August 2012 Edition by Comanche Nation of Oklahoma

P.O. Box 908 Lawton, OK 73502-0908

Comanche Nation Fair Committee Finalizing Activities and Events

County Burn Bans continually increase across Oklahoma Oklahoma Forestry Services (OFS), a division of the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry, reports that drought conditions in Oklahoma are continuing to intensify. A heat advisory has been issued for the majority of the state as triple digit temperatures approach record highs. Humidity is expected to drop below 20 percent and seasonal afternoon thunderstorms can be expected to develop throughout the state. “With the trending weather conditions, fire activity is a prevailing concern,” said State Forester, George Geissler. “To reduce the risk of sparking a wildfire, we want to encourage the public to use good judgment and to avoid situations that can cause fire, even in areas not covered under a burn ban.” County Commissioners have declared burn bans in 31 of the 77 Oklahoma counties. For a list of all County Commissioner burn bans, each county’s limitations and the latest information visit www. forestry.ok.gov.

NCAI Praises Passage of HEARTH Act

Tribal Self-Determination in Land Leasing Bill Passes House and Senate Unanimously; President Obama to Sign Legislation

By Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

The 21st Annual Comanche Nation Fair is around the corner and it is sure to be an exciting and fun-filled weekend for the whole family. Set for Sept. 28, 29, 30, at the Comanche Nation Headquarters north of Lawton, Okla., the spotlight will be on Comanche Nation artists. The artwork for this year’s theme was created by tribal member, Travis Komahcheet. Annual events will fill the weekend with activities and events to please everyone. A full list of events and schedule will be in the September edition of The Comanche Nation News. There will be a free carnival for everyone throughout the weekend. Camping will be available, according to Tomah Yeahquo, Comanche Nation Fair Director. Also on the list is the annual parade on Sept. 29, the annual Bull Riding Competition, Spirit Walk, and many sports competitions throughout the weekend. The powwow coordinator is Calvert Codynah of the Vocational Rehabilitation Program. For more information about the Comanche Nation Powwow, call Codynah, (580) 492-3610. For more information about the Comanche Nation Fair, contact Yeahquo at (580) 595-4941, Alisha Wilson, (580) 492-3341, or Glenda Goseyun, (580) 429-3496.

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August 2012

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Lawton, OK

PERMIT NO 49 STIGLER, OK 74462

VOLUME 12 EDITION 8

Thom Wallace/NCAI Communications Director

Johnny Wauqua 1945-2012

Comanche Nation Mourns The Loss of Tribal Leader, Johnny Wauqua

By Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

July 17 was a sad day, as the Comanche Nation lost one of its greatest leaders, former Comanche Nation Chairman and Tribal Administrator, Johnny Wauqua. He was a noble leader of the Numunu, creating iconic facilities for the Comanche Nation, such as the Comanche Nation Funeral Home, the Comanche Resident Youth Shelter, and the Comanche Nation Red River Casino, among several others. His kind and giving nature, not only to the employees of the tribe, but to tribal members, and all who had the opportunity to meet him, reflected his pride of being Comanche. He knew as a leader he could affect positive changes and create facilities and jobs for hundreds of people. His forward thinking advanced the prosperity of the Comanche Nation, making it a true force in SW Oklahoma both economically and symbolically. Wauqua envisioned stability and success, not only for the current Comanche people, but for the future generations of the tribe. Chairman Wallace Coffey released this statement following his passing: This is a sad day in the life of our great nation. A great Comanche leader’s life has come to an end. Johnny was a great Comanche who gave many years of dedicated service to the Comanche Nation. On behalf of the whole Nation, I offer Virginia and the Wauqua family our prayers and our condolences. Johnny Wauqua was married to his beautiful wife Virginia for over 36 years, they have two children and two grandchildren. Johnny was the Chairman of the Comanche Nation for three terms and the Tribal Administrator for three years. He worked for the Comanche Nation for over 27 years, and worked seven years for the Seven Tribes before the Comanche Nation. He accomplished many achievements for his Nation including the build-

ing of the Comanche Nation Casino, Family Services Center, Visitor’s Center, Fitness Center, Comanche Funeral Home, Comanche Nation College all in Lawton, Red River Casino in Randlett, Walters Star Casino in Walters, Spur building the Transportation Building, Youth Shelter, Family Shelter and the Fire/Police Station. Attributing much of his success to consistently striving for excellence, Johnny, until his death, remained a steward of dignity and humility. Under his guidance and direction the Comanche Nation has continued and expanded upon its tradition of developing a strong and effective government, community and economical impact in southwest Oklahoma. The passing of Mr. Wauqua has left us deeply saddened. He will be tremendously missed but not forgotten. Johnny has left a lasting impact on us all with his wisdom, his character, his sense of humor and his ability to inspire others. We will continue to honor him and the legacy he has left. The Comanche Nation’s Business Committee members, directors and staff continue to embrace and pray for the family to show our support. Wauqua was the Chairman of the Comanche Nation in 1999, 2000-2003, and 20112012. He was the Tribal Administrator (TA) in 2008, 2009, and 2012. “When I was elected the TA in April (2011), Johnny was the Chairman,” said Will Owens. “That was the highlight of my career because I had the opportunity to work with my mentor.” Working for the Comanche Nation Higher Education Department for 16 years, he walked in the shoes of being a tribal employee, and always expressed in staff and director meetings that he stood up and supported the workers of the tribe. He showed this in many ways, including his recent chal-

lenge of finding a way to pay the employees when the main bank account was frozen. He always made time to listen to the concerns of the employees, despite his heavy work load. “Mr. Wauqua was an amazing person who was a very strong leader. He took care of his people. He listened to employees and tribal members, and always gave encouraging words. We, as employees, have been privileged to have worked with such a great man,” expressed the Executive Secretary of the Chairman’s Office, Civa Wahnee Gandy. Putting his sickness aside, and fought a courtroom battle in June for the Comanche Nation to correct actions that could have caused detrimental effects on the assets of the tribe. He spent countless hours researching and preparing for the court case. Taking much criticism from adversaries, he stood up for the tribe, with the Comanche Nation Constitution as his backing, and held the annual General Council Meeting in April, as well as Special General Council Meetings, as requested by tribal members through petitions. His actions were to ensure the well fare and security of tribal programs, tribal membership, and the Comanche Nation as a whole, would continue to function and grow. As a warrior who fought until the end, and as a leader who put his well being second to his people, Johnny Wauqua will be remembered as a pillar of the Comanche Nation. Although with heavy hearts the tribe bids farewell to Wauqua, the man who proved actions speaks louder than words, the Comanche Nation will continue to draw from his spirit and legacy he left, to find new and innovative ways to advance the Comanche Nation, as he had always strived for as a leader.

On July 17, the Senate passed by unanimous consent, H.R. 205, the Helping Expedite and Advance Responsible Tribal Homeownership (HEARTH) Act. The bill, considered critical to tribal self-determination related to leasing tribal lands and economic development, passed the House of Representatives in May, and is expected to be signed by the President in the near future. The HEARTH Act authorizes surface leasing of tribal lands without needing to obtain direct approval from the Secretary of the Interior. Instead, tribal leases can be approved by the tribe under tribal leasing regulations. The new law will enable tribes to move much more quickly on leasing and economic development, while maintaining the Secretary’s trust responsibility to oversee trust lands. “The HEARTH Act had strong bi-partisan support. It’s unanimous passage demonstrates that Congress can make progress on important legislation for Indian Country to help create jobs and improve the economy, ” said Jefferson Keel, President of the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI). “This new law will speed housing and other development on tribal lands because we can do it ourselves under tribal government regulations. NCAI is very appreciative of Representative Heinrich and Senator Barrasso for taking the lead introducing the HEARTH Act in the House and Senate. We also appreciate the strong support from the Administration. Working together with the National American Indian Housing Council (NAIHC) and many tribal leaders, the bill passed with unanimous support in both the House and Senate, such incredible support and many sponsors on both sides of the aisle.” Founded in 1944, the National Congress of American Indians is the oldest, largest and most representative American Indian and Alaska Native organization in the country. NCAI advocates on behalf of tribal governments and communities, promoting strong tribal-federal government-to-government policies, and promoting a better understanding among the general public regarding American Indian and Alaska Native governments, people and rights. For more information visit www.ncai.org

August 2012

The Comanche Nation News

A Tribal Leader, Husband, Father, Grandfather, and Proud Member of the Comanche Nation, Johnny Wauqua Will Be Remembered

August 2012 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 September edition is noon August 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 Email: comanche_news@yahoo.com •

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TCNN Staff Jolene Schonchin, Editor, Reporter, Photographer-Email: tcnneditor@ yahoo.com-Telephone Number-(580)492-3382 Paula Karty, Assis. Editor, Reporter, Photographer- Email: kartynews@ yahoo.com Telephone Number-(580)492-3383 Candace Wilson, Reporter, Photographer Email:candacew@ comanchenation.com Telephone (580) 492-3385 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 opinions of the PIO staff.

Comanche Nation Officials Chairman Wallace Coffey Vice Chairman Mike Mack Mahsetky Secretary/Treasurer Vacant Committeeman No. 1 Charles Wells Committeeman No. 2 Sonya Nevaquaya Committeeman No. 3 Harry Mithlo Committeeman No. 4 Vacant Tribal Administrator Vacant 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

Mission of the Comanche Nation The mission of the Comanche Nation is to promote and preserve the culture, history and traditions of the Comanche people, and to further promote and encourage pursuits relevant to an efficient governing body, a viable economic base and measures designated to enhance social and cultural activities which will reflect our heritage and assure the continued development and success of the Nation and its members.

The Comanche Nation News

Government

First Four Run-Off Elections Positions Four New CBC

Mahsetky

Wells

Nevaquaya

Mithlo

Four Comanche Business Committee members were sworn in 10 a.m. July 7 at the Comanche Nation Complex prior to the monthly CBC meeting. From left: Mike Mack Mahsetky won the Vice Chairman position; Charles Wells won the CBC No. 1 position; Sonya Nevaquaya won the CBC No. 2 position; and Harry Mithlo won the CBC No. 3 position. A reception followed. Story and Photos By Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

Four tribal members were sworn-in July 7 as Comanche Business Committeemen before the first monthly CBC meeting in two months. “Over 1,600 tribal members exercised their most basic right as Comanches, the right to vote,” said Comanche Nation Chairman, Wallace Coffey. “You made your decision on who you wanted to make the Comanche leadership.” The June 30 election was the biggest voter turn out in the recent years, according to the Comanche Nation PIO. No protests were filed, and the results became official on July 3. Coffey said the newly elected officers were introduced to the representatives of

Crowe and Dunlevy, who are the oldest law firm in the state. The new CBC also got to introduce themselves to their fellow board members. “This is a new beginning,” said Coffey. “ There is a tremendous amount of need among our people. We face challenges ahead.” First to be sworn in as Vice Chairman was Mike Mack Mahsetky. Mahsetky narrowly defeated Will Owens for the position by 26 votes. Mahsetky worked for Firestone Industries for numerous years. He addressed the tribal members by saying he wants to move the Comanche Nation forward in the right direction of pride and prosperity, in which the Comanches are known for.

Charles Wells was the next to be sworn in by Chairman Coffey as CBC No. 1. He was the former Chair of the Comanche Nation Election Board for the Anadarko district and has 10 years of government service. Wells won his position by defeating Anita Daukei. Wells said he is here to represent the Comanche Nation and wants to move the tribe forward. He welcomes tribal members to express their concerns to the tribe can prosper. Sonya Nevaquaya, being sworn in as CBC No. 2, said she is honored and humbled to be in this position. She won the run-off election against Vernon Tehauno. She said she misses hearing the Comanche language being spoken among

the Comanche people, and she knew after living among the Cheyenne tribe, it was time for her to come home. Coffey said she brings to the table nine years of tribal gaming experience, as well as three year in Housing experience. She said she wants to help raise the tribal employment, and raise awareness of children and elders of the tribe. She closed by saying she is a firm believer in prayer and invites tribal members to address her about their questions and concerns. Harry Mithlo, being sworn in as CBC No. 3, brings with him 32 years of IHS experience as a radiologist, as well as a veteran. Mithlo defeated Marilyn Tiger. He thanked everyone who exercised their See SWEARING IN, Page 4

July CBC Meeting Passes Resolutions to Move the Tribe Forward By Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

EDITOR’S NOTE: This is an overview of the July 7 Comanche Business Committee (CBC) meeting, and not the official minutes. To obtain a copy of the official minutes, call the Office of the Comanche Nation Chairman, (580) 492-3251. Chairman Wallace Coffey called the meeting to order at 10:57 a.m. followed by the invocation by Coffey. Roderick Whitewolf took the floor to remind the newly elected CBC in 2010 he had made a motion to raise the annual per capita payment from 40 percent to 60 percent at the annual General Council Meeting. He said he would like to see the CBC follow through what the General Council passed. Coffey said the CBC is looking into more economical opportunities, especially around the Red River Casino, and would like to address the General Council in October. After his presentation, the General Council can approve or deny the proposed expansion at Red River Casino. He added if the NIGC denies the 60 percent per capita raise due to Economic Development not brining in money to the tribe, maybe the NIGC will approve a 50 percent increase. He explained the tribal membership has to be taken care of first through programs like Social Services before an increase will be approved. Other tribal elders such as Madelyn Spicer, Rosemary Chibitty and Charlene Tahdooahnippah also had the opportunity to speak. Gene Pekah of the Co-

manche Nation College stood and talked about the status of the college. He said the college has served over 2,600 Comanche students, and they are graduating through Cameron University. He added education is important because the cycle of poverty can be broken through tribal members getting a higher education. Comanche Nation College Dean, Consuelo Lopez, invited everyone to the college’s annual powwow on Aug. 4. She added the staff and students are proud to celebrate the college’s 10 year anniversary. Chairman Coffey announced Sonya Nevaquaya will be the Acting Secretary/ Treasurer until the run off election is completed. Resolutions 34-12 Enrollment list No. 898—The applicants listed do not have the one-eighth blood requirement to be on the Comanche membership list. Nevaquaya makes a motion to accept the resolution. CBC No. 1, Charles Wells, seconds the motion. The motion carries 4/0/1. 35-12 Enrollment list No. 899—The applicants listed are not a direct descendant of a Comanche allottee as required to be eligible for the Comanche membership list. CBC No. 3, Harry Mithlo, makes a motion to approve the resolution. Vice Chairman, Mike Mack Mahsetky, seconds the motion. The motion carries 4/0/1. 36-12 Enrollment list No. 900—The applicants listed are an enrolled member of another tribe or have received monetary or other benefits of

another tribe. Applicants who are under the age of 18 whose parents who received monetary or other benefits from another tribe can re apply for Comanche membership the year they turn 18 years of age. Nevaquaya makes a motion to accept the resolution. Mahsetky seconds the motion. The motion carries 4/0/1. 37-12 Enrollment list No. 901—The applicant listed has agreed to give up all rights and privileges of being a member of the Comanche Nation to be enrolled with another tribe. They are relinquished from the Comanche Nation membership list. Wells makes a motion to accept the resolution. Mahsetky seconds the motion. The motion carries 4/0/1. 38-12 Enrollment list No. 902- The applicants’ parents have given up all rights and privileges of being a member of the Comanche Nation to enroll their child(ren) on anther tribal membership list. Mithlo makes a motion to accept the resolution. Mahsetky seconds the motion. The motion carries 4/0/1. 39-12 Enrollment list No. 903—The applicants listed meet all requirements to be listed on the Comanche Nation membership list. Wells makes a motion to accept the resolution. Mithlo seconds the motion. The motion carries 4/0/1. 40-12 Hobbs Straus Dean and Walker Cease and Desist—the Law Firm Hobbs Straus Dean and Walker who represented six tribal members who were recalled (impeached) by the General Council rather than

represent the Comanche Nation government, are to cease and desist all representation of any Comanche Nation entity or business. The Law Firm of Crowe and Dunlevy will enforce the terms of the resolution legally. Mahsetky makes a motion to accept the resolution. Mithlo seconds the motion. The motion carries 4/0/1. 41-12 City National Bank— Open a deposit account with the signature authority of Coffey, Mahsetky, Nevaquaya, and Mithlo on the account. Mahsetky makes a motion to accept the resolution. Nevaquaya seconds the motion. The motion carries 4/0/1. 42-12 Gaming Revenues— This resolution will ratify the Comanche Nation Gaming Commission to deposit funds approved by the General Council that is essential to run the governmental operations and programs into a bank account that the CBC approves through a resolution. Coffey explained to the crowd of around 75 people that the Gaming Commission is upset with the Gaming Board because they continued to put the gaming deposits into the frozen IBC bank account. He explained if the board continues to put money into the frozen account, it is a violation of their duties, and members of the board could be removed. He further explained IBC is willing to look at the documents proving the Comanche Nation has an identified and approved governmental leaders. They will give the paperwork to their legal team See MEETING, Page 4

August 2012

The Comanche Nation News

MEETING

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and the funds of $6 million to $8 million could be released immediately. Coffey said IBC Bank wishes to continue to do business with the Comanche Nation. Mithlo makes a motion to accept the resolution. Mahsetky seconds the motion. The motion carries 4/0/1. 43-13 Hiring for Litigation— The resolution declares the June 2 continuance meeting of the April 21 General Council Meeting is valid and ratifies the actions to hire Crowe and Dunlevy as the law firm who will represent the Comanche Nation. Mahsetky makes a motion to accept the resolution with the correction of changing “special” to “regular” in the wording. Nevaquaya seconds the motion. The motion carries 4/0/1. Attorney Walter Echohawk addressed the crowd and said his feels blessed to represent the Comanche Nation, and he has always admired the traditions and history of the Comanches. He said he and the law firm representatives will help normalize the tribal government and is will be a privilege to be the attorneys of the Comanche Nation as long as the General Council will allow them to. Coffey also added Echohawk will be working with the Comanche Nation College to begin an Indian Law 101 class for students to study and learn the introduction to

Indian Law. 44-12 Ratify Actions—The resolution is a duplicate of Resolution 42-12. Mahsetky makes a motion to approve the resolution. Nevaquaya seconds the motion. The motion carries 4/0/1. 45-12 Ratify General Council—The resolution ratifies the June 2 continuance meeting of the April 21 General Council meeting to be a valid and legal meeting. Mahsetky makes a motion to accept the resolution. Nevaquaya seconds the motion. The motion carries 4/0/1. 46-12 Signatories Financial Accounts—The resolution identifies CBC officials who have signature authority for accounts which are holding tribal funds. The identified officials are Coffey, Mahsetky, Nevaquaya, Wells, Mithlo, and Tribal Administrator, Johnny Wauqua. Mahsetky makes a motion to accept the resolution. Mithlo seconds the motion. The motion carries 4/0/1. 47-12 Signatories for Office of Special Trustees (OST)— The resolution will identify the CBC who have signature authority for the Bureau of Indian Affairs OST. They are Coffey, Mahsetky, and Nevaquaya. Mithlo makes a motion to accept the resolution. Mahsetky seconds the motion. The motion carries 4/0/1. Echohawk

updated the crowd on the Cobell settlement, saying all appeals have been run out on the case and IIM Account holders should be receiving settlement checks in the late summer to early fall. Echohawk was one of the representatives for the Cobell-vs-Salazar case, representing Cobell. 48-12 Signatories BIA 4432— The resolution the following CBC members to sign Indian Preference forms. They are Coffey, Mahsetky, Wells, Nevaquaya, Mithlo, and Tribal Administrator, Johnny Wauqua. It also removes the following names from having signature authority: Ed Eschiti, Robert Tippeconnie, Ron RedElk, Darrell Kosechequetah, Yonevea Terry, Robert Komahcheet, and Tribal Administrator, Will Owens. Nevaquaya makes a motion to accept the resolution. Mahsetky seconds the motion. The motion carries 4/0/1. 49-12 Appoint Tax Commission—The resolution appoints the following CBC as Tax Commissioners: Coffey, Wells, Mahsetky, Nevaquaya, an d Mithlo. It removes the following as Tax Commissioners: Ed Eschiti, Robert Tippeconnie, Darrell Kosechequetah, Yonevea Terry, and Robert Komahcheet. Mahsetky makes a motion to approve the resolution on the list with the correc-

tion of adding Ron RedElk to the list of removed Tax Commissioners. Nevaquaya seconds the motion. The motion carries 4/0/1. 50-12 Appoint Gaming Advisory Sub Committee—The resolution removes the following as the Comanche Nation Gaming Advisory Sub Committee: Yonevea Terry, Ed Eschiti, and Robert Tippeconnie. It also rescinds resolution No. 15-08. Mahsetky makes a motion to accept the resolution. Mithlo seconds the motion. The motion carries 4/0/1. 51-12 Finley and Cook Processing Requests—Rescinds resolutions 25-10 and 62-10 and rescinds all payment requests without two signatures, and removes the names who are no longer identified as CBC: Ed Eschiti, Robert Tippeconnie, Ron RedElk, Darrell Kosechequetah, Yonevea Terry, Robert Komahcheet 52-12 Limiting Disclosure-The resolution will direct Finley and Cook representatives and employees not to disclose confidential information to recalled (impeached) CBC members or former employees. The confidential information is limited to current CBC officials and designated employees. Mahsetky makes a motion to accept the resolution with the correction the lawyers pointed out of changing the word “limitation” to “information,” and to identify Robert Komahcheet as a former CBC member, and not an employee. Mithlo seconds the motion. The motion carries 4/0/1. 53-12 General Fund Liberty National Bank—The resolution authorizes the Comanche Nation Gaming Board to deposit revenues into the general fund account at Liberty National Bank. Nevaquaya makes a motion to accept the resolution. Mahsetky seconds the motion. The motion carries 4/0/1. Coffey added he will be at the Gaming Office 8 a.m. July 9 to present the resolution to the Gaming Board and Gaming Commission. 54-12 Debit Cards for Child Support—Through DHS to contract Systems and Methods, Inc. to authorize prepaid debit cards through the Comanche Nation Child Support Program. Asa Attocknie asked the chairman to table this resolution because two more resolutions are

needed for this to be finalized. Coffey said he will act on it because the tribal children are in need of necessities and he does not want them to go without any longer than they have to. The other two resolutions will be reviewed and voted on at the August 4 CBC meeting. Nevaquaya makes a motion to accept the resolution. Mahsetky seconds the motion. The motion carries 4/0/1. Old/New Business Richard Suminiski took the floor presented a resolution to the CBC to aid in funding a water tower in Devol, Okla. for upcoming housing projects. The resolution is tabled until more information is given and more research in completed. At 12:32 p.m., Coffey called for a 10 minute break before going into Executive Session.

SWEARING IN Continued From Page 3

right to vote, even if they did not vote for him, he said. He expressed he looks forward to working with the CBC, and to be an aid to move the tribe forward into the next century. He emphasized on education so “the Comanche people will have a better road than we had.”

Run Off Election Results Places Final Two CBC Positions By Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

The July 28 Unofficial Run-Off Elections brought 1,275 voters to the polls to decide who will fill the positions of Secretary/Treasurer, and Comanche Nation Business Committeeman No. 4. The results put Gary Tahmahkera in the Secretary/ Treasurer’s position with 740 votes (58.50%), defeating Tommy Parker, who received 525 votes (41.50%). Winning the CBC No. 4 position is Jack Codopony Sr., who received 665 votes, (52.49%). Jonathan Poahway received 602 votes (47.51%). The protest period will end 5 p.m. July 31, and if no protests are filed, Tahmahkera and Codopony will be sworn in 10 a.m. Aug. 4 at the Comanche Nation Complex prior to the monthly CBC meeting, tentatively.

2012 COMANCHE NATION FAIR Honoring Comanche Arists September 28, 29, 30, Comanche Nation Complex Lawton, Okla.

August 2012

CBC Visit BIA and Potential Economic Development Sites in SW Oklahoma

Bill Shoemate for Comanche County Central District Commissioner Ward 1 City Councilman Bill Shoemate is an Oklahoma native, born right here in Lawton. He has been on Lawton’s city council for 9 years. He is a dedicated family man, committed to serving the people and being involved in the community. In fact, he has been the president of several civic organizations, including on the original board that organized the Boys & Girls Club, and a past member of the Camp Fire Board.

Photo by Candace Wilson/ News Staff

Comanche Nation Emergency Management (CNEM) Incident Commander, Charles Crutcher, CNEM Public Information Officer, Jolene Schonchin, and CNEM Data Clerk, Kim Blackstar, review information to open the Cooling Station June 27 at the Comanche Nation Headquarters.

Cooling Station Set Up for Summer

Bill has spent over 50 years coaching our youth girls in softball and basketball, and our youth boys in football, baseball, basketball, and wrestling. He also served on the Lawton Public School Board for 3 ½ years, he believes our youth are our future.

By Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

When temperatures reached over the 100 degree mark, Chairman Wallace Coffey declared a State of Emergency on June 27, and activated the Comanche Nation Emergency Management Team to organize a Cooling Station for the community. The Cooling Station was set up in the “Old” Conference Room of the Administration Building, and a second one was set up at the Anadarko Outreach Center in Anadarko, Okla. Many tribal and community members took advantage of the station to take a break from the summer heat and enjoy a cold bottle of water, healthy snacks, and an air conditioned room with movies, board games, and cots. The Cooling Station will remain in effect as long as the summer temperatures threaten the health and well being of the local community. Red Cross aided in the Cooling Stations, as well as the Salvation Army. CONEI donated $600 worth of healthy snacks to help begin the Cooling Station. Members of the CNEM team and tribal members manned the station 8 a.m.-5 p.m. from June 27 until July 6. The cooling station at the Anadarko Outreach Office was opened July 1 and was manned 8 a.m.-5 p.m. by the staff of the outreach center until July 6. A Fan Drive was initiated by the Emergency Management Team June 29 to gather first and second hand fans to help cool the houses of elders and children, without making a big impact on their electric bill. Companies such as He and I Construction, and the Comanche Nation Water Park stepped forward and gave a monetary donation to purchase fans for the tribal people. The Cooling Station is currently on “stand-by” status throughout the summer, ready to help the community stay safe from the summer temperatures. The Comanche Nation Emergency Management Core Team is: Laura Phillips—Director; Charles Crutcher—Incident Commander; Jolene Schonchin—Public Information Officer; Bonita Paddyaker—Safety Officer; Donna Wahnee—Liaison Officer; Lynn Schonchin—Operations Officer; Brian Stillwell— Planning Officer; Eric Herrera—Logistics Officer; Jerome Howlingwater—Finance Officer; Kim Blackstar--Data Clerk.

The Comanche Nation News

Courtesy Photo

From left, David Hooper, Wallace Coffey, Mike Mack Mahsetky, Phillip Glass, Sonya Nevaquaya, Charles Wells, Harry Mithlo, and Louie McCarthy tour potential economic development properties in Southwest Oklahoma on July 18. Submitted by Asa Attocknie, Property Procurement Director

On July 18, Chairman Wallace Coffey and the newly elected Business Committee members, Vice-Chairman, Mike Mack Mahsetky, Charles Wells,CBC No. 1, Sonya Nevaquaya CBC No. 2 and Harry Mithlo CBC No. 3 traveled to Anadarko, Okla. to attend a meeting with the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), Southern Plains Regional Director, Dan Deerinwater, and Deputy Regional Director, Terry Bruner, about the current and future relationship between both the Nation and the BIA. The meeting was both productive and informative. Chairman Coffey said the meeting went well. "Hopefully, this meeting today is the beginning of a renewed relationship between the Nation and the BIA," said Chairman Coffey, "I informed them that we have a new CBC in place and that even though we won the court battle, we're not out of the woods yet." Coffey continued, saying, "We can see the path we want to take, but we also know

we have a long road ahead of us to make things right with everyone who was affected by the frozen bank account." Next, the CBC traveled to the Comanche Red River Casino, and were given a tour of the newly renovated facility. "The first thing I noticed was how spacious the casino floor seemed. It was very comfortable and inviting, and having visited it in the past, the new casino floor seemed very comparable to even the best that Las Vegas has to offer." says Chairman Coffey. "I can tell you that when you walk into the Countryville Bar and Grill you will think you have been taken to the Country Music Awards show. It is very nicely decorated with memorabilia and the rib-eye steak I had is a musthave when you plan on eating here." After touring casino, the CBC started talking about possible expansion of the casino and the future development of the land that the Nation owns on the Red River.

"Expansion validates the continued success we have had at the Red River Casino since it opened," said Chairman Coffey, "And a casino/hotel resort and event center will also fulfill the vision we had for the property dating back to its original inception." Coffey also explained, a multi-use event center located next to the casino would attract major headline acts, in addition to special events, conferences and banquets. Finally, the CBC looked at other properties of the Nation, in hopes of getting a better view of other economical development possibilities. "We have a responsibility to the Comanche people to help create better social and economic opportunities," said Coffey. "We're looking forward to these projects for a number of reasons; but first and foremost we need to remember it will allow us to create hundreds of jobs for our people and very soon the CBC will come to the people and talk about these projects.

Comanche Nation Housing Authority Employees Receive First Aid CPR AED Training

His lists of accomplishments are endless and his experience spans for decades: • 42 years in radio, 36 of those years in management and ownership • 10 years as manager of an ad agency • 40+ years with Republican party • 2009 received the MLK Award for his community involvement • 2009 received the award for one of Oklahoma’s To[ 50 Senior Native Americans • 2012 received award for Making a Difference in the Lives of Children

“My vote Guaranteed the 82nd Street Project” Bill is a visionary; he started the first African American, Latino, and Native American radio program in Lawton. During his 2nd year at KLAW, they received an award for being the #1 rated Country Station in the nation. Bill supported the SE Water Treatment Plant and the purchase of the rest of the Waurika Water Rights. In addition, he was instrumental in supporting the expansion of Flower Mound Road. Bill served on the Comanche Business committee (CBC), and the Kiowa, Comanche, Apache (KCA) for 10 years, and was a tribal leader for the Comanche Nation.

Courtesy Photo

The Comanche Nation Housing Authority recently completed the American Heart Association (AHA) Heart saver First Aid CPR AED course held on site at the housing authority facility. The course was eight-hours long, and consisted of instruction on how to treat minor first aid emergencies as well as how to perform CPR on adults, children and infants. The course also allowed the employees to gain experience with an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). Norman Leveille, Safety Officer at the CNHA, was responsible for scheduling employees for the various training dates and coordination with instructor Kendall Washburn, RN, BSN, REMT-P with the Indian Health Services department at the Lawton Indian Hospital. Leveille explained, “The knowledge gained in this course will not only benefit our employees while on the job but it will also allow them to put their training to use in their own homes should the need ever arise.” When asked about the quality of the training, Leveille said, “I have been involved with public safety for close to 30 years and have taken numerous CPR courses and I can say this is one of the most comprehensive courses I have taken and our instructor presented the material in a very knowledgeable method.” 80 percent of the employees were able to attend the training and all attendees received certification cards that are valid for two years.

“I have no outside interest and pledge to be a full time, committed Comanche Country Central District Commissioner. My mission, my goal is to see the advancement in schools, jobs, and economic growth in Comanche County. One of my visionary goals is to upgrade the county Equipment and make Comanche County an even greater place to live.” Paid for by friends to Elect Bill Shoemate

August 2012

The Comanche Nation News

Programs

Comanche Nation College Teaches 11 Students Equine Skills

Clark, Sr.

Participants listen to instructors on the care of horses at LO Ranch in Lawton, Okla.

Comanche Nation CIVA presenting the Comanche Nation Museum with a USA 48 star flag, on loan.

The Comanche Nation Museum Receives a 48-Star Flag from the Clark Family Photo and story by Candace Wilson/News Staff

Horses were the subject during a six-day camp at LO Ranch. Submitted by Juanita Pahdopony/CNC Staff

The Comanche Nation College collaborated with the Comanche Nation Workforce Program, the Oklahoma State University, and the Lawton Indian Health Service Hospital to provide an outstanding Summer Horse Camp 2012. 11 students participated in a six- day learning experience centering A on the Comanche Horse culture. Some of the experiences included: learning how to use a bow and arrow; Horse Hair Worms; Observing Horse and Zebra skins and skeletons; learning about the structure and digestive system of horses; learning how to paint a horse and braid its tail. Perhaps the most exciting part of the student program was learning to groom a horse, put on a saddle, load the horse in a trailer and back them safely out of a trailer. Sherry Reed of the LO Ranch gave the students an opportunity to work directly with horses and handle them in a safe manner. Students learned how to care for horses and keep pesky horse

flies and other pests away from their horses. On July 18, Chairman Wallace Coffey visited the Horse Camp and shared his experiences of horseback riding and stories from his family. The Oklahoma State University brought three horses from Stillwater, Okla., to the CNC campus and showed students how to use colored chalk to paint horses and how to bathe them. The students learned in hands-on and interactive experiences. One student commented, “It was very interesting, something I’ve never thought about but it was cool learning new things.” In summary, this CNC Summer camp was one of the very best and plans are underway to continue the collaboration with the Workforce to select the top students interested in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) coursework to prepare the future leaders of the Comanche Nation.

East of Apache in an adorable house on the country side, the secretary of Comanche Indian Veterans Association (CIVA) and veteran of the U.S. Air Force, Albert Clark Jr., loaned a rare 48-star American flag to the Comanche National Museum. The flag belonged to his father, Albert Clark Sr., who was born in 1896 and died in 1944. He is buried at Deyo Mission Cemetery. It was revealed that Clark not only had a 48 star flag, but also the first Comanche Nation flag, according to the Clark family. In 1999, a year after Clark Jr. and his wife moved back to Oklahoma. Clark Jr., realized the Comanche Nation had no flag of their own. Clark’s wife hand sewn the Comanche Nation’s first flag.

Clark was drafted into the US Army in May, 1918 and served until July 17, 1919. Private, Clark trained at Camp Travis, TX, outside of San Antonio, and was shipped to Europe, from Camp Mills, NY on June 19, 1918 arriving in Liverpool, England on June 30. While in England, he changed ships and landed at Aigney-le-Duc, France shortly thereafter. He witnessed his first combat on the nights of August 21 and 22, 1918 and fought in two major battles, St Mihiel and Meuse-Argonne, as well many other skirmishes. He, along with Calvin Atchavit, Gilbert Pahdi Conwoop and Samuel Tabbytosavit, were assigned to the 357 Infantry Regiment

of the 90 Division. During the battle of Meuse-Argonne, they used their Comanche language to communicate military messages. In June, 1919 an Oklahoma City Times news article it stated “the Comanche tongue helped the Allied Army send messages which the German ears could not understand”. Private George Clark was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal on October 15, 2008 for his service as a Code Talker during World War I, and the Congressional Gold Medal on October 15, 2008 for his service as a Code Talker during World War I.

Comanche Nation Elder Center Garage Sale The Comanche Nation Elder Center will have a Garage Sale/Indian Taco Sale beginning 9 a.m. Aug. 13 at the Comanche Nation Elder Center, 1107 SW H Ave., Lawton. Tables are $5 for anyone who wishes to participate in the Garage Sale. All proceeds will go toward activities for the Elder Center and supplies for arts and craft projects

August 2012

The Comanche Nation News

People,Places and Things Happening Chebahtah Named Valedictorian

Lonetree Makes Dean’s Honor Roll

Chebahtah

Lonetree

Peyton Sunrise Chebahtah was named Valedictorian at the 2012 Oktaha Junior High School Graduation. Chebahtah has been on the Superintendent’s Honor Roll, is a member of the Oklahoma Junior High School Honor Society and the National Junior Honor Society. She is active in the Enrichment Program, Students Against Destructive Decisions, Student Council, and the Academic Team. Chebahtah is the percussion section leader for the Oktaha High School Marching Band and plays keyboard for the Jazz band. She was named the Junior High Band Attendant at the 2012 Spring Band Coronation and Concert. Chebahtah also earned District Membership in the National Guild Piano Auditions and received a superior rating in Oklahoma Music Teachers Association Auditions held at Oklahoma City University. Chebahtah is the daughter of Kelly Chebahtah, granddaughter of Marilee Chebahtah, great-granddaughter of the late Mooney Sunrise and Mollie Chebahtah, and the great-great granddaughter of Chevato.

Ashley Lonetree a student at Oklahoma State University has made the Dean’s Honor Roll for 2010 and 2011, and the National Society of Collegiate Scholars and Golden Key International Honor Society. Lonetree’s major is Biology/Chemistry and Art/Sciences. She is to pursue a career in Research Toxicology. Lonetree is a 2010 graduate from Indiahoma High School which she was the Valedictorian for her graduating class. Lonetree has participated in the People to People Student Ambassadors England and France Program, and the House of Representatives Page Program. She has been a concurrent enrollment student for the past three years (part time and summer) at Cameron University, where she received a freshman compensation award. She is a member of the Oklahoma Honor Society and National Honor Society. Lonetree is the daughter of Glenn and Tracy Lonetree. She is the granddaughter of Joe and Anna Mae Lonetree and Virginia Wauqua and the late Johnny Wauqua .

American Indian Band Stand Golden Oldies and the Hair Spray Girls will hosting “A Blast from the Past,” oldies dance, 8 p.m. - 12 midnight, August 4, at the Baldwin Bldg., Anadarko, Okla. D.J. Ronnie Kaye from KOMA radio. Admission $7. There will a concession, cake walk, silent auction and door prizes. Come dance the evening away and meet friends. For more information contact V. Tate (405) 274-6462.

Special Drawing to Promote our Local Native American Artist The Oklahoma Indian Arts & Crafts Cooperative Board of Directors is announcing a special drawing to promote our local Native American Artist and members. There will be four special drawings each ticket will be $10 per ticket, per drawing. All prizes for these drawings have been donated and made by cooperative members.

The contact person is LaVerna Capes (405) 2473486 9am-5pm Tues-Sat.

DeVine is crowned 2012 2013 Walters Service Club “Lil” Princess

The first drawing will be held August 10, featuring a pair of Fort Sill Apache Style dolls, by Donna Tsatoke, Kiowa and a pair of Beaded Hair Ties, by Glenna Pekah, Comanche.

DeVine the 2012-2013 Walters Service Club “Lil” Princess.

Amiya Tonips-DeVine is crowned the 2012-2013 Walters Service Club “Lil” Princess. She is the daughter of Christopher and Desiree DeVine. She is the granddaughter of Bill and D’Ann DeVine and Tomasi and Mari (Wahahrockah) Lavatai. She is the great-granddaughter of Betty Crocker and Rudolph Coosewoon, Louis and Yvonne Wahahrockah, and Nipper and Cora Tiddark. She is eight-years-old and attends Carriage Hills Elementary. She plays softball, enjoys drawing and spending time with family and friends.

by Kathy Toehay, Kiowa. People need not be present to win; all prizes can be viewed at the Southern Plains Indian Museum Arts & Crafts Center.

American Indian Exposition Announces Parade Line Up The line up for the Aug. 8 and Aug. 11 American Indian Exposition Parade in downtown Anadarko is: 1.

Wichita

Kiowa

Cheyenne

Arapaho

Apache

Ft Sill Apache

Comanche

Otoe

9. The seconded Drawing 10. will be held September 28 featuring full cut bead Crown with 11. backing, by Laverna Capes, 12. Kiowa. Third drawing will be 13.

Ponca Caddo Pawnee Osage Delaware

held October 7 featuring Ladies Hand Bag, by Marjorie Sovo, Comanche and Beaded Pen/Key Chain, by Nelia Holder, Wichita. The last drawing will be held November 13 with the prize being a small Buckskin dress,

Photos by Candace Wilson/ News Staff

ANADARKO IHS SHOWS OFF UPGRADED FACILITY. Sandra Sealey, Anadarko IHS Acting Facility Unit Director, hosted an Improving Patient Care Kickoff Cookout and tours of the progress of the new facility on June 27 at the Anadarko Indian Health Center. Guest Speaker, Julie Erb Alvarez, pictured right, spoke about the progress that was made through the upgraded facility. Visitors and staff, pictured left, participated in a game similar to Family Feud, answering health related questions, and tours of the remodeled clinic were available.

We’re here for you with the money you need Advance America Cash Advance provides a quick and easy way to get the money you need when you need it. Advance America #3558 5334 NW Cache Rd., Ste. A Lawton, OK 73505 (580) 591-0333 Items to Bring • Two Forms of ID (Valid State or Federal photo ID and one additional ID) • Bank Statement (Most recent checking account statement) • Paycheck Stub (Most recent paycheck stub or verification of other income) • Personal Check (Held until due date) • Verification of Social Security Number

August 2012

The Comanche Nation News

Military Submitted by Lanny Asepermy

Last Living Comanche World War I Veteran

Tabbytosavit

In the June issue of TCNN an article about the four World War I Comanche Code Talkers was published. Photos of two of the Code Talkers, Calvin Atchavit and George Clark, and a photo of Gilbert Conwoop’s military marker were also published. There was neither a photo of the fourth Code Talker, Samuel Tabbytosavit or of his military marker. Above is a photo of Tabbytosavit as a teenager (his date of birth was May 25, 1896 and date of death was March 20, 1970 with final resting place the Walters Cemetery). The photo was provided by his 81 year old daughter, Ida Valdez of Walters. Valdez stated that he was married to Edith Poco and they had 12 children. She and her 77 year old sister, Mamie Nova, of Lawton are the only two living children. When asked about her father, she said he was raised by Wilson Simmons and his wife and attended school at Haskell before being drafted into the US Army. Valdez stated that her father hardly talked about the war except it was always wet and raining (records indicate that Tabbytosavit was hospitalized with “trench foot” while in France). She also stated he was very patriotic and he and Lawrence Tomah Sr. and a few other World War I Comanche veterans always attended military celebrations. CIVA Commander, George Red Elk, presented a tearful Valdez with an Honorable and Combat Service Medallion on behalf of her father for his dedication, faithful and honorable service during World War I. Lest we forget. Red Elk Selected As Honoree

Jack Codopony Sr., George Red Elk and the late Johnny Wauqua

Another accolade for CIVA Commander, George Red Elk, as he was selected as the honoree for the 4th Annual Medicine Park Flute Festival on September 23-24. Red Elk will be recognized 5:30 p.m. on September 23 on the “Island” at Medicine Park. Comanche Nation Princess, Krista Hubbard, will sing and CIVA Princess, Chelsea Sapcut, will sign the National Anthem, with Lanny Asepermy and Jimmy Caddo presenting the US and Comanche Nation flags prior to Red Elk’s honors.

There were 58 known Comanches that served during World War I, of which 23 served overseas and seven were wounded in action. All are deceased - Private Lawrence Bruce Tomah Sr., aka Nocktoah was the last living World War I veteran. He took his basic training at Camp Cody NM, near Deming, NM, and was enroute to Europe when the war ended. He was born on December 17, 1890 and died on August 17, 1989 at age 99. His final resting place is at the Walters Cemetery.

A Family of Patriots and a Super Sailor

Training Center, Fla. His assignments include duty aboard the USS New Orleans, an Amphibious Assault Ship, twice (the New Orleans transported US Fleet Marines and home port was San Diego Naval Station), at Naval Air Station Agana, Guam and Naval Sir Station North Island, Cali. Some of his duties included Seaman, Personnel Specialists, Education Service Officer, Security and Religious Programs. A few of his Ports of Call and Areas of Operation included Japan, Hawaii, Korea, Thailand, Hong Kong, Kenya, Singapore, Australia, Bali, Kuwait, Jordon and the Persian Gulf. He served in the Persian Gulf aboard the New Orleans in support of Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm during the Persian Gulf War. His military education includes completion of the Leader Development Program for Leading Petty Officer, the Guam Police Academy and the Religious Program Specialists “F” School. His awards include: three Navy Achievement medals, two Navy “E” ribbons, five Good Conduct medals, two national Defense Service medals, the Southwest Asia Service medal, Kuwait Liberation medal, four Sea Service Deployment ribbons, the Military Outstanding Volunteer medal, the Navy Overseas Service medal, the Meritorious Unit Commendation, the Navy Commendation medal, the Pistol Marksmanship medal and the Comanche Nation Honorable and Combat Service medallions. PO1 Bennett graduated from Elgin High School in 1978 and attended Bacone Jr. College. He currently resides in San Diego with his wife and daughter.

PO1 Terry Bennett

Karty and Tahsequah Remembered

The Bennett Band of Comanches has had eight family members serve in the Armed Forces including seven brothers and the son of one of the brothers. The brothers were Coy (1963-67, Vietnam War), Jerry (1951-54), Paul (195657, deceased), Terrance (195457, deceased) and Terrance’s son Terry (1983-03) who all served with the US Navy. Charles (1972-75, deceased), Douglas (1962-66, Vietnam War) and Elmer (1968-71, deceased) served with the US Army. The brothers, who were raised east of Fletcher and Dickens, TX, are the sons of the late Mary Pahcoddy, a fullblooded Comanche, and the late Tommy Bennett. They are Chief Wild Horse descendants. We thank the Bennett family for their dedicated, faithful and honorable service to God and Country. Terry Bennett served in the US Navy from July 21, 1983 to September 30, 2003 (a total of 20 years, two months and 15 days) retiring with the rank of Petty Officer 1st Class (pay grade E-6). His foreign and sea service was for 10 years, eight months and 30 days. PO1 Bennett took his Boot and Apprentice Training, as a Seaman, at Orlando Naval

Two Comanche Korean War veterans were remembered as their names appear on Lawton’s Korean War Memorial. The Memorial was dedicated on June 25 at Elmer Thomas Park in a ceremony attended by about 250 people from both Oklahoma and the Republic of Korea. Chairman Wallace Coffey and CIVA Commander George Red Elk along with CIVA Princess Chelsea Sapcut represented the Comanche Nation. Sapcut signed the National Anthem during the dedication. The welcome was given by Korean War Veterans Association Chapter 319 President Cecil “Bud” Arenz followed by Introductions, the Invocation, the Korean and American National Anthems. Remarks by Fort Sill Commanding General Maj. Gen. Mark McDonald and Sun Song Om from the Korean Veterans Association followed. The memorial was unveiled and contains the names of 19 Comanche County veterans who made the supreme sacrifice while fighting in Korea. There were 33,741 battle deaths during the “Forgotten War” which lasted from June 25, 1950 to July 27, 1953. A total of 1,789,000 Americans

served during the war including 142 Comanches. Two names etched in the Memorials granite are Comanche Warriors Cpl Dennis Karty and LtCol Meech Tahsequah. Cpl Karty was a member of the 2nd Infantry Division when he was captured during the battle called the “May Massacre” which took place from May 11 to June 11, 1951. His unit was cut off from their main forces, suffered heavy casualties and were extremely short of ammunition and rations. They were overcome by swarms of Chinese who surrounded his unit until there was no hope of holding any longer. A surviving prisoner told family members, “Cpl Karty was wounded several times, including in the hip and shoulder, resisting capture.” Research indicates he was detained and died at Camp 4 near Wiwon, North Korea. His remains was recovered in 1955 and buried at Highland Cemetery. Military records indicate he was captured on May 18, 1951 and died in captivity on March 30, 1952. LtCol Meech Tahsequah was a passenger aboard a B-26B Invader Bomber when the aircraft ran out of fuel and crashed 30 miles north of Susa, North Korea. The Navigator who bailed our and made his way to friendly lines said “Tahsequah and the other crew members bailed out before crashing.” It was thought at one time he was a prisoner of war as his name was mentioned by North Korean propaganda. He was reported missing in action on December 6, 1950 and declared dead on February 28,

Tribal Member Fights for His Country

Ahsam cradles his son Jonathan during his farewell ceremony.

Tribal member Gregory Ahsam deployed to Afghanistan with the 160th Military Police Battalion, on July 18, from Tallahassee, Fla. Ahsam’s estimated deployment will be one year. Ahsam’s wife, Meagan and twin sons: Jonathan and Christopher remain in Florida. He is the son of Georgia Avei and the grandson of Christine and Gus McCarthy. He is the nephew of Marion Mason, Tanute Tahdooahnippah and Casey McCarthy. He has two brothers: T.J. and Ireland Avei and cousin Ashley Nauni.

Correction: In the July edition of TCNN, the name of Melvin Permansu was misspelled. The CIVA and TCNN apologizes for the error.

August 2012

The Comanche Nation News

August 2012

The Comanche Nation News

Sports

Ingram Signs With Rose State in Softball

Jessica Randi Mae Dalman shows off her skills at the Junior Nationals in Ohio.

Photo by Candace Wilson/News Staff

Alyx Attocknie-Ingram signs to play softball for Rose State College June 26, at Blanchard High School.

Alyx Attocknie-Ingram of Blanchard, Okla. signed a letter of intent to play softball with the Rose State Raiders. Attocknie-Ingram has played softball since she was three and has had many great achievements during her career. She played competitive travel softball in which she won many state, national and world series championships and was selected as the USS SA World Series MVP once and the USS SA World All Tournament Team 3 times while playing shortstop for the Moore Slammers. Attocknie-Ingram also played for the Oklahoma Jitterbugs Gold under Coach Heather Heimbach in which she played in many showcase tournaments in Oklahoma, Texas and Colorado. Her high school career she played for the Blanchard Lady Lions in which she played shortstop, left field and 3rd base. The Blanchard Lady Lions have won two Class 4A State Fast pitch Championships in 2009 and 2011. Attocknie-Ingram was featured in the Oklahoma Sports Express by Van Shea Iven on 9/25 when Blanchard was playing in the OU Tournament. As a Senior Lady Lion

Attocknie-Ingram was selected to play in the Canadian Valley All Conference games and received a Senior Award for her outstanding at bat during the Class 4A Championship game against Tuttle, in which Attocknie-Ingram came up to the plate with two outs and bases loaded, battling a total of 15 pitches to earn a walk thus walking in Blanchard’s first Dalman steals the ball from the opposing team during the Junior National run of the championship game. Basketball Tournament the week of July 16 in Ohio. She also competed in the 2012 Jim Thorpe Native Games in which her team Native Rain brought home the Silver medal in the women’s fast pitch category. Attocknie-Ingram is Jessica Randi Mae Dal- high school basketball compeof Comanche, Chickasaw and Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo de- man played in the U.S.A Jr. tition in the United States. It is scent. She is the daughter of Nationals - International Sports viewed as an entry level to inDarrin and Alisa (Attocknie) Festival 2012, which took place ternational competition and for Ingram of Blanchard and sis- July 16-21,in Columbus Ohio. high school athletes seeking ter to Sha and Tryston Ingram. She played with the Cougar possible college scholarship Her maternal grandparents are Team. Dalman is the daugh- opportunities. You have alRandy Attocknie and Mary ter of Christopher and Dawn ready mastered local competiBank of Oklahoma City and Tsatoke-Newkirk of Apache, tion; now it is time to take your the late Patricia Agnes (Duran) and Darrell Dalman of Michi- A-game to the state level by Attocknie of Ohkay Owinge gan. She is the granddaughter competing against your state's Pueblo. Her maternal great of Martin (Pepper) and Clorin- top high school varsity athletes grandparents are the late dia Tsatoke of Apache and the who share the same high-talent Joseph and Rosalie Attocknie Great Granddaughter of the level and high-interest in basof Apache. Her maternal greatgreat grandparents are Albert Late Marie Haumpy and the ketball. The competition is deand Isa Yellowfish. She is a Granddaughter of the Late Elva Mae Tapedo. Dalman is a direct signed for outstanding high direct descendent of Ten Bears decedent of LookingGlass, and school basketball players to and Yellowfish. is currently a Senior at Apache perform in a three game comHigh School. She not only petition where the athletes will plays basketball, she also plays have top competition, coachfast and slow pitch Softball, ing, and possible scholarship NAC and is involved in numer- opportunities. USA JUNIOR ous school activities. NATIONALS Basketball pro “Congratulations to gram represents a unique conJessica Dalman for participat- cept in high school competiing in the U.S.A. Jr. Nationals tion, a melting pot for talented - International Sports Festival high school seniors and un2012, also please put a thank derclassmen. It is designed to you not in to all those who serve as a gathering point for helped supported her by either promising young players in an donating time and or money to atmosphere of intense compethe fund raisers, buying 50/50 tition. Players who seldom are raffle tickets and also to the Co- exposed to big time competimanche Nation for allowing us tion go toe-to-toe with players to rent a van to get out to Co- of equal or superior skills and lumbus,” said Dalman’s moth- have all their statistics sent to er, Dawn Tsatoke-Newkirk. college coaches on all levels U.S.A Jr. NATIONALS during the fall/spring and sum- INTERNATIONAL SPORTS mer competitions for possible FESTIVAL 2012 Basketball scholarship opportunities. Colconsidered the top amateur lege coaches are provided in-

Dalman Hoops Her Way To Junior Nationals in Ohio

Halberg attends Sam Bradford Football Camp

Halberg and former Oklahoma Quarterback and Saint Louis Rams’ Quarterback Sam Bradford.

Comanche tribal youth Brayden Halberg attended the Sam Bradford Football Camp which was held on July 10-11 at the University of Oklahoma intramural field in Norman, Okla. Campers were drafted into 30 teams ranging in ages from 7-14 years. The teams were then broken down into three divisions: Panthers, Sooners and Rams. Each day the campers experienced various fundamental skills working with

Dalman, center, with her grandparents Clorandia and Martin “Pepper” Tsatoke. She is the daughter of Christopher and Dawn TsatokeNewkirk of Apache, and Darrell Dalman of Michigan.

football coaches and players from area high schools, the University of Oklahoma, the Saint Louis Rams, and Sam Bradford. Halberg playing quarterback for his team “The Unknowns” had an undefeated record of 5-0 and went on to win the championship game in the Sooners division, the final score was 31-19. Halberg is 11-years-old and will be attending Eisenhower Middle School in the new school year.

formation regarding the competitions and participants so they may schedule their time to come and see the All-State competition. Athletes will have the opportunity to play with and against other talented high school players in the region. The competition is held in the "alive time" of the NAIA and NJCAA recruiting. This is the term used that allows high school players to participate and to be watched by college recruiters. The coaches for the team were Coach Eddie Kite, Head Coach Conners State College, Warner Oklahoma. The members of the Cougars were Jessica Dalman, Apache Hish School, Apache Okla.; Amy Tully, Apache High School Apache Okla.; Micah Gibbons, Metro Christian Academy, Mounds Okla.; Carrie Graham, Holly Springs High School, Holly Springs, Mis.; Sydney Burn, Metro Christian Academy, Mounds, Okla.; Ashley Orr, Lakewood High School, Marysville, Wash.; Jordan Dabney, Destreham High School, New Sarpy, La.; Leovonna Jackson, Northview High School, Dotham, Ala.; Shaunell DavisBullchild, Valier High School, Valier, Mont.; and Samantha Bruce, Bell High School, High Springs, Fla.

“Comanche Boy” signs with DeGuardia

People in the fight game tend to move slowly, even when faced with hard, irrefutable evidence. That’s not always a bad thing; to be kneejerk is to ensure you leave out evidence when making a move. But more and more, promoters are realizing that fight fans really gravitate to traders, to boxers who press the issue, who like to strive for the kayo. Subtlety, in a world of realistic video games and MMA, is out. This is why Joe DeGuardia, of Star Boxing in the

DeGuardia said, he was excited about the signing. “He’s got a great record, and there’s a uniqueness about him, being Native American, who is proud of his heritage,” DeGuardia said. “Comanche Boy” hasn’t been thrown into deep water -- all but one of his bouts has been in Oklahoma -- so don’t expect DeGuardia to proBronx, signed middleweight claim him ready for Julio Ceprospect George Tahdooahnip- sar Chavez Jr. by the holidays. pah. Tahdooahnippah’s record But he’d like to get him on TV. is currently 30-0 and 22 KOs.

August 2012

The Comanche Nation News

Milestones Happy Belated Birthday

Breyden Turner, June 7 Cody Geimausaddle, July 13 X’andria Poafpybitty, July 20 Barbara Tahchawwickah, July 21 Nalani Pahcheka, July 29 Elijah Pahcheka, July 31

Happy Birthday Happy Belated Birthday Happy Belated Birthday Happy Birthday Happy Birthday Terry Geimausaddle, August 5 Nalani Pahcheka Elijah Pahcheka Jerome Tahhahwah Jeremy Tahhahwah Jennifer Ann Duran, August 6 July 29 July 31 August 5 August 20 Joseph Mann, August 12 Don’t Forget to submit milestones for those special loved ones; Just married, Anniversaries, Birth AnnounceArietta Lee Viddaurri-Patton, ments, Birthdays etc. Deadline for August 7/15/12 Call Public Information Office (580) 492-3386 August 15 Email: candacet@comanchenation.com Or mail: Comanche Nation/PIO P.O. Box Box 908 Lawton, OK 73502 Victor Tahchawwickah, August 15 Ada Marie Cozad, August 16 Don’t Forget to Follow Us On Facebook Zelma RoseAnna Viddaurri, August 17 www.Facebook/ Joanne Hamill, August 18 TheComancheNationNews Julia Cozad, August 21 Raymond Lewis, August 23 Honi Miller, August 24 Calvert R. Codynah, Aug. 25

Congratulation Jennifer Lauren Hayes & Phillip Michael Giles Will marry on Saturday, August 1, 2012 6 p.m. at Medicine Park Music Hall

Anniversaries Gus & Christine McCarty July 15~Married 30 years Jonathan & Bobbie Lewis August 12~Married 12 years

Happy Anniversary Gus & Christine McCarty July 15

Married 30 years

Happy Anniversary Mike & Julie Burgess August 14

Married 1 year

Mike & Julie Burgess August 14~Married 1 year

Obituaries Wauqua

Johnny Wauqua Honorable Chairman of the Comanche Nation, Johnny Wauqua, 67, of Lawton, went to his heavenly home with his loving family by his side on July 17. Funeral services was July 21, at Watchetaker Hall at the Comanche Nation Complex with Layperson Tina Baker officiating. Burial followed at Post Oak Cemetery, Indiahoma, under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home. Prayer service was July 20 at Watchetaker Hall at the Comanche Nation Complex with Layperson Joe Lonetree officiating. Wauqua was born on November 5, 1945 in Lawton to the late Johnnie Wauqua and Ethal Yackeschi. He is the grandson to the late Wauqua and Nuveen (Poahway) and the late Woods Yackeschi and Suam. He is a descendant of Ten Bears, who was a noted Chief of the Comanches. Wauqua was a graduate of Walters High School where he was an excellent athlete in baseball, basketball and football. He was also involved in the Wichita Falls Boys Club where he was a member of the boxing club. After graduating Walters High School in 1964, he was honored and privileged to have earned a football scholarship to New Mexico State but declined and went on to attend and graduate from Chicago Business College earning his degree in business. He later returned to Lawton where he attended Great Plains Area

Vocational School to finish his education in bookkeeping and accounting which would prepare him for his current positions to come. Prior to returning to Lawton, Wauqua met and married his wife of 36 years, Virginia Maddox, Indiahoma, who is also a member of the Comanche Tribe, and raised their two children. At the time he was working for the Lawton Inter-Tribal Operations and Maintenance Program from 1975 to 1982. He also was an exceptional artist which includes a background in set up and printing skills. His career with the Comanche Nation began as Supervising Coordinator for the Housing Authority and also an inspector before becoming the Education Specialist and Assistant Administrator serving as a counselor for the Carl Perkins Program and later Director of the Carl Perkins Vocational Educational Program from 1982 to 1998. His greatest accomplishment with the Comanche Nation was becoming Chairman in 1999, then 2000 through 2003 and then again in 2011 through 2012. In between the times of Chairman he also had the honor of being Tribal Administrator from 2007 through 2009 and then again in 2012 until the time of his death. Some of the many accomplishments as the Comanche Nation Chairman and the Tribal Administrator included: Comanche Nation Casino, Red River Casino, Walters Star Casino, Spur Casino, Comanche Nation Funeral Home, Comanche Nation College, Comanche Nation Waterpark, Transportation Building, Youth/Children Shelter, Family/Woman Shelter, Fire Station, Family Service Building, Visitor Center, and CHR/Fitness Center. Wauqua enjoyed sports, traveling, and raising animals. He is a dedicated, die-hard OU

Football fan, enjoyed the sport of boxing, and reveled in raising horses. He especially loved traveling to many destinations with his family. He lived his life as a devoted and loyal family man and his family was a paramount importance to him. He is survived by his wife, Virginia Wauqua of the home; a daughter and son-in-law, Tracy L. and Glenn Lonetree of Indiahoma; a son and daughter-inlaw, Jon D. “JD” and Brenda Lee Cordes-Wauqua of Lawton; two granddaughters: Ashley Lonetree and Tristen Wauqua; brothers and sister-in-law: Mike Wauqua, Norris Wauqua, Buddy and Suzanne Wauqua, Woody Wauqua, Wallace Coffey, Gordon Owens, Ozzie Red Elk, Milton Codynah, Terry Herring, Ronnie Wermy, and Sam DeVenney; sisters, Velora “Dolly” DeSelle and Vivian Poolaw; brother-in-laws/sister-in-laws and spouse: Sammy and Donna Watts, Keith Maddox, Leonard and Rosemary Chibitty; mother-in-law, Mary Alice Maddox; uncles and wife, Videll and Isabelle Yackeschi and Bud Yackeschi; aunts, Tincy Wooth and June Yackeschi; and many, many nephews and nieces. Wauqua also had an extended family whom he treated like sons and daughters: William “Willie Dog” Owens, Asa Attocknie, Jake Sharp, Forney Beaver, Tony Garrett, Roger Holder, Charlie Brown, Ron Nelson, Aso Pogi, Howard Pogi, J.R. Pogi, Sammy Niedo, Lance Ikener, Lance Owens, Tony Griffith, Tommy Wesaw, Pam Whiteman, and Debbie Whiteman including many other family members and friends. He is preceded in death by; his parents Johnnie Wauqua and Ethal Yackeschi; sister Linn Sue Wauqua; brother, Bill “No Shame” Ahhaitty; sons: Monty Munoz and Will Pueblo.

Poafpybitty

Gene Ray Poafpybitty Funeral service for Gene Ray Poafpybitty was July 20, at the Comanche Community Center in Apache, Okla. Prayer service was July 19, at the Comanche Community Center. Burial followed at the Cache Creek Cemetery in Apache, Okla. Poafpybitty was born September 30, 1947 in Lawton, Okla., to Carl Poafpybitty and Etheline Keyes Poafpybitty and went to be with our Lord on July 16. He was a member of the Comanche Nation of Oklahoma. He attended school at Western Heights High School in Oklahoma City, Okla., where he excelled in football, track and field and graduated in 1965. He also attended Oklmulgee Tech and studied architectural design. He worked as a carpenter for over 30 years and owned his own remodeling companies in Atlanta, Ga., and Oklahoma.

He enjoyed life with his family and friends, traveling the U.S. to visit many monumental sites. One of his many hobbies was playing pool where he won numerous championships throughout the state. He was a avid OU Sooner fan and attended many OU football games. He was also an avid reader and was known as “The Genius.” He attended church at the Comanche Reformed Church in Lawton, Okla., and other various churches throughout his life. He is survived by his wife Gail Poafpybitty, one daughter, Troylynn Dana Poafpybitty and grandchildren; Matthew and Kyra Vance of Des Moines, Iowa. Three sons: Charles Lynn Poafpybitty, and grandchildren, Nicholas and Paige Vasey and Ariana Poafpybitty; Thompson Poafpybitty and grandson Dewan Poafpybitty of Dulce, New Mexico; Heath Poafpybitty and granddaughter, Haylee Poafpybitty of Anadarko, Okla.; two brothers: Charles Poafpybitty and Donald Poafpybitty; two sisters: Linda Beaver of Anadarko, Okla., and Sandra Todd of Oklahoma City, Okla., and many nieces, nephews and other relatives. He was preceded in death by his parents: Carl and Etheline, a brother, Kenneth Poafpybitty and a sister, Karen Rednose Guoladdle. He will be greatly missed by all of those who knew and loved him.

August 2012

The Comanche Nation News

Comanche Nation Child Support Program Publication of Delinquent Obligors Comanche Children and Family Relations Code of 2008 Section 15-421

Submitted by Comanche Nation Child Support Program Staff

The Comanche Nation Child Support Program works to provide a respectful, courteous and professional work environment for all parties involved; the program maintains the highest standards of confidentiality; establish and modify support orders; process payments in an efficient and timely manner; incorporate mediation through the administrative process as an option for families in crisis; and locate absent parents. The Comanche Nation Child Support Program works diligently to locate and recommend additional services to Non-Custodial Parents, Obligors, who continue to be in Noncompliance with a court and/or administrative child support order before initiating any and all enforcement proceedings against the Non-Custodial Parent, Obligor. The Non-Custodial Parent, Obligor, is responsible for providing the department with documentation such as child support payments; updated income statements; updated home addresses; updated contact numbers; and is to remain in compliance with a court ordered or administrative child support order. Once the Comanche

Nation Child Support Program has exhausted all avenues in locating Non-Custodial Parent, Obligor, the alternative is Section 15-421 (a.) Under the Comanche Children and Family Relations Code of 2008: Section 15-421 (a.): Publication of Delinquent Obligors; The Comanche Nation Child Support Program may publish a list of names and other information of obligors who cannot be located by the CNCSP to enforce and child support order and who have not made a voluntary child support payment in the last twelve (12) months and have a bench warrant issued for his or her arrest. For this section to apply, the amount of the delinquent child support must be in excess of five thousand ($5,000) dollars. (b.) Release of Information. Information that may be released include the obligorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s name, last known address, amount owed, date of birth, photograph, and the number of children for whom support is owed. The CNCSP may not disclose information that is by law required to remain confidential. Information may be disseminated on posters, the Internet, the Comanche tribal newspaper, or other cost effective media.

No Picture Available Sheldon Wayne Tawkoyty Date of Birth: March 20, 1981 Amount Owed: $23,614.40 Joshua Imotichey Date of Birth: October 4, 1982 Amount Owed: $18,992.75

James Kenric Parker Date of Birth: January 1, 1978 Amount Owed: $14,556.04

Delvin Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Neil Polite Date of Birth: July 5, 1978 Amount Owed: $10,609.50 Carlos Rios Date of Birth: December 29, 1968 Amount Owed: $50,036.16

Kerwin Pohawapatchoko Date of Birth: March 1, 1970 Amount Owed: $25,236.33

Samuel Roy CozadWilliams Date of Birth: March 5, 1985 Amount Owed: $16,110.12

Sterling Paul Stonecalf Date of Birth: February 28, 1982 Amount Owed: $24,737.30

August 2012

The Comanche Nation News

Dear TCNN Letters to the Editor

Dear TCNN, On Friday, July 6, 2012, we, the elders of the Comanche Tribe, were invited by the Comanche Housing Authority to attend a Comanche Elders Open House. The meeting was very informative as the staff members and Mr. Matt Komalty, Executive Director of the Comanche Housing Authority, presented and explained the different programs and assistance that are available. The staff also took us on a tour of the housing; afterwards we were all served a delicious meal. As one of the Elders, I would like to express my thanks and gratitude to Matt Komalty and the staff for their hospitality. Barbara Sapcut Asepermy

Dear TCNN, My hope is that I can start a dialogue or at least a thought process on our voting system. I know many will say, “But this is the way we have always done things.” In response, I would have to say in my opinion, it is better to attempt to fix something that appears to be broken (or at the very least inadequate). As a non-local tribal member, it often feels we are not considered as vital to the election process and remaining in the loop of what goes on at the tribal nation headquarters. Due to the fact there are 8,000+ non-local tribal members it seems that we would be considered strongly in both of these areas. I have struggled for years with the fact there is little or no information on the people that are running for office and about the only way for us non-locals to get critical information on the candidates is from a family member if possible or vote based on a name only. I continue to think this is a ludicrous process and the most serious question that came to my mind this voting cycle was, “Do ‘they’ really care whether we know who these people are or not?” Another serious concern that arose for me was when it was determined the entire election would be by absentee ballot and the local members were upset because their votes would not count, which brought the question to my mind if the votes of nonlocals ever counts. Another major concern of mine about our election process was being at the General Council and the manner in which the Tribal Administrator is hired/elected or whatever term is used. I was astounded at the manner in which that was handled. Various people went to the front and nominated someone (there are those names tossed out again). Nominations are over and im-

mediately they announce we will now vote on the person. How can I make an educated and informed decision when I do not know who those names go to, what they stand for and/or what they represent? If this in fact an election, that concerns me. If in fact this is a hiring, I can only imagine what big organizations would be like if they hired people in that manner. Hiring procedures usually are processed with posting an announcement for the job, getting resumes/cover letters/references to be checked on the individuals, an interview, and then possibly a committee to discuss the candidate(s). This is nothing like any hiring or election process I have ever seen and such a critical role to our Nation. I know there are people that have tried to make this Comanche Nation better and dedicate their lives to serving the people, so I have no intention of blaming anyone or criticizing people. I desire only to express my concern and perhaps help others understand that we have a broken system, in desperate need of repair. I do not know about the possibility of an on-line voting system, but I believe that with our good Information Technology (IT) Department we could explore this possibility. I know there are people that possibly do not have internet accessibility but we could have a computer lab with the access available (maybe at our college). Also, the time line between nominations and candidates getting out critical information to tribal members needs to be lengthened to provide adequate preparation time for voting decisions. Again, I just want to start the dialogue, see what sort of ideas we can come up with but get this broken system fixed so we can be legitimate and encourage inclusiveness with non-local members of this great nation. Thank you for taking the time to read this. If you would like to e-mail me in response to this, you can do so at marjeanna@gmail.com. Sincerely, Marjeanna Burge Fort Worth, Texas Dear TCNN, Our families would like to thank Butch and Linda Tahsequah, of the Oklahoma Gourd Dance Club, along with the Oklahoma Dance Club members. Thank you for the Benefit Dance for our family. We appreciate all the prayers and kind words of encouragement for Ben, as he’s going through surgery and recovery. Also a Special thanks to Marie Chebahatah for her raffle donation and everyone that came out to the dance.

Lots of love from the Norberto and Wahnee families

Kerchee home destroyed by fire

Dear TCNN, One tiny amber from a passing train as it headed down the railroad tracks July 25th set the world west of 267th road on fire. The fire began just north of Indiahoma, Okla. and very quickly picked up momentum from 10 to 25 mph winds blowing north. Fire fighters from the area were called in to help extinguish, what turned out to be, a massive prairie fire. One of the first teams on the scene was the Comanche Nation Fire Fighters, who are well trained for this type of fire as well as timber fires. The Comanche Nation Law Enforcement also assisted in directing traffic and evacuating families from the area. As the fires progressed north, many homes in the area were threatened. One Mobile Home belonging to Melvin Kerchee Jr. was completely destroyed by the fire. No one occupies the residence, and all their belongings were recently moved to another location. Nothing was lost but the home. Fire barricades were built for most of the homes. This writer’s home was well protected by the graded areas provided by the Comanche County Workers operating the Road Graders. Thanks a million guys you saved my home. The fires blazed well into the night. At 12:30 a.m. my wife and I returned to our home, slept and went to work the next day. After I came home the evening of the 26th I drove down toward the creek west of our house where the fire had consumed everything in its path and stood looking out across the fire path and began to think of how fortunate we are that God decided to spare my wife and I. Thank you to all the firefighters and Law Enforcement involved in fighting this fire. Udah. Jarvis Poahway

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August 2012

The Comanche Nation News

URA...THANK YOU

He and I Construction and Comanche Nation Waterpark Makes Donations to Help Keep Elders and Infants Cool During 1000 Plus Temperatures Through Fan Drive

For more information on the Fan Drive, Contact Bonita Paddyaker, (580) 492-3342

August 2012

The Comanche Nation News

60th Annual Walters Comanche Homecoming Powwow Sultan Park, Walters, Okla.

Tribal members Stephanie Akoneto and Crystal Nauni dance the final gourd dance songs of the 60th Annual Comanche Homecoming Powwow.

Comanche Nation Princess, Krista Hubbard, participates in the final gourd dance songs of the 60th Annual Comanche Homecoming.

Photos by Paula Karty/News Staff

New Comanche Homecoming Committee: Chairman- Jackie Codynah; Vice-Chairman- Rebecca Howlingwater; Secretary- Suki Monoessy and Treasurer - Lynnette Ototivo. This new committee will serve as the Walters Homecoming for the next two years and will be responsible for putting on the next two homecoming powwows.

Tribal member, Neal Monoessy, is honored at the drum by the lady singers at the 60th Annual Comanche Homecoming.

Walters Service Club dance in Saturday night’s grand entry of the 60th Annual Comanche Homecoming Powwow held at Sultan Park in Walters, Okla.

The Comanche Indian Veteran’s Association’s (CIVA) Princess Chelsea Sapcut being honored during the gourd dance portion of the Homecoming Powwow.

Gourd dancers participate in the special for head singers, Timothy and Berkey Monoessy during the final day of the Walters Homecoming Powwow. The Monoessy family have been at part of the Walters Homecoming Powwow since it’s existence. Tribal member Chelsey Fodder is crowned the new Walters Service Club princess. Bernard Kahrahrah places an eagle feather in the crown of the new princess.

Courtesy Photo

Timmy Lance Ototivo and his sons along with the Ototivo family pay they’re way back into the arena after sitting out for a year due to a death within the family.

A PLACE TO PRAY. The Lawton Indian Hospital's new chapel held a dedication June 14, with Rev. Videll Yackeschi, Hunting Horse Methodist Church members Eddie Onco, and Marilyn Daukei Hendrix. The Comanche Nation purchased the tables and the cross for the chapel. Apache Indian Methodist Church donated a Bible stand. Any more furnishings will be appreciated by all who use the chapel. The planning and coordination of the chapel was a family project of the Daukei Family. All area churches and pastors are asked to donate literature for the chapel. Hendrix can be contacted at 580-699-5461.