TULSA – Mvskoke elders and loved ones got up and boogied on the dance floor at the annual Elder’s Holiday Luncheon hosted by Muscogee (Creek) Nation Elder Services at the River Spirit Casino on Monday, Dec. 8. Elders from communities on and off the Mvskoke Reservation gathered for fellowship and Christmas fun. Door prizes, including a hand-beaded cane and a hand-sewn skirt were handed out.
MCN Elder Services Office Manager Angela Neumeyer was hard to miss at the holiday luncheon, wearing a silver jacket and a leopard print Santa hat. Neumeyer said her favorite part of the event is seeing people come together.
“I like to interact with the elders,” Neumeyer said. “I like putting on events. I like interacting with the elders and seeing them enjoy themselves and each other.”
Elders were treated to chicken-fried steak, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, salad and desert. According to Neumeyer, the event was able to accommodate nearly twice as many elders as last year’s luncheon. This year’s event was broken up into two meals, lunch and dinner, due to the high attendance rate: 1,150.
Mvskoke citizens Lillian Thomas and Ken Taryole are cousins. The luncheon is an event they enjoy attending together. Among other Christmas traditions, Thomas sees a Thunder game every year in December with her family. Regardless of the activity, Taryole simply enjoys spending time with his family and friends. He remarked that his favorite part about the gathering are the people.
“For me my favorite part is the fellowship, coming together. It’s a special time of the year and sometimes we don’t get to always see our old friends. We also make new friends. I think it’s a time of renewal.” Taryole said.
“I really appreciate what the tribe does for our people,” Thomas said. “They have so many other events throughout the year, I really appreciate what Creek Nation does for us elders.”
Muscogee (Creek) Nation Principal Chief David Hill, Second Chief Del Beaver and members of the cabinet and National Council were present at the luncheon to greet elders and participate in the festivities. Chief Hill remarked that he was impressed with this year’s turnout.
“It’s always a great time here to share and visit,” Chief Hill said. “Everyone have a Merry Christmas and enjoy yourselves. Mvto!”
My nephew Wayne Sanders sent this to me in California. I thoroughly enjoyed reading the article as well as the video and pictures. I’m marking my calendar for this time next year. Hopefully, I can visit during this event. It would be my pleasure to be among so many of our Elders. Thank you Chief and fellow tribesmen and women for putting on this great event.