July 2012

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

TCNN Wins Seven Media Awards

PR SRT STD US POSTAGE

July 2012

PAID

Lawton, OK

PERMIT NO 49 STIGLER, OK 74462

VOLUME 12 EDITION 7

Access to Elections and Voter Registration a “Civic Emergency” for Native Americans says NCAI President

Places for Stories, Photos, and Newspaper Layout

Thom Wallace Communications Director National Congress of American Indians

By Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

The Comanche Nation PIO is proud to announce to readers of The Comanche Nation News (TCNN) that they have been notified of winning seven awards in the Native American Journalist Association (NAJA) 2012 Media Awards, Division 4. The divisions are categorized by Comanche tribal members sit on the edge of the south Medicine Bluff, awaiting the gathering of tribal members the circulation number of the to come together for a moment of prayer. The Medicine Bluffs have been a place where Comanches camped and prayed, well before the establishment of Ft. Sill Military Base. newspapers.

“We are very proud and excited to win the awards,” said Jolene Schonchin, Director of the PIO Dept., and Editor for TCNN.

Paula Karty placed third in the Best Sports Story category for the article, “Legend in her Own Time- Carol Martinez Sets and Still Holds Story and Photos by Jolene Schonchin/News Staff Area Record in Women’s BasOver 100 tribal mem- ered the crowd around and As people joined hands ketball.” The article ran in the bers made the journey up the shared a brief history of the to form three layers of cirSeptember 2011 edition.

Jolene Schonchin Medicine Bluffs, June 20, fol- bluffs. “Young men would cles, the praying began. Some placed third in the Best News lowing the footsteps of thou- come up here for three days to prayed out loud; some prayed Story category for the article, sands of Comanche’s who pouhahantes, to have a vision,” silently; some prayed in the “They Did It Again- The Wild walked the same trail up to the said Coffey, “His family would Comanche language; and some Band of Comanches Crowned sacred mounds since time im- camp on the bottom. Imagine prayed in English. Tears were Southern Drum Champions at memorial. The gathering was a all below filled with Comanche shed and the sounds of sniffling noses were also heard as Gathering of Nations.” The ar- humble one, because all pres- camps,” he said.

Twana Spivey, who over one hundred prayers were ticle ran in the June 2011 edi- ent came to pray of the Coman- che Nation. joined Coffey in the fight to said to Ta Ahpu. tion.

The day of Comanche halt construction on the bluffs, Following the prayers, Jolene Schonchin placed first in the Best Envi- Nation Chairman, Wallace also spoke of the history of the tribal members expressed their thoughts and feelings ronmental Story category for Coffey’s, Inauguration Cer- area.

“There was a shift in about the future of the tribe, the article, “Baby Steps for emony June 9, he announced he was going plan a Day of the earth thousands of years and for Chairman Coffey callBig Effects- Tribal Employees Made Aware of Recycling Prayer, as he did when he was ago, and these bluff walls rose ing for this Day of Prayer to up from the ground. It is a geo- come about. Others expressed Plastics Through the Environ- in office in 2009.

The forceful winds of logical wonder,” he said. themselves through Comanche mental Program.” The article Kiowa Chairman, Ron hymns and other native lanran in the August 2011 edition. 30 mph on top of the bluffs did not hinder the gathering.

PeoTwohatchet, was in attendance, guage songs.

Jolene won second At noon, the group place in the Best Feature Photo ple sat at the edge of the bluffs, and he shared his stories of category for the picture titled admiring the beautiful scene how the bluffs are a part of the began their journey down the mound, collecting sage and In“Food, Festivities, and Fun at below, and feeling the sense Kiowa history.

“I remember (the late) dian perfume that were abunthe Comanche Nation Fair.” of peace and serenity that sur- rounded them.

Billy Evans Horse talking dant.

The picture ran in the OctoSee PRAYER, Page 15 Chairman Coffey gath- about the bluffs,” he said. ber 2011 and is a photo of men Gourd Dancing.

Paula Karty placed second in the Best Sports Photo category for the picture titled, “8 Second Ride.” The photo ran in the October 2011 edi- By Jolene Schonchin/News Staff tion, and is a photo of the CoIn a packed courtroom manche Nation and speaking court did not have jurisdiction manche Nation Fair’s Bull on June 22, tension was high as on behalf of the Comanche Na- over the case. The first point was Riding event.

Jolene Schonchin tribal members awaited for the tion Chairman, Wallace Coffey, Comanche Nation Resolution placed first in the Best News verdict of the Bureau of Indian and Tribal Administrator, John- 36-11,which is the Tribal Court Photo category for the pic- Affairs Court of Indian Offens- ny Wauqua, was the law firm Civil Jurisdiction Ordinance es, as to whether the Honorable Crowe & Dunlevy, P.C. of 2011, which states this orditure titled, “Electrifying.” The Judge Lujan has the jurisdic- As Walter Echo Hawk nance shall not be interpreted to photo ran in the March 2011 tion to reinstate the five tribal first took the floor, he request- grant the tribal court jurisdiction edition and is a photo of the members who filed in court to ed the motion to dismiss the to adjudicate election disputes Comanche Nation Law En- be recognized as the current Co- case due to lack of jurisdiction, or internal tribal government forcement’s Taser Class. manche Business Committee; which was filed by Crowe & disputes. That means this ordi TCNN placed third in Ed Eschiti, Robert Tippeconnie, Dunlevy, P.C. He had stated that nance specifically preserves the Best Newspaper Layout Ron Red Elk, Darrell Koseche- he wanted to resolve the juris- sovereignty immunity of the Co The NAJA Media quetah, and Yonavea Terry, as diction issue first before going manche Nation from suit within Award Ceremony will take well as Robert Komahcheet, further into the case. the Courts of Indian Offense. place Aug. 3 at the Mandalay JR as the Tribal Administrator.

Jim Goodman, also repThe second point was U.S. Bay Hotel in Las Vegas, Nev. Representing the six tribal mem- resenting Crowe & Dunlevy, Code of Federal Regulations during the UNITY Journalist bers was the law firm of Hobb, PC, stood next and explained 25.11-118, which states that the Convention, which is a gather- Straus, Dean & Walker, LLP. that he was going to point out See COURT, Page 4 ing of minority journalists.

Representing the Co- three legal reasons why the

Grasping the Roots of Tradition to Pray for the Future of the Numunu

Honorable Judge Lujan Rules Court Order Dismissed Due to Lack of Jurisdiction

Access to voting and voter registration for Native Americans is nearing a “civic emergency” and the nation’s leading tribal advocacy organization has called for immediate action. Addressing tribal, state, and federal government officials, Jefferson Keel the President of the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), outlined a set of solutions to increase access to the ballot box and voter registration for American Indian and Alaska Native voters. In addition to grassroots voter registration efforts, Keel called for the Indian Health Service (IHS) facilities to be added to the list of federal and state government service providers, which serve as voter registration sites.

“Over the last century since securing our rightful place at the ballot box, Native people have remained one of the most disenfranchised group of voters in the United States.

Today as a result, only two out of every five eligible American Indian and Alaska Native voters are not registered to vote, in 2008 over 1 million eligible Native voters were unregistered,” said Keel, President of NCAI, the nation’s oldest and most representative tribal advocacy organization. “This should be considered a civic emergency – we should all be concerned: American Indians and Alaska Natives, tribal governments, state and federal governments, ordinary citizens. Today I’m offering a set of concrete actions we can take now to change this situation.”

Early in 2012, during NCAI’s State of Indian Nations Address, Keel called for the largest Native turnout in history. In remarks delivered at NCAI’s Mid Year Conference, he focused on the role of everyday citizens to register voters and that call for Indian Country to participate in Native Vote, NCAI’s national non-partisan campaign. In his address he highlighted three opportunities for tribes and Native citizens to make Indian Country’s voice heard in 2012 and beyond.

Keel announced a new partnership with national nonprofit Rock the Vote, a partnership that allows the Native Vote campaign to provide resources for online voter registration through NativeVote.org.

Keel also announced, “Rock the Native Vote Youth Week” September 24-28, 2012, coSee VOTE, Page 4

July 2012 THE COMANCHE NATION NEWS

The award-winning Comanche Nation News, the official communication of the Comanche Nation, is available at no charge upon request. The deadline to submit information for the August edition is noon July 16. 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, Assist. Editor, Reporter, Photographer- Email: kartynews@yahoo.com Telephone Number-(580)492-3383 Candace Wilson, Reporter, Photographer Email:candacew@ comanchenation.com Telephone (580) 492-3385 Candace Todd, Administrative Assistant-Telephone Number (580)492-3386 News items of interest to the local and American Indian community are welcome.

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

Do not send faxed photographs or newspaper copies of photographs.

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

Obituaries are written for tribal members only.

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

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

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.

Comanche Nation Officials Chairman Wallace Coffey Vice Chairman Vacant Secretary/Treasurer Vacant Committeeman No. 1 Vacant Committeeman No. 2 Vacant Committeeman No. 3 Vacant Committeeman No. 4 Vacant Tribal Administrator Johnny Wauqua To contact officials: Comanche Nation P.O. Box 908 Lawton, Okla. 73502 Toll Free: (877) 492-4988 Physical Address 584 Bingo Rd. Lawton, OK 73505

Member of the Native American Journalist Association since 2001 Member of the Society of Professional Journalists since 2010

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The Comanche Nation News

Government

Taking the Oath of Office for the Fifth Time Coffey Wins Chairman Position in Primary Election

Wallace Coffey repeats the words of former Comanche Chairman, Johnny Wauqua, June 9, during the Inaugural Ceremony of Coffey. He won the seat of Chairman of the Comanche Nation by 56%, with five other candidates on the voting ballot.

Tribal members line up to shake hands with Coffey and to congratulate him on his unprecedented fifth term as Chairman.

Story and Photos by Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

Just as Comanche Chief, Ten Bears, led the tribe through unsettling times in the late 1860s, his legacy, Wallace Coffey, is doing the same.

Winning the seat of Chairman of the Comanche Nation for an unprecedented fifth time, he adamantly took the Oath of Office June 9 at the Inaugural Ceremony held at Watchetaker Hall.

Coffey won by nearly 57 percent of the June 1 votes in the primary election, which is something that has not occurred in several years. He was the previously elected as chairman in 1991, 1993, 2003, and 2006.

“I am inspired by our

past chiefs,” Coffey said during his address to the estimated 200 members of the general counsel who were present. “I want to take care of our people, as they did.”

He expressed his concern over the situation of the tribal government, saying he knows the tribe has tremendous issues and challenges that need to be faced. He thanked outgoing Comanche Nation Chairman, Johnny Wauqua, for his service and loyalty to the Comanche Nation, and added he looks forward to working with him as the Tribal Administrator.

Coffey said he will address the General Council in

We Need to Hear From You! You are Invited to Participate in a Study There is a vaccine to prevent Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infections in young males and females but few people have their children take the shots. We need Comanche Indian girls and boys, ages 13-18, and legal guardians of Comanche Indian youth ages 9-18 to tell us how we can make it easier for our children to get the vaccine.

Come & give your input on how we can keep our Indian children safe. We will have 6-8 people in a group to discuss the HPV vaccine.The meeting will last about 2 hrs.

Light refreshments and a $30 Wal-Mart gift card will be provided to thank you for your time.

When: When it’s Convenient for You Where: Local in the Lawton Area For more information, please contact:

Dr. Valerie Eschiti (580-512-7280), Stacey Sanford, LPN (580-713-2026) or Leslie Weryackwe (580-713-2285) Consents for the research project are available for you to read ahead of time through Dr. Eschiti, Stacey Sanford, & Leslie Weryackwe. We will have consents at the event for you to sign. The project is for boys and girls ages 13 to 18 years old, as well as men and women who are caregivers of youth ages 9-18 years old.

Funding for the research project is provided by the Peggy and Charles Stephenson Cancer Center/Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust, Oklahoma City, OK. The University of Oklahoma is an equal opportunity institution. IRB #16347

Seminole representative, Kelley Hainey, receives a Comanche Pendleton from the former first ladies.

October about a bond to allow development around the Red River Casino, and that the annual per capita checks will not be affected by the expansion.

He congratulated the Comanche Nation College on the long awaited North American Higher Learning Commission’s recommendation for accreditation.

As people lined up to shake the hand of Coffey, pictures of his leadership during his past years as chairman were presented on two screens.

Some of the dignitaries and representatives present included Ft. Sill Garrison Commander, Col. Paul S. Hossenlopp, Lawton City Council-

CIVA bring in the flags during the inaugural.

Former Comanche Chairman, Johnny Wauqua, speaks to the audience

man, Bill Shoemate, Kiowa Chairman, Ron Twohatchet, Apache Chairman Don Habanas Jr. , Seminole Chief, Kelley Hainey, and OU Football legend, Joe Washington. Coffey, with the help of his wife, Debbie, and the outgoing First Lady, Virginia, gave the visitors a gift of appreciation for attending the event.

He spoke with Col. Hossenlopp about a Day of Prayer for the Comanche tribe June 21 on top of Medicine Bluffs, in which Coffey fought for its preservation in 2009.

He told the audience the tribe needs prayers.

July 2012

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The Comanche Nation News

Comanche Nation Hires Attorneys Crowe and Dunlevy, P.C.

Story by Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

During the June 2 continuation meeting of the General Council, a motion was passed from the council floor to fire law firm, Hobb, Straus, Dean, and Walker, and to hire another law firm, at will.

The new law firm that represents the Comanche Nation is Crowe and Dunlevy, P.C., and they have been busy since coming aboard.

The lawyers, led by 39year experienced council, Walter Echo Hawk, have been tenaciously preparing for the two cases that will define the future of the Lords of the Plains.

legal representative, Michael McBride, Receives Award for Distinguished Service--August 19, 2009; Huneryager Receives Hermes Award--July 26, 2009; and McBride Presented with FBA Award --April 23, 2009, among others.

The law firm itself has stacked its awards of excellence such as 67 Crowe & Dunlevy attorneys honored by “Best Lawyers in America” 2011--August 4, 2010

U.S.News - Best Lawyers highly ranked Oklahoma law firm Crowe & Dunlevy in the 2011-2012 "Best Law Firms" standings. Crowe & Award Winning Dunlevy received Tier 2 rankBackground

According to the firm’s ings nationally for three pracPress Release Kit, Crowe and tice groups and a Tier 3 rankDunlevy, P.C., has a myriad of ing for one. Locally, the firm awards that verifies their ex- had the most first-tier rankings cellence in law and litigation. of any law firm in Oklahoma, Among the individual attor- with 70 practice areas in Oklaneys winning awards such as homa City and Tulsa combined

receiving this honor.

Chambers USA 2011 and 2012. Since 1990. Chambers has published the world’s leading guides to the legal profession and has built a reputation for in-depth, objective research. Chambers has a team of 100 highly qualified full-time researchers who conduct thousands of interviews with lawyers and their clients worldwide. Working with their editors, they identify and rank the world’s best lawyers (i.e. those who perform best according to the criteria most valued by clients such as technical expertise, business acumen, prompt delivery, value for money). On the basis of this research, Chambers holds award ceremonies to honor outstanding practitioners around the world.

The current, 18th edition of The Best Lawyers in

America (2012) names 65 Crowe & Dunlevy attorneys and has distinguished 16 Crowe & Dunlevy attorneys as Best Lawyers' 2012 of the Year. Best Lawyers is the oldest and most respected peerreview publication in the legal profession. For a quarter century, Best Lawyers has helped lawyers and clients find legal counsel in unfamiliar jurisdictions or unfamiliar specialties.

Best Lawyers compiles lists of outstanding attorneys by conducting exhaustive peer-review surveys in which thousands of leading lawyers confidentially evaluate their professional peers. For the new U.S. edition, more than 50 percent of the lawyers listed in Best Lawyers cast more than 3.1 million votes on the legal abilities of other lawyers in the same and related specialties.

Super Lawyers 2011

and Oklahoma Rising Stars 2011—Super Lawyers magazine names attorneys in each state who received the highest point totals, as chosen by their peers and through the independent research of Law & Politics. Rising Stars names the state's top up-and-coming attorneys. Super Lawyers magazine names attorneys in each state who received the highest point totals, as chosen by their peers and through the independent research of Law & Politics. Rising Stars names the state's top up-and-coming attorneys. Super Lawyers magazine is published in all 50 states and reaches more than 13 million readers. Super Lawyers magazine is published in all 50 states and reaches more than 13 million readers.

Meet Walter Echo Hawk Story and Photos from Walter Echo Hawk Press Kit

Walter Echo Hawk wears four hats: (1)Justice, Supreme Court of the Pawnee Nation; (2) Vice Chairman, Board of Directors, Native Arts and Cultures Foundation, a brand new national and permanently endowed foundation to support Native art and culture; (3) Of Counsel, Crowe & Dunlevy, Oklahoma’s oldest and largest law firm; and (4) Adjunct Professor, Tulsa University School of Law (2010). From 1973-2008, he was a staff attorney of the Native American Rights Fund (NARF), where he represented Indian Tribes, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians on significant legal issues during the modern era of federal Indian law. A lawyer, tribal judge, scholar, author, and activist, his legal experience includes cases involving Native American religious freedom, prisoner rights, water rights, treaty rights, and reburial\repatriation rights. He is admitted to practice law before the United States Supreme Court, Colorado Supreme Court, Oklahoma Supreme Court, U.S. Courts of Appeals for the Eighth, Ninth, District of Columbia, and Tenth Circuits, and a host of federal District Courts. His work includes: * Currently, he represents the Sealaska Corporation and several Tlingit clans and Indian tribes to repatriate various sacred objects and objects of cultural patrimony. * 1990-1994: He represented the Native American Church of North America to secure passage of the American Indian Religious Freedom Act Amendments of 1994 to protect religious use of peyote by Indians. * 1986-1990: He represented Indian tribe clients to obtain legislation for the Native American repatriation movement. His legal/legislative work included: (a) precedent setting legislation in Nebraska (1989) and Kansas (1988) di-

Pawnee Kitkahaki Dance, 2010

EDUCATION BA, Political Science Oklahoma State University (1970) JD, University of New Mexico (1973)TION BA, Political Science Oklahoma State University (1970) JD, University of New Mexico (1973) TRIBAL AFFILIATION Enrolled member of the Pawnee Nation of Oklahoma

recting museums to return and rebury dead bodies and grave objects to Tribes of origin; (b) the 1989 reburial agreement with the Smithsonian Institution enacted into the National Museum of the American Indian Act; (c) the 1986-1990 legislative campaign culminating in the passage of Native American Grave Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA).

WORK EXPERIENCE: LEGAL

As an attorney, Walter Echo-Hawk represents Indian tribes on important legal issues. Since 1973, he has litigated and lobbied extensively on Native rights. Much of that work occurred during pivotal years when America witnessed the rise of modern Indian nations. As American Indian tribes reclaimed their land, sovereignty, and pride in a historic stride toward freedom and justice, Walter worked at the epicenter of a great social movement alongside tribal leaders on many issues, visiting Indian tribes in their indigenous habitats throughout North America.

He was instrumental in the passage of landmark laws--like the Native American Graves protection and Repatriation Act (1990) and American In-

dian Religious Freedom Act Amendments (1994). Examples of Walter’s recent work in 2010: • A month-long trial to quantify Klamath Indian water rights for hunting, fishing, and gathering. The case preserves a treaty protected way of life in an awesome indigenous habitat.

• He represented Tlingit tribes and clans of southeast Alaska to repatriate sacred objects and cultural patrimony, helping to secure favorable rulings by the NAGPRA Review Committee.

• He taught law at University of Tulsa College of Law. • New publications include (1) a book on federal Indian law, In The Courts of the Conqueror (2010); (2) a chapter on aboriginal land rights in Coming to Terms: Aboriginal Title in South Australia (2010); and (3) a thought-provoking article, “Under Native American Skies” (2009) about the need for a land ethic.

Currently, he is of counsel to the Crowe & Dunlevy law firm, Tulsa, Oklahoma. Echo-Hawk assists the Indian and gaming law practice group in one of the largest and oldest law firms in the State of Oklahoma.

ARTS AND CULTURE

Echo-Hawk is the Founding Chair, Board of Directors, Native Arts and Cultures Foundation: This is the nation’s very first national, permanently-endowed foundation devoted to funding, promoting, and preserving Native American arts and cultures. In 2009, NACF opened its doors with a multi-million dollar permanent endowment. The Foundation makes grants to Native artists and culture bearers, gives financial support for Native art and culture organizations, helps bring Native arts and cultures to the forefront of American and international venues, and helps roll back bygone policies of the 20th century to stamp out Native American cultures, languages, arts, and religions.

PUBLIC SPEAKING

Walter Echo-Hawk is a Native American speaker and author. He enjoys a distinguished legal career protecting the legal, political, property, cultural, and human rights of Indian tribes and Native peoples. Articulate and versed, he has delivered keynote speeches on a wide variety of Indigenous topics over the years, involving the arts and culture, history, law,

religion, environment, cosmology, and human rights. He has made major public speaking appearances in South Africa, Turkey, Egypt, Philippines, Canada, and throughout the United States. He is currently on a book lecture tour for his new book, In the Courts of the Conqueror: The 10 Worst Indian Law Cases Ever Decided (2010). Walter speaks extensively and appears in film and radio to educate the American public about tribal life, culture, and indigenous justice. Aside from his national book tour for his new book, he appeared in The Making of NAGPRA, a new film about the Native American repatriation movement produced by the National Park Service in 2010, and several national radio programs .

Always thought -provoking, inspirational, and sometimes provocative, he explains complex issues in a professional, but easily-understood style.

Walter has been featured on numerous television newscast and radio interviews on state and national news, including ABC’s “Good Morning America,” CNN News, CBS News, and local TV news programs in Hawaii, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Oregon, Kansas, Nebraska, California, Indiana and elsewhere, including miscellaneous national and local radio interviews, including NPR’s “Native America Calling,” “Morning Edition” and the “Michael Jackson Show.”

In addition, he has been featured in numerous misc. newspaper and magazine interviews on national and local newspapers, including Time, Newsweek, New York Times, Washington Post, Wall Street Journal, Los Angeles Times, USA Today and Indian Country Today.

July 2012

4

The Comanche Nation News

Comanche Gaming Receives A Clean Audit for Second Consecutive Year Comanche Nation Gaming recently received a clean audit from the Nation Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC) for the second consecutive year.

The NIGC audit is a congressionally mandated audit of tribal compliance. More specifically, the scope of this audit is centered on the key requirements of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) and NIGC regulations. The outcome of this audit were reported to the Secretary of the Interior and will also soon be available for review by the U.S. Congress and the public.

The audit reviews Comanche compliance in the period of January 1, 2011 through December 31, 2011.

The NIGC reported that Comanche Nation Gaming was fully compliant in the areas of adhering to the Department of Interior approved Gaming Compact, and the NIGC approved Gaming Ordinance. Additionally, the report stated that Comanche Gaming was compliant with the requirements of submitting fingerprints to the NIGC (part of the employee background check process), submitting all required NIGC fees, NIGC worksheets, annual audited financial reports and Minimum Internal Control Standards (MICS) agreed-upon procedures reports. Lastly, the NIGC reported that Comanche Gaming was compliant in having each casino property fully licensed by the Comanche Nation Gaming Commission.

This is the second clean

VOTE

Continued from Page 1

inciding with National Voter Registration day on September 25. The week of events across the country will engage tribal schools and Native youth programs in a range of civics education, including a tribal specific supplement to Rock the Vote’s Democracy Day class. Participants, such as local chapters of Boys and Girls Clubs of America, will educate Native young people about the power of civic engagement and the importance of registering their parents, family members, and one day, themselves, to vote.

He also highlighted the “Tools for All” partnership initiated with State Voices – a national civic engagement network. The partnership offers the chance for tribes to access voter outreach tools that can identify tribal members who need to register and encourage all tribal citizens to make their voice heard.

“Finally and most importantly, our federal and state government partners should provide the same voter registration services offered in other government facilities. That’s why today I’m calling for state election officials to work with tribes and the federal government to ensure tribal citizens are offered the chance to vote when they visit an add Indian Health Service (IHS) facility,” stated Keel.

President Keel cited a new report released by Dēmos, a multi-issue national organization, outlining Native voter disenfranchisement and proposing IHS facilities as logical sites for voter registration. The report, Ensuring Access to the Ballot for American Indians & Alaska Natives: New Solutions to Strengthen American Democracy, states that “Appropriate IHS facilities should be designated as official voter registration agencies along

the same lines as state based public assistance agencies are now designated under the National Voter Registration Act (NVRA).

Keel announced he is sending a letter in support of the idea directly to every individual IHS facility, along with a copy of the report.

In the letter, Keel writes, “The Indian Health Service is a key agency in delivering on the federal government’s trust responsibility to tribes. As outlined in the report, IHS facilities, conveniently and centrally located in many tribal communities, are ideal voter registration sites. Joining other federal and state agencies in offering this service to clients will make a large impact in tribal communities, in the national Native Vote and in furthering the fulfillment of the federal trust responsibility.

Numu Zumba Class Performs at Comanche County Fairgrounds Story and Photos by Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

Numu Zumba is the name of the Zumba workout class, instructed by tribal member, Julia Manzke, and they know how to “jam.” The energetic and rhythmic students took center stage during halftime of the 580 Girls Roller Derby June 9 at the Comanche County Fairgrounds, to show the audience how fun Zumba can be.

The 20-minute performance was filled with a wide range of finger snapping, hip moving songs that spanned from hip-hop to Latin music.

The group of 15 shimmied, shook, and swayed to the music

Numu Zumba class participants perform a workout routine during halftime of the 580 Girls Roller Derby, proving working out can be fun.

with smiles on their faces.

“It looked like they were having such a good time,” said one unknown spectator. “I wish I could have that much

fun working out.”

Numu Zumba student, BJ Anderson, said, “ We practiced the routine for a while, and we had fun.”

audit for Comanche Gaming from the NIGC in as many years. The NIGC reported that Comanche Gaming was also in compliance, in all the same areas, in a similar report for the 2010 calendar year.

Apart from the NIGC audit described above, NIGC investigators occasionally conduct on-site reviews of the Gaming Commission’s background and licensing department. Such a review was conducted by an NIGC field investigator on April 25, 2012.

As a result of this review, the Gaming Commission was commended by the NIGC. NIGC Regional Director, Tom Cunningham, stated in a letter to the Gaming Commission, “The NIGC wishes to recognize the Gaming Commission’s attention and efforts in conducting thorough background investigations. These efforts protect the integrity of the gaming operations and reduce risk to the operation and casino employees.”

As evident from the recent NIGC audits and on-site reviews, Comanche Nation Gaming compliance with federal laws and regulations has never been healthier. The Comanche Nation Gaming Commission and the Gaming Board of Directors continue to work diligently together to ensure that the Comanche Nation’s gaming operations are efficient in providing essential revenue to the Nation and its members, while always ensuring regulatory compliance.

COURT

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Court of Indian Offenses may not adjudicate an election dispute, take jurisdiction over a suit against a tribe. That means CFR Court lacks the jurisdiction over disputes except by clear and unequivocal grants of jurisdiction and waivers of immunity.

The third was Resolution No. 3-12 created by the six recalled tribal members at a meeting of their own on May 19, 2012 at the Janice Pewewardy Softball Field, west of the Comanche Nation Complex.

Goodman stated that the resolution waived the tribes sovereignty immunity and is limited due to lack of wording, and that the court must take that into consideration without making assumptions or “filling in the blanks."

James Burson of Hobb, Straus, Dean, and Walker, LLP took the floor and stated that they believe the court does have jurisdiction, and that the recall meetings held in April and May 2012 are invalid, through the actions of Wauqua.

At this point Echo Hawk asked if Burson was going to start stating any lawful facts and Judge Lujan said he would allow Burson to go on, but that he would have to start stating lawful fact at some point.

Burson further stated that according to the Comanche Nation Constitution, a governing body consists of five council members. If there are less than five members, it is considered a non-functioning government.

He added that he had filed an injunction for the June 30 election, on the grounds that they can prove to the court that the recall meetings were invalid therefore leaving no reason to have an election to select a new CBC, and his clients could resume their positions on the

board.

Lujan began his verdict by explaining that the court is a court of limited jurisdiction, bound by 25 CFR 11-118. He has gone to Appellate Court over his court decisions in the past.

“I will not violate the law to enforce the law,” said Lujan.

He rendered his decision to dismiss the court order based on no jurisdiction.

The ruling dismisses the court order which recognizes five tribal members: Eschiti, Tippeconnie, Red Elk, Kosechequetah, and Terry, as Comanche Business Committeemen (CBC); and it also cancels the CFR Court from recognizing Komahcheet, JR as the Tribal Administrator.

“With his ruling today, Judge Lujan has given the Comanche Nation the stepping stone we need to move forward in our fight for Tribal Sovereignty. It is a major victory for the Comanche Nation people and all Native American Tribes across the Nation,” said Chairman, Wallace Coffey.

“I have said all along that the Comanche Nation’s sovereignty in the United States refers to the inherent authority of indigenous tribes to govern themselves,” said Tribal Administrator, Johnny Wauqua.

"The people and I want to thank Crowe & Dunlevy, P.C. attorneys, Walter Echo Hawk, Michael McBride, and Jimmy Goodman for working with both myself and the Tribal Administrator in resolving this situation, but we're not done we have more work to do," said Chairman Coffey.

July 2012

5

The Comanche Nation News

Chad Tahchawwickah Releases Hymn CD; Travels to Speak with Native Youth

Courtesy Photo

Growing up singing Comanche hymns with his dad and grandparents, Tahchawwickah records CD to use as a learning tool for young singers.

Story and Photos by Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

It has been one year since Chad Tahchawwickah made his comic debut at the Comanche Nation Princess Sorority Comedy Night, and looking back, he could not be more satisfied.

The young Comanche man, who is from the Yapa Tuka Band, and a descendant of Comanche War Chief, Wildhorse, has been busy motivating youth, preserving the Comanche songs, and helping fellow Native people, the best way he knows how, through his gift of communication. He is quick to laugh, and to make others laugh.

“I love getting people to laugh, especially if they are having hard times,” he explained. “For that quick second, I made them forget their troubles, enjoy themselves and lift their spirits. It’s worth it to me.”

He recently traveled to Dallas, TX to help in a fund raiser for some Native youth raise money to travel to Chicago, Ill.

He also had the opportunity to speak to teen youth from the Rosebud Sioux tribe in Mission, SD. He focused on topics that hit the heart of the students; bullying, gangs, suicide prevention, and domestic violence.

Knowing the suicide rate statistics are high on reservations, he said he asked the educational staff what kind of after-school programs were provided for students. He was saddened to find out, due to lack of funding, they were almost non-existent.

“I did not talk to them like other motivational speakers,” he said. “I sat down with them and I spoke at their level.

I could tell by their expressions they were listening to me, and they were comfortable around me.”

He said many students opened up to him and asked for his advice and guidance. He spoke at six schools, including St. Frances High School and the Juvenile Detention Center.

He stays busy marketing for upcoming shows, networking, and getting his name out there to the comic venues.

He sees the comic scene currently not being popular in Oklahoma, and the Native comic scene is even smaller, but Tahchawwickah also sees many Native owned casinos picking it up in the west coast.

“I just talk about my life and be myself on stage,” he said. “Now it is paying my bills.”

Besides making people laugh, he has a very humble and respectful side to him, especially when it comes to his Comanche upbringing. He said he enjoys singing the Comanche songs he grew up with, whether it is powwow songs or Comanche hymns.

“I learned the songs from my dad, grandpa and grandma. I went to church with them where they sung Comanche hymns,” Tahchawwickah explained. “I think everyone in Comanche Country learned the songs the same way, at powwows and at church.”

He was asked by some tribal members throughout the years to make a CD of Comanche hymns, but he was reluctant to because the songs were composed by elders of the tribe, and he did not want to disrespect anyone by making money off of songs that were not his.

But after becoming a father of six children, his mind began to see it in another way.

While living in Ponca City, he would visit his family in Cache and attend church where he grew up. He noticed the Comanche hymn singers were becoming fewer every time he visited, and that troubled him.

“I want my children and other Comanche kids to hear these songs. They are the ones who will keep the songs alive in Comanche churches for future generations,” he explained.

After praying about it, and thinking about it, he decided to compose a CD of Comanche hymns. Because he did not want to disrespect the families of the ones who composed the songs, he said half of his earnings from the CD go back to the church.

“When you buy a CD, you can go to my website and download the translation of the songs for free,” said Tahchawwickah. “My website is www. just2keen.com.”

He said he has many things on his website, in which he will add T-shirts in the near future.

To purchase a CD, or to book Tahchawwickah for a performance, contact him at (580) 704-8285, or email him at tahchawwickah@gmail. com.

Courtesy Photo

The United Methodist Action Reach-out Mission by Youth (U.M ARMY) repair the home of Sylvia Wermy. The group traveled to local communities to help those who are not physically able to perform the home improvement tasks.

Texas Church Youth Group Fix Up Homes of Tribal Elders Story and Photos by Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

Do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.

Philippians 2:4 The United Methodist Action Reach-out Mission by Youth (U.M ARMY) is showing their generosity and kindness to tribal elders by making their homes, and their lives, better through home repair.

The Texas based youth program has been established since 1979 and live up to their mission, “To provide Christcentered, quality youth work camps that serve people in need and promote spiritual growth and leadership development in youth.”

The group of students has been busy throughout the month of June providing home improvement for tribal elders such as Jewel Tieyah, Delores Aitson, Pratt Wauqua, Sylvia Wermy, and Marlene James.

They have performed tasks for the tribal seniors such as painting, repairing wood, building wheel chair access, and trim trees.

“I think what they did is fabulous,” said elder, Delores Aitson. “I had to pull myself up on my steps because of my bad knees. I was so happy when they knocked on my door and said they were going to install a rail and ramp. They also put

a hand rail on my storm cellar steps. I am getting around a lot better now.”

The UM ARMY recruits thousands of youth and adults to leave home and spend a week at a United Methodist church where they promote free home repairs for homeowners who are physically unable or financially unable to make needed repairs.

The group gathered June 21 at the Centenary United Methodist Church in Lawton, Okla. to celebrate their work efforts and visit with the Comanche elders they helped.

Esa Rosa Descendants Powwow July 28, 2012 3 p.m.-11 p.m.

Watchetaker Hall Comanche Nation Complex Nine miles north of Lawton, Okla.

All Gourd Dance

Birthday Celebration For Jennifer Whitewolf- Esa Rosa Princess Susan Whitewolf Helen (Peanut) Whitewolf

Head Staff

Jennifer Whitewolf- Esa Rosa Princess Master of Ceremonies -- John David Wahnee--Lawton, Okla.

Master of Ceremonies -- Cy Ahtone-- Elgin, Okla.

Head Singer -- Daniel Cozad -- Anadarko, Okla.

Head Man Dancer -- Butch Tahsequah -- Lawton, Okla.

Head Lady Dancer -- Beverly Chasenah -- Lawton, Okla.

Arena Director -- Freddie Banderas -- Lawton, Okla.

Security -- John Chasenah -- Lawton, Okla.

Co-host -- Wahnee Family -- Lawton, Okla.

Public Welcome Invitations to all Tribal Club Princesses and Organizations Vendors Welcome-- Set-up Fee Supper will be served For more information, call Frank Whitewolf- (580) 678-1540; Gordon Whitewolf- (405) 933-2019; Kenneth Capes- (580) 483-5591 No Drugs or Alcohol allowed. Not responsible for accidents or thefts

July 2012

6

Programs

The Comanche Nation News

Counterfeit Money in Casinos, According to Tribal Police Submitted by Comanche Nation Police Department

The Insanity Workout class is a popular one at the Comanche Nation Fitness Center during the Workout Warrior Challenge.

Tim Johnson, losing 15.5 lbs., is the runner up for Most Weight Loss

The Insane Abs class is another popular class at the fitness center.

Over 100 lbs. are Lost Through the 2012 Workout Warriors Challenge II Submitted by George Tahdooahnippah/Diabetes Awareness Program

The Comanche Nation Diabetes Program just recently Sign up for the WoW3 finished their 2012 Workout Challenge July 9-10 at Warriors Challenge II pro- the Comanche Nation gram.

Fitness Center, 904 SW The eight-week exercise proF. Ave., Lawton gram required participants to up and 30 complete it (31%). sign up and get a health screenWe had a 10% increase in our ing, which measured the parprogram. Our goal is to make ticipants: height, weight, BMI our Comanche people aware (Body Mass Index), body fat of the health problems that percentage, glucose (sugar), plague us all. We also gather cholesterol, blood pressure, a lot of important data that and for diabetics-HbA1c (avneeds to be addressed. For erage blood sugar level for the instance, we got averages for last 3 months). the Comanche participants in

The challenge required the two Workout Warriors proparticipants to exercise three grams for 2012. Our Workout times per week for a minimum Warriors program data shows of 50 minutes a session (150 that the average Comanche is minutes a week) for eightobese with a Body Mass Index weeks. Participants had the of 34. A BMI of 25 and higher option to exercise at the Cois overweight. A BMI over 30 manche Nation Fitness Center, is obese, which is a classified Julia Mantzke’s Numu Zumba, disease. We as a people are or exercise programs put on by putting our health and wellness the Comanche Nation Diabetes on the back burner. Diabetes Program staff at the Comanche is here. We need to fight this Nation Complex. issue head on. Fight it with

The program had 97 physical activity!” participants sign up and get Workout Warriors health screened, but when the Challenge II’s Most Weight 8 weeks was complete, only 30 Loss and Most BMI Loss wincompleted the challenge. ner, Stephanie Lewis is mak Health and Fitness Proing a change in her life with motions Coordinator, George increased physical activity and Tahdooahnippah was happy healthier food choices. with the success of the pro She explained, “Julia gram.

Mantzke has really helped in “The first Workout spire her with her Zumba classWarrior program in 2012 had es and she is a really great mo101 people sign up and 21 peotivator.” She also said, “I am ple complete it (21%). 2012 eating portion control meals, Workout Warrior II had 97 sign

no seconds, more vegetables, and drinking nothing but water.” Stephanie also said she has a great support staff of people exercising with her with the Numu Zumba. They all push each other to succeed and they all exercise 4-5 days a week, consistently.

Tim Johnson was the weight loss runner up, losing 15.5 lbs. Tim was inspired by the Workout Warriors program name and thought he was in excellent shape, until he seen his actual blood sugar reading and body fat analysis. Tim said, “My numbers opened my eyes because they weren’t as good as I thought they were.

I realize I need to lose more weight.”

Jolene Schonchin also participated in the program and was runner up in the Most BMI Loss.

Schonchin said, “All of the Workout Warriors participants need to be commended for their dedication to the challenge of exercising and eating healthier. To lose even one pound is a lot of work. I now make working out a daily routine.”

The 2012 Workout Warriors Challenge II program was a success.

The 2012 Workout Warriors Challenge 3 will begin July 9th and 10th with sign ups and pre screening at the Comanche Nation Fitness Center.

2012 Workout Warriors II Participants who completed 8 Week Challenge: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Nancy Alandzes Francis Attocknie, III Kimberly Blackstar Lizzie Blackstar Verna Cable Carolyn Codopony Tanya Codynah Carlene Collins Hah-Tee Delgado Chris Devine Desiree Devine Misti Devine Lena Farris Asaan Fife Teka Henry

• • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Tim Johnson Jennifer Justice Angelena Ketner Tammy Lechich Stephanie Lewis Paula Mallow Julia Mantzke Sherry Pueblo Anna Roubideaux Jannetta Slaughter Gene Sovo Mia Tahdooahnippah Trenell Tahdooahnippah Jonathan Thode

Zumba class

Numu Zumba

Since June 1, the Comanche Nation Police Department (CNPD) has received over $300 in counterfeit money from the Comanche Nation casinos and processed the money into evidence. The range for counterfeit money has varied from $5 through $100 bills.

“We don’t see $300 in counterfeit currency in a year” Comanche Nation Detective Kieran Daly said.

Having over $300 in counterfeit money in less than a 14-day time span is unusual.

CNPD have contacted other law enforcement agencies in the area about the counterfeit situation.

CNPD also discovered that some of the same serial numbers found on the counterfeit money they received have been circulated throughout Comanche County in separate counterfeit cases.

CNPD contacted the

Federal Secret Service and have scheduled a training/ meeting session for their officers as well as other agencies in the area that include Federal, Local, and State.

The Comanche Nation Casinos lost profit when the counterfeit money had to be removed from the casinos inventory and turned over to the Secret Service as evidence.

There are numerous Federal Laws against knowingly possessing counterfeit money and/or producing counterfeit money with the intent to defraud.

Violations of these laws could land the accused up to 20 years in prison and/or stiff fines if convicted. If you suspect anyone with producing counterfeit money, please call your local law enforcement or Crime Stoppers, (580) 355INFO.

July 2012

7

The Comanche Nation News

People,Places and Things Happening Kiowa Tribe Head Start Program Enrollment for 20122013 School Year

let, contact Giles, or any of the Expo Directors.

Representing the Comanche Nation at this year’s celebration is Angel Rainheart The Kiowa Tribe Head Start Redbird .

Program is accepting applica- County Weatherization tions for the 2012-2013 school Program Helps Low year for the Center- Base and Income Residence Home-Base. Applications can The Lawton weatherbe picked up at the KCA Head Start Center at 1401 N.E. Law- ization program can help to rerie Tatum Road, Lawton, Okla; duce your energy consumption Little Rabbits Center at 1602 by 10% to 40%.

The Great Plains ImAmerican Street, Anadarko, Foundation's Okla; and Kiowa Tribe Head provement Start Office, Kiowa Tribal Weatherization program offers Complex Carnegie, Okla. from free assistance to low-income 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday- residents of Comanche County Friday or go to www.kiowa- to help reduce the wasteful use tribe.org for enrollment appli- of energy escaping from your home. cations.

The types of WeatherKiowa Tribe Head Start is a federally funded program ization work includes: stopping which provides comprehensive air infiltration through the aphealth, education, nutrition, plication of caulk and weathsocial services, parent involve- er-stripping, replacing broken ment and other services to chil- window glass, patching holes dren ages 3 to 5 years and their in exterior walls, insulating families. Head Start also pro- the ceiling and walls, installvides services to meet the spe- ing compact fluorescent lights cial needs of children with dis- (CFL) tune-ups and minor reabilities. Children who attend pairs on heating and cooling the program will participate in systems, and repairs that will a variety of educational activi- result in improving energy efties and enjoy playing indoors ficiency.

Weatherization and outdoors in a safe environ- The program can help to reduce ment.

Documents needed in- your energy consumption by clude birth certificate, income 10% to 40%. Applications can verification, immunization re- be picked up at Great Plains cord, CDIB (if applicable) and Improvement Foundation's office at #2 S.E. Lee Blvd. Suite health insurance.

The Head Start program 200, Lawton Okla. Each applidoes not discriminate against cant must complete an applicaRace, Color, Sex, National Ori- tion, provide proof of income and provide a 12-month history gin or Disabilities.

This program is not just for of electric and gas bills. AppliNative Americans. Everyone is cants cannot exceed the income welcome to apply for enroll- eligibility requirements listed.

Income Qualifying ment! Anyone can participate! 1.

Application Required For additional informa- 2.

No Cost to You tion or applications call (580) 3.

654-2544 or (580) 654-2300 .

Services Provided: ext. 359. o Air Leakage Reduction American Indian Expo o Ceiling Insulation Directors Sell Bracelets; o Weather-stripping Window Glass Repair Announces Comanche o o Heater Tune-ups Expo Princess o Energy Saving Light bulbs

In order to be eligible for the Weatherization assistance program your total household income must be below the following: INCOME GUIDELINES 1 $21,660 Redbird 2 $29,140

The directors of the 3 $36,620 American Indian Exposition 4 $44,100 are providing an opportunity 5 $51,580 for spectators to save money 6 $59,060 during the 81st Annual event, 7 $66,540 scheduled for Aug. 8-11 in Anadarko, Okla.

The applicant must be a

The public can pur- home owner. chase a bracelet for $10, which Evelyn Monetathchi will provide access to parking, Raises Funds for Jewish and admission to the dances at Scholarships the Caddo County Fairground Grandstand for all four nights.

“It will save people money,” said Comanche Director, Beth Giles. “Even if someone does not attend all the nights, they can give it to a family member or friend for them to attend.”

The American Indian Exposition will kick off the festivities with a parade 10 a.m. Aug. 8 in downtown Anadarko. There will be nightly performances and dance Monetathchi contests 8 p.m. throughout the week at the county fairgrounds The Bat Mitzvah of grandstand. A second parade Evelyn Joyce Monetathchi was will take place 10 a.m. Aug. 11 held on May 19, at Temple Siin downtown Anadarko. nai in Palm Desert, Cali.

To purchase a brace- Monetathchi is the

daughter of Judith Monetathchi.

She was born in Rancho Mirage, Cali., on July 20, 1991. She lives in Cathedral City. She currently attends James Workman Middle School. She is a member of the Associated Student Body and the school band.

For her Mitzvah project, she decided to raise money for scholarships for Jewish summer camp.

Pocowatchit named Employee of the Month

ECU’s Native American Student Association (NASA). For the university’s Native American Heritage Month last November, she and tribal partners planned a trip to the Chickasaw Cultural Center in Sulphur.

She and NASA invited Native American artists and artisans to display and discuss their work. They also organized a film series, cultural food event, peyote stitch class and performances by dancers and drummers.

Hogue, who is Chickasaw and Caddo, is no stranger to student retention efforts.

ECU had begun a program to get these cultural and academic efforts underway in 2009 with a two-year federal grant, the Native American Voices Project, which she directed. When the grant ended last year, ECU decided to continue the retention efforts through the Native American Academic Service office.

Pocowatchit

Students Learn to Grow Tribal member Gloria Their Own Vegetables

Pocowatchit was named the April 2012 Nursing Employee of the Month.

Pocowatchit is currently a Health Technician at the Lawton Indian Hospital.

Native American Academic Program Helps Students Complete Degrees

According to a Press Release received by East Central University, it’s been a year since East Central University (ECU) began its own Native American Academic Service program to ensure that Native American students stay in school and complete their degrees. So far, the results have been encouraging, but its director want more students and families to be aware that ECU has an on-campus liaison for students.

The goal of ECU’s program is to serve 18 percent of ECU’s enrollment - Native American students - both in and out of the classroom in order to make sure their college careers are a success, said Renee Hogue, ECU’s director of Native American academic services.

That means providing cultural learning experiences as well as academic services for those students.

“We are partnering with the Chickasaw Nation’s Division of Youth and Family to develop the ECU-Chickasaw Learning Community,” Hogue said. “We’re working with Chickasaw students to provide them with additional cultural and service learning opportunities. This gives them a way to become involved on campus as well as in their tribe. Hopefully, this is just the beginning.

We’re looking to develop partnerships with other tribes.”

Cultural learning opportunities usually draw a large number of students, she said.

Through the partnerships, Hogue has helped organize informal classes to teach collar beading and how to make puckertoe moccasins. She recently has organized stickball games which are held on the ECU lawn.

Hogue is co-sponsor of

Micah Anderson, helps a student plant a melon seedling in a newspaper pot at the Apache Tribe’s Environmental Field Day.

Micah Anderson believes everyone should eat more fresh vegetables. But, he takes it a step farther by teaching students to actually grow the vegetables they eat.

His position as the Plasticulture Coordinator at the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry (ODAFF) puts him in contact with thousands of kids who have never planted a seed.

He aims to change that by attending events like the recent Apache Tribe Environmental Field Day sponsored by the Apache Tribe. The outdoor event gave students a chance to make pots out of newspaper, full the pots with soil and then plant a melon or pepper seedling. The newspaper pot can be planted directly into the garden to decompose in the soil. With water and sunshine, the seedlings will produce nutritious cantaloupes, honeydew melons, bell peppers or hot peppers for the student gardeners to share with their families.

Anderson’s work typically focuses on adults who

want to grow vegetables on a commercial basis. ODAFF awards grants to qualifying applicants who intend to market vegetables from gardens at least one-quarter acre in size.

The three-year grants provide for Anderson or a contractor to come to the grant recipient’s property and create raised soil beds covered with plastic sheeting and equipped with irrigation drip lines laid directly under the plastic. Vegetable seedlings are planted in holes punched through the plastic.

Using less water is one of the chief benefits of this type of gardening. The plastic cover also acts as a mulch that inhibits weed growth and moderates the soil temperature to extend the growing season into the fall and allow planting to occur earlier in the spring. Farmers using the plasticulture system enjoy faster crop growth according to Anderson and may be able to bring crops to market as much as two weeks earlier then those using traditional farming systems.

During the seven years Anderson has coordinated the plasticulture program, he estimates he has installed 370 gardens and given that many people or more an opportunity to derive income from the sale of their vegetable specialty crops. The programs centers on under-served farmers who own 40 acres or less.

To learn more about the plasticulture program or apply for a plasticulture grant, go to www.ok.gov/mktdev/plasticulture or call Micah Anderson at (405) 522-5595.

Comanche Offices Close for Holidays

The offices of the Comanche Nation will be closed July 4 for the Independence Day holiday. Offices will reopen 8 a.m., July 5.

The tribal offices will also be closed on July 20 for Comanche Chiefs Day. Offices will re-open 8 a.m. July 23.

CONGRATULATIONS

Kristin Guyer Sandia High School

Photo by Candace Wilson/News Staff

A PLACE TO PRAY. During the month of April, a plan was born to build a chapel, and was finally completed June 14 in the Lawton Indian Hospital. The chapel was furnished with 10 chairs donated by the Comanche Nation. Marlyn Daukei Henderix said “It was a family project, something to give to the people.” After Eddie Onco blessed the chapel with cedar, he preceded to cedar anyone that wanted to be cleansed. He had each person face the east, the way the sun raises for a new day.

July 2012

8

The Comanche Nation News

Military Submitted by Lanny Asepermy

Calvin Atchavit

Obverse (front) preferred image of Comanche Code Talker Congressional Gold Medal shows an image of the “Spirit Talker” monument with the words NUMUNU (People) and COMANCHE CODE TALKERS.

Reverse (back) preferred image of Comanche Code Talker Congressional Gold Medal shows the military insignias of the 90th Division (on top left - this is the unit the World War I Code Talkers served), and the 4th Infantry Division (on top right - this is the unit the World War II Code Talkers served), it also shows mounted horseman with lance (the Comanche Nation logo), the words ACT OF CONGRESS 2008 AND WORLD WAR I AND WORLD WAR II are displayed with the Comanche words PUHIHWITEKWA EKASAHPANA which loosely interpreted means “Metal Telephone Soldiers”

the Comanche Code Talkers of both World War I and World War II. There are 13 tribes on this Act - Assiniboine, Chippewa/Oneida, Choctaw, Comanche, Cree, Crow, Hopi, Kiowa, Menominee, Mississauga, Muscogee, Sac and Fox and Sioux. A total of 112 Code Talkers have been identified including four Comanche World War I talkers, Calvin Atchavit, Gilbert Conwoop, Samuel Tabbytosevit and George Clark and 14 Comanche World War II talkers, Charles Chibitty, Haddon Codynah, Robert Holder, Forrest Kassanavoid, Wellington Mihecoby, Perry Noyabad, Clifford Ototivo, Simmons Parker, Mervin Permansu, Elgin Red Elk, Roderick Red Elk, Larry Saupitty, Morris (Sunrise) Tabbyetchy and Willis Yackeschi.

The Congressional Gold Medal is an award bestowed by 2/3 majority vote of the US Congress and along with the Presidential Medal of Freedom and Presidential Citizens Medals is the highest civilian award of the United States. The decoration is

awarded to an individual or group who performs an outstanding deed or act of service to the security, prosperity and nation interest of the United States.

Comanche member, John Plata, represented the Comanche and Kiowa Code Talkers during meetings with the Commission of Fine Arts on April 26 and May 17, in Washington D.C., to finalize the design of the Gold Medals. The final preferred designs have been approved and in an email from Betty Birdsong, form the US Mint, she stated “The next step is preparing the memo to the Secretary of Treasury for approval of the recommended designs. After the Secretary approves this memo, the designs will go into the production phase. I’ll let you know when this occurs, Concurrently, you will be contacted by our Legislative Director who will direct you through the rest of the process.”

The final preferred obverse and reverse Congressional Gold Medals designs are shown above.

George Clark

World War I Code Talkers

As we well know the Comanche Code Talkers of World War II have been presented many accolades since the state of Oklahoma conducted a Code Talker Recognition Ceremony at the state capitol on November 3, 1989.

It was during that ceremony that the French government awarded them the Chevalier de I’Ordre National du Merite (Knight of the Order of National Merit). In 2002 a 280 page book call COMANCHE CODE TALKERS was written and published by William Meadows. The next year, 2003, two monuments were dedicated to the Code Talkers, one at Camp Beauregard, La., and the other at the Nation Complex. On October 15, 2008 President Bush signed into law the Code Talker Recognition Act of 2008 awarding the Code Talkers the highest Congressional award, the Congressional Gold Medal of Honor. The Oklahoma Military Heritage Foundation inducted the Code Talkers into the Oklahoma Military Hall of Fame in 2011. All worthy and well deserved accolades because these Comanche soldiers, who served with the 4th Signal Company of the 4th Infantry Division, used the Comanche language to confuse the Germany Army on the battlefields of Europe when they intercepted military messages they could not understand.

Their contribution saved many Allied lives and had a role in winning the war in Europe.

The World War II Code Talkers were not the first Telephone Warriors as the Choctaws lay claim to that. 19 Choctaw soldiers were detailed toward the end of the World War I and used their language to help turn the tide of battle during the Great War. They contributed greatly to victory in Europe.

After hearing of the success of the Choctaws Code Talkers the commander of the 357th Infantry Regiment, 90th Division used four Comanches to send and receive military

messages with much success.

An article in the June 1919 edition of the Oklahoma City Times reads “Of recent date showed the picture of Calvin Atchavit, who had just returned from France. Calvin’s picture is given because he is one of who the Belgian Government gave a War Cross in recognition of his service in talking over the phone during fighting times when the Huns were tapping the lines trying to get the orders of our Army. Calvin’s Comanche tongue helped the Allied Army send messages which German ears could not understand.

We are glad that Calvin can be in the home land again.”

Who did Calvin Atchavit send and receive messages from?

They were most likely George Clark, Gilbert Pahdi Conwoop, and Samuel Tabbytosavit as these three men were also assigned to the 357th Infantry Regiment.

These men trained at Camp Travis, Texas, outside of San Antonio and were shipped to Europe on June 19, 1918 - they arrived in Liverpool, England 11 days later. They changed ships and landed at Aigney-le-Duc, France shortly thereafter - they saw their first combat on the nights August 21-22, 1918. They fought in two major battles, St. Mihiel and Meuse-Argonne, and many other skirmishes. The St. Mihiel Battle lasted from September 12-19 and resulted in over 7,000 Allied casualties and losses. The Meuse-Argonne Battle lasted from September 26 to November 11, 1918 and resulted in 187,000 Allied casualties and losses including 117,00 Americans. It is considered the bloodiest battle in US military history. Atchavit (on September 29, 1918) was wounded at St. Mihiel while Conwoop (on October 25, 1918) and Tabbytosavit (was reported in hospital on September 29, 1918 recovering from wounds) were wounded during the Meuse-Argonne battle. It was most likely during the Meuse-Argonne battle

these men used the Comanche language to send and receive military messages.

All four men were drafted into the military, Conwoop on May 18, 1918, Tabbytosavit on May 19,1918 and most likely Atchavit and Clark about the same time.

Atchavit was discharged on June 19,1919 at Camp Bowie, Texas, Clark on July 17,1919, Conwoop was discharged at Camp Travis, his discharge date is not known and Tabbytosavit was discharged at Camp Pike, Ark., his discharge date is also not known.

Atchavit was born on June 20, 1893 and died on October 9, 1943 (age 50) and is buried at Highland Cemetery; Clark was born on 1896 and died on 1944 (age 48 or 49) and also buried at Highland; Conwoop was born on July 4, 1895 and died on February 2, 1962 (age 66) and is buried at Deyo and Tabbytosavit was born on May 25, 1896 and died on March 20, 1970 (age 73) and is buried at Walters.

These four men are recipients of the Congressional Gold Medal of Honor.

ASSISTANCE IS NEEDEDif you are a child, grandchild, great-grandchild, brother, sister,nephew or niece of these four men PLEASE CONTACT the Comanche Code Talker Liaison, Lanny Asepermy, at (580) 588-2377 or (580) 678-4629.

The Code Talker Recognition Act

The Code Talker Recognition Act of 2008 was introduced in the House (Congress) on December 13, 2007, passed by the House on September 2, 2008, passed by the Senate on September 30, 2008, cleared the White House also on September 30, 2008, presented to the president on October 6, 2008 and signed by President George W. Bush and became Public Law No. 1110-420 on October 15, 2008. This law authorizes the award of the Congressional Gold Medal to

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July 2012

9

The Comanche Nation News

Comanche Indian Veterans Association 36th Annual Memorial Day Ceremony

CIVA princess, Chelsea Sapcut, performs a special sign language to the song “Hero� for the honored veterans.

Photos by Paula Karty/News Staff

Honored veterans for the CIVA 36th Annual Memorial Day Ceremony were LtCol Dave S. Portillo, US Marine Corps and SGT Malcom Taunah US Marine Corps and OK Army National Guard.

Comanche Nation Princess, Krista Hubbard, sings a Comanche Hymn and invited all those who knew the hymn to sing along.

The family of the late Col Raymond C. Portillo, US Marine Corps, WWII, were present at the CIVA Memorial Day Ceremony for a Special Recognition.

A Memorial Wreath was placed on the court yard of the Comanche Nation Complex by CIVA Auxiliary.

LtCol Dave S. Portillo was presented with a monogrammed Comanche Nation pendelton blanket for his services in the US Military. Portillo served in the Global War on Terror-Iraq.

SGT Malcom Taunah was presented with a monogrammed Comanche Nation pendelton blanket for his services in the US Military. Taunah served in Vietnam and the Persian Gulf War. CIVA Historian, Lanny Asepermy speaks to the crowd about the CIVA Memorial Day Ceremony and talks about the honored veterans.

July 2012

10

The Comanche Nation News

Milestones Happy Belated Birthday

Amanda Whitewolf, June 7 Paula Chibitty-Wolf, June 7 Richard Bread, June 10 Stephen Whitewolf, June 11 Barbara Asepermy, June 16

Happy Birthday Rodney Lewis, July 1 Johnny Poolaw, July 2 Arlene Timbo, July 3 Micah Minthorn, July 3 Christopher Beaver, July 3 Greg Topetchy, July 4 Shavonn Lewis, July 5 Terisa Brinkman, July 6 Austin Wolf, July 7 Arlene Schonchin, July 8 Leesa St Clair, July 8 Mark Spencer Yackeschi, July 8 Christine Brinkman, July 9 Ginger Poemoceah Guttierez, July 9 Joseph Tahsequah, July 10 Terry Brinkman Jr., July 11 Linda Pewewardy Minthorn, July 11 Baydon Lewis, July 15 Zeldina Viddaurri-Floyd, July 15 Anthony Pewewardy, July 16 Tiffany Certeza, July 18 Amber Hedge, July 19 Amylee Turtle, June 19 Brittany Avery-Huggins, July 19 Meka Viddaurri, July 20 Cayla Ketner, July 22 Isabella Alyssa Codynah, July 22 Timothy Lana Ototivo, June 22 Thoteseyah Poemoceah, July 23 Trevor Pewewardy, July 23 Gus McCarthy “Papa”, July 24 Tara Wallace, July 25 Terry Poemoceah, July 26 Robert Oldbear Sr., June 30 Jennifer Whitewolf, July 31

Happy Belated Birthday Terry Brinkman Jr. June 11

Happy Birthday Greystone Komahcheet June 29

Happy Birthday Christopher Beaver July 3

Happy Birthday Terisa Brinkman July 6

Happy Birthday Austin Wolf July 7

Happy Birthday Arlene Schonchin July 8

Happy Birthday Christine Brinkman July 9

Ginger Poemoceah Guttierez

Happy Birthday July 9

Happy Birthday Joseph Tahsequah July 10

Happy Birthday Anthony Pewewardy July 16

Happy Birthday Amber Hedge July 19

Happy Birthday Cayla Ketner July 22

Happy Birthday Isabella Alyssa Codynah July 22

Happy Birthday Trevor Pewewardy July 23

Happy Birthday Gus McCarthy “Papa” July 24

Happy Birthday Alejandro Camacho July 25

Happy Birthday Nadia Tenequer July 25

Happy Birthday Tara Wallace July 25

Happy Birthday Ray Pekah

Happy Birthday Andre’ Connywerdy

In Loving Memory

Congratulations

Anniversaries Donnie & Arietta Viddaurri-Patton- July 1 Married 32 years

Welcome Home

Steve & Anita Viddaurri-Mann- July24 Married 34 years Don’t Forget to submit milestones for those special loved ones; Just married, Anniversaries, Birth Announcements, Birthdays etc.

Deadline for August 7/15/12 Call Happy Birthday Happy Anniversary Public Information Office Happy Birthday In Cheyenne Pekah Pewewardy (580) 492-3386 Heaven...

Monte & Ronna July 28 Email: Potts candacet@comanchenation.com If roses grow in heaven, July 25 Or mail: Lord please pick a Comanche Nation/PIO Married bunch for me, Place P.O. Box Box 908 them in my Grandma’s 15 years Lawton, OK 73502 arms and tell her they’re from me.

Tell her I love and miss her, and when she turns to smile, place a kis apon her cheek, and hold her for awhile, because remembering her Dedicated to all Grandma’s & Grandpa’s is easy, I do it everyday, but theres an ache in my heart, because I miss In Loving Memory Facebook/ her more each day, & Happy Birthday in TheComancheNationNews Happy Birthday heaven...

Momma

Don’t Forget to Follow Us On Facebook

CORRECTION: Francis Attocknie III’s name was misspelled in the June issue to TCNN. TCNN apologizes for the error.

Billie June Karty From: Bill Jr & Family

Taleliah Coralyn Tahhahwah

Born: April 26, 2012 10:47pm 7lbs’ 1oz’ & 21in’ To: Shandi & Edward

Nonee Dayton Keel

Born: May 30, 2012 4lbs’ 12oz’ & 18.5in’ To: Elvis & Rachel Keel

Happy Fathers Day Nathan Lopez Love your wife Candice Duarte Lopez and Nathan Jr Lopez

Billie June Karty July 3, 1930- April 14, 2012

Happy Fathers Day Ronald K. Pekah Sr. Even though your looking down on us now, we still want to tell you Happy Fathers Day. We will always love you dad, & your memories will always be with us.

From: Lil Ron, Arthur, Madlyn, Christine & Stephanie

July 2012

Obituaries

ily by his side.

Funeral service was May 31, at the Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Nick Tahchawwickah and Rev. Matt Asetamy officiating.

Burial followed at Deyo Mission Cemetery under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home.

Prayer service was May 30, at the Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel.

Pahcoddy was born on September 25, 1939 in Lawton to Albert and Lily (Poco) Pahcoddy. He attended Post Oak School at Indiahoma for nine years and graduated from Cache High School. He met his wife Ethel Betsillie in Huntingpark, Cali., and they got married in 1961. While they lived in California he worked as a blacksmith. The family moved back to Indiahoma in 1966. He worked at Tip Top Laundry, City of Lawton and then drove a school bus and was a custodian for Indiahoma Public School for many years.

He was a member of the Comanche Nation of Oklahoma, Indiahoma First Baptist Church and Cache First Church of the Nazarene. He served on the Comanche Business Committee for nine years.

Pahcoddy enjoyed playing softball, spending time with his family especially his grand kids and great grand kids. He loved to watch western movies, soap operas and Spanish TV. He was a avid fan of Indiahoma basketball and OU sports.

He is survived by: two daughters and a son-in-law; Ethel Lou and Jon Katvala of Indiahoma, Rosie Werito of Lawton; a sister and brother-inlaw: Alice and Billy Wermy of Cache; caregivers: grandson, Joseph Johnston and Martin Johnston of the home; seven grandchildren: Mesha Conchita, and Joseph Johnston, Rachael, Ricky, and Jasper Werito and Joni Boyd; 12 great grandchildren; Esperanza, Alejandro, Modesto, Silas, Nicole, Anabah, Avien, Nia, Raymond, Elyscya, Chris and John; many nieces, nephews, friends, other family members and extended family.

He is preceded in death Kallee Josey; numerous unby his: wife, Ethel Pahcoddy, cles, aunts, cousins and way parents: Albert and Lily Pahtoo many friends to mention coddy; brothers and sisters: but you know who you are.

Dixie Wermy, Roxie Plumlee,

He is preceded in death Juanita Tahah, Spencer Lee by his father: Bert Roberts; Pahcoddy and James Tahpay. paternal grandparents: Ewell and Dessie Roberts; maternal Norma Jean grandparents: Mac and BerPewo-Chalepah nice “Bunny” Howry and great grandparents: Chief and Ester Funeral for Norma Jean Pahdopony; twin brother: Ber- Pewo-Chalepah, 47, of Apache tel Ray Roberts. was May 31, at the Comanche Community Center in Apache, with Rev. Marvin Delaware and the Rev. P. Wayne Townsend, officiating, and Certified Lay Speaker Terry Ware.

Prayer service was May 30, at the Comanche Community Center.

She was born May 14, 1965 in Dallas, Texas to Robert “Bobby” Pewo and the late Esther Anguiano Pewo. She went to be with the Lord on May 27.

Pahcoddy She was an enrolled member of Wayne “Chicken the Comanche Nation of Oklahoma. She attended church at Wayne” Pahcoddy the Apache Reformed Church.

Wayne “Chicken

She graduated from Wayne” Pahcoddy, 72 of IndiaApache High School, in 1983. homa passed away May 26 at She received her Business and his home with his loving fam-

Oklahoma and Mt. Scott Comanche Methodist Church. He was raised at Elgin and graduated from Elgin High School in 1990.

He is survived by his son: Brandon Burgess of Bethany; parents: Teddy Burgess Sr. of Lawton and Ramona Pahcheka and husband Paul of Cache; brother: Teddy Burgess Jr. of Lawton; his companion Mary Anquoe of Lawton; nephew: Teddy Burgess, Martinez III; niece: Aubry Burgess.

Georgenia “Gina”

He is preceded in death Lynn Martinez by his brother: Angel Burgess;

Funeral for George- Maternal grandparents: Melnia Lynn Martinez, 52, Wal- vin and Yvonne Wahahrockah; ters, was June 1, at the Walters Paternal grandparents: Earl Community Center with, Pas- and Daisy Burgess. tor Videll Yackeschi officiating. Prayer service was May 31, at the Walters Community Center. Burial was at Walters City Cemetery in Walters, Okla., under direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home.

Martinez was born on November 8, 1959 in Lawton, Okla., to Harold Dean Martinez Sr. and Barbara Jo Karty Martinez. She died May 27, at home. Martinez graduated from Fort Sill Indian School Roberts in 1978. She was a founded member of the West Side BapKevin Roberts tist Church of Walters. She Funeral for Kevin Robwas the manger at the Red Riv- erts, age 40 of Oklahoma City er Smoke Shop and Comanche was June 8, at the Comanche Bingo. She had to stop work- Nation Funeral Home Chapel ing due to health problems. with Pastor Leonard Presley She enjoyed playing sports, officiating. Burial was at Fairwatching her nieces and neph- view Cemetery in Apache unews play sports, and going to der the direction of Comanche church activities.

Nation Funeral Home.

She is survived by her Roberts was born on four sisters: Donna Ahdosy, July 25, 1971 to Noven and Leanna Martinez, and Brenda Alva Roberts in Lawton, Okla.

Martinez all of Walters, and He graduated from EisenhowPamela Vargas and Abel of er High School and attended Temple, two brothers: Harold Cameron. He was a member Dean Martinez of Albuquer- of the Comanche Nation of que, New Mexico and George Oklahoma, Comanche War Martinez and Carol of Temple, Dance Society and Esa Rosa. one aunt: Joella Cullen of He enjoyed pow-wows, playHenderson, Nev., two uncles: ing Gameboy, and watching Delbert Karty and Michael wrestling.

Karty of Walters, her step-fa- He is survived by Mom ther: Winfred “Bud” Yackes- and Pops: Deanie and Alchi, 14 nieces and nephews: 17 len Wittwer of the home; sisgreat nieces and nephews, Spe- ter: Cleta Roberts-Sawyer of cial brothers-in-laws: Curtis Apache; three nieces: Larissa Grant, Dewey Ahdosy, Moose Josey and husband, Shelby JoHall, and Abel Vargas, many sey of Apache, Jessica Sawyer co-workers, friends, and other and Maggie Sawyer of Apache; relatives. two great nieces: Kodee and

Burgess

Gary Burgess

Funeral for Gary Burgess was June 7, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Videll Yackeschi officiating. Burial was at Highland Cemetery under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home.

Prayer service was June 6, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel.

Burgess passed away on June 1, in Oklahoma City, Okla. He was born on February 20, 1972 in Lawton, Okla., to Teddy Burgess and Ramona Pahcheka. He was a member of the Comanche Nation of

11

Information Processing certificate and a Computer Technology certificate both from CaddoKiowa Vocational Technical School, Fort Cobb. She received a Cashier/Checker Training certificate from Great Plains Area Vo-Tech, Lawton.

She worked several years with the Kiowa Tribe of Oklahoma, as a Staff Accountant in the Finance Department, a Clerk-typist, with the Summer Youth Program, and a Secretary for the Economic Industrial Corporation Office.

She also did odd jobs and always gave a helping hand to family and friends.

She married Kimit Chalepah Sr., on February 12, 1986. They had three children born to this union.

She is survived by her father, of the home; daughter Kim Renee Chalepah and companion Heath Morrison, Anadarko; two sons, Kimit Wayne Chalepah Jr., and companion Staci Kaye, Fort Riley, Kan., and Korey Chalepah, Apache; sisters and brotherin-laws: Wilma and Alva Dee Tsoodle, of Apache; Susan and Troy Marlowe, Garland, Texas; Lydia Gracia, Oakcliff, Texas; Kemberly Simmons Tsoodle, Apache; Lisa Mithlo, Apache; Toni Weryackwe, Ariz., Glorietta Beartrack Ahtone, Apache; Leslie Parker, Lawton; Joyce Nevaquaya Harris, Apache; Renita Chalepah, Mountian View; Tracy Poafpybitty, Lawton; Elfreda Chalepah, Mountain View; and Alice Garcia, Garland, Texas; brothers and sister-in-laws: Camilo and Betty Garcia, Garland, Texas; David Garcia, Garland, Texas; Billy and Tracy Pewo, Anadarko; uncles: Dusty and Sandy Miller, Fort Cobb, and Garland Miller, Chichasha; aunts: Juanita Mae and LeRoy Sneed, Oklahoma City, Jackie MillerEdwards, Norman; Delores Poafpybitty, Apache, Dora Pewo, Apache; many nieces and nephews; Precious mother-in-law: Libby Tonahcot, Mountain View; grandchildren: Junelle Mae Chalepah, Aiyanna Renee Morrison, and Niyah Ann Morrison, DeVohn Pew, Kalestha Pewo, Aaron Pewo, Vincent Pewo, Ava Vita Azul, Logan Azul.

She was preceded in death by her mother; two sisters, Mary Barrientos, Bobbie Jo Pewo; two brothers, Daniel Gracia Jr., Wilson Aaron Pewo; her maternal grandparents: Camilo and Lydia Anguiano; her paternal grandparents: Alice Pewo Miller and Clifton Miller, and Wilson Ahboah; father-in-law, Jerry Ware.

The Comanche Nation News

June 16, at Fairview Cemetery, Shawnee, Okla., under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home.

She leaves behind two children, a son, Jerry Rigg and spouse Sharon of Pink, Okla., daughter, Jamie Jackson and spouse Bart of Norman, Okla., four grandchildren, Joel, Kevin, Erika, and Jace; sister, Rhonda Montgomery of Shawnee; two nephews and one niece and many great nieces and nephews. She also leaves behind many family members in the Lawton area.

She was preceded in death by her parents: George and Laura Warthen; husband, Joe Irvin Coots, grandchild, Jude Robert Jackson, brothers, Roland “Duke” Torralba, Albert Torralba and Joseph Earl Dupoint.

Frederick

Phyllis (Apauty) Fredrick

Funeral for Phyllis Apauty Fredrick, 74, Walters, Okla., was June 20, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel, Lawton, with Lena Calfy officiating.

Prayer service was June 19, at the funeral home.

She was born January 19, 1938, in Cache, to Adaline (Hahnee) and Vandal Apauty.

She married George Fredrick, September 6, 1957.

She was a member of the Comanche Nation and also of Kiowa descent. She was also a member of the Emerson Church of the Nazarene. She enjoyed spending time with her family, grandchildren, great grandchildren, listening to Comanche hymns and The Gaithers. She enjoyed watching the Oklahoma Sooners, Dallas Cowboys and Texas Rangers.

She is survived by her four daughters: Paula Fredrick, Lorrie Fredrick, Brenda Fredrick all of Walters, and Patricia Shepherd and her husband Elvis of Monclova, Ohio. Eight grandchildren: Nicole (Shepherd) Elton, Stacie (Shepherd) Knapp, Kristi Shepherd, Cari Shepherd, Debra Fredrick, Shawnta Fredrick, Lottie Surles and Lamont (Bob) Sulres II; great grandchildren: Kirrah Fredrick, Jaeden Fredrick, Payton Elton and Sophia Knapp; sister, Eva Kopaddy; brothers: Arnold Apauty and wife Rusty, Curtis Apauty and wife Jeanie, and Roland Apauty and wife Ramona.

She is preceded in death by husband, George Fredrick; parents, Vandal and Adaline (Hahnee) Apauty; brothers: Loui Van and Claude Vandal (CV) Apauty; sisters: Joanna and Lorene Apauty, Velma and Warthen-Coots Calvin Pohawpatchoko; Rhoda Cecilia Mae Mae and Jimmy Jack Tahpay; Warthen-Coots Cora and Luther Pohawpatcho Cecilia Mae Warthen- ko; daughter, Debrea Fredrick Coots, 58, Shawnee, Okla., en- and son John Fredrick. tered into this world on October 18, 1954 and went home to our Father on June 13.

Graveside service was

July 2012

Sports

12

The Comanche Nation News

CRUNCH TIME

Lawton’s 580 Girls Roller Derby Team are Fearless on the Floor

Using her shoulder to ram an SOS team member, the 580 Girls earn more points before the half.

An SOS team member gets double crushed by 580 Girls June 9 at the Great Plains Colliseum.

Pushing their way through the blocks, the 580 Girls rack up points to win , ----.

The 580 Girls create a wall to prevent their oponent from passing.

Story and Photos by Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

Tribal member, Heather Bennett, or “Kitt Viscous” on the track, plays for the Lawton Roller Derby Team, the 580 Girls, and she will do what it takes inside the oval track to get points for her team.

The 580 Girls played against the SOS Team June 9 at the Great Plains Coliseum in Lawton, Okla., and it was an action-packed game from beginning to end. As the points grew with each completed lap,

the hard hitting players pushed, pulled, crunched, and rammed their opponents with no mercy.

Skaters slid across the cement floor, but as fast as they fell, they were up again, determined to win. The 580 girls defeated the out-of-town team.

Getting injured is part of the game, as Kiowa/Otoe teammate, Dawn Toppah Parker, or “Rezindin Evil,” knows firsthand. She is out for the season due to a broken ankle.

Roller derby action on the track is fast, full-contact skating sport, played on a flat, oval track, in which points are scored by lapping members of

the opposition. A team consists of up to 14 players, with up to 5 on the track at any given time.

To begin, four blockers and a jammer from each team line up behind their starting points, the blockers at a line 30 feet ahead of the jammers. A single whistle from the referees starts the pack rolling and once it moves past the front line, the jammers are signaled to take off with a double whistle blast.

Points are scored by lapping members of the opposition – one point apiece – so the jammers begin picking up points on their second pass

through the field of blockers.

The initial, non-scoring pass matters because the first jammer to cleanly navigate the pack is awarded ‘lead jammer’ status, giving her the ability to end the jam at a time of her choosing. The team with the most points at the end of the game wins.

If you think you got what it takes to be on the 580 Girls team, tryouts will be held July 1 at 2507 SW Washington Ave. in Lawton. They are also looking for volunteers, referees, and non skating officials.

Their next challenge will be July 14 when they take

on the ICT Roller Girls from Wichita, Kan. Doors open at 6 p.m., and the action begins at 7 p.m. Proceeds will toward the Lawton Food Bank. Advance tickets are $10 at the Great Plains Coliseum Box Office, 920 SW Sheridan, or go to www.580girls.com. Tickets will be $12 the day of the game.

Other games will be Aug. 11 when they play in the Red River Roller Derby, and Sept. 22 when they take on OKCRD Lightening Broads.

Both games will be played at the Great Plains Coliseum.

Courtesy Photo

CONGRATULATIONS TO WOOLDLAND HILLS. Woodland Hills Midgets made it to the City of Lawton Championship baseball game on June 9. They received the Runner-up trophy after losing to Flower Mound. 11 year old Brayden Halberg, front row far left., was the starting pitcher for Woodland Hills getting nine strikeouts in the Championship game, and closing out the season with a total of 115 strikeouts. He is a member of the Comanche tribe.

Courtesy Photo

JIM THORPE SOFTBALL CHAMPIONS. The Oklahoma Intertribal Softball team won the Jim Thorpe 18-and-Under Tournament. The team included tribal member Sydney Wahkinney.

July 2012

13

The Comanche Nation News

Dear TCNN Letters to the Editor

Dear TCNN,

I have always been appreciative/proud Comanche!

Due to my present circumstances “Incarcerated” does not hinder the fact I am somebody; somebody with a vision and belief in God. At this time I’d just like to voice a thought/opinion.

I had been checking this one particular team for a while. This is a special group of young men, I personally call them “Jesus babies”, in spiritual level sessions with Jesus there is certain names for each.

Example R. Westbrook- over comer, K. Durant- Confidence, S. Ibaka- Protection, J. HardenSanctification. This list goes on all in all Jesus never fails

These guys are on Rich sacred grounds , Oklahoma why not bless them with invitation to the Comanche Fair where the Numunu is in their element a simple advertisement in a newspaper, if I was out I’d tweet them.

Just a thought/vision about the Lords of the Plains welcoming the Thunder.

Respectfully, Ada Cozad Willis Protection, J. Harden- Sanctification. This list goes on all in all Jesus never fails

Respectfully, Ada Cozad Willis DearTCNN,

Please feel free to use the enclosed story I have written for several year for San Quentin News and have taken a journalism course and would be honored if you would use my story. If there is any story that you would like for me to generate concerning incarcerated Natives or the California Prison system in general please let me know, my uncles Ben and Sam Trevino are buried in the Comanche Veterans Cemetery and I am a direct descendant of Tabbananika and I would be honored if you would accept stories from me on an intermediate basic.

Thank you for your consideration Daniel Trevino Contributing Writer- Tatsinupi

Productions Source, Daniel Trevino

Writer eaglet hatched (17 days ago) with a live link, it seems this historic event was not passed

Native Americans in- on by that office. Please encarcerated in the state of Cali- joy the attached YouTube confornia, both men and women densed video of the hatching as turn to traditional methods to well as the still images of this heal and change their lives. eaglet.

The Sweat Lodge, The cultural and podrum ceremony and bead- litical importance of a Native ing help Natives from various American Tribe producing tribes learn traditional methods both Bald and Golden Eagles for healing themselves and the in captivity under the authorbring them into glance with ity of our Native Religious Use Mother Earth.

Permit comes at a time when

While Comanche men many outside of our cultures and women are a small percentage of the overall Native population in California’s prison system, several use traditional cultural methods to atone for their criminal behavior.

Doing so they follow in the steps of our spiritual Elders who were lost to us through assimilation.

While incarcerated Native people must fight for the right to practice our ancient religion as the dominant culture does not and cannot understand our spiritual practices.

Dear TCNN, Eck Kah Ka: (Greetings All):

It is my great honor to share with you the news of the hatching of the first Bald Eagle produced in captivity by a Federally Recognized Tribe. The Comanche Nation through our Sia: Eagle and Raptor Program has now produced both species of Native Eagles: Golden Eagles via artificial insemination in 2010 and now the Bald Eagle on April 13, 2012.

Although Sia Directors have produced over three hundred eagle offspring in captivity since 1972, the hatching of Native Eagles under the captive propagation amendment to our Native Religious Use Permit (sometimes referred to as the “Aviary Permit”) is historic. The efforts of Sia/Comanche Nation are dedicated to the benefit of all Federally Recognized Tribes.

Although this information was shared with Region 2 Native American Liaison by our Sia interns on the day the

perceive the relationship of http://www.youtube.com/watc Native Americans and Eagles h?v=S2PLtxgFzPo&feature=e as one that only calls for the mail death of an eagle. Numunuh (Comanche) efforts are dediRespectfully, cated to the ethic that we live Wahathuweeka at a time in history when an EaWilliam Voelker gle no longer must forfeit his/ Director/Founder her life in order to benefit the Sia: The Comanche Nation spiritual and ceremonial needs Eagle & Raptor of our People.

Program

We remain committed P. O. Box 341 to bringing new Eagle life forCyril, Oklahoma ward.

73029 www.comancheeagle.org Please watch:

July 2012

14

The Comanche Nation News

The Comanche Nation Higher Education’s Graduation Banquet “Great things have Small beginnings.”

Beth Price graduated from University of Central Oklahoma with her Master’s Degree and received her Graduate of the Year Award a laptop.

Chris Cordts received his award (laptop) for Graduate of the Year in Job Placement and Training.

Terry Gomez moving the audience with her motivational speech.

The Dorothy Laurentino Scholarship winners for 2012 from left to right; Evelyn Mithlo; Allison Sain; TeAda Short.

Lindsey Kosechata the High School Graduate of the Year, she hopes to become a surgeon.

Clarissa Sorrow received her award (laptop) for Graduate of the year for attaining her GED.

Denise Poemoceah attended University of Oklahoma Health Sciences, she awarded with a laptop for being Graduate of the Year.

Director of the Comanche Nation Prevention and Recovery Center, Ronald Wahkinney reads the Drug abuse statistics for all age groups.

Story and Photo by Candace Wilson/ News Staff

The Comanche Nation Higher Education Program held its 2012 graduation Banquet May 25 at the Cameron Ballroom in Lawton Okla. The banquet was held to honor the high school graduates, students who received their completion of general education development certificate, college graduates, and students who completed the Job Placement and Training program.

As the sound of Numunu drums filled Cameron’s ballroom, the flag bearers, Comanche Indian Veterans Association (CIVA) followed in and in stood saluting as the flag song was sung by Norman Nauni. The Numunu present stood in respect to our nation’s flag. Shortly thereafter, the Comanche Nation Princess, Krista Hubbard, sang the Star Spangled Banner, and CIVA princess, Chelsea Sapcut, performed the Lord’s Prayer in

sign language.

The CIVA proceeded from of the ballroom, the Mistress of Ceremonies, Mia Tahdooahnippah, informed people of the meal catered by Sodexo of Cameron University.

During the meal, around 200 guests enjoyed the piano and violin melody performed by Travis Komahcheet, and his daughter, Olivia.

The Motivational speakers were teacher / artist, Terry Gomez, and counselor, Ronald Wahkinney. Gomez sprung laughter and understanding from the audience as she spoke of the obstacles she overcame to become the accomplished woman she is today. Gomez shared her amazing trip to Europe, and the meeting of the Pope, head of the Roman Catholic Church. Gomez also informed with audience to never give up on them selves in whatever they may choose

to do with their lives.

Wahkinney shared his story with the viewing of a Power Point presentation that presented statistics of drug abuse in all age groups. Wahkinney encouraged everyone to say “no” to drugs and alcohol.

Wahkinney explained his life before becoming a counselor, which was not the typical life of someone that would have his profession. With his words he hoped to strengthen those who desired a better life.

Tahdooahnippah next announced the award recipients as the Comanche Nation’s former Tribal Administrator, Will Owens, presented the awards.

The Dorothy Laurentino Scholarship was awarded to Allison Sain, graduate from Fletcher High School, Evelyn Mithlo, graduate from Cache High School and TeAda Short, graduate from Wayland Baptist

University.

The Laurentino Scholarship was named after Dorothy Sunrise Laurentino. Laurentino served as a teacher for 34 years and, she is the only Native American to be introduced into the National Teachers Hall of Fame. As a child, Laurentino sat outside Cache school on the steps everyday wanting to attend public school other Native American children attended Fort Sill Indian School in Lawton. Her parents took action for their daughter to be allowed to attend public schools in Oklahoma. In 1918, the Oklahoma Supreme Court allowed all Native American Children to attend the public schools in Oklahoma. It is a great honor to receive The Laurentino Scholarship, for it was named after a remarkable woman.

Students were selected by a Point System to be re-

warded with the Graduate of the Year award. One person was selected from each graduation field: High School, General Educational Development (GED), Bachelor’s Degree, Master’s Degree, and Job Placement and Training. Lindsey Kosechata, graduated from Randlett High School received Graduate of the Year. Clarissa Sorrow received Graduate of the Year for General Educational Development. Denise Poemoceah graduated from University of Oklahoma Health Sciences and received Graduate of the Year for her Bachelor’s Degree. A University of Central Oklahoma graduate, Beth Price, received Graduate of the Year for her Master’s Degree. For Job Placement and Training, from San Diego Mirama College, Christopher Cordts received Graduate of the Year.

Cameron University’s Upward Bound Students Learn About the Comanche Culture Story and Photos by Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

The Shield Dance was demonstrated by the Chibitty family.

They also demonstrated the Eagle Dance.

Women bow their heads to the honor beats of the women’s dance demonstration.

Comanche Princess, Krista Hubbard, answers questions from the student audience about her buckskin dress.

Leonard Chibitty, left, and Gaylon Pahdocony demonstrate the traditional dance June 10 to Cameron University’s Upward Bound students.

The Comanche Nation Public Information Office educated 48 students from the three Lawton high schools June 10 at Cameron University. The students were participating in the university’s Upward Bound Program, which gives students an opportunity to earn college credits during the summer months.

PIO Director, Jolene Schonchin, presented a PowerPoint presentation about the history of the Comanche Nation, followed by a 20-minute presentation from the Comanche Nation Princess, Krista Hubbard, about the Comanche buckskin dress and its accessories, and provided a dance demonstration for the student

audience.

The singers shared the Comanche Flag Song with the youth, who stood reverent during the singing. This was followed by other song and dance demonstrations. The Chibitty family demonstrated the Eagle Dance and Shield Dance.

Other demonstrations were the men’s traditional dance,

women’s cloth dance, and the round dance. The students eagerly participated in the round dance, smiling and recording it on their phones and I-Pads.

The singers of the evening were: Gene Sovo, Tim Monoessy, Kevin Sovo Sr., Gaylon Motah, and Joel Motah. The dancers were: Krista Hubbard, Diana Doyebi, Mel-

The Upward Bound students participate in the Round Dance, led by Rita Coosewoon, right .

anie Motah, Leonard Isaiah Chibitty, Nicholas Chibitty, Rita Coosewoon, Cy Ulloa Chibitty, Avery Motah, Adam Ulloa Chibitty, Gaylon Pahdocony, Leonard Chibitty, and Adrian Camerena.

July 2012

15

The Comanche Nation News

PRAYER

Continued from Page 1

Tribal elder, Thomas Blackstar, cedared people off as they come from the top.

The afternoon came to a conclusion with lunch and fellowship.

History of Medicne Bluffs

According to the Comanche Nation Historic Preservation Office’s information, the area of Medicine Mounds Ranch. Rancherias De Comanche in the Clay county, Texas area in 1786, and the Pease River (near present-day Vernon, Texas) in 1789 are illustrated on a map drawn by Francisco Xavier Fragoso. These are assumed to represent Kotsoteka encampments. By the 1840s, the area of the Medicine Mounds was within the territory of the Nokoni division, with the Kotsteka to the west, the Penateka to the south, the Tenewa to the east, and the Yamparika to the north.

Other maps also document the mounds and the presence of Comanche in the vicinity of the ranch. For example, although some of the geographic details are incorrect, the U.S. Army map at the Texas State Archives of Lt. Col G.P. Buell’s expedition to Indian Territory in 1874 illustrates the mounds, and a trail (Comanche?) passing just east of them. The 1841 New Map of Texas (also at the Texas State Archives) illustrates a Comanche village just north of the mounds on the banks of the Red River, as well as a “Comanche Trail” bisecting the village and continuing south to the Guadalupe River in South Texas. Together, these sources document a major Comanche presence in the vicinity of the

mounds form the eighteenth to the late nineteenth century.

Towana Spivey described the parallels between Medicine Mounds and the Medicine Bluffs located close to Fort Sill, Okla. Medicine Bluffs is actually a series of granite hills that have a steep sheet northern scarp. It is considered to be a powerful place by the Comanche. Rock cairns were commonly constructed on the rim of the bluff as offerings.

The sick would also be taken to the bluff rim, or deposited on one of the bluff’s ledges. The appearance of “flaming sires” or “auras” meant that the sick individual was undergoing a healing process that took two A prayer circle of over 100 people was formed on the top of the South Medicine Bluff. or three days to be completed.

If no lights were observed, the person would not recover, and would be left of the bluff “to the coyotes, wolves, and crows.”

He also noted that such places of medicine were not frequented unless there was a need: “If you were not sick, you didn’t go.”

Warriors also considered the bluff to be a place of puha, taking their shields to the bluff for blessing at sunrise. Isolated artifacts-including lithic projectile points, Walking up the mound was a challenge, but seveal chose to make the trip knives, and metal cups- have instead of riding the golf carts that were provided. been recovered from cracks Several people stopped to gather and crevices at Medicine Bluff, Indian Perfume from around the bluff area, which it grows abunand are considered by Spivey dantly. to represent Comanche offerings. The apparent absence of occupational debris at the bluff is linked to its primary use for ritual purposes, and therefore extensive archaeological remains were not generated.

Spivey (personal communication, 1993) speculated that the Charles Tahsequah, center, looks Medicine Mounds could have over the edge of the bluff to Medibeen used similar fashion. cine Creek below.