October 2016 TCNN by The Comanche Nation News

VOLUME 17 EDITION 10

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

Superintendent Roberson Approves Comanche Nation’s Fee-to-Trust Application

October 2016

Owens Files Protest on Run Off Election Results By Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

Tribal Member Reﬂects Her Battle with Cancer in New Book Mindfulness in October Submitted by Apryl Allen/Breast Cancer Survivor

Cancer is terrifying and intimidating—Healthcare shouldn’t be. In 2013 I was diagnosed with breast cancer. After the initial shock of the diagnosis, I was determined to get through whatever protocol and treatments I’d require in efforts to return to the life I love and adore. Unbeknownst to me, it wasn’t going to be that simple. You see, I was willing to fight cancer, what I wasn’t prepared for was the fight for my ability to heal. Conjured from all the media hype—Breast Cancer Awareness Month—in my mind there would be an army of individuals cheering me on to the finish line. Yes, I had my family and friends, but there wasn’t a group or entity that reached out. I guess I was supposed to contact them, but when your inundated with all the nuances of cancer, time becomes a sacred commodity. Of course there were those individuals, employed by my doctors, whose responsibility was to help prepare me for what inevitably would be my future. Instead, using vivid detail, they took me into the nightmares of their experience with breast cancer. One even predicted the treatments I would require. (Thankfully, this was a misdiagnosis.) I couldn’t stomach hearing another worst-case-scenario, so I didn’t attempt to contact any of the foundations often seen in the media. Yes, publicity during the month of October has brought this disease to the forefront, but it almost appears as if it’s now being glamorized on some levels. We all can visualize the women in pink at a finish line—having won the battle of their life. Truthfully, I think some people believe the fight comes from within, which it does, so long as its detected early. But sadly, that’s not always the case. What about those individuals who are given a terminal diagnosis? My mom was one of them. I feel some See CANCER AWARENESS. Page 2

Comanche Nation Chairman Candidate, William Owens, filed a petition against the Sept. 24 Run-Off Election Results, through the Comanche Nation Election Board before the 5 p.m. deadline, Sept. 27. The Comanche Nation Election Board briefly met the evening of Sept. 27, and scheduled a Petition Hearing with Owens 5:30 p.m. Sept. 28. During the meeting, Owens Photos by Stacey Heminokeky/News Staff pointed out accusations of bribery to Pictured Top Left to Right; Stephen Lee, Realty Specialist; Jennifer Hill, Realty Specialist; Jalaine Aitson, influence a vote, coercion to influence Realty Clerk; Dennis Woommavovah, Director; Milton Sovo, Secretary of Agriculture. Bottom Left to Right; a vote, electioneering, and interferTommy Pewo, Realty Clerk; Rose L. Roberson, Superintendent; Susan Cothren, Interim Chairperson; Clyde ence with the conduct of the election. Narcomey, CBC No. 4; Julie Anderson, Realty Officer. A newspaper was mailed out to members of the Comanche Nation before By Jolene Schonchin/ News Staff the Run-Off election called Numu Nabi Tuh Kuh, (The Comanche War On Sept. 23, Superintendent ered to the Department of Interior in Cry/Comanche Pride), which conRose L. Roberson and the Anadarko Washington D.C. by former tribal oftained financial articles and edited Agency Realty Staff met with Co- ficials that Woommavovah took part photographs of some of the run-off manche Nation officials Susan Co- in. The officials were there on sepacandidates. thren, Interim Chairperson, Clyde rate business and decided to advo“It contained false accusaNarcomey, Committeeman No. 4, cate. This valid attempt did not result tions and defame the character of two and the tribes Land Office employees in a passed application. of the candidates vying for office,” at the tribes Realty office in Lawton “I was tasked by Mr. Woomwas stated in the complaint that was to finalize the tribes Fee-to-Trust ap- mavovah with fee-to-trust applicapresented. plication of Apache Community Cen- tion submissions and maintenance It was also pointed out about ter. and challenged to complete this cliques of people setting up within “This is a historic event and seemingly never ending application 300 feet of the voting area at both the symbolizes what our office was re-es- process,” said Stephen Lee, Realty Lawton and Comanche Nation Comtablished to do” said Realty Director, Specialist. plex areas, which Owens stated, vioDennis Woommavovah. The tribe’s “It was a challenge I took to lates the Election Board Ordinance. realty department was re-established heart, and one I wouldn’t stop at until Clyde Narcomey, CBC No. 4, signs the After all allegations were presented to in 2013 with the hiring of Woomma- I found a way. Today we all celebrate Apache Community Center into Trust. the Comanche Nation Election Board, my Pewo, Realty Clerk, and Jalaine vovah. Before this, tribal leaders used this combined effort. This is the first they went into Executive Session to Aitson, Realty Clerk at the Anadarko various departments to handle differ- fee-to-trust application successfully ponder it all and make a decision. Agency changed everything. The ent land management aspects. completed by the Comanche Nation. After much deliberation, the Election lines of communication were open The Fee-to-Trust applica- The College is next; we are shooting Board voted unanimously to uphold and meetings were scheduled. They tion process for the Apache Com- for December.” the protest filed by Owens. tirelessly worked at completing the All former and current ofmunity Center began more than a “I am happy with the Elecapplication, and several others, are to decade ago. A handful of applications ficials support this process and want tion Board’s decision,” said Owens. follow. Land in trust is fundamental were submitted but did not pass. One this land in Trust. A meeting with “Hopefully, this will bring reform to to tribal sovereignty. particular application was hand deliv- Realty Officer, Julie Anderson, Tomthe future elections, and will keep slander out of the election process.” The Election Board announced another run-off election will By Paula Karty/News Staff be held December 3, but Vice-Chairlish her letter a college degree, helped developed During President Barrack woman, Susan Cothren said the date and President a tribal assisted-living facility and Obama’s campaign, he spoke in and the run-off election are pending. Obama’s re- joined Teach for America. She now Texas and made a promise to Na“There are a lot of issues that sponse. Early teaches kindergarten by day and tive Peoples across the United States, has to be reviewed,” said Cothren. “I was also invited American Indian History at a tribal pledging that he would do his best to feel the Election Board overstepped to be a special college by night.” represent Native Americans. their bounds, and circumvented the guest at the President Obama had quotTribal member, Lindsay authority of the CBC and the peoWhite House ed what Early wrote in her letter. “It Early, was at the campaign rally for ple.” Early Tribal Nation was not ‘going off’ that would make President Obama and when she heard Comanche Nation ChairC o n f e r e n c e . Indian Country better, but returning his promise. She screamed as loud man Candidate, William Nelson, had with education and with the insight as she could. President Obama an- Sept. 26 no response to the Election Board’s swered back and said, “I hear you and While President Obama was education brings…my students have decision, but had a quote to share, when I’m elected I won’t forget you.” speaking at his final White House a sense of pride in them about who “We need an impartial court immediEight years later, Early had Tribal Nation Conference, he spoke they are as indigenous individuals… ately. “ written a letter to President Barack about a young Comanche woman more than anything, they realize they Comanche Nation legal Obama, thanking him for his Indian from Oklahoma, who proved that are in control of their own destiniescouncilor, Richard Grellner, who was Country policies. American Indians can shape their and that’s such a powerful thing to accused of having a part in the makEarly wanted President own destinies. experience.” ing of the newspaper, Numu Nabi Obama to know how those policies In his speech, President “Here is a woman who unTuh Kuh, denies the accusations. actually work to tribal members. Obama said, “Lindsay Early, of the derstands that meaning of giving His administration contacted Comanche Nation of Oklahoma, the back,” said President Obama. Early, and asked if they could pub- child of a single mother, has earned See PROTEST DECISION, Page 3

Tribal Member Gets Presidential Recognition

Comanche Nation’s

Annual Halloween Safehouse

6:30 p.m.- 9 p.m. October 28 at Watchetaker Hall, Comanche Nation Complex

October 2016

THE COMANCHE NATION NEWS The award-winning Comanche Nation News, the official communication of the Comanche Nation, is available at no charge upon request. The deadline to submit information for the November 2016 edition is 5 p.m. October 17. 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.

CANCER AWARENESS Continued from Page 1

people think she just gave up—I can assure you she didn’t. Not everyone has a positive experience—even when your diagnosis is treatable. Take me for instance . . . as I said, my intent was to get through the treatments and back to my life. But our healthcare system isn’t what it used to be. Doctors are now aligned with hospitals and medical facilities. Everything has become a one-size-fits-all but at the same time you’re told cancer is as individual as the patient themselves. Isn’t that like mixing water with oil? Here’s where it becomes murky, doctors are so caught up in coding the treatments and diagnosis for whatever hospital or facility they’re working for, they’re forgetting the art of the profession itself. In some cases, abandoning the practice of altruism altogether. Codes and summarizing their findings on a computer has become all-consuming. This isn’t where a doctor’s focus should be. Instead, they should be listening to the patient and relying upon their intuition. I’m reminded of the quote by Albert Einstein, “The intuitive mind is a sacred gift and the rational mind is a faithful servant.” We shouldn’t be so dependent on the “logical” thinking of what computer programs deem appropriate. Which brings me to the next obstacle—individualizing the

Allen’s book about her struggle with breast cancer comes out in October. patient. Indeed, healthcare is cutting edge when it comes to Personalized Medicine (think genetic and microbial signatures). However, they’re neglecting one key element, Personalized Patient Care. As doctors align themselves with hospitals, their offices become an intermingling of many doctors. This seems like a spectacular idea: patients will always have a doctor available when needed. However, only your physician was privy to the conversations detailing what your

Comanche Nation Ofﬁcials

Chairman Vacant Vice Chairman Susan Cothren Secretary/Treasurer Jerry Tahsequah Committeeman No. 1 Jonathan Poahway Committeeman No. 2 Vacant 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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body has been through both medically and medicinally. When another doctor steps in, they’re only able to make educated guesses based on your medical profile. Now let’s talk compassion. The feelings a person experiences when faced with a life-threatening disease are fear, anxiety and in some cases pain. One would assume the world of healthcare would be well versed and educated in compassion. Truth is, compassion is taught by “observing others”—there is no formal training. Because of this administrative personnel, and many medical professionals, completely dismiss what you’re feeling as a living human being—and some can be downright bullies! This I was absolutely not

ready for. On a positive note, there are many individuals within healthcare I met during this period that truly go above and beyond. They have that inner knack to connect with the person and understand the angst of what one is experiencing. And somehow they have the ability to convey a calm disposition, instilling confidence and trust, both of which assist in the healing process. For many reasons, mindful awareness should be at the forefront during the month of October. Apryl Allen is the author of A Tango with Cancer: My Perilous Dance with Healthcare and Healing (October 2016) www.aprylallen.com

October 2016

PROTEST DECISION

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

“The allegations regarding me are unfounded,” he said. However, Comanche Nation Secretary Treasurer, Jerry Tahsequah, is standing behind the Election Board. “The Election Board has taken an oath to uphold the Comanche Nation Constitution and their decision was within their bounds as our election board,” said Tahsequah. “I stand behind the Election Board’s decision.” The much anticipated Comanche Nation Run-Off Election hailed narrow margin results. Winning the Comanche Nation Chairman position was William Nelson Sr., who had a total of 817 votes (50.68%), over William Owens, who had 781 votes (48.45%). Nelson will finish Wallace Coffey’s original Chairman’s position, which ends in 2018. Incumbent, Jonathan Poahway, remained in the Comanche Business Committee No. 1 position by having 71 more votes than Jackie Codopony Sr. Poahway had 831 votes (51.55%) and Codopony had 760 votes (47.15%). It was a very tight race between Janet Saupitty and Eddie Ahdosy for the CBC No. 2 position. A second recount was done, and both candidates were present. Both results were the same, according to the Comanche Nation Election Board. Winning by nine votes was Ahdosy, who totaled 802 votes (49.75%) and Saupitty totaled 793 votes (49.19%). The run-off election has been long awaited by tribal voters and candidates, since it was put on hold August 27, when the General Council gathered to listen to Poahway’s, CBC No. 1, claim of inconsistencies against the Comanche Nation Election Board. The next CBC monthly meeting is scheduled for October 8 at the Comanche Nation Complex.

The Comanche Nation News

October 2016

The Comanche Nation News

Programs

6th Annual Disability Awareness Day Focusses on Vision

Photo by Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

Vocational Rehabilitation Director, Charolette McCurtain, and her staff, stand with Guest speaker, Danny Robinson.

Many booths focusing on vision impaired were set up at the 6th Annual Disability Awareness Day Sept. 7 at the Comanche nation Complex.

By Candace Todd/News Staff

The Comanche Nation’s Vocational Rehabilitation Program held its 6th Annual Disability Awareness Day event on September 7, at Comanche Nation Woogie Watchetaker Hall. The main purpose of the event was to reach out to Native Americans with disabilities that imposed barriers to becoming employed. The event spotlighted several resources that could help you reach your goal or someone who you may know that may need guidance to reach a goal of self-sufficiency, such as the tribal Vocational Rehabilitative Programs and the State Department of Rehabilitative Services. Upon registering for this year’s event, titled “Make Your Vision Last a Lifetime” attendees were given a goody bag filled with promotional items and a T-shirt designed by Comanche Nation Vocational Rehabilitation Program consumer, Virginia Berg. Booths were set up around Watchetaker Hall, providing information on various resources to those in attendance. Each representative gave a brief presentation on services or goods they provided to the audience. There were eight Comanche Nation programs, four Indian Health Service Departments, two Oklahoma State Departments of Rehabilitative Service Programs, four Indian Health

Service Departments, three Tribal Vocational Rehabilitation Programs, Dean McGee Eye Institute, Modern Eyes and a non-profit organization of Oklahoma Health. Guest speaker Danny Robinson, Interim Operations Coordinator BEP of the State Department of Rehabilitative Service, spoke of his own experience of living with a disability and finding employment. When Robinson a former truck driver lost his vision in a semi accident, he was directed to the State Department of Rehabilitative Services, for employment. Robinson said, being blind and trying to change careers, came with its own challenges, considering he had worked as a truck driver most of his life. But Robinson recalled one of the most important questions he was ask by his counselors, named Cecil. “If all jobs paid you nothing, what would you do?” “ His intent was, if you are happy doing it for nothing, you would be happy doing it for life.” said Robinson. The intent to that question had Robinson think real hard. Cecil was a truck driver before becoming blind and became a counselor, so Robinson thought being a counselor himself would be something he would like to pursue, but he didn’t think it was possible, considering he

convinced himself that he was “To dumb to go to school.” After much encouragement from Cecil, Robinson obtained a Bachelors degree and later a Masters of Vocational Rehabilitation. Now Robinson has an administrative position in the State Department of Rehabilitative Services (DRS). Robinson encourages those with disabilities to apply for State (DRS) that are available to them and not to let a disability be a barrier to your employment. Guest speaker Carlos Dominguez, member of the Kiowa Tribe and participant in both the State Department of Rehabilitative Services and Comanche Nation Vocational Rehabilitation Program, has also overcome the struggles of continuing college with a disability. Dominguez, who was 19 years old at the time, was hit by someone under the inﬂuence while he was driving to his morning class. Dominguez suffered a severe spinal injury that left him a quadriplegic. After spending two months in the Trauma Unit of Oklahoma University Hospital he was transferred to the Jim Thorpe Rehabilitation Hospital, it was then that Dominguez decided to go back to college and to change his major from Mathematics to Psychology. Now Dominguez is spon-

sored by the Christopher Reeve’s Foundation, he is also a certified peer mentor of both the Reeve’s foundation and the Untied Spinal Cord Association. Dominguez has done as many as 15 speaking engagements and has continued being active in sports. The Comanche Nation Vocational Rehabilitative Program (CNVRP) has stated, they are grateful to have had these two individuals share their personal stories with the people in attendance. Closing out the event the (CNVRP) handed out evaluation regarding the event and presentations. A total of 60 evaluations were filled out and turned in, here is the feedback that (CNVRP) would like to share:

The CNVRP handed an evaluation to those in attendance. A total of 60 evaluations were filled out and returned. An example of the feedback for the survey participants are as follows: 1. The objectives of the presentation concerning vocational rehabilitation were clearly defined. Strongly agree – 53% Agree – 33% 2. The objectives of the presentation concerning vision and eye care were clearly defined. Strongly agree – 55% Agree – 32% 3. Participation and in-

Courtesy Photo

Carlos Dominguez, who is a participant of the Vocational Rehabilitation Program, shares his story during the event. teraction were encouraged. Strongly Agree – 53% Agree – 28% 4. The topics were relevant to me. Strongly Agree – 43% Agree – 33% 5. The content was organized and easy to follow along. Strongly Agree – 58% Agree – 28% 6. I learned more about vocational rehabilitation in this session. Strongly agree – 48% Agree – 25% 7. I learned more about the importance of vision and eye care in this session. Strongly agree – 53% Agree – 33% 8. The information will be helpful to me. Strongly agree 58% Agree – 25% 9. The presenters were helpful and knowledgeable. Strongly agree – 63% A g r e e 23% 10. The presenters were well prepared. Strongly agree – 62% Agree – 23% 11. The meeting room and facilities were adequate. Strongly agree – 65% Agree – 18% 12. The time allotted for presentation was sufficient. Strongly agree – 55% Agree – 28%

Comanche Nation Diabetes Program Hosts Lunch & Learn for National Breast Cancer Awareness Month The Comanche Nation Diabetes Program and the Lawton Indian Hospital are inviting everyone to a Lunch and Learn about Breast Cancer Awareness. With October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Dia-

betes Awareness Program and IHS wants to teach ladies about the importance of learning about the cancer. According to the US Breast Cancer Statistics, about one in eight US women, about 12%, will develop invasive breast cancer over the course

of her lifetime. In 2016, an estimated 246,660 new cases of invasive breast cancer was expected to be diagnosed in women. The Lunch & Learn will be 10:30 a.m.-noon October 13 at the

Comanche Nation Complex’s Watchetaker Hall. Guest Speakers will be Dr. Steven Hults, Women’s Health Clinic, and Shelly Myers, Radiology and Mammography. There will be door prizes and lunch will be provided.

For more information, contact Marilyn Figueroa, (580) 2804674, or Romelia Kassanavoid, (580) 354-5501. Participants must call to register by October 7.

October 2016

The Comanche Nation News

Culinary Corner Recipes for Home Cooking Mexican Casserole • • • • • •

Ingredients 1 bag Doritos 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast cooked and chopped 1 med. onion chopped 1 large can cream of chicken 1 can rotel tomatoes 2 cups shredded cheese (like Colby and Monterey)

Directions 1. Preheat oven to 350. 2. Cook chicken breast until done; save half of the juice. Cut into small pieces. Crush Doritos and place half on bottom of square pan. Put half the chicken on top of chips. 3. In a small bowl combine chopped onion, cream of chicken, rotel tomatoes and the juice from the chicken. Mix well. Add half of mixture on top of chicken. 4. Add just about two handfuls of chips to the top and then add rest of the chicken and mixture to the top of the chips. Top with the rest of the chips and then add cheese. 5. Put in the oven for 20 to 30 mins. until cheese is melted.

Powwow Trail Sweet Laurenzana’s 18th Birthday Powwow

November 5, 2 p.m.10:30 p.m., Watchetaker Hall located at the Comanche Nation Complex, 584 NW Bingo Rd., Lawton, Okla. Emcee- Cy Ahtone; Head Man- Butch Tahsequah; Head Lady- Charlotte Juarez; Head Singer- Joel Laurenzana and F Troop; Co Host- Comanche Tribal Veteran’s Association and Chasenah Family; Arena Director- Larney Haun-goo-ah; Security- Steven Redbird. 2 p.m.- 5 p.m., Gourd Dance; 5 p.m.-6 p.m., Break for Supper, 6 p.m.-7 p.m., All contestants must sign in and be in full regalia. 6 p.m.-7 p.m., Resume Gourd Dance. Contest: Men’s Straight1st, 2nd and 3rd place; Lady’s Cloth- 1st, 2nd and 3rd place ; Pretty Shawl- 1st and 2nd place

and Tiny Tots. Vendor Fee is $15. For more information contact Cobb Laurenzana at (580) 713-3268 or Diana (580) 419-3756.

Jaely Rose Marie “Yannie Peta” 9th Birthday Powwow November 19, 1 p.m.10 p.m. at the Comanche Nation Community Center, Julia Mahseet Rd., Apache, Okla. Emcee- Eugene Blackbeard; Co Host Emcee- Michael Burgess; Head Man- Bruce Neconie; Head Lady- Daisy Swift; Head Little Man- Ryan Jon Swift Jr.; Head Little Girl- Azure (Taa Tatsinuupi) Gallegos. 1 p.m.- 5 p.m, Gourd Dance; 5:30 p.m.- 6:30 p.m., Supper Break. Contest: Junior Boys and Girls- All Categories; Women’s

Pretty Shawl and Tiny Tots. Vendor space (6x10) $25. For more information contact Shantilly Rogers (405) 5417929 or Michael Burgess (580) 458-7000.

16th Annual New Year’s Eve Sobriety Powwow December 31 at the Student Life Center located at Bacone College, 2412 East Shawnee Rd., Muskogee, Okla. Emcee- Sam Howell; Head Gourd Singer- Ryaa Roan Horse; Head Singer- Leonard Cozad; Head Man- Josiah Hair; Head Lady- Dawn Buffalohead; Head Gourd Dancer- Clifford Springwater; Color Guard- Muscogee Creek Nation; Arena Director- Larry Tsosie; Host Northern Drum- Red Land Singers. 1 p.m.- 4:30 p.m., Gourd Dance; 4:30 p.m.- 6 p.m., Sup-

per Break; 6 p.m.- 7 p.m., Gourd Dance; 7 p.m., Grand Entry. 4 p.m.- 7 p.m., Registration for all contest dancers, all contestants must be in grand entry to compete. Contest: Men’s Fancy, Straight Dance, Traditional, Chicken Dance, Men’s Golden Age, Grandfather-Grandson, Jr. Boy’s Straight, Women’s Cloth, Mother-Daughter, Jingle Dress and Fancy Shawl Combined, Women’s Buckskin, Jr., Girls Cloth, Tiny Tots. Vendor must reserve a booth space (10x10) $60. For more information contact, Lorraine Bosin (918) 639-7999.

Send your Powwow Flyers to Email candacet@comanchenation. com Mail The Comanche Nation News ATTN:Powwow Trail PO Box 908 Lawton, OK 73502-0908 HAND DELIVER Comanche Nation PIO Office 584 NW Bingo Rd.,Lawton Comanche Nation Complex Next to Food Distribution Office and Capitol Improvement Bldg. The deadline is the 15th of every month for the following issue.

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

A COMANCHE OWNED BUSINESS. Small Steps Ahead is a Comanche Owned Day care LLC., located at 5525 NW Cache Road Suite 6.. They have been open since July 5th The hours are from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.. “We are now taking Children Applications and Employment Applications and we work along with the Comanche Nation WIA department,” said Tonyelle Atauvich Owner/Director of the Daycare. If you have any questions feel free to contact the Director, Tonyelle Atauvich at (580) 355-2991.

October 2016

The Comanche Nation News

Milestones Happy Belated Birthday

Susan Lynn Tahpay- September 1 Scout Rider Martin- September 8 Emily Kathryn Michelle MartinezSeptember 13

Happy Birthday Jacobi Gunner Tenequer Selma (Niva) Connywerdy-Herrera Ethan Herrera- October 1 Leslie Kay Springer- October 1 Ida Fae Bointy- October 1 Opal Gore- October 1 Matthew T Pohocsucut-October 2 Charisse Redbone- October 3 Hah-Tee Delgado- October 3 Rance Pollard- October 4 Jarissa Patience Redbone- October 5 Karen Sue Samis- October 7 Francis Attocknie III- October 9 Wayla Wauqua- October 9 Tomoyake Tahchawwickah- October 10 Coral Douglas- October 11 Jon Redelk- October 11 Emanuel Tahhahwah- October 12 Nahmie Banderas- October 12 Annjaleah Lowe- October 13 Marisela Camacho- October 13 Angel Satoe- October 15 Tony Pennah- October 18 Elmer Jay Pennah- October 19 Rodney Lukens- October 19 Brenna Brinkman- October 20 Nakoa Tahhahwah- October 20 Phillip Gilliam- October 25 Travis Codynah- October 26 Lorrie Dawn Mowatt- October 27 Scarlett Codynah- October 29 Angel Thompson- October 30 Cynthia Nicole Martinez- October 30 Desire’ Attocknie- October 31

Happy Belated Birthday Susan Lynn Tahpay September 1

Happy Birthday Scout Rider Martin September 8

Happy 5th Birthday Jacobi Gunner Tenequer Love Mom & Dad

Happy Birthday Selma (Niva) Connywerdy-Herrera

Happy Birthday Opal Gore October 1

Happy Birthday Karen Sue Samis October 7

Happy Birthday Wayla Wauqua October 9

Tomoyake Tahchawwickah

Happy 10th Birthday October 10

Happy Birthday Annjaleah Lowe October 13

Happy Birthday Marisela Camacho October 13

Happy 19th Birthday Brenna Brinkman October 20

Happy Birthday Travis Codynah October 26

Happy Birthday Scarlett Codynah October 29

Happy Birthday Angel Thompson October 30

Happy 21st Birthday Ivan Thomas Poahway October 30

Happy Birthday Saadia Thompson October 31

Shantelle (Sweet) Laurenzana

Happy 18th Birthday

In Loving Memory Meech Aitson

In Loving Memory

In Loving Memory Victoria Jean Toahty

Anniversaries Nathan Lopez & Candice Duarte Lopez September 21~ Married 7 years

November 5 “Sweet Pie” Love you always from Daddy, Mom, Diane & all her sisters and brothers near and far. From all her many, many cousins on both sides.

March 12, 1961 - Sept. 11, 2015

We love and miss you always, Bobbie, Candice, Kevin, Deidra, Justin, Robbie and all the grandbabies!

Just Married

Kendall Mithlo and his new bride, Charliandra were married Saturday, September 10, 2016 at Ruidoso, New Mexico

In Loving Memory Brenda Kay Alvarez July 5, 1951- October 18, 2011

In Loving Memory Debra Ann Pewewardy

“If Tears Could Build A Stairway”

If tears could build a stairway and memories were a lane We would walk right up to heaven and bring you back again. No farewell words were spoken, no time to say goodbye, you were gone before we knew it. And only God knows why our hearts still ache in sadness and secret tears still ﬂow. But now we know you want us to morn for you no more, to remember all the happy times. Life still has much in store since you’ll never be forgotten We pledge to you today, a cherished place within our heart, is where you’ll always stay. Love & Miss you Pewewardy & Alvarez Families

November 5, 1955October 4, 2010

In Loving Memory La’maya Debra Cravin Greaves June 11, 2007September 29, 2010

“In Our Hearts”

We thought of you today. But that is nothing new. We thought about you yesterday. And days before that too. We think of you in silence. We often speak your name. Now all we have memories. And your picture in a frame. Your memory is our keepsake. With which we’ll never part. God has you in his keeping. We have you in our hearts. -Author: Unknown Love & Miss You, Pewewardy & Greaves Families

VIOLETTA RAE “PEPPER” GONZALES NOVEMBER 30, 1967OCTOBER 3, 2011

LOVE AND MISS YOU VERY MUCH. LOVE, MOM, MARCY, DINO, LORRIE DAWN, KENDALL, AND FAMILY The Comanche Nation News November Edition Deadline: October 15, before 5 p.m. Email: candacet@ comanchenation.com Contact:(580)492-3386 Mail:Comanche Nation/ PIO P.O. Box 908 Lawton, OK 73501

October 12, 1973October 4, 2015

I thought of you today, But that’s nothing new. I thought of you yesterday and days before that to. I think of you in silence, I often speak your name. All I have is your memories and your picture in a frame. Your memory is a keepsake from which I’ll never part. God has you in his arms, I have you in my heart. Love you always, Nae and the Girls #FOREVEROURLADY BUG#YELLOWMONK EYZR4EVA

October 2016

Obituaries Janelle YokesuiteMowatt

Mowatt Janelle Yokesuite-Mowatt, 83, of Cache went to be with her Lord on Tuesday, September 6, with her loving family by her side. Funeral service was at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel with Tina Baker officiating. Burial with military honors followed at Cache Creek KCA Cemetery west of Apache under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home. Prayer service was at Comanche Nation Funeral Home on Thursday, September 8. Mowatt was born to Henry Lookingglass and Lilly Yokesuite at

the Kiowa Indian Hospital in Lawton. She graduated from Fort Sill Indian School and attended Cameron College, Durant College and also attended school in San Jose, California. She was a proud member of the Comanche Nation of Oklahoma and also Sherwood Tsotigh Memorial UMC in Cache. Mowatt enlisted in the US Marine Corps Reserve in Oklahoma City on 30 April 1954 and served until 13 May 1955 earning the rank of Private. She completed her Boot Training at Parris Island Marine Corps Training Depot, South Carolina. After her Boot Training she was sent, by train, to Camp Pendleton, California and assigned to the Base Exchange. She also drove for the Base Commander. She was awarded the National Defense Service Medal. Mowatt was member of the first all Women’s Veterans Color Guard in 2009 carried the colors at Homecoming in Walters. Members also included: LTC Rhonda Williams, SPC Eleanor McDaniel, SGT Laura Phillips, and SSG Jerri Locklear. Mowatt enjoyed going to Powwows, listening to Comanche hymns, reading, dancing at Powwows, she often made fry bread for the Comanche tribe, Comanche Fair, and the Shunkamolah family at Hominy PowWow and she also adhered to Comanche ways and felt strongly about passing these traditions on to all her kids. She was a mother of

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many to the students at Ft. Sill Indian School, Riverside Indian School and Concho Indian School and also to many others who were friends or close to her kids or family. She really enjoyed lending a helping hand to any one that needed her. She carried a strong mind and was simply a beautiful soul. Mowatt is survived by: three children, Michael Yokesuite; Virgie and Rick Komahcheet, both of Cache; and Teresa “Patty” Bright of Lawton; a brother, Carleton Kopaddy of Cordell; 3 sisters, Luella Lumbert of Lawton; Winifred Sovo of Lawton, and Brenda Asheington of Lawton; her grandchildren: Jenifer Komahcheet, T.J. Mowatt, Ashley Mowatt Schreutem, Trevor Bright, and Gaenelle Tahah; great grand kids: Jacob and Julia Tahah, Karissa and Kamille Komahcheet, and Aiyana, Marcus, Tasia, Naima, and JaShon Mowatt and plenty other family members and friends. She is preceded in death by her parents: Henry Lookingglass and Lilly Yokesuite; Marie Yokesuite Haumpy Deloris Yokesuite Kawaykla, Rose Atauvich Yokesuite and Pearl Atauvich, sisters to Lilly Yokesuite, Their dad was Baldwin Yokesuite and mother to Lilly, Rose and Pearl was Ella Poafpybitty; two brothers Donnie Yokesuite and Sammy Kopaddy, and two sisters Lillian Yokesuite Simmons and Sandra Yokesuite Davis.

Dear TCNN

Mark 9:47 “...And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out: it is better for thee to enter into the kingdom of God with one eye, than having two eyes be cast into hell ﬁre.”

Translated to the Comanche Language

“piarüahatsa sümü’oyetü kohtoompüma ta na’ona’aihkatu’ika [tüasü sümü’oyetü navehkapü God-ha ta uhtu’ena onama na’ona’aihkatu’ika]” -From the Book Mark-ha Tsaatu Narumu’ipu (The Gospel of Mark in Comanche and English Copyright 1958

JESUS SAID, “COME UNTO ME, ALL YE THAT LABOUR AND ARE HEAVY LADEN, AND I WILL GIVE YOU REST.” (MATTHEW 11:28)

C0ME VISIT US…

CHRIST-CENTERED BIBLE PREACHING TRIBAL HYMN SINGING EVERYONE WELCOME LOCATION: 2502 SW B Ave., Lawton, Oklahoma

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

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

Letters to the Editor Dear TCNN

We are an all youth basketball team called SWOK Madness. We are from the Southwest area of Oklahoma and are all in high school in the surrounding areas. Our team consist of enrolled tribal members and nonIndian players. I am the coach and my wife is the coordinator/ Assistance Coach. The team was formed on the idea of the children that are playing high school ball don’t have the opportunity to start and to better their skills while in school. This is your chance to play against other players and get better. And some of our kids have improve for the next level (College). We have had three successful seasons with our boys and now some have graduated and move on to their next level. We have spots to fill with the next player and of course the parents. Parents we only ask if you chooses to have your son play is that you help with fund raisers for the boys. So if you want to have the chance to play basketball during the summer contact me. 580-585-8767 or 580-647-9016. Ages are from 9th to 12th graders. Brian Wahnee SWOK Madness Dear TCNN, RESPECT. I attended a funeral on 13 August in Apache and again noticed some things I consider inappropriate. Since 2002 I have attended about 250 funerals with the majority being funerals for our veterans and the rest being family and friends. That’s a lot of funerals. What I have noticed over years is the attire that many people wear and their conduct at these funerals. Funerals to me, is a solemn time for the deceased and their family.

Growing up with my grandparents I was taught you wear your “Sunday Best” when attending funerals and you paid attention during the service. My grandfather always wore a beaded tie, a long sleeve shirt and dress pants and my grandmother always wore a dress. What I see nowadays is a large number the men and boys wearing baggy shorts or even cutoffs or sweat pants, t-shirts, some with the sleeves cut off and the women and girls with short shorts or baggy shorts and tank tops. I see a lot people with cell phones “texting” during the services or visiting and sometimes babies crying to the point you can’t hear what is being said. I’ve been to a few non-Indian funerals and never seen what I’ve described above. Maybe it’s okay to wear whatever, to stay on your phone throughout the service, to even visit during the service. I know it wasn’t during my grandparent’s lifetime and have taught my children and grandchildren what is proper, to me, at funerals. Lanny Asepermy Comanche Veteran/Tribal Member Dear TCNN, On September 30, 2015, I, Herbert Strunk, Chairman of Steuben Unit: Prince Solms von Braunfels.,a chapter of the oldest German-American organization: the Steuben Society of America, along with his secretary/ treasurer, Richard Odorfer, presented a plaque to Charlotte McCurtain, Director of Vocational Rehabilitation. The purpose of our presentation, which was encouraged by the Steuben Council in New York, was to thank the descendants of the noble Comanche Nation for the brave and generous help their forefathers afforded German immigrants desper-

ately seeking land for sustenance in the 1840’s. From the tribal members in attendance who witnessed the presentation was a friendly appreciation. Numerous German-Americans still remember, and will always be grateful for the generosity, and help of Chief Santana, Chief Old Owl, and the noble Lords of the Plains during that dangerous time of suffering for German Immigrants. Herbert Strunk

Send your Letters to the Editor to: EMAIL jolenes@comanchenation. com MAIL The Comanche Nation News ATTN: Letters to the Editor PO Box 908 Lawton, OK 73502-0908 HAND DELIVER Comanche Nation PIO Office 584 NW Bingo Rd.,Lawton Comanche Nation Complex Next to Food Distribution Office and Capitol Improvement Bldg.

Courtesy Photo

COMANCHE INTERN AT STATE CAPITOL. Harrison L. Guy is currently pursuing a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Oklahoma City University and serving an internship with Secretary of State Chris Benge at the State Capitol Building.ABOVE: Oklahoma Governor, Mary Fallon, is ﬂanked with Benge and Guy, Guy is a member of the Comanche Nation and also Apache, Tlingit, and Caddo Tribes. He is a 2nd degree black belt in Pok Dok Suri Mixed Martial Arts, and was inducted into Martial Artist Hall of Fame in Frederick, Maryland in 2007. He is also an Eagle Scout and a member of St. Andrews Catholic Church in Moore, Okla. Guy is the son of Lyman and Lavina Guy of Oklahoma City, Okla. Guy graduated from the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma in Chickasha in December of 2015, with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Music.