March 2015 TCNN

VOLUME 16 EDITION 3

VOLUME 15 EDITION 10

Lawton, OK Lawton, OK

Comanche Collegiate Royalty

March 2015

October 2014

Time to Get Easter

Stand Down is Set Baskets Ready for to Help Homeless the Annual Native VeteransEaster

Egg Hunt

Kimberly de Jesus, top left, was announced as By Jolene Schonchin/News Staff the 2015 Miss Indian OU Jolene Staff You Schonchin/News see them everywhere. at a reception held the eve- Homeless men Calling and women walking

all Eager Easter Egg ning of February 21 at the Fred Harris, LaDonna Harris (Cothe streets and chatting among the Hunters of all ages! manche), and Wakeah Tabbytite Oklahoma University’s trees and at parks. in grandstands at a parade. Photo Sometimes they live among The 31st Annual Comanche Beard Lounge. Several courtesy of LaDonna Harris.

Nation Easter Egg Hunt is around the tribes were in attendance, their families, moving from house to corner, with an afternoon set of famCourtesy Photo along with members of the house, helping their loved ones with ily fun.

Comanche Business Com- what they can, and happy to have a

This years event will take mittee, Comanche Indian comfortable place to eat and sleep.

They are U.S. veterans, who place 1 p.m.-4 p.m. March 28 at the Veteran’s Association, and Comanche Nation Complex. many Comanche tribal served valiantly for our country, prohonor, and

American Thewith egg hunt will have nine members. De Jesus, who tecting different divisions, and each division was the Comanche Nation through heroic deeds.

their place,

'Comanche Boy' George willNow, have after a first giving place, second Princess in 2014, graduyouthful lives to the military branchTahdooahnippah (34-1-2, 24 Kos) and third place prizes, according to ated from Lawton High es, they are without homes, without travels to Copenhagen, Denmark the Comanche Nation Prevention and School in 2013 with a 4.0 steady meals, and do not know where to battle hometown hero, Patrick Recovery Program, which coordiGPA. De Jesus is studying they will lay their head to rest for the Nielsen (23-1, 11 KOs). Comanche Native American Studies night. nates the yearly event.

Boy vs Vision the Danish boxing at Members of local tribes and The categories are: Maker Media Press star Release and Pre-Medicine. She is the Super Middleweight division on • Walking- 3 years Veteran Affairs (VA) have been meeton the Dean’s Honor Roll

All-star fi lmmaking duoing for several months to organize a March 14 at the Ballerup Super Arena • 4-6 years at OU, the Dean’s Interna-Comanche producer and director Stand Down for the American Indian, in Copenhagen, Denmark.

• 7-10 years tional Honor Roll, and the Julianna Brannum and executive proin years the Anadarko,

Tahdooahnippah for • veterans 11-13 ducer Johnny Depp known (Transcendence, National Society of Col- and other Pirates power of the Caribbean, The Lone his punching and elaborate • 14-18 years legiate Scholars . She was Okla. area.

Ranger)--bring the story of politically ring entrances is the WBO world • “In military 19-39terms, years a Stand selected for the Chamber Down is when military personal can infl uential eight Native American ranked number at 168lbs andleader • 40-55 years Singers of OU and for then come in from the fi eld and get a hot LaDonna Harris to Public Television is pulling no punches as prepares to • 56-65 years Committee of the American meal, shower, and a time to rest and stations nationwide with broadcasts travel to the Viking stronghold of Co• Handicapped and Elders 66 Indian Student Associa- eat,” said coordinator, Mary Culley. beginning November 1. penhagen. years and older tion.

In addition, her past

The Stand Down will take

LaDonna Harris reshaped

''Nielsen will be shocked

All prizes will bethe handed out titles included the Quaplace 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Nov. 7 at Indian Country both in America and when heabroad. feels A myComanche power,'' said the after each hunt is concluded.

Bring Iscani Gym 1 South Coronado Cirnah Parker Descendants, Photos by Paula Karty/News Staff from OklahoCowboys and cowgirls of all ages gathered Sept.

19-20 at the LO cle, Anadarko, Okla.

Lunch will be current ma, WBC Continental Americas your own lawn chairs, ice chest, and Oklahoma City Powwow she helped convince the Nixon Ranch in Lawton, Okla. for the Arrington-McSpadden All Indian and NABA USA Champion. is land baskets.

Club Princess, Miss In- served at 11:30 a.m. administration to return ''He sacred Rodeo Association Region 8 Finals to go Head-to-Head with live stock locations will be event, so going down in his own backyard! Go Pick up This is a Drug Free to the Taos Pueblo Indians of New dian Lawton, and Walters to qualify for the National Indian Rodeo Finals in November at Las available to drive veterans who may

Mexico, to founded ing to Denmark fight, isthe meAmericans living a for all are invited to come and have fun.

Service Club Princess.

She Photo by Jolene Schonchin/News Vegas, NV. See Page 10-11 for more action pictures and winners. not have transportation to the Stand Staff Indian Opportunity in 1970, and bedream for the Comanche Nation.

I am

The employees of the Coexpressed her appreciaDown. came that a vice-presidential going show the Comanchenominee war- in manche Nation Programs and Detion for being crowned the Veterans are asked to bring 1980. rior is very much alive in 2015!'' partments volunteer to help prepare, title and has a goal to bring awareness to the Native their DD 214 Forms, if available.

LaDonna Harris: Indian 101

''Tahdooahnippah is no andSeveral run the services event. will be Student population at the nationally known univer- is a refl ection of her political achievejoke,'' said Nielsen, who is preparing

In case inclement sity.

De Jesus will be officially crowned 6 p.m.

March available for not only of Native Vet- weathments, personal struggles, and the for his first super middleweight coner, the Easter Egg Hunt will be re28 at the OU Spring Powwow, Lloyd Noble Center, OU erans, but for all veterans, spouses events that led her to becoming a Simon Moya-Smith/Indian Country Today website: www.indiancountrytodaymedianetwork.com 9/10/14 test. ''I've seen his fights and I know scheduled for April 11. or widows or veterans.

Some of the Campus in Norman, Okla.

Sydney Wahkinney, bevoice for Native people. Raised on a housing it's goingfarm to bein aOklahoma tough night.

I always include For more assistance, information, conleft, and waslikened announced 2015 Miss Indian Okla- services during the Great An elected offi cial in Colo- undocumented low persons as the Former Colorado State Senshelter and other social cheered Depression, for the Native Americans tact the Comanche Nation Prevention LaDonna did not attend rado has received an onslaught of hate Native American mascots to animals. homa City Universityator Suzanne Williams, a Comanche, (OCU) Princess. Wahkinney a emergency services, employment assistance, college. the However, she studied when I watched old cowboy mov- and mail since he announced his plan to and Recovery Program, (580) 357Junior, is majoring in History with a concentration in “I think that your bill is out- introduced a similar bill in 2010, but health screenings, hair cuts, and legal learned alongside husband, Fred introduce a bill to ban Native Ameri- rageous,” she wrote. ies. Everybody loves anher underdog.

3449.

Native“Do American Studies.

She is a member of the Alpha you really it was pulled in committee due to a services.

Harris, who would a U.S. can mascots throughout the state.

But if the 'Comanche Boy' become thinks he believe that schools are being derogalack of support.

Phi Sorority, the Native American Society where she

There will be personal care Senator.

Upon his taking offi

ce, she

House Representative Joe tory because of their mascot name? If

Salazar said he has no intencan come to my hometown and beat has served as the Historian.

Wahkinney is also active products, a clothing closet, surplus too undertook a public service role.

Salazar said most of the hate mail ac- that is the case, then we shouldn't use tion of withdrawing the bill. He said me, he is mistaken.'' in the American Indian Scholars (AIS), where she has LaDonna is best known for her work cuses him of being politically correct animal names, cowboys, colors foods he will push it all the way through items such as blankets and boots that

"This is a high risk fight for served as the Events Chair, President, and currently as in U.S. civil rights when she set the and excoriates him for addressing the or anything as peoples feelings might the legislature. “I’m not pulling this will also be given away.

Patrick,''tone with a landmark legislation iniadmits Nielsen's coach, forthe Outreach Chair. Last year, she studied abroad in “There are a lot of veterans mascot issue instead of handling oth- be hurt. I mean, I love the color green bill,” he said. “It’s a different day mer two-time world champion Joey Italy to study the subject of Ancient Rome, as a part that does not know what the VA has tiative that returned land to the Taos er state matters. Salazar begs to dif- so don't use it because it offensive to here in Colorado.”

Gamache. ''He'sTribe going againsttribes a of of her History major. She has applied in- to offer them,” said Commander of Pueblo and inNative fer. “Now is the time to address issues me. Mascot names have been around Should the for bill several become top ten ranked guy in his first fight at ternships through the Washington Internships for Alaska. She also served a pivotal role that have been ignored for so long,” for many years, probably before you law, one of the schools that would the Comanche Indian Veteran AssoRun Planned (CIVA. “Many of the ones I super middleweight. in helping the Tahdooahnippah Menominee Tribe re- he said.

Nativeone Students Program/Native American ciation Memorial were born, and because person (WINS) be required to change its name is the Courtesy Photo talked to does not want to fi

le a claim gain their federal recognition. is a solid, hungry fighter. He is fightPolitical Leadership Program, to emphasize her for Tribal Employee

His bill would require the gets upset it's all over. There are so Lamar High School Savages. The because they feel they did their job, people Her trailblazing efforts ing for his and his nation.

He be- overall goal to attend Law School and study her true passion, Native Law. As the Miss Indian OCU, her more than one dozen schools in Colomany other issues that need to be adschool’s mascot is an Indian. Salazar and the VA does not owe them anygan when President Lyndon B. JohnJolene Schonchin/News Staff is bringing a lot with him, and that's rado with a Native American mascot dressed Tahhahwah, such as illegals you are awareness said Lamar High School’s reluctance goal is to honor her late cousin, Christina byand bringing to Bi-Polar Disorder and thing. But they do not know the benson selected her to educate both the to change their logo and name or lose worried about school mascots. If you to change its name and logo is a prime what we got to break."

Heart Health among Native people, and to be an overall positive role model for all Native youth by volun- efi ts the VA can give them fi nancially

The Comanche Nation Fitexecutive and legislative branches of state funding, unless a school has an used your time wisely this state may example of why the bill is necessary.

Comanche Boy promoter teering where needed, and spread awareness of her goals. She graduated in 2013 from Elgin High School, and medically.” ness Center is sponsoring a MemoU.S. government on the unique rela- established relationship and permis- actually become better. Get some “There’s a Powwow, lot of pride for Star Boxing President Joe DeGuardia where she played basketball.

Wahkinney will be officially crowned April 4 at the OCU Freede

Red Elk added Native famirial 5K and 1 Mile Walk for former tionship that American Indian tribes sion from an Indian nation. said: "Comanche Boy isnation. thrilledThis to beeduca- Wellness Center, 27th & Florida St.,new issues to focus on, please.”

OCU Campus, Oklahoma City. being a Lamar Savage," Lamar City lies take care of their loved ones who hold within our staff member, and member of Team Salazar provided ICTMN Salazar said he has invited Councilman Kirk Crespin told The going totion Denmark to fight Nielsen. called are veterans, having them stay James at course was affectionately Comanche Boy, Asaan Fife, with several of the emails he has re- the opposition to a meeting on Sep- Denver Post. “Why should we have their homes and live with them.

He is a "Indian 101" and was taught to memtrue warrior and I look forwho was tragically killed in an autoceived from constituents who oppose tember 10 at the Denver Indian Fami- to go through the state to get a mascot “They do not consider ward to watching what canand be likened bers of Congress other federal his bill. Some messages poke at Sala- ly Resource Center. He said the meet- approved that's been around for de- mobile accident October 26, 2014. themselves homeless, but they are, to a battle of the ages: 'Comanche vs agencies for over 35 years. zar for being too far on the left. ing is to provide the community with cades?” stand down He was Personal and this can ahelp them Fitness

La Donna Harris: Indian 101 Viking'...two warriors battle in the

“Isn’t there something more “ownership of the bill.” The meeting Salazar said the argument of Trainer at the Comanche Nation help themselves.” rst documentary about the Naland of is the fi the Vikings," said Nielsen's important you could be addressing will be from 4:30-7 p.m. school pride and tradition is a weak Fitness Center, and an advocate for

For more information, to activist and national civil rights [than] school mascots?” writes one. promotertive Nisse Sauerland: So far, he said, none of the one. “It’s an appalling argument,” he Story and Photo by Jolene Schonchin/News Staff diabetes prevention.

He was the sole leader, LaDonna Harris.

Brannum “It’s a waste of time, money and just opposition has accepted his invita- said. “[The word ‘savage’] will never donate to the Stand Down, or to set

''We want to move Patrick the founder Stand Down, call Strong, ownerat and of Native commented, "LaDonna's unique and plain stupid. But what should I expect tion. “They’re not coming. We invite take on a new meaning. The defi ni- up a booth into a position to challenge for world Culley at (405) 626-3426. which promoted health and wellness bi-partisan approach to political and from a Democrat?” them to Image being a Comanche Historical Preservation Director, Jimmeet the community then tion in itself is something that doesn’t titles. To do that he has to face world to all Native people.. years ago.

You traveling my Arterberry, Comanche’s would

Another person wrote to 150 they don’t want to are show up. It’s with a connote anything positive.” ranked opponents. There are no easy The Memorial Run/Walk See HARRIS, Page 2 Salazar arguing he should focus on your band, providing for your family, tie down or tether a variety of trees to sanctimonious attitude,” he said. fights at this level. Patrick is jumping will begin at 10 a.m. April 12 at Elyour horses, and preparing for up- modify its growing pattern and use it in at the deep end and he can't afford mer Thomas Park, Lawton. coming days ahead. Your band comes as a “marker,” to be used as a referto make any mistakes.''

The 5K Run is $20, and the across an area that has a fresh water ence guide on the landscape, such as

Nielsen's super middle1-Mile Walk is $10. The deadline to supply, maybe from a natural spring, a trail, a creek or spring for water, or weight showdown against Tahdooregister is 5 p.m.

March 31. and it has an array of berries, pecans, a plush campsite. ahnippah tops the Nordic Fight Night

Registration forms can be and a good camping area. How would One of these distinguished bill on March 14 at the Ballerup Super picked up at the Comanche Nation you remember the area? trees was given a Certificate of AuArena in Copenhagen. All the action Fitness Center, 904 SW F Ave. Law When the Comanche’s mi- thenticity by the Texas Historical Sowill be available to watch live on TV3 ton, or at the Comanche Nation Pregrated into Texas are around the ciety’s Texas Historic Tree Coalition and TV3 Sports Channels. Tickets are scription Assistance Center, 5 SW D 1750’s, it was an open prairie, and, and placed on the Comanche Tree available via billetlugen.dk.

See TREE, Page 3 Ave., Lawton. according to the Comanche Nation

LaDonna Harris: Comanche BoyShares to Indian 101 Fightthe inLife Northern of One of America's Europe Most Politically Influential Native Americans

Proposed Bill Would Ban Native Mascots in Colorado; Sponsor Gets Hate Mail

Comanche Marker Tree Certified by Texas

Historical Society

March 2015

2

Handgame Action

The Comanche Nation News

Intense Games and Lively Music Are Enjoyed at the Comanche Nation Handgame Tournament

By Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

Thunderous, rhythmic music could be heard from afar at the Annual Comanche Nation Handgame Tournament, held Feb. 7 at the Comanche Complex.

Both local and out-of-state teams collided in a games of strategy and skill with plenty of Native Flair and Fun.

“Last year, we only had 13 teams entered in the tournament, and for the 2015 tournament, we had 21 teams,” said Carlene Atauvich Collins, Comanche Nation Handgame Tournament Coordinator.

“It was exciting to have that many teams come to participate, a total of 41 games were played all day.”

Atauvich-Collins added the Handgame is a dying tradition just like tribal languages.

“It is the oldest game that was play during the winter time. In times past, we would play it when no one could go out to hunt,” she explained.

“Many of our grandparents and parents played this traditional game, but today there are not too many that know how to play the “Game-of-Hands” that our ancestors played.”

Wallace Coffey, Chairman of the Comanche Nation, said he supports having this tournament to help in reviving the traditional game, in hopes with each year, the tournament will get bigger and bigger with more participants both experienced and those learning.

The results of the 2015 Handgame Tournament: 1ST FIRST PLACE CHAMPIONS: South Buzzard Creek/Carnegie/ Anadarko/Hog Creek area 2nd PLACE: Carnegie Eagles/ Carnegie, Oklahoma 3rd PLACE: Arapaho Nation/Canton, Oklahoma 4th PLACE: Carnegie Wildcats/ Carnegie, Oklahoma BEST DRESSED TEAM: Carnegie Eagles Photo by Paula Karty/News Staff

Courtesy Photo

BEST SINGING Carnegie Wildcats

TEAM-Men:

BEST SINGING TEAM-Women: Native Nation BEST MALE HIDER: Louise Maynnhonah Jr./Carnegie Eagles BEST FEMALE HIDER: Wilda Koomsa/Carnegie Eagles BEST MAKE GUESSER: William Tarsah Jr./SBC BEST FEMALE GUESSER: Lisa Koomsa/Carnegie Eagles

First Place: South Buzzard Creek/Carnegie/Anadarko/Hog Creek area

Third Place: Arapaho Nation

Photo by Paula Karty/News Staff

Second Place: Carnegie Eagles

Fourth Place: Carnegie Wildcats

March 2015 THE COMANCHE NATION NEWS

The award-winning Comanche Nation News, the official communication of the Comanche Nation, is available at no charge upon request. The deadline to submit information for the April 2015 edition is noon March 15. Donations to help cover the cost of printing and mailing are welcome.

Contact: The Comanche Nation News P.O. Box 908 Lawton, Okla. 73502-0908 Telephone: (580) 492-3386 Fax: (580) 492-3709 Emails: comanche_news@yahoo.com pio@comanchenation.com •

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TCNN Staff Jolene Schonchin, Editor, Reporter, Photographer-Email: jolenes@ comanchenation.com-Telephone Number-(580)492-3382 Paula Karty, Assis. Editor, Reporter, Photographer- Email: paulak@ comanchenation.com Telephone Number-(580)492-3383 Stacey Heminokeky, Reporter/ Photographer- Email: staceyh@comanchenation.com. Candace Todd, Administrative Assistant-Telephone Number (580)492-3386 News items of interest to the local and American Indian community are welcome.

Photographs will be copied and will become the property of TCNN. To return original photographs, send a self-addressed stamped envelope.

Do not send faxed photographs or newspaper copies of photographs.

The Milestones Page (Birthdays, Anniversaries, Engagements,Memorial Pictures, Weddings, Births) are by submission only. The Passings are submitted by the Comanche Nation Funeral Home or by tribal members on a funeral home letterhead. The Milestones Page is for tribal members only. TCNN publishes all services conducted by The Comanche Nation Funeral Home without discretion.

Obituaries are written for tribal members only.

TCNN will print a Comanche organization’s annual event flyer once free of charge as a courtesy to our tribal organizations. The guidelines for flyer submission are: Pow-wow flyers have to be from an established Comanche organization. There has to be contact person and number on the organization’s annual flyer.

We reserve the right to edit all material. Letters or articles that contain libelous information, slander, or personal attacks will not be printed. Letters to the Editor must be signed with a legible name. The letters to the editor or articles contained in the The Comanche Nation News does not reflect the views or opinions of the PIO staff.

Comanche Nation Officials

Chairman Wallace Coffey Vice Chairman Mike Mack Mahsetky Secretary/Treasurer Jerry Tahsequah Committeeman No. 1 Jonathan Poahway Committeeman No. 2 Sonya Nevaquaya Committeeman No. 3 Harry Mithlo Committeeman No. 4 Clyde Narcomey Tribal Administrator William Owens To contact officials: Comanche Nation P.O. Box 908 Lawton, Okla. 73502 Toll Free: (877) 492-4988 Physical Address 584 Bingo Rd. Lawton, OK 73505

Member of the Native American Journalist Association since 2001 Member of the Society of Professional Journalists since 2010

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3

The Comanche Nation News

Eight Resolutions Were Passed During CBC Monthly Meeting Story by Stacey Heminokeky

Editor’s Note: This is an overview of the CBC Meeting and not the actual minutes. To obtain a copy of the official minutes, call the Office of the Chairman, (580) 492-3251.

Chairman Wallace Coffey called the meeting to order at 10:23 a.m.

Secretary-Treasurer, Jerry Tahsequah, conducted Roll Call. A quorum was established with all Comanche Business Committee (CBC) members present, except Committee person #2, Sonya Nevaquaya, who joined the meeting later.

Chairman Coffey asked Francine Monenerkit to do the invocation to open the meeting.

The minutes of the January 2015 meeting were passes. ViceChairman, Mack Mahsetky made the motion and secretary-treasurer, Jerry Tahsequah, seconds the motion.

Resolutions No.12-15 Enrollment List No. 988 Committeeman #4, Clyde Narcomey, made the motion to approve. Committee person #2, Sonya Nevaquaya, seconds the motion. The motion carries 6/0/0.

No. 13-15 Enrollment List No. 989 Vice-Chairman, Mack Mahsetky, made motion to approve. Committeeman #3, Harry Mithlo, seconds the motion. The motion carries 6/0/0.

No 14-15 Improvements to Route No. 7174 Secretary-Treasurer, Jerry

Tahsequah, made motion to approve.

Nevaquaya seconds the motion. The motion carries 6/0/0.

No. 15-15 Improvements to Route No. 7142 Committee person #2 Sonya Nevaquaya made motion. ViceChairman Mack Mahsetky seconds the motion. The motion carries 6/0/0.

No. 16-15 Grant Application Tribal Assistance Solicitation Committee person #2 Sonya Nevaquaya made motion to approve. Secretary-Treasurer Jerry Tahsequah seconds the motion. The motion carries 6/0/0.

No. 17-15 Grant for Family Violence Prevention Program Committee person #2 Sonya Nevaquaya made motion to approve. SecretaryTreasurer Jerry Tahsequah seconds the motion. The motion carries 6/0/0.

No. 18-15 National Indian Gaming Association Membership SecretaryTreasurer Jerry Tahsequah made motion to approve. Vice-Chairman Mack Mahsetky seconds the motion.

The motion carries 6/0/0.

No 19-15 Groundwater Protection Act of 2015 Vice-Chairman Mack Mahsetky made motion to approve.

Committeeman #4 Clyde Narcomey seconds the motion. The motion carries 6/0/0.

Resolutions 20-15, 21-15, and 22-15 were discussed during executive session. Executive session followed the adjournment of the monthly meeting at 12:07 p.m.

ATTENTION CANDIDATES

Candidates who are running for the positions of Comanche Nation Tribal Administrator, may place their flyer/information in the April edition of The Comanche Nation News. The Deadline is 5 p.m. March 16.

Candidates who are running for the positions of Comanche Nation Chairman and Comanche Nation Vice Chairman may place their flyer/information in the May edition of The Comanche Nation News. The deadline is 5 p.m. April 21.

Send information to: candacet@comanchenation.com or call the Comanche Nation PIO, (580) 492-3386.

Election Board Voters Information

By Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

Positions open for the CBC (Comanche Business Committee) will be Chairman and Vice Chairman. Positions open on the Election Board will be At-Large (1), Lawton (1), and Walters (1).

The General Council Meeting is scheduled for April 18 in Watchetaker Hall, Comanche Nation Complex.

Early/In-House Voting will be May 14 and May 15, and the General Election is May 16. If a Run-Off Election is needed, the Early/In-House Voting for the Run-Off Election will be June 11 and June 12, and the Run-Off Election is June 13.

All eligible tribal members will receive a ballot in the mail. The Election Board will pay the cost of the return postage. There will be no cost to the tribal member to mail their ballot in.

Early voting will be held at the Tribal Complex and at the Comanche Nation Elder’s Center/Nutrition Site located at 1107 SW “H” Ave., Lawton, Okla.The Election Board asks tribal members update their addresses with the Comanche Nation Enrollment Department.

Please contact the Election Board office at (580) 492-3272 for any questions.

Steve Houser, center, holds the Certificate of Registrar from the Texas Historical Tree Coalition, which he presented to Holliday, TX. Mayor, Allen Moore,left, at the Feb. 9 City Council Meeting. Also pictured are Don Brix, who discovered the Mark Tree, and Comanche Elder, Robert Atauchavit, who contributed information about Comanche history.

TREE

Continued from Page 1

Marker Registry, after Don Brix contacted them about the unique looking tree.

“I saw a tree similar to this tree in Colorado, and once I laid eyes on this one, I knew it was a Marker tree,” said Brix.

The designated tree, a Pecan Tree, is said to be 159 years old, according to Steve Houser, of the Texas Historic Tree Coalition. It is located at the Stonewall Jackson Camp, east of Holliday, TX.

Tribal Elder Robert Atauchavit, who was a consultant during the examination of the tree, was also present at the February 9 Holliday City Council Meeting, where the dedication took place.

“I am very honored to have been a part of this project,” expressed Atauchavit. “Hopefully other Comanche’s will come to see this tree we used. It is a historical marker for us.”

The tree in Holliday, Texas, is not the first tree identified as a Comanche Marker Tree in the Lone Star State.

Newspapers published in the 1800s and 1900s have articles about Comanche Marker Trees, and General Mckenzie wrote about Comanche Marker Trees in his journal, writing a history of it during his tour of Comanche territory.

In 1994, Chairman Wallace Coffey, and Juanita Pahdopony Mithlo, along with the Texas Tree Coalition, identified a tree in the Gateway Park, Dallas area.

After Mithlo conducted research on the tree, and contacted the Texas Tree Coalition, a group of Comanche’s traveled to Dallas to do a Tribal Proclamation about the ancient Marker Tree.

Another Comanche Marker Tree was discovered in the Davis

WELCOMING COMMITTEE. The Comanche Nation Business Committee (CBC) welcomes the many teams to the annual Hand Game Tournament February 7 at Watchetaker Hall, Comanche Nation Complex. The Handgame Tournament is sponsored by the Comanche Nation. Wallace Coffey, Chairman’s, gave a special welcome to the Noo Chu team of the Northern Ute’s from Fort Duchesne, Utah and the Photos by Paula Karty/News Staff Ute’s team of the Ute Mountains from Towaoc, Colorado (pictured). He also welcomed the Native Nation Team, who had half their players from Crow Agency, Montana. After welcoming the numerous tribes, Coffey presented Tournament Coordinator, Carlene Atauvich Collins, above left, with the prize money for the winners.

Mountains in Davis, Texas, which was painted. A Cottonwood Tree was painted along Limpia Creek, which inspired the name, Painted Comanche Camp, for the local canyons, because several paintings and pictographs were found on the canyon walls.

“Being nomadic people, these trees were our archaeological feature, like rock drawings,” said Arterberry.

Arterberry knows the importance Marker Trees in Comanche History, and is currently’ documenting it in a book. He, along with Houser and Dr. Linda Palone, are in the process of publishing a book called "Comanche Marker Trees in Texas", which is currently under review with Texas A&M Press. The book is about the science behind these trees with a Taxonomy and time line that includes pictures and historical data about Comanche trees.

Once the Texas Historical Tree Coalition receives data such as the species of the tree, measurements, and location, the information is passed on to Arterberry, where he then determines the additional tribal factors such as the history.

“Some trees were painted or had hatchet marks, some were encrypted with messages, for other Comanche’s to recognize and follow,” said Arterberry. “They marked the location where Comanche’s would meet.

Some of the trees were chose because the children were drawn to them.”

Arterberry and his team broke the trees down to categories that include titles such as Ceremony. Medicine, Service and Burial, to name a few, and explains what additional needs the trees provided.

“For example, Comanche’s used the bark of cottonwood trees for several purposes,” he added.

Journalist Ann Jean Taylor had the opportunity to interview the late Melvin Kerchee Sr. in 1996 about Marker (also called Turning) Trees for her article titled “Searching for Turning Trees and Other Special Trees of the Comanche.” Here is an excerpt:

“Kerchee learned of Turning Trees from his grandfather and other elders who spoke about the times before 1875, when the last of the Comanche surrendered to the US military. During those earlier days were special meeting places along the plains’ edge, distinguished by good flowing springs and large or unusual looking trees known as Turning Trees.

There, as the tree shadows grew long and cool in the later part of the day, the Comanche’s gathered to discuss what families and groups planned to do and where they would be. Some might plan to travel northwest to the mountains to gather lodge poles; others might intend to move southward to raid in Texas or Mexico.

Unfortunately, the exact location of many places was not passed on. Kerchee observed that the Comanche custom of pointing out things or directions with one’s lips (pointing with fingers is considered rude) added to this loss of knowledge. During the later-day auto drives through the Texas Panhandle-Plains, Kerchee’s See TREE, Page 15

March 2015

4

The Comanche Nation News

March 2015

Programs Comanche Nation Earth Day

The Comanche Nation Office of Environmental Program (CNOEP) is hosting Comanche Nation Earth Day. “Saving Tomorrow’s World Starts with Today” will be held on Friday, , April 10, in Watchetaker Hall. The event will be from 9:00 a.m.-1:p.m.

The Earth Day activities include a Poster Contest, Arts and Crafts, and Door Prizes.

CNOEP will also be providing information about Environmental Quality. Captain Planted will also be making an appearance.

For more information, call CNOEP at (580) 492-3754

COMANCHE NATION OFFICES WILL CLOSE APRIL 3, 2015 FOR GOOD FRIDAY AND WILL RE-OPEN 8 A.M. APRIL 6, 2015

5

The Comanche Nation News

Tribal Employees Receive Five-Year Certificates

Courtesy Photos

The Comanche Nation leaders continue to move forward in a productive and progressive way by providing group training to Comanche Nation Employees from departments that offer programs and services to tribal members.

Department Directors are utilizing the opportunity to send their staff to the group trainings in an effort to be more cost effective.

The recent training that was brought in by the Comanche Nation gave Comanche Nation Housing, Comanche Nation C.I.P., Comanche Nation Water Park and Comanche Nation College Employees a 5 year certification in Lead Paint abatement.

When and where ever Lead paint is concerned there are specific guidelines and laws that govern it. Having our own staff trained and certified

in many areas is the desire of The Comanche Nation Leadership. Through these efforts our Comanche Nation Employees can increase the skills and knowledge while also obtaining necessary training and certifications that are pertinent to their job titles and descriptions.

The Comanche Nation Water Park offers entertainment to the general public of Lawton/Ft. Sill and sur-

rounding communities and the Comanche Nation College as well is now open to the public for enrollment so their participation in the training not only as entities of the Nation showed that when employees come together as a team for the Comanche Nation all things can be positive and successful.

Scripture of the Month “For, lo, the winter is past, the rain is over and gone; The flowers appear on the earth; the time of the singing of birds is come, and the voice of the turtledove is heard in our land” Song of Solomon 2:11-12

Courtesy Photo

TEN GRADUATE TO CERTIFIED NURSING ASSISTANTS. Graduating from the Comanche Nation Workforce Certified Nursing Assistant program at the Great Plains Technology Center on February 6, are, pictured from left: Georgia Gibson, Classroom Training Coordinator, Marcia Toahty, Zhana Tonips, Mikael Smith, Randysha Tanequodle, Seberiana Palmer, Tammy Rodriguez (Instructor), Brittany Killsfirst, Eva Antunez, Katie Ann Archilta, Darrell Cable Jr. A total of 26 have graduated through the WIA Program.

Comanche Nation, through WIA Dept., Honored at Comanche County Memorial Hospital

Photo by Stacey Heminokeky/News Staff

Comanche Nation honor CEO Randy Segler with a Comanche Pendleton Blanket. Pictured from Left to Right; Glenda Goseyun, Justin Boos (Director of WIA), Jerrod Copeland, Candace Benson, Kip Cummins, Donna Wade, William Owens (CN T. A), Randy Segler (CEO), Wallace Coffey (CN Chairman), Brandon Smith (Assistant WIA Director), Donna Wahnee, and Georgia Gibson.

By Stacey Heminokeky/News Staff

The Comanche County Memorial Hospital (CCMH) has been in a partnership with the Comanche Nation since January 2014 to provide tribal members career experience through the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) program.

At a luncheon held the Comanche Nation tribal leaders recognized CCMH for the tremendous success the program has had. CEO Randy Segler was presented

Courtesy Photo

Shirla Strickler is Comanche Nation WIA’s Success story. She was hired on permanently with CCMH.

a Comanche blanket during a ceremony held in appreciation for CCMH’s partnerships with the Comanche Nation.

The Comanche Nation’s WIA program looks forward to extending their partnership with CCMH for many more years. This partnership has been very successful for both the Comanche Nation and CCMH.

For more information, contact the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) Program, (580) 492-3257

March 2015

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Military Submitted by: Lanny Asepermy

COMANCHE WARRIORS – PAST TO PRESENT Troop L, 7th Cavalry

February 2, 1946. He was awarded the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with/1 Battle Star for his participation during the Battle of Okinawa Shima Ryukyu Islands from April 1 to June 21, 1945. Other awards include the Sharpshooter Qualification Badge with/Rifle Bar, the Honorable Service Lapel Button and the World War II Victory Medal. PFC Saupitty was born on 19, 1917 and died on June 22, 1974. His final resting place is Highland Cemetery.

Three of PFC Saupitty’s brothers, Larry, Stanford (photo not available) and Tennyson Saupitty, were all World War II veterans – all are deceased.

Lawrence Bruce Tomah Vietnam War

Tabby-tite served with Troop L, 7th Cavalry at Fort Sill between 1892-97. He was born on August 2, 1872 and died on August 27, 1961. His final resting place is Deyo Cemetery (photo taken in 1892, courtesy of “find a grave”) World War I

Larry Saupitty

Private Jacoby Wahkinney enlisted in the Army and trained at Camp Travis, TX before shipping to France where he was assigned to the 107th Infantry Regiment, 27th Division. Archives (retrieved by the late Wahnne Clark from the Federal Building in Fort Worth, TX) indicate Tennyson Saupitty he was in France on June 27, 1918 and fought in battles at Dickebusch Lake and Vierstratt Ridge (in France) Korean War in the late summer of 1918. The Division also fought during the Somme Offensive, the battle of Ypres-Lyn and their last action was fought near the Le Selle River (also in France).

His military marker, at Little Washita Cemetery, shows he received the Purple Heart – he was one of eight Comanches wounded during World War I. PVT Wahkinney was born in 1894 and died in 1963. His son, Sergeant Raymond “Rusty” Wahkinney, was a Korean War veteran who served in the OK Army National Guard from 1949-53 with the 1st Battalion, 158th Field Artillery, 45th Infantry Division. SGT Wahkinney passed away on February 9, 2007 and

Sergeant First Class Bobby his final resting place is Little WashiTomah Sr served in the US Army ta Cemetery. from September 1952 to August 1956 including tours in Korea from March 1953 to July 1954 and from January 1955 to June 1956 with Company B, 11th Combat Engineer Battalion, 8th Army. He also served with the 6th Armored Division at Fort Lewis, WA; the 2nd Infantry Division at Fort Lewis, WA and the 1st Armored Division at Fort Polk, LA. His awards include the Presidential Unit CitaRaymond “Rusty” Wahkinney tion, the Korean Presidential Unit Citation, the Good Conduct, National World War II Defense Service, the Korea Service with/1 Battle Star, the Korean War Service and United Nations Service Medals. SFC Tomah Sr also received a letter from the President of South Korea, Kim Dae-jung with his deepest gratitude for his notable contribution during the Korean War.

SFC Tomah Sr currently lives in Walters after retiring from Civil Service at Fort Sill in 1985 and fifteen years with the Comanche Nation Police Department in 1999. SFC Tomah’s father, Private Lawrence Bruce Tomah Sr, was the last living Comanche World War I veteran – he

Private First Class Floyd died on August 17, 1989 at age 99 Saupitty served in the US Marine years and is buried at the Walters Corps from September 9, 1944 to Cemetery.

Specialist 4 William C. Red Elk served in the US Army from March 27, 1969 to November 16, 1970 including a tour in Vietnam with Company C, 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division from October 31, 1969 to November 16, 1970. He and his unit were part of the incursion into Cambodia from May to June 1970. SP4 Red Elk took his Basic Combat Training at Fort Dix, NJ and his Advanced Individual Training, as a Light Weapons Infantryman, at Fort Jackson, SC. His awards include the Army Commendation with/Oak Leaf Cluster, the Air, the National Defense Service with/Bronze Service Star, the Vietnam Service, the Vietnam Gallantry Cross with/Palm, the Vietnam Civil Action Honor 2nd Class, and the Vietnam Campaign with/1960 Bar Medals and the Combat Infantryman, the Expert Qualification with/ Machine Gun and Grenade Bars and the Marksman Qualification with/ Automatic Rifle Badges.

SP4 Red Elk currently lives in Cache. SP4 Red Elk’s father, Technician Fourth Class William Red Elk Jr, served in the US Army with Company A, 747th Tank Battalion, 29th Infantry Division in the European Theater during World War II. T4 Red Elk passed away on December 21, 1974 and is buried at Deyo Cemetery.

William Red Elk Jr Persian Gulf War

Staff Sergeant Gordon Whitewolf in the US Army from 1972 – 84 and the OK Army National Guard from 1989 –96. He served in Operations Desert Shield and Storm during the Persian Gulf War Battery D, 1st Battalion, 158th Field Artillery (Multi Launch Rocket System).

He also served at Fort Bragg, NC with the 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Hood, TX with the 2nd Armored Division and Wackenhiem, Germany with the 8th Infantry Division. His military occupations included Artillery (MLRS) Crewman, Senior Gunner, Squad Leader and Assistant Section Chief. SSG Whitewolf graduated from the Primary Leadership Course, the Advanced NCO Leadership Course, Basic and Jumpmaster Parachute Schools. His awards include the Army Commendation, the Army Achievement with/Oak Leaf Cluster, the National Defense Service with/Bronze Service Star, the Southwest Asia Campaign with/2 Battle Stars, the Saudi Arabia and Kuwait Liberation and the OKARNG Desert Storm Medals, the Army Service, the NCOPD with/Numeral 3 and Overseas Ribbons and the Basic and Jumpmaster Parachutists Wings.

SSG Whitewolf currently lives in Anadarko. His father, Howard W. Whitewolf, served with the US Army from 1941-45, he passed away on January 1, 2008 and his final resting place is the Mount Scott Cemetery.

The Comanche Nation News Reserve from 61-63. His service includes 2+ years aboard the USS Dixie (AD-14). Mr. Wooth passed away on November 12, 2012 and his final resting place is the Little Washita Cemetery.

Donald Woothtakewabbitty OTHERS THAT HAVE SERVED WITH HONOR

War on Terror

CPL George Asepermy Jr Army, 1952-54; Military Policeman

First Sergeant Raymond Woothtakewabbitty served in OR Army National Guard from 199093 with E Troop, 116th Cavalry as a Scout and has served in the US Army since 1993 – he is scheduled to retire from active duty in 2015. 1SG Wooth served combat tours in Iraq in 200607, Afghanistan in 2010-11 and 2013 and a tour in Kuwait in 2003. He has also served at Fort Sill twice with the 3rd Battalion, 17th Field Artillery and 18th Field Artillery; Camp Hovey, Korea with the 2nd Battalion, 17th Field Artillery; Fort Hood, TX with the 1st Battalion, 82nd Field Artillery; Albany OR Recruiting Station; Baumholder, Germany with the 4th Battalion, 27th Field Artillery; Aberdeen Proving Grounds, MD with the NCO Academy and is currently stationed at Joint Base Lewis-McCord, WA with the 864th Engineer Battalion and currently the 555th Engineer Brigade. His military occupations include Cavalry Scout; Field Artillery Mechanic; Shop Foreman; Battery, Battalion and Brigade Motor Sergeant; Recruiter and Recruiter Station Commander and First Sergeant.

He graduated from the Primary Leadership Development Course; the Basic and Advanced NCO Development Courses; the Army Recruiters School and the First Sergeants Course. 1SG Wooth has earned the Bronze Star with/Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster; the Meritorious Service w/3 Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters; the Army Commendation and Achievement each with/1 Silver and 1 Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters; the Good Conduct with/1 Sliver Loop; the National Defense Service with/Bronze Service Star; the Armed Forces Expeditionary; the Iraq and Afghanistan Campaign; the Global War on Terror Service and Expeditionary; the Korean Defense Service and NATO Medals, the Army Service, NCOPD with/Numeral 3 and Overseas Ribbons, the Combat Action, Gold Recruiters, Driver with/Mechanic Bar and Wheel/Track Qualification Badges and the Gold Recruiters Ring.

SFC Wooth’s father, Donald D. Woothtakewabbitty, served in the OKARNG from 1955-57, the US Navy from 1959-61 and the US Navy

PFC Lewellyn A. Atauvich Army,1942-45; World War II,Europe

PFC Bert Cable Army, 1918-19World War I - Europe

SFC Wilbur “Duke” Ellis OKARNG & Army, 1953-78 Vietnam War – Special Forces

Continued on Page 7

March 2015 Continued from Page 6

Anita Chebahtah Navy, 2013 - present Currently stationed at Tinker AFB T5 Francis J. Attocknie Army, 1942-45 World War II Europe

AT2/C Dan Bigbee Jr Navy, 1977-84 USS Kitty Hawk

SGT Milton Codynah Army, 1968-70 Vietnam War w/4ID Purple Heart & Cbt Inf Badge

SGT Vernon Chockpoyah Air Force, 1948-51 & Marine Corps, 1953-56 Korean War

SN Paul Bennett Navy, 1955-57

THE VIETNAM WAR

The Vietnam War, according to Wikipedia, occurred in Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia from November 1, 1955 to the fall of Saigon on April 30, 1975 (19 years, 5 months, 4 weeks and 1 day). Direct US involvement ended on August 15, 1973 as a result of the Case-Church Amendment passed by the US Congress.

The US military list 17 campaigns during the war starting with the Advisory Campaign on March 15, 1962 and ending with the CeaseFire Campaign on January 28, 1973. During these campaigns 307 Comanches served in the military – not all served in Vietnam.

CPL John Campa Marine Corps, 1981-84

Sgt Lucien Looking Glass

CPT Edwin Chappabitty Jr Army, 1967-72 Vietnam War w/25th ID Arty Forward Observer

Cpl Richard Sapcutt

7

and subdermal. Most of the platoon was at least partially deaf for several days”. He also said, “In the morning after the B-52 attack there were a lot of new swimming pools (meaning large bomb craters). Everything, I mean everything, was dead. Just pieces of animals, plants, houses and people all over the place – and hard to tell apart. Enough of some bodies to count but mostly just hamburger. North Vietnamese dead were 407, Marine dead 45 with another 218 wounded. Mr. Pickersgill spoke of other horrors recalling a fight that took place on December 22, 1965; “I remember the Viet Cong and North Vietnamese Army chained to their guns so they couldn’t run; I rememCpl Edmond Mahseet ber our Battalion area about the size

Information gathered indi- of a baseball diamond; I remember cate the first Comanches to set foot all the dead and wounded we had onto Vietnam soil was in 1965. The gathered up off the battlefield layfirst was Sergeant Lucien “Jimmy” ing in the center of our position so Looking Glass in May 1965, fol- we could protect them; I remember lowed by Corporal Richard Sapcutt going without food and water for in June 1965 and Corporal Edmond three days; I remember the leaches; “Eddie” Mahseet in September I remember being so wet and cold from the constant rain; I remem1965.

SGT Looking Glass was as- ber getting dysentery from drinking signed to Company C, 1st Battalion, rice paddy water”. The Operation 4th Marines, 1st Marine Brigade. was called Harvest Moon and LCpl SGT Looking Glass, in an email Mahseet endured that operation and dated December 1, 2014, recalls, “I 23 others during his 25 months in the was only there for about 3 weeks ‘Nam. According to the Vietnam and was on a few uneventful patrols.

We were then sent to Okinawa and Veterans Memorial website the first onto Camp Pendleton, CA arriving American to die in Vietnam was US about mid-June 1965”. SGT Look- Air Force Tech Sergeant Richard B. ing Glass returned to Vietnam, most Fitzgibbon Jr on June 8, 1955 and likely in December 1965, assigned to the last of 58,272 Americans to fall Company F, 2nd Battalion, 9th Ma- in Vietnam were US Marines Charles rines, 3rd Marine Division. He was McMahon and Darwin Judge on awarded the Bronze Star with/Valor April 29, 1973. Fitzgibbon’s death Device for “heroic achievement in was non-hostile as another airman connection with operations against murdered him. McMahon and Judge insurgent communist (Vet Cong) were both killed in action by an enforces in the Republic of Vietnam on emy rocket propelled grenade exploJanuary 30, 1966”. His tour ended sion. as he was twice wounded on June 11, 1966. Besides the Purple Heart he was also awarded the Combat Action Ribbon and Presidential Unit Citation.

Cpl Sapcutt was assigned to Company F, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, 3rd Marine Division. He and his unit deployed from Camp Schwab Okinawa in June 1965 and boarded the USS Iwo Jima in the Gulf of Tonkin (off the coast of Vietnam) shortly thereafter. Once aboard the Iwo Jima, in June 1965, usually platoon size elements were flown by helicopter onto Vietnam soil for brief (usually 24-96 hours) intelligence gathering and search and destroy Richard B. Fitzgibbon Jr missions. About July 1965 Cpl Sapcutt’s unit was put ashore in the vicinity of Pui Bai to begin a 13-month deployment. On February 23, 1966 Cpl Sapcutt became the first of 17 Comanches to be wounded in action (including two that were killed in action). He was wounded in the hip by a small arms round that caused a fracture of his lower vertebra. Cpl Sapcutt was medically discharged on July 3, 1966 because of the wounds – the bullet remains in his body to this day. Cpl Sapcutt was awarded the Purple Heart and Combat Action Ribbon.

Cpl Mahseet was assigned to Company A, 2nd Battalion, 1st Charles McMahon Marines, 1st Marine Division aboard the USS Bexar. Mahseet and his unit deployed, from the Bexar, onto the Vung Mu Peninsula, Hon Lou Island and Tam Quam village near Bihn Dinh Vietnam starting on September 25 through October 10, 1965 and performed operations “Dagger Thrust I, II and II”. Helicopters, rubber raft boats and submarine torpedo shoots inserted them. These missions consisted of search and destroy, establishment of defensive positions and information gathering. In December his unit was put ashore and began operations in and around Hue, Phu Bai, Da Nang, Quang Tri, Thua Thien and Darwin Judge Quang Nam. His 13-month deployment ended in October 1966. Cpl The Vietnam War MemoMahseet was awarded the first of rial, located in Washington DC contwo Combat Action Ribbons and the tains, as of May 2011, the names of Presidential Unit Citation.

58,272 Americans that died as a re Some of the horrors of war sult of the Vietnam War. There is a were written by Cpl Mahseet’s Corps- salute of 3 servicemen overlooking man (Medic), Doug Pickersgill. He the Wall. It is truly a heart-felt tribute said in a document written in March to our Fallen.

2007 “On December 12, 1965 during a B-52 attack in Phouc Ha Valley some of the concussions were so strong I had to treat nasal, aura and conjunctival bleeding, expressed

The Comanche Nation News

Vietnam veteran Albert Clark Jr standing behind Vietnam War Memorial (photo taken in 2003)

A few of the Fallen include the youngest to die 15-year-old Marine Dan Bullock and the oldest 63-year-old Soldier Dwaine McGriff.

Dan Bullock

Dwaine McGriff

Robert G. Davison of Muskegon, MI was 14 years old when he joined the Marines. He had 4 years of service in the Marines when he was shipped to Vietnam at age 18.

Mr. Davison was killed in action on December 17, 1966 one day before his 19th birthday.

Robert G. Davison

Five other veterans that fell were 16 years old and 12 were 17 years old. Eight women and 226 American Indians are listed on the Wall (including 2 Comanches). The deadliest day was on January 31, 1968 when 245 Americans died – the deadliest month was May 1968 when 2,415 Americans gave their lives.

Forty sets of brothers and 3 fathers and sons died including the son of the first American to die in Vietnam, Richard B. Fitzgibbon Jr and his son Richard III.

Information found on Wikipedia state 303,644 American military were wounded in action in Vietnam and 1800 military have been declared dead while missing in ac

Continued on Page 8

March 2015

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The Comanche Nation News

Continued from Page 7

tion – bodies not recovered in Vietnam. That’s a low number considering there are 8100 American military from the Korean War and 78,000 from World War II that have been declared dead while missing in action – bodies not recovered. In addition about 2 million people (30-50% civilians) died in North and South Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos from 1955-75.

Comanches distinguished themselves on the battlefield as eleven were decorated for Gallantry, Heroism and Valor and two others fought and killed the enemy in hand-to-hand combat.

Silver Stars for Gallantry in Action were awarded to George Red Elk on March 18, 1969 while serving with the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment and Michael Waddle on August 26, 1968 while serving with the 82 Airborne Division. (Ralph Wermy is also listed as a Silver Star recipient –confirmation of his award is pending).

Rudolph Kosechequetah earned the Soldiers Medal for heroism on July 13, 1969 while serving with the 1st Brigade, 5th Infantry Division.

The Bronze Star with/Valor Device were awarded twice to Cloyde “Chuck” Choney on May 1 and July 6, 1970 while serving with the 101st Airborne Division; to Lawrence V. Kassanavoid on September 29, 1969 while serving with the 25th Infantry Division – Kassanavoid was also awarded the Army Commendation Medal with/Valor Device on August 29, 1969; to Lucien “Jimmy” Looking Glass on January 30, 1966 while serving with the 1st Marine Division and to Johnny Tiddark on March 23, 1969 while serving with the Military Advisory Command – Vietnam.

Military marker for Russell E. Pesewonit at the Mescalero Indian Cemetery in Mescalero, NM Otto Tonips was twice wounded Cloyde Choney twice decorated for Valor in Vietnam and wounded twice.

Military marker for Robert C. Pahcheka at Post Oak Cemetery in Indiahoma, OK

Lawrence Kassanavoid twice decrorated for Valor in Vietnam and wounded.

The Army and Navy/Marine Commendation Medals with/ Valor Devices were awarded to Amos Makes Cry on March 18, 1969 while

Two Rodeos Scheduled for April Aims to Bring More Cowboys to Comanche Country Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

The Comanche Nation is gearing up for Rodeo Season, with two upcoming rodeos set for April 24,25,26 in Cotton County.

The Comanche Nation helps coordinate the AMAIRA (Arrington McSpadden All Indian Rodeo Association) Region 8 Tour Rodeo, which will be at the Grandfield Rodeo Arena in Grandfield, Okla.

In addition, this year will add another Region Rodeo at the Comanche Red River Hotel and Casino grounds, which will give cowboys twice the chance to compete, and qualify for the National Indian Rodeo Finals at the end of the year.

The prize money for the Regional Rodeo will be derived from the Entry Fees of the contestants and additional sponsors.

During rodeo season, many cowboys and cowgirls travel to a second rodeo within driving distance to double their chances of winning that weekend.

With the contestants traveling out of the area, revenue is lost.

“By having two rodeos within 10 miles of each other, the income for both rodeos will be geared

to the Comanche Nation’s casino and travel plaza,” said Larry McCoy, AMAIRA Board Member.

Last year’s Tour Rodeo drew over 350 Native Cowboys from Montana to Florida. The Comanche Red River Hotel and Casino was the host hotel, and brought in an additional $850,000 that weekend, which added to the 2014 Per Capita, according to Donna Wahnee, Special Projects Director for the Comanche Nation.

“Our 2014 Tour Rodeo also came in second place for the Tour Rodeo of the Year Award, given by the Indian National Finals Rodeo Association,” said Wahnee. “That’s really good, considering last year was the first year us helping put one on. We lost by three votes to the rodeo who has came in first for last 20 years or so.”

In addition to the non-stop action of rodeo events such as bull riding and bucking broncs, members of the Comanche Nation and neighboring tribes give dance demonstrations in categories such as fancy dance, men’s traditional war dance, and women’ s fancy shawl.

Text the letters PIO to 89800 or CNWEBSITE to 89800 to receive information and updates from the Comanche Nation

serving with the 9th Infantry Division and Philip Rogers Sr on November 23, 1968 while serving with the 1st Marine Division.

The Navy/Marine Achievement Medal with/Valor Device were awarded to Lewis Chasenah and Leland Parker, both were US Marines.

Edmond “Eddie” Mahseet and Ronald “Ronnie” Mahsetky both survived at least four encounters with the enemy in which they fought and killed the enemy in hand-to-hand combat while serving with the Marine Corps.

Russell Pesewonit was

killed in action on July 22, 1966 while serving with the 3rd Marine Division and Robert Carlos Pahcheka died on October 22, 1968 while serving with the 1st Marine Division.

Those wounded were Red Elk, Choney twice, Kassanavoid, Looking Glass, Tiddark, Rogers Sr, Parker, Sapcutt, Clifford Chebahtah Jr, Clifford Ototivo Jr, Timothy Ototivo, Milton Codynah, Malcom Taunah, Wermy and Otto Tonips twice.

Despite the many protest against the war by the American public, the burning of draft cards, able bodied men going out of coun-

try to avoid military service, and the shameful treatment and lack of respect rendered the returning veterans from Vietnam we did not waver, we did our duty without question and we served with honor and distinction. There were no public welcome home parades or gatherings when we came home from war. Our welcome was the recognition by the Comanche people and the knowledge that we had earned our place in society as Warriors.

Note: I served in Vietnam from August 17, 1969 to August 16, 1970 with the 1st Battalion, 77th Armor, 1st Brigade, 5th Infantry Division as a Tank Commander and a Scout Section Leader. I was based at Landing Zones Sharon and Nancy and Quang Tri Combat Base. I was 23 years old during my tour. Our area of operations were in northern I Corps – Quang Tri, Charlie 2, Alpha 4, the Rockpile, Khe Sahn Plains, Cua Viet and Dong Ha to name a few of our locations.

March 2015

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The Comanche Nation News

People, Places & Things Happening Hike for Healing 2015: A 5K for a Cause

The Tristesse Grief Center will have their annual Hike for Healing at Turkey Mountain on Saturday, March 7 at 7:15 a.m.

This year, Hike for Healing will include a 5K Trail Run through Turkey Mountain as well as a Memorial Mile Walk.

“Hike for Healing started out as a memorial event for our clients,” says Susan Bramsch, Executive Director at The Grief Center, “And each year it has grown more and more. It is now open to everyone in the community.”

“Hike for Healing is exactly what it sounds like: a chance to heal.” Says Alissa Drescher, Senior Program Director for The Grief Center. “The hike is all about remembering those we have lost, and creating happy memories while honoring our loved ones. That message is universal and touches everyone, whether you’re an experienced runner or not” “The 5K is $20 for adults,” says Bramsch, “And all proceeds go towards our programs that we take into the community as well as our individual and group counseling sessions designed to help children and families grieve in healthy ways.”

Trail running has become a phenomenon in its own right, and hike participants will be able to run or walk the blue trail through beautiful Turkey Mountain. The red trail is being used as the Memorial Mile track.

“We are using the hashtag #WhyIRun at this year’s Hike for Healing because it perfectly encapsulates what the run is all about,” says Drescher. “It is more than just a 5K because it’s about emotional healing as well as physical health. Every runner will have a personal motivation, their own memories and reasons for running, and we hope everyone that comes out on March 7 leaves with a lighter heart.”

Registration for the 5K is $20 for adults (11+), $15 for Grief Center clients, and free for children.

The Memorial Mile Walk is $15 for adults, $10 for Grief Center clients, and free for children. Post-race refreshments will be served.

Runners can register online at HikeForHealing2015.Eventbrite.com, visit Facebook.com/ TheGriefCenter, check out Twitter @TheGriefCenter, or call The Grief Center at (918) 587-1200 for more information.

Grubbs Selected Honor Choir

for

Grubbs

Mollie Grubbs who was selected to perform in the District 9 Elementary Honor Choir in Louisiana.

She is the granddaughter of Joe and Linda Chebahtah of Indiahoma, great granddaughter of Mooney and Mollie Chebahtah and great great granddaughter of Chevato.

Tribal Youth on Winning Science Bowl Team

Coral Douglas’ Science Bowl Team competed in the Oklahoma Regional Science Bowl held in El Reno, on February 14. They won the science bowl reserving them spots in the next round to be held in April in Washington, D.C.

POLAR PLUNGE PARTICIPANTS

Douglas

Douglas, is in the 7th grader at Alcott Middle School, Norman, Okla.

Douglas is the daughter of Philip and Alice (Kassanavoid) Douglas, granddaughter of Dennis & Romelia Kassanavoid, great granddaughter of (the late) Stacey & Virgie Kassanavoid, (the late) Nipper & Cora Tiddark, and Woodrow & Winnie Kopaddy.

OFIW Visits Comanche Nation College

Oklahoma Federation of Indian Women is hosting an informational meeting on the Miss Indian Oklahoma (MIO) and Junior Miss Indian Oklahoma (JMIO) Pageant, April 4, at Comanche Nation College, 1608 SW 9th Street from 10:30 a.m., to 4 p.m..

Former title holders and organization members will be on hand

Courtesy Photo

Valerie Wahkinney, left, along with her granddaughter, Faith, right, took the Polar Bear Plunge February 7 at Medicine Park, Okla. The water was registered at 40-Degrees when several dozen participants dove in the chilly water.

to cover all aspects of the pageant, answer questions and assist with the application.

Young ladies between the ages of 13 & 17 (JMIO) and 18 & 24 (MIO) who are 1/4 degree of docu-

mented American Indian blood of a Federally Recognized Tribe(s) are eligible to compete. See OFIW.org website for complete eligibility requirements and application packet.

If you plan to attend the

April 4 informational meeting, please RSVP Francene Monenerkit at fmonenerkit@ou.edu or Sue Permansu-Morris at (918) 637-7038 or at suepermansu@gmail.com

March 2015

Ingham Signs to Play Football for Haskell Indian Nations University

Courtesy Photos

Coltyn Ingham, Comanche/Sac & Fox/Kiowa, with members of the Frederick Douglass High School Football Coaching Staff, his teammates, and School Administration on National Signing Day, Feb. 4th.

At 6’5 and 324 lbs., Coltyn Ingham, Comanche/Sac & Fox/ Kiowa/Pawnee, is hard to miss coming down the hallways of his school in Oklahoma City. While his final season for Class 4-A powerhouse Douglass High School ended in great controversy with a referee admitted blown call in the state playoffs against Locust Grove, Coltyn’s dreams of attaining a college degree have not.

On National Signing Day, February 4, the big young man with good grades and humility inked his national letter of intent. True to the character references provided by his classmates, teachers, school administrators, and coaches, Ingham chose his school not based on whether or not they played on national TV or how many fans they packed in the stands, but rather on how they met his criteria which included long term commitment to his educational goals, cultural understanding, fulfillment of his intended major, a debt free four year path to a degree, coaching leadership, and the combined tradition and future goals of the program.

When his announcement came on the stage of the Douglass auditorium in front of a gallery of supporters and significant individuals in his life, his final decision was applauded and praised for the opportunity he selected. An eagle feather was gifted to him and a ball cap em-

Ingham with his mother and family blazoned with the name of his choice was placed upon his head.

His new university coach Rich Brewer had this to say about the signing, “We are ecstatic to have him join our brotherhood! This is awesome for our program and we welcome him to our Haskell family!”

Ingham will continue an over 100 year athletic tradition this Fall when he walks into historic Haskell Memorial Stadium situated on the campus of Haskell Indian Nations University in Lawrence, Kansas. Like many young Indian men before him, he will represent the purple and gold and answer the question, “Would your ancestors be proud of you today?”

Ingham is the son and grandson of enrolled Comanche Nation tribal members Donna Marie Dreuecky and Patricia Joyce Gilpin.

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The Comanche Nation News

March 2015

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The Comanche Nation News

Dear TCNN Letters to the Editor

Dear TCNN,

As a Comanche Tribal Member, here are my recommendations for the proposed FY 2015-2016 budget: 1. TAX COMMISSION CONTRIBUTION A. $2.2 Million was budgeted in 2010.

B. 6 Million was budgeted in 2015.

C. Using the 2010 $2.2 Million figure for 2011-2015, we have $6.6 Million of Un-budgeted tax revenue.

D. $2.0 Million was taken from the Tax Commission in October, 2014 for the Capital Improvement Program, which requires Council Approval.

E. The Tax Commission should furnish the CBC with a forecast of FY-16 revenues, which should be over $2.2 Million for the annual budget.

2. RED RIVER CASINO HOTEL A. The Hotel was built with a $10 Million loan from the Pottawatomie Nation.

B. An interest rate of 15% results in a $1.5 Million interest expense for the first year.

C. A part of the Loan Principal of $10 Million, the interest and the operations have to be covered to Break Even.

D. If the Hotel cannot break even, then a budget line item for the amortized loan payment should be included in the Annual Budget.

3. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CONTRIBUTION BY BUSINESSES A. Last year the only contribution was by the Smokeshops for $200,000, which is actually another profit center for gaming.

B. The businesses listed in the December 2014 Comanche Newspaper did not include the Cyril Convenience Store, which has a new underground tank.

C. The Resource Allocation Plan requires the status of investments authorized by the Plan, which includes the profit and loss statements . These statements should be published on our Comanche Newspaper, because all Members own these businesses.

D. The Funeral Home and Waterpark profits should be used for expansions, if feasible. Also the Waterpark Profits should be used to pay for the water well dug in October 2013. This well is not used and should have cost less than

$40,000. Use the well for irrigation for crops or an orchard, if not used for the Waterpark.

1. The well cost over $270,000 and was sole sourced to Jake Sharp. How much is the Actual Total Cost?

2. There was no Contract, which means no Performance Bond, no Warranties, no Inspection, no Deadline, no License Requirement and no CBC Resolution.

3. See CBC Meeting Minutes on February 6, 2015 on the Comanche Nation Website.

4. Or see Ustream –CBC Minutes Website to view actual Meeting Live.

5. We should buy a Well Digger, pumps, filtering systems, etc. for irrigation of Comanche Lands to exercise our Winters Doctrine Indian Water Rights.

E. Land Acquisition was budgeted for $20.5 Million from 2007-2015. This amount should be reflected in the published audit.

1. The Realty Management was budgeted for $1.5 Million from 2011-2015, and should provide a record of the income generated from these land investments.

2. The Audit Report in the February, 2015, Comanche Newspaper does not show a total Land Investment Asset of $20.5 Million plus Land before 2007.

3. The Cobell Settlement requires the Nation to establish a program to buy back Comanche lands. If we are unable to do this, then hire someone who can.

F. CONEI was budgeted $8 Million from 2008-2013. In addition, the CBC allocated $500,000 to CONEI in November 3, 2012 (See CBC Minutes).

1. What is the contribution from this $8.5 Million Investment?

2. Detailed Expense Report of Millions Spent Required by RAP. G. The Museum was budgeted $8.5 Million from 2007-2015.

1.This item is not an economic item 2.The City of Lawton owns the land and building 3.The Museum provides free advertising for Lawton's tourist market.

4.This item should be eliminated or the budget

cut to bare operations.

5. According to Finley and Cook, we spent over $306,000 in advertising in FY-013.

What is the total Advertising Expense for nine years?

6. This $8.5 Million amount should have been used to buy land and construct our own Culture Center.

5. CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT- $12.3 Million budget from 2007-2015.

1. Overbudget of $4.8 Million in 2013 and 2014. What about 007-2015?

2. This was because of sole sourced contracts, usually one page long, with no Bonding, no Contract Modifications, no Deadlines, no CBC Approvals, etc.

3. Six former CBC Members were Illegally Recalled in March, 2012,because they did not approve the expansion project to the Police Station and Gym Restrooms.

4. The CBC should demand a detailed budget of improvements to existing buildings and Utilities, so that the budget is not exceeded again for Millions of Dollars.

5. Budgeting seminars or classes needed.

5. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT LINE ITEMS A. Most of the economic budget items should not be in this category, such as the Transit Program, Transportation, CN Fair, Museum, Optometry, Etc. These items belong in the Governmental Services Category.

B. Recommended Economic Items 1. An Economic Planning Staff and Board. a. An experienced and educated staff that can do business plans b. A board that can evaluate businesses.

2. Development of A Construction Company.

3. Purchase Best Western 4.Culture Center.

5. Farming and Ranching.

6. Irrigation and Orchards.

7. A Non-Profit or Governmental Planning Staff to do Federal Funded Proposals. For example, a HUD Section 202 Proposal for a 10 Unit Elderly and Handicapped Project for about $1.2 Million. Water wells. Irrigation Systems.

See Federal Register for Notice of Funds

Available (NOFA). Free Federal dollars.

8. Conversion of vehicles to Compressed Gas, if feasible.

C. ECONOMIC ADMINISTRATION Line item – Budgeted at $817,000 for FY-015 1. Need a detailed Expense Report. Eliminate if not needed.

D. TRAVEL BUDGET- to assure no unbudgeted expenses A. Determine expenses last year and expected travel.

E. HOSPICE BUILDING- Renovate to a Nursing Home.

A. From 10 beds to 40 or more.

B. Can be self-supporting with Medicare and Medicaid.

C. The Comanches approved a Nursing Home in Referendum Votes.

D. A Certificate of Needs application is required for a License.

F. INDIRECT COST BUDGETING- Used for Overhead Expenses.

A. Determine Indirect Cost Rate, Positions, Expenses, etc.

B. Separate from the Annual Budget, but may need more money for additional facilities.

G. ACCOUNTING CONTRACT- Since April, 2007.

A. Needs to be in Annual Budget.

B. Need (RFP) Request for Bid Proposals as required by Procurement Law. C. Bids should include cost and requirements to implement a Comanche Accounting System, which will Create Jobs.

D. Finley and Cook would support this bid process.

H. GHOST MONEY- Per Cap 2014 Overview A. City National Bank reported that 192 members were allocated $217,121.

B. Not distributed because turned down, acceptance would reduce social security or eliminate Medicare and Medicaid, or deceased.

C. What is this amount from 2005-2013?

About $1.5 Million?

D. This money is only approved for Per Cap Distribution. Not a slush fund.

E. See Facebook- Comanche Nation Forum, January 5, 2015, for Overview.

6. CARRYOVER OF UNBUDGETED GAM-

ING REVENUE A. Proposed Council Resolution to budget the Carryover of the FY-015 Annual Budget 1. This Amount is the FY-015 Audited Gaming Revenue Minus the FY-015 Annual Budget.

2. 40% of this amount goes to an Increased Per Cap. 3. 60% goes to a Health Facility.

4. We have about $160 Million Dollars in Unbudgeted Gaming Revenue from 2004-2014.

5. Approval of this Resolution will prevent further Illegal Spending of this Carryover.

6. No more Huge Slush Fund for Illegal Expenses.

B. Amendment to the Revenue Allocation Plan (RAP) 1. Article VI, Section 2, of the RAP provides that the Plan can only be Amended by the Council.

2. The RAP needs to be Amended to budget the Carryover in accordance with the Proposed Resolution to comply with the National Indian Gaming Act. 3, In Addition, Article I needs to be amended to add or include the Truck Plaza Gaming Machines.

The Comanche Constitution Article 6, Section 761 Requires the Tribal Council to adopt or reject the Annual Budget. Then section 7 (d)(1)(2)(3) requires a Referendum Vote at the same time when officers are elected. A Council Resolution is the only way the Council can approve the Annual Budget to be placed on the Referendum Vote.

Last year on April 19, 2014 at the Annual Meeting, the Council did not approve the Annual Budget by a Council Resolution.

The CBC did not present all the Budget. Only a part of it was covered. Since we have a very limited amount of meeting time, any business not concerning the Agenda or the Annual Budget, can be presented or covered after the completion of our Agenda.

We do not want our meeting to be Filibustered.

Thomas Narcomey, Comanche Member February 18, 2015

March 2015

12

The Comanche Nation News

Milestones Happy Belated Birthday

Nancy Alandzes, February 5 Debra L. Akoneto, February 9 Harold Ray Yeahquo, February 10 Jacqueline Jerre Bennally, February 10 Ian Sage Bennally, February 10 Skylar Paige Gibson, February 12 Tori Lynn Tahchawwickah, February 19 Jack Pohocsucut, February 27 Jack Chrismon, February 25 Margaret Nauni, February 25 Marshall Powell, February 25 Jan Stumblingbear, February 27

Happy Belated Birthday Gabriella Marie Sapcut January 27

Happy Birthday Nicholas Howard Capes February 11

Happy Birthday Shane Blaze Gibson March 5

Happy Belated Birthday Skylar Paige Gibson February 12

Happy Belated Birthday Khloe Celeste Goombi February 2

Happy Birthday Alise Della Marie Blanton March 4

Happy Birthday Juliana Santiago March 8

Happy Birthday Jur-Nee Faith Toahty March 9

Happy Birthday Fred Codynah Jr. March 11

Happy Birthday O’Neda Heminokeky March 12

Happy Birthday Charles Kerchee, March 1 Matthew Asetamy, March 1 Sydney Rotert, March 1 Tricia Gee, March 1 Tiffany Jolly, March 2 Neariah Poemoceah, March 3 Alise Della Marie Blanton, March 4 Kellea Kerchee, March 7 Juliana Santiago, March 8 Ryan Cintron, March 9 Jamie Long, March 9 Rose Edith Nauni, March 11 Yanez Ariana Moore, March 11 Justin Wayt, March 11 Jeremiah Teeter, March 13 Samantha Cintron, March 15 Solomon Mammedaty, March 19 Woody Wauqua, March 20 Alyssa Wahahrockah, March 22 Eric Nauni, March 23 Miranda Hoahwah, March 23 Raymond “Dink” Nauni, Jr.., March 26

Anniversaries Steven & Brittany Avery-Huggins March 8- Married 7 years

Passings Richard Edwin Wells June 4, 1980-November 23, 2014 Sharon Angela Redbone June 3, 1964-December 1, 2014 Norma Lee Martin November 20, 1946-December 13, 2014

In Loving Memory Velva Ann Lopez 05/22/1932-02/20/2009 Always in our thoughts & Prayers Love the Evanoffs & Nick Lopez & family Happy Birthday Delayna Karty March 14

Happy Birthday Deana Johnson March 29

Happy Birthday Junior Johnson March 29

In Loving Memory Maurine ‘Jenice’ Poemoceah

In Loving Memory Diana Poemoceah

In Loving Memory Monroe (Joey) Pohocsucut Gibson

03/26/1947-09/07/2012

March 30

March 2

We miss you every day g-ma Jenice. Love, Solomon, Sarah, Sammy, Rene & Co-op Grandchildren”

Happy birthday we love and miss daily

Happy Birthday Jimmy Johnson March 31

In Loving Memory

In Loving Memory Russell Clark Wahkinney March 17 Heavenly hugs

In Loving Memory Harold Johnson Jr. 03/11/1943-11/27/2013 We love you, We miss you, everyday!

~Val Wahkinney

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March 2015

Obituaries Gerald Lynn Murrow

Murrow

Gerald Lynn Murrow, 61 of Oklahoma City went to his heavenly Home on January 10.

Funeral service was January 15, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Ray Breeden officiating

Prayer Service was January 14, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home with Rev. Fred Ticeahkie officiating.

Murrow was born July 18, 1953 in Lawton to Bracy and Patricia (Ticeahkie) Murrow Sr. The family moved to Oklahoma City and he attended Classen High School.

Murrow married Deanna Moore in Oklahoma City. He played fast pitch softball for over 20 years.

Gerald also loved playing golf. He worked as a moving contractor for 30 years. He was a member of the Comanche Nation of Oklahoma and also of Caddo decent.

Murrow is survived by: wife, Deanna Murrow of the home; two daughters: Machelle Murrow and Jill Murrow; two sons: Christopher Murrow and John Murrow all of Oklahoma City; seven grandchildren: Autumn Bier, Emilyah Murrow, Aliziah Murrow, Miakoda Walls, Brannon Murrow, Damien Murrow and Joey Schad, great grandson: Timothy Murrow; seven sisters: Carol Morris, Catherine Murrow, Rhonda Stinson, Regina Pena all of Lawton; Kim Murrow and Georgia Murrow both of Lawton and Jackie Murrow; two brothers: Michael Murrow of Oklahoma City and William Murrow of Lawton; one aunt: Dorothy Ticeahkie.

He is preceded in death by: parents: Bracy and Patricia Murrow Sr.; son: Paul Victor Murrow; three brothers:John Murrow, Kevin Murrow, and Bracy Murrow Jr.

Deyo Paddyaker Jr

aspects of it. In 1963 he married the love of his life Donna Lee Tidmore Paddyaker on January 26th, 1963 at the First Baptist Church of Meeker in Meeker, Oklahoma. During his life, he had three sons Joe Paddyaker, Deron Paddyaker, and Mitchel Paddyaker.

In 1968 Paddyaker established Prime Oil Inc. and was the owner and CEO of the successful petroleum business for the rest of his life. In addition to running Prime Oil, Deyo was a community leader in the Oklahoma City Metro area. In Oklahoma City, he proudly taught Sunday school at Southern Hills Baptist church for many years. In Norman Oklahoma Deyo was very involved with the Cleveland County Cattleman’s Association, spending multiple terms as the President. Under Oklahoma Governor Frank Keating, Paddyaker was honored to serve as a Commissioner for the Oklahoma State Human Rights Commission. In addition to his leadership activities, he was an avid Sooners fan who attended many football games and supported the athletic programs of the University of Oklahoma. Throughout his life Paddyaker was a proud member of the great Comanche Nation of Oklahoma.

Paddyaker is survived by his wife of 52 years Donna Lee Paddyaker, of the home; his son Joe Paddyaker of Duncan, Oklahoma; his son Daren Paddyaker and Daren’s wife Kimberly of Tuttle, Oklahoma and their three children; Capt. Even Way and his fiancé Amanda Oehlert of Oklahoma City, Capt. Dr. Erin Petro and her husband Dr. Christopher Petro of Tampa, Florida and Spencer Paddyaker of Norman Oklahoma; and his son Mitchel Paddyaker and Mitchel’s wife Lori of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma and their three children Noble and Micah Paddyaker of Norman, Oklahoma and Victoria Paddyaker of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; his sisters Chiquita Paddyaker of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma and Peggy Paddyaker of Edmond, Oklahoma; sister-in-law Jeanie Nelson and Ronnie Roberts of Tuttle Oklahoma; brother-in-law James Tidmore III and wife Kathryn of Edmond Oklahoma; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Our deepest gratitude and thanks to the members of Southern Hills Baptist Church in Oklahoma City for providing the family with warm food and prayer, The Comanche Nation Funeral Home and Sharlene Eschiti for always picking up the phone and answering our many questions with compassion and assisting us in creating a beautiful service; the congregation of Deyo Mission Baptist Church for their kindness and time in preparing a warm meal for family and friends; and lastly to our many friends and relatives who called, prayed for us and visited in our families time of mourning

John Russell “Rusty” Sain

Paddyaker

Deyo Paddyaker Jr., age 78 of Oklahoma City, passed away Thursday, January 22.

Paddyaker was born the 3rd of June, 1936, at the Ft. Sill Indian Hospital in Lawton, Oklahoma to Faye and Deyo Paddyaker Sr. He was raised in Stephens County, Oklahoma with two loving sisters, Peggy and Chiquita Paddyaker. He was elected president of his graduating class from Empire High School in 1954. He then attended Central State University in Edmond, Oklahoma where he majored in Chemistry. After college, Paddyaker began working in the petroleum industry learning the various

John Russell “Rusty” Sain, 59 of Lawton went to his heavenly home on January 30, in Lawton.

Funeral service was February 2, at Comanche Nation Funeral Chapel with Lay Speaker Tina Baker officiating.

Burial followed at Celestial Gardens in Cyril under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home.

Sain was born in Perryton, Texas on July 11, 1955 to Bill and Vivian (Martinez) Sain.

He grew up and Graduated from Jacksboro, Texas. He played on the 1971 AA Texas Football Championship team. He was also selected to the Texas All State Team as a Tackle.

Rusty always enjoyed making others laugh and have fun.

He was a member of the Comanche Nation of Oklahoma and Live Oak Baptist Church in Jacksboro.

He is survived by: two brothers: Terry and Judy Sain of Baytown, Texas and Ed Sain of Lawton; nieces: Whitney, Shelsea and Allison Sain; nephew: Cody Sain; many oth-

13

er family members and friends.

He is preceded in death by: his parents: Bill and Vivian Sain; grandparents: Will and Carrie Sain and Condy and Mattie Martinez.

Lavena Winnerchy Paddyaker

Paddyaker

Anthony Parker both of Billings, Montana; grandchildren: Aiyanna, Niyah, Junelle, Dylan, Olivia, Tyler, Anthony, Jaden and Chas Parker; brothers and sisters: Jacquetta and Carlden McClung, Sandra and Lawrence Chesnut Jr. all of Cache; Ronald Parker of Gaithersburg, MD, Harold Parker, Sr and Don Parker and Annette Tiddark all of Lawton; Joyce and George McSwain of Lakeland, Florida; Ardith and Glen Leming of Sulphur; Debra and William Malone of Lexington, OK; Paul Davis and wife Linda of Abilene, Texas; aunts: Rose Nauni of Cache, Velma Kemble of Ponca City, Helen Cable of Cache; uncles: Pete Coffey Jr. of Ponca City and Nick Tahchawwickah of Cache; numerous nieces, nephew and many friends; Special Friends: Luzette Tahah and her family

He is preceded in death by his parents: Marguerite Tahchawwickah Parker and Baldwin Parker; brothers: Buster Evans Parker and Vincent Parker; sister: Norma Jean Guerrero

Lavena Winnerchy Paddyaker, 91 of Faxon went to her heavenly home on Sunday, February Beverly Jane Chasenah 1, in Lawton.

Funeral Service was at Deyo Mission Baptist Church with Chairman Wallace Coffey officiating.

Burial followed at Deyo Mission Cemetery under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home.

Paddyaker was a member of the Comanche Tribe of Oklahoma and Lifetime member of Deyo Mission Baptist Church.

She was born December 21, 1923 to John and Carrie (Ross) Winnerchy in Lawton. She grew up in and attended Faxon High School.

She was a devoted homemaker and mother. She loved to watch sports especially, OU Football, Dallas Cowboys and Oklahoma City Thunder.

Paddyaker married Floyd Paddyaker in Wichita Falls, Texas to this union four children were born.

She is survived by: two sons: Chad Winnerchy of Forney, Texas, John Paddyaker of the home; two daughters: Joyce and Husband Toby Shelton and Cheryl Paddyaker both of Lawton; grandchildren: Michael Floyd Paddyaker and wife Sabrina of Faxon; two great-grandson: Jeffery Chasenah Floyd Paddyaker and Michael David Paddyaker; sister in law; Annetta

Beverly Jane Chasenah 63 Mahsetky of Oklahoma City; cousin: of Lawton went to be with her Lord Phil Cato of California; brother in on February 19, at her home with her law Carl Paddyaker of Lawton; special nieces: Jody Tiddark and Diane Busheme; special nephews: Michael Mahsetky and Roel Gallo Jr.; other family members and friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents: husband: Floyd Paddyaker; parents: John and Carrie Winnerchy; brothers: Elmer and Chadwick Winnerchy; sister: Rosemary Gallo.

Timothy Leroy Parker, Sr

Timothy Leroy Parker, Sr 64 of Cache passed away on February 18, at his home.

Funeral Service was February 21, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Patrick McClung officiating. Burial followed at Post Oak Cemetery under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home.

Prayer Service was February 20, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel.

Paddyaker was born on December 20, 1950 to Marguerite Tahchawwickah and Baldwin Parker, Jr in Lawton, Oklahoma. He graduated from Indiahoma High School, was a member of the Comanche Tribe and was member of the Pete Coffey Mennonite Brethren Church. He was a self-employed licensed plumber.

He was an avid pool player, and loved to bake and cook. He loved interacting with his nieces and nephews.

He is survived by children: Olivia Parker, and Heath Parker both of Anadarko and Timothy Parker, Jr. of Lawton, Cynthia Ann Parker and

The Comanche Nation News

family by her side.

Funeral Service was February 23, at Watchetaker Hall Comanche Nation Complex with Lay Speaker Tina Baker and Rev. Mike Svitak officiating.

Burial followed at Highland Cemetery under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home.

All night wake was February 22, at Watchetaker Hall Comanche Complex.

Chasenah was born August 14, 1951 in Lawton to James and Florence (Harry) Chasenah. She graduated from Fort Sill Indian High School and then received a degree from Draughan Business School.

Chasenah was a member of the C.I.V.A. Auxiliary, her mother and father were instrumental in establishing the C.I.V.A. and the C.I.V.A. Auxiliary, full blood member of the Comanche Nation of Oklahoma, Native American Church, Comanche Gourd Clan, Oklahoma Intertribal Club, Tia-Piah Society and was the 2014 Elder representative in Phoenix.

Beverly lived and taught her Native American culture. She enjoyed doing beadwork, going to pow wows, singing around the drum, going to the casinos, she lived a very full life, she loved to travel and spending time with her family and friends.

Chasenah represented the Comanche Nation at the 1976 bicentennial celebration in Washington D.C. and also the opening of the Native American Museum in Washington D.C.

Chasenah is survived by: daughter: Kellie Chasenah, nieces and nephews: Shellie Cozad, Tina Cozad, Kenneth Cozad and Howard Cozad; grandbabies: Sunserae and Shalayna Havatone, Jonas, Evan, Shane, Sadie Cozad, Jerald Killsfirst Jr., Hazel and Azalea Hummingbird, Acey Kimble, Micah and Jameson Cozad; sister in law: Misty Yackytooahnipah; cousins: Lewis, John Jr., Ronald, Gerald, Gary Sr., Donald, Kent, Tom, Linda and Mary Chasenah, Ruth Toahty, Sandra Karty, Carol Kahrahrah, Hammond and Gaylon Motah.

She is preceded in death by: her parents: James and Florence Chasenah; brothers: Kenneth and Howard Yackytooahnipah, Frankie and Tim Chasenah; sister: Kimberly Cozad; grandparents: Pauau and Mable Mahseet; brother in law: Joe Cozad.

March 2015

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The Comanche Nation News

March 2015

TREE

15

The Comanche Nation News

Comanche Nation Supports Lawton Family YMCA Healthy Living Efforts

Continued from Page 3

The Lawton Family Y and the Comanche Nation are working together again, this time to meet the health and well-being needs of Lawton, Comanche County and Southwest Oklahoma. Through a partnership that has grown over the years, the Comanche Nation is supporting the Y’s effort to replace the fourteen year old strength equipment in the Healthy Living Center.

"We have a long relationship with the YMCA. The YMCA team trained our lifeguards in first aid and CPR prior to the Comanche Na-

tion Waterpark opening, we are very thankful for their ongoing support and look forward to working together for years to come, “stated Chairman Coffey on behalf of the Comanche Nation. "We saw this as another way to make progress together to ensure the health and wellness of our entire southwest community", said Coffey.

“We hope that this is a new gateway to other ways we can work together for the health of our community,” said Sue White, YMCA CEO. “We are so appreciative of this support from the Comanche Nation

Business Committee, that will help so many people become stronger,” White further commented.

Both the YMCA and the Comanche Nation share a common purpose to improve physical health.

There are many benefits of strength training that impact overall health and the ability to perform many daily tasks. According to the American College of Sports Medicine, improving muscular fitness is very important for enhancing the quality of life.

The Comanche Marker Tree in Holliday, TX, leans, almost points, toward a creek that was at one time, a deep and flowing source of water. grandfather showed where certain Turning Trees were, pointing with his lips, leaving Kerchee with a somewhat vague impression of the place indicated.

A story related to a tree special to the Comanche was provided to anthropologist Dr. Thomas Kavanagh, who had interviewed a man (now deceased) whose mother was part of an Indian group taken hostage during a raid by army troops. During their return trip to the reservation, once the group was released after a

few weeks in captivity, the lady at first was unsure about their location. But she saw a familiar tree, one to which her people had tied offerings, and knew where they were… Kavanagh thinks that several such trees existed throughout Comanche territory…”

”There are Comanche Marker trees in New Mexico, Colorado and Wyoming as well,” said Arterberry. “We are working on finding other trees in the other states, too.”

Arterberry is currently researching a potential Comanche

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