Governor Bill AnoatubbyIt’s great when a plan comes together!
Last month’s Annual Meeting and Chickasaw Festival were absolutely terrific. The weather was, for the most part, beautiful and Chickasaws and guests from across the country enjoyed the events and the good company. It’s difficult to remember a time when things went so well.
This year the Annual Meeting and Festival included a behind the scenes preview of the new Chickasaw Cultural Center in Sulphur. While not yet complete, much of the complex was open for everyone to enjoy. I personally had the wonderful opportunity to meet many people for the first time. We often made connection by informally exploring our family histories, and we almost always determined we had at least one common friend or relative.
The day was gorgeous and everyone enjoyed the great feeling of celebrating our Chickasaw culture together. This was an excellent example of what we may expect once this incredible facility is open. Construction is moving steadily toward the anticipated opening in the summer of 2010. Opening of the Cultural Center will begin a new chapter in the preservation and celebration of our Chickasaw history and heritage. As you explore the exposition hall, the theatre, the Chickasaw village, the honor plaza, the pavilion and the Holisso Center for scholarship and research, you are
guaranteed to learn something new about your history.
This year’s Southeastern Art Show and Market was undoubtedly the finest ever presented. So many accomplished Southeastern artists and craftsmen were on hand to display their work, it was hard to break away. From traditional bows, jewelry, pottery and musical instruments to modern oil paintings and sculpture, the breadth of the show was outstanding. And there was a history
lesson with each piece of art.
On Saturday, Oct. 3, following the State of the Nation presentation, we all enjoyed the bright sunshine and gentle breeze during the annual parade. So many Chickasaws and other friends lined the route. It was tremendously fulfilling to see so many friends gathered together to celebrate our heritage.
It occurred to me during our Annual Meeting and Festival that some of our younger citizens may not know much of the story of our tribe’s survival and eventual emergence in this modern era. The many, many opportunities now available to our young people were built on the work and the diligence of their parents, grandparents and others, many of whom I saw at the Annual Meeting and Festival. What a remarkable connection that is! In just a short 20 years, our tribe has risen from virtual subsistence to a vital organization in which opportunity awaits for every Chickasaw who seeks it.
For our young people today, the sky truly is the limit!
It should be noted that we all enjoyed the organizational efforts of a large group of Chickasaw Nation employees who volunteered to help make this year’s Annual Meeting and Festival a great success. Our valued employees volunteer each year for our events, and we are very appreciative of their assistance. This year, our volunteers went the extra mile to create a great atmosphere for all Chickasaws and friends who were in attendance. From driving the golf carts to assisting with parking to managing the parade to simply helping citizens with needs, they deserve a big “thank you!”
For those who could not attend this year, we look forward to seeing you in 2010. And remember, you are very welcome to visit any time of year, and you don’t have to wait until next October.
Get in touch with your tribe today! We look forward to seeing you soon.
