February 2013 TCNN

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

Travel Plaza to be New Stop for Visitors

Lawton, OK

February 2013

Talent of Comanche artist Tim Saupitty to be Showcased February 9

Part of the New Travel Plaza building being built and coming Early Summer of 2013.

Stacey Heminokeky/News Staff

Comanche National Museum Seeks Board Members

The Comanche National Museum and Cultural Center is seeking qualified people to sit on its Board of Directors.

Applicants must have professional experience in one of the following disciplines: Finance, Fund-raising, Education, Marketing, Organizational Management, the Arts, or museum work.

The selected board members will serve a threeyear term. Comanche preference preferred. Applications will be accepted until March 15.

Send applications to: Comanche National Museum and Cultural Center, Attn: Phyllis Wahahrockah-Tasi, Executive Director, 701 NW Ferris Avenue, Lawton, OK, 73507.

Nursing Home Advances to Next Stage Submitted by Lindsay Early/Comanche Nation Intern of the Chairman’s Office

Photo by Paula Karty/News Staff

The Ground Blessing Ceremony of the new Comanche Nation Travel Plaza was held on October 28, 2012. It will be located at Exit 1, off of Interstate 44. The new travel plaza is set to be completed in the early summer of 2013.

The Comanche Nation’s new project is only one of many that will create new jobs and revenue for the tribe.

The Comanche Nation Travel Plaza is planned to be 8,100 square feet, and will feature fuel for both cars and trucks, a smokeshop, and a casino. The plaza offers a truck-friendly atmosphere that includes truck parking, shower facilities, and a smoking lounge that will hold four flat screen televisions. It will also hold 100 slot machines, a deli, and a drivethru smokeshop.

The Comanche Nation Travel Plaza will not only be providing fuel, and food, but more importantly 20 new jobs to the area and community.

PR SRT STD US POSTAGE

PAID

PERMIT NO 49 STIGLER, OK 74462

VOLUME 13 EDITION 2

Stacey Heminokeky/News Staff

The Lawton Arts Council invites the public to a showing of art by Comanche artist Tim Saupitty 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., Feb. 9, at the Lawton Arts Council building on 17th Street and Ferris Avenue. Saupitty has had a lifelong passion for painting and a love of his Comanche culture.

He takes pride in his heritage, tribal customs, stories and historical accounts, which he portrays in his work, capturing the simplicity and beauty of the Comanche way of life. Saupitty, above left, stands next to his painting, “Comanche Moon” that is show-cased on the North wall of the Lawton Airport. In 2012 the Lawton Airport Renovation Project chose Saupitty’s painting to represent the Indigenous population and culture of Southwest Oklahoma.

Board Meets with Designers about the Red River Hotel Story and Photo by Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

Members of the CoHouse for Quanah Parker.”

Many ideas were noted manche Nation Board of Directors and Comanche by the designers that reflectNation Chairman, Wallace ed the lifestyle and history of the Comanche people.

Coffey, met with designer Lesley Wyman of Match Symbols like the water bird, horses, buffalo, cedar line Design Group Jan. 9 at the Red River Casino Contrees, were all listed. Old ference Room to discuss photographs of tribal memthe interior design of the bers were discussed, specifup-and-coming Comanche ically pictures that reflected Red River Hotel. the history of the casino/

The designers inhotel location. troduced an array of colors, Involving Comanche textures, and carpet pattribal artists’ work was also terns to the board. From talked about. earthy tones to vibrant pat- Comanche Board of Directors CEO, Chas “We are on a good start terns, the designers wanted Robins looks at different carpet patterns as far as design,” said Cofto get an idea of what kind Jan. 9 at a meeting with Matchline Design fey. of atmosphere the hotel Group.

A second meeting is would portray, and to hear scheduled in February for Coffey. “Comanche’s have a the views from the leaders. the Dallas, Texas designers

“I would like it to have lot of history in this area. Burk to meet with tribal artists. a Comanche feel, an involve- Burnett pulled lumber through ment of our traditions,” said this very site to build the Star

Comanches On the Move

Outreach Initiative Scheduled in Kansas and New Mexico

By Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

Programs that offer services to out-of-state tribal members will be going to Wichita, Kan. and Albuquerque, NM in February and March.

The following programs offer out-of-state services to Comanche’s: Social Services, PIO, Enrollment, Higher Education, Prevention

and Recovery, WIA, Student Services, Optometry, and Diabetes Awareness.

The Drury Plaza Hotel Broadview, 400 West Douglas Ave., in Wichita, Kan. will be the site Feb. 8-9 for the second outreach of the New Year.

The programs will set up for two days to accommodate the

schedules of busy Comanche’s in the area.

The programs will set up 2 p.m.-7 p.m. Feb. 8, and will set up 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Feb. 9.

The next outreach will be March 22-24 in Albuquerque, NM. More information will be in the March edition of TCNN.

DON’T MISS OUT ON SEEING COMANCHE BOY FIGHT LIVE ON ESPN

Comanche Nation is taking a bus to Mohegan Sun to support Comanche Boy Feb. 13-18. $300-single/$500-couple. First-Paid-First-Reserved seating. 35 seats total.

Includes ticket to fight, hotel stay, and T-Shirt. Lindsay Early (405) 822-4702.

Plans are moving ahead on schedule for the Comanche Nation Nursing Home. The first step after purchasing the building, located at 1001 SE 36th Street in Lawton, was to set up three meetings with Chairman Coffey, several members of the Comanche Business Committee, and several retired Comanche healthcare professionals.

The meetings allowed an open dialogue for tribal members to voice their hopes and concerns about the new nursing home.

The next step in the process of opening the new nursing home is to obtain a Certificate of Need from the Oklahoma State Department of Health. Chairman Coffey has assigned Lindsay Early with the task of completing an application for the Certificate of Need. The application, which is over 100-pages long, will be complete and ready to turn over to the State Department of Health on January 31. After receiving the application, the State of Oklahoma will have 90-days to decide if it will be approved. Keeping in compliance with the state and federal regulations will ensure that the Comanche Nation will be able to receive Medicaid and Medicare as payments for the care of our residents.

After receiving the licenses needed, the Comanche Nation can begin to staff the facility and start training. Comanche tribal members will be given preference for employment and room availability.

Comanche Little Ponies Seeks Princess

The Comanche Little Ponies are currently accepting submissions for the position of LP Princess, 2013'-14.

Candidates must be of Comanche decent, between 13-17 yrs. old and have the capacity and means to travel extensively.

A picture (dressed in Comanche regalia) and bio can be mailed to Comanche Little Ponies, PO Box 2032, Lawton, OK, 73502 or emailed to lowellnibbs@yahoo.com. The deadline for submissions is February 10th. The new Princess will be crowned at the Comanche Little Ponies 45th Annual P/W, May 11th, Comanche Co. Fairgrounds, Expo Center, Lawton, OK. For questions, please contact Lowell Nibbs at 580-583-5279.

February 2013 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 March edition is noon February 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 Assistant-Telephone Number (580)492-3386 News items of interest to the local and American Indian community are welcome.

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

Do not send faxed photographs or newspaper copies of photographs.

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

Obituaries are written for tribal members only.

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

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

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Government

January CBC Meeting Adds Board Members; Creates NAGPRA Board

By Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

EDITOR’S NOTE: This is an overview of the January 5 Comanche Business Committee (CBC) meeting and not the official minutes. To attain a copy of the official minutes of the meeting, contact the Office of the Comanche Chairman, (580) 492-3251.

Chairman Wallace Coffey called the meeting to order at 10:10 a.m. Secretary/ Treasurer, Gary Tahmahkera, conducted Roll Call. All CBC were in attendance and a quorum was established.

Chairman Coffey announced some statistics about the workforce of the Comanche Nation government. There are a total of 282 employees, 77 percent being members of the Comanche Nation. The percentage of employees representing other tribal nations is 10 percent, and 13 percent is of other nationalities. A total of 165 (59 percent) employees are

women, and 117 (41 percent) and men.

Tribal member, Milton Sovo, took the floor and asked the CBC to possibly take action on and rally other tribal leaders to do the same on two issues that he says is an attack on the tribe’s sovereign immunity. They are the Indian Child Welfare Act and Water Rights.

Chairman announced Resolutions 11-13 and 12-13 will be moved to Executive Session.

Both are resolutions on property.

Tahmahkera makes a motion to accept the Dec. 1, 2012 meeting minutes. Vice Chairman, Mack Mike Mahsetky, seconds the motion. The motion carries 6/0/1.

Resolutions 01-13 Enrollment List No. 916; 02-13 Enrollment List No. 917; 03-13 Enrollment List No. 918; and 04-13 Enrollment List No. 919. Mah-

Comanche Nation Officials Photos by Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

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. 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

Member of the Native American Journalist Association since 2001

TCNN Winner of Seven 2012 NAJA Media Awards 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

A D M I N I S T R AT I V E STAFF RECOGNIZED AT MEETING. During the Jan. 5 Comanche Business Committee Meeting, Tribal Administrator Will Owens presented plaques of appreciation to three staff members of the Administration Office. From left, Director of Special Projects Donna Wahnee, Secretary to the CBC- Nicole Crain, and Secretary to the Chairman-Civa Wahnee were each presented plaques on behalf of the CBC.

setky makes a motion to approve all four resolutions.

Tahmahkera seconds the motion. The motion carries 6/0/1.

05-13 Grant Application SEDS. The resolution will approve 20 percent matching funds to Health and Human Services for a grant application. CBC No. 4, Jack Codopony Sr., makes a motion to approve the resolution. CBC No. 3, Harry Mithlo, seconds the motion. The motion carries 6/0/1.

06-13 Grant Application Administration on Children, Youth, and Families. The resolution will allow a grant application submission to the Department of Health and Human Services. Mahsetky makes a motion to approve the resolution. Codopony seconds the motion. The motion carries 6/0/1.

07-13 Appointing Members to NAGPRA Board. The board members will have a threeyear term. The Board Members are: Bernard Kahrahrah, George Tahdooahnippah, Thomas Blackstar, Clorinda Tsatoke, Verna Cable, Sandra Karty, Billy Fodder, Morgan Tosee, Sam DeVenney, Anthony Monoessy, and Eleanor McDaniel. Chairman Coffey will also have an active role with the board. CBC No. 2, Sonya Nevaquaya, makes a motion to

approve the resolution. Mahsetky seconds the motion. The motion carries 6/0/1.

08-13 Changing the Name of the Higher Education Department. The resolution will change the Name of the Comanche Nation Higher Education Department to the Comanche Nation Educational Assistance Program. Mithlo makes a motion to approve the resolution. CBC No. 1, Charles Wells, seconds the motion. The motion carries 6/0/1.

09-13 Felton Dean Lease. Comanche Nation Enterprises to lease to the Comanche Nation.

Codopony makes a motion to table resolution until more information is presented to the CBC. Nevaquaya seconds the motion. The motion carries 6/0/1.

10-13 Resolution Minors Trust Fund. The resolution will allow the City National Bank to release funds of a minor’s trust account to the parent. Mahsetky makes a motion to approve the resolution. Mithlo seconds the motion. The motion carries 6/0/1.

11-13 McIntosh Property.

Moved to Executive Session.

12-13 Walters Property. Moved to Executive Session.

Motions

Motion Gary Tahmahkera Museum Board. Wells See CBC, Page 3

February 2013

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The Comanche Nation News

CBC

Continued from Page 2

makes a motion to place Gary Tahmahkera to be an Ex Officio member of the Comanche National Museum Board.

Mithlo seconds the motion.

Wells makes a motion

Motion Jack Codopony Sr. to the Gaming Board of Review. Mithlo makes a motion to place Jack Codopony Sr. on the Gaming Board of Review. Nevaquaya seconds the motion. The motion carries 6/0/1.

Motion Clifford Takawana to College Council. Codopony makes a motion to place Clifford Takawana to the Comanche Nation College Council, replacing John Tippeconnie. Mahsetky seconds the motion. The motion carries 6/0/1.

Motion Sue Permansu to College Council. Mithlo makes a motion to place Sue Permansu to the Comanche Nation College Council, replacing Linda Sue Warner. Nevaquaya seconds the motion.

The motion carries 6/0/1.

Motion Lanora Parker College Council. Nevaquaya makes a motion to place Lanora Parker on the Comanche Nation College Council, replacing Mary Fox. Codopony seconds the motion. The motion carries 6/0/1.

Motion Augustine McCaffery to College Council. Mahsetky makes a motion to place Augustine McCaffery to the Comanche Nation College Council, replacing Catherine Harris. Mithlo seconds

the motion. The motion carries 6/0/1.

Motion Edmond Mahseet Housing Authority. Mahsetky makes a motion to place Edmond Mahseet on the Comanche Nation Housing Authority Board to represent the Apache area. Mithlo seconds the motion. The motion carries 6/0/1.

Motion Bob Baker Housing Authority. Codopony makes a motion to place Bob Baker on the Comanche Nation Housing Authority, replacing Sallie Tonips. Nevaquaya seconds the motion.

The motion carries 6/0/1.

Motion Maggie Pilcher Gaming Board of Directors. Nevaquaya makes a motion to place Maggie Pilcher on the Comanche Nation Gaming Board of Directors, replacing James Patterson. Mahsetky seconds the motion. The motion carries 6/0/1.

Motion Leslie Whitefeather Gaming Board of Directors. Codopony makes a motion to place Leslie Whitefeather on the Comanche Nation Gaming Board of Directors, replacing Lanny Asepermy. Mithlo seconds the motion. The motion carries 6/0/1.

Motion David Orme to CONEI. Tahmahkera makes a motion to table the appointment of David Orme to CONI. Chairman Coffey expressed concern about a the CONEI Executive Director not following Due Diligence on a

purchase of a mobile app company. Acting Chairman, Dennis Woomavavoyah, told the CBC he was not made aware of the purchase of the company.

Tribal member, Eleanor McDaniel, told the CBC that CONEI promised to contribute $40 million to the tribal budget and has not done so yet. She also said Numu Pahmu promised to contribute 44 million to the tribe, and they only gave back $250,000 so far. Milton Sovo added it is time to be accountable and he would like the CBC to look into the organizations and boards the tribe has created and make sure Due Diligence is being done for the good of the Comanche Nation.

CONEI Board Member, Wahnee Clark, said he would provide the Chairman a copy of the Due Diligence that was completed by the Executive Director on the purchase of the mobile app company.

Old/New Business

Pat Couts of the Comanche National Museum gave the CBC an update on the museum activities and status.

Five additional people have been hired at the museum and she requested their carryover on their budget from the previous fiscal year for salaries.

Chairman Coffey asked the board to make it a priority of theirs to have the museum set up for preserving and handling artifacts. He would like to have authentic Comanche artifacts housed in the tribal museum. Couts informed the

council that $350,000 has been invested to reach the goal of artifact preservation.

Robert Smith of Southwest Oklahoma Rural Development (SWORD) presented a Memorandum of Understanding to the CBC. The nonprofit organization would like to work with the tribe on future business ventures in SW Oklahoma, specifically around Cotton County. He presented statistics to the council and audience that showed in 1999, the annual household income for Cotton County was $27,000, and in 2007, the annual household income was $445,800.

He contributed the rise in the income to the Comanche and Kiowa casinos in the area, and added Native American Gaming has changed the face of Oklahoma.

Chairman Coffey agreed with his statement and said he will be calling a meeting of area mayors in the near future to see what can be done to make their respected towns better.

Thomas Narcomey was next on the agenda of Old/New business to ask of the status of a resolution he presented to the CBC two months ago to add a chapter in the Comanche Nation Employee Policy and Procedures. He wants the tribe to begin steps of getting its own accounting system.

Tahmahkera makes a motion to go into Executive Session. Mithlo seconds the motion.

Tori Dean of the Cache Community Church of God asked if she could address the council before going into Executive Session. She said her church did not receive the monetary donation from the tribe they give out annually, although they have received it for the two years prior. Tribal Administrator, Will Owens, said he will take care of it.

Chairman Coffey also said the Native American Church 1918 Chapter did not receive one as well.

Emmanuel Alfero of He and I Construction asked for a couple of minutes before the CBC went into Executive Session. He said he is a tribal member and his mother is the main stakeholder in He and I construction, which is the leading construction company in the area. He wanted the CBC and audience to know it is a tribally owned and operated company, and 60 percent of their staff is a member of the Comanche Nation. He would like to have the company be considered for future projects of the tribe. Chairman Coffey said to bring the credentials of the company to the Jan. 31 meeting. He added he would like to see tribally owned businesses such as He and I Construction be a priority vendor for Comanche Nation projects.

The motion made by Tahmahkera carried 6/0/1 at 12:28 p.m.

Department of Interior Addresses Cobell Payment Questions Submitted by Kevin Washburn/Assistant Secretary of Indian Affairs

The Department of the Interior (Department) understands there has been a high level of frustration in Indian Country regarding payments pursuant to the Cobell Settlement. As a result many individuals are contacting the Office of the Special Trustee for American Indians (OST) and the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) seeking information and assistance regarding these payments. To be clear, the Cobell Settlement Agreement dictates

that only the Claims Administrator can address issues regarding payment to eligible members of the Historical Accounting Class ( Stage 1 payments) and eligible members of the Trust Administration Class (Stage 2 payments). I want to reassure you that the Department is working closely with the Garden City Group to resolve these issues.

Garden City Role in payment to the Historical Accounting Class

On December 14, 2012, Garden City Group, Inc. (GCG), the Claims Administrator for the historic Cobell Settlement, began distributing the initial Stage 1 payments in the amount of $1,000 to eligible members of the Historical Accounting Class. As of January 15, these Stage 1 payments are the only payments that have been authorized to be made under the Cobell settlement.

On January 3, the Department was informed by GCG

that approximately 225,000 individual checks had been mailed and that approximately two-thirds of these checks had already been cashed. This represents in excess of $200 million dollars that has been distributed by GCG. While it appears that the vast majority of payments to member of the Historical Accounting Class have been made without incident, some class members have expressed frustration at not receiving a Stage 1 check or hav-

ing their check mailed to an incorrect address. This has led individuals to GCG, OST, and BIA offices. Stage 1 eligibility determinations and payment were made exclusively by the GCG and they continue to the primary and best source of information for individuals. The GCG can be contacted at: Garden City Group, Inc. www.IndianTrust.com (800)961-6109.

February 2013

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The Comanche Nation News

NCAI Calls for Action on Violence Against Women Act Legislation in 113th Congress Thom Wallace/ NCAI Communications Director

The National Congress of American Indians is calling for immediate action on the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) as members of Congress weigh newly introduced legislation in both the Senate and House. NCAI is pointing to the support of key Republicans with tribal constituencies, in both the Senate and House, who are supporting the newly introduced measures or similar measures in the past with key protections for Native American women.

On January 22, Senator Patrick Leahy (D-VT) reintroduced the bipartisan Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act (S. 47), coauthored by Sen. Mike Crapo (R-ID). The bill, which reauthorizes the landmark VAWA law that first passed more than 20 years ago, strengthens and improves existing programs that assist victims and survivors of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking.

The S. 47 version of the bill ensures important protec-

tions for Native women facing domestic and sexual violence on reservations across the country. The bill reflects the bipartisan agreements reached in the 112th Congress on VAWA and is supported by key Republican Senators with tribal constituents including Senator Crapo the coauthor from Idaho and co-sponsors Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Susan Collins (R-ME). Other co-sponsors include Senators Kelly Ayotte (R-NH), Bennet (D-CO), Cantwell (D-WA), Casey (D-PA), Coons (D-DE), Durbin (D-IL), Hagan (DNC), Kirk (R-IL), Klobuchar (D-MN), McCaskill (D-MO), Mikulski (D-MD), Murray (DWA), Shaheen (D-NH), Tester (D-MT), Udall (D-CO), and Whitehouse (D-RI).

“NCAI is encouraged by this bi-partisan step to act on VAWA in the 113th Congress and it is clear there is support across the board for a VAWA that includes the tribal provisions. These narrow provisions are vital to the safety of our

Kiowa Tribe Head Start Program Recruitment Ongoing

The Kiowa Tribe Head Start Program is accepting applications for the Center Base and Home Base option. Applications can be picked up at the KCA Head Start Center at 1401 N.E. Lawrie Tatum Road, Lawton, Oklahoma, Little Rabbits Center at 1602 American Street, Anadarko, Oklahoma, Kiowa Tribe Head Start Office, Kiowa Tribal Complex Carnegie, Oklahoma from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday or go to www.kiowatribe.org for enrollment applications.

Kiowa Tribe Head Start is a federally funded program which provides comprehensive health, education, nutrition, social services, parent involvement and other services to children ages 3 to 5 years and their

families. Head Start also provides services to meet the special needs of children with disabilities. Children who attend the program will participate in a variety of educational activities and enjoy playing indoors and outdoors in a safe environment.

Documents needed include birth certificate, income verification, immunization record, CDIB (if applicable) and health insurance.

The Head Start program does not discriminate against Race, Color, Sex, National Origin or Disabilities.

For additional information or applications call (580) 654-2300 ext. 359 or 1-855711-4010.

Native women and to the Native and non-Native communities where violent offenders are left unchecked if they commit specific crimes of domestic or sexual violence on tribal land.

This is a clear sign that members of both sides of the aisle support this legislation and we are urging both the House and Senate to work together,” remarked NCAI President Jefferson Keel.

The House also put forward VAWA legislation on Wednesday, with Representatives Gwen Moore (D-WI)

and John Conyers (D-MI) introducing a House companion bill (H.R. 11). In the 112th Congress, the Senate version, which included tribal provisions, passed the Senate. In the final months of the 112th Congress, Congressman Tom Cole (R-OK) and Darrell Issa (R-CA) of the House offered H.R. 6625, known as the Issa/ Cole bill, which contained language to address court jurisdiction and tribal judicial parity in prosecuting non-Indian defendants. Congressman Cole also spoke out in favor of the

Senate’s previous version of VAWA S.1925. NCAI supported the Issa/Cole language.

After tireless advocacy during the 112th Congress for a comprehensive VAWA, NCAI and members of NCAI’s Violence Against Women Task Force are actively meeting with members of Congress this week to garner additional support for the newly introduced bill.

To read more about NCAI’s position regarding the Violence Against Women Act, visit http://bit.ly/VCYSwu.

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The Comanche Nation News

Programs Comanche Elder Center holds Diabetes Support Group Meeting

Injury Prevention Announces Car Seat Classes; Reviews New Programs

Pictured Left to Right – Darlene Holguin, CN Youth Shelter, Adolf Farias, CNGC Surveillance Supervisor, Tina Andonian, CNGC Surveillance Manager, Jeff Stover, CNGC Surveillance Supervisor, Melissa Castillo, CNGC Surveillance Supervisor, Bryan Goode, CNGC Surveillance Technician, Rudy Laurenzana, Sr., CNGC Surveillance Manager, Chris May, CNGC Surveillance Supervisor, Vincent Hale, CNGC Surveillance Technician, and Tamara Wilson, CN Youth Shelter.

From left, Jamie Swanson and Shirley Buris talk to elders about how they can stop worrying and relieve stress.

Photos and Story by Stacey Heminokeky/News Staff

The Comanche Nation Elder Center held a Diabetes Support Group meeting on January 10 at their facility on 11th, Street and H Ave. in Lawton.

The monthly meeting highlights a variety of subjects.

For January, the Diabetes support Group: “People Supporting People” proved to be very beneficial to all diabetics.

The monthly agenda consists of presentation, intervention, and discussion. The presenta-

tion is on various topics regarding Diabetics and Feelings. Intervention includes exercising, laughter, and affirmation cards.

A group discussion is then held to share information, experiences, and other activities that encourage support and empowerment.

The Diabetes Support Group is made up of people with common interests and experiences.

Everyone is encouraged to attend and take part.

Comanche Nation Gaming Commission Hosts Food and Toy Drive for Tribal Youth Shelter

During the month of December, 2012, the Comanche Nation Gaming Commission (CNGC) organized a holiday food and toy Drive to benefit the children of the Comanche Nation Youth Shelter.

During this period, CNGC employees joined together to spread some holiday cheer. Some items donated included toy cars, dolls, stuffed animals, and more. In addition to toys, a wide range of nonperishable food items were also donated.

On December 21, 2012

Surveillance Managers and Supervisors traveled to the Comanche Nation Youth Shelter to personally deliver the collected donations. It was very important to the staff to give back to the community and saw this as a great opportunity to do so.

Due to the success of this event, the CNGC staff intends to make the holiday food and toy drive a yearly event, with the hope of increasing the number of donated items each year.

Environmental Programs Schedules Second Annual Tire and Batter Clean Up

The Office of Environmental Programs is hosting its second annual Tire and Battery Drop Off through the program’s Solid Waste Division.

The event is free and open to the public.

Requirements for tires are they cannot be any larger

than 14” Wide & 44” Tall and tires will be accepted with rims. Batteries of all kinds are accepted.

The time for all locations is 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Feb. 4-5—Anadarko--Petree Plaza, Between Braum’s & McDonald’s

Feb. 6-7—Apache -Comanche Nation Community Building, Julia Mahseet Rd

Feb. 11-12—Cache-Cahoma Building, 725 N.W. Quanah Rd, Cache

Feb. 19-20—Walters-Walters Community Building, E of Walters

Feb. 21-22—Lawton-Comanche Nation Environmental Office, Lawton

For more information, contact Kyle Tahpay, (580) 492-3754 or (580) 583-7467.

Car seats are given during the winter months by appointment only. If you are pregnant, you need to schedule an appointment two months before your due date to receive a car seat.

Injury Prevention urges parents not to wait until the day of being released from the hospital with your newborn to request an infant seat. Car seats will not be issued if you do not attend the class. The child must be present to assure a proper fit in the seat.

We have replaced or installed 32 smoke alarms in tribal member’s homes. We have placed 16 fire extinguishers in homes of the elderly that are handicapped or terminally ill.

We are currently out of smoke detectors and fire extinguishers and waiting for a order.

We have a new program that started November 1, 2012, called the Comanche Nation Angels that is under my supervision. This program is provided by Keith Yackeyonny, WIA Director. The program has four Angels that clean the kitchen, bathroom and the living room for the elders, handicapped or terminally ill in Comanche County.

We have completed seventy-five home visits from November 2012-January 2013.

The Angels have twenty four clients and have 51 on the waiting list. We are trying to work a schedule that will provide services to other tribal elders.

There is a great need for the services provided by the Angels . For information you can call the Injury Prevention office: 580-492-3344

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The Comanche Nation News

People,Places and Things Happening Farmers Market Grants Available

Farmers markets provide consumers with fresh produce and locally made products while supporting communities.

Currently the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry is accepting applications for grants that will assist existing farmers markets.

In order to be eligible for the grant, markets must be registered with ODAFF as Oklahoma Grown. Markets that have been registered with the Oklahoma Grown program for the last three consecutive years are eligible for up to $2,000. Markets registered for less than three years are eligible for a maximum of $1,500.

Grant funds may be used for sign age, marketing, advertising; newsletter publishing as well as other approved promotional pursuits.

The 2013 Oklahoma Grown Farmers Market Specialty Crop Grant program has $55,000 available. This amount will be dispersed to several markets.

Applications must be postmarked by Thursday, Feb. 28.

For additional grant information and application forms contact Oklahoma Grown Program Coordinator Nathan Kirby at (405) 5226194.

Text “cnwebsite” to 90210 to get alerts on updates to the Comanche Nation Website

you wrong.” - Unknown

The people Potter admires most are her brother, Tyson Potter and sister, Taylor Noland.

Senior Captain: JC Herring. He is the son of Terry and Sonia Herring, and grandson of Milton and Nancy Codynah.

His activities include: Herring and Potter Native American Club PresiWalters Basketball dent, Art Club Vice President, Homecoming Senior Class Secretary, Student

On December 14,2012 Council Rep., basketball and the Walters Blue Devils chose golf. their Homecoming King and

Herring’s awards inQueen. Their 2012 Homecom- clude: Defensive MVP of ing King and Queen are: JC Southern 8 Conference, OilHerring and Olivia Potter. field All Conference, Student

Senior Candidate: Ol- of the Month, Walters Herald ivia Potter is the daughter of Card Competition winner.

Richard and Beca Potter, and Herring’s favorite the niece of Gary Tahmahkera. quote is: “Our greatest fear

Her activities include is not that we are inadequate, Art Club President, Student our deepest fear is that we are Council, golf, basketball and powerful beyond measure.” – softball.

Marianne Williamson

Potter’s awards in- The person Herring adclude: 2010 Golf Academic mires most is his Papaw, MilState Champions, Golf State ton Codynah. qualifier three-years. Southern 8 All Conference MVP two years, Oil Field Conference Oklahoma Native American Youth Language Fair MVP one-year, JR and SR year

The Oklahoma Native Top 50 Basketball Players in OK by Vype and Tip-Off Maga- American Youth Language Fair is pleased to announce that zines.

Her favorite quote is: the upcoming ONAYLF, which “Tell me I can’t, then watch will take place on April 1 - 2, me work twice as hard to prove at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History on Watch the Coman- the University of Oklahoma campus in Norman, Okla. The che Business theme this year is “Language Committee Meet- in My Heart.” ings live by going On-Line Registration will open Jan. 16, and close at to 5 p.m. March 11. It will have a new look from last year, and www.comanhopefully much easier to use. chenation.com If you have trouble with the and click on the U registration, or you know of a teacher who does not have acStream link icon. cess to the web, please call us

at (405) 325-7588. Pre-judged categories (books, posters, poetry, PP, essays, cartoons/comic books, videos) must be at the museum by March 15.

Rural Hospital Adding Two Traditional Healers

According to the Associate Press, the country’s largest rural, non-profit hospital system is hiring two traditional Native American healers to train medical staff in the Dakotas and Minnesota in a effort to better serve the American Indian patient population.

Sanford Health is in the process of hiring a Lakota/Dakota and an Ojibwe to serve as consultants as part of a threeyear $12 million Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services award, said Read Sulik, Sanford’s senior vice president for Behavioral Health Services.

“Being where we’re located in South Dakota and Minnesota, we realized we serve perhaps the largest American Indian population in a health system outside of Indian Health Services of probably any other system in the country, given where we’re located across the northern Plains,” Sulik said, nothing that Native Americans as a group have some of the biggest health disparities in the country. “Several of the things that keep rising up (are) how patients feel welcome and engaged and effectively communicated to in the health clinics settings.”

Sulik, who is based in Fargo, said the traditional healers will act as advisers to health care workers to develop training and curriculum about the American Indian culture, and will consult with medical staff on when it mat be appropriate to use traditional healing techniques in conjunction with modern medicine.

The two healers won’t necessarily be performing traditional healing ceremonies, Sulik said, but advising clinics in the three states on when a ceremony may be necessary and how to use local resources to make it happen.

Oitancan Mani Zephier, a 33-year-old Yankton Sioux tribe member from Vermillion, has seen firsthand how having a Native American by a patient’s side con help psychologically. While working as an Army medic in Afghanistan in 2004-2005, he came across an injured solider who had a Na-

tive American medicine pouch around his neck under his shirt.

“I told him I was Sioux, He said better,” Zephier recalled, “He wasn’t even Sioux.

He was Choctaw.”

Some ceremonies and traditions might seem odd to non-Natives, he added, such as the smudging of sage and sweet grass to purify the area around the patient. When a baby is born, Zephier’s people believe that wiping out the newborn’s mouth with sage can help the infant better transition from the spiritual realm of the womb.

Some patients also wrap tobacco in cloths of red, black, yellow or white and hang them on their bed-posts as prayer offerings.

“It’s for the spirits, or angels, if you will, who are coming in to help heal,” said Zephier.

Valentines Day Concert

Lawton metal maestros are taking a premier spot on another high-profile concert lineup Valentine’s Day in Oklahoma City.

Deadcore is bringing its extreme and energetic stage show to the Chameleon Room, 3034 N. Portland, Thursday, Feb. 14 as they join a lover’s day lineup that also features Day of Tragedy, Ommadon, Society’s Plague, Gemini Syndrome and Final Trigger in support of headliners, Mushroomhead.

The seven-piece band: singers Melissa Tehauno and Scott Golden; guitars, Dayton Keel and Wes Morin; bass, Mike “ Bear “ Bennett; samples, Elvis “Dirt” Keel; and drummer, Jay Tehauno; have been together for almost a decade. With their face paint and show gear joined by a frenetic and high-energy live show, these Comanches and captives are a modern-day extension of their cultural heritage.

Doors open at 6 p.m. and the show starts at 6:30 p.m.

Must be 18 to enter and 21 to drink.

Tickets are $17 in advance and $22 day of the show.

You can purchase tickets in advance by calling (580) 5124356 or from ny members of the band via their Facebook page.

Step Aerobic Class 5:45 p.m.-6:45 p.m.

Every Tuesday and Thursday Comanche Nation Fitness Center Lawton Jolene Schonchin--Instructor Goes toward Work Out Warrior 150 Minutes per Week

February 2013

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The Comanche Nation News

Native American Film Festival Held at University of Oklahoma Beginning Feb. 7 Submitted by Angela P. Startz/Information Specialist College of Arts and Sciences/University of Oklahoma

Native youth and family issues are the focus of indigenous feature, short, animated and documentary films to be screened at the inaugural Native Crossroads Film Festival. The festival will couple screenings with roundtable discussions intended to inspire conversations among filmmakers, scholars, community and tribal nation members, writers and performers.

First Circle, a documentary about the foster care system from producer Randy Redroad and director Heather Rae, both Cherokee, is the featured film; it will show at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 8, in the Kerr

Auditorium of the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History, 2401 Chautauqua Ave. Screenings and events include:

Up Heartbreak Hill, 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 7, Kerr Auditorium, Sam Noble Museum. A documentary about Navajo track stars faced with the dilemma of staying with home and family or leaving the reservation for greater possibilities.

Richard van Camp (Dogrib) workshop/reading with elementary-age school children, Meacham Auditorium, introduced by Kristin Dowell, 10 a.m. Friday, Feb. 8, Meacham Auditorium, Oklahoma Memorial Union, 900

Asp Ave. van Camp is the author of several books for children and producer of the film The Lesser Blessed.

First Circle, 7:30 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 8, Kerr Auditorium, Sam Noble Museum.

Screening followed by panel with producer Randy Redroad and director Heather Rae.

Reading and screening of Mohawk Midnight Runners with Richard van Camp, 2 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 9, Meacham Auditorium, Oklahoma Memorial Union.

On the Ice, 7 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 9, Meacham Auditorium, Oklahoma Memorial Union. On the Ice is a

suspenseful film by I単upiat director Andrew MacLean about Alaskan teens who find their friendship tested by tragedy and an exacting environment.

Other films and discussions will showcase indigenous language animations and explore challenges facing Native teens in urban environments.

The program is made possible through the support of the Norman Arts Council, Anne and Henry Zarrow School of Social Work, Office of the Vice President for Research, Film and Media Studies Program, departments of Anthropology and English, Native American Studies Program, School

of Art and Art History,World Literature Today, Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History, Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art and Jeanne Hoffman Smith.

All events are open to the public with no admission charged. For a complete listing of events, visit cas.ou.edu/ native-crossroads or facebook. com/NativeCrossroads.

For more information or accommodations on the basis of disability, contact Karl Schmidt at karl.schmidt@ou.edu or (405) 325-3020.

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The Comanche Nation News

Military

Submitted by Lanny Asepermy

New Generation of Comanche Warriors

Anthony Beasley and Gregory Cole are part of a new generation of Comanche who have or are currently serving in the Armed Forces of the United States. They are two of 60+ Comanches to serve in either Iraq or Afghanistan or both. We applaud and thank them for their dedicated, faithful and honorable service to the US Army, the Comanche Nation and the United States of America.

Beasley

Anthony B. Beasley enlisted in the US Army on October 3, 2000 and served until October 2, 2006 earning the rank of Sergeant. He took his Basic Training at Fort Sill and his Advanced Individual (AIT), as a Light Wheel Mechanic, at Fort Jackson, S.C. He has served at Hunter Air Field, in Savanna, Ga., with the 1st Ranger Battalion and with the 102nd Quartermaster Company, 101st Airborne Division at Fort Campbell, Ky. SGT Beasley served at Forward Operating Base Mosul, Iraq from February, 2003 to February, 2004.

His primary duties included wheel vehicle maintenance and vehicle recovery. He completed the Combat Lifesaver, Wheel Vehicle Training, Primary Leadership Development, Ranger Indoctrination, Rappel Master and Recovery Specialist Training Courses and Air Assault and Parachutist Schools.

His awards include the Army Commendation (2), Army Achievement (2), Good Conduct (2), National Defense Service, Global War on Terror (GWOT) Expeditionary and Service and Iraq Campaign Medals, the NCO Professional Development, Army Service and Overseas Ribbons, the Parachutists, Air Assault, Expert Qualification with/Rifle Bar and Driver/Mechanic Badges and 2 Overseas (Combat) Bars.

SGT Beasley was born in Lawton and graduated from Lawton High School in 2000.

His parents are Kevin Anthony Beasley and Dana Lynn Burrus. He is married to the former Crystal Paulette and they have four children. They live in Elizabeth City, N.C., where he is the owner and head artist of the Lost Curse Tattoo Studio.

Cole

Gregory Cole enlisted in the US Army in May, 2003 and is currently serving with C Troop, 5th Squardon (Airborne Recon), 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 73rd Cavalry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, N.C. He has completed two tours in Iraq and is scheduled to deploy to Afghanistan in January, 2013 when he will serve as a Senior Medic with a Security Forces Advisory team which will team-up with a Command Staff of an Afghan National Army Battalion. Cole has earned the rank of Sergeant.

He took is Basic Training at Fort Sill and his AIT at Fort Sam Houston, TX, as a Combat Medic.

During his first tour in Iraq, from 2005-06, he served with the 3rd Infantry Division in a Level 2 Aid Station treating combat injuries; he later was attached to the 1st Battalion, 9th Artillery as a Line Medic including service with the Explosive Ordnance Detachment.

He completed his tour with B Battery, 1/9 Artillery conducting patrols in and around Baghdad and was a member of the Quick Response Force teaming with the Iraqi Police.

His second tour, in Iraq, from 2008-09 was with his current unit. His duties included recon missions for the Iraqi Police, training the Iraqi Police, patrols and humanitarian missions lead by the Iraqi Police as his unit were transitioning their mission the Iraqi Security Forces. He also served two years at Fort Sill and another stint at Fort Stewart, Ga. SGT Cole has completed the Combat Medic and Parachutist Schools and the Combat Lifesaver and Primary Leadership Development Courses.

His awards include the Army Commendation (3), Army Achievement (6), Good Conduct (3), Iraq Campaign with/2 Bronze Service Stars and GWOT Expeditionary and Service Medals, the NCO Professional Development, Army Service and Overseas Ribbons, the Combat Medical, US and Canadian Parachutist and Expert Qualification with/Rifle Bar Badges and four Overseas (Combat) Bars. He is only the fourth known Comanche to be awarded the Combat Medical Badge (the others are Samuel Chaat, Joseph Gonzalez and Micheal Squire).

SGT Cole was born in Claremore, Okla., and graduated from Tahlequah High School in 1999. His parents are David and Gina Onco Cole. His grandparents are the late Fred Onco and Esther Tahdooahnippah. His great grandfathers was World War I hero and combat wounded Army veteran Mikey Tahdooahnippah. He is married to the former Shawna Hooper and they have one daughter.

In an e-mail SGT Cole wrote: “My grandmother (Esther) has told me a few times about Mikey (Tahdooahnippah) and his time over in No Man’s Land, the trenches, during World War I. She told me how he was injured and how he had to crawl from one of the trenches to the US side. She said the while he was crawling with all the gunfire and explosions going off

ting an end to the war in the Pacific. 200 known Comanches served from 1941-45. There are most likely a few other veterans without dates of service on the master listing of Comanche veterans. With the assistance of the Comanche Nation Enrollment Department, only 10 World War II Comanche veterans alive today (5%).

About 16.1 million Americans served in the military during World War II and as of November 2012, according to the Department of Veterans Affairs, less than 1.5 million are alive today (9.3%). The average age of a World War II veteran is 92 years and the youngest would be 84 years old - their may be some younger. They are dying at the rate of about 740 per Mikey Tahooahnippah in circle with Albert Nahquaddy and Cal- day. World War II resulted in vin Atchavit on his left and William over 60 million dead (2.5% of Tarcypokeahdooah and Abner Co- the world population) includosewoon on his right. ing 416,800 US military. Eight Comanches died as a result of Old Soldiers Never Die, the war and five others were prisoners of war.

They Just Fade Away

At least 200,00 men and women under the legal age (18 years old before you could serve in World War II) served during World War II, according to an estimate from the Veterans of Underage Military Service Organization.

The youngest serviceman during World War II was Calvin Graham who was 12 years old

59 Comanches served when he enlisted in the Navy in the military during World in 1942. He was wounded at War I, 58 in the Army and one Guadalcanal that year and was in the Navy. World War I last- discharged after his commanded from July 28, 1914 to No- ers discovered his age. He died vember 11, 1918 - the United in 1992. There is no doubt a States declared war on Ger- few Comanches were under many on April 6, 1917. aged when they served during

About 4.7 million World War II. Americans served in the military during the war which re- The known living sulted in 116,708 US military World War II Comanche veterdeaths. 23 Comanches served ans are: in Europe of which seven were wounded in action.

The last living American World War I veteran was Frank Buckles who died on February 27,2011 at age 110 years. The last known living World War I Comanche Veteran was Private Lawrence Bruce Tomah who died on August 17, 1989 at age 99 years.

He was born on December 17, 1890 and his final resting place is the Walters Cemetery.

Nocktoah, as Tomah was known, took his Basic Training at Deming, N.M., was en route to Europe when Bradley, Roberta Clark (Weckeah), the Armistice was signed at Woman’s Army Auxiliary Corps 11 a.m., of the 11th day of the (WAAC), 1942-43 and US Marine Corps, 1943-45. She is the first fe11th month in 1918. from all sides of him that he had some doubt that he would even make it back to the US side alive. She said he had paused for a bit and even with all the noise he heard a loud and clear voice that seemed out of place say HAW and after hearing the voice he knew he was going to be alright.”

Lawrence Bruce Tomah

The United States became involved in World War II when we declared war on Japan on December 7, 1941 and Germany declared war on the United States on December 11, 1941 - that war ended, in Europe, on May 8, 1945 when Germany surrendered all their military forces - the Japanese surrendered their military forces on September 2, 1945 put-

male Comanche to serve in the military. Bradley did not serve overseas. She was a messenger while stationed at New River and Cherry Point, N.C. Bradley was awarded the World War II Victory Medal and Honorable Service Lapel Button.

Her late son, Robert was a Vietnam War veteran and her late husband, William, was also a veteran of World War II. She is currently a patient at the VA Center in Lawton, Okla. She was born on February 5, 1920 (92 years young) and is the oldest of the living Comanche World War II veterans.

Cable, Vernon, US Army 1943-46 and 1948-52, served with the 3177th Pipeline Operating Detachment aboard a Navy Fuel Tanker in the Solomon and surrounding islands in the Pacific Theater. Cable also served with the 8055 the MASH, as a Medical Tech, during the Korean War. He also saw duty at Fort Wallace, TX; Fort Lewis, Wash.; San Francisco, Cali. and Fort Sill, Okla.

Cable was awarded the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign and Korean Service Medals. He lives in Cache, Okla., with his daughter Verna and was born on August 9, 1923 (89 years young).

Cato, Phil Jr., US Army, 1944-46, served with the Battery D, 127th Antiaircraft Artillery Battalion in the European Theater. He was awarded the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with/4 Bronze Service Stars and the World War II Victory Medal. Cato grew up in Faxon, Lawton and Lawrence, Kan., and now lives in Beaumont Cali., with his wife. His father, Phil Sr., (who was Tewa Pueblo), was director of music at Lawton Public Schools, in the 1920’s and Haskell Institute, in the 1930’s. Cato’s mother was Ida Ross and his Comanche grandparents were Cheapy Ross and Tits-se-na. He was born on December 24, 1924 (87 years young).

Chaat (Chahtinneyackque), Theodore, US Army Air Force, 1943-47, served as an Aviation Cadet and Aircraft Mechanic. He did complete his pre-flight training on Taylor and Piper Aircraft at Santa Anna, Cali., primary flight training on PT13 Aircraft at King City, Cali, and basic flight training on BT13 Aircraft at Merced Cali., when the war ended. He also served at Salinas, Kan. and Salt Lake City, UT. Two of his brothers, Robert and Samuel also served overseas during World War II. His granddaughter, Lindsey Hutson Griner, a Marine, was decorated for Valor during the War on Terror.

He lives in Lawton and was born on February 26, 1925 (87 years young).

Hoawah, Clay, US Army, 194045, served with the 871st Engineer Aviation Battalion in the Pacific as a Duty Solider. He spent three years and three+ months overseas and was awarded the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign medal with/3 Bronze Ser Continued on Page 9

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vice Stars. After his military service Hoahwah completed his education at Cameron A&M and Oklahoma University and was a teacher, coach, principle and counselor in Oklahoma and New Mexico. In the early 1960’s he was the first Comanche to earn a Masters Degree from the University of Oklahoma. His parents were the late Sam and Emma Hoahwah and his late wife was the former Wekeah Paddyaker. He lives in Norman, Okla., with his daughter Kim. Hoahwah was born on January 22, 1921 (91 years young).

Photo

not

John F. Steffen, a Merchant Ship, in the Pacific and SS Cape Clear, a Liberty Ship, in the North Atlantic and India Oceans. He was awarded both the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal and Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal.

Tahdooahnippah was last known to be living in Cyril, Okla. He was born May 11, 1926 (86 years young).

available

Kowena, Lewis, US Army, 1944-46, served with 974th Field Artillery, as a Cannon Crewman, in the Europe - his first combat was the toward the end of the Battle of the Bulge.

Kowena was awarded the EuropeanAfrican-Middle Eastern Campaign medal with/2 Bronze Service Stars.

He completed his basic and artillery training at Fort Sill and his military service at Fort Hood, TX. Kowena was last known to be living in Tecumseh, Okla. He was born on March 31, 1926 (86 years young).

Monatoboy, Gilbert, US Army, 1942-45, served with F Company, 1st Battalion, 34th Infantry Division and fought in eight major battles in Africa and Italy. He was awarded the Combat Infantryman Badge, Bronze Star and Purple Heart and lost three toes from his wounds (from shell fragments on January 13, 1944 during the first battle of Monte Cassino). His son, Michael, is a Vietnam War veteran. Monatoboy is a patient at the Lawton VA Center. He was born July 6, 1921 (91 years young).

Rivas, Louis, US Army Air Force, 1942-45 & OKARNG 1945-52, served with the 394th Heavy Bombardment Squadron, 5th Bomber Group, 13th “Jungle” Air Force in the Pacific. He flew 48 missions as a Ball turret Gunner on a B-24 Liberator Bomber and also served with the 45th Infantry Division, as an Infantry First Sergeant, during the Korean War. He trained at Pueblo, Colo., Topeka, Kan., Camp Polk,La., and Japan. His brother, Johnnie was the killed in action on June 6, 1944 during the D-Day invasion of Europe.

Rivas earned Crew Flight Wings, the Air Medal (4), the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with/3 Bronze Service Stars during WWII and the Combat Infantryman Badge during the Korean War. He lives in Lawton with his wife. Rivas was born on August 25, 1923 (89 years young).

Tahdooahnippah, Elridge, US Navy, 1943-46, served aboard the USS

Linda Asenap, Women Army Corps (WAC) Nurse, France and England Awarded the EAME Campaign Medal.

Alvin Myers, US Navy Seabee in Alaska and Okinawa Awarded the Asiatic-Pacific Medal.

Woommavovah, Nathaniel, US Army, 1944-46, served with Company H, 118th Infantry Regiment 30 Infantry Division in European Theater and earned the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with/2 Bronze Service Stars. He served mostly as a guard for American military prisoners. Woommavovah is a former Commander of the CIVA and lives in the Cache area. He was born July 12, 1920 (92 years young).

These living men and women, along with the other 190 deceased Comanche veterans of World War II, are truly the Greatest Generation. One of ten American men served during World War II while only one of every five hundred American men has served during the War on Terror. Makes you wonder if PATRIOTISM, which is the basis of all the freedoms we enjoy and many take for granted, has become the responsibility of a few enjoyed by all.

There are a number of Comanche families that had 3-6 members serve during World War II. They include six members of the Davis (Emmett, Eugene, Jackson, Jesse, John and Madison, all US Navy, all deceased) family.

Five members of the Red Elk (Melford, Ozzie, Roderick, Wilbur and William Jr.) and Saupitty (Floyd, Larry, Raymond, Stanford and Tennyson) families;

Four members of the Pahdopony (Howard, John, Sam and Stacy), Parker (Elmer, Harold, Randlett and Simmons) and Tahmahkera (Carl, Melton, Monroe and Vance) families;

Three members of the Asenap (Eugene, Gilbert and Linda), Cable (Forrest, James and John) Chebahtah (Clifford Sr, Leonard and William), Clark (Clifford, Edward and Roberta Clark Bradley), Heredia (Eugene, Hilton and John), Kowena (George, Glenn and Lewis), LeBarre (Ben, Charles and Hal), Mihecoby (Fernel, Virgil and Wesley), Myers (Alvin, Melvin and Vincent), Otipoby (Jesse, Leonard and Marlin), Pebeahsy (Frank, Harold and Hugh Sr.), Rivas (Cid, Johnny and Louis), Tahsequah (Albert Jr., Archie and Meech), Torralba (Alfred, Anthony and Paul), Trevino (Ben, Sam and Eddie Jr.), Vidana (Elbert, Herbert and Gilbert) and Wells (Arvin, Charles and Otto Jr.) families. The following are photos of some of the deceased members of those families mentioned above.

Robert Chaat, US Army Air Force Gunner on B-25 liberator Heavy Bomber Flew 51 missions in Europe also flew the “Hump” in Pacific Awarded the EAME & Asistic-Pacific Campaign Medals.

Melvin Myers, US Army 82nd Airborne Division, Europe Killed in Action on June 14, 1944 Awarded the CIB, Bronze Star & Purple Heart.

Elgin Red Elk, US Army Code Talker, Europe awarded the EAME Campaign Medal w/4 Battle Stars.

Roderick Red Elk, US Army Code Talker, Europe awarded the EAME Campaign Medal w/4 Battle Stars.

Vincent Myers, US Army Air Force Flew 71 combat mission in Europe Awarded Distinguished Flying Cross (2).

Wilbur Red Elk, US Army served from 1944-45 & 1947-49 awarded the Combat Infantryman Badge.

Samuel Chaat, US Army Combat Medic in Europe Awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart.

Marlin Otipoby, US Marine Corps Served as a Land Radio and Air Radar Operator in the Pacific Awarded the Asia-Pacific Campaign Medal.

Edward Clark, US Marine Corps Infantryman in Pacific Awarded the Silver Star and Purple Heart.

Cid Rivas, US Army served stateside

Sam Pahdopony, US Navy Original Frogman cleared 16 island invasion routes in Pacific awarded the AsiaticPacific Medal.

Johnnie Rivas, US Army 82nd Airborne Division, Europe Killed in Action on June 6, 1944 awarded the CIB, Bronze Star & Purple Heart.

Charles LeBarre, US Army Air Force Served with 220th Photo Recon Company Europe Awarded EAME Campaign Medal with/5 Battle Stars.

Simmons Parker, US Army Code Talker, Europe awarded the EAME Campaign Medal w/4 Battle Stars.

Continued on Page 10

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sence of the Principle Chief.

Noted artist George Catlin, accompanied the expedition and many of his most famous sketches of buffaloes and Comanches were no doubt drawn during the 12 days he was encamped with Dragoons. The exact location of the camp will never be known with certainty but it is thought to be near Highway 62 (the highway between Apache and Lawton) near the Caddo and Comanche Eddie Trevino, served with 1st county boundary line.

Cavalry Division awarded the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal.

War Hero Survives Midland Train Wreck

and has been awarded the Combat Medical and Combat Action Badges, the Bronze Star and Purple Heart Medals along with numerous other decorations and awards.

He is the son of Clarice and the late Oscar Gonzalez and the grandson of Carol and the late LaVerne Aitson. We wish Gonzalez and his family well and thank him for his outstanding contributions, as a soldier, during the War on Terror.

US Army Helicopter Named Comanche

Floyd Saupitty, US Marine Corps, Pacific Theater awarded the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal.

Boeing-Sikorshy RAD-66 Comanche Helicopter

Samuel Trevino, US Army Infantryman 4th Infantry Division, Prisoner of War, Europe awarded the Prisoner of War Medal.

Larry Saupitty, US Army Code Talker, Europe awarded two Purple Hearts.

Lanny Asepermy on right with CIVA Commander George Red Elk, on left and War on Terror veteran Tennyson “T-bone” Kerchee in the center.

Military Base in BosinaHerzegovina Named Comanche Meech Tahsequah, US Army Air Force flew 31 combat missions in European Theater awarded Distinguished Flying Cross (2) captured during Korean War and Declared Dead, body not recovered.

Vance Tahmahkera (with Anna), US Navy served as a Seabee in the Pacific awarded the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal.

It is called Camp Comanche, Comanche Army Airfield or Comanche Base (Tuzia West).

On January 26, 1996 Comanche Base was established about 70 miles north of Savejo, the capitol of BosinaHerzegovina. Comanche Base has billeting for 1700 troops, showers, field expedient latrines, sports and recreation facilities and a movie theater.

Some of the units it has served include the 4th Aviation Brigade, 18th Military Police Brigade, 501st Attack Battalion Squadron, 2nd Armored Cavalry Regiment, 49th Aviation Brigade, 49th Aviation Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division, 45th Combat Infantry Brigade and 1st Cavalry Division.

Another Army Camp Once Named Comanche

On July 16, 1834 Camp Comanche was established near a large Comanche village of 200 lodges by an expedition of the First Dragoons, consistBen Trevino, US Army Combat ing of three officers and 33 enMedic 9th Infantry Division, Eu- listed men, under the command rope Killed in Action on August 3, of Colonel Henry Dodge. That 1944 awarded the Combat Medicamp was abandoned 12 days cal Badge, Bronze Star and Purple later on July 28th. The camp Heart. was established with hopes of negotiations with the Comanche leadership which never happened because of the ab-

Improvised Explosive Device (IED) War on Terror survivor, SGT Joseph Gonzalez, has a Guardian Angel looking over him and his wife.

Gonzalez has been a patient at the Warrior Transition Facility at Fort Sam Houston, TX Medical Facility, in San Antonio, since his return from Afghanistan in March, 2012. He is being treated for Traumatic Brain Injury after an IED destroyed his vehicle on August 2, 2011. Five other soldiers, along with Gonzalez, were members of D Company, 1st Battalion, 179th Infantry 45th Combat Infantry Combat Team. All six soldiers suffered extensive wounds and head injuries from the explosion.

On November 15, 2012 Gonzalez and his wife, Tshante, were on a float, in a parade, en route to a veterans’ benefit sponsored by a charity in Midland, TX called Show of Support/Hunt for Heros. Wounded soldiers from Fort Sam Houston were being recognized for their military service in Iraq and Afghanistan. A Union Pacific Railroad freight train traveling 62 miles per hour struck a flat-bed semi trailer carrying 26 passengers, 12 were US Armed Forces veterans that had been wounded in action, 12 were spouses of the veterans and two were civilian escorts. The impact killed two veterans immediately and two more died later at Midland Memorial Hospital. 16 other passengers were injured including four that remain in the hospital, one in critical condition.

Gonzalez and his wife, along with 24 others, had just cleared the crossing, by a few seconds, when the accident occurred. In an e-mail, from Gonzalez on November 19, he said “I was on a hunting trip there and was on the float that made it across right before the other was hit. The second reminded me of an IED going off again.

I treated a few people before the EMT’s arrived. It was a rough day. I am more worried about my wife. She is taking it pretty hard. She has never seen mangled bodies before, It was a pretty bloody scene.”

Gonzalez is a Combat Medic and served a tour in both Iraq and Afghanistan. He will most likely be medically retired due to his injuries as his Medical Board has begun to determine his future in the military. Gonzalez is a decorated Comanche combat veteran

In 1982 the US Army began formulating a requirement for the replacement of it’s helicopters then in service, resulting in the Light Helicopter Experimental program. It wasn’t until March 30, 199 that the RAH-66 Comanche made it’s first flight - the role of the RAH-66 Comanche was as a reconnaissance and attack helicopter. On February 23, 2004, after 421 test flights consuming 470 flight hours the Army announced their decision to cancel the RAH-66 Comanche program.

The RAH-66 Comanche had a crew of two, was 47 feet in length, 11 feet in height, could travel at 210 miles per hour, could climb 895 feet per minute and was armed with one 20mm three barrel Gatling cannon and Hellfires, Stingers or Hydra rockets.

US Navy Ship Named Comanche

USCGC Comanche

The USCGC Comanche, formerly the USS Comanche, formerly the USRC Windom was built by Iowa Iron Works, Dubuque, IA in 1896 and accepted by the Treasury Department on May 11, 1896. Partially incomplete, she was moved from Dubuque - via Cairo, IL and new Orleans, La., to Baltimore, Md., where she was completed and placed in commission on June 30, 1896. Originally named the USS Windom she was renamed the USS Comanche on December 13, 1915. She was a Revenue Cutter, weighed 544 tons (1,088,000 lbs.), was 170 feet and eight inches in length (57 yards or a little over half a football field), had a top speed of 17 miles per hour with 49 crewman. She was armed with one 76mm gun and two 6-pounder guns.

During her service with the name Comanche, she patrolled the Gulf of Mexico with ports of Mobile, Ala., Galveston, TX, and Key West, Fla. She was placed out of commission on July 31, 1930 and sold to Weiss Motor Lines of Baltimore on November 13, 1930.

No other ship in the US Navy has been named Comanche.

SGT Amos Makes Cry in Vietnam

The Historian of the Comanche Indian Veterans Association has documented nineteen Comanche veterans have been decorated for Gallantry, Heroism or Valor or have fought and killed the enemy in Hand to Hand Combat while serving in the Armed Forces of the United States.

They have been given an honorary title of Numu Pukutsi – Crazy Dog Soldier.

On December 10, 2012 he received a phone call from Amos Makes Cry, an enrolled Comanche. Makes Cry told him he was a US Army and Vietnam War veteran. His DD 214 (Armed Forces of the United States Report of Transfer or Discharge), a photo in uniform and any other pertinent military information he wanted made available were requested. On December 15th his DD 214, photo, 3 sets of orders for the Army Commendation Medal(s) and the citation awarding him the Army Commendation Medal with/Valor Device were received. One set of orders, dated 16 April 1969, was an award of the Army Commendation Medal for Heroism. The orders stated “For heroism in connection with military operations against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam on 18 March, 1969” – his citation read likewise. SGT Makes Cry is the twentieth Comanche veteran to earn the title of Numu Pukutsi.

The other 19 Comanches include PVT Calvin Atchavit, US Army, Distinguished Service Cross, World War I; MSgt Edward L. Clark, US Marine Corps, Silver Star, Marine Medal and USN/ USMC Commendation Medal with/Valor Device; SGT Lee D. Toquothy, US Army, Silver Star, Korean War; SSG George Red Elk, US Army, Silver Star, Vietnam War; LtCol Meech Tahsequah, US Army Air Force, Distinguished Flying Cross (2), World War II; Maj Vincent Myers, US Army Air Force, Distinguished Flying Cross (2), World War II; Brig Gen Jonathon George, US Air Force, Distinguished Flying Cross; SGM Rudolph Kosechequetah, US Army, Soldiers Medal, Vietnam War; Col Raymond C. Portillo, US Marine Corps, Bronze Star with/Valor Device, World War II; CPT Cloyce V. “Chuck” Choney. US Army, Bronze Star with Valor Device (2), Vietnam War; Sgt Lucien “Jimmy” Looking Glass, US Marine Corps, Bronze Star with/Valor Device, Vietnam War; CPT Johnny Tiddark, US Army, Bronze Star with/Valor Device, Vietnam War; LCpl Philip K. Rogers Sr, US Marine Corps, USN/USMC Commendation Medal with/Valor Device; LCpl Lewis Chasenah, US Marine Corps, USN/USMC

Continued on Page 11

February 2013

11

The Comanche Nation News

Continued from Page 10

Achievement Medal with/Valor Device; Cpl Leland Parker, US Marine Corps, USN/ USMC Achievement Medal with/Valor Device; LCpl Joshua J. Ware, US Marine Corps, USN/USMC Achievement Medal with/Valor Device, War on Terror; Sgt Lindsey M. Hutson Griner (only female), US Marine Corps, USN/USMC Achievement Medal with/ Valor Device; Sgt Ronald “Ronnie” Mahsetky, US Marine Corps and Cpl Edmond “Eddie” Mahseet, US Marine Corps, both Vietnam War fought and killed the enemy in Hand to Hand Combat. Individual stories about these men and woman have appeared in previous 2012 editions of TCNN.

SGT Makes Cry was drafted into the US Army on

April 2, 1968 and served until November 3, 1969 (a total of 1 year, 7 months and 2 days) earning the rank of Sergeant.

He took his Basic Combat Training at Fort Polk, LA and his Advanced Individual Training, as a Field Artillery Crewman, at Fort Sill. He shipped immediately to Vietnam and was assigned to C Battery, 1st Battalion, 11th Artillery. He later served with the C Company, 6th Battalion, 31st Infantry and completed his tour of duty with D Battery, 2nd Battalion, 4th Artillery all of the 9th Infantry Division. He was a Cannoneer and Section Chief with the artillery and detailed with a small Recon Unit with the infantry – assisting the unit’s Forward Observer. His unit served in the Mekong Delta based at Dong Tam as well as

numerous fire bases throughout the Delta. SGT Makes Cry served a total of 1 year, 1 month and 29 days in Vietnam.

Besides the Army Commendation Medal with/Valor Device he was also awarded 2 other Army Commendation Medals, the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with/3 Bronze Service Stars, the Vietnam Gallantry Cross with/Palm, the Vietnam Campaign Medal with/1960 Device and 2 Overseas Bars (Combat Stripes).

SGT Makes Cry lives in Bethany, OK. His father was the late Albert Makes Cry, an US Army and World War II veteran and recipient of the Bronze Star and Combat Infantryman Badge and a member of the Ponca Tribe. The CIVA conducted military funeral

honors for the late Mr. Makes Cry on July 10, 2012. His final resting place is the West Cache Cemetery (Tombstone) west of Cache. His mother is the former late Gloria Komah (date of death December 22, 2011). She is also buried at West Cache Creek Cemetery. Her parents were the late Amos and Rose Komah of Cache.

Honors will be presented to SGT Makes Cry, for his extraordinary bravery on the battlefields of Vietnam, during the CIVA’s 8th Annual Armed Forces Day Banquet at the Comanche Community Center in Apache on May 18, 2012.

in front of the Nation Complex. Collection of names for this stone began in April, 2009 and consist of corrections and new names. If you are honorably discharged veteran or a family member of a deceased honorably discharged veteran and would like your/ their FULL NAME, RANK, BRANCH OF SERVICE and YEARS SERVED on the stone or if your name is already on the stone and the information is incorrect and you would like it corrected please contact Lanny Asepermy at (580) 5882377 or (580) 678-4629 or PO Box 247, Apache, OK 73006 or email at sgtmajase@yaNew CIVA Veterans hoo.com with the information Monument

The Comanche Indian above. The deadline is FebruVeterans Association will sub- ary 10, 2013. The Monument mit the following names for a is set to be dedicated on Menew veterans Monument Stone morial Day, 2013.

February 2013

12

The Comanche Nation News

Milestones Happy Belated Birthday

Lynn Viddaurri, December 24 Nathan Lopez Jr., January 5 Berwyn Mosses Jr., January 7 Rivers Rhi Johnson, January 9 Amanda Codopony, January 11 Cali Alderman, January 11 Taylor Thornbrugh, January 13 Amari Brinkman, January 14 Wilson Paul Nelson, January 14 Logan Crawford, January 17 Lance Weeda Passah, January 19 Jessica Blossom Tahah, January 20 Amadeo Brinkman, January 23 Charlie Pekah, January 23 Marlene Ahdosy, January 23 Ronna Kay Potts, January 24 Charles B. Monoessy, Sr., January 26 Gene Mowatt, January 28 Jeriah Michael Nelson, January 28

Happy Belated Birthday Nathan Lopez Jr. January 5

Happy Belated Birthday Cali Alderman January 11

Happy Belated Birthday Taylor Thornbrugh January 13

Happy Belated Birthday Logan Crawford January 17

Happy Belated Birthday Marlene Ahdosy January 23

Happy Birthday Alexis Sandy February 3

Happy Birthday Amanda Pohawpatchoko February 3

Happy Birthday Richard Karty February 8

Happy Birthday Khloe Celeste Goombi February 9

Happy Birthday Charlie Pekah February 23

Happy Birthday

Dorothy Tahah, February 2 Alexis Sandy, February 3 Amanda Pohawpatchoko, February 3 Glen Heminokeky, February 4 Janet Codopony Tahah, February 4 Alisha Pewewardy, February 5 Gwen Brinkman, February 5 Marcy Soto, February 5 Nancy Alandzes, February 5 Tony Viddaurri, February 6 Fiona Wetselline, February 7 Richard Karty, February 8 Debbie Knox, February 9 Khloe Celeste Goombi, February 9 J.J. Yeahquo, February 10 Evelyn Mithlo, February 13 Marques Karty, February 13 Rechanda Bandaras, February 16 Rico Lopez, February 16 Spencer Monoessy, February 18 Madyson Maree Lewis, February 19 Tori Lynn Tahchawwickah, February 19 Lauren Blackstar, February 21 Pat Pewewardy, February 24 Sonny Nauni, February 24 Brandon Avery, February 25 Margaret Nauni, February 25 Marshall Powell, February 25 Biaulio Lopez, February 26 Liz Ware, February 26 Sydnee Michelle Lewis, February 26 Autumn Janelle Nelson, February 27 Jan Stumblingbear, February 27 Debbie Hutchens, February 28 Rozella Williams, February 28

Happy Birthday Liz Ware February 26

Happy Birthday Autumn Janelle Nelson February 27

Don’t Forget to submit milestones for those special loved ones; Just married, Anniversaries, Birth Announcements, & Birthdays ***Deadline for March 2/15/13 *** Call: Public Information Office (580) 492-3386 Email: candacet@comanchenation.com Or mail to: Comanche Nation/PIO P.O. Box 908 Lawton, OK 73502

Raymond Clay Portillo 1917~2003 Congratulations Raymond & Gina Pohawpatchoko Married January 5, 2013

Anniversaries Brandon & Jennifer Avery February 28~Married 10 years Butch & Linda Tahsequah February6~Married 47 years

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

Happy Anniversary Chris & Desiree DeVine February 13

Married 5 years

In Loving Memory Thank you to the friends & Xavier Ahdosy Chandler relatives who brought food, flowers, hugs & prayers of Born: comfort for my daughter we 4:53 A.M. appreciate all that you did January 5, 2013 for us.

9lbs’ 7oz’

To: Jason Chandler & Jesscia Ahdosy

Lavone Windsor & Yolanda’s companion Joe

Yolanda Sue Daukei October 13, 1967~ December 14, 2012

February 2013

13

Obituaries

Donald Donavon Woothtakewahbitty

Woothtakewahbitty

Donald Donavon Woothtakewahbitty, 74 went to his heavenly home on November 21 at his home in Elgin.

Funeral service was November 24, 2012 at Little Washita UMC with Rev. Bill Foote officiating. Burial with military honors will follow at Little Washita Cemetery under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home.

Prayer service was November 23, 2012 at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel.

Wo o th takew ahbitty was born December 13, 1937 in Lawton to Owen and Velma (Mihecoby) Woothtakewahbitty. He graduated from Elgin High School in 1956 and then he attended Haskell Indian Junior College where received an associates degree in welding.

Wo o th takew ahbitty enlisted in the Army National Guard on July 5, 1955 in Lawton and was discharged on February 14, 1957. He enlisted in the US Navy on June 2, 1959 as a shipfitter Class Three with the USS Dixie at San Diego, California until November 16, 1961. He received a Good Conduct Award. He transferred to the Eighth Naval District as a Reserve until May 3, 1963.

Wo o th takew ahbitty was a member of the Comanche Nation of Oklahoma, Little Washita UMC, Lifetime member FFA, Lifetime member of the NRA, Comanche Golf Association, and CIVA. Wo o th takew ahbitty has worked for the caretaker for Little Washita Cemetery for many years. He also worked for Weyerhaeuser, AA Fence Company, taught one year welding at Elgin Public Schools, Sequoyah Carpet Mill as Supervisor, Riverside Indian School as Residential Advisor, and retired from the BIA Soil and Moisture Conservation Lawton Office.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing, spending his time outdoors, golfing, working newspaper puzzles, jig saw puzzles, living on his farm, spending time with his family, especially the grand children.

Woothtakewahbitty is survived by: four daughters: Chloveta Caudill and spouse William "Billy Don" Caudill of Comanche County; Debbie Mileto and spouse Joe Mileto, LaDonna Mihecoby and spouse Marty Mihecoby all of Elgin, Cheryl Turner and spouse Tim Turner of Apache; one son,Raymond Woothtakewahbitty and spouse Wendy Corvallis, Oregon; grandchildren Angelena, Beth, Brian, Amanda, Brad, Steven, Marlee, Mystee, Kasey, Patrick John, Martie, Dustin, Michael, Mary, Velma, Patrick Shawn, Brittany, Hailey, Melody, Maddison, Debreona, Michaele, and Brett; 26 Great grandchildren; many other loved chil-

dren; Siblings Deloris Karty of Anadarko, Ramona and Lupe Gooday of Anadarko, Laverna and Terry Tahsequah –of Lawton, Pat LaVoie of Elgin; special cousins, Elizabeth Woodard and Caroline Tinney; many nieces, nephews, family members, and friends.

Woothtakewahbitty is preceded in death by: his parents; a brother, Hugh Wooth; 3 sisters: Jean Pahdopony, Ida Mae Wauqua, Neata Perkaquanard; two nieces and three nephews.

Yolanda Sue Daukei

Daukei

Holder

pel with Pastor Larry Thoma officiating. Burial will follow at Cache KCA Intertribal Cemetery, Cache under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home.

Holder was born to Robert Holder and Ardis Mahsetky Holder on September 8, 1959 in Lawton, Okla. He grew up in Apache and traveled with his parents who were in the military. He returned to Apache and he graduated from Apache High School.

He is a member of the Comanche Nation Tribe of Oklahoma. His father was Robert Holder a Comanche Code Talker. He loved working on cars, watching his grandchildren and son do martial arts, and spending time with his children and grandchildren. He loved to cook and was a chef in New Mexico.

He is survived by one son: Robert W. Holder and wife Sherry of Marlow; daughters: Christy and husband Kenneth Laurenzana of Apache, Savanna Holder, Roxanne Holder, Ardis Holder, Anaya Holder all of Ruidoso, New Mexico; Brother: Ron Mahsetky and wife, Phyllis of Elgin; sisters: Melva Camacho of Lawton, Sylvia Macias and husband Felix of Geronimo, and Renee Guadarrama of Warren Va.; uncle: Tyrus Mahsetky; aunts: Mitzi Laurenzana and Annetta Mahsetky; six grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews,

He is preceded in death

by Parents: Robert Holder and Ardis Mahsetky Holder; grand parents: Sofia Tahmahkera and Mike Mahsetky Sr.; sister: Barbara Saenz; brothers: Gerald Holder; uncles: Leo Mahsetky, Clifford Mahsetky, Ethmer Mahsetky, Travis Mahsetky, Marcy Mahsetky, Randy Holder, Robert Allen Holder; aunt: Peggy Joy Mahsetky; uncle:, Mack Mahsetky.

Yolanda Sue Daukei, 45 of Lawton went to her heavenly home on December 14, 2012.

Funeral service was December 18, 2012 at Comanche Nation Funeral Home with minister Jan James officiating.

Burial will follow at Cache KCA Cemetery west of Cache.

Daukei was born in Lawton on October 13, 1967 to Lavone Daukei. She grew up in Cache and attended Riverside Indian School. She was attending Comanche Nation College to pursue her GED.

Daukei was a member of the Komah Memorial Church of the Nazarene, Comanche Nation of Oklahoma and was also of Kiowa descent.

Yolanda enjoyed her Native American tradition: listening to Comanche and Kiowa hymns, making fry bread, beadwork and making jewelry. She enjoyed dining out and eating her sweets. She was a very giving and caring person who enjoyed spending time with her family and friends.

She is survived by: fiancé, Joey Urango Jr. of the home, four children: Liz Ware and Edmund Ware II of Lawton, Little Bear Devaughn and Stillwater Devaughn of Rural Valley, Pa., grandchildren: Tristan and Isabella Codynah; mother, Lavone Windsor of Lawton; siblings: Stephanie Ware of Lawton, Timothy Walker of Uvalde, Texas, Wendell “Head” Gooday and James Walker of Fletcher, aunts: Valerie Wahkinney, Anita Daukei, Alva Niedo, Marilyn Hendrix, Mona Daukei, Libby Dalmer, Edna Daukei, uncles: Link Daukei and Billy Daukei; numerous nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.

She is preceded in death by: grandparents: William and Mada Daukei, aunt, Betty Daukei, cousins: Kevin Daukei and Russell Wahkinney.

Delbert W. Holder

Delbert W. Holder 53 of Ruidoso, New Mexico went to be with the Lord on December 21, 2012 in El Paso, Texas.

Funeral Service was December 31, 2012 at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Cha-

Apache Cemetery under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home.

Prayer Service was January 10, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home with Lay Speaker Lupe Gooday officiating.

Gooday was born March 21, 1941 to Robert Gooday and Mary Dorcus Powhoneat in Apache, Oklahoma. He grew up in the Boone Apache area attended Boone and Apache Schools. He was a member of the Comanche Nation of Oklahoma and of Ft. Sill Apache decent. He enjoyed fire dancing, playing baseball and football.

Gooday served in the US Air Force from February 3, 1961 to April 3, 1962 earning the rank of Airman. He took his Basic Training at Lackland AFB, Texas and his Occupation Training as cook at Ft. Lee, Virginia. He was assigned to HQs Squadron, 36th Combat Group, 36th Tactical Fighter Wing at Bitburg Air Base, Germany for eight months and 12 days. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal and the Cold War Letter of Recognition. He was discharged at McGuire AFB, New Jersey.

He is survived By: three children: Dianna Codopony of Apache; Trista Gooday of Denver, Colorado; and Wendell Joseph Gooday of Apache; brothers and sisters: Inez Motah of Lawton, Lupe Gooday of Anadarko, Talbert Gooday of Owasso; grandchildren, Tiffany Gooday, Michael Gooday, Tristin Codopny, Joshua Codopony, Ethan Copodony all of Apache; one great grandchild: Aiden Gooday of Apache.

He is preceded in death by: his parents; his spouses: Lorene Lester, and Cordellia Gooday; brothers and sisters: Inman Cloyd Gooday, Henry Gooday, Flora Gooday, Theodora Gooday Martinez .and Bob Gooday.

Rosemarie T. Henderson

The Comanche Nation News

with AT&T. She loved gardening and shopping, although not necessarily in that order.

She is survived by her aforementioned children, and her son-in-laws Steven Pearce and Michael Still. She is also survived by her four grandchildren: Jared and Wakeah Vigil, Brandon and Rachel Pearce, her niece, LaDonna Harris and family, as well as grandnieces Donna Stark, and Linda Cook and family. She left many friends, neighbors, and extended family in Oklahoma, Arizona, and New Mexico.

She is preceded in death by her siblings Clinton, Lester, and Frank Tabbytite, Lily Crawford, as well as her niece, Billie Hooper.

Funeral service was January 15, at Deyo Mission Church with Bill Volker officiating. Burial will follow under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home.

Though not a world traveler, she saw many parts of the United States, Canada, Mexico and a special trip to the big island of Hawaii’ with one of her daughters and her family. She was a proud and independent woman who raised her five children on her own and gathered strength from the deep love of her mother and father. She was strong, because they were strong.

Safely Home I am home in Heaven, dear ones; Oh, so happy and so bright!

There is perfect joy and beauty In this everlasting light All the pain and grief is over Every restless tossing passed; I am now at peace forever, Safely home in Heaven at last.

Did you wonder I so calmly Trod the valley of the shades?

Oh, but Jesus’ love illumined Every dark and fearful glade

And he came Himself to meet me In that way so hard to tread, Henderson And with Jesus’ arm to lean on,

Rosemarie T. Hender- Could I have one doubt or son, 82, went to be with the dread?

Lord on January 11, while surrounded by her five children.

She died in Albuquerque, NM as a result of a brief illness.

She was born on June 10, 1930 on the family farm outside of Temple, Okla., to John Tabbytite and Wickkie (Paddyaker) Tabbytite.

She grew up on the farm and attended Haskell Boarding School in Lawrence, Kan.

She met and married Kenneth Henderson in Oklahoma in 1955 while he Gooday was stationed at Fort Sill. The

Wendell “Head” Goo- marriage produced five childay went to his heavenly home dren: Nikki Henderson Vigil, Shari Pearce, Lisa Rae Scott, on January 8, in Apache.

Funeral Service was Jo Beryl Henderson Still, and January 11, at Comanche Na- Kenneth Sean Henderson. The tion Funeral Home with Mi- couple divorced in 1974. Her priorities in life were her chilchelle Harjo officiating

Burial with military dren and her work ethic as evihonors will follow at Ft. Sill denced by her 34 yrs. of service

Then you must not grieve so sorely, For I love you dearly still: Try to look beyond earth’s shadows, Pray to trust our Father’s Will.

There is still work waiting for you, So you must not idly stand; Do it now, while life remainethYou shall rest in Jesus’ land.

When your work is all completed He will gently call you Home; Oh, the rapture of that meeting, Oh, the joy to see you come!

February 2013

Happy Valentine’s Day

X O X O X O X O X O X O X O X O X O X O X

14

Happy Valentine’s Day

Logan James,

Happy Valentine’s Day to Mommys “One & Only”. I love you more than the stars in the sky.

To: My youngest

Ahtakee Sovo, I wish you a happy Valentine’s day!

Love your momma

Happy Valentine’s Day “Kaleb Smith Boswell (Sacramento, CA), Mommy’s eyes are filled with hope and my heart with love. U Kamakutu Nu”

Happy Valentine’s Day

Debbie Tieyah & Rose Pennah,

The two most beautiful women in the world!

Love Civa Hill & Wayland Wahnee

Happy Valentine’s Day

To: Jonathan Lovejoy Love, Your wife Kathy

Happy Valentine’s Day

Much love to Casey & Kim!

Words can’t describe our friendship.

LOL Thank you ladies for always being there for me , love yall like sisters

Happy Valentine’s Day Happy Valentine’s Day! I love you all!

Jeriah, Cayla, Alton, Rivers & Tocsi!

Love, Momma

Happy Valentine’s Day

Happy Valentine’s Day

Happy Valentine’s day mamma....you are the best mother/wife any body could ask for...we are so lucky to have you

the Ronalds

Happy Valentine’s Day

Happy Valentine’s Day

To: My oldest son Tsap Sovo,

I wish you a Happy Valentine’s Day I love you Momma

Happy Valentine’s Day

Ashley Nauni aka Bumble

Thanks for being a true friend

Love your besties

For my sister, Susan Nahwooksy Love, Kathy

Happy Valentine’s Day

To: Joe Jimenez

To the man who walked through the door at Finance & found me.

Happy 12th Anniversary & Happy Valentine’s Day. I love you.

From: Your loving wife Carol

Happy Valentine’s Boo! Love, A.R.E!

Happy Valentine’s Day to my Mother Opal Gore, Daughter Sassie, Son Shane Gibson & Granddaughter Cia Taylor.

I love you all

Happy Valentine’s Day

To: Raymond Pohawpatchoko “I love you Mr Poh”

From: Ms Poh

Happy Valentine’s Day! I love you so much, Angela & Nuhnuh!

Mithch & Kim!

Love Daddy

You are the true meaning of complete happiness thank you.

Love Civa

Happy Valentine’s Day

Happy Valentine’s Day

Happy Valentine’s Day

Happy Valentine’s Day

The Comanche Nation News

To: Tommy Morales

Be Mine today & everyday. I love you.

From: Ceeny

Happy Valentine’s Day

To: Masa, Mojo & Willow Wind

Wishing you all a very Happy Valentine’s Day with lots of love!

Grandma Mona

Happy Valentine’s Day

Happy Valentine’s Day to my love Fred Codyhah Jr. You are my best friend & make me happy every single day.

Love you always Liz

Happy Valentine’s Day to our sweethearts Bella & Tristan Codynah! You both are a blessing & we love you with all our hearts. love, Mommy &Daddy

Happy Valentine’s Day

Happy Valentine’s Day to my Daughters Cia Walayla & Jacqeline Jerre & my Son Lan Sage, also to my grandmother Opal Jerre Gore & mother Georgia I love you all

Happy Valentine’s Day

Happy Valentine’s Day

Happy Valentine’s Day

Arthur Reyes,

You are the man of my dreams! The love of my life! My best friend! To an AWESOME Father & Husband!

Happy Valentine’s Day

Happy 1st Valentine’s Day to all the Poafpybitty babies, and to Sandy, Linda & Dorothy Poafpybitty

Happy Valentine’s Day

Love you Babydoll Wes & PJ

February 2013

15

The Comanche Nation News

Idle No More Comes to Oklahoma City Tribal Nations from Across the State Unite to Bring Awareness to the Indigenous People of Canada Story and Photos by Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

Comanche tribal members show their support for Idle No More Dec. 29, 2012 at Bricktown in Oklahoma City.

Signs were numerous during the Idle No More in Oklahoma City.

Hand drum singers gather for the final round of songs Dec. 29 in Bricktown.

From Canada to the United States, Hundreds of Native American Tribal Members and other supporters made signs, gathered, walked, and sang tribal songs, all to raise awareness about the issues the Indigenous People of Canada are facing with their government.

The movement came to Oklahoma City’s Bricktown area Dec. 29, 2012. That afternoon the fountain in front of the Harkins Movie Theatre was filled with the sound of drums, singers, and tribal people from all around. The peaceful rally was supported by the Bricktown Management.

“I am here to support our Canadian brothers and sisters,” said Carlene Atauvich Collins.

“We are all Native people and their struggles need to be heard.”

According to CBS News, the Idle No More movement to raise awareness of native issues has gained a serious following and significant media attention through rallies, teach-ins and social media.

A good amount of the attention was focused on Theresa Spence, chief of the Attawapiskat First Nation in northern Ontario, who concluded a sixweek hunger strike on Jan. 24. The aim of Spence's protest was to gain a meeting with Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Governor-General David Johnston to discuss how

to improve the conditions on native reserves.

The movement says it wants to "stop the Harper government from passing more laws and legislation that will further erode treaty and indigenous rights and the rights of all Canadians."

The mission statement reads, "Idle No More calls on all people to join in a revolution which honors and fulfils Indigenous sovereignty which protects the land and water."

The Idle No More Facebook group has about 45,000 members.

Exactly one month after the first meeting Idle No More held a National Day of Action in locations across the country on C-45, the number of the bill introduced by the Harper government on Oct. 18, 2012 with the title, "A second Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 29, 2012, and other measures."

The bill passed and then received royal assent on Dec. 14 and is now known as the "Jobs and Growth Act, 2012."

C-45 is better known as the second omnibus budget bill. The act changes the legislation contained in 64 acts or regulations.

The act itself runs over more than 400 pages.

The changes that most concern the Idle No More movement are the ones to these acts: Indian Act: First Nations

communities can now lease designated reserve lands if a majority attending a meeting called for that purpose vote to do so, regardless of how many people show up.

Previously, approval required the support of a majority of eligible voters.

The Aboriginal Affairs minister can call the meeting to consider surrendering band territory. The minister can choose to ignore a resolution from the band council that's in opposition to a decision at the meeting.

Idle No More says these changes allow "for easier opening of treaty lands and territory."

Navigation Protection Act: Under the act, major pipeline and power line project advocates aren't required to prove their project won't damage or destroy a navigable waterway it crosses, unless the waterway is on a list prepared by the transportation minister. Idle No More claims the amendments remove that protection for 99.9 per cent of lakes and rivers in Canada.

Environmental Assessment Act: The first omnibus budget bill had already overhauled the assessment process and the second one reduces further the number of projects that would require assessment under the old provisions. Idle No More objects to the faster approval process.