Author: Morgan Taylor/Multimedia Producer
Video Produced by: Kaylea Berry/Reporter
OKMULGEE, Okla. – Big laughs, high fives and even hugs were shared between members of the 24 community centers and MCN citizens at the First Annual Community Meeting hosted by the Department of Community Development and Research at the Claude Cox Omniplex Saturday. September 10
The tournaments remained friendly; as competitions grew fierce in dominoes, horseshoe corn hole tournaments. While the parents played with their peers, the little ones could play on the bounce houses provided by the Dewar Indian Community.
Chief David Hill goes to bat against the National Council. (Morgan Taylor/Media Producer)
The highlight of the hot day was the Wiffle Ball match between the Community Boards and the National Council, in which the Council took home the Super Chief Wiffle Ball Classic Trophy.
Principal Chief David Hill was the team pitcher for the communities opposing the National Council. Community members brought the heat with big hitters and fast runners, and many couldn’t be more excited to play a game with Council members. Unfortunately, they did not win, but they have said that they will be back for revenge in the next meeting.
The representatives were having fun without their dresses and suits chanting “National Council, National Council” and enjoying their time outside the Mound Building.
Spokesman Will Lowe said it was a fun way for the Council to meet while also visiting with members of the community. It allowed each side to visit and get to know each other. “It’s all about the community and the people,” he said.
The National Council won the ball game. (Morgan Taylor/Media Producer)
When discussing the game, he joked, “I think the communities want revenge. We’ll be back next year and we’ll be ready.”
Community Specialist Joshua Wind believes the event was well attended, with more than 500 attendees in its first year.
Senior Chief David Hill and Second Chief Dell Beaver agreed with Wind.
“As far as the people of Muscogee go, this is just our way of going out … of visiting,” Hill said. “That’s what most of them come out to do, just visit with everyone and enjoy today.”
Beaver went on to say that the results of first-time events can be unexpected. “That’s what it’s all about,” he said. “It seems to be a common theme, you know, the first to do something.”
“I’m glad to see all the communities come out here, young and old,” Wind said. “We’re ready for next year.”
Various departments of MCN and Rock the Native Vote and Gathering Place set up resource booths during the event and offered free prizes. Departments included: Behavioral Health, Child Support Enforcement, Child and Family Services, Senior Services, Lighthorse, GIS, College of Muscogee Nation and Mvskoke Youth Services.
Attendees were treated to a meal with a choice of Tacos Senora Taco Truck or Jo Jo’s Q BBQ which they could enjoy while watching Indian Elvis and Mvskoke Sunrise. Wind said the department had 450 food tickets reserved on a first-come, first-served basis, with more food being sold after it was delivered.
Wind sent a big “Mvto” to all the members who attended and to all the employees who pitched in to make the event possible.
For more information on the past event or for next year, call CR&D at 918-732-7964.
