Governor Bill AnoatubbyThe year 2010 is flying by.
We are now entering the sixth month of the year and it seems as if just a few weeks ago we were shoveling snow from our sidewalks.
You are now receiving your official reminder to make your plans to be in Tishomingo Sept. 25 through Oct. 2 to attend the 50th Annual Meeting and Chickasaw Festival!
This year marks the 50th anniversary of our very first Annual Meeting. That event was at historic Seeley Chapel, about 20 miles south of our tribal headquarters in Ada.
Approximately 100 Chickasaws attended that first Annual Meeting. It was the small and unpretentious beginning of a very special and meaningful event that now attracts thousands of Chickasaws and friends annually to Tishomingo.
All the events associated with our Annual Meeting and Festival today stretch out over one week. There are so many things to do and see, any less time could not accommodate the schedule.
Back in 1960, everything was done in a day. What a big change over the past 50 years!
This year, we begin Annual Meeting and Festival on Sept. 25 with a full schedule of sporting events including Junior Olympics, Senior Olympics, our annual golf tournament and the co-ed slow pitch softball tournament.
Monday is set aside for the Chickasaw Princess Pageant in Ada. From Tuesday through Friday we enjoy cultural demonstrations, cultural tours, the Youthful Celebration, kids' activities tent and the petting zoo.
Tuesday, Sept. 28 is the popular Cultural Evening at Kullihoma, and Thursday, Sept. 30 features the Arts & Culture Awards followed by the artists' reception.
The unique and wonderful Southeastern Art Show and Market begins Friday, Oct. 1, and the Johnston County Riding Club Rodeo is the evening entertainment.
Saturday, Oct. 2 is the biggest day of all. Following the State of the Nation address at 9 a.m., the Chickasaw Traditional Meal is served and everyone enjoys the annual parade in downtown Tishomingo.
There are so many things to enjoy Saturday! Stickball demonstrations, the Chickasaw Dance Troupe and cultural demonstrations all are present on the grounds of the historic Chickasaw capitol. Arts and crafts vendors line Pennington Park and the “battle of the bands” Band Day extravaganza plays out at Tishomingo High School.
There is so much more, including tours of our new Chickasaw Cultural Center in Sulphur and the Chickasaw White House in Emet.
There is something to do every day, and you will connect with so many Chickasaws and friends. This is a very special opportunity to learn so much about your tribe, your people and your heritage.
That's a lot of information designed to say – We want to see you at the 50th Annual Meeting and Chickasaw Festival!
You will never regret making this special trip and immersing yourself in Chickasaw culture, history and lifestyle. Remember, the 50th Annual Meeting and Festival begins Saturday, Sept. 25 and continues through Saturday, Oct. 2. Make your plans today. We would love to see you!
