Halito!
Joey Tom here with another District 7 update. From community events to exciting accomplishments, here’s what we have been up to!
First, I would like to congratulate our District 7 princesses!
I am proud to recognize our Little Miss, Ace’Lee Tom. Her dedication to our Choctaw traditions and the way she represents our Nation makes me proud, both as her father and as someone who has the privilege of serving our people. I am also proud to recognize our Senior Miss, Mia Reich. I’ve known Mia for many years, and seeing her earn the title of Senior Miss is a proud moment. She is a wonderful representative of our Choctaw values and traditions. They were crowned in Wright City on June 16. Thank you both for your hard work and dedication to District 7. We look forward to cheering you on as you compete in Tushkahoma during the Labor Day Festival.
We would also like to recognize Jett Gardner of Coffee Creek MFG LLC for being named Chatapreneur of the Year on June 25. Jett’s Antlers roots run deep, as he was born and raised here by Amy and Jr. Gardner. He is married to Lacey Gardner, PA-C, who currently works at the Choctaw Nation Health Care Center in Atoka. Together they have two children, Ellis and Hazel.
Jett built Coffee Creek MFG from the ground up, often working on it after a full day’s work and on weekends. He is a dedicated, passionate, and hardworking man, and we are truly honored to have him represent District 7 as our Chatapreneur of the Year. Jett, we pray for your continued success and for the Lord’s guidance in the years ahead. Congratulations!
On May 20, we attended Senior Day in Durant. This annual event gives our senior groups the opportunity to compete in three categories: regalia, Choctaw singing, and badge making. We watched a regalia parade where many men and women proudly showcased traditional Choctaw clothing, and we enjoyed listening to traditional Choctaw hymns performed by senior groups from every district.
We would like to congratulate the District 7 Wright City Senior Group on earning first place in the Choctaw singing category. At the conclusion of the competition, all 12 senior groups gathered on stage and began to sing together. Many audience members joined in, and the room was filled with the songs of our people. In that moment, it wasn’t about who won; it was about unity. It was truly incredible to witness.
June was a busy yet rewarding month. We started the month with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for 10 new Independent Elderly Housing (IEH) homes in Antlers. Seeing these homes through every phase of construction and then watching families move in to begin a new chapter of life reminds me that the Choctaw Nation isn’t just building homes; we are building stronger families, stronger communities, and a brighter future.
Lastly, August has quickly approached, and with it comes the peak of summer. As temperatures continue to rise, remember to pay attention to the heat and the daily UV index before spending time outdoors. Whether you’re working, attending community events, or enjoying time with family, take a few extra moments to protect yourself. Stay cool whenever possible, drink plenty of water throughout the day, wear sunscreen, and check in on our elders, young children, and neighbors who may be more vulnerable to the summer heat. A little preparation can go a long way in preventing heat-related illness and sun damage, helping everyone stay safe and enjoy all that summer has to offer.
We hope you have a fun, safe, and memorable August.
As always, Yakoke and Chi Pisa La Chike!