December 2016 TCNN by The Comanche Nation News

VOLUME 17 EDITION 12

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

AUTUMN DANCE HELPS FEATHERED FRIENDS

December 2016

TA Arterberry Reﬂects on the 2016 Fiscal Year By Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

Comanche Nation Off of High Risk Status By Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

A milestone was reached when the Comanche Nation received a letter from the BIA (Bureau of Indian Affairs) November 29, announcing the Comanche Nation is off of “High Risk” status. The notice, dated November 21, states: Dear Chairman Nelson, This is to notify the Tribe that the Bureau of Indian Affairs acknowledges the accomplishment of the Tribe in completion of all corrective actions to obtain removal of the “High Risk Contractor/Grantee” status which was imposed upon the tribe on June 11, 2008. As such, we hereby notify you that the Tribe is officially being removed from High Risk Status.” Past findings, such as not turning in reports, and other measurers, kept the Tribe on “High Risk,” and hindered attaining some grants. “This is quite an accomplishment,” said Denise Karty, Comanche Nation Compliance Director. “I was hired to get the Tribe off of High Risk. It took three years to get, and now applying for grants will be easier and more promising.” Karty also explained the Tribe will receive federal funding money up front. “Currently, we use gaming money, and the Bureau reimburses the tribe. Now that we are off of High Risk status, we will not have to use Gaming Money.” William Nelson, Comanche Nation Chairman, said, “This is great news for the Comanche Nation. The Federal Government has taken the Sovereign Comanche Nation off of ‘High Risk’. Please take time to thank our Tribal Administrator, Business Committee, and the numerous employees that worked their entire past fiscal year to take us to a progressive and fiscally responsible organization.” Comanche Nation Vice Chairman, Susan Cothren, said that it is a good day for the Comanche Nation. Cothren signed two letters to the BIA, through Karty, asking when the Tribe could get off of High Risk, and what steps were needed to make it happen. She and Karty pursued the task, and Chairman, Willie Nelson, followed up with a third letter. “This shows the BIA has faith in this administration, and is working with us,” said Cothren. “We had to prove ourselves to them, and we did.” Cothren acknowledged Tribal Administrator, Jimmy Arterberry, for making sure tribal programs stayed within their budgets, and the CBC (Comanche Business Committee) for their careful spending of tribal money. “Now, we can pursue more grants to help our Comanche People,” Cothren added.

Photos by Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

The Cyril Rodeo arena was booming with the sounds of Gourd Dance music the afternoon of November 26, as a benefit powwow was held for the Comanche Nation Ethno-Ornithological Initiative, or SIA, which is translated to the word ‘feather’ in the Comanche Language. Elegant eagles and hawks were witness to the outdoor event, and it was evident the birds enjoyed the crisp autumn afternoon sun. The Comanche Native American Church, Chapter 1918, helped coordinate the fund-raiser, and sold Indian Tacos, held a Silent Auction, and had many raffles throughout the day. TOP: From left, Bill Volker, director of SIA, Comanche veteran, Baliente Herrera, and Troy, Co-Director of SIA, dance with Red Plume Staffs during the afternoon session. CENTER: Wahkeah, a Leucistic Red Tailed Hawk. TOP RIGHT: Nuepi, a Golden Eagle. BOTTOM RIGHT: Mahwomeh, an African Battler Eagle. To see the magnificent birds, contact the SIA Program for times they are available for viewing, or to donate a monetary gift, call (580) 464-2750. The address is 106 Lookingglass Way, Cyril, Okla. For more information online, go to www.comancheeagle.org.

Comanche Veteran Completes Book “FROM WARRIOR TO VETERAN – A Written and Pictorial History of Modern Day Comanche Veterans that served in the United States Military” is a seven chapter, 92-page hard-bound program type booklet written by Comanche veteran Lanny Asepermy. The booklet was edited by Shelley Asepermy and Marla Nauni, designed by Mike Espinosa (of Intertribal Visions) and published by Intertribal Visions of Lawton. The date of publication was 10 November 2016. The writing of the booklet began in Jan-

uary 2014 with information and photos of Comanche veterans collected beginning in July 1992 by Asepermy. The first three pages contain the Cover, Introduction and information about the researcher. Chapter One is titled, “Fallen Warriors and Prisoners of War of the Comanche Nation,” and is 12 pages with details and 18 photos of the thirteen Comanche veterans that died as a result of war and the seven Comanche veterans that were Prisoners of War. Chapter Two is titled, “Numu Pukutsinuu aka Pukutsi – Comanche Contrary Warriors and list,” with 26 photos and details about the 24 Comanche veterans that have been decorated for Gallantry, Heroism, Valor and Bravery and the two See BOOK, Page 9

TA (Tribal Administrator), Jimmy Arterberry, is very pleased with the end results of FY 2016, because it ended with the tribe having extra money. “I came on in November of last year, and the FY (Fiscal Year) budget had ended a month earlier. It was $3.7 million dollars overspent for FY 2015. In FY 2014, they were overspent $14 million. In FY 2013, they were overspent $4.8 million,” explained Arterberry. “This year, we ended our fiscal year in the Black, and we have $4.8 million dollars in access. We were able to provide all the services, that our people voted on and approved, and that were needed. The employees had all the tools they needed to do their jobs, and we were also able to do a lot of positive things.” He wants to ensure tribal members the extra money from FY 2016 was placed in a restricted account, according to Arterberry. The money will be brought forth to the council by the Business Committee to discuss how that would like those invested. Some of the progressive actions from TA Arterberry included placing generators at all the tribal Community Centers for emergency situations, getting the Capital Improvement Program back to the original goals for which it was established, and started repairing and renovating our tribal owned properties. The Comanche Nation has insurance coverage now, so our water park has been completely rehabbed now and the insurance has paid for all of that. Tribal employees have had professional training in Ethics, and it will continue with Dispute Resolution Training. Arterberry hopes to have the training as a renewal class for employees that have had it, and as a new training for the new employees. This way, he said, the tribal government enters a new more professional realm of service and business for the people. “When our members are unhappy and they complain about something, we have to listen, because without them, none of us would be working. We rely on our members,” he said. “There has not been as many complaints as there were in the past.” But, Arterberry said not everything ran smoothly, and he had to step in to correct some errors. “Something that happened that was unfortunate was, in the past, some of the contractors that were paid a lot of money had been contracted to work on some of the tribal members homes. There were three tribal elder’s homes that they were paid a lot of money to do some rehabilitation. The contractors took the money but did not do the work,” he explained. He said he had to go in front of the CBC to get permission to use Home Improvement and Capital Improvement Programs’ labor to get this elder’s home fixed, because the elder has been displaced for 19 months. He was allowed to use the two program’s manpower to get the homes fixed and back in order. They See TA REVIEW, Page 9

December 2016 THE COMANCHE NATION NEWS The award-winning Comanche Nation News, the official communication of the Comanche Nation, is available at no charge upon request. The deadline to submit information for the January 2017 edition is 5 p.m. December 15. Donations to help cover the cost of printing and mailing are welcome. Contact: The Comanche Nation News P.O. Box 908 Lawton, Okla. 73502-0908 Telephone: (580) 492-3386 Fax: (580) 492-3709 Emails: comanche_news@yahoo.com pio@comanchenation.com •

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TCNN Staff Jolene Schonchin, Editor, Reporter, Photographer-Email: jolenes@ comanchenation.com-Telephone Number-(580)492-3382 Paula Karty, Assist. Editor, Reporter, Photographer- Email: paulak@ comanchenation.com Telephone Number-(580)492-3383 Stacey Heminokeky, Reporter/ Photographer- Telephone-(580) 492-3385. Email: staceyh@comanchenation.com. Candace Todd, Administrative Assistant-Telephone Number (580)492-3386 News items of interest to the local and American Indian community are welcome. Photographs will be copied and will become the property of TCNN. To return original photographs, send a self-addressed stamped envelope. Do not send faxed photographs or newspaper copies of photographs. The Milestones Page (Birthdays, Anniversaries, Engagements,Memorial Pictures, Weddings, Births) are by submission only. The Passings/ Obituaries are submitted by the Comanche Nation Funeral Home or by tribal members on a funeral home letterhead. The Milestones Page is for tribal members only. TCNN publishes all services conducted by The Comanche Nation Funeral Home without discretion. Obituaries are written for tribal members only. TCNN will print a Comanche organization’s annual event flyer once free of charge as a courtesy to our tribal organizations. The guidelines for flyer submission are: Pow-wow flyers have to be from an established Comanche organization. There has to be contact person and number on the organization’s annual flyer. We reserve the right to edit all material. Letters or articles that contain libelous information, slander, or personal attacks will not be printed. Letters to the Editor must be signed with a legible name and have a 1,500 word limit. The Letters to the Editor or articles contained in the The Comanche Nation News does not reﬂect the views or opinions of the PIO staff.

Comanche Nation Ofﬁcials

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

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

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Government Eight Resolutions Passed During November CBC Meeting

CHE NATI ON MAN CO

Story by Stacey Heminokeky/News Staff

Editor’s Note: This is an overview of the November 5, CBC Monthly Meeting and not the official minutes. To obtain a copy of the official minutes, call the Office of the Chairman, (580) 492-3250. Chairman William Nelson called the meeting to order at 10 a.m. Committeeman No. 4, Clyde Narcomey, conducted Roll Call. A quorum was established with all Comanche Business Committee (CBC) members present, except Secretary/Treasurer, Vacant. Chairman Nelson opened the meeting with the invocation. Resolutions No. 115-16 Enrollment List No. 1043 Committeeman No. 4, Clyde Narcomey, made the motion to approve. Committee person No. 3, Harry Mithlo, seconds the motion. The motion carries 5/0/0. No. 116-16 Enrollment List No. 1044 Committeeman No. 4, Clyde Narcomey made the motion to approve. Committeeman No. 3, Harry Mithl, seconds the motion. The motion carries 5/0/0. No. 117-16 Enrollment List No. 1045 Committeeman No. 4, Clyde Narcomey, made the motion to approve. Committee person No. 3, Harry

Mithlo, seconds the motion. The motion carries. 5/0/0. No. 118-16 Inter Governmental Agreement Route No. 7128 Vice-Chairperson, Susan Cothren, made the motion to approve. Committeeman No. 4, Narcomey, seconds the motion. The motion carries 5/0/0. No. 119-16 Community Centers Vice-Chairperson, Susan Cothren made the motion to approve. Committeeman No. 1, Jonathan Poahway, seconds the motion. The motion carries 5/0/0. No. 120-16 Access to data request Vice-Chairperson, Susan Cothren, made the motion to approve. Committee person No. 3, Mithlo, seconds the motion. The motion carries 5/0/0. No. 121-16 Budget Summit Committeeman No. 4, Narcomey, made the motion to approve. Committee person No. 2, Eddie Ahdosy, seconds the motion. The motion carries 5/0/0. No. 122-16 McIntosh Property Tabled until December. No. 123-16 Future CBC Candidates indebtedness & drug test Committee person No. 2, Eddie Ahdosy, made the motion to approve. Committeeman No. 4, Narcomey, seconds the motion. The motion carries 5/0/0. The meeting was adjourned at 12:00 p.m. and Executive session followed.

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Comanche Nation Elder’s Day Decemeber 9 Located at Comanche County Coliseum 920 SW Sheridan Rd For more information contact: (580) 492-3240

December 2016

The Comanche Nation News

Chairman Nelson Addresses the Nation “January 19, 2006: LAWTON (AP): Comanche Nation members next week will receive their first financial benefits from the tribe's burgeoning casino operation. More than 8,000 adult tribal members will receive their first annual check for $1,035.58. Minors will have their share put into an interest drawing trust fund until they reach age 18.” This was an excerpt taken from the Lawton Constitution back in 2006. Since that time many things have changed, worked, failed, and some situations stayed the same. This December 2016 I would like to take the Comanche Nation membership on a journey of past, present and future business scenarios and futuristic ideology. Hopefully, with the permission and vote of the Supreme Governing Body (The Tribal Council) we just might take our Comanche Nation into a transparent reality of great progress in our near future.

Any organization has to step back and access, where are we? As of November 2016, this is the Comanche Nation population and the categories of Minors (1 to 17 years of age), Adults (18 to 61 years of age), and Elders (62 years of age and older). Any elected official that’s sworn into office has to stand behind the PURPOSE of our Comanche Constitution which states, “To promote in other ways the common well-being of the tribe and its membership.” I want the reader of this Comanche Chairman summation to take a quick glimpse into our Comanche Nation future.

By December 2017 many Programs will have to be reassessed as our Elder population increases and our Minor population de-

creases, and the 18 to 61 years of age Comanche citizens will have a significant increase from the Minors category. As we go into our Budget precursor meetings with Programs these facts have to be in adjustment for our membership services and a complete “cause and effect” of budgetary line items. I’m excited that the current business committee agrees with me that this January 14th the Nation will hold its first “Budget Summit” for all members and livestreamed to the world. Here is a quick history of our individual per capita payments over the years. Others and I are so Thankful that our Gaming Centers have given us all a small windfall each and every Holiday Season. Others and I are grateful that our Elders do get their $1,000 each and every Christmas since 2005. NOTE: “Elders Christmas” is Friday December 9th, Great Plains Coliseum. Check cashing and Comanche Vendors will be set up for your Christmas gift ideas.

Looking at the payout above, now correlate it to how our population has expanded over these same past years.

Services, Per Capita and all other entities of the Comanche Nation have attempted to keep in step with our ever changing population and needs therein and the continual future growth. Where do we go from here? 84 gaming funded Programs and 32 federal Programs with gaming match funds need to be streamlined for better efficiency. This process was adopted in 2008, 2013 and was always talked about but never dealt with. How could this work?

Such good ideas do need to come to the Tribal Council for approval. Remember, this is an example of assuring that our future keeps in time and rhythm with our ever changing and growing Comanche Nation membership. Other categories such as Education, Social Betterment and our precious “NUMUNUH” Culture has to come into actual reality rather than one (1) Program and one (1) Focus. These different ideas will be brought forward to the 1st annual “Budget Summit”. OUR COMANCHE NATION FINANCIAL HEALTH & AFFAIRS: This Administration from October 1, 2015 to October 1, 2016 did exceed all expectations of what the Tribal Council did vote on and approved of. Gaming met all their apportionments (plus excess paid out in per capita) this past Fiscal Year. GREAT, GREAT work by our Tribal Administrator, the past years of 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015 had a major over spend fiscal cliff, close to 33 million dollars. Past issuance of non-paid vendors has finally been satisfied. This year there is a carry over, which is totally remarkable, to the over spending spree and out of budgetary process of the past administration. I want to be perfectly clear and issue this common sense statement: “If requests of finances are not on the Fiscal Year Budget Line Item that the Comanche Tribal Council approves each and every year, then we cannot issue requested finances that is out of order of what the Supreme Governing Body did vote and approved of.” This current business committee is committed to bring the best serviceability to the Comanche Nation membership. Carry over that will be placed in an untouchable account will be $2 million, until Tribal Council tells us to move. The Nation had a windfall (Sisseton Wahpeton Lawsuit) of $5.5 million, that did call for a 1% administration fee to capture, this windfall will be placed in an untouchable account, until Tribal Council tells us to move. No longer should elected business committee members go to the Tax Commission and take finances when they over spent what the Comanche People voted on. I challenge the Tribal Council to make this very important GC RESOLUTION at our See CHAIRMAN NELSON, Page 5

December 2016

The Comanche Nation News

Programs Comanche Nation Social Services Offers Tips to Lower Heating Bills Submitted by Sandra Mithlo, MSW/Director of Social Services

High home-heating bills pack a real punch into household budgets across the United States each winter. They consistently pose a special challenge for our Comanche people who live on a fixed monthly income, or live paycheck to paycheck. The weather is turning cooler and many are firing up that heater for the first time. Home heating can be expensive, below are some tips to help save money on your heating cost. 1. Caulk and weather-strip around your windows and doors. This prevents cold air from seeping into your home. A tube of caulk and a roll of weather stripping cost less than $5 each. 2. Clean your warm-air registers and baseboard heaters. This allows heat to effectively pass through. 3. Move your furniture away from exterior walls and windows. These are the coldest areas of the house. You’ll feel warmer when you sit toward the middle of the home. 4. Clean your air furnace filter monthly. This allows hot air to effectively pass through. 5. Open the curtains on the south-facing side of your home during the daytime. This lets natural sunlight warm your home. Close these curtains at night to keep the cold out. 6. Turn your thermostat down a few degrees. Tap your frugal instincts and adjust to living in a colder home. Learn to love socks! If your feet are cold your whole body will

feel cold. Bundle up in a sweater or a blanket rather than cranking up the heat. 7. Wrap a heating pad or heating blanket around yourself if you’re alone. This is more cost effective than heating the entire house for the sake of warming one person. 8. Use a thick comforter at night. That way, you won’t have to heat the house as much while you sleep. 9. Turn your water heater down to 120 degrees and install lowflow aerators on your faucets. This will lower both your water-heating cost and your overall water bill. 10. Tap heat that is there anyway. There are plenty of activities you do around the house that generate warmth, such as cooking a meal or taking a shower. When you shower, keep the bathroom door open so steam spreads to other rooms, and don’t turn a ventilation fan on; it will remove the warm air you’re hoping to keep around. Also, call for a checkup by a professional; proper maintenance will help your heating unit run more efficiently. Electric heater need professional care at least once a year and gas heaters every other year. The Comanche Nation Social Services is planning for the month of February 2017 to begin the Heating component of the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program.

Comanche Nation Elder Council Elect William Pekah and Phyllis Narcomey As New Executive Board Members

Courtesy Photos

LOCATION. LOCATION. LOCATION. The Comanche Nation Dallas Outreach Ofﬁce celebrated it’s new location with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony the afternoon of November 19. TOP: Ribbon Cutting Ceremony included Comanche Nation Staff, Urban Inter-Tribal Staff, and local Comanche Tribal members. LEFT: - Tribal Administrator, Jimmy Arterberry discusses with Tribal members about how this relocation will change the outlook of the Comanche Nation Dallas Outreach. MIDDLE: Comanche Elder John Tiddark shares his experiences and progression of the Urban Inter-Tribal Center of Texas. He expresses his gratitude on the relocation of the Comanche Nation Dallas Outreach.

Gobble! Gobble!

Comanche Nation Elder Center Celebrates Thanksgiving

Submitted by Adale Mihesuah/ Comanche Nation Elders Council

On November 7, the Comanche Nation Elder Council held elections for the positions of Chairman and Secretary. Nominations for Chairman were William (Willie) Pekah and Deborah Hendrix. Pekah was elected as Chairman for the Comanche Nation Elder Council. Nominations for Secretary were Rita Heath, Phyllis Crosby, and Phyllis Narcomey. Narcomey was elected as Secretary for the Comanche Nation Elder Council. The Elder’s Council congratulate and welcome Pekah and Narcomey to the Executive Committee. The other members of the Comanche Nation Elder Council are Vivian Holder, Vice Chair; and, Adele Mihesuah, Treasurer. Speakers were Marilyn Guerrero and Kimberly Codynah from the Comanche Nation Elder Nutrition Center. The Indian Health Service Public Health Nursing staff provided flu shots for the Elders and gave a presentation on services available through the Public Health Nurs-

ing Program The Comanche Nation Elder Council will hold the annual Christmas Program on Monday, December 5. All Comanche Nation Elders are invited to the Apache Casino and Hotel, Summit Room for a traditional served dinner of turkey, dressing, vegetable, roll, dessert, and beverage. Each Comanche Nation elder will receive a gift and there will be door prizes given away. The Comanche Nation Elder Council meets the first Monday of each month (unless a holiday, then the next Monday), at the Comanche Nation College, beginning at 10 a.m., Lunch is served, speakers are provided and door prizes are given. If you are a member of the Comanche Nation and 62 years of age or older, you are a member of the Comanche Nation Elder Council, please come and participate in our meetings.

Sandra Karty, enjoying herself during the Annual Thanksgiving Dinner at the Comanche Nation Elder Center.

2016-2017 Comanche Nation Princess, Ashleigh Mithlo performs the Lord’s Prayer during the Elders Thanksgiving Meal. Stacey and photos by Stacey Heminokeky/News Staff

The Comanche Nation Elder Center held it’s Annual Thanksgiving Dinner on November 10. Over 250 Elders were served a warm Thanksgiving meal. The 2016-1017 Comanche Nation Princess entertained the Elders with the Lords Prayer, performed in sign language. Door prizes were given

out.

The Comanche Nation Elder Center would like to thank volunteers who came out to help make this event successful. If you have questions concerning the Comanche Nation Elder Center, call (580) 355-2330.

Committeeman No. 4, Clyde Narcomey and Tribal Administrator, Jimmy Arterberry, greets the Elders before the Thanksgiving meal.

CRYS is asking people to help bring Christmas Joy to infant’s newborn to one year olds. The project began November 15 and will end noon December 15. The goal of the project is to beneﬁt Native Children born to mothers and families who are struggling with drug addiction. The gifts will stretch to the counties CRYS services; Comanche, Kiowa, Caddo, Grady, Tillman, Cotton, and Stephens. They are working in conjunction with various programs within the Comanche Nation. Items can be anything from diapers of all sizes, clothes, jackets, shoes, blankets, educational toys, etc. If you would like to help donate items, or would like to sign up children for the project, contact Rose Onco, (580) 492-3240.

December 2016

CHAIRMAN NELSON Continued from Page 2

annual meeting this 3rd week of April. With that said, we the current business committee is challenging the Tax Commission to bring forward $4 million for this upcoming annual meeting for the 2018 Fiscal Year Budget. This should stand unless Mother Nature displaces our membership between here and there. This administration has redefined and has put the Retail/Wholesale operations into a new, manageable and hopefully profitable position this year. We collectively will challenge that $1 million does come to the Nation from these efforts. Our profit base has always been Comanche Nation Gaming. This year as we the Comanche Nation Business Committee and all the hard working Gaming employees, and all the regulatory personnel that are involved, we challenge ourselves to a greater year than this past year. The benchmark is $66 million. The business committee has been in talks with Comanche Construction and we are hopeful that this entity will be at the “Budget Summit” in January. Comanche Nation this is my 1st communication to all of you as your Chairman. I wish you all a Thankful Holiday Season and a Peaceful New Year. Be good to each other and may “Tah Ahpu” bless you continually. Comanche Nation Chairman William Nelson, Sr. Comanche Nation Vice Chairwoman Susan Cothren Business Committee One Johnny Poahway Business Committee Two Eddie Ahdosey Business Committee Three Harry Mithlo Business Committee Four Clyde Narcomey

The Comanche Nation Offices will be closed December 23 and 26 for the Christmas Holiday. Offices will open for regular business 8 a.m., December 27. The Comanche Nation Offices will also be closed January 2, 2017 for New Year’s Eve. Offices will open for regular business 8 a.m. January 3, 2017. The closings include Tax Commission and the Comanche Nation Housing Authority.

Comanche Nation Fair 2016 Art Winners! Tim Saupitty won 31 and Up category for DAPL picture Harold Lloyd Johnson won 18-30 category for Charcoal drawing of Grandmother Galu Lavatia won Grade 9-12 category Nathan Pueblo won Grade 6-8 category Jonathan Cole won Grade 1-5 category Judges requested another category for Lance Tahmakera’s beaded portrait of Monroe Tahmakera, his Grandfather- Best of Show Betty Simmons made honorable mention for her piece “Grand Entry” “Grand Entry” should be in the Smithsonian Institution however it is a living piece that she is always adding to.

Courtesy Photos

The Comanche Nation News

December 2016

The Comanche Nation News

Culinary Corner

Recipes for Home Cooking Our Easiest Pumpkin Pie Ever • Ingredients •

1 (14.1 oz.) package refrigerated pie crusts 1 1/2 cups plus 2 Tbsp. Buttermilk, divided Parchment paper 1 (15 oz.) can pumpkin 3/4 cup sugar

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Directions Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Fit 1 pie crust into a 9-inch metal pie pan according to package directions, pressing excess dough onto rim of pie pan. Cut shapes from remaining pie crust to use around pie edge. (We used a 1/2inch round cutter.) Brush 1 Tbsp. Buttermilk around pie edge; arrange shapes around pie edge, pressing to adhere. Brush shapes with 1 Tbsp. Buttermilk. Prick bottom and sides of pie crust 8 to 10 times with a fork. Line pie crust with parchment paper, and full with pie weights. Bake 15 minutes. Whisk together pumpkin, next 6 ingredients, and remaining 1 1/2 cups buttermilk in a large bowl. Pour mixture into pie crust. Bake at 425 degrees for 10 minutes. Reduce hear to 325 degrees, and bake 35 to 40 more minutes or until edge of filling is slightly puffed and center is slightly jiggly. Cool on a wire rack 1 hour. Store in refrigerator up to 2 days.

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Quick and Easy Chicken • • • • • • • •

1. 2. 3.

Ingredients 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 onion, chopped 4. 4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves 3 tablespoons ketchup 2 tablespoons soy sauce 3 tablespoons white sugar 2 tablespoons lemon juice 1 teaspoon ground black pepper. Directions • Saute onion in oil until translu- • cent. • Add chicken, and brown lightly. • Combine ketchup, soy sauce, sugar, lemon juice, and pepper, • mix well. Pour over chicken, and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce hear, and simmer for 25 to 35 minutes. 1.

2 teaspoons Dijon mustard 1/2 cup white bread torn into small pieces 1 teaspoon lemon zest 1 Tbsp lemon juice 1 Tbsp water (or liquid from the cans of tuna) 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley 2 Tbsp chopped fresh chives, green onions, or shallots Salt and freshly ground black pepper A couple squirts of Crystal hot sauce or Tabasco 1 raw egg 2 Tbsp olive oil 1/2 teaspoon butter Directions Drain tuna: Drain the liquid from the tuna cans. If you are using tuna packed in water, reserve a tablespoon of the tuna water, and add a teaspoon of olive oil to the tuna mixture in the next step. Mix tuna with mustard, bread, zest, lemon juice, water, parsley, chives, hot sauce, salt, pepper, egg: In a medium bowl, mix together the tuna, mustard, torn white bread, lemon zest, lemon juice, water, parsley, chives, and hot sauce. Sprinkle on salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste the mixture before adding the egg to see if it needs more seasoning to your taste. Mix in the egg. Form into patties, chill: Divide the mixture into 4 parts. With each part, form into a ball and then flatten into a patty. Place onto a wax paper lined tray and chill for an hour. (You can skip the chilling if you want, chilling just helps the patties stay together when you cook them.) Saute in skillet: Heat the olive oil and a little butter (for taste) in a cast iron or stick-free skillet on medium high. Gently place the patties in the pan, and cook until nicely browned, 3-4 minutes on each side.

Snow Flake Cocoa Ingredients 2 cups whipping cream 6 cups milk 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 (12 ounce) package white chocolate chips Garnish: Whipped cream, Candy Canes. Directions Stir together the whipping cream, milk, vanilla, and white

chocolate chips in a slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 2 to 2 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally, until mixture is hot and chocolate chips are melted. Stir again before serving. Garnish with whipped cream and candy canes, as desired.

Sassafras

Steve Parker/Primitive Archer Magazine

The healing tree used was the sassafras (Sassafras albidum). Sassafras. also known as cinnamon wood and ague tree, is native to Eastern, Southern, and Midwestern North America. It grows from Maine and Ontario south to Florida and west to Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Iowa. It is a member of the Laurel Family (Lauracaea) and is related to avocado, cinnamon, and bay trees. Sassafras is a medium-sized tree, normally growing from 30 to 60 feet tall, but it occasionally reaches heights of up to 100 feet. It grows in varied habitats and is common as an understory tree in deciduous forests, or as a pioneer species in old fields and abandoned farmland. The leaves of sassafras have three distinctive forms, all growing on the same tree; an unlobed, elliptical-oval shape; a one-lobed “mitten” shape; and a three-lobed or “double mitten” shape. All parts of the tree are strongly and pleasantly aromatic. The small, yellow flowers are borne in early spring before the leaves appear. The tree is dioecious, with male and female flowers appearing on separate plants. The fruit, a favorite food of birds, is a small bluish-black drupe, which ripens in late summer to early fall. The bark is light brown and deeply furrowed on older trees. Sassafras has a long, interesting history of medicinal use. Native Americans used the tree for a wide range of medicines, including the treatment of rheumatism, gout, skin disorders, diarrhea, stomach ail-

ments, fevers, skin infections, general diseases, parasites, and as a general strengthening tonic and blood purifier. John Lawson, an early English explorer, writer, surveyor, and cofounder of two of the earliest towns in the new North Carolina colony, was traveling in 1700-1701 through an area near present-day Charlotte, North Carolina. In his journal, he described how a member of his traveling party had become lame and was successfully treated was scarification and sassafras root by a Catawba medicine man in the manner described at the beginning of this article. Early colonists learned of the esteemed medicinal properties of the tree from the local tribes, and soon began using it themselves for treatments of almost everything imaginable. Sir Walter Raleigh took the first sassafras roots back to Europe in 1578, and soon Europe was caught up in a sassafras craze. With some successful marketing by Raleigh and others, the aromatic tree quickly gained a reputation as an almost magical panacea for any and all ailments and demand quickly grew. Raleigh started sending ships and crews to gather and export large quantities of sassafras from the fledgling colonies beginning in 1602. Sassafras root soon became one of the most important exports from the New World, reputedly coming in second only to tobacco in monetary value throughout the 1600’s. Large sums of money were made in the sassafras trade, and Raleigh struggled to maintain a near-monopoly in exporting the valuable root to Europe. Eventually the sassafras craze began to die down as people realized that although sassafras was a useful medicine, it wasn’t an infallible cure-all as they had been led to believe. Its ineffectiveness in curing widespread outbreaks of syphilis was in a large part responsible for its decline in popularity. Although sassafras proved not to be the all powerful wonder drug that Europeans had hoped for, it has many legitimate medicinal properties. It contains several medicinal compounds, including the essential oil safrole, which gives the tree its distinctive spicy aroma. Sassafras has carminative, diaphoretic, diuretic, demulcent, alterative, and antiseptic qualities. All parts of the tree have these qualities to some extent, but most medicinal uses are based on a tea brewed from the root bark, which contains the highest concentrations of the medicinal compounds. Sassafras is useful in pro-

moting sweating for the reduction of fevers and lessening congestion. It is an excellent remedy for digestive disorders, quickly relieving nausea, gas, and indigestion. It is an effective antiseptic skin wash for psoriasis, eczema, and other skin disorders. It reduces the symptoms of rheumatism, gout, and urinary tract disorders. The mucilaginous pith of the twigs has been brewed into a soothing wash for sore or irritated eyes. In traditional Appalachian culture, sassafras tea was a popular spring tonic used to stimulate the body, purify and thin the blood, detoxify the system, and boost the body’s general ability to ward off disease and infection. It has reportedly been effective in the treatment of head lice. Sassafras has also commonly been added to other medicinal teas to mask the taste of bitter ingredients. The antiseptic twigs can be chewed on the ends and used as toothbrushes, and the tea makes an acceptable mouthwash. The oil has been used to treat toothaches. Until recent years, sassafras was used in some modern dental antiseptics and toothpastes. The essential oil safrole is toxic in its pure form and causes liver and kidney damage if taken internally in large doses. The FDA declared safrole to be a carcinogenic substance in the 1960s based on tests involving the feeding of very large amounts of safrole to laboratory rats. Since then, it has been banned for sale in commercial preparations in the U.S. Safrole has also gained notoriety in recent years as a main ingredient of the illegal drug MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy. Sassafras also has edible uses. Sassafras tea is one of the besttasting, most popular wild beverage teas, and its popularity led to the development of an even more popular wild beverage teas, and its popularity led to the development of an even more popular soft drink-root beer. Sassafras root bark was originally a main flavoring ingredient of root beer until the FDA banned its use as a commercial food additive. It was also used as a flavoring agent in some brands of chewing gum. Sassafras extracts commercially manipulated to remove or neutralize the safrole are still used as flavorings in some products. The Native American used sassafras as a seasoning and taught its use to European settlers. Gumbo file, the classic Cajun/Creole seasoning used to thicken and flavor soups, stews, and gumbos, is made of dried and powdered sassafras leaves. Sassafras tea is generally considered by many people to be a perfectly safe beverage if consumed in moderation, but should not be overused according to the FDA warnings. Sassafras tea should also be avoided for medicinal or beverage use during pregnancy, as it has been suspected of causing miscarriage. Sassafras has many utilitarian uses. The wood is light but durable, fairly strong for its weight, and moderately rot-resistant. It has been used for posts, framing, and furniture. Many early records document Southeastern tribes commonly using sassafras as bow wood. In his classic 1878 book, The Witchery of Archery, Maurice Thompson even listed it as being a better bow wood than Osage orange, in his opinion! Sassafras is a good material for bow drill spindles used in friction fire-making and such use is historically documented by several Southeastern tribes. In the days when work oxen figured heavily in the lives of Southern Appalachian people, sassafras was the preferred wood for manufacturing ox yokes. The pleasant scent of sassafras has also been used as an additive for homemade soaps, perfumes, and potpourris. With its interesting growth form, early spring flowers, and spectacular autumn foliage, sassafras has increasingly been used as an ornamental plant. It is difficult to transplant, but if started in containers and transplanted with its root system intact, will grow well in most welldrained soils, in sun or partial shade.

December 2016

The Comanche Nation News

Protect Yourself From a Winter Storm

Federal Emergency Management Agency website www.fema.gov

The Comanche Nation Emergency Management reminds everyone to take time to read up on how to prepare your home , family and vehicle for the winter months. Remember, when disaster strikes, the time to prepare has passed. PREPARE Prepare now in case a winter storm hits and you are home for several days without power and heat. • Prepare by gathering emergency supplies, making a family plan, and discussing emergency notifications and expectations with your workplace and/or schools. • Install batterypowered or battery back-up carbon monoxide detectors. • If you have access to an OUTSIDE generator, have an electric cord long enough to keep the generator at least 20 feet from any door, window, or vent. • Make specific plans for how you will avoid driving. • Be alert to changing weather conditions using local alerts, radio, and other news sources for information and instructions. DURING: SURVIVE Stay indoors and avoid driving as much as possible. • If the power goes out, close off unused rooms to consolidate and retain heat. • Wear layered clothing and use blankets or sleeping bags to stay warm. • Bring pets inside. • NEVER use generators, outdoor heating or cooking equipment, such as a grill, camp stove, or a gasoline or propane heater, indoors. • NEVER heat a home with a stove. • If driving is absolutely necessary, keep disaster supplies in your vehicle, make sure your vehicle is properly equipped, and use extra precaution on the roads. • Limit your time outdoors. If you are outside, protect yourself from frostbite and hypothermia by wearing several layers of warm, loose-fitting, light-weight clothing. DEVELOP A COMMUNICATIONS PLAN Your family may not be together when a winter storm hits, so it is important to know how you will contact one another in an emergency, and how you will get back together when it is safe to travel again. A storm may overwhelm landline and cellular phone systems. You may need to use text messaging or social media to communicate with family and friends. Keep important numbers written down in your wallet in case you cannot access the contact list in your phone. For more information, including a sample household communications plan, visit www.ready. gov/make-a-plan.

RECOVER Driving conditions will still be dangerous; only drive if necessary. • If the power is out for more than a few days, your community may set up warming shelters. • If you do not have adequate supplies to stay warm in your home and you can get there safely, you may want to go to a shelter. • If you go outside, dress in warm clothing, stay dry, and avoid prolonged exposure to cold and wind to protect yourself from frostbite and hypothermia. Protect Yourself During a Winter Storm STAY OFF THE ROAD Federal Highway Administration reports indicate that the risk of vehicular accidents rises sharply in winter weather conditions. In an average year, there are more than half a million vehicle crashes when the roads are snowy, slushy, or icy, resulting in nearly 2,000 fatalities and 150,000 injuries. Driving is very dangerous during and immediately after a winter storm and you should make plans to stay off the road when advisories and watches are issued. ESSENTIAL TRAVEL ONLY If driving is absolutely necessary, ensure you have emergency supplies of food and water, warm clothing, and a full tank of gas in case you are stuck in traffic or have an accident and have to wait several hours for assistance. Try to travel during the day and do not travel alone. Stay on main roads. Let someone know your destination, route, and expected arrival time. IF YOUR HOME LOSES POWER OR HEAT FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD If your home loses power or heat for more than a few hours or if you do not have adequate supplies to stay warm in your home overnight, you may want to go to a designated public shelter if you can get there safely. Text SHELTER + your ZIP code to 43362 (4FEMA) to find the nearest shelter in your area (e.g., SHELTER 20472). Bring any personal items that you would need to spend the night (such as toiletries, medicines). Take precautions when

traveling to the shelter. Dress warmly in layers, wear boots, mittens, and a hat. LEARN FROM EVERY STORM Restock your emergency supplies to be ready in case another storm hits. • Assess how well your supplies and family plan worked. What could you have done better? • Take a few minutes to improve your family plan and supplies before the next winter storm hits. • Talk to your neighbors and colleagues about their experiences and share tips with each other. Keep fire extinguishers on hand and make sure everyone in your home knows how to use them. If your smoke alarms get power from your home’s electrical system (hardwired), make sure the backup battery is replaced at least once a year so that your alarms will work during a power outage. Insulate water pipes with insulation or newspaper and plastic and allow faucets to drip or trickle during cold weather to avoid freezing. Learn how to shut off water valves if a pipe bursts. Hire a contractor to check the structural ability of your roof to sustain unusually heavy weight from the accumulation of snow or ice. Winterize your home by insulating walls and attics, caulking and weatherstripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic. Clear rain gutters, repair roof leaks, and cut away tree branches that could fall on a house or neighboring structure during, or following, a storm. Keep pathways and driveways clear between storms to avoid buildup of snow piles and icing. Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional. Install

battery-operated carbon monoxide detectors or electric detectors with battery backup in central locations on every level of your home and outside sleeping areas to provide early warning of accumulating carbon monoxide, which is a colorless, odorless, tasteless, and potentially deadly gas. DRESS If you must go outside, wear several layers of loose fitting, lightweight, warm clothing rather than one layer of heavy clothing. The outer garments should be tightly woven and water repellent. • Wear mittens, which are warmer than gloves. • Cover all of your body. Wear a hat and a scarf, covering your mouth to protect your face and to help prevent loss of body heat. BUILDING AN EMERGENCY SUPPLY KIT FOR YOUR CAR WINTERIZE YOUR VEHICLE

Winter driving conditions can be extremely dangerous. During the fall, before winter weather sets in, make sure you or a mechanic completes a winter weather check on your vehicle. ANTIFREEZE LEVELS – Ensure they are sufficient to avoid freezing. BATTERY AND IGNITION SYSTEM – Keep in top condition and clean battery terminals. BRAKES – Check for wear and fluid levels. EXHAUST SYSTEM – Check for leaks and crimped pipes and repair or replace as necessary. Carbon monoxide is deadly and usually gives no warning. FUEL AND AIR FILTERS – Replace and keep water out of the system by using additives. Maintain a full tank of gas to keep the fuel line from freezing. HEATER AND DEFROSTER– Ensure they work properly. LIGHTS AND FLASHING HAZARD LIGHTS – Check

for serviceability. OIL – Check for level and weight. Heavier oils congeal more at low temperatures and do not lubricate as well. THERMOSTAT – Confirm it works properly. WINDSHIELD WIPER EQUIPMENT – Repair any problems and maintain proper washer fluid level. INSTALL GOOD WINTER TIRES – Make sure the tires have adequate tread. All-weather radials are usually adequate for most winter conditions. However, some jurisdictions require vehicles to be equipped with chains or snow tires with studs to drive on their roads. WHAT TO DO IF STRANDED IN YOUR CAR If stuck on the road to avoid exposure and/or rescue is likely. • If a safe location is neither nearby nor visible. • If you do not have appropriate clothing to go outside. • If you do not have the ability to call for help. If the distance to call for help is accessible. • If you have visibility and outside conditions are safe. • If you have appropriate clothing. • Once the storm has passed, if you are not already home, follow instructions from your local transportation department and emergency management agency to determine which route will be safest for you to get home. Drive with extra caution. CAUTION: CARBON MONOXIDE KILLS Each year, an average of 430 Americans die from unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning, and there are more than 20,000 visits to the emergency room with more than 4,000 hospitalizations. Carbon monoxide-related deaths are highest during colder months. These deaths are likely due to increased use of gas-powered furnaces and alternative heating, cooking, and power sources used inappropriately indoors during power outages. To that end, NEVER use a generator, grill, camp stove, or charcoal burning device inside or in any partially enclosed area; keep these devices at least 20 feet from doors, windows, and vents. If the alarm sounds, move quickly to a fresh air location outdoors or by an open window or door. Call for help from the fresh air location and remain there until emergency personnel arrive to assist you.

December 2016

The Comanche Nation News

People, Places, & Things Happening Battese With Three Steals and Six Points In Season Opener for Cameron Women’s Basketball

Courtesy Photo

Ava Battese (Comanche/ Prairie Band Potawatomi), recent Elgin HS graduate, is a true freshman for the Cameron Women’s Basketball team. In her collegiate debut, Ava recorded three steals and six points in their season opener against St. Mary’s at Tarleton State’s TexAnn Classic. Battese is the only Native American on the team. Please come out and support this young lady! The Lady Aggie schedule can be found at http://www. cameronaggies.com/schedule. aspx?path=wbball

Saint John Riptide in the National Basketball League of Canada. Getting a phone call to play professionally is a testament to his dedication. Since finishing at Cameron in 2014, Foster worked to mold his game by participating in various tournament across Oklahoma and surrounding states. He also spent time working with DeAnthony Bowden, former star of the Lawton Calvary. “I’m not going to lie. When they said they wanted me, I was just looking at DeAnthony like its go time. Like it’s my time now. Like I’ve been waiting for this for a long time. I just broke down in tears because I’ve been waiting and grinding for two years. It’s been a long time coming,” explains Foster. Foster also participated in training young children and high schoolers to help develop their games. This deal allows him to be an example to those young talents, and to put Lawton in a brighter light. “It’s a blessing for everybody that I’m surrounded by,” says Foster. “Everybody that sees me get up at 5:50 a.m., go to work outs. My little kids that I train every day on a daily. I do it for everybody that I’m representing around me because they see the hard work that I put in. They just look at me and see I’m a true testament to hard work and dedication, and staying with the grind. You can make it out of Lawton, and be a bad representation. You can be something positive out of Lawton.” Foster plans to report to his team in December.

Foster Signs Contract to A Girl Who Wouldn’t Play Professional Give Up Basketball

Courtesy Photo Courtesy Photo

Craig Foster signed a contract to play professionally for the

Michelle Gonzalez was just an average 18-year-old that graduated from Lawton High School in 1990

with big plans for the future. The next 20 years of her life were far form normal. She experienced heartache, trauma and even addiction. Now, 26 years later, Gonzalez has turned her life around. Despite the trauma of domestic violence and losing an infant son in 2006, she never gave up on her dreams. Gonzalez is a proud mother of seven awesome children, and a beautiful Granddaughter, and she is engaged to a wonderful man. She admits is was not easy. She worked hard for a local moving company while going to Cosmetology school at night. Gonzalez graduated in November and taking a short break to spend time with her granddaughter before returning to Cameron University to finish her Bachelor Degree in Substance Abuse Counseling. Gonzalez wants her story told in hopes to inspire others. “I’m dedicating my achievements to my late mother, Lois Karty Gonzalez. She also graduated and received her Cosmetology License from Aladdin Beauty College in 1983,” said Gonzalez.

around the world who are differencemakers. We left after one week feeling more like family than fellow students.” The five-day courses this year, touch on a range of topics, including indigenous stories, restorative justice, community development, trauma healing, biblical healing, arts and peacebuilding and peace skills. They’ve brought back some of the best instructors and are bringing in other world-class instructors who will be at the CSOP for the first time this year. They hope many interested students of all ages will join them. If you aren’t quite ready to sign up for a course, check out our

book, Voices of Harmony and Dissent: How Peacebuilders are Changing Their Worlds . The e-book is available for FREE download or you can purchase a hard copy of the book. If you have any questions or want more information, check out our website or send us an e-mail. They hope to see many in June for a week of learning, connecting and renewal. Valerie Smith and Wendy Kroeker CSOP Co-Directors csop.cmu.ca csop@cmu.ca

Applications for the 2017 School of Peacebuilding Being Accepted

The CanadianSchool of Peacebuilding (CSOP) would like to invite those interested to join us at it’s 9th annual event, which will be held June 12-16 and June 19-23, 2017, in Winnipeg, Canada. Registration is now available online or using our PDF forms at csop.cmu.ca/ registration/. They welcome anyone who is interested in growing as a peacebuilder–local and international, young and old, students, practitioners and those brand-new to peacebuilding. As Paul Peters, a 2017 CSOP participant has said, “My time at CSOP was filled with rich dialogue and learning that can only come together through the diversity in our classrooms. I met people from

Photo by Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

NEW PRINCESS. Juliana Wahnee was announced as the New IAM NDN Princess during the IAM NDN Powwow November 19 at the Comanche Nation Complex. Wahnee is a student at Macarthur High School. Outgoing Princess, Tristen Wauqua pins the IAM NDN Banner on Wahnee, while members of the youth organization watches. The purpose of IAMNDN is to positively impact the negative effects associated with underage drinking and prescription drug abuse that often plagues each and every Native community.

Photo by Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

WAR STORIES. Ted Sovo, Vice Chairman of the American Legion Post 306 in Fletcher, Okla., was interviewed by ﬁlm makers of his experience in the military October 29 at the Comanche Nation Complex. Sovo helped coordinate the interviews of Comanche World War II Veterans who fought in the 101st - 82nd Division, and those who fought in Normandy, France during it’s three major battles.

December 2016

Coffman Named to the 2016 Fast Pitch Softball Coaches Association All State

The Comanche Nation News

Toahty Finishes Football Season with Impressive Numbers

Courtesy Photos

Toahty, right, with family.

Courtesy Photos

Tribal Member, Kyndell Coffman, was named to the 2016 Oklahoma High School Fast Pitch Softball Coaches Association All State. She will be playing on the Small-West team in June at Oklahoma Christian University. She is a senior at Apache High School, where she was the starting pitcher for the last four years. She was also selected to play in the Chisolm Trail All Conference Game in Cyril in October, as well as being selected as All Region. Coffman is the daughter of Jeremy and Vanessa Coffman; granddaughter of Ann and Keith Koassechony.

Jakobe Toahty is a very talented football player for the Cyril Pirates. He finished this football season with 1,190 receiving yards according to max preps, and 1,309 all purpose yards, 18 touchdowns’s and 60 receptions. Toahty is the son of Marcia Toahty, grandson of Jeffrey Toahty Sr., and the great grandson of the late Ladora Trout. He is a member of the Comanche Tribe. Marcia Toahty, mother of Jakobe said, “He has come a long way and had an excellent football season, I am very proud of what a talented young man he has become. Keep up the good work,”

Photo by Stacey Heminokeky/News Staff

CHAMPIONSHIP GAME. On November 15, Rylen Furr, No. 22 played in the Lawton Football City Championship against Woodland Hills Elementary. The game was played at Cameron University’s Football Stadium in Lawton, Okla. He is a member of the Comanche Tribe. Furr is 10 years-old, and in the 5th grade. He has been playing football for his elementary school for four years. This is his last year in Midget Football, where he played in the Lineman position, and has played both offense and defense positions. Furr is the son of Rick Furr, and the grandson of Gaylon and Melanie Motah of Lawton.

TA REVIEW Continued From Page 1

are currently finishing up an 80-yearold elder’s home now, he added. There was also a lot of debt owed to the Nation that was not collected, so he, and the CBC, pursued actions to recoup the money that was owed to the tribe. “It has been a tough year. We have seen a few of our employees and leaders leave our governmental system. None of it was personal. It was all business related and something that was necessary in order for us to advance,” said Arterberry. Arterberry touched on the three points that the CBC are working to improvement and change. One was to improve Higher Education opportunities. They will be meeting with the program during the Budget Summits in January, to ensure there are no shortcomings to interfere with the tribal members’ educational opportunities. The CBC is also looking into the 60% Revenue Allocation Plan, according to Arterberry, and are

working on creating an opportunity for the elders to receive regular dividends from the gaming earnings. The third area the CBC are focusing on is protecting our children’s minor accounts, making sure when they turn 18 years, the money will be in the accounts. “Although change is hard, from what I see, people are realizing the change that is happening is for the benefit of everyone. The days of favoritism, should be in the past, because we are working collectively to assist and work for all of our tribal members locally and globally,” said Arterberry. “We are working diligently to ensure tribal members, no matter where they are at, they will have access to information and help.” He says he feels like the key to all of this is communication. “When there a lack of communication, there is chaos and discourse. We are working hard to communicate with the tribal community,” he expressed.

Arterberry said, although it has been very challenging as the TA, it has been very rewarding seeing they joy of our tribal members in the little things. “I feel good about the work I have been able to do and I am satisfied knowing I can sleep at night knowing I have done everything I can in my power to consider every request made of me.” He shared that his daily responsibilities include taking time to pray. “Every single day, I begin and end my day in prayers for the Comanche people and the future of the Comanche people. Although I do not know what the future holds for me, I am satisfied with the opportunities and chances I have been given and I am thankful to the Comanche People for entrusting me to be able to do this job. It has been an honor for me to step up and work with our tribal leaders on behalf of our tribal members,” he said.

photos that pays tribute to the many accolades earned by Comanche veterans. Chapter five is 17 pages and is titled, “The History of the Comanche Indian Veterans Association.” This Chapter traces the history of the CIVA beginning in 1976 with 74 photos of the former Commanders, former and present princesses, past and current officers and other information about the organization and their many accomplishments. Chapter Six is four pages

and is titled, “Comanche Veterans Trivia.”This chapter answers just about any question about modernday Comanche Military history. Chapter Seven is 16 pages and is titled, “Comanche Veterans Photo Gallantry.” This chapter contains photos and brief bio’s of 448 Comanche veterans. A copy can be requested by calling Asepermy at(580) 678-4629. Copies are limited, as only 300 copies have been produced. Postage and handling may be requested.

BOOK

Continued from Page 1

Comanche veterans that fought and killed the enemy in Hand to Hand combat. Chapter Three is titled, “The Comanche Code Talkers of World War I and World War II,” and is 14 pages. This chapter pays tribute, with 35 photos and information, about the 22 Comanche Code Talkers and their accomplishments and honors. Chapter Four is 14 pages and is titled “A Few Good Soldiers, Marines, Sailors, Airmen and Coast Guardsmen.” This chapter has 91

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LEWIS RECEIVES FOOTBALL AWARD. Raymond Lewis, 9 years, received an Offensive Football Award during the Carriage Hills Cougars Football Banquet November 19 at the Comanche Nation Complex. The Lawton, Okla. elementary football team was number one in the Peewee Division, with a 7-1 track record for the season, ﬁnishing No. 2 for the year. Lewis is in 3rd grade, and this is his second year playing football. His is an enrolled Comanche Nation member, and is also Navajo and Kiowa tribes. He is the son of Jon and Bobbie Lewis, of Lawton, Okla. TOP: Lewis with his parents. RIGHT: Lewis holding his award, ﬂanked by his football coaches.

December 2016

The Comanche Nation News

December 2016

The Comanche Nation News

Milestones Happy Belated Birthday

Angela Rochelle Knox, November 4 Rosalind Asetamy, November 4 Vincent Lewis, November 5 Marc Mantzke, November 6 Anita Johnson (73), November 9 Justin W. Howell, November 14 Kaydence Frickie, November 27

Happy Birthday Brian Wahnee Jr., December 1 Travis Jobe Parker, December 2 Malayna Dinwiddie, December 3 Timothy Marcus Martinez (13), December 5 Edna Daukei, December 6 Jennifer Brewer, December 6 Dawson Eccles, December 9 Aaliyah Nicole Gilliam, December 10 Bobbie Lewis, December 12 Becky Shea, December 14 Debra Teeter, December 14 Katelyn Smith, December 16 Brad Daukie, December 18 Lyle Cable, December 18 Robin Frickie, December 18 Michael Burgess, December 20 Jordan Prairiechief, December 24 Lynn Viddaurri, December 24 Chastity Joyce Cole, December 25

Happy Belated Birthday Marc Mantzke November 6

Happy Birthday Malayna Dinwiddie December 3

Happy Birthday Dawson Eccles December 9

Happy Birthday Aaliyah Nicole Gilliam December 10

Happy Birthday Becky Shea December 14

Happy Birthday Debra Teeter December 14

Happy Birthday Brad Daukie December 18

Happy Birthday Michael Burgess December 20

Happy Birthday Kaydence Frickie November 27

Happy Birthday Robin Frickie December 18

Happy Belated 26th Birthday Justin W. Howell November 14

Anniversaries

We love you!!! Love mom, sisters & family..

Jimmy Asbury Jr. & Kristen Asbury December 31 ~ Married 5 years The Comanche Nation News, Deadline~December 15 Email: candacet@comanchenation.com by Mail: Comanche Nation PIO- P.O. Box Lawton, OK 73501 Contact: (580) 492-3386

Happy 5th Anniversary

Jimmy Asbury & Kristen Asbury December 31

Powwow Trail 18th Birthday Powwow for Alex Charles Akoneto December 17, at Comanche Nation Complex, Watchetaker Hall, 584 NW Bingo Rd., Lawton, Okla. EmceeWallace Coffey and Edmond Nevaquaya; Head Singer- Ronald Monoessy; Head Lady- Carlene Collins; Head Gourd Dancer- Wyatt Patty; Head Man War Dancer- Anthony Monoessy; Arena Director- Sam Howell; Security- Brian Wahnee; Co-Host- Walter Native American Club, Comanche Little Ponies. 2 p.m.- Gourd Dance; 5 p.m.- Supper Break; 7 p.m.- Grand Entry. Social Dancing and Contest to follow. Contest in Cloth, Straight and Fancy. Special Invitation to the Comanche Nation Sr. and Jr. Princesses. Special invitation to all Organizations and Club Princesses. All vendors welcome. For more information please contact, Stephanie Akoneto (580) 583-5816 or Tiffany Allen (580) 704-9560.

16th Annual New Year’s Eve Sobriety Powwow December 31, at the Student Life Center located at Bacone College, 2412 East Shawnee Rd., Muskogee, Okla. Emcee- Sam Howell; Head Gourd Singer- Ryaa Roan Horse; Head Singer- Leonard Cozad; Head Man- Josiah Hair; Head Lady- Dawn Buffalohead; Head Gourd DancerClifford Springwater; Color GuardMuscogee Creek Nation; Arena Director- Larry Tsosie; Host Northern Drum- Red Land Singers. 1 p.m.- 4:30 p.m., Gourd Dance; 4:30 p.m.- 6 p.m., Supper Break; 6 p.m.- 7 p.m., Gourd Dance; 7 p.m., Grand Entry. 4 p.m.- 7 p.m., Registration for all contest dancers, all contestants must be in grand entry to compete. Contest: Men’s Fancy, Straight Dance, Traditional, Chicken Dance, Men’s Golden Age, Grandfather-Grandson, Jr. Boy’s Straight, Women’s Cloth, Mother-Daughter,

Jingle Dress and Fancy Shawl Combined, Women’s Buckskin, Jr., Girls Cloth, Tiny Tots. Vendor must reserve a booth space (10x10) $60. For more information contact, Lorraine Bosin (918) 639-7999.

Memorial Powwow for Roderick and Nina Youngman December 31, 2 p.m.- midnight, at Comanche Nation Complex, Watchetaker Hall, 584 NW Bingo Rd., Lawton, Okla. Emcee- Jim Clairmont and Cy Ahtone; Head Singers- Howard Cozad and Anthony Monoessy; Head Man Dancer- Matt Littlecreek; Head Lady Dancer- Caspie Abbey; Head Gourd Dancer- Kenneth Cozad; Head Young Man Dancer- Roderick Cable; Head Young Lady Dancer- Olowan Wast’e Win LaPlante; Co Host- Comanche Little Ponies and C&A Labor Day Powwow Committee; Arena Directors- Victor Tahchawwickah and Youngman Grandson’s. Honored Elders- Belva Hicks, Frank McClellan, Saul Birdshead Jr. Invited Drums- Northern, MGM and Southern, Eagle Claw. 2 p.m.- 5 p.m., Gourd Dance; 5 p.m.- 6 p.m., Supper will be served; 6 p.m.- Midnight, Grand Entry, Round Dance, War Dance and Contest; Midnight- Cedar Ceremony. Contest: Men’s Traditional- $300, $200, $100 sponsored by Comanche Little Ponies; Men’s Straight, Women’s Cloth, Women’s Buckskin, Tiny Tots. This pow-wow is to honor the memory of our loved ones, Roderick and Nina Youngman. A special invitation to the Comanche Nation Sr. and Jr. Princesses, Arapaho Princess and all other clubs and organizations. For more information call (580) 514-6579 or (580) 284-6110.

Oklahoma City Powwow Club New Year’s Dance January 7, at Comanche Nation Complex, Watchetaker Hall, 584 NW Bingo Rd., Lawton, Okla. Master of Ceremonies- Tom Morgan and Joe Poe Jr.; Head Singers- Leonard Cozad Jr.; Head Gourd Dancer- John Parker; Lady DancerCollette Dupoint; Head War DancerRandy Frazier; Arena Director- Cleatus Gayton; Oklahoma City Powwow Club Princess- Wynter Skye Stewart. 2 p.m.- 5 p.m., Gourd Dance; 5 p.m.- 6 p.m., Supper Break; 7:30- Grand Entry. All Princesses and Clubs invited. Contest to be announced. Booth space $25, Arts and Crafts vendors contact: Tom Morgan (405) 528-5026. Oklahoma City Powwow Club Officers: Chariman- Tom Morgan, Vice Chariman- Larenzo Beard, Treasurer- Pat Riley; Board Members: Joe Poe Jr., Ruth Factor, Patricia McDaniels. For more information contact: (405) 528-5026.

DIVORCE? WRITS? WILLS/CODICILS? ATTESTATIONS? Packets/citations typed and prepared for Native Americans for issuance through BIA Court of Indian Offenses. (Additional BIA filing fees due at time of documentation). REASONABLE PREP FEES Contact: Jewell Tieyah (580) 678-2052 or (580) 492-5455

Mark 3:35 “(For) whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother.”

New Year’s Eve Sobriety Powwow December 31, Cox Business Center, 100 Civic Center, Tulsa. For more information con tact (918) 639-7999.

Translated to the Comanche Language

“...piarüahatsa nah

Holiday Revival with Robert P. Nomee from Lodge Grass, Montana Place: Lawton Indian Mission, 6402 birch, Lawton, Okla. Time:7:00 p.m nightly. Date: December 13-18 Refreshments served. If you are hungry for the word and dry and thirsty for the spirit and need physical,spiritual healing come out n believe

December 2016

Dear TCNN Letters to the Editor

Dear TCNN, THE NATIONAL ANTHEM, PLEDGE TO ALLEGIANCE AND FLAG SONG Comanches became “wards of the government” on 2 June 1875 when “we could fight no more” and surrendered at Fort Sill and put onto a restricted reservation. Prior our surrender we held no allegiance to anyone except ourselves and somewhat with the Kiowas. A very small number of Comanches began wearing the uniform of the US Army as early as 1878 and more so from 1892-97 when Troop L, 7th Cavalry was established. Thus an allegiance to the United States began. When Troop L was disbanded in 1897 that allegiance stopped again until 1917-18 when 59 Comanches were either drafted or enlisted into the Army (1 Comanche enlisted in the Navy during that time). Strangely during World War I we were not citizens of the United States yet 23 Comanches fought alongside other Americans on the bloody battlefields in France including 8 Comanches that were wounded in action. After the war our allegiance once again stopped until 2 June 1924, exactly 49 years after our surrender, when the Indian Freedom Citizenship Suffrage Act of 1924 was signed into law by then President Calvin Coolidge making American Indians citizens of the United States. This law was made possible mostly because of the role and contribution that American Indians made in the military during World War I. Again our allegiance with the United States began and has been ongoing since. Attending public school in Apache, I recall the school day began with the teacher and students all standing, facing the American flag with hand over heart and reciting the Pledge of Allegiance – that pledge was composed in 1887 by Colonel George Balch and revised in 1892 and 1923 and in its current format in 1954. The pledge says “I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of American, and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.” There is, most likely, not a single person who is reading this article that does not know this pledge by heart. I know at the beginning of each CIVA meeting the membership faces the flag with hand over heart and recites the pledge. In today’s society there are now a number of schools where the pledge is not recited and in some cases students are given the option of remaining seated and not reciting the pledge. The Star-Spangled Banner, aka Nation Anthem, was a poem written on 14 September 1814 by Francis Scott Key during the defense of Fort McHenry during a naval bombardment by the British. It has four verses and on almost all occasions only the first verse is sang or recited. The song was recognized for official use by the Navy in 1889 and in 1916 by then President Woodrow Wilson. It was made the national anthem by a congressional resolution on 3 March 1931 and signed into law by then President Herbert Hoover. Most of us cannot recite the first verse of the Anthem although we have heard it hundreds of times. I doubt if anyone has even read the 2nd, 3rd or 4th verses. The first verse goes like this: Oh, say can you see by the dawn’s early light What so proudly we hailed at the twilight’s last gleaming? Whose broad stripes and bright stars thru the perilous fight, O’er the ramparts we watched were so gallantly streaming? And the rockets’ red glare, the bombs bursting in air, Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there, Oh, say does that star-spangled banner yet war O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave?

During my time in the Army

from 1966-90 every parade, ceremony, banquet, and even before a movie began on base or post every Soldier was required to stand at attention and salute while civilians in attendance were required to stand and place their hand over their heart while the StarSpangled Banner was played. There was no talking, no texting, no live cell phones, no sitting, no kneeling, etc; What I have noticed now while attending an event, outside military bases, where the Star-Spangled Banner is played at events such as football, basketball, baseball games, rodeos, pow-wow’s, banquet, etc; that a small number of people do not stand, some kneel, others visit, and others talk or text on their phones. Grade, high school, college and professional athletes, even people that sing the Anthem are refusing to stand. They kneel, sit or raise a clenched fist during the playing or singing of the Anthem. Comanches first composed a Flag Song for our returning veterans about 1918. It is sung usually at the beginning of pow-wow or gathering. It is our National Anthem yet I see a small number of people that don’t stand, walk around, visit, and use their phones, etc; while this song is sung. What’s right and what’s wrong – too me it’s a simple matter of respect. Every American, except American Indians, are immigrants from all over the world. We had our land literally taken away from us by war and broken treaties yet we remain Comanche, American Indians and citizens of the United States. We have had a Pledge to Allegiance and National Anthem (and Flag Song) for many years that reinforce our patriotism, pride and respect for our country – yes this is still our country. The Anthem and Pledge has absolutely nothing to do with oppression against “People of Color” – every person in America is a person of color. The Anthem and Pledge has nothing to do with race, politics or police behavior and that’s how I interpret the Anthem or Pledge. Maybe the people that display a lack of respect for the Anthem and Pledge should go back to the country their roots are. In some countries they would be executed for their lack of respect. I still get a lump in my throat and sometimes teary-eyed and emotional when I recite the Pledge or stand at attention and salute when the Anthem and Flag Song is played or sung. I feel this way because I think about the 1,179 Comanches and other veterans (and their families) that served in the military and fought under the Flag of the United States. I think about the 13 Comanches that died fighting for the freedoms that many of us take for granted, the 7 Comanches that suffered many hardships as Prisoners of War, the 45 Comanches that were wounded in action and suffered throughout their life because of those wounds and the many, many other veterans that sacrificed years of their lives, some in far-away places, ensuring we enjoy life as we do now. I think about the over 200 funerals I’ve attended of Comanche veterans with the American Flag draped over the casket of the veteran. I think about the widow, mother, father, son or daughter that is presented that flag of their loved one and the tears bought to their eyes and how that flag is usually prominently displayed in their home to show the pride the families have for the honorable military service of their loved one. American Indians are also the only Americans that fly the casket flags of deceased veterans on special occasions to honor the memory of the deceased veteran. When those flags are raised and lowered everything stops for the ceremony. Those people who sit, kneel, talk, text, visit, and generally are disrespectful during the Anthem, Flag Song or Pledge have most likely never witnessed or attended a funeral of a veteran yet they enjoy all the freedoms provided by the veteran. After all only 1 in every

1000 Americans serve in the military meaning 999 Americans enjoy the freedoms provided by but a few. I would also like to make a remark about what is called Stolen Valor which is when a veteran wears awards (ribbons, medals or badges) they did not earn while in the military and sometimes a veteran who says he was where he wasn’t or someone who stands with veterans and yet received a discharge less than honorable and consider themselves a Veteran. There are a very small number (less than a half dozen) of Comanche veterans that fit into this category. They know I know who they are and yet continue to lie about their military service. Perhaps the most important trait taught in the military is integrity because in the military a lack of integrity can cost someone’s life. It is honorable to serve – it is not honorable to lie about your military service. How do I know about these people that lie – when you ask them a question or documentation about their military service they go into their “wella” act; wella my DD214 was burned up, or wella I lost DD 214, or wella I can’t remember what unit I was with overseas or wella my ex-wife tore up or burned my military papers up, etc; You can also say that the excuses or lack of knowledge of supposed honorable military service and awards is attributed to a convenient disorder called CRS (Can’t Remember S—t). If TCNN gets a response to this then you’ll know who I’m talking about. Lanny Asepermy Comanche and Army veteran

The Comanche Nation News

December 2016

The Comanche Nation News

December 2016

The Comanche Nation News

Halloween Safehouse Gives Treats to Hundreds of Children

By Stacey Heminokeky/News Staff

The Comanche Nation Safe House filled it’s capacity on October 28 inside the Watchetaker Hall. The evening was full of scary Halloween games. Food, candy,prizes were handed out by several programs. There were a total of 20 programs from the Comanche Nation that made this event a “spook-tacular” one for all tribal and non-tribal children whom were in attendance. The Comanche Nation would like to thank all who participated and can’t wait to see all the Halloween participants next year. Photos by Stacey Heminokeky and Paula Karty/News Staff

Photos by Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

TRICK OR TREAT. Several daycares brought their children to the Comanche Nation the morning of October 28 to Trick or Treat in a safe environment at the Comanche Nation Complex’s Watchetaker Hall. Tribal employees set up mini booths and dressed in their favorite Disney Halloween Characters for the children.

December 2016

The Comanche Nation News

Native American Month is Celebrated in SW Oklahoma and North Texas Story and Photos by Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

Students at Sheppard Elementary School received a special visit from the Comanche Nation Youth Dancers on November 4, to help them recognize and celebrate November’s Native American Heritage Month. The dancers have performed at the school annually for several years, according to the Coordinator of the Youth Dancers, Teresa Lopez. “It’s always a treat to come here every year. They treat the kids good, and all the kids get so excited to dance the dances with them,” said Lopez. The performance began with the Sheppard Elementary Choir singing the Star Spangled Banner, while young ladies in the dance group translated the words in Native Sign Language. All the dancers lined up for the Grand Entry and also gave solo performances. Lopez explained the regalia each dancer wore and reminded them they are not costumes. “A costume is what you wear on Halloween. Our regalia are the clothes that we wear that shows our heritage and tribes,” she told the attentive students. The highlight of the hour long program was the participation of the facility and students for the Two Step Dance and the Round Dance. Some students and adults blushed as they were asked by a dancer to participate, but none rejected the request. Soon the line of two-steppers was dancing from the auditorium to the class hallway. The Comanche Youth Dancers had a full schedule of performances throughout the month of November. Other places they shared their

culture through dance were Cache School, Crossroads Indian Learning Center, KCA Head start, Department of Interior Office and Petrolia, TX, to name a few.

Marcos Avila does not miss a beat during his solo performance.

Sheppard Elementary Choir sing the Star Spangled Banner while young ladies from the Comanche Youth Dancers use Native American Sign Language to the song November 4 at the Sheppard Air Force Base in Wichita Falls, TX.

The Two Step brought students and faculty out for some fun.

Freddie Banderas Jr., and Onassis Ahhaitty awe children during the Horse Stealing Song.

Members of the Comanche Youth Dancers ﬁll the stage during the Grand Entry.

Children reach out to Comanche Homecoming Princess, Cameille Wetselline and Freddie Banderas Jr.

JESUS SAID, “IF ANY MAN THIRST, LET HIM COME UNTO ME, AND DRINK …” (JOHN 7:37) C0ME VISIT US… CHRIST-CENTERED BIBLE PREACHING TRIBAL HYMN SINGING EVERYONE WELCOME LOCATION: 2502 SW B Ave., Lawton, Oklahoma

Photo by Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

CHOIR OF COMANCHE HYMN SINGERS. Several people attended the Comanche Nation College Native American Month Hymn Singing the evening of November 3 at the college’s auditorium. Beautiful songs ﬂowed for several hours from the many song leaders that attended. Martina Minthorn Callahan, the event coordinator, dedicated the singing to the ones in North Dakota who are protesting the DSL Pipeline. A meal was served, and fellowship was abundant throughout the event. The hymn singing kicked off a list of activities to recognize November’s Native American Heritage Month.

A NEWLY PLANTED   INTERTRIBAL CHURCH,  PREACHING CHRIST   TO ALL PEOPLES.

DIRECTIONS: From Gore Blvd, just east of Cameron University, turn south onto SW 25th St. (near Bill's Quick Lube). We are located 3 blocks south of Gore at the corner of 25th & B. SERVICE TIMES: Sun. 10AM, 6PM. Thurs. 6:30PM CONTACT US: Call/Txt: (580) 861-4274   Online: www.LAWTONINDIAN.com

December 2016

The Comanche Nation News

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(580) 699-2886