has gone through call 918-967-2398. The pageant will be 5 p.m. on formation, please contact Vickie all their hardships and lived a full life, and cry District 2 will hold its Prin- June 3 on the Courthouse Lawn McClure at 580-317-7427. when a baby is born because of the hardships cess Pageant at 5 p.m. on May District 6 will hold its Prin- in Durant. Deadline for entries District winners will compete and trials to come. So the question is, should 14 at the Choctaw Community cess Pageant at 6 p.m. on May is May 6. For more information, in September for Choctaw Na- we be afraid? No, I would say you should live Center in Broken Bow. Dead- 20 at the Choctaw Community please call 580-924-8280 and tion of Oklahoma Miss, Jr. Miss life to the fullest. line for entries is April 29. For Center in Wilburton. Deadline ask for Kay Jackson, ext. 2504, and Little Miss.
Photos by CHRISSY DILL Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Thursday nights are busy in Atoka Hands stay engaged with beading and sewing
Ila Collins spends her time Sue Crowley examines Sarah Haney works on her knitting with friends at the sewing. patterns in preparation for Choctaw Community Center in Atoka on a Thursday Mary Jane Lynn cuts fabric for a tradtional Choc- a Choctaw dress. night. taw dress.
Ernestine Wilson works on her bead- December Pittman takes notes as dress-maker Shirley Barboan and Mary Laura Buss displays her hand-made Choctaw bead- ing. Jane Lynn cut fabric. ed necklaces. April 2011, BISKINIK, Page 13
Assistant Chief Gary Batton is pictured with Okla Chah- The Navarro family drove to San Diego from Riverside in Internet language instructor Lillie Roberts is glad to see ta Clan Head Princess Lindsay Reeder and 2008 Princess spite of stormy weather. Pictured are Brenda, Mario, Cata- her nephew who lives on the West Coast. Sara DeHerrera at the San Diego gathering of Choctaws. lina, Daniel and Andrea.
SanPhotos by JUDY ALLENDiego Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma area Choctaws get together
Assistant Chief Batton presents a gift to Ashlynn Hudak Albert Cabrales holds his son, Angel. Choctaws as young Barbara and Ralph Murray arrived early for the San Di- for helping with the door prize drawings. as Angel, even newborns, can get their membership card. ego meeting on Feb. 18.
Greg Brewer visits with Assistant Chief Batton. Brewer is the executive director of the California Council on Prob- lem Gambling. He voiced his appreciation of the Choctaw Faye Self and Bret Moss hand out free T-shirts, a Nation and Career Development, which helped him with Nancy Kimberly and grandson Nicholas Castellanos visit with gift from Chief Pyle to all who attended the meet- training and certification in his new career. Genealogy Specialist Vicki Prough. ing in Scottsdale.
ScottsdalePhotos by JUDY ALLEN Choctaw Nation Choctawsof Oklahoma
Assistant Chief Batton and Jackie Ricker are among the Young Jaden Landson, Korean War veteran Adol- Adalie Blackburn assists Oneida Winship with drawing Choctaws who gathered in Scottsdale, Ariz., on Feb. 20. 2. phus Edward Lee. tickets for door prizes.
Lisa and Richard Harper are pictured with Assistant Heron Claus, director of Big Chief Ministries, presents a Chief Batton. print of “Worship His Majesty” by Ted Blaylock.
Melanie Mandelin and Timeree Aden of Phoenix obtain Hiram and Deborah Simpson with Assistant Chief Bat- The Blackburn family – Erick, Carson, Brennen, Adalie, information on furthering education from Larry Wade. ton. Colby and DeAnn.
Stickball Making Workshop weaves facts and skills of Choctaw heritage By BRET MOSS cash value. Patrons at Choc- objects such as rocks, which This process continues, making more ver- Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma taw events and locations are were the center of the origi- tical lines much like longitudinal lines on a intrigued by the artifacts nal balls. globe. After 11 of these lines are formed, each The facilities of the Choctaw Nation Cul- and are willing to purchase To make the stickball, end of the leather string will be on opposite tural Events Office were utilized on Feb. 24 to them. “We are hoping to Willis instructed his stu- sides of the ball. host a Stickball Making Workshop. teach people a skill, a tra- dents to, first and foremost, One must then take an end of the leather Longtime stickball player Josh Willis and dition and a way to make a fold the leather string in and weave it under the longitudinal lines near Cultural Events staff member Kay Jackson, profit,” stated Folsom. half, making sure that both the poles of the ball. Alternating the end with hosted the event. Joey Tom with the Hugo “This is part of teaching ends were even. If one side which one is working with, the weaves will Youth Outreach program aided Willis in his the kids about our culture,” became longer, it will result eventually meet in the middle, completing the stickball lessons for the day. said participant Paul Rob- in the weave of the leather leather weave on the ball. The reason for the implementation of this erts. He went on to tell that over the ball to become off The process is a complicated and difficult class into the agenda of the Cultural Events this knowledge would add centered and crooked. one. Creators of a stickball ball must have staff, as stated by Executive Director of Cul- to his arsenal of tools that he uses to teach the Once the leather is divided, the ball must be great patience as well as strong and nimble tural Events Sue Folsom was to teach mem- youth of the Choctaw Nation. placed in the middle fold and wrapped tight. fingers. “I’m ready to get this under my belt bers of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma in- All those attending were given a long, thin Following this step, one must hold the fold of for the therapeutic enjoyment,” said DeAnna teresting facts of their heritage. piece of leather, a golf ball, cutting pliers, and the leather on the designated spot while mak- Moore of the Choctaw Language Department These handmade stickballs serve more than a demonstration on how to make the traditional ing it meet on the other side of the ball. Once as she described how, once she has acquired just the purpose of connecting Choctaw mem- Choctaw ball used in the sport. A golf ball was together, the leather is folded over the top of the skills, finds peace in Choctaw crafts such bers to their past, but they also have a certain used to avoid the use of ambiguous-shaped the ball, dividing it in vertical fourths. as this and basket weaving. April 2011, BISKINIK, Page 14
Kirklan Loman Tyler Dressman Alexandria Picone B.J. Nunn Felicita LeFlore Students perform well at Pittsburg County Jr. Livestock Show Jones Academy 4-H students competed hard work and dedication.” The Jones Acad- at the Pittsburg County Junior Livestock emy 4-hers are now preparing for the Okla- Show held in March 2-5, 2011, in McAl- homa Youth Expo held during spring break ester. About 15 school districts were rep- in Oklahoma City. B.J. Nunn exhibited the resented with approximately 300 entries. Reserve Grand Champion (overall). The Overall, 17 Jones Academy students were Hamp was bred and raised at Jones Acad- selected for the premium sale honors on emy. B.J. is a ninth grade Academic Honors March 5. According to Brandon Spears, Student from Muldrow and is a member of the Jones Academy Agricultural Supervisor the Choctaw Nation. and 4-H leader, the success was due to a lot Jones Academy students who placed at of hard work and commitment on the part the Pittsburg County Junior Livestock Show of the students and staff. Spears explained, were: “The students and staff work as a team. Chesters Class: Brandon Andersen, 1st They spent many late hours out caring for Breed Champion, Gabriella Bernal, 2nd their animals and preparing for this event. Place Reserve Champion There is a lot of work that is done behind Hamps Class: B.J. Nunn exhibited the Nichalle Evans the scenes that goes unappreciated until the Taron Wise Breed Champion and was named Grand Mariella Chakethoodle, 2nd Place Reserve Breed Champion. competition begins.” He added, “The stu- Champion (overall breeds). Liliana Bernal, Crosses Class: Liliana Bernal, 1st Place Breed Champion. dents were rewarded at the premium sale for 2nd Place Reserve Champion Breeding Class: Taron Wise, 1st Place Reserve Breed (Po- their labor, but what is really important is learning the value of Spots Class: Courtney Wallace, 1st Place Breed Champion, land), B.J. Nunn, 1st Place Reserve Breed (York).
Reyes wins ‘JA Writers’ publish newsletter art contest Jones Academy student Elisa Reyes recently Budding journalists at the Jones Academy Alter- emy we take pride in our test scores and the elemen- won a poster contest that will be displayed on a native School write, report and publish “JA Writers” tary students have proven it. Our students participated billboard in Shawnee and numerous magazines six times a year under the direction of Teacher Aide in the Soft Seven program. distributed by the Potawatomie Nation. One hun- Denell Cooley. You can read the entire newsletter It is a computerized program that helps students dred and twenty-six tribes received the nation- by clicking the link on the home page of www.jone- upgrade their skills in school subjects like Math, wide grant in an effort to stem the problems of sacademy.org or from the Jones Academy page on Reading, Language, Geography and Social Studies. methamphetamine use and suicide among Native www.choctawnation.com. This month the third through sixth grade students par- American youth. The Following are some highlights of what’s been hap- ticipated in the Math Project for 2011. The students Citizen Potawatomi pening at Jones Academy from the journalists at JA with the three highest scores were: fourth graders: Nation was one of the Writers. To read each story in its entirety please visit Desma Valdez – 2806 and Kyle Miller – 2739 and tribes that received the Methamphetamine and either of the Web links above and download the com- sixth grader: Felcity LeFlore – 2734. These students Suicide Prevention Initiative Grant. The Potawa- plete JA Writers January file. received Soft Seven water bottles for performing so tomi Tribal Youth Services Program sponsored the well. Any student who scored 2000 or above received grant and proposed an art contest for Native Amer- an Einstein Certificate. ican youth in the United States. Thirty-five entries were submitted from outside Oklahoma and as Youth Advisory Board far away as Washington State. Six students from Jones Academy participated in the contest. In her pulling some strings age group, Elisa submitted a drawing voicing the theme of methamphetamines and its effects on the – puppet strings, that is! Native American culture. She received her award By Gavin Smith plus an iPod Touch at the MSPI banquet held at the Cultural Heritage Museum on Feb 26, 2011, in Members of Jones Academy’s Youth Advisory Shawnee. Elisa is an 11th grader from Pine Ridge, board recently put on a puppet show production for S.D. Amber Hearn, a prevention specialist with the first and second grade students at Jones Academy. the Choctaw Nation MSPI and Wind Horse Pro- The theme of the production was “Better Choices.” gram in McAlester facilitated the art contest and The aim of this event was to present information assisted the students at Jones Academy. about how to deal with anger in a positive manner so that the young students would be more educated about how to deal with anger issues and to help them make better decisions when facing these problems
Former student teacher Scott Hartness helps a group of students test the solar panels they assem- bled during their solar energy lesson. Soaking up some rays – in a scientific way By Joshua Sam With the high cost of utilities wouldn’t it be nice to be able to build your own energy source? That is what the fifth grade class at Jones Academy did. With the aid of Mr. Sirmans and former 2008 stu- Mariella Chatkehoodle and Felicity LeFlore Jeffrey Herrington honored dent teacher Scott Hartness, the students were able to learn about the food pyramid and nutritious foods build solar panels. Solar panels are used to obtain a furing the Breakfast of Champions contest. by TeenNick, Above the Influence form of alternative energy that comes from the sun. From where are the heroes of tomorrow com- Solar energy is a renewable resource that is cheap Breakfast of Champions ing? They could be coming from right here in and easy to obtain. Solar Panels are not hard to make. southeastern Oklahoma. Jones Academy stu- During this project the students learned about elec- By Brylee LaFaunce dent Jeffrey Herrington was recently profiled on tricity and gained valuable skills like how to use pow- The sun is rising. The alarm clock goes off. What TeenNick.com for his community service work er tools and hand tools. They also learned about tool is the first thing that pops in to my head? It isn’t the and ongoing efforts to promote a safe and drug- safety and used their knowledge about calculations agenda for the day. It isn’t what will I wear today. free environment. According to the website, the and measurements. It isn’t even what assignments are due today for program that featured Jeffrey is a partnership be- school. The first thing I think about every morning tween TeenNick’s HALO Awards and Above the Influence. The program is, “What’s for breakfast today?” Most of the time, recognizes young adults across the country for providing creative opportu- people are in such a hurry to get their day started that nities which encourage other teens to foster a substance free environment they don’t even take time to eat the most important within their communities. Jeffrey’s story was showcased in February 2011. meal of the day-breakfast! In the past, Jeffrey has promoted drug-free advocacy through prevention Most people just grab a donut or a candy bar and meetings, which included role-playing with fellow students and skits on risky a pop for breakfast. They call this the “Breakfast of behaviors such as drug and alcohol use. Jeffrey is also a committee member Champions!” But not at Jones Academy. Here, we’re of the Choctaw Nation Methamphetamine and Suicide Prevention Initiative. served very nutritious meals that are not only good As a member of the committee, Jeffrey has provided a teen’s perspective for the body, but good for the tastebuds too. Our on the impact of methamphetamine on the youth and community. Jeffrey’s kitchen staff makes sure we get a good source of vi- motivation to promote community service was fostered by his family and tamin C and a variety of fruits and vegetables, not to his own aspiration to advocate to his community and peers against drug Mr. Spears and Mrs. Rogers are pictured with mention ample servings of meats and breads. That’s use. Jeffrey has been involved with the Choctaw Nation Learn and Serve the top three students who participated in the Soft what it’s all about. America Project at Jones Academy since 2008. He has served the program Seven event – First place: Desma Valdez; second Recently, though the elementary students got to in several capacities including class representative and Co-Chairperson in place: Kyle Miller; third place: Felicity Leflore. experience what it is like to plan nutritious breakfast 2009-2010. Jeffrey is a sixteen year-old Choctaw from Dibble, Oklahoma. Soft Seven Super Students menu. Our Registered Dietician, Mrs. Sparks, chal- He is a sophomore at Hartshorne High School. lenged the students to prepare a balanced breakfast For more information on teens making an impact in their communities go By Lakota Dixon menu choosing the most nutritious, yet delicious to www.teennick.com/halo-abovetheinfluence. Are you a good test taker? Well, here at Jones Acad- foods for the whole campus. April 2011, BISKINIK, Page 15
Safety Camp teaches Choctaw youth useful skills By BRET MOSS Events included: were visited by Eddie the the event, mentioned that this Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma • gun safety and skeet Eagle, the spokesbird for the is typical of the programs un- shooting NRA. der the Outreach Services to • fishing The Safety Camp is an an- come together for a coopera- The historic sight of Whee- • fire safety and extinguish- nual event usually hosted tive effort. lock Academy, a former tribal er operation in August, but changed to Throughout the year there school for Native American • exercise tips and training March this year for cooler are many events like this one, girls, was filled with youth • a DARE demonstration temperatures and scheduling. such as Outreach at the Beach, from around the Choctaw Na- • drunk driving simulation It is hosted by Choctaw Na- that require the combined ef- tion on March 18. using “drunk goggles” to give tion Youth Outreach, however forts of many programs. “We About a hundred 6 to a feel of the danger of being it is not the only department are more than happy to help 18-year-olds attended the an- intoxicated behind the wheel to facilitate. each other out,” said Roberts. nual Safety Camp hosted by • a presentation from the There were about 50 staff The purpose of this par- the Choctaw Nation’s Tribal NRA about gun safety members from numerous ticular happening was to Outreach Programs. The stations designated for programs that fall under Out- give Choctaw Youth a fun The event was spread these events began operation reach Services to aid in man- and informative way to learn across the grounds of Whee- at 10 a.m. and ran until noon, aging the children and teach important aspects of life. It lock Academy with events when lunch was served. Fol- them the various aspects. gives them the opportunity to designed to teach Choctaw lowing lunch, all the partici- Paul Roberts, director of get out of the classroom and youth safe practices and well- pants gathered for the NRA Youth Outreach and Injury to learn more hands-on activi- ness. presentation in which they Prevention, who headed up ties.
Photos by BRET MOSS Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma April 2011, BISKINIK, Page 16 Social Security looms for Baby Boomers By JASON ALDERMAN tion gradually lessens as you Know that if you begin col- Practical Money Matters approach full retirement age. lecting Social Security before Alternatively, if you postpone full retirement age yet contin- Talk about a stampede: The participating until after reach- ue to work, your benefit may first wave of Baby Boomers ing full retirement age, your be reduced. In 2011, you’ll begins turning 65 in 2011, benefit increases by seven to lose one dollar in benefits for which means they’ll soon be eight percent per year, up to every two dollars you earn tapping Social Security retire- age 70. over $14,160. (Note: Invest- ment benefits, if they haven’t You can use the Retire- ment income doesn’t count.) Submitted photo already. If you’re a Boomer ment Planner tools at www. However, if you reach full and haven’t yet investigated socialsecurity.gov/retire2 to retirement age in 2011, the how this program works, this estimate your retirement ben- formula changes: one dollar Ward appointed to California state government may be a good time to learn efit under different earnings, will be deducted from your Dr. Michael Ward, one of the appointed com- that communities can elect representatives of the ropes. age and life-expectancy sce- benefits for each three dol- missioners and current chairman of the Citizens their choice that are responsive to their needs. When you work and pay narios. lars you earn above $37,680 Redistricting Commission (CRC), is a proud The outcome of redistricting has a daily affect Social Security taxes, you If you’re married and your until the month you reach full member of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma on individual communities from how much earn up to four “credits” per earned benefit is less than retirement age. After that, no and the only Native representation on the com- funding their schools and hospitals receive to year based on net income. In 50 percent of your spouse’s, further reductions. mission. Selected from a pool of over 30,000 tax rates, infrastructure or transportation needs 2011, it takes $1,120 in in- Thus, if you think you’ll applicants, Commissioner Ward is among the of an area. The impact of redistricting lasts for you’re eligible for a benefit need to continue working, first Choctaw Nation members to be appointed at least 10 years until districts are recreated af- come to earn one credit. You equal to half of theirs. Spou- it might be wiser to hold off to California state government. Ward is a chi- ter a new national census is completed. must accumulate at least 40 sal benefits also are available ropractic and sports medicine physician in Ful- “For the first time every community has the credits over your lifetime to if you’re divorced, provided: collecting Social Security lerton, Calif. Prior to entering the medical field, power to provide direct input that will become qualify for a benefit; howev- your marriage lasted at least until reaching full retirement Ward was a federal agent in charge of interna- the backbone of shaping how their community er, those who haven’t earned 10 years; you remained un- age. These benefit reductions tional criminal and counter-intelligence cases will be represented over the next decade” stated sufficient credits some- married before age 60 (or that are not completely lost, how- and served as a decorated Air Force Officer. Ward. “The Citizens Redistricting Commission times qualify based on their marriage also ended); and ever: Your Social Security In California, an historic experiment is tak- is going to great lengths to gather and imple- spouse’s work record. you’re at least 62. benefit will be increased upon ing place of which Ward is a part. For the first ment public input into the political landscape Retirement benefits are If you remarried after age reaching full retirement age to time, the fully independent CRC has been giv- of California.” calculated based on earnings 60 (or 50, if disabled), you account for benefits withheld en the authority through propositional mandate CRC will be traveling the state taking testi- during 40 years of work. The can still collect benefits based due to earlier earnings. to create all the boundaries governing Califor- mony from the general public regarding their five lowest-earning years are on your former spouse’s re- And finally, although So- nia’s Congressional, State Senate, State Assem- representational needs beginning in April. The dropped and each year not cord. cial Security benefits aren’t bly, and State Board of Equalization districts to public can also provide this information any- worked counts as zero. “Full If your spouse dies and taxed by many states, they are reflect new population data in a process known time directly to the commission through the retirement age” increases was benefits-eligible, you considered taxable income by as redistricting. The goal of redistricting is to website www.wedrawthelines.com. gradually from 65 for those and your children may be the federal government. So, make sure that every person has one vote, and The final district maps must be completed by born before 1938 to 67 if born eligible for survivor benefits. depending on your income, that each vote carries the same weight. Districts Aug. 15, 2011. “Don’t wait, get involved and after 1959. Amounts vary depending you may owe federal income are created by drawing lines that safeguard the make a difference in your community,” urged If eligible, you may begin on age, disability status and tax on a portion of your ben- communities that live within them and ensure Ward. drawing benefits at 62; how- other factors. Read the Sur- efit. ever, doing so may reduce vivors Planner at www.ssa. For more details, read IRS your benefit by up to 30 per- gov/survivorplan/ifyou.htm Tax Topic 423 and Publica- Choctaw Code Talkers Association cent. The percentage reduc- for details. tion 915 at www.irs.gov. Annual Membership (January thru December) Yes, I want to join CCTA today and help support our heroes
_____ New member. _____ I’ve been a member before. Our membership is open to descendants, relatives and friends who are interested in preserving the history and learning more about the Choctaw Code Talkers of World War I and World War II. CCTA is dedicated to educating the general public about the Choctaw men who served our country even before they were citizens of the United States. Our efforts include a bronze statue to be placed at the NACC Museum in Oklahoma City, a quilt sale, an- nual meetings and Congressional Medals honoring the Code Talkers historic service. Applicant’s Name:______Age______(if under 18 yrs.) Street Address:______
City, State & Zip:______Submitted photo Home Phone:(_____)______Work or Cell:(_____)______
E-mail Address:______Full members are documented, eligible descendants or are related by blood to a Choctaw Code Talker of WWI New Choctaw CDs to be available soon or WWII cited by the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. Full members who are 18 years of age or older have voting On March 19, 2011, 38 talented Choctaw successful throughout the whole process of privileges, may hold an office in the Association, and may serve on any committee as a member or as chairperson. singers and pianists assembled at Crystal Clear putting together what we believe will be vital Associate members are individuals who express an interest in joining the Association and who support the Studios near Dallas, and recorded several of to the ongoing success of the Choctaw Nation objectives of the Association or are in the documentation process. Associate members are not eligible to hold our Choctaw people’s beloved songs. of Oklahoma for generations to come. There office, but may vote or serve on a committee. Associate or full members under 18 years of age may not hold Led by Choctaw Nation School of Language are more traditional songs yet to be recorded office or vote. Assistant Director Richard Adams and Roger among Choctaw people and it must be of pri- Full Documented Membership (12 months) $10.00 ______Enclosed Date ______Scott, singers from all across the Choctaw Na- mary importance that the Choctaw Language Associate Membership (12 months $9.00 ______Check ______Lifetime Membership $150.00 ______Cash ______tion of Oklahoma’s 10 ½ counties gathered to Administration make this an important under- Corporate (12 months) $100.00 ______M. O. ______produce a recording of traditional and South- taking for the preservation of our language, Donation for Bronze, Quilt, Other $ ______ern Gospel-style Choctaw songs. culture and history. With competent staff organizers Dee Anna The School of Language is in the final stages Please send me information about becoming a documented Full Member. ______. Moore and Amy Thompson accommodations of the production for this recording, so look for My Code Talker’s name is ______, Relationship ______. for all the singers and their families were made this to be available in the bookstore very soon. Mail this application, donation or membership fee to: Lila Swink, Membership Chair, P.O. Box 55, Swink, OK 74761 580-873-2301, home, or 580-326-5591, work, e-mail, [email protected] Choctaw Nation’s plastic recycling explained As we continue to add recy- tubs; cereal box liners cling items for collection we Recycling: Picked up Choctaw pottery on exhibit want to teach everyone what through most curbside recy- The Museum of the Red River, Idabel, is featur- each is and how to identify cling programs. ing a pottery exhibit with 15 pieces made by seven them and what they may be Recycled into: Laundry Choctaw artists. Items on display are on loan from used for in the future. detergent bottles, oil bottles, Choctaw potters Dr. Ian Thompson, Evangeline On the bottom of each plas- pens, recycling containers, Robinson, Shawna Folsom, Sue Folsom, Theresa tic container there is usually a HDPE (high density polyeth- floor tile, drainage pipe, lum- Prough, Edmon Perkins and Dan Bernier. The small symbol that is the three ylene) ber, benches, doghouses, pic- exhibit ends May 8. arrows with a number in the Found in: Milk jugs, juice nic tables, fencing The museum’s permanent collections feature middle of it similar to the one bottles; bleach, detergent and HDPE is a versatile plastic artifacts of the Choctaw and Caddo, contemporary shown. The CNO’s recycling household cleaner bottles; with many uses, especially Native art, and a cast skeleton of the dinosaur, Acrocanthosaurus atokensis, discovered in Mc- facility currently accepts shampoo bottles; some trash for packaging. It carries low Curtain County. The Museum of the Red River is located at 812 E. Lincoln Rd. in Idabel. Its numbers one and two. and shopping bags; motor risk of leaching and is readily hours are Tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 1-5 p.m. It is closed on holidays. Number two plastics: oil bottles; butter and yogurt recyclable into many goods.
Haskell Indian Nations University alumni, southern chapter needed Education is IMPORTANT Haskell can take with them pus, which are many. But the students I would like to see and Haskell has made a dif- their whole life the Haskell 2011 Haskell Commencement Pow Wow money contributed by federal, us organize and help make ference in so many Choctaw experience, with Haskell Ras- HonoringHonoring TheThe 20112011 GraduatesGraduates state or alumni was never con- that possible. Please contact: students’ lives. cals contributing to our Na- may 13 - 14, 2011 sidered comparable to those Connie Hudson, an HINU Haskell Pow Wow Grounds | lawrence, ks In the past few years tions. Over 150 tribal nations Host Drum: Stoney Park | alberta, canada universities. They are not 2008 graduate with a B.A. in Haskell has come under gov- from all over the nation still master of ceremonies: manny king Haskell, a community within American Indian Studies, at arena directors: steve byington & Chad Kills Crow ernment scrutiny and funds attend there each year. Okla- a community, there was once [email protected] have been cut, administra- homa tribal nations includ- Friday, may 13 contest information: a time when students were or 580-920-0577. I live and 5:00 gourd dancing points begin saturday, may 14th, 12p grand entry tion has been playing musi- ing the Choctaw Nation on 7:00 grand entry men (16-49) no. trad., so. trad., fancy, grass not allowed or permitted to work in Durant for the Choc- women(16-49) no. trad., so. trad., fancy, jingle cal chairs. Not enough faculty an average sends four to five Golden age (50+) men & women go off campus. To this day taw Nation of Oklahoma un- Saturday, may 14 $500, $400, $300, $200, $100 and a whole lot of administra- students to school there each 12:00p & 7:00p grand entry there are residents of that city der the AmeriCorps VISTA tion. Now they have come to year. The campus is reminis- junior girls (6-15) trad., jingle, fancy that do not know who or what Program but we can have Dance Specials: junior boys (6-15) trad., grass, fancy $250, $150, $100, $50 a point that they are cutting cent of those who have gone Womens all around 18+ (starts friday) Haskell is. Haskell is allowed meetings anywhere we can men’s fancy (saturday afternoon) programs across the board. there from the Choctaw Na- men’s chicken (saturday night) pow wow information: to learn and participate in their agree on. I would like to take The most recent discussion tion. Pushmataha Hall houses 785-830-2780 many different cultures and to the national alumni in May admission: has been some athletic pro- the office and meeting room $5.00 weekend pass vendor information: ceremonies; they know who our plan of Operations and grams. The Culture Center is of the local alumni who are 5 & under, 65 & over free [email protected] they are when they leave, if member list when they meet on the brink of closing, due trying to bring the National not when they arrive. Being for commencement activities to funding for the curator. As Alumni Organization back to Choctaw made me prouder this year on May 13-14. The alumni we can help with do- Lawrence. A road winds its fees to attend there, they want- come from all regions of the than I had ever been after at- school must feel abandoned; nations, fundraisers, moral way through campus named ed to quadruple the amount, United States and most are tending Haskell. we haven’t but one chapter support and representation to Choctaw Ave. Just a few but after many meetings and alumni. I want to propose a new outside of Kansas. our students, you can contact blocks away a Choctaw wom- student input about the history Now with the economy HINU Alumni Chapter in the We need to become strong, the museum via web site or an pastors at the Lawrence In- of Indian Education, it was the way it is the administra- Southern Area of Oklahoma, and make Haskell a strong in- the local president of alumni dian Methodist church repre- raised to double the amount to tion will be proposing another any University especially stitution of Education. in Lawrence, Kan., Corey senting the Oklahoma Indian $215 a semester. The Board of hike. I am a Haskell alumni Haskell is only as strong as Hudson, 785-749-8404, ext. Missionary Conference. Regents realized that this was and while I was there being their Alumni. There is strength Cornelia (Connie)Hudson Upward Bound office, or e- In 2004, the administration a topic that the alumni and the educated we were always in numbers so if you have had Americorps VISTA Program mail [email protected] put before the Board of Re- students should have a say compared to the Universi- that Haskell Experience and National Society for Anyone who has been to gents a resolution to raise the about. The Board of Regents ties that surrounded our cam- wish that for other Native American Indian Elders April 2011, BISKINIK, Page 17
Finallythe hospitalable and even legally to call Jeremiahchild is one ‘their the Wilsons have was alsoson’ comforting know- By LARISSA COPELAND gave up her parental rights Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma felt many times. When the ing, “Jeremiah will be very to him in September 2009. time was right, the children much involved in his Choc- Jeremiah’s biological father, went back to their parents, to taw culture, as this is impor- March 7, 2011, is a day on the other hand, was where live with other relatives, or in tant to Randy and Brenda,” Randall and Brenda Wilson the trouble lied. It wasn’t that some cases, just to a differ- she said. will never forget. It was the he fought to get custody of ent home to be reunited with The staff of the Choctaw day they brought their son, him. In fact, in Jeremiah’s a sibling. Even though she Nation ICW have become like Jeremiah Joel Wilson, home 2-½ years of life his biologi- knows it was in the best inter- a family to the Wilsons over for the first time. He isn’t cal father never made a single est of the child, it never came the years during the foster- a newborn though, and it attempt to see him. Though easy. “Once, we had one fos- ing and adoption interactions. wasn’t the first time for him incarcerated, he was given ter baby for seven and half “They’ve been so helpful be- to come to this home. In fact, numerous opportunities by months,” said Brenda, tear- yond helping with the adop- Jeremiah is a 2-and-a-half- the courts to appear to protect fully, “but then it was time for tion,” said Brenda. “They’ve year-old happy, bouncing his parental rights and he de- him to go back to his home. even helped us with clothes, little boy who has lived with clined. Ultimately, in March That time was so hard.” school supplies and beds.” the Wilsons since he was just 2011 the judge terminated his That pain never kept them She singled out two ICW two days old. The key words parental rights. from accepting another child employees in particular who here are “their son.” What The emotionally drain- in need into their home made a special impact on her makes March 7 different for ing part for Brenda was that though. “We still did it,” family. “Lari Ann (Brister) this family is it was the day the court dates kept getting she said. “Those kids still and Shane (Haddock) have Randall and Brenda were fi- delayed and rescheduled, need love just like anyone been friends, a support group nally able to officially adopt creating time and opportuni- else does, some need it even and have stood behind us Jeremiah. ties when “anything could go Photo provided more,” said Brenda. through this entire process,” The road that led to his wrong,” she said. Proud parents Randall and Brenda Wilson pose with In fact, the idea to adopt she elaborated. “They make adoption was rocky and full Jeremiah’s ICW worker newly adopted son Jeremiah in the courtroom shortly after Jeremiah wasn’t even on the it easy to stand up and be a of emotional highs and lows, said the “waiting” proved Judge Rocky Powers declared his adoption official. radar for the Wilsons at first. foster parent for our Choctaw but one the Wilsons say was most challenging too. “When “It was Lari Ann (Brister) kids. I couldn’t have done this always worth the travel. you know that this home is even if that means the child the same. “Hasklee loves that brought it up to me,” said without them.” “I fell in love with him the where Jeremiah needs and going back to their biological Jeremiah so much,” says Brenda. “I hadn’t really even Brister said working with day I picked him up at the deserves to be, it’s hard to family,” said Lari Ann Brister, Brenda. “He’s very protective given it any thought until she the Wilsons was “wonder- hospital,” recalls Brenda, as be patient sometimes,” said director of Choctaw Nation of him. He considers him his asked me if I’d consider it if ful” as well. “Our program she recounts picking up the Haddock. “I can’t even imag- ICW and Adoption/Foster brother.” no family members came for- couldn’t ask for better fos- 2-day-old Jeremiah from the ine the eagerness that the Wil- Care programs, as she ex- Even though they are not ward to claim him. I didn’t ter/adoptive parents,” she hospital nursery. sons had.” panded on the situation with able to adopt Hasklee due to hesitate. Right then, I felt this said. “When I think of Randy Choctaw Nation Indian Doing what was best for Jeremiah’s biological family. different circumstances, they is what God told me to do.” and Brenda Wilson the first Child Welfare (ICW) con- Jeremiah was what every- “The Wilsons proved to love him as though he were Brister expanded on this, thing that comes to mind is tacted her late in Jeremiah’s one wanted for him. “As be an excellent foster home their own son. “His fam- saying, “Achieving perma- genuineness. They are two biological mother’s pregnan- his worker, it was my role for our Choctaw children be- ily situation is different,” ex- nency is crucial for children individuals who are honest, cy when it was learned the to make sure his needs were cause of the way they cared plains Brenda on why they in foster care whether it’s go- straight forward, true to heart mother was possibly on drugs being met as well as advo- for them,” continued Brister, aren’t able to adopt Hasklee, ing home when appropriate or and together, they are solid.” and had received no prenatal cate for his rights as a Native who was initially responsible “but we’re still a big, happy being adopted. Being adopted According to Haddock, care. American child in court hear- for certifying the Wilsons as family.” versus remaining in foster it’s families like theirs that “When ICW became aware ings,” said Haddock. foster/adoptive parents and The big family she’s refer- care can give the child a sense the Choctaw foster care and that Jeremiah would need Though his biological par- ensuring their home met and ring to goes beyond her, Ran- of belonging to a family and adoption program is always a foster home, the Wilsons ents’ rights have been termi- maintained standards to be a dall, Jeremiah, and Hasklee. being a part of a family unit.” working diligently to recruit were very willing and able, so nated, the Wilsons have main- licensed home. Brenda also has an adult son, Jeremiah’s ICW worker and retain as tribal foster it worked out perfectly,” said tained a pleasant relationship “They treat foster children Eric, and daughter-in-law, felt it was the best for him as and adoptive homes. “I can’t Shane Haddock, Jeremiah’s with Jeremiah’s biological as their own and provide for Heidi, and Randall has an well. “It was important for stress enough the tribe’s need ICW worker. extended family, visiting their basic needs and be- adult daughter, Marissa, and Jeremiah to be adopted so he for more tribal homes like the Even knowing the yet-to- often with many of his fam- yond,” said Brister. “They together they have five grand- could have that sense of per- Wilsons,” he emphasized. be-born baby could be facing ily members. “It’s important open their home to any child children. manency and always be as- Currently, there are ap- many difficult and unknown for those relationships to be and, when they are comfort- As a family, they couldn’t sured that the Wilson’s house proximately 125 Choctaw medical issues, the Wilsons there, for him to see that he able, open their home to the be happier to have Jeremiah is his home,” added Haddock. children in foster care within did not hesitate when asked wasn’t deserted by his fam- child’s biological family in an as a permanent member of “Since Jeremiah was placed the Choctaw Nation’s bound- if they could take the baby ily,” said Brenda. “It makes effort to help the reunification the Wilson brood. Randall’s in the Wilson’s home, he has aries and close to 300 Choc- as a foster child when he me happy. We’re his family, process…Randy and Brenda mother, Evelyn, was just benefited by being part of an taw children within the state was born. Though he had a but so are they.” know the importance of keep- elated to have him as a new incredible family. Now that of Oklahoma in foster care. low birth weight, 4 pounds The Wilsons are no strang- ing a family together,” she grandson. “He just took her the adoption is finalized, he Since July 2010, at least 10 1 ounce, miraculously Jer- ers to the Choctaw Nation continued. heart,” said Brenda. “She can continue to thrive in their tribal foster/adoptive homes emiah was born relatively ICW, taking in foster children Jeremiah was the 10th fell in love with him imme- home.” have finalized adoptions, ac- healthy, though long-term over the past several years as Choctaw foster child they’d diately. She was so afraid he For Brenda, to work with cording to Brister. effects of the in utero drug they’ve been needed. It’s the taken into their home. One was going to have to go back. the Choctaw Nation ICW The need is great for more exposure is yet to be seen. way they welcomed the chil- child, almost 9-year-old It’s happened so many times was important to her because Choctaw foster and adoptive “He has asthma and sinus dren and their families with Hasklee Ray, was the first (with other foster kids.) She it was a connection to her homes. Anyone interesting in problems pretty bad,” said open arms that was one of the child they’d ever taken to was afraid of losing him.” roots. Both she and Randall becoming a foster or adop- Brenda. “But fortunately, the reasons Choctaw Nation ICW foster. Hasklee has been with Fortunately it wasn’t the are members of the Choctaw tive parent or those just seek- doctors don’t think he’ll have made the call to the Wilsons Randall and Brenda for more case for Jeremiah and the Wil- Nation of Oklahoma and are ing more information on be- any major problems.” in the first place. than four years and contin- sons this time, but the heart- both employed by the tribe as coming a certified home can Jeremiah’s mother never “Randy and Brenda Wilson ues to live in the home with ache that comes with loving well. “I felt like that’s where I contact the Choctaw Nation fought to keep him. She truly care for children and them today. To Jeremiah, he’s and getting attached, then was needed,” Brenda said. Indian Child Welfare at 800- handed him over willingly at want what is best for them, “Bubba.” And Hasklee feels saying goodbye to a foster For Brister, that connection 522-6170.
HealthyThe Choctaw Nation Volunteers Memory Clinic is looking Needed! for the following: Protect and prevent: Take a stand for children • Ages 20-45 • American Indian volunteers w/ CDIB Card • High school graduate or GED • Read and speak English fluently • No history of brain injury, substance abuse, or severe mental illness April is Child Abuse Prevention Month If you are interested in participating in a study of computerized Since 1983, April has been withdrawn or overly aggres- IF YOU SUSPECT A CHILD tests examining attention, memory, and reasoning, please call designated as Child Abuse sive. has been abused... 918-448-6796. Prevention month in an ef- 3. Age-inappropriate be- DO Choctaw Nation Memory Clinic fort to bring awareness to and haviors. Abused children Keep calm. Study PIs: C. Munro Cullum, Ph.D. and Myron F. Weiner, M.D. Believe the child. Contact PIs@ 214-648-4427 help combat the serious issue. may display age-inappropri- Show interest and concern. According to the Angel Rock ate behaviors, e.g., for older Take action. It can save a child’s life. Participants will be compensated for their time upon completion of the study visit with a $25 Walmart gift card. Project website, every day, children: thumb-sucking, DON’T nearly four children in this bed-wetting or fear of the Panic or overreact. country die as a result of child dark. Pressure the child. abuse in the home, every day, 4. Fear of going home. Confront the offender. Blame the child. more than 27,000 children in Abused children may ex- Choctaw Nation Choctaw Nation selected to Overwhelm the child with questions. Indian Child Welfare this country are exposed to press apprehension or anxiety 800-522-6170 domestic violence, and every about leaving school or about join fight against head injury The U.S. Department of Defense has selected the Choc- day, a child somewhere in going places with the person difficulty concentrating and drugs or alcohol or carrying a taw Nation to help in the fight against head injury in military your community lives in fear. who is abusing them. have excessive absences, weapon. personnel. 10 Signs of Child Abuse 5. Changes in eating. The sometimes due to adults try- 10. Inappropriate sexual Over the next two years, American Indians with CDIB 1. Unexplained injuries. stress, fear and anxiety caused ing to hide the children’s inju- behaviors. Children who cards will be asked to join in a study of computerized tests Visible signs of physical by abuse can lead to changes ries from authorities. have been sexually abused of attention, memory and reasoning that will be used to help abuse may include unex- in a child’s eating behaviors, 8. Lack of personal care may exhibit overly sexual- detect brain injury in our service men and women. In order plained burns or bruises in which may result in weight or hygiene. Abused and ne- ized behavior or use explicit to be similar to military personnel, participants will need to the shape of objects. You may gain or weight loss. glected children may appear sexual language. be from 20-45 years of age, have a high school education also hear unconvincing expla- 6. Changes in sleeping. uncared for and may be wear- Some signs that a child or GED and have no history of brain injury, drug abuse or nations of a child’s injuries. Abused children may have ing unsuitable clothing for the is experiencing violence or severe mental illness. 2. Changes in behav- frequent nightmares or may weather. abuse are more obvious than In the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, one of the worst injuries ior. Abuse can lead to many appear tired or fatigued. 9. Risk-taking behaviors. others. Trust your instincts. has been the effect of blast injury to the brain. Only a few changes in a child’s behavior. 7. Changes in school per- Young people who are be- Suspected abuse is enough of years ago, soldiers who suffered severe blast injury did not Abused children often appear formance and attendance. ing abused may engage in il- a reason to contact the author- live. Now, thanks to new and more effective medical treat- scared, anxious, depressed, Abused children may have legal activities such as using ities. You do not need proof. ments, these soldiers survive, but then must live with the long-term effects of their brain injuries. Many of these sol- diers have physical signs, like weakness or paralysis. Oth- ers have damage that is not visible, such as confusion, poor Public Hearing Notice judgment and inability to remember or to learn. This type of Choctaw Nation Child Care Assistance Program damage is frequently overlooked in the course of combat as The Choctaw Nation Child Care Assistance Program will conduct a public hearing on June 3, 2011, at 9 a.m. at the Choctaw more obvious physical injuries are treated first. Nation Child Care Assistance office located at 1704 W. Elm Street, Durant, OK. The DOD has selected as leaders of this project Drs. Munro Cullum and Myron Weiner, who have been involved The purpose of this hearing is to allow the public an opportunity to comment on the provisions of child care services with the Choctaw Nation Memory Clinic for the past 10 under the Child Care Development Fund Plan. Child Care providers, parents, and the public are invited to attend years. Testing will be done at the CNO Healthcare Center the hearing, or may forward comments or questions to: in Talihina. It will involve one visit lasting about 90 to 120 Choctaw Nation Child Care Assistance Program minutes. A $25 Wal-Mart gift card will be given after test- ATTN: Marilyn Williams, Director ing is completed. The study will be coordinated by native P. O. Box 1210, Durant, OK 74702 Oklahomans Angela Curran and Carey Fuller, who can be 800-522-6170 or 580-924-8280 reached at 918-448-6796. April 2011, BISKINIK, Page 18 OBITUARIES Douglas Statham Larry Wade Riddle Edwin Hudson Douglas “Doug” Statham of Boko- Larry Wade Riddle, a proud American, Choctaw tribal Edwin Hudson, 80, passed away she, 76, passed away Feb. 27, 2011, in member and longtime Denton County resident, passed away Jan. 13, 2011, in Oklahoma City. He Fort Smith, Ark. He was born Nov. 5, Dec. 18, 2010, after a long and courageous battle with pan- was a full-blood Choctaw, born April 1934, in Bokoshe to Everett and Nao- creatic cancer. Larry left this earth peacefully in his home sur- 9, 1931, in Eagletown to Isham Dan- mi (Branson) Statham. rounded by his family. iel Hudson and Phoebe Bohanan. He He was a tool and dye maker before Larry was born to D.A. Riddle and Frances Mardell Messick attended Jones Male Academy School he went to college. He was a coach Riddle in Bennington on Dec. 7, 1946. Larry attended school for Indian boys and afterward served and then a teacher at West Arkansas in Brownfield, Texas, and Bennington. Mr. Riddle served his his country in the U.S. Army. He Community College. He was a rough- country in the U.S. Army during the war in Vietnam. He re- worked as a truck driver and was of neck, heavy machine operator and car- ceived the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service the Baptist faith. penter. Doug was multi-talented and very particular about his Medal with one Bronze Service Star, Good Conduct Medal and Edwin’s first known Choctaw ancestors who were forced work. He liked to travel, watch basketball and anything out- was cited as a rifle sharpshooter. After completing his service, to leave their beloved homeland of Mississippi and walk the doors, especially in Colorado. he attended Lincoln Technical Institute and worked briefly as Trail of Tears to the newly established Indian Territory were He was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Kendal a mechanic. Larry met and married Sheila Davis in 1969 in his great-grandmother, Widow Hudson, and her sons, Tannip; Statham; and three sisters, Sue Jane Medlock, Lucretia Tolbert Dallas and they settled their home and family in Sanger, Texas. James, who was a Choctaw judge and minister; and George, and Doretha Strack. Larry made his career as a firefighter with the City of Dallas who eventually became the first principal chief of the Choc- He is survived by one son, Randy Statham of Bokoshe; three Fire Department from 1970 until his retirement in 1999. He taws of Indian Territory. sisters, Betty Lou James with husband J.B. of Broken Arrow, was also a PRCA calf-roper and later a tournament fisherman Widow Hudson never reached Indian Territory but died en Patsy Wayne Wann of Pocola and Virginia Lee Patton of Po- and fishing guide. Larry enjoyed riding his bicycle and could route and was buried in Arkansas in an unmarked grave. Her cola; one brother, Paul Everett Statham with wife Helen of Bo- often be seen riding his bicycle in jeans and a long sleeve T- sons arrived and they settled in a Choctaw community called koshe. shirt from Sanger to Denton, Valley View, and even Pilot Eagletown, Indian Territory. James and Ahobatema met and Point. Larry also enjoyed playing his guitar with family and married in Indian Territory and are great-grandparents to Ed- friends. He especially enjoyed the moments he spent teaching win. Ahobatema’s father’s name was Meashambi, who also Marguerite Goodwin his granddaughter, Courtney, how to play or singing with his arrived and was eventually buried in Indian Territory in an un- Marguerite Marcella (Blakley) daughters, Daphne and Amanda. marked grave. Goodwin, 61, passed away on Feb. 4, Larry was preceded in death by his father, D.A. Riddle; James and Ahobatema Hudson had four children – their son, 2011, in Atoka. brother D.A. Riddle Jr.; and sister Linnie Toles. Daniel, who married Sally Going and are the grandparents of A lifelong Tushka-Atoka area resi- Larry W. Riddle will be best remembered for his witty sense Edwin. Sally’s parents were Isom and Eliza Going, who re- dent, Goodwin was born July 29, of humor, love for his family and the dignity and integrity by sided in Indian Territory and are buried in unmarked graves 1949, in Durant to Eugene “Sonny” which he lived his life. Larry was a supportive and caring hus- in Eagletown. Daniel and Sally Hudson were among one of Blakley and Marcella Morena (Butler) band to his wife of over 40 years, Sheila Davis Riddle. He is the first generations of the Choctaw immigrants to be born in Blakley. She graduated high school at also survived by his daughters and granddaughter, of whom Indian Territory. Tushka and received her bachelor and he was extremely proud, Daphne Riddle Swartz of Denton, Edwin was preceded in death by ex-wife Gertrude Miller of master degrees from Southeastern Oklahoma State University. Amanda Riddle Abercrombie and son-in-law Jason Abercrom- Antlers; his mother, Phoebe Bohanan Hudson of Eagletown; Marguerite did her post grad studies at Central Oklahoma State bie of Irving and Courtney Lynn Swartz of Denton; mother, sister Velma; brother John Beaver; great-nephew Victor Hunt- University. She taught school for 40 years, one year at Stuart, Frances Riddle Conner of Lake Dallas; sister Jeannie Hall; er; sister Pauline Hampton; nephew Jerry Bohanan; father Ish- 23 years at Tushka and 15 years for Oklahoma Department of two brothers, Eugene Riddle and Bobby Riddle; aunts, Anna am Hudson; nephew Darrell Wayne Hudson; and great-niece Corrections at Mack Alford and McLeod Centers. Marguerite Dewett and Jimmie Friloux of southern Oklahoma; as well as a Vera Bohanan. married William “Will” Goodwin on July 30, 1971, in Tushka. host of loving nieces, nephews, and extended family and loved He is survived by his only son, Glen Dale Hudson and She was a longtime member of Tushka Baptist Church and ones. daughter-in-law Debra; three granddaughters, Latasha, Terese at Southside Baptist Church for approximately 20 years. She and Nicole; and one great-grandson, Tyler. All are of Okla- taught Sunday School, Vacation Bible School and Training homa City. He is also survived by two brothers, Daniel Hud- Union. She was a member of Oklahoma Education Associa- Naioma Cox son, 86, of Pushmataha Nursing Home in Antlers and James Hudson, 78, of Speers. Edwin was cared for by many nieces, tion and Atoka Retired Teacher Association. She loved cook- Naioma Marie (Fitzer) Cox, 82, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews – Lois Hunter and ing, collecting dishes, traveling and church work. passed away on Feb. 13, 2011, at her children, Pat, Regina and their other siblings, all of Okla- She was preceded in death by her parents and grandpar- Ozark Nursing and Care Center in homa City; Charles Dennis Hudson of Moore; Jimmie Carol ents. Ozark, Mo., where she had been a Merrival of Rapid City, S.D.; Kay Beauvais and children Issac She is survived by her son, Benjamin Goodwin with wife resident since 2008. and Cody; Sarah Hudson and children Reanna and Chris of Shelly of Tushka; grandchildren Nicholas Grant Goodwin of She was born Jan. 17, 1929, in Lona Oklahoma City; and Romona Bohanan of Edmund. Tushka, Tyller Ames, Kaylee Ames and Brandon Trotter; spe- Valley to original enrollee Tobias and cial grandchildren Tyler Horn, Taylor Cooper and Sadie Coo- Anna F. (Trollinger) Fitzer. She lived per; special sister and buddy Will Goodwin of Tushka; along in Lona Valley, Beaver Mountain and with many special in-laws, cousins, former students, teachers, Whitefield while growing up. She attended schools in Lona Kerry Edward Voice-Jim school administrators and many dear and loved friends. Valley, Beaver Mountain and Stigler. She received her nurs- Kerry Edward Voice-Jim, 42, a life- ing degree from Cerritos College in Norwalk, Calif. She was time Stringtown area resident, passed a nurse in several hospitals on the West Coast until she retired away on Feb. 25, 2011, in Antlers. He Luella Mae Williams in the late 1980s. was born on Oct. 7, 1968, in Okla- After high school, she married James E. Bryce and they had Luella Mae Williams, 80, passed homa City to Lester Delroe Jim and four children. It was during her marriage to James that they away on Feb. 2, 2011, in Wichita Falls, Sally Sue Voice. moved to California. Later, she wed Bill Aderholt and had an- Texas, surrounded by her family. He graduated from Stringtown High other son. She later married Denzil V. Cox and they had several Luella was born July 9, 1930, in Erick School, attended Kiamichi Vo-tech’s happy years together before his death in 1998. to the late Simon and Lorena (Harkins) welding program and Eastern Oklaho- She lived several places in California, including Norwalk, Wilson. She and Cecil Williams were ma State College. Kerry was a laborer Eureka and Crescent City before moving to Salem, Ore. After married Jan. 25, 1947, in Olney. She and was of the Baptist faith. Kerry enjoyed hunting, fishing, Denzil’s death in 1998, she moved to Springfield, Mo. A year was a good Christian and a member of and crafting. later, she moved to Stigler to be closer to her brothers and sis- the Southside Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, William Ed- ters. In 2008, she moved to Ozark Nursing and Care Center to She was also a proud member of the Choctaw Nation. She die and Joan Voice, Abbott Jim and Virgie Peters; aunt Joann be near her daughters. loved to cook and enjoyed spending time with all of her fam- Ramos; uncle Ernest Voice; cousin Brenda Samuels. She was preceded in death by her husband, Denzil V. Cox; ily, but especially with her grandchildren and great-grandchil- He is survived by daughter Kallie Sioux Voice of Altus; two children, Barbara A. Russell and James E. Bryce Jr.; a dren. She was preceded in death by four brothers, Harold, Jim, father Lester Jim of Stringtown; mother Sally Jim of String- grandson, Gilbert Molina Jr.; her parents, Tobias and Anna F. George and Ruel Wilson; and one sister, Ruby Flowers. town; siblings, Gary Jim with wife Annette of Coalgate, Donna Fitzer; two sisters, Mary “Sis” Neal and Nancy Ruth Wren; Survivors include her husband, Cecil Williams of Olney; Contreras of San Jose, Jana Jim of Stringtown, Jason Jim with three brothers, Sam Fitzer, James “Doodle” Fitzer and a baby three daughters, Paula Pollack with husband Rusty of Archer Misty Madbull of Antlers; companion and children, Nancy boy who died in infancy. City, Texas, Carolyn Dobbs with husband Tom of Olney and Taylor, Toni Marie and Nowatha Mathis, Ethan, John, and She is survived by daughters, Joyce with husband Arvel Cynthia Dobbs with husband Mike of Olney; one son, Glen Jeremy Taylor of Antlers; mother of daughter, Brenda Voice Cunningham of Bruner, Mo., and Jane Moreno of Sparta, Mo.; Williams with wife Kim of Olney; three brothers, Tom and Si- of Altus; nieces and nephews, Vanessa and Jesse Contreras of a son, Steven Aderholt with wife Angela of Garden Grove, Ca- mon Wilson of San Bernardino, Calif., and Willie Wilson of Dallas, Brandon, Mason, Nathaniel, and Gary Jr. Jim of Coal- lif.; stepson Buddy Cox with wife Marilyn of Orting, Wash.; San Diego, Calif.; one sister, Betty Marquez of Turlock, Calif.; gate, Kielind and Ataiya Jim of Stringtown, Choleaunna and five grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. She is also sur- as well as eight grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. Alexaunna Jim of Antlers; along with numerous other relatives vived by three sisters, Juanita Townley with husband William Though she has passed on, and we miss her more each day. and friends. of Caldwell, Idaho, Ramona Mitchell of Stigler, and Virginia She will live forever in the hearts of her friends and family. Spears with husband Gary of Whitefield; three brothers, Joe Linda Noah Fitzer with wife Mae of Whitefield, Bill Fitzer of Stigler, and Josiah Amos John Fitzer of Porum; and many nieces and nephews. Linda Jean Noah, 60, of Hugo passed away on Jan. 27, 2011, in Josiah Amos passed away on Dec. 10, 2007. Josiah was born Hugo. on Oct. 3, 1918, and was preceded in death by his wife, Annie Linda was born Nov. 28, 1950, Amos, mother, brothers and sons. He is survived by his daugh- Norman Lee Murphy in DeQueen, Ark. She married Or- ter Louise. Norman Lee Murphy, 55, passed ville Noah on June 1, 1979, in Bat- Joe Billy Dennis away on Feb. 6, 2011, at Irving Baylor tiest. Linda worked for Texas Instru- Hospital in Irving, Texas. ments in Dallas, then spent her time Joe Billy Dennis, 69, passed away Norman was born on Oct. 19, 1955, as a housewife. She had lived in the Feb. 24, 2011, at his home in Soper. in Talihina to Josephine and James Goodland Community for the past 19 Joe Billy was born Aug. 8, 1941, Lee Murphy. He lived in Bentley un- years after moving from Battiest. She enjoyed playing with her in Dallas, the son of Gatha Herman til moving to Texas in 1959. He was grandkids and reading books. and Willie Inez (Page) Dennis. He raised in Texas along with eight other Linda was preceded in death by her father, John Morris; and was fondly known as Joe Bill by his siblings. He was given the nickname siblings, Bobbie Emeyabbie and Johnnie Lue Hodges. friends and was a lifelong resident of “Chief” by family and friends, and Survivors include husband, Orville Noah; two sons, Roger Soper. Joe Bill married Patricia Custer was the oldest son of James and Josephine. In 1974, Norman James Phillips of Calera, and Gerry Vance Noah of Hugo; two on Feb. 27, 1975, and he was a mem- received the blessing of a son, and named him Norman Lee daughters, Kelly Vanarsdall of Wright City and Michelle Lynn ber of the Riverside Unity Church. Murphy II, known as “Chiefy” to the Murphy family. In the Noah of Hugo; mother, Willie Jean (Scribner) Armentrout; Joe Bill worked commercial construction as a heavy equipment passing years, Norman received another wonderful blessing three siblings, Abbie Bird of Soper, Betty Cooksey of Miami operator for 45 years before his retirement. His work took him when he found and married his soul mate/best friend, Maria, and Roger Dale Morris of McAlester; eight grandchildren, across the United States to the construction of paper mills and and her four beautiful children. Norman took them under his along with a host of other family and friends. oil refineries in several states. Joe Bill loved spending time wings with no hesitation and raised them all as if they were his with his kids and grandchildren. He loved animals including from the beginning. The love he had for his family was like no Larry Ernest LeFlore his puppies, cats, and even a pet tortoise. In his retirement he other. He would drive hundreds of miles across the country to opened a knife sharpening shop that he always enjoyed. visit family from the Pacific Coast to the Atlantic Coast. He Larry Ernest LeFlore, 53, passed He was preceded in death by his parents; one daughter, Rena had a passion for road trips, an admiration for eagles, an honor away on Feb. 17, 2011, in Antlers. He Dennis; one son, Tim Broadrick; one grandson, Jerod Dennis; for his native heritage, and a great enthusiasm for the Dallas was born Nov. 20, 1957, in Antlers to and one brother, Roe Dale Dennis. Cowboys football team. He enjoyed life to the fullest and any- Frankie and Bettye Lorene (Dixon) Joe is survived by his wife, Patricia Dennis of the home; one who knew him could see the light that shined so bright LeFlore. Larry married Roma Hager- two daughters, Teresa Fenner with husband Kirk of Rapid through his heart. Though he is not physically beside his fam- ty on Dec. 31, 1993, in Cloudy. He City, S.D., and Jane Nelson with husband Dennis of Midlo- ily, he lives through all the goodness in each and every family enjoyed hunting, fishing and spend- thian, Texas; one son, Troy Broadrick with husband Brent of member he left behind. ing time with his family, friends and Denison, Texas; one brother, Jerry Dennis of Soper; six grand- Norman is survived by his wife, Maria Murphy; sons, Nor- babies. children, Patti Huyck with husband Tyler of Rapid City, S.D., man Murphy II, Lucas Perez, Felipe Cruz, Leonardo Cruz; Larry was preceded in death by parents, Frankie and Bettye Tonya Kimble with husband Bryan of Greeley, Colo., Steven daughter Tiana Motton; mother Josephine Murphy; siblings, LeFlore; brothers, Robert LeFlore and Roy Gene LeFlore. Broadrick with wife Jessica of Soper, Timothy Broadrick with Larry Murphy, Rodney Murphy, Wanda Jo Burke, Trish Mur- He is survived by his wife, Roma LeFlore, of the home; wife Maggie of Denver, Colo., Jordan Dennis of Edmond, and phy, Leonard Murphy, Norma Simmons, Phyllis Davis, Don brother Wayne LeFlore of Cloudy; sisters, Alice Darling of Jillian Dennis of Midlothian, Texas; four great-grandchidren, Murphy, Patrick Murphy, Myron Murphy, Mary Rodriquez; Coalgate, Louise Green of Rattan, Karolyn Hurlburt of Cloudy, Jayln, Jesslyn, and Stanten Broadrick, all of Soper, and Kenzy grandchildren, Ryker, Cheyenne, Gavin, Ariana, Iliana, Lucas; Margie Ouellette of Antlers, Linda Brines of Antlers; numerous Broadrick of Denver, Colo.; numerous nieces, nephews, great- and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, in-law rela- nieces and nephews; three puppies, Lance, Lady and Sassy; as nieces, great-nephews, other relatives, and a host of friends. tives, and friends. well as many other relatives and friends. April 2011, BISKINIK, Page 19 OBITUARIES Jack Lee Dunaway Genevieve Venable Viola Battiest Jack Lee Dunaway, 90, passed away Genevieve Madeline Garland Ven- Viola Battiest, 65, of Wright City, on Feb. 8, 2011. He was born on March able of Stigler was born Dec. 14, passed away on Feb. 17, 2011, at her 23, 1920, in Tuttle, the son of Marga- 1913, in Garland, Okla., and passed residence. She was born on Sep. 18, ret and William Dunaway. Jack served away Jan. 8, 2011, in Fort Smith at the 1945, in Talihina. his country as a combat engineer in age of 97. A faithful member of Bible Baptist the Army during the Allied Invasion She is the daughter of Davis and Church, she taught Sunday School for of Europe in World War II. After the Etta Wasson Garland. Davis is the son over 30 years. She was a great cook war, he married Viola Beatrice Nunn of Ward H. Garland and Sophina Nail and loved cooking for preachers. She in 1945, who preceded him in death Garland, the son of James Garland II was a wonderful grandma and she in 1962. He earned Electrical and Me- and Peggy Folsom, son of John Gar- loved watching her grandkids playing chanical Engineering degrees from Oklahoma State University, land I, son of Maj. James Garland I and Hushiyukpa (Happy ball. She especially enjoyed holidays spending time with her and in his early career, he worked for Dallas Power and Light. Bird). family. She worked at the gift shop at the Wheelock Museum. He married Mary Allen McKenney in 1964, and they worked She is survived by two daughters, Marsha Barnes and hus- She truly enjoyed her work. for and retired from Bechtel of Houston, then moved to Lew- band Dale of Stigler and Felicia Sockey and husband Leland of She was preceded in death by her parents, Hampton and isville, Texas. Stigler; and one great-grandson, Ryan Dodd of Stigler. Frances Ott Williams; son, Delvis Battiest; brothers, Sonny Jack remained active by working for the City of Lewisville Genevieve was preceded in death by her husband, Fred Ven- Williams and Donell Williams; sister, Lucille Seely. at the Lake Park tollgate from 1996 until October 2010. The able; three sisters, Cornelia Jones, Clara St. Clair and Glady Viola leaves to cherish her memory her husband, Luther mayor honored him on his 90th birthday by declaring March Howard; four brothers, Herman Garland, Frantz Garland, Ver- Battiest Sr.; sons, Luther Battiest Jr., Lawrence Battiest with 23, 2010, as “Jack Dunaway Day.” His coworkers and daily non Garland, a baby brother who died at birth; and her parents. wife Gloria, all of Wright City, Randy Battiest of Wylie, Texas, drives through the park remained his lifeline to the very end. She married Fred Venable in 1939, and she was a Free Will Gary Battiest and Daniel Battiest with wife LaDonna, all of He enjoyed boating, fishing, gardening and was the ultimate Baptist in faith. Wright City; brothers, Timothy Williams with wife Vivian and fix-it man. Marcus Williams, all of Idabel; sisters, Lydia McClure with He was preceded in death by his parents; eight brothers and husband Mike and Rose Shemwell with husband Jim, all of sisters; and in 2002 by his wife, Mary. Joyce Battiest Idabel, Loretta Battiest with husband Ivan of Broken Bow, He is survived by one brother, Carl Jackson with wife Betty of Bonnie Feathers with husband J.B. of Stillwell and Rita Anna Greenville, Texas; his children, Jack Dunaway with wife Deb- Joyce Evelyn Battiest, 67, of Bos- with husband Clayton of Wright City; 16 grandchildren; one bie of Greensburg, Pa.; Jill Fogle with husband Mike of Den- well passed away on Jan. 31, 2011, in aunt, numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, friends and ton, Texas, Michelle Griffin with husband Wayne of Highland Durant. Joyce was born Jan. 13, 1944, her church family. Village, Texas, Mike McKenney with wife Dawn of Onalaska, in Kingman, Ariz., the daughter of Texas, and Kent McKenney with wife Cindy of Lewisville, William Henry King and Ada Ellen Texas; 14 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. (Hart) King and had lived for the past 37 years in Boswell. She married Alto Battiest on Jan. 13, 1973, in Glendale, Zora First Calif. He preceded her in death on Zora Belle Wall First passed away Dec. 14, 2010. She was also preceded Dec. 17, 2010, at her residence in Tus- Theodore Williams in death by her parents; a daughter, Sandra Berniece Bushard; kahoma at the age of 89 years. a son, John Jeffrey Battiest; and a brother, Delbert King. Joyce Zora was born to Thomas Wall and Theodore “Ted” Williams, 81, had been employed as a bookkeeper for Wal-Mart and was also Allie Potts Wall in Albion on April 21, passed away on Feb. 17, 2011, in In- an officer with the Hugo Police Department. She was a fos- 1921. Both her parents were original dio, Calif. He was born in Oklahoma ter mother for at-risk children and a member of Victory Life Choctaw enrollees. City, the son of J.O. and Eunice Fariel Church of Boswell. She enjoyed serving her community, loved She attended Albion, Talihina and Williams. the “ranch life” and her Yorkshire terriers. Whitesboro schools as well as Okla- Ted’s family moved to Stigler, where She is survived by two daughters, Anita Chelf with husband homa Presbyterian College. She went he attended school and played as well Jody of Dansville, Mich., and Diana Crane of Boswell; one on to nursing school and became an LPN. Upon graduation as lettered for four years in basketball sister, Lila Imondi of Kernersville, N.C.; two brothers, Melvin she was employed at the state hospital, now known as the VA and lettered three years in football. He King of Meadview, Ariz., and Arthur King of Piggott, Ark.; Center, and the Talihina hospital, which is now the Choctaw served as senior class president and grandchildren, Angela Kopplin, Alex Chelf, Matthew Bushard Nation Health Care Center. graduated with the class of 1948. and Lisa Crane; great-grandchildren, Isobel Kopplin and Jes- Years passed and she decided to take a journey to California. He enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1950 and served sica Kopplin, along with many other relatives and friends. There she met George First. They were married in Little Rock in the Korean War from 1951-1952. He was awarded the Ko- in 1952. George was in the Navy and served for 30 years. After rean War Service Medal from the Korean government and the he retired from the military, they came to Oklahoma and lived Presidential Citation Medal that the First Marine Division was Loretta Willis near Whitesboro. awarded in World War II. Ted was a member of the First Ma- George enrolled at college in Wilburton. He finished in two Loretta Willis, 80, a homemaker, rine Division in Korea. years and went to Southeastern in Durant. After his gradua- passed away on Feb. 5, 2011. Loretta After discharge from service, he enrolled in Panhandle A&M tion, he and Zora moved to La Porte, Texas, where they resided was born Tanda Loretta Scantlen on College in Goodwell in 1952. While there he met his wife, Pa- for a long time. Zora was having health problems with a brain Aug. 1, 1930. Loretta is in a better tricia A. McPherson, and they shared 58 years together. He tumor and breast cancer. After she recovered, they moved to place where she will never endure pain graduated from Panhandle A&M with the class of 1955 and Tuskahoma to make their home. They lived there 20 years then and suffering again. then taught school and coached basketball at a junior high level they passed away one month apart. Zora loved to do crafts. She was preceded in death by her in Amarillo. She made a lot of ceramic Indian pieces, cloth work and sew- father, Tandy Scantlen; her mother, He moved to Bolivar and owned and operated an Otasco ing. She was proud of her Indian heritage and her home was Flossie Lesley; and stepfather, Barnie Hardware store. He then moved to Indio where he was em- an example. She and George attended Tuskahoma Methodist Lesley. ployed as an elementary teacher. Ted also was a 32nd degree Church, and they enjoyed the friendly people there. She is survived by R.A. Willis of Tulsa; daughter Karen Mason and a member of the Methodist Church in Indio. Zora was preceded in death by her husband of 58 years, her Hart with husband Jim of Tulsa; son Ira of Tulsa, and son Rick After retirement, he and his wife bought an RV and spent parents, seven sisters and four brothers. Willis with wife Janet of Tulsa. She is also survived by three summers in Macks Inn, Idaho. He enjoyed woodcarving, at- She is survived by one son, Thomas Wall of La Porte; one siblings, Bill Scantlen with wife Barbara of Wagoner; sister tending church and fellowshipping with church members. sister, Dee Tidwell of Honobia; three grandchildren, Sherry, Shirley Petcoff with husband John of McAlester and sister Preceding Ted in death were his parents; his twin brother, Zoriena, Ramsey and Thomas G. Wall; four great-grandchil- Gerry Weeks with husband Earl of McAlester. She leaves be- Tom; an older brother, James O.; one sister, Geraldine; and his dren and one great-great-grandchild; and special friends, Jody hind four treasured grandchildren, Jimmer Hart, Jerrod Hart, grandparents, uncle and aunts, who are buried at Stigler and and Pam Waugh, Louise O’Banion and Becky Edwards. All the Shannon Forbes, and Shea Matson. She also leaves behind Whitefield cemeteries. nieces and nephews were special to Zora. She also leaves a host seven great-grandchildren. Loretta enjoyed life while spending He is survived by his wife, Patricia; one son, Oren of Boli- of cousins and friends. the past 64 years married to R.A. She always had time to give var; three grandchildren, Jamie, Stephanie and Deborah; three The family thanks the Choctaw Nation Health Care Center while supporting her children as they participated in sports and great-grandchildren; and two brothers, W.W. “Pat” of Paso for all the care Zora received all the days she spent there. They cheerleading and grew into responsible adults. Loretta enjoyed Robles, Calif., and Carl Ray of Lompoc, Calif. also thank Latimer County Home Health and all the people that fishing, bowling, and playing bunco with her friends. An oc- assisted she and George during their long-term illnesses. She casional evening at the casino usually left her in the winning was a remarkable person, and she will be missed. column ahead of her husband. Loretta was passionate about Richard Jones sports and was an avid Oklahoma Sooners football fan. She would sit and intensely watch their games on television. It was Richard Lee Jones, 79, of Ada never a house divided with a good amount of OU memorabilia Agnes Baker passed away on April 10, 2010, at on display. an Oklahoma City hospital. He was The Willis family would like to thank Sherwood Manor staff Agnes Bond Baker, 80, passed away born May 29, 1930, in Earlsboro to for Loretta’s outstanding care during her stay there. This ex- on Dec. 20, 2010. She was born on Harrison Earmond and Ethel Ealo tended family is greatly appreciated and will be missed. Family June 5, 1930, in Bethel to Samuel and Asher Jones. He attended Holdenville would also like to extend a special thanks to Eva Walker, Lo- Jewel Johnston Bond. schools and graduated from Holden- retta’s very close friend. Eva fed Loretta lunch on a daily basis Agnes graduated from Battiest High ville High School. He also attended until circumstances interrupted. A truer friend cannot be found. School. She was raised in the church East Central University in Ada. and lived her life to serve God. She He married Margaret Louise Dean taught Sunday School while a teen- on June 8, 1958, in Yeager. Anna Radford ager and was a missionary in Tama, Richard was a graphic artist for the Holdenville Daily News Iowa. Agnes earned an associate’s for 18 years and the Ada Evening News for 33 years, retiring in Anna Althea Radford, 41, of Cedar degree from Warren Wilson College in Asheville, N.C., and a 1993. He was a member of the First Baptist Church and served Hill passed away on Jan. 2, 2011, in bachelor’s degree in Christian Education from the University in the Oklahoma National Guard during the Korean Conflict. Durango, Colo., at Mercy Medical of Tennessee in Maryville. She also attended the University of Survivors include his wife, Margaret “Tookie” Jones of Ada; Center. Texas at El Paso, where she acquired her certification to teach two sons, Timothy Dean Jones and wife Christy of Houston Our family and friends have reluc- in Texas. and Richard Alan Jones of Gainesville; two grandchildren, Ka- tantly turned Anna “Thea” over to the She worked at Wheelock Mission School for girls in Oklaho- leb Wisch Jones and Harrison Kerr Jones, both of Houston; Kingdom of God. Anna was born Jan. ma prior to her move to Texas. After marrying Owen J. Baker three great-grandchildren, Riley Wisch Jones and twins, Karter 21, 1969, in Missoula, Mont., to Jessie in 1955, Agnes moved to Anthony, N.M., and started her fam- Dean Jones and Kylie Marie Jones of Houston; a brother, Gene Elaine Hobmeier and Jerome A. Flink ily. Elaine Ruth was born the following March, followed by Jones of Norman; and a sister, Joyce Wright of Bethany. Jr. Michael Owen six years later, and finally her “baby,” Nowena He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Dorothy She spent a majority of her schooling years in Aztec, starting Jan in 1964. Agnes was a very kind, thoughtful woman who Mead; and three brothers, Harrison Jones Jr., Robert “Bob” in 1977. She graduated from Aztec High School in 1987. She had a love for children. She spent her life working with chil- Jones and Jack Jones. worked for the U.S. Postal Service for many years throughout dren and was the consummate teacher. She dedicated 35 years San Juan County but enjoyed working for the postmaster in of her life teaching children in the El Paso Independent School Waterflow the most. Anna and her husband Kurt established District and in Canutillo and Anthony N.M. JTK Services, an oil field company, which they truly enjoyed Agnes loved camping, fishing, reading, cooking and feeding Sarah Butler Conley working for until her passing. She had many hobbies that would people. An avid learning, there was nothing she could not do, pass her spare time when she could find any, which included often saying, “Where there is a will, there is a way.” Sarah Williams Butler Conley, 91, belly dancing with the Cats Eye Dancers of Aztec and working Agnes spoke English, Choctaw, French and some Spanish. passed away on Jan. 12, 2011, at her on her sewing projects. Choctaw was her first language. When she began elementary home in Ukiah, Calif., with family at Anna was preceded in death by her father, Jerome A. Flink Jr. school, she knew no English. She was the first of her family to her bedside. of Missoula; paternal grandparents Anna and Jerome Flink Sr. graduate from high school and college and the first female in She was born on Aug. 6, 1919, at of Missoula; and maternal grandparents Iva and Floyd Bastible her area to buy a new car. She was proud to be an educator and Pickens to original Choctaw enrollee of Trout Creek, Mont. in 1994, she won the cash prize for catching the largest fish of Mike Williams and Mary Elizabeth She is survived by Kurt, her beloved and grieving husband the season at Lake Whitney, Texas. Davis Williams. of 13 years who was always there by her side in her passing She was preceded in death by her husband of 47 years, Owen She is survived by her husband, Leo moments; caring daughter Jessica Green of Seattle; loving and J. Baker; son Michael Owen Baker; parents, Sam and Jewel Conley of Ukiah; daughter Sarah E. grieving parents Jessie Elaine and John Hobmeier; her only Bond, who both passed away in 1934; sisters, Beatrice Hooper, Thompson of Ruidoso, N.M.; sons, David Butler of Ukiah, brother, Floyd L. Flink of Farmington; her in-laws and many Frances and Hazel Blanche Bond; Dylan Baker Watts and Iggy Wayland Butler of Aloha, Ore.; brother Lee Roy Williams; aunts, uncles, cousins and friends throughout the United States. Baker passed away in 2006 and 2009 respectively. sisters, Rose Lee Senior and Martha Smith, all of Smithville; Her family would like to pass on a deep appreciation to the She is survived by two daughters, Elaine Baker Watts and along with many other nieces, nephews, grandchildren and doctors and medical staff of Mercy Medical Center during Al- Nowena J. Baker; her beloved son-in-law, Gary C. Watts; two great-grandchildren. thea’s courageous battle with cancer. granddogs, Melanie and Clyde P. Baker. April 2011, BISKINIK, Page 20
“Choctaw Camp on the Mississippi” – Karl Bodmer Palmetto-thatched Choctaw winter house (Bushmell Consstruction of Choctaw summer house/pavillion (Na- (1834) 1909; Plate 3). tional Anthropological Archives).
‘Chukka’ – the traditional Choctawshorter, the logs on the north andhouse south sides resting on these Dear Iti Fabvssa, gable end logs; and the structure was thus continued until a What can you tell me about early Choctaw houses? – Shirley single log or ridge pole, resting on the uppermost gable end logs, formed the top of the cover. All the cracks between the Dear Shirley, logs from top to bottom were closed with clay mortar, making Thank you for your great question! The traditional house is Iti Fabussa the house practically air proof. known as “chukka” in the Choctaw language. Our ancestors To make a water-proof roof, wide boards 20 feet or more in conceived and designed the chukka to transform common lo- length were used. The boards were slightly cut about midway cal raw materials into comfortable and strong buildings that of their length so as to bend easily at this place. They were then met their basic needs of shelter, protection, and storage. Like placed and bent over the house, the cut places resting and bend- today, these houses served as the physical setting of family life, ing on the ridge pole, and long enough to make sufficient eaves a comfortable place to visit with friends, to share meals, and to to protect the daubed walls from the drift of the rain. sit back and relax from a day’s work and stress. The specific The floor of the house was made of earth about a foot high forms of traditional Choctaw houses have changed through and packed hard. When the house was needed for cold weather, time, to meet changing needs and tastes. This segment will fo- a fire of dry hickory bark was made in the middle of the floor, cus on the types of traditional houses that were built by Choc- and when the fire was burned to coals, it was covered with taw people in the 1700s. ashes and embers. The door was then closed. The house, now When Bernard Romans traveled across the Choctaw and very warm, was ready for the sleepers, who made their pallets Chickasaw homeland in the 1770s, he wrote that the houses on the floor around the fire. of both tribes were identical, and that they included a summer Winter houses of this form were used by some of the Missis- house and a winter house. Edward Mease described a Choctaw sippi Choctaw until 1850 (ibid.) Some of the Choctaw living winter house that he visited in the early 1770s as follows: in Louisiana lived in circular, palmetto-covered winter houses This house is nearly of a circular figure and built of clay up until 1900. mixed with haulm [straw or grass]. The top is conical and cov- Period descriptions (e.g. Adair 1775:419; Anonymous ered with a kind of thatch [the nature of] which I cou’d not 1918[1755]), indicate that unlike the traditional winter houses, make out. The inside roof is divided into four parts and there Choctaw summer houses were rectangular in outline, with a are cane seats raised about two feet from the ground which go peaked, gabled roof. These roofs had an opening at each end to round the building (I mean on the inside), broad enough to lie promote airflow and allow smoke to escape. Walls were solid, upon, making the wall serve the purpose of a pillow. Under- Detail of summer house/pavillion “Choctaw Village Near the Chefuncte” – Francois Bernard (1869). and covered in clay mortar, like a winter house. Sometimes, neath these seats or beds they keep their potatoes and pumpi- they were even white-washed with powder from burned mus- ons, cover’d with earth, but their corn is in a building by itself sel shells. raised at least eight feet from the ground. The fire place is in According to Adair (1775:418-419), summer house con- the middle of the floor, just as in some parts of the Highlands struction began with setting vertical pine posts in the ground of Scotland only they have no aperture at top to evacuate the at the corners of the structure. Additionally, three tall posts smoke. The door is opposite one side (for the house is round were vertically emplaced along the center line of the house, without, yet on the inside it approaches near to the figure of one at each gabled end, and one in the center. A long, hori- an octagon, and is exceeding small both in height and breadth zontal ridge pole was to the top of these posts. Sometimes, the (reproduced in Swanton 2001:30). rafters were long saplings that laid across the entire roof. They James Adair documented the mid-1700s construction of were notched at the ridgepole and fasted with strips of oak or Chickasaw / northern Choctaw houses in impressive detail hickory. Lathing was made of split saplings, and the roof was (Adair 1775:419-420), this will be summarized in the follow- covered in split pine or cypress clapboards. These were then ing paragraphs: covered in bark and weighted down with an elaborate system According to Adair, the construction of a winter houses usu- of heavy logs. Doors ware made from split poplar, chosen be- ally began when a chill could be felt in the fall air. House- cause of its light weight. The interior of these structures had building was a well-organized activity, in which community raised beds made of cane. members came together to raise a family’s dwelling. The work Choctaws made other structures, basically similar to that just could be completed in just one day. A Choctaw winter house made by Les Williston, Tushka described, but less substantial. Some of these had one wall on Work commenced with setting a series of forked posts in the Homma Council House Grounds. the north side, or no walls at all. Such buildings were used ground in a circular shape, about five or six feet high. These ba- to provide shade and keep the rain off during warm weather. sically served as the studs for the walls and as the outer support flickering yellow light onto the walls. The warmed air juxta- Sometimes people must have lived in them too. for the roof. Four large pine posts were then emplaced in the poses the aromas of smoke, earth, and beans cooking on the During the 1700s, Choctaws also made several types of tem- ground near the center of the house to help hold up the center fire. On the floor around the hearth, are several clay cooking porary houses. The type constructed at cane-harvesting camps of the roof. The wall posts were interwoven with flexible, split pots and eating bowls, sitting at the edges of finely woven has already been described (Iti Fabvssa Feb. 2011). On long strips from the heartwood of the oak tree. Heavy logs were laid cane mats that cover the hard-packed ground. Sliced and dried trips, lean-tos were quickly constructed of saplings, bark, and with one end on these vertical wall posts, and the other, raised fruits and vegetables hang on strings from the rafters and cen- other materials readily at hand (see photo). Also, a peaked-roof up on one of the four big posts set near the center of the house. tral posts, casting their own unique shadows on the walls. The bark structures were made by Choctaws during extended win- Dry poles were set atop these sloping roof logs, and woven walls themselves are decorated with tanned and painted hides, ter hunts. These will be covered in more detail in a future issue. with the oak splints. After the framework was complete, the baskets, woven belts, and weapons ready to defend the com- entire structure was daubed with clay mixed with dry grass. munity in an instant. Family members and clan members from References Cited This served as an insulation, similar to adobe of the southwest. the next house comfortably lounge on the cane seats around the Adair, James When the daubing was half-way dry, the roof was thatched walls, talking and laughing in Choctaw, even the toddlers. This 1775 The History of the American Indians. Printed for Ed- with dry grass. Poles were laid on top of the thatch and securely scene was as familiar to our ancestors as our dinning rooms are ward and Charles Dilly. London. lashed down to hold the thatch in place. The doors were made to us. If suddenly transported into this it, a Choctaw of today wide enough for only one person to enter, while the houses just might feel a little strange, perhaps strangely at home… Anonymous usually had a winding entrance for six or seven feet to slow A type of winter house was also made in the southern part of 1918 (1755?) Translated by John Swanton. An Early Ac- cold wind and intruders. The floor of the house was often made Choctaw country. These round, domed structures had frames count of the Choctaw Indians. Mem- a meter lower than the surrounding ground. This helped make made of small saplings and were thatched with palmetto on oirs of the American Anthropological Association 5(2). the house warmer, and provided protection from enemy bullets. their rooks and walls. A hole in the top of the roof for smoke to Bushnell, David Beds lined the inner walls of the house. These set up several escape (Bushnell 1909:7). The large door visible in a surviving 1909 The Choctaw Indians of Bayou Lacomb, St. Tammany feet off the ground on a platform of oak, making it harder for image (see photo) suggests that Choctaws living in this area Parish, Louisiana. fleas to attack. The mattresses were made of split cane and cov- had less cold to deal with than their northern neighbors. Smithsonian Institution Bureau of American Ethnology, Bul- ered in softly tanned hides of panthers, buffalo, or deer. With the influx of large numbers of Europeans into the Choc- letin 48. Government Printing Office,Washington D.C. A fire was burned in a hearth on the ground at the center of taw homeland, during the first part of the 1800s, more and more the hut in the evening and covered with ashes at night. Accord- Choctaws began to live in log cabins. Even the style of the tra- Romans, Bernard ing to Adair, coals would be scraped out of the fire and taken to ditional Choctaw winter house was altered to be more like a 1999[1775] A Concise Natural History of East and West individual beds during the night as needed. With little ventala- cabin. Henry Halbert (n.d.) describes this later style Choctaw Florida, edited by Kathryn Holland Braund. University of Ala- tion, these houses were dark and smoky, and people often slept winter house as follows: bama Press, Tuscaloosa. with their heads covered to help filter the smoke (Ibid. 420). A square structure of round longs, notched and fitted into Drawing from a variety of sources, we can picture what one each other at the corners, was built up to about seven feet in Swanton, John R. would experience upon stooping down to enter the doorway of height. At this point the roof or rather top and gable ends were 2001 Source Material for the Social and Ceremonial Life such a house on a winter day. The only source of light inside, constructed in this manner, the house supposed to stand east of the Choctaw Indians. Reprint. University of Alabama Press, a sacred fire of dry hickory wood, burns silently and throws and west: The logs formed the gable ends were gradually made Tuscaloosa.
Tushka Homma Ceremonial Grounds Choctaw Moccasin Class invites you to attend our – Atoka – April 14th at 6 p.m. at the Atoka Field Office, 1410 S. Gin Rd. – Idabel – Fifth Year of Stomp Dance April 18th at 5:30 p.m. at the Idabel Field Office, 2408 Lincoln Rd. Saturday, April 30 – Coalgate – Stickball at 4 p.m.; Feast at 6 p.m.; Dance from dark til dawn April 25th at 6 p.m. at the Coalgate Field Office, 103 E. CaliforniaAve. Traditional clothing encouraged. – Oklahoma City – Chahta Anumpa Stickball - Pottery May 21st at 5 p.m. at the OK Choctaw Tribal Alliance, 5230 S. Youngs. Blvd. Baskets - Village Life - Hunting - Gardens We come together to protect our old way Choctaw Traditional Pottery Class for those who came before us – Chahta Sia Hoke! – Durant – April 24th, May 15th – 5-9 p.m. Come learn and participate in our oldest religions practices Pottery Studio behind Cultural Events Building, 4451 Choctaw Rd. with others who celebrate the traditions of our Choctaw ancestors. – Antlers – Bring lawn chairs, jackets and blankets. No photos of Sacred Fire. No drugs or alco- April 7th, April 21st, May 5th, May 19th – 6-9:30 p.m. hol – this is a religious and family event – please respect! Held at the Choctaw Village Antlers Library and Community Building, 104 S.E. 2nd Street in Tushka Homma, across from the Council House and Museum. – Goodland – April 21st – 6-9 p.m. Contact Les Williston with any questions at 918-457-9299 or [email protected]. Goodland Academy