District 3, July 2022

Halito from District 3,

Since the pandemic battle of 2020 and the reality that the virus remains a part of us, medical officials lessened restrictions and mandates due to the virus being more manageable. I am so thankful we weathered the storm, and now that centers are fully operable members can interact and enjoy events again.

Our traditional dinners met with remarkable success at both community centers, Smithville, and Talihina. The events were open to the community – members and non-Choctaw, making for robust fellowship. The Elders cooked up delicious ancestral dishes, keeping Choctaw culture food alive. I was honored to have Chief Gary Batton, Assistant Chief Jack Austin Jr., and Councilman Thomas Williston at Smithville. At Talihina, Chief Gary Batton and Councilwoman Jennifer Woods joined us. Yakoke to all the staff, Smithville YAB, Talihina Project Rise, and all the volunteers who helped to make the events possible.

It was my pleasure to participate in the annual Bakersfield, California trip along with my wife Paula, Chief Gary Batton, Assistant Chief Jack Austin Jr. and Council. It was a wonderful community visit meeting tribal members. We shared culture and stories, made new friends, great memories and lasting connections with Oklahoma.

I am pleased to share good news happening in District 3. Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma has entered into a partnership with Three Rivers Meat Processing Plant located in Smithville. This investment will fill an immediate need in the community, create approximately fifteen new jobs in Smithville and have an economic impact regionally. The project opening date is tentatively early spring 2023.

Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma is planning to hold the Labor Day Festival this year. I hope to see you there!

Yakoke,
Eddie Bohanan