Choctaw Nation

Choctaw Nation reveals Windows 8 application

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 18:43:13 GMT

Pictured is the home screen of the Choctaw Nation app.

Choctaw Nation reveals Windows 8 application

The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma is continually finding new ways to connect its tribal members, whether through social networking and the Internet or face-to-face with community meetings across the United States.

Now, the Choctaw Nation has found its way into your mobile phones and tablets.

With the help of Planet Technologies, a leading Microsoft consulting and services company, two Choctaw Nation Office of Technology (IT) department employees have developed and created a Choctaw Nation application.

Software programmer David Coxsey and IT director Dustin Stark, along with web director Vonna Shults, Ryan Spring in Historical Preservation and J.T. Wallace in the Choctaw Language department, provided their input to Planet Technology in designing the app.

The development of the app was made possible through a program from Microsoft called the Microsoft Application Acceleration Program (MAAP), which funded its creation.

It took only about one month, from initial concept to the application store, for the final product to be available for download, said Coxsey.

After just two weeks in the Windows Marketplace, the Choctaw Nation app has been downloaded 134 times.

“This program was designed to help clients get started on building applications for Microsoft’s newest operating system, Windows 8,” explained Don Lionetti, Choctaw Nation’s account manager at Microsoft. “Microsoft is thrilled that Choctaw Nation is the first tribal Nation with a Windows 8 app live on the Microsoft Windows 8 Application Store.”

According to Coxsey, the new app provides new ways to connect tribal members and employees. “The purpose of the application is to provide connections to the Choctaw Nation’s news, Twitter and Facebook feeds, YouTube channel, along with historical and cultural information,” he stated. “The intended audience for the application is tribal members and the public.”

The Choctaw Nation is a leader among tribal governments in the use of technology, said Lionetti.

“This latest example of a Windows 8 application for the citizens and the public to keep informed of the excellent work being done by various groups within the Choctaw Nation exemplifies staying on the leading edge of technology adoption,” he continued. “Moreover, this development of a Windows 8 application gives the Choctaw Nation yet one more medium for communicating the positive message of the Choctaw people and also provides a platform for disseminating tribal government news about its programs and people.”

If you were to explore the app, you would be able to do such things as catch up on current news by reading articles from the Choctaw Nation, see the Nation’s live Twitter and Facebook feeds to see what is happening with the Nation at a moment’s basis, watch videos from the Nation’s YouTube channel to learn more about the departments and activities of the tribe, or even research Choctaw history and learn more about the tribe’s culture.

Coxsey said currently the app is only available on devices such as desktop PCs, laptops or tablets running Microsoft’s Windows 8 operating system, but the IT department is working to get the app added to the Apple and Android stores so it will be available on all Android tablets and phones, iPhones and iPads.

“We look forward to helping the Choctaw Nation in continuing the use of technology for the betterment of the Nation and its citizens,” said Lionetti.

If you have a device that utilizes Windows 8, you may download the application to your device by searching for “Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma” in the Windows 8 application store.

If you would like to download the app, click here.

Urban Inter-Tribal Center of Texas relocates to Dallas Medical District

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 14:09:23 GMT

Urban Inter-Tribal Center of Texas relocates to Dallas Medical District

Information provided by The Urban Inter-Tribal Center

The Urban Inter-Tribal Center of Texas (UITCT) announced today its move to the Medical District of Dallas. The Center, a non-profit corporation, serves Native Americans throughout the Dallas-Ft.Worth metroplex. They provide primary medical and dental care, pharmacy, counseling, job training and education services to an often forgotten demographic of our first Americans. After 42 years in the Oak Cliff community Chief Executive Officer Dr. Rodney Stapp (Comanche) said it was the perfect time to move as they had outgrown their previous facility and suffered a partial roof collapse last August during a Texas sized downpour.

“This gives us a great opportunity to better serve our Native community with a bigger, modern facility that is more centrally located to our expanding base of patients and clients,” Stapp said. The mission of the center is simple, “To improve the health and socio-economic status of the DFW American Indians,” said Board of Trustees Chair Dr. Jim Edmonson. “I think this move is another big step in the right direction.”

UITCT has a long history of collaborating with the Parkland Health System and is excited about being neighbors. The center is also looking forward to forming partnerships with UTSW Medical Center. It will be very convenient having UTSW’s new hospital just a few blocks down the street on Record Crossing Road and Parkland’s new hospital just around the corner. Children’s Hospital is nearby as well so we feel fortunate to be surrounded by world class facilities.

The center is primarily funded by federal, state and private grants and donations with their largest grantor being the Indian Health Services, a federal agency. Tribal partners such as the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, Chickasaw Nation, Comanche Nation and Creek Nation contribute to the center’s cause as well. The American Indian Chamber of Commerce of Texas also helps with extracurricular sponsorships. All eligible patients and clients are seen regardless of their ability to pay or insurance status. “We strive to offer the best medical care possible on a shoestring budget because that’s what they deserve,” says Administrative Director Angela Young (Choctaw). In addition to their medical and dental services the center’s job training and education department headed by Director Kathy McDonald offers everything from GED preparation to college tuition assistance and job development training to help clients get back on their feet and into the job market, thus fulfilling their mission.

For more information about the Urban Inter-Tribal Center of Texas or to make a donation please contact: Urban Inter-Tribal Center of Texas 1283 Record Crossing Rd. Dallas, TX 75235 Telephone: 214-941-1050 ext: 203 email: becky.goza@uitct.com

CEO Dr. Rodney Stapp says “This move is a catalyst for the future growth of our organization”

Choctaw Days’ Return to the Smithsonian

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 13:57:13 GMT

Choctaw Days’ Return to the Smithsonian

Choctaw Days 2013 Agenda

Choctaw Days is returning to the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, D.C., for its third straight year. The event, scheduled for June 21-22, will provide a Choctaw Nation cultural experience for thousands of visitors.

“We find Choctaw Days to be just as rewarding for us as the people who come to the museum say it is for them,” said Chief Gregory E. Pyle. “We meet families vacationing from places like Switzerland, Italy and Africa. It is a great opportunity to share culture.”

The Choctaw Nation princesses will have a world map set up and encourage everyone to place a pushpin in the general area of their home. The map from last year’s event was covered with the multi-colored circles, representing travelers from 23 countries. Miss Choctaw Nation Cheyenne Murray, Junior Miss Choctaw Nation Cheyenne Shomo and Little Miss Choctaw Nation Josephine Gilmore will also open each day with the “Lord’s Prayer” in sign language and participate in a “Four Directions Ceremony” in the afternoon.

Approximately 1,000 tribal members live in the area and they look forward to reconnecting with their heritage as well.

They will be able to hear the Choctaw language through conversations, songs and stories. Dancers will mimic the antics of the playful raccoon and the curving paths of the snake. The Choctaw is the only American Indian tribe who includes women in their war dances, recognizing the important role of women in their society. The dancers are scheduled to perform three times each day, demonstrating several dances including the Four-Step War, the Wedding and Stealing Partners.

Pottery, basket weaving and Choctaw flute experts will demonstrate the creativity passed down through generations. The skill of today’s craftsmen reflects the versatility implemented centuries ago out of necessity combined with improved techniques made possible by modern materials and equipment.

“One of my favorite things during the festival is watching people’s expressions as they walk from table to table,” said Assistant Chief Gary Batton. “They are fascinated with the process of shaping a bowl or water vessel out of clay. The Choctaw Nation has some of the best instructors in the country on historic preservation.”

Choctaw Nation Cultural Services staff will be holding make-and-take sessions each day to teach how to make animal forms with glass beads that would be ideal to hang on a key chain or lanyard. The finished work will be a treasured keepsake of the time spent at Choctaw Days.

Janis McKinney’s beaded jewelry adds sparkle to the eyes of girls from the age of 2 to 92. She and husband, Karl, will set up a booth covered with everything from simple bracelets and hair barrettes to intricate medallions and collars worn with cultural clothing. Visitors can watch as McKinney continuously works with her beads or sews a Choctaw dress for one of her daughters or granddaughters.

Everyone who comes together to present Choctaw Days is multi-talented. Most of the artists can also dance, chant or sing. Storyteller Tim Tingle brings many elements to life in his tales. Surrounded by his audience, Tingle becomes a rabbit or a turtle. The author often includes sad laments or rhythmic beats of a drum with his stories, capturing and holding the attention of all who hear. He turns the sad thoughts of the Trail of Tears to happy sounds of laughter with a description of how the rabbit lost his tail, waving his hands above his head to imitate the long floppy ears of a cottontail. Tingle tells of Choctaw trials, travels and triumphs.

There will be much to see, hear, and taste during Choctaw Days. The Choctaw Nation’s cultural awakening will be evident throughout the Potomac Atrium, films in the theatre and in the Mitsitam Native Foods Café with several Choctaw-inspired dishes on the menu.

The Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian is located at 4th St. and Independence Ave., SW, in Washington, D.C.

There will also be a book-signing for the 200-page book, “Choctaw: A Cultural Awakening” from 12-1 p.m. Saturday, June 22, in the museum’s Roanoke Museum Store on the second level.

Agenda

Choctaw Days June 21-22

10:30 a.m.
Princesses – The Lord’s Prayer in sign language
Social Dancing
Flutist Presley Byington
Historian Olin Williams – Stickball
Dr. Ian Thompson – History of Choctaw Food

1 p.m.
Princesses – Four Directions Ceremony
Social Dancing
Flutist Presley Byington
Soloist
Storyteller Tim Tingle

3 p.m.
Lord’s Prayer
Choctaw Social Dancing
Storyteller Tim Tingle
Soloist Brad Joe

The Art of Dylan Cavin

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 13:55:23 GMT

Cavin displays his artwork, “Overalls and Bright Skies” and ”Gold Skies,” at the Choctaw Cultural event in Norman on May 23. “Gold Skies” was a cover of Oklahoma Today Magazine, and “Overalls and Bright Skies” took Best in Show at the 2012 Choctaw Nation Labor Day Art Show.

The Art of Dylan Cavin

J. Dylan Cavin, a comic book kid from Chickasha, has accomplished a goal many only contemplate. He has turned what he loves into his career, producing impressive results along the way.

Cavin is a multi-talented artist, able not only to put paint to canvas, but pixel to screen, shape to mold, and even ink to skin. His work has been featured on everything from personal effects to commercial placement. His designs can be seen advertising Oklahoma City’s 2013 Red Earth Festival on billboards, benches, bus stops and T-shirts.

Cavin and his talents will also be showcased at this year’s Choctaw Days at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, D.C., June 21 and 22.

No stranger to event exhibits, Cavin has also been featured at Choctaw events such as Choctaw Day in Oklahoma City in 2012. His artwork also hangs among other notable pieces inside the tribal headquarters in Durant.

Immersion in the universe of art came early for Cavin, winning his first contest in middle school and having his picture in the paper for this drawing of the Statue of Liberty. He was drawn further into the realm of art when he was introduced to comics at the age of 10. “I became completely swallowed up by them,” Cavin declared.

Cavin reminisces of times when he and his buddy would make high contrast photocopies of comics and color them in with markers. These actions inevitably led to completely redrawing images and eventually art classes to hone his newly discovered skills.

As he made his way through Noble School, Cavin was fortunate to have the support of his instructors. “I had a couple of really great art teachers in high school that saw something in me,” Cavin mentioned. “I certainly never felt like I was the most talented in the class but I was always attentive and a good student willing to learn,” he continued.

When graduation neared, a decision was made to continue his exploration of art in college. He earned an Art Talent scholarship with his artistic abilities, which led him to the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma in Chickasha, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in 2000. This would allow him to find a career in the field of graphic design.

“I feel like I got a very well-rounded education,” stated Cavin as he spoke of his opportunity to experiment with many forms of art before deciding on graphic design as his major. “I had a really great core group of professors that helped along the way,” he continued.

Cavin mentioned that his professors were focused on hands-on education, an aspect that Cavin believes is necessary for a student of art to flourish. Professor Kent Lamar, who taught figure drawing and sculpture, stands out as one of the most influential of his collegiate career. “His figure drawing classes really helped me develop a style that I felt was my own. His encouragement was what really got me through a lot of those higher level college courses, when I think a lot of students start to second guess their majors,” he declared.

Upon graduating, Cavin began working for a company where he did full services design for products. He would draw the concept art, digitize and color it for the printer, and then do that packaging and catalog artwork for the final physical copy. Though he felt this was a rewarding job, he would have anywhere from five to ten of these projects occurring simultaneously, which became stressful.

Becoming burnt out with his current occupation, Cavin decided to join the Army. He was honorably discharged shortly after enlistment due to fracturing his femur. After his discharge, he had some time to explore creative aspects past graphic design. “It was the first time in awhile where my time was really my own,” he mentioned.

He began to take pictures, invested time in watercolor and even learned the art of tattooing. “I really love the looseness of watercolor and the expression you can achieve with just the right single brushstroke,” he noted. As he produced paintings, he began to receive recognition for his skill.

Friends who own galleries took notice and invited him to display his work. The positive reception he received boosted his confidence and led him further into the mediums of watercolor and portraits. “I had never thought doing that would get me anywhere. I’m still amazed and honored when people purchase a work from me,” said Cavin.

Currently, Cavin shows at a gallery in Norman called Tribes Gallery, where he feels fortunate to display his work along with artists with which he is proud to associate himself.

Among his abundance of artistic creations, there is one he holds in high esteem. It is a portrait of C.A. Burris (aka Ahshawlatab). “I love it because, in my eyes, I nailed the style of my favorite comic book artist,” exclaimed Cavin.

Along with this item, his portfolio also boasts an array of award-winning pieces. His accolades include the Heritage Award in 2010, Best in Show at the 2012 Annual Choctaw Art Show and First Place in the Graphics Category at the 2012 Red Earth Festival. His works have also been on the cover of the Oklahoma Today Magazine.

To accredit his artistic talents further, additional honors consist of First Place in the Graphics Category at the 2012 SEASAM (Southeastern Art Show And Market), featured in the 2013 Native American Art Calendar, and participation in the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian 2012 Art Market in New York.

Cavin now spends much time in the studio, creating, learning and expanding his artistic prowess. When he is not in the studio, he is with his wife, Lindsay, or reading comic books, the medium that sparked his interest in art many years ago. He is an avid collector of comic books and comic art to this day. “I haven’t found a way yet, but if I could trade my art for comic books and comic art I would,” he jested.

With plans to grow his capabilities, Cavin is grateful for the success he has seen thus far. His art reflects heavily on his native heritage, and he plans to dive deeper into that characteristic of art. “I always feel like I need to push myself harder, learn more not only about other techniques in art, but my culture in general to be a better steward for the [Choctaw] Nation,” Cavin explained.

Cavin is one of many of the talented Choctaw members on the Choctaw Nation Artist Registry. “I am just a kid from Chickasha who worked hard at what he loved and got pretty lucky along the way,” Cavin concluded and he thought back over his journey though the world of art.

You can view many of Cavin’s creations and keep up with his progress in the studio at theartofdylancavin.com .

C. A. Burris (aka Ahshawlatab) Choctaw/Chickasaw” is a portrait that Cavin holds in high regard, mentioning, “I love it because, in my eyes, I nailed the style of my favorite comic book artist.”

“Legacy” has been heavily used to advertise Oklahoma City’s 2013 Annual Red Earth Festival.

Chahta Foundation awards scholarships

Tue, 04 Jun 2013 20:03:44 GMT

Chahta Foundation awards scholarships

Accompanied by Assistant Chief Gary Batton, those who earned scholarships are recognized for their accomplishments.

The Choctaw Nation Chahta Foundation has selected 14 outstanding applicants to receive scholarships totaling $136,000 for the 2013-2014 school year. The scholarships are valued from $2,000 up to $20,000 and range from graduating high school seniors to doctoral students.

These Chahta scholars were acknowledged for this honor during a luncheon on May 15, 2013. Recipients were able to accept their awards and speak their thoughts to leaders of the Choctaw Nation, family and friends.

Recipients for the Apela Ima award are Jace Caldwell, Caitlin Roebuck and Taylor Wright; bachelor’s recipients are Hilary Price and Alexandria “Bailey” Lafitte; master’s include Jennifer Russell and Rebeka Perkins-Ulm; and doctorate recipients are Nathan Sweeney, Carmen Jones, Madeline Anna, Amanda Janitz, Randi Hardin, Seth Boydstun and Chase Woodley.

The Chahta Foundation was established in 1999 and has been dedicated to “Empowering Choctaw Life” in the state of Oklahoma and across the United States. Chahta Foundation Scholarship recipients are chosen not only for their scholarly achievements, but also for their ties to their heritage and commitment to broadening horizons of Choctaw people for generations to come. For more information, visit chahtafoundation.com.

Choctaw Nation Donating to Tornado Recovery

Wed, 22 May 2013 21:51:02 GMT

Beginning Friday, May 24, the Choctaw Nation will be donating seven days of its net profits in fuel sales to the Salvation Army for those affected by the devastating tornado damage in Oklahoma.

Fuel Sales
Donations Week
May 24-May 30

Choctaw Travel Plazas are located in Atoka, Broken Bow, Durant (East and West), Wilburton, Garvin, Heavener, Grant, Idabel, Stringtown, McAlester, Poteau, and Pocola.

Donations will be accepted to support disaster relief beginning Friday at the Travel Plazas as well as in the lobby of the Tribal Headquarters in Durant and the Durant Smoke Shop.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the people working to recover from this devastation.
Chief Greg Pyle
Assistant Chief Gary Batton
Choctaw Tribal Council
and the People of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

Choctaw Champion

Wed, 15 May 2013 19:51:16 GMT

Choctaw Champion

Joe Standifer shines in AEFL

Joe Standifer is a champion, an American Eight-Man Football League (AEFL) champion to be specific. The Sachse Stallions, the team where Joe assumed the roll of number 44 defensive linemen, recently clinched an undefeated season of 10-0 as they earned the title of champion in the AEFL Bowl XII.

The Sachse Stallion boasted a 32-17 win over the Texas Takeover on April 28 to complete their perfect season, an accomplishment that Joe had been seeking since he joined the league. “It has been one big huge roller coaster ride,” he remarked.

Last season, when Joe joined the Stallions, the group saw a mediocre inaugural season. They made it to the first round of the playoffs, but “that wasn’t enough,” remarked Joe. He and his team were hungry for success. “We knew the talent that we had and we knew what we were capable of,” he declared as he spoke of his team.

Every Sunday, each season began, Joe and his teammate Keith Vines, who had introduced Joe to the AEFL, would drive to Sachse, Texas, for practices with Coach Pete Espinosa. Joe and his teammates would perform drills, exercises and scrimmages. These weekly practices would run from August through Superbowl Sunday, with the season beginning the following week.

The league hosted their games at Pennington Field in Euless, Texas. The games were not taken lightly, but were played with every bit of effort each team could rally. You had to give it 110 percent, because you knew the guy on the other side of the ball was. They weren’t just going to give it to you declared Joe as he explained the intensity of the action.

Once the season commenced, every Sunday was a new game and a new time to shine for the Stallions. For Joe, a graduate of Tishomingo High School whose team went to the state championship in ‘98, every game was a way to demonstrate that those talents of the past had not faded.

When Joe joined the AEFL three years prior to the championship title, playing for the Denton Dragons, he was 29 years old and had not played football in a considerable amount of time. He was anxious before his first practice, but, “After that first initial hit, it was like everything that was familiar about it came back,” mentioned Joe.

The league served as a way for not only Joe, but also all the players to stay in shape, experience the bonds of a team and experience the fulfillment that accompanies such feats as winning championships.

“Every Sunday you look forward to trying to knock somebody’s head off, but after the game, you shake hands and everybody is friends,” said Joe. “There was like a mutual respect throughout the league for each individual person and each team.”

After a year with the Dragons, Keith got a call from Coach Espinosa asking him to play with the newly formed Stallions. Both Joe and Keith decided to join the new squad based in Sachse.

During his time with in the league, it was not only Joe committing his efforts, his now 7-year-old son Adrian was happy to serve as water boy all while enjoying seeing his father in action.

Joe has been pleased with Adrian’s support and commitment, stating that he was there with him through the good times and the bad, sporting a Stallion jersey. Sharing the championship with his son in a memory that both Joe and Adrian will hold dear for many years to come.

Through his success with the AEFL, Joe hopes to be a role model to his son and other members of his family, stating that even though the road was long and rough, it was possible to earn the goal through perseverance.

Adding to the complexity of his goal of being a champion, Joe not only was busy training, raising a son and working, but has also been enrolled at Southeastern Oklahoma State University. He is scheduled to graduate with a degree in math in May of 2014.

This past season will be Joe’s last as a player. “It does take a toll on your body,” stated the now 32-year-old athlete. He continued by stating even though he could push himself for more seasons, it is worth more to him to preserve himself for an enjoyable future playing with his son.

Joe will be leaving the league a champion, and “What better way to walk out than that?” he exclaimed. He does aspire to contribute to the Stallions in other ways such as coaching, stating that his attitude off the field will be the same as it was on the field, “Use me however you want, I just want to do my part.”

If you would like to know more about the AEFL or the Stallions, visit the AEFL website or the Stallion’s website.

The 2013 Stallions. Photos provided.

The students of Jones Academy's 5th grade class experience an eventful year

Tue, 14 May 2013 19:42:32 GMT

The students of Jones Academy’s 5th grade class experience an eventful year

Contributed by JOE SIRMANS - Jones Academy

First Field Trip - Eufaula Oklahoma

May 2, 2013 Jones Academy 5th grade got to journey North to Eufaula Oklahoma to tour the Eufaula hydroelectric power plant. The students got to go down inside the dam and see how electricity is produced. It was amazing to see and have a better understanding of how water pressure can turn a turbine that turns a shaft at 100 RPM and then turns a generator that causes electrons to move on down the line. We often turn on electrical devices from lights to TVs without thinking about from where the power comes. Now, they 5th grade students have a better understanding of where the energy comes from after such a tremendous field trip to the Eufaula Dam. We were the first class to get to tour the dam since 9/11.

After touring the dam, our Native American students got to view a wonderful arrowhead collection at the Eufaula Nature Center. The center had a variety of hands on activities that the students enjoyed. The working beehive was an attraction that had the students talking about honey. Some students enjoyed observing the mountain lion, buffalo, and other stuffed animals. Students looked threw binoculars and now better understand that these instruments can help enlarge organisms at far distances to help study their characteristics. The ladies at the nature center were very knowledgeable and showed our students a variety of turtle species. The class also got to see our state reptile, the collard lizard. Some enjoyed looking at the cold-blooded organism called a copperhead snake, which our students can identify, by its copper color and markings. We all agree the copperhead is one not to step on in this part of the country.

Over all I know we had a fantastic day because I heard many questions ask and answered. Lots of smiles on our student faces make for an unforgettable day in 5th grade. It was really heart warming to hear such great comments about our student’s behavior from the ones who gave the tours and showed our students many interesting exhibits.

Second Field Trip - Elm Point Lake Eufaula

May 10, 2013, the 5th grade students got to take a fishing field trip to Elm Point, which is part of Lake Eufaula. Prior to the trip students took part in the fishing clinic held in the 5th grade classroom at Jones Academy. The materials were provided by the Oklahoma State Department of Wildlife. Students learned about tying knots, fish identification, casting instruction, outdoor ethics, water safety, water pollution, fishing equipment, fish cleaning and fish cooking.

The students got their crappie fishing gear ready, which consisted of rods and reels, corks, hooks and minnows, then headed to the lake to catch fish. Kendra Wakolee caught the biggest crappie, which made a few boys wonder what was going on. Darius Sewell caught the second largest crappie, which put more fillets on the stringer.

Students got to eat charcoaled hot dogs with chilly, cheese and onions for an outdoor lakeside luncheon. Some said the hot dogs were better than steaks on this day. Our students were generous to feed several elders at the lake that were fishing in the same fishing area. The students had a great time at the lake and picked up around the area to make it better than when they came.

Later that day when returning to campus, the students got to watch first hand how to clean a fish and prepare it to eat. The kitchen staff was so kind as to get the cast iron skillet hot and ready for the fish after students battered the fillets. The fishing clinic did not teach how to eat the fish but the students did not seem to have any problem with that part. Learning life skills like fishing is something that 5th grade does not take lightly.

The class also learned to make humming bird feeders out of baby food jars and painted them. They mixed one part granulated sugar with four parts sterile water to create the feed for the birds. For more information on the happenings occurring at Jones Academy visit Jones Academy’s website.

Students display their newly created hummingbird feeders

Choctaw Nation Outreach adds programs, helps more families

Tue, 14 May 2013 15:25:09 GMT

Choctaw Nation Outreach employees Christi Hammons of Tribal PREP; Brandi Smallwood of Chahta Inchukka; Anglea Dancer, Better Beginnings Senior Director; and Barbara Moffitt of Chahta Vlla Apela.

Choctaw Nation Outreach adds programs, helps more families
Better Beginning now includes Tribal PREP and Chahta Vlla Apela programs

The Choctaw Nation Outreach program has recently added two new programs to its Better Beginnings branch — the Tribal PREP (Personal Responsibility Educational Program for the Prevention of Teen Pregnancy) and Chahta Vlla Apela program were added to join the SPPT (Support for Pregnant and Parenting Teens) program and Chahta Inchukka (Tribal Maternal Early Childhood Program).

The Better Beginnings program, which receives its grants from the Department of Health and Human Services, was added to Outreach about three years ago, said Senior Director of the program Angela Dancer. “All of our programs are providing evidence-based curriculums that have been proven to be effective, and we’re bringing those curriculums to Native American communities,” she explained.

This is a significant achievement for the tribe, according to Angela. “There are no evidence-based curriculums that currently have been tested on Native Americans, so this is a new avenue,” she said. “Even though the curriculum has been proven, it hasn’t been proven with our target population, so we’re going to be one of the first programs out there that is providing an evidence-based curriculum to Native American communities.”

Dancer has worked for the tribe for 19 years and the Outreach program for 10 years.

“We have over 22 programs,” said Angela of Outreach, saying the programs focus on going out into the community and providing needed services to tribal members.

The Outreach program houses over 118 employees, and Randy Hammons serves as executive director.

With its two new programs, Better Beginnings has also added two new directors to its team: Christi Hammons for Tribal PREP and Barbara Moffitt for Chahta Vlla Apela.

“Chahta Vlla Apela means ‘helping our Choctaw children,’” said Barbara about her program, which was approved in January of this year.

Barbara’s program is similar to the existing Chahta Inchukka program, directed by Brandi Smallwood. “They’re serving people in at-risk situations,” said Angela, adding that ‘at-risk’ is a broad definition and encompasses many areas such as: mental health, substance abuse, child abuse, single parent or low income issue involved.

Angela said Barbara and Brandi’s programs are from the same funding but two different grants, whereas, the SPPT grant, directed by Rebecca Morris, is strictly for the teen population. Teens must be under the age of 21, be expecting a child or have a child under the age of 1, and seeking an educational goal.

These three programs include home-based services. “This means our workers go into the clients home to provide the curriculum; usually twice a month” said Angela.

According to Angela, Chahta Vlla Apela, Chahta Inchukka, and SPPT are teaching a curriculum entitled ‘Parents As Teachers,’ which is a parent-child interaction plan that focuses on the child development stage and the social wellbeing of the entire family.

Angela provided an example of how one of these home visits would take place: with the parent(s) observing, the Outreach worker would ask the young child to perform a basic activity, such as covering a toy with a towel and having the child look for and discover it. They would then ask the parent to perform the same activity, while observing the parent interacting with the child and completing the task.

Following the activity, the worker would ask the parent why they believe this activity is helping the child grow and how it is benefiting that child at that age.

“We’re really trying to get the parent to think about the cognitive growth, motor skills and communication skills,” Angela said. “It’s all about cognitively growing these children, to be on task and looking for red flags.”

Every home visit will have a parent-child interaction to promote one-on-one play time. Each interaction is hand-picked by the worker to address a specific area of child development. All home visits also have a section related to family well-being. The worker and parent identify family needs and connect with other Choctaw Nation services and departments to fulfill those needs. “It encourages the parent to set goals for themselves and their child. Then the worker helps to locate resources and services to achieve those goals” said Angela.

Chahta Inchukka and Vlla Apela workers also conduct home visits with the child’s future in mind. “The focus is, overall, child and family development, but school readiness as well,” said Angela. We’re looking at the kids prior to head start age, so hopefully we can find and address any red flags before school, so when they attend head start, they are ready and able to learn, she added.

“Let’s say a child is not developing correctly,” said Angela, “we have assessments that verify that child is struggling or in trouble. There are multiple screenings to see that the child is on task with his or her development.”

“I really enjoy the people,” said Barbara of her new job.

With the Chahta Vlla Apela being relatively new to Outreach, the program is currently in the ‘planning phase,’ according to Barbara. “Right now, I’ve been conducting the needs assessment to identify exactly what areas or needs that community will have, and then we chose our evidence-base curriculum to fit those areas and needs,” she said.

While the programs ran by Barbara, Brandi, and Rebecca involves home visits, Christi’s Tribal PREP program requires her to visit local schools.

“I enjoy educating the kids,” Christi said, who works with students in grades 6 through 8 in four different schools.

Christi visits middle schools in Boswell, Ft. Towson, Soper and Jones Academy twice a week.

“We have a curriculum that we teach called ‘Draw the Line, Respect the Line,’” said Christi, which is an evidence-based curriculum with studies supporting it.

According to Christi, Tribal PREP is intended to postpone the initiation of sex in adolescents, help prevent pregnancy, STDs and AIDS. “Hopefully we educate the students enough to help them make healthy choices,” she said.

Christi said when thinking of the future of Tribal PREP, she hopes for expansion and growth. “I hope we can expand the program and visit more schools,” she said. “In the future, if funding is available, we would like to not only visit schools, but hold community programs instead of strictly school-based settings.”

“I would love to see that program grow,” added Angela. She explained that while SPPT deals with teens that are pregnant or have a young child; Christi’s program focuses on preventing that pregnancy.

“The Choctaw Nation has a higher teen pregnancy rate inside of the 10 ∏ counties than that of the national rate,” stated Angela. “The vision of Christi’s grant was, let’s do something proactive to prevent those teenage pregnancies.”

Future plans for Better Beginnings include workers continuing providing for and helping families as much as possible, which Angela sees turning into a major accomplishment in the future. “If we keep funding long enough to do enough intervention services, then between the three home-based services, we can be serving at least 200 families in the next year,” she said. In addition, the PREP program and the healthy choices curriculum they bring, “We are positively influencing the next generation of children who will become the future leaders of our nation.”

If you are interested in learning more about Outreach and the Better Beginnings program, call 580-326-8304.

Book-signing in Durant to highlight 'Choctaw: A Cultural Awakening'

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 13:37:37 GMT

Book-signing in Durant to highlight ‘Choctaw: A Cultural Awakening’

The many facets of the Choctaw Nation reflect paths traveled by thousands over hundreds of miles. The Choctaw people persevered through centuries of change and have emerged as one of the largest and progressive nations in the world. Choctaw history and culture have provided a strong foundation and more and more tribal members today are experiencing a revival of interest in their heritage. Capturing the essence of the nation is “Choctaw: A Cultural Awakening,” a striking 200-page collection of images, history and information. A book launch will be held 12:30-2 p.m. on April 30 at the Donald W. Reynolds Community Center and Library, 1515 W. Main St., Durant.

Award-winning photographer David Fitzgerald spent nearly two years traveling and gathering images of Choctaws of all ages, historical artifacts, places of interest and activities. Included in the book is one of the last photographs of Choctaw original enrollee Georgia Mae Self. There are photographs of several familiar to the Durant area such as the late Ernest Hooser, and articles by the late Brenda Hampton on the Dawes commission and Bill Coleman on Choctaw Lighthorsemen. “Choctaw: A Cultural Awakening” features families whose lives are engrained with the rich heritage of the Choctaw Nation.

Fitzgerald has received state and national acclaim for his photography. He was inducted into the Oklahoma Journalism Hall of Fame in 2005 and received the Arrell Gibson Lifetime Achievement Award from the Oklahoma Center for the Book in 2010.

Accompanying the pictorial collection are Choctaw history and cultural information contributed by Tribal Archeologist Dr. Ian Thompson and Public Relations Executive Judy Allen. The reader is quickly brought up-to-date with an overview of the Choctaw people’s course from DeSoto’s first contact until today.

Thompson, as Tribal Historic Preservation Officer, archaeologist and coordinator for Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA), works to protect sacred and historic sites, researches Choctaw history and is dedicated to revitalizing the traditional culture. He learned many of the Choctaw art forms in his youth and instructs others in making bows, arrows, flint knapping, pottery, basketry and more.

Allen has worked with Thompson on many projects and has been committed to sharing the Choctaw culture throughout the world. She has been instrumental in the recognition of the Choctaw Code Talkers of World War I who were inducted into the Oklahoma Military Hall of Fame last year. Allen was also named one of Oklahoma’s 50 Women Making a Difference in 2012.

Exploring through photos and stories by spiritual and historical leaders such as Virginia Espinoza, Eleanor Caldwell and Bill Coleman, “Choctaw: A Cultural Awakening” shows that members of the third-largest Indian Nation are from all walks of life, performing diverse jobs, and come from an amazing heritage.

Be awakened to the beauty of tribal art, the unique savor of Choctaw food and the excitement of learning about Tvshka Homma – Red Warriors! Fitzgerald, Thompson and Allen will be available to share their experiences with visitors at the book launch April April 30 in Durant.

Copies of the “Choctaw: A Cultural Awakening” photo book are also available for purchase by logging onto choctawstore.com or by calling 888.932.9199.