Choctaw Nation Health Care Center celebrates anniversary
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Photo by Deidre Elrod
A crowd gathers around the unveiling of the bronze statues at the Talihina Choctaw Nation Health Care Center.
Choctaw Nation Health Care Center celebrates anniversary
By Christian Toews
The 20th anniversary of the
Choctaw Nation Health Care
Center was celebrated on Fri-
day, July 26, in Talihina. The
half-hour ceremony featured
colors posted by the Choctaw
Nation Color Guard, the Lord’s
Prayer signed by Junior Miss
Choctaw Nation Kalin Beller
and a brief video of health care
services.
The health care center is a
152,894-square-foot state-of-the-
art health facility. Opening in
1999, it houses a 44-bed hospital
that includes an outpatient
clinic with 79 exam rooms, and
13 treatment rooms.
The health care center has Photo by Deidre Elrod
a 24/7 Emergency Department.
A full range of clinical services Three of the bronze life-size statues unveiled at the hospital anniversary celebration.
are offered: Surgery, Family
Practice, Pediatrics, Labora-
tory, Radiology, Pharmacy, sanatorium. Although emp- services and facilities within It’s a whole different feeling
Physical Therapy, Audiology, ty, the structure still stands, their service area. In building now. We have some of the best
Dental and a full-service Di- reminding visitors of earlier this new facility, The Choctaw providers that you can come
etary Department. times and how far the tribe has Nation became the first tribe to across,” said Mings.
Talihina is the original site progressed over the years. fund its own hospital. She said that the continued
of the first two Choctaw Nation The Choctaw Nation Chief Gary Batton was the improvements have made more
Indian hospitals, both of which took over administration of Health Director in 1999 when services accessible to tribal
are close to the current facility. this native rock structure in the new hospital opened. He members. “So many more
The first hospital was a wooden 1985, along with the clinics in helped with the original ribbon services are provided. We may
structure built in 1915, and was McAlester, Hugo and Broken cutting ceremony and spoke have had to send people else-
known as the Carter Hospital. Bow. The historic agreement about his experience during where, now we are doing those
Only the foundation remains between Indian Health Ser- the celebration for the 20th things here. And it’s saving the
vice and the Choctaw Nation anniversary. tribal members and the Choc-
September 2019 Issue today.
marked the first time a native “We were out here laying taw Nation money,” she said.
The second hospital is a na-
tive stone structure originally tribe in the mainland U.S. had sod until three in the morning Mings also commented on
built in 1937 as a Tuberculosis fully contracted all the health getting ready for the opening,” her roll at the hospital and
recalled Chief Batton. “The what it means to her.
previous facility was 60 years “It is an honor and a blessing
old when planning started in when I think about how I am a
1997, for the $28 million new tribal member working for the
hospital,” he said. health system that is improv-
In a separate interview, ing lives. Making lives better.
Chief Batton said, “It was the Touching lives in ways that,
first major commitment to our years ago, we were not able
people in a long time. It was to and it’s just an honor to do
also a sign that the tribe was that.” She said.
committed to improving our The Choctaw Nation Health
tribal members’ health. At the Care Center released informa-
time, it was the largest alloca- tion showing changes over the
tion of tribal funds the tribe past two decades. In its first
had ever committed to, so it year, there were 69,756 am-
was a sign we were financially bulatory visits, 1,450 hospital
stable. It had a huge impact admissions and 274 newborns.
on the area, because it provid- In the past year, there have
ed the best emergency room been 191,096 ambulatory visits,
around. It impacted the state 1,224 hospital admissions and
as well, because we could now 479 newborns. There also are
take care of our own. That 121 associates in the Choctaw
freed up resources for other health care system that have
Oklahomans.” served for 20 years or more.
Kelly Mings, the Executive The ceremony concluded
director of Hospital Services, with the unveiling of six life-
remembers the old hospital sized bronze figures created by
and said that the facilities built nationally renowned sculptor
in 1999 improved care drasti- Matthew Placzek of Oma-
cally. “At the old hospital there ha, Nebraska. These bronze
were long waits, you wouldn’t statues sit at the entry plaza of
know what primary care phy- the hospital. Placzek attended
sician you would see, and they the ceremony and said that the
Photo by Judy Allen would send you out for differ- project took him almost two
The original tuberculosis sanatorium still stands in Talihina. ent services. It was scattered. years to complete.
Photo by Deidre Elrod Photo by Deidre Elrod
Pictured are two of the Choctaw family of bronze statues unveiled at the hospital This figure represents a grandmother in the family of life-sized bronze statues that
anniversary celebration. were unveiled on July 26.
2 BISKINIK SEPTEMBER 2019 Cooking Month – Hoponi Hvshi
Faith, Family, Culture
Choctaw Nation cares about all Oklahomans
If you’ve been paying
attention to Oklahoma Chief Batton’s Aug. 12 op-ed non-gaming businesses we operate within their jurisdic-
tions. The fund has distributed $742,800 to 24 cities and
news lately, I’m sure you
counties.
have heard about Gover-
nor Stitt’s plans for the
published in the Journal Record While I believe Oklahoma’s tribes should be Governor
Stitt’s greatest allies in making Oklahoma a Top 10 state,
tribal gaming compacts
Recently Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt published an it is difficult to not feel targeted by his recent position on
in Oklahoma.
op-ed, signaling his intention to open negotiations on the the gaming compact and the state’s passage of HB2667,
The leaders of 31 tribes
gaming compacts many tribes have with Oklahoma. We which increased taxes on our customers and is driving
throughout this great
oppose Gov. Stitt’s suggestions for a variety of philosoph- business away from Oklahoma gaming to other states.
state and I strongly dis-
ical and economic reasons. The revenue generated from gaming is used to better
agree with Gov. Stitt.
The governor’s op-ed was factually inaccurate in stat- the lives of all Oklahomans and the communities that we
Yes, we are sovereign
ing our compact does not renew, which does not hold up live in. Tribes and the State established the existing com-
tribes, but we are also
to legal review, and he seems to be unaware of just how pact in good faith as a mutually beneficial partnership,
citizens of this great
beneficial tribes are to the state. and this compact was approved by the people of Okla-
state. The name Okla-
Tribes in Oklahoma have a nearly $13 billion economic homa. Gov. Stitt’s position lacks understanding of the
homa comes from the
impact to the state. The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma is compact agreement, is factually questionable, and seems
Choctaw language. We
a huge tourism driver with 82% of our tracked revenue devoid of awareness of just how invested and supportive
are the Choctaw Nation
coming from out of state customers. tribes are to Oklahoma.
Chief Gary Batton
of Oklahoma and all of
Unlike other businesses, ours are rooted firmly in I am calling on the governor to re-affirm a commitment
our members have roots
southeastern Oklahoma, and we reinvest our profits into to a united government-to-government partnership with
in this state. This is our
Oklahomans, not shareholders. How do we reinvest? the tribal nations of Oklahoma, a better understanding
home. I graduated from Clayton and that is where
In recent years, we have worked alongside the state to of the legalities of the existing compact, and a greater
I still live today. I love the people who live here and
offer free vaccinations to anyone living in our jurisdic- appreciation for how tribes already make substantial
want every Oklahoman, tribal and non-tribal, to suc-
tion. This year alone we provided 33,000 flu shots. Our investments into the state for the benefit of all its citizens.
ceed. I’m sure that is a shared sentiment of all tribal
infrastructure projects benefit rural areas where
leaders. The fact that Gov. Stitt suggests otherwise is
other levels of government don’t invest. Recent
honestly disappointing.
projects include walking trails, school parking
I recently released an op-ed in the Journal Record,
lots, and over 50 miles of roadway.
explaining my thoughts and feelings on this matter. I
Our summer education intervention program
want to share this letter with you, because I think it
reached 3,800 students, tribal and non-tribal, living in
is essential that you all know how much we genuinely
80-plus school districts in southeastern Oklahoma and
care for the people of Oklahoma.
over 90% of students improved their reading and math
The point of this letter isn’t about bragging about
proficiency. Choctaw Nation Emergency Management re-
what we do. Our ancestors taught us to stay humble
sponded to many natural disasters, supporting 295 Choc-
but to have a servant’s heart. Like the donation our
taw Nation tribal members and 44,461 non-members.
ancestors made all those years ago to the people of
This year, we launched Choctaw Community Part-
Ireland, we are descendants of generous and loving
ner Fund, which awards city and county governments
people. That’s is why it is so important to help every-
quarterly contributions based on the revenues of the
one, not just the Choctaw people.
Agriculture is important What’s on your mind
Whatever is on our
Fall is finally ap- mind is that which
proaching, with the first dominates our lives at
official day of the season that time. Therefore, it is
on Sept. 23. I hope that imperative to think right
it brings with it cooler in order to live right.
temperatures. So far, Wrongful thinking will
2019 has been a roller produce a wrongful life.
coaster of wild weather. A person’s actions cannot
Deadly tornadoes, wide- rise above his thought
spread flooding and re- life. Whatever captivates
cord-breaking heat have our minds will eventually
especially taken their toll control our deeds. The de-
on agricultural producers Photo by Kendra Germany
mands of contemporary
across the country. Many The annual Choctaw Nation Ag Expo was held Aug. 3,
life of gaining material-
lost entire crops in the 2019, in Durant. The event was bigger and better than istic achievements bring
floods, ripping away their ever, attracting 650 attendees and showcasing new fear regarding the supply
source of income. I firmly activities and vendors. Pastor Olin Williams
of daily necessities. Many
believe that agricultural Employee Chaplain
people today are wor-
Assistant Chief Jack Austin Jr. producers are the life- ried about their health,
blood of our country. The of these elements is key to proper management for finances, housings, jobs, etc. only to find out that things
products they produce producers. do not seem to get better. Anxiety and worry seem to be
are what allows us to feed our people. Land Management works closely with local, state the elements that have become normal behavior in the
The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma understands the and federal USDA programs to better serve our tribal minds of people today. Jesus deals with the subject at
importance of agricultural production, and the hard- members and conserve, protect and improve our trib- great length with His disciples. He knew that this would
ships producers face. This is where our Land Manage- al lands. have a paralyzing effect on their future ministry. In Mat-
ment department comes into play. They are here to The program also hosts the annual Choctaw Nation thew 6:24, Jesus says, “No man can serve two masters:
protect, enhance, and improve natural resources for Ag Expo at the Event Center in Durant. This year, 650 for either he will hate the one, and love the other, or else
the Choctaw Nation. They provide technical assis- people attended the event. This was an impressive he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot
tance to agricultural producers, farmers, and ranch- increase in attendance from last year’s 500 patrons. serve God and mammon.” The point driven here is that
ers, by hosting outreach meetings. These meetings The 2019 event was bigger and better than ever, with the principle of life (soul or inner being) is more im-
cover topics like soil health and vegetable production. added activities and vendors. The Ag Expo is a unique portant than food and clothing or material things. When
There are two demonstration sites located in Hugo event, bringing together all different walks of life God is first in our lives, all other loves and needs fall
and Lehigh, where they can demonstrate different with one common goal. That goal is to create a bet- automatically into proper perspective. Preoccupation
agricultural practices so the agriculture producer can ter tomorrow for our land, families and food supply. with materialism and no placement of spiritual values
see results first-hand of how things work. Land Man- The event allows producers to compare products and develops the mind to become overwhelmed with worry
agement also offers a Farmers Market Promotion Pro- techniques while gaining information on available in time. In Philippians 4:6, the Apostle Paul directs, “Be
gram. This United States Department of Agriculture programs. It is an opportunity for our community to careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and sup-
funded grant, assists in the marketing and promotion learn about where our food comes from. Events like plication with thanksgiving let your requests be made
of locally grown foods. In November, the department this help promote awareness of natural resources and known unto God.” “Be careful for nothing,” does not
will implement a TSCAN unit weather station at the agricultural industry. They also allow producers suggest carelessness, but rather to refrain from being
Jones Academy. This unit will serve as a resource the opportunity to grow their network. They can meet troubled with cares and unnecessary burdens. In Mat-
for Jones students for their science, technology, other producers to share ideas and collaborate to thew 6:25, Jesus says, “Therefore I say unto you, Take no
engineering and mathematics programs. It will be an solve common issues. thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall
excellent tool for tribal farmers and ranchers, as well. Our Land Management team works diligently to drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not
The Land Management team will be able to compile help our agricultural producers succeed. If you would the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?”
information regarding rainfall amounts, soil moisture like to learn more about the program, please call (580) “Take no thought” does not mean thoughtlessness, but
and soil temperatures. Having a better understanding 924-8280 ext. 4276 for more information. rather anxious or undue thought. Worry is a concern
out of control. Prioritizing the thought process is the
beginning of lining up the mind with the will of God and
History of commercial gaming in Oklahoma submit to a divine plan to have needs met.
By Bradley Gernand regulatory oversight; and revenue sharing arrange-
ments. The federal government approved the terms of
Commercial gaming—or “gambling,” as it was once re- the agreement, including the “exclusivity fees,” or share
ferred to in its less regulated form—by tribes in Oklaho- of the proceeds, which the tribes would pay the state.
ma dates back to the early 1980s. This development was The gaming compact proved very successful.
contentious, with several lawsuits challenging the tribes’ In 2018, 31 tribes in Oklahoma administered 130 tribal
right to do so. The tribes won the cases. gaming operations, helping pump $13 billion dollars
In other states, the controversy continued. In 1987, into Oklahoma’s economy. According to the terms of
Congress passed the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. As the gaming compact, the tribes direct between 4%-6%
one legal analysis put it, “IGRA represented a massive of their gaming revenues into state coffers. During 2017
compromise between tribal, state, and federal interests.” that amount was nearly $134 million, a 1.44% increase
This compromise, which has proved stable, divided over the year before.
gaming into three classes. The IGRA, while generally On July 8, 2019, came proof that state officials had no-
friendly to Indian tribes, was not an unqualified victory; ticed—and wanted a larger share of the proceeds. Okla-
it limited their ability to operate Las Vegas-style Class III homa Gov. Kevin Stitt published an op-ed piece in the
gaming. Tulsa World signaling his intention to renegotiate the
In 1992, the first tribal-state compacts came into exis- gaming compact, with the apparent interest of increas-
tence but concerned only lesser forms of gaming. Okla- ing the exclusivity fee paid by the tribes to the state. He
homa proved an unwilling partner and was generally insisted that the gaming compact will terminate as of
reluctant to negotiate to widen the playing field. This Jan. 1, 2020, and that its existing terms are no longer
spurred innovative advances in the gaming practiced in fair. “Today, most state-tribal compacts around the
Indian-owned casinos, with video displays and net- country provide for exclusivity fees to the state of 20% to The Choctaw Nation has partnered
worked games adding to the excitement. 25%,” he wrote.
By the early 2000s, this technological leap and the Chiefs of the Five Tribes, and many others, cried with United For Oklahoma to educate
gaming success it allowed prompted Oklahoma to agree foul. Chief Gary Batton was in the lead, releasing a letter
to return to the negotiating table. The result was State countering the governor’s main points. Tribal leaders in Oklahomans on the critical role the
Question 712, which was placed on the Oklahoma ballot Oklahoma, including Chief Batton, issued a statement
in 2004.Voters approved the measure overwhelmingly, opposing Stitt’s move on several grounds. Contrary to tribes play in our state’s future.
lured in part by its provision that many of the revenues the governor’s assertion, they say, the compact doesn’t
would go to support education in the state. Among the expire on Dec. 31, 2019, but will renew. Even more critical
gaming allowed were electronic bonanza-style bingo to the argument is the governor’s cavalier use of facts, These are the facts every Oklahoman must know.
games, electronic amusement games, electronic instant several of which were inaccurate.
bingo games, and non house-banked card games. Follow- Tribal contributions to Oklahoma are significant, and
ing the successful ballot measure was a need to establish should factor in the discussion.
The Choctaw Nation has partnered with United for Watch the videos and stay informed at:
rules of the road. A ”model compact” was agreed to by
the state and many of its tribes. As stipulated by IGRA,
the agreement, typically referred to as the “gaming
Oklahoma to educate Oklahomans on the critical role
tribes play in the state’s future. For more information, UnitedForOklahoma.com
compact,” specified the games which would be played; please visit UnitedForOklahoma.com.
UNI_19-CNUO-034 ChoctawTribal_2.indd 1 8/19/19 5:25 PM
SEPTEMBER 2019 Cooking Month – Hoponi Hvshi BISKINIK 3
Perry inducted into Starr Women’s Hall of Fame
was an original Chero- ple who needed assistance. “I had to understand the
kee enrollee. Perry said system in order to explain it to them,” She said.
that growing up in the Although Perry worked primarily as an employ-
1930’s as a tribal member ment specialist but her dedication to equality didn’t
was much different than stop at her job. Her entire life was focused on this
today. She said she rec- goal. She has volunteered in several organizations
ognized injustice from a including the Homeless Service Coalition, Stand for
very young age. Children and KC Harmony. Perry has received four
She said there were certificates of service as a member of the Missouri
times that the young Na- Advisory Council for the U.S. Commission on Civil
tive American children Rights. In 2014 she was honored with the Martin
were forced to wait until Luther King Olathe Kansas NAACP Hero of Diversi-
the white children had ty Award.
been fed in food assis- According to their website, the Starr Women’s
tance lines before they Hall of Fame is dedicated to recognizing extraordi-
could eat. “This said in nary Kansas City women and preserving the history
a few words that I was of their accomplishments. These women are social
different from the rest of reformers, volunteers, philanthropists, civic lead-
the kids,” said Perry. ers, activists and educators. They are movers and
This experience shakers whose tireless commitment to community
spurred her desire to see has made Kansas City a better place to live. The
people treated equally Hall of Fame is a repository for their legacies. By
Photo by Christian Toews regardless of ethnicity. sharing their stories, the Hall of Fame encourages
Chief Gary Batton, Mona Perry and Assistant Chief Jack Austin, Jr. at the Poteau It also fueled her desire and inspires women everywhere. Perry said she was
community center where Perry was recognized for her accomplishments. to help the poor and honored to be an inductee.
underprivileged. “When Perry was recently recognized at the Poteau
I was in training for community center. Chief Gary Batton and the tribal
By Christian Toews employment counseling, counsel recognized her lifelong work and her recent
early in my training days, I saw then that the mi- induction into the Starr Women’s Hall of Fame.
Mona Perry has been fighting poverty and nority people and the poor were treated differently. Although she is now retired, Perry said she still
racism for 88 years and these efforts have not gone That right there really put something in my mind tries to help people any way she can. She wants
unnoticed. She was recently inducted into the Starr right then,” she said. people to pick up where she left off and continue to
Women’s Hall of Fame for her work as an advocate Later this desire led her to begin a career with help the poor and underprivileged. “I left a lot of
with the American Indian Center in Kansas City, the American Indian Center. Perry said the major- unfinished business. I fought poverty but didn’t win
Missouri. ity of her job with the American Indian Center was it,” she said.
She was born in Hodgen, Oklahoma. Her father to understand how the government aid and benefit
was an original Choctaw enrollee and her mother programs worked so that she could explain it to peo-
Choctaw heritage, values inspire success
By Chris Jennings “It’s just a way for me to educate other
people that maybe don’t know, and it
Hookers Burgers in the Fort Worth reminds me of where I came from,” said
Stockyards may look like just another Hooker, adding, “if you don’t know where
burger joint, but the scripture Ruth you came from, and who sacrificed what,
Hooker placed in the foundation as it was then how do you know where to go?”
being poured, her family’s handprints Hooker says the lessons don’t stop with
pressed into the corner and the phrase, the writing on the wall. They also come
“chi pisa la chike” prominently engraved from the menu in the form of Indian ta-
where all can see, serve as a way for cos. Hooker explains, “You’re in the heart
Ruth Hooker to remember, and share of the stockyards, when they see Indian
her Choctaw values of faith, family and taco they think that they’re going to get a
culture. Mexican taco or a street taco.”
Those values have helped Hooker build She takes that opportunity to explain to
her restaurant from the ground up and them what an Indian taco is and how it’s
propel her Oklahoma Onion Burger to made with fry bread, using a traditional
Best Burger in Fort Worth. a result of Choctaw recipe passed down from her
the 2019 Fort Worth Magazine’s readers great-grandmother.
choice poll. Hookers Burgers has been open for two
To say Hooker is proud of her Choc- years in the Fort Worth Stockyards, with
taw heritage is an understatement. The a second location opening at the end of
granddaughter of Choctaw Code Talker, July. While she had planned something
George Davenport, remembers when her like this for a long time, when it came to
grandmother would hold her face saying, building, it was no easy task.
Photos by Chris Jennings
“don’t forget you’re Indian.” Hooker, who has never worked in the
restaurant or construction business, was
Ruth Hooker, left, watches her mother, Kathryn make fry bread. The fry bread
“So I try to find ways in my daily life to
honor that. One of the ways that I do it, is her own general contractor when she served at Hookers Burgers in Fort Worth is a family recipe passed down from
to educate other people,” said Hooker. built the restaurant. Ruth’s great-grandmother.
Hooker says when people see the She says there were several times in
Choctaw phrase, “chi pisa la chike” they the process where it seemed like there and say, it’s too much, or it’s too stressful.
think it’s Spanish, but don’t know what it was always something else that had to “You have to define in those moments,
means. She then gets to tell them that it’s be done before she completed something what are you about. Who let you be here
not Spanish, but Choctaw, meaning until important. Or there was always just one today to even have the opportunity to do
we meet again, explaining that there is more thing. She remembers thinking that this.” Hooker credits her Choctaw heri-
no Choctaw word for goodbye. this would be where others would quit tage for her resilience. She wears jewelry
that has the Choctaw seal, a war memo-
rial for her grandfather and other pieces
of Native art that help her through tough
situations.
“Anytime that I was going to meet with
an inspector; anytime that I was going to
do something important; anytime I had
to meet with a contractor, I put this on…
and said, I got all this stuff behind me, so
I can do whatever is in front of me.”
Hooker’s story isn’t just inspiring Ruth Hooker has the Choctaw phrase
because of her hard work, or her success chi pisa la chike painted on her wall as a
with the onion burger, but also for how conversation starter and an opportunity
she uses those things to help others.
to teach a little Choctaw.
“I have a large population of homeless
that come to this area, they live down
here, and when they want something
make a huge difference during the winter
to eat or drink, well, I have eat or drink
when temperatures drop.
in my restaurant. I would never turn
Feeding and helping others is some-
someone away because they didn’t have
thing Hooker’s family has always done.
money,” said Hooker.
Hooker said she remembers as a child
Some will pick up and take out the
people just stopping on their way to
trash, but she doesn’t require it. “Even if
work, or on their way home to eat at her
they don’t, they can order off the menu
grandmother’s house. She just thought
just like anybody else,” said Hooker.
Ruth Hooker uses 100% Hereford beef in all of her hamburgers and serves them it was interesting, and for the most part,
It’s not just food she helps with. She’ll
with hand cut fries. The burger was recently voted Best Burger in Fort Worth by the normal. “These are just things that I’ve
also place clothing items in the bathroom
readers of Fort Worth Magazine in their 2019 poll. been taught growing up by my parents
for them to take. Something that could
and my grandparents,” said Hooker.
Hooker has taken her onion burger
and used the lessons she learned growing
up Choctaw to create something special.
She’s used the core Choctaw values of
faith, family and culture to literally build
her foundation and then used that to
spread what it means to be Choctaw to
the world.
“When you start out, you think it’s go-
ing to be about the food, but what really
happens is it’s about everything but the
food,” said Hooker.
It’s about doing a good job and helping
others, not so much the burgers or the
bottom line.
“We’re not trying to sell a product.
We’re trying to create memories…and
our food just happens to be along for the
ride.”
The Inspire What’s Next campaign
aims to tell the story of the Choctaw
Nation through the inspiring stories of
tribal members, employees and tribal
members who are employees. These
stories are about cultivating leaders,
strengthening families, supporting our
neighbors and building economic oppor-
tunities.
4 BISKINIK SEPTEMBER 2019 Cooking Month – Hoponi Hvshi
Council Corner
Continued growth for District District 9 has a successful year
10 and Nation Halito District 9. We are happy to announce that
40 families moved into our LEAP homes May 30 in
Halito, chim achukma. It is always great to share Durant. This program is a new homeownership pro-
some of the happenings in District 10 and the Choctaw gram for Choctaw Tribal Members who meet program
Nation. income guidelines. Our Tribal members pay $500 a
We had the pleasure of having the ribbon-cutting month for a new home. We look forward to providing
for 10 new LEAP homes in Stringtown in the month of more homes in the future.
July. We also have steady progress on the construction Our District 9 community center hosted our schol-
of the 10 independent elder units and 10 affordable arship banquet May 28 and presented a total of 19
rental units being built in Atoka. We officially have our scholarships worth $1000 each. It’s been a great part-
wellness center expansion completed with another 4,000 nership with the Chahta Foundation, which matches
sq. ft. of workout space available. I encourage everyone dollar for dollar and allows us to touch more kids’
to take advantage of these wellness centers to help im- lives in District 9. A big thank you to Chahta Founda-
prove your own personal fitness and healthy lifestyle. tion and all who helped raise this money.
The summer was full of camps for the kids in both James Dry, District 9 I would like to congratulate and welcome our two
Anthony Dillard, District 10 athletic and cultural related events and was a wonder- newest members to the Tribal Council, Eddie Bohan-
ful success, a big shout out to the summer camp divi- an from District 3 and Robert Karr from District 11. I
sion on their completion. I believe we have one more look forward to working with these fine men. I also want to say a special thank
camp coming, the first drone camp for kids to encour- you to Bob Pate and Kenny Bryant for their many years of service to our Tribe.
age STEM related studies, as well as promote the Drone IPP test site in Daisy Oklaho- We had 105 youth participate in our summer Youth Work Program in Bryan
ma. More information can be found at www.choctawnation.com. County this year. Participants gained work experience in retail, avionics, food
It is that time of the year that budgets are being submitted and reviewed for and beverage, information technology, health and wellness, multimedia and edu-
approval for the whole Choctaw Nation. The budget process continues to get more cation. Our community center had the privilege
streamlined, so the council can better evaluate the budget request. The executive of having two of our youngsters participate
branch created the Strategy and Analytics division, which was given the charge to in the program in Isiah Marris and Onnat-
have viable strategy plans to ensure data driven decisions are being deployed. We minti Watson. They learned many skills while
have made great strides serving our elders. They each created a vision
in software applications board with their goals and presented them to
that will provide the data the operations team at the Durant resort. It was
to generate a report in a a great learning experience for these two up-
timely, efficient manner. and-coming tribal members.
The Choctaw Nation of The Miss Choctaw Pageant of 2019 resulted
Oklahoma is in the best in naming Audrina Samuels as District 9 Little
financial position it has Miss, Kenzie Wilson as District 9 Junior Miss
ever been in the history and Haleigh Gibson as District 9 Senior Miss
of our government. The during this years’ Durant Magnolia Festival.
population of our tribal These gracious young ladies did an outstand-
membership continues ing job representing District 9 at our Veterans
to grow, 196,208 tribal Appreciation Dinner. Also, in preparation for
members. the 2020 Miss Choctaw Pageant in Tvshka Hom-
With financial success ma, they conducted their interviews in the true
comes many challenges Chahta Spirit. We are proud to announce that
and questions, but good Audrina, Kenzie and Haleigh will be attending
problems to have. We will all upcoming Choctaw events representing District 9
continue to do our best to District 9.
serve our Choctaw people
and our communities. District 9 Fun Facts for This Year Calera- 134 students attended 54 Tribal members graduated in May
District 10 Durant- 239 students attended from Southeastern Oklahoma State
Current Construction Rock Creek- 105 students attended University
Choctaw Nation Housing Authority – 10 241 9th-12th grade students participat- Career Development assisted 122
More LEAP homes completed Lease to Purchase (LEAP) Homes
located in Calera, Oklahoma
Choctaw Nation Housing Authority – 10
ed in High School Student Services for
the 2018-2019 Year
28 9th-12th grade students received a
Tribal members since Oct. 1, 2018
Bennington Public Schools- 123 Choc-
taw students
Affordable Rental (AR) Homes located 3.9 or above GPA and were inducted Caddo Public Schools- 103 Choctaw
in Calera, Oklahoma into the Oklahoma Indian Honor society students
Choctaw Nation Cultural Center in for 2018-2019 Durant Public Schools- 777 Choctaw
Durant, Oklahoma Higher Education Scholarships- 432 students
Choctaw Casino Mega Expansion – assisted awarded $330,600 Rock Creek Public Schools- 91 Choc-
Casino Expansion in Durant, Oklahoma 2019 expected graduates-74 students taw students
Employment Technology Allowance- 25 assisted Health
3,372 associates employed in Durant awarded $12,500 90,764 Wellness center visits
Education College clothing- 706 assisted and 47,069 Primary provider visits
POSSE participation awarded $202,850 128,146 Total patient encounters
Tribal Council holds August session
Choctaw Nation Tribal Council met Vote Result: Bill passed
in regular session August 10, 2019, at
h) Approve the Articles of Organi-
Tvshka Homma, Oklahoma.
zation of Choctaw Premier Services,
1) CALL TO ORDER LLC, allowing it to sue and be sued in
Photos by Deidre K. Elrod accordance with a Limited Waiver of
2) OPENING PRAYER/FLAG SA- Sovereign Immunity and Authoriz-
New LEAP homes were opened in Stringtown, top and Broken Bow, bottom in
LUTE ing the Submission of an Application
August.
3) ROLL CALL for Certification as a Small Business
By Chris Jennings Administration’s 8(a) Business Devel-
4) APPROVAL OF MINUTES opment Program Participant
The Choctaw Nation has taken another step towards bettering the lives of its tribal a) Regular Session July 13, 2019 Vote Counts: YEAs- Unanimous;
members with the building of 10 new LEAP homes in Stringtown, and 20 in Broken Bow, 5) WELCOME GUESTS/RECOG- Vote Result: Bill passed
making the total 200 homes in the lease-to-own program. NIZE VETERAN OF THE MONTH i) Approve the Disposal of Surplus
The program is for Choctaw tribal members who meet program income guidelines. The
a) Randal Dewayne Hicks, Dis- Capital Assets
homeownership process begins with a 15-year lease-purchase plan with the goal of the
families being qualified to purchase the home at the end of their 15-year lease term. trict #2 Vote Counts: YEAs- Unanimous;
Chief Gary Batton said, “We’re able to keep our families together through homeowner- 6) REPORTS OF COMMITTEES Vote Result: Bill passed
ship opportunities that sustain them, helping give them motivation…to succeed and grow j) Approve a Public Highway Ease-
7) NEW BUSINESS
in life. That’s helping our tribal members truly live out the Chahta spirit of faith, family ment in Favor of Oklahoma Depart-
and culture.” a) Letter of Appointment for Marion
ment of Transportation, on Land Held
Alex Fincher, in Stringtown is excited about the opportunities the LEAP program Fry to the Choctaw Nation of Oklaho-
by the USA in Trust for the Choctaw
offers him and his family. On top of saving several hundred dollars on rent, being close to ma Ethics Committee
and Chickasaw Nations in Love Coun-
the lake means he’ll be able to spend more time fishing. Vote Counts: ty, Oklahoma.
It’s not all fun and games though. The LEAP program focuses on education and home-
buyer counseling throughout the lease. . YEAs- 10 (Thomas Williston, Tony Vote Counts: YEAs- Unanimous;
Carrie Blackmon, director of Service Coordination said, “One of the things that we do Ward, Ron Perry, Jennifer Woods, Vote Result: Bill passed
is to go over their budget to make sure that they are actually preparing for that next step.” James Dry, Anthony Dillard, James
k) Approve a Limited Waiver of
It’s not just whether or not you can afford the house payment, it’s the property taxes, Frazier, Kenny Bryant, Jack Austin,
Sovereign Immunity (SA American
home repair expenses and financial ability to save for bigger expenses like major appli- Perry Thompson)
Dreams Vacation, LLC)
ance replacement as they reach their end of life. Abstained- 1 (Delton Cox)
The goal is to have the families ready to finance the remainder of their homes after the Vote Counts:
Vote Result: Bill passed
15-year lease. YEAs- 10 (Thomas Williston, Tony
Fincher is thankful for the lessons and for what the Nation does for tribal members. b) Approve Funds and Budget for Ward, Ron Perry, Jennifer Woods,
“They put their faith in you that you can be a homeowner and give you a chance when Year Five of Five Continuation for the James Dry, Anthony Dillard, James
other places aren’t willing to. It’s a great thing that the Choctaw Nation does for its mem- National Workforce Diversity Pipeline Frazier, Delton Clox, Jack Austin,
bers,” said Fincher. Program (PATHS) Perry Thompson)
Cynthia King, in Stringtown says homeownership had always been a dream of hers. Vote Counts: YEAs- Unanimous; Abstained- 1 (Kenny Bryant)
“I’ve rented for years and I’ve always wanted to own my own home. So, I’m really excited Vote Result: Bill passed
about the opportunity to be able to do so,” said King. Vote Result: Bill passed
With the Nation’s help, these tribal members are able to begin their journey to home c) Approve Funds and Budget for
l) Approve Application for Head
ownership. Lucretia Urive, in Broken Bow is another new homeowner that’s been dream- the Year Three of Five Continuation
Start Continuation Funds
ing of moving into a new home. Cooperative Agreement for First Re-
“It’s such a blessing to have the nation do this for us, to give us this opportunity to be a sponders Vote Counts: YEAs- Unanimous;
homeowner,” said Urive. Vote Result: Bill passed
Vote Counts: YEAs- Unanimous;
With payments on the homes starting at $500 it means there’s more money to provide Vote Result: Bill passed 8) OTHER NEW BUSINESS
things for the family that they might have had to do without otherwise.
d) Approve Funds and Budget for 9) OLD BUSINESS
“A family member once told me, not only did you change my life, but you’ve changed
our generation, meaning her kids,” said Batton. the Tribal Wildlife Grant 10) ADJOURNMENT
The LEAP program is geared towards bettering and changing the lives of tribal mem- Vote Counts: YEAs- Unanimous; 11) CLOSING PRAYER
bers. With a goal of having 500 homes in the different housing programs available by 2022, Vote Result: Bill passed
the Nation is investing in these towns, investing in the future of Southeastern Oklahoma. Council Members Present:
e) Approve Application for the Bus
and Bus Facilities Program Thomas Williston
Tony ward
Vote Counts: YEAs- Unanimous; Kenny Bryant
Vote Result: Bill passed Ron Perry
f ) Approve Funding for the Expan- Jennifer Woods
sion of the Residency and Specialty Jack Austin
Clinic at the Talihina Health Care Perry Thompson
Center James Dry
Anthony Dillard
Vote Counts: YEAs- Unanimous;
Delton Cox
Vote Result: Bill passed
James Frazier
g) Approve Rescission of CB-93-19 Councilmembers absent:
(Which Approved Funding for Con- Bob Pate
struction of New Travel Plaza and
Next regular scheduled council
Casino Too in Durant, Oklahoma)
meeting will be 10:00 a.m., September
Vote Counts: YEAs- Unanimous; 14, 2019, at Tvshka Homma.
SEPTEMBER 2019 Cooking Month – Hoponi Hvshi BISKINIK 5
EVENTS LETTERS
Nanih Chito United Methodist Church Veterans Association Members Needed Thankful for hurricane relief efforts
45th Annual Singing My name is Sandy Kerns Nixon. I would like to personal-
Oct. 26, 2019 Choctaw Veterans Association is searching for new
ly thank my tribe for the help you gave my state of North
members. Most of our members are Vietnam Vets.
7 p.m. - 12 a.m. Carolina during Hurricane Florence.
4 miles East of Wright City, OK We need young Choctaw military men and women, ac- I know you were in Bladin County. I live in Cararet
tive or retired. Members of different tribes are welcome County.
Henry Battiest Sr. - Emcee as well. Veterans Association paper work is needed. Me and my husband, nearly a year after Florence, were
Concession stand will be available Meetings are 8 a.m. on the second Saturday of each still trying to recover. We had a tree on our home. We lost
Supper from 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. month at the Spiro Choctaw Community Center. our well water. It has been a struggle. Not long after Flor-
ence, my husband had a heart attack and had to have a
Group and Classical Singing Members attend funerals, Disabled American Veterans triple bypass and a valve replaced. We are very lucky, my
and Marine Corp League.
Featured Singers: husband is nearly blind. With help from church, friends
Crimson River Band - Valliant, OK For information call: and God, it gave me the strength to get through this. I was
Ed Hendricks, Recruiter 918-962-5524 so happy when I read about my tribe being here to help.
Ron Brandy - Durant, OK It made me so proud of my tribe for helping us. We still
Paul Perry, Commander 479-353-2709
Blest Travelers - Yanish, OK struggle each day. I still have leaks in my home and trees
For more information contact, Mike Davis 580-320-7985, down. But, the strength I get is from my Indian blood.
Solomon Tonihka 580-236-0525 or Henry Battiest 580-306-7158 Thank each of you who helped my state. May God be with
you. May God bless each of you.
Eufaula All Class Reunion Sandy Nixon
Newport,
North Carolina
Former Eufaula Dormitory residents and their families are invited
to attend the “All Class Reunion” on Saturday, Sept. 28, from 12
p.m. - 5 p.m. at the Eufaula Dormitory located at 716 Swadley
Drive, Eufaula, OK 74432. A luncheon will be held along with other Watson Family Reunites
Saturday, October 5, 2019 activities. This is the same weekend as the Eufaula High School All My 89 year old daddy Jack Watson, son of Sanders Wat-
Class Reunion and football homecoming weekend. son and last of his brothers, Leonard, Kenneth, Charles
In celebration of 50 years serving youth of the and sister Laura, wanted to see his family before it was
For more information contact:
Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, we are inviting all too late.
Lou McCulley Howard at loushowardus@yahoo.com, 580-319-1386
past campers and families to join us. Lucinda Eskamire Myers at lucindamy@yahoo.com, 405-487-7379 We had our first ever Watson family reunion July 6,
2019 in Norman Oklahoma. Some family members could
For information and to make reservations: not attend but those who did had a good time. Especially
Web: bbbcamp.org Email: jerry@bbbcamp.org my daddy Jack, pictured in the middle wearing his white
Phone: 580-212-1839 shirt, bolo tie and cowboy hat. I am so proud of him.
A big thank you to those that made this a very special
Celebrate Recovery day for Jack and the entire Watson family.
Native Nations Night
NEED TO CHANGE YOUR ADDRESS?
NEED TO CHANGE YOUR ADDRESS? “How Celebrate Recovery Works”
Sept. 16
6 p.m. Meeting - Meal at 5 p.m.
Contact the Choctaw Nation First Baptist Church - Student Worship Center
Contact the Choctaw
Circulation Nation
Department 1st and Beech - Durant, OK
Circulation Department Call 580-924-3573 for more information.
580.924.8280 x4028
580.924.8280 x4028
Read the Biskinik online at Deanna Watson Hughes
Read the Biskinik online at
CHOCTAWNATION.COM/NEWS The Goodland Cemetery Association Gladwin, Michigan
CHOCTAWNATION.COM/NEWS 5th Pie and Cake Auction
Oct. 12, 2019
Kiamichi Area Vo-Tech Choctaw Nation Vocational Rehabilitation
107 S. 15th Street, Hugo, OK 74743
Oct. 1 Poteau 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Auction will be begin 6:00 p.m. Oct. 2 Antlers 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Come join us for chili prior to the auction. Oct. 2 Coalgate 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Contact information 580-317-6395, 580-372-5517 Oct. 4 Atoka 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Biskinik or rlcooper_99@yahoo.com Oct. 9 Wilburton 10:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Oct. 9 Crowder 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Announcement Guidelines Oct. 11 Talihina 10 a.m. -2 p.m.
We accept milestone birthday greetings for ages 1, Oct. 15 Idabel 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
5, 13, 15, 16, 18, 21, 30, 40, 50, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80 and above. Oct. 15 Talihina 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Couples may send announcements of silver wed- District 6 July Activities Oct. 16 McAlester 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
ding anniversary at 25 years of marriage, golden Oct. 16 Stigler by appointment
*Every Monday and Wednesday Oct. 22 Poteau 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.
anniversary at 50 years, or 60+ anniversaries. We do
Senior Fitness Program “55+” 9 a.m. Oct. 22 Broken Bow 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
not post wedding announcements.
News from graduates of higher education only and
*Chair Volleyball Practice – 9:30 a.m. Oct. 23 Atoka 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
sports submissions will be accepted as space allows.
at the Wellness Center Oct. 23 McAlester 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
We welcome all letters from Choctaw tribal mem-
*Every Wednesday – Lunch served, Oct. 25 Coalgate 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
bers. However, because of the volume of mail, it isn’t
with guest speaker – salad bar opens at 11:00 a.m. Oct. 25 Antlers 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
possible to publish all letters our readers send. Let-
*Choctaw Language Class Monday Evenings 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. Oct. 29 Wilburton 10:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.
ters chosen for publication must be under 150 words.
GED Classes Tuesdays and Thursdays 9 a.m. - Noon Oct. 29 Wright City 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
We require full contact information. Only the writer’s Sept. 4 Durant: Monday, Wednesday and Friday
full name and city will be published.
All events sent to the Biskinik will run the month
Senior Monthly Meeting – (after lunch) Call 580-326-8304 for an appointment
of the event or the month prior to the event if the Commodities pickup (McAlester) – after meeting
event falls on the first of the month.
Sept. 6
Mail to: Biskinik
P.O. Box 1210 Council Member Jennifer Woods Prayer Meeting – Send us your stories!
Durant, OK 74702 7 - 8 a.m. (Breakfast to follow)
or email: biskinik@choctawnation.com No taco sale due to Labor Day Festival The Biskinik is a free service to our
Sept. 9 tribal members. We want to be an outlet
Short Shopping Day (destination to be announced) for all members to share their successes
Gary Batton Jack Austin Jr. with the rest of the tribe.
Chief Assistant Chief Sept. 10
Gourd Class 10 a.m. with Carol Harris
The Official Please send your submissions to us at
Business Class with Kreg Haney
Monthly Publication biskinik@choctawnation.com
of the Sept. 12
Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Durant Casino Day Trip (bus leaves at 8:30 a.m.)
Dara McCoy, Executive Director Sept. 19
Brad Gernand, Senior Director Long Shopping Day (destination to be announced)
Kendra Germany, Interim Editor
Sept. 21
Chris Jennings, News Reporter
Christian Toews, News Reporter Butterfield Biker Bash - Concession Downtown Wilburton
P.O. Box 1210
Sept. 24
Durant, OK 74702
580-924-8280 • 800-522-6170 Family Night Bingo and Potluck 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
www.ChoctawNation.com
email: biskinik@choctawnation.com
Enjoy stopping for red lights
The BISKINIK is printed each month as a service to
Tribal members. The BISKINIK reserves the right Southeastern Oklahoma
to determine whether material submitted for publi- Indian Credit Association
cation shall be printed and reserves the right to edit
& Choctaw Revolving Loan Fund
submitted material which it finds inaccurate, pro-
fane, offensive or morally unacceptable. Copy may be
edited for space, proper grammar and punctuation. The Southeastern Oklahoma Indian Credit
Copy will be accepted in any readable form, but Association offers small business, home,
home improvement and agriculture loans.
where possible, it is requested that material be type-
The Choctaw Revolving Loan Program offers
written and double-spaced. You must include an mico-loans, available for emergency home
address and phone number where you may be improvements and small businesses.
reached. Due to space limitations and the quantity
of article submissions, we are unable to include
everything we receive. Items are printed in the order For more information, please contact Susan
received. Faxed photos will not be accepted. Edwards at (580) 924-8280 ext. 2161, ext. 2158 or
toll-free (800) 522-6170.
If you are receiving more than one BISKINIK or
your address needs to be changed, our Circulation
Southeastern Oklahoma Indian Credit Association Loan
To Be Eligible to Apply:
R o b b e R s C av e s tat e P a R k , o k
Department would appreciate hearing from you at - Must live within the 10.5 counties of the Choctaw Nation
ext. 2116. - Must possess a CDIB card from a federally recognized tribe
The BISKINIK is a nonprofit publication of the Choctaw Revolving Loan Fund
To Be Eligible to Apply:
Choctaw Nation. Circulation is monthly. Deadline for
- Must live within the 10.5 counties of the Choctaw Nation
articles and photographs to be submitted is the first
- Must possess a CDIB card from the Choctaw Nation
day of each month to run in the following month.
If you are interesting in applying for a loan
Editor’s note: Views and opinions in reader-submit- a representative will be available at the:
ted articles are solely those of the author and do not Stigler Community Center
necessarily represent those of the Choctaw Nation. C h o C taw C ou n t Ry. C om
Sept. 13, 2019
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
6 BISKINIK SEPTEMBER 2019 Cooking Month – Hoponi Hvshi
Pickle honored by Hofmeister visits, meets with educators
Journal Record State Superintendent of Public
Instruction, Joy Hofmeister visit-
Tribal member Alma Pickle ed the Choctaw Nation headquar-
was recently named one of Fifty ters July 17.
Women Making a Difference by the During her visit several pro-
Journal Record, an Oklahoma City- grams were discussed, such as
based business newspaper, for her the POSSE program. POSSE is a
statewide leadership. summer intervention program in
Pickle is the president of Musk- which 3800 students participated
ogee-based Advanced Workzone over the summer, created 600
Services. Pickle’s company special- part time jobs and helped 90% of
ties are pavement marking, porta- students improve in reading and
ble signs and boards, traffic control math.
devices and permanent signs. The POSSE program is just one
The 1986 Fort Gibson High School example of a service the Choctaw Photo by Chris Jennings
graduate is in business with two partners. Featured in the Feb. 8 issue of the Journal Nation provides to both Native Executive Director of Education School Programs,
Record, Pickle is the first female president of the Association of Oklahoma General and non-Native students, work- Jim Parrish shows Joy Hofmeister around the
Contractors. ing towards the goal of making Durant headquarters on a recent, informal visit.
She will be honored along with the other 49 women at an Oct. 10 banquet at the Oklahoma a top 10 state.
National Cowboy Heritage Hall of Fame in Oklahoma City according to an article in
the Muskogee Phoenix.
Marris turns 18 Berg honored
By Christian Toews
Isiah (Chukfi)
Marris turned 18 The Hyatt Regency Hotel recently recog-
this year. Isiah nized Choctaw tribal member James (Jimmy)
is a senior at Du- Berg in downtown Tulsa for his 39 years of
rant High School. service. Berg began his career with the hotel
He plays soccer, in December of 1978 and retired in March of
track & field 2018.
and runs cross Berg has lived in the Tulsa area his entire
country. In early life. He started working at the newly con-
June, Isiah com- structed Williams Plaza Hotel in December
peted in the AAU
District Track
James Berg shows his service
1978.
Berge said he heard about the job opening
Caldwell
and Field games through a friend while ringing Christmas
in Luther, Okla-
homa, where he
award at the Tulsa community meet- bells for the Salvation Army. He remembers,
ing earlier this year “I was working for the salvation army and one
turns 90
finished 1st in of my friends told me about the hotel hiring. I Helen Caldwell turned
the 400 meters, went and interviewed, and they hired me on the spot.” 90 on July 16. She was so
3rd in the long Berg said that he was a “jack of all trades and a master of none” during his time happy to receive her 90-
jump and 5th in with the hotel. The management of the hotel thought so highly of Berg’s dedicated year afghan. The daughter
the 200 meters. service that they named the lounge “Jimmy’s”. According to Berg, it was nice to be of the late Dukes and
Isiah qualified recognized. Grace Wilson, she lives
to run at the He recalls having basketball teams, baseball teams and other notable guests stay in Octavia, Oklahoma.
AAU Regional Championships at Tulsa University on at the hotel during his career. According to Berg, his favorite part of the job was She was married to Ben
June 29th. Competitors came from Arkansas, Kansas, making sure the employees were happy and taken care of. Caldwell for 66 years, has
Missouri and Oklahoma to compete at this prestigious James has been a consistent part of the hotel since it opened. The ownership, how- 3 children (plus 1 deceased
event. Isiah finished 12th overall out of 36 athletes. ever, hasn’t been so consistent. The hotel has had four owners throughout Berg’s ), 13 grandchildren (plus 1
Isiah has a passion for music, EATING, going to 39-year career. Four hotel chains (Westin, Adam’s Mark, Crowne Plaza and Hyatt) deceased), 25 great-grand-
movies and hanging out with his friends. Life after have owned and operated the hotel according to Berg. children, and recently
high school involves going to college, hopefully to the While Berg loved working at the hotel, he is also passionate about the entire city. had her first great-great
University of Houston, University of North Texas, or He has volunteered with the American Legion, Salvation Army, and other local grandchild. She is a true
UC San Diego. He has sights set on continuing his track organizations around Tulsa. Berg said he still lives in north Tulsa and volunteers as inspiration to her family,
career at the collegiate level while studying to be an much as he can. friends, and church.
ophthalmologist.
Isiah’s parents are Reuben Marris of Durant, Oklaho-
ma and April Taylor of Midland, Texas. Grandparents
are Eldina Marris of Calera, Oklahoma, the late Thom-
as Marris of Durant, Oklahoma, and the late Leila
Morgan graduates Peterson receives
Juris Doctorate
Taylor of Durant.
University of Arkansas John Richard Chakse
Peterson was awarded
Olivia Morgan
Gilreath Graduates OSU and from Bentonville,
a Juris Doctorate May
19, 2019, from Marquette
Arkansas received
Marine Corps boot camp her Bachelor’s
University School of
Law in Milwaukee,
degree in Psycho-
Choctaw tribal member, Wisconsin. Immediately
logical Science with
Khaire Warren Gilreath following graduation,
a minor in Indige-
had two graduations this Peterson was sworn into
nous Studies. She
year. First, he graduated the Wisconsin State Bar
received her degree
cum laude from Oklahoma May 20, 2019, and is li-
from the University
State University Institute censed to practice law in
of Arkansas. She
of Technology in April of the state of Wisconsin.
is very grateful for
this year. He is the son of
the Choctaw Nation
He is the most recent Patricia Ann and David
who helped fund her
recipient of the Cowboy Paul Paterson of Dallas, Texas, the grandson of the late
education through
Scholarship through the Rebecca Mae and Dick Lester.
the Choctaw Nation
Chahta Foundation. He received his undergraduate degree from Oklahoma
Higher Education
Second, on August 2nd State University in Stillwater, Oklahoma. He is currently
Scholarship/Grant
he graduated from Ma- preparing for the Texas State Bar examination.
and the Choctaw
rine Corps boot camp as John and his family would like to thank the Choctaw
Nation College
a Private First Class. His Nation for the scholarships and awards from the Higher
Clothing Allowance. She is also thankful for her friends
ranking is a result of his college degree. Education Department and the Career Development Pro-
and family who have supported her throughout school.
His family is very proud of him. He thanks the Choc- gram. The help from the Choctaw Nation has helped him
They have also supported her in her decision to con-
taw Nation for helping him in college with so much pursue his career goals.
tinue her education in pursuit of a masters degree in
financial assistance. social work.
The members of the Choctaw Nation have a genuine heart for giving, and we want to
thank you for your kindness and shared vision for the future of our Native youth.
Your contributions provided much-needed opportunities to the incredible
students at Jones Academy. By giving through fundraisers and the Chahta
Foundation website, you have made a positive impact on the students at Jones
and provided an opportunity to help many others. Please accept our sincerest
thanks to all who have given, and if you or someone you know has any interest in
learning more about how to make a difference, please feel free to reach out to the
Chahta Foundation team.
Creating paths of opportunity for the Choctaw People.
https://chahtafoundation.com/
(580) 924-8280 Ext: 2993
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