VOLUME 14 EDITION 5
Lawton, OK
General Council Meeting Makes One Major Change on the FY 2014 Budget Owens Remains Tribal Administrator; Nominations taken for CBC and Election Board Positions
By Jolene Schonchin/News Staff
With a quorum of 445 tribal voters at 1:30 p.m. April 20, the annual Comanche General Council Meeting began with all Comanche Business Committee (CBC) present. Following the invocation, Chairman Wallace Coffey updated the audience of the current status of negotiating Tobacco Contracts with Oklahoma Governor, Mary Fallin. He said he will not concede any activity with Fallin until she recognizes the Comanche Nation is a sovereign nation, and to treat the negotiations as such. He further told the General Council he would not tolerate the State of Oklahoma forcing a burn ban and other orders that would intrude upon on the religious rights of tribal people. Coffey recognized members of different tribal boards, and other noted tribal members. The first order of business was to take nominations for CBC and Election Board positions. Nominees were announced and recorded as tribal members lined up to submit their candidates. Being nominated for CBC No. 1. were incumbent, Charles Wells, Vernon Tehauno Jr., Jonathan Poahway,
Photo by Paula Karty/ News Staff
Lines of tables are lined up to sign in members of the Comanche Nation April 20 during the annual General Council Meeting. The annual gathering, mandated by the Comanche Nation Constitution, brings tribal members together to hire a Tribal Administrator, take nominations for Comanche Business Committee seats, and discuss the vote on the annual budget of the Comanche Nation.
May 2013
Indian Agency Cemetery, Henry Post Army Airfield Fort Sill, Okla., Memorial Day Observance Plans are underway to provide next-of-kin and friends of the Indian Agency Cemetery an opportunity to pay homage to those buried in this long-abandoned cemetery. May 27, miniature American flags will be placed on each of the 114 known grave sites. Because the in-ground grave slabs have been covered with dirt, only the presence of these flags will mark each individual grave site. All are welcome at the cemetery Memorial Day. The security gate will be opened from 6 a.m. until 9 p.m. on that day. You may find the cemetery by entry to Fort Sill at the Key Gate. Proceed west to the first traffic light (Geronimo Road), turn left or south until Geronimo Road dead-end at Post Road. Turn left (southeast) on Post Road, drive past the fire station and several airplane hangars for three-quarters (3/4) of a mile. The cemetery sign will be on your left and the parking area on your right. The earliest known burial occurred in 1895 and burials continued in this mostly Comanche Indian cemetery for another 20-25 years thereafter. Since 1917, the cemetery has been on the Fort Sill military reservation and its care and maintenance entrusted to the Army since that time. Because the cemetery occupied a strategic spot on the area chosen by See Graves on page 5
see General Council page 2
Renovations Underway at Comanche Nation Waterpark
Oklahoma Governor Fallin Refuses to Meet with Tribal Nations on a Government-to-Government Basis By Jolene Schonchin/News Staff Courtesy Photo Pictured from left to right: Randy McLemore, Chairman of the Caddo County Commissioners; Gary Ridley, State of Oklahoma’s Secretary of Transportation and Milton Sovo, Caddo Nation Transportation Director.
Bill Shoemate tells CBC members about the new slide that he’s hoping to have up and ready for the Comanche Nation Waterpark’s new attraction before the 2013 summer season opening in May. Story and Photos by Stacey Heminokeky/News Staff
On April 5th, members of the Comanche Business Committee (CBC), Harry Mithlo, Gary Tamahkera, Charles Wells and Special Projects Coordinator, Donna Wahnee recently visited the Comanche Nation Waterpark to get a progress update on the upcoming opening. They were accompanied by Bill Shoemate, General Manager of the Comanche Nation Waterpark. The employees of the Comanche Nation Waterpark have been working hard to complete renovations to meet the scheduled opening of May 24th. Shoemate made commendable remarks about the employees’ work morale and progress. Shoemate stated more than once, “I am really proud of my employees.” He also said, “My employees are re-
ally all good at what they do and they each work hard at getting the Waterpark looking nice and ready to go by the opening day.” Shoemate shared with the CBC the goals the employees are working hard to achieve. The Wave Area, Kiddie Pool, and Lazy River will receive fresh coats of blue paint. The water pumps will receive detailed maintenance to assure they will work properly. A room will be renovated to house a Pizza/Birthday Room. A shed, formerly used as the First Aid Center, will be renovated into a mini concession with a CocaCola machine and snacks to allow more convenience for the patrons. The current concession area will be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized. The sign-boards and arbors will re-
ceive fresh coats of paint. Plans are in the process of adding another water slide, which will hopefully be ready to go for the opening of the Waterpark. Shoemate informed the CBC they will entertain company picnics, and will allow them to bring their own food caterers. He stated, “We would be happy to have them out!” The CBC were informed that a number of tickets have been sold and the staff is looking forward to selling more. The tickets are $50 per person for 4 or more, plus tax the total cost is $52.50. If there are any questions in regard to purchasing season tickets, you may phone (580) 353-6129.
Sovo Elected Oklahoma Tribal Transportation Council President The Southern Plains TTAP at Oklahoma State University hosted the 2013 State Tribal Transportation Summit at the Embassy Suites Hotel and Conference Center in Norman Oklahoma, and the Oklahoma Tribal Transportation Council held there meeting and election of officers and Milton Sovo, Transportation Director Caddo Nation, was elected President, other officers retained their positions. Sovo will serve as President for the Oklahoma Tribal Transportation Council for 2013, 2014, and 2015. He will also serve as a member on the Oklahoma Department of Transportation’s Advisory Board for his second term.
In a letter addressed to the United Indian Nations of Oklahoma, Kansas, and Texas, Oklahoma Governor, Mary Fallon, refuses to meet with tribal nations on a government=togovernment negotiation meeting to discuss many topics of concern such as tobacco and gaming compacts. In addition, she is proposing on implementing a burn ban which would have a direct effect on intertribal religious ceremonies that include sweats and Native American Church services Through federal law, they are protected, but a burn ban would potentially worsen the frail lines of communication between the tribes and the state government. Fallon’s April 4 letter reads: Dear Chairman Coffey, On March 18, 2013 Representative Jerry McPeak forwarded a document signed on behalf of 23 Tribal Nations requesting that current tobacco compacts remain in force until August 30, 2017. Although six signatories currently have no compact, and one signatory already has a compact that expires in 2017, I do consider this document an early step in serious and important discussions See UINOKT, Page 4
May 2013 2 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 May edition is noon May 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 •
•
• • • •
•
•
•
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 William Owens To contact officials: Toll Free: (877) 492-4988
The Comanche Nation News
By Stacey Heminokeky/News Staff
The Comanche Nation Business Committee address the General Council April 20 at Watchetaker Hall at the Comanche Nation Complex From left:Charles Wells, Sonya Nevaquaya, Harry Mithlo, Wallace Coffey, Mack Mahsetky, Jack Codopony Sr., and Gary Tahmahkera. continued from page 1
Tracy Dawn Myers, and Ozzie RedElk. Being nominated for CBC No. 2 were William Nelson Sr., Vincent Pocowatchit, incumbent Sonya Nevaquaya, and Lebert Taunah. Being nominated for the Anadarko district Election Board were Kay Smits, Carol Pewewardy, and Anthony Houston Miller. Being nominated for the Apache district Election Board were incumbent Regina Brannock, and Sandra Kay Gallegos. Being nominated for the Oklahoma City district Election Board were incumbent Dana Attocknie and Brandy Lynn Herron. Kathy Morgan was nominated by a tribal member who does not live in the Oklahoma City district, so it was not a valid nomination, according to the Election Board nomination procedures. The next order of business on the agenda was to take nominations and vote on a Tribal Administrator. Being nominated were incumbent Will Owens, Nick Tahchawwickah, Robert Komahcheet, Jana Karty, and Daniel Robles. Each had a chance to address the General Council. “This is a hiring position, not an elected position,” said Coffey. Comanche Nation Election Board President, Regina Brannock, explained the voting process. The voting results for Tribal Administrator were: Will Owens—242 votes (54%); Nick Tahchawwickah—16 votes (4%); Robert Komahcheet—111 votes (25%); Jana Karty – 45 votes (10%); and Daniel Robles—31 votes (7%). Owens retained his position as Tribal Administrator.
A decision whether to continue Crowe and Dunlevy Attorneys at Law to represent the Comanche Nation as legal counsel were up for vote. Taking the floor was Walter Echohawk of Crowe and Dunlevy. “The Comanche Nation has come a long way in this journey,” said Echohawk. “Every time we come to the Comanche Nation offices, the staff are high spirited, which you do not see in all tribal offices. They have a vision for the Comanche people. It is a privilege to be a small part of that vision through legal services.” Tribal member Tina Emhoolah made a motion to retain Crowe and Dunlevy as legal counsel for the Comanche Nation. It was seconded by an unknown tribal member. The voting results were: Yes—217; No—2. Crowe and Dunlevy will remain the legal counsel for the Comanche Nation. Eleanor McDaniel expressed the importance of creating a tribal court for the Comanche Nation. Coffey recognized the tribal members who are lawyers, and gave them the floor to talk about their views of a tribal court. Chairman Coffey spoke about introducing a 50 percent per capita Revenue Allocation Plan (RAP) until the Economic Development status improves and a 60 percent RAP can be re-introduced to the General Council. The approval of the Fiscal Year 2013-1014 proposed budget up for discussion. In the 25%, Economic Development, section of the Budget, Director of the Office of Environmental Programs and tribal member Brian Stillwell, took the floor to ask about the validity of placing CONEI on the ballot when they have been voted off of the budget in previous years.
The Comanche Nation News
April CBC Meeting Adds Nursing Home Board Members
Government
General Council
May 2013 3
Many people voiced their opinion on the subject and Stillwell made a motion to take the $1 million line item of CONEI off of the budget and to disperse the money allocated for CONEI to the programs that were cut in funding. The motion was seconded. “I see potential for growth,” said Secretary/Treasurer, Gary Tahmahkera. “It has several contracts, including some with Ft. Sill and it could help us move forward.” Coffey informed Stillwell and the General Council that if it is passed and CONEI is taken off of the budget, the money would be distributed among the line items in the Economic Development 25% budget to adhere to the RAP. The voting results were Yes—133, No—38. The CONEI line item will be taken off of the budget. A motion was made by Oscar Codopony to place the budget on the voting ballot as it is with the consideration of the change made by the General Council to take CONEI off of the budget. The motion was seconded. Some tribal members wanted to keep on discussing the budget one line item at a time, and Codopony called for the question. The voting results were Yes—141, No—11. The budget was approved to go on the May 18 voting ballot. Prior to the New Business, numerous door prizes were given away, including two big screen TVs. Winning the TVs were Margaret Hennessey Morgan and Adora Niedo. In the New Business Thomas Narcomey was on the agenda to ask the CBC to continue the process of putting the Ft. Sill Indian Agency Cemetery on the Federal Register. A quorum was lost, and the meeting was adjourned at 4:59 p.m.
Photo by Jolene Schonchin/News Staff
Chairman Wallace Coffey called the meeting to order at 10:12 a.m. Secretary/Treasurer, Gary Tahmahkera, conducted Roll Call. All CBC were present except Ms. Sonya Nevaquaya, committeeperson #2, who was absent. A quorum was established. Invocation was given by Reverend Nahwooksy. There were about 40 people in attendance at the meeting. Chairman Coffey discussed all the articles in the Comanche Nation News that informed the tribal people about all the Tribe’s upcoming and groundbreaking endeavors. Chairman Coffey said “We’re quite pleased that things have taking shape.” The New Travel Plaza, Comanche Nation Red River Hotel, and the new expansion of the road south of the Comanche Nation Casino will provide not only financial opportunities for the Comanche Nation as a whole, but employment for the tribal people. Chairman Coffey clarified that Comanche preference will apply to employment with all phases of these projects including the construction phase of the Red River Hotel. Chairman Coffey also mentioned that plans for Johnny Depp
“The Lone Ranger” to return to Comanche country were being finalized and the event would be public. The Disney Coorporation will set a date for the premiere of “The Lone Ranger” to be shown in Lawton, Oklahoma before being released. The tribe received a call from Disney Coorporation and they ask for an invitation list of tribal leaders across the Nation and elected officials to view the premiere. Chairman said, “Our Comanche Tribe is going to be in the spotlight.” Disney Corporation wants to assure all Indian Nations that they will provide an accurate portrayal of the American Indians. Chairman Coffey spoke on an interest of Land Acquisitions and of placing Comanche Nation property into trust. The Chairman explained that under the President Obama Administration the Interior Department had over 1000 applications for land into trust for the past few years, and they put in over 100,000 acres of land into Trust for American Indians, and he would like to be a part of that. Chairman Coffey expressed his concern about the property of the Comanche Nation College being placed
Owens Wins Second Term as Tribal Administrator
COMANCHES LEADERSHIP AT STATE CAPITOL. Comanche Nation leaders Wallace Coffey, pictured above, Harry Mithlo, Comanche Business Committee No. 3, and Gary Tahmahkera, Secretary/ Treasurer, attended the April 9 Oklahoma House of Representatives Native American Caucus at the Oklahoma State Capitol. Representatives from the Law Office of Crowe and Dunlevy were also in attendance with the CBC. Coffey spoke of the state of the Comanche Nation in Southwest Oklahoma, pointing out the strong presence of the Comanche Nation through the Comanche Nation College being the only Native American Accredited College in the state, the tribal funeral home, tribal museum, and the progress of the nursing facility. He noted future ventures such as a horse racing track and other forms of entertainment to bring revenue in to the Comanche Nation.
into trust. The Chairman spoke about the relationship between the Comanche Nation and the State of Oklahoma in regard to the tobacco compact, license plates, and gaming revenue. Chairman stated the Tribe would not go into any tobacco negotiations with our eyes shut. Chairman Coffey stated, “We’re a Comanche Tribe that we haven’t created any problems for anybody. We have a very strong historical prespective of the way I look at today’s Governor and Government that is going to be a-the past is coming back again.” Chairman explained our State Governor, Mary Fallin, indicated that our compacts are no longer in order and we need to redo them. She also wants the Tribe’s to accept her policies. She wants to look at the possibility of compacting our license plates, she wants to look at gaining money off of Trust lands. If the Governor picks a fight with us then we have to prepare ourselves for that time. We’ve contributed to our neighbors, and the community yet the State Governent treats us like they don’t want us involved in free enterprise.
Chairman asked the Committee for a motion to approve the minutes of the March 2, 2013 meeting. Motion to approve by ViceChairman, Mack Mahsetky. Charles Wells, Committeman #1 seconds the motion. The motion carried 5/0/1. Resolutions 39-13 Enrollment List No.924; 4013 Enrollment List No. 925; 41-13 Enrollment List No. 926; 42-13 Enrollment List No. 927; 43-13 Enrollment List No. 928. Motion to approve all the above by Vice-Chairman Mack Mahsetky. Motion was seconded by Committeeman, Jack Codopony, Sr. No discussion. Motion carried 5/0/5. Resolution, 44-13 Minors Trust. Motion to approve by Vice-Chairman Mack Mahsetky. Motion seconded by Committeeman #3, Harry Mithlo. No discussion. Motion carried 5/0/1. Resolution, 45-13 TERO Fee. Motion to approve by Committeman #1, Charles Wells. Seconded by Committeeman, Harry Mithlo. No discussion. Motion carried 5/0/1. Resolution, 46-13 Nursing Home Board. Cheryl, 3 year term; RoseMary Chibitty, 2 year term; Dr. Ed
Chappabitty, 3 year term; Jackie Attavich, 1 year term; Margaret Morgan, 2 year term; Harry Mithlo and Jack Codypony, ex-officio. Motion to approve by Vice-Chairman Mack Mahsetky. Seconded by SecretaryTreasurer, Gary Tahmahkera. No discussion. Motion carried 5/0/1. Resolution, 47-13 Audit. CBC authorizes Finley and Cook to release the Tribe’s Fiscal Year 2012 audit to the accounting firms to provide bids for the Tribe’s 2013 audit. Motion to approve by Mack Mahsetky, Vice Chairman. Seconded by Secretary-Treasurer, Gary Tahmahkera. Motion carried 5/0/1. Resolution, 48-13 Payroll Advances CBC will discuss in Executive Session. No items for New Business. Mack Mahsetky, Vice-Chairman made a motion to approve to go into Executive Session. The motion was Seconded by Charles Wells. Motion carried 5/0/1. At 11:00 a.m. the CBC took a lunch break and returned to Executive Session.
Completing the Circle
Story and Photo by Jolene Schonchin/News Staff
Owens Story and Photo by Jolene Schonchin/News Staff
Will Owens comes around the corner of the Administration Building, stopping every few yards to speak to tribal employees, answer his phone, and make his way to his office. Being the Tribal Administrator for the Comanche Nation for two and a half years, Owens takes pride in serving the tribal people in this capacity, and has a full understanding his position is not an eight-to-five job. His goal is to bring continuity and a harmonious work environment for both the employees of the tribe and the people they serve. “Everything we accomplish, we do so together,” said Owens. “I can’t make it work without the staff, the tribal people, and the Comanche Business Committee.” Owens feels he has accomplished many things since being the TA. He points out putting together a good staff of employees who are determined to give quality and professional service to the tribal people. He initiated the Reality Department to ensure land acquisitions would be turned into trust status instead of fee status. He also hired a Compliance Officer who is making sure BIA funded programs fulfill the obligations which are agreed upon to run efficiently. One of his goals he has prioritized for his new term is to provide better health care for tribal members. “We have an opportunity to provide Comanche Care, which tribal members will have the option to take advantage of health care packages at an affordable rate,” said Owens. His stated his motivation is
knowing each day is an opportunity to help tribal members through the many programs the tribe offers. “There is a satisfaction in knowing we are helping tribal members to make their lives easier, and ease their burdens and concerns in some small way,” said Owens. He admits trying to keep a written schedule is very challenging, because each day brings impromptu meetings with tribal members and employees, but he tries to alter his schedule in order to meet the daily demand of being an effective and proficient TA, keeping an open mind to better himself as the tribal TA. Being raised by his greatgrandmother, grandmother, and mother, Owens acknowledge he would not be in this leadership position if it was not for the support and strength of his family. He said he also learned a great deal from his mentor and second-father, the late Johnny Wauqua. Wauqua served as the Chairman for the Comanche Nation as well as the Tribal Administrator. He said although he is still grieving the loss of Wauqua, he continues to gain knowledge from current tribal Chairman, Wallace Coffey. “There is a reason why Coffey is a five-term Chairman,” said Owens. “I enjoy working with Chairman Coffey and the rest of the CBC.” He said there are no perimeters in being the TA for the Comanche Nation. “It’s not about me, it’s about the Comanche people,” said Owens. “It is an honor and privilege to serve in the capacity of TA.
Charles Wells, who witnessed the inaugural of president Obama this year, had an emotional connection of traveling to Washington DC to witness this event. He was following the footsteps of his grandfather, was a Comanche tribal leader at the turn of the 20th century. Otto Wells Comarosa, which is the family name of the Wells legacy, traveled with Comanche leader, Quanah Parker to witness the Presidential Inaugural of William McKinley , the 28th President of the United States. He had made several trips to Washington with Parker to represent the Comanche tribe on several issues of importance, including the Native American Church, which was under fire due to the use of the peyote plant. “They went up there to tell and show Congress this was our religion,” said Wells. Wells said he felt the trip to Washington DC completed the circle between him going with Chairman Coffey to the Inaugural Ball. It was Wells first trip to DC, and he explained as he landed in DC, he thought about what his grandfather witnessed coming in on a train to DC, which was the main source of transportation in his grandfather’s era. “It pulled together the generations between my grandfather and myself going to witness an Inaugural event,” said Wells. A lot of sentimental value was behind the trip Wells took to Washington, DC. He said Comarosa was an interpreter for the tribe, translating the languages of Comanche-toEnglish and vice versa. He added Camorosa signed many legal documents for the tribe, working as a liaison between the Comanche Nation and the Federal Government. He explained the value to the land given through the Jerome Dawes Act to members of the Comanche Nation. “Knowing I work for the Comanche people like my grandfather makes me proud to sit on the CBC board,” said Wells. “It is a very special time for me.”
Courtesy Photo
Wells and Coffey attend the Inaugural of President Obama in January.
Courtesy Photo
THANKING THE PEOPLE. Crowe and Dunlevy representatives (left to right) Jonathan Rector, Paige Masters, Susan Huntsman and Mike McBride, Crowe lawyers, with Lindsey Early, Comanche Nation Intern ,eat dinner following the April 20 General Council Meeting to review current issues facing the tribal government. The firm, which is the oldest in the state of Oklahoma, expressed their gratitude and honor of being elected the legal representatives of the Comanche Nation. Walter Echohawk, not pictured, stated, “ If you cannot be a member of the Comanche Nation, the next best thing is being a legal representative for the Comanche Nation.”
May 2013
4
The Comanche Nation News
Unikot continued from page 1 on the issue of tobacco negotiations. As you know, the tobacco compacts have been mutually beneficial to both Oklahoma and the Tribal Nations within our state. I am hopeful that this relationship can continue and be expanded upon into the future. As I expressed in my earlier letter to you, in October 2012, I directed by representatives to conduct roundtable discussions with tribal leaders to explain my intent to renegotiate the current compacts. It is my belief that the current tobacco compacts may not appropriately recognize the sovereign status of the Tribal Nations. I also believe that in some instances, the State of Oklahoma would be better served by inclusion or deletion of certain compact terms. As a signatory to the March 18, 2013 request, it is apparent that the document reflects your personal commitment for the Tribal Nations within Oklahoma to continue to have negotiated tobacco compacts with the State of Oklahoma. I too share this commitment. While I do not feel it is appropriate to grant an extension of all current compacts for an extended period of time, I personally assure you that the State of Oklahoma will negotiate new tobacco compacts in good faith. I also commit that if the State of Oklahoma is in serious goodfaith negotiations with any Tribal Nation on June 30, 2013, when the current compacts expire, I am willing to enter into short-term tobacco agreements to allow time to finish negotiations and insure that there are no significant disruption of tribal or state services as a result of the expiration of current compacts. Should your Nation desire to have a new tobacco compact with the state, I again offer to negotiate in good faith. I invite you to have your tribal negotiator contact Steven K. Mullins, my General Counsel, who I have designated as the negotiator for the State of Oklahoma. Respectfully, Mary Fallon Governor of Oklahoma George Thurman, Chairman of the United Indian Nations of Oklahoma, Kansas, and Texas, responded to the letter of Governor Fallon with the following letter, dated April 22, 2013. Dear Governor Fallon: Our member tribes received your letter on April 4, 2013. While we appreciate your response, we are deeply disappointed that you remain unwilling to meet with tribal leaders face-to-face. Historically, your predecessors, Governor Henry, Keating, Walters, and Bellmon, all met with principal leaders of the tribes when negotiating issues of this magnitude.
May 2013
5
The Comanche Nation News
Graves continued form page 1 Your predecessors clearly understood the importance of meeting sovereignto-sovereign. While your offer to negotiate in good faith, we believe that such negotiations cannot be initiated unless you are at the bargaining table. Each tribe has a compact in effect now, with important provisions such as most favored nations’ clauses designed to protect both the interest of the tribes of the State. Tribes have been compliant with the compacts. We expect any good-faith negotiations including discussions of current compacts and terms therein, including provisions allowing for an extension of existing compacts to 2017. We understand that in negotiations with certain tribes you are encouraging them to enter into other compacts regarding unrelated issues, such as burn bans. We prefer to confine our negotiations to tobacco compacts because that is the most imminent issue currently facing us. We, the United Indian Nations of Oklahoma, Kansas, and Texas, agree that the current tobacco compacts do not appropriately recognize the sovereign status of the Tribal Nations. Throughout the town hall meetings and your recent letter, you repeatedly reference your desire to respect tribal sovereignty, and while we appreciate that, we encourage you to adhere to the comments and points in this letter, developed by UINOKT, a consensus body of over 30 sovereign nations. We look forward to an explanation of how you attend to fulfill your commitments to respect tribal sovereignty and negotiate in good faith with our member tribes by April 30, 2013. George Thurman President UINOKT In an effort to promote government to government consultation, at least 25 Oklahoma tribal nations converged on Stroud, Okla., home to the Sac & Fox Nation, April 8 to form a united front in their negotiations with the state to reach a tobacco compact. “The majority of tribes in Oklahoma stand united behind the principle of good faith negotiations between the state and tribes over matters that are economically important to both our peoples,” said George Thurman, Principal Chief of the Sac & Fox Nation and Chairman of the United Indian Nations of Oklahoma, Kansas, and Texas (UINOKT). Stemming from the U.S. Supreme Court case involving the Citizen Potawatomi tribe in the early 1990s, the Supreme Court ruled that the state could not tax commercial activity between natives and native smoke shops on their land while stating that non-Indian sales on Indian land could be taxed by the state. This
Comanche Daycare Holds “Walk for Kids” Event
Story and Photo by Stacey Heminokeky/News Staff
Pictured above; Master Teacher, Teka Henry showing her support during the “Walk for Kids” event along with her students Logan N. and Kaiden E.
The Numunu Turetu Early Childhood Development Program of Lawton held a week long event called “Week of the Young Child.” Director, Desiree DeVine and staff planned different activities for the children each day of the week April 15-19. On April 16th, the activity planned was the “Walk for Kids.” The teachers and children all participated in the walk. They were escorted by the Comanche Nation Police as they walked half a block from the daycare and back. Guest speaker, Edward Tahahwah III, from the Comanche Nation Fitness Center was invited to also walk, and visit with the children about the importance of being strong and healthy. Tahahwah explained to the children how important exercising and walking was for them to maintain a strong heart.
mixed decision led to the first Oklahoma tribal tobacco compacts. In late 2012, the tribes received a letter from Governor Fallin notifying them that the current compacts, scheduled to expire on June 30, 2013, would indeed terminate. Since Governor Fallin took office, Oklahoma tribes have been waiting to establish good working relations with the governor’s office, and the first real issue to come before her office regarding tribes has been the tobacco compacts. “We had hoped that there would have been better, more effective, and more respectful communication between the state and the tribes regarding the upcoming deadline of the tobacco compacts, which brings millions annually to the State of Oklahoma, as well as tribal treasuries,” added Thurman. “We were doing what we were supposed to, and the state decided to move the goal post in the middle of the game.” Three tribes have reached three separate agreements with the state. “While we respect the right for each tribe to sign a tobacco compact to meet their needs, let us be clear that none of those compacts are binding on the tribes in absence of effective government to government
consultation,” said Don Patterson, President of the Tonkawa Tribe. “They’re treating us as Indians and not enterprises,” said Wallace Coffey, Chairman of the Comanche Nation. “We feel that there are other issues that are more pressing from the tribal government standpoint than tobacco. Sadly, there appears to be a pattern of behavior from this Governor. They’ve dismantled the Indian Affairs Commission; we were not consulted on opting out of the Affordable Care Act, and the state has been noticeably silent regarding the Indian Child Welfare Act case pending before the Supreme Court.” The economic success of Oklahoma is reliant upon tribes and tribal entities. The federal sequester is impacting the state and tribal economies. This is the time for us to work together for common ground. “Communication is vital to the success of both of our economies,” said Thurman. “The governor has been uneven in the performance of that historic relationship. As the key economic partner and one of the state’s largest employers, we should have the opportunity to sit across the bargaining table from the Governor, and we have not been afforded that opportunity.”
Comanche Nation Environmental Program The Comanche Nation Environmental Programs (EPA) office took nine children to the Wichita Wild Life Refuge for a youth outreach on March 21st 2013. The Field trip consisted of teaching the children why it is so important to keep our environment safe and clean, why our surroundings play a role in everyday life, and why it’s so important to preserve our way of life. The children had the great opportunity to meek Nick Plata the Wichita Wild Life Refuge Environmental Specialist. Mr. Plata talked to the children about all of the wildlife of the refuge and the plant life. We also visited prairie dog town and the heart rock followed by lunch for the end of our tour. The Comanche Nation Solid Waste Department has been busy. We started the year off by opening our dump trailers for our tribal members in January. In the month of February we had our second annual tire and battery drop off in the towns of Anadarko, Apache, Cache and Walters. In March we started on cleaning up another one of our illegal dumpsites on March 6, 2013 and finished on March 15.
the Army for its airfield, it was largely abandoned and no efforts were made to even recognize its existence. Official military documents show the old sod runway crossing directly over many of these graves. Thus, the cemetery was merely forgotten except in the memories of many tribal elders. Efforts which started in the early part of the 1980s to recognize, restore, and preserve this Indian Agency Cemetery fell on deaf ears of the Army officials. Presently, a full-fledged effort is underway to persuade the Army to bring this cemetery to a par with the several other cemeteries on the Post. Comanche Nation Chairman Wallace Coffey has been leading this effort Read the full saga of the most recent efforts to restore and preserve the cemetery at our website: ftsillindianagencycemetery.com
Photos by Candace Todd/News Staff
April 1, during the 11th Annual Oklahoma Native American Youth Language Fair the Comanche Nation’s, Numunu Turetu childcare center took 2nd place in the PreK-2nd Large Group Song category, singing “Our Animal Song”-picture top left. Also participating in the song division was Comanche Nation Childcare center of Apache, OKLA., singing a Comanche Hymn-picture top right. Walters Service Club made 1st place in the 3-5th grade Small Group Song division/Song with language, singing two “Comanche Hymns”-picture bottom right. The event was held at Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History with over 50 performances.
Comanche Nation Programs Helps Tribal Members in the Albuquerque Area
Comanche Nation Enrollment Department, BJ Anderson, helps tribal members March 22, at the Comanche’s on the Move Outreach at the Albuquerque Hard Rock Hotel. Over 100 tribal members in the area took advantage of the numerous programs that were set up and ready to serve them. Tribal elder and former Comanche language teacher for the Albuquerque area, Hope Taylor, visits the booths and enjoys the afternoon at the outreach activity. Members of the CBC, Mack Mahsetky, Gary
Tahmahkera, and Jack Codopony were on hand to visit with the tribal people.
May 2011
6
The Comanche Nation News
People, Places and Things Grubbs Earns Black Belt
Gomez would like to congratulate these fine students on a job well done. Keep up the good work! Pictured Left to right: Gabriel Tehauno was promoted to his Yellow Belt, Tristan Miller was promoted to his Orange Belt, and Raiden Tehauno was promoted to his Yellow Belt.
Comanche Nation Law Enforcement Cops and Kids Picnic
Grubbs Mollie Grubbs recently earned her black belt in Tae Kwon Do. Grubbs is 9 years old and in the 4th grade. Grubbs worked 2 1/2 years to reach this goal while still remaining on the A-B Honor Roll at her school. She is the granddaughter of Joe and Linda Chebahtah of Indiahoma; the great granddaughter of Mooney and Mollie Chebahtah and the great great granddaughter of Chevato.
Comanche Nation Members
Three members of the Comanche Nation tested on March 30, 2013 at the Anadarko Martial Arts. Each student was evaluated on their stamina and hard exercises consisting of jumping jacks, pushups, crunches, and legs lifts. In addition to these exercises they were evaluated on their skills and techniques of their forms, kicks, stances, blocks, self-defense, fighting, and board breakings. Head Instructor, Cheryl
The Comanche Nation Law Enforcement will be having a cops and kids picnic, attentively on June 22. Here are just a few of the activities that will be happening this day. Lunch will be provided: Hot dogs, chips, soda, popcorn. There will be fun activities such as bike rodeo, bouncy houses, dance contest, story telling, ride along in a police unit with lights and sirens. K-9 demonstrations, kid identification kits, etc. Giveaways.
Emergency Contraceptives – Community Workshops in Native and Tribal Communities The Native American Women’s Health Education Resource Center (NAWHERC) in Lake Andes, South Dakota will be hosting two Emergency Contraceptives – Community Workshops in Native and Tribal Communities in Oklahoma this May. The first will be held 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., on May 14, at the I.H.S. in Lawton, Okla., and at 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., on May 16, 2013 at the Hard Rock Casino in Catoosa, Okla.S. Registration is free and lunch and refreshments will be provided for participants. Please contact Maya Torralba by email at mayatorralba@ gmail.com for more information or to register your attendance. In a report released last year, NAWHERC, called upon the Indian Health Service to provide equal access to safe, emergency contraception in the form of Plan B, especially for survivors of sexual assault. The full report is available for download and distribution at http://www.nativeshop.org/images/ pdf/Plan-B-Report.pdf “The potential for Native American women to
need reproductive choice or emergency contraception (EC) because of a violent incident statistically far exceeds that of the general population. Native Americans are raped at a rate nearly double that of rapes reported by all races annually – 34.1%, more than 1 in 3, Native American women will be raped in their lifetime. Threefourths of Native American women have experienced some type of sexual assault in their lives .” Although, Plan B is available over the counter to all women seventeen years and older, Native American women have not previously been provided access to Plan B over the counter by their primary health care provider- the Indian Health Service.” Working together, Native women have made a huge impact on the distribution of EC/OTC already! NAWHERC is still pushing for written policies to be released and instituted across the country, but our collective actions over the past year have resulted in emergency contraception becoming available over the counter in many new I.H.S clinics nationwide. A tool kit and workshops for Native American community women have been developed to ensure the education of community leaders, practitioners, mothers and daughters understand the emergency contraceptive resources available to them before they need them. Registration is free with lunch and refreshments provided for participants. Please contact Maya Torralba by email at mayatorralba@ gmail.com for more information or to register your attendance
Science Bowl Competition held over spring break (March 21-23) in Albuquerque, NM. The competition involved 20 teams selected from across the nation made up of American Indian students and Indian Education or Tribal Education Programs and is sponsored by the American Indian Science and Engineering Society ( AISES) and the U.S. Department of Energy. The Norman Public Schools team is made up of five Tribal citizens. Amber Whitehead, Muscogee (Creek) Nation, Longfellow Middle School 8th grader; Elonna Zitkana LaFromboise, Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate, Longfellow Middle School 6th grader; Aaron Eyachabbe, Chickasaw Nation, Irving Middle School 8th grader; Tyner Moring, Comanche, Alcott Middle School 7th grader; and Talullah Begaye, Chickasaw Nation, Alcott Middle School 6th grader. The team is coached by Silas Wolf, Chickasaw citizen, and Melanie Lawson, Choctaw citizen, members of Norman Public Schools Indian Education staff.
May 2011
The Comanche Nation News
Programs The competition included questions covering life science, earth science, general science and mathematics. As winners of the Intertribal Middle School Science Bowl, the team will compete in the National Middle School Science Bowl to be held in Washington, D.C. in April. The Science Bowl team was selected from the NPS Indian Education Science Club, a partnership between Norman Public Schools Indian Education and the University of Oklahoma Conoco Phillips School of Geology and Geophysics for American Indian students in grades 2nd-12th grades and designed to cultivate and promote students' interest in STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Math) subjects. Heather Ahtone, James T. Bialac Assistant Curator of Native American & NonWestern Art for the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art at the University of Oklahoma, and is a parent of Norman Public Schools who originated the idea and is the sponsor of the Science Club for the University of Oklahoma.
Comanche Nation Holds Annual Earth Day Celebration
Story and Photos by Stacey Heminokeky/News Staff
The Comanche Nation Office of Environmental Programs (CNOEP) hosted the annual Earth Day Celebration on April 16 from 9:30 a.m.- 1 p.m. at the Comanche Nation Watchetaker Hall. The Earth Day celebration held several activities for the youth in attendance. The Natural Resources Conservation Service brought a rain simulator. The rain simulator gave the youth an opportunity to see the importance that rain plays in our lives. The Comanche Nation PIO (CNPIO) were on hand to accept old newspapers to recycle. The Comanche Nation’s Information Technology (IT) Department also demonstrated how to safely clean desktop and laptop computers. Door prizes were given away throughout the day. Lunch was also provided by the Comanche Nation Office of Environmental Program (CNOEP). There were also many hands on activities and crafts that were provided for the youth. Earth Day was a great success and enjoyed by all who attended.
Cobell Settlement Land Buy Back Program for Tribal Nations What is the Land Buy-Back Program for Tribal Nations? This is a program that is part of the Cobell vs. Salazar Settlement Agreement established to allow Tribal Nations who will receive interest through Interior purchases. The Comanche Nation will benefit from this Program by having the opportunity to increase their land base. However, those tribes with the MOST fractional share will be selected first.
Native Youth Competes in Intribal Middle School Science Bowl
If I am interested in selling my fractional share of “trust” property, what do I do? The Realty Office is conducting an Outreach effort to determine how many tribal members are willing to sell their fractional share of “trust” property. The Realty Office will compile a list of “willing participants.” The information will be submitted to the Buy-Back Program with full intentions of being selected as on of the tribes to participate in the program. If the Comanche Nation is selected as on of the tribes to participate, we will start the appraisal process to determine the fair market value of your land.
A team of five middle school students from the Norman Public Schools Indian Education Program won the Intertribal Middle School
Descendants Honor Ancestors’ Journey with “The Run”
Do I have to accept the purchase price the Buy-Back Program will offer to pay for my fractional share? NO, you do not. You are under no obligation to sell. If you submit information that you are willing to sell and you decide not to sell OR you do not agree with the amount of the purchase price, you can decline their offer. The Buy-Back Program will purchase the fractional shares from those willing to accept the appraised price. If I agree to sell and accept the appraised purchase price, when will I get my money? The Land Buy Back Program, administered by the Office of the Secretary in Department of the Interior, will pay a fair market value for your fractional land. The value of your land will depend on what type of land it is, pasture, grazing, or agriculture land and where it is located. If the Comanche Nation is selected to participate in the Buy-Back Program, the program will be active on the reservation for 18-24 months. If you receive and accept an offer, payment will processed in a timely manner to your IIM account.
Photo by Stacey Heminokeky/News Staff
Through an act of Congress in 1913, the people of the Chiricahua band were released as prisoners of war and were given a choice or remaining in Oklahoma or returning to New Mexico. Upon being released on April 4,1913 from the Ft. Sill, Oklahoma Territory prison, 171 of the 258 Chiricahua Prisoners of Wars’ long journey back to New Mexico would began, The journey they made 100 years ago led to a recent re-enactment by their descendants, Ardin Comanche and James Kunestises. Comanche and Kunestises along with 12 other runners agreed to do “The Run” as a re-enactment of how their ancestors returned home to New Mexico. They explained they were running as celebration in April 2013, because it marked the 100th year since their ancestors’ release as prisoners of war. The runners started at the Old Post Corral on the Fort. Sill Military Base on April 1,2013 at 7 a.m. The descendants explained there were 14 runners in all and each one would run a quarter-of-a-mile before trading off with another runner, Comanche said, “the runners were looking at making it back home Friday, April 5. The descendants’ run would end in Tularosa, New Mexico
7
The Comanche Nation Complex will be closed May 27 for Memorial Day
If I choose not to participate in the Buy-Back Program, what happens
Jeremy Dennis from the Natural Resource Conservation Service demonstrates to the kids how the rain simulator works.
The Public Information Office (PIO) booth lets the children make and paint their own flowers made out of recycled newspaper.
The children watch closely while the Environmental Program (EPA) shows them methods of recycling.
The Information Technology (IT) Department shows children how to safely hold the cleaning spray to clean desktop and laptop computers.
to my land? If you do not want to participate in the Buy-Back Program and you do not want to sell your land, you will not have to take any action. If contacted by someone from the Program, all you need to is inform them that you are not interested in selling your fractional share. Finally, we encourage everyone who owns Indian Land to make out a Will or consider other estate planning options. Tribal Involvement The Comanche Nation has an opportunity to take advantage of the Buy-Back Program. The Program’s main goal is to purchase highly fractionalized parcels of “trust” Land. The Comanche Nation Realty Office will identify tracts of land and prioritize a list of “Willing” sellers for acquisition. While the Department of the Interior will strive to incorporate these priorities, acquisition will depend on the number of willing sellers. Please keep in mind the Program focuses on the tribes with the highest fractionalized lands. The Comanche Nation is 129th on the list. With your help the Comanche Nation will prepare and submit a Cooperative Agreement to the Buy-Back Program so they will know we want to participate and we are ready. For more information contact: Comanche Nation Realty and Land Acquisition, P.O. Box 908, Lawton, Okla., 73502; Phone: (580) 4923277, Fax: (580) 492-3296.
The Hour To Race With Native Women Toward Health and Wellness The War on Intense Liver Disease, Renal Kidney Dialysis and Breast Cancer, 9 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., May 3, Baldwin Building-Caddo County Fairgrounds, Anadarko, Okla. Keynote speakers, Officials, Health Field Partners, Tribal Program Directors and Business Leaders. Promotional Booth and Table Setup: South side inside Baldwin Building, 8 a.m. - 9 a.m. Registration: 9 a.m. - 10 a.m., inside Baldwin Building Walk: 10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m., East side of Baldwin Building 5K Run: 10:45 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. East side of Baldwin Building Everyone is invited to attend and participate both men and women, T-shirts will be given to all registered participants for the Walk and the 5K Run. HONORED ELDER:
Letha Goombi. Honoring: AB and Nancy Riche. Master of Ceremony: Senior Pastor Ted Mercer, Grace Christian Fellowship-Anadarko, Okla. Entrance of the Colors: The Kiowa Black Leggins SocietyKiowa Tribe of Oklahoma. Blowing of the Shofars: Sharon Jones, Melba Tippin, Tammy Finnegan, Patricia Blagg and David Bearshield The Lord’s Prayer: Kay Kay Franklin and Rachelle RomanNose-El Reno, Okla. Kiowa Hymn: The Goombi Sisters-Anadarko, Okla. Keynote Speakers: “Native American Women in Leadership” - Amber Toppah, Chairperson of the Kiowa Tribe of Oklahoma;”Native American Women dealing with Renal Kidney Disease and Dialysis”- Lynn Larson - Baptist Medical Center Kidney Transplant-Oklahoma City, Okla.; “A picture of spiritual healing form a traditional standpoint” Dr. Henryetta Mann, President of SWOSU Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribal College-Weatherford, Okla.; “Native American Women suffering from Intense Liver Disease” - Dr. Selim, Physician-Nahzhi Liver Transplant Baptist Medical CenterOklahoma City, Okla.; “Prayer over Indian Health Service and the Health Field for Southwest Oklahoma” - Ted Mercer, Senior Pastor of Grace Christian FellowshipAnadarko, Okla.
Head Table for Luncheon
Anadarko Vice-Mayor: Wes Callahan Anadarko Daily News and Christian Center Board Chairperson: Paula McBride Caddo County Commissioners Office: Sharon Bryson Anadarko Bank and Trust Company Vice-Chairperson: Peggy Carr Anadarko Optical Business Leader: Carol Thompson Anadarko DHS Adult Protective Services: Dorla Yeahquo Kiowa Tribes Social Service Director: Michelle Emerson Anadarko Davita Dialysis Facility Director RN: Linda Anderson Caddo Tribal Headstart Health Facilitator: Lois Smith Carter Health Care and Family Physician: Dr. Meriela Carter Anadarko Police Department: Shannon Lyon Anadarko BIA Law Enforcement: Dawn Tsatoke
Comanche Nation Caregivers’ Grandparent Program The Caregiver Program is a Federal program for Grandparents that are raising their grandchildren the parents no longer have custody of their children for different reasons therefore the grandparents have their grandchildren and are providing care for them 24 hours a day seven days a week in their homes and the Caregiver Program would like for those grandparents or single grandparent raising their grandchild to contact the caregiver office to see what we have available to assist them with services that can benefit them and their grandchildren. The Grandparent Program are for these grandparents that are 55 years and older. If you are 60 years or older and have your grandchild then the services provided for you are: • Information - to caregivers about services • Assistance - to caregivers in gaining access to services • Counseling - individuals, support groups and training • Respite - to be temporary relief
from care giving and to have time for yourself • Supplemental - services on a limited basis to compliment the care provided by the caregivers. To be on the Grandparents program you have to show custody or guardianship with proper paperwork that the child is in your care and that you are taking care of him/her and living with you in your home 24/7. This is a Federal and Tribal program and we need tribal ID with a tribal card or proper paperwork for verification for enrollment in the Comanche Tribe. The Grandparent(s) have to be 60 years and older and have custody of the child(ren) and need to have proper Tribal ID for assistance with the caregiver program.
Comanche Nation Diabetes Program The Comanche Nation Diabetes Program has moved to 1001 SE 36th St., Lawton, Okla., 735018446. The phone number is (580) 492-3816, 492-3318, 699-3736 and Fax: (580) 699-3749.
May 2011
8
The Comanche Nation News
Military Serving the Comanche Nation since 1976 8th Annual Armed Forces Day Banquet Saturday, May 18, 2013 At the Comanche Community Center - Apache Starting at 1 P.M. Honoring our Veterans past to present
tieth Comanche to be decorated for Gallantry, Heroism or Valor or has fought and killed the enemy in Hand to Hand Combat. SGT Makes Cry has earned the honorary title of Numu Pukutsi for his act of heroism. Other awards include two other Army Commendation Medals, the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with 3/Bronze Service Stars, the Vietnam Gallantry Cross Medal with/Palm, the Vietnam Campaign Medal with/1960 Device and 2 Overseas (Combat) Bars
Honorees SGT Amos Makes Cry, US Army, Vietnam War - Numu Pukutsi GYSgt Louis Clark, US Marine Corps, Vietnam War SSG Benjamin Clark, US Marine Corps and US Army, Vietnam War Sgt Mark Clark, US Air Force, Vietnam War SSgt Donald Burgess, US Air Force Sgt Ronald Burgess, US Air Force Sgt Teddy Burgess, US Air Force Special Recognition Cheryl Takawana, Auxiliary Pvt Lewis Kowena, US Army, World War II
9
The Comanche Nation News
Continued from page 6
Submitted by Lanny Asepermy
COMANCHE INDIAN VETERANS ASSOCIATION
May 2011
Louis Clark
Louis Clark retired from the US Marine Corps after serving from Scheduled of Events June 3, 1954 to September 30, 1974 Welcome by George Red Elk, earning the rank of Gunnery SerCommander geant. Prayer by Jimmy Caddo, Chaplin He took his Boot Training at Nation Anthem by Lauren Noriega the San Diego Marine Corps Recruit Comanche Flag Song Training Depot in San Diego, CA and Meal by Lisa Looking Glass his School of Infantry at Camp PendHonors by CIVA Auxiliary leton, CA. Presentation of the Wounded War He was immediately sent to rior Medallions Korea with the 3rd Marine Division Crowning of 2013-15 CIVA Prinfor a brief period and onto Nara City, cess Japan. Closing Remarks by George Red During his career he has Elk. served at Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii; El Master of Ceremonies Lanny Toro, CA twice; Washington DC; Asepermy Paris, France; Camp Pendleton; Drum, Southern Nations of OklaMemphis, TN twice; Cherry Point, homa NC; Subic Bay, Philippine Islands; New River, NC twice, Quantico, VA; Frankfurt, Germany; Rome, Italy and Iwakuni, Japan. In addition, GySgt Clark served two tours in Vietnam from 1966-67 at Da Nang and from 1970-71 at Marble Mountain. He has served as an Infantryman, Body/Security Guard, Drill Instructor, Instructor, Force Recon Platoon Sergeant, First Sergeant, Sergeant of the Guard, Jet Aircraft Mechanic, Aviation Maintenance Analysis, Fleet Marine, Military Policeman and .50 Caliber Window Gunner on the Marine Corps CH-46 Transport Helicopter in which he is credited with 168 combat missions. While with the State Department (AmeriSergeant Amos Makes Cry in Viet- can Embassy and American Consulate General) he was a personal Body nam. Guard for President Dwight Eisenhower and other high ranking State Amos Makes Cry was draftDepartment dignitaries. ed into the US Army on April 2, 1968 GySgt Clark also completed and served until November 3, 1969 (a cruises in the Atlantic Ocean, Caribtotal of 1 year, 7 months and 2 days) bean and Mediterranean Seas as a earning the rank of Sergeant. Fleet Marine. He took his Basic Combat It may also be noted that Training at Fort Polk, LA and his GySgt Clark, while based in Rome, Advanced Individual Training, as a danced with movie stars Gina LolloField Artillery Crewman at Fort Sill. brigida and Anita Ekberg. He shipped immediately to His awards include the Vietnam and was assigned to the 9th Combat Action Ribbon, Air Medal Infantry Division with C Battery, 1st (8), Good Conduct Medal (6), NaBattalion, 11th Artillery. SGT Makes tional Defense Service Medal (2), Cry also served with C Company, 6th Humanitarian Service Medal, Korean Battalion 31st Infantry and D Battery, Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Ser2nd Battalion, 4th Artillery. vice, Campaign with/1960 Device, His duties included Cannon Civil Action and Gallantry Cross Crewman and Section Chief with with/Palm Medals, Drill Instructor the artillery. He was detailed with Ribbon, State Department Service a small Recon Force while serving Ribbon, Marine Corps Expeditionary with the Infantry. His units served Ribbon, Presidential Unit Citation, in the Mekong Delta and were based Meritorious Unit Commendation, at Dong Tam and numerous firebases Vietnam Meritorious Unit Commenthroughout the Delta. dation, Strike Flight Air Crewman SGT Makes Cry served 1 Wings and Expert Rifle and Pistol year, 1, month and 29 days in VietQualification Badges, nam. On 16 April 1969 he was awarded the Army Commendation Medal with/Valor Device for heroism in connection with military operations against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam on 18 March 1969. He is the twen-
Benjamin Clark at Fort Sill in 1960 Benjamin Clark retired from the US Army after serving with the US Marine Corps from October 24, 1955 to October 23, 1958 earning the rank of Corporal. He took his Boot Training at the Marine Corps Recruit Training Depot at San Diego, CA and his School of Infantry at Camp Pendleton, CA. Cpl Clark was assigned to Company L, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, Fleet Marine Force as a Rifleman. He completed one deployment to Japan and the Philippines. Cpl Clark enlisted in the US Army on April 23, 1959 and retired on July 31, 1976 earning the rank of Staff Sergeant. His assignments were with 4th Army at Fort Chaffee, AR; 3rd Army at Fort Jackson, SC; Fort Lewis, WA; 1st Cavalry Division at Camp Custer and 121st Evacuation Hospital, Ascom Korea; Hospitals in Japan, Hawaii and Fort Sam Houston, TX recovering from a severe arm injury; 2nd Battalion, 17th Field Artillery, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Field Artillery; 5th Battalion, 30th Sergeant Missile Battalion, the Post Museum and 2nd Battalion, 26th Target Acquisition Battalion at Fort Sill, OK; 62nd Air Defense Artillery at Fort Bliss, TX; 1st Battalion, 6th Infantry and Special Troops, Berlin Brigade in Berlin, Germany; 11th Light Infantry Brigade based at Landing Zone Bronco (known as the Rocket Pocket because of the numerous mortar and rocket attacks) near Duc Po, Vietnam and 855th General Support Company based in Da Nang, Vietnam and with the 1st Replacement Detachment at Fort Riley, KS. SSG Clark served in many positions including Military Policeman, Field Communications Crewman, Switchboard Operator, Radioman, Museum Liaison, Communication Chief, Platoon Sergeant, Supply Sergeant, Transit and Guest House Manager, Depot Inspector and First Sergeant. He completed the Chemical, Biological and Nuclear School, Communications Chief Course and the Emergency Medical Care Course. His awards include 2 Army Commendation Medals, 5 Good Conduct Medals, 2 National Defense Service Medals, the Vietnam Service Medal with/2 Bronze Service Stars, the Vietnam Campaign Medal with/1960 Device, the Vietnam Gallantry Cross Medal with/Palm, the Army Occupation Medal with/Berlin Clasp and the Korean Defense Service Medal.
Mark Clark with the El Paso, TX Police Department in 1972
Mark E. Clark served in the US Air Force from January 14, 1964 to August 1, 1967 earning the rank of Sergeant. He took his Basic Training at Lackland AFB, TX. His assignments were with 37th Food Service Squadron at Maelstrom AFB, MT where he completed On the Training as a Cook and the 366th Food Service Squadron at Da Nang Air Base, Vietnam. He served in Vietnam from June 1, 1966 to May 30, 1967. He was discharged at McCord AFB, WA. While in Vietnam he also performed duties with the elite Air Police after completing Air Police on-the-job training. His duties, as an Air Policeman, included base and perimeter security His awards include the Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with/1 Oak Leaf Cluster, Vietnam Campaign Medal with/1960 Device and the Vietnam Gallantry Cross Medal with/Palm.
The Burgess Brothers United States Air Force Honorable Service to the Comanche Nation and the United States of America
Ronald Burgess Ronald Burgess enlisted in the US Air Force on November 4, 1970 and served until June 28, 1974 earning the rank of Sergeant. He took his Basic Training at Lackland AFB, TX and Specialty Training at Sheppard AFB, TX, as Pavement Maintenance Specialist. Sgt Burgess was then assigned to 436th Civil Engineer Squadron, Military Airlift Command at Dover AFB, DE. He was a Heavy Equipment Operator working on the flight lines, base roads and ammo bunkers. Sgt Burgess participated in Broken Arrow, Readiness and Nuclear, Chemical and Biological exercises. His awards include the Air Force Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award and the Air Force Small Arms Expert Ribbon.
is, TX. She is a graduate of Capitol High School in Oklahoma City and Oklahoma State University in Stillwater. She earned a Masters Degree in Education from the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond. She has taught school in Oklahoma City, Norman, Fort Smith, AR and most recently in Denton, TX. She retired in 2012 after 38 years in public education. She is a member of the Dutch Reformed and Presbyterian Churches where she has served as a Sunday school teacher, youth worker and a member of the Board of Deacons. In addition, she served as a Scouting Volunteer Leader for both the Boy and Girls Scouts of America. She is also part of the Otipoby Cemetery Committee. She and her husband have retired and now live in Fletcher. Her father, Robert Chaat, and his brothers Theodore and Samuel Chaat are all World War II veterans. Robert served in both the European and Asiatic-Pacific Theaters with the US Army Air Force. Theodore was a wounded Combat Medic in Europe with the US Army and Samuel was trained pilot at war’s end while also with US Army Air Force.
Pvt Lewis F. Kowena
Donald Burgess Donald Burgess retired from the US Air Force after serving from August 31, 1970 to September 1, 1990 earning the rank of Staff Sergeant. He took his Basic Military Training at Lackland AFB, TX and was given on the job training at Peterson Air Field, CO as an Administrative Specialist (Information Management Technician). Other assignments include the US Strategic Air Command at Utapao Royal Thai Air Base, Thailand; 4th Mobile Communications Group, Air Force Communications Command at Altus AFB, OK; 3rd Mobile Communications Group, Air Force Communications Command at Tinker AFB, OK; 7025th Air Postal Squadron, Military Airlift Command at Rhien Mein AB, Germany and 27th Transportation Squadron, Tactical Air Command at Cannon AFB, NM. While at Cannon AFB he performed Temporary Duty assignments to Florida, Panama and Honduras. His duty positions were Admin Specialist, Information Management Technician and Postal Operations NCO. SSgt Burgess completed the 17th Air Force NCO Leadership School at Kapaun Air Station, Germany and the Air Force General and Advanced Technical Order System. His awards include the AF Commendation Medal, AF Outstanding Unit Award, AF Good Conduct Medal with 4 Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, AF Overseas Short and Long Tour Ribbons, AF Longevity Service Award Ribbon with/3 Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, NCO Professional Military Education Graduation Ribbon and AF Training Ribbon.
Teddy Burgess Teddy M. Burgess served in the US Air Force from November 14, 1972 to November 7, 1975 earning the rank of Sergeant. He took his Basic Training at Lackland AFB, TX and his Specialty Training at Lowry AFB, Co as a Materiel Facilities Specialist. He was then assigned to 803rd Combat Support Group, Strategic Air Command at Davis Monthan AFB, AZ where he worked with the Base Supply System. He completed his service at Howard AFB, Panama Canal Zone with the 24th Composite Group Housing Supply, US Air Force Southern Air Command. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal.
Lewis F. Kowena is 1 of 217 known Comanches who served during World War II (1941-45) and 1 of only 11 who are still living – he turned 87 years old on March 31, 2013. He was drafted into the Army on/about July 5, 1944 and took his Basic and Artillery Training at Fort Sill. He shipped to Europe and served overseas from January 12, 1945 to February 25, 1946 (1 year, 1 month and 12 days) with the 974th Field Artillery Battalion – the 974th was a 155mm Howitzer Tractor Drawn unit who supported General Patton’s 3rd Army. Pvt Kowena was a cannon crewman whose first combat was toward the end of the bloodiest land battle in US military history, the Battle of the Bulge. At war’s end in May, 1945 he performed occupation duty at Sunching, Germany. He returned to Fort Hood, TX after the war and was discharged on November 26, 1946 (after serving for 2 years, 4 months and 21 days) while assigned to Battery A, 14th Armored Field Artillery Battalion. His awards include the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign medal, the World War II Victory medal the Occupation medal with/Germany Clasp, 2 Overseas Bars and the Army Lapel Button.
Reverse of Wounded Warrior Medallion The Comanche Indian Veterans Association proudly introduce and present the NUMU WOUNDED WARRIOR Medallion to our 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.
PFC John Grady McClung US Army Fort Carson, Colo.
Comanche Indian Veterans Assoication
Known NUMU WOUNDED WARRIORS (48) Calvin Atchavit, Samuel Chaat, Mead Chibitty, Thomas Chockpoyah, *Chuck Choney (2), *Milton Codynah, Edward Clark, Gilbert Conwoop, Henry Conwoop, *Charles Eatmon, Eli Hosetosavit, *Joseph Gonzalez, Forrest Kassanavoid, Dennis Karty, Henry Kosechata, Frank LeBarre (2), *Lucien Looking Glass, *Gilbert Monatoboy, Melvin Myers, Edward Nahquaddy, Perry Noyobad, *Clifford Ototivo, Timothy Ototivo, Floyd Paddyaker (2), Robert Pahcheka, *Leland Parker, Russell Pesewonit, Ralph Pewewardy, *George Red Elk, Roderick Red Elk, Johnny Rivas, *Philip Rogers Sr, *Richard Sapcutt, Larry Saupitty (2), Samuel Tabbytosevit, Mikey Tahdooahnippah, Cleveland Tahpay, Meech Tahsequah, *Johnny Tiddark, Henry Tomahsah, Otto Tonips (2), Ben Trevino, Gilbert Vidana, Herbert Vidana, Myers Wahnee, Joshua Ware, Willis Yackeschi and Edward Yellowfish
37th Annual Memorial Day Ceremony, 10 a.m., May 27, at the CIVA Court of Honor and Watchetaker Hall, Comanche Nation Complex. MGS Randall Eckiwaudah US Marine Corps Camp Pendleton, Cali.
Special Recognition: Mison Moriega Schedule of Events Welcome by
SGT Gregory Cole US Army Afghanistan LT Jenifer Burns US Army Washington D.C.
MATA SELECTED AS CIVA PRINCESS
Continued on page 7
Commader George Red Elk Blessing by Chaplain Jimmy Caddo National Anthem by Lauren Noriega Comanche Flag Song Roll Call of Fallen Warriors by Beaver Takawana Taps by Jose Gallegos and Memorial Song Honors by The Auxiliary
Presetation of Numu Wounded Warrior Medallions CIVA Song
Lunch by
Lisa Looking Glass
Open to the Public SGT Greg Ah Sam US Army Afghanistan
LTC Rhonda Williams US Army Fort Sill, Okla.
Shelby Elizabeth Mata
Cheryl on left with daughter
SSG Curtis Clark US Army Fort Jackson, S.C.
Observe of Wounded Warrior Medallion
LT Kent Tomah US Army Fort Sill, Okla.
*Indicates living
A Few Good Comanches Warriors currently on Active Duty
Honorees: Corporal Edward Jerome Tahahwah, US Army; Seaman Pete Coffey Jr., US Navy, Vietnam War; Petty Officer Aaron Burgess, US Navy; Specialist LaDonna Woothtakewahbitty Mihecoby, US Army, Panama
Presentation of the Comanche Nation Wounded Warrior Medallion
Cheryl Chahtinneyackque Chaat Takawana is the wife of US Navy and Vietnam War veteran Cliff “Beaver” Takawana. She was born in Lawton and grew up in what was called Yellow Mission. Her parents are Bob and Ann Tomahsah Chaat and her grandparents are the late Robert and Elsie Chaat. She and her husband have two adult children, Maya Tuh-vahtsee who lives in Oklahoma City and Cliff Nom-seve-tah who lives in Par-
SPC Jace Otipoby US Army Afghnistan
more at Walters High School. She is a member of the Native American Club, high school basketball team and Varsity Choir. Ms Mata is also on the A-B Honor Roll. Her great grandfather, Clifford Ototivo Sr., was a World War II, US Army Code Talker and her grandfather, Jerome Howlingwater, was a Vietnam War veteran and a Cheyenne Chief of War. Her uncles, Preston Gwoompi Sr., Rudy, Clifford Jr. and Timothy Ototivo all served in the military. Clifford Jr. and Timothy were both combat wounded during the Vietnam War. Chelsea Lynn Sapcut has been the CIVA Princess since May, 2010 and fulfilled over 150 commitments during her tenure. Ms Sapcut will has been selected as the Comanche Princess of the American Indian Exposition.
SGT Tennyson Kerchee US Army Fort Hood, Tx.
Shelby Elizabeth Mata was selected as the Comanche Indian Veterans Association (CIVA) Princess for 2013-15 during the CIVA’s monthly meeting on April 4th. Her coronation ceremony will be on May 18th during the organization’s 8th Annual Armed Forces Day Banquet at the Comanche Community Center in Apache. She is the daughter of Antonio and Phillis Mata. Her grandparents were the late Mitchell and Lou Bell Ototivo Gwoompi and her great grandparents were the late Vilas and Angeline “Gommock” Peacoose Ototivo. Her great grandmother passed her Comanche name “Gommock”, meaning “Loving Person” to Ms Mata. Ms Mata served as the Comanche Nation Jr Princess from 2008-10 and is currently a sopho-
May 2013
10
The Comanche Nation News
Milestones
Civa Hill
I Just wanted to wish you a happy Mother’s Day. From your bestie, Ashley Nauni
Happy Belated Birthday
Pete Coffey, April 12 Floyd Duran III, April 14 Abel Vargas, April 15 Cheryl Duran, April 15 Ted Lopez, April 19 Jeremy Shea, April 22 Kable Shea, April 24 Kristen Ototivo, April 26 Mari Lynn Lavatai, April 29 Carol Martinez, April 30 George Martinez, April 30
Ethel Boyden
Happy Belated Birthday Pete Coffey Jr. April 12
Kim Reiter, May Cassidy Peeler, May 2 Miguel Rivera Jr., May 2 Porseha Nicole Aitton, May 3 Marie Etta Watson-Pebehsy, May 4 Barron Martinez, May 10 Anita Viddaurri-Mann, May 12 Ansleigh Mowatt, May 12 Kimberly Raiter, May 12 Charles Lewis Jr, May 13 Amiya Tonips-DeVine, May 15 Modesto Schonchin, May 17 Michael Brandon Huggins, May 19 Ethel Boyden, May 20 Carla Chappabitty, May 24 Justus Wayt, May 26 Michael Bordeaux Jr., May 27 Bretta Komacheet, May 28
Anniversaries Ted & Eva Asenap~May 24
Verno & Carole Giffin~May 28
Obituary
Paul “Wally” Grayson Holder, 49 of Cache, OK, went to his heavenly home on, March 27, 2013. He was born Monday, December 23, 1963 in San Francisco, California to Orlan and Vivian (Pahcheka) Holder. Paul grew up in northern California. He graduated from Mira Loma High School and attended Okmulgee Tech. He was currently working at Goodyear Tires and had worked for Enterprise Crude Oil, worked as a chef in Sacramento, California for many years. He was a member of the Comanche Nation of Oklahoma and also of Delaware descent. Holder was an outdoorsman he loved to play tennis, riding mountain bikes, and going canoeing.
Sandra Karty
Happy Mothers Day Mom I Love You Very Much Cricket Happy Mothers Day Mom “We Love You” From B.J., Charles, Lesley, Kyleigh, Kalani & Mya
Happy Birthday
Paul Grayson Holder
Happy Mother’s Day
Happy Birthday Amiya Tonips-DeVine May 15
Happy Birthday Modesto Schonchin May 17
Happy Birthday Wil “Moopey” Niedo May 18
Happy Birthday Ethel Boyden May 20
In Loving Memory
In Loving Memory
Alma Ototivo Yellowfish December 28~May 4, 2004 She is gone but forever in my heart ~Carmen Ototivo Happy Birthday Bretta Komacheet May 28 Don’t Forget to submit milestones for those special loved ones; Just married, Anniversaries, Birth Announcements, Birthdays. Deadline for May 4/15/13 Call: Public Information Office (580) 492-3386 Email: candacet@comanchenation. com Or mail to: Comanche Nation/PIO P.O. Box Box 908
Happy Anniversary Billy Joe & Alice Wermy
Married 61 years
Happy Anniversary Fred & Alverta Allison May 17, 1986
Married 27 years
Delayna Karty
Happy Mothers Day We Love You! Tommy, Lance, Will, Shandell & Babies
Happy Mothers Day Kenric, Kilah
Alice Wermy
Deloris Aitson
Happy Mothers Day Mom & Grandma “ We Love You” From Billy Joe, Kids, grandkids & great grandkids
Tamera C. Willson
Happy Mothers Day Terry & Christine Brinkman
Happy Mothers Day From Susie & Kids Happy Mothers Day From Mother Barbara Cook
Charlene Tahdooahnippah
Sandra Chico
Happy Mothers Day Chucky Carol & Scotty
Billie Karty
Mom
I love & miss you so much Jana Karty
Lydia Niedo
Happy Mothers Day Phillip Alexa
Happy Mothers Day In Loving Memory of our Mother we all miss you & Love you. Your Family
Alexander Mathews May 11~March 14 Love Always From you Family
Cherry
Pat Pewewardy
We Love You Alisha, Marques & Darius
Lily Shangreaux
Happy Mothers Day! Tom Bigbee
Kristen Kaleb
Happy Mothers Day Jay
Tinki, Torie Dean, Deborah Wright, Dorcas & Orlana Perea
Happy Mother’s Day to my wonderful & beautiful sisters & Daughterin-Law! Love You All Dearly Mona Perea
Linda Silverhorn Happy Mothers Day! Mary Laurenzana
Pat Pewewardy
Happy Mother’s Day We Love you. Lisa, Renee, Miranda, Myra, Rolanda, Rod Jr. & Terence
Larue Parker, Eleanor McDaniel, Jackie Atauvich, Nellie McGee, Karen Sue Samis, Rozelind Asetamy, Betty Wyrick, Wayla & Debbie, Jerri Locklear, Nivea & KC Who can find a virtruous woman? for her price is far above rubies. Strength and honour are her clothing and she shall rejoice in time to come. A woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised. Prov. 31:10,25, & 30.
Jamee
Anna H. Wang-Duy
Karen Y. Heminokeky
You’re a dependable source of comfort, you’re the cushion when we fall. You help in times of trouble, you support us when we call. You are an inspiration & by far the best mom. We love you more than you know. No family could be luckier than ours because we have you! Happy Mother’s Day! Forever your Heminokeky Girls! P.S. Love you too dad!
Rosalie Attocknie
1-18-’26 to 10-25-’11 Always in our hearts. Miss you Momma Bitty, Bushy, Boy Tsee, Bubba, Boss N & Baby, plus all the Begats
Daughter, Its a wonderful feeling to see youtaking care of your family & doing it with such love & joy. I coundn’t have wished anything better for your life & I’m so happy that you’re happy because you mean the world to me & you always will. Happy Mothers Day Love Mom
Mommy Dearest!
Happy Mother’s Day Love Des & the kiddos
Dara Dawn
Happy Mothers Day Mommy! Cayde Anthony Flores
June Pahcoddy
Happy Mothers Day! From your Daughters Mary & Betty
Anna Loyce Cozad-Humes
Lawton, OK 73502
Holder is survived by: a daughter, Chloe Holder; his parents Orlan and Vivian Holder of the home; sister and brother in law, Sherry and Thomas Hazlebeck of Alamogordo, New Mexico; aunts and uncles: Virgie Kassanavoid, Edna (Pahcheka) Poafpybitty, Paul David Pahcheka all of Cache, Joseph Deyo Pahcheka of Carnegie, Melody and Ron Mazzocco of Phoenix, Arizona; Gloria Holder and Tommy Holder both of Anadarko, numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, other family members and friends. He was preceded in death by: grandparents: Elton and Julia Pahcheka and Jim and Myrtle (Parton) Holder, uncles: Bobby Pahcheka, Stacey Kassanavoid, Elton “Chick” Pahcheka Jr., and Jimmy R. Holder; couins: Byron Poafpybitty and Mark Kassanavoid; descendants of Pahcheka, Pahvoput, Alvin and Honnie (Parker) Kosechequetah, Yannytatchi, Herkeyah, Quanah Parker and Chony. Services was held at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel on, April 1, 2013 with Pastor Leonard Presley and Pastor Loyed Fultz officiating. Prayer service was, March 31, 2013 at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel. Interment followed at Post Oak Cemetery under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home.
Casey McCarthy
Happy Mother’s Day Auntie. I Love you and thanks for everything you do. Ashley Nauni
Happy Mothers Day Barron, Bamder, Ryder
Don’t Forget to wish your Dad, Spouse or Relative a Happy Father’s Day, June 16th, Josephina Lynn Scott in the Next edition of Tahsequah The Comanche Nation May 27 News... Message of 50 words or Birthday Wish less Mommy will always have Deadline May 15 you in her heart. In Loving Memory
Christine McCarthy
G-Ma, Thank you for always being there for me. I wish you a happy Grandmothers Day Love your Princess, Ashley Nauni
Margie Large
Bretta Komahcheet
Happy Mother’s Day Mom Thank you for always being there! We love you! Your Kids grandkids & great grandkids
Happy Mothers Day Grandma!! Love, Shadrick, Tallie, Sunny & Roxe
Jan.19, 1953-Oct. 15, 2012 I Said A Mother’s Prayer For You I said a Mother’s Day prayer for you to thank the Lord above for blessing me with a lifetime of your tenderhearted love. I thanked God for the caring you’ve shown me through the years, for the closeness we’ve enjoyed in time of laughter and of tears. And so, I thank you from the heart for all you’ve done for me and I bless the Lord for giving me the best mother there could be! Love All your kids & grandkids
Carol
Linda
Happy Mothers Day! We Love You Robyn & Christopher
Daughter
Happy Mothers Day to a beautiful & wonderful little girl who has become a mother herself. Love you always! Mom
Jewel Niedo
Mom, I thank God you adopted me, when you didn’t have to. I am sorry for the pain, sorrow, sleepless nights that I caused you. But through it all you made me better, & the man I am today. Because you loved me I have been blessed. Have a Very happy mother’s day Momma. Your son Moop
Happy Mother’s Day to my Special Stepmother and friend, Carol. I hope your Mother’s Day be as beautiful as the love in your heart. Love JJ and Family
Mommy
Happy Mother’s Day! Love, Joaquin, Sean, R.J., Angel, Epimenia, Marty & Maiya
Mother
Thank you for always being a great Mother. You’re our greatest blessing. Love you always, Angela & RC
Santee Perea
Happy Mother’s Day! Lots of Love & Kisses From Masa, Mojo, Willow Wind & your Mother
Barbara Dankowski
The Lord blessed us abundantly by giving us Barbara Dankowski for a mother. She is patient, compassionate, kind, loving, & faithful, a living example of all that we should be. She is a true prayer warrior and because of her effectual fervent prayers, our entire family remains covered with God’s blessings and protection.
Mom
My Mother is always with me. She’s the smell of certain foods I remember, flowers I pick and perfume that she wore. She’s my breath in the air on a cold winter’s day. My Mother lives inside my laughter. She’s crystallized in every teardrop. Happy Mother’s Day, Mom. I love you
Jeanette Connahvichnah Pohlemann We Love you & Miss you! From The Chasenah Children
Gram
Happy Mothers Day Gram! We love you from Kaelan, Rebecca, Tater & Cruz Burgess
Meghan Cruz
Happy Mothers Day to my beautiful daughter Love Mom
Dana Attocknie
Happy Mothers Day Love you lots, Syanne & Payton
Sandra
Happy Mothers Day! Grandma We Love You Talyn, Totsiyaa & Louis
To my Daughter
I got something special to say, I wish you happiness, on the special Mother’s Day. I pray to God that you’ll always be fine, Even when your at your worst, I’m glad that your mine. I know I’m not the perfect Mom, But I do the best I can do, Everyday, I thank the Lord, For a daughter as special as you. Love MoM
Grandma
“Happy Mother’s Day Grandma” Love, Benny, Connie & Nancy
Jewell Niedo
Happy Mother’s Day! Momma, How blessed we are to have you as our Mother. God truly knows what he is doing. You have always been an excellent example for us to follow. We love you dearly! John, Squint, Tinki, Mona, Dorcas, Moop & Chris Proverbs 31:28 Her children arise up & call her blessed;
Glenda Goseyun
Happy Mothers Day We love You & thank god for blessing us with you. Love, Sunny, John, Anthony, Alex & Ronnie
Mom
“Happy Mother’s Day!” We Love you Mom
May 2011
12
Comanche Nation Prevention and Recovery Annual Easter Egg Hunt Story and Photos by Paula Karty/News Staff
The Comanche Nation Prevention and Recovery held it’s Annual Easter Egg Hunt on May 6 at the Comanche Nation Complex. Due to inclement weather on the original date which was set for April 26, the event was forced to be re-scheduled. Nonetheless, the event had a abundance of participants young and
old. Everyone that came out enjoyed the afternoon hunting eggs hoping to find the prize egg. Each category had special prizes for the lucky person who found that special egg. Prizes range from Xbox 360, Wii, Kindle Fire, I-Pad, to Wal-mart gift cards and much more.
One lucky person walked away with a 15 Ft. Metal Frame swimming pool. The Prevention and Recovery Program would like to thank all the volunteers and other programs that came out and helped with this year’s event. As always this event was a great success.
Easter Eggs Discovered at Comanche Daycare Center
Story and Photos by Stacey Heminokeky/News Staff
Found her an egg but she went for the candy instead. Every age group at Numunu Turetu came out to participate during the Easter Egg hunt. The children really enjoyed themselves. The children were amused with an Easter Egg Hunt and party given by Director Desiree Devine and her staff of the Lawton Comanche Childcare Center on March 28. The Easter party was filled with healthy treats and snacks for the children. Following the party, the staff hid eggs throughout the playground for the children to hunt. Easter baskets made of all shapes, sizes and material, including Spongebob, Cars, Disney, and Sesame Street, were used by the children to carry the colored eggs they discovered. The staff provided a fun-filled day for the children with an Easter Celebration.
Kids sitting down and enjoying their snacks after a long hunt for the Easter Eggs.
The Comanche Nation News