The Chickasaw Nation is reaching a significant new milestone in healthcare with the construction of a new pediatric clinic in Ada, OK, near the Chickasaw Nation Medical Center. The three-story, 95,000-square-foot, stand-alone building will provide care for youth ranging from newborn to adolescent, including well-child visits, specialty services, nutritional programs, physical therapy and more.
"Today represents more than just the start of a new building, it represents significant progress in our mission to enhance the overall quality of life of the Chickasaw people," Governor Bill Anoatubby said at the groundbreaking ceremony.
"Chintaloowali (I Sing to You)," a Chickasaw Nation Symphony by Chickasaw composer Zach Garcia, debuts March 9 at East Central University in Ada, with no charge for admission. The new original symphony is inspired by the Chickasaw story of resilience and results from a partnership between Garcia and Oklahoma City Philharmonic Music Director Alexander Mickelthwate.
"To have this work, this piece of Chickasaw culture, given to all of these musicians and then to have them give it back to our people with all their heart into it, it's going to be a totally unique and amazing experience," Garcia adds.
The Chickasaw Nation is gearing up for the annual Three Sisters Celebration March 17-21 in Sulphur, OK. The event signals the changing of seasons and gives visitors a glimpse into traditional planting methods for essential crops like corn, beans and squash, the Three Sisters. The event also features a variety of cultural activities for all ages to enjoy. Visit ChickasawCulturalCenter.com to learn more.
Ayowa' Garden to Gourmet Agritours also provide fun, hands-on, educational experiences to visitors interested in traditional planting and preparing nutritious meals. The next event is scheduled for April.
Accomplished Chickasaw violinist Brandi Berry Benson will premier her latest composition, "Songs of the Chickasaws: Epic Tales Told Through Music," on February 28 and March 1 in Chicago, IL. The classical piece draws from Benson's research of the lives of Chickasaws.
On the next episode, we'll chat with Brandi Berry Benson about how her Chickasaw heritage influences her artistic endeavors.