June 2013 TCNN

VOLUME 13 EDITION 7

Lawton, OK

June 2013

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here are we going to sleep tonight? How will I feed my children?

Why did this happen to me?

Questions such as these races through the minds of the hundreds of families that stood in front of piles of brick, debris, and rubble that once were their homes. Family memorabilia, heirlooms, and other personal items were lost to the winds that exceeded 200 mph, according to the National Weather Center in Norman, Okla.

Central Oklahoma was struck back-to-back with two EF-5 tornados; one slamming into the Shawnee area the evening of May 19 and one attacking the Moore area the afternoon of May 20. Both twister left a path of death and destruction.

“When the tornado was over us, it became hard to breathe, and our ears began to pop,” said Richard Komah, explaining the terrible minutes of the EF5 tornado hitting his home near Moore. “We could hear our patio being torn apart.”

When he, his wife, Maxine, and their grandchildren emerged from their cellar, they were overwhelmed in shock to see their house destroyed.

“The first thing I saw when I we came out of our cellar was my husband’s bolo tie,” added Maxine. “I grabbed it and began to cry.”

Watch the full interview of the Komah family’s story of survival by going to the Comanche Nation website, www.comanchenation.com.

Other stories of parents laying on their children to shield them from the high winds and flying debris, of houses being torn apart but leaving their Indian regalia intact, and water wells pumps exploding from the pressure of the tornado’s excessive winds and suction were told at the Comanche Nation Outreach Office following the traumatic and historical tornado.

The Comanche Nation Chairman, Wallace Coffey, along with Tribal Administrator, Will Owens, activated the tribe’s Emergency Management Team on May 21, and the trained team immediacy began to gather supplies, equipment, and resources to set up a point of distribution and assistance to the victims at the tribe’s Oklahoma City Outreach Office, 7390 S. Walker, Suite C. Once set up, families from all over the area found their way to the outreach office and were only asked to verify their address to coincide with the areas affected by the violent storms, both directly and indirectly.

“I know it was hard for some of the people to ask for help and some were still in shock,” said Comanche Nation Emergency Management Liaison Officer, Donna Wahnee. “We didn’t wait for them to ask for help, we simply asked, what do you need from us and how can we help you.”

In addition to the assistance and distribution point at the outreach office, the Operations Section Chief, Lynn Schonchin, and support team members of the tribe’s Emergency Management, aided the Oklahoma Emergency Management Team with debris cleanup in the Newcastle area, and was called upon for various additional support by the OEM. The team spent Memorial Weekend aiding the tornado victims

Comanche Nation Police Sponsors Tribal Cops and Kids Event in June

Submitted by CN Law Enforcement Staff

Courtesy Photo

This was the scene when the Komah family emerged from their cellar of safety to find an area of destruction as far as their eyes can see. The family, was one of hundreds who lost everything valuable to them in the two tornados that leveled hundreds of homes, businesses, and schools May 19-20 in the Central Oklahoma area.

Recovering from Devastation

Tales of Survival and Heroism Emerge after Historic Twisters Leave a Path of Destruction

By Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

and delivering supplies to the impact areas.

Other support team members such as Oklahoma City Outreach Director, Karen Canobe, Student Service Director, Gwen Pesewonit, Intern to the Comanche Nation Chairman, Lindsay Early, Office of Environmental Programs Water Quality Tech, Gaylon Padocony, and Emergency Management Director, Laura Phillips, spent countless hours assisting everyone who was in need.

“Although we assisted Comanche tribal members, we also helped other tribes and some non-natives, turning no one away. In a time of destruction and crisis we are all human beings, and we assisted who we could with what we had available,” said Wahnee.

A donation was made from the Society of American Indian Government Employees (SAIGE) to the Comanche Nation to aid in their effort to give comfort and help to the victims

of the natural disaster.

As the families begin their road to recovery from the traumatic situation, they know they have the support of the community, both from the Comanche Nation and other support efforts.

Although the families still feel a sense of loss of valuable items that are not replaceable, they have the comfort of knowing their family is safe, and they can begin to rebuild their life and recover from the devastating events.

Comanche Nation is proud to announce it most current endeavor in sponsoring the 2013 Tribal Cops and Kids Picnic to be held on June 22, at the tribal complex. This fun event is focused on our tribal youth to provide a wholesome, fun event midsummer for the youth. Our desire is to make aware to the community our staff and brief the tribal youth on critical issues in a fun filled atmosphere.

While budget restraints have taken away the past activities such as the bike rodeos and fireworks displays, we have found enough community support to fund this one special event. The Cops and Kid concept has been used in many communities to advance Community Policing to improved relationships.

We realize the youth often is forgotten in community events so this is the driving force to make a special day for them. We will have food, prizes, and events. Everyone we approached has provided assistance or made available resources for this event. We are utilizing all resources, expertise, and donated resources to make our kids feel special.

Some of the personnel that have stepped up to support includes: Stanton’s for tee-shirt design, Comanche Nation Tax Commission for tee-shirt purchase, I omitted the number one supporter: Comanche Nation Chairman and CBC- $1,000, Apache Casino Hotel, Comanche Nation Prevention and Recovery, Pepsi Cola of Lawton, Lawton Ice, 1st Marine Company, L & S Amusement, American Classified, KLAW Radio, YMCA Lawton, OHP Troop G, Outback, Carmike 8, Comanche Nation IT, Comanche Nation Injury Prevention, Comanche Nation Youth Program, McCracken Toilet and Septic, Comanche Nation Student Services, Bill’s Quick Lube, Game King, Michael McBride, Integrity Gaming, Mike’s Sports Grill, Marriott Lawton, Billy Sims, Comanche Nation Office of Environmental Programs, and Comanche Nation PIO. We will reach out to others entities and will use all donated resource to make this event a success.

While the kids experience the bike safety, cultural exchanges, and interaction with the officers, I want to make available to the parents, grandparents and other adults access to the Law Enforcement managers so together we can share concerns, praises, and suggestions to build on the strong bond between the community and its law enforcement agency.

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THE COMANCHE NATION NEWS

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

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

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

Photographs will be copied and will become the property of TCNN. To return original photographs, send a selfaddressed stamped envelope. Do not send faxed photographs or newspaper copies of photographs.

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

Obituaries are written for tribal members only.

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

There has to be contact person and number on the organization’s annual flyer.

We reserve the right to edit all material.

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

Comanche Nation Officials

Chairman Wallace Coffey Vice Chairman Mike Mack Mahsetky Secretary/Treasurer Gary Tahmahkera Committeeman No. 1 Charles Wells Committeeman No. 2 Sonya Nevaquaya Committeeman No. 3 Harry Mithlo Committeeman No. 4 Jack Codopony Sr. 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

Government

May CBC Meeting All Resolutions Pass EDITOR’S NOTE: This is an overview of the May 4 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.

Secretary/Treasurer, Gary Tahmahkera conducted Roll Call.

All CBC were present and a quorum was established.

Chairman Coffey stated that if he is asked to sign a burn ban for Governor Fallin, he will have to ask the General Council before doing so.

Secretary/Treasurer Tahmahkera gave the prayer to begin the meeting.

Committeeman No. 2, Sonya Nevaquaya make a motion to accept the April 6 meeting minutes. Committeeman No. 3, Charles

Wells, seconds the motion. The motion carries 6/0/0.

Resolutions 49-13 Enrollment List No. 924; 5013 Enrollment List No. 929; 51-13 Enrollment List No. 930; 52-13 Enrollment List No. 931; 53-13 Enrollment List No. 932; 54-13 Enrollment List No. 933. ViceChairman Mack Mike Mahsetky makes a motion to approve all six resolutions. Nevaquaya seconds the motion. The motion carries 6/0/0.

55-13 Amending Revenue Allocation plan. Tahmahkera makes a motion to approve. Committeeman No. 4, Jack Codopony seconds the motion. The motion carries 6/0/0.

56-13 Minors Trust Fund. Nevaquaya makes the motion to approve.

Wells seconds the motion. Motion carries 6/0/0.

57-13 Minors Trust Fund. Tahmah-

kera makes a motion to approve.

Mahsetky seconds the motion. Motion carries 6/0/0.

58-13 Removing and adding names to Visitor Center account. Mahsetky makes a motion to approve. Wells seconds the motion. Motion carries 6/0/0.

59-13 Open new account for Water park. Mahsetky makes a motion to approve. Codopony seconds the motion. Motion carries 6/0/0.

60-13 Cotton County Liquor by the drink. Tribe will support the vote if a profit will go back to the children of Cotton County. Codopony makes a motion to approve. Mahsetky seconds the motion. Motion carries 6/0/0.

Codopony makes a motion to go into Executive Session at 11:08 a.m. Tahmahkera seconds the motion. The motion carries 6/0/0

The Comanche Nation Election Board Urges All Tribal Members to take 10 minutes out of your daily schedule TO VOTE

“Your Comanche Vote..

Your Comanche Voice”

Comanche Nation Members – Update Your Address!

City National Bank & Trust Company is preparing for the 2013 Per Capita Distribution and will be mailing the necessary forms to tribal members in July. To insure that you get these forms, you must update your address with the Comanche Nation Enrollment Office

by June 28, 2013. For questions, contact the Enrollment Office at 580-492-3371.

Study Finds Comanche Leaders Influential in American Indian Education A recent research study published by the University of Iowa identified individuals, organizations, and other sources of information that were influential in helping to shape American Indian education policy. Among the twentyone individual, five Comanche tribal members are recognized; they are Mary Jo Tippeconnic Fox, Kathryn Harris Tijerina, Linda Sue Warner, Cornel Pewewardy and John Tippeconnic. Each of these educators served on the Comanche Nation College Council in the past. John Tippeconnic, Professor and Director of American Indian Studies at Arizona State University, stated that “Comanches have always demonstrated leadership in everyday life.

The Tribe established Comanche Nation College, the first tribal college in Oklahoma, to provide students an opportunity to earn a degree, receive a Comanche Centered Education and help prepare future tribal leaders.”

Cornel Pewewardy, Professor and Director of Indigenous Nations Studies at Portland State University, stated “My role as an Indigenous scholar has always been a lifelong battle to free the American Indian mind from European colonization. It’s an historical path of resistance and struggle laid out by our warrior societies. Now it’s our turn as warrior scholars to turn away from the legacies of colonialism and white supremacy, thereby taking on the challenge of creating new pathways for our families and for our tribal peoples.”

Kathryn Harris Tijerina, now living in Santa Fe, noted, “Nothing is more important than having our children know who they are and how they fit into the world. They learn the potential they have to make important contributions to the world.”

Mary Jo Tippeconnic Fox, Research Associate Professor of American Indian Studies at The University of Arizona, Tucson added, “ As a Comanche scholar/educator, I am inspired by my parents who devoted their lives to serving American Indian students and their communities.”

The study, authored by Hollie J. Mackey and Linda Sue Warner is published in the 2013 Spring journal issue of The Critical Journal of

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The Comanche Nation News

All Line Items Pass for FY 2014 Run Offs in CBC No. 1 and No. 2 Positions

By Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

CBC No. 1 Run-Off Candidates

Charles Wells, incumbent

Jonathan Poahway

The number of Comanche voters plummeted to half for this year’s preliminary round of voting, totaling 842.

All line items passed, including the change within the 25% Economic Development portion of the FY 2013-2014 budget. By taking off CONEI as a line item, and distributing the proposed money to other line items that share the Economic Development portion of the

Run-off Elections 8 a.m.-6 p.m. June 15

Anadarko Area— BIA Agency Courtroom, Hwy 281 and Parker McKinzie Road Apache Area—Comanche Nation Community Center of Apache, Julia Mahseet Road. Back up voting site is the Apache High School.

Cache Area—Cahoma Building, 752 Quanah Parker Road Lawton Area—Comanche Nation Complex, 584 NW Bingo Rd. Oklahoma City Area—Oklahoma City Outreach Office—7390 S. Walker, Suite C Walters Area—Comanche Nation Community Center, 905 E. Mission Rd. budget, each got a slight increase for the upcoming year.

Any person running for a CBC (Comanche Business Committee) or Election Board position would have to win by 51% of the total votes casted. If they do not win by that percentage, the first two candidates who have the highest percentages will run off in the June 15 election.

In the primary elections

CBC No.2 Run-Off Candidates

Sonya Nevaquaya, Incumbent

Vincent Pocowatchit

for the CBC positions number One; Charles Wells received 250 votes (29.62%); Vernon Tehauno Jr. had 103 votes (12.20%); Jonathan Poahway received 190 votes (22.51%); Tracy Myers received 146 votes (17.30%); Ozzie RedElk received 132 votes (15.64%); and No votes totaled to 23 votes (2.73%). There is a runoff between Wells and PoahSee RESULTS, Page 4

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The Comanche Nation News

RESULTS

Continued from Page 3

way.

For the CBC No. Two Position, William Nelson Sr. received 140 votes (16.63%); Vincent Pocowatchit received 184 votes (21.85%); Sonya Kay Nevaquaya received 404 votes (47.96); Lebert Taunah received 91 votes (10.81%); and No Votes totaled 23 (2.73%). There is a run-off between Nevaquaya and Pocowatchit.

In the Comanche Nation Election Board positions: Kay Smits won the Anadarko area with 96 votes (79.03%).

The other candidates totals were: Carol Pewewardy 23 votes (18.55%); and No Votes totaled 3 (2.42%) Brandy Sandra Gallegos won the Apache area votes with a total of 58 (71.60%). No Votes totaled 23 (16.67%).

Brandy Lee Heron won the Oklahoma City area with 35 votes (83.33%). No Votes totaled 10 (16.67%).

Walters has Angela Sue Garza as their Election Board representative, winning with 35 votes (83.33%). No Votes cast totaled seven votes (16.67%).

Run-off Elections will be the middle of June. InHouse Voting will take place 8 a.m.-5 p.m. June 14 at the Comanche Nation Complex.

Regular voting will take place 8 a.m.-6 p.m. June 15 at the following sites: Anadarko Area—BIA Agency Courtroom, Hwy 281 and Parker McKinzie Road Apache Area—Comanche Nation Community Center of Apache, Julia Mahseet Road. Back up voting site is the Apache High School.

Cache Area—Cahoma Building, 752 Quanah Parker Road Lawton Area—Comanche Nation Complex, 584 NW Bingo Rd. Oklahoma City Area— Oklahoma City Outreach Office—7390 S. Walker, Suite C Walters Area—Comanche Nation Community Center, 905 E. Mission Rd. All mail-in votes have to be received in the Comanche Nation Election Board Post Office mail box by noon June 15.

No hand in ballots will be accepted at any of the respected polling sites.

Voters are asked to bring their CDIB or State ID. For questions, call the Comanche Nation Election Board, (580) 492-3274.

Text “PIO” to 90210 or “CNWEB” to 90210 to receive the latest information from the Comanche Nation “Like” The Comanche Nation News on Facebook and TCNNPIO on Twitter Go to www.comanchenation.com to link to the monthly CBC Meetings and other special events within the Comanche Nation.

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The Comanche Nation News

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The Comanche Nation News

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The Comanche Nation News

SCHATZ INTRODUCES LEGISLATION FOR NATIVE AMERICAN VETS’ MEMORIAL ON NATIONAL MALL

Senator Introduces Bill Authorizing National Museum of the American Indian to NAJA responds to immigration terminology in news NAJA supports removal of "illegal" from immigration coverage by national media organizations

Raise Funds and Construct Native American Veterans’ Memorial

Senator Brian Schatz of Hawaii, introduced a bill that would facilitate the construction of a Native American Veterans’ Memorial on the National Mall in Washington, DC. The Schatz bill, S.1046, will provide the National Museum of the American Indian (NMAI) with the much needed flexibility to raise funds and move forward on construction of a memorial to honor the brave men and women of Native American heritage who have served our nation.

“This memorial, originally championed by Senators (Daniel) Inouye and (John) McCain and signed into law in 1994, has languished far too long,” said Schatz. Senators Barrasso and Tester are original co-sponsors.

“Every Memorial Day we honor the men and women who have served our country in the armed forces, and today’s legislation would allow for construction of a memorial on the National Mall so that people from across the country can honor the extraordinary contributions and sacrifices of our Native American veterans,” said Senator Brian Schatz. “Per capita Native Americans, including American Indians, Alaska Natives and Native Hawaiians, serve at a higher rate in the Armed Forces that any other group of Americans and have served in all of the Nation’s wars since the Revolutionary War. Our Native veterans have sacrificed their lives for this country and it is important that we recognize their bravery and patriotism with a fitting memorial. I look forward to working with my colleagues on the Indian Affairs Committee and in the United States Senate to get this bill passed and finally have a National Native American Veterans Memorial in our nation’s capital.”

“It’s crucial that we honor all of our nation’s veterans, including our Native American veterans who bravely answered the call to serve and defend our country. This

bill is an important step toward making this privately funded and long awaited memorial a reality at last,” said Senator Barrasso.

“Native Americans have fought bravely and been a critical part of the American military for generations,” Senator Tester said. “It’s longpast time we honor their sacrifices with the recognition they earned. This memorial is one more way we can pay our respects and say ‘thank you’ for their courageous service to our country.”

“We are grateful to Senator Schatz for his interest, and Senators Inouye and (former Senator Daniel) Akaka for their contribution. And we look forward to working with Senator Schatz as we move forward, empowering the National Museum of the American Indian to be directly involved in the process of erecting this memorial,” said Kevin Gover, Director of the National Museum of the American Indian.

“I am grateful to Senator Schatz for revitalizing this effort which Senators Inouye and Akaka initially advocated,” said Native Hawaiian veteran and advocate Allen Hoe. “As a veteran and a Native Hawaiian, I can say that it would mean a lot to our community to have a memorial on the National Mall commemorating our service to our country. I thank Senator Schatz for his leadership and look forward to visiting Washington, DC when this monument is complete.”

“We mahalo Senator Schatz for advancing the work of Senator Inouye and Senator Akaka on behalf of all Native peoples, including Native Hawaiians,” said Robin Puanani Danner, Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement President, a national network of more than 150 Native Hawaiian organizations. “We must honor and always remember the contributions made by our veterans. The memorial will tell a powerful story, especially for the next generation. Similar to Japanese Americans dur-

The Native American Journalists Association commends The Associated Press and other media outlets’ end to the use of the word “illegal” when describing immigrants living in the U.S. without citizenship.

NAJA joins UNITY Journalists for Diversity, Inc. partners, the National Association of Hispanic Journalists and the Asian American Journalists Association, in calling for The New York Times and other news outlets that have yet to officially and fully end the use of the term in their coverage to do so.

AP announced that it would no longer accept “the term ‘illegal immigrant’ or the use of ‘illegal’ to describe a person,” according to an April 2 blog post.

The company updated its stylebook to reflect the change with an entry that says the use of the word “illegal” should only refer to an action.

Since that time, other media organizations have reviewed their policies on the use of the term.

Native people recognize that offensive terminology creates stigmas and perpetuates stereotypes about minority groups. At documented points throughout American history, seemingly innocuous language was used to cast shame on individuals, making them feel inferior.

NAJA President Rhonda LeValdo said the organization supports the removal of this term from all media organizations’ immigration coverage.

“As Native Americans, NAJA recognizes that no human being is illegal. In our own history, Natives have had religious practices deemed ‘ilCAMP MEETING legal’ and been classified as enemy combatants under policies June 24 - 30 that disregarded tribal soverMonday - Sunday eignty,” LeValdo said.

With this recent history 6:00 p.m. in mind, NAJA supports the With Special Speaker changes taking place in newsrooms across the country and Reverend Chip Perkins, Anadarko, OK recognizes that this dialogue would not be possible without Cache First Church of the Nazarene the diversification of media 1 1/2 miles west of Cache, Highway 62. to include staff from all backgrounds.

NAJA lends assistance Contact Person: Rosalind Asetamy, (580) 583-8686 and support to fellow associaRefreshment after Services every evening tions, media organizations, reporters and newsrooms during “Lord Revive Us Again” this transition.

The Time is Now

ing war time, Native peoples share a difficult history with our federal government, and we also share an extraordinary commitment to the principles of freedom and democracy.”

“The Alaska Federation of Natives recognizes the tremendous contributions of Native veterans to our country. It is an honor to support furthering the steps to memorialize these contributions on the National Mall in Washington DC. AFN strongly supports moving this bill forward this Congress,” said Julie Kitka, President, Alaska Federation of Natives, the largest statewide Native organization in Alaska.

“It is essential that we fulfill Senator Inouye and Indian Country’s vision for a memorial to honor the service and sacrifice of our Native American service members. NCAI supports the amendments to the Native American Veterans’ Memorial Establishment Act of 1994, which will make the memorial a reality and allow for it to be built on the property of the National Museum of the American Indian,” said Jefferson Keel, President of the National Congress of American Indians and a decorated veteran. “Most importantly, this bill allows for more flexibility for tribal nations and the United States to work together to honor the contributions and sacrifices of American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian military service members and veterans. As a Native veteran myself, I look forward to the day my fellow veterans are recognized for their contributions to protecting the sovereignty of tribal nations and the United States.”

NCAI Supports the Bill

The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) is supporting new legislation introduced by Senator Schatz of Hawaii to clarify the Native American Veterans’ Memorial Establishment Act of 1994, amending the bill to allow for the completion of the long standing project. The project

has encountered a number of obstacles since the legislation’s passage, including limitations placed on the involvement of the National Museum of the American Indians (NMAI).

The new language removes a number of technical barriers that have hindered completion and allows for the memorial to be built adjacent to NMAI, not inside the Museum as originally proposed. Additionally, NMAI would be able to participate in raising funds for the effort.

“It is essential that we fulfill Senator Inouye and Indian Country’s vision for a memorial to honor the service and sacrifice of our Native American service members. NCAI supports the amendments to the Native American Veterans’ Memorial Establishment Act of 1994, which will make the memorial a reality and allow for it to be built on the property of the National Museum of the American Indian,” said Jefferson Keel, President of NCAI and a decorated veteran. “Most importantly, this bill allows for more flexibility for tribal nations and the United States to work together to honor the contributions and sacrifices of American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian military service members and veterans. As a Native veteran myself, I look forward to the day my fellow veterans are recognized for their contributions to protecting the sovereignty of tribal nations and the United States.”

According to a 2012 report released by the Department of Veterans Affairs: - More than 154,000 Veterans identify themselves as solely American Indian and Alaska Native; - Over 44,000 Native Americans served between 1941 and 1945. The entire population of Native Americans in the United States was less than 350,000 at the time; - More than 42,000 Native Americans served in the military in the Vietnam Era, and over 90 percent of these

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

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The Comanche Nation News

Programs

An Array of Information and Activities Fill the Agenda of the Annual Women’s Wellness Symposium

Story and Photos by Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

Optometry Third Annual Children’s Summer Clinics.

ABOVE: Dr. Christine Rattin tells of ways to relieve stress and anger, a contributor to heart disease.

LEFT: CBC Sonya Nevaquaya welcome the participants of the symposium May 14 at the Lawton Vo-Tech Center.

Women of all areas gathered at the May 14 in Lawton for the Annual Women’s Wellness Symposium in recognition of May being National Women’s Wellness Month.

The event was sponsored by the Comanche Nation Family Violence Prevention Program, Diabetes Awareness Program, and had a helping hand from Sooner Healthcare.

The women had a continental breakfast waiting for them as they began their daylong session of presenters and activities, sponsored by Sooner Healthcare.

Following the Invocation given by Della Taptoe, Comanche Business Committeewoman, Sonya Nevaquaya, welcomed the audience and shared her thoughts on the importance of staying healthy and active, telling personal stories as examples.

“Find someone to encourage you and be the encouraging one,” she advised. “It is a challenge, but you are not alone.”

The staff of the Comanche Nation Diabetes Awareness Program acted out a scenario titled, “Diabetes 101” explaining how easy it is to get diabetes if one does not watch their diet and activities; and the benefits of staying fit and healthy.

Between the line-up of speakers, women had the opportunity to browse the array of vendors who set up. From clothing, shoes, jewelry, beauty supplies and information about weight loss, to free massages provided by the Oasis, which is a local tribal member owned small business, and an array of free health screenings, the ladies had eventful breaks throughout the day.

The main guest speaker, Dr. Christine Rattin, of the Oklahoma Heart Hospital, captured the audience with her staggering health statistics , specifically for women living in Oklahoma.

She opened saying heart disease is not an “old person” condition anymore; it is becoming a “young person” condition at a fast rate.

She elaborated by saying more women in Oklahoma die from heart disease than in any other state.

“Look at the woman to your right,” she instructed the audience.”Now figure out which one of you is going to die; because statistics say onein-two women in Oklahoma will die of heart disease.”

She added women who smoke increase their chances of heart disease 13 percent; and women who are around second-hand smoke, or those who live with a smoker, increase their chances by 12 percent.

With Oklahoma being ranked number three in the United States for worst in exercise and physical activity, her final advise was to take control of stress, anger, eating, and exercising.

“Be your own advocate,” she urged the feminine audience. “You have to be motivated to take care of yourself.”

Certified Zumba Fitness Instructor, Julia Manzkie, followed the inspirational Dr. Rattin’s presentation, and had almost everyone on their feet, dancing basic Zumba style steps to upbeat and rhythmic music.

Following a healthy portion controlled lunch provided by the Diabetes Program, Kyle Rodger of the Comanche County Health Department spoke on physical activity.

Keeping Our Elderly at Home was the next discussion.

Lennetta Davenport of Sooner Home Health Care, listed different home-care incentives that are provided under Medicare and other certified agencies who are established to help.

The afternoon concluded with Robert Zumwalt of the Lawton USPHS Hospital demonstrating movements of Tai Chi, with many women mimicking his slow movement and breathing tatics. The ladies finished the exhibition feeling relaxed.

Door prizes were also given away, and the sponsors of the annual event deemed the symposium a success.

ABOVE: Toby Blackstar, representing someone who is wrestling with diabetes, puts his foot down and knocks-out sugar, played by Casey McCarthy, with the help of exercise, played by Amanda Parker.

LEFT: The Oasis Spa provided 10-minutes of relaxing massages to all the participants at no cost, making it the most popular and busy vendor at the symposium. The Oasis is owned and operated by Comanche tribal member, Terry Tahsequah.

June – August 2013, Appointments will be held on Wednesday for Children 4-18 years.

College students under the age of 24 must present a current student I.D.

They are currently taking appointments.

Only the Parent or guardian can schedule an appointment for the child.

They can only schedule 2 family members at a time Due to the limited amount of appointment the Comanche Nation Optometry Program will not reschedule any appointments

Appointments will be given of on a first come/ First Serve basic

During this time they will see any adults until September.

The Comanche Nation Optometry will accept current prescriptions from other optometrist to order eyeglasses, however, will NOT order eyeglasses on Wednesday due to all the children’s appointments that need our undivided attention.

To Schedule appointments for your child please call 580-492-3390

Angels Help Aging

The Comanche Nation Angels Program started November 1, 2012 under the WIA Program and work under the Supervision of the Injury Prevention Director, Bonita Paddyaker.

Thanks to Keith Yackeyonny, WIA Director the program was started to assist our tribal members in need of assistance in cleaning their homes.

The program is to help our elders with the activities they are unable to perform due to age, illness or a handicap.

The Angels clean the homes of the elder, handicapped and the terminally ill clients.

They have multiple families in one home and the Angels are not a cleaning service for the household.

They are only required to clean the kitchen, living room and the bathroom that the client uses. They are not required to clean the other bathrooms the other family members use.

They do not move furniture, shampoo rugs, clean windows or ceiling fans. They are not allowed to take clients shopping or provide medical care for the clients.

For more information call Paddyaker,(580) 492-3343 or Gwen Kerchee (580) 4923344.

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SW OKLAHOMA HAM RADIO ENTHUSIASTS TO TELL THE STORY OF THE HISTORIC COMANCHE CODE TALKERS

Amateur Radio Club on a 4-day global event cate to commemorate their involvement. The certificates are collector’s items for many Ham radio operators around the world.

“We are thrilled to take part in this four-day event,” said CNMCC Executive Director Phyllis Wahahrockah-Tasi. “We are always looking for innovative ways to educate the public about our tribe. Many people do not know that Comanche Code Talkers were utilized in both World War I and World War II. These men were vital to the war efforts and helped save thousands of lives. This is a golden opportunity for us to tell the world about their heroic contributions,” Wahahrockah-Tasi said.

CNMCC staff has provided W5KS with historical background information about the Comanche Code Talkers. Museum staff will also be on the radios to answer live questions. Two of those staff members are descendants of WWII Code Talkers Larry Saupitty and Charles Chibitty.

CNMCC is located in Lawton at 701 NW Ferris Avenue, directly behind McMahon Auditorium.

For radio frequency information on go to www.w5ks.org.

Lawton Indian Hospital Chapel Now Open

Thanks to the community, and tribal partners, the Lawton Indian Hospital Chapel will be open for one year.

Marilyn Hendrix, Chapel Coordinator, would like to invite the public to the First-Annual Opening of the Lawton Indian Hospital Chapel, which will be held 10:30 a.m. June 12, at the hospital, located on Lawrie Tatum Road. Refreshments will be served.

Please take time to come and join us in prayer for the hospital and families of the patients who, when in need, have a place to read Scriptures and leave a Prayer Request.

The Comanche Nation News

Diabetes Support Group Meeting

CMNCC partners with the Lawton-Fort Sill

The ears of Ham Radio operators from around the world will be on Lawton this week as the Comanche National Museum and Cultural Center (CNMCC) and the Lawton-Fort Sill Amateur Radio Club (W5KS) team up to present a “Special Events Station” commemorating the Comanche Code Talkers of World Wars I and II. The event will take place on CNMCC’s back patio May 8-11. W5KS will transmit live from the museum during regular business hours, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Wednesday-Friday, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday. The public is invited to drop by to watch and listen.

A special invitation to participate is being extended to the relatives of the Comanche Code Talkers.

A Special Events Station allows amateur radio operators from around the world a chance to call into a set of frequencies to hear information about a specific topic. Each call sign is recorded so that the club presenting the event can keep track of those participating. Once a radio operator has called in, he or she can ask questions about the topic being discussed. The sponsoring radio club then sends each participant a certifi-

Join us for a Diabetes Support Group meeting When: June 18th 2013 @ 6 p.m.

Where: Comanche Nation Diabetes Building 1001 SE 36th St. Lawton, Okla.

For more Information please Call the Diabetes Program at 580-492-3816

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Oklahoma Emergency Contraceptives Community Training

Pictured from Left: Christin Hernandez, Charon Asetoyer, Maya Torralba, Pam Kingfisher, Wuanita Carroll, and Donna Haukass. These ladies attended the Contraceptive Training where they all gave great advice and voiced their own personal opinions.

Story and Photos by Stacey Heminokeky/News Staff

On May 14 the Native American Women’s Health Education Resource Center (NAWHERC) from Lake Andes, South Dakota hosted the Oklahoma Emergency Contraceptives Community Training at the Lawton Indian Health Service Hospital.

Charon Asetoyer, Founder and Executive Director of (NAWHERC), Donna Haukaas, Outreach Ed. Specialist of South Dakota Coalition Outreach, and Pamela Kingfisher, Facilitator and Report Writer of (NAWHERC) each gave presentations which emphasized the importance of the availability of Emergency Contraceptive (EC) among the Native American women.

They spoke about the legal rights of

women 17 years or older to have access to EX through the IHS to prevent them from being faced with the dilemma of a pregnancy from a rape.

According to the Roundtable Report, Native American Women Experience sexual assault at a higher rate than all other U.S population. * 34.1% or more than 1 in 3 Native American women will be raped in their lifetime. * 92% of Native American girls who had sexual intercourse reported having been forced against their will to have sexual intercourse on a date.

The Emergency Contraceptive is not an abortion pill they explained to the audience. The EC prevents abortion. The EC contains a high dose of levonorgestrel, a hor-

mone that primarily acts at inhibiting ovulation. Levonorgestrel prevents implantation of a fertilized egg. The common EC brands include Plan B One Step, Next Choice One Dose, and Next Choice.

Asetoer encouraged the training participants to speak to the Triabl Health Boards, Tribal Administrations, and Tribal Leaders to take the necessary steps to ensure that the Native American women are no longer denied Plan B as an OTC within the Indian Health Service.

If you are interested in obtaining more information, contact Maya Torralba by email at mayatorralba@gmail.com.

The Comanche Nation News

June 2013

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The Comanche Nation News

Art Gallery and Center Mirrors Tribal Heritage

The Tribal Art Center and Bad Eagle Gallery, located in Cache, Okla., is an array of tribal art, cultural classes and community flea market. Located at 423 West C Avenue, Cache, Okla., the facility holds a weekend flea market, Comanche language classes, and specific Indian dance regalia classes throughout the year.

Story and Photo by Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

When you first walk into the Tribal Art Center and Bad Eagle Art Gallery, your eyes light up with the reflection of bright, vibrant colors of the many pieces of jewelry, clothing, and Comanche dresses and shawls that are on display.

Located at 423 West C Avenue in Cache, Okla., the center is a multi-functional building that houses Comanche Language Classes, art classes, and a two area art gallery.

Owner and Manager, Eleanor McDaniel, said she is very pleased with her newly opened center, and gives much recognition to the artists that fill the gallery walls with their art that reflect the Comanche and Native American Culture.

“I really appreciate the artists who are displayed here,” said McDaniel. “If they did not know their Native Culture, they could not paint the beautiful portraits that are here.”

McDaniel, a tribal member and veteran, does not limit her display to only Comanche artwork. She has pieces of sculptures, paintings, and furniture from other tribal artists. Names such as Jackie Tointigh Blackhorse, Tim Saupitty, Quanah Burgess, Nacona Burgess, and others line the walls and areas with beautiful and traditional images of tribal life.

“Some of this artwork on display was in the artist’s closets, collecting dust. I am so glad they now have a place to display their natural talents that reflect the pride of being Native tribal people.”

McDaniel also stays very busy filling orders of traditional Comanche clothing and attire. She takes orders for Comanche style dresses, moccasins, leggings, shawls, men’s leggings, ribbon shirts, beadwork of all sorts, and otter hats, to name a few.

“My grandma, aunts and uncles all taught me how to make the clothing and other items when I was a child. “My uncle, Minnow Niedo, showed me how to make men’s sashes and other items.”

In addition to her orders, McDaniel holds Comanche language classes are every Tuesday evening, and has various classes to teach interested people how to make various items from dream catchers to tribal dance regalia.

“In June, I will be teaching a class how to make ladies leggings,” said McDaniel.

Now that Cache is an international tourist attraction, McDaniel holds a outdoor Flea Market every weekend behind her gallery, with Indian Tacos being sold.

If anyone needs giveaway items, a gift unique for a loved one, or want to see traditional artwork from top artists, McDaniel invites all to come visit her facility.

The art center and gallery is open from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday.

For more information about upcoming classes or to general information, call the Tribal Art Center and Gallery, (580) 4836864.

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Military

Stolen Code Talker Military Marker Replaced

Guests line up to thank all the Honored Veterans for all their hard work and dedication.

Chairman Wallace Coffey blesses newly elected CIVA Princess, Shelby Mata.

C.I.V.A. Holds 8th Annual Armed Forces Day Banquet Story and Photos by Stacey Heminokeky/News Staff

The Comanche Indian Veterans Association (CIVA) held it’s 8th Annual Armed Forces Day Banquet on May 18th, at the Comanche Community Center in Apache, Okla.

The Honorees included the following: • SGT Amos Makes Cry, U.S. Army, Vietnam War • GySgt Louis Clark, U.S. Marine Corps, Vietnam War • SSG Benjamin Clark, U.S. Marine Corps, and U.S. Army, Vietnam War • Sgt Mark Clark, U.S. Air Force, Vietnam War • SSgt Donald Burgess, U.S. Air Force, • Sgt Ronald Burgess, U.S. Air Force, • Sgt Teddy Burgess, U.S Air Force.

Special Recognition was

The Comanche Nation News

given to Cheryl Takawana and Pvt Lewis Kowena, U.S. Army, World War II. A Welcome was given by George Red Elk, Commander, followed with a prayer by Jimmy Caddo, CIVA Chaplain. The National Anthem was sung by Lauren Noriega followed by the Comanche Flag Song, by Southern Nations of Oklahoma.

The Presentation of the Wounded Warrior Medallions was given by the Comanche Nation Chairman Wallace Coffey. The CIVA proudly introduced and presented the NUMU Wounded Warrior Medallion to the living Comanche Veterans or the family members of deceased Comanche Veterans who have been wounded or killed in action while serving with the United States Military.

Memorial Cross Set Up at the Court of Honor

Photo by Stacey Heminokeky/News Staff

The crosses has the full name, rank, unit and date of death of 13 Fallen Warriors - eight were killed during World War II, two during the Korean War, two during the Vietnam War and 1 during the War on Terror. CIVA Color Guard Coordinator Jose Gallegos, a US Navy veteran, fabricated the crosses and I provided the information on the crosses. They will be taken down after Memorial Day.

The Crowning of the 101315 CIVA Princess, Shelby Elizabeth Mata, was conducted at the CIVA Banquet. Mata is the 16-year-old daughter of Antonio and Phillis Mata, the granddaughter of the late Mitchell and Lou Bell Ototivo Gwoompi and great granddaughter of Vilas and Angeline “Gommock” Peacoose Ototivo. She is a sophomore at Walters High School and a member of the Native American Club, high school basketball team and Varsity Choir. She is on the A-B Honor Roll, Mata was given her Comanche name “Gommock” which translates to Loving Person from her great grandmother.

The CIVA 8th Annual Armed Forces Day Banquet closed with remarks from George Red Elk as he expressed his gratitude for everyone’s attendance.

Wahkahquah Promoted to Chief Warrant Officer 2 Karli J. Wahkahquah was promoted to Chief Warrant Officer 2 on March 13.

CW2 Wahkahquah has served with the 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team of the Oklahoma Army National Guard since 2001.

She served a tour of duty at Camp Phoenix, Afghanistan, from 2003-04 where she was awarded the Combat Action Badge.

She also supported Operations Katina Relief in 2005 and JumpSouthwest Border in 2006. CW2 Wahkahquah CW2 Wahkahquah was on the Commandant’s List during her Warrant Officer Candidate School and the Distinguished Honor Graduate during the Warrant Officer Basic Course.

In June, GA, Camp Gor2012 the flat don Johnson, GA, bronze military Camp Jackson, grave marker of SC, Camp BeauComanche Code regard, LA and Talker Roderick overseas briefly in Red Elk was stoEngland. On June len from Deyo 6, 1944 (D-Day) Cemetery.

The he and 13 other thief, Jason P. PaComanche Code ras, 33, of Moore Talkers landed was charged on on Utah Beach the federal court’s in Normandy, Indian country France. He fought misdemeanor in 5 campaigns docket on Sepin some of the tember 20, 2012 bloodiest combat Roderick Red Elk and found guilty in the European on October 18, Theater. Red Elk 2012. He was sentenced to 4 months was in combat for 299 of the 335 days in prison. Paras admitted he sold the he was in Europe. The messages the marker to a recycling company in Code Talkers sent befuddled the GerLawton as scrap metal. man Army and helped save the lives On March 29, 2013 Co- of many Allied Forces. The Code manche Indian Veteran Association was never broken. Red Elk contin(CIVA) Historian, Lanny Asepermy, ued his military service which ended filled out the paperwork to replace in 1952 due to combat wounds he the marker and presented the docu- received in Korea. He was awarded mentation to Red Elk’s son, George, the Purple Heart, the EAME Camthe Commander of the CIVA, who paign with/5 Battle Stars, the Ameriforwarded the documents to the Me- can Campaign, the World War II Vicmorial Programs Service of the De- tory, the Korean Service, the United partment of Veterans Affairs (VA) in Nations Service and the Korean Quantico, VA. The marker arrived at War Service Medals, the Honorable the Comanche Nation Funeral Home Discharge Pin and the Chevalier de on/about May 1, 2013.

I’Ordre National du Merite medal by In addition to the standard the French government. information on the marker, which After returning home to consist of the Serviceman’s full Lawton, Red Elk owned and opername, rank, branch of service, Chris- ated a café and later was employed tian Cross, 2 wars (World War II and with Budweiser Distributing ComKorean War) and year of birth and pany also in Lawton. He was one death, Asepermy requested that Co- of the originators of the Comanche manche Code Talker, Congressional Language Preservation Group and Gold Medal 2008 and OK Military a member of the American Quarter Hall of Fame 2011 be also inscribed Horse Association, the Walters Seron the marker. Documentation to vice Club and the CIVA. verify the information was included On October 15, 2008 Presiwith the request. George received a dent George W. Bush signed Public call from the VA saying that the re- Law 110-420 (Code Talker Recogniquest was approved, however, due tion Act of 2008) awarding Red Elk to the limited size of the marker and and the other 13 Code Talkers, who amount of information requested on fought in Europe, the Congressional the marker they could not include the Gold Medal (CGM). The CGM is Christian Cross or the years of the the highest civilian award bestowed Congressional Gold Medal or the OK by the legislative Branch of the US Military Hall of Fame. government and is awarded to any On May 14, 2013 members individual or group who performs an of the CIVA held a ceremony for the outstanding deed or act of service to George and his sister, Rose, to reded- the security, prosperity and national icate the stolen marker. interest of the United States. On Roderick Red Elk was born November 11, 2011 Red Elk and on January 23, 1923 north of Temple, again the other 13 Code Talkers were OK and died, at age 74, on September inducted into the Oklahoma Mili25, 1997. He attended Fort Sill Indi- tary Hall of Fame. Red Elk’s son, an School and as a young man was a George, was also inducted into the race horse jockey. He enlisted in the Hall of Fame the same date.

US Army in December, 1940 and was If you know of a veteran 1 of 17 Comanches trained as Code who does not have a military marker Talkers. Red Elk was the youngest the CIVA will order and install the of the Code Talkers. He helped de- marker – you must provide a DD214 velop a code, in the Comanche lan- or a Certificate of Honorable Service guage, which was used to send and and either a death certificate or obitureceive sensitive military messages. ary of the deceased. Points of ConRed Elk was assigned to the 4th Sig- tact are Red Elk at (580) 512-2225 nal Company of the 4th Infantry Di- or Asepermy at (580) 678-4629. vision and trained at Camp Benning,

CIVA Installs 15 New Military Markers With CIVA Commander George Red Elk leading the way the CIVA installed 15 military markers from March 1-21 at Post Oak, West Cache Creek, Little Washita, Deyo, Cache Creek, Highland, Cyril, Red Stone, KaudleKaudle Family, Hammon Mennonite, Ringling and Watonga cemeteries.

Assisting Red Elk was Beaver Takawana, Lanny Asepermy, Jose Gallegos, Lonnie Henderson, Stanton Pewewardy and Red Elk’s son.

Prior to clearing the backlog of markers, Harry Mithlo, his grandson and Red Elk and on occasion Asepermy were installing the markers. With Mithlo’s election to the Business Committee his time has become limited. The first 27 markers were installed by Asepermy and his

wife, Shelley.

Over the years a total of 166 military markers have been installed by the CIVA. The CIVA doesn’t charge for this service – the cost to have this service done by Lawton Monument is $100. This service is available to Comanche families who have lost a veteran. If a Comanche veteran does not have a marker, one can be ordered, by Red Elk or Asepermy, if a 1) DD 214 or certificate of military service and 2) death certificate or obituary is provided. Red Elk can be reached at (580) 512-2225 and Asepermy at (580) 588-2377 or (580) 678-4629 The upright markers weigh 230 lbs while the slabs that flat markers sit atop weigh 135 lbs

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The Comanche Nation News

People, Places and Things Happening New Hours for Dental and Podiatry The Dental Department at the Lawton Indian Hospital has expanded it’s hours of operation. The new hours are: Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-5:30 p.m., with a 30 min., lunch.

Urgent dental care will begin at 7 a.m., daily.

The Podiatry Clinic at the Lawton Indian Hospital has also changed their hours of operation.

The new hours are: Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m., with a 30 min., lunch.

Shauna Osborn wins National Poetry Award Photos by Paula Karty/News Staff

GETTING JIGGY! Tribal members Cricket Karty and Raymond Pekah compete in the 2013 State Handgame Tournament held May 18 at the Comanche Nation Complex in Watchetaker Hall. There were a total of 14 teams from all over the state of Oklahoma, in hopes to become the next State Handgame Champions. The team which prevailed as state champions was Red Thunder.

Thornbrugh is crowned in Miss Amazing Pageant

Avery Awarded Johnson O’Malley Award

Osborn Last month, the New York Public Library announced the winning authors of its National Poetry Contest on Twitter held in honor of National Poetry Month. Shauna Osborn, a member of the Yapaituka band of the Comanche tribe, was one of the chosen authors from over 400 submissions. New York Public Library published Shauna’s following poems on their website as well as Facebook, Twitter, and Tumblr accounts: Petals waft, punctual & bright, to the ground as if pulled from their sturdy stems to swim amidst the wind currents by my breath.

Sleep mouth open & ocean spirits whirl in. Dream salty words that swim slow around your tongue & linger beached in carbonized air.

Our feet became staccato percussion cadence rising from the Bronx air in a mobile vertical scale, truck horns brass en crescendo.

Shauna works as a college instructor, artist, wordsmith, and community organizer in Albuquerque, New Mexico. She received her Masters of Fine Arts in Poetry/Creative Writing from New Mexico State University in 2005. She is kin to the Roach, Osborn, and Bilyeu families living in Southwestern Oklahoma.

Avery

Thornbrugh Taylor Thornbrugh from Owasso Oklahoma was crowned Queen in the Miss Amazing Pageant.

She now holds the title of Oklahoma’s Miss Amazing Jr Miss and will compete in the national pageant being held in Omaha, Nebraska in August.

She graduated from Owasso High school and is planning to attend Rogers State University in the fall.

Thornbrugh is the daughter of Alan and Zeldina Viddaurri-Floyd, and the Granddaughter of Lee and Rose Viddaurri

Courtesy Photo

Stefan Wahkinney will graduated from basic and airborne school at Ft. Benning, Ga., on June 13. Congratulations from Dad.

Christian Avery a third grader from Owasso Oklahoma was awarded the Johnson O’malley Exemplary Student Award for being a straight A student.

Avery is the son of Brandon and Jennifer Avery, and the Grandson of Alan and Zeldina Viddaurri-Floyd

Recollection of Post Oak School’s Celebration On November 10, 2012 the Post Oak Mennonite Brethren Church held a Post Oak Day Celebration in Indiahoma. The Celebration was a day set aside for the former students to fellowship and recollect the memories of their youth they shared together.

The day included a re-enactment of the Post Oak Mission School that existed in the 1940’s and 1950’s.

The former students also sang the Post Oak School Song for the visitors. A ceremony was held to unveil a historical marker for the site of the former school.

The former students spoke of the adversity they encountered, however, the smiles on their faces, and the enthusiasm they displayed as they shared their recollection of memories was apparent they truly enjoyed their days of youth at Post Oak School.

The Celebration was a day of recalling fond memories as well as the sad memories. It also included a recollection of memories of former deceased students who weren’t as fortunate to witness the historical event. The deceased student’s names are as follows: Wayne Pahcoddy, Donnie Yokesuite, Mary Louise Tahah, Eva Larue Nahquaddy, Sammy Komahcheet, Dorothy Komahcheet, Brenda Joyce Komahcheet, Janice Teresez, Francine Whitewolf, Francine Asenap, Robert Kassanavoid, Janice Komahcheet, Melvin Roach, Lucille Roubideaux, Ermina Burgess, Milton Pebeahshy, Bernard Niedo, Joe Niedo, Cherie Roubideaux, Charles Wermy, Pat Woommavovah, Marlene Parker, Larry Mowalt, Rosemary Asetamy, Valeria Asetamy, and Preston Tahchawwickah.

American Indian Studies Master’s cohort Students Present Research at National Conference American Indian Studies faculty and master’s cohort students presented their research at the 55th annual meeting of the Western Social Sciences Association Conference that was recently held in Denver.

ASU American Indian Studies faculty members Professor Leo Killsback (Northern Cheyenne) and Faculty Associate Cheryl Bennett (Navajo/Comanche) coordinated the American Indian Studies section of the event.

“I encouraged graduate students enrolled in my Research Methods course at ASU to submit and present research papers at this meeting. The conference is an opportunity for future American Indian Studies scholars to share their research, network with experts in the field and promote the discipline, especially graduate degrees in American Indian Studies,” Killsback said.

He chaired an “American Indian Studies Paradigm and Research” panel that included ASU American Indian Studies master’s students, Naomi Tom (Tohono O’odham and Kaibab-Paiute) who discussed oral histories in relation to the paradigm, Laura Medina (Ojibwe) who presented her research on contextualizing the paradigm through scholarship

and Justin Hongeva (Hopi), whose research examined the paradigm’s integration into high school curriculum.

“I conducted an oral history project when I was an undergrad and it is something I continue to work on,” Tom said. “The conference broadened my understanding of the way people talk, write and research American Indian Issues. I left the conference feeling inspired to do more and now I can’t wait to put together a proposal for next year’s conference.”

Presenting at the conference reinforced Medina’s confidence in the cohort’s research work and provided her with an opportunity to network with peers.

“The conference was an awesome opportunity to build a better relationship with my cohort and to see what other American Indian Studies majors are doing. It also made me proud of the AIS program at ASU because it gave me the confidence of knowing we are doing important research,” she said.

Topics that were discussed at the conference included promoting the development of the discipline and scholarship of American Indian Studies. Killsback participated in “Rules for ‘Civilizing’ American Indians and their Reverberations into the Modern Era,” which addressed the assimilation-based policies of the U.S. Bennett presented a chapter of her dissertation titled “Responding to Hate Crimes and Racism in Farmington, New Mexico.”

Another panel, organized by Bennett, was “Diné Decolonization and Indigenous Knowledge Recovery,” which featured ASU American Indian Studies master’s students Eric Hardy (Navajo), who presented information on “Language Recovery and Healing Trauma” and Waquin Preston (Navajo), whose research focused on “Decolonizing Navajo Education: Intersection of Assimilation and Contemporary Navajo Education.”

“The conference was a success and our ASU AIS graduate students fully embraced the opportunity to present their research to a national audience and, more importantly, engage in networking and develop as professionals of the academy,” Killsback said.

Contact: Julie Newberg Media Relations Arizona State University (480) 727-3116

June 2013

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The Comanche Nation News

Milestones Happy Belated Birthday

Trinity Pewewardy, May 2 Lorena Proctor, May 9 Florene Ototivo, May 14 ReyAnn Norberto, May 18 Rudy T. Ototivo, May 30

Happy Birthday Ed Tahhahwah Jr., June 2 Jamie Heminokeky Prairiechief, June 3 Stevie Pino, June 6 Brenda Martinez, June 7 Breyden Turner, June 7 Tinki Bullock, June 7 Moonie Baltazar, June 8 Kaelan Burgess, June 12 Kirsten Geiogamah, June 13 Robert M. Perea Sr., June 15 Phillip Martinez, June 16 Arleeta Viddaurri, June 21 Elias Proctor, June 22 Elijah Proctor, June 22 Katt, June 22 Maddie Ototivo, June 22 Royce Stumblebear, June 22 Cameille “Tasi” Wetselline, June 24 Stacey Heminokeky, June 24 Dylan Black, June 25 Cathy Nauni, June 28 Christian Avery, June 28 Norma Cable, June 28 Shaun Prairiechief, June 30

Anniversaries Alan and Zeldina Viddaurri-Floyd June 13~Married 7 years

Happy Belated Birthday Trinity Pewewardy May 2

Happy Belated Birthday Lorena Proctor May 5

Happy Belated Birthday ReyAnn Norberto May 18

Jamie Heminokeky Prairiechief

June 3

Happy Birthday Kirsten Geiogamah June 13

Happy Birthday Nah-nee Kerchee June 19

Happy Birthday Elias Proctor June 22

Happy Birthday Elijah Proctor June 22

Happy Birthday Maddie Ototivo June 22

Happy Birthday Christian Avery June 28

Happy Birthday Shaun Prairiechief June 30

Born: April 25, 2013 8lbs’ 5oz’ 19.25 in To: Desiree & Christopher DeVine

Joseph and Jessica Mann June 25~Married 3 years George & Carol Martinez June 26~Married 32 years Don’t Forget to submit milestones for those special loved ones; Just married, Anniversaries, Birth Announcements,Birthdays Deadline for July edition of TCNN 6/15/13 Call: Public Information Office (580) 492-3386 Email: candacet@comanchenation.com Or mail to: Comanche Nation/PIO P.O. Box 908 Lawton, OK 73502

Dominic Julian DeVine

In Loving Memory

Henson M. Ototivo

6/30/1969~4/25/2011 You may be gone but you are never forgotten. We love you & miss you ~B.J. Anderson

Happy Birthday

Ticeahkie Dean Allen Nayeli Marie Mason

Born: May 1, 2013 3:05 AM 9lbs’ 7oz’ To: Virginia & Christopher Allen

Born: May 15, 2013 10:01 PM 7lbs’ 15oz’ 19 1/2 in To: Nicholas & Lisa Mason

In Loving Memory

Lee Viddaurri

6/15/1907~5/13/2003

Birthday, Wedding, Engagements, Anniversary announcements can be sent to candacet@comanchenation.com The Deadline is the 15th of every month

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Dear TCNN Letters to the Editor

Dear TCNN,

On behalf of our family, we would like to thank everyone who helped with our Uncle-Chairman Wallace Coffey’s birthday dance. Everyone had a wonderful time renewing acquaintances, singing and dancing.

Thanks to the head staff, those who brought side dishes for the meal, the volunteers who helped serve, and the vendors.

A special thank you to Joe Cintron and James Gonzales for cooking the meal, plus Teresa Villicana for making the fry bread.

Pewewardy/Kerchee Nieces Dear TCNN, I would like to thank TCNN, especially JJ and Paula, for publishing numerous articles I have researched and written about our Comanche veterans. Well over 200 arti-

cles have been published since 2003 about our 13 Comanches who have made the supreme sacrifice in defense of our great nation, about our 7 prisoners of war who suffered greatly while in captivity, about our 20 veterans who have been decorated for Gallantry, Heroism, Valor or fought and killed the enemy in Hand to Hand Combat as well as individual photos and stories about numerous other veterans and their service in the military. Yet still there are many stories that will go unwritten.

We were once the greatest Light Cavalry in the history of the military according to a former US Cavalry Commander of old. The end of the Red River War and placement on reservations took our Warrior-ship away. We become Warriors again, briefly, from 1892-97 as Scouts for the US Cavalry. Our fighting prowess disappeared again until 60 Comanches stepped up and served

in the military from 1917-19 during World War I. It was not until 1933 before Comanches entered the military again and have served since with great honor. 217 Comanches served during World War II, another 142 during the Korean War, 307 during the Vietnam War, 78 during the Persian Gulf War and currently 64 have served in either Iraq or Afghanistan, or both, during the Global War on Terrorism.

Most every Comanche family has a veteran(s) who have served in the military. I would hope this is something each family is proud of.

As a former member and officer of both the Comanche War Scouts and Comanche Indian Veterans Association I can look back and see the awareness and accomplishments those organizations have bought to our veterans and our Nation. We have the Circle of Honor with individual granite stones of the names of our

The Comanche Nation News

Soldiers who died as a result of war and the names of our prisoners of war. The Court of Honor also has granite monuments that list the names of 1098 Comanche veterans and a statue, photos and names of our Code Talkers. The Patriot Room (formerly the Old Conference Room) consists of over 370 photos of our veterans.

Panels of our Fallen Warriors and POW’s are displayed at the Elder and Tourism Centers.

Posters, booklets and DVD’s about our veterans are also available at the Tourism Center. 148 military funeral honors have been performed and 163 military markers have been installed for our veterans since 2003.

Congressional Gold Medals will be presented to our Code Talkers – they along with CIVA Commander, George Red Elk, are now members of the Oklahoma Military Hall of Fame. Over 750 commitments have been met over the past 10 years for numerous Comanche,

non-Comanche and non-Indian events. Over 5,000 military documents and photos, about our veterans, will be turned over to the Comanche Nation Museum for preservation. The recognition of our modern military history is noted throughout Comanche Country so we, our children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and beyond will know who is responsible for all the freedoms they have.

In closing it has been an honor to perform this service to the Nation. I was encouraged and assisted by other veterans, family members of veterans and my family. I want to personally thank each and every Comanche man and woman for their dedicated, faithful and honorable service and many sacrifices each made as a member of Armed Forces.

With upmost respect, Lanny Asepermy

The Comanche Nation Offices will be closed July 4th for Independence Day and will reopen 8 a.m. July 5.

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

June 2013

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The Comanche Nation News

Obituaries

Mary Katheryn Apauty

Apauty Mary Katheryn Apauty 65 of Lawton went to her heavenly home on Wednesday, April 10.

Memorial Service was held April 16, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Scott Reed and Rev. Chuck Bowers officiating.

Memorial Prayer Service was April 15, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel.

Apauty was born on March 13, 1948 in Washington to Robert and Bertha (Waters) Olden. She grew up and attended St. Mary’s Catholic School in Washington. She then moved to California for several years and then moved to Oklahoma.

She was employed by Cameron University serving as a dorm mother until her retirement.

She never met a stranger and was a mother to many at Cameron.

She enjoyed watching Lifetime TV and Northern Lights, sunbathing, spending time with her sharing family and friends, enjoyed camping and being outdoors.

She is survived by: three daughters and spouses: Dianna and Vernon Butler, Donna Apauty and Travis Kennard, Daisy and John Cunningham all of Lawton; Dustin Apauty and Bonnie Geimausaddle of Cache; twelve grandchildren: Sarah Apauty, Vernon Butler IV, Andre Butler, Sheldon Bennett, Deon Butler, Samantha and Daniel Morrow, Kristin Apauty, Synthia Cunningham, Morgan Apauty, Selena Cunningham, Angelena Apauty, and Quinnardis White, other family members: Curtis and Jeanie Apauty, Jessica Williams, Alisha Cable, R. T. Cable, Hayden Cable, Rylei Suina, William Suina, Gavin Williams, Isabella and Thomas Cable, Roger Cable and friends.

She is preceded in death by: parents: Robert and Bertha Olden; brother, Paul Olden.

Carolyn “Cricket” Stillwell

ardine M. Roubideaux. She grew up in the Lawton Area. She attended Eisenhower High School and later attended Cameron University. Carolyn enjoyed spending time with her family and friends especially her son, Sammy. She loved going to the mountains, cooking, and cookouts.

Everyone will miss her laugh and she always enjoyed life to its fullest.

She was a proud member of the Comanche Nation and Post Oak Mennonite Brethren Church.

She is survived by her son: Samuel “Sammy” Kai Stillwell – Ulloa of Lawton; father: Bertrand Stillwell of Lawton; brothers; Darryl “Dev” and wife Loretta Hebb of Crestview, Florida, Brian Stillwell of Lawton, Randy Stillwell and companion Christal Williams of Lawton, Wesley Stillwell of Lawton Bertrand Stillwell, Jr. of Lawton, Allen Hehn of Lawton; sisters: Cindy Famero and husband Frank of San Francisco, Cali., Nicole Vanatta and husband Eric of Huntsville, Ala., and Michelle Stillwell of Perry, Okla., Kay Jones and husband, Thomas of Lawton, Springs Garrison and husband Justin Billy II of Lawton; aunts: Mary Rutledge of Lawton, Arlene Wilson of Indiahoma, Linda Ann Roach of Indiahoma, Sue and husband Jimmy Arterberry of Lawton; uncles: Howard and Susie Roach of Cache and Harley Roach of Indiahoma; Companion and Caregiver Frank McLaughlin of Lawton; many nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends. We would like give special thanks to Springs and Frank for the special care and love they have provided.

She is preceded in death by: mother: Howardine M. Roubideaux; grandparents: Winnie Niyah and Vernie Roubideaux; Addie Tachaco and Miller Stillwell; sister: Theresa Stillwell; aunt: Chere Roubideaux, Lucille Coleman; uncle: Jerry Roubideaux.

Billie Jean Mahsetky Harrison The family would like to celebrate the life of Billie Jean Mahsetky Harrison, 57 of Apache who went to her heavenly home on Friday, April 19.

Graveside Service was April 22, at Highland Cemetery with Pastor Gary Tahmahkera officiating. Burial is under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home.

Visitation was April 21, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home.

Harrison was born September 21, 1955 to Peggy Mahsetky Harrison.

She is survived by: a sister and brother in law, Deborah and Arthur Trujillo; four nieces: Tammy Alvarez, Dana Simon, Kimberley Kaulay, and Mandy Kaulay; eleven grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

Harrison is preceded in death by: her mother, Peggy Mahsetky and grandmother, Sophia Tahmahkera Mahsetky.

Home Chapel with Pastor Ralph Hamblin officiating. Burial military honors followed at West Cache Creek Cemetery west of Apache.

Prayer service was April 24, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel.

Visitation was April 24, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home.

Parton was born on October 10, 1952 in Lawton to Oswald and Marie (Atewooftakewa) Parton. He grew up in the Apache area and attended Apache Public Schools. Scott joined the US Marines Corp. Scott served in the Vietnam War as a Rifleman w/D Company, 1st Battalion, 9th Marines, 3rd Marine Division from May to June 1971, he also served at San Diego, Camp Pendleton and Camp Schwab Okinawa. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service w/1 Star, Vietnam Gallantry Cross w/ Palms Medal, and the Marksman Qualification Badge w/Rifle Bar. He later attended school at Okmulgee Tech for plumbing and pipe fitting. He worked as a pipefitter for many years.

Parton was a member of the Comanche Nation of Oklahoma, CIVA, Disabled American Veterans, the American Legion Post 213, VFW Post 5263, and United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipe Fitting Industry Local 344. Scott was baptized at Medicine Park on May 31, 2012 by Pastor Ralph Hamblin. He then spent the last years of his life serving the Lord by praying and comforting others in need.

Parton is survived by: a daughter and son in law: Sunshine and Ricky Warren; three grandchildren: Tana Arthur, Adonis River Parton, and Kya Love Parton all of Cache; four sisters and brothers in laws: Glennetta Whitefeather and Norman Punley of Apache, Linda and Roger Tehauno of Fletcher, Calley and Frank Backbone of Crow Agency, Montana, Quenna Parton of Apache; four brothers: Charles Parton of Mescalero, New Mexico, Colin Parton of the home, Ozmun Parton of the home, Howell and Cynthia Parton of Apache, two aunts: Mabel Simmons and Ann Parker both of Apache, numerous nieces and nephews.

Parton is preceded in death by: his parents: Oswald and Marie (Atewooftakewa) Parton, maternal grandparents: Maud Tischecoddy, Scott Yellowfish, paternal grandmother Blanche Sartoris Tewinin, brothers: Arthur Parton and Joniel Parton; aunts and uncles: Viola Tate, Delphine (Parton) and Paul Gomez Sr., Bill Edmonds, Orville Parton, Randlette Edmonds and Verle Parton.

Prayer service was April 25, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel.

Johnson was born in Lawton to James Johnson Sr. and Carol E. Saupitty. He was raised in Cache, Oklahoma, attended Cache Public Schools and graduated from Eisenhower High School in 1982. He was the beloved grandson of Beatrice and Floyd Saupitty. He was an excellent high school athlete who later became an avid pool player. He learned some tricks of the trade in his younger days when he began playing pool at the Ice Dock in Cache, Okla. He spoke of learning to play getting “schooled” by some prominent local pool talent “back in the day”, that gifted him with his own style of finessing the cue ball. Johnson was a member of the American Pool Players Association from 1996 to 2012, and has also been a member of the BCA and played the local Coors Pool League as well, with much success. He was a skill level 7 in 8-ball and skill level 8 in 9-ball. He was the anchor for many of the teams he played on, and was very successful in the art of pool playing.

He had a great respect for many local pool players that have passed on and was always a good sportsman.

Johnson had a huge heart, and took special care of his grandmothers as well as being a good father to Kristin and Tara. He often spoke of all his high school friends, their crazy days and many family memories of traveling with his grandmother, his mother, sister and family friends. He was a member of the Comanche Nation of Oklahoma He leaves to cherish his memories, his two children: Kristin Beatrice Johnson of the home and Tara Joyce Tahkofper of Oklahoma City, his wife Dereth Tahkofper, mother, Carol Saupitty and Bob Wade of Lawton; father, Jimmy “James” Johnson Sr. and Geraldine “Geri” Johnson of Okmulgee, two sisters, Janet Saupitty and her children, Elizabeth, Sophie and Kyle of Cache, Lena Jeanice “Genie” Johnson of Cache, brother, James Johnson Jr. of Wichita Falls, Texas; as Special brothers: Louie Popatchoko, Cache, Okla., Meech Aitson of Lawton Okla., Keith Yackeyonny of Cache Okla., and many other relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by: his grandmother Beatrice “Bea” Saupitty, a brother, Edward Lynn Johnson

Harriet Denise Guy

William “Randy” Johnson

Scott Parton Guy

Stillwell Carolyn “Cricket” Stillwell 34 of Lawton went to her heavenly home on April 14.

Funeral Service was April 16, at Post Oak Mennonite Brethren Church with Rev. Leonard Presley officiating.

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

Prayer Service was April 15, at Post Oak Mennonite Brethren Church.

Stillwell was born on November 6, 1978 in Lawton, Oklahoma to Bertrand Stillwell and How-

Johnson

Parton Scott Parton 60 of Apache went home with his Lord Savior Jesus Christ on Monday, April 22.

Funeral Service was April 25, at Comanche Nation Funeral

William “Randy” Johnson, of Lawton went to his heavenly home on April 23.

Funeral service was April 26, at the Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel with Jonathan Poahway and William “Billy” Saupitty officiating. Burial followed at Highland Cemetery under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home.

Harriet Denise Guy 60 of Ft. Cobb went to her heavenly home on Saturday, April 27, in Lawton.

Funeral service was May 1, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Anadarko with Father Schwarz officiating. Burial will follow at Guy Carter Family Cemetery in Ft. Cobb under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home.

Prayer Service was April 30, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home.

Visitation was April 30.

Guy was born on February 4, 1953 in Lawton to Harry and Gladys (Klinekole) Guy. She grew up in Ft. Cobb and graduated from Ft. Cobb High School.

Guy worked and retired from Delta Faucets for many years.

She was a member of the Comanche Nation of Oklahoma and St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Anadarko.

She was an avid OU and Thunder Fan, she enjoyed making jewelry, going to the casinos, spending time with her family and friends.

She is survived by: two children, Kellie McCarthy and companion, Cody Maynahonah; and George Guy both of Ft. Cobb; special daughter, Ronnee Elizarraras and husband, Martin of Ft. Hood, Texas; special son, Ron Ahtone Jr. of Anadarko; six grandchildren: Stacie Youngman, Whitnee DeWitt, Ashley and Kyli Ahtone, Angel and Blake Elizarraras; three great grandchildren: Kassidee Elizarraras, Kaia Youngman, Kameron DeWitt; a brother Lyman Guy and wife, Lavina of Oklahoma City; sisters, Karen Ahtone and husband R.C. of Anadarko, Gwen Scott of Anadarko, niece, Kristen Scott of Anadarko; nephews, Brandon Scott of Anadarko and Harrison Guy of Oklahoma City, other family members and friends.

Hope Maurine Ticeahkie Taylor

Taylor Mom was a proud member of the Comanche Nation Tribe. She was born at home in Walters, Okla., to Leslie Ticeahkie and Kitty Hokup-Ticeahkie. Her birth year was in question. Her age would depend on if she wanted to be older or younger, so we will say she was 89. She left us and went home on May 1. She lived in Albuquerque for over 52 years.

She is survived by her children; daughter, Lesley Allen and husband, Bruce, their children, Nicole Chavez and husband Greg; Greg Allen and wife, Emily; Alethia Allen; Christopher Allen and wife Virginia; daughter, Carole Swedberg and husband, Jim; daughter, Kris (Lois) O’Brien and husband, Tim; their children Robbie, Kallie Ticeahkie, Daniel, Ian and Austin; son Doug Taylor and wife, Robyn, and their children, Aden and Avery; her great grand kids, Kristin, Madyson, Royce, Matthew, Cooper, Dalilah; and her new great grand baby, who she was waiting to trade places with, Ticahkie Dean Allen, born May 1; brother-in-law Bob Hicks and sister-in-law Myrtle Denny of Oklahoma; long-time friend Geneva Navarro and many relatives and friends in both Albuquerque and Oklahoma.

She was preceded in death by our dad, CD Taylor; her beautiful great granddaughter Grace Olivia; her much loved granddaughter-inlaw Rebecca; our little Baby O’Brien; and her sisters, Getrude, Geraldine, Gladys and Faith.

She was a member of the Haskell Club and the Comanche Language Club.

She graduated from Lawrence Kansas High School in 1945 and then worked as a Dormitory Attendant. She also worked at the shipyards in Oregon. The job she loved the best was being “Mom” and “Kakoo.” At the time of her death she was living at Manzano Del Sol. She enjoyed playing bingo, and Wii bowling. She would be so excited when she won a candy bar or stuffed animal. She loved the staff and fellow residents at Manzano, al

June 2013 ways making sure she got her hugs from everyone. Mom’s greatest joy was her family and the time she could spend with them was priceless. She was so very proud of all her babies.

Funeral services were May 16, at Manzano Del Sol. Burial followed at Santa Fe National Cemetery.

and many friends.

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Bobby Joe Ostrowski

Yeoman Dee Williams

Vincent Ronald Sapcut

Williams

Sapcut

Vincent Ronald Sapcut age 67 went to be with the Lord on Monday, May 6.

Funeral Service was May 10, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Ponce Leon of Victorious Faith Center of Apache Officiating and Baxter Asepermy assisting. Burial will follow at Cache Creek KCA Cemetery under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home.

Prayer Service was May 9 at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel.

He was born on October 12, 1945 to Frank Sapcut and Marion Ahdosy Sapcut in Apache, Oklahoma. He was a Full blood member of the Comanche Nation. He graduated from Apache High School in 1965.

He attended Denver Automotive School where he received a degree in 1966. He was the Best Heavy Equipment Operator. Vincent’s career path led him to work for Mobil Oil as well as Halliburton. He was also an Environmental Health Technician for the Lawton Service area. He also worked as a Forestry Technician for the Santa Clara Pueblo tribe of New Mexico, as well as a truck driver for CRST where he retired. He loved spending time with his children, grandchildren and going to powwows. He loved to visit with his friends and family. He was always a shoulder to lean on for his sisters. He was well-loved father, grandpa, uncle, brother and friend.

He never met a stranger… he would strike up a conversation with any and everyone. You were a special one if you got a pet name from him.

He loved waking up to the roosters where he would sit outside for hours watching his beloved Chihuahuas, Bitty and Rufus.

He is preceded in death by his parents: Frank and Marion Sapcut; sister: Andretta Koassechony; Niece: Melissa Asepermy; Granddaughter: Michelle Redbone.

He is survived by children: Ronald D. Sapcut and wife Birtha of Santa Cruz, NM, Tracey Sapcut Avila of Apache, Chris Sapcut and Companion Danielle Reid of Lawton, Craig Sapcut and wife Tanya of Lawton, and Ashley Arneecher and companion Leamon Tongkeamah of Oklahoma City; brothers: Richard Sapcut and wife Fran of Lawton and Kenneth Sapcut of Lawton; sisters: Barbara Asepermy of Apache, Mary Sapcut of Apache, Sharon Enriquez of Apache and Patrica Whitewolf and husband Roderick of Lawton; grandchildren: Victoria Tiddark, Amber Tiddark, Dylan Tiddark, Marcos Estrada, Jacob Tiddark, Jett Tiddark, Kylie Sapcut, Corina Sapcut, Carisa Sapcut, Logan Sapcut, Gia Sapcut, Summer Sapcut, Darin Sapcut, Shelby Sapcut, Lindsey Sapcut, Kameron Mullins, Dustin Sanders and Hali Sanders; great grandchildren: Kaiden Elder, Mya Elder, Cody Sapcut, Vincent Sapcut, Elias Rishel, Kylor Rishel; numerous nieces, nephews

Yeoman Dee Williams, 50 of Anadarko went to his heavenly home on May 6, in Lawton. Funeral Service was May 10, at Victory Assembly of God Church with Rev. Thomas Worcester and Pastor Monte Moran officiating. Burial will follow at Cache Creek KCA Cemetery west of Apache.

An all night was held on May 9. The church will be the Victory Assembly of God Church in Anadarko. Visitation was, May 9, at Victory Assembly of God Church in Anadarko.

Williams was born on December 19, 1962 at Crow Agency, Montana to LeRoy Ervin and LaVonia Ada (Burgess) Williams Sr. He attended elementary school in Dallas, TX, to Concho Indian School, graduating eighth grade, and from the ninth grade to his senior year of high school he attended Riverside Indian School.

Williams is an enrolled member of the Comanche Nation, and a descendant of the Caddo, Delaware and Shawnee nations. He is a hereditary member of the Little Ponies, and was inducted into the Comanche Gourd dance Society in the early 1970s when it was lead by George Woogie Watchetaker.

He loved to play sports, having excelled in basketball at Harding Middle School, Oklahoma City, and playing baseball at Concho Indian School, El Reno, Okla., and Riverside Indian School. He was always playing softball for teams that his brother Herschel Williams or his dad, Leroy, would gather for Indian tournaments throughout Oklahoma and Texas.

After completing his education he began working in the construction industry, eventually moving into ironwork where he helped to complete many major buildings around Stillwater, Ola., such as its Performing Arts building, Oklahoma State University. He helped to build several oil refineries in and around Ponca City.

He is survived by: daughter, Amber Leigh Jay of Ft. Cobb; grandson Jaylen Swift, Kaleb Anquoe, and granddaughter Aubrey Anquoe. His long time companion, Mary Narcomey of Anadarko, Siblings: Cynthia R. Williams, of Oklahoma City, Herschel D. Williams and family, of Anadarko, Okla.; Larry and Charisse Redbone, and family of AnadarkoFt. Cobb, Okla.; Rebecca Williams of Oklahoma City, LeRoy Williams, Jr., of Oklahoma City, Balerma J. Burgess, and family of Apache, and Michael and Julie Burgess, Pawnee, Oklahoma; many nieces and nephews of Oklahoma and is remembered fondly by each for his love of laughter, his teasing, and the many practices sessions he gave on baseball and basketball to each of them.

Williams is preceded in death by: his parents LaVonia and LeRoy Williams, grandparents: James Ned and Ruth Na-koh-tee-teeh (Inkanish) Williams, Allen (Kut-sonee) Motah and Ida Ada (Yellowfish) Burgess; a sister, Hannah Trivett Williams.

Ostrowski

Bobby Joe Ostrowski, 48 of Elgin went to his heavenly home on May 11, in Lawton.

Funeral Service was May 15, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel.

Burial will followed at Memory Lane in Anadarko under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home.

Prayer Service was May 14, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel.

Ostrowski was born in Lawton on August 31, 1964 to Anthony and Marie (Dautobi) Ostrowski. He grew up in Elgin and graduated from Elgin High School. He was a member of the Comanche Nation of Oklahoma he was of Kiowa and Polish descent.

He enjoyed going fishing with his brother, he loved doing carpentry work, gardening, spending time with his family and friends.

He is survived by: a brother: Tony Ostrowski of the home; nieces, Tanna Ferrell of Lawton and Sharon McCraken of Pawhuska; two aunts: Becky Brockman, Juanita Cortez both of Lawton; three nephews: Justin Ostrowski of Lawton, Kimmy Jo Warren and Tony Jr. Warren both of Pawhuska.

He is preceded in death by: his parents: Anthony and Marie Ostrowski; sister: Gwenella Ann Warren; brother, Micheal Joe Ostrowski; aunts, Dorothy Domebo and Lillian Domebo; uncles: Harry and James Domebo.

Charlotte Kopaddy Saupitty

Saupitty

Charlotte Kopaddy Saupitty, 52 of Cache went to her heavenly home on May 11, in Lawton with her loving family by her side.

Funeral Service was May 14, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Nick Tahchaw-wickah, Pastor Chuck Bowers and Vernon Cable. Burial will followed at Cache KCA Intertribal Cemetery under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home.

Prayer Service was May 13, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home.

Saupitty was born in Lawton on October 20, 1960 to Leo and Theresa (Cable) Saupitty. She grew up in Cache and graduated from Cache High School. She was a member of the Comanche Nation of Oklahoma and the Komah Nazarene Church.

She enjoyed taking care of animals, the family enjoyed her outdoor cooking, walking to the creek, watching old sci-fi movies, going to the casinos, reading, eating out, doing cross word puzzles, playing wheel of fortune, collecting old jewelry and rocks.

Saupitty is survived by: husband, Sammy Kopaddy, daughter, Mycah Kopaddy, son, Bruce Kopaddy all of the home; nephews, Rodney Tartsah, Courtney Saupitty niece, Kendra Tartsah; two special friends: Donita Red Elk and Kay Mowatt; uncles: Vernon Cable, Kenneth Saupitty; aunts: Betty Pete, Vivian Saupitty; many cousins, other family members and friends.

Saupitty is preceded in death by: parents: Leo and Theresa Saupitty; brothers; Tommy and Dennis Saupitty; sister, Gwen Tartsah; grandparents: Josie and Bert Cable; uncles: Bert Cable Jr., Gayle Cable, Brunner Cable Sr.; aunts, Lucille McClung, Ollie Thomas

Laura Sue Rinaldi

Rinaldi

Laura Sue Rinaldi, 44 of Indiahoma went to her heavenly home on May 13, of a sudden illness in Lawton, Oklahoma.

Prayer Service was May 16, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home.

Graveside Service was May 17, at Post Oak Cemetery in Indiahoma with Gene Wilson officiating.

Burial will follow at Post Oak Cemetery under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home.

Rinaldi was born in Cincinnati, Ohio to Geral and Brenda (Komahcheet) Griffith on March 11, 1969. She attended and graduated from Cache High in 1987. Laura married David Rinaldi on November 4, 1994 in Wichita Falls, Texas.

She enjoyed puzzles, needlepoint, reading, life, watching her kids play sports, spending time with her family and friends. She was a member of the Comanche Nation of Oklahoma. She was lovingly referred to by friends and family as “Ova”.

She is survived by: her husband, David Rinaldi, three children: Brandi Rinaldi and Cody Rinaldi all of the home; K.C. Rinaldi of Laural, Montana; father, Geral Griffith; three sisters and their spouses: Sandra and Richard Hernandez, Angie and Bill Grimes both of Cache, Kathy and T. D. Sovo of Vian; a brother: Tony Griffith and wife, Tina of Cache; grandmother: Edith Kassanavoid Gordon of Indiahoma; aunts and uncles: Beverly and Frank Salas of Lawton, Melissa Gordon of Cache, Ronald and Sharon Griffith of Springboro, Ohio, Goldie Snyder of Cincinnati; nieces and nephews: Aaron, Ashley, Alyx, Amber, Tristan, Brittany, Jordan, Brooke, Falynn, and Peydan.

She is preceded in death by: a daughter, Helen Griffith; her mother, Brenda Griffith; brother, Timothy Crosson; grandparents: Doug Komahcheet, Helen and Ed Griffith; uncle, Marvin Snyder.

The Comanche Nation News

Cody Carleen (Bigbow) Sorrow, 70 of Lawton went to her heavenly home with her family by her side on May 17.

Funeral Service was May 21, at Post Oak Mennonite Brethren Church in Indiahoma with Rev. Leonard Presley and Pastor Loyed Fultz officiating. Burial will followed at Post Oak Cemetery under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home.

Visitation was on May 19 and 20, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel.

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

Sorrow was born on September 11, 1942 to Joe and Mae (Codopony) Bigbow in Lawton, Oklahoma. She was retired from the Lawton Indian Hospital. She enjoyed sewing, gardening & spending time with her grandchildren.

She is survived by two sons: Joe and Michele Sorrow of Lawton, James and Kristy Estes of Walters; four daughters: Denise Wood of the home, Kimmie and Randall Shipman of McCloud, Marceline and Joseph Carroll of Cache, and Claudia and Allen Krone of Lawton; brother: Bill Bigbow and wife Betty of Indiahoma; sisters: JoAnn Lambert of Lawton; aunt: Ella Faye (Lorene) Horse of Carnegie; grandchildren: Tamra and Moway Wahahrockah of Cache, Jennifer Bentz of McAllister, Shyann Shipman of McCloud, Joey Carroll of Cache, Brandon Carroll of Cache, Graydon Carroll of Cache, Mark Early of Cache, Ryan Denio of Lawton, Carrie Denio of Clarksville, TN, Clarissa Sorrow of Lawton, Jarod Monson of Walters, Jarika Estes of Walters, Jaycee Estes of Walters, Missy Bigbow Neufer of Lawton, Cody Dodd of Sarye; great-grandchildren: Mariah, Alyssa, Aiden, Alex, Jayden, Colby, Chase, Sianna; cousins: Karen and husband, Ted Kagle of Lawton, Susan Bigbow of Indiahoma ,Billy Bigbow, Jr. and wife Marlys, George and Alice Lonetree of Indiahoma, Glen and Tracy Lonetree of Indiahona, Rodney Lambert of Sterling, JR Lambert and Gina of Euless, TX, June Rogers of Lawton, Edmond and Jerri Hoosier of Lawton, Becky Lambert of Lawton, and Linda and husband Rev. Tony Elkins of Geronimo; special niece: Kathy Russell of Lawton;and many extended family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband Walton “Walt” E. Sorrow; parents: Joe and Mae Bigbow; grandmother: Tachey Codopony; sister: Anna Mae Lonetree; uncles: Bill Codopony, Dick Codopony;aunts: Florence Codopony, Aldeen Codopony, Lola Codopony, Luetta Codopony, Uncles: Nelson Bigbow, Harden Bigbow, Woodrow Bigbow, Aunts: Peal Kerchee, Lucille Poolaw, Mary Tartshah.

We would like to say thank you to Faith Hospice and a very special Thank You to the Nurses: Ursula Williams, Amber Norman, and Jessica Hart.

Cody Carleen (Bigbow) Sorrow

Sorrow Continued on page 7

June 2013

18

The Comanche Nation News

College and GED graduates, Comanche Business Committee members, Comanche Nation College Faculty along with Chairman Wallace Coffey at the May 4th Commencement Ceremonies.

Comanche College 2013 Spring Commencement Ceremonies Story and Photo by Stacey Heminokeky/News Staff

The Comanche Nation College held the class of 2013 Spring Commencement at 1:00 p.m. on May 4 in the James Cox Auditorium.

The Comanche Nation College song was sung

by LaNeal Pewewardy. The Song’s words are as follows: Comanche, come listened to us at our College, wherever you go we want to help you, What we know you will know.

Rev. Gary Tahmahkera opened the Commencement Ceremonies with a

Prayer, followed by Dr. Consuelo Lopez giving the Welcome Address and Introductions.

Dr. John W. Tippeconnie, Ph. D. was the Commencement Keynote speaker.

Dr. John Tippeconnie III is Professor and Director of American Indian Studies at Arizona State University. He is a member of the Comanche Tribe and is also part Cherokee. He is a Professor of Educational Leadership

and Policy Studies of Penn State University, where he directed an American Indian Leadership Program. In 2011 he was named a “Fellow” by the American Educational Research Association. In 2012 the National Indian Education Association awarded him a Lifetime Achievement Award for his work in the education of American Indians and Alaska Natives.

Gene Pekah, M.B.A. Comanche Nation College

Dean of Student Services introduced the Tat sin upi General Equivalency Diploma (GED) and College graduates.

The GED students were as follows: Aleeshia Mercedes Atauvich, Crystal Nicole Large, Dennis Lee Niedo Jr., Austin Noe Gordon IV.

The Associate Degree Students were as follows: William Harrison Bointy, Janice Lea Moody, Niyah Brandon Nauni, Pevodah Merrill Nauni, Adrianna Fawn Rich-

ards, DeeAnn Grayce Tucker, Jared James Wahkinney, and Jennifer Robyn Whitewolf.

After the Presentations were awarded to the students, Comanche Nation Chairman, Wallace Coffey gave words of encouragement for the graduates.

Dr. Consuelo Lopez gave thanks to Chairman Wallace Coffey for his words of encouragement and gave thanks to everyone in attendance at the 2013 Comanche

Nation College Graduation.

The Tatsinupi GED Program offers many educational opportunities for tribal and all other students to assist them in attaining a General Equivalency Diploma (GED).

Students who earn a GED will then be eligible to enter Comanche Nation College or explore other options of vocational, college, internship, and mentor opportunities.

Graduates Honored at 24th Annual Comanche Nation Banquet

Story and Photos by Stacey Heminokeky/News Staff

The Comanche Nation Office of Higher Education held their 24th Annual Graduation Banquet on Friday May 17. The banquet was held at the McCasland Centennial Complex Ballroom on the Cameron University Campus.

The Comanche Nation was honored to recognize 121 high school graduates, 10 GED graduates, 20 Job Place-

ment and Training graduates, Three Associate of Applied Science graduates, 36 Bachelor’s Degrees, 15 Master’s Degrees, and One Ph. D. graduates.

The banquet Program included Piano Selection by Travis Komahcheet. The Master of Ceremonies was Benny Tahmahkera, M.E. The Flag Bearers were the Comanche

Little Ponies accomplanies by their princess, Katie Howell, and the Singer/Drummer was Anthony Monoessy.

Delores R. Twohatchet, Higher Education Program Director, gave the welcome address which was followed by a Prayer given

by Rev. Deborah Wilson. The Graduation Banquet dinner was catered by Sodexo of

Tashina Ototivo.

Cameron University.

The Guest Speakers were Tashina Ototivo and Alex Pena. Ototivo was a 2009 graduate of Walters High School, where she excelled in academics and athletics. Ototivo continued the same record when she enrolled at USAO in Chickasha. She graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in psychology and received the Distinguished Graduate Award from USAO.

Alex Pena, professor at the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe, was a graduate of MacArthur High School and earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from Cameron University in 2006.

Pena earned a Master of Art Degree in 2008 and a Master of Fine Arts Degree in 2009 from the University of Wisconsin, where he graduated Magna Cum Laude.

The Honored Guest was Dana Weryavah, the current Eisenhower High School Principal

The Presentation of Awards were given to all grad-

uates by Tribal Administrator, Will Owens, for their outstanding achievements. There were also five Graduate of the Year Awards, and four Lorentino Scholarship Recipient Awards presented to Honor Students for their academic success.

The Graduate of the Year Awards were presented to the following: • Felicia Hernandez, GED Graduate of Comanche Nation College; • Weckiai Grandbergs, High School Graduate of Oklahoma School of Science and Mathematics; • Vincent McCarthy, Jr., Job Placement and Training Graduate of Devry University; • Melanie Ambrose, Bachelors Degree of MidAmerica Christian University; and • Stephanie Cross, Masters Degree of the University of Oklahoma.

The Lorentino Scholarship Recipients were: • Weckiai Grandbergs, Named a National Merit Scholar of the Oklahoma

School of Science and Mathematics; • Jase Lee, Named a Gates Millennium Scholar of Riverside Indian School; • Kimberly DeJesus, of Lawton High School; and • Terrance Robinson of Indiahoma High School.

The Higher Education Banquet came to a close with remarks given by Twohatchet.

Twohatchet extended her gratitude to all Banquet Program participants, Comanche Nation Higher Education staff, parents, students, and friends who attended the 24th Annual Higher Education Banquet.

Twohatchet was very pleased with the guest speakers, Tashina Ototivo and Alex Pena.

Twohatchet said, “The Comanche Nation and the world should be so proud of this group of graduates. We celebrate all of their achievements from the GED students to the Ph.D Thank you Comanches for supporting and encouraging these students.”

CONGRATULATIONS

Tribal Administrator,Will Owens, congratulating Nivy Poemoceah.

Photos by Stacey Heminokeky/News Staff

Alex Pena.

The Comanche Nation Youth Program Language Students placed First and Third for different categories during the 11th Annual Language Fair held at the Sam Noble Museum of Natural History in April. The group placed in the 6th-8th Grade Visual Recognition category, winning First Place; and in the 9th-12th Grade, Large Group Song, winning Third Place. Language instructor for the Comanche Nation Youth Program is Martin Flores.

June 2011

19

The Comanche Nation News

2013 graduates Alannah Atauvich University of Oklahoma

Alexis Sandy Westmore High School

Angela Battese

University of Oklahoma Health Science

Cecilee Moore Walters High School

Chloe Mote Elgin High School

Dale Waysepappy Eisenhower High School

Damien Haumpy Fort-Cobb-Broxton

Dawn Fires Cameron University

Eduardo Soto Lawton High School

Halle Smith Norman North High School

Halle Tippeconnic Elgin High School

Jase Lee Riverside Indian School

Jason Melius East Central University

Katie Tonemah Texas Christian University

Kimberly DeJesus Lawton High School

Krista Ortiz Geronimo High School

Lindsey Red Elk Cache High School

Madison Wiley Forney High School

Mandy McCann Gateway Success Center

Melanie Ambrose

Mid-America Christian University

Nivynuaka Poemoceah Caddo Kiowa Technology Center

Payton Fite Eisenhower High School

Precious Williams Eisenhower High School

Quanah Karty Cameron University

Sarah Lechich University of Central Oklahoma

Shawn Nason Walden University

Stephanie Cross University of Oklahoma

Sunny Enriquez Platt College

University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma

Tashina Ototivo

Tim Carney Criswell College

Tyler Komahcheet Cache High School

Victoria Korrect Oklahoma City University

Vincent McCarthy Jr. DeVry University

Weckiai Grandbergs-Duncan

Oklahoma School of Science & Math

Yvonne Oberly-Campbell University of Oklahoma

Rey Ann Norberto MacArthur High School

Rachelle Ione Rankin Cleet School, Ada, Okla.

Julian Wahnee Haskell University

Katherine Ranee Alvarez-Churchill Elgin High School

Travis Clark Cache High School

Anthony McDaniel Cache High School

Billy Pewo Jr. Riverside Indian School

Kyle Jay Carroll Cache High School

Zachary Paige Mowatt Score Academy (Vo-Tech)

HAPPY FATHER’S DAY Nico Rosario

Happy Father’s Day From Pewewardy Family

Billy Karty

I love & miss you so much From Jana Karty

Phillip Martinez

Happy Father’s Day From Alexa & Cherry

Joel Motah

Happy Father’s Day From Avery & Carter Motah

Delbert Karty

Happy Father’s Day I love you very much From Cricket

Ferrill Codopony

We love you & wish you a very Happy Father’s Day From Oscar, Virginia, Janet & Carolyn

Jay Martinez

Dan Bigbee Jr.

Happy Father’s Day From Martheia Niedo

Monk

Barron Martinez

To the best Dad ever Love Raymond, Porkchop & Bree

George Martinez

Happy Father’s Day From Carol, Barron, Phillip & Jay

Happy Father’s Day From Kristen & Kaleb

Roderick W. Hoahwah Sr. Miss you Love you From your wife Charlene

Charles Paffah Sr.

Thank you for always being there Your kids Marie, Jr, Amy, Charlotte, & Sara Happy Fathers Day! From Rylan Sylus, Ivan & Kinyon

Wishing you both a blessed father’s day. We love you From The Blackstar Women (Mom, Daughters & Neices)

Dad

Happy Father’s Day From Jamee, Vander & Ryder

Ricky Furr

Michael & Ryan Blackstar

Daddy I miss you more than anything! But I feel your love surrounding me. I hear your voice guiding me. And your laughter still brings a smile to my face. I understand now that you didn’t leave me, you’re waiting for me. I will see you soon Daddy! Love, Moop

Theodore Niedo

Happy Father’s Day! From Tom Bigbee

Keith Koassechony Sr.

We love you Dad!!

Love you Papa you are the best!!

From Kids & Grand kids

Dad

Happy Father’s Day Dad Cat

Billie Karty

I love & miss you so much Jana Karty

Greg Suina

Happy Father’s Day From Rory, Lillene, Sophie, Quintin & grandkids

Jerome Tahhahwah Happy Father’s Day From The Family

Dad

I love you very much dad.

Happy Fathers day From me & the kids

Dad

Happy Fathers Day daddy, we love you too much!!

Kaelan, Rebecca, Tater, & Cruzy

Lloyd Heminokeky Jr.

You know when something is wrong.

You listen encourage & sometimes defend. When we need you most you are helpful & strong. You’re a great husband to mom. We appreciate all you do. Blessed indeed we are for having a Dad like you! Happy Father’s Day! Love your Heminokeky Girls. P.S. The only thing better than having you for a Dad, is our kids having you for a Grandpa.

From Stacey Heminokeky

Dad

Ben Norberto Jr.

To our wonderful Dad that we love so much. You’ll always be a tough hard working Dad in our eyes. You are special to us.

From Eagles, Kari, Ben III & Rey Ann

Happy Father’s Day ‘Ahpu’ ‘Athaa’ & Favorite Son Love You Sooo Much, Starr, Sonja, Hunter Lee, Anhinga, Ft. Cobb Crew, Walters Girls & Momma

Meech Aitson

Wilfred R. Niedo

Arthur Reyes

Happy Father’s Day in Heaven Dad! We miss you more with each passing day. But we know you’re well, & enjoying your heavenly reward. Love & miss you lots!

Jewell, Squint, John, Torie, Tinki, Mona, Dorcas, Moop & Chris

Thank you for always being a SuperHero to all of us! You are so Loved!

Words cannot describe the appreciation we have for you! God has truly blessed us with an awesome, loving, hard working, dedicated Husband & Father!! Love Always, Daddy’s Reyes Girls!!

Happy Father’s Day! You are the one who holds our family together!

We love you very much!

Love Bobbie, all your kids & grandkids

Stuart Perea

Fred Codynah

Happy Father’s Day to our Awesome Dad, Fred Codynah Jr.! We are so lucky to have you as our Daddy and we love you with all our hearts! Love Tristan, Isabella, & Liz.

Happy Fathers Day Daddy from all your little girls and boy..We miss you so much, and we think about you everyday. We love you Daddy.

Donovan Earl,Betty June, Zelma Roseanna,Arietta Lee,Zelda Beth,Anita Faith,Arleeta Frances, Zeldina Joy, and Melvina Lynn

Kyle Tahpay

Happy Fathers Day Kyle Tahpay!

To the best daddy in the world!! We love u!!

Maddy, Gracie & Kj

Nicholas Tahchaw-wickah

Two Eagles Norberto

Brandon Avery

Happy Fathers Day, we are proud of a wonderful Dad you are. We are blessed to have you for a son & thank you & Megan for our Grandson, Kolten From Mom, Dad & siblings

Joe Jimenez

You helped me take my first steps, and the most difficult ones too. You do everything that makes me look up to you. Through the ups and downs in life you are by my side. Thank you for always being there and for being the very special man you are.

Love JJ

Galyn Motah

Lee Viddaurri

Have a very Happy & blessed Father’s Day Love ya!

Mona, Santee, Masa, Mojo & Willow Wind

Jackie Codynah

A special dedication to my Father, Jackie Codynah, who at times was both parents to us.... We could not of had a more loving and supportive father. From: Kimberly, Jeff, Ranee and Kevin (Who would of said the same thing if he were still here). We love you daddy!!!

Happy Fathers Day Daddy, I love you!

Papa

Happy Fathers Day Old Papa!! We love you very much From The Cable kids, grandkids and great grandkids

To my dad Rev. Nicholas Tahchawwickah, you mean the world to our whole family. The many things you have taught us, the stories you tell us, the late night prayers you say for us all. Thank you and know that we love and appreciate you very much!

Love, Sonya, Flora, Rebecca, Dylan, Myles, Felecia, Daniel, & Freddie Jr.

Thanks for all That you do for us, we love you dad & Happy father’s day!

Greg, Amy, Ricky, Grant, Joe, Rosie and grandkids

Mother’s Day Announcements!

Mom & Dad

Dad, You left us six years ago May 8, 2007. That was a Sad Mother’s Day. Mom, You left us three years ago February 11, 2010.

Remembering you both on Mother’s Day/Father’s Day We love you miss you both The Simmons Family

Mom

Charles Boyden

We love you From Kalani & your nieces Kyleigh & Mya

Robert M. Perea Sr.

Happy Father’s Day son! You’re a great Dad. I love you with all my heart Love Mom

Dad

Happy Father’s Day We love you!

Love, Angela & Nuhnuh

Charlene Hoahwah

Billy Joe Wermy

We love you Dad/Grandpa From Carol, Fagon, Hoot, John, Thidder & Grandkids & Grandchildren

Dad

Happy Fathers Day Daddy!!!

Thanks for always being there! I’m blessed to have a Father like you! I love you! Your baby, Shandel

Wishing you a Happy Mother’s Day to My Two Best Friends Love you, Mom

Ed Tahhahwah Jr. Happy Father’s Day From The Family

Sidney Mihecoby Happy Father’s Day Love Shea

Moop

Happy Father’s Day Brother Love you!

Mona Perea

Happy Mother’s Day We Love you Lisa, Renee, Miranda, Myra, Rolanda, Rod Jr. & Terence