VOLUME 16 EDITION 11
October 2015
Published by the Comanche Nation Public Information Office, Lawton, OK www.comanchenation.com
VOLUME 15 EDITION 10
Lawton, OK
SHOSHONEAN REUNION XVI Shoshonean-Numic Language Reunion
October 2014
Stand Down is Set to Help Homeless Native Veterans By Jolene Schonchin/News Staff
NCAI Partners with Native Financial Education Coalition to Launch NAT$VE in the BANK Initiative for Native Youth
You see them everywhere. Homeless men and women walking Fred Harris, LaDonna Harris (Cothe streets and chatting among the manche), and Wakeah Tabbytite trees and at parks. in grandstands at a parade. Photo Sometimes they live among courtesy of LaDonna Harris. their families, moving from house to house, helping their loved ones with what they can, and happy to have a comfortable place to eat and sleep. They are U.S. veterans, who served valiantly for our country, protecting American with honor, and through heroic deeds. Now, after giving their NCAI Press Release\ NcaiPress@ncai. youthful lives to the military branchBy Jolene Schonchin/News Staff orgare without homes, without es, they steady meals, and do not know where Building on its First Kids The Comanche Business they will lay their head to rest for the 1st initiative and its work advancing night. Committee announced the dates the Generation Indigenous (Gen-I), the Vision MakerPayments Media Presswill Release Members of local tribes and annual Per Capita be National Congress of American IndiVeteran Affairs (VA) have been meetmailed out to tribal members. All-star fi lmmaking duoing for several months to organize a ans (NCAI) has joined forces with the -Comanche producer was and redirector The information Stand Down for the American Indian, Native Financial Education Coalition Julianna Brannum and executive proleased the afternoon of September and other veterans in the Anadarko, (NFEC) to launch NAT$VE in the ducer Johnny Depp (Transcendence, 21. Okla. area. Pirates of the Caribbean, The Lone BANK because they understand that Distribution of the annual “In military a Stand Ranger)--bring the story of politically Native youth terms, building relationships payement to tribal members will Down is when military personal can infl uential Native American leader with fi nancial institutions by opening be on Nov. 9. Tribal members who come in from the fi eld and get a hot LaDonna Harris to Public Television a bank account is a proven differencesigned up for the Direct Deposit Paymeal, shower, and a time to rest and stations nationwide with broadcasts maker in them making smart fi nanment, funds will be deposited in the eat,” said coordinator, Mary Culley. beginning November 1. cial decisions over the course of their The Stand Down will take specifi ed bank accounts. LaDonna Harris reshaped Photo by Paula Karty/ News Staff lives. place 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Nov. 7 at the If tribal members signed up Indian Country both in America and Designed for Native Iscani Gym 1 South Coronado Cir- youth Members of the Comanche Nation perform a demonstration of the Staff Gourd dance during the 2015 Shoshone Photos by Paula Karty/News for the Mail Out Payment, per capita abroad. A Comanche from OklahoCowboys and cowgirls of all ages gathered Sept. 19-20 at the LO cle, Anadarko, Okla. Lunch will be ages 12 to 25, NAT$VE in the BANK Reunion. ma, she helped convince the Nixon checks will be mailed Nov. 9 through This year, Comanche The Comanche Nation tribe was brought in by tribal veterRanch in Lawton, Okla.tribal for the Arrington-McSpadden All Indian served at 11:30 a.m. requires participants to fi nish four administration to return sacred land the U.S. Postal System to the adRodeo Association Region 8 Finals to go Head-to-Head with members traveled to Elko,Nevada to hosted two workshops at live this stock year’s ans. The Sovo family sung a Veter Pick up locations will be easy steps: complete a short, fun onto the Taos Pueblo Indians of New dresses fi led in the Comanche Nation to qualify the National Indian Rodeo Finals in November at Las available to drive veterans who may participate in this for year’s Shoshone reunion: One was “Comanche Beadans song and a Memorial song for the Mexico, ce. founded the Americans for line course on fi nancial education; Enrollment Offi Vegas, NV. See Page 10-11 for more action pictures and winners. not have transportation to the Stand Reunion. The event took place Sep- ed Saddles” by Beth Giles. Giles posting of the colors. The Comanche open an account with a bank or credit Indian Opportunity in 1970, and be The amount will not be Down. came a vice-presidential nominee tember 10-12. in displayed her fully beaded saddles. Nation Princess danced in behind the union; take a “selfi e” picture with a made public, by the request of tribal Veterans are asked to bring 1980. Activities planned for this Giles talked about the different de- fl ags leading all the Comanche wombank/credit union representative; members who claims they have been their DD 214 Forms, if available. LaDonna Harris: Indian 101 year’s reunion was a Sunrise Service signs and colors of her saddles. The en who danced in honor of the fl ags. and share through or art their harassed is a refl by bill collectors once the Several services words will be ection of her political achieveand Flag Raising Ceremony every other was “Comanche Storytelling Many Comanche women fi nancial goals in life. Once they do, available for not only Native Vetamount ments, was released the public. personal to struggles, and the morning. This event kicked off each and Language” by Sam Devenney. attending the reunion participated Native youth erans, participating but for all veterans, spouses receive a The complaints came events that led during her to previbecoming a Simon Moya-Smith/Indian Country Today website: www.indiancountrytodaymedianetwork.com 9/10/14 morning at the Elko Band Senior Ar- Devenney spoke the Comanche lan- in the Fashion Show. The women NAT$VE in the BANK T-shirt and or widows or veterans. Some of the voice for Native people. Raised on a ous General Council Meetings. bor, which started that day’s events. guage and told stories in the Comandressed in traditional Comanche reservices include housing assistance, a chance to win an iPad Air. If parfarm Oklahoma during Disthe Great The in Elder Payment An elected offi cial in Colo- undocumented persons and likened Former Colorado State SenComanche Nation Princess, Kelsey che language. Devenney explained galia from cloth dresses to buckskin emergency shelter and other social ticipants recruit at least three friends Depression, LaDonna did not attend tribution will happen on Elder Day, rado has received an onslaught of hate Native American mascots to animals. ator Suzanne Williams, a Comanche, services, employment Codynah, was present and partici- the similarities of the Comanche and dresses. Tribal Elder Rita Coosecollege. However, she studied and to also complete assistance, NAT$VE in the mail since he announced his plan to “I think that your bill is out- introduced a similar bill in 2010, but Dec. 11 at a location, which will be health screenings, hair cuts, and legal pated in these special services each Shoshone language. woon served as the Master of Cerlearned alongside her husband, Fred BANK’s four easy steps, they are enintroduce a bill to ban Native Ameri- rageous,” she wrote. “Do you really it was pulled in committee due to a announced at a later date. services. morning. believe that schools are being derogaThe Reunion Parade was lack of support. emony for the Comanche people. CoHarris, who would become a U.S. tered for a chance to win an iTunes can mascots throughout the state. There will be personal care Senator. Upon his taking offi ce, she Every morning, a breakfast gave descriptions of each House Representative Joe held on September 11, where several tory because of their mascot name? If osewoon Salazar said he has no intengift card, an iPad mini, or a trip to products, a clothing closet, surplus too undertook a public service role. was served for all the participants at woman’s regalia. Coosewoon also NCAI’s Salazar said most of the hate mail ac- tribal members participated in the pathat is the case, then we shouldn't use tion of withdrawing the bill. He said 2015 Annual Convention in items such as blankets and boots that LaDonna is best known for her work 7 a.m. little bit the of history about the San Diego. cuses him of being politically correct rade. The Comanche Nation Princess animal names, cowboys, colors foods he gave will a push it all way through will also be given away. in U.S. civil rights when she set the and excoriates him for addressing the or anything as peoples feelings might the legislature. “I’m not pulling this The fi rst day was full of rode in a car they provided for her, attire that was worn by each woman “There are a lot of veterans “This important new initia tone with a landmark legislation inimascot issue instead of handling othbe hurt. I mean, I love the color green he said. “It’s a different day workshops held at the Shoshone the Chibitty and McClung families bill,” participating in the fashion show. tive, which seeks to strengthen the that does not know what the VA has tiative that returned land to the Taos er state matters. Salazar begs to dif- so don't use it because it offensive to here in Colorado.” Welcome Center. Most of the work- paraded, as well as the Sovo family, The last and fi nal day of the to offer them,” said Commander of cienfi nancial capability and self-suffi Pueblo Tribe and Native tribes of fer. “Now is the time to address issues me. Mascot names have been around Should the at bill the become shops was fi lled to capacity and was who served as the drum group for this reunion was held Southfork the Comanche Indian Veteran Assocy of our youth, builds on NCAI’s Alaska. She also served a pivotal role that have been ignored for so long,” for many years, probably before you law, one of the schools that would standing room only. The afternoon year’s activities. The Comanche Na- Tribal Complex, which is located ciation at work (CIVA. “Many of the ones I Gen-I,” on First Kids 1st and in helping the Menominee Tribe rehe said. were born, and because one person be required to change its name is the le a claim activities consisted of workshops and tional Museum paraded and threw T- the base of the Ruby Mountains. talked to does not want to fi gain their federal recognition. said Jacqueline Pata, NCAI Execu His bill would require the gets upset it's all over. There are so Lamar High School Savages. The because they feel they did encourage their job, Native presentations pertaining to the simiShirts out to the crowd, also parading The day’s activities began Her trailblazing efforts betive Director. “We more than one dozen schools in Colo- many other issues that need to be ad- school’s mascot is an Indian. Salazar and the VA does not owe them anylarities of the Comanche language was a fl oat consisting Comanche with a sunrise and fl ag raising cergan when President Lyndon B. Johnyouth everywhere to participate, and rado with a Native American mascot dressed such as illegals of and you are said Lamar High School’s reluctance son selected her to educate both the and to change their logo and name or lose the Shoshone language, the Tribal Elders. emony, with breakfast following. thing. But they do not know the benworried about school mascots. If you to change its name and logo is a prime we invite tribal governments, Native efi ts the VA can give them fi nancially executive and legislative branches of differences and meanings of tribal used your time wisely this state may Following the parade, a example of why the bill is necessary. A Spirit Walk/Run started at state funding, unless a school has an organizations, and fi nancial instituand medically.” U.S. government on the unique relaSongs, and the relationship different crafts each Fashion Show was held. The Ameriestablished and permisactually become better. Get some the Southfork Tribal Complex, it’s “There’s a lot of pride for tions to play key roles in supporting Red Elk added Native famitionship that American Indian tribes See REUNION, Page 14 sion from an Indian nation. new issues to focus on, please.” tribe has and still does today. can Flag as well as the fl ags of each being a Lamar Savage," Lamar City Native youth to answer the NAT$VE lies take care of their loved ones who hold within our nation. This educa- Salazar provided ICTMN Salazar said he has invited Councilman Kirk Crespin told The in the BANK call.” having them stay at tion course was affectionately called with several of the emails he has re- the opposition to a meeting on Sep- Denver Post. “Why should we have are veterans, their homes and live with them. Tribes and organizations can "Indian 101" and was taught to mem- ceived from constituents who oppose tember 10 at the Denver Indian Fami- to go through the state to get a mascot “They do not in consider support NAT$VE the BANK by bers of Congress and other federal his bill. Some messages poke at Sala- ly Resource Center. He said the meet- approved that's been around for dethemselves homeless, but they are, recruiting Native youth to participate, agencies for over 35 years. zar for being too far on the left. ing is to provide the community with cades?” Submitted by By Chee Brossy \ Summer 2015 IAIA Alumni Newsletter and this stand down help them La Donna Harris: Indian 101 integrating the can initiative into their “Isn’t there something more “ownership of the bill.” The meeting Salazar said the argument of help themselves.” is the fi In 1963 when she was 16, was destiny,” Coffey says, smiling. glow when we’re really immersed You rst documentary about the Naknow you’re on the youth programs, and reaching out to important you could be addressing will be from 4:30-7 p.m. school pride and tradition is a weak For more information, to tive when activist and can national civil rights Coffey moved from Lawton, OklaIn Coffey, who of is the 67, one. “It’s an appalling argument,” he like that.” right track you get Karita local banks and credit unions to get [than] school mascots?” writes one. So May, far, he said, none donate to the Stand Down, or to set LaDonna Brannum “It’s a waste of time, money and just will opposition has accepted his years invita-of said. “[The word ‘savage’] will never homa to Santa Fe and attended IAIA retire after twenty-fi ve In turn, her teaching ap- them to participate. Banks and credit Coffey leader, to laugh. When Harris. she laughs commented, "LaDonna's unique and plain stupid. But what should I expect tion. “They’re not coming. We invite take on a new meaning. The defi ni- up a booth at the Stand Down, call you’re let into her world a little at a when it was still an arts high school. teaching at IAIA. She is well known proach has always been to emphaunions, meanwhile, can do their part Culley at (405) 626-3426. bi-partisan approach to political and from a Democrat?” them to meet the community then tion in itself is something that doesn’t rst IAIA ceramics for her excellent classes and rigorous size the creative process with her by: accepting tribal IDs and a minitime, to what she holds dear, to the She knew in her fi Another wrote they don’t want always to show up. It’s a connote anything positive.” wanted person to work with to teaching style, encouraging students. “I teach students that the mum initial deposit of $25 to open acreasons why she teaches, to why she class that she See HARRIS, Page 2 Salazar arguing he should focus on sanctimonious attitude,” he said.
Harris: TheLaDonna Annual Per Indian 101 Shares Capita Payment the Life of One of Distribution Date America's Most Announced Politically Influential Native Americans
Proposed Bill Would Ban Native Mascots in Colorado; Sponsor Gets Hate Mail
The Comanche Nation will not observe Columbus Day, October 12. Tribal offices will be open during regular business hours.
Karita Coffey Retires after 25 Years of Teaching at IAIA
is an artist. Each laugh opens up a window into what drives her. And you can tell she loves to laugh—her whole face breaks open into a smile when she tells a joke, and sometimes, if you’re lucky, she will place her palms to her cheeks in the middle of her laugh and tilt her head just so and she could be 16 again at the old IAIA campus and just starting out on her path to being an artist.
clay the rest of her life. “It was like love at fi rst touch,” she says. “I really liked clay. I liked the way it felt. I still like the way it feels.” But the roots for her life as an artist started even earlier. When she was 12, a Comanche elder gave her the name Tsat-Tah Mo-oh Kahn, or Good-Handed. “You could almost say it
her students to push the envelope with their art. In 2012, IAIA students voted Coffey Faculty of the Year, and this spring she will receive the Honored Educator Award from the renowned art organization SITE Santa Fe. Coffey says the act of creating is what has always inspired her. “I’m more whole when I’m doing work and making art,” she says. “We
point isn’t so much the end product but how you feel when you create.” Coffey’s own work displays the full range of her skills as a ceramicist, sculptor, and metalsmith. While she admits resisting metalwork, saying the material is “too hard, too infl exible,” Coffey has been incorporating wax-cast metals into her art for years now. Coffey’s teachSee, GOOD HANDED, Page 3
counts, waiving monthly account fees, hosting a NAT$VE in the BANK fair at a bank branch or school in/around a tribal community so youth can open accounts, and contributing matching funds to initial deposits made to those accounts. One of the fi rst Native youth to answer the NAT$VE in the BANK call was Harmani Wilson, a citizen See YOUTH BANK, Page 3
Comanche Homecoming October 2015
2
The Comanche Nation News
Reflecting on the Roots of the Comanche Nation’s Oldest Gathering
VA to Collaborate with Eight Tribal Nations to Host Inter-Tribal Veterans Stand Down VA Office of Tribal Government Relations Press Release
Singers sing the Walters Homecoming song during grand entry of the celebration. Four drums are needed to accommodate all the singers that came out to sing and enjoy the pow-wow. Story and Photo by Paula Karty/News Staff
The Comanche Homcoming Pow-wow is always held on the third weekend in July at Sultan Park in Walters, Okla. This is the Comanche Nation’s oldest celebration of all time. People come from all over during the hottest weekend of year, setting up their air conditioned RV’s and ready to contest, BUT that’s not how it’s always been. Back in the 40’s during war time, a certain solider was returning home from the war. The family of Kelly Poemoceah was so proud and honored, plus they were extermely glad that he was fi nally returning home. The family wanted to do something to honor Poemoceah. The family decided to have a big celebration. The family didn’t have a place to have the celebration, so they approached the City of Walters and asked to use the park (Sultan Park). The City of Walters allowed the family to have the celebration at the park. Because of this celebration, the Walters Homecoming Pow-wow was born. Many families set up their camps at the park. Campsites could be seen throughout the park. Old canvas tents and arbors adorned the park. Camp fi res would be burning with metal pots of food cooking. Under the arbors you could see many W u t u raa ( a bed made of wooden saw horses, plywood and a matress), long tables with wooden benches, some would even bring refrigerators. There would be a table set up just for the water, some would have metal water buckets with a dipper. The women would be by
the fi re bending over cooking meat stirring the pots of food. Each camp would invite visitors over during the supper break to share a meal. It didn’t matter who you were, the campers would make sure that everyone had a meal at supper time. Each family had a certain place they would camp every year and to this day those same families still camp in the same spot. A person who is knowledgable about the powwow could be able to walk through the park and tell exactly where certain families camp. Vendors would set up around the arena, as to now days vendors are set up along the road. The rows of chairs around the arena would be at least six deep. The kids would be playing around a certain cement circle that still exist today. The circle is located on the Northwest side of the arena. Those kids have grown up and now their grandchildren play around that same circle. The use of that circle is unknown. The late Mr. Meja would always have his snow cone stand. He had a old time ice shaver that he would scrape by hand and he only had two fl avors, grape and cherry. Many people would not dance all year until Walters Powwow. They would break out all their regalia and dance all weekend. The tempture didn’t seem to bother anyone. It would be over 100 degrees in the shade and still people would be out in the arena. The late Elrod “Crutch” Monoessy would walk around the arena with his metal water bucket
making sure the dancers had plenty of water. He would also have a water bucket for the drummers making sure they had plenty of water also. The atmosphere was pleasing. The dance wasn’t a contest powwow, folks came out to dance and enjoy themselves. It really didn’t matter how much prizes money there was for the contest, and the giveaways didn’t go on hours. After the pow-wow families would go to other peoples tent and drink coffee and visit. The 49 (aka 9) would start after the pow-wow which is usually the highlight of the pow-wow, the younger kids would have to go to bed when this started. The 49 would go on all night. The older folks would sit and watch the 49 and visit for a while before going to bed. The men would stand in the middle of the arena hold a drum and sing all night long. The women would either stand behind their man or dance and sing. These songs are known as War Journey songs. Some of these songs have some english words incorporated in them such as, “One Eyed-Ford,” “Give Me Five Minutes More,” “When The Sun Goes Down At Night,” “That Kiss You Gave Me,” this is just a few of the english words in some of the songs. Early in the morning before the fl ag is raised and the 49 is over the kids that were up cleaned the arena. The kids were given a large trash bag and they cleaned the whole arena. After the arena was cleaned they did the “Rabbit Dance.” A singer would come out to the arena and
sing a centain Rabbit song. The kids would hold their hands to the side of their heads, point there fi nger up and jump up and down to the beat of the song. After the song was over they were given candy or they got to go to Mr. Meja for a grape or cherry snow cone. The fl ag to be fl own was and is always of a deceased veteran, which was raised by other veterans. The Comanche Flag song was sung, while family members stood and watched as the fl ag of their family member was raised. Along the campsites you could smell wood burning or see women building fi re to start preparing breakfast. People would gather at the arena to recieve rations given to each camp to help out with a meal. The rations would consist of a large peice of meat, fl our, eggs, bread and some canned food, sometimes there would be some coffe and sugar. On Sunday morning of the pow-wow there would be either a chuch service or a Comanche Hymn singing. Now days it has become more modern, instead of the old canvas tents and arbors, you see more RV trailors or little pop-up tents. You don’t see any W u t u raa, you don’t see many people cooking on open fi re. The children don’t Rabbit Dance anymore. The campsites are still there and the same families still camp in the same spots, that is one thing that will never die.
Smokin Rewards Bring Profits to Comanche Nation and Tribal Members
By Stacy Heminokeky/News Staff
The Comanche Nation Smoke Shops and convenience stores are bringing profi ts to the Comanche Nation and savings to the tribal members. The Comanche Nation’s business’s include Comanche Quick Stop (Spur), Comanche Nation Travel Plaza (Devol), Comanche Nation Smoke Shop (Lawton), and Comanche Star Smoke Shop (Walters). Business has been good, according to Jarrett Jackson,CEO, Numunu Pahmu, LLC. With the nationwide initiative against tobacco use, it was im-
portant that the Comanche Nation invest in alternative sources of revenue. Gas sales along with non tobacco sales are growing at a good pace and helps to offset the decline in tobacco sales. The Comanche Nation Smoke Shops and convenience stores impacts the Nation’s fi nancially through taxes. They are on course to generate about $1,200,000.00 this year for the Comanche Nation Tax Commission through tobacco and sales taxes. The tribe is to receive about $373,000.00 from the profi t of
the stores this year. The smoke shops and convenience stores hope to continue to be a self sustaining business that produces profi t and jobs for the Comanche Nation. Comanche tribal members are also benefi ting from these great businesses. Enrolled tribal members are able to sign up for the Smokin Rewards Card. The card provides tribal members the highest discount available on gas, food, or tobacco products. Currently tribal people, who use the card, are saving approximately $60,000.00 a year, stated Jackson.
The cards are successful start to help keeping money in tribal members pockets. The cards are for enrolled tribal members who are 18 years and older. An I.D. is needed when signing up. Follow the Comanche Nation smoke shop and travel plazas on Facebook and Twitter to watch for Special Gas and Sale Promotions. Facebook: Comanche Nation Smoke Shops and Travel Plazas. Twitter: @ cncmokeshops
On October 16, eight tribal nations: The Delaware Tribe of Indians; Caddo Nation of Oklahoma; Kiowa Indian Tribe of Oklahoma; Comanche Nation; Wichita and Affi liated Tribes; Apache Tribe of Oklahoma; Ft. Sill Apache Tribe of Oklahoma; and the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes, in collaboration with the VA’s Offi ce of Tribal Government Relations and the Oklahoma City VA Medical Center are all coming together for the 2nd Annual Inter-Tribal Veterans Stand Down to service the Native American homeless Veteran population from the Anadarko, Lawton, Carnegie, Clinton and Concho Indian Communities. The event will take place 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. at the Cheyenne and Arapaho Community Center, 2015 Dog Patch Road, Clinton, Okla. During last year’s event, a little under 200 Native American Veterans were serviced, 37 of whom were female Native American Veterans and 17 were widows. The goal this year is to reach out to more homeless Native American Veterans and to continue building on the eight tribe’s great working relationship with key partners that service all our Veteran populations. A myriad of services from health care, mental health services, housing, vocational rehabilitation, fl u shots, job and employment services and social security services, will be available as well as other federal, state and non-profi t services. In addition, offi ces such as Offi ce of Special Trustee and the Bureau of Indian Affairs CFR Court will also provide information on services available to tribal members. Approximately four barbers will be on hand to provide free haircuts, and a clothing room focused on cold weather items will also be available for the Veterans. All attendees are encouraged to ask questions and provide feedback. If you are the widow of a Veteran and are not sure if you would qualify to receive benefi ts or services, you are highly encouraged to come to the event and ask questions. Widows are encouraged to bring a copy of their marriage certifi cate, a copy of their spouses DD Form 214 (if they have one) and a copy of the death certifi cate (if applicable). Veterans are encouraged to bring a copy of their DD form 214 and any other documentation they might need to be presented the day of the event. While the focus of the event is on the Native American Homeless Veteran population, all Veterans who attend will be serviced. Transportation to the event is provided. For information regarding transportation pick up locations and times for each tribes surrounding areas contact Caressa James, Research and Development Specialist, Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes at (405) 422-7427 or Leslie Heredia, Administrative Assistant, Offi ce of the Governor, Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes at (405) 422-7734. For more information about the VA Offi ce of Tribal Government Relations, please visit www.va.gov/ tribalgovernment or call Mary Culley, Offi ce of Tribal Government Relations, at (405) 626-3426 or Mary. Culley@va.gov.
October 2015
3
Government
September CBC Meeting Pass Seven Resolutions
By Stacy Heminokeky/News Staff
Chairman Wallace Coffey called the meeting to order at 10 a.m. The invocation was given by Chairman Coffey. Secretary-Treasurer, Jerry Tahsequah, conducted Roll Call. A quorum was established with all CBC members present. The August meeting minutes were approved Vice-Chairman, Susan Cotheran, made the motion. The motion was seconded by Committeeman No.4, Clyde Narcomey. Resolutions No. 88-14 Jake Sharp Construction Co. Committeeman No.4, Clyde Narcomey, made mo-
tion to approve, Cotheran, seconds the motion. The motion carries 6/0/1. No. 95-15 Enrollment List No. 1014 No. 96-15 Enrollment List No. 1015 No. 97-15 Enrollment List No. 1016 No. 98-15 Enrollment List No. 1017. Tahsequah made motion to approve. Committeeman No.3, Harry Mithlo, seconds the motion. The motion carries 6/0/1. No. 99-15 Grant Application for Special Diabetes Program. Tahsequah, made motion to approve, Vice-Chairman Cotheran seconds the
motion. The motion carries 6/0/1. No. 100-15 Indian Child Welfare Title II Grant. Committeeman No.2, Sonya Nevaquaya, made motion to approve. Committeeman No.3, Harry Mithlo seconds the motion. The motion was tabled until more information is received. Tahsequah made motion to recess at 11:19a.m. until the 17th of September. Committeeman Mithlo, seconds the motion. The motion carries 6/0/1.
GOOD HANDED
YOUTH BANK Continued from Page 1
of the Oglala Sioux Tribe and high school senior who lives in Henderson, Nevada. She explains, “I said, ‘Why not give it a try?’ It was pretty easy to understand and do. I am happy I did it because I learned a lot from it. It was amazing how much money I was saving by putting it in the bank because I was not spending like I would if I had cash in my pocket. It helped me budget better and I was able to save up for items I really wanted, and I learned that I can take my time and don’t need to buy things
Coffey helping a student. could fi nish it, but she pressed on. “I could go without sleep when I was working on these pieces,” Coffey says. “I’d get so immersed, I’d go to the grocery store and it was all I was thinking about. I dreamed about it. It’s because the artwork is so much a part of you.” Other artists have also taken notice of Coffey’s art and teaching. Jon Davis, director of the IAIA MFA in Creative Writing, and himself a 24-year teacher at IAIA, has noticed how close Coffey holds her own work. “Karita has always been a little reticent about showing her work, which is a quality I admire,” Davis says. “I always got the impression that making the work was the important thing. Showing it was secondary. I remember when I fi rst saw the pieces she made investigating childhood. They exceeded their physical dimensions and their craft. They seemed endowed with time and depth and mystery.” Laura Walkingstick ’14, an IAIA alumna and student of Coffey’s, has won acclaim in her own right recently for her ceramic dolls, and was named a SITE Santa Fe Scholar in 2013. It was Coffey’s teaching that spurred Walkingstick to take her art to the next level. “She taught me a different way of looking at art,” Walkingstick
says. “Instead of just saying a piece looks good, [Coffey] encourages you to think about it longer, to let it rest and go to work in your mind. She taught us that there’s always something more to say about a piece—you want the audience not to walk away; you want them to wonder.” For Walkingstick, Coffey’s classes were the turning point in her time at IAIA: “She went beyond what she had to, and that was probably why my work in my senior year was so good. She made me think further and push my work like I never had before.” “To me that’s the fun part,” Coffey says. “I see it happen. I see it happen. I see them blossom. I see them take risks and that’s what fulfi lls me as a teacher. I get energy from that.” This leads Coffey into refl ection about her chosen profession. “What other rewards are there as a teacher except when you see they get it,” she says. “That’s what matters. Because when they get it, it lasts. I know what it feels like to get it, too. Teaching is a calling, the same as being an artist is a calling.” What’s next for Coffey? She says she’ll spend more time with her family, with her daughter in Lawton, Oklahoma, and more time making her own art. “At a certain point,” Coffey admits, “you need concentrated time to do art regularly. You have to be consistent or else you’ll lose your momentum and outgrow your ideas—you go too long and it’s gone.” Retiring from teaching will giver her that time. “I’ve been lifting fi fty-pound boxes of clay in the studios for years. Enough.” She pauses, and with a smile that will turn into her signature laugh, says, “I want to lift my own clay now.”
Want to Start a Business? Need Money to Expand Your Business, Including Arts & Crafts Businesses ? Call (580) 351-9951 Comanche Nation Revolving Loan Program
immediately.” In order to be eligible to win the trip to NCAI’s upcoming Annual Convention in San Diego, Native youth must answer the NAT$VE in the BANK call and get at least three friends to participate by Friday, September 25th. NAT$VE in the BANK will then unveil a new grand prize for youth who answer the call by March 31, 2016. To learn more about NAT$VE in the BANK, please visit the NFEC website or email Tyler Owens at towens@ncai.org.
Comanche Nation’s Annual Halloween Safe House s Treat
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ing style mirrors the way she works on her own art. When she pushes her own students to work conceptually, to incorporate metaphors into their work, it’s because she strives to do the same. In some of her recent work, Coffey took on the subject of violence against children and used the iconography of dolls in small-scale works of ceramic, wood, and cast metals. One piece, “Just a Plaything,” is a toy, but it’s unlike any toy you’ve ever seen. A doll’s head of carved and fi red ceramic accentuated with glazes rides atop two model car wheels and the face is attached to a cocoonshaped body, also ceramic. On top of this body is a small cast-silver faucet knob, much like one you would fi nd connecting a garden hose to a house. It’s obvious that a keen and creative mind is at work: there is an artist here, the piece seems to say. The object is beautiful, but also unsettling in the way the soft face contrasts with the wheels, like a wild animal, at once beautiful and dangerous when you look it in the eye. Coffey says she was trying to show how helpless children can be in the world of adults. She has created a series of these toy-like sculptures, each one involving the same mix of media, from found objects to worked ceramic to cast metals and all with the same attention to detail. These pieces are the work of a master artist. But they might not be the fi rst pieces a casual art collector might reach for. Coffey admits with a wry smile that “they don’t sell,” but she continues to make the art nonetheless. She seems driven to make them. Given her advice to students, Coffey can’t exactly back down when facing the challenges of making her own art. Working on a recent project, it took her 27 hours to carve a doll’s head out of wax to cast into metal. She had doubts she
The Comanche Nation News
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6:30 p.m. - 9 p.m. Oct. 30th Comanche Complex Haunted House
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THE COMANCHE NATION NEWS The award-winning Comanche Nation News, the offi cial communication of the Comanche Nation, is available at no charge upon request. The deadline to submit information for the November 2015 edition is noon October 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, Assis. 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 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 fl yer once free of charge as a courtesy to our tribal organizations. The guidelines for fl yer submission are: Pow-wow fl yers have to be from an established Comanche organization. There has to be contact person and number on the organization’s annual fl yer. 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
Programs Election Board Announces New Election Board Representatives Submitted by Bonnie Lemon/Comanche Nation Election Board Staff
The mission of the Comanche Nation Election Board is to ensure an impartial and effectively managed election system. To provide honest election services and protect the integrity of votes in accordance to the bylaws of the Comanche Nation Constitution. We shall strive to maintain fairness, equality, and increase voter participation, in the process of self-governance. The Election Board members for 2015-2016 are as follows: • Anadarko District ~ Carol Pewewardy and Kay Smits • Apache District ~ Sandra Gallegos (Chairperson) and Sonia Attocknie (Recorder) • At-Large District ~ Lennetta Davenport (Vice-Chairperson) • Cache District ~ Sandra Chesnut and Anita Daukei • Lawton District ~ Cheryl Monoessy and Mary Wade • Oklahoma City District ~ Brandy Herron and Melissa Mitchell • Walters District ~ Angela Garza and Sam Gonzalez
APACHE Apache Community Center, located at 309 Julia Mahseet Rd., Apache CACHE Cahoma Building, located at 752 NW Quanah Rd., Cache LAWTON Comanche Nation Headquarters, Education Building Conference Room, located at 584 NW Bingo Rd., Lawton OKLAHOMA CITY Comanche Nation Outreach Offi ce, located at 7390 S. Walker, Suite G, Oklahoma City WALTERS Comanche Nation Community Center, located at 905 E. Missouri St., Walters
The Election Board would like to encourage tribal members to verify that their address is current with the Comanche Nation Enrollment Offi ce. The Election Board is honored to serve the Comanche People. If you have any questions please contact the Election Board offi ce at: (580) 492-3272 phone (580) 492-3273 phone The polling sites for in-per(580) 492-3274 phone son voting on Election Day are as fol(580) 492-3702 fax lows: bonniel@comanchenation.com ANADARKO email Anadarko Outreach Center, located at 117 SW 2ND ST., Anadarko
Comanche Nation Host First Annual Diabetes Summit
Marie Sevier stands behind her beautiful quilts, and toys that she made for the CRYS Shelter.
One’s Talent Can Become a Gift for Another Story/Photos by Stacey Heminokeky/News Staff
Marie Sevier is Comanche Nation’s own “sewing machine.” Sevier is 85-years-old and a resident at the Edith Kassanavoid Gordon Assisted Living Center. She has many years of experience in her craft and shares her handmade gifts with people of all ages. Sevier has been sewing since she was 12 years old. She learned to fi rst sew in her 4-H class during her 4th grade year in school. She recalls her fi rst sewing project was tea towels made out of fl our sacks. “During those days everything was sewn by hand, she added Sewing machines were not made until later on.” Sevier’s many years of talent has made a positive impact on some of the tribe’s young people. She has made toys, quilts, blankets, night wear, and bears for babies and kids at the Comanche Nation CRYS Shelter. The toys and other projects takes her 3-4 months to complete. Her co-
Marie Sevier handmade toys from scratch including, a book, dolls, teddy bears, and two Flunky Floyd dolls that she was very proud of.
residents and staff at the living center help cut out patterns, but she sews everything herself. All her sewing projects are machine washable. The Comanche Nation is made up of many elders who share their life’s lessons with our younger generations. Sevier is a great example of how one’s talent can become a gift for another if shared.
Photos by Stacey Heminokeky/News Staff
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 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 73507
Member of the Native American Journalist Association since 2001 Member of the Society of Professional Journalists since 2010
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Diabetes Summit Participants listen carefully to the important information being told to them about how to avoid Diabetes and how to take care of their bodies. Submitted by Connie Amos/ Comanche Nation Diabetes Awareness Program
On September 17, the Western Oklahoma Tribal Diabetes and CHR Programs held a Diabetic Summit at Watchetaker Hall. “Healthy Generation: Renewing Traditional Sacred Lifestyles” was the theme for the Summit. The tribes that collaborated on this event consisted of the Comanche, Kiowa, Apache, CheyenneArapaho, Delaware, Ft. Sill Apache, Caddo, Wichita and Affi liated Tribes and the Lawton USPHS. There were approximately
150 attendees that heard speakers and visited information booths on various topics pertaining to Diabetes. Working together to educate and provide information to our native people is crucial in the fi ght against Diabetes. This is a disease that affects many of our tribal people. Participants were able to take part in a walk and received a t-shirt. Participants also got moving with dancing and various games. The committee felt this was a successful event and are looking forward to next year.
Courtesy Photos
Jur-nee Toahty is a 17 year old Comanche tribal member and a senior at Elgin High School. Toahty is raising money in hopes of attending her senior trip to London, England in March. She will be raffling off a Summer Pendleton (light weight) and a navy blue/red hand painted shawl. All raffle tickets will be sold for $1 a ticket, you can purchase tickets at the IT office and she will be selling the tickets at different tribal events. The drawing will be held in November. These items will make a perfect Christmas gift. For more information call (580) 574-7774 or (580) 458-8199.
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The Comanche Nation News
Culinary Corner Comanche Food Distribution Program October Calendar
"If you really want to make a friend, go to someone's house and eat with him… the people who give you their food give you their heart." -Cesar Chavez
Recipes for Home Cooking Ground Beef Stroganoff Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef 1/2 cup chopped onion 1 (4.5 ounce) can mushrooms, drained 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder 1/2 cup sour cream 1/2 cup mayonnaise 1/2 cup beef broth 1 (8 ounce) package wide egg noodles Directions: 1.) Break up ground meat into a large skillet, and add onion, mushrooms, garlic powder, and mustard powder. Cook and stir over medium heat until the meat is browned and onion is tender. Drain off excess fat. 2.) In a small bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, and beef broth. Stir into beef mixture, and cook over low heat for 10 to 15 minutes. Do not stir too much. 3.) Meanwhile, cook pasta in a large pot of boiling water until done. Drain. Serve sauce over hot noodles. Red Bean Chili 2 pounds lean ground beef 1 large onion, chopped 2 (15-ounce) cans light red kidney beans 1 (12-ounce) can tomato juice 1 (10 3/4-ounce) can tomato soup 2 tablespoons chili powder 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon pepper Garnish: chopped onion Preparation Cook beef and onion in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, 10 to 12 minutes, stirring until beef crumbles and is no longer pink. Drain, and return beef mixture to Dutch oven. Stir kidney beans and next 5 ingredients into beef mixture; reduce heat, and simmer, stirring occasionally, 1 hour. Garnish, if desired. Slow-Cooker Red Bean Chili: Cook ground beef and onion according to recipe directions; drain, and place in a 4 1/2- quart slow cooker. Add beans and next 5 ingredients. Cover and cook at HIGH 5 hours.
Garnish, if desired. Sloppy Joes 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef 1 (14 1/2-ounce) can diced tomatoes 1 1/4 cups ketchup 1/2 cup bottled barbecue sauce 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 2 tablespoons chopped pickled jalapenos (optional) 1 tablespoon liquid from pickled jalapenos (optional) 8 hamburger buns, toasted Preparation Cook ground beef in large skillet over medium-high heat, stirring until beef crumbles and is no longer pink; drain well. Return cooked beef to skillet. Stir in tomatoes, next 3 ingredients, and, if desired, jalapenos and liquid. Reduce heat to low, and simmer 15 minutes or until thickened. Serve mixture on toasted buns. Homemade Cake From Scratch 2 sticks (1/2 lb.) butter 2 c. sugar 4 eggs 1 c. milk 3 c. fl our 3 tsp. baking powder 1 tsp. vanilla extract 1 tsp. lemon extract Preparation Cream butter and sugar together until lightly creamy, add eggs, one at a time and beat. Add milk, fl avoring, fl our. Stir and mix well. Then beat or whip until light and creamy. Bake at 350*F until cake comes from side of pan. Army SOS Creamed Ground Beef Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef 1/4 cup all-purpose fl our 1 cube beef bullion 3/4 teaspoon salt 1 pinch ground black pepper 2 1/4 cups milk 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce Directions: 1.) Brown beef in a large skillet over medium high heat. Stir in fl our, bullion, salt, and pepper. Saute all together for about 5 minutes or until fl our is absorbed. Gradually stir in milk and Worcestershire sauce. Bring all to a simmer, stirring constantly. Cook until thickened, about 5 to 10 minutes. Serve hot!
Do you have a tasty Recipe you would like to share with the Comanche Nation News? Email the recipe and photo of your dish to: staceyh@comanchenation.com or drop it off at the Comanche Nation Public Information Office, Comanche Nation Complex and you will be featured on the CULINARY CORNER Page The deadline is the 15th of each month
University of Oklahoma American Indian Student Association Fall Benefit Pow-Wow October 18, 2015
Afternoon Session-First American United Methodist Church: 1950 Beaumont Drive, Norman, OK 73071 Evening Session- Molly Shi Boren Ballroom: 900 Asp Ave, Norman, OK 73069
Head Staff Master of Ceremonies: Mark Wilson Head Singer: Ryan Roanhorse Head Gourd Dancer: Lowell Nibbs Head Man Dancer: Dakota Schrock Head Lady Dancer: Anna Spottedwolf Co-Host: Oklahoma City Pow-Wow Club Color Guards: Native American Marine Corps Veterans
Miss Indian O.U.
Kimberley DeJesus 1:00 p.m. 4:30 p.m. 6:00 p.m.
Gourd Dance Supper Break Grand Entry
Program
Contest
Women’s Cloth: Sponsored by DeJesus Family Women’s Buckskin: Sponsored by Beaver & Monetathchi Family in honor of Miss Indian OU, Kimberly DeJesus Women’s Fancy Shawl/Jingle: Sponsored by Sheila W., Tommie D., Francine W., Patricia M. & Ruth Factor Men’s Straight: Sponsored by OKC Pow-Wow Club in honor of Gordon Roy Men’s Fancy: Sponsored by Joe Pappio in honor of the Pappio family Men’s Grass/Chicken/Traditional: Sponsored by Dakota Schrock Booth space is available for $20.00. For more information contact Cultural Affairs Chair, Kimberley DeJesus (580) 574-4088 or sponsor Lindy Waters at (405) 325-1468. We are Not Responsible for Accidents, Injury or Stolen Property. Absolutely No Alcohol, Drugs, Tobacco or Weapons Allowed. The University of Oklahoma is an Equal Opportunity Institution www.ou.edu/eoo For Accommodations on the Basis of Disability, Please Contact Lindy Waters at (405) 325-1468.
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The Comanche Nation News
People, Places & Things Happening Chappabitty Named American Indian Distinguished Alumni
Chappabitty Dr. Edwin Chappabitty Jr., a 1967 Oklahoma State University graduate, was selected as the 2015 American Indian Alumni Society’s Distinguished Alumni Award recipient. The Oklahoma State University Alumni Association and the OSU American Indian Alumni Society are pleased to announce the selection of Dr. Edwin Chappabitty, Jr., as the 2015 American Indian Alumni Society Distinguished Alumni Award recipient. He will be recognized for his achievements at a public reception Nov. 7 at the ConocoPhillips OSU Alumni Center in the Craig Family Room. Edwin Chappabitty, Jr., MD graduated from OSU in 1967 with a bachelor’s degree in zoology. He spent the next five years in the Army as a field artillery officer serving in
Vietnam in 1969 and 1970, where he received numerous awards for valor. He left the Army in 1972 to attend Dartmouth College and received his medical degree from the University of Colorado School of Medicine in 1980. He then completed an internship and residency in family practice at the University of New Mexico hospitals in 1983. In 1983, Dr. Chappabitty was commissioned in the U.S. Public Health Service and assigned to the Lawton Indian Hospital. For 25 years, he served as a family practice physician at Anadarko and Lawton hospitals while also serving as department chairman at Lawton three times. He also served as chief of staff three times and clinical director for three years at Lawton. Chappabitty also served on the executive committee of the National Council of Clinical Directors. He retired from Indian Health Service in 2008 and went on to pursue a career as the first medical director to the Comanche Nation in Lawton, Okla. Chappabitty appeared in the documentary Strangers in Their Own Land. In 1996, the Association of American Indian Physicians named him Physician of the Year. He received the Hero Award from the Journal of Minority Medical Students in 1997. Chappabitty appeared in the Oklahoma Today article titled “The New Medicine Men.” He was an OSU Distinguished Alumnus in 2002 and was mentioned in the book Indian Tribes of Oklahoma: A Guide. In 2015, Chappabitty was inducted into the OSU College of Arts & Sciences Hall of Fame. He has donated to the Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) at OSU and in 2011 established the Edwin Chappabitty Jr. M.D. Scholarship in OSU’s
Department of Integrative Biology. Chappabitty has demonstrated a record of distinguished service, extraordinary achievements for his country, medicine, and distinction to the university. He has long advocated incredible support for Native American students to receive educations and to pursue health careers. A citizen of the Comanche Nation, Chappabitty resides in Lawton, Okla. He is an annual member of the OSU Alumni Association. For more information on Dr. Chappabitty’s public reception or to RSVP, visit orange.connection.org/ aias. The OSU Alumni Association serves as a lifelong connection between alumni and Oklahoma State University. As a member organization, the Association serves more than 200,000 alumni living worldwide, as well as OSU students, faculty, staff and friends. By supporting the extensive alumni network from OSU, the Association provides a connection back to the university through a number of outreach programs as well as a complete directory to connect alumni to each other. Get Connected – Stay Connected – orangeconnection.org!
Experience Camp meeting 2015 The purpose of bringing this meeting together, comes from an inspiration inspired by the Spirit of God. And thus, this idea brought together. Meetings are nightly starting at 7 p.m. Bring your lawn chairs, and come expecting a blessing. October 15- 18. Refreshments served following the service. Five local ministries with the hope of working together to bring
the church community and local tribal community to work and help the people in this area, both spiritually and in natural every day needs, making available natural resources and programs to benefit the people seeking assistance whether spiritual or natural, to combat everyday trials of life we face daily. The minister they have invited to bring God’s word hails from Lodge Grass, Montana and have been in ministry preaching God’s word for many years. Also, local church’s from around Lawton have been invited to attend as well as tribal assistance programs, for those attending and giving out information helps people find help throughout the community. It introduces ministries one to another in hopes of working together whether our beliefs may not agree, but our main goal is reaching the lost and hurting community . As an added benefit, there will be a inter-national minister from Dallas Texas, by way of Nigeria coming for the last night of the meeting, whose operation in the gifts of healing and deliverance has opened many doors for him being used by God. They firmly believe that anyone coming to these meeting nightly will be blessed abundantly through the word, by the word and by the spirit of the living God, through his son Jesus Christ. They invite all to come out and attend, the hurt, the broken, the lost, and all of God’s people. As they believe God will do a mighty work. For more information contact Carla (580) 354-6106.
Brinkman makes Varsity Cheerleading Team
Brinkman Brenna Michelle Brinkman, formerly of Apache, recently made the Varsity Cheerleading Team for the 2015-2016 school year at Boulder High School in Boulder, Colo. Brinkman is a senior this year and will graduate with her class in May 2016. Her family would also like to wish her a very happy birthday; she turns 18 on October 20. Brinkman is an enrolled member of the Apache Tribe and also a descendant of the Comanche and Kiowa tribes of Oklahoma. Her parents are Jennifer (Redbone) and Josh Running Wolf of Denver, Colo. and Terry Brinkman Jr. of Lawton.
Courtesy photo
Benefit Powwow October 31, 2015 3 p.m.- 11 p.m. Watchetaker Hall, Comanche Nation Complex Nine Miles North of Lawton, Okla. ALL GOURD DANCE HEAD STAFF Jennifer Whitewolf Master of Ceremonies Head Singer Head Man Dancer Head Lady Dancer Arena Director Security Co-Host
Esa Rosa Princess Cy Ahtone Elgin, Okla. Elrod Monoessy Lawton, Okla. Ron Mahsetky Elgin, Okla. Crystal Pewo-Lightfoot Anadarko, Okla. Freddie Bandaras Lawton, Okla. John Chasenah Lawton, Okla. CIVA (Comanche Indian Veterans Association)
Halloween Costume Contest- All Ages Public Welcome. Invitation to all Tribal Club Princesses and Organizations. Vendors welcome to set up for a fee. Supper will be served. For more information, contact Frank Whitewolf, (580) 678-1540. No drugs or alcohol allowed. Not responsible for accidents or theft.
BOOMER SOONER!!! Tribal member, and former Comanche Nation Princess Kimberly DeJesus, center, has become one of The Pride of Oklahoma Color Guard members. DeJesus was the 2013-2014 Comanche Nation Princess and she is currently the 2015 Miss Indian OU. Congratulations Ms. DeJesus.
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The Comanche Nation News
Military
Submitted by: Lanny Asepermy/CIVA
CIVA ACTIVITIES
After the placement of the Soontay marker, the Detail reset the Photos and information marker of Kenneth Sapcut as the May courtesy of Roger and Linda Terains had caused the marker to sink hauno, Ronald Mahsetky, Kay into the gravesite. The marker was reBrox, Clifford Takawana and Lanny moved, dirt was hauled in and packed Asepermy. and the marker reset. The Comanche Indian Veterans Association continues to support families of veterans, families of veterans, organizations and clubs in Comanche Country by providing full military funeral honors for our deceased veterans; placement of veteran military markers for the families of deceased veterans at no charge to the families; Color Guard for Powwow’s and other special events; CoHost for various organizations, clubs The fi rst and original fl ag of the Comanche Naand family events; visitation and fel- tion displayed by Lauren Noriega and Becky lowship with our elder and veterans Clark, Albert Clark Jr is shown on left of photo with medical issues; providing veter Following a lunch break an gift packages to our veterans; recthe detail visited the home of forognition of our veterans at our three mer CIVA Secretary/Treasurer and major events we host annually – the his wife, former Auxiliary member Armed Forces Day Banquet, the MeBecky. Mr. Clark who retired from morial Day Ceremony and Veterans the Air Force after serving from Day Celebration and Pow-wow; fl ag 1952-72 including a tour of duty in raising and lowering detail and proVietnam. His wife has been having viding speakers for military, school severe medical issues since an autoand other events. Current elected mobile accident in 2001 which left offi cers are Commander/Treasurer her immobile for 6 months. Mr. Clark Jack Codopony Sr; Vice Commander suffered back to back major strokes Ronald Mahsetky; Secretary Clifin 2005 and is currently home-bound. ford Takawana and Sergeant of During the hour-long visit of fellowArms Lonnie Henderson. Appoinship, prayers were rendered by Rontees include Color Guard Coordinaald Mahsetky and Roger Tehauno. tor/Quartermaster Flavio Noriega; Hymns were sung by Princess LauHistorian Roger Tehauno; Chaplain ren and Mr. Tehauno and his wife, Jimmy Caddo and Auxiliary Leader Auxiliary Leader, Linda. Stories Linda Tehauno. Other active/semiwere exchanged between Mr. Codoactive members include Lanny, Shelpony Sr, Mr. Asepermy and Mr. ley and Barbara Asepermy; Larry and Clark. Mr. Clark broke down during Nona Gail Carnes, Arvillia Craig, the hymn singing and said “the songs Tina Emhoolah, Cecilia Gipson, Talreminded him of his Kaku singing bert Gooday, Rebecca Howlingwain his early years”. The original and ter, Jimmy Looking Glass, Beverly fi rst Comanche fl ag was also bought Isaac, Phyllis Mahsetky, Mison and out and displayed to all present. The Lauren Noriega, Stanton Pewewarfl ag was hand-sewn by Mrs. Clark dy, Richard Perez, Lucinda Pueblo, and fi rst displayed during Comanche George and Fran Red Elk, Georgia Homecoming about 2003. and Yonevea Sapcut, Richard and Fran Sapcutt, Michael Squire, Garrison Tahmahkera, Cheryl Takawana, Yonevea Terry, Kent Tomah, Susan Whitewolf and Rhonda Williams.
Lanny Asepermy preparin ground for placement of Richard Soontay marker.
On August 20th the marker of Richard Soontay, an Army veteran who passed away in May 2011, was placed at the Cache Creek Cemetery west of Apache. His daughter and son in law, Nancy and David Pippen from Austin, Texas, was met in Apache by Marker Placement Coordinator, George Red Elk and escorted to the cemetery. After locating the burial site the marker was placed and Mr. Red Elk rendered a prayer, CIVA Princess, Lauren Noriega, sung a hymn, and CIVA Commander, Jack Codopony Sr, presented the family with a CIVA Challenge Coin and Memorial Day T-shirt. Also attending was Mr. Soontay’s sister, Nettie and her granddaughter along CIVA members Ronald and Phyllis Mahsetky, Roger and Linda Tehauno, Flavio and Mison Noriega, Lanny Asepermy and Larry Carnes. The Soontay family presented the CIVA with a token of appreciation.
Marker Placement Detail from left to right, Roger Tehauno, Mison Noriega, George RedElk, Ronald Mahsetky, Lauren Noriega, Jack Codopony Sr, Flavio Noriega and Phyllis Mahsetky(not in photo Linda Tehauno and Lanny Asepermy)
CIVA Funeral Detail from left to right, Lanny Asepermy, Ronald Mahsetky, Richard Sapcutt,Roger Tehauno, George Red Elk, Larry Carnes (In background are Commander Jack Codopony Sr and Bugler Flavio Noriega)
On August 21st the CIVA Funeral Detail presented Military Funeral Honors to Comanche veteran, Specialist 5 Ted Warren Jones at the Comanche Nation Funeral Home and along with 2 active duty soldiers at Deyo Mission Cemetery. SP5 Jones served in the Army Reserves from 1964-70. CIVA and Auxiliary members in attendance were Jack Codopony Sr, Ronald Mahsetky, Roger and Linda Tehauno, Flavio Noriega, Richard Sapcutt, Larry Carnes, George Red Elk, Lanny Asepermy, Lucinda Pueblo and Rebecca Howingwater. At the service the Army song was played, the deceased military bio was read, veterans in attendance were recognized, a roll call was conducted and fi nal honors (a salute) was rendered. The US, Comanche Nation, Oklahoma, CIVA, Code Talker and Army fl ags were displayed in honor of the deceased and a CIVA wreath was presented to the family. Prior to the funeral Mr. Codopony Sr presented the son (Billy Jones) of the deceased a Comanche Nation Honorable Service Medallion and Challenge Coin and Mr. Mahsetky also presented with a Veterans Gift Package in honor of his father for his military service. Booklets with the deceased military service, obituary and funeral program were also presented to the son. At the burial site the fl ags were displayed and presented, the Comanche Nation Police Department, under the leadership of Captain Reed, fi red a volley
of three rounds, Taps was played by CIVA Bugler Noriega and the 2 active Army Noncommissioned Offi cers folded and presented the casket fl ag to SP5 Jones’s eldest son.
“Bunky” Henson and wife, Evie with members of the CIVA
After the funeral and prior to the meal provided by the Ladies of the Deyo Mission Church a presentation was made to the sister of the deceased, Evie Kosechata Henson, and her husband, US Air Force and Vietnam War veteran Richard “Bunky” Henson. A Numu Wounded Warrior Medallion was presented to Mrs. Henson in honor of her late father, Henry “Dutch” Kosechata. Mr. Kosechata died of combat wounds on 1 May 1945 and is buried at the Netherlands American Cemetery near Magraten, Netherlands. Fifty of the fi fty-eight known Fallen and Wounded Warriors or their next of kin have now been presented with the medallion. Mr. Henson was presented with a Veterans Gift Package for his military service from 1963-67. The package was the 523rd either presented or mailed to living Comanche veterans or the families of deceased Comanche veterans. Mr. Henson presented a sizable token of appreciation to the CIVA earlier.
On August 25th Charles R. Hernasy Jr from Farmington, New Mexico received a “Quilt of Valor” courtesy of Lanny Asepermy. The Quilts of Valor Foundation mission is to cover service members and veterans touched by war with comforting and healing Quilts of Valor. Since its beginning in 2003 over 123,000 quilts have been presented to combat veterans in all 50 states. “Charlie” received the fi rst of 23 quilts requested by Mr. Asepermy for Comanche veterans and other veterans who served in combat including several that were wounded in action. “Charlie” served in the Army from 1967-70 including a tour in Vietnam from March 1968 to March 1969 with A Company, 1st Battalion, 35th Infantry, 4th Infantry Division. He was awarded the Combat Infantryman Badge. “Charlie” is suffering serious medical issues caused from the affects of Agent Orange in while in Vietnam.
and his son, Jacob, and daughter, Emma, Cecilia Gipson and her husband, Jason Gipson and Tina Emhoolah, her son Alex, her grandson Bubba and guest, Ben Rutledge. The Commander and Vice Commander and other members of the Black Leggings and the President, Vice-President and Secretary and other member of the Kiowa Gourd Clan were also present. Prayers were said before and after the “kill” and pieces of the liver were eaten by all. The Kaulaity family provided a meal after introductions by the Mr. Kaulaity. Val and Paul Tate Sr and Patricia Bread and each organization also made presentations. Joe Fish DuPoint sang two Black Leggings songs and Princess Lauren sung a Comanche hymn. Prior to the presentation and meal, Sheex Russell, a Persian Gulf War veteran and member of the Kiowa Black Leggings, presented, on behalf of the Black Leggings, the CIVA a gift of four horses – his gift was overwhelming to all. On September 1st, Mr. Russell, Jack Codopony Sr, Lanny Asepermy and Flavio and Mison Noriega viewed the beautiful black with bayish tinted stallions on Mr. Russell’s 160 acre pasture. The horses are not broke. Arrangements have been made with Comanche Horseman and Marine veteran Robert Tehauno to “capture”, corral, load, transport, stall and break the horses until the disposition of the horses are made by the leadership of the CIVA.
CIVA members, families and guests with donated buffalo
On August 21st the CIVA served as the Color Guard for the 13th birthday Honor Dance for Leilani Garcia at Watchetaker Hall. Ms Garcia is the daughter of former CIVA Princess Lisa Karty (1993-94). Those attending were Ronald and Phyllis Mahsetky, Flavio, Mison and Lauren Noriega, Cecilia Gipson and Roger and Linda Tehauno.
On August 22nd the CIVA served as Co-host for the Outgoing/Honor/Late Birthday Dance for the 2014-15 Comanche Nation Jr Princess, Tristen Wauqua, also at Watchetaker Hall. Ms Wauqua is the daughter of Jon Wauqua and the granddaughter of Virginia and the late Johnny Wauqua. Attending were Jack Codopony Sr, Ronald and Phyllis Mahsetky, Clifford and Cheryl Takawana, Flavio Noriega, Roger and Linda Tehauno and Cecilia Gipson.
From horses to pickup trucks, from bows, arrows and lances to high-powered rifl es, from the butcher and distribution at the “kill” site to a meat locker, from the past to present - thanks to an unexpected generous donation by Army veteran, Goldie Kaulaity, and Navy veteran, Richard Twohatchet, the CIVA, Kiowa Black Leggings Warrior Society and Kiowa Gourd Clan each received a buffalo on August 30th. Mr. Kaulaity is the nephew of long-time CIVA Auxiliary member Patricia Bread (the widow of the late CIVA Vice-Commander for Life Richard Bread). Mr. Twohatchet is Mrs. Bread’s brother. Both her brother and nephew are members of the Black Leggings and Gourd Clan. After a briefi ng at 7:30 a.m. Mr. Kaulaity designated three “shooters” – Michael Squire, Paul Tate Jr and Princess Lauren Noriega (all CIVA members). The sacred animals were located on the Twohatchet 40 acre pasture and without hesitation Mr. Squire bought down the fi rst animal with one shot to the animal’s head (at a distance of about 75 yards). Princess Lauren missed her fi rst shot on the second animal then successfully scored two head hits to the second animal (at a distance of about 100 yards). An additional ten rounds were required before the animal succumbed. Mr. Tate Jr wounded the third animal and bought down the animal about 30 minutes later after a chase on foot – eleven rounds were required to succumb the animal. The animals were then taken to Mr. Twohatchet’s barn where they were gutted and transported to the Fort Cobb meat locker to be skinned, quartered and hung for processing. The animals hanging weight was between 900 and 1,100 each. The meat along with the liver, heart and kidneys will be used for the CIVA’s 39th Annual Veterans Day Celebration and Pow-wow meal on November 15th at Watchetaker Hall. The “extra” meat will donated to the Comanche Elder Center and families of veterans. CIVA members present were Ronald Mahsetky, Clifford and Cheryl Takawana, Lanny and Shelley Asepermy, Flavio, Mison and Lauren Noriega, Michael Squire
Monthly meeting, from left to right, Larry Carnes, George Red Elk, Michael Squire, Lanny Asepermy, Flavio Noriega, Lonnie Henderson and Clifford Takawana.
On September 3rd the monthly meeting was held in the Comanche Veterans Patriot Room. After a blessing and the Pledge to Allegiance a meal was provided by the Warrant Offi cer 1 Ben Rutledge a member of the North Carolina Army National Guard who is currently attending a Field Artillery Target Acquisition Course on Fort Sill. Nineteen veterans, 14 Auxiliary and 5 guests were present including 95 year old Auxiliary member Anna Tahmahkera who is now home from rehab and Captain Kent Tomah who is on a brief leave from Fort Campbell, Kentucky. A video and photos of the Buffalo Hunt was shown after the meal. After the Roll Call, the Minutes, Treasurer and Spoils Report were discussed and approved. Details for the Comanche Nation Fair were fi nalized and upcoming commitments and on-going projects such the Constitution revision, disposition of the 4 gift horses and distribution of the “extra” Buffalo meat were discussed. It was also announced that member LTC Rhonda Williams will be the guest speaker for the Kiowa Black Leggings Warrior Society on October 10th. The meeting adjourned about 8:30 p.m. The monthly meetings are open to Comanche veterans, relatives of Comanche veterans or veterans who wish to support the organization. The meetings are held the fi rst Thursday of each month beginning at 6 p.m. usually in the Patriot Room unless otherwise announced.
Continued on Page 8
October 2015 Continued from Page 7
The Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association and their families with Princess Lauren
On September 4th Princess Lauren was a special guest of the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association at the Dry Beaver Supper Club near Pumpkin Center east of Lawton. She opened the program and meal by signing the Lord’s Prayer and closed the gathering by signing “God Bless America” for the Association. Many of the battle-hardened combat veterans were bought to tears during her presentation.
8 the Distinguished Flying Cross, include the Defense Superior Service, Legion of Merit (4), Bronze Star, Air, Air Force Commendation (2), Air Force Achievement (2), Combat Readiness, National Defense Service (2), Armed Forces Expeditionary, Afghanistan Campaign, Global War on Terrorism Service, Korean Defense Service, Humanitarian Service and NATO Service Medals, the CIVA Auxiliary members from left to right Mison Noriega, Phyllis Mahsetky, Linda Joint Meritorious Unit and Air Force Tehauno, Rebecca Howlingwater, Lucinda Outstanding Unit Awards and the Air Pueblo, Jasmine Noriega, Princess Lauren Noriega – they were dancing behind CIVA Force Longevity (6), Small Arms members during the singing of the late long- Marksmanship and Air Force Traintime CIVA member George Asepermy Jr O- ing Ribbons. After turning down a ho-mah song promotion to Major General he re On September 12th Princess tired and ran, unsuccessfully, for a Lauren was a special invitee for the Congressional Seat in Indiana. O-ho-mah Benefi t Dance at the historical Fairgrounds Building “down the hill” in Apache. Eighteen members of the CIVA and Auxiliary were present to show their support of their princess.
Comanche Veterans’ Lieutenant Colonels and above
Marker placement detail from left to right, Flavio Noriega, Phyllis Mahsetky, Shelley Asepermy, Lauren Noriega, Dina Goombi, Ronald Mahsetky, George Red Elk, Richard Perez, Lonnie Henderson and Lanny Asepermy (Photo taken by Mison Noriega)
On September 5th a fl at bronze military marker and concrete slab was placed at the gravesite of Air Force veteran Gene Goombi at Memory Lane Cemetery in Anadarko. Mr. Goombi served from 1958-62 as a Security Policeman earning the rank of Airman 2nd Class. CIVA Sergeant at Arms and Air Force retiree, Lonnie Henderson, rendered a prayer; Vice-Commander Ronald Mahsetky read the deceased bio; Princess Lauren sang a hymn and Bugler Flavio Noriega sounded Taps as requested by Mrs. Goombi. Also attending were George Red Elk, Richard Perez, Lanny and Shelley Asepermy, Phyllis Mahsetky and Mison Noriega. On September 7th (Labor Day) a fl agpole and American fl ag was presented to Sheex Russell in appreciation for the 4 horses he presented the CIVA after the Buffalo Hunt on August 30th. Mr. Russell is a Persian Gulf War veteran and member of the Kiowa Black Leggings Warrior Society. Nineteen CIVA and Auxiliary members were present along with 4 guests – 7 members of the Black Leggings were also present. After the fl agpole and fl ag were presented by Vice Commander Ronald Mahsetky, Princess Lauren sang the Nation Anthem and the Black Leggings members sang the Kiowa Flag Song. CIVA Commander, Jack Codopony Sr, Black Leggings Headsman, Blas Preciado and Mr. Russell then made comments. During Mr. Russell’s comments he presented Princess Lauren with a horse. Mr. Russell provided a meal after the presentation.
Elder Center Director Marilyn (Big Bow) Guerrero in center of photo with CIVA Commander Jack Codopony Sr and Vice Commander Ronald Mahsetky seated. Other members from left to right are Linda Tehauno, Richard Sapcutt, Phyllis Mahsetky, Flavio and Mison Noriega, Larry and Nona Gail Carnes, Farley and Arnita Pewewardy, Roger Tehauno, Roberta Pewewardy and Michael Squire (photo taken by Lanny Asepermy who delivered the buffalo meat from the Fort Cobb Meat Locker)
On September 11th the CIVA delivered and donated about 100+ lbs of ground buffalo meat (from the buffalo hunt on August 30th) to the Elder Center. Elder Center Director Marilyn (Big Bow) Guerrero accepted the donation and said the meat would go a long way feeding the elders with some traditional meals. Ground Buffalo meat retails as much as $11.99 per pound.
Of the 1,168 known Comanche veterans only 12 Comanches (2 of which are deceased) have attained the rank of Lieutenant Colonel or above. The rank of Lieutenant Colonel is the fi fth highest rank for Offi cers in the military below General of the Army (5 stars), General (4 stars), Lieutenant General (3 stars), Major General (2 stars), Brigadier General (1 star) and Colonel. It is above the ranks of 2nd Lieutenant, 1st Lieutenant, Captain and Major.
Colonel Raymond C. Portillo retired from the Marine Corps after serving from 1941-61. He passed away on 24 September 2003 in Irving, Texas. COL Portillo earned (posthumously) the honorably title of Numu Pukutsi for earning the Bronze Star Medal with/Combat Valor Device while serving as the Operations Offi cer for the 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division during the Battle of Okinawa during World War II. He was also awarded the Combat Action Ribbon, the Navy/Marine Corps Presidential Unit Citation twice, the National Defense Service, the Asiatic-Pacifi c Campaign with/2 Bronze Service Stars (for the Guadalcanal and Okinawa campaigns), the American Defense Service, American Campaign, China Service and European Occupational Service Medals. With unprecedented appreciation and respect the Marine Corps Brigadier General Jona- gave COL Portillo an all-enlisted perthon George is the only Comanche to sonnel parade. earn general offi cer status. He retired from the Air Force after serving from 1981 to 2011. His military service includes over 4,000+ fl ying hours in strike, recon and training aircraft as a pilot. Brig Gen George is a veteran of both the Persian Gulf War on the War on Terror. On 4 May 1986 he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for heroism while participating in aerial flight as a U-2 pilot at a forwarding operation location with the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing. Brig Gen George is also one of only 26 Comanches to earn the honorably title of Numu Pukutsi for Gallantry, Heroism, Bravery or Valor. He is also the most decorated Lieutenant Colonel Meech Comanche offi cer. Brig Gen George Tahsequah was declared dead while has served at Vance AFB, Oklahoma; missing in action on 28 February Beale AFB, California; Washington 1954. The aircraft he was passenger DC; Harvard University, Massachuaboard was shot down near Susa, setts; Grand Forks AFB, North DaNorth Korea on 6 December 1950 kota; Whiteman AFB, Missouri; Ofduring the Korean War. He was a futt AFB, Nebraska; Langley AFB, B-24 Liberator pilot. LtCol TahseVirginia; Rome, Italy and Kabul, Afquah also earned the honorably title ghanistan. His duty positions include of Numu Pukutsi as he was awardT-37 Instructor; Runway Supervisor; ed the Distinguished Flying Cross Unit Controller; U-2 and TR-1 Inthree times for heroism during World structor and Evaluator Pilot; White War II. He was the fi rst Comanche to House Fellow; Special Assistant; serve in the Army Air Force. During Student Graduate; Director of OperaWorld War II he had over 300+ comtions; B-1 Instructor Aircraft Combat fl ying hours during his 31 commander; Chief of Safety; Commandbat missions. In addition to the Diser; Deputy Commander; Director of tinguished Flying Cross he was also Combat Operations; Senior Controlawarded the Purple Heart (3), Air ler; Director for the Secretary; Dep(2), the National Defense Service, uty Director; Deputy Commanding the European-African-Middle EastGeneral and Deputy Administrator. ern with/1 Bronze Campaign Star, Brig Gen George has served with the World War II Victory, the United the 71st Training Wing; 9th ReconNations Service, the Korean Service naissance Wing; Department of with/1 Bronze Service Star, the KoAgriculture; 46th Bomb Squadron; rean War Service and Prisoner of War 509th Bomb Wing; the Offi ce of the Medals. His body has not been recovAir Force Chief of Staff; Air Combat ered. LtCol Tahsequah enlisted in the Command; US Central Command; Army Air Force in 1941. 55th Bomb Wing; Department of Energy and the National Security Council. His awards, in addition to
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Lieutenant Colonel William Clark Southard retired from the Army and Army Reserve after serving from 1974-03. He served as a Staff Sergeant before being commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant from the University of Texas ROTC program. LTC Southard has served in Wurzburg and Bad Kreuznach, Germany; Camp Humphreys, Korea; Fort Sill, Oklahoma; Fort Rucker, Alabama and the Persian Gulf in Southwest Asia. He has served as a Company Executive and Commanding Offi cer; Flight Platoon Leader; Assistant Secretary of the General/Staff Protocol Offi ce; Division Civil/Military Offi cer; Aide-de-Camp to the Commanding General of the Army Aviation Center and School; Liaison and Exchange Offi cer; Organization Integrator and Aviation and G-3 Planner. LTC Southard completed the Army Force Management College; the Command and General Staff College; the Army Aviation Offi cer Advanced Course; the Rotary Wing Aviator Flight School; the Counterintelligence Offi cer Course and Airborne School. His awards include the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Meritorious Service (5), Army Commendation (4), Air, Humanitarian, National Defense Service (2) and Southwest Asia Service with/3 Bronze Campaign Stars Medals, the Army Service and Overseas Ribbons and the Parachutists and Senior Army Aviator Badges.
Lieutenant Colonel Richard Martinez has served in both the Oklahoma and Texas Army National Guard since 1985. His assignments and duty positions include the Oklahoma Army National Guard with different companies of the 2nd Battalion, 180th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division; as a Scout Platoon Leader with the 1st Battalion, 141st Infantry, Troop Command, Texas Army National Guard; as an Ordnance Platoon Leader and Shop Offi cer with D Company 249th Main Support Battalion (MSB), 49th Armored Division and Maintenance Offi cer for the 49th Armored Division Support Battalion Materiel Management Cell; from 1997 to 2005 he took a break in service; starting in February to July 2007 he was based at Camp Anaconda, Iraq as the S-3 for the 449th Aviation Battalion, 36th Aviation Brigade and the fi rst Commander of E Company, 449th Aviation Battalion.; from 2007 to 2012 he served as the Garrison Commander, Operations and Training Offi cer, Logistics Chief and Engineer Offi cer for the Training Center Command; he then deployed to Kabul, Afghanistan with the 136th Maneuver Enhanced Brigade as the Deputy G-4 based at Camp Phoenix and throughout Afghanistan; from 2013 to May 2015 LTC Martinez served as the S-5 Plans Offi cer for the 36th Sustainment Brigade; he is currently the Joint Forces Has Construction Facility Management Offi ce Environmental Offi cer and Texas Army National Guard Tribal Liaison responsible for ensuring the proper government to government consultation with 12 federally recognized Tribal Nations including the Comanche Nation. His awards include the Bronze Star, Army Commendation (2), Army Achievement (3), National Defense Service (2), Iraq Campaign with/2 Bronze Service Stars, Afghanistan Campaign with/Bronze Service Star, Armed Forces Reserve with/Mobilization Device and Silver Hourglass, Army Reserve Component and NATO Medals, the Texas Army National Guard Medals of Merit, Combat and Faithful Service, the Army Service and Overseas Ribbons, the Samuel Sharpe Ordnance Award and the Georgian Army General Kvinitadze Medal.
Lieutenant Colonel Kyle G. Smith retired from the Army after serving from 1984-07. He received his commission through the University of Oklahoma ROTC program. His assignments include the 3rd Infantry Division in Kitzingen, Germany; US Army, Europe in Heidelberg, Germany; the Combined Arms Center and Department of Joint Interagency and Multi National Operations at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas; the 11th Airborne Division at Fort Benning, Georgia; the 5th Infantry Division at Fort Polk, Louisiana; the “Scorpion” Team at Fort Irwin, California and Carlisle Barracks, Pennsylvania with the Army War College. LTC Smith has served as a Infantry Platoon Leader; Infantry Company Executive and Commanding Offi cer; Aide-deCamp; Instructor; Doctrine Writer; Operations Offi cer and Secretary and Combat Planner and Director. His awards include the Legion of Merit and 5 awards of the Meritorious Service, Army Commendation and Army Achievement Medals each, the National Defense Service (2) and Global War on Terrorism Service Medals, the Overseas (2) and Army Service Ribbons, the Army Superior Unit Award, the Parachutists Badge Lieutenant Colonel Mark and Ranger Tab. E. Woommavovah has served in the Army and Army Reserve since 1987 and is currently serving at Fort Shafter, Hawaii. He served a tour of duty with the 530th Military Police Battlion in Bagdad, Iraq. Other assignments have been at Fort McClelllan, Alabama; Norman, Olahoma; Minneapolis, Minnesota; Omaha, Nebraska; St Louis, Missouri and Fort Knox, Kentucky; He has served with 4003rd Army Reserves; Minnepolis Recruiting Battalion; 530th Continued on Page 9
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Military Police Battalion; Army Reserve Resource Command; Military Police Branch of the Army Human Resource Command Center and 9th Mission Support Command. LTC Woommavovah duties have included Operations Offi cer; Deputy Provost Marshall; Military Police Assignment Offi cer and Service Support Chief. He is a graduate of the Army Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. His awards include the Meritorious Service, Army Commendation (3), Army Achievement, National Defense Service (2), Iraq Campaign with/2 Bronze Service Stars and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medals and the Parachutists and Combat Action Badges.
Lieutenant Colonel Lisa Smith retired from the Air Force after serving from 1988-08. She served 3 separate tours in Iraq from 2006-08 with the Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Departments in Balad where she supervised treatment of 4,700+ and 1,175+ battleinjured patients. LtCol Smith also served as the Assistant Chair at Keesler AFB, Mississippi; as a student at Barksdale AFB, Louisiana; as the Physical Therapy Offi cer in Charge at Osan Air Base, Korea; as the Inpatient Patient Therapists at Luke AFB, Arizona; as the Director of the Physical Therapy Department at the Gelsenkirchen NATO Air Base, Germany; at Cannon AFB, New Mexico as a Flight Commander; at Brooks City Air Base, Texas as Department Chief and as a Department Offi cer in Charge at Lackland AFB, Texas. Her awards include the Meritorious Service (4), Air Force Commendation (2), Joint Service Achievement,
Army Achievement, Global War on Terrorism Service and Expeditionary, Iraq Campaign with/2 Devices and the Korean Defense Service Medals, the Meritorious Unit and Air Force Outstanding Unit (7) Awards and the Air Force Recognition (2) Ribbon. LtCol Smith was selected as the Air Force Physical Therapist of the Year in both 1995 and 96.
Lieutenant Colonel Dave S. Portillo retired from the Marine Corps after serving from 1989-11. He is credited with fl ying 41 combat sorties from April to July 2003 in support of coalition ground forces while serving with the Light Helicopter Squadron 369, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing based at Ali Al Salem Air Base, Kuwait and other austere forward operating bases throughout Iraq as the Director of Safety and Standardization and Operations Offi cer. Other assignments include Quantico, Virginia twice; Dallas Naval Air Station, Texas; Pensacola Naval Air Station, Florida; Camp Pendleton Marine Corps Air Station, California three time; Miramar Marine Corps Air Station, California; Corpus Christi Naval Air Station, Texas; and overseas in Korea and Japan twice. LtCol Portillo has served as a Squadron Adjutant; Legal Offi cer; Maintenance Offi cer; Forward Air Controller; Assistant and Operations Offi cer; Director of Safety and Standardization; Head of the Aviation Technology and Force Protection Technology Branches; Demonstration Coordinator; Head of Policy and Compliance Unit and Performance Evaluation Section of Manpower; Primary Flight Instructor; Battalion Executive Offi cer; S-1 Administration Offi cer and S-5 Future Plans Offi cer. His awards include the Meritorious Service, Air (2), Navy/Marine Corp Commendation (2), Navy/Marine Achievement,
Mark 16:15 And he said to them, 'Go out to the whole world; Proclaim the gospel to all creation.
National Defense (2), Armed Forces Expeditionary, Global War on Terrorism Service and Expeditionary and Iraq Campaign Medals, the Combat Action Ribbon, the Naval Aviator Insignia and the Navy/Marine Corps Presidential Unit Citation.
Lieutenant Colonel Rhonda Chalepah Williams is currently serving at Fort Sill, Oklahoma and is considering retirement in March 2016. She was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant through the Cameron University ROTC program in September 1994. LTC Williams has served at Fort Bliss, Texas twice; Fort Sill 4 times; Fort Leavenworth, Kansas; Redstone Army Arsenal, Alabama; overseas at Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Camp New Jersey, Kuwait and throughout Afghanistan. LTC Williams’ duty positions include Patriot Launcher Platoon Leader; Maintenance/HQs Platoon Leader; Battery Executive and Commanding Offi cer; Assistant S-3 Offi cer; Assistant Brigade Operations Offi cer; Observer/ Controller and Trainer; Simulation Exercise Group Deputy Chief; Fires Integration Division Deputy Chief; Battalion Executive Offi cer; Deputy/ Chief of Warfi ghter Operational Support and Senior Action Offi cer. Her awards include the Combat Action and Parachutists Badges, the Defense Meritorious Service, Bronze Star, Meritorious Service (3), Army Commendation (3), Army Achievement (2), National Defense Service, Armed Forces Expeditionary, Global War on Terrorism Service and Expeditionary, the Iraq and Afghanistan Campaign Medals, the Department of State Meritorious Honor Award, the Army Service and Overseas Ribbons and 3 Overseas Bars. She is the only Comanche female veteran
that is Airborne qualified and is one of two Comanche female veterans awarded the Combat Action Badge (the other is Chief Warrant Officer 2 Karli Wahkahquah).
Lieutenant Colonel Lawrence N. Yazzie has served in the Air Force and Air National Guard since graduating from the Air Force Academy in 2000. He is currently serving as the Commander of the 132nd Communications Flight, 132nd Fighter Flight Wing at the Des Moines Air National Guard Headquarters, Iowa. LtCol Yazzie has also served as an Executive Offi cer; Test Director; Manpower Personnel Offi cer and Senior Quality Assurance Evaluator. Prior assignments include the 56th Fighter Wing at Luke AFB, Arizona; Environmental Monitoring Satellite Systems, Air Force Operational Test and Evaluation Center and Air Force Space Command Communications Plans and Programs at Peterson AFB, Colorado and overseas with the 387th Air Expeditionary Group at Manas Air Base in the Kyrgyz Republic and Abdullah Al-Mubarak Air Base, Kuwait. His awards include the Meritorious Service, Air Force Commendation (4), Air Force Achievement (2), National Defense Service and the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary and Service Medals, the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with/ Valor Device (5) and the Air Force Overseas Short, Expeditionary Service with/Gold Border (2), Longevity Service (3) and Training (2) Ribbons. While at the Air Force Academy LtCol Yazzie was a member of the Division I basketball team including 2 years as a starter.
Major (Promotable) Gerald A. Woommavovah Jr has served in the Army and Army Reserve since 1988. He is currently stationed in Kuwait and has served two tours in Iraq with the 844th Engineer Battalion as the Iraqi Army Partnership Offi cer from January to May 2003 and from June 2009 to July 2010. MAJ (P) Woommavovah Jr earned the rank of Staff Sergeant prior to graduating from the Army Reserve Offi cer Candidate School in August 1996. He has served at Fort Knox, Kentucky; Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri; Fort Chaffee, Arkansas; Fort Sill; Wichita Falls, Texas and Oklahoma City. MAJ (P) Woommavovah has graduated from the Primary Leadership Development Course; Basic NCO Course; Engineer Offi cer Basic Course; Engineer Offi cer Advanced Course and the Engineer Captains Career Course. His awards include the Bronze Star and Meritorious Service Medals and 5 awards each of the Army Commendation, Army Achievement and Army Reserve Component Achievement Medals, the National Defense Service (2), Iraq Campaign, Global War on Terrorism Service, Armed Forces Reserve with/ Bronze Hourglass and Mobilization Device, Armed Forces and Corp of Engineer Bronze de Fleury Medals and the NCO Professional Development with/Numeral 2, Army Service and Overseas (3) Ribbons. Colonel Raymond Portillo and Lieutenant Colonel Dave Portillo are father and son; Lieutenant Colonels Kyle Smith and Lisa Smith are brother and sister and Lieutenant Colonel Mark Woommavovah and Major (Promotable) Gerald Woommavovah are brothers.
Translated to the Comanche Language
Surü tsa’ türokwisuaküi tüasü navawühtia’i, kwitso’aitu’i. Wihnuse’ suhka ke türokwisuaküti tuhú’ihutu’i, uhka ta pehkaru’inihku. -From the Book Mark-ha Tsaatu Narumu’ipu (The Gospel of Mark in Comanche and English Copyright 1958
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The Comanche Nation News
Milestones Happy Belated Birthday
Rusty W. Coffey, September 8
Happy Birthday
Leslie Kay Springer, October 1 Opal Jerre Gore, October 1 Ida Fae Bointy, October 1 Delina Nichelle Narcomey, October 2 Matthew Pohocsucut, October 2 Ariana Parker, October 3 Hah Tee Delgado, October 3 Jana Redbird, October 3 Rance Pollard, October 4 Trenton Connywerdy, October 7 Daniel Saupitty Jr., October 9 Francis Attocknie III, October 9 Wayla Wauqua, October 9 Jolene Jimenez Schonchin, October 12 Victoria Toahty, October 12 Annjaleah Lowe, October 13 Kaden Levias, October 13 Micheal Shawn Cook Jr., October 14 Angel Satoe, October 15 Guy Narcomey, October 16 Jarred Lee, October 16 Rachel Lee, October 18 Rodney Lukens, October 19 Shayla Sofia Simon, October 20 Angel Thompson, October 30 Austin Knoedles, October 31 Desire Attocknie, October 31 Saadia Thompson, October 31
Happy Birthday Delina Nichelle Narcomey October 2
Happy Birthday Ariana Parker October 3
Happy Birthday Jana Redbird October 3
Happy Birthday Trenton Connywerdy October 7
Llori Heminokeky-Goombi
Happy Birthday
Happy Birthday Daniel Saupitty Jr. October 9
Happy Birthday Wayla Wauqua October 9
Happy Birthday Annjaleah Lowe October 13
Happy Birthday Kaden Levias October 13
Happy Birthday Guy Narcomey October 16
Happy Birthday
Happy Birthday Shayla Sofia Simon October 20
Happy Birthday Travis Codynah October 26
Happy Birthday Scarlett Mae Codynah October 29
Happy Birthday Angel Thompson October 30
Happy Birthday Sandy Shico
Happy Birthday Jay Martinez
October 6
Passing
Brandy Dawn Berger August 4, 2015 Norma Jean Martin May 3, 1931~August 8, 2015 Pearl Alice (Johansen) Medeiros August 18, 2015 Charles J. Curley II June 16, 1952~August 19, 2015
Brenna Michelle Brinkman
October 20
Warren Gene Wells July 12, 1947~August 25, 2015 Francella Archilta Palmer February 17, 1943~August 27, 2015 Lawrence Emory Edge January 19, 1950~August 30, 2015 Floyd (Maurice) Brown July 16, 1956~September 2, 2015
Happy Birthday Chuckie Shico
Happy Birthday Krista Hubbard
Happy Birthday Susie Hubbard
Ernest Sam Ross
In Loving Memory
The Comanche Nation News
Violetta R. “Pepper” Gonzales 11/30/1967-10/3/2011
November Edition: Deadline October 15, before 5 p.m.
Miss you dearly, Love you forever.
Email:candacet@comanchenation.com Contact PIO (580)492-3386 By Mail: Comanche Nation/PIO P.O. Box 908 Lawton, OK 73501
Happy Birthday Saadia Thompson October 31
Happy Birthday Dayton Parker October 26
~ Mom, Marcy, Deno, Lorrie, Kendall & Nauni family
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
October 2015
Obituaries Anthony Vincent Perosi
Anthony Vincent Perosi, 69, of Norman went to be with the Lord on August 7. Funeral Service was August 12, at St. Charles Borromeo Chapel, 421 E. Acres, Norman, Okla.. Burial followed at Memory Lane Cemetery, Anadarko, OK under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home. Prayer Service was August 11, at Christ Our Savior Pentecostal Holiness Church in Anadarko, Okla. with Rev. Andrew Sonny Ware. He was in the United States Army from July 19, 1967 until July 04, 1970. He was a member of the Comanche Nation. He is survived by son: David Perosi of Norman; grandson: Isaac Perosi; sisters: Carol Campa Kramer and husband Todd of Coweta, OK, Anita Campa of Norman, Linda Jenkins of Anadarko, and Mary Dominquez and husband Hector of El Paso; brothers: Raymond Mario Perosi and wife Kathy of Anadarko, Alvino Perosi, Shannon Perosi, Vincent Perosi all of Enid, Michael Burgess of Pawnee, and Bulerma Burgess of Apache; aunt/ uncles: Geneva and George Mopope of Anadarko, Joe and Alicia Campa of Whittier, CA. and Oscar House, SR of Window Rock, AZ; Special Nieces: Christina Frost Stuart and husband Charles of Norman and Ashley Martinez of Anadarko. He is preceded in death by daughter: Tunica Perosi; mother: Beatrice Campa; father: Anthony V. Perosi; uncle: Raymond Mora, Jr.; aunt: Billie Jean House; great aunt: Florence Chasenah; sisters: Mary Perosi and Ramona Tselee; brother: John Campa; grandmother: Caroline Harry Nenockavy; grandfather: Roscoe Harry.
Teddy Warren Jones Teddy Warren Jones of Norman went to be with the Lord on August 15. Jones was born February 13, 1946 in Lawton, Okla. to Suda Tahsuda. He was raised around the Walters area. He graduated from Lawton High. He graduated from Northwestern University receiving two Masters Degrees. He served in the National Guard from Funeral Service was August 20, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Videll Yackeschi officiating. Burial followed at a later date under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home. He was a member of the Comanche Nation and enjoyed fishing, playing golf, spending time with his family and friends. He is survived by his sons: Billy Jones, Adam Jones of Albuquerque, NM, Timothy Jones of Las Vegas, Nevada; sisters: Shirley Sue Holman, D. Clo Larsen, Evie and husband Richard Henson, and Jean Ross; He is preceded in death by Mother: Suda Tahsuda; father: brother: Henry Darrell Kosechata; sister: Suda Kaye Dugan.
Lora Gail Tahhahwah Beltran
Tahhahwah Lora Gail Tahhahwah Beltran, 56, went home to be with her heavenly father on September 2, at her home with her family by her side. Funeral Service was September 5, Watchetaker Hall with Lay Speaker Tina Baker and Rev. Bill Foote officiating. Burial followed at Otipoby Cemetery under the direc-
tion of Comanche Nation Funeral Home. Prayer Service was September 4, at Watchetaker Hall. Beltran was born April 26, 1959 in Lawton to Edward Jerome Tahhahwah, Sr. and Ioleta (Poemoceah) Tahhahwah. Lora attended Cleveland Elementary, Elgin Public Schools, Concho Indian School, and graduated in 1978 from Ft. Sill Indian School where she was a rodeo queen and cheerleader. She loved going to Doe Doe Park to skate. Later, she attended the Great Plains Technology Center and became a Certified Nurses Aid (CNA). Lora was a member of the Comanche Tribe of Oklahoma, as well as the Petarsy Methodist Church. She was an avid Sooner Nation and Thunder Fan. Beltran had a very fun and loving spirit, she was always laughing. She is survived by her daughter: Chivon Tahhahwah; granddaughter: Ioleta Tahhahwah; grandsons: Fabian, Devin and Blane Tahhahwah; Father: Edward Jerome Tahhahwah, Sr., sisters and spouses: Lizzie Marie and Thomas Blackstar, Jr., Angela Hankins and Richard Haumpy, Stephanie Poemoceah; brothers and spouses; Nolan and Hazel Tahdooahnippah, Otis Tahdooahnippah and Beate Steinbrecher, Edward and Bertha Tahhahwah Jr., Max Alan and Jeremy Tahhahwah, and Ron Two Feathers, Marlin (George) and Marina Tahdoahhnippah; two aunts: Nancy Codynah and Arlene Wells; nieces and nephews: Bowdie (Margie), Jacob, Liberty, Kyle, Melissa, Fenton, Jarvis, Terry, Tasha, Eric, Chico, Rico, Garrett, Diane (Margaretta), Yolanda, Tonya, Tanute, Sonny, Chuck, Nyla, Mallory, Billie, Nivee, Thivae, Trenell, George (Comanche Boy), Alisha , Danya, Shana, Gail, Ellen, Bubba Ed (Edward), Ilaina, Tdommy, Raven, Nahmi, Winona, Marlin and Marisol. Beltran was preceded in death by her mother: Ioleta Tahhahwah; sister: Valora Tahdooahnippah: daughter: Christina Tahhahwah; niece: Deana Webster; Maternal Grandparents: Lizzie and Henry Poemoceah; Paternal Grandmother: Daisy Tahhahwah Smith.
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Jacquelyn Patricia ( Ahdosy) Scott
Scott Jacquelyn Patricia ( Ahdosy) Scott passed away on September 8, in Cadiz, Kentucky. Funeral Service was Sept. 12, at Petarsy United Methodist Church with Ernest Wilson officiating. Burial followed at Mt. Scott KCA Cemetery under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home. She was born on September 3, 1955 to William Bryan Ahdosy and Mary Ruth (Tsatiah) Ahdosy in Lawton, Oklahoma. She is survived by her three sons: Curtis Brooks, William Brooks, Dennis Brooks all of Arizona; brothers and sisters: Agathe Perryman and husband Bill of Lawton, Bryan Ahdosy and wife Donna of Walters, Elissa Estabilio of Hawaii, Keela Camacho of Lawton, Micah Ahdosy of Hawaii, Kevin Ahdosy of OKC, Rayelee Wilson and husband Ernest of Lawrence, KS, Naomi LaRue Ahdosy and companion Kenny Tawkoyty of Lawton, Jaunita Crowell, Allison Stewart both of Junction, KS; grandchildren; special friend: Steven Ballock; nieces, nephews and many friends. She is preceded in death by her parents: William and Mary Ahdosy; grandparents: Louise and Emmitt Tsatigh; sister: Ella Ruth (Binky) Ahdosy; brother: Scott Jennings Ahdosy.
Thursday teams. He made many lasting friendships playing pool. He married Bobbie Baken, the love of his life, on April 3, 2009 in Lawton, and they made their home there. His greatest joy in life were his children and his grandchildren and he also had many other adopted children that he loved as his own. Aitson always had a hug and a kiss or handshake for everyone he knew, no matter where he was. Aitson is survived by his wife Bobbie of the home, sons Robert, Anadarko, Kevin & Justin, both of Lawton, daughters, Candice & Deidra both of Lawton, Carrington, Elgin, mother Carol Apache, brothers Joseph, Lawton, Larry, Elgin, Laverne Jr, Apache, Krandall, Apache, David, Oklahoma City, sisters, Clarice, Elgin, Elsie, Coalgate, Theresa, Apache. Aunts Lisa and Gina both of Apache, Uncles Roderick, Leland and Travis (Beaver) all of Apache. 20 grandchildren Anthony, Aliyah, Mariah, Ashley, William, Patricia, Tieyah, Dezmon, Destiny, Keelyn, Tasia, Jashon, Naima, Julian, Christian, Kennady, Nicholas, Scarlett Elaine (on the way), Nicholas, Jennika and James and one great grandson, Brayden. Special mom Mattie Soontay, Apache, special dad Bob Tenequer, Lawton, special brother Mark Johnson, Chickasha. He was proceeded in death by his daughter April, grandmother Esther Parker, brother Gerald, sisters Elyse, Diana and Danielle, nieces Vickie & Shanell, uncles Lester, Bill and Larry Parker, aunts Eleanor (Pagie) and Theresa, father Laverne Sr. A prayer service was September 15 in Apache. The Funeral Service was September 16, in Apache at the Comanche Community Center with J.T. Goombi Officiating with burial followed in the Cache Creek Cemetery under the direction of the Smith Funeral Home
Esther Onco
Meech Aitson
Youngman
Aitson
LeRoy “Star” Ervin Williams Jr., 55, of Anadarko went to his heavenly home on September 7,in Lawton. Funeral service was September 11, at Apache Community Center with Pastor Sharon Yeahquo officiating. Burial followed at West Cache Creek KCA Cemetery under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home. Williams was a proud member of the Comanche Nation of Oklahoma. Williams is survived by: siblings and spouses: Cynthia R. Williams of Oklahoma City, Herschel D. Williams of Anadarko, Larry and Charisse Redbone of Anadarko-Ft, Cobb, Rebecca Williams of Oklahoma City, Balerma and family of Apache, Michael and Julie Burgess of Pawnee, Edmond Lee Mahseetof Apache; Williams is preceded in death by: parents: LaVonia and LeRoy Williams Sr., grandparents: James Ned and Ruth Na-coh-o-te-te (Inkanish) Williams, Allen (Kut-sonee) Motah and Ida Ada (Yellowfish) Burgess; sister, Hannah Trivett Williams, brother, Yeoman Dee Williams.
playing bingo, going to the Casino, Super Mario Brothers with grandkids, traveling, going to pow wows around the country with her husband and family. She is survived by: husband, Roderick of the home; sons and daughter in laws: Tommy Tahkofper and Tina of Norman; Ben Youngman of Chattanooga, Merrick and Crickett Youngman of The Colony, Texas; daughters and son in laws: Kay and Darrell Cable Sr. of Faxon, Leslie Youngman and Donnie Reed of Chattanooga, Theresa and Robert Davis of Lawton; sister, Theresa Tahsequah of Cache; grandchildren: Marvin, Sonya, Mickey, Nina, Martha, Jason, Sharon, Matt, Robin, Joe, Darrell Jr., Robert, Kelly, Casey, Andrew, Dylan, Alyson, Tristan, Cody; great-grandchildren: Sidney, Nathan, Jaylen, Avery, Lena, Everett, Kylen, Olowan Waste Win, Roderick, Penny, Shane, Jonas, Evan, Sadie, Mariah, Lynn, Erin; adopted son: Dr. Jay Craig and wife, Frankie; aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, other family members and friends. She is preceded in death by: two daughters: Alena Sue Youngman, Mary Reed; granddaughter, Nancy Ann Reed; son in law, Tommy Reed; brothers and sisters: Clifford Clark, Louis Clark, Paige Clark, Alberta Tahkofper, Geneva Mott and Mary P. Clark. Roberta Wakeah Bradley, Mona Clark, brother and sisters in law; Merrick Clay Youngman, Lisa Tahpay, Carlene Ferguson.
Nina Alice Youngman
LeRoy “Star” Ervin Williams Jr.
Williams
The Comanche Nation News
Meech was born in Lawton, on March 12, 1961 to Laverne Aitson, Sr. & Carol Parker Aitson. He passed from this life on September 11, in Lawton, Oklahoma. He graduated from Apache High School in 1980 where he was active in all sports, being nominated High School Football all Area Wide Receiver and Player of the Year. During his lifetime, Aitson worked at The Fort Sill Apache Youth Shelter, Riverside Indian School and Comanche Nation Funeral Home where he was instrumental in the initial start up and operation of the first Native American Funeral Home in the nation, an accomplishment of which he was very proud, serving his Native American people. At the time of his death, he was employed at the Comanche Nation Transit where he was a Dispatcher/Transit Driver. He loved going to work each day driving and visiting with his passengers. He never met a stranger. Aitson was an avid lifetime OU Football fan, looking forward to each game day during the season and was also an avid Washington Redskins fan and loved to brag to all the Cowboy fans when his team played and beat them. He was an excellent pool player and he played in the Tuesday Coors Light League and Thursday Scotch Doubles League, and was the captain of both his Tuesday and
Nina Alice Youngman, 84 of Chattanooga went to her heavenly home on September 15, at her home in Chattanooga with her loving family by her side. Funeral service was September 19, with Pastor Charlie Spencer and Tina Baker officiating. Burial followed at Highland Cemetery under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home. Prayer Service was September 18, at Watchetaker Hall. Youngman was born on November 25, 1930 in Lawton to Edward H. and Mary Pooche (Parker) Clark. She spent her childhood years at the “Yellow Mission”. She attended Lawton Public Schools and graduated from Fort Sill Indian School in 1949. Nina received her LPN License in 1950. Youngman married Roderick Youngman in Yuma, Arizona on October 24, 1952. The family traveled around the U.S. until Roderick’s retirement. They made their home in Faxon and Chattanooga Youngman worked at the Kiowa Indian Hospital and also in Rosebud, South Dakota, nursing homes in Lawton and worked for the Comanche Nation of Oklahoma for almost 30 years until her retirement in 2010. During her employment with the Comanche Nation she played a vital part in establishing many of the health programs they use today. Youngman was a full blood member of the Comanche Nation of Oklahoma. She enjoyed spending time with her family and friends especially the grand kids. She loved
Onco April 13, 1928 - August 21, 2015 Esther Onco passed away peacefully on August 21, 2015. She was born in Lawton, Okla., and she attended Fort Sill Indian School and Chilocco Indian School. When she married, Esther lived with her husband and raised their family in Hobart, Okla. Esther was trained as a Licensed Practical Nurse and she later moved to Norman, Oklahoma, where she was employed at the Oklahoma Veterans Center in Norman until her retirement. Esther was a full-blood Comanche and she was very proud of her heritage and fluent in the Comanche language. In her spare time she enjoyed reading, sewing, cooking, and shopping. Most of all she enjoyed visiting with her family and friends. Esther was a devoted mother and her bright smile, quick wit, and her wisdom will be greatly missed by her family and all who knew her. She was preceded in death by her parents Mikey and Martha (Monetachi) Tahdooahnippah; her husband, Fred Onco, a full-blood Kiowa; and her son, Darrell Onco. She is survived by her son, Cornell Tahdooahnippah, Norman, Oklahoma; son, Fred Onco, Jr., of the home in Norman, Okla.; son, Eldridge Onco, Fort Worth, Texas; daughter, Gloria Onco, Arlington, Texas; daughter, Gina Cole, Tahlequah, Okla.; son, Spencer Onco, Norman, Okla.; son, David Onco, Norman, Okla.; son, Conrad Onco, Norman, Okla.; son, Marlon Onco, Norman, Okla., and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and greatgreat-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, August 25, at 11:00 a.m. at the Comanche Nation Funeral Home, 2701 S.W. J Street, in Lawton, Oklahoma, and the burial service will be held at the Mount Scott KCA Cemetery.
October 2015
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The Comanche Nation News
October 2015
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The Comanche Nation News
“Once a Global Leader Always a Global Leader”
Comanche Nation Child Care Director Represents the Comanche Nation In Brazil Story and Photos Submitted by Carolyn Codopony/Comanche Nation Child Care Program
Carolyn Codopony, Child Care Programs Director, was able to attend the Global Leaders Program “Regional Meeting of the Americas”. The Global Leaders for Young Children Program is an advocacy initiative of the World Forum Foundation that inspires and empowers emerging leaders. Passionate early childhood professionals from all over the world gather to be trained, to share experiences, and collaborate. Globally and locally, they become courageous, innovative advocates who stand up to provoke lasting change with children and families. This regional meeting was held in Salvador, Brazil on September 16 through September 18. Codopony was sponsored by Community Development Institute and represents Tribal Child Care (Child Care Development Fund), Peer Learning and Leadership Network’s fi rst cohort, USA, and Comanche Nation. At this offi cial regional meeting Codopony and the other Global Leaders were required to present on their Global Leader projects and engage in learning and sharing together. There were Global Leaders from Brazil, Columbia, Peru, Mexico and the USA. There were various national representatives from South America who attended in person and through Skype. A couple of Global Leaders from the Ponca Nation, most notably a fellow Oklahoman, Juli Skinner, and another GL from Puerto Rico were able to Skype into the meetings with their presentations. The last day of the meetings the group was able to take a bus tour of Salvador and an award winning Early Childhood Center in Salvador. This was defi nitely a highlight of her trip, being able to greet, meet and tour the child care center. The Global Leaders of America were so helpful, inspiring, loving, and caring to Codopony while she was with them. Codopony said that “she formed friendships and deeper relationships this time in the smaller group at this meeting. The dialogue, the conversations and the presentations were wonderful, intellectually stimulating and thought provoking to her. This is the goal of the program!” The advocacy project that Codopony chose is developing an Early Childhood Educator (ECE) Comanche Language Certifi cation process for the Comanche Nation Early Childhood Development Centers Program. The project title is Certifi cation Methodology for ECE Comanche Language Teachers. The project is ongoing at this time. The past year which was the fi rst year of the project Codopony accomplished many great things for the project to get underway. Advocacy to important stakeholders in our local community was a huge and important piece of the project. A new resource book is one result that has come out of the project this past year, new staff was hired, and with the help of a few elders, most notably, one of our own ECDC language teachers, Patricia Bread, a lot has been accomplished in laying the foundation for this important advocacy project.
Pictured are Global Leaders who attended the regional meeting, and the national representatives and the Global Leader Coordinator, Mark Elliott.
Carolyn Codopony, Director of the Comanche Nation Child Care Program, presents her Advocacy Project to the Global Leaders.
The Global Leaders were entertained by children ages 1-5 years at an award winning child care center in Salvador. The children sang and danced for the representatives and they toured the classrooms.
Outside of the required advocacy project, Codopony has been able to become more confi dent, display her passion and to fi nd her voice to speak on behalf of children and families. The Global Leaders Program and the Peer Learning and Leadership cohorts, which are now completed, has inspired and connected her to other tribal child care administrators and to many, many other professionals working in many other diverse disciplines advocating for and in behalf of young children around the globe. Carolyn is now a mentor for the PLLN second class of cohorts. Codopony feels very blessed, inspired, and thankful to have been sponsored by CDI and to have been a part of both leadership cohorts these past 2 years. Carolyn wants to thank the Tribal Administrator and the Chairman for their continued support, consideration, and understanding in allowing her to participate in these outstanding leadership programs. A quote that she shared from her Tribal Child Care Mentor, Coach, and friend, Laurie Hand….” The Indigenous perspective is so important at the World Forum, your efforts are bringing awareness internationally.” Codopony stated, “Somehow with the busyness of work and home life, I forget that I am not only representing the great Comanche Nation but all Tribes and especially Tribal Child Care! I am very thankful for this opportunity.” The Global Leaders Program, originated in 2004 as a leadership program for the World Forum on Early Care and Education. There have been 190 Global Leaders since 2004 and Codopony ’s cohort has 44 Global Leaders. These Global Leaders become lifelong advocates for children around the globe. Hence the motto, “Once a Global Leader Always a Global Leader”.
Global Leaders gave presentations on their Advocacy Project, then we answered questions and discussed the projects.
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October 2015
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REUNION Continued from Page 1
path was a few miles through the Ruby Mountains, ending back at the Southfork Tribal Complex. Many activities were taking place on this final day. The Horseshoe Tournament had many participants consisting of men and women. A Handgame Tournament was also going on. The style of handgame was the Northern Style, which is opposite of the way the Southern Tribes play. Each team only consisted of five players, the guesser was looking for the un-marked bone. The southern way the guesser looks for the mark bone. The Shinny Ball game was one of the highlights of the day. The Shoshone Tribe was trying to avenge themselves against the Comanche team. During last year’s reunion, the Comanche team defeated the Shoshone team, three games to zero. The Shoshone team had to redeem themselves at this year’s event. The Shoshone had the Comanche on their home turf and was ready for victory. But the Comanche wasn’t going down easily or without a good battle. As the game began, the Shoshone had the upper hand against the Comanche. The Comanche got a open break way, controlling and passing the Shinny up the field. With the Shoshone closing in on the Comanche, trying to prevent a defeat. The Comanche got a open shot at the
The Sovo Family serving as the drum group for the 2015 Shoshone Reunion, sings traditional Comanche powwow songs, while riding in this year’s parade. goal and came away victorious. This makes two years in a row that the Comanche team has defeated the Shoshone team in Shinny Ball. Last year’s Comanche team consisted of the Indiahoma Women’s Basketball team, this year the Comanche team consisted of women from the Indiahoma area as well. Another activity going on was the Fry Bread Contest. Contestants were expected to build their own fire. Each contestant was given
only one match and a few sticks of wood. Once the fire was built they were allowed to prepare their dough with the ingredients provided, once the dough was prepared then they were allowed to began cooking their bread. During the Dancing portion of the reunion, the Comanche Nation performed several tribal dances. Before the beginning of the Comanche demonstration the Lord’s Prayer was performed in sign language by the
Comanche Nation Princess, Kelsay Codynah along with former Comanche Nation Princess Diana Gail Sovo, as well as the Walters Service Club Princess, Amber Rose Quis Quis and the Red River Inter-tribal Club Princess. After a Grand Entry of dancers, the Comanche Flag Song and Memorial Song was sung by the Sovo family. The tribe demonstrated the Gourd Dance along with other dances such as: Round Dance, Horse
The Sovo Family sings the Comanche Flag song during the presentation of the colors. The Sovo Family served as the drum group for this year’s Shoshone Reunion.
The Comanche Nation News Stealing Dance, Buffalo Dance and Two-Step. A special song was sung for Tribal Elder, Leonard Chibitty. The Comanche Nation presented the Shoshone Tribe with special gifts of homemade, Plum jelly, Buffalo Jerky from Mike Mithlo, Cedar in handmade cloth bags, and bags of Copes Dried Corn, which is a food delicacy of the Comanche people. Several Comanche tribal members competed in the Hand Drum Competition. Each tribe performed their own special Hand Drum song. Approximately 80 Comanche Tribal members, including tribal elders, registered for the Reunion this year. The Comanche Nation, was well represented at this year’s reunion. Even though the trip was long, tribal members had an enjoyable time making new friends and visiting with old acquaintances. The Shoshone Tribe showed great hospitality towards the Comanche people. Next year’s 2016 Reunion will be held in Fort Washakie, Wyoming just prior to their Eastern Shoshone Days in Fort Washakie.
Walters Service Club Princess, Amber Rose Quis Quis, models her specially made Comanche buckskin dress during the Fashion Show of the 2015 Shoshone Reunion.
2015 Shinny Ball Champions. Comanche women prevail victorious two years in a row.
Several games of Handgame was going at the same time during the 2015 Shoshone Reunion. The Hider is revealing in which hand she hid the unmarked bone, scoring a point for her team.
A contestant of the Fry Bread contest uses a stick to turn her bread cooking in the frying pan.
Comanche Nation Princess Kelsay Codynah waves to the crowd during the parade of the 2015 Shoshone Reunion in Elko, Nevada.
Women from the Comanche Nation dance in during the Grand Entry portion of the 2015 Shoshone Reunion.
Tribal elders of the Shoshone Tribe participate with the Comanche during the performance of the Two-step.
Ladies from the Shoshone Tribe perform a Shoshone Prayer song in their native language to start off the Hand Drum competition during the final day’s activities of the 2015 Shoshone Reunion.
Fry bread cooking for the Fry Bread competition of the 2015 Shoshone Reunion
Comanche Nation Princess, Kelsay Codynah, along with former Comanche Nation Princess, Diana Gail Sovo, dance the Comanche Nation’s Horse Stealing dance for the Shoshone Tribe, in Elko, Nevada.
October 2015
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The Comanche Nation News
Altus Teen Paints Mural for School Homecoming; Painting Goes Viral on the Internet
By Jolene Schonchin/News Staff
Courtesy Photos
Chance Bara sits by the mural he painted for the Altus High School Homecoming
Comanche Tribal Member Chance Alfredo Bara has been gifted with the art of drawing, and after his art school teacher asked him to paint a mural of the Altus Bulldog Mascot for the High School’s September 11 Homecoming Parade, his talent was recognized on a national and international level. What made the mural of the Altus Bulldog so unique was Bara honored the memorable 9/11 World Trade Center Bombing, in which this year marked the 14th year since the devastating event took place in New York City, NY. After posting it on Facebook, the patriotic mural was shared over 1,000 times , and the posts to the KSWO News Website had over 3,000 likes. The 17-year-old Senior won First Place in the Altus Homecoming Parade by a landslide, said his mother, Teka Henry. “He made the number 11 out of the Twin Towers,” said Henry. “He added a Cross shining behind them and through the middle. It took him two weeks to do the mural on 8 ft. x 8 ft. plywood.” “It’s a big stress reliever. Even if I don’t have much stress going on in my life. I just love doing it,” Bara said during a KSWO News interview.
ABOVE: Bara’s Mural of 9/11 has over a total of 4,000 shares on Social Media. RIGHT: A very proud mother, Teka Henry, hugs her son next to his famous artwork. Bara wants to enhance his artistic skills by going to Oklahoma State University. “They have the best Art Program in the State, but I can still wear my OU gear because he is going to be wearing his OU Gear,” joked his mom, Henry also added Bara’s drawings have made the school calendar every year since he was in Grade School, and he had won the 2013 Altus Chalk Art Competition, and placed Third in 2012 at the Duck Stamp Art Competition in the State when he was in 8th Grade.
The I AM NDN Program has asked him to turn in some of his drawings for the 2016 I AM NDN School Folders. When Bara is not drawing, he plays basketball with his friends and has an after school job. Bara is the son of Henry of Lawton, and David Bara of Altus. He is the youngest of three boys, and his brothers are David Moses Bara of Lawton, and Devon Bara of Altus. He is the grandson of Velia Rose Silverhorn, and is from the Wermy and Pewo families.
October 2015
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The Comanche Nation News
The New ComaNChe Card IS here!
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