PR SRT STD US POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO 49 STIGLER, OK 74462 VOLUME 10 EDITION 12 Lawton, OK December 2010 Sneak Peek PROGRAMS GOVERNMENT Historic Cobell Settlement Passes U.S. House of Representa- tives Tribal Water Rights Set- tlements also Headed to President for Signature into Federal Law In a historic vote Nov. 30, the United States House of Representatives passed the $3.4 billion Cobell Settlement as part of H.R. 4387, the Claims Resolution Act of 2010. The Claims Resolution Act of 2010 now moves to President Obama’s desk for signature. “The passage of the Cobell Settlement is a significant milestone in the history of Ameri- can Indian relations with United States govern- ment,” said Jefferson Keel, President of the Na- tional Congress of Amer- ican Indians (NCAI), the oldest, largest, and most representative American Indian and Alaska Native organization in the coun- try. “Not only does Cobe- ll settle historic injustices through legal means, it starts the U.S. govern- ment on a course for meeting its obligations and making reservation lands more productive for future generations. We commend the biparti- san effort from members of the House and Senate who worked tirelessly to pass this legislation.” The Cobell settle- ment resolves the long running class action litigation over misman- agement of Indian trust funds. It also includes payment for resource mismanagement and funds for consolidation of fractionated lands. The case has been pend- ing since 1996. In press releases, following statements on the House floor, both Representative Tom Cole (R-OK) and House Ma- jority Leader Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD), outlined the importance of pass- ing the Cobell Settlement as part of the Claims Res- olutions Act of 2010. "This legislation brings a fair and respon- sible resolution to the Recall Petition Fails By Jolene Schonchin/News Staff The petition to recall Comanche Nation Chairman Michael Bur- gess failed due to lack of signatures, said Coman- che Nation Enrollment Director, Donna Wahnee. The petition was turned in Oct. 19 by tribal members Eleanor Mc- Daniel and James Nelson. The Comanche Business Committee has to call a meeting to vali- date the results of the re- call petition. Remembering Comanche History: The Treaty of Fredricksburg According to a passage by Fredrich Richard Petri, Through- out the 1700’s, the Co- manche Indians continu- ally thwarted the imperial efforts of the Spaniards, who moved north from Mexico in an attempt to claim the Great Plains. After horses entered Co- manche culture, a com- pany of Spanish infantry were no match for a band of mounted Comanche. By the time the Ger- mans established Fred- ricksburg in 1846, the Comanche Indians were undisputed rulers of the southern plains. Their territory was vast sea of grass extending from central Texas north to Nebraska. Indians were regular visitors to Fort Martin Scott. In the spring, small bands could be found across Barons Creek setting up their buffalo hide lodges. Buf- falo provided meat as well as shelter, for the Comanche, built teepees and made clothing out of buffalo hides. From their spring and summer vil- lages Indians were able to trade with soldiers and townspeople. As Americans settled the Great Plains in the late nineteenth cen- tury, the Comanche way of life declined. Having had a glimpse of what the future held after vis- iting Washington, DC, Comanche chief Santa Anna helped maintain a peace settlement, along with other Comanche chiefs Old Owl and Buf- falo Hump, with their new neighbors, John O. Meusebach and the im- migrants in Fredricks- burg. On Nov. 20, a historic event happened in central Texas between the German settlers of Fredricksburg and the Comanche. The event was an re-affirmation cer- emony of the 1847 Trea- ty between the Germans and the Comanche. The re-affirmation ceremony was motivated an action taken against a Coman- che family. After being invited to bring their fam- ily powwow to the town of Fredricksburg and after ten years of hold- ing their successful pow- wow there, the family of Chappabitty (Knocks His Enemy From His Horse)/ Quassycheeky (Eagle Feather Hair Tie) were told not to come back to their own powwow. This blatant act was initiated by a non-Indian volun- teer, Nick Bradford, who had helped the family with their powwow. The act was a consequence of the family asking this individual for financial accountability after each powwow for years. He refused to do so. In a slanderous letter the fam- ily was told not to come back to their own pow- wow. In the same letter the office of the Mayor and the Director of the Tourist and Visitors Bu- reau was included as supportive gesture. The mayor was approached by Charlotte Niyah Mc- Curtain, a representative of the Comanche family, Fredricksburg Mayor Tom Musselman, Comanche Nation Vice-Chairman Rich- ard Henson, Deputy Consul General Margaret Wendel of Germany, Comanche Na- tion Chairman Michael Burgess and Comanche Business Committeeman Mark Wau- dooah pose for a picture after the cedar smoking ceremony, at Fredrickburg, TX. continued on page 8 The parents of students that attend the Apache school system set up a peaceful rally, November 22 and 23 just out side of the city limits west of Apache on Hwy 19. The rally consisted of local and area residence supporters. A blessing ceremony was performed by Melvin Mithlo to bless the students and the tribal ground where the rally was held. “We went to the school board three times. Yes, we are Native Amer- ican and we love our chil- dren” Trevette Arellano said. This is in reference to allegations of unfair treatment of students at the school. The parents have organized a Boone- Apache Native American student/parent Awareness Community, which con- sists of concerned par- ents supporting the effort to prevent racism, unfair treatment and nepotism within the Apache school system. The organiza- tion is chaired by Jacqui Knight, Vice-chair Trev- ette Arellano, Secretary Joycetta Harris, with board members of Gary Tomahsah, Jenny Smith, Beverly Isaacs, and Jesse Carratini. Also in atten- dance for support were representatives of the Tulsa Indian Coalition against Racism Organi- zation (TICAR) located in Tulsa, Okla. When asked if she knew of the rally that was being sponsored by the parents. Superinten- dent of Apache Schools, Paula Squires stated. “Well, no, I real- ly don’t know, but I don’t know what their protest- ing or what their protest is concretely about. Parents have brought issue to us and we have investigated them with the processes we have in place, which is stated very clearly in our handbook. We try to be fair,” said Squires. Parent stated my daughter was bullied and nothing was done said Pamela Satepauhoodle. She said her and her hus- band; Rusty witnessed her daughter being struck in the head three times with three staff mem- ber present. After going through all the proper av- enues, the result was her husband being restricted from all Apache schools. This has caused him to miss all events their chil- dren have been in, from Apache High School Homecoming festivities to sport events. “He missed all these events and you just don’t get these back” said Satepauhoodle. One parent said Apache School systems have in place a policy that gives alleged bully five chances where other area schools have a no tolerance policy. Parents Rally for Fair Treatment Story by Tomah E. Yeahquo/News Staff Obama Adminis- tration Announces Second Tribal Na- tions Summit Page 2 Comanche Nation Museum unveil new exhibit Page 5 Sports Tribal Members Run for Others Page 7 continued on page 3
Transcript
PR SRT STDUS POSTAGE
PAIDPERM
IT NO 49STIGLER, OK 74462
VOLUME 10 EDITION 12 Lawton, OK December 2010
Sneak Peek
PROGRAMS
GOVERNMENT
Historic Cobell
Settlement Passes U.S.
House of Representa-
tivesTribal Water Rights Set-tlements also Headed to President for Signature into Federal Law In a historic vote Nov. 30, the United States House of Representatives passed the $3.4 billion Cobell Settlement as part of H.R. 4387, the Claims Resolution Act of 2010. The Claims Resolution Act of 2010 now moves to President Obama’s desk for signature. “The passage of the Cobell Settlement is a significant milestone in the history of Ameri-can Indian relations with United States govern-ment,” said Jefferson Keel, President of the Na-tional Congress of Amer-ican Indians (NCAI), the oldest, largest, and most representative American Indian and Alaska Native organization in the coun-try. “Not only does Cobe-ll settle historic injustices through legal means, it starts the U.S. govern-ment on a course for meeting its obligations and making reservation lands more productive for future generations. We commend the biparti-san effort from members of the House and Senate who worked tirelessly to pass this legislation.” The Cobell settle-ment resolves the long running class action litigation over misman-agement of Indian trust funds. It also includes payment for resource mismanagement and funds for consolidation of fractionated lands. The case has been pend-ing since 1996. In press releases, following statements on the House floor, both Representative Tom Cole (R-OK) and House Ma-jority Leader Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD), outlined the importance of pass-ing the Cobell Settlement as part of the Claims Res-olutions Act of 2010. "This legislation brings a fair and respon-sible resolution to the
Recall Petition Fails
By Jolene Schonchin/News
Staff
The petition to recall Comanche Nation Chairman Michael Bur-gess failed due to lack of signatures, said Coman-che Nation Enrollment Director, Donna Wahnee. The petition was turned in Oct. 19 by tribal members Eleanor Mc-Daniel and James Nelson. The Comanche Business Committee has to call a meeting to vali-date the results of the re-call petition.
Remembering Comanche History: The Treaty of Fredricksburg
According to a passage by Fredrich Richard Petri, Through-out the 1700’s, the Co-manche Indians continu-ally thwarted the imperial efforts of the Spaniards, who moved north from Mexico in an attempt to claim the Great Plains. After horses entered Co-manche culture, a com-pany of Spanish infantry were no match for a band of mounted Comanche. By the time the Ger-mans established Fred-ricksburg in 1846, the Comanche Indians were undisputed rulers of the southern plains. Their territory was vast sea of grass extending from central Texas north to Nebraska. Indians were regular visitors to Fort Martin Scott. In the spring, small bands could be found across Barons Creek setting up their buffalo hide lodges. Buf-falo provided meat as well as shelter, for the Comanche, built teepees and made clothing out of buffalo hides. From their spring and summer vil-lages Indians were able to trade with soldiers and townspeople. As Americans settled the Great Plains in the late nineteenth cen-tury, the Comanche way of life declined. Having had a glimpse of what the future held after vis-iting Washington, DC,
Comanche chief Santa Anna helped maintain a peace settlement, along with other Comanche chiefs Old Owl and Buf-falo Hump, with their new neighbors, John O. Meusebach and the im-migrants in Fredricks-burg. On Nov. 20, a historic event happened in central Texas between the German settlers of Fredricksburg and the Comanche. The event was an re-affirmation cer-emony of the 1847 Trea-ty between the Germans and the Comanche. The
re-affirmation ceremony was motivated an action taken against a Coman-che family. After being invited to bring their fam-ily powwow to the town of Fredricksburg and after ten years of hold-ing their successful pow-wow there, the family of Chappabitty (Knocks His Enemy From His Horse)/Quassycheeky (Eagle Feather Hair Tie) were told not to come back to their own powwow. This blatant act was initiated by a non-Indian volun-teer, Nick Bradford, who had helped the family
with their powwow. The act was a consequence of the family asking this individual for financial accountability after each powwow for years. He refused to do so. In a slanderous letter the fam-ily was told not to come back to their own pow-wow. In the same letter the office of the Mayor and the Director of the Tourist and Visitors Bu-reau was included as supportive gesture. The mayor was approached by Charlotte Niyah Mc-Curtain, a representative of the Comanche family,
Fredricksburg Mayor Tom Musselman, Comanche Nation Vice-Chairman Rich-ard Henson, Deputy Consul General Margaret Wendel of Germany, Comanche Na-tion Chairman Michael Burgess and Comanche Business Committeeman Mark Wau-dooah pose for a picture after the cedar smoking ceremony, at Fredrickburg, TX.
continued on page 8
The parents of students that attend the Apache school system set up a peaceful rally, November 22 and 23 just out side of the city limits west of Apache on Hwy 19. The rally consisted of local and area residence supporters. A blessing ceremony was performed by Melvin Mithlo to bless the students and the tribal ground where the rally was held. “We went to the school board three times. Yes, we are Native Amer-ican and we love our chil-dren” Trevette Arellano said. This is in reference to allegations of unfair treatment of students at the school. The parents have
organized a Boone-Apache Native American student/parent Awareness Community, which con-sists of concerned par-ents supporting the effort to prevent racism, unfair treatment and nepotism within the Apache school system. The organiza-tion is chaired by Jacqui Knight, Vice-chair Trev-ette Arellano, Secretary Joycetta Harris, with board members of Gary Tomahsah, Jenny Smith, Beverly Isaacs, and Jesse Carratini. Also in atten-dance for support were representatives of the Tulsa Indian Coalition against Racism Organi-zation (TICAR) located in Tulsa, Okla. When asked if
she knew of the rally that was being sponsored by the parents. Superinten-dent of Apache Schools, Paula Squires stated. “Well, no, I real-ly don’t know, but I don’t know what their protest-ing or what their protest is concretely about. Parents have brought issue to us and we have investigated them with the processes we have in place, which is stated very clearly in our handbook. We try to be fair,” said Squires. Parent stated my daughter was bullied and nothing was done said Pamela Satepauhoodle. She said her and her hus-band; Rusty witnessed her daughter being struck in the head three times
with three staff mem-ber present. After going through all the proper av-enues, the result was her husband being restricted from all Apache schools. This has caused him to miss all events their chil-dren have been in, from Apache High School Homecoming festivities to sport events. “He missed all these events and you just don’t get these back” said Satepauhoodle. One parent said Apache School systems have in place a policy that gives alleged bully five chances where other area schools have a no tolerance policy.
Parents Rally for Fair TreatmentStory by Tomah E. Yeahquo/News Staff
Obama Adminis-tration Announces Second Tribal Na-
tions SummitPage 2
Comanche Nation Museum unveil
new exhibitPage 5
Sports
Tribal Members Run for Others
Page 7
continued on page 3
December 2010 2 The Comanche Nation News
THE COMANCHE NATION NEWS
The award-winning Coman-che Nation News, the offi cial com-munication of the Comanche Nation, is available at no charge upon request. The deadline to submit information for the December edition is noon No-vember 12. Donations to help cover the cost of printing and mailing are welcome.Contact:
• Paula Karty, Reporter, Photog-rapher- Email: [email protected] Telephone Num-ber-(580)492-3383
• Candace Todd, Administrative Assistant-Telephone Number (580)492-3386
• Fred Codynah Reporter, Photographer, Email: [email protected] Number-(580)492-3385
• Tomah Yeahquo, Public Rela-tions Liaison, Proofreader Email: [email protected] Telephone Number (580)492-3384
• News items of interest to the local and American Indian community are welcome. Letters to the editor must be signed by a name.
• Photographs will be copied and will become the property of TCNN. To return original pho-tographs, 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 let-terhead. The Milestones Page is for tribal members only. TCNN publishes all services conducted by The Comanche Nation Fu-neral 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, slan-der, or personal attacks will not be printed. The letters to the editor or articles contained in the The Comanche Nation News does not necessarily refl ect the opinions of the PIO staff.
Comanche Nation Offi cials
Chairman Michael BurgessVice Chairman Richard Henson
Member of the Native American Journalist Association since 2001
Government
Member of the Society of
Professional Journalists since
2010
Obama Administration Announces Sec-ond Tribal Nations Summit during 67th
Annual Convention
Summit Set for December 16, 2010 in Washington, D.C.
The Obama Administration announced this week that President Barack Obama will host a sec-ond Tribal Nations Summit in Washington, D.C. this December. The announcement, made by the White House’s Kimberly Teehee, Senior Policy Advisor for Native American Affairs, was delivered at the Na-tional Congress of American Indians’ (NCAI) 67th Annual Convention, the nation’s largest gathering of tribal leaders, governments, and communities. “With the announcement of the second Tribal Nations Summit today, the Obama Administration reaffi rmed that tribal governments are equal mem-bers in the family of American governments,” said Jefferson Keel, President of NCAI, the oldest, larg-est, and most representative American Indian and Alaska Native organization in the country. “The fed-eral trust relationship between the U.S. government and tribal nations is a non-partisan relationship. Our meetings with the executive branch have a long term focus of creating healthier and stronger tribal nations, to strengthen the entire nation.” Since President Obama’s fi rst Tribal Nations Summit in November of 2009, the federal govern-ment has increased the number and scope of tribal consultations, passed the Tribal Law and Order Act with bipartisan support, and made permanent the In-dian Health Care Improvement Act. Scheduled for Thursday, December 16, 2010, President Obama will host the White House Tribal Nations Summit. The Summit will include leaders from the 565 federally recognized tribes and give them an opportunity to interact directly with the Pres-ident and representatives from the highest levels of his Administration. Each federally recognized tribe will be invited to send one representative to the sum-mit.
December 2010 3 The Comanche Nation News
Season’s Greetings and Best Wishes to you in 2010-2011.
After a 5 month tour of duty as a new Comanche Busi-ness Committeeman (CBC), I have seen many tough tests for this Nation’s government. They include smaller than ex-pected “per cap”, innumer-able CBC recall attempts,TA limbo due to pending litiga-tion, tribal operation budget shortages with potential per-sonnel downsizing --- all this amid a national/global awak-ening on politics and economy. The predicted perfect storm has come as a wake-up call to rethink our priorities. De-spite the Nation’s Constitution (Art.2) mandate to improve economic,moral,education,and health status,the Nation’s gov-ernment in today’s economy cannot provide unlimited re-sources to do such.Many of our People have become over-ly dependent, even addicted to federal/state/tribal programs and funds. One can only look at France-Greece-Ireland and California to see where gen-erous spending sprees have backfi red in a slowing global economy. However, with a Big Picture approach by the CBC, Tribal Council,and grassroots Numunuu everywhere--- there is room for much optimism for the future ! This may require 6 things - 1)Leaders (with VI-
By Mark Wauahdooah,CBC No. 2
SION & guts--less subject to at-torney infl uence) ; 2)Discipline ; 3) Qualifi ed “new blood” (tal-ent) ; 4) VISION (long term vs. short term) ; 5) Practical fi nan-cial strategy ; and 6) Deuter-onomy 8:18. Awaiting in the wings are some incredible op-portunities to propel the Nation into great prosperity, employ-ment, and national infl uence.We will need new talented men and women possessing educa-tion/much experience for both political and economic fi elds particularly as we speed to-wards the April 2011 Tribal Council when new nomina-tions are taken for CBC and TA. They need to be people of integrity (pray 1Timothy 2:1-3). Also, we will need a com-mon vision that sees beyond a saturated,mature casino market only. An example of that is the the Crow Tribe which has be-come the fi rst tribe to become a trading partner with super-power China. Lastly, we will need co-ordinated grassroots Tribal Council proposals which do not detract from or bankrupt long-term Nation’s goals. Yes- we will need prag-matic and practical fi nancial strategy. Already,this current CBC has quietly worked with its CPA’s and attorneys to cor-rect past federal and in-house spending abuses thereby re-establishing trust and fund-ing ties to federal and private sources. However, the federal
gravy train in years ahead will probably be reduced annually as much as 10% nationwide. So, private economic develop-ment is a must for the Nation. A good fi nancial strat-egy must include :1) Diversi-fi ed revenue streams with ad-equate funding / reinvestment ; 2) Adequate legal infrastruc-ture and much due diligence ;3) Recruiting/training man-agement and personnel ; 4) Answers HOW are we going to spend the new revenues(as per cap or as Tribal Council pet projects or only for Tribal Op-erations); 5) Answers HOW to reinvest into alternate ventures/investments ; and 6) Dedicates both government and private business affairs to Tai Apu/ Narumii Jesus as Deuterono-my 8: 18 strongly suggest. We have not done so in past. Now- would be a good time to start ! If we can move out of a traditional”victim mindset” that harbors fear and hate into a visionary-oriented People loved by God and re-releasing blessings,then the Numunuu will progress. And, we must ac-cept new relationships includ-ing the State of Oklahoma,etc. Many Numunuu shall prosper. Jealousy of our own People succeeding must passby the wayside. I am truly excited and optimistic as transfor-mation prophecy is and will overshadow the Lords of the Plains…if we walk together.
Cobell case and is a great bar-gain for American taxpayers,” said Representative Tom Cole (R-OK), Co-Chairman of the Native American Caucus. “The Cobell settlement helps correct a historic wrong and ensures that Native Americans enjoy the full benefi t of tribal lands and resources. The bill is fully paid for and will save taxpay-ers millions in additional cost-ly litigation.” "These settlements have been reached in court, and now it is our job to ensure that the federal government lives up to its end of the bargain," said House Majority Leader Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD). "I’m glad that this bill funds the Pigford and Cobell settlements without adding to the defi cit; and I’m also glad that this bill can bring
to a close an unfortunate chap-ter in our history." In recent weeks, the Cobell Settlement moved for-ward rapidly in the Senate as budget neutral legislation, af-ter lingering for the last year in both houses. Unresolved for fourteen years, the settlement was part of a number of his-toric measures included in the Claims Resolution Act of 2010. In addition to the Cobell Set-tlement, historic water settle-ments vital to Indian Country, totaling over $1 billion, were passed as part H.R. 4387. The water settlements involved the Crow Tribe, Taos Pueblo, the White Mountain Apache Tribe, and the Aamodt Settlement in-cluding the Pueblos of Nambe, Pojoaque, San Ildefonso and Tesuque.
NCAI Praises Passage of Cobell Settlement in U.S. Senate, Calls for Immediate Passage in
House “One Step Closer to Settling Historical Injustice” says National Congress of American IndiansAlbuquerque, New Mexico – The United States Senate has passed the long awaited $3.4 billion Cobell Settlement brought by American Indian plaintiffs. Praising its passage, the leadership of the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), the oldest, largest, and most representative Amer-ican Indian and Alaska Native organization in the country, has called for a swift passage of Cobell in the House. “The passage of the Cobell Settlement in the Sen-ate brings tribal nations and the federal government one step closer to settling this histori-cal injustice,” said Jefferson Keel, President of the National Congress of American Indi-ans. “We urge the House to pass this legislation and send it to the President’s desk for fi nal signature. NCAI is also encouraged by the passage of several important tribal water settlements. Congratulations to Indian Country for these im-
portant steps forward.” The National Congress of American Indians state-ment comes at the conclusion of the organization’s 67th An-nual Convention held in Albu-querque, New Mexico. Dur-ing NCAI’s Convention the Obama Administration made history by announcing to tribal leaders the second Tribal Na-tions Summit to be hosted by the President. The Tribal Na-tions Summit will be held in Washington, D.C. on Decem-ber 16, 2010.Read the press release about the Tribal Nations Summit: http://tinyurl.com/27kdynr
About The National Congress of American Indians: Founded in 1944, the National Congress of American Indians is the oldest, largest and most representative American In-dian and Alaska Native orga-nization in the country. NCAI advocates on behalf of tribal governments and communi-ties, promoting strong tribal-federal government-to-govern-ment policies, and promoting a better understanding among the general public regarding American Indian and Alaska Native governments, people and rights. For more informa-tion visit www.ncai.org
Resolutions Pass November Business Committee Meeting The November meeting was called to order at 10:01 by Comanche Nation Chairman Michael Burgess. Roll call by Secretary/Treasurer Robert Tippeconnic, all were pres-ent, a quorum was established. Tippeconnic opened the meet-ing with a prayer. A motion by Commit-teeman Clyde Narcomey was made to table the minutes of the October meeting, motion was second by Committeeman Darrell Kosechequetah, mo-tion passed 6/0. A motion was made by Narcomey to amenda the agenda, motion was second by Committeeman Mark Wauah-dooah, motion passed 6/0.
Resolutions 143-10 Connahvich-nah Land lease Tabled 144-10 Dorcas Pow-honeat Allotment. Motion made by Vice-Chairman Rich-ard Henson to accept , second by Waudooah. Motion carries 6/0.
154-10 Enrollment List No. 846/Eligible. Motion made by Narcomey, second by Henson. Motion carries 6/0.
155-10 Enrollment
List No. 847/Ineligible. Mo-tion made by Narcomey, sec-ond by Henson. Motion car-ries 6/0. 156-10 Enrollment List No. 848/Ineligible. Mo-tion made by Henson, second by Kosechequetah. Motion carries 6/0. 157-10 Andy We-wichah or Pahahbo Land Acquisition. Motion made by Henson, second by Wauahdoo-ah. Motion carries 5/1. 158-10 Amend CN Dangerous Drug Act. Motion made by Henson, second by Narcomey. Motion carries 6/0. 159-10 Comanche Na-tion News Censorship. Mo-tion made by Wauahdooah, second by Henson. Motion carries 3/1/1. 160-10 Haumpay land acquisition through probate. Motion made by Wauahdooah, second by Henson. Motion carries 5/1. 161-10 Approve levy of Revenue Allocation Plan FY 2010 Per Capita pay-ments under Federal Court Writs of Garnishment. Mo-tion made by Henson, second by Wauahdooah. Motion car-ries 6/0.
162-10 Approve levy of Revenue Allocation Plan FY 2010 Per Capita pay-ments for Child Support Ar-rearages. Motion made by Henson, second by Koseche-quetah. Motion carries 6/0. 163-10 Grant Appli-cation to US Dept. of Health and Human Services AOA, Part C of Title VI, Caregiver Support Program. Motion made by Henson, second by Narcomey. Motion carries 6/0. 164-10 Grant Appli-cation to US Sept. of Health and Human Services AOA, Part A of Title VI, Nutri-tion Program. Motion made by Kosechequetah, second by Henson. Motion carries 6/0. 165-10 TERO Ordi-nance 2010. Motion made by Henson to table, second by Tippeconnic. Motion carries 6/0. Motion Bowen Prop-erty. Motion made by Henson to Disapprove, second by Wau-ahdooah. Motion carries 3/2/2. Motion Kaniatobe property. Motion made by Henson to Table, second by kosechequtah. Motion carries 6/0.
continued from page 1
December 2010 4 The Comanche Nation News
An article that ran in a local newspaper on Oct. 24 had tribal members thinking they were going to get a $1,500 per cap check, and many were dis-appointed when they received less. The reporter that ran the article said he was referenc-ing the amount the tribe would get if the Revenue Allocation Plan increase passed the Bu-reau of Indian Affairs and the National Indian Gaming Com-mission, and he was going by the numbers he received during the annual council meeting in April. He said he did not mean to confuse the tribal readers. “We have been averag-ing four to fi ve calls a day be-cause of the article that ran,” said Donna Wahnee, director of the tribal enrollment depart-ment. Although the increase in the tribal per capita passed at the April General Coun-cil Meeting, it has two more phases to pass before any tribal members see the increase on their per capita check. “The sixty percent in-crease will not go into effect until approved by offi cials in the Department of Interior and the National Indian Gaming Commission,” said Comanche Nation Chairman Michael Bur-gess. “The advent of gam-ing to Indian governments is to support services to the commu-nity by means other than giving per capita to tribal individuals,” said Burgess. “The gaming in-come is meant to support tribal government’s functions fi rst and foremost, and after those demands are met, then a per capita can be given, and it is up to the CNIGC to say that this can or cannot be done.”According to the NIGC, § 290.12 What information must the tribal revenue allocation plan contain?(a) A tribal revenue allocation plan must be submitted that in-cludes a percentage breakdown of the uses for which you will allocate net gaming revenues. The percentage breakdown musttotal 100 percent.(b) The plan must reserve an adequate portion of net gaming revenues from the tribal gam-ingactivity for one or more of the following purposes:(1) To fund tribal government operations or programs;(2) To provide for the general welfare of the tribe or its mem-bers;(3) To promote tribal economic development;(4) To donate to charitable or-ganizations; or(5) To help fund operations of local government.(c) The plan must identify when, where and to whom per capita payments will be made.(d) The plan must contain de-tailed information to allow the ABO to determine that itcomplies with this part and IGRA, particularly regarding funding for tribal governmentaloperations and for promoting tribal economic development.(e) It must protect and preserve the interests of minors and oth-er legally incompetentpersons who are entitled to re-ceive per capita payments by:(1) Ensuring that tribes make per capita payments for eligible minors or legally incompetentpersons available for disburse-ment to the parents or legal
guardians of these minors orincompetent persons at times, and in amounts, necessary for the health, education, or wel-fare ofthe minor or incompetent per-son;(2) Establishing criteria for al-lowing the withdrawal of any per capita payments by a par-entor legal guardian;(3) Requiring acceptable proof and/or receipts for accountabil-ity of the expenditure of anyper capita payments withdrawn by a parent or legal guardian; and(4) Establishing criteria for denying the withdrawal of the minors’ and legally incompe-tentpersons’ per capita payments by a parent or legal guardian.(f) It must describe how you will notify members of the tax liability for per capita pay-mentsand how you will withhold taxes for all recipients in ac-cordance with IRS regulations in 26 CFRpart 31;
(g) It must authorize the distri-bution of per capita payments to members according tospecifi c eligibility require-ments; and(h) It must utilize or establish a tribal court system, forum or administrative processfor the resolution of disputes concerning the allocation and distribution of net gamingrevenues, including the distri-bution of per capita payments to tribal members and toparents or legal guardians on
behalf of minors or legally in-competent persons.
§ 290.13 What supplemental information must be submitted for the ABO to reviewa tribal revenue allocation plan?Detailed information must be submitted to allow the ABO to determine that the plancomplies with this part and IGRA. The ABO’s primary fo-cus will be on informationrelating to revenues allocated for tribal governmental opera-tions, programs and services,and revenues allocated for eco-nomic development. The infor-mation that a tribe mustsubmit includes, but is not lim-ited to, the following:(a) The number of enrolled members of the tribe, includ-ing:(1) The number of adults;(2) The number of minors; and(3) The number of legally in-competent persons.(b) The number of enrolled members of the tribe residing on the tribe’s reservation,and the number of enrolled members residing off-reserva-tion.(c) The number of enrolled members of the tribe residing on the tribe’s reservationwho are unemployed.(d) The number and names of businesses, including both gaming and non-gamingrelated businesses, owned or operated by the tribe.(e) The amount of revenues generated by each business, in-cluding each gamingoperation, which is available to the tribe for economic devel-
opment.(f) The amount of tribal debt.(g) A list of all essential gov-ernmental services provided by the tribe on its reservation,such as water, sewer, housing, law enforcement, fi re protec-tion, road maintenance, tribalcourt, etc., and a description of each of the services provided. These governmentalservices must be available to all tribal members.(h) The total amount of rev-enue, from tribal and all other sources, including, but notlimited to, revenue received pursuant to the Indian Self-De-termination and AssistanceAct, 25 U.S.C. § 450 et seq., and budgeted by the tribe to provide governmental serviceson its reservation.(i) Which governmental ser-vices or programs are, or have been, affected by a lack ofavailable revenue, and whether any governmental services or programs have beencurtailed or cut back due to the lack of available revenue.(j) The number and titles of all tribal government programs, and the needs addressedby each.(k) The written eligibility re-quirements for each tribal gov-ernment program must bemaintained by the tribe for re-view by the BIA or NIGC, if deemed necessary.(l) The total amount of rev-enue, from tribal and all other sources, budgeted by the tribefor one or more of the follow-ing purposes:(1) To fund government op-erations or programs to tribal members;
(2) To provide for the general welfare of the tribe or its mem-bers;(3) For economic develop-ment;(4) For donations to charitable organizations; or(5) To help fund operations of local governments.(m) The total amount of reve-nue available to the tribe from:(1) Net gaming revenues; and(2) Non-gaming related sourc-es.(n) If the tribe has established per capita payment accounts with a fi nancial institutionon behalf of minors and per-sons found to be legally incom-petent for deposit of their percapita payments, then docu-mentation demonstrating that such accounts have beenestablished must be provided.(o) If an identifi ed group, other than all enrolled members, is to receive per capitapayments, the justifi cation for distinguishing between this group and the rest of themembers of the tribe must be provided.
§ 290.27 What are the conse-quences for a tribe that fails to submit its revised,amended or new revenue allo-cation plan to the BIA for re-view and approval?An enforcement action may be brought by the NIGC that could result in a fi ne ortemporary and/or permanent closure of a tribe’s gaming fa-cility or facilities.
The paperwork has been fi led with the entities and awaiting approval.
Local News Article Misleads Tribal Members on Amount of Per CapitaBy Jolene Schonchin/News Staff
December 2010 5 The Comanche Nation News
Programs
Comanche Economic Development Hosts
Food Drive
The Comanche Eco-nomic Development (CEDC) “in the Spirit of Giving” will have a food drive for the Law-ton Food Bank. The Businesses of the CEDC will be participat-ing.
Cleen Sweep Janitorial Company will be donating an oven cleaning, in exchange for 20 can food items or 15 box food items. Cleen Sweep will come to your house and get your oven holiday ready.
Bring two (2) can items or two (2) box items to Nations of Fun and receive $1 dollar off the price of a buffet. Drop off locations are: • Comanche Economic Development 1001 SW “C” Ave. Lawton; • Comanche Signs 1010 W Gore Blvd/ Lawton; • Nations of Fun located at Comanche Nation Water-park; • Switzers Locker Room 2701 NW 38th St/Lawton; Call or come by the Cleen Sweep Office at 1003 SW “C” Ave., Lawton, for more information. The student who brings in the most food during this drive will win a season pass to the Comanche Nation wa-ter Park or a pizza party for 10 at Nations of Fun. Students in grades K thru 12 are eligible to win. Contest will end Decem-ber 17.
A Man and A Women Two Worlds
Clara Ruddell receives a pendleton blanket from Phyllis Wahahrockah-Tasi Executive Direc-tor of Comanche National Museum and Cultural Center during the opening of the Quanah and Cynthia Ann Parker Exhibit which opened Nov. 6 at the Comanche National Museum. The Comanche Nation-al Museum and Cultural Cen-ter (CNMCC) unveiled a new photography exhibit showcas-ing the lives of two important names in Coamche and United States history, Chief Quanah Parker and his mother Cyn-thia Ann Parker. The exhibit titled Quanah and Cynthia Ann Parker: A man in two worlds-A woman in two worlds, went on display Nov. 6, as part of the Heart and Soul of the Great Plains Art Show, an event sponsored by CNMCC, Leslie Powell Gallery and Museum of the Great Plains. Shuttle bus-es transported visitors to and from each of the three loca-tions. In addition to the exhib-it, CNMCC guests were treated to light hors d’ oeuvres and live music by Blues Nation and Co-manche Flute Player Tim Tate Nevaquaya. The Parker exhibit was made possible through a donation by Clara Ruddell of the Historical Commission of Tarrant County, TX, and former Fort Worth, TX; City Manager Doug Harman. Rud-dell poured through numerous archives at different museums in 2008 to compile the images. She assembled a traveling ex-hibit the following year as part of an initiative of the Texas Lakes Trail Regional Heritage Tourism Program. The exhibit has shown throughout Texas as a means to educate the public about the role the Comache’s played in the state’s history. “The Comanche’s played a siginificant part in Texas his-tory,” said CNMCC Executive Director Phyllis Wahahrock-ah-Tasi. “the Texas Rangers were established as a way to
protect the state’s early set-tlers from Comanche attacks. Quanah Parker has a special relationship with Fort Worth because of the Cattle Indus-try and the city still embraces his legacy today. It’s evident by the number of monuments and old photographs that can be found scattered throughout the stockyards. We are thirlled to receive this exhitbit. Clara and Doug at enthusiastic about sharing their work and we couldn’t be happier to receive their bery kind gift.” Whah-rockah-Tasi said. The exhibit consists of two dozen images detailing the lives of Quanah and Cynthia Ann Parker. “Most of the pho-tographs in this exhibit show Quanah Parker in his natural life and shows his transition into White society,” said Kris-tin Mravnec, CNMCC As-sistant Director. “The photos document his time form the mid-1800s through the early 1900s and reveal the interac-tion between his two worlds,” Mravnec said. Cynthia Ann Parker was born to Silas and Lucy Parker in Clark County, Illi-nois, in 1827. Along with her family, she made the journey south to Texas in 1832, where they eventually established themselves at Fort Parker, near the leadwaters of the Navasota River. On the morning of May 19, 1836, the family’s com-pound was raided by the Nocoa Comanche. Cynthis Ann was captured at age nine. For the next twenty-four years, Cyn-thia Ann, known as “Narua,” spent her life as a member of the Comanche people. She became the only wife of Chief
Peta Nocona. The marriage eventually produced three children: two sons, Qunah and Pecos, and one daughter, Topsannah. One December 18, 1860, Cynthia Ann and her two year-old daughter Topsan-nah were captured by Texas Rangers at the Battle of Pease River. After her capture, Cyn-thia Ann and her daughter were returned to live with members of the Parker family. Cynthia Ann never adjusted to her new life among her White relatives. She frequently demanded to be returned to her husband and two sons but was never pernit-ted to do so. Cythia Ann was later devasted by the death of her daughter in 1863. In 1870, weakened from self-in-flicted starvation, Cynthia Ann died. She was buried in Fos-ter Cemetery, four miles south of Poyner, TX. On December 4, 1911, she was re-interred at Post Oak Mission Cenetery in Indiahoma, Okla. Quanah Parker was born in 1852. His father evetu-ally died from wounds and trauma received at the Battle of Pease River, leading to the split of Nocona band. Follow-ing the split, Quanah gained respect and notoriety as a war leader with the Destanyuka band. After earning respect and prestige, Quanah and sev-eral other families left the De-stanyuka to form the Quahada band, where he was acknowl-edged as chief. Under Qua-hada’s leadership, the Quahada refused to take part in treaties that would gradually confine other Plains Indian groups to reservation life. This led to the growth of the Quahada, who were eventually foreced onto
their assigned reservation as well after the Second Battle of Adobe Walls and the Battle of Palo Duro Canyon. In June 1875, with their food source de-pleted and increasing military presence, the Quahada agreed to surrender. Quanah was an influential member and advo-cate of the Comanche people, leading them through the pain-ful process of integrating into White society. While on the reservation, Quanah did well, leasing rich pasture to cattle-men. During his life, Quanah had seven wives and twenty-five children. They lived at Star House, his residence near Cache, Okla. On February 23, 1911. Quanah died from pneu-monia. He was buried next to his mother, Cynthia Ann, in Post Oak Mission Cemetery. In 1957 both Quanah and Cyn-thia Ann were moved for reb-urail to the military cemetery at Fort Sill. The Comanche Na-tional Museum and Cultural Center is an entity of the Co-manche Nation. The museum opened in Setember 2007 with the mission preserving and ex-panding the knowledge of local communities about Indian Arts and Culture with an emphasis on Comanche history and cul-ture. The museum is funded by casino revenue and sets an example of a positive use of gaming monies resulting in the preservation and education of Comanche culture. Hours of operations are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is free and tour groups are welcome.
R.N. Kendall from the Lawton Indian Hospital, gives tribal member Me-gan Stone her flu shot. Flu shots were available free of charge at the Coman-che Nation CHR office Nov. 17. Stone shuts her eyes to help ease the pain of the needle and the shot
December 2010 6 The Comanche Nation News
The 67th Annual Na-tional Congress of American Indians (NCAI) gathered in Albuquerque to present resolu-tions to the board to take action upon issues concerning Indian Country and to discuss the fu-ture of all Native Americans. The theme for the convention was “Strong Tribal Nations,” Strong America.”NCAI President, Jefferson Keel, of the Chickasaw Na-tion, welcomed the numerous tribal leaders and tribal repre-sentatives Nov. 14, “As American Indian and Alaska Native tribes, our reach is beyond the borders of our nations,” stated Keel. “In our annual convention, we carry on the tradition of strengthening our tribal nations by becoming more effective citizens, leaders, and govern-ments. At the same time, we must honor our duty to make a stronger America; together in this cause, we will all be stron-ger nations.” Throughout the week, several sub-groups were tack-ling issues such as healthcare, education, homeland security, tourism, ethics for tribal coun-cil and board members, and water rights, to name a few. One of the topics Co-manche Nation Chairman, Mi-chael Burgess, along with CBC Clyde Narcomey, and Tribal Administrator, William Ow-ens, helped take action on, was the tribal roads resolutions. Two resolutions were present-ed to the committee but were not passed due to the wording that defi ned tribal lands. “Much progress on the transportation committee was taken to the board. It is going to be called tribal transporta-tion programs, not reservation roads. We are trying to affect
the formula by which the fund-ing is brought to the tribes. That is changing it from the HASDA only to the tribal hous-ing count, tribal appointment to numbers and also request-ing strict consultation with the Secretary of Transportation, not just small agency heads who have to get approval from higher ups,” Burgess said. “We are also asking for more fund-ing,” It was also brought to the NCAI board, through a resolution, to create a cabi-net position at the Oklahoma Governor’s Offi ce for Native American issues. “We have become the swing vote in our regions and in the nation and the republic and democratic parties recog-nize that,” said Burgess.Higher education director De-lores Two Hatchet was happy to see NCAI was including the students and Indian youth to the conference. She said the youth can get information about grants and sub grants and how to apply. She raised the question on how Native Americans are defi ned. Other Comanche repre-sentatives at the conference in-cluded Raymond Almanza and Keener Tomahsah, of the Co-manche Nation Elders Coun-cil, Jamie Prouty of the Food Distribution Program, and Co-manche Nation Business Com-mitteeman, Clyde Narcomey. Kevin Gover, Director of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indi-an, and of the Pawnee Nation, was the keynote speaker for the NCAI. He spoke of the projects at the National Museum of the American Indian. He thanked the tribes that donated fl ags to the facility and said there are 200 tribal fl ags at the museum,
which are on display during November in honor of Native American Heritage Month. He said this will raise aware-ness that Native Americans are not cultural collectives but are governments with important authorities and responsibilities.He talked about the next big idea in Indian policy and what people’s understanding of Na-tive Nations is at this time. “In the 1950s the atten-tion and the efforts of the tribe was dedicated to fi ght termina-tion. In the 1960s and 1970s we saw the Indians pursuing the idea of self determination. In the 1980s much of the con-versation was revolved around Indian gaming, in the 1990s a little harder to pick out some key issue but I would offer the idea of broad based consulta-tion of policy with the different agencies of the federal govern-ment,” said Gover. He said the resolution the federal government passed to Indian tribes to apologize for their historical mis-treatment is in a certain sense for the fi rst time in an comprehensive way the congress of the United States and the President of the United States have acknowl-edged our version of events is the correct one. “Our version of the re-moval era, our version of the war fare, our version of the assimilation, our version of the termination is the correct version, and that is something that is momentous to me,” said Gover. Gover also talked about treaties, the history of treaties, current treaties and compacts, and how they impact tribes in the modern era.
This year the Coman-che Nation College 7th Annual Film Festival was extended to three, days September 28, 29 and 30. This year they joined the Comanche Nation Fair as the “kick-off” event, featur-ing actress Kateri Walker and writer Steven Judd, as CNC workshop facilitators. It was a great opportunity for the staff and students to learn another dimension of fi lmmaking, act-ing, and scriptwriting. Walker is a tribal mem-ber of the Saginaw Chippewa Tribe of Michigan and the Chippewa of the Thames First Nation, Ontario, Canada. She was here to promote her movie “Kissed by Lighting.” It is a directorial debut by celebrated Mohawk artist Shellei Niro as Mavis Dogblood Lightning.
Judd is of Kiowa and Choctaw descent. For the last two years he has been liv-ing in Los Angles, Cali. He is working for Disney on a show called “Zeke and Luther.” He has a movie coming out soon called “Shouting Secrets” that he co-wrote. Judd has his own production company called “Restless Natives Motion Pic-ture Production Company.” He attended the Comanche fair many years ago.“It feels good to be back,” said Steven Judd. Juanita Pahdopony, Dean of Academic Affairs, was thankful for the Comanche Nation and Comanche Nation Chairman Michael Burgess for allowing the tribal college to be a part of the Comanche Na-tion Fair this year.
Film Festival For All
Screenwriter Steven Judd and Actress Kateri Walker were key note speakers at the Comanche Nation College Film Festi-val which took place Sept. 28-30 at the Comanche Nation College.Story and Photo by Fred Codynah Jr/News Staff
December 2010 7 The Comanche Nation News
Sports
Wilson
Tribal Member Identified as one of the Nation’s Top High School Football Underclassmen
Tribal member Sheldon Wilson, a junior at Anadarko High School, has 2220 rush-ing yards, 207 attempts, and 40 touchdowns for the Warriors. He leads the State of Okla-homa in rushing and punting. MaxPreps.com ranked Wilson 63rd out of 500 in rushing, and #1 out of 500 in punting for all 50 states. As a sophomore the Daily Oklahoman named Wil-son All-State Honorable Men-tion (running back). Wilson has been iden-tified as one of the nation’s top high school football un-derclassmen by All American Games, the owners and pro-ducers of the U.S. Army All-American Bowl and the U.S. Army National Combine. Held annually in as-sociation with the U.S. Army All-American Bowl, the U.S. Army National Combine is the first opportunity for the nation’s top underclassmen to compete against one another amongst high school and col-lege football’s top scouting or-ganizations and analysts. The 2011 U.S. Army
National Combine will include educational seminars, physical measurements, testing and of-fers an opportunity for athletes to demonstrate their football skills, by position, in a con-trolled competitive drill. To in-sure each athlete has a valuable experience and opportunity, there are a limited number of roster spots for each position. Tom Lemming, the na-
tion’s most respected recruit-ing analyst and Rivals.com, the nation’s largest recruit-ing network, will be in atten-dance. Both Rivals.com and Tom Lemming are on the U.S. Army All-American Bowl Se-lection Committee and will be conducting interviews and evaluating potential prospects for the 2010 U.S. Army All-American Bowls. In addition,
Comanche Boy 25-0
George “Comanche Boy” Tahdooahnippah moved his record to the 25-0-1 (20KO) mark with a second round KO victory over Steve Walker Nov. 12 at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Tulsa, Okla. About his performance Tahdooahnippah said: “I felt strong and I felt really good. The Hard Rock was a first class venue to fight in.” Tah-dooahnippah returns to the ring as the main event, Jan. 13 in Oklahoma City, Okla., at the Remington Park Casino and is looking for bigger challenges and success in the next year. “I’m looking for something big in 20011,” he said. “I know what I can do and my team knows what I can do. 2011 will be the year “Comanche Boy” becomes a household name in boxing!”
Plumley named Player of the Week
According to LSU-Shreveport Game Notes, La-mar University senior guard and tribal member Jenna Plum-ley was named the Southland Conference (SLC) women’s basketball Player of the Week for the period ending Nov. 21. Plumley, last season’s SLC Player of the Year and Newcomer of the year after transferring to LU from the University of Oklahoma, aver-aged 14.5 points and 8.0 assists as she led the Lady Cardinals to a pair of victories in the con-solation round of the Preseason WNIT last week. Plumley had a double-double of 15 points and 10 as-sists while tying a career high with seven rebounds in a 83-66 win over Utah Valley. She fol-lowed that up with 14 points, six assists and five rebounds in a 74-58 triumph over Valpara-iso as Lamar improved to 2-1 on the season. For the season, Plum-ley leads Lamar in scoring at 15.7 ppg, assists (5.7 per game) and steals (2.3 per game). The 5-foot-3 Plumley is third on the team in rebounding at 6.3 per game.
Tribal Members Run For Others
Comanche Nation Dia-betes Program sponsored the first Comanche Warrior Spirit Run. The purpose of the Co-manche Warrior Spirit Run was to raise awareness to fight diabetes with physical activity. The run was an 11 person re-lay from Walters Community Center in Walters, Okla. to the Comanche Nation Complex, 31 miles away. A person would run one mile carrying an eagle staff, then passing it to the next runner, relaying every mile, until they reached the Nation’s Headquarters. The runner’s made a brief stop at the Lawton Indian Hospital to say a prayer. They continued through Fort Sill to the Comanche Nation Com-plex. The idea of the run was by George Tahdooahnippah of Walters, Okla. “My uncle George Tah-dooahnippah came to me about doing a run from Walters to the Comanche Fair. A warrior run. A way to kick off the fair,” said George “Comanche Boy” Tah-dooahnippah. The runner’s consisted of 11 Comanche tribal mem-bers, including two women. They were George Tahdooah-nippah, George “Comanche Boy” Tahdooahnippah, Asaan Fife, Martin Flores, Guy Nar-comey, Chad Tahchawwickah, Marshall Parker, Tim Johnson,
Ed Tahhahwah, III, Melanie Diaz and Lynette Tahchaw-wickah. “I think what we did was show our Native American people that we will sacrifice this pain and endure this run as a way of fighting diabetes, fighting the non- exercise, and the non motivation that plagues our people,” Tahdooahnippah said. “People thought we were crazy for running it, but at the finish line the tears of joy were present because our people were proud,” said Tah-dooahnippah. The last mile, we had a long time runner and Comanche elder, Ken Karty, run with us in. He carried the eagle staff. What we did that day was what he has done already in his lifetime. He has organized runs across Indian Country and the southwest. In my eyes, he is the ultimate Comanche role model, said “Comanche Boy” Tahdooahnippah. The runner’s look to keep this tradition alive and bring more physical activ-ity events to the Comanche Nation in the near future.
Runner Martin Flores exchange eagle staff with fellow run-ner Guy Narcomey on the third leg of the run from the Wal-ters Community Center to the Comanche Nation Complex.
Comanche Tribal Spirit Runners(L-R) Melanie Diaz, Ed Tahhahwah III, George Tahdooahnip-pah, George “Comanche Boy” Tahdooahnippah, Guy Nar-comey, Martin Flores, Chad Tahchawwickah, Marshall Parker, Tim Johnson, Lynette Tahchawwickah, Angelina Ketner, Asaan Fife, Amanda Parker, Hazel Tahsequah and Marilyn Figueroa.
Story and Photos by Fred Codynah Jr/News Staff
to top prep stars in attendance will receive coverage in Tom Lemming’s Prep Football Re-port magazine and the Rivals.com recruiting network. If selected by the All American Games and the U.S. Army committee, Wilson would by invited to participate in the 2011 U.S. Army Nation-al Combine on January 6-8. Wilson is a starter for the Anadarko Warrior Basket-ball team and last year played in the Area tournament. Wilson is a member of the track and field team and qualified for state in the 400 meter. After high school Wil-son would like to attend col-lege at the University of Okla-homa. Wilson is the son of LaCretia Vasquez, of Anadar-ko, Okla. He is the grandson of Frank Vasquez and the late Pearl Pocowatchit Vasquez, the great-grandson of Lydia Valliere and Harold Gerome Pocowatchit, the great-great-grandson on Mary Monetata-chi Pocowatchit and James Po-cowatchit.
December 2010 8 The Comanche Nation News
about this dishonorable act. McCurtain had to re-educate the mayor about the 1847 Trea-ty. The mayor never did disas-sociate his self from the slan-derous letter. He did, however, promise to look into the matter and to make sure the Coman-che family was treated fairly for their hard work and dedi-cation of their powwow. The mayor never so, therefore nev-er fulfilled his promise to the family. He had the authority to treat the Comanche family fairly and to support the 1847, but chose not to do so. One of the main reasons the Chappabitty/Quassycheeky family chose to relocate their annual powwow was the birth-place of their great grandmoth-er, Takey Yetchy (Stands and Speaks). She was born outside the German town of Fredricks-burg. So every year family celebrated her birthplace along with their Comanche tribal his-tory and the 1847 Treaty. After the article in the March 2010 tribal newsletter, explaining what had happened to the Chappabitty/Quassy-cheeky family and their pow-wow, an citizen of Fredricks-burg, Randy Rupley contacted
the McCurtains. Rupley stated that after reading the tribal ar-ticle, he finally knew what had happened to the powwow. He had been telephoning Brad-ford, but never got any re-sponse. Rupley is a descendent of one of the German founders of Fredricksburg and a member of a newly formed non-profit organization over the historic Fort Martin Scott of Fredricks-burg. He had attended the last powwow, held in May 2008. He explained that he was very impressed with powwow and was very sorry that it had end-ed. He asked what it would take for the Chappabitty/Quassycheeky family to bring their powwow back to Fred-ricksburg. The family stated they was very appreciative about this welcoming gesture. However, the family could not wholeheartedly consider taking their powwow back to Fred-ricksburg, because of the dis-honorable act that was done to them. Rupley fully understood this stance. He went on to ex-plained the Mayor Hoover, was soon to be out of office. The city was having a new election for Mayor in May 2010. He explained that her thought both candidates for Mayor would be
supportive to making amends for the violation of the 1847 treaty by the outgoing Mayor. After the mayoral election, Mr. Tom Musselman was elected Fredricksburg Mayor. In June, the new mayor had spoken to Rupley about inviting the Chappabitty/Quassycheeky back to Fredricksburg. Mayor Musselman agreed that a re-affirmation ceremony on the 1847 Treaty was essential in mending the relationship with the Comanches. That is what prompted the re-affirmation ceremony was attended by a triad of es-sential governmental represen-tatives of the 1847 treaty, those being the Comanche Tribal Chairman, Michael Burgess, the Mayor of Fredricksburg, Tom Musselman and the Ger-man Deputy Counsel General, Margaret Vendel. The traditional ceremo-ny was started with a cedaring ceremony conducted by Na-tive American church mem-ber, Mr. June Sovo. All those in attendance took part in the cedar ceremony. The Coman-che Tribe was well represent-ed. Not only the tribal chair-man was in attendance, but CBC Vice-Chairman, Richard
Henson and CBC member, Mark Waudooah were present. Members of the Chappabitty/Quassycheeky family were also present. One of the mem-bers of the Fort Martin Scott Museum Association, read a translation of an German ac-count of the activities on the day Comanche chiefs signed the Treaty of 1847. Rupley, interpreted a book written by a German of the period, who wrote about his experience liv-ing amongst the Comanche. Following the reading, a presentation of a digitally en-hanced copy of the 1847 Trea-ty was presented to Chairman Burgess, Mayor Musselman and the German representa-tive, Margaret Vendel. This enlarged copy of the 1847 Treaty shows the signature of the various Comanche Chiefs who participated in the Treaty. This was followed by the pre-sentation of a symbolic Buffalo Robe given to Chairman Bur-gess by Mayor Musselman. A letter of proclamation of affir-mation of the 1847 Treaty was signed by all those present. The ceremony was successful in this present day promise to uphold the 1847 treaty signed between the Ger-
continue from page 1man settlers of Fredricksburg and the Chiefs of the Coman-ches some 163 years ago. The family of Chap-pabitty/Quassycheeky would like to thank tribal members for their response to the March 2010 article explaining their dilemma. Thank you for the letters of support and telephone calls to the Mayor’s office and city council. A special thanks and acknowledgement needs to be extended to Chairman Bur-gess, who did not hesitate to take action. Others thanks are extended to the new Fredricks-burg Mayor, Tom Musselman and German representative, Margaret Vendel. A special thanks is extended to Mr. Ran-dy Rupley, for his support and understanding for the family and who helped make the re-affirmation ceremony possible. The Chappabitty/Quassycheeky is bringing back their powwow at Fredricks-burg (11th year) on the second weekend in May. It will be challenging and must be like start over, but the family is looking forward to it. The fam-ily ask for support. For more information call Charlotte or Larry McCurtain at (580) 429-4437.
Anniversary• Gwen and Jarvis Poah-way, Nov. 28, 12 yrs• Phillip and Verna Wet-selline, Dec. 10, 17 yrs
Passings• Melvin “Moh” “Pen-ny” Cornelius West, Nov. 14• Allen “Minnow” Rich-ard Woodard, Nov. 16• Margarita Galindo, Nov. 20
Weddings• Lauren Adele Stone and William Joseph Vazquez exchanged wedding vows Oct. 22 at the Comanche Counry Courthouse, Lawton, Okla.
Happy Belated BirthdayLeon TaunahNov. 17, 1974
Dalilah Grace Allen was born to Christopher and Virginia Allen Oct. 13, weighing 7lb
11oz
Cruz Esquivel was born to Kari A.Norberto and
Geronimo Esquivel Oct. 11, weighing 5lbs 1/2 oz
Happy BirthdayShyanne Taunah
Dec. 19
Happy BirthdayWilliam D. Yates
Dec. 11, 1937
Happy Belated BirthdayNathan L. Taunah
Nov. 10, 2002
Jace, Bryson, and Colton GillNov. 6, Nov. 15, Oct. 14
Happy BirthdaySandra Poafpybitty
Dec. 15
Happy Belated BirthdayVictoria Tiddark
Nov. 26
Happy Belated BirthdayAshley Arneecher (Right)
“Little Sis”Nov. 19
In Memory ofLola Burgess Miller
andHappy BirthdayPrentiss Miller
Dec. 30
Happy Belated BirthdayRicha L. Gill
Oct. 21
Happy BirthdayTristan R. Codynah
Dec. 2
To those that I loveand those who love me.I’m gone release me,Let me go.You must not tie yourself to me with tears.Be thankful for our many beautiful years.I gave you love,You can only guessHow much you gave in happiness.
I thank you for the loveEach of you have shownBut now it’s time, I travel on alone.So grieve awhile for me,If you must then let your grief,Be comforted by thrust.It’s only for a time we must be apart.So bless the memories within your heartSo if you need me callAnd I will come.Though you can’t see or touch me,I’ll be near.
And if you listen with your heart you’ll hear all my love around you soft and clear.
And then when you must come away alone, I’ll greet you with a smile,And say welcome home.
Love, Lonnie, Noyabad’s, Keahbones, and Komahcheet kids.
Happy BirthdayCraig Foster
Dec. 9
Happy BelatedBirthdayNoelle Yute:neh
TonemahNov. 10, 2009
Happy Belated BirthdaySonja Frances Delgado
Nov. 13Hunter Lee Delgado
Nov. 14,
Happy BirthdayDebbie Tieyah
Dec. 27
In Memory OfCarley Diann
PebeahsyDec. 23, 1988-Oct. 4, 2008
You are spending your 22nd birthday
in Heaven
In Memory of Elaine Noyabad
December 2010 10 The Comanche Nation News
Obituaries
Continued on Page 11
Patricia Murrow Patricia Murrow, 86 of Lawton went to her heavenly home on Oct. 27 in Lawton. Funeral services were held Oct. 30 at the Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Videll Yackeschi, Rev. Jan and Fred C. Ticeah-kie. Prayer services were held Oct. 29 at the Comanche Nation Funeral Home with Rev. Jan and Fred C. Ticeah-kie, and Pastor Videll Yackeshi officiating. Burial followed at Highland Cemetery under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home. Murrow was born on June 23, 1924 in Lawton to Fred and Amy (Permansu) Ticeahkie. She was the last living grandchild of Chief Ten Bears. Her father, Fred Ticeah-kie was a Comanche peyote chief, in charge of Indian re-ligious ceremonies, until he became a Christian. She fol-lowed in her fathers footsteps in being a minister for her na-tive American people. She was a proud member of the Coman-che Nation of Oklahoma. She was member of the Comanche Reform and Deyo Mission Churches. Murrow attended Ft. Sill Indian School where she met her future husband Bracy Murrow Sr. to this union thir-teen children were born. She was the Founder and serving as a Director for the United American Indian Wom-en’s Society, for which she gave dances and pow-wows to honor the American handicap and elderly people. She put on a pow-wow in honor of Gov-ernor Walters. She served as an outreach worker in social services for the urban Center in Oklahoma City and for the Shawnee Inter-Tribal Center. As Human Services Director for the Southern Plains Inter-Tribal center in Lawton and a Director and Supervisor for the Native American Alco-holic and Recovery Center in Oklahoma City. She served as Director and Supervisor of the Comanche Senior Citizens Center until 1985. She was one of the spokes women for the documentary “The Comanche Warriors” which aired on the History Channel, and she sang Comanche Hymns on KSWO, WKY and Voices of the Land TV/Radio program. Murrow and her son Bracy Jr. were or-dained minsters and counseled prisoners from all over Okla-homa. Where many prisoners accepted Jesus as their Lord and Savior, they were allowed to take some prisoners to fam-ily events, and they were both recognized by the State of Oklahoma for their Volunteer Services from the Federal Bu-reau of Prisons. Murrow is survived by her children: Bracy Murrow Jr. of Oklahoma City, Patri-cia Carol Morris of Lawton, Michael Glen Murrow Sr. of Oklahoma City, Catherine Mary Murrow of Lawton, Ger-ald Lynn Murrow of Oklahoma City, Rhonda Clou Stinson of Lawton, Jan Kevin Murrow of Lawton, William Ross Murrow of Oklahoma City, Regina Ann Pena of Lawton, Georgia Dana Murrow of Washington D.C.; 36 grandchildren, 55 great
grandchildren, other family members and friends. She is preceded in death by: her husband, Bracy Mur-row Sr.; a son, John Murrow; grandfather, Ten Bears; sisters: Sofi Mahsetky, Blanch Ticeah-kie, Elizabeth Ticeahkie, and Margaret Pipestem; brothers: Paul Ticeahkie, Wilber Ticeah-kie, and Lindy Ticeahkie.
Walker John “Red” Myers
Gravesite services for Walker John “Red” Myers, 92, Apache was held at the Fairview Cemetery east of Apache with Father Prakash of the Apache Mother of Sorrows Catholic Church officiating. Myers died Nov. 11 at Silver Crest Manor in Anadar-ko. He was born on March 16, 1918 at the old Fisher home place near Apache to James and Lena Fisher Myers. He was raised in the Boone area and attended school at Boone, St. Patrick’s Indian Mission, Fort Sill Indian School and Chilocco Indian School. My-ers married Ruth Asepermy Myers on October 23, 1951 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Anadarko. They lived in Law-ton, Houston, TX, Oklahoma City, Wichita, Kan., the Boone area, Devol, Okla., and most recently east of Apache. He was a certified welder, long-time farmer and raised cattle. Survivors include his wife of the home, a sister Jo-sephine Wapp of Lawton, a brother Alvin “Jack” Myers of Oklahoma City, his stepson and daughter-in-law Lanny and Shelley Asepermy of Apache, a special nephew he helped raise Michael Tosee and a grandson Ethan Michael Tosee both of Lawrence, Kan., and numerous nephews and nieces. Myers is preceded in death by his parents , his sisters Nima Hailman and Catherine Waddle and brothers, Randett, Rudolph “Ike”, Melvin , Vin-cent and an infant brother and sister.
Vernita Ruth “Twinsy” Tomah Mansfield Smith Funeral for Ruth Smith, 80, Lawton was Nov. 22 at the First Baptist Church of Walters with the Rev. Gary Tahmah-kera officiation. Smith was called from labor to reward early Nov. 18 from a Lawton Health Care Center. Smith entered this life on Feb. 7, 1930 in Lawton, the daughter of Lawrence Bruce and Grace Kosechequetah Tomah. She grew up in Wal-ters attending Walters Public Schools. Smith played basket-ball for the first basketball team
of Walters in 1946. She went to school at Cameron Universi-ty and received her Associates Degree in Education. Ruth at-tended Central State Univer-sity, now University of Central Oklahoma, and received her Bachelors Degree in Educa-tion. She taught school on the Navajo Reservation in Ari-zona for 20 years. She moved back to Lawton and on Oct. 1, 2001, she was married to Lee Smith in Wichita Falls, TX and the couple continued to make their home in Lawton. Smith worked with OSU Extension Office in the Home Econom-ics Department. She was a member of “Titchewy Baptist Mission of Walters and after it closed down, attended the bap-tist Church in Walters. Smith took care of the sick and needy and enjoyed visiting with her friends and family. In earlier years, she was a boxer and a cowgirl attending to the farm. She leaves to cherish her memories, her husband: Lee Simmons; one daughter: Susan Mansfield of Albuquer-que, NM; one step-daughter: Lila McIntyre of Chickasha; one son: Bobby Bruce Man-sfield of Santa Fe, NM; two step-sons: Brian Smith and Willie Smith, both of Ft. Worth, TX; four grandchildren, four step-grandchildren; one broth-er: Bobby Tomah of Walters as well as other relatives and friends. Smith was preceded in death by her parents, grandpar-ents: A.A. Monetachi, Nippk-er, great grandfather: “Pethak” Hearteater; two sisters; Violet Beavers and her twin sister, Jaunita Tomah; six brothers: Bruce Tomah, Lawrence Cruso Tomah, Kent Tomah, Robert Poco, Wilbur Parker and Whitt Choney.
Tony Guerrero Funeral for Tony Guer-rero was Nov. 18 at the Co-manche Nation Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Steve Mal-low, Immanuel Baptist Church, officiating. Guerrero was called from labor to reward on Nov. 15 in an Oklahoma City hospi-tal. Burial followed at Cache KCA Intertribal Ceme-tery under direction of Coman-che Nation Funeral Home. Guerrero entered this life on Oct. 20, 1960 in Law-ton, the son of Moses and Nor-ma Jean Parker Guerrero. He grew up in Lawton and was a 1978 graduate of Lawton High School. He went to work for T and G Construction for many years. He also drove for Pat Reynolds and worked for Af-filiated Ban Lines. He was a simple man who never met a stranger and he enjoyed being with his co-workers, friends and his family. He loved ani-mals and never met a stray dog. He attended Komah Church of the Nazarene and enjoyed at-tending family events and lis-tening to music.
Guerrero leaves to cherish his memories, three sisters and brothers-in-law: Elaine Antone, Josie Flores and Gilbert, Sr., and Lori Veliz and Michael Rivera, all of Lawton; one brother: Glen Parker of Cache; maternal grandfather: Baldwin Parker, Jr. of Cache; two nieces: Frances Guerrero and Lisa Veliz, both of Lawton; two nephews: Gilbert Flores, Jr. and Alex Flores, both of Lawton; four grandchildren: Gabbie Guerrero, Tony Ve-liz Martinez, Mimi Castro and Damon Thomas Flores; two special uncles and aunt: Harold and Francis Parker and Timothy Parker: his best friend: Mario Lira, as well as a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, friends and relatives. He was preceded in death by his paternal grand-parents: Oved and Josefina Guerrero and maternal grand-mother: Frances Tahsequah, great grandparents: Nora and Baldwin Parker, Sr.
Timothy Ethan James Komahcheet
Graveside service for Timothy Ethan James Kom-ahcheet, infant son of Stella M. Mancho and Lonnie J. Komahcheet, Jr., was Nov. 27 at Post Oak Mennonite Cem-etery, Indiahoma, with the Rev. Lloyd Lee, Pastor of New Be-ginnings Church of Cache, of-ficiating. Komahcheet was called to be a Cherub in Heaven above from his earthly home in Wichita Falls, TX Nov. 21. Prayer service was held Nov. 26 at the Comanche Na-tion Funeral Home. Burial was under direc-tion of Comanche Nation Fu-neral Home of Lawton. Komahcheet entered this life on June 1, 2010 in Lawton, the beloved son of Stella Mancho and Lonnie J. Komahcheet, Jr. he filled his family’s heart with joy each and everyday of his life. He leaves to cher-ish his memories, his parents of the home in Dallas; two sisters: Alexis Denise Kom-ahcheet and Heaven Mancho Komahcheet, both of Dallas; three brothers: Devon Man-cho of Louisiana, Lonnie J. Komahcheet, III and Shawn Angel Komahcheet, both of Dallas; his Paternal grandpar-ents: Lonnie J., Sr. and Mary Komahcheet of Indiahoma; his maternal grandparents: Earlene Mancho and Ramon Guardiola, Jr. of Louisiana; God-father: Stacey Herrera of Louisiana; three aunts: Cristy Komahcheet of Cache, Misty Komahcheet and husband, Da-vid, Cardona, Sr. of Dallas, TX and Jennifer Madrigal of Loui-siana; six uncles: Fiel Hensley of Dallas, Frankyn Hensley of Lawton, Chris Mancho, Bran-don Mancho and Mickey Mad-rigal, all of Louisiana; cousins: Kersty Pohawpatchoko, Ky-
Neva Pewewardy Santiago
ler Pohawpatchoko and Kol-ten Komahcheet all of Cache, Chelsey Komahcheet, Selena Komahcheet and Mary Kom-ahcheet and David Cardona, Jr., all of Dallas, TX and Bren-nan Hensley of Lawton as well as other relatives. Komahcheet was pre-ceded in death by: paternal great-grandparents: Robert “Doug” and Rowena Kom-ahcheet and Lucille Sill Mc-Carter and maternal great-grandparents: Stella Mancho Mardrigal and Virgina Molina; one cousin: Timothy Michael Pohawpatchoko and one uncle James Ray Hensley.
Graveside service for Neva Pewewardy Santiago, 87, Wichita Kan. was Nov. 16 at the Greenwood Cemetery, Wichita, Kan., with the Rev. Ed Hinman, Pastor of Ponca Indian Methodist Church, Pon-ca City, officiating. Santiago was called from labor to reward Nov. 11 at an Oklahoma City hospital. A prayer service was held Nov. 14 at Petarsey Unit-ed Methodist Church with Layspeaker Tina Baker, United Methodist Church of Apache, officiating. Burial is under direc-tion of Comanche Nation Fu-neral Home of Lawton. Santiago was born on January 22, 1923 in Law-ton, the daughter of Samuel and Mollie Tahahwah Pewe-wardy. She was raised around the Richard Spur area and at-tended Ft. Sill Indian School. In 1942, she married Ernest Doyebi, Sr. and the couple made their home in Lawton, he preceded her in death. On August 13, 1973, she married Benjamin Santiago, Sr. and the made their home in Wichita, Kan. Santiago was an outgo-ing person who enjoyed play-ing bingo, making flower ar-rangements and being with her family and many friends. San-tiago work as a social worker and retired from the City of Wichita. She was a member of the Comanche Nation and of Kiowa descent. She is survived by four daughters: Sharon Doyebi Ahtone of Elgin, Ernestine Doyebi Robledo, Sheila Doye-bi Dave and Theresa Doyebi Robledo, all of Wichita, Kan.; One son: Jimmy Doyebi of Wichita, Kan.; eighteen grand-children: Cody Doyebi, Shenel Hernandez, Latricia Pherigo, Lance Pherigo, Lonnie Pheri-go, Christopher Pherigo, Ran-dale Doyebi, Shannda Uqualla, Tessa Robledo, Jose “Jessie” Robledo, III, Angelo Robledo, Brenna Doyebi, Randall Dave, Jr., Benjamin Dave, Candace Dave, Danelle Robledo, Terry Marrero and Debra Massu; twenty-two great grandchil-dren, four great grandchildren; one brother: Harold Pewe
December 2010 11 The Comanche Nation News
ObituariesContinued from Page 10
wardy of Elgin, many nieces and nephews as well as other relatives. Santiago is preceded in death by her two husbands, one daughter; Debra Doye-bi, one son: Ernest “Shane” Doyebi, Jr., four sisters: Daisy Tahahwah, Blanche Tissychy Quoyah, Elise Monroe Tissy-chy and Wanda Pewewardy; four brothers: Richard Tissy-chy, George Komardley, Car-ney Pewewardy, Sr. and Sam-uel “Doc” Pewewardy.
Elton Clifton Yellowfi sh Sr.
Funeral for Elton Clif-ton Yellowfi sh Sr., 73, Phoe-nix, Ariz. was held Nov. 30 at the Comanche Community Center, Apache, with the Rev. Sharon Yeahquo offi ciating. Yellowfi sh died Nov. 22 in Phoenix, Ariz. Burial was at West Cache Creek KCA Cemetery under direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home. He was born June 3, 1937, in Lawton, to Wiley and Alice Koassechony Yellow-fi sh. He was the youngest of fi ve children and was raised in Apache. He prided himself on being raised in a bilingual and bicultural environment. He at-tended Apache Public Schools while living in a traditional Co-manche home. After serving a three year tour in the U.S. Navy, he returned to college and ob-tained a Bachelors of Science in Sociology from Sul Ross State University, Alpine Texas, in 1970. He was a graduate candidate for the College of Business Administration, Uni-versity of Oklahoma, in 1975. He worked as a program ad-ministrator; counselor for emo-tionally disturbed adolescent boys; technical writer special-izing in proposals and grants; and was a consultant in Indian spirituality, Comanche history; and song and dance. He was a former chairman of the Co-manche Little Ponies, former vice-commander of Comanche Indian Veterans Association, and former elected offi cial of the Comanche Business Com-mittee. In 1984, he created the Comanche Moon Singers, teaching many young men Co-manche songs and tradition. While residing in Phoenix, he was a member of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, American Legion Bushmasters Post 114 of Scott-sdale, Ariz. He has worked as a radio announcer for KRPT’s “Indians for Indians” in 1992. He was a veteran, so-ciologist and community leader in Phoenix. He was a full-blooded member of the Comanche Tribe. He was an advocate of Native American issues throughout the years. Many times he expressed his opinion on controversial mat-ters. Programs for alcohol and drug abuse among Indians na-tionwide and Indian spiritual-
ity, education, and community development were his priori-ties. His accomplishments included: Business Associate Consultant for the United Indi-an Development Association, Los Angeles; in 1970, under Chairman James Cox, he wrote the proposal for the essen-tial service building which is now known as the Comanche Complex; membership to the Chronic Mentally III (CMI) task force in Phoenix; appoint-ed by Arizona Governor Rose Moffort in 1984; served as chairman of the Health Advi-sory Board for USPHS Lawton Indian Hospital in 1993; elect-ed as Comanche Director for American Indian Exposition in 1970 and 1980; elected to the Comanche Business Com-mittee in 1993; he also wrote “The Way of the Comanche”, a story that highlighted the so-cial and historical events of the Comanche Tribe, which was performed as a public pageant the same year; submitted fund-ing proposals representing the Kickapoo Tribe of Oklahoma. Apache Tribe of Okla-homa, Comanche Indian Tribe, and the Salt River Pima-Mari-copa Indian Community; wrote the proposal and contact for the Comanche Code Talkers Statue that now sits on the Co-manche Tribe Courtyard; Ex-ecutive Director of American Indian Center, 2002, Euless, TX; gave numerous lectures on various aspects of sobriety and its long-range benefi ts; and he created programs for Indian families. His most recent ef-forts were creating proposals for a newly independent Indian organization, I-CARE, Inc., which addressed alcohol and drug abuse problems by ad-ministering an outpatient day treatment program. He was a beloved hus-band, father, uncle, grand-father, great-grandfather, mentor,and friend to many. He enjoyed life, was full of love, and took great pride in sing-ing and composing Comanche tribal songs and gourd dance songs. He was a descendent of PA-QUE-HAW-PITH (Yellow-fi sh), who survived the Second Battle of Adobe Walls in 1874, at Panhandle, TX. He was a patriarch of the Yellowfi sh De-scendents. Survivors include his wife, Lynnie Yellowfi sh; four sons: Elton, Jr., Geary; For-rest Riverton, Wyo; Barry and Lyndon, both of Phoenix, Ariz.; a sister, Velma Komah, Apache; three grandsons: An-thony and Izreal, Geary; and Gabriel Smith, Kingfi sher; fi ve granddaughters: Marilyn and Julia Komardly, Chickasha; Kylah Lalwa, Jamie Yellow-fi sh, and Angelene Bates, all of Geary; two adopted sons Dar-rell Blackbear, Dallas, TX; and Charles Strong, Lawton; and many nieces, nephews, friends, and colleagues. He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers: Lyman Yellowfi sh, Sr., Edward Yellowfi sh, Sr., and Clifton Yellowfi sh; and a daughter, Jennifer Komardly.
Willis “Bozo” Nauni Sr. Funeral for Willis “Bozo” Nauni Sr., 73, Carn-egie, was Nov. 29, at Ce-dar Creek United Methodist Church, Carnegie, with the Rev. Gerald Haunpo and the Rev. Tim Byington offi ciating. Nauni went to his heav-enly home on Nov. 27 in Law-ton, Okla. Prayer service was held Nov. 28 at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel. Burial took place at Ce-dar Creek Cemetery. He was born March 10, 1937, in Lawton, to Raymond Nauni Sr. and Cleda Tippeti. He grew up in the Cache area and graduated from Cache High School. He joined the U.S. Navy on Jan. 12, 1956, in Oklahoma City and was discharged Nov. 30, 1959 at the U.S. Naval Receiving Sta-tion, San Diego, Calif. He then transferred to the Reserves at the 8th Naval District, New Orleans. His last duty assign-ment was the Fighter Squadron
Betsy Lois Tarsip Chasenah Wermy
Betsy Lois Tarsip Chasenah Wermy, 79 of Cache went to her heavenly home on Nov. 1, in Lawton, Okla. Funeral service was held Nov. 5 at Comanche Na-tion Funeral Home Chapel with
Rev. Nick Tahchawwickah and Rev. Kenneth Laird offi ciation. Burial followed at Cache KCA Cemetery under the direction of Comanche Na-tion Funeral Home. Prayer service was held Nov. 4 at Comanche nation Fu-neral Home Chapel. She was born in Law-ton, Okla., on June 28, 1931 to Luepp Tarsip and Mary Chase-nah. Wermy grew up in Cache and attended Cache and Fort Sill Indian Schools. She met her future husband Don Wer-my at a camp meeting. To this union fi ve children were born. Wermy was a proud full blood member of the Coman-che Nation of Oklahoma and Komah Memorial Church of the Nazarene. She enjoyed go-ing to fast pitch softball games and basketball games. Travel-ing with Comanche senior citi-zen trips, spending time with her family and friends. Wermy is survived by: six children and their spouses: Ron and Beverly Wermy of Cache, Donette Peni of Law-ton, Sylvia Wermy, Del and Donna Wermy all of Cache; Leauna and Dan, Vicki Valliere both of Anadarko; grandchil-dren: Amanda and Jon, Aar-on, Hannah, Deon and Laura, Devon and Maegan, Marc, Teta, Ricky, Mary and Marcel, Angie and Kenneth, Tremayne and Tommi, Michael; 13 great grandchildren; a special friend, Perry Aunko, other family members and friends. Wermy is preceded in death by: Her husband, Don-ald Wermy Jr., a son Don-ald “Jutes” Wermy III; par-ents: Luepp Tarsip and Mary Chasenah; a grandson, Ronald “Little Ronnie” Wermy Jr., granddaughter, LaDeana Far-ris; sisters and brothers: Lydia Valliere, Garnet Battise, Zelma Tselee, Strudrick Tahsequah, Albert Tahsequah.
Jaunita Raylen Coosewoon
Jaunita Raylyn Coose-woon 58 of Lawton went to her heavenly home on Nov. 23. Graveside services was held Nov. 26 at Mr. Scott KCA Cemetery. Burial followed un-der the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home. Coosewoon was born to Kenneth Coosewoon and Doraline Taylor in Lawton on Oct. 10, 1952. She attended Elgin Public Schools. She was a homemaker for most of her life. Coosewoon was a member of the Comanche of Oklahoma. She enjoyed the outdoors doing her gardening.
24 aboard the U.S.S. Midway. He served three years, seven months and 16 days of foreign service and received the good conduct medal. He married Mona Tofpi on June 10, 1961, at the Cad-do-Comanche County Line, and they had six children. He was a member of Cedar Creek United Methodist Church, Co-manche Nation of Oklahoma, C.I.V.A., and the Comanche Little Ponies. Survivors include his wife, Mona Nauni, of the home; six children and their spouses: Roy and Betty Ann Littlecalf, Cyril; Peaches and Eddie Wermy, Tualatin, Ore.; Willis Nootsie Nauni Jr. and companion Mary Woodard, Carnegie; Jason and Sherry Nauni, Oklahoma City; Char-lie Nauni and Greg Ahhaitty, Carnegie; A-tha-mah Nauni and Crissy Noel, Anadarko; Louis Gayton, Lawton; Robert Chickenhawk Tofpi, Carnegie; brothers, sister and spouses: Bob and Margaret Nauni, Mid-west City; Marion and Weldon Simmons, Geronimo; Ray-mond Dink and Wanda Nauni Jr., Lawton; Vandell and Sue Nauni, Cache; Gwen Brink-man, Lawton; Christine and Gus McCarthy, Lawton; three special brothers: Jack Cody-nah, Anadarko; Patterson Tah-dooahnippah, Cache; Jimmy Johnson, Okmulgee; 28 grand-children; 20 great-grandchil-dren; other special children; the Moore family, Walters; family member and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond Nauni Sr. and Cleda Tippeti; two sisters;: Leatrice Moore and Carla Tahah-Atauvich; two brothers Moon Atauvich; and Bunyan Atauvich; a “dad”, Own Tahah; and an aunt, Mary Tippeti.
She loved spending time with her family and friends. She al-ways said her greatest accom-plishment in life was her son, Ronald Ray Cooper. She is survived by: her son and daughter-in-law, Ronald and Krystal Cooper of Kentucky; her father and step mother, Kenneth and Rita Coosewoon of Medicine Park; two sisters: Deanna Kay Coosewoon and Vicki Biazzo both of Lawton, a niece, Jenni-fer “Marissa” Reys of Lawton, cousins: Carol Sixkiller, Da-vid Hendrix, and Carl Sixkill-er; other famly members and friends. She is preceded in death by: her mother, Dora-line Coosewoon; grandparents: Aline Pearl and Ewing Taylor, Abner and Mattie (Kauley) Coosewoon; a niece, Duskie Murrow.
Merry Chirstmas from Heaven
I still her the song,
I still see the lights
I still feel your love on cold wintery nights
I still share your hopes and all of your cares
I’ll even remind you to please say yours prayers
I just want to tell you, you still make me proud
You stand head and shoulders above all the crowd
Keep trying each monent, to stay in His grace
I come here before you to help set your place
You don’t have to be perfect allof the time
He forgives you the slip, if you continue the climb
To my family and friends
Please be thankful today
I’m still close beside you
In a new special way
I love you all dearly,
Now don’t shed a tear
Cause I’m spending my
CHIRSTMAS WITH JESUS THIS YEAR
December 2010 12 The Comanche Nation News
Calendar of Events DecemberDear TCNN,
The Pewewardy fam-ily would like to extend their sincere appreciation to Chair-man Burgess and acting Tribal Administrator, Will Owens, for their assistance in escort-ing family members to attend a funeral in Wichita, Kansas for Neva Pewewardy Santiago. The family would also like to thank everyone for their condo-lences.
Stanton Pewewardy
Dear TCNN, We would like to ex-press our sincere gratitude for your sympathy and support in our time of loss. We would like to thank Madeline Spicer, Michaela Gutierrez, Marilyn Figueroa, Geraldine Hawkins, and Dennis Niedo. I know mom would ap-preciate your kind gestures. I know you meant a great deal to her. A special thank you to Aunt Noni, Johnny Parker “Bear”, Richelle Garcia, Uncle Ronnie Burgess, Aunt Gate Perryman, Aunt Mary-Frances Rutledge and Tia Mary Bizzel for all your help and under-standing in our time of need. Many of you expressed great sentiments about our mother and we fi nd an enourmous comfort in knowing she was loved by so many.Ivan Joe and Tracey Sapcut Avila compiled mom’s beauti-ful slide show and our family is
very appreciative of your time and effort. We would like to com-mend the ladies at the Deyo Mission for their help in our mother’s dinner, you are great-ly appreciated. Our deepest thanks to the Comanche Nation Funeral Home, especially Toby Black-star, Larry Eschiti, and James McCurley. You conducted the funeral with such profession-alism that we did not have to stress about any details. Sincere gratitude to Lola and Jesse Lucio from Richard, Linda, and Gina for the long term commitment you both made to our mom. We love and deeply appreciate you.
From the family of Lucy “Bubbles” Tippeconnie
Flores
Dear TCNN, I write to inform you of the wonderful presentations given by two of your tribal members, Kenneth Coose-woon and Rita Coosewoon. A few weeks ago, the Coose-woons presented the Rupert Costo Endowed Lecture at the University of California, Riverside, in the Costo Li-brary, our American Indian Li-brary. They spoke on “Healing Through the Sweat Lodge,” to an audience of sixty people, in-cluding faculty, staff, students,
Dear TCNNLetters to the Editor
10 Comanche Nation Prayer Breakfast, 10 a.m., Watchetaker Hall, Comanche Nation Com-plex.13 Comanche Nation Elder’s Council Meet-ing, 10 a.m., Comanche Nation College, 1608 SW 9th, Lawton, Okla., For more information call (580) 591-0203.17 Comanche Nation Elder Day, 10 a.m., Watchetaker Hall, Comanche Nation Complex.24 Comanche Nation Complex will be closed for the Chirstmas Holiday.31 Comanche Nation Complex will be closed for the New Year.January01 Nina Alice Burgess Honor Dance, Coman-che Nation Complex, For more information call (580) 597-6616.
December 2010 13 The Comanche Nation News
December 2010 14 The Comanche Nation News
Invasion of Ghost and Goblins The Comanche Nation Safe House was held from 6 to 9 p.m. October 29 at Watch-etaker Hall. The evening was full of Halloween fun and games. Pictures were takien-and faces were paintied. Food, candy and prizes was handed out. The scariest place was the haunted house sponsored by the Comanche Nation Hous-ing Authority. It gave the thrill and chill of being scared to all that were brave enough to enter at their own risk. Their was an estimated 20 programs from the Coman-che Nation that made this event a memorable one for all the children, tribal and non-tribal that were in attendance. There was a unesti-mated crowd of 500 plus that attendented the safehouse this year. Fun was had by all. The Comanche Na-tion’s goal is keeping the chil-dren in a safe environment dur-ing Halloween time.
Goblins and Ghost Invade Watchetaker Hall
Parents and kids line up at the doors of Watchetaker Hall in anticipation of all the food and games to be of-fered from all the different programs and orgainzations during the 2010 Comanche Nation Halloween Safehouse.
Public Information employeesTomah Yeahquo and Can-dace Todd greeted and handed out treats and bags to all the parents and kids entering in to Watchetaker Hall.
Angelina Ketner of the Comanche Nation Fitness Cen-ter dressed up as the Queen of Hearts from the movie Alice in Wonderland, during the 2010 Comanche Nation Safehouse.
Tribal member Sammy Niedo dressed up enjoying the fun and games along with tribal and non-tribal trick-or-treaters on Oct. 29 at Watchetaker Hall.
All that were in attendence at the safe house in Watchetak-er Hall had a good time offered by the Comanche Nation Programs.
December 2010 15 The Comanche Nation News
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TRIBAL YOUTH TAKES PART in the 13th An-nual Native American Heritage Celebration. Kim-berly DeJesus and Joshua Herrea were part of the Native American Beauty program which took place Nov. 15 at the Oklahoma State Capi-tol Rotunda. DeJesus sung “God Bless The USA,” while Herrea served as one of the flag barriers.
Native Pride Invades Sheppard Base On November 23, Sheppard Elementary School welcomed the Comanche Na-tion, for an afternoon of danc-ing and singing. Over 330 kids attended the celebration on Sheppard Air Force Base in Wichita Falls, TX. Those that were in at-tendance were Brigadier Gen-eral Darryl W. Burke, The Mayor of Wichita Falls, TX and the Emcee Col. Peter Mar-kle. The event started with a power point presentation by Public Information Office Director, Jolene Schonchin about Comanche History, an introduction of Dancers, Sing-ers and Princesses. The Lord’s Prayer was performed by Rey Ann Norberto. Norberto is currently the 2010-2011 Okla-homa Gourd Dance Club Sr. Princess. Marla Nauni per-formed Comanche hymns, in the Comanche Language. The dances performed were Women’s Southern Cloth, Intertribal and Tiny Tot. The kids really enjoyed a Two Step Dance that is very popular with our tribal culture, and the Men’s Fancy Dancing. Intertribal Dancing is when all tribes are allowed in the arena to dance. Tiny Tot’s is kids only. And the Two Step is lady’s choice. Fancy Dance is very fast tempo. You have to be in good shape for this dance. After the performance Brigadier General Darryl W.
Corbain Swift, Ahtakee Sovo and Cheyenne Pocowatchit perform for the students at Sheppard Elementary School on Sheppard Air Force Base in Wichita Falls TX.
ClorandiaTsstoke and Col. Peter Markle are keeping in step with the beat to the Two Step Song. The kids really enjoyed this dance.
Rey Ann Norberto per-forming the Lord’s Prayer,
Story and Photos by Fred Codynah Jr/News Staff
D.H.S. Celebrates Native American Month
Little Miss Inidan Lawton, Ermina Jane Iruegas, Little Miss Indian Lawton, Tinity Ahtone and Miss Indian Teen Lawton Taylor Price, listen to a stroy told to them by Lucinda Poahway during Naive American month.
The Department of Human Services in Lawton, Okla. has a Native American Celebration Committee that consists of DHS employees of different tribes that include Comanche, Kiowa, Pawnee, Otoe-Missouria, Choctaw and others. The purpose of the Native American Celebration Committee is to enlighten it’s non native co-workers of the beauty and diversity of all Na-tive people. “It is imperative for them to be aware of the differ-
ences in our language, cultures and lifestyles,” said Charlotte Juarez. Juarez said a large per-centage of non Native people view Native Indians as all the same. The NACC would like to enlighten their minds and open their hearts to the many contributions Native Ameri-cans have made in sports, mu-sic, history as well as current events, said Social Services Specialist IV Charlotte Juarez. This is the third year the committee has held this
Burke presented the Comanche Nation with a framed/matted wing graphic plaque to show his appreciation for a job well done by the Comanche Nation. In 1990 President George H. W. Bush approved a joint resolution designating No-vember 1990 “National Ameri-can Indian Heritage Month.” Similar proclamations, under variants on the name (includ-ing “Native American Heritage Month” and “National Ameri-can Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month”) have been issued each year since 1994.
event. Employees of the Co-manche County DHS were very captivated and delighted by this year’s program. The lists of entertainers were on hand to share their cul-ture. ErminaJane Iruegas who did the Lord’s Prayer under the direction of Lucinda Poahway. Others included the Comanche Indian Veterans Association, Marla Nauni, George “Coman-che Boy” Tahdooahnippah, Terry Tsotigh, and the Riv-erside Indian School Native American Dancers.
