VOLUME 13 EDITION 9
Fort Sill Destroys Temporary Wooden Grave Markers at Indian Agency Cemetery
Lawton, OK
August 2013
Fun In The Sun
NARF Will Continue to Pursue Legal Actions for “Baby Veronica” Native American Rights Fund Media Release
Photo by Jolene Schonchin/News Staff
Wooden markers was placed on the graves on Memorial Day. Memorial Day, May 27, about 100 persons visited the Indian Agency Cemetery on Henry Post Army Airfield, Fort Sill. Next-of-kin, tribal members, friends of the cemetery and members of the general public visited the cemetery to show their respect. Miniature American flags and temporary wooden markers were placed on each of the 109 graves. The markers provided those visiting an opportunity to view the actual grave sites of known individuals buried there. Subsequently, the American flags were removed as extremely high winds were causing too much damage to the flags. The temporary wooden markers were left in place at each grave site. Sometime between June 12 and July 1, Fort Sill mowed the grass across the graves and, in the process, allowed the mowing machines to destroy all but 34 of the 109 grave markers. Of the 34 markers remaining, virtually all were scattered from place to place and most were damaged beyond usefulness by the mower blades. Fort Sill officials who allowed this wanton destruction to take place did not have the courtesy to call and let us remove the markers before the mowing took place. The Memorandum of Agreement between Fort Sill, the Oklahoman State Historic Preservation Office, and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (Washington, DC) contains specific provisions for mowing around visible markers so as not to damage them. Fort Sill ignored its own provisions for caring for these markers and violated rules of common decency by their unforgivable and disrespectful actions. Communications with Fort Sill officials about the destruction of these markers have gone unanswered which is further indication of a calloused attitude toward the Comanche people and the graves of our loved ones buried in this hapless graveyard. Our requests to have Fort Sill place permanent markers, which they took down years ago to allow military aircraft to land on these graves, have fallen on deaf ears. When will the outrage against an uncaring attitude toward this cemetery be vocal enough to end MARKERS, See Page 4
Photos by Stacey Heminokeky/New Staff
CHILLIN’ ON COMANCHE CHIEF’S DAY.The Comanche Nation’s Chief Day was celebrated July 19 with a Free Day at the Comanche Nation Water Park. All Comanche Tribal members were given free admission with a CDIB, and they also had the concession open to everyone, where they served hotdogs, hamburgers, chicken tenders, nachos, snow cones, water, and various cool drinks. Bill Shoemate, Comanche Nation Water Park Manager, said it was one of the biggest days the park has seen this season. The Kiddie Pool was very popular with the children, who enjoyed running through the sprinkling water, above, and making big splashes in the pool, left. A new slide is currently being constructed, which is sure to add to the fun to those who visit the Comanche Nation Water Park, which will remain open until the end of summer.
Laken Tosee Crowned 2013 Walters Rodeo Queen
Laken Tosee the 2013 Walter’s Rodeo Queen poses with her parents Morgan Tosee, and Illa Smith along with her new trailer she had received for her winnings. Story and Photos by Stacey Heminokeky/New Staff
Laken Tosee was crowned the 2013 Walters Rodeo Queen on July 19 at the Walters Rodeo. Laken is the 16 year old daughter of Illa Smith and Morgan Tosee. She was one of 4 contestants. Tosee attends Elgin Public Schools where she is a Sophomore. She is also active in softball, basketball, and track. She currently is employed with JcPenny’s at the Central Mall. Tosee held various fund rais-
ers throughout her campaign. One of those fund raisers was a benefit powwow held on July 13 at Watchetaker Hall which had a great turn out. The total amount of donations raised not including ticket sales was $3,000 dollars, which captured the title. When asked how she felt when she won? Laken replied “I was excited!” Her and her family would like to thank all who supported her,
Photo by Paula Karty/News Staff
Tosee visits the Comanche Homecoming Powwow to watch the contests.
by purchasing tickets, buying chances on raffles, and more importantly offering words of encouragement. The family would especially like to thank George Mopope, who helped funds for Tosee.
The Native American Rights Fund and two other leading tribal organizations announced July 22 they are planning to pursue legal actions to protect the rights of Veronica Brown as a child, as an American, and as an American Indian. The other organizations are the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) and the National Indian Child Welfare Association (NICWA). NARF Executive Director John Echohawk confirmed, “As Executive Director of NARF, I have instructed my legal staff to work with local counsel in South Carolina and Oklahoma to determine our best legal recourse through the federal courts to protect the rights of Baby Veronica. In this case, we strongly believe that federal civil rights laws are being violated….” Veronica, who is now almost four years old, is a citizen of the Cherokee Nation, and more importantly she is afforded the rights of every child involved in a custody transfer within the courts of the United States. This means she should also be afforded a hearing on what is in the best interest of the child in any pending transfer of custody proceedings. Veronica's rights, like any other child's rights in this situation, are the same rights that every child has access to and should not be superseded for any reason. Two years ago, the South Carolina Courts held best interest hearings and determined that it was in Veronica's best interest to be with her father and that he was a fit and loving parent. As a result, the South Carolina Supreme Court transferred custody to Mr. Brown. The legal system worked then, but it is being ignored now. Last month, the United States Supreme Court issued its decision in the case, Adoptive Couple v. Baby Girl. In the 5-4 decision, the Court upheld the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) but reversed and remanded the case back to the South Carolina courts. The narrow decision interpreted ICWA so as not to apply to this case. On July 17, the South Carolina Supreme Court issued a controversial order to the state's family court calling for an expedited transfer of custody to the South Carolina-based adoptive couple without a hearing of best interest for Veronica. See NARF, Page 4
August 2013
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The Comanche Nation News
Government
Sonya Nevaquaya Sworn in for Second Term During July Monthly Meeting
Chairman Wallace Coffey Swearing in Sonya Nevaquaya for her second term as a member of the Comanche Business Committee. Story and Photos by Stacey Heminokeky/New Staff
Prior to calling the July meeting to order, Comanche Chairman Wallace Coffey requested the CBC to determine the process to conduct the meeting. He informed the CBC, and those in attendance, of the funeral services of CBC ViceChairman, Mack Mahsetky’s family member, the Swearing In Ceremony of CBC No. 2, Sonya Nevaquaya, Resolutions, and other tribal business that needed to be considered in making the determination. The CBC had determined they would hold the meeting, recess for the funeral services, and return for the conclusion of the meeting. The July 6 monthly Comanche Business Committee Meeting was called to order at 10:22 a.m. by Comanche Nation Chairman, Wallace Coffey, and the Invocation was given by Secretary-Treasurer, Gary Tahmahkera.
Tahmahkera conducted roll call of the CBC and announced all were present except Vice-Chairman, Mack Mahsetky, and a quorum was established. CBC No. 2, Sonya Nevaquaya, made a motion to accept the June 1, meeting minutes. SecretaryTreasurer, Tahmahkera, seconded the motion. The motion carries 5/0/1. Resolutions 73-13 Enrollment List No.937. Motion made by CBC No.4, Jack Codopony, to accept the resolution. CBC No. 3, Harry Mithlo, seconds the motion. The motion carries 5/0/1. 74-13 Minor Trust Fund. Motion to accept the resolution made by Nevaquaya. Motion was seconded by Codopony. The motion carries 5/0/1. 75-13 Minor Trust Fund. Motion made by Codopony to accept the resolution. Mithlo seconds the motion. The motion carries 5/0/1.
76-13 Appointing Liaison to the CONEI Board. Following brief discussion, motion was made by Codopony to rescind the resolution. Motion was seconded by Nevaquaya for further discussion. Motion carries 5/0/1. Further discussion will carry into Executive Session. 77-13 P.L. 93-638 Construction Contract with the BIA for the Meers/Porter Hill Road. Motion made by Codopony to accept the resolution. Mithlo seconds the motion. Motion carries 5/0/1. 78-13 Approve the FY 2013/2014 Transportation Program Government to Government Agreement between the Comanche Tribe. Motion made by Nevaquaya to approve the resolution. Codopony seconds the motion. The motion carries 5/0/1. Chairman Coffey informed those in attendance of the exemplary accomplishments of Nevaquaya, CBC No. 2. Coffey mentioned Nevaquaya’s involvement with the Higher Ed Students to obtain their finances to further their education, and her involvement with the Comanche Nation Casinos to adhere to Comanche preference in hiring management personnel. Nevaquaya retained her CBC No. 2 position on the Comanche Business Committee and was sworn in by Coffey. The Swearing In Ceremony was followed by tribal members congratulating Nevaquaya. The Comanche Business Committee recessed to attend the funeral services of the Mahsetky family.
Attention Members of the Comanche Nation
City National Band & Trust is preparing for the 2013 Per Capita distribution. Packets containing the necessary forms were mailed to tribal members in July. If you do not receive your packet by August 15, please contact the Comanche Nation Enrollment Department to make sure your address is correct. For questions, call the Enrollment Office (580)492-3371 or toll free (877) 492-4988.
August 2013
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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 Stacey Heminokeky, Reporter/Photographer- email: heminokekynews@yahoo. com Candace Todd, Administrative AssistantTelephone 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 selfaddressed 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 Gary Tahmahkera Committeeman No. 1 Charles Wells Committeeman No. 2 Sonya Nevaquaya Committeeman No. 3 Harry Mithlo Committeeman No. 4 Jack Codopony Sr.
The Comanche Nation News
Numu Pahmu Gives Tribe $200,000 and Plans to Build Family Area at Tribal Headquarters CBC Sign a Joint-Business Venture of Rodeo Stock
Submitted by Raymond Nauni Jr./CN Tax Commission Executive Director
Chairman Wallace Coffey and Jarrett Mullins signs a joint business venture of rodeo bulls with the CBC behind the men. Jarrett Jackson, CEO of Numu Pahmu, presents the CBC with a check of $200,000 July 11 at the Comanche Nation Business Center in Lawton, Okla. Story and Photos by Jolene Schonchin/News Staff
Jarrett Jackson, CEO of Numu Pahmu, presented Comanche Nation Chairman, Wallace Coffey, along with the CBC, a check in the amount of $200,000 on July 11 at the Comanche Nation Business Center in Lawton, Okla. that was derived from profits made at the four tribal casino smoke shops. “We are the only business entity that has given funds back to the Comanche Nation,” said Jackson. “We are proud of that and will continue to expand and give back to the tribe.” One of the ways Numu Pahmu is giving back to the tribal community is by building a Family Area at the Comanche Nation Complex. “We wanted to show more than just a picture of us giving a check in the paper. With us expanding to the Travel Plaza and other entities, we want to show our success through things the tribal people can see and utilize,” said Jackson. The idea behind the Family Play area is to give tribal youth a safe and fun place to play at the tribal headquarters during events such as the General Council Meet-
ings and powwows. They want to build a commercial level playground so children will stay away from the warrior monuments, which can be dangerous to youngsters. The area will include swing sets, slides, a toddler area, tables and benches. “The Numunu people can take their kids out there and have a picnic, a cookout, and have their children around an area that is safe and fun and ours,” he added. Jackson added after the Family Area is completed at the tribal complex, the tribal community centers will be looked upon to have a similar one assembled at those facilities. The playground is scheduled to take around six weeks to build, and a tentative completion is around the end of August, weather permitting. Following the presentation from Jackson, Jarred Mullins and Chairman Coffey signed a joint business agreement for the purchase of rodeo bulls for $50,000. David Orme, of CONEI, said the business venture is debt free, and there are many avenues the tribe can take to make the live
stock herd a successful investment to increase its value. “The Mullins Family will have a chance to grow their business and be successful. They have been providing bucking stock for rodeos in Oklahoma, Kansas and Texas for many years. It is a WinWin for the tribe and for Mullins,” said Orme. “Because there was hard feelings and bitterness with the Comanche Businesses that took place, we had to take a different approach,” said Coffey. “ A total of 25 percent of our money goes to Economic Development. That is something we cannot change because that is how the Revenue Allocation Plan was structured.” He said him and the CBC looked at diversifying ways to look for economic income. They have invested in Intertribal Visions owned by Travis Komahcheet, and have invested in the Tribal Art Center owned by Eleanor McDaniel. He added they are also looking at expanding in Cyril, Okla. “I appreciate the opportunity to work with the tribe,” said Mullins. “And I appreciate all the hard work that went into this by Mr. Orme and the lawyers. It will be a benefit to both of us.”
Tribal Administrator Will 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
MARKERS Continued from Page 1
the 97 years of disrespect Fort Sill to finally give our deceased relatives the honor, respect, and dignity they so rightly deserve? If you are growing tired of this cemetery being treated with disrespect and the graves defiled, let your voice be known. Letters of protest to the Garrison Commander at Fort Sill would be helpful. The address is: COL Glenn Waters, U.S. Army Garrison Commander, 909 NW Hamilton Road, Suite 120, Fort Sill, OK 73503-9004 Go to our web site for more information about the cemetery. See: ftsillindianagencycemetery.com
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Courtesy Photo
TCNN Winner of Seven 2012 NAJA Media Awards
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 Expenditures for October 1, 2012-May 31, 2013 for (FY 13) were $259,697 for tribe; 4437,362 administrative; and $623,250 tax supplemental. The monthly average administrative expenditures are $54,670. Taxes and revenue collected from Oct. 1, 2012-May 31, 2013 for (FY 13) were approximately $1,531,589. The monthly average collections are $191,449. Collections are down (-2%) compared to last year in the same time frame. The Tobacco Tax collections are $752,662 down [-6%] compared to last year. Tobacco Warehouse in Cyril closed down and now we have 11 Smoke Shops with four tribally owned. The Oil and Gas collections are $111,114 down (-5%) compared to last year. $831,000 has been allocated for the four quarters for the Tax Supplement monies. The third quarter allocation has been paid in the amount $623,250. The monthly City National Bank Statement for May 2013 has been reconciled by the Hatch, Croke, and Associates, Jim Patterson, the Tax Commission Executive Chairman and CNTC staff without any discrepancies. Hatch, Croke, and Associates, P.C., are giving us our monthly financial reports and have reconciled the FY 2013 financials up to date with no major discrepancies. The Tax Commission was audited for FY 2012 by another independent C.P.A firm on Dec. 7-8, 2012.
NARF
Member of the Native American Journalist Association since 2001
Member of the Society of Professional Journalists since 2010
Comanche Nation Tax Commission Summation Report for May 2013
MEMORIAL BRIDGE DEDICATED TO RAY NIEDO AND SISTER ROSE. A once small and frequently flooded bridge, shown on the lower left, between Cache, Okla. and Indiahoma, Okla. was upgraded to a sturdy and paved bridge, thanks to the Comanche Nation Transportation Program and Comanche County. The bridge, which was named the Ray Niedo Memorial Bridge, in honor of a very prominent man who helped with the creation of the Comanche Nation Language Dictionary and volunteered his land to help youth programs learn about the Comanche culture. Tribal Administrator, Will Owens, said he named the bridge after Ray Niedo because he was a fluent speaker of the Comanche language and was an advocate for preserving the language. He added he and his sister, Rose, are very influential elders to the Comanche Nation, and well respected among the tribal people. The bridge was raised six feet to aid during a flood, , shown on the below right photo, and given sturdy beams for support. The bridge was completed by 120 days, according to Adrian Tehauno, Comanche Nation Transportation Director, and was dedicated July 2, with a gathering of family and friends of the late Niedo elder. Theodore Ray Niedo, who oversaw the project from beginning to end, said he felt proud to be a part of the construction of the new bridge because it was being named after his late grandfather, who was an important part of his life, and whom he was named after. The bridge will be re-named the Ray-Rose Niedo Bridge by mid-August, tentatively.
It is standard procedure that adoption proceedings require a hearing to determine the best interest of the child in advance of any transfer proceedings, an essential step the South Carolina Supreme Court failed to take, thus denying Veronica the right to have her best interests considered. In all previous proceedings in South Carolina Veronica's best interest was accounted for as evidenced in two previous hearings going back as far as two years ago. In those hearings, it was determined that the child's father in fact was the best person for Veronica to reside with. And those findings were appropriate; he has raised her for the past 19 months providing a loving home while also connecting her with her Native heritage. She is also a citizen of the Cherokee Nation. Mr. Echohawk summarized by declaring, “This injustice cannot stand! As it has since it was established in 1970, NARF will stand firm for justice.” Although we are deeply disappointed that this case is not over, NARF will continue to fight for Dusten Brown and his daughter Veronica. We ask you to continue supporting NARF in this fight and in all our work for tribes and Indian Country.
August 2013
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The Comanche Nation News
Programs
Work Out Warrior Two Has Highest Number of Participants Group Loses 106 Lbs. Total and Reduces Risk of Diabetes
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25.
2013 Workout Warriors Two
Abbot, Debbie Carroll, Debra Codopony, Carolyn Coffey, Karel Devine, Misti Emerson, Janice Eskew, Jame Farris, Lena German, Rebecca Gibson, Georgia Molina, Julierose Monoessy, Bonnie Nahwooksy, Susan Pueblo, Sherry Saupitty, Tamera Schonchin, Jolene Sovo, Gene Spradlin, Anita Tahdooahnippah, George Tahdooahnippah, Trenell Tahhahwah, Edward Thode, Jonathan Toles, Shannin Torralba, Tavia Wahnee, Jackie
2013 Workout Warriors Three Results
Most Weight Loss Most BMI Loss Most A1c Loss Tosee, Jame - 18.5lbs - Winner Tosee, Jame - 3.1 - Winner Gibson, Georgia - 0.7 - Winner Pueblo, Sherry - 13.5lbs Runner Up Carroll, Debra - 2.5 Runner Up Carroll, Debra 13lbs Pueblo, Sherry - 2.2 Rankin, Rachelle - 9.5lbs Rankin, Rachelle - 1.8 Molina, JulieRose - 8.5lbs Molina, JulieRose - 1.4 Sovo, Gene - 8 Wahnee, Jackie - 6.5lbs Monoessy, Bonnie - 6.5lbs Tahdooahnippah, George - 6lbs Nahwoosky, Susan - 6lbs Coffey, Karol Ann - 5lbs Gibson, Georgia - 5lbs YOUTH CAMP PROVIDES PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES.The Comanche Nation Diabetes program presented the 2nd Annual Diabetes summer camp. The camp was held July 23-26. at the Comanche Nation complex.“Fighting Diabetes with Physical Activity” was this year’s theme. The Comanche Nation Diabetes program promotes the awareness and prevention of diabetes through exercise and nutrition. The summer camp brings the importance of knowledge and information about diabetes to the younger generation.The camp schedule began with breakfast,the most important meal of the day was followed by various games such as soccer, above, and kickball. The kids were transported to Elgin schools for lunch, followed by field trips all week to the Comanche Nation Waterpark, and Laugh Out Loud Pizza Palace.
Indians for Indians Radio Program is now Nationwide! Go to www.superstarcountry985.com every Saturday 9:30 a.m.-noon Central Time Zone or tune in on 98.5 on your radio
Elderly Safety Fair And Senior Olympics Hosted by Injury Prevention Program Story and Photos by Stacey Heminokeky/New Staff
Oldest Male Tribal member to attend Carl Sands 84 years old. Comanche Nation Injury Prevention and Adult Protective Services sponsored the Elderly Safety Fair and Senior Olympics. The fair and Olympics were held on June 28 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Comanche Nation Complex. The event provided information and activities that
Mrs. Chibitty showing off to everyone her Basketball skills. She made two in a row and was really proud of herself. focused on our elderly. the Lawton Service Unit from the The day’s activities provid- IHS, Angels Health, and even AVON ed health screenings, informational vendors were available. booths, competitive games, and door Competitive games seemed prizes. Upon registration, all were to have been the highlight of the day. provided with canvas bags to use The games included the chicken to collect information from various toss, beanbag toss, and even basketbooths and vendors. Some included ball shoot out. Many seemed to have
Oldest Female Tribal member to attend Beth Glazebrook 92 years old. enjoyed themselves. It not only provided activity but a fun time for everyone. The event provided many in attendance including two oldest Comanche Tribal Members, Carl Sands 84 year old, and Beth Glazebrook 92 years old. All were given a healthy
Leonard Chibitty takes a step back and throws the Chicken as far as he could. meal for lunch. The meal consisted of Brisket, Vegetables, and Oranges, Strawberries, Bananas, for dessert, and for the drinks you had a choice of Tea, Water, or Juice. All together the day was very successful and provided a great time for all who attended.
August 2013
Comanche Nation Elders Council Travel To Texas
Courtesy Photo
Comanche Nation Elders Examining Comanche “Marker Tree” at the Brazos River in Texas in June. Submitted by Comanche Nation Elders Council
On June 2-8, the Comanche Nation Elders Council (CNEC) made a trip to Dallas, Waco, Corpus Christi, and San Antonio for the purpose of visiting historical areas traveled by our Comanche ancestors. This trip the CNEC visited the Brazos River and the Circle Point Cliffs, saw “marker trees” in Dallas and Waco, said to be used to direct our people to campsites, water, food, traveling trails, and just to say “The Comanche Go Here.” To meet the criteria of a “marker tree” the tree must be at least 150 years old and shown to be in areas frequented by the Comanche people. Our guide was Linda Pelon, a McLendon Community College History instructor, who greeted us enthusiastically along with her allvolunteer group who travel all over to identify and verify the “marker trees.” While in Waco, the Community Race Relations Coalition invited us for an excellent dinner where we were presented with a proclamation establishing June 4th as Comanche Day in Waco, Texas. The proclamation was read and presented by Waco City Councilwoman Alice Rodriguez. In addition, the CNEC made the front page of the Waco Tribune Herald, Saturday, June 8, with a large picture and interesting and informative article quoting several of our elders. From Waco, the Elders traveled to Corpus Christi, where every room had an ocean view. We found that half of the Elders on the trip had never seen the ocean. In Corpus Christi, we were able to visit the USS Lexington, explore the beach,
take a swim, and do some shopping. Fun fact- Vivian Holder, Vice-Chairperson, CNEC, noted her husband served on the USS Lexington. We visited Linville, Texas that was wiped out by Comanche warriors riding with Buffalo Hump in retaliation for the massacre in San Antonio of many of our Leaders who were invited there for a captive exchange and peace talks. From Corpus Christi we headed to San Antonio to overnight before heading home to Oklahoma. It was a wonderful and informative trip. On July 1, the CNEC held its regularly scheduled meeting where a new Secretary for the CNEC Executive Committee, Adele Mihesuah, was elected. The guest speaker for the July meeting was Towana Spivey, member of the Chickasaw Nation and retired director of the Ft.Sill Museum. Spivey told of his early years growing up in the Chickasaw Nation and his role in the saving of Medicine Bluffs from the U.S. Army plans to bulldoze and build on the site. We were treated to a delicious lunch from Billy Sims BBQ and a birthday cake for Elders born in July. The CNEC meets the first Monday of each month, any exceptions due to previous obligations or venue unavailability is published in the local newspaper. All Elders 62 years of age or older and are enrolled members of the Comanche Nation are automatically CNEC members. Our next meeting is scheduled for August 12, due to many of our members traveling to the Shoshone Reunion. Everyone is welcome, please join us.
Wild Growth of Marijuana Goes “Up In Smoke”
Courtesy Photo
Submitted by Comanche Nation Police Department
It’s 5 a.m. on July 10, and unknown to the rest of the world officers of the Comanche Nation Police are busy in action to implement it’s operational plan “Up in Smoke”. After months in preparation it is time to commence the activity in Grady County located a tribal allotment where wild growth of marijuana has been located, observed and now scheduled for destruction. It is not a new location on several other occasions the Nation has eradicated thousands of wild growth plants at this location. This location is also known in the drug community with “OKC Head Shops” selling maps to the allotment. Observation visits made in May and June has estimated-2,000 mature plants ranging in size. From May until July, the department has made visits and kept the location under observation to determine if the marijuana find was cultivated or wild growth. After determining the latter it was determined an eradication operation was in order. At first light, the team arrives and sweeps the fields to identify if any cultivation of the wild growth is being conducted. Finding no contacts the operation begins with teams
of two dispersing to specific areas of the section. Painstakingly the teams pull or chop the plants and transports the plants to a central location. With the heat index at 105 degrees, the team breaks mid morning and arranges for the afternoon destruction. Once the teams verify the eradication phase efforts are complete the task changes, teams break to eat lunch, build the bonfire structure, and purchase diesel fuel to soak the plants. The BIA Drug task force estimates the value of mature plants at $1,500 per plant and on this day, the Comanche Nation police find and eradicate 3,500 plants over the 160 acres. After rehydration and lunch the teams count, document, and soak the marijuana on the bonfire structure and upon arrival of the Fire Department start the second phase of the operation and destroy $5.25 million dollars of Controlled Dangerous Substances (CDS). The Comanche Nation tribal community can take assurance in regardless of tasking the Comanche Nation Police will continue to operate professionally in all endeavors from Special Operations to day-to-day activities.
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The Comanche Nation News
August 2013
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The Comanche Nation News
Military Submitted by Lanny Asepermy
150 FUNERALS FOR CIVA
Scott Parton Funeral Detail consisted of the CIVA, CN Police Department, active member of the US Marine Corps and the Marine Corps League from Fort Sill
On July 2, 2013 the Comanche Indian Veterans Association presented military funeral honors for World War II wounded Comanche veteran, Gilbert Alvin Monatoboy, at the Sunset Memorial Gardens in west Lawton. This was the 150th military funeral honors the CIVA has completed. Seven services have been provided in 2013 and 22 services were provided in both 2008 and 2010. Services include a wreath, display of the US, Comanche Nation, Oklahoma, CIVA and service flag of branch the veteran served, a 4-12 page booklet is provided for the family of the deceased military service, photo in uniform, their discharge, obituary, images of their awards or any other significant military awards, reading of his military service, a roll call and final salute. The CIVA also provides the display of flags at the gravesite and will provide pallbearers, bugler and the casket flag presentation when requested by the family. The Comanche Nation Police Department provides a firing squad for the funeral services. In addition, the CIVA will install the veteran’s military grave marker. One hundred and seventy markers have been installed to date including 4 the week of July 8-12.
although her life is torn apart, he will always be alive – in her heart forever. Her love has no bounds. Joshua Jerald Ware was born May 25, 1985. He joined the Marine Corps immediately after graduating from high school on May 28, 2001. Josh was on his second tour of duty in Iraq when he was killed. He was awarded the Navy/ Marine Corps Achievement medal with Distinguishing Device for Valor and the Purple Heart for his actions that fateful in 2005.
wounded in action while Tahquechi served aboard the USS Michigan.
Former CIVA Princess, Chelsea Sapcut, presenting a Grateful Nation Pendleton to CW2 Karli J. Wahkahquah at the Veterans Day Celebration, 2012 Frank LeBarre 1st Comanche Soldier
Edgar Monetathchi 1st CIVA Commander
Norton Tahquechi 1st Comanche Sailor
After World War I no Comanches served in the military until Edward Louis Clark enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1933 – he fought in both World War II and the Korean War and was awarded the Silver Star, Marine Medal and Navy/Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Valor Device. Clark was also the first Comanche to serve in the Marines.
A MOTHER’S LOVE
Mammedaty
I cannot imagine the feeling it is to lose a son or daughter. You know our children are suppose to live longer than their parents. On November 16, 2005 Alicia Ware Mammedaty’s then 20 year old son, Joshua Jerald Ware, a Corporal in the US Marine Corps, was killed in action, along with four other Marines, while clearing a farmhouse, during Operation Steel Curtain, near the Syrian border in the town of Ubaybi, Iraq. I knew Josh, as he was called, because he visited in my home on a couple of occasions while he was on leave. He was a most respectful man toward me and my wife, Shelley. I was on my way to Lawton when I received a call saying that two Marines were at Mammedaty’s home – there visit could mean only one thing. I immediately turned around and by the time I arrived at Mammedaty’s home the Marines were gone. It was chaos in her home as she had been told her son had been killed in Iraq. Mammedaty and her husband, Randy Mammedaty, also have four other children, three sons and a daughter. Ware was the second oldest. Randy was in the hospital at the time recovering from a heart attack. For the next 10 days Mammedaty, I and the two Marines worked hand in hand getting Ware’s body home. There was paperwork to be filled out, a daily status of where the body was, and funeral arrangements on hold until he got home. Finally on November 26, 2005 Ware was laid to rest at Rainey Mountain Cemetery. His funeral was attended by well over 400+ family and friends as well as a Marine who was with him when he died. What is known too me is on that unexpected day coming on eight years now that only God knows the pain in Mammedaty’s heart then and now. She was confused and her world was torn apart. She could not understand how this could be, how this happened to someone so sweet and strong at the same time. She now stares at his picture, a mere image of him daily, she remembers the special things he did and deep inside,
CIVA TRIVIA Recognition of Comanche Warriors began, most likely, since the beginning of our existence. Modernday military service recognition for our Comanche veterans began when our veterans returned home at the end of World War I in the summer of 1919. This tradition has continued as we recognize the military service of those Comanche veterans who have worn the uniform of the Armed Forces.
Another photo also taken in and around the Cache area of World War I veterans (Photo courtesy of Sam DeVenney)
Photo taken on Fort Sill shows World War I hero, Calvin Atchavit, 3rd from left (Photo courtesy of Sam DeVenney)
Records indicate no Comanches served in the Armed Forces from 1898 to 1917 until Frank LeBarre became the first of 60 Comanches to either enlist or get drafted into the military. Fifty-nine of those Comanches served in the Army and Norton Tahquechi became the first Comanche to serve in the Navy. LeBarre was also 1 of 8 Comanches
CIVA Veterans Christmas Dinner at the CCC-Apache, 2012
Gift bags are presented to Comanche veterans. The Gift Bag consist of a Comanche veterans hat and T-shirt, a CIVA coffee cup, two CIVA ink pens, two CIVA logo stickers and two CIVA hand fans, two Comanche Nation logo stickers, a Comanche Veterans DVD, a Challenge Coin, a Honorable Service medallion and Combat Service, Wounded Warrior and Gallantry, Heroism, Valor medallions are also presented to those who qualify. Over two dozen gift bags and medallions have been mailed to our out of state veterans in Florida, Mississippi, Louisiana, Virginia, Kansas, Missouri, New Mexico, Texas, Arizona, California, North and South Carolina, Colorado and Washington state. Three hundred and fifty-nine gift bags have been presented as of July 1, 2013.
Since 2003 the CIVA has installed 170 military markers for the families of Comanche veterans and in some cases non-Comanche veterans.
Edward Louis Clark 1st Comanche Marine James Chebahtah on left, Nandahyaka, Saupitty, and Pebo on far right in a photo taken in and around the Cache area (Photo courtesy of Sam DeVenney)
The current officers of the CIVA are Commander/Treasurer George Red Elk, Vice Commander Jack Codopony Sr, 2nd Vice Commander for Life Richard Bread, Secretary Beaver Takawana and Color Guard Coordinator Jose Gallegos. Appointees, by the Commander, are Historian Lanny Asepermy, Chaplain Jimmy Caddo, Quartermaster Flavio Noriega and Auxiliary Coordinator Yonevea Terry. The princess is Shelby Mata. Other active members include Lonnie Henderson, Baliente Herrera, Ronnie Mahsetky, Leland Parker, Stanton Pewewardy, Wilbur Sapcut, Richard Sapcutt and Kent Tomah. Talbert Gooday, Benny and Garrison Tahmahkera assist the organization when they are in Comanche Country. Current active Auxiliary members include Shelley Asepermy, Pat Bread, Beverly Caddo, Beverly Chasenah, Arvillia Craig, Rebecca Howlingwater, Phyllis Mahsetky, Jewell and Jana Tieyah, Mison Noriega, Georgia and Yonevea Sapcut, Fran Sapcutt and Cheryl Takawana.
The Comanches, Kiowas and Apaches formed an organization called the American Indian Veterans Association (AIVA) after World War II (most likely around 1946). When the Kiowas formed the Black Leggings Warrior Society and the Apaches initialed the Kiowa-Apache Blackfoot Society, both in 1957, the AIVA continued without them into the 1970’s. Although not a veteran, the first elected Chairman of the Comanche Nation, Lee Motah, provided the guidance, encouragement and leadership to our Comanche veterans to form their own veteran’s organization. Edgar Monetathchi and Code Talker Clifford Otitivo Sr were elected as the first Commander and Vice Commander of the newly formed Comanche Indian Veterans Association. Other officers were Service Officer Morris Sunrise, Treasurer James Chasenah, Chaplin Horace “Taylor” Noyobad and Color Guard Carl Tahah and Howard Whitewolf. Other members included James Barcinderbar, Franklin and Hubert Cable, Willis Nauni, Stacy Pahdopony, Roderick Red Elk, Strudwich Tahsequah, Lawrence Tomah, Algernon Tonips and Jerome Tahahwah. Of the original 17 active members only Tahahwah is alive. The first event held was a powwow in October, 1976.
US Marine Scott Parton Funeral Detail at Cache Creek Cemetery
The CIVA host four major events annually – the Armed Forces Day Banquet (attended by 144 people in 2013), the Memorial Day Ceremony (attended by 118 people in 2013), Veterans Day Celebration and Christmas dinner. Eighteen Comanche veterans or active members are honored for their military service at these events each year. Since 2005 145 veterans have received honors and 32 Auxiliary have been recognized.
On an average the CIVA fulfills about 80 commitments a year including the Color Guard for Comanche Homecoming and the Comanche Nation Fair. Other commitments beside being host, funeral detail and marker installation include co-host and/or color guard for pow-wow’s, banquets, parades, flag raising and lowering ceremonies, sporting events, dedications, soldier homecomings/deployments, prayer services, memorial and gravesite services, presentations, meetings and on one occasion a wedding and our first ever Comanche Nation Chairman inauguration.
Memorial Day Ceremony at the CIVA Court of Honor in 2012
CIVA preparing to raise the flagsof 3 Comanche Code Talkers during the Comanche Nation Fair.
August 2013
Homecoming welcome for SPC Jonathon Woods from Afghanistan at the Lawton Airport
Presentation of the Numu Pukutsi medallion and Citation To Vietnam War Hero Eddie Mahseet by Vice Commander Jack Codopony Sr and the late CN Chairman Johnny Wauqua
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veterans (currently at 1099 names) by full name, rank, branch of service and years of service, maintaining and updating the photos in the Patriot Room, adding additional granite monument stones for the CIVA Court of Honor (the last monument was installed on May 24, 2013 with 110 names of Comanche veterans).
CIVA Auxiliary at Comanche Nation Fair Parade
The CIVA does have a Constitution. Officers are elected for two year terms as is the princess. Meetings are generally held the first Thursday of each month (unless otherwise published in the Lawton Newspaper) in the Patriot Room starting at 6 p.m. with a meal, presentations and business matters. The meetings are open to the public and Comanche veterans are encouraged to attend along with the spouses/widows of Comanche veterans.
The Comanche Nation News
Shelby Elizabeth Mata Current CIVA Princess
The organization is also responsible for changing out the flags at the Comanche War Scout Circle of Honor and Nation HQ’s, maintaining and updating a master list of
CIVA Court of Honor
Patriot Room with four of 14 frames with photos of 370 Comanche veterans
If you are a Comanche veteran and have not received a Gift Bag with the items shown above plus a Veterans hat and T-shirt, pens and a hand fan they are presented at our monthly meetings. Please contact is the Commander at 512-2225 or Historian at 678-4629 and let them know you will be at the meeting. These items will also be available at Homecoming, the Comanche Nation Fair, the Armed Forces Day Banquet, Memorial Day Ceremony, Veterans Day Celebration and Christmas meal. For out of state veterans call the contact numbers above and we will mail you a Gift Bag.
Comanche Veterans Patriot Room and Gallery Dedicated at Tribal Complex
Photos by Stacey Heminokeky/New Staff
Four of the six window wraps that each shows combat photos of World War 1, and 11, the Korean, and Vietnam Wars. The other two window wraps that are not shown above are of the Persian Gulf Wars, and Global War on Terrorism. Submitted by Lanny Asepermy/CIVA Historian
The Comanche Nation has added another tribute to their veterans – the Comanche Veterans Patriot Room and Gallery to go along with their Veterans Circle and Court of Honor. Beginning in January, 2003 Comanche Indian Veterans Association (CIVA) Historian, Lanny Asepermy, a retired Army Sergeant Major and Vietnam War veteran, began collecting photos of Comanche veterans. In April, 2012 he and CIVA Commander, George Red Elk, requested some “space” to display the photos from then Chairman Johnny Wauqua and Tribal Administrator, Will Owens. With the passing of Chairman Wauqua, Owens and Chairman Wallace Coffey had what was called the “Old Conference Room” renovated and designated the room for use by the CIVA. The room is used mostly for small meetings, award ceremonies and even a baby shower. The photo display was done by T&S Printing of Lawton. On May 18, photos of 393 Comanche veterans were put on display. The photos were collected from veterans, the families of veterans, off the internet, from Sam DeVenney, programs and funeral booklets – 36% of the 1100 known Comanche veterans now have their photo on display. Six war window wraps, measuring 44” x 30”, were installed on June 7th. These wraps show combat photos of World War I and II, the Korean, Vietnam and Persian Gulf Wars and the War on Terrorism and the role the Comanches had in each war – 79% of the 1100 Comanches veterans served during those wars. Eight additional 40” x 21” window wraps were also added displaying the Great Seals of the United States, the Comanche Nation and Oklahoma and the emblems of each branch of service. On July 15th the flags of
Pictured from left: George Red Elk (Commander), Beaver Takawana (Secretary), and Lanny Asepermy (Historian). the United States, Comanche Nation, Oklahoma and CIVA were hung from the ceiling and eight enlarged photos of the CIVA activities were also put on display. The window wraps and CIVA photos were done by Dustin Miller of Comanche Visions. Once known as the greatest light cavalry in the world and often referred to as the “Lords of the Plains” the Comanches have served in the Armed Forces with honor and distinction. 7% of our 16,000 members have served in the military, including 66 women, since 1892. Nine Warriors have been killed in action, two others died of combat wounds, one died in captiv-
ity and another was declared dead while missing in action. 19 Comanches have been decorated for Gallantry, Heroism or Valor including one woman. It is documented that two of Comanches fought and killed the enemy in hand to hand combat. One Comanche earned the rank of Brigadier General, another Chief Warrant Officer 4 (which at the time was the highest Warrant Officer grade), four Comanches have earned the highest enlisted grade of E-9. Two Comanches have earned over 60 decorations, medals, badges, commendations, citations and campaign ribbons and 5 Comanches served with the Special
Forces. 18 Comanches, four from World War I and 14 from World War II, served as Code Talkers, in the European Theater. They were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in October, 2008. The Code Talkers of World War II and CIVA Commander, George Red Elk, were inducted into to the Oklahoma Military Hall of Fame in November 2011. World War II Code Talker, Charles Chibitty, was also inducted into the Hall of Fame in November, 2003. A Water Point on Fort Sill, a stretch of highway east of Roland, Okla., a Marine Corps League building, also in Roland, and a building at Riverside Indian School
have all been named in honor of Comanche veterans. All this history is part of the Patriot Room and Gallery.
August 2013
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The Comanche Nation News
People, Places and Things Happening Tribal Youth Places in APA Jr. Pool Nationals
Tissycky Tribal member Logan (LoLo) Tissycky was selected to participate in the American Pool Association (APA) Jr. National Pool Tournament in Davenport, Ia.. on July 11 - 14. Tissycky won this summer’s skill challenge to be able to qualify for the Jr. Nationals. Tissycky placed 13th in the nation out of 42 players in the advanced singles tournament. His team also placed 3rd in the nation out 46 teams in the doubles tournament. Tissycky is 13-years-old and the son of Sean and Melinda Tissycky, and the grandson of Judy Kay Bryan (Tissycky) and the great grandson of the late Elise Monroe Tissycky. Tissycky’s father said, “This was his first time playing in the Jr. Nationals. He did awesome to place this good, I am so proud of my son, Lo-Lo. I would like to thank Chairman Wallace Coffey and T.A. Will Owens for their help and believing in my son. A special thanks to Tim Miller and Dale Cable for their support in calling and texting us to see how he was doing and talking to him on the phone. Tissycky plays at Papa Louies’ Pizza on Sheridan and Smith in Lawton, Okla., every Saturday at 1 p.m. There are two sessions a year Spring and Fall. If any kids would like to play 9-ball, come to Papa Louies’ every Saturday and talk to Erza Davis.
Lindsay Early Identified among International Indigenous Cohort Lindsay Early, a citizen of the Comanche Nation, was recently selected to be a part of a cohort of 18 emerging Indigenous leaders from around the world to participate in a one of a kind leadership development initiative, the Ambassadors Program. Americans for Indian Opportunity (AIO) spearheads the program in the belief that today’s Indigenous communities and tribal governments require strong leadership to ensure their cultural, political, and economic growth and well-being. The Program is unlike any other leadership initiative in the country insofar that it draws upon traditional Indigenous values (not leadership as defined within a Western paradigm) to empower a new generation of Indigenous leaders. This year’s class of Ambassadors will include, for the first time, international participants from Peru, Bolivia, Samoa and Japan. Early is a Gates Millennium Scholar. She received her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Oklahoma in 2012. During her time at OU, she was named to the President’s Achievement Class and volunteered for Senator Barack Obama’s presidential campaign. Early has worked for Chickasaw Enterprises Division of Commerce and is currently interning for Comanche Nation Wallace Coffee.
Photos by Jolene Schonchin/ News Staff
RIVERSIDE INDIAN SCHOOL HISTORICAL MARKER RESTORED. Students attending the Riverside Indian School are making a difference in their community. Late last year they became aware of the terrible condition of the historical marker that commemorates their school. The students voted to do something about it. After gaining permission from Kathy Dickson, Director of Museum and Sites of the Oklahoma Historical Society, the sign was taken down and transported to the school. The students cleaned and sanded the marker, carefully re-painted the face and lettering. With the generosity of Regency Steel from Norman, Okla., who provided the four-and-a-quarter inch solid steel post with rebar studs welded in place, the sign was ready for the concrete post to be poured. Additional supplies were needed for the job to be complete. Concrete Enterprise from Oklahoma City loaned the supplies needed to finish the job. In May 2013 the sign was finally erected with a brand new look.
Colleges and Schools. The public is being invited to submit comments on the school until September 9, 2013. SIPI is currently in “candidacy” status and is a candidate for initial accreditation by the Commission. The Higher Learning Commission is one of six accrediting agencies in the United States that provide institutional accreditation on a regional basis. Accreditation is the primary means for assuring accountability; it certifies institutional quality and protects the institution’s academic freedom. Institutional accreditation evaluates an entire institution and accredits it as a whole. Accreditation is voluntary. The Commission is recognized by the U.S Department of Education. For the past three and half years, SIPI has been engaged in a process of self-study, addressing the Commissions requirements and criteria for accreditation. The evaluation team will review SIPI’s ability to meet the Commission’s Criteria for Accreditation. The team will make a recommendation to the Commission; following a review process, the Commission itself will take the final action. Comments should be sent to: Third Party Comment on Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute The Higher Learning Commission 230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500 Chicago, Ill. 60604-1411 The public may also submit comments on the Commission’s website at www.nachlc.org. Comments must address substantive matters related to the quality of SIPI or its academic programs. Comments must be in writing. Written, signed comments must be received by September 9.
Tribal Member Intern with the United States Senate Committee
Courtesy photo
THE COMANCHE NATION NEWS TRAVELS THE WORLD. The niece of tribal member Regina Brannock traveled to Scotland, Ireland, England and most of Great Britain with the organization People to People. She took along a small piece of the Comanche Nation with her, standing at the Bunratty Castle, she poses for the camera while holding a copy of The Comanche Nation News.
“Our applicant pool was especially competitive this year, especially with first ever cohort that includes international participants,” said Laura Harris (Comanche), Executive Director of AIO. “The 18 individuals chosen already exhibit exceptional leadership skills, so AIO’s program aims to further strengthen their talents by reaffirming their cultural values, cultivating their community organizing skills, and building a network of people and resources they can utilize throughout their careers.” During the two-year Program, Early will meet with leading Native decision-makers, national policy makers and international dignitaries. She will develop and implement a community-based initiative, explore family and tribal histories, expand her knowledge of personal “medicine” (or inner strength), and gain a more global perspective. Program participants will attend four week-long gatherings, the first of which held July 6-12, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The second gathering will be in Washington, D.C., the third an international trip to meet with other Indigenous communities and the fourth in an urban or rural setting in Indian Country. “In today’s globalized world, the challenges we face are complex and carry dangerous ramifications if we don’t develop Indigenous leaders with the skills to build politically sustainable communities,”
said LaDonna Harris, President of AIO, who helped create the Ambassadors Program in 1993 to nurture culturally grounded Indigenous leaders and strengthen their self-determination capabilities. The Program is designed around four core cultural values: Relationships, Responsibility, Reciprocity and Redistribution.
Album Release Party
On August 17, a album release party will be held for Comanche Hymns Volume No.2 by Chad Tahchawwickah. The party will be held from 10 a.m.- 1 p.m. at the Comanche Nation Tourism Center at 410 S.E. Interstate 44 unit A in Lawton. The highly anticipated release of Comanche Hymn Col No.2
and Children Songs of the Comanche and Shoshone Nation will come to light on August 17. Comanche Hymn Vol. 2 has 15 beautiful songs sung in the Comanche language with two Pawnee songs being featured. This album is used as a learning tool so that these beautiful songs continue on for many more generations. Shoshone member Dondie Howell, Ft. Hall ID, had a dream of making a Shoshone Comanche Immersion CD for children of both Nations so that the children of these nations can hear and learn the songs of their people. This recording has number of songs, old McDonald and more songs. This album is a must for tribal members and their children. These recordings can be picked up at The Album release party August 17, at the Comanche Tourism Center or by emailing ctahchawwickah@ gmail.com. There will be food, door prizes and special guest singers and speakers. Come out and support your local Native American performers.
Public Comments Invited on SIPI Accreditation Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute (SIPI) will undergo a comprehensive evaluation visit October 7-9, 2013 by a team representing The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of
"Comanche Nation member and University of Washington - Tacoma student AJ Earl will be interning with the United States Senate Committee on Indian Affairs this fall. Earl is currently a senior with an A average and is Vice President of the school's Native American Student Organization and President of the school's Politics, Philosophy and Economics Club. He is the grandson of Wanda Clark, eldest daughter of Clifford Clark and Juanita Terasez Clark."
Night of Comedy Lacking a little laugh in your life lately? Well there’s relief on the way. A Night of Comedy is scheduled to be held on August 16th. The hilarious event is going to be held at the Comanche Nation Outreach office located at 7390 S. Walker Suite G in Oklahoma City. The night of laughter features stand-up comedy by comedians JR Ross of the Quapaw Tribe and Chad Tahchawwickah of the Comanche tribe. A special appearance will also be made by Sunni Goodbear and Daisy Mae Swift. The night’s excitement continues with a very special appearance by Mike Bone, as seen on America’s Got Talent. There are two performances scheduled. The first show will begin at 7 p.m. with the doors opening at 6 p.m. The second will be at 9 p.m. with the doors opening at 8:30 p.m. The shows are open to all ages and tickets are $15 at the door. A concession will be available. For more information or questions call Chad Tahchawwickah at (580) 458-1024.
August 2013
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The Comanche Nation News
Comanche Nation Fair Set for Sept. 28-30 at the Comanche Nation Complex Event Flyers Announces Important Information and Events By Jolene Schonchin/News Staff
The Comanche Nation Fair is around the corner, and plans have been underway for several months now to prepare for the biggest tribal celebration of the year. This year’s theme is “Healing the Nation With Traditional Steps.” Many annual activities will continue and new events are being introduced this year. The Fun Run, Bull Riding, Spirit Walk, Quilt Show, Artist Exhibit, Horse Shoe Tournament and Powwow are some of the few events out of many that will take place. A comedy show will replace the concert this year. The Softball Tournament will take place at the Janice Pewewardy Softball Field next to the tribal headquarters the weekend of the fair. The Children’s Activities will include competetive games, Stranger Danger presentation by the Comanche Nation Law Enforcement, and will have door prizes and snacks for the children. The Warrior’s Run has expanded to include runners from Apache, Okla., Walters, Okla., and Cache, Okla. to
leave from the tribe’s community centers and unite before running to the powwow grounds in unison. The Bicycle Tour will also coincide with the Warrior Run for the second time. The Comanche Nation Early Childhood Development Center will have a 10-year Anniversary Open House and Luncheon in conjunction with the fair. The Comanche National Museum will have an exhibit titled, “Comanche Code of Honor” that will be on display Sept. 26, 2013-Aug. 31, 2014 at their facility located at 801 NW Ferris Ave., Lawton. Rations will be given out on a first-come-first-serve basis Sept. 28 for all registered campers. As the final weeks approach before the fair, the Comanche Nation Fair Committee will be busy going over the details to make this years event another successful one. For more information, call Tomah Yeahquo at (580) 492-3384.
Opal Gore at Comanche Fair Powwow
Bull Buckout
Early Childhood Development Center in Fair Parade
Warrior Run
August 2013
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The Comanche Nation News
Milestones Happy Belated Birthday
Marisal Tosee, June 6 Isaiah Poemoceah, June 16 Demi Tahchawwickah, June 19 Sean Tissychy, June 19 Denise Tosee-Camargo, July 14 Valencia Saupitty, July 14 Cheryl Redelk, July 31
Happy Birthday Inez Motah Kalani Boyden, August 1 Katy Miser Karty, August 1 Nicole Werito, August 2 Robert M. Perea Jr, August 2 Alex Wermy, August 3 Melanie Raasch, August 3 Genesis Nicole Karty-Rollison, August 4 Jerome Tahhahwah, August 5 Michael E. Cable, August 5 Chris, August 8 Damon “fats” Parker, August 8 Kayden Wayt, August 8 Arielle Marie Karty, August 9 Mariel Coronado, August 9 Stephanie Poemoceah, August 9 Jakob Shea, August 10 Mari Lanell Simental, August 10 Terence Ototivo, August 11 Joseph Mann, August 12 Rachel Payne, August 12 Dana, August 13 Arietta Lee Viddaurri-Patton, August 15 Aryonna Saupitty, August 16 Naka’la Carol Inez Miller, August 16 Nick, August 17 Zelma RoseAnna Viddaurri, August 17 Karen Heminokeky, August 18 Nelson Eddie Bigbow Jr, August 18 Samara Viddaurri, August 19 Steve Coronado, August 19 Jeremy Tahhahwah, August 20 Thomasina Kaywaykla, August 20 Nicole Werito, August 21 Orlana Perea, August 24 Calvet Codynah, August 25 Caleb Thompson, August 26 Corlette Tahhahwah, August 26 Tammy Ototivo, August 26 Carolyn Spelhaug, August 27 Markus Shea, August 27 JoNeal Heminokeky-Jocko, August 28 Ahtakee B Sovo, August 29 Angela (Lokie) Hankins, August29 Derek Jocko, August 29 Robert Tissychy, August 30 Tristan Tissychy, August 30
Anniversaries
Happy 94th Birthday Inez Motah
Happy Belated Birthday Valencia Saupitty July 14
Happy Birthday Kalani Boyden August 1
Happy Birthday Kyle August 2
Happy Birthday Melanie Raasch August 3
Genesis Nicole Karty-Rollison
Happy Birthday August 4
Happy Birthday Damon “Fat” Parker August 8
Happy Birthday Chris August 8
Happy Birthday Nick August 17
Happy Birthday Arielle Marie Karty August 9
Happy Birthday Mariel Coronado August 9
Happy Birthday Jakob Shea August 10
Happy Birthday Julian Micah Minthorn August 10
Happy Birthday Mari Lanell Simental August 10
Happy Birthday Sierra Raine Minthorn August 10
Happy Birthday Dana August 13
Happy Birthday Naka’la Carol Inez Miller August 16
Happy Birthday Karen Heminokeky August 18
Happy Birthday Steve Coronado Jr. August 19
Happy Birthday Caleb Thompson August 26
Happy Birthday Markus Shea August 27
Happy Birthday Angela “Lokie” Hankins August 29
Happy Birthday Jerome Tahhahwah August 5
Happy Birthday Ahtakee B. Sovo August 29
In Loving Memeory Ronald Vern “BB” Wockmetooah 4/01/1963~7/29/2012
Don’t Forget to submit milestones for those Special Loved Ones; Just Married, Anniversaries, Birth Announcements,Birthdays,etc.
Richard & Diana Poemoceah (36 yrs) R.I.P. Mom we love you
Deadline for September
In Loving Memeory Zelda Beth Viddaurri-St. Clair 7/17/1955~8/6/2087
Daynne & JoAnn Klinekole July 27~Married 40 years Shaun & Jamie Prairiechief August 23~Married 10 years Chris & Mona Davis August 29~Married 8 years Ronald “Dawes” & Delores Twohatchet August 20~Married 47 years Darren and Teri Bartosovsky August 20~Married 20 years
Happy Anniversary Shaun & Jamie Prairiechief August 23 Married 10 years
Hunter Hawk Narcomey Born: June 9, 2013 5lbs’ 12oz’ 19.5 in To: Guy Narcomey & Thomasina Akoneto
edition of TCNN 8/15/13 Call: Public Information Office (580) 492-3386 Email: candacet@comanchenation. com Or mail to: Comanche Nation/PIO P.O. Box Box 908 Lawton, OK 73502
We little knew that morning God was to call your name. In life we loved you dearly, in death we do the same. It broke our hearts to lose you, You did not go alone. For part of us went with you The day God called you home. You left us beautiful memories, Your love is still our guide, And though we cannot see you, You are always at our side. Our family chain is broken, and nothing seems the same, But as God calls us one by one, The chain will link again.
August 2013
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The Comanche Nation News
Obituaries Marshall Laurenzana Garcia
and Emma Asepermy. He is preceded in death by his father Martin Weryackwe, Sr.; his mother: Dolly Weryackwe; two brothers: Wendall Weryackwe and Douglas Weryacwe. He was also preceded in death by his former wife, Suzanne Sockey; and his aunt: Helen Stephenson who raised him. Survivors include his son: Rance Weryackwe of Norman; his much beloved granddaughter: Nia Weryackwe of Norman, whom he called “Baby Girl”; two sisters: Maxine Weryackwe Wahkinney and Kay Weryackwe of Apache; one brother: Martin Weryackwe, Jr. of Anadarko; his adopted family: Myles Stephenson and Mary Lore Stephenson Tslee; cousins: Tyrus Mahsetky and Mitzi Laurenzana.
death by his parents, wife, sister and brother-in-law: Electra and George Cookson.
Gary Duane Mahsetky
Garcia
Marshall A. (Laurenzana) Garcia 53 of Grand Prairie, Texas went to be with the Lord on June 24, 2013 in Irving, Texas with her sister, Ramona by her side. Funeral Services for Marshall A. Garcia was June 28, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel. Prayer Service was June 27, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel. Burial followed at Highland Cemetery under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home. Garcia was born July 18, 1959 in Lawton, Oklahoma to Timothy and Marlene (Wauqua) Laurenzana. She is survived by Father: Timothy Tieyah of Kansas; her sisters: Ramona Bledsoe and husband Cecil Bledsoe and Leighlani Edison of Grand Prairie, TX; uncle: Pratt Wauqua of Elgin; nieces: Chastity Joyce Cole and husband JL Cole, of Grand Prairie, Angela Marie Endiott and husband Vince Endicott of Ft. Worth; nephew: Michael Lee O’Dell Murray of Grand Prairie; Great niece: Alexis Wauqua Rodgers; Great Nephew: Cash Vinson Endicott; Fiancé: Jim McCoy; Best friend for 33 + years: Tila Trevino; Personal Family Friend: Martin Garcia; Animal Children: Gizmo, Wish-Bone, and Puppy-Puppy She is preceded in death by her mother: Marlene Wauqua; uncle: Arza Tieyah; grandmother: Josephine Pratt Tieyah.
James Weryackwe
Weryackwe
James Weryackwe returned home to be with his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, June 26. Funeral Services for James Weryackwe was June 29, at Mahsetky Methodist Church of Apache with Pastor Ronnie Simmons officiating. Burial will follow at Cache Creek KCA Cemetery, Apache under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home. Prayer Service was June 28, at Mahsetky Methodist Church of Apache. He was born in Lawton, Oklahoma, on September 26, 1948 to Martin Weryackwe, Sr. and Dolly Chasenah Weryackwe. His maternal grandparents were Arthur Chasenah
Gilbert Alvin Monatoboy
Monatoboy
Graveside Services for Gilbert Alvin Monatoboy 91 of Lawton, Okla., was July 2, at Sunset Memorial Gardens with John Cramer, Retired Pastor of Aldersgate United Methodist Church under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home. Full Military Honors will be provided by the Comanche Indian Veterans Association. Monatoboy died June 28, in Lawton. He was born in July 6, 1921 in Orleans, CA. to Frank and Ida (Sanderson) Monatoboy. They lived in the Fletcher-Cyril area where he attended elementary and Junior High School. Eventually, they moved to Lawton where he graduated from Lawton High School. Monatoboy was drafted into the U.S. Army Infantry in 1942 during World War II. He was immediately ordered to Italy and after serving in many battles. He was injured during the Battle of Monte Cassino, Italy. He was shipped stateside due to his severe injuries and was medically discharged in 1945. He was awarded many Medals during his military service including a Purple Heart. Monatoboy married Irene Hanson on September 7, 1944 in Lawton. They were married for 64 years until her death in 2009. After leaving the Military Gilbert became a night watchman at Ft. Sill Indian School for several years until transferring to Civil Service on Ft. Sill. He held many Civil Service jobs including: Bus driver, mechanic, and finally records clerk at Reynolds Army Hospital until his retirement in 1977, after 32 years in civil service. Monatoboy loved tinkering with cars, lawnmowers, anything mechanical and he could fix anything. He loved spending time with his family and friends and especially his grandson. He adored his pets. He had a wonderful smile and he enjoyed telling jokes, playing pranks, and making people laugh. He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Mike and Ann of Lawton; his grandson: Bryan of Oklahoma City; a niece and her husband: Marilyn and Arthur Hampton; a great- niece and her husband: Natalie and Stuart Robertson and their daughters: Jaclyn and Denise; and a great nephew: George Hampton all of Lawton. Monatoboy was preceded in
Mahsetky
Gary Duane Mahsetky Sr., 62 of Oklahoma City left this world to be with the Lord on July 2, in Oklahoma City. Funeral Service was July 6, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. David Wilson officiating. Burial will follow at Deyo Mission Cemetery under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home. Mahsetky was born on November 6, 1950 in Lawton to Mack Mahsetky and Annetta (RedElk) Mahsetky. He grew up in Lawton and attended Classen High School in Oklahoma City. As a young man he competed in boxing. Gary completed Vo Tech as a welder. He enjoyed fishing, dancing, listening to music, riding horses, spending time with family and attending cultural events. Mahsetky was a proud member of the Comanche Nation of Oklahoma and a great great grandson of Quanah Parker the last Chief of the Comanches. He is survived by: spouse, Rebecca Coyote of Oklahoma City; children: Gary Mahsetky Jr., Rebecca Stockton, Shannan North, Michelle Mahsetky, Michael Mahsetky and his grandchildren all of Oklahoma City; three sisters: Libby Stockton of Blanchard, Lana Brannum of Norman, Marcelene James of Yukon; three brothers: Michael Mahsetky of Washington D.C., Marsey Mahsetky Jr., Mark Mahsetky both of Oklahoma City Mahsetky is preceded in death by: father, Mack Mahsetky; step father, Marsey Mahsetky; brother, Larry Mahsetky; sister, Rebecca Mahsetky.
Narcomey was a proud member of the Comanche Nation of Oklahoma. She was the great-granddaughter of Comanche Chief Tabananica who was the last elected Chief of the Comanche Tribe. Her grandfather, Perconnic, along with Nah-Wats and Howard Whitewolf helped start the Comanche Reformed Church. Narcomey attended a oneroom schoolhouse called Lone Jack. She graduated Valedictorian from Elgin High School and in the 1940’s graduated from Cameron State Agricultural College. She was a member of The Comanche Otipoby Cemetery Committee, the American Indian Movement, liked going to Fast Pitch Softball games, attending CBC Meetings, Native American Rallies, and she loved Native American Hymn Singing. She has been involved with the Preservation of Comanche Cemeteries since the early 60’s and also the Comanche National Cemetery at Ft. Hood, Texas. She worked actively along with the Comanche Historical Preservation Office to pursue the Recognition and Protection of the Comanche Indian Mission Cemetery, which includes the Smallpox Victims of 1898. She is survived by her two sons: Clyde and wife Claudette of Elgin and Thomas of Elgin; one daughter: Phyllis of Sterling; five grandchildren: Philip and wife Ladonna Narcomey of Oklahoma City, Mary Ellen Narcomey of Anadarko, Raeanne and Daniel Saupitty of Elgin, Michael A. Narcomey of Elgin, Guy Narcomey of Sterling and David Aitson of Oklahoma City; great-grand children: Brandy Narcomey, Brenda Little Calf, Philip Lewis Narcomey, Daniel Saupitty, Jr., Jessie Poolaw, and Hunter Hawk Narcomey; three great-great grandchildren: Mayanna Narcomey, Cheyenne Little Calf, and Eva Little Calf; cousins: Joann Bigbow of Elgin and Corky Pebeahsy; Special Friends and family: Judy New, Doll Alexander, Don Patterson, Beth Galzebrook, Sam E. DeVenney, Marie Chebahtah, Jimmy Atterberry, Beverly Isaac, Aurillia Craig and David Narcomey; and many friends. She is preceded in death by her husband: Philip R. Narcomey; parents: Annie Otipoby and husband, Hugh Otipoby; sister: Lucille Cizek; brothers: Marlin Otipoby and Robert Otipoby; grandchildren: Daniel Raymond Walker Saupitty, Dicey Aitson, and Clyde Narcomey, Jr.
William Franklin Riggs
Gladys Totite Narcomey
Riggs
Narcomey Gladys Totite Narcomey 89 of Sterling went to be with the Lord on July 9, at her home with her family by her side. Funeral Service was July 13, at Petarsy United Methodist Church with Pastor Charley Spencer and Lay Person Tina Baker officiating. Burial followed at Comanche Otipoby Cemetery, Ft. Sill under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home. Prayer Service was July 12, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel. Narcomey was born on October 17, 1923 to Thomas and Annie (Perconnic) Totite in Indiahoma.
William Franklin Riggs, 34 of Fletcher went to his heavenly home on July 19, in Oklahoma City. Funeral service was July 23, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Bill Foote officiating. Riggs was born on October 4, 1978 in Terre Haute, Indiana to Ernest and Wilma (Tehauno) Riggs. He moved back to Oklahoma in 1980 and graduated from Del City High School. He was a proud member of the Comanche Nation of Oklahoma. William enjoyed working on cars, spending time with his family and friends. He was employed by Keathley Handling Solutions as a fork lift mechanic for the past seven years. Riggs is survived by: his parents: Ernest and Wilma Riggs, spouse, Barbara Kuhlman; children:
William Riggs, Kathrine Bounds and Skye Bounds all of the home in Fletcher; siblings: Earl Moreno of Sulphur, Oklahoma, Christopher Moreno of Oklahoma City, Mari Beth Lodes of Brooklyn, New York and Kaylee Moreno of Colorado Springs; grandmother, Naomi Tehauno and special friend, Randy. Riggs is preceded in death by: grandparents: Sam Tehauno, John and Marie Riggs; uncle, Charles Tehauno and special friend, Brandi.
Milton Codynah
Codynah Milton Codynah, 70, of Walters, Okla Funeral service at the Walters Comanche Nation Community Center, Malcolm Poemoceah and Rev. Videll Yackeschi officiating under the direction of Hart-Wyatt Funeral Home in Walters. A Prayer Service will be held on July 7 at the Community Center. Milton Dixon Codynah was born to Fred and Velma Hoag Codynah on June 1, 1943, south of Walters, Okla., and departed this life in Lawton, Okla., on July 3, at the age of 70 years, 1 month and 2 days. Codynah grew up south of Walters, graduating from WHS in 1962. He married Nancy Katherine Poemoceah on December 30, 1967 at Wichita Falls, TX. He was soon drafted into U.S. Army on January 8, 1968 and completed his basic training at Fort Polk, LA. He served his country honorably in Vietnam earning the rank of Specialist 4 on January 7, 1970. For his service he was given the Combat Infantry badge, the Purple Heart and the Army Commendation medal along with many other awards and commendations. Through the years he worked for Town and Country in Wichita Falls, Elliot’s in Waurika and worked in housing for the Comanche Tribe before going to work at Comanche Nation Casino as the Director of Maintenance. Codynah was always an active person. He enjoyed coaching softball and playing mens softball, fishing, camping at the lake, swimming in the backyard, cooking, and watching OU football and Westerns on TV. He loved spending time with the grandkids and coaching them as well. He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Carol Jean Codynah; a brother, Robert “Dutch” Subietta; and special friends Delbert Permansu and Johnny Wauqua. Survivors include his wife, Nancy, of the home; two daughters, Sonia Herring and husband Terry, Melanie Perez and husband Larry all of Walters; two brothers, Fred Codynah and wife Mona of Walters, Jackie Codynah of Anadarko; a nephew he helped raise, Curtis Poafpybitty of Lawton; seven grandchildren, Erin Simpson, Mishona Herring, Mindi Chasenah, J.C. Herring, Courtnie Perez, Cruz Perez and Carrington Perez; six great grandchildren, Gage Simpson, Kylie Simpson, Jermaine Dixon Chasenah, Trenity Reed, Trevin Reed and Jermiah Chasenah; a special friend, Gordon Owens of Lawton; other relatives and many friends.
August 2013
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The Comanche Nation News
RAFTING DOWN THE ILLINOIS RIVER Environmental Programs Take Youth on Final Eco Tour Though Grant Funds
Submitted by Lynn Schonchin/ CNOEP Assistant Director
As a part of an EPA grant the Comanche Nation Office of Environmental Programs held four environmental educational outings for Comanche Youth, in an effort to show our young Tribal members the potential factors that can and do affect the Environment and what they can do to limit potential pollution. The grant monies paid for all of these events which showed the youth everything from where our trash ends up at the Lawton landfill, the positive effects of recycling cans, plastics, and metals, visiting the SIA program in Cyril, Okla., participation in the annual Earth Day event, visiting the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge education facility, and water protection which included a rafting trip on the Illinois river. The fourth and final outing was a six mile rafting trip down the Illinois River, north of Tahlequah, Ok. There were 20 kids and 18 adults who took part in the rafting trip. The kids ranged in age from four A group of youth and parents traveled to the Illinois River in Tahlequqah, Okla. to take an Eco Tour July 12 through an enviromental grant. The goal to eighteen. All of the partici- of the tour was to show students the importance of keeping the ecosystem of the enviroment safe. pants were able to use a kayak, canoe, or rubber raft, also all those who took part were given a life vest, provided by Sparrow Hawk. From the main camp area, Sparrow Hawk camp ground, we all boarded a transport bus which took us all to the starting point of our rafting trip, six mile upstream from the Sparrow Hawk campground. Arriving at our starting point the rubber rafts, canoes, and kayaks were ready for us, before starting everyone got into the water cooling down and Students enjoyed the rafts and kayaks they took down the river. George Tahdooahnippah Jr. helps his dad paddle down the Illinois river. splashing each other. After taking a group photo everyone gathered up their oars and started their day on the river. Some stayed close together while others went off on their own. One of the few sounds, other than the water and birds, which we heard along our entire trip, was laughter. We made frequent stops at shallow points to spend time swimming and splashing and cooling down in the water. During some of these stops we tried to make sure we pointed out to the youth how we need Huge schools of fish surrounded the rafts throughout the tour. to all make an effort to keep our waters clean and protected, how global warming has affected water levels among other things, and how we share our environment with other people and wildlife. The day ended several hours later when everyone reached the Sparrow Hawk campgrounds, most still had the energy to get into the water for a while longer before finally heading to the shower and changing facility. After changing we all ate together sharing stories of our day on the river. We all loaded back up on the Parents and students helped in rowing the rafts and kayaks, enjoying the bus, leaving Tahlequah and scenery while learning about the fragile ecosytem of the river’s environheading back to the Comanche ment. Nation Complex.
August 2013
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The Comanche Nation News
Scenes From 2013 Comanche Homecoming Walters Pow-wow
Fancy dancer R. G. Harris wins the Special Old Style Fancy Dances contest sponsored by head man dancer Morgan Tosee.
Tribal member, Monte Potts compete in the men’s southern straight category at the 2013 Comanche Homecoming.
Photos by Paula Karty & Jolene Schonchin/News Staff
The center drum at the 2013 Comanche Homecoming provided beautiful songs.
Many dancers filled the arena during the Gourd Dance session, wearing beautiful dresses and other tribal attire, such as these two lady dancers.
The Comanche Indian Veterans Association (CIVA) bring in the flags during Grand Entry while serving as the color guard at the 2013 Comanche Homecoming.
Elder Ann Tahmahkera was honThe Buffalo Dance ended the Gourd Dance session the evening of July 21. ored by her family.