Carnegie, Feburary 2020 Volume 3 Issue 6 Celebrating the Oldest Living Toyebo held a long and distinguish career in education Kiowa Tribal Chairman, Matthew Komalty, was also serving as both a coach and teacher.1 He even served as a present and gave a special gift to Toyebo; a beautiful counselor for the boys’ guidance department at Concho Pendleton Robe along with heartfelt wishes that Luke Indian School in Concho, Oklahoma. will continue to be with us (the Kiowa Tribe). Other tribal leadership was present to give their respect to He married Rosemary Sadongei and together they raised Luke Sr.; those included former Kiowa Chairman, three children: Luke Jr., Janet English, and Sharon Hunter. Dawes Two-Hatchett and Donald Tofpi along with the Apache Tribal Chairman Bobby Komardley. It was in 1963 that Luke Sr. began his work as a higher education specialist and budget officer for the Bureau of Delores Herragara, Kiowa Elder, stated openly that Indian Affairs (BIA) office in Anadarko, Oklahoma until his Luke is a very good brother. “In Kiowa culture, it’s the retirement in 1985. A desire to help his Kiowa people lead brothers who set and lead by example. He has led a very him into coming out of retirement to serve as the Kiowa Tax good life and is someone everyone can look up to,” Commission Director for several years. expressed Herragara.

The Kiowa Black Leggings Warrior Society, Ton-kon- gah, had a special presentation for Luke Toyebo Sr. The honorable Dr. Rhodes said, “We [Ton-kon-gah] had to By Dianna Hadley take an opportunity to recognize our oldest Kiowa Veteran. No one truly knows the impact of WWII; but ANADARKO, Okla. – Friends and family filled the Iscani this man has endured and overcame all obstacles.” It gym on January 12, 2020 to celebrate Luke Toyebo Sr. was then the Sargent of Arms, Robert Short, placed a 99th Birthday. As the oldest living Kiowa male and WWII War Bonnet on Mr Toyebo to honor his achievements. veteran, Mr. Toyebo is greatly loved and respected among It was an outstanding moment, several ‘lulu’s’ were his people and other communities. heard throughout the room while Luke stood proudly with the headdress on. Luke Sr. was born five miles southwest of Mountain View on January 3, 1921; at his grandmother’s near Big Tree Paster Gerald Haunpo said it best, “We are very Crossing on Rainy Mountain Creek, a Kiowa landmark. fortunate for Luke Toyebo Sr. life.” His children and His parents were Milton and Maggie (Quoetone) Toyebo. grandchildren done well at putting this event together to give tribute and honor his legacy. A lot of prayers have Mr. Toyebo still remembers riding horseback as a means been said to celebrate again next year for his 100th of transportation to school, town, and church. A longtime birthday. member of the Rainy Mountain Baptist Church, he still ______remains active as a deacon and attends services regularly. 1. Luke Toyebo Sr. coached and taught at the following schools: Putnam City Schools, Putnam, Oklahoma; Hope Public Schools, New Mexico; Fay Public Schools, Fay, Oklahoma. A graduate from Mountain View Public School, Class of Toyebo Sr first year at Punam City as a wrestle and track year was successful. He had 1 boy 1940; he continued his education at Oklahoma Baptist who won state for wrestling and another who won state for the ½ mile run. University on a football scholarship (1940-1941 when OBU discontinued its football program). “My heart is full; I see a lot of people here celebrating my birthday. Thanking God for the many blessings He gives us. The summer of 1942 lead Toyebo into the U.S. Coast I am blessed today,” expressed Toyebo to the room of Guard during World War II. He attended boot camp at guests. He later stated that he didn’t think he would be able Algiers, La., and was assigned to the Coast Guard Radio to live this long; however, he keeps faith and continues to School in Atlantic City, NJ to complete training with a pray. Luke Sr. stays active by going to the barber shop every rank of RM3C. He served aboard the USS Agassiz for 29 so often and attending church every Sunday. months as a radio operator. Luke was honorably discharged in February 1946 as a RM1C. Gerald Haunpo, Pastor of Rainy Mountain, had a moment to express his love and admiration for Luke Sr. He said, “over After his military career, Luke Sr. continued his education the years I have been very fortunate to meet and get to know with a bachelor’s degree in Business from Southwest a number of elders through the ministry; I can honestly tell Oklahoma State University. you that Luke is a praying man and I admire his faith." A New Vision for Kiowa Tribe Housing Authority

[email protected] PH: (405) 339 - 8100

L to R:Kari; Connie Bread, Donnie Ahhaitty KTHA Board; Daniel Cozad, KTHA Board; Bruce Poolaw, KTHA Board; Yvette Zotigh, Happy Pewo, Ed Wahkinney; Josiah Ware, Thomas Goodeagle; (Front) Chairman Komalty; Billy Komahcheet; Randy Snead.

The collaboration and organized effort of the Kiowa Tribe Currently HUD has approved an Indian Housing Plan Legislators, Executive Branch, and Executive Director of (IHP). The IHP will allow funds for repairs to Kiowa Housing were able to successfully and legally dissolve ‘existing’ Kiowa homes, something the Kiowa Tribe ANADARKO, Okla. – It’s been about fifteen years that the the Kiowa Housing Authority at that time. It was then agreed was unable to do with its previous administration. The Kiowa Tribe has had its Kiowa Housing Authority back and that the rebuilding of program and its name would be Kiowa IHP will assist tribal elders with both minor repairs fully funded by the Housing and Urban Development Tribe Housing Authority (KTHA). under $5,000.00 and/or major (repairs ranging from (HUD). Back in 2004 the Southern Plain Office of Native $5K to $35K), and emergency repairs. The plan will American Programs (SPONAP), a division HUD, began its Finally, in 2018 the Kiowa Tribe hired an Executive Director also distribute monies to other tribal members who are review on the Kiowa Housing Authority. for KTHA, Billy Komahcheet, with the authorization of KTHA homeowners and in need of repairs; apportion to down Board of Commissioners, Bruce Poolaw, Chairman; Daniel payment and closing costs. A small budget for The result brought a total of fourteen issues along with four Cozad, Vice Chairman; Donnie Ahhaitty, Treasurer; and improvements for the KTHA Office building to be concerns from the Office of Inspector General (OIG). In Amanda Rivera, Secretary. Once KTHA had its core staff in brought up to date. And a small portion set aside for 2017 HUD made their decision to implement ‘Remedial order the work began to address and correct the remedial other projects in the future. Action’ against the Kiowa Tribe; this meant that the Kiowa actions required by HUD. Tribe would lose its Native American Housing Assistance A very special project has been brought to the table, and Self Determination Act (NAHASDA) funds. The It took months of communication between KTHA, SPONAP the Elder Community Project. Plans are still under message was clear, the Kiowa Tribe would not have access staff, as well as the commissioners to meet all the requirements. development, but the goal is to build a Kiowa Elder to the NAHASDA funds until they were able to prove to the Then on July 3, 2019; Chairman Komalty received a Community Center. The project will need more Southern Plain’s Office of Native American Programs notification from HUD that all requirements were met. The funding to make this vision a reality, but it is not (SPONAP) that they could oversee their funds in a Kiowa Tribe Housing Authority were able to demonstrate that impossible. responsible, compliant, and regulatory manner. they were in compliance with Housing and Urban Development. KTHA administration proved itself to be It is the goal of the Kiowa Tribe and the Kiowa Tribe October 2017 Kiowa Tribal Chairman, Matthew Komalty, responsible and would become the Tribally Designated Housing Housing Authority to be an entity for the tribe as well implemented an ‘Emergency Hire’ to employ an Executive Entity (TDHE) for the Kiowa Tribe. The funding was fully as recognition for the one of the top housing authorities Director to create a responsible housing authority for the restored the following month on August 5, 2019. for the region and nation. KTHA Director, Billy Kiowa Tribe. It was a priority for Chairman Komalty to Komahcheet, said that the services provided are not for ensure a responsible staff for Kiowa Housing in order for Once funding was in place Chairman Komalty stated that the recognition of the administration bur for the Kiowa the Kiowa Tribe to begin the process of requesting the ‘priority’ for KTHA will be for Kiowa Tribal members who are Tribal members. NAHASDA funds back into the program. in desperate need of home repairs, especially the elderly. KIOWA NEWS PAGE 2 February 2020 ______Phil "Joe Fish" Dupoint Will Receive an Vice Chairwoman, Rhonda Ahhaitty, Honorary Doctorate Degree Shares Her Story CARNEGIE, Okla. – Thursday, February 6, 2020; is a day Phil “Joe Fish” Dupoint will not forget. The morning he received a very special letter from Bacone College President, Dr. Ferlin Clark. The letter stated: It is my honor to inform you that you were nominated to the Bacone College Board of Trustees to receive an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters Degree for your dedicated service to improving the lives of people and specifically our Native American communities.

Shock, disbelieve, and joy were the feelings Mr. Dupoint felt upon reading the letter. A Ph.D is something very few accomplish which why he was in ‘awe’. The letter also stated that the board unanimously approved for his life-long commitment to the preservation and perpetuation of American Indian cultural traditions, specifically Kiowa traditional education, arts, humanities, TalkJive radio host/owner Kellie . Lewis interviews Vice Chairwoman Rhonda Ahhaitty culture, and language, as well as being a spiritual and cultural leader with the Kiowa Gourd Clan and CARNEGIE, Okla. – She never had the courage to run for public office. That is the the Native American Church. words from Kiowa Tribal member Rhonda Ahhaitty. But oh how that has changed, Ahhaitty is now the tribe’s Vice Chairwoman. She went from Kiowa Business The name Joe Fish is known throughout Native Committee Secretary to Legislator, to the tribe’s second in command. country, his knowledge of songs and dances is what most desire to learn. The memory he shares about Ahhaitty told her story to Talk Jive’s Kellie J. Lewis, owner, host, entrepreneur and his people, the Kiowa Tribe; makes him an Kiowa descendant (Pawnee/Kiowa/Wichita) on a new podcast series called ‘NDN excellent advocate for all Indigenous people. Girls.’ A series of audio files featuring leading ladies in Native Country. “We really have a lot of high powered Indian women across Indian Country and we don’t celebrate Mr. Dupoint leads by example, he does his best to ourselves enough,” said Lewis. uphold the values his folks, Georgia (Botone) and Joseph Dupoint, taught him at a young age. Mr. The platform of the podcast is to utilize these leading ladies as examples and encourage Dupoint holds on to the memory of his parents and young females to get involved with their churches, communities, tribes, and state the lessons he learned about his Kiowa heritage and governments. culture. Ahhaitty explained she didn’t always get the leadership and encouragement she needed This is vital in preserving the Kiowa Tribe and its as a young girl. Not because of the lack of parental or grandparent guidance, but history. Like other Indigenous people around the because they weren’t exposed to that way of life. “They [white man] ripped us from our world, the Kiowa must rely on individuals like Mr. parents, homes, and families. They made us go to school…and they took our language Dupoint. Who shares as much as he can about the away and made us become educated. So here we are now educated Indians. That wasn’t Kiowa language, songs, dances, and ceremonies. the case back in the day. Before we wouldn’t fight back because we weren’t educated. He is cautious about information to others outside But now, you are dealing with educated Indians.” the Kiowa Tribe, certain traditions must remain within the tribe. Still, he is able to give visitors a The ‘NDN Girls’ podcast was a project of Lewis’ as an attempt to inspire young girls better understanding of who the Kiowa people are. and women to step up and become leaders like Ahhaitty. She said sadly it wasn’t always this way. Nowadays females have a like never before. “We [women] have The Bacone College will host a banquet and kind of relegated ourselves into this invisible role, being the woman behind the man. graduation ceremony this spring, May 2020; Mr. Not really speaking up. In this day and age, Indian girls don’t have those limitations but Dupoint will officially receive his PhD credentials they still don’t understand that they have a place there. They are afraid to use their then. Kiowa News will be there to complete this voices,” explained Lewis. story. The ‘NDN Girls’ podcast hopes to be that platform to break through the silent barrier of Indian females holding back and not exploring their full potential. “To hear these stories and hear these women and how they have pushed through their barriers and to succeed and to give us all of this knowledge and to still encourage us to succeed no matter what age.”

Lewis explained she is passionate about this series because of her own career challenges. “I want the Indian women to come on this show to encourage these young ladies to say this is what I wish I would have been told…when I was younger. If I would have been told, hey hang on just a little bit longer do this, believe in yourself, believe in your dreams and just work hard. If I would have been told at that age. It would have made all the difference.”

You can hear Lewis’ full interview with Rhonda Ahhaitty when the podcast ‘NDN Girls’ series launches on February 7, 2020. Go to TalkJive.org to get a complete schedule and line up of special guests.

Ahhaitty talks about her life growing up, her start in politics, her barriers as a young Native female and her triumphs and encouragement to the next female generation.

NDN Girls will launch February 7, 2020; visit TalkJive.org to see schedule.

Kiowa News: Gaui Tau:De'Gya is a monthly publication; the The Kiowa Chairman fully supports the Bill of staff consisting of writers and photographers are proud Rights as it reads in the Kiowa Constitution, members of the Native American Journalism Association Kiowa News is available at the following locations: Article 1- Section b: (NAJA). Carnegie, OK - Kiowa Tribal Complex, Carnegie Library, Hop n Sack, IHS Clinic, and the corner store by 4-way stop; Anadarko, OK - IHS Clinic, Kiowa Offices, Kiowa Housing Authority, Apache Housing, Oklahoma Arts & Crafts, and Warrior Mart; Lawton, OK - IHS hospital, Kiowa District 4 Legislature Office, and Comanche Gift Shop; Apache, OK - Hop The government of the tribe shall not make or Contributing writers & photographers: Dianna Hadley, n Sack; Mt View, OK - Hop n Sack; Hobart, OK - Sunny's enforce any law which prohibits the freedom of Neely Tsoodle, and Adriel Clements. Convenience Store; Oklahoma City, OK - Indian Clinic; speech, expression, or of the press, or the right of Norman, OK - Kiowa District 7 Legislature Office. the People peaceably to assemble and to petition All stories, pictures, and announcements may be sent to the government for redress of grievance. [email protected] for publication inside Kiowa News. KIOWA NEWS PAGE 3 February 2020

From the desk of Kiowa Tribal Chairman AVT Student KHEGP Student of the Month of the Month - Matt Komalty

Greetings Tribal Members! More great news to report; we now have a Welcome to the month of February, time is Chief Finance Officer (CFO) in place. His sure flying in this 2020. I hope everyone name is Adam Valdez from Los Angeles, stayed warm and safe during our short Cali., who is originally from Lookeba snowstorm that blew through Oklahoma. The Sickles, Okla. Valdez is from the Kickapoo complex shut down for the snow day in order Tribe of Oklahoma and comes with an to keep everyone safe. Now that the snow is extensive financial background. He is a gone, it’s time to look forward to the certified public accountant with vast beautiful spring weather. knowledge in gaming and tribal operations

and corporate funding. We are very lucky to

Moving forward, I wanted to update you on have him. some of the areas we’ve been working on. On January 30, 2020, we dedicated our new The tribal gaming compact is still in question Food Distribution Center. For over a year, by Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt. I continue to Hannah Lewis grew up in Ft. Cobb, the distribution center was temporarily stand united with the rest of the 39 tribes and Oklahoma and graduated from housed in the transportation building (west of will not shift my position and agree on the Riverside Indian High School. Her the complex). The revamps to the old 1988 renewal of the compact (that allows Class III Kennade Long is from Oklahoma City, mother is Julia Lewis and her father is building comes as a special blessing. We are gaming) happened on January 1, 2020. A Oklahoma and is the daughter of Debbie Tim Lewis Sr. She also has a daughter now better equipped to serve the people with federal complaint was filed by three of and Alan Long. She graduated from named Amora Lewis. She is a member pride and efficiency. Ten feet were added to Oklahoma’s largest tribes and I support the Putnam City North high school. She then of SKILLS USA. She loves doing hair, the warehouse making room for more food lawsuit. attended Oklahoma State University in make-up, and being a mom 24/7. storage. The renovation also allowed for a Stillwater, Oklahoma where she state of the art kitchen which is being used I will end this report on more positive news. graduated in 2017 with her Bachelor’s Hannah is a full time student at Caddo for food demonstrations and cooking classes. The Kiowa Tribe Veterans Affairs Program degree in Psychology. Kennade currently Kiowa Technology Center in the (KTVAP) received a new ten passenger van attends the Cosmetology program. She was the The Kiowa Tribe Housing Authority for veterans and handicapped accessible with where she is pursuing her Master’s former BITE president and SKILLS (KTHA) continues to make big strides. As a power lift for veterans who may be degree in Clinical Professional USA president and she’s proud to be you may know, the tribe had gone without a wheelchair-bound. Thanks to a $50-thousand Counseling with an emphasis in Alcohol the AVT program’s student of the housing authority for more than fifteen years. grant from the Wounded Warrior’s Family and Drug Counseling, and she is set to month. Hannah’s been with the Kiowa The funding and new KTHA was restored Support Department we are now able to graduate in May 2020. Kennade Tribe Adult Vocational Training last summer and continues to build on its transport our coveted veterans in comfort. currently gives her time to the Regional program since September 2019. The promise of making repairs and improvements Food Bank of Oklahoma where she is a program has helped her provide for to existing homes. We are happy to announce This is all exciting news. I want to say a big volunteer coordinator assisting herself and her daughter while she that we are in the planning stages of thank you (A-ho) to all our wonderful individuals who are at risk for food attends to school to make a successful developing an elderly community center in employees who help make positive change insecurity. Kennade also interns at life for them. Her future goals are to Carnegie. It’s still premature to say when it happen. Let’s keep up the good work with a Northcare, a community mental graduate, obtain her cosmetology will happen? I will keep you updated. clear 20-20 vision in this 2020! healthcare facility, in Oklahoma City. license, and use that to help others feel Kennade has made both the President’s beautiful then pay her way through ——————–—–—————————————————————————— and Dean’s honor roll for her academic college to get her degree for her and her achievement. Kennade also received the daughter. Kiowa Tribe Supplemental Youth Summer Jeannine Rainbolt College of Education Scholarship in honor of her academics She says: “Thank you to the AVT Program while at the University of Oklahoma. program, Bethany, the Kiowa Tribe, After receiving her Master’s Degree, and my family for all they have done CARNEGIE, Okla.- It’s not every day young Kennade plans to work in the Oklahoma for me and my daughter. Helping me people get a pay incentive, shopping day and That's what we're here to City community in order to serve through school so that I can have an a day of fun. But it happened. The Kiowa individuals who are in need of mental do, provide these kids with education/license behind me is more Tribe Supplemental Youth Summer Program health care as well as those struggling than I could ask for.” (SYSP) employed about twenty area youth work experience that they with addiction. Kennade has a passion between the ages of 16 to 24 years old. SYSP for people and wants to give her time to director Ernie Redbird, III said the program is will need... those who are in need of resources for basically a job and savings program designed SYSP students end their work year with a their mental health. The KHEGP has to give youth a chance at making money, funded Kennade since spring 2017. learning a trade, and budgeting. "That's what bang by spending the money earned. The Kennade states, “Without the help from we're here to do to provide the work program staff takes them on a day of fun at a my tribe, I would not have been able to experience these kids are going to need family entertainment center and shopping for clothing. During their spending spree, the further my education and receive my because for many of them this is their very Master’s degree. I would not have been first actual job," said Redbird III students have a set amount, so they are challenged with getting it right on the dot, able to achieve my academic goals so that I may one day give back to my The program has two employment sessions, taking advantage of sales or coming up with community and my people. I am so one in the summer and one in the winter, a the remaining balance. Bointy admits it’s not easy budgeting on your own. thankful and forever grateful to my tribe time when most students are on break. While and all of the support I have received many chose to use the free time to relax the The program services five counties in or year after year.” SYSP students chose to work. Kayla Bointy Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 4:30 pm around Kiowa jurisdiction. To qualify who is a student at Haskell Indian Nations Phone: (580) 654-6324 students can be a member of any tribe, College interned at the finance office on her Email: [email protected] winter break. “I learned a lot of valuable family income is a consideration, good skills like how to answer the phone correctly, grades, and returning students are a plus. ______——————–—–—————————————————————————— how to address people, the proper etiquette The Kiowa and Comanche Tribes are the for emails, I learned more of that during this only two tribes in southwest Oklahoma who break at the finance apartment at the Apache have SYSP offered to young people. SYSP Tribe," said Bointy. is a program of the Workforce Innovation Hawaii International Conference and Opportunity Act (WIOA) and is funded The youth are required to work 7 weeks over by a federal grant through the U.S. on Education their breaks from school. During that time Department of Labor. Redbird says these they earn around $300. It may not sound like kids are fortunate to have such a program. much, but some of these kids save their own “Money is always tight, especially around The 19th Annual Hawaii International Mrs. Silverhorn-Wolfe was selected money and add to it, or some get promoted Christmas. This program is truly a blessing Conference on Education was held from along with past Higher Education and bonuses. Redbird said it’s all about to many families.” January 4th to January 7th, 2020 in Director, Dr. Sunny Hegwood; learning how to work hard and earning Honolulu, Hawaii. Honolulu is located on Anadarko Public Schools Special incentives. “What I used to tell these kids was If you are an interested student or parent and the island of Oahu. Oahu is often Programs Director, David Sullivan; this is like having a job and these teachers are would like to know more information please nicknamed "the gathering place". As Wichita and Affiliated Tribes like your bosses.” call the Kiowa Tribe SYSP at 580-654-6418. indicated by its nickname, Oahu served as Education Administrator, Misty the gathering place for academicians and Boettger; and Communities in Schools professionals from Education and related of Mid-America Director, Donna fields from all over the world. Bussell to present on the topic of “Developing a Network Improvement The main goal of the Hawaii International Community for Native Student Conference on Education is to provide an Success.” The Higher Education Blast opportunity for academicians and Department continues to work on professionals from various education improvement strategies for holistic related fields from all over the world to student success for our Indigenous from the come together and learn from each other. students. An additional goal of the conference is to provide a place for academicians and professionals with cross-disciplinary Past interests related to education to meet and interact with members inside and outside their own particular disciplines.

Left, Aileen Bointy, The 2020 conference was attended by more than 1150 participants representing right-Winnifred Bointy, more than 21 countries, including the daughters of Jack Bointy Kiowa Tribe Higher Education Director, and Ah Hah Poie; year Amber Silverhorn-Wolfe. The Kiowa Higher Education Department was well range: 1900—1908. represented among a very diverse audience. KIOWA NEWS PAGE 4 February 2020 Your Vote Matters More than a Warehouse

Tribal Chairman Matthew Komalty said Kiowa Tribal Employee, Jeanie Granado, explaining the forms to students, Toyekoyah and Beaver. CARNEGIE, Okla. –The Kiowa Food Distribution (KFD) is more than just a food the best part of this entire project was the Kiowa Tribe Construction department By Adriel Clements Darin Zotigh, Kiowa Tribal member and warehouse, it’s also a grocery store. It did all the work. The tribe did not pay an employee wanted to make sure his voice was offers items from all five food groups at no outside vendor to do the labor. "It makes heard in the next election. cost for Native American families that CARNEGIE, Okla. - Carnegie Public qualify. The KFD held an open house on my heart feel good that we can go here Schools (CPS) has the second-largest and everything we need is right here. I More than a dozen showed up to register at January 30, 2020, to show off its new look. Native American student population per am pleased with the outcome. Now the complex. “It’s very important that the capita in the state of Oklahoma according citizens can shop and take an educational rest of the students in the communities can The building was first built and completed to the Kiowa Tribe Workforce data. course while they are there. The have a voice to have a representative that can in 1988. The wear and tear through the That’s exactly why seniors Tyler opportunities for our people have gotten stand for them, to get things done in the years prompted the staff to seek funds and Toyekoyah and Donavon Beaver assisted better and I am proud of that." school system,” said Zotigh. get a new facelift. Wil L. Brown the on a special voter registration drive. center’s director said prayer was answered The renovations also included new Toyekoyah and Beaver have never voted when they were approved for a $247,457 Hope Worthington works with the offices, new flooring, front lobby and a before, this February will be their first grant from the USDA. “We are able to school's Indian Education and Johnson facelift to the outside. It has a whole new experience. “I feel like our votes matter offer more to our people now. The building O’Malley Program. She along with the look with signage and a front door coming from this community that are mostly was run down and wasn't as comfortable as two seniors helped organize the drive at awning. It took approximately six Native Americans. We outnumber any it is now. When it rained the building their school. More than thirty eligible months to renovate the entire building. other,” said Beaver. would leak water .” students signed up. “I think it’s important During this time they temporarily moved to have a good balance, we represent a the operation to the transportation Worthington is glad her students got The KFD is able to offer more than just diverse group in our school system, it's food items, they are now able to offer building west of the complex. important to have the same percentage on involved. She said regardless of which candidate wins its important that the winner classes and cooking demonstrations in their our school board and our school system,” Members from USDA’s national and recognizes Native American's values and state of the art kitchen, something they said Worthington. regional offices were on hand to help cultural identity and significance. And just didn’t have before. It’s fully equipped with welcome the newly refurbished building. maybe one day, these young men will run for a stove, cooking island, refrigerator, the February 11, 2020, is the upcoming “From what it was to what it is now? All some type of public office themselves. works. school board election. The school already of these changes, it’s great for the tribe has one Native American on the board. It not only has a new kitchen, but the and its participants,” said Christine Beaver feels having more on the board is warehouse has more storage space. Ten Hennelly, USDA Food and Nutrition an advantage for the Native population on feet was added on. But the beauty of it all program specialist. campus. "I thought it was important is the improvements to the shopping area. because it gives us a voice to have It is now set up like an actual grocery store. The KFD serves approximately 145 somebody on the school board because Customers are able to shop at their own households and around 3-hundred they understand what we go through and leisure, fill their shopping carts and wheel individuals a month. been through and how we live." their goods to the check out counter. The store clerk is equipped with a cash register. The Kiowa Tribe Food Distribution is On January 16, 2020, the group set up So customers are able to get their food, open to the public. To be eligible please their registration table at the Kiowa have it scanned and bagged like any other visit our website at www.kiowatribe.org Complex hoping to get folks registered or grocery store. "We have some native for a list of requirements. just to update their voting records. families who come here who if they didn't receive any commodities, they would not For information about the Kiowa Tribe ______eat. This program is very essential to our Food Distribution Program call (580) Kiowa people," said Brown. 654-6684. Haskell Students Protest at Arrowhead Stadium

Left to Right Broderick Roberts (Sisseton Wahpeton Dakota) Junior Laravie( Isanti Dakota & Osni Ponca) you ?” [Referring to the tomahawk chop. Michael Redbear (Aaniih Gros Ventre & Lakota ) , and One of the group members, Junior Laravie, Alisha Numan (Paiute & Shoshone) explained to him how misrepresentation of Guest Writer - Kayla Bointy, Indian Leader indigenous images are harmful to our people and children and answered the A small group of Indigenous students man’s questions. The man respectfully gathered in peaceful protest at the Kansas listened and thanked the group for their City Chiefs home game at Arrowhead stadium on November 3.

The group consisted of Haskell Indian Nations University students : Junior Laravie, Broderick Roberts, Alisha Numan, Kayla Bointy and one KU

student and HINU Alumni, Michael ______Redbear.

The men wore feathers in their hair and the women wore ribbon skirts Wanna Build A Snowman? demonstrating and reclaiming what is ANADARKO, Okla. - The groundhog saw rightfully theirs to wear—juxtaposed to Kayla Bointy (Kiowa, Comanche, Omaha) and the turkey feather headdress covered in Alisha Numan his shadow this year, winter weather caused a glitter sported by a multitude of number of businesses and services to cancel inebriated fans. The group was first met words. With that positive educational at the beginning of February 2020. with taunts, obscene gestures , and exchange; the members were inspired to harassment from several intoxicated organize an Initiative now called The Kiowa Tribe Child Care Center was closed people. But, the small delegation was not Generational Protectors. among others; children didn't return to school deterred, they remained peaceful, singing The Indian Leader was present at the first till Friday, February 7. songs and standing together. meeting of The Generational Protectors , and interviewed the group and some of its Like most kids, Mila Rae BigMountain and The group left the game undefeated. core members. Devon Goingkeen; 1st graders from Sunset, Despite all the negative interactions, one What is the goal or the message you want Elementary and Kiowa Child Care, couldn't positive one gave them hope. One to get across ? wait to play in snow. They helped each other African American man came up and build the snowman, "Frosty" complete with a respectfully asked “how does this offend [continued on page 5] carrot nose as requested by the students. KIOWA NEWS PAGE 5 February 2020 KIOWA LEGISLATURE [continued from page 4]

Get Involved, Call Your Representative All Seven District Legislators can be reached by the numbers listed below: ANGELA MCCARTHY District #1 -Anadarko ANITA JOHNSON Tribal Cell: 580-699-0868 District #5 - Red River Tribal Cell: 405-313-5419 Please visit the Kiowa Tribe website, kiowatribe.org to view or download job MICHAEL . PRIMUS II announcements, fillable job applications forms, and obtain information on District #2 - Carnegie BENJAMIN LUCERO WOLF how to apply. You may also contact the Human Resources office at 580-654-6317 Tribal Cell: 580-730-1592 District #6 - Elk Creek Tribal or 6335. Cell: 580-919-9235 MARILYN BREAD NOTE: The Kiowa Tribe provides a comprehensive benefits package including: leave District #3 - Medicine Bluff MODINA WATERS benefits, (13) paid holidays, health insurance plan providing eligible employees access to Tribal Cell: 580-699-6428 District #7 - All Kiowa medical, dental and vision care insurance benefits, $25,000 Basic Life and $25,000 Basic Tribal Cell: 580-699-4017 AD& D insurance coverage at no cost to employees, and 3% employer contribution into the Employee Savings Trust Plan (401k.) JESSIE SVITAK District #4-Lawton Area Tribal Cell: 580-574-1393 The Kiowa Legislature holds monthly meetings every second Saturday of each month Featured Jobs in accordance with the Kiowa Constitution. Meetings are scheduled to begin at 9:00 AM at the Kiowa AOA Building. All Kiowa Tribal Members Are Welcomed! Job Title: Kiowa Tribe Teen Prevention Network (KTTPN) Program Coordinator [continued from page 4] There was one Cheyenne man that rode all the way down. He was killed, but he Group Statement: showed those boys this is how you live for your people. I was reminded of that when Job Summary: The Program Coordinator will be responsible for suicide prevention and “We are not going after the sport, we are not we arrived. Something boiled in me and I early intervention activities, awareness and health education training. Plans, organizes and going after the fans, we want to defeat the became focused and aware, but when we coordinates outreach events, trainings, and youth and community events. Increases the idea [of misrepresentation]. We want to started singing and everything [the fear] community's identification and warning signs of suicide and high risk behaviors. Provides defeat the misrepresentation and work on the went away, like ceremony, just the power clerical support answering telephone calls and internet inquiries regarding suicide rebuilding process of our identity, which of the music . awareness, resources and referrals. Maintains and organizes confidential records regarding includes our representation in mainstream intakes and referrals. Maintain and organize confidential records regarding intakes and society. We are not going as activists; we are What’s your takeaway from the referrals. Coordinate with partners and working groups within suicide prevention. Assists not going as protestors; we are going as experience? in data collection for the KTTPN program. Within one year's time of employment, receive protectors of our identity“ training in Q.P.R. Train-the-Trainer certification as well as ASIST training. Maintain “ ... We have to become constructive. confidentiality and client privacy. Perform other office duties as assigned. What was your purpose for going to What I mean by that is coming together, Arrowhead? seek counsel , build a foundation . We need to connect as a community. We need Broderick Roberts to build relations and bring understanding to the people. It’s the mission, it’s the Qualifications: Must possess a high school diploma with two years experience in the “The reclamation of our identity as Indian voice, it’s the dream of why we are doing medical, mental/behavioral health field. Experience working with youth programs/school people, and the fact that we are 40 miles this; for the well-being of our people. systems, as well as family counseling centers. away from this place that’s so misinformed . That’s what I want to do with my life. The This place that shows bigotry and to show takeaway is that truth needs to be shared .” Possess effective communication skills to provide knowledge about suicide prevention and them, ‘hey ,this is the real deal’ (gestures to drug/alcohol topics. self ). What I saw was a lot of arrogance. COLLECTIVE MESSAGE What I saw were people that are caught in Must possess strong interpersonal skills. teamwork, flexibility, dependability, creativity, and this lie that American Indians have been We Are Still Here , but “they” have adaptability. dealing with for centuries. It’s the herd forgotten. mentality.“ Utilize office equipment such as computers for work processing, spreadsheets, powerpoints, My personal motivations for going to etc., printers and fax machines. What are your thoughts after? Arrowhead—that by standing up we are becoming leaders. HINU prides itself on “I have a feeling of pride that we did building future leaders. Right now what something that day that matters. It was a we’re doing is leadership. The small group reminder of what we have to do in our of people that went, they’re some of my community. Haskell is our community and closest friends, that’s my family; we share there’s issues in our community as in every ideas and motivations for standing up for need more information? community.“ Indian Country as well as standing up against issues in our own backyard. I What was your motive for going to wanted to be a direct voice from the group visit kiowatribe.org Arrowhead? that became Generational Protectors to our Haskell community and the Indigenous Michael Redbear community of Lawrence to hopefully quell any misunderstanding or “To help support the idea that our people miscommunication on the initiative’s have been misrepresented throughout the behalf. years and that we (as Indian people) are too comfortable. We let our guard down and My experience that day… as an have allowed things to happen. I’ve always Indigenous woman in a male-dominated been supportive of what helps our people place filled with intoxicated people, I was now and down the road. As far as my on constant edge! You would be too. experience down at Arrowhead, there were a Myself and Lisha, we were the only lot of people that just looked at us. [They] females. I was concerned for her safety as didn’t know what was going on. There was a well as everyone else’s. But we were okay lot of empty minds, a lot of questions, they standing alongside each other in a good didn’t understand. I felt ok. I felt scared for way, standing up for Indigenous identity the women who were with us, for their but all the time very aware of our safety.” surroundings. The drunk men that kept coming up from behind, standing what I What’s your take away from the experience? felt as too near. In one instance, a woman skipped up from behind the our members “My takeaway… we’re just getting started.” while they were singing and flicked Junior’s drum, then skipped off like it was What was your motive for going to cute, a full grown woman mind you. No Arrowhead? respect for space. Yes there were people who tried to get up in our faces, but when Junior Laravie: they saw the cameras rolling [our phones “This phrase I want to live. I always think were recording] they backed off. That one about that within our ceremony songs that man, however, the one who actually ask for life , but what does this mean? We stopped and talked to us, human-to- want to live for what ? We are living for the human,that exchange gave me inspiration, destiny of our spirit. We are living for our so I created a short film about our children and our Indian people’s place on experience. My takeaway would have been this earth, for respect. The motive is to get the realization that this experience is just our Indian People to think ‘what it means to the beginning. We need to come together be Indian’ . What does it mean to think and represent ourselves in numbers in Indian...? order to educate ourselves so we can The motive is for our children and for the life educate others. of our people. That’s what makes us beautiful in our diverse world. This seemingly small initiative is a small My experience, when we pulled up [to step in a much bigger issue. We are Arrowhead], I thought of the young boys at standing up for our people on a much Greasy Grass. When they rolled into battle, bigger level. We’re standing up for our there was a point that they turned because relatives, for each other, for our identities, they were afraid. for our history, for our future, for the earth. AHO. KIOWA NEWS PAGE 6 February 2020 Cindy loved people. She enjoyed cooking, caring, and praying for people. Cindy was KIOWA OBITUARIES known for her open heart for people she knew, her family and those around her. Her love of To have your loved one featured inside the Kiowa Tribal newspaper email hobbies included music, movies, dancing, [email protected]. Please remember to include the name of funeral home when traveling, attending church and garage sales. sending information. "Hai gah may oye bone tah" (We will see them again) She had a great taste in fashion, she loved her hair, jewelry, and clothes. Above all, she loved her grandkids and spending time with them.

Preceded in death by Parents: Mother Adeline “Cherry” Neconie Gallegos and Dick M. Gallegos and Father Leroy and Lavonia Williams Siblings: Leroy Williams Jr., Yeoman Williams, Hannah T. Williams Child: George Gallegos Grandchild: Lura Smith

William Vincent "Chow" Redbird, 76, Survived by: of Carnegie, OK , passed away Children: Timothy and Carissa Williams of Thursday, February 19, 2015. He was Anadarko, OK; Ervin Hokeah of Hog Creek, born to Ernest Redbird, Sr. and Ruth OK; Terri and Calvin Spears of Richardson, (Whitefox) Redbird, February 17, TX; Arzaba (Yvette) Kennedy of Anadarko, 1939, in Mountain View, OK. Chow OK; Micah and Shandalyn Oliver of graduated from Carnegie High School Piedmont, OK. in 1958, and them attended Haskell Phillip Keith Autaubo, 34, passed Ronnie Rex Parton “Hoss Guy”, a Grandchildren: George Gallegos Jr. of Institute, in Lawrence, KS. He was away on Tuesday, January 7, 2020 in resident of Fairbanks, AK, died Socorro, NM; Justin Montoya of united in marriage to Minnie Merrill, Oklahoma City, OK. Phillip was born unexpectedly on January 18, 2020 at Albuquerque, NM; Ashley and Stacie and from this union was born two June 21, 1985 in Okmulgee, OK to the age of 32 after battling some health Williams of OKC, OK; Dylan, Hannah, Aidan daughters. Chow enlisted in the United Henry C. and Kaye Autaubo. complications the last few months. Williams of Anadarko, OK; Heather Hokeah Unfortunately, in his last surgery, States Air Force, and served his of Anadarko, OK; Chris and Josh Hokeah of country for seven years, with two tours Phillip attended Carnegie Public Ronnie was not able to pull through, Anadarko, OK; Hunner Hokeah of OKC, OK; in Vietnam REGAF. His decorations Schools graduating with the Class of even though he knew the risks and Craig and Terrance Spears of Richardson, TX; and rankings were, NDSM, VSM, 2003. After graduation he attended bravely decided to go through for the Kearin Kennedy of OKC, OK; Monte RVCM, AFM 900-311 Sergeant. After USAO in Chickasha. Phillip loved sake of his health and his family. Diamond of Lawton, OK; Kendrick Johnson his service he attended IAIA in Santa spending time with his son, nieces and Ronnie is survived by his companion, Jr. of Anadarko, OK; Jayden Oliver of NYC; Fe, NM, where he studied art. He was a nephews, and His nieces and nephews Shanan Sisto; his son, Deklyn Rex Jacy and Saige Oliver of Piedmont, OK; and artist and enjoyed painting images of loved spending time with him. Phillip Parton; his sisters, Traci Parton and several great grandkids. his culture and traditions. Many of his was the fun, outgoing, crazy uncle that companion John Yeapau, Ursula Special Aunt Marcia Lee Davilla of Hog family members were blessed to have everyone loved to be around. He was a (Parton) Tatum and husband Billy, and Creek, OK; Special Son Arry Johnson of received these paintings over the years. big sports fan in general but was an Special Sister Neva Bointy; his brother, Anadarko, OK; and numerous special aunts, When asked, Chow would paint NAC avid Oklahoma Sooners, Oklahoma Rankin Parton Jr. and companion uncles, and extended family members. lighters for those family members who City Thunder, and Seattle Seahawks Alexandria Toppah; and his nephews, Siblings: Edmond and Elizabeth Mahseet had church services. Chow had the Fan. Phillip knew no strangers and had Maximus, Maddox, Alexander, Mason, Apache, OK; Michael and Jules Burgess greatest to tell. If you ever had the friends all over the Continent of North Landon and Te’Ron; and nieces, Pawnee, OK; Balerma Burgess Lawton, OK; privilege to sit and visit with him, he America. He was a member of the Emylie Rayne, Evelyn Rosalia, Ellayna Herschel (Dale) and Diane Williams would always have you laughing. Kiowa Tribe of Oklahoma and a Ronnae and Mariah. Ronnie had some Anadarko, OK; Charisse and Larry Redbone member of the Kiowa Gourd Clan. He Special Uncles, Ernie Redbird III and Gawkey Creek; Rebecca Williams and Everett Survivors include his two daughters: attended the First Baptist Church in James “Jimbo” Smith. Also, his Cozad OKC, OK; Guadalupe Gallegos Rhonda Bennett, Edmond, OK Carnegie, OK and Cedar Creek United Family, in-laws, Vernon and Louise Albuquerque, NM; Dick R. Gallegos Teresa Redbird, Branson, MO Methodist Church in Carnegie, OK. Sisto Sr., brother-in-laws, Antonio Albuquerque, NM. Sisto Sr., Vernon Sisto Jr., and Allen six grandchildren four brothers: Phillip is survived by One Son, Sisto; sister-in-law, Crystal Druck, Herbert Redbird, Carnegie, OK Mason, of Shawnee Oklahoma Alaska nieces and nephews, Derek, LA, Ernest E. Redbird, Jr., and wife, Gloria, Girlfriend, Ayla Medrano, Oklahoma Destiny, Madison, Logan, Tony, Carnegie, OK City, OK Tiliisia, Kaylee, Glenda, Shania, Clear Timothy Redbird, San Diego, CA Mother, Kaye Autaubo of Anadarko, Meadow, Brother Bear, Celeste, Richard Redbird, Carnegie, OK OK Letheavan, Noah, Lizabeth and Baby two sisters: Brother, Henry Autaubo & Leah, Allen; Godchildren, Julianna, Boo Boo, Karen Kaulaity, Anadarko, OK Anadarko, OK Brenten, Lizabelle and Tony. Ronnie is Glenda "Bookie" Redbird, Anadarko, Sister, Kandi Autaubo of Anadarko, predeceased by his father, Rankin OK OK Parton Sr.; his mother, Emma (Bointy) special brother and childhood friends, Sister, Kellie S Wetselline & Shane of Parton; his paternal grandparents, Donnie Ahhaitty, Charley Ahhaitty, Anadarko, OK Vernon and Rozella (Redbird) Parton; Charles Hokeah, Alfred "Slug" Sister, Jolyn KaudleKaule of Carnegie and his maternal grandparents, Vincent Haumpy, nephew, Ray Doyah, a OK and Grace (Kauyedauty) Bointy. special nephew, George Redbird and Nieces and Nephews: Aaron Joseph Ronnie was born in Lawton, OK on grandson, Howard Cozad. KaudleKaule April 11, 1987, to Rankin Parton Sr. Melissa, Hensley, Henner Autaubo and Emma Bointy. He graduated with He was preceded in death by his Madden, Easten Autaubo, Paisley his GED from Kiowa Adult Learning parents, two sisters, Avona Redbird and Botella Center in Carnegie, OK. Ronnie also Rozella Parton, one niece, Verna Kane, Austyn, Bronx Wetselline attended Southwestern Indian Thomas Poolaw, loving son, brother, and father Parton, two nephews, Rankin Parton, Eliyah KaudleKaule Polytechnic Institute (SIPI) in died unexpectedly on Tuesday, January 21, Sr., and Rex " Bum Bum" Parton, and Grandfathers: Albuquerque, NM. This is where he 2020. He was taken far too early at the age of 20 one grandson, Cameron Duane Farson. Harry KaudleKaule of Carnegie, OK met his companion/fiancée Shanan because of a senseless act of violence. His Joe Fish Dupoint of Carnegie, OK Sisto and eventually moved to Alaska. family will forever be affected by this. Marty Autaubo of HogCreek Ronnie who was given the name “Hoss Wendell Autaubo of HogCreek Guy” by his father was a resident of Thomas “Tommy” Poolaw is survived by his Cecil Autaubo of Shawnee, OK Carnegie, OK and Anadarko, OK. parents; one sister Rachael Turberville and Grandmothers: Ronnie enjoyed being with family and husband Erik; one niece Emelia Turberville; his Loretta Dupoint-Scantlen of Norman, friends especially the ones he met at maternal grandmother Anita Tidwell; along OK RIS and SIPI. Ronnie also went to with many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. In Phyllis Kotay of Apache, OK school in New Mexico while living addition to, the light of his life, his daughter Marilyn Autaubo of Chickasha, OK with his ‘Unc” Ernie Redbird III, at Beatrice Poolaw. He is preceded in death by his Ramah High School and Tohatchi High paternal grandparents George Poolaw Sr. and Preceded in death by, Dad, Henry C. School before moving back to Nelda (nee Eskew) Poolaw and his maternal Autaubo. Niece, Maggie Grace Oklahoma to finish at RIS. Ronnie then grandfather Emitt Tidwell Jr. Wetselline. Paternal Grandparents, decided to attend SIPI in Albuquerque, Vester & Claudette Autaubo. Maternal NM where he had many friends and Thomas was born on February 20, 1999 in Grandmother, Hazel Dupoint- met his future fiancée Shanan Sisto. Midwest City to Gloria (nee Tidwell) Poolaw KaudleKaule. Step Maternal Ronnie then decide to make the biggest and George Poolaw II. He was a very Grandmother, Lana Faye change of his life and move to the Great anticipated arrival, as they would finally have a KaudleKaule. Uncle, Skippy State of Alaska with his companion, son and for his sister, a brother. Tom was 1/4 KaudleKaule. Aunt, Martha Lynn and her people of the Gwich’in Kiowa and 1/16 Wichita, enrolled as a member Autaubo. Cousins, Gerrand Athabascun from Venetie, AK, who he of the Kiowa tribe of Oklahoma. resided with before moving to his KaudleKaule, Timothy Mark Haunpo, Cynthia Ruth Williams aka “Redskin” , & Cindy KaudleKaule. current city of Fairbanks, AK. Ronnie Most importantly, Thomas was a Christian man. was a BLM seasonal firefighter for 73. Sunrise January 1, 1947 Lawton, OK – Sunset January 3, 2020 He converted to Catholicism in New Orleans, many years and a chef near graduation. Louisiana, and chose St. Nicholas as his Ronnie seemed to be a quiet person, but Oklahoma City, OK. Cynthia attended Anadarko, OK and Socorro, New confirmation name. He found humor in saying once he got to know you his crazy he chose the name “Saint Nick”. Tom grew up sense of humor or “Kiowaness” kicked Mexico schools. She obtained her GED and went on to study chemical living in Oklahoma and New Orleans, but later in. Ronnie will be deeply missed by his attended and graduated from Del City High friends, family, and all who knew him dependency at OSU-OKC, OK. She worked as a nurse aid and as a cook for School in 2017. He was still deciding on a from Alaska to Oklahoma. career path but was adamant that he wanted to The wake service is scheduled for 7:00 Caddo County Sheriffs Dept. After she left the Sheriffs Dept., she catered do something that helped people. Anyone who p.m. on January 24, 2020, at Ray and knew Thomas, knew he had a heart of gold. Martha’s Funeral Home in Carnegie, many tribal gatherings, church functions and special events for many OK. The funeral service is scheduled He enjoyed listening to music, his favorite for 11:00 a.m. on January 25, 2020, at years. In 2009, she moved from her home in Anadarko, OK to Warr Acres bands being RUSH, The Beatles, and CCR just the Rainy Mountain Kiowa Indian to name a few. He liked movies, everything Baptist Church in Mt. View, OK. Nursing Center before her last stay at Ranchwood Nursing Center in Yukon, from Tim Burton to Tarantino. He was also a Reverend Gerald Haunpo will officiate. very avid reader. Burial will be at Samone Cemetery in OK. Carnegie, OK, by his parents. He truly loved his family and enjoyed spending time with them. His greatest passion was being a dad. KIOWA NEWS PAGE 7 February 2020 Living Her Dream Kiowa Veterans Receive A Gift

L to R: Lahoma Zotigh, LaRue Gouladdle, Jerry Best, Pershing Yeahquo, and Erroll Strickland

CARNEGIE, Okla. – More than 15- KVS’s primary mission is to assist all hundred Kiowa Tribal members are veterans no matter what race they belong recognized as veterans of the U.S. military. to in the three-county area nearest With so many identified, the Kiowa Tribe Carnegie (Caddo, Kiowa, Comanche). has now established the Kiowa Veterans More than 22-thousand veterans have Ruby and Joseph learned that this will Service (KVS). One of the top priorities been identified in three-county help their children pursue wrestling jurisdiction. KVS acts as the liaison to Written by Dianna Hadley ______and needs of veterans is transportation. while attending school in Carnegie Photo Credit - Bearbow Family any assistance a veteran may be eligible where they work. KVS Director Erroll Strickland and Kiowa for such as medical, claims, benefits, and Tribal Grant Writer Lahoma Zotigh went to transportation. “Help get them back on The desire to wrestle has opened doors work and found a Wounded Warriors their feet and back to a better and easier Kyleigh Bearbow is a unique young for Kyleigh Bearbow. The commitment Family Support grant to help with the lifestyle of living.” lady; not only is she twelve, she to obtain the needed weight for her class necessity. Good news arrived quickly and wrestles! That’s right, this Kiowa girl division; she managed to reach a healthy KVS was awarded nearly $50-thousand to Strickland knows it’s not easy adapting wrestles and she absolutely loves it! The 135 lbs. Kyleigh practices four times a purchase a new van. back into civilian life. He served in the sport industry is still male dominant but week, twice in Anadarko and twice in U.S. Army for more than ten years. This women are beginning to receive Carnegie through her father’s program. recognition. The ten passenger seat van is fully is exactly why Strickland has devoted his handicapped equipped. “A lot of these time to help his fellow comrades. “Hey The hard work and dedication are easily individuals can’t make it all the way to we appreciate you; we thank you for all It all started because of her older brother, seen during Kyleigh’s wrestling Oklahoma City, or Lawton, but now that the services you have done.” We want to Andrew; during that time Kyleigh was matches. Win or lose she gives it her we have a van we have other assets to help help them back to a better lifestyle.” still considered a baby but went with best with her family’s support. She has us and our veterans get to where they need mom and dad, Ruby (Nesahkluah) and found her way to the top of her class. to go,” said Strickland. KVS is located at 125 E. Broadway, Joseph Bearbow, to support her brother Kyleigh qualifies for state, the Anadarko, Okla. If you are a veteran or at his wrestling matches. Oklahoma Kids Wrestling Association Strickland said this is a comforting feeling have a question, please call 808-388-3002 (OKWA) State Championships 2020 on knowing we have something reliable. And for more information No one fully understands why she took February 14-15. interest, but her mother believes it has a that means a lot since many veterans are hesitant about asking for help. “Individuals lot to do with Kyleigh’s big brother, The regional tournament for OKWA that come out of the military service Andrew. “She always had to do what he was recently held on February 9-10 sometimes don’t really want to mess with does,” said Ruby as she began to think of where she faced the top 6 for her class the military or government again and they daughter when she felt so tiny in her division. The bracket given had Kyleigh isolate themselves…Maybe they're nervous arms. “I don’t know what it was, but she facing the boys in her division; she of getting assistance or maybe it’s a cultural copied whatever her brother did,” she successfully pinned the two but lost the thing. We don’t really ask for help; we explained. Playtime with brother began other two. However, the decision ruled don’t know how to ask for help to be fun wrestling matches. Parents in her favor, qualifying Kyleigh for sometimes.”. allowed it because they’re just kids; plus, State. Andrew loves his sister. He would not ever hurt her on purpose. The family is excited for young Kyleigh but also a little sad. Her mother Ruby The Bearbow family is encouraging. explained that while she is proud of her Joseph and Ruby are very supportive of daughter, she is also sad for the boys their children; they do everything a who lost. Winning her wrestling match parent could possibly think of to ensure also meant losing to a girl for some their children mature into respectful boys. It might be cliché, however losing adults. Mom cried when she realized her to a girl isn’t easily accepted as it is for a daughter was going to start wrestling as a girl to lose to a boy. Ruby briefly sport of choice. She didn’t want see expressed her disappointment in how Kyleigh get hurt but it’s what her baby some fathers talked down to their sons. girl wanted to do. That moment on It really is important that we pay Kyleigh began her start into the wrestling attention to how we communicate with world. children, they do listen.

Andrew continued wrestling with Ruby and Joseph younger children, Weatherford Public School until the Joshua and Emma, are ten and three. children transferred into Carnegie Public Joshua developed an interest in Schools. Unfortunately, the town of wrestling as well. He made his entry Carnegie, Oklahoma doesn’t have a around the same time as his older sister; wrestling program. Like other public- starting his seventh-year next season. As school systems, lack of funding limits the for young Emma, she’s enjoying being a school’s chance to have a larger variety kid and goes wherever the family goes. of programs. He tried out basketball and It is unclear if she too will follow in her feel in love with it. Andrew is also part big sister’s footsteps. Mother secretly of the Kiowa Youth Sports & Activities hopes that she will be more girly; program; this keeps him active by however, no matter what the children allowing him to practice and meet others wish to pursue they have support and who enjoy sports like he does. It also encouragement. gives him a chance to attend other games, build friendships, and learn more

Best wishes for Kyleigh at State. She ______about the sport. may not realize it yet, but she is already an inspiration for others. Her father, Kyleigh still wanted to wrestle which Joseph Bearbow, now has a dream for lead her into joining the Anadarko Youth Carnegie to have its own wrestling Wrestling program. The program is program. A school program not just for supported by the Anadarko community his children, but for others who would which allows it to be open for everyone. like to give wrestling a try. KIOWA NEWS PAGE 8 February 2020 Kiowa AOA Hosts Birthday Celebration CARNEGIE, Okla. – The Kiowa Administration on Aging (AOA) held its birthday celebration on January 23, 2020 at its facility. This day was especially special for three tribal elders: Phil “Joe Fish” Dupoint, Katherine Daingkau, and Sarah Poorbuffalo.

The birthday honorees had a special table designed for them along with treat bags filled with goodies for them to take home and enjoy. The AOA staff provided a special meal for everyone in honor of the January birthdays which included birthday cake. Martha Koomsa-Perez provided ice cream sundaes for everyone to enjoy. Above is Phil Dupoint, celebrating 66 years, Jan. 25. Below is Katherine Daingkau celebrating 74 years, Jan. 19. Once the English and Kiowa birthday song was sung the elders were able to enjoy a few games of family style bingo. AOA Director, Darin Zotigh, expressed how happy he is each month to make the birthday honorees feel special.

The birthday honorees who were unable to attend were Rhonda Ahhaitty, Ronald Twohatchett, Yale Spottedbird Jr., Marily Spottedbird, James Bear, Cleo Kodaseet, and Mary Moses.

______

Closing Notice

Dewayne Tofpi came to be with his Aunt, Sarah Poorbuffalo, who turned 80, Jan 24. The Kiowa Tribal Complex will be closed Monday, February 17, 2020 for President's Day.

______TACO SOUP

Ingredients 1 pound lean ground beef or turkey 1 medium onion, chopped 1 (8 oz.) can tomato sauce 2 (15 1/2 oz.) cans tomatoes, cut up 4 cups cooked pinto beans or 2 cans (15 1/2 oz.) pinto beans, undrained 2 tablespoons taco seasoning mix 2 carrots, thinly sliced 1/2 package frozen spinach, thawed, with water squeezed out

How to Prepare Brown meat with onion in a large pan that has been sprayed with nonstick cooking spray. Rinse the ground meat mixture with warm water and drain thoroughly. Add tomato sauce, tomatoes, beans, and taco seasoning and simmer 30 minutes.

Add carrots after the fi rst 15 minutes of the cooking time and spinach after 20 Kiowa Gourd Clan Members minutes. Simmer 10 minutes more for a total of 30 minutes cooking time. Makes approximately 6 (1-1/2) cup servings.

Health Hints • Rinsing cooked ground meat with warm water does not harm the flavor or cause the loss of vitamins and minerals. It does, however, remove some of the harmful saturated fat in the meat. Make sure cold water is not used as cold water makes the fat harden and then remain in the soup mixture.

• Vegetables are often better accepted by adults and children alike when they are mixed into a dish rather than served alone. This soup recipe works especially well because of the spicy flavor -- they’ll taste the taco seasoning, not the spinach. The annual 'cedaring' is scheduled for February 23, 2020 at AOA. KGC • Pinto beans are a healthy source of fiber and nutrients. Try using more beans and less meat in this recipe. Or leave out the meat completely and add more vegetables! will provide the beef for the meal, members are asked to bring side dishes for the meal that follows. For more information contact the Tip headsmen. • Keep basics like canned tomato products, beans, corn, and broth on hand for quick meals. 1st Kiowa Gourd Clan benefit will be March 7, 2020.