February 2016 TCNN

VOLUME 17 EDITION 02

Published by the Comanche Nation Public Information Office, Lawton, OK www.comanchenation.com

first crime stoppers for tribal lands becomes effective

February 2016

HUD & VA Award $5.9 Million To 26 Tribes for Perminent Native American Veteran Homes U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Julián Castro

Office of Environmental Programs Gears up for Winter and Spring Activities

By Stacey Heminokeky/News Staff

The Office of Environmental Programs is preparing for two annual events that promote a safe and healthy environment.

Tire and Battery Drop Off It is that time of year again!

The Comanche Nation Office of Environmental Programs is proud to announce its 5th Annual Comanche Nation Solid Waste Division Tire and Battery Drop off and its 6th Annual Earth Day Celebration. Both events have been very successful.

The 5th Annual Tire and Battery Drop off will begin in February 2016. The event will be held at Apache, Cache, Walters, and Lawton from 10 a.m. each day. Tires can be taken with or without rims. Batteries of all kinds accepted. No agricultural tractor tires. Max tire size- 40 inch diameter and 10 inch width.

Comanche Nation Community Building, Julia Mahseet Rd., Apache, OK FEBRUARY 1st & 2nd.

Cahoma Building, 725 NW Quanah Rd, Cache, OK FEBRUARY 3rd & 4th.

Walters Community Building (East of Walters) Walters, OK FEBRUARY 8th and 9th.

Comanche Nation Environmental Office, Lawton, OK FEBRUARY 10th &11th.

Earth Day The 6th Annual Earth Day Celebration, “May the Forest Be With You,” will be held on April 8, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.. The event will take place at the Watchetaker Hall located at the Comanche Nation Complex.

Every year has been a successful, fun, and informative event.

This is entirely due to the generous donations our local businesses and tribal entities awarded to this yearly event. The celebration will comprise of environmental information for all ages and live demonstrations from the Comanche CNOEP and vendors.

Lunch will be provided.

Vendors, games, and door prizes will also be available.

For more information on either event contact Comanche Nation Environmental at (580) 492-3754.

Comanche Nation Crime Stoppers Tip Line (580) 492-1847 (580-492-1TIP Help Stop Crime on Tribal Lands

Photo by Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

THE PHONE LINES ARE NOW OPEN. RL Smith, center, of the Comanche Nation Law Enforcement, and Charles Wells, President of the Comanche Nation Crime Stoppers Board of Directors (BOD), celebrate the January 15, opening of the anonymous tip line specifically for Federal Trust Land, the first of its kind in the line of Crime Stopper Programs in the U.S. Also in attendance were the Comanche Nation Crime Stopper BOD: Donna Wahnee, Julie Molina, Jolene Schonchin, Charles Crutcher, Kelly Berry, Harry Tahsequah, Ronnie Webb, Ronnie Wahkinney, Toby Robles, and Mack Mahsetky. The program, which is funded 100% by donations, gives cash rewards for tips that lead to an arrest of crimes committed on Federal Trust Land.

One of the fund raisers to support the program is the sale of Comanche Nation Crime Stopper T-Shirts, left.

They are $10, and can be purchased at the Comanche Nation Law Enforcement Building, 8527 NW Madesche Rd. To report a crime, call the Comanche Nation Crime Stoppers hot line, (580) 492-1TIP. ((580) 4921847)

The Comanche Nation Fair Board Sets Theme; Elects Officers

By Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

The Comanche Nation Fair Board has begun meeting at the tribal headquarters to organize the biggest event of the Comanche Nation. This year is especially significant, because it is the event’s 25th year of existence.

With that in mind, the Fair Board voted on the theme during their January 28 meeting.

“25th Annual Comanche Nation Fair: Bringing Families Together for 25 Years” is the theme for the September event.

From its roots in Craterville Park, to its ever-growing expansion at the Comanche Nation Complex, numerous families have used this special time of year to have family reunions, celebrations, and gatherings.

Taking advantage of the weekend filled schedule of events, family members gather at the powwow, at campsites, and join in the

array of activities to create family memories that will be cherished and memorialized.

During the same fair meeting, new officers were elected to help with the many responsibilities behind-the-scenes to ensure it to be a safe and fun week.

The new officers are: President- Fred Codynah Jr. Vice President- Caroline Codopony

Secretary- BJ Anderson Treasurer- Wayla Wauqua The fair board is comprised of Comanche Nation employees who are willing to volunteer their time and energy to help coordinate and mold the event and to dedicate their time during the week of the event. The fair staff steps forward and oversees the many activities that has made it the largest fair in Southwest Oklahoma.

The dates for this year’s event are Sept. 30, Oct. 1, and Oct. 2 at the Comanche Nation Complex.

The same events will be taking place such as the Parade, 3/3 Basketball Tournament, Bull Buckout, Horseshoe, Kids Activities, Art Show, Teen Dance, Spirit Walk, Hymn Singing, Fun Run, and powwow, just to name a few.

More activities and other surprises may be added as the Fair Board meets throughout the upcoming weeks.

For the first time, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) today awarded $5.9 million in grants to 26 Tribes to offer a permanent home and supportive services to Native American Veterans who are experiencing or at risk of experiencing homelessness. The Tribal HUDVeterans Affairs Supportive Housing (Tribal HUD-VASH) Program is a demonstration program that will combine $5.9 million in rental assistance from HUD with case management and clinical services provided

by VA to serve 500 Native American Veterans. See chart below.

HUD Secretary Julián Castro announced the winners in Tulsa, Oklahoma, at the winter meeting of the Inter-Tribal Council of the Five Civilized Tribes.

“By targeting resources directly to Tribes, we can better honor the service and sacrifice of Native American Veterans who now need a roof over their heads,” said Castro.

“These heroes deserve hope for a brighter future, and by offering permanent housing solutions, combined with needed services and case management, we can work with Tribes to end veteran homelessness.”

HUD invited 30 eligible Tribes to seek Tribal HUD-VASH vouchers to help house and serve hundreds of Native American Veterans who are currently experiencing homelessness or at extreme risk of becoming homeless. Twenty-six Tribes, will deliver and manage the housing vouchers among their members who need them, on tribal lands.

Since 2008, more than 79,000 vouchers have been awarded and 90,000 homeless Veterans have been served through the broader HUD-VASH program. Rental assistance and supportive services provided through HUD-VASH are a critical resource for local communities in ending homelessness among our nation’s Veterans.

In FY2015, Congress authorized funding for a demonstration program in order to expand the HUDVASH program into Indian Country and directed HUD to coordinate with Indian Tribes, tribally designated housing entities (TDHEs), and other appropriate tribal organizations on the design of this program, and to ensure the effective delivery of housing assistance and supportive services to eligible Native American Veterans.

The Tribal HUD-VASH Program will provide rental assistance and supportive services to Native American Veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness living on or near a reservation or other Indian areas. HUD is making available $5.9 million in grant funding to Indian Tribes and TDHEs to fund rental assistance and associated administrative fees. Indian Tribes and TDHEs participants will partner with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to provide healthcare assistance to eligible Native American Veterans.

February 2016

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The Comanche Nation News

Government

Resolution Conflict Has Tribal Members Asking, "Who is the Tribal Administrator?"

By Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

A resolution to replace the Interim Tribal Administrator , Jimmy Aterberry, was introduced by CBC No. 1, Sonya Nevaquaya at the January 21 Comanche Business Committee Meeting, held in Lawton.

The resolution, No. 01-16, is to replace Arterberry with Grants Writer, Phyllis Attocknie, until the April 16 General Council Meeting.

There are different opinions by the CBC on the validity of the resolution, that is leaving tribal members and tribal employees asking who the official TA is until April.

Vice Chairwoman of the Comanche Nation, Susan Cothren, addressed tribal members via Facebook, expressing that she and two other CBC, Clyde Narcomey and Jonathan Poahway, filed a criminal report against the resolution Nevaquaya introduced in the Jan. 21 meeting.

Cothren alleges she, Narcomey, and Poahway left the room when Nevaquaya was reading the resolution, thereby not having a quorum to vote.

She also alleges Secretary/

Treasurer, Jerry Tahsequah, changed the total on the votes from 6/0/1 to 4/0, on the resolution.

Chairman Wallace Coffey argues the resolution is valid because the three CBC who chose not to vote, left when the question was called, making their votes be considered “abstain,” and maintaining a quorum.

He said the official minutes of the meeting will show they had a quorum and the resolution is valid.

As of Press Time, the conflict has not been solved.

Annual General Council Meeting 1:30 p.m.

April 16, 2016 Watchetaker Hall Comanche Nation Complex Doors open at 10 a.m.

The meeting will begin if there is a quourm 0f 150 voters signed in at 1:30 p.m.

No Quorum for January 9 Meeting

By Stacey Heminokeky/News Staff

Vice-Chairwoman, Susan Cothren conducted Roll Call 10:30 a.m. at the January 9, monthly Comanche Business Committee Meeting (CBC), held at the Comanche Nation Complex.

Comanche Nation Chairman, Wallace Coffey, Secretary-Treasurer, Jerry Tahsequah, CBC No. 2, Sonya Nevaquaya, and CBC No. 3, Harry Mithlo, were not present..

Because there was no quorum of CBC, Susan opened the floor for questions and concerns. Mark Wauahdooah said prayer for the meal and the unofficial meeting was adjourned at 11:49 a.m.

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LOCATION: 2502 SW B Ave., Lawton, Oklahoma DIRECTIONS: From Gore Blvd—just east of Cameron University, turn south onto SW 25th St. (near Bill's Quick Lube). We are located a few blocks south of Gore on the corner of 25th & B. SERVICE TIMES: Sun. 10AM, 6PM. Thurs. 6:30PM CONTACT US: Call/Text Pastor David Bane at (580) 583-5307 Online: www.LawtonIndian.com

February 2016

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The Comanche Nation News

Comanche Nation Releases 2015 Audit Report EDITOR’S NOTE: For a copy of the complete 2014 Audit Report, contact the Comanche Nation Office of the Chairman, (580) 492-3250.

Per Comanche Nation Constitution -Article VI Section 7 (h)

Continued on Page 4

February 2016

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THE COMANCHE NATION NEWS The award-winning Comanche Nation News, the official communication of the Comanche Nation, is available at no charge upon request. The deadline to submit information for the March 2016 edition is 5 p.m. February 15. Donations to help cover the cost of printing and mailing are welcome.

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

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TCNN Staff Jolene Schonchin, Editor, Reporter, Photographer-Email: jolenes@ comanchenation.com-Telephone Number-(580)492-3382 Paula Karty, Assist. Editor, Reporter, Photographer- Email: paulak@ comanchenation.com Telephone Number-(580)492-3383 Stacey Heminokeky, Reporter/ Photographer- Telephone-(580) 492-3385. Email: staceyh@comanchenation.com.

Candace Todd, Administrative Assistant-Telephone Number (580)492-3386 Tomah Yeahquo-AdvertisingTelephone (580)492-3384. Email: tomahy@comanchenation.com 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/ Obituaries are submitted by the Comanche Nation Funeral Home or by tribal members on a funeral home letterhead. The Milestones Page is for tribal members only. TCNN publishes all services conducted by The Comanche Nation Funeral Home without discretion. Obituaries are written for tribal members only.

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

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

The Comanche Nation News

Comanche Nation Releases 2015 Audit Report Continued from Page 3

2016 ELECTION DATES GENERAL COUNCIL APRIL 16 —————————— EARLY VOTING (AT THE TRIBAL COMPLEX & ELDER’S CENTER) MAY 12 & MAY 13 —————————— GENERAL ELECTION MAY 14 —————————— EARLY VOTING (AT THE TRIBAL COMPLEX & ELDER’S CENTER) JUNE 9 & JUNE 10 —————————— RUNOFF ELECTION JUNE 11 Positions open on CBC: • Committeeperson No. 1 • Committeeperson No. 2 Positions open on Election Board: • Anadarko (1) • Apache (1) • Walters (1) • Oklahoma City (1) COMANCHE NATION ELECTION BOARD Mailing Address: Comanche Nation Election Board P.O. Box 1289 Lawton, OK 73502 (580) 492-3272 phone (580) 492-3273 phone (580) 492-3274 phone (580) 492-3702 fax bonniel@comanchenation.com email

Comanche Nation Officials

Chairman Wallace Coffey Vice Chairman Susan Cothren Secretary/Treasurer Jerry Tahsequah Committeeman No. 1 Jonathan Poahway Committeeman No. 2 Sonya Nevaquaya Committeeman No. 3 Harry Mithlo Committeeman No. 4 Clyde Narcomey Tribal Administrator Jimmy Arterberry (Acting) To contact officials: Comanche Nation P.O. Box 908 Lawton, Okla. 73502 Toll Free: (877) 492-4988 Physical Address 584 Bingo Rd. Lawton, OK 73507

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

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Please notify the Comanche Nation Enrollment Department of any address changes. Please verify that the correct address is on record with the enrollment office to ensure timely delivery of an absentee ballot.

Comanche Nation Enrollment Department (580) 492-3371

February 2016

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The Comanche Nation News

Comanche Nation In Review

JANUARY • Jordyn Alexander Chose for Congress of Future Medical Leaders in Washington, DC • Shakayala Wilson donates 20 inches of her hair to cancer patients to make a wig • Sean Delgado Satoe placed first for the Frost Your Fanny’s One Mile Run in Lawton, OK. • A mural of former Champion Fancy Dancer, Bonnie Tomahsah Monoessy, was unveiled in her hometown of Apache, OK • Patrick Attocknie and Sonia Whitewolf exchange wedding vows at the IAMNDN New Years Eve Celebration • Jared Wahkinney traveled to Hertogenbosch, Netherlands with the Western Experience Native Dancers, and demonstrated the Fancy Dance internationally.

• Brayden Chamberlin, a Senior in High School, receives the Special Teams Player of the Year at Putnam City West in Oklahoma City, OK • the Comanche Nation Diabetes Awareness Program conducted health screenings for elders at the Comanche Nation Elder Center

FEBRUARY • Wade Burns is honored as North Dakota Entrepreneur of the Year. He and his wife are the founders of Beaver Creek Archaeology in Bismarck, ND • US Airforce,Maj. Lawrence Nahno Yazzie promoted to Lt. Colonel • CNOEP gathered over 6,000 tires at its annual Tire and Battery Drop Off to dispose of properly • Comanche Nation Tourism Center honors Ten Tribal Artists: Quanah Burgess, Tim Saupitty, Juanita Pahdopony, Timothy Nevaquaya, Jhane Myers, Calvert Nevaquaya, Rance Hood, J. Nichole Hatfield, Travis Komahcheet, and Edmond Nevaquaya • Former Comanche Nation Princess, Kimberely de Jesus, is announced as the 2015 Miss Indian OU by the American Indian Student Association • The Comanche Nation Diabetes Awareness Program hosts a Red Dress Event to recognize Heart Health Month • Comanche Marker Tree is Certified by the Texas Historic Tree Coalition and placed on the Comanche Tree Marker Registry. The tree is located in Holliday, TX • 21 Hand Game Teams vied for the Championship at the annual Comanche Nation Hand Game Tournament at the Comanche Complex • Comanche Nation Workforce Investment Act (WIA) Program honored at the by the Comanche County Memorial Hospital • Ten Graduate from the Comanche Nation WIA Program’s Certified Nursing Assistant Program at the Great Plains Technology Center • Coltyn Ingham signs to play football with Haskell

Indian Nations University • Nacona Tahdooahnippah, George Tahdooahnippah Jr., Zayden Roberts, and Nick Johnson place in their respected weight divisions at the Oklahoma Open State Wrestling Tournament • Members of CIVA greet father and son John Bennett and John Grady McClung from an US Army joint tour of duty in Afghanistan

MARCH • George “Comanche Boy” Tahdooahnippah fights Patrick Nielsen in Copenhagen, Denmark • Code Talker Hall on Ft. Sill Military Base, is dedicated and commemorated • Kevin Connywerdy and other fancy dancers participates in American Indian Days, Baku Azerbaijan by the request of the US Embassy • Roderick Sovo places first in Breen Championship and Showmanship at the Comanche County Live Stock Expo in Lawton, OK • Joey Tosee is inducted into the Phi Sigma Nu Fraternity at Haskell Indian Nations University • Diabetes Program Annual Spring Comanche Nation Employees Health Fair • Sydney Wahkinney is announced as the 2015 Miss Indian Oklahoma City University Princess • Diabetes Program Kids Kamps during school breaks- physical activity, diabetic teaching, making healthy snacks • A peaceful protest is held outside of a Subway Sandwich Restaurant on 67th & Gore Blvd, Lawton, OK, after several alleged verbal harassment and racial profiling against Native Americans are made public • Comanche Nation Injury Prevention Program hosts annual student scenario to help prevent teen from drinking & driving and texting 7 driving.

• Makayla Irene Sage is crowned as the 2015 Denver March Powwow Princess • Shelby Mata is crowned as the 2015 Miss Walters in Walter, OK • Katie Stewart wins the 2015 Texas High School Rodeo Association Region 3 Goat Tying Championship

APRIL • Ladonna Harris Inducted into the Oklahoma Women’s Hall of Fame • Comanche Nation Youth Program participants place First in the category of Large Group Traditional Song, by singing Comanche Hymns at the 13th Annual Oklahoma Native American Youth Language Fair in Norman, OK • Comanche Nation Numunu Turetu Childcare placed Second in the category of Large Group Modern Song Hymns at the 13th Annual Oklahoma Native American Youth Language Fair in Norman, OK • Comanche Nation Childcare in Apache, Okla. placed Second in the category of Small Group Traditional Alphabet Hymns at the 13th Annual Oklahoma Native American Youth Language Fair in Norman, OK

• Dezirae Monoessy, 2nd Grade, placed First in her age category for singing a Comanche Hymn Hymns at the 13th Annual Oklahoma Native American Youth Language Fair in Norman, OK • Decora Monoessy, 1st Grade, placed Third in her age category for singing a Comanche Peyote Song at the 13th Annual Oklahoma Native American Youth Language Fair in Norman, OK • KCA Leaders meet with Lawton Mayor, Fred Fitch, and US Congressman Tom Cole, and Comanche County Commissioner, Johnny Owens on economic development issues • Office of Environmental Programs hosts annual Earth Day at Comanche Nation Complex • Comanche Nation Elder Center holds its annual Easter Celebration • Office of Environmental Programs, Capitol Improvement Program, and the Housing Authority staff members receive Mold Course Remediation Worker Certificates of Completion • The Comanche Nation Diabetes Awareness Program hosts both a Men’s Wellness Seminar and a Women’s Seminar in Lawton, Okla.

• Comanche Nation Youth Program participants participate in the Sooners N7 Youth Movement at the University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK • Lauren Noriega is named the Comanche Indian Veterans Association Princess • Jeremiah Tahah places First in Surgical Technology Clinical Specialty at the Oklahoma State Health Occupation of America • Darci Kerchee is recognized by her husband’s (Tennyson Kerchee) Army Military Unit for her volunteer work, active participation, marksmanship, strength, problem solving, and knowledge of the unit’s history • Comanche Nation Tour Rodeo breaks records in attendance and participation, having cowboys and cowgirls from 49 US tribes two Canadian participate in the event.

It averaged 1,250 spectators nightly.

MAY

• A Dedication Ceremony for Ft. Sill Indian Agency Cemetery took place on Ft. Sill Military Base • Higher Education hosts it’s annual Graduation Banquet • The Comanche Nation Diabetes Awareness Program challenges all to a 6-week Walk Program • Comanche Nation Police Department’s Annual Cops n Kids Picnic break attendance and vendor records • Comanche Nation Museum presents the Pahiitu Exhibit, which highlighted three tribal artists: Ed Hoosier, J. Nicole Hatfield, and Cynthia Clay • Elders Council Attends White House Conference on Aging Listening Session • Comanche Nation Tourism Center hosts Second Annual Indian Art & Flea Market • Comanche Nation

Prescription Assistance, Optometry, Family Assistance Center, Fitness Center and CHR Programs hosts annual Women’s Wellness Seminar • The Comanche Indian Veterans Association hosts its annual Armed Forces Day Banquet, honoring Thurman Ray Tahsuda, Michael Waddle, William Clifford Red Elk, John Bennett, Jim Lane, and Clara Wallace Holmes • The Comanche Nation Diabetes Awareness Program Work Out Warriors begins a 6-week workout challenge, hosting classes at the Comanche Nation Fitness Center • Artist Eric Tippeconnic’s Art is chosen for the 2015 Red Earth Powwow Poster • Sophie Tiger is the recipient of the Gates Millennium Scholarship, choosing Arizona State as her next level of higher education • Emergency Management is activated, and they help hundreds who were victims of the flood that hit SW Oklahoma and North Texas • Julia Conneywerdy is named the 2015 Northwestern Oklahoma State University Outstanding Senior. She graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science in Biology and Chemistry • Cherica Eckiwaudah is awarded the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletes Academic All American Award for Haskell Indian Nations University Cross Country

JUNE

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Tribal members gather on top of Medicine Bluff for a morning of prayer to bring in the first day of Summer • Wallace Coffey is sworn in as Chairman of the Comanche Nation for a historic Sixth Term at the Comanche Nation Complex • The Comanche Nation Diabetes Awareness Program hosts health screenings at tribal community centers • Comanche Children’s Court Judges announce they can marry couples • Dakota Wahkinney is recognized by Oklahoma Governor, Mary Falon, as the 2015 Youth Worker Professional • 140 participate in the Diabetes Program Diabetes Birthday Clinic

JULY • Comanche Nation swears in Vice Chairwoman, Susan Cothren • A Candlelight Vigil is held for missing tribal member, Jackie Kaywaykla at Shepler’s Park • The Comanche Nation Diabetes Awareness Program Work Out Warriors begins a 6-week workout challenge, hosting classes at the Comanche Nation Fitness Center • The Comanche Nation Diabetes Awareness Program “Kids Kamp” promoting physical activity and good nutrition • 63rd Annual Comanche Homecoming Powwow, took place in Sultan Park, Walters, OK • Quanah Parker’s Star House receives a $15,000 grant by the National Trust for Historic Preservation Ruth

and Allen May Foundation • Election Board Members Lenetta Davenport (AtLarge), Mary Wade (Lawton District), and Sam Gonzalez (Walters District) are sworn in

by Chairman Wallace Coffey at the Comanche Nation Complex • Major Richard Martinez is promoted to Lieutenant Colonel in the Texas Army National Guard • The Comanche Nation Diabetes Awareness Program hosts health screenings at tribal casinos • The Comanche Nation Diabetes Awareness Program sponsors a day of Nutrition BINGO for elders and youth • A Recital for the first Comanche Nation Student Ballet/Modern Dance Workshop is held at the Comanche Nation College

AUGUST • Student Services hosts its Annual Back to School bash to help students get ready for their academic year • September • Dr. Edwin Chappabitty is inducted into the Oklahoma State University Hall of Fame in Stillwater, OK • Pepper and Clorandia Tsatoke are awarded the Key to the City of for their involvement in the town’s leadership and events.

• Comanche Tribal Members participate in the 84th annual American Indian Exposition in Anadarko, OK • George “Comanche Boy” Tahdooahnippah fights Delray “Rainmaker” Raines in an eight-round boxing bout that ends with a draw in Shawnee, OK • An Honor Dance is held at Watchetaker Hall for outgoing Comanche Nation Princess, Kelsey Codynah • An Honor Dance is held at Watchetaker Hall for outgoing Comanche Nation Jr. Princess, Tristan Wauqua • The Comanche Nation Diabetes Awareness Program hosts nutritional cooking classes at their facility in Lawton • Spectra Food & Beverage Company , who works with the Comanche Nation Casino in Lawton, and Red River Casino in Devol, OK, donates $2,500 to the Student Services Program to help students with school supplies who live out of the area and could not attend the Back to School Bash • The Comanche Nation Diabetes Awareness Program was a co-host to the Lawton IHS Back-to-School Carnival, where over 600 people attended • Will Smith is recognized and given the prized award by Professional Basketball Player, Kevin Durant, during Durant’s Basketball Camp. Smith is the only one to receive this award achievement at the camp.

weight loss challenge • Vocational Rehabilitation Programs hosts its annual Disabilities Awareness Day at the Comanche Nation Complex • The 24th Annual Comanche Nation Fair broke attendance records and powwow dance participation records • Shelby Mata is crowned the 2015-2016 Comanche Nation Princess at the Comanche Nation Fair • Rebecca Niedo is crowned the 2015-2016 Comanche Nation Jr. Princess at the Comanche Nation Fair • Comanche tribal members attend 16th Annual Shoshonean Language Reunion in Elko, Nev. • The Comanche Nation Diabetes Awareness Program sponsors the Warrior Spirit Run at the Comanche Nation Fair • Diabetes Program hosts Diabetes Summit • CIVA Princess, Lauren Noriega, opens the Lawton, OK International Festival by signing the National Anthem and The Lord’s Prayer • Kimberley de Jesus is chosen to be on the University of Oklahoma’s Color Guard Team • Chance Alfredo Bara’s mural commemorating 9/11 and his Altus High School, goes viral on the Internet, getting international attention • The Comanche Nation Diabetes Awareness Program co-hosts the Diabetes Summit at the Comanche Nation Complex, along with Comanche Nation CHR Program

OCTOBER • Comanche Nation hosts its annual Halloween Safe House at Watchetaker Hall • Carolyn Codopony represents the Comanche Nation Childcare Program at the Global Leaders for Young Children Program in Brazil, where does a presentation on the children of the Comanche Nation • General Council votes to stand behind the actions taken by the Comanche Business Committee members who suspended Tribal Administrator Will Owens by a count of 297 “Yes” votes and 293 “No” votes • Chairman Coffey conducts a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for the long awaited road that connects Hwy 7 to the Comanche Nation Casino • Altoona Police Sgt., Royal Nahno-Kerchee, retires from the force after 36 years of service • Oklahoma Indian Arts and Crafts Cooperative re-opens its doors in Anadarko, OK with works from Glenna Pekah, Marjorie Sovo, and others

SEPTEMBER • Comanche National Museum presents Numunu Upinakwu To?Pu featuring Comanche Artist Walter Bigbee in conjunction with the Comanche Nation Fair • The Comanche Nation Diabetes Awareness Program begins a 17 Week

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The Comanche Nation News

Comanche Nation In Review

Continued from Page 5

NOVEMBER • Dr. Cornel Pewewardy receives the 2015 Leadership Honoring Award for Education from the Potlach Fund. He is a Professor/Director of the Indigenous Nations Studies Program at Portland State University in Portland, OR • Dr. Edwin Chappabitty named the 2015 American Indian Alumni Society Distinguished Alumni Award by the Oklahoma State University Alumni Association and the Oklahoma State American Indian Alumni Society • Mia Tahdooahnippah is selected as a recipient of the “Top 40 Under 40 Native Americans” by the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development • CIVA hosts its annual Veteran’s Day Celebration • The Comanche Nation Dia-

betes Awareness Program begins a 6-Week Walk Challenge • Vivian Holder is elected the Vice Chairwoman for the Comanche Nation Elders Council • Adele Mihesuah is elected the Treasurer for the Comanche Nation Elders Council • A vigil is held at Shepler’s Park in Lawton, OK for Christina Tahhahwah, who died while in jail at Lawton, OK • The Comanche Nation Diabetes Awareness Program participates in the Lawton IHS Health Fair • Comanche War Mothers hosts its annual Veteran’s Day Celebration • Jimmy Arterberry is selected as the acting Tribal Administrator until the April 2016 General Council Meeting by members of the CBC through a resolution • Comanche Nation Police

Department graduates students from it’s Citizen Police Academy • Comanche Nation Youth Program takes it’s Hand Game Team to a Youth Hand Game Tournament in Carnegie, OK • Kimberely de Jesus sings the National Anthem at a Professional Basketball Game, Oklahoma City Thunder vs Portland Trailblazers • The Comanche Hand Game Team vie with the Hand Game Team from the Crow Tribe at the annual Hand Game Tournament, which has been an annual event for several decades • Comanche Nation War Dance Society hosts its annual Man Dance

DECEMBER • IAM NDN hosts its first Powwow, and crowns Tristan Wau-

qua as the IAM NDN Princess • Comanche Nation Police Department hosts its second annual Shop with a Cop, which helped 35 children have a special Christmas • Comanche Nation hosts Elder Day at the Comanche County Coliseum in Lawton, OK • Elder Center hosted its annual Christmas Celebration at its center in Lawton • Recall petition against Vice Chairwoman, Susan Cothren, fail during a Special General Council Meeting by a vote of 185 “Yes” votes and 339 “No” votes • Recall petition against CBC No. 4, Clyde Narcomey, fail during a Special General Council Meeting by a vote of 176 “Yes” votes and 379 “No” votes • Elders Council hosts its annual Christmas Celebration at the Comanche Nation College in Law-

ton, OK • Joni Pahcheka Johnson retires from the Methodist Medical Center in Dallas, TX., after 34 Years of Service • Seniors living at the Edith Kassanavoid Gordon Center celebrates with its second annual Christmas Celebration • The Comanche Nation Diabetes Awareness Program hosts Self Defense Class at the Comanche Nation Fitness Center • The Comanche Nation Diabetes Awareness Program hosts physical exercises through circuit training and weight training at the Comanche Nation Fitness Center

COMANCHE NATION OFFICES WILL BE CLOSED FEBRUARY 15 FOR PRESIDENTS DAY, AND WILL REOPEN AT NORMAL BUSINESS HOURS ON FEBRUARY 16

jummy’s thrift shop Low-prices Clothing Shoes Baked Goods Bread Donuts

Comanche Owned Business Open Monday-Friday 10 a.m.- 4 p.m.

Open Occasionally on Saturday Closed Wednesday

618 A. NW 19th Lawton, Oklahoma (Next to Vaska) [580] 647-3972

February 2016

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The Comanche Nation News

People, Places & Things Happening Native American Artists Apply for Tulsa Artist Fellowship of One Million Dollar Opportunity Tulsa, Okla.- George Kaiser Family Foundation has announced they are expanding their national artist fellowship program-the Tulsa Artist Fellowship (TAF)-during its second year to include writers. With the inaugural class of visual artists beginning their fellowships totalling over $1 million in stipends, free housing and free workspace for the second cohort, the TAF will continue to enhance Tulsa, Oklahoma’s growing art scene.

“We are thrilled to expand our fellowship program to include writers,” said Stanton Doyle, senior program officer at George Kaiser Family Foundation. “With our inaugural class of 12 visual artists now living and working in Tulsa, we look forward to expanding our program in 2017. Moving forward, we hope to provide more artists the opportunity to fine tune their craft through the TAF across a variety of disciplines.”

The 12 visual artists in the inaugural class assembled from all over the United States, including Brooklyn, San Francisco, Juneau and Baltimore. Living in new downtown Tulsa lofts, the artists were selected from an applicant pool over 300.

In an effort to continue growing and shaping Tulsa’s vibrant arts community, non-resident artists will be required to live in provided housing in Tulsa’s Brady Arts District. For each discipline category (visual artists and writers) up to 15 fellowships will be awarded based on the quality of entries.

The Tulsa Artist Fellowship is a program established by the George Kaiser Family Foundation to enhance the local art scene by retaining and recruiting artists to Tulsa. In its second year, Tulsa Artist Fellowship will provide fellowships in two categories: Visual Arts and Writing.

Fellowships are merit based, not project grants, with a one-year term for Visual Artist and two-year terms for Writers. For more information, visit http://www.tulsaartistfellowship.org

Trying to Catch Up With a Busy Jhane Myers

Courtesy Photo

It will be coast-to-coast travels for artist Jhane Myers (Comanche/Blackfeet) this holiday season. Myers, who hails from Santa Fe, New Mexico, is at the outset of a four-gallery-show run that will take her from California to Washington this winter.

Myers is a doll maker, jeweler, regalia maker and clothing designer who has been making dresses since the 1990s. She is also a traditional buckskin dancer, and one of this year’s First Peoples Fund Artist in Business Leadership Fellows.

Having started her career by studying at the Fashion and Art Institute, and working for designer Ralph Lauren-Myers said her art has evolved over time, particularly during the last two years.

She attributes some of that to her work with First Peoples Fund, where she has received multiple fellowships and hopes to become an artist trainer someday. “People ask you

‘how to’ questions,” she said, of the artists. “And, it’s one of our Native core values to help each other. The support you get from First Peoples Fund makes you want to continue that generosity by helping others.”

Having the resources to create art and then take it to the marketplace has helped transform who she is as an artist. “I’ve really grown professionally,” she said. “It gives you the confidence to have access to the tools you need to create. My art has really been elevated.”

With a previous fellowship, Myers recreated a traditional Native recession dress, drawing on a wartime tradition to use canvasses from missionary tents to design dresses.

This year, Myers allocated the grant toward completing a website.

Myers said her business has benefited from having a quality site where people can become more educated about her work, contact her, or commission art. “It’s just wonderful.”

She also used some of the funding to purchase equipment and a new display set-up for art markets, including panels, banners and jewelry display pieces. She has attended the Santa Fe Indian Market every year since 2007 and said it was nice to have a high-quality set-up that showcased her art and attracted the eye. “People came by and commented on how great it looked,” she said.

Myers said she is busy right now trying to keep up with inventory, but has an eye to the future, particularly helping newer artists who might be following in her footsteps. Her advice includes following your dreams, and taking advantage of the practical tools and guides First Peoples Fund offers in the way of training and membership.

“First Peoples Fund gives you stainability and comfort to know you can do this,” she said. “It’s scary once you’ve made that investment in your business, but you have to remember you’re investing in yourself and your art. It’s really made a difference for me.”

Native Artists are Sought to adorn Oklahoma City’s Sheridan Avenue Downtown Oklahoma City, Inc. and the Chickasaw Nation are partnering to offer a unique opportunity to create up to 4 distinct murals under the Sheridan Avenue railroad overpass.

This call for proposals is limited to Native artists that live in the state of Oklahoma. Applicants must include proof of American Indian citizenship in a federally recognized tribe.

Visitors to Bricktown soon will be immersed in Native American art as they enter Oklahoma City’s entertainment district. Officials with Downtown Oklahoma City, Inc. today announced a partnership with the Chickasaw Nation for a public art project that will transform the Sheridan Avenue underpass.

This would be the second underpass to incorporate artwork in the area after Jason Pawley painted his mural titled “Cultivation” in the Reno Avenue underpass in 2015.

Pawley’s mural also was the result of a public art grant from Downtown OKC, Inc. The Sheridan underpass’s main north and south walls measure nearly 120-feet long and 13-feet tall.

Jenkins said the RFP stipulates the murals must be completed by July 1, 2016.

Native artists may apply as an individual, as part of a team or both. However, an individual or team cannot submit two proposals/ concepts in the same category. The request for proposal is open to Native artists who live in the state of Oklahoma. Proposal submissions must be received by 5 p.m. Feb. 11. Specific information about submitting a proposal can be gathered at www.exhibitcgallery.com.

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Culinary Corner

Recipes for Home Cooking The Way to a Man’s Heart Prep Time 20m/Cook 40m/Ready In 1h Ingredients 1 pound halibut 1/2 cup white wine 1/8 teaspoon ground white pepper 2 tablespoons butter 1/2 cup chopped button mushrooms 1/4 cup minced onion 1/4 cup minced red bell pepper Directions 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. (175 degrees C). Butter 8 small oven proof ramekins.

2. Cut fish into 8 pieces and arrange in a shallow 9x13 inch baking dish.

Pour wine over fish, and sprinkle with 1/8 teaspoon ground white pepper.

3. Bake in preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until fish flakes easily; keep oven on for final step.

4. Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Saute mushrooms, onion and red bell pepper until tender; remove from heat and set aside.

5. Melt remaining 2 tablespoons butter in the saucepan over low heat.

Mix in flour, and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly until smooth.

Gradually add milk and increase heat to medium; stir constantly until mixture is thick and bubbly.

6. Stir in mushroom mixture, salt and remaining 1/8 teaspoon ground white pepper to saucepan, stirring until well combined. Remove sauce from heat and set aside.

7. Remove fish from wine carefully with slotted spoon, and place 1 piece into each ramekin. Sprinkle crab meat evenly on tops, followed by 2 tablespoons sauce and 1 1/2 teaspoons cheese in each dish.

8. Bake in preheated over for 5 minutes or until cheese is hot and bubbly; serve immediately.

Valentine Heart Necklaces Prep 35m/ Cook 7m/Ready in 2h42m Ingredients 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese 1 cup chopped fresh mushrooms 2 pounds lean ground beef 2 (1 ounce) envelopes dry onion soup mix.

Directions 1. Cream 1 cup butter or margarine and 3/4 cup white sugar together.

Blend in egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and grated lemon peel. Sift together 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour and baking powder.

2. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190

degrees C).

3. Roll dough to 1/4 inch thickness on a lightly floured surface. Use a floured heart shaped 1 to 2 inch cookie cutter and cut dough into heart shapes. Place the cut-out hearts on greased cookie sheets.

4. Using the drinking straw, make a hole at the top center of each heart before baking. Bake for 5 to 7 minutes until very lightly browned. Cool the cookies on a wire rack.

5. To Make Butter Frosting: Mix 3 cups confectioners’ sugar and 1/3 cup butter together. Stir in 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons milk. Beat until smooth making sure frosting is of spreading consistency.

Stir in food coloring to create a pink or red colored frosting, if desired.

6. After cookies have cooled, frost and decorate them with nonpareils, sprinkles, dragees, or colored sugar.

Use a toothpick to dislodge the hole, if necessary. Let the frosting dry.

7. To make a necklace, tie the ends off of two pieces of red colored licorice with a knot. Thread it through the hole at the top center of the cookie.

Tie the other ends off with another knot to create a “chain.” Makes approximately 30 heart necklaces.

Valentine Meatballs 10 min. Prep Time/Cook 40m/Ready In 40m Ingredients 1/3 cup vegetable oil 1/3 cup all-purpose flour 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 1/2 cups chopped okra 1 cup chopped onion 3/4 cup chopped celery 3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced 4 cups water 2 cups chopped tomatoes 1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley 1 1/2 teaspoons salt 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper 2 bay leaves 1/2 pound cooked ham, cubed 1 (15.5 ounce) can black-eyed peas Directions 1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).

2. In a medium bowl, toss together the cheese and mushrooms. In a separate bowl, mix together the ground beef and onion soup mix. Divide the beef into 12 to 16 balls, then form them into small, thin heart shaped patties. Press an indention into the center of half of the hearts, and fill with he cheese and mushrooms.

Place another patty on top, and press to seal the hearts with the cheese and

mushrooms. Place in a shallow bakTarragon Lover’s Scallops ing dish.

10 min. Prep/Cook 15 min./Ready In 3. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes in the 25 min. preheated oven, until beef is well Ingredients 2 tablespoons olive oil Chocolate Covered Strawberries 5 tablespoons butter, divided Ingredients 1 1/2 pounds sea scallops, rinsed and 16 ounces milk chocolate chips drained 2 tablespoons shortening 1 teaspoon salt to taste 1 pound fresh strawberries with 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black leaves pepper Directions 1/2 cup dry white wine Prep 15m/ Ready In 15m 1 lemon, zested 1. In a double boiler, melt the choco- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh tarragon late and shortening, stirring occaDirections sionally until smooth. Holding them 1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and by the toothpicks, dip the strawber- 1/2 tablespoon butter in large skilries into the chocolate mixture. let over medium heat. Season scal2. Insert toothpicks into the tops of lops with salt and pepper. Place half the strawberries. of the scallops in the skillet without 3. Turn the strawberries upside down crowding; cook until browned, about and insert the toothpick into Styro- 2 to 3 minutes on each side. Remove foam for the chocolate to cool. scallops to a plate. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1/2 tablespoon butter in the skillet, and cook remaining scalBacon and Date Appetizer lops. Remove to plate.

30 min. Prep/Cook 5 min./Ready In 2. Wipe out skillet, and return skillet 35 min. to medium heat. Pour in wine, and Ingredients boil 1 to 2 minutes, until reduced to 1 (8 ounce) package pitted dates about 2 tablespoons. Reduce heat 4 ounce almonds to low, and whisk in the remaining 1 pound sliced bacon 4 tablespoons butter; just softening Directions butter to form a smooth sauce. Stir in 1. Preheat the broiler. salt, lemon zest, and tarragon. Pour 2. Slit dates. Place one almond inside sauce over scallops. each date. Wrap dates with bacon, using toothpicks to hold them together.

3. Broil 10 minutes, or until bacon is evenly brown and crisp.

The Comanche Nation News

White Pine

By Steve Parker/Primitave Archer Magazine

The healing tree used by the hunter was the eastern white pine (Pinus strobus). The white pine grows in cool upland forests throughout eastern North America from Quebec south to norther Georgia, Alabama, and South Carolina; and west to Arkansas, Missouri, Iowa, Minnesota, and Manitoba. It is a very large, straight-trunked tree, commonly reaching over a hundred feet tall in good growing conditions.

The tallest known tree in the eastern United States is a white pine known as the “Bogeyman Pine” growing in Cataloochee Valley in western North Carolina. It was measured at 207 feet in height before a large chunk of the top was broken out during Hurricane Opal in 1995. It is currently just shy of 189 feet tall-99 feet to the first limb and still growing.

The white pine’s long, flexible needles are arranged in bundles of five. Unlike most pines, the leaves have a bluish color when viewed from a distance. The branches grow in whorls around the trunk, a new whorl of limbs being formed with each year’s growth. The female cones are long and slender, and the seeds are a favorite food of red squirrels and many birds.

Medicinal Uses The white pine has a long history of medicinal usage. The resin and inner bark contain powerful natural antiseptics and were much used

by Native Americans to heal wounds, sores, burns, boils, inflammation, and other maladies. White pine has a reputation as being one of the most effective natural antiseptics and has ever been credited for healing gangrenous wounds. The needles are rich in vitamin A and C, and a tea made from pine needles has been used to cure scurvy. Teas or infusions made of the bark, needles, and twigs have also been used to treat colds, coughs, sore throats, and inflammation, as well as respiratory, kidney, and digestive disorders. The inner bark was once a common ingredient in cough syrups. The bark has been used as a chest poultice to relieve congestion, and the needles have been steamed and the vapors inhaled for the same purpose. Bark tea is emetic in large doses.

Our ancestors lived intimately with the land and, over time, accumulated much knowledge of which plants to use for different purposes. Before industrial civilization, this knowledge was widespread and necessary for survival. Now, much knowledge has been lost. It is our duty and in our best interests to preserve useful plant knowledge and incorporate it into our lives as well as to preserve our environment and the wild plants that in the future may once again become our very means of survival.

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The Comanche Nation News

Military

Submitted by: Lanny Asepermy/CIVA Corps, Vietnam War, Navy/Marine Numu Pukutsi – Corp Commendation with/Valor Crazy Dog Soldiers Device Sergeant Kristopher Wermy, Army, War on Terror (Afghanistan), Army Commendation with/Valor Device Corporal Leland Parker, Marine Corps, Vietnam War, Navy/Marine Corp Achievement with/Valor Device Corporal Lewis Chasenah, Marine Corps, Vietnam War, Navy/Marine Corp Achievement with/Valor Device Corporal Joshua J. Ware, Marine Corps, War on Terror (Iraq), Navy/ Marine Corp Achievement with/ Valor Device Sergeant Lindsey Huston Griner, Marine Corps, War on Terror (Iraq), Navy/Marine Corp Achievement with/Valor Device There was once a very elite Corporal Edmond “Eddie” Mahgroup of Contrary Warriors among seet, Marine Corps, Vietnam War, the Comanches called Pukutsi (also Hand to Hand Combat known as “Crazy Dog Soldiers”) - Sergeant Ronald “Ron” Mahsetky, “Any man brave enough and desiring Marine Corps, Vietnam War, Hand to do so could become a Pukutsi. No to Hand Combat one ever molested a Pukutsi because he was so recklessly brave. He wore a long sash around their waist. In battle, he rolled out his sash, stuck the free end into the ground with an arrow and there took his stand. He stood tethered by his sash until victory was won or death took him. A Pukutsi is afraid of nothing. There are not many men such as these among the Comanches”. (Photo above is called “Standing His Ground” by Kelly Haney).

There are twenty-six known Comanches, while serving in the Armed Forces of the United States, that have been decorated for Gallantry, Heroism, Bravery or Valor or who Private Calvin Atchavit have fought and killed the enemy in served in the Army from 1918-19.

Hand to Hand Combat. These men He was awarded the Distinguished and one woman have earned the hon- Service Cross for extraordinary orary title of “Numu Pukutsi”. They heroism in action while serving are: as an Infantryman with Company Private Calvin Atchavit, Army, A, 357th Infantry Regiment, 90th World War I, Distinguished Service Division, American Expeditionary Cross and Belgium War Cross Forces, near Fey-en-Haye, France Edward L. Clark, Marine Corps, on 12 September 1918 – he was World War II and Korean War, Silver also awarded the Belgium Croix de Star, Navy/Marine Medal and Navy/ guerre (War Cross) for bravery and using his “Comanche tongue” on Marine Corp Commendation with/ the battlefield by the government of Valor Device Belgium. Private Atchavit was one Sergeant Lee D. Toquothy, Army, of five Comanche World War I Code Korean War, Silver Star Talkers awarded (posthumously) the Lieutenant Michael Waddle, Army, Congressional Gold Medal. He was Vietnam War, Silver Star also wounded in action and awarded Staff Sergeant George Red Elk, the Purple Heart Medal.

Army, Vietnam War, Silver Star Sergeant First Class Ralph Wermy, Army, Vietnam War, Silver Star (not confirmed) Lieutenant Colonel Meech Tahsequah, Army Air Force, World War II, Distinguished Flying Cross (3) Major Vincent Myers, Army Air Force, World War II, Distinguished Flying Cross (2) Brigadier General Jonathon George, Air Force, Cold War, Distinguished Flying Cross Sergeant Major Rudolph Kosechequetah, Army, Vietnam War, Soldiers Medal Colonel Raymond Portillo, Marine Corps, World War II, Bronze Star with/Valor Device Sergeant Lucien “Jimmy” Looking Glass, Marine Corps, Vietnam War, Bronze Star with/Valor Device Master Sergeant (Retired) Lieutenant Johnny Tiddark, Army, Edward Louis Clark served in the Vietnam War, Bronze Star with/ Marine Corps from 1933-54. He was Valor Device Sergeant Brown Yackeyonny Light- awarded the Silver Star for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action foot, Army, Vietnam War, Bronze against enemy Japanese on Peleliu Star with/Valor Device, Army ComIsland, Palau Group in the Pacific mendation with/Valor Device and Theater on 19 September 1944 while Vietnam Gallantry Cross with/Star serving with the Command Post, Sergeant Kenneth W. Hernasy, Company B, 1st Marines, 1st MaArmy, Vietnam War, Bronze Star rine Division – he was later awarded with/Valor Device Specialist 4 Lawrence Kassanavoid, the Navy/Marine Corps Medal for heroism not involving actual conflict Army, Vietnam War, Bronze Star with an enemy and the Navy/Marine with/Valor Device and Army ComCorps Commendation Medal with/ mendation with/Valor Device Valor Device for heroism. Master Lieutenant Cloyce V. “Chuck” Sergeant Clark was also wounded in Choney, Army, Vietnam War, action and awarded the Purple Heart Bronze Star with/Valor Device (2) Medal and the Combat Action RibSergeant Amos Makes Cry, Army, bon.

Vietnam War, Army Commendation with/Valor Device Corporal Philip Rogers Sr, Marine

Sergeant Lee D. Toquothy served in the Army from 1949-52. He was awarded the Silver Star for gallantry in action against an armed enemy near Hoengson, South Korea on 12 February 1951 while serving as a Tank Commander assigned to the 7th Reconnaissance Company, 7th Infantry Division.

Lieutenant Michael Waddle served in the Army from 1966-69 and was awarded the Silver Star for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force on 26 August 1968 in the Republic of Vietnam while serving as a Platoon Leader with Company B, 1st Battalion, 508th Infantry, 3rd Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division. He was also awarded the Combat Infantryman and Parachutists Badges and Bronze Star with/Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster.

Staff Sergeant George G. Red Elk served in the Army from 1967-73 and OKARNG from 198291. He was awarded the Silver Star for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force on 18 March 1969 near the Michelin Plantation in the Republic of Vietnam while serving as a Tank Commander with Company D, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment. He was wounded in action and awarded the Purple Heart Medal.

NOTE: Staff Sergeant Red Elk was also inducted into the Oklahoma Military Hall of Fame on 11 November 2011 and is a former Commander of the CIVA.

Sergeant First Class (Retired) Ralph Wermy served in the Army from 1950-70. His award of the Silver Star is not confirmed. He did serve in both the Korean and Vietnam Wars. The only proof of his awards is his ceremonial blanket which, like many other veterans, had a ribbon rack that included the Silver Star and a number of other ribbons, badges and unit patches.

Lieutenant Colonel Meech Tahsequah served in the Army Air Force and Air Force from 1941-54.

According to the website “Together We Served” he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross three times for heroism or extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight during World War II in the European-African-Middle Eastern Theater as a Co-Pilot aboard a B-24 Liberator Bomber with the 376th Bombardment Group. He flew 31 combat missions and 300+ combat hours during World War II. Lieutenant Colonel Tahsequah was also awarded the Purple Heart three times for combat wounds. He was Declared Dead while Missing in Action on 28 February 1954 after the aircraft he was a passenger on ran out of fuel and crashed near Susa, North Korea on 6 December 1950 – his body has not been recovered.

Major Vincent Myers Sr served in the Army Air Force from 1941-46. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross twice for extraordinary achievement and heroism while participating in aerial flight as a Bombardier aboard a B-25 Bomber on 24 April 1944 in an attack on a heavily defended railroad bridge at Orvieto, Italy and on 12 December 1944 on a target near Calliano, Italy while serving with the 340th Bombardment Group in the EuropeanAfrican-Middle Eastern Theater.

He flew 71 combat missions during World War II.

Brigadier General (Retired) Jonathon George served in the Air Force from 1981-11. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for heroism on 4 May 1989 while participating in aerial flight as a U-2 pilot at a forward operating location with the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing. He had over 4,000 flight hours as a Strike, Recon and Training Pilot.

Sergeant Major (Retired) Rudolph Kosechequetah served in the Army from 1968-95. He was awarded the Soldier’s Medal for heroism not involving actual conflict with an armed hostile enemy force by distinguishing himself by exceptional valorous action on 13 July 1969 while serving as a Military Policeman with HQs Company, 1st Brigade, 5th Infantry Division near Landing Zone Sharon in the Republic of Vietnam.

Colonel (Retired) Raymond Portillo served in the Marine Corps from 1941-61. He was awarded the Bronze Star with/Valor Device for meritorious achievement against enemy Japanese forces on the Ryukyu Islands, Okinawa from 1 April to 13 June 1945 while serving as the Operations Officer of the 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater.

February 2016

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The Comanche Nation News

Forces in the Republic of Vietnam from 19 September 1969 to 1 December 1970. He was also awarded the Combat Medical Badge.

Sergeant Lucien “Jimmy” Looking Glass served in the Marine Corps from 1961-67. He was awarded the Bronze Star with/Valor Device for heroic achievement in connection with operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces on 30 January 1966 while serving as a Fire Team Leader with Company F, 2nd Battalion, 9th Marines, 3rd Marine Division in the Republic of Vietnam.

He was also wounded in action and awarded the Purple Heart Medal and the Combat Action Ribbon.

Specialist 4 Lawrence Kassanavoid served in the Army from 1968-70. He was awarded the Bronze Star with/Valor Device for heroism in connection with military operations against a hostile force on 29 September 1969 while serving in the Republic of Vietnam as a Fire Team Leader with Company E, 2nd Battalion, 22nd Infantry, 25th Infantry Division – he was also awarded the Army Commendation Medal with/Valor Device for heroism on 29 August 1969 while serving with the same unit. SP4 Kassanavoid was also awarded the Combat Infantryman Badge.

Lieutenant Johnny Tiddark served in the Army from 1964-69. He was awarded the Bronze Star with/ Valor Device for heroism in connection with military operations against a hostile force on 23 March 1969 while serving as an Advisor with the Military Advisory Command – Vietnam (Ngai Province Provincial Reconnaissance Unit) in the Republic of Vietnam. He was also wounded in action and awarded the Purple Heart Medal and the Combat Infantryman Badge.

Sergeant Brown Yackeyonny Lightfoot served in the Army from 1968-70. He was awarded the Bronze Star with/Valor Device for heroism in connection with military operations against a hostile force on 3 January 1970; the Army Commendation Medal with/Valor Device for heroism and the Vietnam Gallantry Cross with/Bronze Star for bravery by the Vietnamese government while serving as a Squad Leader with Company D, 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division in the Republic of Vietnam from 29 March 1969 to 28 February 1970. He was also awarded the Combat Infantryman Badge.

Sergeant Kenneth W. Hernasy served in the Army from 196870. He was awarded the Bronze Star with/Valor Device for heroism while serving as a Medic with Company C, 5th Special Forces Group, 1st Special

Lieutenant Cloyce V. “Chuck” Choney served in the Army from 1969-75. He was awarded the Bronze Star with/Valor Device twice for heroism during ground combat operations against hostile forces near Fire Support Base Maureen on 1 May and 6 July 1970 while serving as a Platoon Leader with Company B, 1st Battalion, 506th Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division (Airmobile) in the Republic of Vietnam. He was also awarded the Purple Heart Medal twice for combat wounds and the Combat Infantryman Badge.

Lance Corporal Philip Rogers Sr served in the Marine Corps from 1967-69. He was awarded the Navy/Marine Corps Commendation Medal with/Valor Device for heroic achievement on 23 November 1968 in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam while serving as a Fire Team Leader with L Company, 3rd Battalion, 26th Marines, 1st Marine Division. He was also awarded the Purple Heart Medal for combat wounds and Combat Action Ribbon.

Specialist 4 Amos Makes Cry served in the Army from 196869. He was awarded the Army Commendation Medal with /Valor Device on 18 March 1969 for heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy hostile near Dong Tam Firebase, Republic of Vietnam while serving as an Artillery Crewman with Battery C, 1st Battalion, 11th Field Artillery, 9th Infantry Division.

Specialists Kristopher K. Wermy served in the Army from 2003-06. He was awarded the Army Commendation Medal with/Valor Device for exceptional valorous conduct under fire on 12 April 2007 while serving as the Battalion Mortar Squad Leader with the 1st Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division in the Sangin River Valley, Afghanistan. He was also awarded the Combat Infantryman Badge.

Corporal Leland Parker served in the Marine Corps from 1967-70. He was awarded the Navy/ Marine Corps Achievement Medal with/Valor Device for heroic achievement in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam from 2 November 1967 to 23 November 1968 while serving as a Grenadier with Company D, 1st Battalion, 4th Marines, 3rd Marine Division. He was also awarded the Purple Heart Medal for combat wounds and the Combat Action Ribbon.

Lance Corporal Lewis Chasenah served in the Marine Corps from 1967-70. He was awarded the Navy/Marine Corps Achievement Medal with/Valor Device for heroic achievement in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam from 28 December 1968 to 15 January 1970 while service as a Field Artilleryman with A Battery, 1st Battalion, 11 Marines, 1st Marine Division. He was also awarded the Combat Action Ribbon.

Corporal Joshua J. Ware served in the Marine Corps from 2002-05. He was awarded the Navy/ Marine Corps Achievement Medal with/Valor Device (Posthumously) for heroic achievement from 5 to 16 November 2005 near the city of Ubaydi, Iraq while serving as Fire Team Leader with Company F, Battalion Landing Team 2/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, Regimental Combat Team 2, 1st Marine Division. He was killed in action on 16 November 2005 and also awarded the Purple Heart Medal and Combat Action Ribbon.

Sergeant Lindsey M. Huston Griner served in the Marine Corps from 2003-07. She was awarded the Navy/Marine Corps Achievement Medal with/Combat Distinguishing Device for heroic achievement and displaying bravery from March to October 2006 while serving as a Team Leader, Vehicle Commander, Assistant Convoy Commander and Convey Commander assigned to Truck Company, 1st Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward), HQs Group throughout Anbar Province, Iraq.

NOTE: SGT Griner is the only known Comanche woman to be decorated for valor and awarded the Combat Action Ribbon.

It is documented in the book “Youngblood, A History of the 1st Battalion, 27th Marines” that Corporal Edmond “Eddie” Mahseet, Marine Corps 1964-68, (photo on left) and Sergeant Ronald “Ron” Mahsetky, Marine Corps 1965-69, (photo on right) fought and killed the enemy in Hand-to-Hand Combat during a battle called the Mini-Tet on 5 May 1968 near the city of Hue, Republic of Vietnam, while serving as a Radioman (Mahseet) and Squad Leader (Mahsetky) with Company D, 1st Battalion, 27th Marines, 1st Marine Division. Both served 2 tours in Vietnam and were awarded the Combat Action Ribbon twice and the Navy/ Marine Corps Presidential Unit Citation.

“People sleep peaceably in their beds at night only because rough men stand ready to do violence on their behalf.” George Orwell

February 2016

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The Comanche Nation News

Milestones Happy Belated Birthday

Nathan Lopez Jr., January 5 Vivian Gooday, January 6 Johnetta Caddo, January 12 Steven Gaster II, January 12 Daricus Karty, January 14 Bada Joseph Caddo Jr., January 23 Mason James, January 30

Happy Birthday Alexa Madilyn LeCoultre Evie Mithlo Liz Ware Marshall Ross ‘Chubs’ Kerchee, February 1 Diamyn Jolee Red Elk, February 3 Alisha Pewewardy, February 5 Gwendolyn Brinkman, February 5 Marcelline Soto, February 5 Nancy Nauni, February 5 Jake Beasley, February 7 Debra Akoneto, February 9 Khole Goombi, February 9 Harold Ray Yeahquo, February 10 William Tosee Jr., February 10 Samuel Reese Pahcoddy, February 11 Marques Karty, February 13 Mashon, February 12 Domanique, February 14 Dean Hoyt Toppah, February 18 Michael Ray Caddo, February 18 Kristin Lambert, February 19 Rosalind Mattyann Akoneto, February 19 Patrick Mahsetky, February 20 Anthony Yellowfish, February 22 Edwin Ray Akoneto, February 24 Norman Nauni, Jr., February 24 Gabriel Dalby, February 25 Marshall Powell, February 25 Matt, February 26 Bailey Rankin, February 27 Jan Stumblingbear, February 27

Anniversaries

Happy Belated Birthday Nathan Lopez Jr. January 5 Love you Mom &Dad

Happy Belated Birthday Steven Gaster II January 12

Happy Belated Birthday Mason James January 30

Happy Birthday

Happy Birthday Diamyn Jolee Red Elk February 3

Marshall Ross ‘Chubs’ Kerchee

February 1

Happy Birthday Alexa Madilyn LeCoultre Mommy and daddy love you very much and wish you the best on your first birthday

Happy 22nd Birthday Evie Mithlo

Happy 16th Birthday Samuel Reese Pahcoddy February 11 Happy 5th Birthday Jake Beasley February 7

Happy Birthday Liz Ware

Happy Birthday Domanique February 14

Happy Birthday Dean Hoyt Toppah February 18

Happy Birthday

Happy Birthday Mashon February 12

Happy Birthday Michael Ray Caddo February 18

Carol & Rickie Mithlo February 20~Married 6 years

Rosalind Mattyann Akoneto February 19 We Love you, Mom, Brother, Grandma, Grandpa, Auntie Tiffany, Uncle Brandon, Jordan, Aaron and Araeiya

Edward and Peggy Wahkinney February 24~Married 22 years Jolene & Lynn Schonchin February 12~Married 16 years

Happy Birthday Matt February 26

Passing Joseph D. Mansel December 26, 1953~ December 17, 2015

Happy 18th Birthday

Anthony Joseph Yellowfish February 22

Happy Birthday Happy Birthday Happy Birthday Daricus Karty Alisha Pewewardy Marques Karty February 5 February 13 January 14

The Comanche Nation News March Edition Deadline February 16, before 5 p.m.

Email: candacet@comanchenation.com Contact PIO (580)492-3386

By Mail: Comanche Nation/PIO P.O. Box 908 Lawton, OK 73501

Comanche Nation Crime Stoppers Tip Line [580] 492-1847 [580] 492-1TIP Help Stop Crime on Tribal Lands

Happy Anniversary

Happy Anniversary

Butch & Linda Tahsequah February 6

Joe & Carol Jimenez February 14 Married 15 years To my baby it has been a short but beautiful 15 years Happy Valentine’s Day and Happy Anniversary I love you!

You complete me You wife Carol

Married 50 years

Aaliyah Nicole

Happy Birthday Sonia Marie Attocknie February 29 It’s OFFICIAL..YOU GET to have a BIRTHDAY! !I LOVE YOU ,GOD BLESS YOU IN ALL YOU DO..

YOUNG BABE FOREVER....FINALLY..9 YEARS OLD. ...LOVE...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY from JJ,MATTHEW, ALYSIA,SONNY AND YOUR OL’MAN!!

Born:

December 10, 2015

8lbs 9oz 20.5in Parents:Susan Simon & Philip Gilliam

The Comanche Nation News Subscription Send this form to: Comanche Nation PIO P.O. Box 908 Lawton, OK 73502 Name: Address: City: State: Zip:

February 2016

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The Comanche Nation News

Obituaries Judy Quoetone Littleman

way and Adisyn Littleman.

She was preceded in death by: husband, Milburn Steve Littleman; parents: Bill and Lottie Quoetone; brother, Willie Quoetone; daughter, Cheryl Lynn Connywerdy.

Peggy Ann Nahno-Kerchee

tricia Apauty; daughters: Adaline and Thomas Horn; Ernestine Dankowski; Eva Mae and Alex Antunez. Brothers, Roland and Ramona Apauty, Arnold and Rusty Apauty, Curtis Apauty. She had 28 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Decker Kopaddy, sisters, Velma and Calvin Pohawpatchoko, Rhoda and Jimmy Tahpay, Cora and Luther Pohawpatchoko, Phyllis and Fred Frederick. Neice; Ann Glisson, Grandchildren; William Horn, Zackery Christian.

William “Bill” Titchywy Jr. Littleman Judy Quoetone Littleman went on her final journey surrounded by family on December 13, 2015 in Oklahoma City.

Funeral Service was December 17, 2015 at the Comanche Nation Funeral Home with Rev. David Wilson officiating. Burial followed at Memory Lane Cemetery in Anadarko, Oklahoma under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home.

Prayer Service was December 16, 2015 at the Comanche Nation Funeral Home.

Littleman born on February 22, 1937 in Lawton to William “Bill” and Lottie (Quassicker) Quoetone. Judy was baptized at Mt. Scott Kiowa Methodist Church. She enrolled in Fort Sill Indian School at the age of 5. Twelve years later she graduated at age 17 as Valedictorian of her class. At FSIS, she excelled in academics. She won several local and state awards in 4-H projects. She lettered in basketball and was involved in Pep Club and Indian Club. She was listed on the school honor roll every year and was a campus leader. While she lived in the dorm, she was the head cook for all the students.

After high school, she earned a scholarship to attend Southeastern State College in Durant, OK. She later graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Education from Oklahoma College for Women (OCW), which later became University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma. She later earned a Master of Education in Guidance and Counseling from Southwestern State University in Weatherford.

Littleman’s career spanned over 40 years in Education. Her first teaching jobs were in boarding schools in Leupp, Arizona, Tohatchi, New Mexico and as a high school counselor at her alma mater, Fort Sill Indian School, in Lawton, OK. From 1978 to 1987, she worked for Anadarko Area Education Office as an Education Program Specialist. In 1987 she worked as an Education Program Specialist for Special Education programs in several states. She retired in November of 2007 from the BIA Office of Indian Education for more than 40 years. She enjoyed her retirement with her husband, Steve.

They were avid OU Sooners and OKC Thunder fans. They started an International Dance Performance Group. They have been well received wherever they have performed in the United States or in other countries.

Survivors include: David Connywerdy and wife, Pat of Apache, Kevin Connywerdy and wife, Kricket and Yancy Littleman, Norman; sisters, Beverly Hicks, Mary Hill both of Oklahoma City, Patricia Eaglenest of Anadarko, Cornelia Karty, Delores Twohatchet of Lawton, Daisy Mammedaty, Debbie Wilson of Cache, Gene Quoetone of Oklahoma City and Varner “Buddy” Quoetone of Albuquerque, NM; grandchildren: Teresa Sumka, Ben, Angelynn, Sokobi and Thaumaroi Connywerdy, Victoria and Taylor Littleman; greatgrandchildren: Trenton Connywerdy, Angel Bohay, Joshua Bullock, Skyla Bullock, Enoch, Sylas Eneliko, Maggie Hubert, Mason Hawzipta, Casey, Azarah, Ariana, Mia Tartsah; Calla-

Nahno-Kerchee Peggy Ann Nahno-Kerchee 58 of Moore went to her heavenly home on Saturday, December 19, 2015 in Oklahoma City.

Kerchee was born on November 26, 1957 in Des Moines, Iowa to Walter and Nadine (Poweshiek) Kerchee Jr. She grew up and attended school in Iowa. The family moved to Oklahoma and Peggy attended Cameron University.

She was an avid collector of all genre of music and movies. She always had a smile on her face and was friendly to everyone.

She was a member of the Comanche Nation of Oklahoma and also of Sac & Fox of Iowa descendant Peggy was a cellphone analyst and enjoyed working with people.

She is survived by: daughters, Tiffany Nahno-Kerchee and Sonja Hughey; three grandchildren , Christopher Nahno-Kerchee, Jazzime and Trey Hughey all of Moore; mother, Nadine Kerchee of Geronimo, and sisters: Wynema Riley of Geronim0 and Sandy Clah of New Mexico; nephews: Aaron and Luke Riley; numerous aunts, uncles, nephews, other family members and friends.

She is preceded in death by: father: Walter Kerchee Jr.; sister, Ruth Nahno-Kerchee; nephew, Walter Jay Nahno-Kerchee.

Eva Lois Apauty Kopaddy

Kopaddy Eva Lois Apauty Kopaddy 82 of Cache, OK passed gracefully in her home with family by her side on Sunday December 20, 2015.

Funeral Service was December 23, 2015 at the Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Mat Asetamy officiating under direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home. Burial followed at Post Oak Cemetery Indiahoma.

Prayer Service was December 22, 2015 at the Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel.

Kopaddy was born March 09, 1933 in Lawton, Okla to Vandel Apauty and Adaline Hahnee. She grew up in Cache and attended Fort Sill Indian School. She was an avid OU football and Dallas Cowboys fan. She enjoyed visiting with friends and family, working sodoku and doing puzzles, going to the salon to get her hair and nails done. She was a member of the Comanche and Kiowa Nation. She attended West Nazarene Church and was a member of the Native American Church.

She is survived by: sons, Ernest and Rita Brewer; Byron and Pa-

Titchywy William “Bill” Titchywy Jr. 67 passed away Friday December 25, 2015 with his loving family by his side.

Funeral service was December 30, 2015 at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Bob Vacendak officiating under direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home.

Burial followed in Walters’ City Cemetery.

Titchywy was born January 26, 1948 in Stuttgart Germany to Billy and Flossye (Thomas) Titchywy.

He graduated High School at U.S. Grant High School in Oklahoma City and with a Bachelor Degree in Business/Accounting from East Central University in Ada, OK. He married Ernestine Bowman on May 22, 1992.

He worked for and retired from the Bureau of Indian Affairs Western Regional Office in Phoenix, AZ. He was a proud member and elder of the Comanche Nation and also of Kiowa descent and a lifetime member of the Brown Church in Walters. He enjoyed motorcycles and gardening, alongside his dog, Bongo.

He is survived by; mother Flossye Thomas of OKC, wife Ernestine of the home, son; Dan and wife Teresa Titchywy of Dallas, TX. Daughter; Dawnie Frank-Timmerman and husband Andy of Phoenix AZ. Sister; Viki Carson of Oklahoma City, Grandchildren; Nathaniel and Shiloh Titchywy of Dallas, TX. Noah, Emmitt and Lora Timmerman of Phoenix, AZ. He is preceded in death by; father Billy Titchywy, paternal grandparents; Cecil and Margaret Poolaw Titchywy and maternal grandparents; Ed and Beulah Thomas.

John “Junebug” Pewo

Pewo

John “Junebug” Pewo, 45 of Apache went to be with his Lord on Sunday, December 27, 2015.

Funeral service was January 4, 2016 at the United Methodist Church of Apache with Tina Baker and Melvin Mithlo officiating.

Burial followed at the West Cache Creek Cemetery west of Apache under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home.

Wake service was January 3, 2015 at the United Methodist Church of Apache.

Pewo was born on January 18, 1970 in Apache to John and Dora (Ware) Pewo Sr. he grew up in Apache and graduated from Apache High School in 1988. John went to work at the Farmer Coop in Apache after he graduated from High School.

John also worked for Food Distribution at the Comanche Nation Complex.

Pewo was a member of the United Methodist Church of Apache, the Comanche Nation of Oklahoma and also of Kiowa decent.

Pewo enjoyed going to church, spending time with his family and friends, especially his grand kids. He loved to fish and was an avid loyal OU Sooner Football fan, hauling hay and he enjoyed a good physical workout to stay fit.

He is survived by: wife, Lora Pewo of Lawton; brother, Scotty Dee Pewo of Apache; sister, Nichole Hatfield of Moore; children: John Pewo III of Apache, Dara Zimmerman of Lawton, Felicia Costilla of Lawton, Dereck Pewo of Apache, Alice Pewo of Binger; four grandchildren. Aunts and uncle: Cora Mithlo of Muldrow and Alicia and Randy Mammedaty of Anadarko; E.C. Ware of Mountain View and Louise White Eagle of Muldrow; special niece and nephew: Jessie Pewo Mithlo and Erwin “PoGo” Pewo.

He is preceded in death by: grandparents, Erwin and Jesse Ware, Alice Pewo; parents: John Pewo Sr. and Dora Ware Pewo; brother, Michael Pewo; uncle, Jerry Ware, Wilbur Pewo Jr.; aunt, LaQuinta Harmon, cousins, Lester Parker Jr., and nephew, Christopher Banderas.

Louis Ray Rivas

Rivas Louis Ray Rivas went to his heavenly home on Monday, December 28, 2015 in Lawton.

Funeral for Louis Ray Rivas was December 29, 2015 at the Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Kerry Malakosky officiating. Burial with military honors followed at the Ft. Sill National Cemetery in Elgin under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home.

Rivas was born August 25, 1923 near Anadarko Oklahoma to John R. and Patricia Roach Rivas.

He attended Verden and Chickasha Schools. He enlisted in the Army Air Corp in 1942 and later received his high school diploma through the veterans program from Chickasha High School. He was assigned to the Laredo, Texas Air Base and earned the aerial gunner wings and rank of Sgt. Rivas was transferred to Keesler Field, Biloxi Ms. to attend the Airplane Mechanics School. He and

Sylvia Witt of rural Manitou were married at Gulfport, Ms. during this tour on June 5, 1943. Following was a transfer to Pueblo Air Base in Pueblo Colorado for training with a crew of ten for overseas combat duty. The crew was assigned to the 5th Bomb Group, 13th Air Force and flew to the Asiatic Pacific Theater of operations where they flew 48 missions. Rivas served as a ball turret gunner on the B-24 Bomber. The crew’s 48th and last mission was one of the longest daylight missions ever flown by B-24’s (Liberator) to bomb vital Japanese oil and gas refineries at Balikapapn on Borneo and was near fatal for the crew, as the U.S. lost many men and planes. The crew was rotated to the states in Jan. 1945 and was awaiting a return to combat when the Atomic Bomb was dropped which ended WW II. Rivas had served three years.

Rivas also served two years during the Korean Conflict/War. He was a member of the OK National Guard, F Company, Frederick Ok when the OK 45th Div. was called up in 1950, trained a few months at Fort Polk,La. and went overseas. Rivas served as First Sgt. of Co. F before returning in 1952. WWII citations: Asiatic Pacific Service Medal with three Bronze Battle Stars and four Oak Leaf Clusters, Good Conduct Medal, American Campaign Medal, WWII Victory Medal. The AAF Air Crew Member Badge (Wings) and AAF Tech Badge with airplane Engine Mechanic Bar. Korean Citations: Korean Service Medal w/ Bronze Star, Combat Infantry Badge, Army Occupation Medal (Japan) and the United States Service Medal.

Between the two wars from 1945 to 1950 Rivas had been employed in dry cleaning shops and Attended the National Institute of Cleaners and Dryers in Silver Springs Md and later operated his own dry cleaning shop. He had worked at Byrum’s in Frederick, Griswold’s in Lawton and Glen Powers on Fort Sill.

He then owned Cache Rd. Cleaners.

After living in Lawton for 20 years, and the two children Cheryl and Ryland were no longer at home, the couple moved to Manitou after the death of Floyd Roark, his wife’s dad to tend the farm in 1972. In 2005, the moved back to Lawton.

Rivas was a non-denominational Christian who was an avid reader of the Bible, having read it through several times. He loved the Lord God and was a devoted family man. He was a member of the Comanche Indian Tribe and Comanche Indian Veterans Assn. His Comanche heritage consisted of his mother Patricia (Roach) Rivas, his maternal Grandmother Pokin Roach(husband Benjamin Roach) and Great Grandfather Tabenanika, a Comanche Chief.

He was preceded in death by: his parents, two sisters: Elizabeth Walton and Benita LeGrange, three Brothers: Cross Rivas, Cid Rivas and Johnnie Michael Rivas who was killed in action on D-Day in France, and his son-in-law Larry Burnison.

Survivors include: his wife Sylvia, a daughter Cheryl Burnison of Lawton, a son Ryland and Brenda Rivas of Blanchard Okla., three sisters: Charlotte Morris and Tomasita Rivas of Chickasha and Mary Plata of Lawton. Three grandsons and one granddaughter: Brian Burnison and Jennifer of Frisco, Tx.,Ryland Rivas II and Heather of Chickasha, Brandon Burnison and Michelle Mallett & CJ of Wichita Ks. And Meredith and Matt Brockman, Nichols Hills, Ok. Nine great-grandchildren: Madison, McKenzie, Emily and Samuel Rivas of Chickasha. Jordan and Heather Burnison of Frisco Tx., Garrett Burnison, Wichita Ks., Ryland David and Tennessee of Nichols Hills, Ok. Several special nieces, nephews, cousins & friends.

February 2016

Isiah “Bubba” Nicklas Moon

Moon Isiah “Bubba” Nicklas Moon age 7, of Anadarko went to his heavenly home on December 30, 2015 at OU Children’s Hospital in Oklahoma City from organ failure.

He was surrounded by family and passed away in his grandmother’s arms and with his grandfather holding his hand.

Funeral services was January 5, 2016 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Anadarko with Father Joseph officiating. Burial followed at Memory Lane Cemetery under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home.

Prayer service and rosary was January 4, 2016 at Comanche Nation Funeral Home with Pastor Debbie Wilson officiating.

Moon was born on November 30, 2008 to Lindsey Quoetone and Alex Moon in Lawton. April and May of 2009 he was hospitalized at Children’s Hospital in Oklahoma City. He was diagnosed with cerebral palsy, epilepsy, scoliosis and a heart murmur. He was legally blind and profoundly deaf. Isiah had to be fed through a tube. There was an arachnoid cyst deep in his brain.

Moon lived with his grandparents, Ron and Tianne Quoetone of Anadarko. He was hospitalized repeatedly through the years with the hospital stays becoming more frequent the last years.

When his grandparents were at work he was cared for by his nurse, Cat Marron, who provided not only medical care, but love and devotion as well. Moon returned that love whole heartedly.

Moon is preceded in death by: his mother, Lindsey and his little sister Camaira.

He is survived by: his father, Alex Moon and older sister Mary Vivian Moon, his grandparents, Ron and Tianne Quoetone, Alan and Mary Moon; grandmother, Shelley Strong and his aunts: Amanda Quoetone and Ashley Goodsky, uncle, Brent Villbrun.

13 to Lawton to design MacArthur High School.

Saupitty married the love of his life Stephanie Klinekole and they made their home in Apache for 31 years.

He worked for OIO in his early years and later served as CETA director for the Comanche Nation.

He was also director for AOA with the Apache Tribe of Oklahoma, Caddo Tribe of Oklahoma and the Ft. Sill Apache Tribe. Saupitty retired in 2015 from the Fort Sill Apache Tribe.

Saupitty was a member of the Comanche Nation of Oklahoma who proudly served two terms as the Chairman and also as the Secretary/ Treasurer of the Comanche Business Committee.

He was an avid Thunder, Sooner and Dallas Cowboys fan.

Kenneth loved his family dearly and loved spending time with them all especially his grandkids. He was deeply spiritual and loved the Lord.

Saupitty was a kind man and shared his passion for life with everyone he encountered. He never spoke a negative word about anyone. His door was always open to anyone. Saupitty really enjoyed emceeing various pow-wows throughout his life. One of his favorite pastimes was golfing in the early morning.

He is survived by: his wife, Stephanie Saupitty of the home; seven children, James Saupitty of Lawton, Ok, Timothy Saupitty of Lawton, Richard Saupitty of Indiahoma,Tracy Dean of Cache, Linda Brandvold of Belen, NM, Stephen Saupitty of Temple, two adopted children: Caleb Kosechata and Bralyn Kosechata both of Apache; three stepchildren: Michelle Scherler of Walters, Vincent Kosechata Jr. of Abilene and Riley Kosechata of Apache, two special half-brothers; Erwin Cude and wife Dawn of Yakima, Washington, Leonard Chibitty and wife Rosemary of Indiahoma and two half-sisters, 30 grandchildren and 31 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by: his grandparents; Lyon Saupitty and Nike Tenequer Saupitty and step grandfather, James Pedany CauCau “Two Dogs”, mother; Norene Saupitty and stepfather Mead Chibitty; half-sister Marlene Ulloa, daughter, Diana Saupitty Poemoceah and grandson, Oliver James Poemoceah.

Josephine Hathorn

Chairman Kenneth Laverne Saupitty

Hathorn

Saupitty Chairman Kenneth Laverne Saupitty of Apache went to his heavenly home on December 31, 2015 at his home in Apache surrounded by his loving family for his final journey home.

Saupitty was born in Lawton to Norene Saupitty on November 17, 1937. He attended Post Oak Mission School up to the eighth grade and graduated from Corn Bible Academy where he was the president of the senior class. They called him “Indian Dutch man” he was the only Native American to be class president at Corn Bible Academy. Saupitty then attended Cameron University and San Jose University in California to become a draftsman. He returned

Josephine Hathorn 89 of Denver, Colorado went to her heavenly home on January 4.

A Memorial Service was January 22, at Comanche Nation Funeral with Tina Baker officiating.

Hathorn was born on April 16, 1926 in Fletcher to Herman and Alice (Martinez) Laurenzana. She grew up and graduated from Fletcher High School. She moved to Oklahoma City and went to work for Tinker Air Force Base. Josephine moved to Dallas to work for the Bureau of Indian Affairs and moved to Colorado.

She married Frank Hathorn in Denver, Colorado when they made their home and raised their family.

Josephine was a member of the Comanche Nation of Oklahoma.

She enjoyed working, raising roses, dancing and spending quiet time at home.

She is survived by: daughter: Laura Missey of Lawton; grandchildren: Kim and Vernon Hotella of

The Comanche Nation News

Cache, Jean Garza and Mark Hotella of Anadarko, Melissa and Stan Turner of Lawton, Loretta Tate and Thomas Cook of Lawton, Kristie Cook of Denver, Colorado, Karla and Robert Missey of Cyril; two sisters: Veronica Laurenzana Sekulich of Cyril and Iverine Currier of Oklahoma City; numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by: parents: Herman and Alice Laurenzana; and brother, Rudolph Laurenzana.

Clay Hoahwah Parker Weryavah

Hoahwah Clay Hoahwah 94 of Norman went to his heavenly home on Sunday, January 10, at his home in Norman.

Graveside services with military honors was January 13, at Post Oak Cemetery in Indiahoma.

Burial will follow under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home.

Hoahwah was born in Indiahoma on January 22, 1921to Sam and Emma (Coathy) Hoahwah. He graduated from Indiahoma High School.

Hoahwah enlisted in the US Army on October 1, 1940 in Oklahoma City and was discharged in Camp Chaffee, Arkansas on May 17, 1945. He was in the 871st Engineer Aviation Battalion World War II, Asiatic-Pacific. Clay Battles include: New Guinea WD 43 GO 75 WD 43, Southern Philippines GO 80 WD 43.

Decorations include: Philippine Liberation Medal GO 23 USAFFe 45 Asiatic-Pacific Service Medal and three Bronze Stars and the American Defense Service Medal.

Hoahwah then attended Cameron University for two years and moved to Norman and attended Oklahoma University and received his Master’s Degree in Education.

He taught school at Knowles, Noble, Davis in Oklahoma. He also taught and was a boys counselor at Santa Fe Indian School, Navajo Indian Reservation at Toadlena. They moved back to Norman in 1968 and taught at Little Axe High School. He retired in 1970.

He enjoyed working on cars, reading, going to Las Vegas to visit his family.

Hoahwah is survived by: two children and spouses: Byron and Jay Hoahwah of Las Vegas, Kim Hoahwah-Taua and Gayland Taua of Norman; grandson, Tyson Samuel Hoahwah and wife, Amy of Norman; two great grandchildren Xandria Gracious Hoahwah and Tadan Clay Hoahwah of Norman, nieces, nephews other family members and friends.

He is preceded in death by: parents: Sam and Emma Hoahwah; wife, Wakeah Paddyaker Hoahwah; brothers, Abe and Edwin Hoahwah, four sisters: Linn, Norene, Lena and Faye.

Geraldine Rosella Parker Weryavah Geraldine Rosella Parker Weryavah, 95 of Lawton went to her heavenly home on January 20, in Lawton.

Funeral service was January 25, at the Comanche Community Center in Apache with Tina Baker and Rev. Freddie Ticeahkie officiating.

Burial will follow at West Cache Creek KCA Cemetery west of Apache under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home.

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

Weryavah was born September 23, 1920 in Comanche County to Len Nehio Parker and Bertie Asewaynah Fisher Parker.

She attended Ft. Sill Indian School and graduated from Chilocco Indian School. Weryavah went to Dallas to work as a nanny for several years. Weryavah married Andrew Bert Weryavah in Wichita Falls, Texas. They made their home in Apache they then moved to Lawton and raised their family.

Weryavah was a member of the Comanche Nation of Oklahoma and Hunting Horse United Methodist Church. Weryavah was a paternal granddaughter of Quanah Parker and Aerwuthtakeum and maternal granddaughter of Kachacha and Rudolph Fisher.

She enjoyed needlework, word seek puzzles, and watching T.V. She loved watching OKC Thunder, OU Sooners, Dallas Cowboys and Soap Operas.

She is survived by: four children, Phyllis White of Apache, Dana Weryavah, JoNeda Sage and Bert Weryavah all of Lawton; grandchildren: Robert, Randall, Rodney, Kellen, Bryan, Alisha, Bobby, Louie, Andrew, Ariel and Brooke; 25 greatgrandchildren; 7 great great-grandchildren; brother: Leonard Parker of Anadarko, sister in law, Maudine Saupitty, numerous other family members and friends.

She is preceded in death by: her parents; husband, Andrew Bert Weryavah; sisters: Cynthia, Vera, Iona and Esther Parker; brothers: Jerome, Harold and Franklin Parker; a paternal granddaughter of Quanah Parker and Aerwuthtakeum and maternal granddaughter of Kachacha and Rudolph Fisher.

Blackstar was born September 18, 1925, in Walters to Otto Thomas Blackstar and Rhoda Pauau Motah. He grew up in Lawton and the Mt. Scott area. Blackstar graduated from Elgin High School and later attended Dalton Business College. He joined the Air Force and was stationed at Langley Air Force Base, Va. Blackstar was a farmer, worked at Fort Sill and Town and Country Mobile Homes, and later worked for the Cotton County Sheriff’s Department. Blackstar was avid horseman and worked for several ranches. He later worked at the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority, where he retired. Blackstar was a member of the Native American Church, 1918 Chapter, where he was chairman. He married Martina Ruize on September 16, 2002, in Sutcliff, Nev. He is survived by his wife, Tina R. Blackstar, of Lawton; his sons and daughters-in-law: Oliver and Della Blackstar of Ponca City, Michael and Lydia Blackstar of Apache, Thomas Blackstar Jr., and Marie Blackstar of Lawton, and Larry and Sonya Liles of Lawton; his daughters; Dorcus Blackstar and Carmela Blackstar, both of Lawton; his step-daughter, Laura Tissychy of Lawton; his brothers and sisters-inlaw; Hammond and Sherry Motah of Carnegie, Gaylon and Melanie Motah, of Lawton, and Wallace Coffey of Lawton; his sisters and brothersin-law: Sandra and Delbert Karty, of Pumpkin Center, Ruth Toahty of Elgin, Carol and Bernard Kahrahrah of Geronimo, and Julene Guiterez of Santa Clara, N.M.; his adopted sister, Ponka-We Victors of Wichita, Kan.; 20 grandchildren; 40 great-grandchildren; and four great- great grandchildren; Kristina, Rodney and Dawn, all of Walters.

Blackstar was preceded in death by his parents, Otto Thomas Blackstar and Rhoda Pauau Motah; his stepfather, Lee Motah; his grandparents, Wahyea, Pauau, Manie; his wife Linda Blackstar; his son, Tommy Lee Blackstar; his daughter, Ann Rose Blackstar; his sisters: Oneda Blackstar Twohatchet, Venita Savrance, and Carmela Blackstar; and one brother James Lee Motah.

Phillip Hendrix Jr.

Thomas Blackstar Sr. Hendrix

Blackstar Funeral for Thomas Blackstar Sr., 90 Lawton was January 25, at the Comanche Nation Complex, Watchetaker Hall, with Comanche Nation Chairman Wallace Coffey officiating. Blackstar passed away on January 21, in Lawton, Okla.

Burial followed at Deyo Mission Cemetery under direction of Ritter Gray Funeral Home.

Prayer service was January 24 at the Comanche Nation Complex, Watchetaker Hall.

Phillip Hendrix Jr. 71 of Elgin went to his heavenly home on January 23, with his family by his side.

Funeral Service was January 27, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel with Marilyn Bread officiating. Burial was at Highland Cemetery under direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home.

Hendrix was born December 14, 1944 to Phillip Hendrix Sr. and Jane Pennah in Lawton. He graduated from Lawton High school in 1966. He served in the US Navy from February 1967 until October 1970 earning the rank of Seaman. He served in San Diego, CA. Bremerton, WA. and aboard the USS Samuel Gompers. The USS Gompers was a Destroyer Tender Repair Ship assigned to the Navy’s Sixth Fleet, Pacific Area- their duties included refuel and repair of Destroyers, Destroyer Escorts, Submarines and Aircraft Carries including the USS Missouri, a Destroyer on which Japan surrendered on board ending World War II. Continued on Page 14

February 2016

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Obituaries

Continued from Page 13

Seaman Hendrix served three deployments in the Pacific. He served as a Deck Hand, operator of 50 foot Liberty Boats and the Division Yeoman.

His Ports of call included Pearl Harbor, HI Yokosuka and Sasebo, Japan, Koahsiung, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Subic Bay, Philippines. Seaman Hendrix was awarded the Good Conduct Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, and the Vietnam Campaign Medal w/1960 Device, the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry w/Palm and the Cold War Victory Medal and the Cold War Victory Certificate of Recognition. He attended Okmulgee Technical School after the Navy. He enjoyed playing all sports and enjoyed the camaraderie of his fellow players. He worked for Lawton Indian PHS and retired after 30 years of service. He was a proud member of the Comanche Nation.

He is survived by; his wife Deborah of the home, children; Angie Revell and husband Drift’n of Lawton, Charlene Wallace of Gallup, NM, Phillip Hendrix III of the home, and David Hendrix of Lawton. Stepsons; Quentin Roberts of Tulsa and Michael Roberts of Guthrie. Grandchildren; Kota and Kalea

The Comanche Nation News

Revell of Lawton, Jordan Roberts of Tulsa, Gabby and Katy Roberts of Tulsa and Isiah Hendrix of Kentucky. Sister; Sandra (Hendrix) Shico of Lawton, Brother Charles Wells Jr. and wife Joyce of Anadarko and Carl Sands of Lawton also many numerous nieces, nephews and other family and friends.

He is preceded in death by; his parents, his sisters; Foamy Hendrix, Anita Campbell and Rowena Tselee. Brothers; Vernell Pennah and Lavern Pennah, and nephew Kevin Hendrix.

Stapp

Rodney Stapp, D.P.M. Rodney Stapp, D.P.M. March 16, 1961 – January 21, 2016 Dr. Rodney Stapp was born in Frederick, OK to William & Ilena Stapp on March 16, 1961 and passed away on January 21, 2016. He lived a life of love and service, dedicated to care for his family, friends, and Native American community.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at the Comanche Nation Funeral Home on 2701 SW J Ave, on Saturday, January 30, 2016 at 11 a.m. with Tina Baker officiating.

Stapp met and married his

one love, Lauri in Corpus Christi, Texas. Together for 35 love-filled years, they lived in several states, traveled extensively, and provided true hearts and a home for many rescued animals.

Stapp is survived by his wife Lauri and his brother Michael Alva Stapp of Carrollton, Texas.

Rod is also survived by his sisterin-law Jeri Hall and husband, Michael; brother-in-law Jim O’Bryant and wife Denise; sister-in-law Patti Hancock and husband Scott; brotherin-law Richard O’Bryant; niece Jennifer Hancock Cashman and husband Lucas; nieces Kristie White, Shannon

Degge and husband Brad, grandniece Reagan White, and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Dr. Stapp is an enrolled member of the Comanche Nation Tribe of Oklahoma, a Podiatrist, and served as the Chief Executive Officer of the Urban Inter-Tribal Center of Texas, a non-profit corporation serving the health and socio-economic needs of Native Americans. Dr. Stapp began his career working for AT&T for nine years in the telecommunications industry. He attended Georgia State University in Atlanta, Georgia and medical school at New York College of Podiatric Medicine, graduating with a degree as Doctor of Podiatric Medicine. He worked at the Urban Inter-Tribal Center of Texas, starting as a volunteer doctor, then Clinic Director, Executive Director, and for the last fourteen years as Chief Executive Officer.

Dr. Stapp served as committee member and advisor for a number of projects including: Indian Health Services Workgroups and Committees; consulting Podiatrist with NIKE on the NIKE Air Native N7 shoe; Advisor to National Council of Urban Indian Health; Directors Council Member on AIDS Out-Reach Network 2000-04; Co-Chairman Texas American Indian Information Re-

source Network (OMH) 2000-04; founding member and on the Board of Trustees for the DFW Native American Chamber of Commerce.

Federal appointments for: Department of Health and Human Services IHS Health, Promotion & Disease Prevention Policy Advisory Council; Department of Labor Native American Employment and Training Advisory Council; Comanche Nation of Oklahoma Podiatrist for Diabetes Program; Caddo Nation of Oklahoma Podiatrist for Diabetes Program.

Dr. Stapp received numerous awards for his work in the Native American Community, including recently, a Lifetime Humanitarian Award presented by the Memnosyne Institute at the United Nations in NYC. Memorials may be made in support of the Dr. Rodney Stapp Scholarship Fund for Native American Education. An account will be set up at North Dallas Bank branch location in Frisco, Texas (972) 701-2803.

DIVORCE? WRITS? WILLS/CODICILS? ATTESTATIONS? Packets/citations typed and prepared for Native Americans for issuance through BIA Court of Indian Offenses.

(Additional BIA filing fees due at time of documentation).

REASONABLE PREP FEES Contact: Jewell Tieyah (580) 678-2052 or (580) 492-5455

Mark 10:27

Translated to the Comanche Language

“And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible.”

“ Jesus-se’ urii vunihkatü, me yühkwi: Tenanüü tsa’ke u mahpü’awaitüü.

Ke u’ God-ma’ai sunihtü; piarüahatsa God-ha noo hihina oyo’ko pü suanihku mahpüa’eku.”

-From the Book Mark-ha Tsaatu Narumu’ipu (The Gospel of Mark in Comanche and English Copyright 1958

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February 2016

15

The Comanche Nation News

Highlights from the Comanche County Basketball Tournament held in Lawton, Okla.

Congratulations to the 2016 Comanche County Tournament Champions; Elgin boys beat Cache 60 to 37. Cache girls beat Elgin 45-37. Both teams played very outstanding, and had all fans squirming in their seats.

February 2016

16

The Comanche Nation News

2016 Comanche County Basketball Tournament Champions Congratulations to the

Cache High School Girls Basketball team.

Cache girls defeated Elgin 45 to 37.

Congratulations to the

Elgin High School Boys Basketball team.

Elgin boys defeated Cache 60 to 37.