VOLUME 15 EDITION 4
Lawton, OK
Elgin/Fletcher Area Parents to form Education Committee
Health Care Coverage Clarified Submitted by Asa Attocknie/Lawton USPHS Health Board
By Jolene Schonchin/News Staff
Parents from the Elgin/ Fletcher, Okla. area will meet April 17 to begin the process of forming a Indian Education Parent Committee (IEC). “As you may or may not know, the Johnson O’Malley (JOM) contract was retroceded to the Bureau of Indian Education. However, parents have shown an interest in forming an Indian Education Committee for contracting the JOM Program,” stated in a letter to area parents. “The proposed program contract would be comprised to Cement, Elgin, and Fletcher School Districts.” The meeting will be held at 6 p.m. at the Elgin Fine Arts Center. All parents in the three school districts are urged to attend. For more information, contact Mia Tahdooahnippah, (580) 595-1741, Kari Pebeahsy, (580) 9195146, or Melissa Roberts (580) 5121055.
Anadarko Area Voting Site Changes Location to Tribal Outreach Center Submitted by Comanche Nation Election Board Staff
The Comanche Nation Election Board wants the Anadarko Area voters to be advised that the polling site for Anadarko will now be the Anadarko Outreach Center, located at 117 SW 2nd St., Anadarko, Oklahoma 73005. For questions or additional information, contact the Election Board office, (580) 492-3272.
Comanche Nation College Offers Comanche Language and other Cultural Classes Submitted by Comanche Nation College Staff
The Comanche Nation College has released the 2014 Summer Class Schedule. Classes will begin on May 29- July 24 for 8 week courses and June 1st-June 27 for the 4 week courses. The following classes will be offered: 8 Week Course Federal Gov.. - (T, R) 9 a.m.. to 11:30 a.m.. Kiowa Language I- (M,W) 5 p.m.. to 7:30 p.m.. Comanche Language and Hymns(M,T,W,R) 5:30 p.m.. to 6:45 p.m.. 4 Week Course Comanche Language IV- (M,T,W,R) 1 p.m.. to 3:30 p.m.. Other Classes such as US History, Intermediate Algebra, and Sociology are also being offered. All interested students can apply online at www.cnc.cc.ok.us or call Phyllis Narcomey, Student Services Coordinator, (580) 591-0203 Ext.. 127.
April 2014
Photo by Paula Karty/News Staff
Pictured from left to right; Back row: Brandon Smith; Director of WIA, Tiffany McIntosh, Mable Tahsequah. Cicely Serna, Jerry Webb. Front Row: Melanie E.D. of Center, Asia Greybull, Selena Nimsey, Casey Conran, Teresa Mowatt, David Cox, Joetta Sommers.
Specialized Nursing Class Graduates Eight for Elder Care Tribal Programs Unite to Train Comanche Students for Elder Assistant Living Home By Jolene Schonchin/News Staff
“If there is a Will…There is a “It was a win-win situation,” said Webb. “Both parties had Way” That was the motto that describes the process which graduated eight Comanche tribal members from the Great Plains Vo-Tech to work in Area Assistant Living Homes for Elders, and will eventually lead to taking care of elders at the upcoming Comanche Nation Assistant Living Center. The Workforce Investment Act Office (WIA) steer headed the project with the goal of training tribal members to work in the tribe’s assistant living center. “With the tribe’s resolution of Comanche Tribal Members having a hiring preference at tribal businesses and programs, we did not have a large pool to choose from when it came to hiring Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA),” said Tina Emholooah, the Coordinator for the Program. “We needed to train Comanche’s to fill these positions, which would change their economic stability in their household.” WIA staff scrolled through applicants who had a medical or law enforcement backgrounds and similar to participate in the class. Working with the Great Plains Area Vo-Tech in Lawton, Okla., a private class was created for this unique group. Jerry Webb of the vo-tech, said the class was highly successful.
the same goal in mind: to create jobs for the students. The class was very motivated.” Other tribal programs helped prepare the class for their journey into becoming a CNA. The Prevention and Recovery Program conducted the background check, which is one of the requirements. Kendall Washburn of the Lawton Indian Hospital conducted the immunizations for each student, which is another requirement, and the CHR Department made sure the class was CPR Trained. Both the Higher Education Department and WIA split the cost of the class. The 21-day class was made up of mostly Comanche tribal members, and because it is mandated through the Department of Labor WIA extends its services to all Natives in its service area, the class included students from the Caddo Nation, Kiowa Nation, and Sioux Nation. Upon the first day of class, a Cedar Blessing was conducted in the classroom by tribal elder, Glen Heminokeky. Both the students and the classroom were blessed to have positive outcomes for each of the students. Other students and facility of the vo-tech were surprised to smell the aroma of cedar among the hallways.
“The Cedar Blessing was very interesting,” said Webb. “It set the fire alarms off, but the school was aware of the event, and supported it.” Also included in the class package were job opportunities for the graduating class. Because the Comanche Nation Assistant Living Center is not completed, Monte Vista Assistant Living Center, requested to hire the entire class, and gave each student a gift bag as a token of their hospitality. When the tribe’s assistant living center opens, the students will have a first-hand opportunity to take care of tribal elders, which is the intention of the class. “For 21-days of training, the certificate the students earned changed the course of their job opportunities available to them, which will help economically in each of their households.” Donna Wade, Executive Director for Comanche County Memorial Hospital Human Resource Dept. has signed a contract with WIA as a work site. In addition Monte Vista has also signed a contract as a work site. A second class is forming to train tribal members to be CNAs beginning in May. For more information, contact the WIA Office at (580) 4923257.
Beginning with the 2014 Federal Income Tax filing year, the Affordable Care Act or ACA will require those without healthcare coverage to pay an additional fee known as the shared responsibility payment. This individual mandate or penalty will increase every year you do not have healthcare coverage. In 2014 the fee will be 1% of income or $95 per adult, whichever is higher. The fee for children is half the adult amount. In order to be exempt from this penalty, American Indians/Alaskan Natives have the option of completing and mailing the Exemption application to the Health Insurance Marketplace along with tribal membership documentation or documentation stating the patient is eligible to receive health care from Indian Health Services or Urban Indian Healthcare Provider. If you are a member of a federally recognized tribe you may present your enrollment card during the time you file taxes. Once you receive this Exemption Certificate Number you will apply it to your federal income tax return starting with your 2014 taxes filed in 2015. If an adult is not required to file Federal Income Taxes, it is not necessary for that person to apply for an Exemption. Consult the Internal Revenue Service or go online to www.irs.gov for the criteria to not have to file taxes. The Affordable Care Act does not change your eligibility to receive healthcare through the Indian Health Service, or Tribal/Urban Indian Health Programs. AI/ANs who enroll in a health plan or SoonerCare can continue to receive services from an IHS facility the same way they do now. Each Indian Health Facility has at least one ACA Certified Application Counselor on staff to answer questions or assist in completing an application. You may also call the Health Insurance Marketplace Call Center at 1-800-318-2596 or visit www.HealthCare.gov for more information.
Easter “Hoppin”ings April 12 30th Annual Comanche Nation Easter Egg Hunt and Activities. 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. at the Comanche Nation Complex April 13 Easter Service 10 a.m. Madesche Playground, Comanche Nation Complex. Egg hunt and hotdog roast to follow. April 16 Comanche Nation Elder Center Easter Dinner and Activities. Noon at 1107 SW H Ave., Lawton. April 12 & 19 Easter Pageant at the Holy City of the Wichitas 8:30 p.m.-11 p.m. Wichita Mountain Wildlife Refuge
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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 May edition is noon April 15. Donations to help cover the cost of printing and mailing are welcome. Contact: The Comanche Nation News P.O. Box 908 Lawton, Okla. 73502-0908 Telephone: (580) 492-3386 Fax: (580) 492-3709 Email: comanche_news@yahoo.com •
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TCNN Staff Jolene Schonchin, Editor, Reporter, Photographer-Email: tcnneditor@ yahoo.com-Telephone Number-(580)492-3382 Paula Karty, Assis. Editor, Reporter, Photographer- Email: kartynews@ yahoo.com Telephone Number-(580)492-3383 Stacey Heminokeky, Reporter/ Photographer- Email: heminokekynews@yahoo.com Candace Todd, Administrative Assistant-Telephone Number (580)492-3386 News items of interest to the local and American Indian community are welcome. Photographs will be copied and will become the property of TCNN. To return original photographs, send a self-addressed stamped envelope. Do not send faxed photographs or newspaper copies of photographs. The Milestones Page (Birthdays, Anniversaries, Engagements,Memorial Pictures, Weddings, Births) are by submission only. The Passings are submitted by the Comanche Nation Funeral Home or by tribal members on a funeral home letterhead. The Milestones Page is for tribal members only. TCNN publishes all services conducted by The Comanche Nation Funeral Home without discretion. Obituaries are written for tribal members only. TCNN will print a Comanche organization’s annual event flyer once free of charge as a courtesy to our tribal organizations. The guidelines for flyer submission are: Pow-wow flyers have to be from an established Comanche organization. There has to be contact person and number on the organization’s annual flyer. We reserve the right to edit all material. Letters or articles that contain libelous information, slander, or personal attacks will not be printed. Letters to the Editor must be signed with a legible name. The letters to the editor or articles contained in the The Comanche Nation News does not reflect the views or opinions of the PIO staff.
Comanche Nation Officials
Chairman Wallace Coffey Vice Chairman Mike Mack Mahsetky Secretary/Treasurer Gary Tahmahkera Committeeman No. 1 Jonathan Poahway Committeeman No. 2 Sonya Nevaquaya Committeeman No. 3 Harry Mithlo Committeeman No. 4 Jack Codopony Sr. Tribal Administrator William Owens To contact officials: Comanche Nation P.O. Box 908 Lawton, Okla. 73502 Toll Free: (877) 492-4988 Physical Address 584 Bingo Rd. Lawton, OK 73505
Member of the Native American Journalist Association since 2001
Member of the Society of Professional Journalists since 2010
The Comanche Nation News
Herrera To Run For Tribal Administrator Position at April 19 General Council Meeting
Resolutions on Language Preservation Grants Approved at March CBC Meeting By Jolene Schonchin/News Staff
Editor’s Note: This is an overview of the March 1 Comanche Business Committee Meeting and not the official minutes or full coverage of the meeting. To obtain a copy of the official meeting minutes, contact the Office of the Comanche Nation Chairman, (580) 492-3250 or go to the Comanche Nation Website: www.comanchenation.com Resolutions 28-14 Grant application for Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Native American Social and Economic Development. CBC No. 4, Jack Codopony, makes a motion to accept the resolution. CBC No. 3, Harry Mithlo, seconds the motion. Motion carries 5/0/1. 29-14 Grant Application Department of Health and Human Services Native American Language Preservation and Maintenance Esther Martinez. Codopony makes a motion to accept the resolution. CBC No. 1, Jonathan Poahway, seconds the motion. Motion carries 5/0/1. 30-14 Grant Application Department of Health and Human Services Native American Language Preser-
vation and Maintenance Grant. Vice Chairman Mack Mahsetky makes a motion to accept the resolution. Secretary Treasurer Gary Tahmahkera seconds the motion. Motion carries 5/0/1. Old/New Business Members of the Comanche Little Ponies Organization asked for monetary support for its annual Mothers Day Powwow and asked to be on the FY 2014-2015 budget Tribal member Jarvis Poahway also asked if Comanche War Scouts can also be added to the FY 2014-2015 budget. Sandra Toyaquoyah and a representative for Michael Figgins made a presentation for the Legal Aid services. CBC Poahway began a discussion about nepotism within CBC family members working for the Comanche Nation. Executive Session Lunch was served and the CBC went into Executive Session around 1:00 p.m.
April 19 Annual Comanche Nation GENERAL COUNCIL MEETING 1:30 p.m. (if Quorum is Established) Watchetaker Hall, Comanche Nation Complex For More Information contact Office of the Comanche Nation Chairman (580) 492-3251 or Office of the CBC (580) 492-3252
Herrera EDITOR’S NOTE: This article was submitted to the PIO Office for informational purposes, and does not reflect the opinion or views of any of the Comanche Nation PIO Staff. Any tribal member who is seeking a position within the Comanche Business Committee, Tribal Administrator, or Election Board may submit their information to run in the Comanche Nation News. See Page 2 for Guidelines. Baliente Herrera is a Graduate of Cameron University, with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration (Specialization in Finance). He understands the needs and challenges of the daily life and the desire to self-improve. He feels it is very important to build a solid foundation and infrastructure in our Tribal Programs and Government so that we as leaders can better help our people meet there goals and needs in any way possible. His main focus is to make each program more efficient and to put in place a plan that will allow each program to serve the people in a more productive way. This plan will take hard work and the willingness to lead by example, this means being at work every day and setting the standards in the work place. He has a very discipline work ethic which he can contribute to his military service. He also believes that each program and all employees should be treated fairly and with the highest standards of professionalism.
In today’s competitive work environment it is essential for tribal members and employees to have a chance to further their education and this will be an implementation program especially for current employees wanting to take advantage of such an opportunity. “I would encourage all tribal members to make plans to attend General Counsel April 19, to vote for me as Tribal Administrator,” said Herrera. • He is from Cache, Oklahoma and the son of Glenna Niedo, grandson of Wilma Chibitty and great grandson of John and Dana Chibitty. • He graduated from Cache High School on May 1994, attended Haskell Indian Nations University from August 1994-1996. • Graduated from Cameron University December 2012 with Bachelors of Business Administration with a Specialization in Finance. Currently in the MBA program at Cameron University. • Joined the U.S. Army 19972005. Served in Operation Iraqi Freedom 2003-2004. • Served as a Government Contractor from 2006-2007 in Baghdad, Iraq (Green Zone) over logistical supply and procurement Supervisor. • Currently Baliente is employed with the Comanche Nation College as a property and procurement coordinator. • Active member of the C.I.V.A. (Comanche Indians Veterans Association)
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The Comanche Nation News
Winners Selected for Election Board’s Voter Awareness Poster Contest
1st Place ~ Richard Parker, Sr.
2nd Place ~ David Wahkinney, Sr.
3rd Place ~ Olivia Komahcheet
upcoming election dates • General Council, Saturday, April 19, 2014; • Early/In-House Voting, Thursday, May 15 & Friday, May 16, 2014; • General Election, Saturday, May 17, 2014; • Early/In-House Voting for Run-Off Election (if needed), Thursday, June 12 & Friday, June 13, 2014; • Run-Off Election (if needed), Saturday, June 14, 2014. Positions open on CBC: Secretary/Treasurer; Committeeman No. 3 and Committeeman No. 4. Positions open on Election Board: Apache (1), Cache (2), Lawton (1), Oklahoma City (1) and Walters (1). The Election Board is honored to serve the Comanche People and encourages all eligible tribal members to exercise their right to vote in the upcoming election.
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The Comanche Nation News
Tribal Programs Missions Statements and Proposed Budget for FY 2015 Bereavement Assistance $300,000 Mission- Providing Bereavement to family members. Child Support Services $106,000 Mission- Promoting responsible parenting so that each child has the opportunity for self-sufficiency and self-respect that honors family, community and cultural traditions. Comanche Indian Veterans Association $ 40,000 Mission-Provide Military honors at various Comanche Nation Events such as Armed Forces Day, Memorial Day, and Veterans Day. Provide military honors for funeral services, maintenance of Honor Court and flags. Comanche Language and Cultural Preservation $30,000 Mission- To preserve and promote the Comanche Language through educational and developmental programs. Elder Center $257,360 Mission- To provide meals, information, and activities for the elders as well as to home bound elders. Tribal Employment Rights Office - $75,000 Mission- To help improve the quality of life for Comanche Nation members and other Native American families through the development and assertion of Native American Preference laws and the contracting rights of preferential employment, training, business and economic opportunities on or near the Comanche Nation jurisdictional service area. Tombstone Project- $20,000 Mission to identify unidentified Comanche tribal graves and place markers on the gravesite. Capital Improvements $2,067,000 Mission - Constructing new facilities and improving existing tribal properties to better serve Comanche tribal members. CHR- $122,360 CN Fair $194,000 Mission- To enhance social and cultural activities that will reflect our heritage. Environmental Programs $322,360 Mission- To preserve, protect, and maintain our tribal property and lands. Firefighters $222,360 Mission- The fire crew is to provide a work force available for fire protection and suppression, and assisting with natural disaster relief. Fitness Center $402,000 Mission- To enhance the quality of life for the Comanche Nation Members we serve through our fitness philosophy, facilities, programs and to instill in the lives of people everywhere the value of health, wellness, and fitness. Burial Assistance $500,000 Mission-To help defray burial costs associated with tribal members burial services. Gravel – Tinhorns for Tribal Driveways $213,215.01 Mission- To replace or repair tinhorns and supply gravel to tribal member’s residence. Land Acquisitions $1,067,000 Mission- To acquire lands and keep them in trust for tribal purposes. Museum and Cultural Center $1,167,000 Mission- To operate, for public benefit, a museum and cultural center focusing on history, culture, arts, and related subject areas concerning Comanche Indian people. Realty Management $719,000 Mission-To maintain tribal land documents, work to place trust free land into trust, assure land purchases are properly completed, and that tribal lands are properly managed. Tourism Center $142,000 Mission-To share, display, inform, and educate both native and non-native people on the history of the Comanche people, as well as to share the vision of the future of the Comanche people. Transit Program $842,000 Mission-To provide bus or van transportation in our local service areas. Transportation $240,000 Mission- To improve roadways and bridges. Workforce Investment Agency $1,317,000 Mission- To provide Tribal members with the skills necessary for employment. Children’s Court $270,000 Mission- To protect and serve Comanche Tribal customs, preserve and strengthen the family unit, by acting in the best interest of our tribal children. Elections $300,000 Mission-Conduct elections and provide election materials and services to Comanche tribal members. Emergency Management Assistance $90,000 // Emergency Management Office $70,000 Mission-Prepare for emergencies in the Tribal Nation for natural or man-made disasters such as fire, flood, or storm. Enrollment $252,360 Mission –Ensures that the tribal roll is current, updated, and adheres to the Comanche Nation Constitution. Info Technology- Complex $500,000 Mission- While keeping the highest level of confidentiality, the Comanche Nation Information Technology department provides cost effective telecommunications and technology solutions to the Tribal Government. It is our goal to provide and maintain a reliable and secure network to assist the tribal departments in fulfillment of their mission. Law Enforcement $2,000,000 Mission- Protecting and patrolling tribal assets and Trust Lands. Legal Fees $500,000 Mission- To provide legal advice to the Nation and handle possible or active litigation. Matching Grants $50,000 Mission- Provide grant writing and dollar matches as grant opportunities arise. Public Information Office $370,000 Mission- We are dedicated to the belief that a strong tribal newspaper and media communications are essential to a strong tribe. By encouraging community service among our PIO staff, we recognize that the more we are involved with the community, the better we will be able to understand and serve it by utilizing the many ways of delivering information to the tribal members and public. through all forms of media technology Caregivers $252,360 Mission-To ensure that Comanche elders are taken care of by a family member. CN College includes Nursing Program and Language Archival $2,272,360 Mission-To provide educational opportunities to Comanche tribal members, and others to learn at a two year college the necessary knowledge and skills including technical to be successful. Comanche Cemetery Improvement $52,360 Mission-To maintain tribal cemeteries. Community Center- Apache $52,360 Mission- Provide a place for community activities. Community Center- Cache $52,360 Mission- Provide a place for community activities. Community Center Walters $52,360 Mission- Provide a place for community activities. Diabetes $222,360 Mission- To promote healthy lifestyles for the prevention and control of diabetes for tribal members through diet, exercise, and diabetes self care management. Early Childhood Development Center $567,000 Mission-The Comanche Nation Child Care Center and Numunu Turetu Early Childhood Development Center are here to provide quality services through partnerships with families, providers, and the community while nurturing the development of the whole child and supporting cultural and family values. Child Care Subsistence Program/ Special Needs $222,360 Mission- The program is to encourage employment and education among our tribal members, provide a safe child care environment for our Comanche children, and to provide a rewarding program to families that wish to work and further their education. This program is designed to promote stronger family environments that will include requirements such as: Comanche language classes, relationship building classes, community service and more. The program will assist with child care expenses for ages newborn to Kindergarten, school age children that need before and after school care and child care during summer months. Program goals will be strengthening family relationship skills and youth development. Elder Council $97,360 Mission- To keep the elderly informed of tribal programs and services as well as supporting tribal culture, traditions, history, and language. Family Services (Formerly Indian Child Welfare) $292,360 Mission- To protect and maintain the integrity of Comanche families, provide crisis intervention services, court intervention, and promote family preservation through reunification when possible. To protect Indian children from losing their cultural identity and being separated from their tribe. Higher Education $1,922,297.52 Mission- Provide grants to eligible Comanche students to attend post-secondary institutions/colleges and universities to pursue a bachelors, two year or advanced degrees. Home Improvement $1,344,360 Mission- To assist tribal members with necessary home improvements such as making their homes handicap accessible. Hope House/ Family Violence Prevention $134,360 Mission- To educate, empower and advocate for American Indians to strive to protect their families and communities from crimes of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking and to provide a safe haven to victims and their children in a culturally sensitive environment.
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The Comanche Nation News
Housing Authority- $537,000 Education-Elementary/ Secondary Program $122,360 Mission- to evaluate the establishment of an elementary/secondary student program. Injury Prevention $142,360 Mission-To increase awareness of safety to the general public through modification of the environment by demonstration, educational awareness, presentations that promote behavioral changes and to reduce the unintentional injuries caused by falls, fires, traffic, and the environment. Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act $117,360 Mission-To protect Native American graves from destruction by construction or other forces and to repatriate cultural items. New Pathways $112,360 Mission- To provide halfway house services for the prevention and treatment of alcoholism for the Native American population residing within the Lawton, Oklahoma service area. Nursing Home/ Assisted living Facility $1,561,537.52 Mission-Continue efforts to establish an assisted living facility. Optometry Clinic $489,000 Mission- To provide the highest quality of life for our Comanche Nation Tribal members in the years to come through a better vision. We keep overall patient wellness and understanding as first priorities in everything we do. We strive to provide the best quality of vision and eye health care with friendly, compassionate, & helpful staff. Outreach Center Anadarko $104,360 Mission- To act as a liaison between tribal members and program directors. Outreach Center Dallas TX $122,360 Mission- To act as a liaison between tribal members and program directors. Outreach Center OK. City $102,360 Mission-To act as a liaison between tribal members and program directors. Prescription Assistance $712,360 Mission- to provide as available assistance with medications and certain medical supplies to help defer the costs for tribal members. Prevention and Recovery Center $172,360 Mission- To encourage and assist Native Americans of all ages to lead a life free from dependence of alcohol, tobacco, illegal drugs and/or any selfdestructive behavior that is detrimental to one’s personal happiness and professional success. Reintegration Program $129,360 Mission- To reintegrate recently incarcerated individuals into mainstream society. Shoshone Reunion $72,360 Mission- To host the annual Shoshone Reunion at Comanche Nation Headquarters. Social Services Emergency Assistance $722,360 Mission- To assist and counsel tribal members with emergency needs. Student Services (K-12) $422,360 Mission- To assist with the basic school need of enrolled Comanche children in grades K-12 nationwide. Tribal Court- $40,000 Tribal Historic Preservation Program $252,360 Mission- To preserve historic and sacred landmarks of the Comanche Nation. Waterpark $467,000 Youth Program $552,360 Mission-Educating Comanche youth through multiple actions or activities to be accountable, responsible, taking pride in traditional Comanche culture and becoming successful in life. Youth Shelter $522,360 Mission-To provide a secure, stable environment for our children while they are in our care. Promote and encourage their hopes and dreams so that they will know that there is always a place that they can be safe from whatever brought them to us. Allow children to be who they are in their culture.
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The Comanche Nation News
April 2014
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The Comanche Nation News
Programs Comanche Nation Higher Education Annual Graduation Banquet The 25th annual Comanche Nation Higher Education Graduation Banquet will be held on Friday, May 23, from 6 p.m.-9 p.m., at Cameron University’s McCasland Centennial Complex – Ballroom. Graduates of the following programs are to be honored: High School/GED, Job Placement & Training, Associates of Applied Science Degree, and Undergraduate/Graduate Degrees. Graduates, please submit a photograph of yourself, along with your name, to the Comanche Nation Higher Education office. These can also be mailed, or E-mailed to Christian Boos, christianb@comanchenation.com, or Aubrey Mithlo, amithlo@comanchenation.com. The mailing address is: Comanche Nation Higher Education PO Box 908 Lawton, OK 73502 Any questions can be directed to the Higher Education office at (580)492-3363.
Chair Exercises Offered in Lawton and Walters
BLESSING AND HYMNS. The student Government Association of the Comanche Nation College sponsored a night of Comanche Hymn Singing. The event was held on March 13 at the Comanche Nation College. A light meal was served at 5:30 p.m. The meal was then followed by a College Blessing and Healing Ceremony done by Gene Sovo. The blessing ceremony was scheduled from 6:00 to 6:30 p.m. A prayer was also given by Jerome Tahhahwah. The hymn singing was started by Guy Narcomey. All hymn singers were invited. The evening was successful, with a great turn out. ABOVE: The crowd sings together during Hymn Singing. RIGHT: Gene Sovo does the College Blessing and Healing Ceremony.
Elder Center Bingo Set for April
Wanted Kids of all ages For Earth Day Event Bring Your #2 PLASTICS!
Prize
The Comanche Nation Elder Center will have bingos after lunch on April 8 and April 22. All participants are asked to bring prizes or pay $5. There will be a total of 10 games. Free Refreshments during the bingo. For more information contact The Comanche Nation Elder Center at (580) 355-2330.
PLAY STATION 4!!!
For more information call the Comanche Nation office of Environmental Programs Date: 04/16/14 Time: 9:00AM
Office # (580) 492-3754
The Comanche Nation Diabetes Program will offer Chair Exercises in two locations this spring. The first location is at the Comanche Nation Community Center in Walters, Okla. Health Screenings will take place 10 a.m.-noon April 1 at the center. Classes will be held 11 a.m.-noon every Tuesday and Thursday throughout the month of April. The second location will be at the Comanche Nation Elder Nutrition Center, 1107 SW H Ave., Lawton. Health Screenings will take place 10 a.m.-noon April 2. Classes will be held 11 a.m.-noon every Tuesday and Thursday throughout the month of April. For more information, call the Comanche Nation Diabetes Program, (580) 699-3736.
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Military Submitted by: Lanny Asepermy
TAHSEQUAH MEMORIAL UNVEILED
The Comanche Nation News
CIVA RECOGNIZE NAVY WIDOW, FATHER AND DAUGHTER AND THE SON OF A CODE TALKER DESCENDENTS On February 13, the Comanche Indian Veterans Association (C.I.V.A.) recognized Auxiliary member Lucinda Pueblo and Associate members Flavio and Cecilia Noriega for their service and support of the C.I.V.A.. A framed photo with a bio and images of WWII Code Talker Willis Yackeschi was presented to Jordon “Rocky” Yackeschi, along with Honorable, Combat Service and Numu Wounded Warrior medallions.
Retired US Army Sergeant First Class Flavio Noriega and his daughter US Navy Aviation Structural Mechanic (Air Warfare Specialist) 1st Class Cecilia Noriega were also recognized as Associate members of the C.I.V.A.. SFC Noriega has been an active member with the C.I.V.A. since March 2013 and AM1 Noriega since July 2013. Both expressed “their gratitude for the opportunity for continuance of their military service”.
1LT Kristopher K. Wermy
C.I.V.A. Secretary, Beaver Takawana,
On March 6, the Comanche Indian Veterans Association (C.I.V.A.) unveiled a memorial in honor and memory of Lt Col Meech Tahsequah, a World War II and Korean War veteran who was declared dead while missing in action on February 28, 1954. Tahsequah was born on October 27, 1918 in Cotton County to Charley Komah and Mable Sapcut. He enlisted in the Army Air Corps on July 14, 1941 and eventually become a B-26 Liberator Bomber pilot. In Europe, during World War II, he flew 31 combat missions with over 300 combat hours. On December 5, 1950 Tahsequah was a passenger aboard a B-26B Invader Bomber when it ran out of fuel and crashed in the vicinity of Susa, North Korea. According to the pilot the crew bailed out before the crash. It was thought, at one time, Tahsequah was a Prisoner of War as North Korean propaganda mentioned his name. He is one of 13 Comanches who have died as a result of war since June 6, 1944. According to “Together We Served” Tahsequah was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross twice, the Purple Heart three times and the Air Medal plus numerous other World War II and Korean War service medals. He has one surviving daughter, Paula Neubauer who lives in Comfort, TX. The Memorial is located between the 50’ American and Comanche Nation flagpoles in front of the Nation HQ’s. The POW/MIA flag will also become a permanent fixture below the US Flag with hopes his remains will eventually be returned to Comanche Country.
Ms Pueblo is the widow of the late Radar man 2nd Class Willis Pueblo who served in the US Navy from 1955-59. RD2 Pueblo passed away on September 11, 2013 and his final resting place is the Post Oak Cemetery in Indiahoma. Pueblo is the daughter of the late Vernon Perdasofphy and Myrtle Berry. She is enrolled Comanche and also of Kiowa and Apache descent. Pueblo grew up in the Fort Cobb and Faxon areas and graduated from Riverside Indian School in 1968. She has been employed at Fort Sill Indian School as a cook, with Parkview Manor in Walters as a Nurse’s Aide, with the Walters Ambulance Service as a First Responder, with Vision Quest in Faxon as a cook and the Comanche Red River Casino as a cook and Supervisor. After the C.I.V.A. Funeral Detail conducted military honors for her late husband Pueblo said, “I didn’t realize all the things the C.I.V.A. do for our veterans and their families and I want to be an active member of the organization and support them with what they do.” Pueblo has been an active member with the C.I.V.A. since her husband’s funeral.
WORLD WAR II VETERAN AT VA FACILITY IN LAWTON
F. Noriega, J. Gallegos, L. Henderson, G. Red Elk, J. Caddo and Mr. Cable On March 13, C.I.V.A. Commander George Red Elk, Chaplain Jimmy Caddo, Color Guard Coordinator Jose Gallegos, Historian Lanny Asepermy Quartermaster Flavio Noriega and the most decorated Comanche veteran, Lonnie Henderson visited Vernon Cable at the Lawton/Fort Sill VA Medical Center at 501 Flower Mound Road. 90 year-old Cable served in the US Army from 1943-46 and is one of only ten living Comanche World War II veterans (217 Comanches served during World War II from 1941-45). Cable served in the Pacific mostly in the Solomon and surrounding islands with the 3177th Engineer Pipeline Detachment providing fuel to the US ground and Air Forces. He served again from 1948-52 and was a Medical Tech with the 8055th MASH in Korea.
The facility was “state of the art” with excellent medical care, large rooms, plenty of recreation for those able (Cable plays a lot of pool), a large dining hall with good food, etc. The visit was enlightening as Cable talked about his military service, his family, his church and his activities. When Mr. Red Elk presented him with a C.I.V.A. T-shirt Cable immediately took off his shirt and put the T-shirt on as well as a Comanche Veterans cap – truly a proud Warrior. Cable and Mr. Caddo talked “Comanche” for a short while which made all present feel good hearing our language. The almost hour-long visit was closed with a blessing from Caddo, Red Elk, Gallegos and Henderson – some powerful prayers were said. Of course with Cable’s wonderful personality everyone felt good when we left.
Lucinda Pueblo with Service Shawl
Flavio Noriega
Cecilia Noriega SFC Noriega served from 1974-95. He completed his Basic and Advanced Individual Training (as an Infantryman) at Fort Polk, LA and his Basic Airborne School at Fort Benning, GA. SFC Noriega has served with the 2nd Infantry Division, the 82nd Airborne Division, a Detachment of the 7th Special Forces Group and the US Army Field Artillery and Infantry Training Centers. His duty stations include Fort Benning 4 times; Fort Sill; Camp Howze, Korea; Fort Sherman, Panama; Honduras and Ontario, Canada. SFC Noriega’s has served as a Rifleman, Squad Leader, Platoon Sergeant, Team Leader, Senior Drill Sergeant, Interpreter and Instructor. He graduated from the US Army Airborne, the Canadian Infantry Airborne, Recondo, Jungle Warfare, Path Finder and Drill Sergeant Schools. His awards include the 4 Army Commendation, 4 Army Achievement, 6 Army Good Conduct and 2 National Defense Service Medals, the NCO Professional Development with/Number 3, the Overseas and Army Service Ribbons, the Basic, Master and Canadian Parachutists Wings, the Drill Sergeant Identification, Imjin Scout, Recondo, Path Finder and Expert Qualification with/Rifle Bar Badges and Jungle Expert Patch. He is currently the Quartermaster of the C.I.V.A. and his wife, Mison, is a member of the Auxiliary. AM1 (AW) Noriega served from 1999-13. She completed her Boot Training at the Great Lakes Naval Training Center (NTC), IL and her A School, as an Airman, at Pensacola NTC, FL. AM1 Noriega has served with Patrol Squadrons 16 and 30 (twice) at Naval Air Station (NAS) Jacksonville FL and aboard the USS Harry S Truman (CVN-75), home port Norfolk, VA. Her deployments include NAS Keflavik, Iceland; NAS Sigonella, Sicily (twice) and the Persian Gulf (twice) in support of the war in both Iraq and Afghanistan. She is a graduate of Aircraft Corrosion Control, the Aircraft Paint and Final Finish, the P-3 Aircraft Organizational and Professional Maintenance and the Aviation STS Operator/Maintainer Intermediate Maintenance Courses. AM1 Noriega is a Certified Shipboard Firefighter and a Hydraulics/Pneumatic Technician Specialist. Her awards include the Navy Achievement (2), Battle E with/Numeral 3, Good Conduct (4), National Defense Service, Armed Forces Expeditionary, Kosovo Campaign, Global War on Terrorism Service and Expeditionary, Armed Forces Service (2), Sea Service Deployment with/Numeral 5, and the NATO (Kosovo) Medals and the Enlisted Navy Air Warfare Badge. She is the photographer for the C.I.V.A. and the mother of Comanche Nation member, Lauren Noriega, Lil Ms Lawton-Fort Sill.
“Any man brave enough and desiring to do so could become a Pukutsi. No one ever molested a Pukutsi because he was so recklessly brave. In battle, he rolled out his sash, stuck the free end into the ground with an arrow and there took his stand. There are not many of those warriors among the Comanches.” It is documented 1,111 Comanches have served in the modern military since 1878. Of those veterans now only 21 have been decorated for Gallantry, Heroism or Valor and 2 others fought and killed the enemy in Hand to Hand combat – this elite group of Warriors has earned the title of Numu Pukutsi. Kristopher Kias Wermy is the son of the late Glenn Wermy, a US Navy veteran, and Roberta Ann Wermy. He and his wife, Morgan, are the proud parents 2 ½ year old Kias Galey. Wermy is a graduate of Clinton High School where played football (quarterback), baseball and golf for the Red Tornadoes. After graduating in 1999 he received his Bachelors Degree from Southwestern State University in 2005. He attended college on a 2-sport and academic scholarship. Wermy is currently employed as the Director of the Parks & Recreation for the City of Clinton. Wermy enlisted in the US Army on February 17, 2005 and served on active duty until July 18, 2008 when he enlisted in the OK Army National Guard the following day. He achieved the rank of Sergeant (Promotable) while on active duty. After his Basic and Airborne training, while on active duty, he served with HQs and HQs Company, 1st Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division in their Battalion Mortar Platoon. Wermy deployed to Iraq for 5 ½ months in 2005-06, to Afghanistan for 15 ½ months in 2007-08. During his tour in Afghanistan he was awarded the Army Commendation Medal with/Valor Device. His citation reads in part “For exceptionally valorous conduct above and beyond the call of duty on 12 April 2007. SPC Wermy’s remarkable courage in the face of overwhelming enemy fire as a 81mm mortar squad leader during combat operations in the Helmand River Valley directly contributed to the destruction of over seventy Taliban fighters.” Since joining the OK Army National Guard Wermy has completed Officers Candidate School and the Infantry Officer Basic Course. He is currently a First Lieutenant (Promotable) and the Executive Officer for A Company, 1st Battalion, 179th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Brigade based in El Reno, Okla. He completed his second tour of duty in Afghanistan from July 2011 to March 2012 as a Platoon Leader for D Company, 1st Battalion, 179th Infantry Regiment. He was awarded both the Bronze Star and Army Achievement Medals for exceptional meritorious duty as Platoon Leader and Fire Support Officer while in Afghanistan. Other awards include 2 other Army Commendation, the Good Conduct, National Defense Service, Global War on Terrorism Service, Iraq Campaign with/2 Bronze Service Stars, Afghanistan Campaign with/3 Bronze Service Stars, Armed Forces Reserve with/M Device and the NATO Medals, the Army Service and Overseas with/Numeral 3 Ribbons and the Combat Infantryman and Parachutists Badges.
April 2014
9
The Comanche Nation News
C.I.V.A. FULFILLS 119 COMMITMENTS IN 2013
RESPECT AND HONOR
Lydia, Chairman Coffey and Elvira in DC Technician Fourth Grade Morris (Sunrise) Tabbyyetchy was born on May 24, 1913, in Lawton. He was the oldest of the 17 World War II Comanche Code Talkers. He died on October 26, 1983 at the age of 69 at Cedar Crest Manor in Lawton of cancer and is buried at Post Oak Cemetery in Indiahoma. Tabbyyetchy graduated from Wichita East High School, Kan., in 1934. He enlisted in the US Army on December 28, 1940 and was discharged on October 25, 1945 at Camp Chaffee AR. His civilian occupation is listed as “Dry Cleaner I” on his military qualification record. Tabbyyetchy’s parents were Charlie Sunrise and Esther (Esta) Parker. He had a sister, Dorothy Sunrise Lorentino, a halfbrother Richard Sunrise, a stepbrother Emmett Williams, one daughter, Lucy Tabbyyetchy Sunrise, who currently lives in Roswell NM, and 3 granddaughters Lydia from Roswell, Carolyn and Elvira Linker both from Compton Cali. Due to health and other issues Lucy and Carolyn were not able to attend the Congressional Gold Medal Ceremony in Washington DC on November 20, 2013 - Lydia and Elvira did attend the ceremony. During the Comanche Nation Silver Medal presentation ceremony on February 21, in Lawton, only Elvira was able to attend and was presented the duplicate Silver Medal by members of the Comanche Business Committee. She was also presented with a Service Blanket, photo and a Code Talker vehicle tag. She paid “out of pocket” the airfare for her husband and five of her seven children to ensure they were part of the historical presentation ceremony. Linker had never been to Oklahoma, never met and knew little about her grandfather. Her quest for knowledge and information about her grandfather began in Washington DC when William Lorentino Jr, grandson of Tabbyyetchy’s sister Dorothy, presented her with copies of her grandfather’s military service and other bits of personal information. Their relationship continued as they shared a table at the Silver Medal presentation and brunch the following day. On February 22nd CBC member Jonathon Poahway escorted Linker, her husband and children to Post Oak Cemetery to visit Tabbyyetchy’s final resting place. What happened at the gravesite was certainly a matter of Respect and Honor by Linker to the grandfather she never knew. Linker displayed the Silver Medal, Service Blanket, Code Talker vehicle tag, her grandfather’s photo, the presentation ceremony program and a small Comanche Nation Flag at her grandfather’s gravesite. She thanked her grandfather for all the things she received in his honor – a fitting tribute. Poahway also gave the family a tour of the Star House and the Wichita Mountains. Tabbyyetchy lived most of his post war life west of Apache. On February 23rd Lanny and Shelley Asepermy met the family at the Nation Complex. While there Morgan Tosee took Linker and her family into the Native American Church Teepee where he gave each a cedar blessing and shared a traditional “after peyote meeting” meal with them. He also presented Linker with a bag of cedar.
After the meal Linker and her family was given a tour of the veterans Circle and Court of Honor where for the first time she viewed the Code Talker statue and memorial. She and her family were also given a tour of the Comanche Veterans Patriot Room. From the complex Kenny Looking Glass linked up with the family and took them to Asepermy’s home and told stories about her grandfather as he knew him in the late 1950’s until his death in 1983. She was then taken to the home site of her grandfather 4 miles west of Apache where she walked the grounds where her grandfather once lived; only the foundation and cellar remained on the property. Another visit followed to the home of Carol Parker Aitson, a niece of Tabbyyetchy, where more stories were told about her grandfather. Looking Glass and his wife, Lisa, invited the family to their son’s birthday dinner where she visited LaDora Nimsey and Clorindia Tsatoke as both knew Tabbyyetchy in their youth and as young adults. After the meal the day ended with a very brief drive through of Apache. On February 23rd C.I.V.A. Commander, George Red Elk, Quartermaster Flavio Noriega and Asepermy presented Ms Linker with a veteran’s gift bag that contained the Honorable and Combat Service and Wounded Warrior medallions, a Challenge Coin, veterans hat and T-shirt, a Comanche veteran DVD, coffee cup, C.I.V.A. and Comanche logos and pens on behalf of her grandfather. She and her family returned to California on February 24th. Ms Linker stated “she learned so much about the grandfather she never knew and felt humbled about the honors and recognition he received over the years. She also stated she felt a closeness and connection like never before toward her grandfather with all the stories of his life she was told. Ms Linker said she was overwhelmed with the blessing given her by Mr. Tosee and the kindness of Mr. Poahway and the Asepermy, Aitson, Looking Glass, Nimsey and Tsatoke families as well as George Red Elk and Flavio Noriega.” NOTE: According to Mr. Tabbyyetchy’s Honorable Discharge document (WD AGO Forms 53 and 55) his awards were the Good Conduct, American Defense, EAME with/4 Bronze Service Stars and a Lapel Button. After reviewing Mr. Tabbyyetchy’s WD ACO Form 33 (Report of Physical Examination of Enlisted Personnel prior to discharge, release form active duty or retirement) it is noted that on November 10, 1944 he suffered a fracture of the right little finger and left middle finger from a strafing attack in Belgium and a conclusion, which ruptured a blood vessel in his left temple, caused dizzy spells and made his eyes fluttered, from an enemy bomb. These injuries (wounds) certainly qualify him for a Purple Heart. Documentation was mailed on February 25th to the military authorities, who review overlooked awards of the Purple Heart, at Fort Knox, KY in an attempt to have the Purple Heart awarded to his family.
Timothy Motah in 2013 Technician Sergeant Timothy Motah enlisted in the US Force on February 13, 2001 and is currently a F-15 (Fighter Jet Aircraft) Instructor with the 372nd Training Squadron, Detachment 13 at Nellis Air Force Base in Las Vegas, NV. He is the son of the late Wayne and Nina Motah and was born in Fullerton, CA. His father also served in the Air Force from 1955-64. His mother is Santa Clara Pueblo. SSgt Motah graduated from St Catherine Native American School in Santa Fe, NM in 1998. His duty stations include Lackland AFB, TX for Basic Training; Sheppard AFB TX for Occupation Training; Mountain Home AFB ID as a Avionics System Apprentice; Osan Air Base, South Korea as a Avionics Systems Journeyman; Royal Air Force Base, Lakenheath England and Bagram Air Base Afghanistan (May to October 2007) as a Avionics Systems Craftsman; Tyndall AFB, FL as a Specialist Expeditor and Nellis AFB as a Specialist Expeditor and Avionics Instructor. He is a graduate of the Air Force Avionics Maintenance Course, Airman Leadership School and the Basic Instructor Course. His awards include the Commendation (2), Achievement (2), Good Conduct (3), National Defense Service, Afghanistan Campaign with/1 Bronze Service Star, the Global War on Terrorism Service, Korean Defense Service and NATO Medals, the Meritorious and Outstanding Unit (4) Awards, the Short and Long Tour, the Air Force Expeditionary, the Longevity (2), the NCO Military Graduate, the Small Arms Expert Qualification and Training Ribbons and the Air Force Maintenance Badge. SSgt Motah has met the qualifications, except time in grade, for promotion to Master Sergeant.
CHAIRMAN APPOINTED COMMANDER IN CHIEF
George Red Elk, Chairman Coffey, 2 members of the Cozad family and Jack Codopony Sr Chairman Wallace Coffey was given the honorably title of Commander in Chief by the Comanche Indian Veterans Association at the Comanche Code Talker Silver Medal Ceremony on February 19, 2014. At the suggestion of C.I.V.A. Chaplain, US Navy veteran Jimmy Caddo, and with the consent of the active members of the C.I.V.A., Chairman Coffey was presented with a Commander in Chief framed citation by Commander George Red Elk and a Commander in Chief jacket by Vice Commander Jack Codopony Sr. Both honors were for the support Chairman Coffey has given the veterans of the Nation during his tenures as Chairman of the Nation dating back to the 1990’s.
Tribal Veterans Visit The Vietnam War Memorial
Takawana on left and Caddo on right Vietnam War and US Navy veterans Clifford “Beaver” Takawana and Jimmy Caddo visited the Vietnam War Memorial in Washington DC on November 19, 2013. Ship Storekeeper 1st Class Caddo served from 1952-72 including 1 deployment to Vietnam aboard the USS Arlington (AGMR-2). He is also a Korean War veteran. Petty Officer 2nd Class Takawana served from 1968-72 including 3 deployments to Vietnam aboard the USS Mispillion (AO-105). Both are active members of the C.I.V.A. with Caddo serving as the Chaplin and Takawana as the Secretary. We thank both Sailors for their military service.
The Comanche Indian Veterans Association fulfilled 119 commitments during 2013 with the installation of 25 military markers being the highest priority. Other commitments included providing a Color Guard on 23 occasions, 17 funerals with military honors, 13 planning meetings, Co-Host 10 times, Flag Raising and Lowering Ceremonies 6 times each, Special Invitations 6 times, Host for 4 events and Guest Speakers at 3 events. There were also 12 other miscellaneous commitments. To date, since 2003, the C.I.V.A. has installed 180 military markers for the families of deceased veterans. Military funeral honors have been conducted for the families of 162 deceased veterans since 2003. Color Guard commitments included Comanche Homecoming all 3 evenings, the Comanche Nation Parade and Fair all 3 days and other major Comanche and Native events. Over 250+ Color Guard commitments have been completed since 2003. Monthly meetings are held the 1st Thursday of each month starting at 6 p.m. in the Patriot Room. Attendance varies from 20 to 58 people. A meal is provided prior to each meeting. The C.I.V.A. has Co-host about 220+ events since 2003. Flag raising and lowering details have been provided for 75+ families since 2003. Invitations as Special Guest have included Prayer Services, Soldier Homecomings, Sporting Events, Banquets, Grand Openings, Presentations, Meetings and School Events. The C.I.V.A. host the Armed Forces Day Banquet, Memorial Day Ceremony and Veterans Day Celebration. Other accomplishments this past year include the installation of 2 granite dyes on the north end of the Court of Honor. One dye has the names, rank, branch of service and years of service of 110 Comanche veterans. The other dye has the names of 56 Numu Wounded Warriors on one side and the names of 22 Numu Pukutsi Warriors who were decorated for either Gallantry, Heroism, Valor or fought and killed the enemy in Hand to Hand Combat. Also established and opened in May 2013 is the Comanche Veterans Patriot Room that has photos of 425 of the 1,111 known Comanche veterans and window wraps with the history of the Comanches during World Wars I and II, the Korean, Vietnam and Persian Gulf Wars and the War on Terrorism. As you can see it has been a very busy year. The C.I.V.A. continues to answer the call to service since October 1976 when our first elected Chairman, Lee Motah, encouraged our veterans to establish a Veterans organization for Comanches. Edgar Monetathchi Sr and Clifford Ototivo Sr stepped forward and established the C.I.V.A. as the first Commander and Vice Commander of the organization. The only living members of the then newly formed C.I.V.A. are Jerome Tahahwah and Rose Pennah. We owe our gratitude to Chairman Motah and the veterans and Auxiliary who established this veteran’s organization. The current C.I.V.A. Commander is George Red Elk and Shelby Mata is the 2013-15 Princess.
April 2014
10
Sports
The Comanche Nation News
Comanche Nation College 2014
Winter Golf Classic
Anthony Monoessy takes his time to chip the ball to the green.
Story and Photos by Stacey Heminokeky/News Staff
Liz Ware is Grounding the Club toward the green.
Jerome Howlingwater drives the ball and comes close to making a Hole-In-One.
Lynn Schonchin and Ryan Blackstar T-Off at the 15th hole.
The Comanche Nation College sponsored a Winter Golf Classic on Feb. 28. The golf classic was held at the Comanche Nation Golf Course in Cache, Okla.. The tournament brought avid golfers from the area to help raise funds for the college and enjoy an afternoon in the winter sunshine. The first 50 players registered received a free T-shirt. There was 28 teams registered and a total of $8,274 dollars raised. The money made will be used for the G.E.D. students.
“We are looking forward to doing it again next year,” said Gene Pekah, the college’s Dean of Students, and coordinator of the event. The Golf Classic also had prizes given for: - Longest Drive-Larry McClung - Longest Putt- Ron Niedo - Closest To The Pin- Brian Wahnee The Comanche Nation College’s Winter Golf Classic Winners were: A Flight 1st Place; Greg Cable and Raymond Pohawpatchoko
2nd Place; Rick Komahcheet and Carl Monoessy B Flight 1st Place; Louie Pohawpatchoko and Brian Wahnee 2nd Place; Luther Pohawpatchoko and Anthony Monoessy C Flight 1st Place; Tim Tiddark and Larry McClung 2nd Place; Fred Codynah and Mike Long Carl Monoessy gives it his all hoping to drain the ball.
Tribal Members Place In Wrestling Tournaments Throughout Oklahoma
Dreaton and Aidan Robinson
Reyes Places in Oklahoma Wrestling Tournaments
Dreation Robinson Tribal members Dreaton and Aidan Robinson both took home first and third places in the 2014 Oklahoma Kids Wrestling Association (OKWA), U.S. Junior Novice Wrestling Championship, and the OKWA Novice State Tournament. Both the boys wrestle for the Cache Takedown Wrestling Club. They are from the Kosechata/Tahah/ Weryavah/Cable families. Dreaton Robinson, 12 yrs old, wrestled Div IV, 130 lbs., for all tournaments: Received 1st at Okla-
homa State Novice, 3rd at U.S. Junior Novice Tournament, 1st at Norman Novice, 1st at Choctaw Novice, 3rd at Kingfisher Novice, 4th at Norman Open, & 4th at Oklahoma Open Southern Regional. Aidan Robinson, 11 yrs old, wrestled Div III, 110 lbs., for all tournaments: Received 3rd at Oklahoma State Novice, 1st at U.S. Junior Novice Tournament, 3rd at Norman Novice, 2nd at Choctaw Novice,1st at Kingfisher Novice, 3rd at Del City Novice & 3rd at Oklahoma Open
Blake Young and Dreaton Robinson Southern Regional. Blake Young, is the son of Vicki Kosechata and his maternal great grandmother is Jolene Tahah. He is also from the Kosechata/Tahah/ Weryavah/Cable families. Young was ill most of the wrestling season, but he did get to wrestle in a few tournaments. He placed at the Kingfisher Novice and at the Oklahoma Open Southern Regional
Elias Reyes Elias Reyes took home fifth place in both the Tulsa Novice and Open Regional Wrestling Tournaments. He wrestles for the Young Guns Wrestling Team. He is on the Honor Roll at Eisenhower Jr. High School. Reyes is the son of Sofia DeJesus and David Reyes; the grandson of Doris Chavez and Elis Ryes; the great-grandson of Wanda Pekah and Sullivan Poahway.
April 2014 11
The Comanche Nation News
People, Places and Things Happening Tribal Youth Is Finalist In Future Chefs of America
Tribal member Sonja Delgado, a fourth grader at Swinney Elementary has become a finalist for the “Future Chefs of America,” cooking competition. Delgado is the daughter of Hah-Tee and Starr Delgado.
OU American Indian Student Association (AISA) The AISA 100th Annual Centennial Spring Contest Pow-wow will be held April 12. For more information go to www.ou.edu/AISA or email J.Guerrero@ou.edu.
Native American Fatherhood and Families Association Fathers: Keep Families Together Regional Seminar The second of four regional
seminars designed to encourage and promote responsible fatherhood and the strengthening of families. SEMINAR DETAILS Cost: $100 **Active NAFFA certified facilitators receive a $25 discount. Who Should Attend: Fathers*Mothers* Fatherhood Groups*Community and Grasroots Representative* Tribal Leaders* Courts and Criminal Justice Systems* Early Childhood Providers* Schools* Behavioral Health,Mental Health, and Social/Family Services Providers* Faith-based Organizations* Native and Non-native Professionals and others working with Native Fathers and Mothers. Seminar Topics: • Fatherhood Is Sacred • Strengthening Relationships • Addressing Family violence • Grandparents Raising Grandchildren The seminar will be April 10-11, at the Crowne Plaza Oklahoma City, Oklahoma City, Okla. For more information contact NAFFA at (480) 833-5007 or via email at conference@aznaffa.org
6th Annual David H. Vaughn, Jr., MadMan Boxing Tournament The 6th Annual David H. Vaughn, Jr. MadMan Boxing Tournament, which is Southwest Oklahoma’s ONLY two-day amateur boxing tournament, will start at 7 p.m., April 11, and 2:30 p.m., April 12, at the Eisenhower High School gym, located at, 5202 NW Gore Blvd., Lawton, Okla. The admission is $8. Belts will be awarded.
Festival of the Four Winds
Come join a festival of art, culture, dance, games and art activities the represent the tribal nations of Oklahoma. The event will be from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., April 12 at the Sam Noble Museum located at 2401 Chautauqua Avenue, Norman, Okla. For more information contact: The American Indian Institute at (405) 325-4127.
Comanche Tribal Member and A&E Construction Work Hard On New Road
Body of Christ Ministry An invitation has been extended to all Comanche Nation members, their families and employees to attend the Body of Christ Ministry Services and events which are scheduled to held in various locations: Two day Revival, 7:30 p.m., April 24 and 25, Cahoma bldg., Cache, Okla. Service, 2 p.m., April 27, New Conference Room, Comanche Nation Complex. For more information contact: Clara Delena HummingbirdAcevedo (580) 956-5325.
Comanche Language and Family History Classes
Photo by Stacey Heminokeky/News Staff
Tribal member Jerry Paddyacker helps lay concrete for the new road coming up by Comanche Nation Casino.
Jerry Paddyacker, a member of the Comanche Nation, has been employed with A&E Construction for eight years. A&E Construction has been contracted to build the new road leading to the Comanche Nation Casino. Jerry Paddyacker is the only tribal member working on the new project. Rebecca, Paddyacker’s wife, is very proud of him and wanted to recognize him for all his hard and excellent work.
A Beginners Comanche Language Class will held at 1:30 p.m., April 12, at the Lawton Public Library in Room 2. A class of how to research your Comanche family history will be held 10 a.m.-4:45 p.m. April 19 at 7002 Drakestone, Lawton. RSVP for lunch at the family history class by calling Terry Ernest (580) 678-2188.
SIPI Awarded “Initial Accreditation” Status WASHINGTON, D.C. – Assistant Secretary – Indian Affairs Kevin K. Washburn today announced that the Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute (SIPI), a Bureau of Indian Education operated postsecondary institution of higher learning in Albuquerque, N.M., has been awarded “initial accreditation” status by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. “The Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute holds a special place in Indian education because of its emphasis on training American Indians and Alaska Natives in science, math and technology, and I congratulate SIPI on its achievement of receiving initial accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission,” Washburn said. “Under Dr. Sherry Allison’s leadership SIPI has achieved accreditation, which holds the promise of more American Indians and Alaska Natives entering these fields that are so important to Indian Country’s future.” “I join with Assistant Secretary Washburn in congratulating SIPI on achieving initial accreditation status,” said Bureau of Indian Education Director Dr. Charles M. Roessel. “Thanks to the hard work of SIPI President Sherry Allison, staff and faculty members, the Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute is now accredited, demonstrating a commitment to quality. This award directly benefits SIPI students, who can continue and complete their postsecondary education at SIPI with confidence.” SIPI’s accreditation status was upgraded from “candidate for accreditation” following a rigorous candidacy and accreditation review process recently conducted by the HLC. The HLC visiting team found that SIPI had responded to the Commission’s concerns cited in a 2009 review and that it is now in compliance with HLC standards. Initial accredi-
tation means that an institution is accredited by the Commission after going through a period of candidacy. Subsequent reviews, assuming that SIPI continues to meet the criteria for accreditation, will result in the college receiving “continued accreditation” status. “We are honored to receive initial accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission and we are grateful for the time and effort it took in reviewing our institution,” said SIPI President Allison. “Achieving initial accreditation status is the result of the hard work of all of the faculty and staff, and we are fortunate that they are committed to expanding the minds and spirits of our students. This accreditation means that SIPI will be able to continue to educate a new generation of students to meet the needs of their communities and the nation.” As the HLC visiting team noted in its final report: “SIPI has become a learning organization that uses performance measures and data driven decision making in every aspect of the institution.” The team further praised SIPI’s academic programs for being “active in community development projects [and] helping students put their learning into practice.” HLC accreditation certifies that the teaching and learning processes at SIPI meet the rigorous educational standards established by the Commission and that the college is engaged in continuous improvement. The Higher Learning Commission is an independent corporation and one of two commission members of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA), one of six regional institutional accreditors in the United States. The HLC accredits degree-granting post-secondary educational institutions in the North Central region. HLC accreditation grants membership in the Commission and in the North Central
Association. Established in 1971 at the request of the 19 Pueblo tribes in New Mexico and other federally recognized tribes to help train American Indians and Alaska Natives for employment, the Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute is a National Indian Community College and Land Grant Institution with a national, tribally appointed board of regents. SIPI provides career technical training and transfer degree programs to students from the nation’s 566 federally recognized tribes. It offers competitive job training programs; grants Associate of Applied Science, Associate of Arts and Associate of Science degrees; and provides opportunities for students to transfer into four-year degree programs. For more information, visit www.sipi.edu. The Assistant Secretary – Indian Affairs oversees the Bureau of Indian Education, which administers the federal school system for American Indian and Alaska Native children from the federally recognized tribes. The BIE director is directly responsible for implementing federal education laws and programs within and overseeing the funding or direct operation of 183 elementary and secondary day and boarding schools on 64 reservations in 23 states serving over 40,000 students, including offreservation boarding schools and peripheral dormitories near reservations for students attending public schools, two-third of which are tribally operated. The BIE also provides postsecondary education opportunities to American Indians and Alaska Natives by offering higher education scholarships, providing operational support funding to 27 tribal colleges and universities and two tribal technical colleges, and by directly operating two institutions of higher learning: Haskell Indian Nations University in Lawrence, Kan., and SIPI.
Shade Large Studios Grand Opening The grand opening of “Shade Large Studios” was held on March 20. The music studio is owned by Shade Large of Indiahoma, Okla. and is located on Post Oak Rd. and Show Place Blvd., inside of the mini mall. Large is of the Comanche and Shoshone tribes. He is the grandson of the late Lillie Hostoseviet and son of the late Arleta Lewis, also known as “Tootsie.” Large said, “Shade Large Studios has been a vision of mine for 14 years, and now that it is here if feels good.” The grand opening ceremony began with a prayer from Pastor Gerald and Pastor Lloyd. Large, along with Pastor Gerald, Pastor Lloyd, and Mayor Daryl Perry did the Ribbon Cutting to officially open the studio. Large brings 35 years of experience of electric, acoustic, and bass guitar. He is a influential music artist, and attends Post Oak Mennonite Church. For more information contact Large at (580) 450-1714.
April 2014
12
The Comanche Nation News
Milestones Happy Belated Birthday
Neariah Poemoceah James “Jimmy” Johnson, March 31
Happy Birthday
Jordan Shields, April 4 Nico Rosario, April 4 Devin McCarthy, April 5 Andrew Cozad, April 6 Chuck Pollard, April 6 Marley Sunshine Minthorn, April 6 Aaiyha Aitson, April 7 Clifford Aitson, April 7 Clifton Aitson, April 7 Teeanna McCarthy, April 13 Tash Hoahwah, April 15 Ty Jacob, April 15 Myra Medina, April 16 William Gus Burton, April 17 Martina Minthorn-Callahan , April 18 Sydney Wahkinney, April 18 Charles Tissychy, Apri 19 Sarah (Sassie) Magpie-Bennally, April 19 Howard Todome Jr., April 20 Libby Daukei, April 20 Denise Lawerence, April 21 Jeremy Shea, April 22 Nicole Peeler, April 22 Valerie Wahkinney, April 22 Vylet Skye Stonecalf, April 22 Lloyd Heminokeky, April 23 Anthony Steele, April 24 Kalob Shea, April 24 Charles Pollard, April 25 Lora Tahhahwah, April 26 Lady Ann Hogan, April 29 Anniversaries Jose and Sandra Gallegos April 19~Married 45 years
Happy Belated Birthday Kalia Tanequodle March 22
Happy Birthday
Andrew Cozad Satepeahtaw
April 6
Happy Birthday
Tatum Mallory Burgess “Tater”
March 24
Happy Birthday
Marley Sunshine Minthorn
April 6
Happy Birthday Prisciliana Santana March 28
Happy Birthday Nico Rosario April 4
Happy Birthday Jalecia Santiago April 5
Happy Birthday Rylie Arlene Suina April 17
Happy Birthday Sydney Wahkinney April 18
Happy Birthday Martina Callahan April 18
Glen & Mary Heminokeky April 26~Married 12 years
In Loving Memory
Cricket Carolyn Stillwell 4/14/13 I will keep you in my heart forever, Thanks for being my friend & cousin~ Kathy Arterberry
Happy Birthday Lloyd Heminokeky April 23
Happy Birthday Lora Tahhahwah April 26
Happy Anniversary Cruz & Megan Poafpybitty~Cruz
Happy Anniversary Ron & Glenna Niedo April 3
Happy Birthday Michael G. Miller April 29
Don’t Forget to submit milestones for those Special Loved Ones; Just Married, Anniversaries, BirthAnnouncements,Birthdays,etc. Deadline for May edition of TCNN 04/15/14 Call: Public Information Office (580) 492-3386 Email:candacet@comanchenation.com Or mail to: Comanche Nation/PIO P.O. Box Box 908 Lawton, OK 73502
In Loving Memory Kent O. Tomah Sr. 12/17/1928~05/22/1999 We Love & Miss You
In Loving Memory Papa Scott Parton
We love & miss you, Sunshine, Tana, Adonis and Kya. We will never forget your singing and happy loving praises to our Heavenly Father and Lord & Savoir Jesus Christ. You were one who truly lived and walked in the Holy Spirit. 1Peter 1:3-5 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.
Married 5 years
Married 15 years
In Loving Memory Aubree Renee Poafpybitty Born: March 9, 2014 7lbs 3oz Proud parents Shila Pewewardy & Justin Poafpybitty
Francetta Amelia Marie Grace Born: March 3, 2014 9lbs 5oz Proud parents Margarita Diane Marie Chasenah Poemoceah & Niko Andonian
Roderick Hoahwah 11/14/1934~04/02/2012
Daddy (Dad) you will always remain in our hearts and never be forgotten. From your wife, Charlene & daughters; LaLecia, Renee, Miranda, Myra, Rolanda, Sons; Rod Jr. & Terence & Grand-kids
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The Comanche Nation News
Obituaries Jesse Lee Lewis Coleman of Fort Riley, Kansas entered this world and went to be with his heavenly Father on, February 6. Graveside services was February 14, at West Cache Creek Cemetery west of Apache with Pastor Videll Yackeschi officiating. Burial followed under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home. Coleman was born in Fort Riley, Kansas to Daryn and Kara (Codopony) Coleman. Coleman our precious son you have changed our lives forever. Even though your time was short the love we had for you will be with us for the rest of our lives. Coleman is survived by: parents, Daryn and Kara Coleman of Fort Riley, Kansas; grandparents: Carla Codopony of Apache, John and Fawn Coleman of Cache; great grandfathers: Jack Lewis Codopony of Apache and Deon Lee Hamilton of Kernville, California; aunts, uncles, cousins and other family members. Coleman is preceded in death by: great grandmothers: Amelia Codopony, Olga Coleman, Rilla Hamilton; great grandfather: John Jesse Coleman and other family members.
Josiah Nillo Troy Correa
Correa
Josiah Nillo Troy Correa, 8, went to his heavenly home on February 9, in Oklahoma City. Funeral Service for Josiah Nillo Troy Correa was February 15, at Temple & Sons Funeral Home in Oklahoma City. Burial followed at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Spencer, Oklahoma. Prayer Service was February 14, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel with Torrie Dean officiating. He was born September 28, 2005 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma to Nilio Correa, Jr. and Troyvonne Hamiliton. Correa was a special needs child with limited abilities but was an extremely happy child who always had a smile on his face. He was very adventurous child who loved to skate, play soccer and ride roller coasters with his mother, loved going down slides at Jump Zone. He loved spending time with his Daddy and laughing. Where words could not speak, the connection between his Father and Son could be seen mentally and spiritually. He loved eating meatloaf, mash potatoes, watching his favorite cartoons: Madagascar, Phineas & Ferb. His favorite song was “Teach me how to Dougie”. He went to be with the Lord with a smile on his face. He was a member of the Comanche Nation. He is survived by his father: Nilio Correa, Jr. of Cache; mother: Troyvonne Hamiliton of Oklahoma City; grandparents: Nilio, Sr. and Fedora Correa of Cache; Troy and Jackie Hamiliton of Oklahoma City; great-grandfather: Theodora Niedo of Cache; great-grandmother: Marcellina Correa of Puerto Rico; three aunts: Fedora C. Correa of Oklahoma City, Meleia Niedo of Oklahoma City, Stacy Crawford of Oklahoma City; uncle: Theodora R. Niedo of Lawton, OK; numerous other family
members on both He is preceded in death by his great-grandmother: Lydia Niedo; great-grandfather: Luis Correa of Puerto Rico; great-great-grandfather: Bienvenido Correa of Puerto Rico.
Prentiss “Jake” Pahdocony
Pahdocony
Prentiss Pahdocony passed away March 2, in Lawton, Okla. He was known to family and friends as Jake and resided in Anadarko, Okla. He was born at Ft.Sill Indian Hospital on March 5, 1945 to John and Doris Pahdocony, he was a member of the Comanche/Pawnee Tribes. Pahdocony attended school at Stony Point and Elgin, graduating from Apache High School where he participated in football, track, baseball and basketball. He then went to Haskell University in Lawrence, Kan., to study electronics. Pahdocony served four years in the U.S. Air Force, receiving a honorable discharge after seeing part of the world. He worked in Oklahoma City for TG&Y and later served as associate pastor for a Methodist church in Anadarko areas, bowling in perfect 300 game in Anadarko on December 21. 1999. He was kind and caring brother who loved visiting with family and friends and recalling days gone by. He was loved by all and his stories and humor will be missed. Pahdocony is preceded in death by his parents: Brothers; Clifford Pahdocony, and Leslie Pahdocony, and Sister: Cecilia Thomas. He is survived by two brothers: William Pahdocony (Virginiawife) of Oklahoma City and Paul Pahdocony of Anadarko and extended family and many friends. A Memorial service with Military honors was held March 8, at the Comanche Nation Funeral Home in Lawton, Okla.
Panatha “Sue” Niyah Nauni
Nauni
Panatha “Sue” Niyah Nauni, 65, of Indiahoma went to her heavenly home on March 1, in Lawton. Funeral service was March 6, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Leonard Presley and Richard Blackburn officiating. Burial followed at Post Oak Cemetery under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home.
Prayer service was March 5, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel. Nauni was born January 30, 1949 in Lawton to Howard and Marjorie (Chappabitty) Niyah. She attended and graduated from Cache High School. She married Vandell Pevodah Nauni on January 20, 1974 in Cache. She retired from Lawton Indian Hospital as a secretary for Behavioral Health Department. She attended Cameron University and Comanche Nation College. She was a full blood member of the Comanche Nation of Oklahoma and the Sherwood Tsotigh UMC in Cache. Sue enjoyed be a protester for Native American Rights, spending time with her family and friends, painting, beading, producing Native American movies, story telling and writing her first Native American Novel. Nauni is survived by: Husband, Vandell Pevodah Nauni; three children: Uhduh Panatha Nauni, Pevodah Merrill Nauni, Niyah Brandon Nauni all of Indiahoma; sister, Charlotte Niyah McCurtain of Indiahoma, nieces, Charlotte Marie Niyah and Jennifer Mommedaty and nephew, Kevin Niyah. She is preceded in death by: parents, Howard and Marjorie Niyah; grandparents: Lucy and Otis Chappabitty and Mr. and Mrs. Emerson Niyah; sister, Gayle Niyah, brother, Emerson Niyah, nephew, Carl Niyah.
Paddyaker Jr. of Lawton, Charlotte Scott and Marshall Niedo of Indiahoma; Grandson Christopher Large who she raised as her son. Sisters: Carol Hall of `Indiahoma and Bobbie Tahchawwickah-Lewis. Brother: Victor “Its” Tahchawwickah. Grand kids: Selena, Aaron, Christian, Bubba, Lawrence, Tiffany, Byron, Sarah, Mamie, Ricky, and Cissy. Uncle: Nick Tahchawwickah. Great grandchildren: Destiny, Isaiah, Amelia, Andrea, Isaiah C. Sierra, Kierra, Nevaeh, d’Angelo, Special friends: Ramona Apauty, Lena McClung, Stella Brnadon and Tonu Pahcoddy and many nieces, nephews, other family members and friends. She is preceded in death by: Husband, Roger Pete Williams; Parents: Allen Tahchawwickah and Sarah Saddleblanket Burgess. Stepmother: Barbara Tahchawwickah, Sister: Ermina “Docky” Burgess, Brothers: Preston, Virgil and Patrick Tahchawwickah; Aunts: Daisy Anderson, Lilly Pahcoddy, Alice Tahmahkera, Jane Poco, Nieces: Kimberly and Donna Tahchawwickah, Nephew; Ruben “Kah-Who” Burgess.
Barbara Ann (Geimausaddle) Ta h c h a w w i c k a h “Dar Dar”
Vernice “Tubby” Tahchawwickah Paddyaker Williams
Tahchawwickah Barbara Ann (Geimausaddle) Tahchawwickah, 68,went to be with the Lord with her family by her Williams
Vernice “Tubby” Tahchawwickah Paddyaker Williams, 71, of Indiahoma went to her heavenly home on March 2, in Lawton. Funeral service was March 8, 2014 at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Nick Tahchawwickah and Tori Dean officiating. Burial followed at Cache KCA Cemetery under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home. Prayer service was March 7, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home. Williams was born January 11, 1943 in Lawton to Allen and Sarah (Burgess) Tahchawwickah. She attended and graduated from Indiahoma High School. She attended Great Plains Vo-Tech and received her LPN license and worked for Lawton Indian Hospital until her retirement in 1992 Williams married Carl Paddyaker in 1961 from this marriage she had three children, Carol, Carl Jr. and Charlotte. She later married the love of her life Roger Williams on April 6, 1990 in Las Vegas. Roger passed away Feb 19, 2006. She was never able to find another man to fill her heart with love the way he did. She was a member of the Comanche of Oklahoma and attended the First Church of the Nazarene in Cache. Williams enjoyed playing pool with her grandchildren on their birthday and she was never beaten and still reigns as the Champion. She also enjoyed playing Bingo, going to the casino, gardening, digging for worms, and fishing. She loved spending time with her family and friends especially her grandkids and great grand kids. Williams is survived by children and spouses: Carol and Joe Jimenez of Cache, Warren Tahchawwickah of Lawton, Carl and Tara
side. Funeral Service was March 7, at the Walters Community Center with Pastor Nick Tahchawwickah officiating. Burial followed at Walters Cemetery under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home. All Night Wake was March 6, 2014 at Walters Community Center. She was born on July 21, 1945 in Lawton to Coley and Rose (Nahquaddy) Geimausaddle. She grew up in the Walters/Temple area. Everyone knew her as Dar Dar, a nickname which was given to her by her grandson Raymond. She loved singing behind the drum, visiting with her family and friends, beading when she was able to, doing puzzles, reading Louis Lamar cowboy books, watching the Waltons and Matlock. She had done a lot of beadwork for a lot of people, and made frybread for several Casino employees who were eager to have it. She was a very caring, loving person who you didn’t want to get mad. She loved going to play Keno and found the only penny Keno machine Ft. Sill Apache Casino had. She was a proud member of the Comanche Nation and of the Kiowa tribe, also a descendent of Black Moon. She is survived by sons: Victor Tahchawwickah of the home and Matt LittleCreek and wife Felicia of War Acres, Okla. Daughters: Barbara “Bobbie” Lewis and husband Jonathan of the home: Brothers: Kenneth Geimausaddle, Terry Geimausaddle both of Walters, and Victor Youngman of Ft. Cobb. Grandchildren: Raymond Lewis, Tori Lynn Tahchawwickah, and Tiffany Jolly, Clancy and Matty LittleCreek. Numerous nieces, nephews and many adopted sons and grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents: Coley and Rose Geimausaddle: Brothers: Ronnie Geimausaddle, Lanny Geimausaddle, Reuben Hardin, Glen Kaulity; Two Sisters: Janice Rose Geimausaddle, and Terena Rose Geimausaddle; Grandparents: Albert and Mary (Motherme) Nahquaddy.
April 2014
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The Comanche Nation News
April 2014
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The Comanche Nation News
I’m Not Your Indian Mascot Anymore: Examining Colonizing Symbols In Sports Culture, Mass Media, and Civic Life Submitted by Comanche Nation College
On March 25 the Comanche Nation College hosted Dr. Cornel Pewewardy. The presentation was scheduled at noon and held at the Comanche Nation College’s James Cox Auditorium. The special event was open to the public. Dr. Cornel Pewewardy, a professor at Portland State University, and a member of the Comanche Nation, spoke about the push to convince schools and professional sports groups to get rid of those nicknames. He said many were created as the result of Hollywood imagery that leads to a hurtful stereotype of all Native American people. “The message about Indian mascots is about myth making. It’s about the stereotypes that were created to try to depict Native American caricatures in a negative light,” said Pewewardy. Pewewardy, Director of Indigenous Nations Studies at Portland State University, teaches students to think critically about U.S. history, tribal sovereignty, identity politics and negative ethnic stereotypes. His efforts were recognized by the National Indian Education Association, which named him its 2009 Teacher of the Year. Earlier this year, he was among the 21 individuals named as the most influential Native American educators in
the nation in a study published by the University of Iowa. Additional honors and awards include the 1999 Big XII Indian Faculty Member of the Year; 1999 Wordcrafter of the Year; 1994 Bush Principals’ Leadership Program, University of Minnesota; 1993 Hubert H. Humphrey Fellow, FU-IH Institute of International Affairs, University of Minnesota; 1992 National Committee for School Desegregation Award; 1991 National Indian Educator of the Year, National Indian Education Association; and 1988 National Indian Student of the Year also from the National Indian Education Association. He holds a Doctor of Education in Educational Administration from The Pennsylvania State University and is a co-founder of the National Association for Multicultural Education. The Mascot Issue has been a hot topic the past decade. Recently, the Washington Red Skins, professional football team, was under pressure to change their team name. Numerous teams of all sports have used Native Americans as mascots and dress to impersonate them at games. Sports fans also do things such as the “Tomahawk Chop” to show their team spirit.
Photo by Stacey Heminokeky/News Staff
Everyone in attendance listen carefully to Dr. Cornel speak about Indian mascots and the resistance factors held from tribal people.
Courtesy Photo
Dr. Cornel Pewewardy, paints his face in Comanche colors.
Courtesy Photo
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