Gov. Anoatubby, citizens discuss progress, future plans
This article appeared in the October 2014 edition of the Chickasaw Times
Hundreds of Chickasaws and friends gathered recently to discuss progress and explore plans for the future during Chickasaw Nation events in Oklahoma City, Purcell, Okla., and Vancouver, Washington.
More than 560 Chickasaws, friends and family gathered Sept. 16 at Remington Park in Oklahoma City, while more than 175 attended the Sept. 18 event in Purcell. More than 120 attended the September 20 meeting in Vancouver.
Governor Bill Anoatubby said the purpose of the events was to promote fellowship, share information and discuss plans for the future with Chickasaws.
“We have information about health care, tourism, community services and more we want to share with you, but we also want to hear your ideas on how we can help meet your needs,” Gov. Anoatubby said. “Many of the services we offer are based on your suggestions, so we really want to hear what you have to say. Everything we do is focused on our mission to enhance the overall quality of life of the Chickasaw people.”
Success of the Chickasaw tribal businesses, Gov. Anoatubby said, was vital to achieving that mission.
Remington Park is one of many Chickasaw Nation businesses in the Oklahoma City metropolitan area. Other businesses in the area include Bank2, Riverwind Casino, Chickasaw Nation Industries, and Newcastle Casino. These businesses and others provide funding for programs and services which would not otherwise be available.
A new area office opened earlier this year on North Lincoln Boulevard in Oklahoma City. Information on a variety of services, including energy assistance and education is available at the office.
Plans are also under development to build a dual purpose senior site and community center in Oklahoma City.
Plans are also under way to build a new wellness center in Purcell. The wellness center will include exercise equipment and additional space for a variety of activities.
A new area office in Purcell is also being planned. Proposals include a large community hall, catering kitchen offices and a large conference room.
Preparation is also under way to enlarge the health clinic in Purcell.
Those who took part in the Vancouver meeting learned more about housing, health care, youth, aging and other available services. Information was also made available about obtaining a CDIB and the voter registration process.