District 6, February 2023

Halito,

2022 is over! It is a new year, which means there are new beginnings, and we are looking forward to this year, believing that good things are ahead for us.

In the fall, we had a “Wall Breaking” event at our new center. Chief Batton, myself and the District 6 seniors and employees joined the construction crew at the center and had the opportunity to help in demolition by knocking down a wall that was standing in the center. Everyone had an opportunity to wear safety gear and put a hole in the wall with sledgehammers. It was a fun experience for all of us and a great reminder that work is being done to get the center remodeled for our grand opening that is scheduled for this year.

We made it through all of the holidays with the parties and celebrations that go along with them. We held our first Halloween party in the Center since COVID started two years ago. All of the District 6 employees dressed up like the Wizard of Oz characters and had a great time. It was exciting to see all the children and parents coming to the center. We also held our Veterans Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas lunches for our seniors and our Children’s Christmas Party. We were all exhausted after all the festivities but were grateful for all the holidays truly represented in our lives. We ended the year with a New Year’s dance that was hosted by the Youth Advisory Board (YAB). Those who came enjoyed a night of food, fellowship and dancing to celebrate the coming of a new year. I want to thank all who took part in working and volunteering to make our celebrations memorable. We are only successful when we all work together.

I would like to give a big Yakoke (Thank You) to our tribal police officers who went door to door checking on our elderly during the winter ice storm that hit right before Christmas. Their actions truly show the Choctaw way of helping others. We are blessed with our tribal officers for all they do and the risks they take each day for our safety. We appreciate all they do.

We also held our quarterly check presentation for both the City of Wilburton and Latimer County through our Economic Development Program. It’s always an honor to support our local agencies.

With a new year ahead of us, we are always thinking of new ways to better serve our tribal members. Many of the applications that you are used to having a paper application are now on our membership portal, and more are being added. If you do not have a computer or need help applying for these programs, please know that you can get assistance at our community center. Call or go to the center, and one of our employees will be there to assist you.

It is my privilege to serve District 6. My door is always open, and I enjoy the visits.

Yakoke!