Red Lake Nation News - Babaamaajimowinan (Telling of news in different places)

Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby led a ribbon cutting ceremony in Purcell on a trio of Chickasaw Nation facilities Thursday, Sept. 14. A Chickasaw Nation Wellness Center, Purcell Area Office and an expansion of the Health Clinic were dedicated at the Purcell Area Service Center campus on Hardcastle Boulevard, which also includes a senior center and a nutrition services building.

Gov. Anoatubby explained that the Chickasaw Nation and Purcell have a long history together, and it continues with the dedication of the new facilities.

"We still work together today and maintain a great partnership," Gov. Anoatubby said. "Services we offer here help us meet our mission to enhance the overall quality of life of the Chickasaw people."

A crowd of more than 325 at the ribbon-cutting ceremony included Chickasaw Nation elected officials, employees and dozens of Purcell-area residents.

The Chickasaw Health Clinic expansion includes an additional 13,000 square feet of space to accommodate the growing number of patient visits as well as new services including medical imaging, laboratory services and physical therapy.

The addition includes four new exam rooms and nine new dental chairs to provide dental services at the Purcell Clinic.

"We anticipate adding several new positions to the clinic staff," Gov. Anoatubby explained. "This renovation and addition to the clinic will offer closer access to services for Chickasaw citizens and others who live in this region."

Chickasaw Nation Wellness Center

The Wellness Center is the fourth such facility in the Chickasaw Nation.

"The new Wellness Center will assist citizens in enhancing their overall quality of life through physical fitness. The people of this area expressed that there was a need for a Wellness Center here in Purcell," said Gov. Anoatubby. "Today, we are pleased that the Wellness Center will help meet this need."

The 15,500-square-foot wellness center features three large exercise rooms, practice areas and a pool. The gym area is fully-equipped with treadmills, elliptical and rowing machines, free weights and strength equipment. In addition, the Wellness Center offers numerous exercise classes.

The Wellness Center is expected to employ seven wellness educators.

Chickasaw Nation Area Office

The construction of the new Chickasaw Nation Area Office in Purcell provides a larger place where Chickasaw citizens can meet and learn about programs and services in a convenient location.

The new construction replaces an existing location on Green Avenue.

The upgraded Area Office includes 12,000 square feet of space and features a large community room, catering kitchen and a large conference room, which doubles as a safe room.

For more information about the Purcell Area Office, please call 405-527-4973 or visit Chickasaw.net.