January 2023
News

A year in review: Choctaw Nation celebrates successes of 2022
As the year 2022 comes to an end, we reflect on our new experiences, changes and growth.

Wilson elected as history’s first Indigenous Methodist bishop
Choctaw tribal member, Bishop David Wilson, will take over for Bishop Ruben Saenz Jr., who was assigned to the Central Texas Conference. Wilson, 59, has been the assistant to the bishop for the Oklahoma Indian Missionary Conference (OIMC) since 2021. Before that, he served 19 years as a conference superintendent for the OIMC.

Nassaney is “one to watch” in MotoGP Racing
In recent years, Jaret Nassaney has raced his way up the MotoAmerica circuit rankings. With tenth place in 2021 and seventh overall in the 2022 seasons, he hopes to continue this progression next year.

Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma announces farm-to-school partnership with Atoka Public Schools
The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma (CNO) and Atoka Public School (APS) have announced a multi-year farm-to-school partnership. CNO will produce and distribute fresh beef, raised and harvested in Southeastern Oklahoma, to APS campuses.
Tribal members encouraged to check identification card expiration dates
Tribal Membership ID cards will begin expiring in Jan. 2023. The expiration date on tribal membership cards are for ID purposes only. An expired card does not impact tribal membership status. However, once the card expires, it can no longer be used as a form of ID.

Community meals (Photo Gallery)
Throughout the holiday season, community meals and parties were held at community centers throughout the Choctaw Nation.

Warrior Wellness launched for Native American veterans
Choctaw Nation launched Warrior Wellness, a grant-funded program, during the recent Choctaw Nation Veterans Day Ceremony. The new program is designed to connect Native American veterans with their culture, heritage and each other to reduce rates of death by suicide among veterans.
Leadership Speaks
Donate blood this New Year
It's National Blood Donor Month, which falls during one of the most difficult times to maintain a sufficient blood supply – the winter months.
New Year’s Resolution
A new year brings new resolutions to consider. First, what is a New Year's resolution? This is a tradition in which a person resolves to continue good practices, change an undesired trait or behavior, accomplish a personal goal or otherwise improve their life at the start of a new year.
District 3, January 2023
Congratulations to Ricky Dearmore of Smithville for being selected for Outstanding Choctaw Elder of the year.

District 4, January 2023
I was happy to work with the Town of LeFlore and Mayor Stites in getting playground equipment for the town park. I know the kids in the area will have fun with the new equipment. It makes me proud when I see all the Choctaw Nation does for our children.