March 2017 TCNN

VOLUME 18 EDITION 3

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

March 2017

Tosee to be Inducted into the Bacone Atheltic Hall of Fame

CIVA Seeks Applications for CIVA Princess 2017-2018 Term

Courtesy Photo

Mike Tosee, on right, with Bacone Coach George Hauser.

Submitted by the Comanche Indian Veterans Association

The Comanche Indian Veteran’s Association seeks young ladies who wish to represent the veteran’s organization.

Qualifications include: • Enrolled member of the Comanche Nation age 13 – 17 years • Direct descendent of a Comanche Veteran (daughter, granddaughter, sister or niece) • Never married or cohabited, and have no children • Must provide own regalia • Be of unimpeachable character Being able to sing Comanche Hymns and English songs including Comanche Sign Language is very helpful for all candidates.

Candidates must provide the following: • Personal biography • A 5 x 7 photo in regalia • Include a personal statement of why you wish to be chosen CIVA Princess • While not required, you may include the following: school report card, awards and certificates of appreciation, newspaper clippings, letters, etc All applications are required to be turned in by March 31.

The selection will take place in the Patriot Room at the Comanche Nation Complex at 6 p.m. on April 6, at the monthly CIVA Meeting. The new Princess will assume her duties on May 20, at the Annual Armed Forces Day Banquet to be conducted at Watchetaker Hall.

The CIVA Princess receives a stipend (twice a year) to help defray costs associated to this position.

Questions may be directed to Commander Ron Mahsetky (580) 647-3458 or Secretary Clifford (Beaver ) Takawana (580) 574-5163.

Please send Applicant’s Name,Address, Phone Number, Comanche Enrollment Number.

Mail to: Clifford Takawana 701 Hallwood Fletcher, OK 73541 (must arrive by March 31).

SPECIAL SECTION Pages 13-24 • Full Audit Report • FY 2015-2016 • Proposed FY 2017-2018 Budget • Announcement of Annual General Council Meeting

Submitted by Lanny Asepermy/ Apache, Okla. Resident

Photos by Stacey Heminokeky/News Staff

On February 14, the Comanche Nation Edith Kassanavoid Gordon Living Center, Lawton, Okla., had a special Valentine event for their residents. The center’s Administrator, Melanie Lewis announced, Evelyn May, BOTTOM LEFT, 94 years old, and Eldrige “Peaches” Tahdooahnippah, BOTTOM RIGHT, 90 years old, as the Valentine King and Queen. Both were ecstatic about their new titles, and all the residents took part in the Valentine’s Day festivities, as staff members passed out treat bags to the residents. TOP: Employees and residents were honored to stand next to the King and Queen for their official Royal Photo. Pictured, from Left; Lavera Thompson and granddaughter, Marie Sevier, Collette Dupoint, Melanie Lewis, Eldrige Taahdooahnippah (King), Evelyn May (Queen), Terry Geimausaddle, Chivon Tahhahwah, Tammie Asepermy, and Benny Cable. The Edith Kassanavoid center staff would like to thank all who came out to make this event a success, and to Collette Dupoint, who thought of this creative way for the Edith Kassanavoid Gordon Assistant Living Center to celebrate Valentine’s day with their residents.

Comanche Scholar Raising Money to Study Abroad Article from Powwows.com

Kaimera Cornell (Comanche, Kiowa, and Caddo) is currently a freshman at the University of Oklahoma and a President's Community Scholar (PCS). She has the unique opportunity to study abroad in Rio De Janeiro this coming May and needs a little assistance in getting the funds together for the trip.

Read more from her GoFundMe page: By traveling to this country, I will be immersed in a whole new culture and environment. I will not be the only one attending this event.

A small group of students will be participating also. We will be performing a service project aimed at a community in lower poverty standings. I will be attending a class at this event which will grant me an additional three (3) college credits toward my degree that I am currently pursuing which is Criminology/Pre-Law with a minor in Native American Studies.

This experience is also aimed at helping the communities in Rio de Janeiro

Cornell by providing community services to local corresponding areas in this region.

This trip will help me to build relationships with my fellow PCS members, the connections I will make in Brazil, and the faculty and staff that I communicate with as well.

These relationships I will make and prospective contacts I will encounter will be helpful in my future endeavors. I will learn various skills from them which include service and leadership. With these skills that I bring back, I am able to help my people and improve my community.

In this study abroad experience, of-

fered at the University of Oklahoma, I will not only be representing my school or myself, but I will also be representing my Comanche people. I will do so with the upmost honor and respect, by sharing my own culture with the South American communities that I will encounter. This event will build upon my pre-existing skills of leadership, service, culture, and diversity.

I would like to reach my goal by April 1, 2017.

Any and all donations will be greatly appreciated by myself and my family. Every dollar counts.

There are not enough words to express my gratitude for each donation.

Your generosity wil not go unnoticed.

Thank you in advance!

Ura! To donate to Cornell’s goal, go to her GoFundMe page online at: https://www.gofundme.com/a-comanche-girl-studying-in-rio

Former Apache high school basketball standout, Michael Tosee, will be inducted into the Ken Hayes-Enos Semore Bacone College Athletic Hall of Fame on March 25, at Wacoche Hall on the campus of Bacone College, which is located in Muskogee, Okla.

The initial induction class was in 2013, and included Don Chandler, the brother of the late Apache Jr. and Sr. high school athletic coach Dan Chandler which the Apache football field is named after. Chandler is also a member of the National Football League Hall of Fame.

Tosee, a member of the Comanche Tribe, played for the Apache Warriors during his Junior (196768) and Senior years (1968-69) averaging 18 and 22 Points Per Game (PPG) respectfully. His coach was JT Mayfield. He was an All-District selection both years and Honorable Mention for the Lawton Constitution All Area Team his senior year. Tosee also excelled for the Warrior football and baseball teams. He lived with his grandparents, the late George Sr. and Hattie Asepermy, west of Apache, Okla. for the final three years of high school.

After graduating from Apache he was recruited to play at then Bacone Jr. College, where he played for one of the most successful coaches in Bacone basketball history, George Hauser. During Tosee’s Sophomore year Coach Hauser’s “Warriors” led the nation in scoring with over 106 PPG which also included a trip to the National Jr.. College Tournament. Tosee was known for his defensive and leadership skills on the court and was called by his coach “as one of the hardest working players I have ever coached, a player who never stops running” Tosee’s started his Junior (1971-72) and Senior (1972-73) years with the then Division I Oklahoma City Chiefs, which was coached by the legendary Abe Lemons. They were selected to the NCAA tourney his senior year losing in the first round to Arizona State. At OCU, Tosee was one among other American Indians recruited by Lemons to play at OCU. Bud Sahmaunt, Fred Yeahquo, Eugene Tsoodle, Gary Gray, Tosee and George Beatty all enjoyed the opportunity to play for one of the most successful Division I coaches in the country at the time. It is noted that Tosee was the first Comanche to play Division I basketball. Brothers, Lawrence and Lamoni Yazzie, followed in See HALL OF FAME, PAge 12

March 2017

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THE COMANCHE NATION NEWS The award-winning Comanche Nation News, the official communication of the Comanche Nation, is available at no charge upon request. The deadline to submit information for the April edition is 5 p.m. March 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 Vacant 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

A total of 13 Resolutions Passed During February CBC Monthly Meeting

Story by Stacey Heminokeky/News Staff

Editor’s Note: This is an overview of the February 11, 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 10:00 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; and ViceChairman, Susan Cothren due to illness.

Chairman, Nelson called upon Mark Wauahdooah to open meeting with the invocation.

A motion made to approve the minutes of the January CBC meeting by Committeeman No. 4, Clyde Narcomey; seconded by Committeeperson No. 2, Eddie Ahdosy.

The motion carries 4/0/1.

Resolutions No. 09-17 Native Indian Gaming Association (NIGA) Membership.

CBC authorizes payment of dues $25,000 for Comanche Nation’s NIGA membership as a permitted operational expense under the approved gaming fisical year 2017 budget.

Committeeperson No. 2, Eddie Ahdosy, made the motion to approve. Committeeman No. 4, Clyde Narcomey, seconds the motion. The motion carries 3/0/1.

No. 10-17 Enrollment List No. 1049. Twenty-three New Comanche Enrolled Members.

Committeeman No. 4, Narcomey made the motion to approve.

Committeeman No. 3, Mithlo, seconds the motion. The motion carries 4/0/1.

No. 11-17 Tombstone Project. Tabeled.

Committeeman No. 1, Jonathan Poahway, made the motion to approve. Committeeman No. 4, Narcomey, seconds the motion. The motion carries. 4/0/1.

No. 12-17 Grant to SAMHSA for Prevention & Recovery.

Committeeman No. 4, Narcomey, made the motion to approve.

Committeeperson No. 2, Ahdosy, seconds the motion. The motion carries 4/0/1.

No. 13-17 Grant for Injury Prevention.

Committeeman No. 4, Narcomey, made the motion to approve.

Committeeperson No. 2, Ahdosy, seconds the motion. The motion carries 4/0/1.

No. 14-17 Grant for Environmental Protection Agency.

Committeeperson No. 2, Ahdosy, made the motion to approve.

Committeeman No. 3, Harry Mithlo, seconds the motion. The motion carries 4/0/1.

No. 15-17 Bank Account for ACH Transaction. Setting up parameters for great protection of finances and a way to find fraud. CBC desires to establish a new bank account at Liberty National Bank for ACH transfers.

Authorize signers for this account are as designated on the exsisting resolution for the Comanche Nation and whereas to allow Finley & Cook permission to use the E-corp online banking feature for routine banking activities authorized by the tribe.

CBC authorizes account for ACH transfers to be established at Liberty National Bank.

Committeeman No. 1, Jonathan Poahway, made the motion to approve. Committeeman No. 4, Narcomey, seconds the motion. The motion carries 4/0/1.

No. 2417-01 Elections. Rescend Resolution No. 5305, continuance for Tribal Council.

Committeeman No. 1, Poahway, made the motion. Committeeman No. 4, Narcomey, seconds the motion. The motion carries 4/0/1.

Committeeman No. 1, Poahway, made a motion to put tribal

members, Julian Guerrero, and Tanisha Burgess, on the Gaming Commission. Committeeman No. 4, Narcomey, seconds the motion. The motion carries 4/0/1.

No. 2417-04 Education Group. Comanche Nation has 84 programs that are financed by gaming, and currently 32 programs that are financed by federal grants. Tribal Administrator is tasked to manage all these endeavors without help in the degree in caterorganization. Time sensitive deadlines and daily changes objectives. CBC does see the need to place all education in education affiliate programs under a category under Education Services Group with an associate to work under the TA to maximize services to our people.

Committeeperson No. 2, Ahdosy, made the motion to approve.

Committeeman No. 4, Narcomey, seconds the motion. The motion carries 4/0/1.

No. 2417-05 Social Group. Administrator Manager administrates the tribal government. Administrator Manager shall be under the direction of the CBC. Committeeman No. 4, Narcomey, made the motion. Committeeperson No. 2, Ahdosy seconds the motion. The motion carries 4/0/1.

No. 2417-06 Investigation. The tribal council does authorize the expenditure of funds which may be deposited to the exclusive credit of the Comanche Nation. According to the Comanche Constitution Article 6 Section 7D. The seated CBC does agree the supreme governing body is totally correct, totally percise, and should never tolerate misappropriation or lavish over expenditures of their finances. A forensic audit was conducted for the fisical years of 2013-2015, comes now the authorities that determine tribal crime or punishment will be followed through by the elected leadership of the Comanche Nation on evidence found on forensic audit completed. CBC will not hinder any investigation of FBI, IRS, and or Comanche Nation Law Enforcement Authorities. The elected CBC does agree criminal charges or assestments are levied upon individuals past or present, that the proper lawful authorites won’t be hindered by any elected interference. CBC does agree to the consitution, Article 10 Section 2 Bill of Rights, and the U.S. Constitution, Article 5, Everyone is innocent until proven guilty.

Committeeman No. 4, Narcomey, made the motion. Committeeman No. 1, Poahway, seconds the motion. The motion carries 4/0/1.

No. 2417-10 Charter.

Committeeman No. 4, Narcomey, made the moton. CommitteepersonNo. 2, Ahdosy seconds the motion. The motion carries 4/0/1.

The meeting was adjourned at 12:00p.m. and Executive session followed.

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SERVICE TIMES: SUN. 10AM, 6PM. THURS. 6:30PM CONTACT US: CALL/TXT: (580) 861-4274 FIND US ONLINE: WWW.LAWTONINDIAN.COM

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March 2017

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The Comanche Nation News

Programs Comanche Nation Children’s Court Goes Beyond Adoption Cases The Comanche Nation Children’s Court was created on April 9, 1987, under the authority of Article VI, Section 7, Subsection (J) of the Constitution of the Comanche Tribe (later known as Comanche Nation). The Court’s powers and duties are set forth in Code, pursuant to the inherent sovereignty of the Comanche Nation and in accordance with the Indian Child Welfare Act. Based on the Codes, the Comanche Nation Children’s Court (CNCC) has jurisdiction of the following: • ICW Cases • Adoptions • Guardianship • Emancipation • Paternity • Name Changes • Marriage • Child Support In the next several editions of The Comanche Nation News, articles will be published to explain important facts associated with each of these.

The Comanche Nation Children’s Court (CNCC) may exercise jurisdiction over adoption between two (2) adults who submitted to the jurisdiction of the Court regardless of residence or domicile.

The purpose of an adoption is to establish a formal and legal family relationship between two or more persons which after adoption, shall exist as if the parties were born into adoptive relationship by blood.

A child shall be deemed eli-

gible for adoption upon voluntary or involuntary relinquishment of parental rights.

Voluntary - any parent or legal custodian may relinquish any rights he may have to the care, custody, and control of a child. The consent or relinquishment shall be given by both parents, if living, or by the surviving parent.

Involuntary- parental rights have been terminated before a Court of competent jurisdiction.

A parent who consents to adoption or relinquishment of a child shall not be revived of the duty to support the child until an adoption decree becomes final.

Adoption of a child may be decreed without parental consent or relinquishment of a consent parent, legal guardian or person having legal custody of a child to be adopted secures termination of parental rights by filing a sperate application for termination of parental rights in the adoption proceeding based on the grounds of abandonment or failure to contribute support.

Adoption of a child may be based on failure to established parental rights. In addition, consent of a child, over the age of ten (10) with sufficient maturity and understanding the Court may direct entry of a decree based on interviewing the child.

In all adoption cases parties must be represented by counsel.

For more information, contact the Comanche Nation Children’s Court at (580) 280-4744.

Prevention and Recovery Center Offers Different Counseling Topics The Comanche Nation Prevention & Recovery Center’s OutPatient Office #8 SW D Ave. Lawton, Okla., offers the unique opportunity for learning and developing new skills to cope with the realities of daily life. Events and problems experienced by clients can be discussed in a group setting with confidentiality.

Clients will learn problems solving skills to enhance their coping skills. This will strengthen the client’s possibilities for successful and lasting change.

The Out-Patient is offering a variety of specialized groups: • Relapse Prevention Education • Problem and Compulsive Gambling • Anger Management for Adults and Teens

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Parenting Classes Domestic Violence Classes Marriage Enrichment The staff uses evidencebased strategies and in our services.

We provide services to those who need Court Ordered Groups, Department of Human Services, Indian Child Welfare and/or self-referrals.

These specialized groups will vary in weeks to obtain a certificate. Contact our office to seek further information regarding these groups. The Comanche Nation Prevention & Recovery will offer additional Support Groups such as: Grief, Grandparents Raising Grandchildren, and Caregiver Support Groups in the near future.

For more information, call the Prevention and Recovery office at, (580) 357-3449

Flood Safety Tips from the Comanche Nation Emergency Management

Comanche Nation Fire Fighter Program PACK Test Approaching The Comanche Nation Fire Fighter Program is currently taking Emergency Wild land Fire Fighter PACK Testing applications for Native Americans scheduled for March and April. Please contact the Fire Management Program for more information.

The Comanche Nation Fire Program has been active since 1996 and is currently located on Madische Road across from the Comanche Nation Complex. To date, the program has established two Type-6 Engine Crews and a Type-II Initial Attack Hand Crew which is sponsored by the Bureau of Indian Affairs of Anadarko, Oklahoma.

The Fire Program currently patrols the following 8 counties of trust land for fires in Oklahoma: Comanche, Cotton, Tillman, Stephen, Jefferson, Caddo, Kiowa, and Grady, also nationwide and mutual aide with volunteer fire departments if needed.

Applications for Gravel Tin horn Being Accepted Please take note as to when your area falls on the schedule effective February 1, 2017 and submit your application 30 days before the deadline.

• February 1 through February 28 Applications for Indiahoma, and Snyder Area “March” • March 1 through March 31 Applications for Chattanooga, Faxon, and Grandfield Area “April” • June 1 through June 30 Applications for Geronimo, Temple, and Walters Area “May” • July 1 through July 31 Applications for Lawton Area “June” • August 1 through August 31 Applications for Duncan, and Sterling Area “July” • September 1 through September 30 Applications for Cyril, and Fletcher Area “August” • October 1 through October 31 Applications for Apache Area “September”

CHR Department Advocates Health Care Services The purpose of the Community Health Representative/Emergency Medical Services is to be an advocate and facilitator for individuals and families to gain access to comprehensive health care services. The goal is to provide for a continuum of services to the population through health education, case finding, referral, follow-up and provision of support services as well as protecting the patients’ rights under the HIPPA Law. The CHR is often the first vital link to assure access to the comprehensive treatment plans and provide support services designed to enhance the quality of life for the people they serve.

The target population for the Comanche Nation CHR/EMS service area is ALL eligible Native American residents living within Caddo, Comanche, Tillman, Kiowa, Cotton, Stephens, and Jefferson counties. To determine eligibility for services, a CDIB must be submitted to the CHR office prior to scheduling of services.

The CDIB may be submitted by one of the following methods which include: email, fax, text message, in person to a CHR. Services provided to eligible Native Americans include the following: medical transportation to routine

doctors’ visits and specialty medical doctor appointments; community health appointments that include Department of Health and Human Services and Social Security Administration; home visit health checks that include blood pressure, blood glucose, pulse, oxygen level, lung auscultation, temperature; rabies vaccination clinics three (3) times a year for Native American pet owners in Cache, Lawton, and the Comanche Complex.

To set up transportation or home visit, please call the CHR Office at 580-699-5225 between the hours of 7:00AM to 6:00PM Monday thru Friday. When you call, the CHR will keep a detailed call log for transportation services and your appointment will be recorded for your assur-

The Comanche Nation Fire Program has four full-time employees and ten emergency fire fighters. The program trains firefighters to suppress wild land fires, conduct controlled burns and coordinate fire prevention with tribal activities.

Applications for controlled burns on Comanche Trust Lands only.

Please contact Comanche Nation Fire Program 8 a.m.- 5 p.m. at (580) 492 3600.

The Fire Management team is: Richard Chibitty- Director Joshua Katvala- Administrative Assistant Ryan Blackstar- Engine Boss Fawn Bullock- Engine Crew Member The Fire Program Office is located at 584 NW Bingo Road, Lawton, Okla.

ance. You may call the office as soon as you find out about you upcoming appointment, even if the appointment is months away. If you believe that you’re having an emergency and feel that you need to go fast-track or the emergency room, you may call during the business hours and a CHR/ EMS Medic will come to you and provide an assessment and determine if the medic can transport you by vehicle or by ambulance. We will make this determination with your health as our best judgement over you as the patient. If after hours, you may contact Tribal Law Enforcement and they will dispatch us to you in your time of need.

During transportation a non-allergenic snack and drink will be provided if needed. During transportation to and from, the CHR will make sure all safety precautions are taken. This will include escorting the patient(s) to the vehicle and securing of the patients property. Upon arrival to destination and return home, the CHR will retrieve the patient’s property and escort the patient to their appointment or home as needed. The CHR may stay with the patient if they have requested them to stay for interpretation services.

• November 1 through 30 Applications for Anadarko, and Ft. Cobb Area “October” • December 1 through December 31 Applications for Elgin Area “November” January 1 through January 31 Applications for Cache Area “December” Qualifications • Must provide proof of Comanche Nation Tribal Enrollment • Must provide proof of residency ( i.e., utility bill) • Must not benefit a business or non- Comanche Tribal Member (rental homes) • Must reside in the Comanche Nation Jurisdiction If you have any questions/ concerns please contact Kyle Tahpay Sr. at (580)-492-3308 and he will contact you as soon as he is available due his work schedule of fulfilling driveways.

• Turn Around, Don’t Drown! ® • Avoid walking or driving through flood waters.

• Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down, and 2 feet of water can sweep your vehicle away.

• If there is a chance of flash flooding, move immediately to higher ground. Flash floods are the No. 1 cause of weather-related deaths in the US. • If floodwaters rise around your car but the water is not moving, abandon the car and move to higher ground. Do not leave the car and enter moving water.

• Avoid camping or parking along streams, rivers, and creeks during heavy rainfall. These areas can flood quickly and with little warning.

NAGPRA Completes Grant Projects; Help with Museum Exhibits The Comanche Nation NAGPRA department is in the middle of completing their 2017 grant application and completing their 2015 grant projects. They have completed 12 of their 14 grant consultations and documentation projects and all items returned to the Comanche Nation have been turned over to the Comanche National Museum and Cultural Center.

Ownership belongs to the Comanche Nation with possession and control given to the Comanche National Museum and Cultural Center.

The Comanche Nation NAGPRA program has been collaborating with the Comanche National Museum and Cultural Center with their Native American Church display and several other projects.

The NAGPRA program also collaborated with the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, University of Oklahoma for a Photo Synthesis exhibit.

Six photos of Comanche Members were selected and are on display until April 2, at 555 Elm Avenue, Norman, Okla. 73019-3003. (405) 325-3272.

The Comanche Nation NAGPRA Program would like to say “Thank You” to Tribal Administrator, Jimmy Arterberry, and all the families and individuals that helped make this project such a great success. They are honored to have worked.

Comanche Nation Historic Preservation’s

Recollection of Comanche History

Courtesy Photo

170 Years Ago, On March 1 and 2, 1847, the negotiations of the Meusebach-Comanche Treaty began at the lower San Saba,TX. The Treaty was made between the head chiefs of the Penateka Band, Buffalo Hump, Santa Anna, and others, and Meusebach, which he was called by the Comanches El Sol Colorado, because of his red flowing beard. The MeusebachComanche Treaty was then ratified in Fredericksburg two months later on May 9, 1847 . The treaty allowed Meusebach's settlers to go unharmed into Indian territory and the Indians to go to the white settlements and ensured the promised mutual reports on wrongdoing; and provided for survey of lands in the San Saba area with a payment of at least $1,000 to the Indians. The treaty opened more than 3 million acres of land to settlement.

March 2017

12 Week Elder Care Program for Tribal Elders The Caregiver Program is funded through CNG and have 12 weeks of care for a Tribal Elder that needs to be taken care of by a Family Member. They receive assistance to provide care for their Family Elder and receive compensation every 2 weeks for the 12 weeks. The second 12 weeks has started since January 23, and will be until April 14, then we will begin another 12 week period.

The Caregiver can pick up an application and turn it in to the office and they will place it on pending and make a decision when it is about a week before the second 12 weeks are up, and write a letter or call if the elder is going to receive help. There is a Doctor’s Statement inside the application that needs to be filled out by the Doctor.

The application needs to be completed before turning in to the Caregiver Office or the staff will go on to the next one in line for consideration until the amount we can assist is completed.

The Caregiver should be able and willing to provide good care for their elder family member “Family Member needs to step up and take the role of Caregiver for their mother, father or grandparent. After all they took care of the children and always was there for them now they need care 24 hours a day and 7 days a week and cannot be left alone by themselves,” said Arlene Kemp, Care Giver Director.

The Caregiver goes into the home where the elder lives and assists the elder with bathing and helping her or him getting dressed, making breakfast, lunch or supper, clean the bedroom, even change bed linens, clean the bathroom, the living and dining room. Additional help would be washing dishes, sweeping or vacuuming the floors, and mopping.

“Doing laundry and folding, putting away the wash, assisting with his or her medicines by giving them for them to take or asking them how they are feeling, maybe they are sick or just not having a good day and need to talk, visiting with them to give them company,” Kemp added.

Tribal Elders have so many needs in so many ways and the Caregiver Program has the resources to assist them the best way that we can.

Because we do care and we are here for our Tribal Elders.

Contact Us At: Arlene Kemp, Caregiver Director: arlenek@comanchenation.com Ramona Perea, Administrative Assistant: ramonap@comanchenation.com Telephone Numbers:(580) 699-8811

Comanche Residential Youth Shelter (CRYS) Recieves Holiday Donations

A wonderful heartwarming “hello” friends and partners.

Comanche Nation Residential Youth Shelter (CRYS) staff and children are sending out a huge “Thank you,” for your gifts of giving and sharing throughout the holiday and into the New Year.

December was full of laughter and joy as children opened gifts of clothing and toys.

Donations of room decorations, Thunder tickets, special visits and clothing warmed our hearts and spirits. There were plenty of holiday foods and treats throughout the day and into the night. What an awesome Christmas shared by all at the Comanche Nation Residential Youth Shelter.

Elgin’s Public School Administration and Staff (You have embraced our children through you amicable teaching and sincerely giving of yourselves beyond educators).

They ended 2016 rocking into January 2017 with Comanche Nation IAMNDN. The children are actively involved in IAM NDN. The program is dedicated to empowering Native Youths to become outstanding sons, daughters, brothers, sisters, students, employees, community members and future leaders. Thank you, IAMNDN Staff and Peers (for all you do, each and every day

4 inside and outside our community).

Who would’ve of thought going to their last Thunder’s game of the year, the residential children would be going to our first Thunder’s game of the “New Year.” Indian Health Service is awesome; where else can we get great healthcare, gifts and tickets to the Thunder’s game.

The Supportive departments Comanche Nation Indian Child Welfare, Social Services, Elder Center, Student Services, Higher Education, Information Technology, Prevention and Recovery, Assistant Living Center, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Comanche Administration and the Comanche Business Committee.

There are a certain group of people in the community that give throughout the year. They are our shelters “Brothers and Sisters,” so many thanks for what you do dailly.

The Comanche Nation Residential Youth Shelter is moving along into the New Year. Again, a huge “Thank you” to all for your support!

CNOEP Reminds of Conserving Water, Clean Air, and Saving Money The Comanche Nation Office of Environmental Programs (CNOEP) reminds all there are a number of ways to save water and they all start with you.

1. Turn off the water when you brush your teeth, which can save up to 4 gallons a minute. That’s up to 200 gallons a week for a family of four.

2. Shower yourself in savings: taking a long hot shower can be an ideal way to relax, but the increased water and utility bills that result may create an unneeded stress.

By replacing an existing showerhead with a powerful highefficiency model, you can enjoy your shower while saving water and money. Some high-efficiency showerheads offer maximum performance and can save up to 8,000 gallons of water per year and over $100 off utility bills annually, while also providing a spa-like feel for your bathroom.

3. Small leaks, big problems: one of the major causes of wasted water in the bathroom is faucet and toilet leaks, which can sometimes go undetected and waste hundreds of gallons of water. In fact, a small faucet drip can waste up to 20 gallons of water per day.

Toilet leaks are also major problems that go undetected, but here’s an easy test to see if your toilet is leaking. Drop a “toilet dye” tablet in the toilet tank and closely monitor the toilet bowl. If, without flushing, blue water appears in the bowl within half an hour, your toilet has a leak that needs to be repaired.

Another way to see if you have a water leak in your home is to read your house water meter before and after a two-hour period when no water is being used. If the meter does not stay exactly the same, then you have a leak.

4. Garden hose and Sprinklers: the spray from a garden hose nozzle can be directed onto the plants or shrubs that need more water. When you wash your car, use a hose nozzle to turn off the water and save more than 100 gallons. Use sprinklers that throw big drops of water close to the ground. Smaller drops of water and mist often evaporate before they hit the ground.

5. Your pets and lawn: When you give your pet fresh water, don’t throw the old water down the drain. Use it to water your trees or shrubs. Wash you pets outdoors in an area of your lawn that needs water.

Cleaner Indoor Air Spring is upon us which means more outdoor activities for the family to participate in which can create an increase of traffic in and out of the house. Start Spring Cleaning by placing a floor mat at the entrances of your house which will reduce the amount of dirt, pesticides and other pollutants that cling to the bottom of

our shoes.

Give the house a good dusting by using a microfiber dust mop to wipe off any ceiling fan blades, window shelves, book stands and use a vacuum with a strong suction to go over all upholstered furniture.

Replacing your AC filter will greatly increase the quality of air within your home, it is recommended to change the filter every three months and to be replaced by a filter with a MERV rating of 17-20 preferably a HEPA filter that is designed to catch up to 99.97% of all particulate matter.

Keeping your houses moisture down in the range of 30-50%, this range will help keep allergens like mold and dust mites under control.

If you have any leaking plumbing it would be wise to fix instead to prolong the repair because a leaky pipe will provide the right environment for mold to replicate. Opening up a few windows in the house will allow fresh air in and push out old stale air that may be mixed with toxic chemicals from aerosol sprays like (deodorants, hair spray, air air fresheners).

Current research also shows that by having a few plants in the house may act as an air purifier, the foliage and root system work together to absorb chemical pollutants released by synthetic materials, but make sure that the indoor plants that you choose are not poisonous if ingested. And lastly the most important tip of all is to keep your house a smoke free zone.

Comanche Nation Office of Environmental Programs (580) 4923754.

Fitness Center Provides Services for the Young and the Elderly Established in May 2008.

The Comanche Nation Fitness Center has served the Comanche people and the community by providing a safe and welcoming environment for individuals to achieve their fitness goals.

It’s trained and knowledgeable staff are ready to assist you on how to become a healthier person.

The facility is equipped with brand new 12 piece multifunction circuit training machines, two row machines, five treadmills, one stair climber, one recumbent bicycle, boxing equipment, yoga/exercise mats, over 1,000 pounds of free weights, and other alternative equipment to ensure a quality exercise regimen.

Services Provided IN-HOUSE: • Personal Training • Core Conditioning • Circuit Training • Step Aerobics • Zumba (kid and adult) Coming soon • Self-defense • Yoga • Boot Camp (seasonal) Outreach • Chair Aerobics (Elder Center) • Youth Camp (both in-house and at centers) Staff Angelena Ortiz, Director Sarah Turner, Massage Therapist Joshua Hill, Personal Trainer Edward Tahhahwah III, Personal Trainer Hours of Operation Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Saturday 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Comanche Nation Fitness Center 904 SW F Avenue Lawton, OK 73501 Phone: (580) 248-0005 Fax: (580) 248-0003

Higher Education Deadlines for Scholarships The Comanche Nation Office of Higher Education is devoted to providing tribal members with various services to advance intellectual and professional growth. They believe that tribal members have the capacity to excel when provided with diverse, supportive, and stimulating educational opportunities.

Their program includes services assisting eligible tribal members with scholarships, vocational certificates,

The Comanche Nation News computer training, job placement and training, direct employment and job relocation assistance.

In 2016, the Comanche Nation had the highest student graduation rates in over a decade. Within the last academic year, the Higher Education Department has awarded nearly 700 scholarships to students in pursuit of furthering their educational goals. The Higher Education Scholarship offers the chance for eligible students to focus on their scholarly endeavors, whether they are seeking an Associate, Bachelor, Master, or a Ph.D. degree. The scholarship application deadline for the 2017 fall semester is June 1. This scholarship is provided on a first-come first-serve basis for qualified applicants. The application can be accessed from the Comanche Nation website at www. comanchenation.com under the section Career Services/Higher Education.

The Higher Education Office also supplies aid to students who are seeking financial support in vocational training and certification programs.

Our Adult Education short-term training program provides a foundation for academic and professional readiness

by offering training classes to enhance computer skills and career development. The next Computer Skills class starts March 20, and will consist of an intermediate level of computer skills and its applications. The Job Placement and Training program works in conjunction with several contracted state vocational schools such as the Great Plains Technology Center, Platt College, Tulsa Welding School, and I.T.S. Beauty Academy.

The Associates of Applied Sciences is a program for students motivated to earn a 2-year degree in an Applied Sciences field. Emphasis is placed on specialized academic interest which allows for immediate employability upon graduation. Tuition scholarships are available for students who meet the qualifications.

The Comanche Nation Higher Education Office encourages students to strive for greatness by exceeding their own expectations, accomplishing their educational aspirations, and preserving the Comanche culture and traditions. For more information, you can stop by our office Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (580) 492-3363 or by email at highered@comanchenation.com

Injury Prevention Seeking Participants for Pre-Prom Crash Simulation The staff is preparing for the Pre-Prom Car Crash Simulation to be held this spring. We are looking for teenagers 16-18 years of age who would like to participate in the car crash. They can contact Bonita Paddyaker, Director-(580) 492-3343 or Carolyn Lonewolf, Administrative Assistant- (580) 492-3344.

The Injury Prevention staff was busy in the month of February, and prepared for the “5th Annual Elder Senior Prom that was held February 24, in Watchetaker Gym. The event was free and was open for all tribal elders 62 years and older.

There was a dance contest, King and Queen Contest, the couple married the longest to each other, best dressed 50’S, and door prizes.

Three car seat classes were held in the office and three car seats were distributed to tribal families.

Car seat classes are held in the office by appointment during the winter months. Occupant Protection classes are held in Watchetaker Gym from March-November during the warm months.

Smoke alarms are still available for tribal members. If your smoke alarm is 10 years old you need to replace it. You can call the office for information on fire safety equipment.

The program received from the Bureau of Indian Affairs Highway safety grant that was provided for all tribes. 16 non-Comanche families were provided with car seats.

In 2016, 129 tribal members were provided with car seats from tribal funds. A total of 56 boosters were distributed to our children 3-5 returning to daycare or head start at the Comanche Nation Back to School Bash.

They provide infant, convertible, combination, seat belt use and boosters for our children to help keep them safe.

Oklahoma’s Child Restraint Law (o.s.47 & 11-1112) 0-2 years: Must be in a rear facing car seat until at least 2 years of age, or until the child reaches the weight or height limit of the car seat.

2-4 years: Must be in a car seat with a harness until at least 4 years of age.

4-8 years: Must be in a car seat or booster seat until at least 8 years of age, unless the child is taller than 4’ 9.”

The program has held a Bike Rodeo every year in the community for 16 years and helmets were provided to tribal members. The persons head was measured for proper fit and information was given on prevention of traumatic brain injuries.

The program has held 10 Bike Rodeos in 11 years in the communities and provided bike helmets for 11 years. Bike Rodeos were held at the Comanche Nation Child Care, Kiowa Head Start Program, Comanche Nation Law Enforcement, and Fletcher Public School. The program has assisted the Comanche Nation Cops & Kids event for two years and provided 131 bike helmets. In 2016 the event had 100 bikes donated and the Injury Prevention program did not have enough bike helmets for those children that won the bikes.

The program provides proper fitting bike helmets to reinforce the need for younger people to wear helmets to help prevent traumatic brain injuries.

Since there are no established rules for skateboarding, which are increasing the number of injuries in young.

CN Grants Department Works Diligently With All Directors and Employees to Strengthen Their Programs The Grants Department continues to work diligently with all Comanche Nation Departments that seek to access grant funds to strengthen their program operations. In an effort to build the tribal capacity in acquiring new resources, it was determined that Program Directors would be required to attend a mandatory Grant Writing and Grant Management and Compliance training presented by the Grants Department and the Compliance Department. The underlying premise for these trainings was the understanding that departments and directors must be involved in the development of program specific components of any grant proposal.

Directors and departments must also have an understanding of grant management requirements, reporting, and working in partnership with the Compliance Office. The first series of trainings were conducted on July 13, 2016, July 21, 2016, and July 26, 2016 with 49 Directors in attendance. The recent hiring of seven new directors and staff prompted the

need for additional trainings which took place on February 2, 2017 and February 7, 2017. This is a very exciting time for the Comanche Nation as it seeks to acquire additional funding for its programs because directors and staff have now received the necessary training to help them identify grant opportunities and work collaboratively with the Grants Department on their grant proposals.

In February the Grants Department worked in partnership with EPA and Injury Prevention on grant submissions for their programs. The U.S. Department of Justice Coordinated Tribal Assistance Solicitation proved to be a proposal that required more collaboration and coordination between several different tribal departments; specifically, Law Enforcement, Children’s Residential Youth Shelter, and the Comanche Nation Tribal Court. The upcoming month will focus on grant applications for the Family Assistance Center, Law Enforcement, Prevention and Recovery, EPA, and Historic Preservation.

March 2017

5

The Comanche Nation News

Comanche Nation Realty Available for Questions Regarding Individual Property

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Tribal employees participate in a group exercise during the Organizational Skills Training February 8 at Watchetaker Hall.

Human Resources Trains Employees Through Great Plains Technology Center This past year, the Tribal Administrator and the Human Resources came together with Kevin Henson from Great Plains Technology Center to implement a Soft Skills Training program for tribal employees.

The Soft Skills Training program focuses on behavioral competencies that will help improve interpersonal skills, or “people skills” that build relationships of trust, empathy and productive interactions such as anger management, conflict resolution, negotiation and communication skills, team building, personal productivity, strategic thinking and more creative problem solving strategies.

Great Plains Technology Center has presented a total of four (4) topics of training so far. The first three (3) topics of training were Cus-

tomer Service, Business Ethics, and Time Management.

All Comanche Nation Headquarter employees were required to attend these trainings and to our surprise we had an enormous amount of good feedback.

The latest training that was completed on February 7 - 8, and the workshop was titled, “Organizational Skills for Directors and their Assistants”.

The Human Resources Dept. is happy to announce that they have seen an increase in employee’s work ethics, attitudes and over all work performance.

Tribal members can look forward to seeing many new and improved changes to the departments in the future.

How to choose good passwords Most people use passwords that are based on personal information and are easy to remember. However, that also makes it easier for an attacker to crack them. Consider a four-digit PIN. Is yours a combination of the month, day, or year of your birthday? Or your address or phone number? Think about how easy it is to find someone’s birthday or similar information. What about your email password—is it a word that can be found in the dictionary? If so, it may be susceptible to dictionary attacks, which attempt to guess passwords based on common words or phrases.

Although intentionally misspelling a word ("daytt" instead of "date") may offer some protection against dictionary attacks, an even better method is to rely on a series of words and use memory techniques, or mnemonics, to help you remember how to decode it. For example, instead of the password "hoops," use "IlTpbb" for "[I] [l]ike [T]o [p]lay [b]asket[b]all." Using both lowercase and capital letters adds another layer of obscurity. Your best defense, though, is to use a combination of numbers, special characters, and both lowercase and capital letters.

Changing the same example used above to "Il!2pBb." creates a password very different from any dictionary word.

Longer passwords are more secure than shorter ones because there are more characters to guess, so consider using pass phrases when you can. For example, "Passwd 4 miemale!" would be a strong password because it has many characters and includes lowercase and capital letters, numbers, and special characters. You may need to try different variations of a pass phrase—some applications limit the length of passwords, and some do not accept spaces. Avoid common phrases, famous quotations, and song lyrics.

Don't assume that once you've developed a strong password you should use it for every system or program. If attackers do guess it, they would have access to all of your accounts. You should use these techniques to develop unique passwords for each of your accounts: • Use different passwords on different systems and accounts.

• Don't use passwords that are based on personal information that can be easily accessed or guessed.

• Use a combination of capital and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.

• Don't use words that can be found in any dictionary of any language.

• Develop mnemonics such as pass phrases for remembering complex passwords.

• Consider using a password manager program like LastPass to keep track of your passwords.

The Realty Department has been busy leasing our Tribally owned lands. Most of our trust properties are leased for farming and grazing. The farming and grazing leases usually have conditions that the Lessee has to abide by, in terms of providing soil treatments to help improve the soil.

Their office has to monitor these leases to make sure farmers are providing the service they agreed to do.

They will be providing some interior renovation to the warehouse we own at # 4 SW "D" Avenue. The warehouse will be utilized by those Tribe's Departments and Programs that need storage space. They are still working on two "Fee-To-Trust" applications. One is the McIntosh Property, a 79 acre tract just west of Elgin, Okla. and the other is the Comanche Nation Funeral Home in Lawton, Okla. They are available to assist Tribal members by answering questions regarding their individually owned trust property.

They encourage you to come by their office, located at 302 NW Rogers Lane or call us at (580) 699-3818.

Emergency Assistance is Now Available Great news Comanche Nation! Emergency Assistance from our Tax Supplement is available regardless of where you reside. According to our tribal enrollment department there are tribal members that reside in each of the fifty states. OUT OF AREA COMANCHES, you are eligible to apply for assistance. If you are head of household and 18 years of age and older. Services available include: RENTAL ASSISTANCE will be for rent/mortgage of home, apartment or mobile home. Payment will be for the amount needed to prevent eviction and will NOT exceed $500.

Payment will be made directly to the vendor. Eviction notice showing the amount needed must be submitted with the application. No payment will be made to individual tribal member.

UTILITY ASSISTANCE is for tribal members whose services are in jeopardy of being disconnected. Payment will be for the amount needed to prevent disconnect and will NOT exceed $500. Payment will be made directly to the vendor. A copy of the utility bill must be submitted with the application. Under extreme circumstances payment will be made to have utilities reconnected and services restored. Payment must NOT exceed $500.00 BEREAVEMENT assistance is available by CBC Resolution for financial assistance of $200 in service area, $350 outside our service area but still in Oklahoma and $500 for trav-

eling back to Oklahoma. Applicant must be eighteen (18) years of age and provide a copy of the obituary.

Immediate family member: spouse, children, mother, father and siblings are eligible to apply for bereavement assistance. For tribal members that reside outside of Oklahoma and burial will not be in Oklahoma; bereavement will be $200. In this category payment is made directly to the tribal member.

BURIAL assistance is also available through Social Services. All tribal members (enrolled or eligible for enrollment), upon their death, are eligible to help cover the cost of funeral/ burial cost NOT to exceed $7,500.

Payment will be made directly to the vendor and not to families of the deceased. Applications can be faxed or emailed to the funeral home of your choice.

They are here to assist you with any need you may have. Please call us at (580) 492-3358 if you have further questions. Applications can be mailed, faxed or downloaded from comanchenation.com.

Mold Remediation Finished at Comanche Museum Mold remediation is now finished at the Comanche National Museum and Cultural Center. The Comanche Nation Office of Environmental Programs(CNOEP) was called to the Museum in March 2015 when mold was discovered in the building’s Collection Storage area.

After further investigation, it was determined that the mold was the result roof damage above the Museum’s north wall. CNOEP sealed off the affected sections and deemed the area as safe; however, remediation work could not be performed until the roof could be repaired. The roof was replaced in September 2016; the remediation work was completed on February 14.

Quahada Pride is currently on display in the gallery. The exhibit features paintings and sculptures by award winning Comanche artist Barthell Little Chief. The exhibit includes art work created by Mr. Little Chief in both traditional and contemporary painting styles. The exhibit will be on display through the end of May.

Comanche Nation Diabetes Awareness Offering Services to Tribal Members The Comanche Nation Diabetes Program has services available to tribal members who meet it’s eligibilty requirements.

Eligibilty Requirements: • Copy of C.D.I.B. • Diagnosis of Diabetes from Doctor • Verification of Residence (Utility Bill) • Prescription Services Available: Blood Sugar Testing Meters (Once) Testing strips and lancets may be picked up or mailed out by participants request (ONCE A MONTH) Medication (Diabetic only) up to $100 (ONCE A MONTH) Eyeglasses up to $130 (ONCE A YEAR) Assistive Devices such as walkers, wheelchairs, canes, shower

chairs, Blood Pressure Meeters and Dentures (EVERY 5 YEARS) Shoes: The Diabetes Program issues shoes every six months to Tribal Members who are registered on the program.

You must have a current Annual Foot Exam Prescription from a Podiatrist/and or Doctor.

Shoe Fitting Appointments: The Diabetes Program does shoe fitting appointments to insure the shoes fit for proper wear.

Appointments are scheduled Every Tuesday one the current prescription has been turned in.

For any services and or assistance needed, you must provide a Current Prescription from your Health Care Provider.

The Comanche Nation Diabetes Program is located at: 5 South D Avenue, Suite B, Lawton Okla.

Phone: (580) 280-4674; Fax: (580) 280-4676.

The Car Tanks are Filled and Ready to go at the Comanche Nation Transit Department

Do you need a ride to work, Dr. appointments, Vo-tech, pay bills, or just go shopping? Call the Comanche Nation Transit and let them help schedule you a ride. For more information contact the Transit at (580) 492-3389. Open 5 a.m.-7 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Courtesy Photo

GRANDPARENTS RAISING GRANDCHILDREN. During the first part of our Fiscal Year the Grandparents Program has already assisted over 73 grandparents which consisted of over a hundred children being raised in those grandparents homes. There are many resources available to grandparents ie., pamphlets, brochures, websites, support groups, etc. Grandparents raising their grandchildren in their homes in this country, saves the Government over 4 billion dollars a year and they get very little assistance in return for this personal endeavor. They just handle it the best they can. Because they do it out of love not financial gain. The Comanche Nation Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Program is located at 1001 “C” Ave, East Door, Lawton, Okla.. Phone: (580) 450-0593.

March 2017

6

The Comanche Nation News

Vocational Rehabilitation Promotes Disability Awarness to Indian and General Communities

The Comanche Nation College is Full of Activities and Success The Comanche Nation College (CNC) is having their 3rd Annual Indigenous Knowledge Bowl, Friday April, 7, located at the CNC inside the James Cox Auditorium.

The event is open to students grades 9-12 attending schools located in the Southwest Oklahoma Region. Early registration deadline is March 31.

For more information contact Christina Tieyah at (580) 6997219 or email CTIEYAH@CNC. CC.OK.US. The CNC is also very proud to announce the list of students who made it onto the President’s List and the Vice President’s List for the fall 2016 semester. Comanche Nation College has identified two students to its Vice President’s List and nine students to the President’s List for the fall 2016 semester.

To be on the President’s List or on the Vice President’s List, students must meet the following criteria: all students must be enrolled in at least 12 credits in the semester and maintain a grade point average between 3.0 and 3.49 for the Vice President’s List while President’s List students must maintain a grade point average between 3.5 and 4.0.

President’s List • Donald Bread Jr. • Jennifer Brewer • Cody Coffman • Elizabeth Nevaquaya • Naomi Nevaquaya • Phaidra Pruitt • Thomas Purvis • Edward Tahhahwah Jr. • Edward Villicana Vice-President’s List • Shawna McCarthy • Corlette Gail Tahhahwah The Comanche Nation College’s student team Tsatsinuupi has been selected to participate in this opportunity designated for students attending a Tribal College or University and who are members of a campus American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES) chapter.

The purpose of this competition allows students the opportunity for demonstrating engineering and design skills through utilizing direct

application geared for high-powered rocketry. Students will work together to design, build, and fly a rocket to be launched at a competition to be held April 20-23, at the Richard Bong State Recreational Area in Kansasville, Wis. According to the NASA Wisconsin Space Grant Consortium, the event institutional sponsor, “ The restrictions on rocket motors and dimensions are limited so that knowledge, creativity, and imagination of the students are challenged. The end result is a unique aerospace experience for students which provide a great aerospace experience unique to Native Americans.”

Tsatsinuupi team members include: Edward Villicana, Cody Coffman, Shawna McCarthy, Misty Jackson, Megan Holt, and Cynthia Tiger. Team captain Edward Villicana stated, “Overall I think we will be able to make this a successful experiment, it is a great honor to be a part of the First Nations Launch and experiment with engineering, physics, math and aerodynamics. This will be the first time a team from Comanche Nation College will be participating, we wish our team the best of luck and skill in all aspects,” The CNC would also like to congratulate Edward Villicana who has been selected as a student researcher chosen to represent CNC at the prestigious 2017 Research Day in the rotunda of the Oklahoma State Capitol, to be held on March 28.

This event is sponsored by agencies such as Oklahoma NSF EPSCoR, the National Science Foundation and Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education. This annual event and each year undergraduate students are selected and nominated by their institutions to participate in the program.

Prospective participants are provided with the proper training and preparation of presenting a scientific poster to be displayed to the public and state government policy makers. The student’s poster presentation is competitively judged based on research methods and outcomes. One student shall be awarded with a grand prize of a research internship at an Oklahoma university or college of the winning student’s choice.

One of goals of the Comanche Nation Vocational Rehabilitation is to promote disability awareness to the Indian and general community.

A Few Facts About Native Americans with Disabilities The top percentages of disabilities served by nationwide tribal vocational programs: • Alcohol/substance abuse 42% • Mental health problems 34% • Medical conditions or illnesses (cancer, diabetes, etc) 26% • Physical disabilities 24% • Developmental disabilities 16% What is a disability?

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines a disability as follows: The term “disability” means, with respect to an individual – (A) a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the major life activities of such individual; (B) a record of such an impairment; or (C) being regarded as have such an impairment (42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq.)

What disabilities do we find in Indian communities?

Every type of disability is found in the general population can also be found in the American Indian/Alaskan Native (AI/AN) population. The following types of disabilities are most often reported in Indian community surveys: • Spinal cord injury • Diabetes complications • Blindness • Mobility disability • Traumatic brain injury • Deafness or hardness of hearing • Orthopedic conditions • Emotional or mental health conditions • Learning disabilities • Alcoholism or drug dependence Not all disabilities are easily seen or can be seen at all. Many individuals have hidden or unseen disabilities, such as emotional or mental health problems, learning disabilities, alcohol/drug dependence or deafness. Some people are born with their disability early in life. Other people acquire their disability later in life as a result of disease, age, or injury.

Barriers and Challenges Attitude: Most nondisabled people do not understand people with disabilities. Too often we see the disability and not the person. This is also true in our AI/AN communities.

You can help change this!

Lack of Awareness: There is a lack of understanding about the

Comanche Nation K-12 Student Services Program Gets a Early Start for Fall 2017 School Year As the end of the school year rapidly approaches, the K-12 Student Services Program is planning for the fall 2017 school year.

Currently the program is seeking a new vendor to add to the selection of stores that they purchase gift cards from.

The previous disbursement of “clothing vouchers” was rather difficult and time consuming, therefore leading them to inquire about gift cards from “rue21” instead of the clothing voucher. However, they will continue with Bookcase Uniforms clothing vouchers for students in Lawton Public Schools as all elementary schools, Tomlinson Middle School and Central Middle School are required to wear uniforms.

The following program information will be released at a future date: � Application submission date. � List of store gift cards. � Outreach direct servicing dates.

FYI Most school districts have an Indian Education Program and/ or a Johnson O’Malley Program for Native American Students. The K-12 Program receives numerous telephone calls weekly regarding JOM. The program compiled a list of local

number of Indians with disabilities, the types of disabilities in Indian communities, and the various opportunities our tribal government and service programs have to better protect and assist people with disabilities in Indian country.

Legal Enforcement Unclear: Federal laws designed to protect people with disabilities are not always enforceable against tribal governments because of the sovereign immunity and sovereign status of tribal governments. This does not mean that all enterprises located on tribal lands are exempt from federal laws only that tribal governments are unique. Many tribes have opted to adopt their own ordinances and codes to protect Indian people with disabilities within the tribal system.

Rural Transportation: Most tribal lands are located in rural and remote areas of the Unitied States and lack public transportation systems, which could provide people with disabilities with access to transportation and increased independence.

Rural Infrastructure: Tribal communities may not have the infrastructure to support access and accommodation for people with disabilities, such as sidewalks, and sidewalk ramps for wheelchair access.

Tribal communities may lack access to high-speed internet or the means to acquire assistive technology for people with disabilities.

Public Access: Tribal and federal office buildings that serve the communities are not always accessible for people with disabilities.

Some tribes may lack the resources to retrofit their buildings to accommodate people with disabilities.

Complex Federal Programs: There are a variety of federal and state programs that can be important resources for people with disabilities on tribal lands. These programs may have overlapping or conflicting responsibilities and must be navigated with dogged determination. Don’t take “no” for an answer.

State Relationships: Relationships between tribes and states can be strained because of overlapping or conflicting jurisdictions and other issues. States may offer many services and programs that can be helpful for people with disabilities and their families living in Indian country. It is important to remember that while tribes are sovereign governments, their members are also citizens of the state and of the United States and are entitled to access state programs.

Education Systems: The majority of AI/AN children are educated through the public school sys-

tems in each state. The balance of Indian children are educated in tribally operated schools or federal schools run by BIA. As a result, a variety of entities may have some level of responsibility for children with disabilities in our schools (Pavel, 1995).

The individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) requires public schools and BIA to provide children with disabilities with a free appropriate education based upon an Individualized Education Program for each child. This is the law. Parents of Indian children with disabilities may not be aware of the services and support their children are entitled to receive and may not know how to advocate for their children effectively.

Employment : Federally recognized Indian Tribes are specifically exempt as employers under Title 1 of ADA, which prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals with disabilities in employment and requires that employers make reasonable accommodation for employees with disabilities (42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq.) This exemption is a barrier for Indians with disabilities in Indian country, particularity in rural areas where tribal governments are the largest employer. Some tribal governments have voluntarily complied with ADA or adopted their own codes to protect people with disabilities from employment discrimination.

Housing: Homes are not generally designed to meet the needs of people with disabilities. There is limited funding at the tribal level to cover the cost of retrofitting tribal or private housing. The housing barrier can mean the difference between an individual with disabilities living independently or living under the care of others. Every home should have some means for “visitability” for people with disabilities.

Service Coordination and Advocacy: Indian people with disabilities do not always have a central location where services are coordinated within tribal settings. This can present a major barrier, particularly for individuals with disabilities who have multiple needs, such as housing, health care, vocational rehabilitation, and advocacy.

Personal Care Assistance: just getting out of bed, bathed, dressed, and out of the house could present major barriers for some people with disabilities. Yet, with the support of a personal care attendant, many people with disabilities may be able to demonstrate their value as members of the tribal workforce.

Much more can be done in Indian communities to provide home- and community-based services.

Comanche Nation Department of Transportation Finished North Rd Project

istrator Assistant: Monica Cooper Phone: (580)464-2419 Email: mitchell@cyrilschools.org or mcooper@cyrilschools.org Elgin Public Schools JOM Coordinator: Kari Pebeahsy Phone: (580)919-5146 Email: kpebeahsy@elginps.net or elginjom@yahoo.com districts that have a JOM Program for the parents and guardians. The list contains the school district, the JOM or Indian Education Coordinator and contact telephone number. This information will be helpful during the present and upcoming school year. If you do not see your districts information, please contact the program office with the information for us to add to the list.

Anadarko Public Schools JOM Coordinator: David Sullivan, Director of Indian Education Phone: (405) 247-2288 Email: dsullivan@apswarriors.com Cache Public Schools JOM Coordinator: Robin Hughes Email: robin.hughes@cacheps.org Carnegie Public Schools JOM Coordinator: Hope Worthington Phone: (580)654-1945 Email: hworthington@carnegie.k12. ok.us Cyril Public Schools JOM Coordinator: Jamie Mitchell, Admin-

Fletcher Public Schools JOM Coordinator: Lena Bishoff, Indian Education Location: Fletcher Elementary Phone: (580)549-6020 Ft. Cobb/Broxton Public Schools JOM Coordinator: Freda Pahcoddy Phone: (405)643-2336, ext. 334 Lawton Public Schools JOM Coordinator: Pam Fodder – LPS Indian Education Location: Douglas Elementary Phone: (800)215-0255 ext 2310 Email: pfodder@lawtonps.org Walters Public Schools JOM Coordinator: Susan Johnson Phone:(580)875-3257 or (580)5122219 Email: swjohnson@waltersps.og.

Please feel free to contact the program office @ (580) 492-3280 or (580) 492-3278 for information regarding the K-12 Student Services Program.

Courtesy Photo

Comanche Nation Department of Transportation finished the North Rd project in the Fletcher area. The roadway was very hazardous for travel and with the efforts of BIA, FHWA, we were able to repair and redo the roadway to make for a safer travel for our tribal members and others in the Fletcher area. The Final Inspection of this project was featured on KSWO 6 pm news on February 2. Since the final inspection of this project our department is maintaining our current inventory, and working on future projects to include the Comanche Nation Elderly Center parking lot, and the EPA roadway.

March 2017

Prevention and Recovery Coming to Anadarko Outreach Prevention and Recovery will be at the Anadarko Outreach Office to discuss the programs they will be offering to tribal members.

Dates and times soon to follow will be located at the Anadarko Public Library. For more information contact Anadarko Outreach Office at (405) 247-4942.

Family Assistance Center Helps All Situations The Comanche Nation Family Assistance Center serves as a safe haven for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, stalking and human trafficking. They provide a wide range of services to include temporary shelter, 24-hr crisis hotline, counseling, assistance with resumes, housing application, budget classes, group presentations, etc. They also provide some services to victims that do not need a safe haven.

The mission is to educate, empower and advocate for Native Americans to strive to protect their families and communities from crimes of domestic violence and sexual assault, especially against their women and children.

This program is funded primarily through federal grants and relies on the generosity of the community for donations of certain items such as soap, shampoo, bath towels, face towels, paper towels, Kleenex, bleach, laundry soap, baby diapers (all sizes), socks, house slippers, current magazines, children clothes, etc.

For additional program services, call (580) 492-3590.

7

Comanche Nation Child Support Programs Annual Data Report

Comanche Nation Child Care Provides Language Classes

As part of the Comanche Children and Family Relations Code 2008 and the Comanche Nation Child Support Procedures, everyone within the Comanche Nation’s jurisdiction has the right to receive services from the Comanche Nation Child Support Program. For the fisical year October 1, 2015-September 30, 2016, the Comanche Nation Child Support Program worked very closely with the clients, other Tribal IV-D agency, and State IV-D agency’s to ensure each case received actions as necessary.

As the result, the program was able to report the following number on their Annual Report: • Total Number of Open Cases: 564 • Total Number of Current Support on Tribal Cases: $473,527 • Total Amount of Past Due Collected on Tribal Cases: $65,688 • Total Amount of All Support Collected During the Fiscal Year on All Cases: $539,215.

The program is striving to improve the welfare of all children and their families that fall within the Comanche jurisdiction. The program continues to have the best interest of all children, for each of them have the right to receive both parental support and medical coverage for their wellbeing.

If you should have additional questions regarding child support, please contact (580) 357-3699.

The Comanche Nation Child Care Office is currently providing child care subsidies for 76 children residing in our service area. The Child Care Development Fund has 34 children on the program. The Subsistence/Special Needs (aka Child Care Assistance and Family Enrichment Program) has 42 children on the program.

There will be two family classes during the month of March.

These are the two classes that are held each and every month. One class is Comanche Language and the other is the Comanche Cultural class. The dates for the classes are March 16, (culture) and March 23 , (language).

For more information contact Child Care Program at (580) 699-3991.

Comanche Nation Youth Program Staff Introduces Staff

Film Festival Coming to Comanche Nation College

On April 8, the Comanche Nation College is having their 13th Annual Film Festival. The CNC staff encourages everyone to come relax, eat popcorn, and enjoy new and old films.

Comanche Nation Reintegration Program MISSION STATEMENT To reintegrate recently released (Department of Corrections) individuals into mainstream society.

OBJECTIVE The objective of this program is to provide to qualified participants the opportunity to prevent recidivism, rebuild hope, strengthen individual skills and rekindle the spirit of those that deserve a second chance.

The Reintegration Program is based on the national Second Chance program. This program is for ex-offenders that deserve a second chance to make a difference for self and the community they release to.

You must be an enrolled member of the Comanche tribe.

Released from a state or federal correctional facility with a DOC number.

This program will not pay fines, fees, reinstatement fee, restitution or legal representation client must rectify any charges.

For more information contact Alicia Wilson at (580) 492-3341 or (580) 492-3240.

The Comanche Nation Youth Program is fully staffed and ready for Spring and Summer activities with the youth.

L to R: Geordan WermyCache Coordinator; Cody MahsetkyWalters Lead Coordinator; Adrianne Owens- Admin. Assistant; Dena Landers-Cache Lead Coordinator; Bobby McCarthy-Apache Coordinator; Randi Lynn Santos-Complex Lead Coordinator; Harlequin Ototivo- Walters Coordinator; (not pictured: Bryan Quoetone- CNYP Director).

To receive information about upcoming Spring Break activities and qualifications, call the Comanche Nation Youth Program at (580) 492-3288.

Elder Center Lines Up Activities for March The Comanche Elder Center will be hosting a Health Fair for the Native American Caregiver Support Program 10 a.m.-2 p.m.,on March 8 .

Health information will be given out to the Caregivers, along with promotional items and door prizes. A light lunch will be available to those attending at 12 p.m.

The Elder Center Activities Coordinator will be assisting the elders after the noon meal with BINGO on March 14 and March 28, at the Elder Center.

Nancy Bass, Activities Coordinator, will be assisting with BINGO and each elder will be bringing a prize. The Elder Center will assist the elders with the last prize.

Get Rid of Expired, Unused, Prescription Drugs

Follow The Comanche Nation News on Twitter @TCNNPIO

On April 29 the DEA will sponsored National Take Back Initiative will kick off from 10 a.m. thru 2 p.m.

This is a “no questions” asked turn in for expire, unused, or unwanted prescription drugs.

The location for the turn in will be the Comanche Nation Police Department located at 8527 NW Maddische Rd. For more information contact Community Policing Office at (580) 492-3711.

The Comanche Nation News

Macarthur High School Makes A Special Visit to the Elder Living Center

Courtesy Photo

On February 13, the Native American Club students from Macarthur High school visited the Edith Kassanavoid Gordon Assisted Living Center.

The students gave away chapstick and handmade Valentines for each of the residents. The Valentines had greetings written in Comanche.

“It was a sweet surprise for our residents and they really enjoyed themselves,” said Assisted Living Center Staff.

Need Repairs?

Call CN Home Improvement The HIP Program was established on the broad authority of 25 USC 13 under the Snyder Act of 1921 as one of several Bureau programs authorized by Congress for the benefit of Indian people. The Bureau’s HIP Program was first implemented in 1965. The original intent of the program was to provide assistance to needy indian families who could not obtain such assistance because of lack of adequate income. The original intent of the program has not changed with the passage of time.

HIP also administers an Emergency Assistance grant program with funding assistance allocated from the Comanche Tribe, this program provides services for emergency home repair for eligible tribal members.

To be eligible applicants must: 1. Be an enrolled member of Comanche Nation 2. Provide a Certificate of Degree of Indian Blood (CDIB) 3. Provide ownership (Warranty Deed Lease Cancellation) of the home Home must be used as a primary residence. Assistance is for urgent/emergency repairs only. For more information contact (580) 4923313.

Did you know?

•

There are currently 16, 652 Enrolled Tribal Members.

• 10, 499 of those members reside in Oklahoma.

• 7, 265 of those members reside within the 7county service area.

We also have enrolled tribal members living in the following countries: Canada, England, France, Guam, Japan, Puerto Rico, and New Zealand.

-Comanche Nation Enrollment Department

March 2017

8

The Comanche Nation News

Culinary Corner Pineapple “Cool Whip” Pie • • • • • 1.

Ingredients 1/4 c. Lemon juice 1 can condensed milk (Eagle Brand) 1 large can crushed pineapple, drained 1 large Container Cool Whip 2 (9’) baked pie shells Directions Mix together all ingredients.

Pour into 2 (9’’) baked pie shells.

Stuffed Peppers Supreme • • • • • • • • • • •

Recipes for Home Cooking

• • • •

Cajun-Style Chicken Gumbo • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Ingredients 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts 1 tsp. Cajun or Creole seasoning 1 tsp. dried thyme leaves 2 tbsp. Vegetable oil 1 medium onion, coarsely chopped Green bell pepper, coarsely chopped 1 cup thinly sliced or julienned carrots 1/2 cup thinly sliced celery 4 cloves garlic, minced 2 tbsp. all purpose flour 2 can (14 oz.) fat free reduced sodium chicken broth 1 can (14 1/2 oz.) no salt added stewed tomatoes, undrained 1/2 tsp. hot pepper sauce 2 cups hot cooked rice 1/4 cup chopped parsley (opt) Directions Cut chicken into 1 inch pieces; place in medium bowl. Sprinkle with seasoning and thyme; toss well. Set aside.

Heat oil in large saucepan over medium high heat. Add onion, bell pepper, carrots, celery and garlic to saucepan; cover and cook 10 minutes or until vegetables are crisp tender, stirring once.

Add chicken; cook 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Sprinkle mixture with flour; cook 1 minute, stirring frequently.

Add chicken broth, tomatoes and pepper sauce; bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to medium; simmer, uncovered, 10 minutes or until chicken is no longer pink in center, vegetables are tender and sauce is slightly thickened.

Ladle gumbo into 4 shallow bowls; top each with scoop of rice. Sprinkle with parsley and serve with additional pepper sauce, if desired.

• • 1.

• • • • • • • •

Directions Fry bacon and drain. Add sausage (sliced thin); drain. Add sliced carrots and green beans (or any leftover vegetables) and cook until carrots are tender. Remove and let drain. Fry onion and garlic. Mix all together. Add soy sauce, Ac’cent and eggs and stir until mixed. Add boiled rice (1 1/2 cups rice, 2 cups water).

Simmer 10 minutes

Cream Cheese Candies • • • 1.

Ingredients 1 (3 ounce) package cream cheese, softened 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract 3 cups confectioners’ sugar Directions In a small mixing bowl, beat cream cheese with peppermint extract. Beat in half the confectioners’ sugar until smooth.

Knead in remaining confectioners’ sugar until fully incorporated. Shape dough into 1/2 inch balls, place on baking sheets, flatten with a fork, and allow to stand 1 hour to harden. Store in airtight containers in refrigerator.

Buckeye Cookies • • • • • • 1.

Fried Rice Ingredients 4-5 strips bacon (fried) 4 medium. Sausage (smoke) 2 carrots Leftover green beans or vegetables 1 small chopped onion 1 clove garlic 2 tbsp. Soy sauce 1 tsp. Ac’cent (optional)

2 eggs (beaten) Boiled (or cooked ) rice.

2.

3.

Ingredients 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter 1/2 cup butter, softened 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips 2 tablespoons shortening 4 cups confectioners’ sugar Directions You’ll need wax paper, a double boiler, a cookie pan, and a medium. In the medium size bowl, mix peanut butter, butter, vanilla, and confectioners’ sugar (mixture will be stiff).

Shape into balls and place on a pan covered with wax paper.

Place into the refrigerator.

In double boiler, melt chocolate and shortening. Pour into bowl and dip balls with chocolate. Refrigerate for thirty minutes until chocolate is firm.

Wild Rice on Stove top • • • • • • • 1.

2.

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Ingredients 1 cup wild rice 4 cups water, stock, or a mix of both 1/2 teaspoon salt Fine-mesh strainer Saucepan Wooden spoon Fork Directions Rinse the wild rice: Place the wild rice in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse in the sink under cold running water. Shake to drain.

Bring the rice and water to a boil: Place the rice in the saucepan and add 4 cups of water or stock, along with the salt (unless the stock is already salted).

Bring to a boil over high heat.

Reduce to a simmer: When the water has reached a boil, lower the heat to maintain a slow but steady simmer and cover the pan.

Cook the wild rice: Cook at a simmer for 45 minutes. Check the rice. It should be chewy and some of the grains will burst open. It may need an additional 10 to 15 minutes--keep checking the rice and stop cooking when the grains are tender.

Drain the wild rice: When the rice is done, pour it into a stainer to drain off any remaining liquid.

Fluff and serve: Fluff the rice with a fork and serve, or add it to any number of dishes for a delicious, nutty taste and chewy texture.

Easy 3 Ingredient Chicken • • • • 1.

2.

3.

4.

Ingredients Bone in chicken (I used thighs) 1/2 cup dark brown sugar 1 envelope dry Italian Salad dressing mix 13 x 9 baking dish Directions Preheat oven to 350 degrees Spray Pam on baking dish. Take skin off chicken Mix brown sugar and salad dressing mix cover chicken with mixture (use it all) Bake uncovered for about 50 minutes

Slow-Cooked Country Beef Stew •

Ingredients 2 1/2 lbs. Boneless beef chuck steak or stew meat, cut in

1-inch cubes 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 2 Tbsp. Country Crock Calcium plus Vitamin D, melted 1 1/2 lbs. Small red new potatoes 1 lb. baby carrots 8 ounces frozen pearl onions 1 cup frozen green peas 1/2 cup water 2 Tbsp. Tomato paste

• • • • • • • • 1.

2.

Directions Spray 6-quart slow cooker with no stick cooking spray.

Toss beef with flour. Add beef to slow cooker, then add Country Crock Calcium plus Vitamin D and remaining ingredients. Cook on HIGH 5 to 6 hours or LOW 8 to 10 hours or until beef is tender.

3 Ingredient Meatloaf Ingredients 2 lbs. Ground beef 1 sleeve Saltine Crackers 1 can French Onion Soup

• • • 1.

2.

Directions In a large baking dish, combine the ground beef, French onion soup, and crushed saltine crackers. After ingredients are well blended, form it into a loaf shape.

Bake in oven on 350 degree for 1 hour and serve once cooled a little bit. Serve with any sauce of your choice, if desired.

Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken • • • • • 1.

2.

3.

Ingredients 4 chicken breasts 1/2 bottle or can of (full sugar not diet)- you can use Coke or Dr. Pepper if you prefer 18 oz.. bottle of BBQ sauce 1/4 Tsp. Salt 1/4 Tsp. Pepper Directions Place chicken breasts and root beer in a slow cooker and cook for about 3 hours on high. Shred and drain most of the liquid.

Leave a little so chicken doesn’t get dry. Add salt and pepper.

Pour in a bottle of BBQ sauce and let cook another 15-20 minutes in slow cooker. Serve on rolls.

Add avocado or even saute onion to serve on the sandwich (optional)

1.

2.

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Ingredients 1 cup lean ground chuck 2 cups sliced mushrooms 1 tsp. Salt 1 tsp. Pepper 1 medium yellow onion, chopped 1/2 cup green onion, chopped 2 cloves fresh garlic 2 cups cooked brown rice 1 egg beaten 1 tbsp. Olive oil 2 tbsp. Cilantro leaves, chopped 5 medium bell pepper, washed & cored 1/2 cup ketchup 1 can tomato sauce 1 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided Directions Preheat oven to 350 degrees In a skillet, slowly cook ground chuck, mushrooms, salt, pepper, yellow onions, green onion and garlic. Cook until meat is no longer pink and set aside.

In large mixing bowl; combine brown rice, egg and meat mixture; add olive oil and cilantro leaves and mix all together.

Spoon mixture into peppers and place into casserole dish; top each pepper with 1/4 cup of mozzarella cheese and brush top of each pepper evenly with ketchup. Add tomato sauce to cover bottom of dish and bake covered for 1 hour.

Seasoning and Cooking Tips for Frozen Sockeye Salmon Fillets 1.

Cook salmon at higher heats for a shorter amount of time (i.e., medium + heat on the stove top and 400 + degrees in the oven) for no longer then 15-20 minutes. This method will ensure the salmon retains its moisture.

2. To pan saute• Lightly season salmon fillet(s) and pan saute in a little oil and a dab of butter until cooked through.

3. To bake salmon• Season with fresh herbs and drizzle with oil (or a dab of butter), wrap salmon in foil and bake at 400 degrees for 15 minutes, or • Cover salmon fillet(s) with a thin layer of Mayo and seasonings and bake until cooked through.

This keeps the fish very moist.

The best part of salmon is the left overs! You can flake any leftover salmon and add any combination of the following ingredients: Mayo, eggs, onions, herbs, seasoning, bread crumbs, or rice. Form into a patty and bake or fry. Makes a great salmon burger or salmon patty snack.

WE WANT TO SEE WHAT YOU ARE COOKING! Send a picture of any of the recipes you try on the “Culinary Corner” page, and it will be in an issue of TCNN, and TCNN will mail you a gift of thanks.

Email your name, picture, and which recipe you used, to staceyh@comanchenation.com

March 2017

9

The Comanche Nation News

People, Places and Things Happening Oklahoma City Indian Clinic to provide excellent health care and assist with tribal applications before The design must include the Filipino Holds Give Kids A Smile Day wellness services to American Indi- they are sent to OGC, which makes and Mexico flags which represent the ans in central Oklahoma. The clinic staff cares for more than 20,000 patients from more than 220 federally recognized tribes every year. American Indians can receive a range of services, including medical, dental, pediatrics, prenatal, pharmacy, optometry, physical fitness, nutrition, family programs and behavioral health services. For more information, please visit www.okcic.com.

Courtesy Photo

Oklahoma City Indian Clinic (OKCIC), a nonprofit clinic providing services to American Indians in central Oklahoma, kicked off National Children’s Dental Health Month with their fourth annual Give Kids A Smile (GKAS) Day on February 3.

As of February 10, over 290,000 children received free services from over 8,000 dentists participating in GKAS Day events nationwide, including OKCIC. GKAS Day is held annually to provide free, easily accessible dental services to under served children. It helps raise awareness of the epidemic of untreated dental disease and creates partnerships to increase access to oral health care.

OKCIC staff provided oral hygiene instructions/education, screenings, cleanings, x-rays, fluoride treatments, dental sealants and fillings. GKAS Day was a busy one, with the dental department seeing 44 children. A total of 41 received fluoride applications, 40 were given teeth sealants and 10 had their teeth filled.

“Preventative care is critical to maintaining good dental health and overall well-being,” Dr. Timothy Kinnard said, OKCIC Dental Director. “It’s important to educate children and parents about proper dental care to reduce and help prevent tooth decay and other serious dental issues that can arise from inadequate care.”

During National Children’s Dental Health Month in February, OKCIC focuses on treating children and educating parents on dental health.

OKCIC is offering these tips to help keep your child’s teeth healthy: • Brush for two minutes, twice a day.

• Limit between-meal snacks.

If kids crave a snack, offer them nutritious foods.

• If your kids chew gum, make it sugarless. Chewing sugarless gum after eating can increase saliva flow and help wash out food and decay-producing acid.

• Monitor beverage consumption – Instead of soft drinks all day, children should also choose water and low-fat milk.

• Help your children develop good brushing and flossing habits.

• Schedule regular dental visits.

About Give Kids A Smile® The ADA Foundation’s Give Kids A Smile program is one of the world’s largest oral health charitable programs. Launched nationally by the American Dental Association in 2003, Give Kids A Smile is an access-to-care endeavor designed to encourage parents, health professionals and policy makers to address the year-round need for oral health care and education for all children. Each year the Give Kids A Smile program supports approximately 350,000 to 400,000 children from more than 1,500 events, all because of the efforts of 40,000 or more annual volunteers nationwide in providing free oral health care services including exams, fluoride treatments, sealants, fillings, crowns and extractions, to more than 350,000 children from low-income families across the country. To find out more about Give Kids A Smile, visit www.adafoundation. org/GKAS. About Oklahoma City Indian Clinic Oklahoma City Indian Clinic (OKCIC) was established in 1974

VA to Recognize Tribal Organizations As Veteran Representatives Native Americans serve in the military among the highest rate, per capita, compared to other groups and our nations honor the place of tribal warriors in our communities and our culture on a daily basis. But for Veterans living within or near tribal communities, it can sometimes be difficult to receive representation for benefit claims. Often, these Veterans cannot reach existing Veterans Service organizations (VSOs) or may not be using them due to cultural barriers.

One way VA has tried to help with this is through a rule change in the Code of Federal Regulations (38 CFR 14.628). This change will allow eligible tribal organizations to become accredited by VA. It is believed that accredited tribal organizations can provide Veterans with better, more culturally competent services.

Over the past year, VA’s Office of Tribal Government Relations (OTGR) and Office of General Counsel (OGC) have worked together to implement this rule change.

In March 2016, letters were sent to tribal leaders, asking for their input. A notice was then placed in the Federal Register (Vol. 81, No. 47: Proposed Rules page 12626) which also asked for comments and provided notice of tribal consultation.

The comment period closed in April of 2016. In July 2016, a subsequent notice in the Federal Register (Vol. 81, No. 47: Proposed Rules Pages 47091-47093) provided the opportunity to comment on the revised proposed rule. This comment period closed in September of 2016.

There were more comments received from tribal leaders and Veteran advocates than was expected, showing a high level of interest in this rule change.

“This rule is a positive step forward for Indian Country and VA,” said Reyn Leno, Vietnam Veteran and chairman of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde. “For decades, tribes with accredited facilities have been able to provide quality services to our Native American Veterans and Veterans alike. The piece that was missing was the ability to provide assistance on VA benefit claims. This rule recognizes the unique relationship our tribes have with our federal government and Veterans in some of our most rural communities. No Veteran should have to drive hundreds of miles to receive care they could be eligible to receive next door at a tribal facility. The ability to credential tribal employees as VSOs will also help to further extend services to Native Veterans in a culturally appropriate manner. I applaud the rule and VA for their due diligence on this matter.”

Tribal Nations serve Veterans first. They open our ceremonies and carry the flags of our nations.

Today, there are around 1,600 living Chickasaw Veterans. Most of these men and women are Veterans of Vietnam, the Gulf War, Iraq and Afghanistan. Most of our WWII Veterans have now passed on and our Korean War Veteran numbers are rapidly dwindling.

But receiving VA accreditation is not an easy process. VA must ensure, as legally required, that all accredited VSOs can provide longterm, quality representation. As such, tribal organizations must meet the same stringent requirements as national and state VSOs. OTGR can

the final approval.

VA invites all interested tribal organizations to consider beginning the process of becoming a VSO. For more information, please visit VA’s website by clicking here.

On a daily basis active duty members become Veterans and too many Veterans return home to find that their greatest challenges still lie ahead. War is ugly and it has long lasting effects that challenges the resilience of all people.

The tribal nations are committed to finding the path for our Veterans to become tribal leaders, teachers, business owners, active citizens and successful parents. They work closely with the OTGR and have established a good relationship with this important VA office. They invite other tribes to connect with OTGR as well, as they begin the road to becoming accredited VSOs. The ability to work with local, trusted qualified representatives to file for benefits our Veterans have earned through their service can make a world of difference in the Veteran and their family’s overall quality of life. They look forward to seeing tribal nations begin to support their warriors through this effort to serve those who have selflessly and courageously served our nation.

NMAI Announces Teacherin-Residence Program The Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian will host a teacher-in-residence at the museum this summer. Applications are open for instructors currently teaching grades five through 12 and will be accepted through March 31.

This program serves a vital role in Native Knowledge 360, the museum’s national education initiative to inspire and promote improvement in teaching and learning about American Indians. The museum’s resident teacher will work alongside museum staff and participating American Indian communities to provide educators and students with new perspectives about American Indian history, culture and contemporary lives.

The museum is offering one paid residency for six to eight weeks between June and August. The resident will apply expertise in pedagogy, best classroom practices, the C3 Framework and Common Core Standards to inform online lessons under development by the museum. Tasks will also include assisting in formative testing of materials and planning effective teacher-training programs.

The resident teacher will have the opportunity to create a unique project, activity or lesson for classroom use.

Call for Applications: The National Museum of the American Indian is seeking applications from highly qualified and accomplished teachers currently teaching grades five through 12. Applications will be accepted through March 31. For more information, visit the museum’s website at http://nmai.si.edu/explore/ education/teacher-in-residence.

Open Call for the 2017 International Festival Poster Design This year marks the 38th consecutive year for the International Festival which will be held September 22, 23, and 24. The 2017 International Festival Committee is pleased to announce a design contest for the official 2017 International Festival publicity poster. The winning design will be used on promotional materials advertising the festival. This competition is open to students K-12 and adults of all skill levels.

Submissions should be an artistic response illustrating the cultural richness of our community celebrated by the International Festival.

countries of the two original members that still serve on the festival committee.

The competition is open to all media that results in two-dimensional entries. All work must be original. Non-winning entries from previous years may also be submitted if adhering to the 2017 guidelines.

Multiple submissions are accepted.

All submissions should be 22’ x 28”.

Artwork may be matted white and shrink wrapped or 18” x 24” art paper may be used and attached to a 22” x 28” white poster board. The artist name, full mailing address and phone number as well as school and current grade level (if applicable) MUST be clearly written on the back of the artwork and backing, but should not show through.

Deadline for entries is May 12. Entries must be received by 5 p.m. at the Arts & Humanities Office, 801 NW Ferris Ave. (west side of McMahon Auditorium). Artwork should be delivered flat, not folded or rolled. Judging will take place on June 6.

There will be one winner in each division (K-5, 6-8, 9-12 and adult). Each division winner will receive a $50 award. The competition winner will be chosen from division winners. In addition, the competition winner receives a $200 stipend, one festival T-shirt, and one official 2017 International Festival poster.

For further information, please contact the Arts & Humanities Office at (580) 581-3470 or 5813471.

Cole Applauds Passage of H.R. 428, the Red River Gradient Boundary Survey Act Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 428, the Red River Gradient Boundary Survey Act by a vote of 250-171. This legislation will provide a proper gradient boundary surveying method to settle the contested land ownership between the states of Oklahoma and Texas, and the Comanche, Kiowa and Apache tribes. Ultimately, it will define the state-line boundary between Oklahoma and Texas, and continue to protect the interest of the Comanche, Kiowa and Apache Indian Tribes.

Cole is a co-sponsor of H.R. 428.

“For years, Oklahomans and Texans have questioned the validity of the Red River’s role as the boundary between the two states,” said Cole. “Over time, the river has been subject to changes from natural causes, and brought on the issues of who owns what land, who pays what taxes and who can make claims of use.”

“I’d like to thank my friend Congressman Mac Thornberry for crafting a definitive piece of legislation, and bringing together the different parties to reach this conclusion. I am pleased that this bill not only protects the interests of states, but also protects the sovereignty, property and trust rights of the tribal parties involved. The Red River Boundary Survey Act will allow everyone to get a better idea where the current gradient boundary is located.”

Tribal Youth Shine at DECA Career Conference

Tribal youth, from right, Naomi Robinson, Cy Ulloa, and, Emma Roberts are First Place Winners at the DECA Conference Feb. 7 8 in Tulsa, Okla.

Courtesy Photo

Comanche tribal students Naomi Robinson, Cy Ulloa, and Emma Roberts from Indiahoma High School recently won first place during the DECA Career Conference. A total of six Indiahoma students won awards.

The six students who won at OK DECA CDC (Career Development Conference) now have the opportunity to become an academically prepared, community oriented, professionally responsible, experienced leader through participation in DECA activities at the local, chartered association and international levels with ICDC 2017 in Anaheim, Cali., April 25-30.

Indiahoma DECA has joined more than 219,000 high school members in 5,000 classrooms in 3,500 schools across the world who are preparing for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality, management and entrepreneurship.

DECA prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality and management in high schools and colleges around the globe. With nearly a 70-year history, DECA has impacted the lives of more than ten million students, educators, school administrators and business professionals since it was founded in 1946.

Their strong connection with the organization has resonated into a brand that people identify as a remarkable experience in the preparation of emerging leaders and entrepreneurs.

Follow The Comanche Nation News on Facebook www.facebook.com/ TheComancheNationNews.com

March 2017

10

The Comanche Nation News

Milestones Happy Belated Birthday

January 13- Taylor Thornbrugh February 1- Marshall ‘Chubs’ Ross Kerchee February 13- Kate Lee February 13- Marques Karty February 26- Marie Sevier (Midge) February 27- Jack Pohocsucut

Happy Birthday March 2- Monroe (Joey) Pohocsucut March 3- Jackie Mattox March 4- Haddon Jocko March 7- Lavera Thompson (Mego) March 8- Lori Stropes March 8- Valoria Ardwin March 9- Jamie Long March 11- Justin Wayt March 12- O’Neda Heminokeky March 14- Delayna Karty March 14- Jennifer Caddo March 17- Alexis Thomas March 17- Jennifer Poolaw March 18- Jonathon Mowatt March 22- Virgil Karty

Happy Belated Birthday Taylor Thornbrugh January 13

Marshall ‘Chubs’ Ross Kerchee

Happy Birthday Kena Poahway March 2

Anniversaries

Happy Belated Birthday

February 1

Happy Belated Birthday Marques Karty February 13

Happy Belated Birthday Sidney Sayerwinnie February 24

Happy Birthday Sydney Rotert March 1

Happy Birthday Roxie Tenequer March 3

Happy Birthday Haddon Jocko March 4

Happy Birthday O’Neda Heminokeky March 12

Happy Birthday Delayna Karty March 14

Arleta Ariah Yellowfish

Ezekiel L. Haggenmiller

Michael & Carmen Cable February 14~Married 9 years The Comanche Nation News Deadline~March 15 Email: candacet@comanchenation.com by Mail:

Baby onaa / ohna?a

Comanche Nation PIO- P.O. Box Lawton, OK 73501

Happy Birthday Ricky Poahway March 17

Contact: (580) 492-3386

Happy Birthday Tallie Rae Large March 19

Born:

Born:

TAA NUMU TEKWAPU?HA TUBOOPU (OUR COMANCHE DICTIONARY)

January 7, 2017 Weight: 5 lbs. 2 oz.

January 4, 2017 @ 11:43 a.m.

Weight: 7 lbs. 3 oz.

20 inches Born to: Anthony Yellowfish & Brooklyn Martin

MARCH Tahpooku Mua /

(cotton wood month) (hot or

cold month)

Born to: Alexis and Kevin Haggenmille Grandparents:Alexis and John Thomas and the great grandson the late Phillip Herrera and Selma Connywerdy-Herrera

Na?butituikatu mua Insufficient Addresses from The Comanche Nation Mailing List

The Following names are listed on the “Insufficient Address” list. Please contact the Comanche Nation Public Information Office (PIO) Department to update by calling (580)492-3386 or email updated addresses to: candacet@comanchenation.com. The Comanche Nation PIO mails one newspaper per household each month, unless specified.

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Abrams, LG Alvarado, Anthony Avei, Georgia Balliet, Carolyn Beaver, Bessie Borth, Pamela Cable, Bruner Caddo, Justin Cannon, Kathy Chebahtah, Joe Choney, Nellie Cizek, Audrey Clark, Mark Coleman, Kara Lynn Comanche Construction Cornell-Campbell, Faye Cothran, Gary Cude, Linda Dorthy M Jensen, Tahmahkera Doty, Ava Dowling, Angela Doyebi, Pete Dutton, Juanita Elliott, Jason Evanoff, Michelle Fagan, James Feshour, Jewel Feudner, Terri Glisson, Natalie Gogue, Melanie Grady, Wendee Grandbergs, Wenodi Griffin, Paul Guerrero, Vincent Gwoompi, Preston Hall, Carol Helmick, Julie Herrring, Randy Hight, Debbie

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Holder, Kimberly Hood, Jillian Huntsman, Susan Jackson, Gerry Jackson, Marjorie Johnson, William Jones, Sueanna Jones, Ted Karty Jr., William Kassanavoid, Robert Kaudlekaule, Natalie Kaulaity, Ouida Kizzia, Junie Kopaddy, Christopher Kosechata, Lindsey Laurenzana, Larue Leaf, Winifred Lease, Andrew Lighfoot, Brown Lizer, Ida Long, John Lorentino, William Machado, Joseph Mahsetky, Michelle Mahsetky, Tawny Mahsetky, Thomas Martinez, Mica Maynard, Jill McClung, Tracey McDonald, Darrelle Messner, JJ Michecoby, Sidney Miller, Roberta Monoessy, Ronald Moses, Berwin Motah, Norman Muse, Michael Nance, Frankie Oberly, Yvonne

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Orme, Anthony Otipoby, Betty Otipoby, Chris Patton, Joanna Pekah Jr., Ronald Pekah, Willie Pierce, Ruth Plumley, Oliver Poafpybitty, Ruth Poahway, George Pohocsucut, Albert Poolaw, Sherrilynn Priest, Petra Prouty, Michael Ray, Laura Red Elk, Dylan Reed, Heather Rice, Oleta Riddle, Clayton Roberts, Mary J Robledo, Theresa Rogers, Katherine Santiago, Neva Shepard, Tsaina Southard, William Sovo, Diana

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Tangus, Nancy Tehauno, Garon Thoman, Melanie Tieyah, Idaroi Timbo, Michelle Tinney, Caroline Tomah, Bobby Tonemah, Curtis Underwood, Alisha Jackson Vaquez, Christopher Francisco Vasquez, Lacretia Ann Wahkinney, Ronald Wauqua, Raina Webber, William Weber, Bill Whelchel, Connie White, Patrick Whitewolf, Edwin Williams, Misty Wockmetooah, Numu Wolfe, Marcia Yackyonny, Nathan Yates, Edwards Yellowfish, Timothy

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Zimmerman, Reggie

Change of Address Form New Address

Update Address Date:

Initial:

Name Address

City, State, Zip Code The Comanche Nation News mailing list is updated every 90 days: January 15, April 15, July 15, and October 15 Send this form to: The Comanche Nation News, P.O. Box 908, Lawton, OK 73502 or by email: candacet@comanchenation.com , or fax: (580) 492-3709 Comanche Nation Public Information: (580) 492-3386

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Obituaries Christopher Samuel Moreno

Paula “Cookie” Denise (Pewo) Peterson

Peterson Moreno Christopher Samuel Moreno went to his heavenly home on Monday, December 19, 2016 in Oklahoma City.

Funeral Service was December 22, 2016 at the Comanche Nation Funeral Chapel with Rev. Bill Foote officiating.

Moreno was born in Oklahoma City to Earl Vernon and Wilma Tehauno on July 31, 1964. He grew up in Del City and graduated from Del City High School. He graduated from Mid Del Area Vocational Technical School in Graphic Arts in 1984.

He was a member of the Comanche Nation of Oklahoma. He enjoyed playing the guitar, listening to music, going to concerts, spending time with his family especially the grandkids.

He is survived by: a daughter, Kaylee Moreno of Oklahoma City, Okla.; mother, Wima and Ernest Riggs of Fletcher; siblings: Allen Tehauno of Fletcher, Okla., Earl Moreno Jr. of Sulfur, Okla., MariBeth Lodes of Brooklynn, New York, Connie Moreno and Renita Moreno; step mother, Angela Moreno all of Yukon, Okla.; the grandchildren: Rilee, Jakob, and Ivan Moreno, numerous nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.

He is preceded in death by: father, Earl Vernon Moreno, brother, William “Pete” Riggs, nephew, Camden Cook; grandparents: Frank and Addie Moreno and Samuel and Naomi Tehauno.

Mark 15:20 “And when they had mocked him, they took off the purple from him, and put on his own clothes on him, and led him out to crucify him.”

Paula “Cookie” Denise (Pewo) Peterson 64 of Anadarko passed away January 4, in Oklahoma City with her loving family by her side Prayer Service was January 8, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home.

Funeral Service was January 09, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel with Marvin Delaware officiating.

Burial followed at Memory Lane Cemetery in Anadarko, Okla., under the direction of the Comanche Nation Funeral Home.

Peterson was born December 2, 1952 in Kingfisher, Okla. to Samuel Pewo Sr. and Carrie Marie Tallbird Pewo. She attended Anadarko Public Schools but obtained her GED at Vo-Tech and later attended USAO. She was employed with WalMart for 30+ years.

She married Michael Peterson on February 27, 1975 at the County Courthouse in Anadarko, OK. They made their home in Anadarko, Okla., and were married for 42 wonderful years.

She loved spending time with her grandkids, family and friends. She liked to go garage sales and junking. She loved her favorite teams, OU Sooners and the OKC Thunder. She was an avid pool player. She made sure to watch her favorite shows on the ID channel.

She was a proud member of the Comanche Nation.

She is survived by her husband Michael of the home; Son Brian Jones, his Wife Michele RobinsonTranslated to the Comanche Language “Wihnu uhka püi nisu’uyaa’imaahkase’ surüü suhka tukayuu’wüti u natsahkwe’yakütsi, u na müsoapühasü u namüsoakütsi, suavema u rawünaru’i, hunakwühu u vetsünukwa.”

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

Benefit Powwow March 11, 2017 2:30 p.m.- 10:30 p.m.

Watchetaker Hall, Comanche Nation Complex Nine Miles North of Lawton, Okla.

ALL GOURD DANCE HEAD STAFF Master of Ceremonies Head Singer Head Man Gourd Dancer Arena Director Security Co-Host

Cy Ahtone Russ Cozad Jr. Alex Akoneto Happy Pewo John Chasenah I AM NDN

Elgin, Okla.

Lawton, Okla.

Walters, Okla.

Carnegie, Okla.

Lawton, Okla.

Lawton, Okla.

Invitation to all tribal and organizational princesses Public Welcome. Vendors welcome to set up for a fee. Supper will be served.

For more information, contact Frank Whitewolf, (580) 678-1540.

No drugs, alcohol, or harassment allowed. Not responsible for accidents or theft.

Jones and their Son Christopher Jones of Anadarko, Okla.; Daughter Sianna Peterson-Valdez, her Husband Gilbert Valdez, and their Sons Darren Valdez, Ethan Valdez, Elijah Valdez, of Anadarko, Okla. Her Brothers; Henry Lee Pewo of Anadarko, Okla., Damon Leon Pewo of Lawton, Okla., Her Sisters; Karen Pewo of Oklahoma City, Okla., Audra Pewo-Niedo of Lawton, Okla., numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, grandkids, and many beloved friends.

She was preceded in death by her Parents and Adopted Mother Mollie Tallbird Pewo, Baby Brother Sammy Jr., Baby Sister Cheryl, Baby Brother (unnamed), Brother Theodore (Possum) David Pewo, Brother Wilbur (EB Duck) Pewo, Brother Samuel (Sambo/Meatpie Man) William Pewo and Granddaughter Ashlynn Denae Jones.

George Alan Guy

Guy George Alan Guy was born August, 7, 1972 in Lawton, Okla., and went to his Heavenly home Thursday, January 5.

Funeral Mass with Father Joseph Nettem was held January 10, 2017 at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Anadarko, Okla., with burial following at the Guy-Carter Family Cemetery, Ft. Cobb, Okla. under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home. With Pall Bearers Ron Ahtone, Brandon Scott, Harrison Guy, Greg Aunquoe, Damon Poolaw, Cody Maynahoonah. Honorary Pall

The Comanche Nation News

Bearers R.C Ahtone, Lyman Guy, Martin Elizarraras, Eric Travis Guy. Prayer services was January 9, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home, Lawton, Okla.

Guy grew up in the Ft. Cobb area and graduated from Ft. Cobb High School and attended CaddoKiowa Vocational Technical Center where he studied Auto mechanics.

He was a Proud member of the Comanche Nation and also Apache and Caddo descent, a fan of Sooner Football, the Oklahoma City Thunder and up until his accident loved and enjoyed fishing, hunting, working on cars and treasure hunting, hitting up the casinos, karaoke singing, playing pool, where he even won the Coors Light shootout, he also loved hanging out with his many many friends.

Georges personality and humor was contagious and he never met a stranger, he will be deeply missed by all.

He is preceded in death by his mother Harriet Denise Guy, Grandmother Gladys Jean Klinekole Guy, Grandfather Harry Guy and Uncle Steven Randolph “Stevie” Scott.

Survivors include one sister Kellie McCarthy and companion Cody Maynahoonah of the home, Cousins, Ron Ahtone Jr., Ronnee Ahtone-Elizarraras and husband Martin of Anadarko, Brandon Scott and companion Alyssa of Fletcher, Kristen Scott and companion Daniel of Chickasha and Harrison Guy of Oklahoma City. Aunts and Uncles Karen and R.C Ahtone of Anadarko Gwendolyn Scott of Chickasha, Lyman and Lavina Guy of Oklahoma City. Nieces and Nephews Stacie and Keenan Youngman, Whitnee and Alan Dewitt, Angel and Blake Elizarraras, Kyli Ahtone, Ashley and Anthony Tarver, Randi, Kynzlee, Sophia Stephenson, and Steven Hunter Scott. Grandchildren Kasidee Elizarraras, Kameron Dewitt, Kaia Youngman and Kyler Ahtone.

Doris Jean Dunlap-Raybon Doris Jean Dunlap-Raybon 82 of Faxon went to her heavenly home on February 5, in Oklahoma City with her loving family by her

Raybon side.

Raybon was born on October 28, 1934 to Cody Gene and Evelyn (Tosee) Lee. Funeral Service was February 10, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home with Tina Baker officiating.

Burial followed at Highland Cemetery under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home.

She grew up in Walters and graduated from Ahpeatone High School. Raybon was a proud member of the Comanche Nation of Oklahoma. She enjoyed sewing, dancing, going to bingo, conversing, spending time with her family and friends.

She is survived by: a daughter and son in law, Rhoda and Gary Morrison of Iola, Kansas, sons, Jonthan and Donna Lee of Mesquite, Texas, Walter Dunlap and wife Wanita of Geronimo; three brothers: Roland Kosechata of Lewisville, Texas, Ferrell Kosechata of Arkansas, Walter Kosechata Jr. of Crocket, Texas, 12 grandchildren, eight great grandchildren, many other family members and friends.

She is preceded in death by: father, Cody Gene Lee, mother and step father Evelyn and Walter Kosechata: husbands, Loran Dunlap and Charles Raybon; one son, Nathanial Pete Lee, sister, Olivia Weideman, brother, Tony Komah, a grandchild Baby Lee, mother and father in law, Perry and Rhode Dunlap, brother in laws: Mervin, Odis and Kermit Dunlap.

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The Comanche Nation News

Sports

Courtsey Photos

Nacona Tahdooahnippah is in the sixth grade at Elgin Middle School. He is the son of George and Mia Tahdooahnippah and Nathan and Cynthia Billy.

George Tahdooahnippah, Jr. is in the fourth grade at Elgin. He is the son of George and Mia Tahdooahnippah.

Talon Tahdooahnippah is in the second grade at Elgin.

He is the son of George and Mia Tahdooahnippah.

Zaden Roberts is in the third grade at Elgin. He is the son of Thomas and Melissa Roberts.

Photo by Stacey Heminokeky/News Staff

CIZEK SIGNS TO PLAY FOOTBALL FOR SOUTHERN NAZARENE. On February 1, Comanche tribal member, Cole Cizek a 5’11” 180 lb. Defensive Back, from Elgin High School signed a letter of Intent to play College football for Southern Nazarene University, a Christian liberal arts college located in Bethany, Okla.

Cizek is the son of Rick and Sherry Cizek.

Jamarcus Jarvis is in the fourth grade at Elgin. He is the son of Nathan and Ruby Jarvis.

HALL OF FAME Continued from Page 1

Tosee’s footsteps as they both played for the Air Force Academy – Lawrence from 199800 and Lamoni from 2000-02.

He earned his Masters, in 1980, and PhD, in 2010, from Kansas University.

Tosee was Director of Native American studies at Dakota Wesleyan briefly, coached the Haskell Indian University women’s basketball team for one year, served six years as a Special Agent for the FBI in Sacramento, CA and New

York City, NY before returning to Haskell in 1991, where he taught Native American Studies classes for 25 years.

He also briefly served as acting Dean of Academics and acting Athletic Director. He retired from the Bureau of Indian Education in 2016.

Tosee is married to the former Marzha Fritzler and has a daughter, Michelle Fisher, and son, Ethan Tosee.

He, his wife and son reside in Lawrence, Kan.

Braxton Antuna is in the second grade at Anadarko. He is the son of Brenasha Alexander and Kip Antuna, Jr.

Nick Johnson is in the sixth grade at Elgin Middle School. He is the son of Carrie Johnson.

Comanche Boys Shine at the Oklahoma Kids Open State Wrestling Tournament The Comanche Nation had some up and coming athletes shine at the 39th Annual Oklahoma Kid’s Open State Wrestling Championships at the Tulsa Expo Square Fairgrounds-Pavilion February 10 - 11. The youth wrestling tournament is the toughest youth wrestling tournament in the state of Oklahoma. The wrestlers first have to qualify for the tournament by placing in the top six of their regional tournament. Oklahoma has four regions.

Comanche Tribal member Braxton Antuna of the Anadarko Warriors Youth

Wrestling Club took home the gold medal of the Division II (7 and 8 year old) 75 lb weight class. Antuna had a stellar year and capped off the season by winning the state tournament. He is one of the few to be able to call himself a state champion and he is Comanche tribal member.

The Elgin Grapplers Wrestling Club was represented by the Comanche Nation as well and finished the season in fashion by winning the team awards in the Southern Regionals.

The Elgin Grapplers

had the highest medal count of all teams in the Southern Region. Comanche tribal members wrestling for the Elgin Grapplers included: Tahdooahnippah brothers, Nacona, George Jr, Talon, Jaeden “Tyler” Poahway, Nick Johnson, Jamarcus Jarvis, and Zayden Roberts.

The Tahdooahnippah trio all placed at the prestige Oklahoma State Wrestling tournament. The oldest brother, Nacona placed 8th in the Division IV (11 and 12 year old) 160 lb weight class.

George, Jr. placed 6th in the Division III (9 and 10 year

old) 110 lb weight class. The youngest brother, Talon placed 3rd in the Division II (7 and 8 year old) 52 lb weight class.

Tribal member Zayden Roberts placed 4th in the Division II (7 and 8 year old) 75 lb weight class. Tribal members Nick Johnson and Tyler Poahway both qualified for the state tournament but came up short of placing. Jamarcus Jarvis had an extremely good year in both Open and Novice Division, but was sidelined by a season ending injury.

Dear TCNN Letters to the Editor

Dear TCNN, This letter is in Support of SIA. This is a very much needed facility, to care for the nurturing, hands-on care for the bird (Eagles), that we think of as a sacred part of us as American Indians. There are many stories out there for the reason, we, as Comanches, don’t support the caring of these birds. As a tribe, we need to vote for the caring of these birds we think of as sacred.

We look at the beauty of the Eagle as majestic because he is souring close to God. Also, it is a symbol of our freedom here in America.

We use his feathers in the blessings of our prayers and the adorning of our beautiful princesses.

Also, the feathers are worn on our regalia. We hold them in high regard because of their beauty and majesty.

Also, as Indians, we believe it’s our right to use and display these feathers we get by legal or otherwise to use, just because it’s part of who we are.

SIA nurtures back to health

those birds that have been hurt or shot. They also try to hatch eggs from eagles that are near extinction.

One such is a bird from Hawaii. It is truly a beautiful bird. These people are very dedicated in what they do to help care for these birds, feeding and such. There is so much that is done that I don’t have a clue.

I do know that help is very limited and not much time off if you know what I mean. It’s a 24/7 job, 365 days a year that takes special dedication on an individual’s part. They do this so others may enjoy these birds.

Not only do they do this, they also have a vast library of books, pictures, and stories of our people and culture.

They have so much to offer for anyone wanting to know about our culture.

But, you need to go for yourself and see what they do and what they have.

I am speaking as a Comanche. But all tribes can benefit from this knowledge; therefore, all tribes need to be a part of the financial help this facility so desperately needs.

Yes they are making it, but with our help, it could be so much easier. Also knowing that other Indians are out there that care.

Everyone should make an appointment to go see for yourself.

There is so much to learn from this facility and the people who run it.

Please don’t be so busy doing nothing that you forget to go by and check it out. You will be blessed.

I am sure I believe you will feel even more proud to be Indian. I know that I am.

So, if you can please contact SIA in Cyril, Oklahoma and schedule a tour of the facility, so you can have first-hand knowledge of all it’s beauty and history.

One concerned, Ron Mahsetky Dear TCNN, I felt a strong need to write this letter to you today, because, after much thought and ire, I feel that I deservedly should have received the $1,000 Elder pay issued to all those Comanche natives who are 62 years

and older. My birthday was on November 16, 1954, and I turned 62.

My older brothers and sisters, some of whose birthdays fell in December, received their Elder Checks the year they turned 62. Why was this changed?

My concern is that I called and talked to people in Enrollment in September, who assured me since I would turn 62 before the end of the year, that I would receive my Elder Payment in December. When December 15th came around , and I had not received my check in the mail, I called again and received sincere apologizes from people in Enrollment, as they told me they were not told the cut-off date was September 30th. Having a cut-off date after all those years when you have been issuing elders their checks upon the 62nd year of life is unfair, unreasonable, and creates a negative impression of those in the Nation who are looking out for the Comanche Elders.

I sincerely hope you understand my concern and the disrespect I feel at being overlooked this year as

an Elder of the Comanche Nation. I would hope that anyone who turned 62 in 2016 be sent a check for the $1,000 they have expected, not just the ones prior to September 30th (such an arbitrary date.) You’re either 62 years of life or not.

Sincerely, Judith Brush

Send Letters to the Editor to: The Comanche Nation PIO ATTN: Letters to the Editor PO Box 908 Lawton, Okla., 73502 See Page 2 For Guideleines.

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The Comanche Nation News

Comanche Nation Audit Report FY 2015-2016 Chairman Nelson Address to the Nation

Comanche Nation People (NUMUNU): This is an informational writing to all enrolled members.

These are facts over innuendo and speculations. My hope and belief is in our ruling law, The Comanche Nation Constitution, which I will make reference to within this briefing. Please join with me as the only hope of our Nation is; transparency and accurate accounting of all our Comanche Nation affairs. This will be a four (4) part briefing of where we were and where we’re at: (1.) Elections and the Annual Meeting, (2.) The Annual Budget for fiscal year 2018, (3.) Financial state of affairs.

ELECTIONS AND THE ANNUAL MEETING: EXAMPLE OF TURMOIL: “November 2009: A Chairman is recalled; a later recall removes six (6) others.

November 2010: Eight Business Committee members are elected. The Bureau of Indian Affairs considers it the last legitimate election. February 2011: All Business Committee members were recalled except one (1), the BIA recognizes the committee as elected. July 2011: Chairman resigns his position; an acting chair is assumed. November 2011: Acting chair resigns. 2012: four (4) members left without a legal quorum. December 2012: election conducted was

considered “seemingly illegal,” according to the BIA, results were not recognized. 2013: another election conducted, the BIA deemed illegal.

Appeal was filed in March 2014.

Continuation of no legal quorum to conduct tribal business, according to the tribe’s by- laws. The supreme governing body of the tribe is the Indian Council, lack of an authorized Business Committee means no one is able to appoint members to the election or hearing boards. Both the election and hearing boards are not filled or functioning. Jan. 2015: Bureau of Indian Affairs Regional Director issues a letter invoking the agency’s authority to call an emergency election for the tribe. 2015: The tribes Constitutional Revision Committee submits a petition with 546 signatures of eligible voters to the BIA requesting a secretarial election on May 7. The request was denied the next day. Feb. 2016: The BIA rejected recognition of Chairman as leader of the Tribe and said this person continued use of tribal resources may violate some tribal and federal laws; September 2016: A legal quorum of Business Committee is finally recognized and certified.”

What does this eight (8) year timeline of our neighbors to the North tell us? Biased and radical elections can & will dissolve a Nation just as it had for eight years to

this tribe and its people. Last year the Comanche Nation got “very close” to this same scenario, thank God this didn’t happen. The Comanche Nation Constitution is VERY CLEAR in its wording on elections: Article 6, Section 7 (b) DUTIES OF THE BUSINESS COMMITTEE: “To determine qualifications of candidates nominated for office and to conduct election of tribal officers and business committeemen pursuant to the provisions of Section 2, Article VII, of this constitution.”

This is a very daunting task with an adult membership close to 12,000 voters. In May of 2005 an idea was voted on in a monthly business committee meeting to have “nominate and elect” election board members to get rid of the Chairman self-appointed election board members as had been the past practice of the previous 37 years. Last year did prove that this process hadn’t and didn’t work with mailing OFFICIAL BALLOTS to members without a REQUEST to vote. This “In Mass” had some definite repercussions with deceased members getting official ballots and first time voters going to the polls and being told, “You already voted by Absentee Official Ballot.” The decade long “nominate and elect” election board process had other flaws such as, board members (documented) received up to

$50,000 individual stipends within one year. The past election year went totally against itself when a misprint within the election ordinance saw a two (2) nominated race go to a run off after the General Election saw an obvious winner with most votes.

The Comanche Nation Constitution Article 6, Section 7 (g) DUTIES OF THE BUSINESS COMMITTEE: “To appoint such subcommittees as are needed to develop the proposals suggested herein or any other worthwhile endeavors, including delegation of such authorities to these subcommittees as in commensurate with their responsibilities.”

It’s hard to see a subcommittee formed under our governing law to; take the elected business committee and the Comanche Nation to a Court that the Comanche Nation doesn’t and hasn’t recognized, for their own self-determining amnesty and self- recognized autonomy as a (Program over Duty). In retrospect this Business Committee today believes in all honesty, professionalism and total impartiality that an outsourced, non-Comanche affiliation election service is the best form of democracy for the Comanche Nation.

The Company is out of Bethesda.

Maryland, its name is “True Ballot.”

This will be a historic year to any Comanche Nation election of past. This year we the Business Committee will

LIVESTREAM the entire count for total transparency to the Comanche People. Not only is this a first, I believe it will make International News of what Real Democracy is all about.

The cost factor of “True Ballot” is half of what we’ve paid in the past for our elections.

The upcoming Annual Meeting (April 15, 2017) is for the Tribal Council to conduct business for the upcoming fiscal year of 2018 which starts October 1, 2017. Adoptions and Nominations are in order, plus, the Annual Budget will be adopted for us to take to the international General Election or what’s often defined as the Referendum Vote. I do hope the Comanche Nation has seen value in the, “Budget Summits”, that show the Programs and (just what are we voting on). I hope this process continues, we have to mature as a Nation and not pass anything without a closer look. This year at the Annual Meeting the position of Business Committee No. 3 has termed out, and is up for nomination for its first term of a three (3) year duty. Business Committee No. 4 is scheduled for its second term. Also, the position of Secretary/Treasurer is up for nomination for its first term of a three (3) year duty. Get your nominations ready for this 50th Annual Meeting Continued on Page 17

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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

The Comanche Nation News

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The Comanche Nation News

Continued from Page 13

of the Comanche Nation. May we all stay resolved to progress our organization and meet the numerous challenges ahead. Be inspired to know we can educate, help and create careers for our own Comanche People.

I look to that day when total cooperation and compassion for each enrolled member without the lingering clouds of attempted coup de taints of our government system, innuendo recalls and the back biting to progress and good governance to prevail. I’m saddened by the youngest, brightest Comanche Nation minds that have graduated from college to come home and serve their Nation by telling me that they cannot afford such instability of a house divided.

We can do great things together and accomplish numerous feats of good business with solid stability and seeing what you see today an open government with no agenda but service to ALL members. We will have to mature and look to a Legislative and Executive branch of our Nation with the Supreme Governing Body’s approval to join our first Judicial Branch of Government, our own Comanche Nation Court. The Comanche Nation Court is scheduled to be activated this Summer or Early Autumn. This is a promising time for the Comanche Nation.

THE ANNUAL BUDGET (Fiscal Year 2018): Unlike years past, the attempt is being made by the seated business committee to bring “open transparency” of a fully completed audit as the Comanche Constitution calls for. This year it was remarked by past auditors, “you mean you don’t want to pick and choose programs to audit”, that was the past, that wasn’t transparency. Fiscal Year 2016 proved to be a “right on the money” type of year. The Tribal Administrator should be commended for this great effort. I do hope the Nation understands this statement, “if it wasn’t on the Tribal Council Budget how can we make a new Program without the Tribal Council (The Bosses) approval?” No longer can personal monies be doled out without regard, or, the pathetic practice of bailing people out of jail. It is no secret that the Nation did over spend five (5) fiscal years in a row, moved monies from here to there, and when all monies were exhausted, went to the Tax Commission for more money.

This cannot ever be done again; we were very close to insolvency. The

past is the past, yet, let us remind ourselves these acquired monies is for ALL Comanche’s living abroad, not lavish expenditures.

Like I mentioned the first Budget Summit was an attempt to be relevant to cause and effect to the services provided for our people. If you missed the livestream, please visit our website for a re-broadcast.

Budget Summit II will be done this February 25th and the actual Budget will be presented then. This past year due to rigorous restraint there is a surplus that we need the Tribal Council to vote on and decide what to do with. The Business Committee has met with all Programs and the precursor budget meetings are completed.

Almost every Program is attempting to keep in step with our ever growing Comanche Nation population.

It’s evident that the baby boomers are blooming and our fastest population growth is our beloved Elders of the Nation. Our higher education numbers have doubled and it was evident when we had to reach into reserve to assure those that are making a future for themselves will be financed for their College or Vocational needs this semester.

FINANCIAL STATE OF AFFAIRS: FINANCES SECURED: TOTAL Sisseton Suit $4,680,000 Fiscal Responsibility $4,250,000 Leases/Rents $177,000 TOTAL $9,107,000 This is just a snap shot of the good work of bringing the Comanche Nation back to stability. The seated business committee knows this total (above) is the Comanche People’s monies and these figures show our commitment to total transparency. The Business Committee is committed to be great stewards to all Comanche finances.

After our budget hearings and keeping in pace with the ever growing population, the seated business committee wants to bring to the Annual Meeting a (yes) (no) vote to send a dividend payment to each Comanche Nation member by July 2017. At the present population pace, we will have an entirety population of 16,900 enrolled Comanche’s by July 2017. What does that mean? We ear mark $8,000,000 for individual dividend payment to all (youngest to oldest Comanche Members) the

dividend payment should equate to $473.00 each, give or take. So, make sure your addresses and all residents in households are updated. There is a fee for printing checks – make sure we get your good addresses in order.

Back in 1969 we got $147, back in 1976 we got $1,700 plus before we got our first Revenue Allocation Plan (RAP) individual per capita from Gaming. Today, we are happy to announce this dividend to be paid out which is other than the Revenue Allocation Plan (RAP). The Business Committee is hopeful that the remainder will go to a forty (40) year old administration building rebuild.

I hope to see all Comanche Nation members that can make it to the 50th Annual Meeting of the Comanche Nation on April 15, 2017.

God Bless You All. Chairman William Nelson, Sr. 2018 Proposed Budget for the Comanche Nation Disseminated to tribal members in accordance with the Comanche Nation Constitution Article VI, Section 7, Part d (1) 20% Funds Will Be Debated Comanche Nation Gaming Contribution Cont'd Tax Commission Contribution Community & Education - 25% Bereavement Assistance $300,000 Burial Assistance $1,000,000 CBC Salary $21,000 Gravel-Tinhorns for Tribal Driveways $400,000 Chairman's Salary $75,000 Caregivers $310,000 Child Support Services $111,000 Child Care Subsidies Program/Special Needs $225,000 Comanche Indian Veterans Association $50,000 CHR $213,880 Comanche Tribal Princess $3,000 Education Center $500,000 Comanche JR. Princess $3,000 Community Center - Apache $33,000 Comanche Language & Cultural Preservation $40,000 Community Center - Cache $33,000 Comanche Fair Director $3,000 Community Center - Walters $33,000 Tombstone Project $20,000 Diabetes $280,000 Church Donations $60,000

Elder center $300,000 Enrollment $252,000 Elder Council $110,000 Public Information Office $355,000 Emergency Management Direct Services $90,000 Transportation $240,000 Environmental Protection Agency $400,000 Transit Program $840,000 Family Services (Formerly ICW) $292,000 Fitness Center $325,000 Grandparents Raising Grandchildren $115,000 Matching grants $100,000 Adult Education $191,000 Museum & Cultural Center $675,000 Higher Education $3,000,000 Total Tax Commission Contribution $3,473,000 Job Placement & Training $584,000 Home Improvement 1,500,000 KCA Operating Budget $270,000 Hope House/Family Violence Prevention $100,000 Injury Prevention $249,000 Comanche Nation Gaming Contribution Funds: Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act $175,000 Revenue Allocation - 40% New Pathways $155,000 Elder Payment 1,000,000 Outreach Anadarko, OK $104,058 Per Capita Distribution 22,714,470 Outreach Center - Dallas, TX $120,000 Total Revenue Allocation 23,714,470 Outreach Center - OKC $102,000 Prescription Assistance $724,000 Economic Development - 25% Reintegration Program $120,000 New Businesses $2,186,566 Social Services- Emergency Assistance $1,516,606 Water Park $667,000 Student Services (K-12) $960,000 Tourism Center $233,444 Tribal Historical Preservation Program $250,000 Children's Court $302,000 Vocational Rehabilitation $136,000 Tribal Court $100,000 Youth Program $500,000 Water Park $667,000 Total Community & Education $14,821,544 Tourism Center $233,444 CN Fair $200,000 Workforce Investment Agency/Cemetery Improv $2,250,000 2018 Comanche Nation Budget Realty Management/Water Planning/

Land Mgmt $516,000 Revenue Allocation Plan Land Acquisitions $1,250,000 Elder's Payment/Per Capita Distribution 40% $23,714,470 Youth Shelter CRYS $680,000 Tribal Government 10% $5,928,618 Optometry Clinic $546,100 Economic Development 25% $14,821,554 Assisted Living Facility $1,200,000 Community and Education 25% $14,821,544 Capital Improvement $2,100,000 $59,286,186 Early Childhood Development Center $600,000 Contributions Prevention & Recovery Center & Residential Ctr $590,000 Tax Supplement $3,473,000 Comanche Nation Housing $500,000 Total Economic Development $14,821,554 Total 2018 Budget $62,759,186 Tribal Government - 10% KCA Operating Budget 270,000.00 Administration $1,266,086 Elections

$300,000

2018 COMANCHE NATION FISCAL YEAR BUDGET Emergency Management Office $120,000 Info Technology - Complex $500,000 Law Enforcement $3,000,000 Legal Fees $419,532 Firefighters

$323,000

Total Tribal Government $5,928,618

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2018 Proposed Budget for the Comanche Nation

Disseminated to tribal members in accordance with the Comanche Nation Constitution Article VI, Section 7, Part d(1) 20% Funds Will Be Debated

Comanche Nation Gaming Contribution Cont'd

Tax Commission Contribution Bereavement Assistance CBC Salary Chairman's Salary Child Support Services Comanche Indian Veterans Association Comanche Tribal Princess Comanche JR. Princess Comanche Language & Cultural Preservation Comanche Fair Director Shoshone Reunion Tombstone Project Church Donations Enrollment Public Information Office Transportation Transit Program Fitness Center Matching grants Museum & Cultural Center

Total Tax Commission Contribution

Community & Education - 25% $300,000 $21,000 $75,000 $111,000 $50,000 $3,000 $3,000 $40,000 $3,000 $50,000 $20,000 $60,000 $252,000 $355,000 $240,000 $840,000 $325,000 $100,000 $675,000 $3,523,000

KCA Operating Budget

$270,000

Burial Assistance Gravel-Tinhorns for Tribal Driveways Caregivers Child Care Subsidies Program/Special Needs CHR Education Center Community Center - Apache Community Center - Cache Community Center - Walters Diabetes Elder Center Elder Council Emergency Management Direct Services Environmental Protection Agency Family Services (Formerly ICW) Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Adult Education Higher Education Job Placement & Training Home Improvement Hope House/Family Violence Prevention Injury Prevention

$1,000,000 $400,000 $310,000 $225,000 $213,880 $500,000 $33,000 $33,000 $33,000 $280,000 $300,000 $110,000 $90,000 $400,000 $292,000 $115,000 $191,000 $3,000,000 $584,000 $1,500,000 $100,000 $249,000 $175,000 $155,000 $104,058 $120,000 $102,000 $724,000 $120,000 $1,516,606 $960,000 $250,000 $136,000 $500,000

Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act

Comanche Nation Gaming Contribution Funds: Revenue Allocation - 40% Elder Payment Per Capita Distribution

Total Revenue Allocation

1,000,000 22,714,470

23,714,470

Economic Development - 25% New Businesses Water Park Tourism Center Children's Court Tribal Court CN Fair Workforce Investment Agency/Cemetery Improvement

Realty Management/Water Planning/Land Mgmt Land Acquisitions Youth Shelter CRYS Optometry Clinic Assisted Living Facility Capital Improvement Early Childhood Development Center Prevention & Recovery Center & Residential Ctr Comanche Nation Housing

Total Economic Development

$3,087,010 $667,000 $233,444 $302,000 $100,000 $200,000 $2,250,000 $516,000 $1,250,000 $680,000 $546,100 $1,200,000 $2,100,000 $600,000 $590,000 $500,000

New Pathways Outreach Anadarko, OK Outreach Center - Dallas, TX Outreach Center - OKC Prescription Assistance Reintegration Program Social Services- Emergency Assistance Student Services (K-12) Tribal Historical Preservation Program Vocational Rehabilitation Youth Program

Total Community & Education

$14,821,544

2018 Comanche Nation Budget Revenue Allocation Plan

Elder's Payment/Per Capita Distribution 40% Tribal Government 10% Economic Development 25% Community and Education 25% Contributions Tax Supplement

Total

$23,714,470 $5,928,618 $14,821,554 $14,821,544 $59,286,186 $3,523,000

$14,821,554 Total 2018 Budget

$62,809,186

Tribal Government - 10% Administration

$1,266,086

Elections

$300,000

Emergency Management Office

$120,000

Info Technology - Complex Law Enforcement Legal Fees Firefighters

Total Tribal Government

$500,000 $3,000,000 $419,532 $323,000

$5,928,618

KCA Operating Budget

270,000.00

March 2017

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COMANCHE NATION ANNUAL GENERAL COUNCIL MEETING Comanche Nation Officials Chairman

William Nelson Sr.

Vice Chairman Susan Cothern

Secretary Treasurer Vacant Committeeman No. 1 Jonathan Poahway

Committeeman No. 2 Eddie Ahdosy

Committeeman No. 3 Harry Mithlo

Committeeman No. 4 Clyde Narcomey

Tribal Administrator Jimmy Arterberry

Nomination will be taken at the General Council for:

April 16, 2017 Doors Open: 10 A.M. Starts: 1:30 P.M. Lunch will be served Comanche Nation Complex Watchetaker Hall 584 NW Bingo Rd. Lawton, OK (580) 492-3240

• Secretary Treasurer • Comanche Business Committee No. 3 • Comanche Business Committee No. 4 • Tribal Administrator