_ __ _____ __ _ __ ___ ____ _ __ ___ ' ) / / ') / / ) ' ) ) / ) / ' ) ) / ) / / / / / / /--/ / / / ___ / / / / ___ (_(_/ (__/ ( / (_ / (_ (___/ '__/_ / (_ (___/ ' ____ _ , ___ _ , ___ / ' ) / / ) ' ) / / ' VOLUME 15, ISSUE 026 / /-< / /--/ /-- __/_ / ) (___/ / ( (___, WOTANGING IKCHE - Lakota - Common News Wotanging Ikche and Native American News Copyright c. 1996-2007 nanews.org Aboriginal/AmerIndian Perspective about the First Nations of Turtle Island June 25, 2007 Pomo butich-da/moon when bulbs mature Assiniboine wahequosmewi/full leaf moon Western Cherokee dehaluyi/green corn moon Potawatomi msheke'kesis/moon of the turtle +-------------------------------------------------------+ | Much more happens in Indian Country than is reported | | in this weekly newsletter. For daily updates & events | | go to http://www.owlstar.com/dailyheadlines.htm | +-------------------------------------------------------+ Otapi'sin Atsinikiisinaakssin -- Blackfeet -- News for All the People Ni-mah-mi-kwa-zoo-min -- Ojibwe -- We Are Talking About Ourselves Aunchemokauhettittea -- Naragansett -- Let Us Share News Kanoheda Aniyvwiya -- Cherokee -- Journal of the People O Es'te Opunvk'vmucvse -- Creek -- People's New News O o O Acimowin -- Plains Cree -- Story or Account O o O Tlaixmatiliztli -- Nahuatl -- News O o o o o O Agnutmaqan -- Listuguj Mi'kmaq -- News O o O Sho-da-ku-ye -- Teehahnahmah -- Talking Birchbark O o O Un Chota -- Susquehannic Seneca -- The People Speak O Ha-Sah-Sliltha -- Ditidaht Nation -- News of the People Ximopanolti tehuatzin, inin Mexika tlahtolli -- Nahuatl -- For you we offer these words It-hah-pe-hah Ah-num pah-le -- Chickasaw -- Together We Are Talking Dineh jii' adah' ho'nil'e'gii ba' ha' neh -- Navajo Nation -- What's Happening among The People News Okla Humma Holisso Nowat Anya -- Choctaw -- People(s) Red Newspaper Hi'a chu ah gaa -- Pima -- The stories or the talk of the People s ch mA mL tL squee Lux -- Okanogan -- News from the People Native American News -- Language of the Occupation Forces ++>If you speak a Native American language not listed above, please send us your words for "News of the People." We'd rather take up this whole page saving these few words of our hundreds of nations than present a nice clean banner in the language of the occupation forces who came here determined to replace our words with their own. email gars@nanews.org with the equivalent of "News of the People" in your tribal language along with the english translation <================<<<< >>>>================> This newsletter is produced in straight ASCII text for greatest portability across platforms. Read it with a fixed-pitch font, such as Courier, Monaco, FixedSys or CG Times. Proportional fonts will be difficult to read. <================<<<< >>>>================> This issue contains articles from: www.indianz.com; www.pechanga.net; www.indiancountrytoday.com; Mailing List: Mohawk Nation News; UUCP Mail IMPORTANT!! ----------- In accordance with Title 17 U.S.C. section 107, all material appearing in this newsletter is distributed without profit to those who have expressed a prior interest in receiving this information for educational purposes. <================<<<< >>>>================> This newsletter is a way of keeping the brothers and sisters who share our Spirit informed about current events within the lives of those who walk the Red Road. ++ It may be subscribed to via email by sending a request from your own internet addressable account to gars@speakeasy.org ++ It is archived at http://www.nanews.org <================<<<< >>>>================> +-- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --+ + -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- + | As historian Patricia Nelson | | Once a language is lost, it is | | Limerick summarized in "The | | gone forever | | Legacy of Conquest: The Unbroken | | * Of the 300 original Native | | Past of the American West... | | languages in North America, | | "Set the blood quantum at | | only 175 exist today. | | one-quarter, hold to it as a | | * 125 of these are no longer | | rigid definition of Indians, | | learned by children. | | let intermarriage proceed as | | * 55 are spoken by 1 to 6 elders;| | it had for centuries, and | | when they die, their language | | eventually Indians will be | | will disappear. | | defined out of existence." | | * Without action, only 20 | | "When that happens, the federal | | languages will survive the next| | government will be freed of | | 50 years. | | its persistent 'Indian problem.'"| | Source: Indigenous Language | +-- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --+ | Institute | |http://www.indigenous-language.org| This issue's Quote: + -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- + =================== "Earth Mother is fighting back - not only from the four winds but also from underneath," "Scientists call it global warming. We call it Earth Mother getting angry." __ Talking Hawk, Mohawk +- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -+ | Indian Pledge of Allegiance | The Indian Pledge of Alleg- | | iance was first presented | I pledge allegiance to my Tribe,| on 2 December '93 during the | to the democratic principles | opening address of the Nat- | of the Republic | ional Congress of American | and to the individual freedoms | Indian Tribal-States Relat- | borrowed from the Iroquois and | ions Panel in Reno, NV. NCAI | Choctaw Confederacies, | plans distribution of the | as incorporated in the United | Indian Pledge to all Indian | States Constitution, | Nations. | so that my forefathers | | shall not have died in vain | Walk in Beauty! Night Owl +- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -+ +- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -+ | Journey | In the summer and early fall | The Bloodline | of 1998 the Treaty Unity Riders | | rode a thousand miles on horse- | For all that live and live by law | back, carrying a staff and | We Stand, we Call, We Ride | praying each step of the way. | For All that fear and fear by sight | | We Hear, we Listen, we Ride | These prayers were offered for | For all that pray and pray by strength| each of us, and that the Unity | We Feel, we Move, we Ride | of all Peoples might happen. | For all that die and die by greed | | We Hurt, we Cry, we Ride | Tatanka Cante forwarded this | For all that birth and birth by right | poem on behalf of all the Unity | We Smile, we Hold, we Ride | Riders that we might stop and | For all that need and need by heart | ask if the next words we say, the | We Came, we Went, we Rode. | next act we make is for the good | | of the People or is it from ego | Treaty Unity Riders | for self. +- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -+ O'siyo Brothers and Sisters Hellllloooooo... Is anybody home? Can anyone hear? Does anyone care? Long before this simple newszine began its 15 year journey, the same basic issues existed and the same questions were being asked. The dominant society wants control over Indian Country but wants no responsibility dealing with it. When Indian Nations and Indian people would not accommodate the invaders by conveniently all dying, often due to introduced diseases or malnutrition, and refused to assimilate into red (and indentured) versions of the white conquerors, they were swept off to reservations in hostile, inhospitable chunks of land deemed unusable by the white society. Oh sure, there are treaties. Treaties were and are enforced to the nth degree when it comes to control of the Indian population, and to policies that quickly or gradually reduce our numbers; and broken at will when treaty provisions inconvenience the folks in Washington and Ottawa, or when they block profiteering by their corporate masters. However, sometimes things become so bleak or so damn rotten the stench simply cannot be ignored. In these cases, where the poverty, rotten provisions and valueless education splashed over into border towns, or the outcry became loud enough it could no longer be ignored, the legislative representatives in the US Congress and Canadian Parliament would add "the issue" to their collective agenda. There would then be hearings and proclamations, but little action of any real substance. The law makers would pat themselves on the back for handling the job in such a profound way, and go onto real "bizness", like pork barrel legislation and sound bites for the news media. So I'm asking, "Is anybody home? Are you listening? Do you give a damn?" I hope there are a few with hearts and souls that haven't sold out totally to corporate interests, because there are real education, health and social issues in Indian Country. If you legislators continue to play your old, tired games you may discover too late it is like Pandora's Box. The evil has spilled out into whiteland and you will not be able to put it back in its Indian Country box. Get off your ass and provide real legal, health and educational help. For at least this once, honor the treaties your predecessors made. There are real human beings out here with real problems. , , Gary Smith (*,*) wotanging@bellsouth.net P. O. Box 672168 (`-') gars@nanews.org Marietta, GA 30007, U.S.A. ===w=w=== http://www.nanews.org ----------- News of the people featured in this issue ----------- Editorial Section: - GIAGO: The great horse . Does anybody care? of the Pawnee Nation - Indians speak forcefully - YELLOW BIRD: on Climate Festival days and Prairie nights - US Border Barrier - YELLOW BIRD: Embrace change, desecrated Burial Sites but don't forget past - Tribes question Land Swap - ANDRADE: - Leaders are dedicated The education of President Bush to improve Health Care - UKB CHIEF: - Tensions build between Seneca Cherokee Nation can't break Treaty & State of New York - OPINION: - Urban Indian: Keeping the law in Indian Country Portland's invisibile Minority - Land Deal could - Farmington, Navajo Nation prevent Rail Blockade still seek Bridges - Stop AFN Fontaine - Federal regs make from signing protocol with RCMP Traditional Foods scarce - Joint AFN/RCMP - The Cherokee Nation's New Battle Response Team set up - CNO votes to - Province allows remove Feds from Process Me'tis decision to stand - Tribe pleads for Artifacts - It's time for Ottawa - American Indian veterans honored to pay the rent - Battle over - ACLU: NA Families Memorializing Sitting Bull and Winner School Settlement - Oklahoma Tribal Leaders - Native Justice attend Ceremony -- Indian Country problems - Woman tries to save regarded as `local issues Ottawa Language -- Time to deal with Law - Grandmother's advice enforcement problems guides Dine' man's Path on Reservations - FEMA Trailers to go - Rustywire: to American Indian Tribes In the Midst of Them Yeis - JODI RAVE: A long walk - Del "Abe" Jones Poem: Falling Tear for fitness, fellowship - New Online Drum Contest --------- "RE: Indians speak forcefully on Climate" --------- Date: Mon, 18 Jun 2007 07:36:03 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="CLIMATE, GLOBAL WARMING" http://www.pechanga.net/ http://www.boston.com/news/nation/articles/2007/06/17/ indians_speak_forcefully_on_climate/ Indians speak forcefully on climate US tribes join discourse on global warming By John Donnelly, Globe Staff June 17, 2007 WEST FACE OF MT. MOOSILAUKE, N.H. - Talking Hawk stood above the South Branch of the Baker River one warm spring day recently and grimaced. "It's August color," he said of the tea-colored river. "It's not normal." The Mohawk Indian, along with members of five other Native American tribes, was preparing for a sacred ceremony by the river to pray for "Earth Mother." He said the planet was reacting to the overwhelming amount of pollution humans have produced that caused changes around the globe, even in the river at his doorstep. "Earth Mother is fighting back - not only from the four winds but also from underneath," he said. "Scientists call it global warming. We call it Earth Mother getting angry." In recent months, some Native American leaders have spoken out more forcefully from New Hampshire to California about the danger of climate change from greenhouse gases, joining a growing national discourse on what to do about the warming planet. Scientists have documented climate change, but Native Americans speak of it in spiritual terms and remind others that their elders prophesized environmental tragedy many generations ago. Those who study Native American culture believe their presence in the debate could be influential. They point to "The Crying Indian," one of the country's most influential public-service TV ads. In the spot, actor Iron Eyes Cody, in a buckskin suit, paddles a canoe up a trash-strewn urban creek, then stands by a busy highway cluttered with litter. The ad ends with a close-up of Cody, shedding a single tear after a passing motorist throws trash at his feet. The "Keep America Beautiful" public service announcement , which aired in the 1970s and can be seen on YouTube.com, helped usher in landmark environmental laws, including the Clean Water Act and the Endangered Species Act. "Within the last six months, there's just been a loss of faith in the insistence [by some politicians] that global warming isn't happening, and that we have nothing to do with it," said Shepard Krech III , an anthropology and environmental studies professor at Brown University. Krech is the author of "The Ecological Indian," which examines the relationship between Native Americans and nature. Though many citizens will look for "a consensus in the scientific community" to convince them of climate change, Krech said, others will seek "perspectives from Indian society . . . Native Americans have a rich tradition that springs from this belief they have always been close to the land, and always treated the land well." At a United Nations meeting last month, several Native American leaders spoke at a session called "Indigenous Perspectives on Climate Change. " Also in May, tribal representatives from Alaska and northern Canada - where pack ice has vanished earlier and earlier each spring - traveled to Washington to press their case. In California, Minnesota, New Mexico, and elsewhere, tribes have used some of their casino profits to start alternative or renewable energy projects, including biomass-fueled power plants. Here in the White Mountains, where Native Americans have become integrated in the broader society, some have questioned the impact of local development. Jan Osgood , an Abenaki Indian who lives in Lincoln, N.H., and who attended the sacred ceremony on the Baker River, said she worries about several proposals that would clear acres of national forest on Loon Mountain for luxury homes. "It breaks my heart," she said. She approached Ted Sutton , Lincoln's town manager, about the project and gave him a book called "Touch the Earth: A Self-Portrait of Indian Existence ," a collection of writings by North American Indians that detailed the history of the US government's unfulfilled promises to their tribes. The gift spurred their friendship, and an exchange of ideas of how to ensure development does not ruin the mountains. After reading the book, Sutton said he agrees with the Native American philosophy of life: Use nature respectfully, never taking more than is needed. "American Natives have been telling us all along that this was going to happen to the earth," Sutton said. "They were telling us hundreds of years ago that what we were doing [to the environment] would come back and haunt us. They have been proven right. But hopefully we've started to listen to them and move back to some better management of our lives." Christopher McLeod , a filmmaker who produced "In the Light of Reverence, " a documentary about Native American sacred sites, said that many tribal leaders were now trying to craft messages about global warming for the wider population. "Their feeling is, 'We need to work that much harder to protect the earth, because you guys are killing the earth,' " McLeod said. "But at the same time, they are trying to strategize internally about what message to send, how to survive themselves, and how to get non indigenous people to realize that the people on the front lines - the Inuit, the [Arctic] coastal people - have to be listened to." At the United Nations forum, McLeod noted that several tribal leaders said the current global warming trends were "nothing new, nothing different, a manifestation of what we've been telling you guys for [hundreds of] years of what is going to go wrong." Henrietta Mann , a leader of the Southern Cheyenne Sioux tribe, told the conference, "Day and night are out of sync. We know that Mother Earth, that beautiful, loving, most generous of all mothers, that her body has been violently treated. We live in an increasingly polluted land." Wahela Johns , a member of the Dine' tribe, who helped form the Black Mesa Water Coalition , an environmental group, joined the fight against carbon trading - a system to control greenhouse gases in which a polluting company or industry compensates for its carbon dioxide emissions by purchasing credits from a company that invests in alternative energies. In Johns' s view, companies paid for "planting trees . . . in South America, so we can pollute more as an industry in the Northern region. That is not a solution. "Our people are being first and foremost affected by climate change," she said. "We have the knowledge as indigenous peoples, we understand the caretaking we need to do, we need to share that with the rest of the world." Alongside Baker River, in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, Talking Hawk, who asked to be identified by his Indian name, prepared for the "Medicine Wheel Ceremony." The ceremony is based on the belief that "all of life is a circle . . . and human beings travel around a great wheel" in sync with nature, he said. He blackened his face as "a sign," he said, "of humility that I am one with Earth Mother." Around the circle were members of the Passamaquoddy, Mohawk, Blackfoot, Micmaq, Lakota Sioux, and Abenaki tribes. Osgood, the Abenaki, played the flute. Thunderbull , a Lakota Sioux, banged on drums. And Talking Hawk addressed the group, and the spirits. "We've come here to pray for Earth Mother," he said. "We pray for the healing of Earth Mother in these troubled times." Thunderbull offered a prayer for people who had suffered from recent flooding in the Midwest. Talking Hawk prayed for those who would suffer from natural disasters ahead. "Think of the people who will die in the cleansing of Earth Mother, all around the world," he said. "Think of their spirits." John Donnelly can be reached at donnelly@globe.com Copyright c. 2007 The New York Times Company. --------- "RE: US Border Barrier desecrated Burial Sites" --------- Date: Mon, 25 Jun 2007 07:29:52 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="BORDER PATROL, HOMELAND SECURITY TRENCH GRAVES" http://www.pechanga.net/ http://www.news.com.au/story/0,23599,21961409-1702,00.html US border barrier 'desecrated burial sites' By correspondents in Arizona June 24, 2007 CONSTRUCTION work to secure the US border with Mexico has desecrated an ancient American Indian burial ground, members of a local tribe claim. The US Border Patrol is building a 120km barrier along the border of Arizona and Mexico in a bid to stop drug and human traffickers driving between countries. The barrier, which crosses lands belonging to the small sovereign American-Indian nation of Tohono O'odham, is being built in consultation with the tribal government. But members of the tribe claim that sacred burial sites have been desecrated to pave way for the new barrier, made of closely-set steel posts sunk in concrete. The tribal government said on Friday that "human burials" dating from the 12th century had been found during preparatory work and dealt with according to protocol. Members of five families who say they are directly descended from the dead, complained that their removal is a desecration of a site they hold sacred. "It is a place where our ancestors have slept for many, many years, and someone just dug them out of their graves and put them in little bags in storage," said Ofelia Rivas, a traditionalist who lives in the tiny, cactus-ringed village of Ali Jegk in Arizona. The Tohono O'odham nation, whose name means "Desert People", reaches up to Casa Grande in the north and stretches across the international line into Mexico, where some members live in nine scattered communities. The tribal government said in a news release that the areas in which the human remains were found were among 11 archeological sites identified by the tribe that lie in the path of the barrier. Ms Rivas said the remains were discovered in May. Ms Rivas said she expected further discoveries of hallowed remains in coming months. "This is just the beginning. There will be many more sites," she said. The Tohono O'odham are one of only a few American Indian tribes that have never been relocated from their ancestral lands. Members share traditional beliefs centred on the natural world and many speak the tribal language. Tribal authorities support the vehicle barrier, which they say is needed to stop smugglers from Mexico, who frequently duel with the Border Patrol in high-speed chases on back roads and dump tonnes of trash including clothing and water bottles. The tribal government said the excavation at the burial sites had been carried out in full compliance with arrangements set out in a memorandum of understanding with US authorities. "A detailed investigation into the handling of the remains has been completed and it has been determined that the US Border Patrol, tribal monitors, and the archeological team all followed set procedures." The remains have been placed in safe storage on the Tohono O'odham nation, and will be reburied at a ceremony later this year, the government said. Copyright c. 2007 News Limited. --------- "RE: Tribes question Land Swap" --------- Date: Wed, 20 Jun 2007 07:32:47 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="SIMPLOT TO ACQUIRE PROTECTED HUNTING LAND" http://www.pechanga.net/ http://www.idahostatejournal.com/ articles/2007/06/20/news/breaking/news02.txt Tribes question land swap By John O'Connell June 20, 2007 POCATELLO - Shoshone-Bannock tribal officials say they oppose a land swap that would give J.R. Simplot Co. a large parcel of federal land near its Don Plant in exchange for key mule deer winter range near Blackrock Canyon. In the early 1990s, Simplot acquired 680 acres of habitat contiguous to federal land in the Blackrock area to offer as a trade for 719 acres of Bureau of Land Management property in the Trail Creek area near the agribusiness giant's large local phosphate operation. Much of the land Simplot stands to receive was charred by this week's Howard Fire. Simplot spokesman Rick Phillips said the land would enable Simplot to expand its towering gypsum stack - a pile of gray dirt remaining after phosphate is removed from slurry. "The long-term viability of the Don Plant depends on our ability to handle that gypsum product," Phillips said. Roger Turner, air quality manager with the tribes, said the tribal council has come out against the swap based on concerns that expanding the gypsum pile could impair Portneuf River water quality and local air quality, and too few alternatives have been considered. "(The BLM) didn't go into very much detail in their scoping of the controversial nature and impacts of phosphogypsum on the environment," Turner said. The BLM announced the proposed exchange in the Journal last summer and hosted a scoping meeting in early fall. Local BLM officials proposed allowing the transfer, a suggestion that must still be considered by the agency's federal office and could be returned with additional recommendations. By this fall, the BLM hopes to have the revisions made and release a document to the public. Turner would like the BLM to reopen the exchange proposal for additional public comment. David Pacioretty, the BLM's Pocatello field office manager, argued the land exchange and environmental concerns about the gypsum stack are separate issues. Regarding the land trade issue, Pacioretty said the BLM's charge is to make sure the land the agency stands to receive is of equal or greater value to the public than the parcel up for trade. He said the tribes will have the opportunity to voice their concerns when the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Environmental Quality consider Simplot's application to build a new stack. "There is a potential for these selected lands once in private ownership to be utilized in phosphate management practices," Pacioretty said. "Any future development by Simplot would be subject to regulatory oversight." When the Superfund site that includes Simplot and the former FMC site was created, Simplot's gypsum stack was identified as a potential source of water contamination. Phillips said when a new stack is built, Simplot will have to take certain steps to prevent contaminants from leaching into the watershed - building a clay or vinyl liner for example. "It would be a matter of studying the geography and geology of the area and coming up with something that would meet the standards of the DEQ," Phillips said. "If we were to build a new stack, it would probably be built differently than that 60-year-old stack up there now." But Phillips assures the public his company worked diligently to find a prime piece of land to offer in trade. Given the rapid pace of development occurring in mule deer winter range, Phillips believes the Blackrock property will only grow in value. "We bought property that was critical to wildlife and to what the BLM was all about," Phillips said. "We thought we were serving a larger public good by doing that." Copyright c. 2007 Pocatello Idaho State Journal. --------- "RE: Leaders are dedicated to improve Health Care" --------- Date: Sat, 23 Jun 2007 08:04:03 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="HEALTH CARE" http://www.indiancountry.com/content.cfm?id=1096415263 Leaders are dedicated to improve health care for tribes by: David Melmer / Indian Country Today June 22, 2007 SIOUX FALLS, S.D. - Tribal chairmen and members of the Aberdeen Area Tribal Chairmen's Health Board rededicated themselves to work for the people on health care in light of the fact that many health care disparities exist in the American Indian communities and funding is always inadequate. When tribal health officials gather, the two main topics of discussion are funding and the disparity of health care. Health care funding in Indian country has frequently been compared to that of federal prison inmates who receive nearly $2,000 more per inmate than each American Indian. Even though health care funding for fiscal year 2008 has been increased in the White House budget, the bottom line received a boost in the House, but the final mark-up still falls short of the need. Mary Lou Stanton, deputy director of Indian Health Policy, told the chairmen and health officials that with the increases, a $13 million reduction in facilities expenditure is in the budget. That means the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe clinic and hospital will not receive funding until possibly 2009. CRST has been waiting for several years for this facility. "There are 76 tribes signed up for the joint ventures, but we can only fund two," Stanton said. The joint venture means the tribe and IHS will work together to build the facility. The tribe usually constructs the building and IHS provides the staff and equipment. Stanton said there is an emphasis on the collection of third party payer funds, such as Medicare and Medicaid. In the Aberdeen Area that amounts to $60 million per year and nationwide the figure reaches $700 million. But that figure still doesn't equal the need. Stanton said at this time the Indian Health Care Improvement Act is up for reauthorization. The IHCIA has not been reauthorized since 1999 and this version has some provisions included that will benefit Indian country. The bill includes the elevation of the IHS director to assistant secretary of Indian health, and it would also exempt Medicaid patients from any co- pay, as an example. She said it is expected that the FY '08 budget will be passed this year. "We live on the four poorest counties in the United States. The U.S. government has people on Pine Ridge with cancer, and they can't get treatment because their life and limb are not threatened," said John Yellow Bird Steele, president of the Oglala Sioux Tribe. "What is the IHS responsibility to the individual when they can get to the hospital and then have to wait? People are misdiagnosed and they receive the wrong prescriptions. "People talk about funding, but nobody does anything. Being poverty- stricken, it is hard to live and you put an additional burden on them. It seems the IHS doesn't care," Steele said. Steele pointed out that if health care was funded properly, many of the problems, such as suicide, drug addictions and others, would go away by themselves. The Aberdeen Area tribes are direct service tribes and do not compact their health services. Steele reminded the IHS that the tribes do not want to let the government off the hook for their fiduciary responsibility that was written into the treaties. "Health care should be at today's standards. Our people want to catch up with the rest of America," Steele said. Stanton assured the summit attendees that she understood the frustrations and that it would be necessary to educate the congressional delegations from those states that do not have an American Indian population. "We put in the budget needs, Congress appropriates and it's not enough," Stanton said. "We have to depend on the tribes to plea for more funds. IHS is funded at 60 percent of need," she said. Some tribal leaders use the funding level of 40 percent or 50 percent of need. The frustrations caused by underfunded health care run deep. "The government gives $65 million for farmers not to farm. Then they give peanuts for Indian health. The government gives farmers $85 million to buy surplus food that return to us as commodities and that is a cause of our health problems," said Matthew Pilcher, chairman of the Winnebago Tribe. The frustrations expressed by the tribal chairmen are caused because the message they convey to Congress and the IHS is repeated year after year. Steele used the loss of road construction funding to the self-governance tribes as an example of what might happen to the health care dollars also. Caution was expressed that tribes could be pitted against one another in the overall debate for more money and adequate health care. Leaders of the treaty tribes, which include all tribes in the Aberdeen Area, claim to be in a struggle for funding for many programs and argue that some self- governance tribes do not have the same land base or physical responsibilities as do the treaty tribes. "Treaties are legal obligations. Self-governance tribes hurt us," Steele said. Copyright c. 1998 - 2007 Indian Country Today. All Rights Reserved. --------- "RE: Tensions build between Seneca & State of New York" --------- Date: Thu, 21 Jun 2007 07:20:54 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="SENECA LAND USE, TAXES" http://www.nativetimes.com/index.asp?action=displayarticle&article_id=8813 Tensions build between Seneca Nation and State of New York Over Separate Issues of Land Use and Taxes ALBANY NY By Shelley Bluejay Pierce, bluejay@3riversdbs.net June 20, 2007 Current land usage dispute between the Seneca Nation and the State of New York have increased tensions between the two entities this past week. On Tuesday, the President of the Seneca Nation, Maurice John Sr., submitted a bill to Governor Eliot Spitzer and the New York Transportation Department for more than $2.1 million. The amount due is based on charging one dollar per vehicle for each of the 28,000 vehicles that travel daily across the three mile stretch of the I-90 Thruway built on tribal lands. "We're sending the check to New York State, the DOT, it's not up to us whether they pay it or not, it's up to New York State," replied Maurice John during the press conference on Tuesday. The Seneca Tribal Council voted on May 12, 2007, to charge the state for highway tolls retroactively to April 14, 2007. This decision was rendered after the council voted to rescind a 1954 right-of-way agreement between the nation and the state of New York for the I-90 Thruway that crosses tribal land. The first Thruway bill sent by the Seneca leadership on Tuesday does not include historic penalties or costs for damages to native lands but if the bill is not paid in full within the 10 day time limit, interest penalties will be applied. The Seneca Nation said the original land agreement, which paid the tribe $75,000, was invalid from inception due to the documents having never received proper federal approval. Tribal leaders have requested negotiations over the issues with New York State but no discussions have been set to date. Conflicts between Gov. Spitzer and the Seneca nation have been on the increase since Spitzer assumed office in January. The Governor announced his intentions of collecting state tax on reservation sales of cigarettes and gasoline to non-Indian customers. The Seneca leadership insists that their tribal protection from state taxation is mandated according to the terms of treaty agreements made between the tribe and the United States. "The Thruway tolls had nothing to do with the tax fight. We're talking apples and oranges," Maurice John stated. Governor Spitzer's proposed budget for this year includes $200 million in revenues from reservation sales, though the administration has not yet disclosed how those figures will become a reality. The Seneca nation demands that treaty stipulations regarding the tax-free status be honored. The current charges for access to the land the New York Thruway crosses deals with legal contracts and agreements totally separate from any historical treaty agreements. Tribal leaders displayed architectural drawings during the press conference of a tollbooth they might consider erecting across the roadway in dispute. Erecting signs that clearly alert motorists that they have entered into Seneca territory is one of the immediate actions planned by the tribe. In 1994, New York won a U.S. Supreme Court Case over the Indian tax collection effort that some officials for the state claimed would increase state income by as much as $400 million a year. Officials attempted to enforce cigarette and gasoline tax laws on Indian retailers back in 1997 but gained only protests, blocked portions of the Thruway and clashes with New York state police. Seneca leadership has taken aim as well, at a 1976 agreement that allowed construction of the Southern Tier Expressway which in now Interstate 86, and resides upon the Allegany Reservation. Maurice John explained that the tribal council has extended a deadline for negotiations with the state on that issue for one month. Asked for an official comment from the New York Governor's office regarding their having received the bill from the Seneca Nation, Spitzer spokeswoman Christine Pritchard said, "The governor's office is declining comment." Native American Times. Copyright c. 2005 All Rights Reserved. --------- "RE: Urban Indian: Portland's invisibile Minority" --------- Date: Thu, 21 Jun 2007 07:20:54 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="URBAN INDIANS" http://www.pechanga.net/ http://www.wweek.com/editorial/3332/9118/ Urban Indian A tight-focus lens on Portland's invisible minority. BY BETH SLOVIC June 21, 2007 On Margo Guajardo's right arm is the tattoo "N8ive Pride." It may be callous to ask what she has to be proud of. Callous, but not entirely inappropriate. By traditional standards, Margo's own life story has not been one of triumph. Twenty years old, she has two kids, one of whom was fathered by Margo's uncle. She is unemployed, unmarried and largely unmoored. She does not know much about her biological mother, other than that she was once a prostitute. She has no relationship with her father. She has a history of drug and alcohol addiction. And she has $103 in her bank account. At times, it appears Margo's existence is as fragile as the plastic hairclips that hold open the burgundy curtains on the front window of her outer Southeast Portland home. But Margo, a member of the Mnicoujou band of the Cheyenne River Sioux tribe (also known as the Lakota), does have reason to be proud. As a Native American, Margo belongs to Portland's most disenfranchised minority, one whose members face challenges that dwarf the hurdles confronting Portland's other marginalized communities. While media and political pressure is focused yet again this week on the rights of illegal immigrants, her story is a reminder of a different minority that receives far less attention. It's a story that's 400 years old, not 40. And it's a story that is often hidden under a shroud of obscurity as dangerous and as seemingly benign as a warm blanket infected with small pox. "The U.S. worries more about Mexican people being here illegally," says Margo, whose biological father was Mexican. "You hear more about that because it's OK to talk about." By several measures, the Native American experience in Portland stinks. According to the most recent figures from the city's Bureau of Housing and Community Development, Native Americans and Alaskan Natives comprise 10 percent of the homeless population. Yet they comprise only about 1 percent of the city's overall population, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. A recent Portland Schools Foundation study revealed Native American students in 2004 had the lowest high-school graduation rate of any ethnic group. More than 13 percent of all foster-care cases in the state in 2005 involved Native American youth, although Native American children made up only 1.3 percent of Oregon's under-18 population. And while the numbers are not available locally, Native Americans have the highest rates of suicide, binge drinking and poverty of any minority group in the United States, according to various government sources. They also have the lowest median income, according to the Census in 2000. The situation is no less bleak for Native Americans in the criminal justice system. "Native American youth are disproportionately showing up in the correctional system at a higher rate than any group but African Americans," says Barry Krisberg, president of the National Council on Crime and Delinquency, a California-based advocacy group. Compared with the overall state population, the official number of Native Americans in Oregon is small indeed, less than 2 percent. But while Portland is the 23rd-largest metropolitan area in the United States, the Portland area also has the ninth-largest Native American population in the U.S., about 38,000 people. Still, the plight of Native Americans may be one of the untold secrets of the "minority beat" in modern-day journalism. Rarely does one read about members of the 300 tribes represented in Portland. Even rarer is a discussion of what is causing Native Americans to fall behind - or what is preventing them from advancing. What does remain in the news is talk of the nine Indian casinos in Oregon. And although profits at the nine casinos vary widely from tribe to tribe and not every tribal member in Oregon is entitled to money from those operations, many people continue to assume that the benefits of Indian gambling are spread among all Native Americans. What follows is a photo essay about a young Portland woman whose life is both a confirmation of some startling statistics defining what it means to be Native American today and a rebuke of the forces that cast a shadow on her valued heritage. It was Margo's arrest at the age of 14 that began her ascent from hell and led her to create the family she has today. For most of her life, Margo bounced between foster-care families and relatives' houses in Texas, where she was born, and South Dakota, where her tribe is based. But at the age of 9, Margo and her younger half-sister Roxanne Ashley moved to Sheridan, near McMinnville, to live with their uncle and his wife. In 2001, when Margo was caught along with friends for stealing and crashing one friend's mother's car, she was arrested and placed in juvenile detention in McMinnville. As she was about to be released back into the custody of her uncle, she told an officer there was something she wanted to share. Her uncle, Margo said, had been molesting and raping her since she was 9. Weeks later, Margo would discover that she was five months pregnant with her uncle's child. Her uncle, Art Ashley, would ultimately be sentenced to nearly 48 years at the Snake River Correctional Facility in eastern Oregon on 27 counts - including five counts of rape in the first degree, four counts of rape in the second degree and 18 counts of sexual abuse in the first degree, for incidents spanning a period of nearly three years. According to the U.S. Department of Justice's Bureau of Justice Statistics, the sexual-assault rate among Native Americans is double that for all other races. Margo calls her daughter Lexi, who's now nearly 6, her "magic" baby. Even given the circumstances, Margo considers the moment of Lexi's birth to be a moment of rebirth for her, too. "I'll never be his friend," Margo says of her uncle. "I'll never like him. But I've come to let go of what he's done. [Lexi's birth] opened my eyes to adulthood and to adult responsibility. I had a lot to learn, and it took me a few years after I had her to understand what I had taken on." Two years after Lexi was born in 2001, Margo entered drug and alcohol treatment, and for another two years she was under the thumb of caseworkers who monitored her schooling, her finances and her parenting. It was during this time period that she moved to Portland. "I guess I have major authority issues because I've been in the system all my life," says Margo, whose sentences are frequently followed by nervous giggles. "Once I got to the age I could do something about it, I took charge and kicked them to the curb," she said - before laughing quietly. Last year, Margo and her boyfriend, Tony Ream, who is an enrolled member of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde, decided to get married when Tony turned 21. He is now 17. Maellina is their 8-month-old daughter. Margo met Tony, who has green eyes and black hair that he sometimes slicks back like John Travolta in Grease, in the summer of 2005 at a college-prep program sponsored by the Native American Youth and Family Center. "I talked to him first," Margo says. "I told him he looked like a porcupine," because he had dyed the tips of his hair blond. "No, a hedgehog," she said, correcting herself and insulting him at the same time. Back then, Margo was still living at the Salvation Army's White Shield Center, an independent living program in Northwest Portland for pregnant and parenting teens. She had pink bangs, tattoos and piercings. "I liked that he was different and unique and that he wasn't afraid to say he liked soft music like Mariah Carey," Margo says. He was "hip-hop," she adds. She was punk. He was a virgin, and she already had a young child. He was 15. She was 18. As an enrolled member of the Grand Ronde, Tony belongs to Oregon's wealthiest group of tribes. When he turns 21 he will be given at least enough money to afford a down payment on a comfortable house. Meanwhile, Margo is from one of the country's poorest tribes, which does not have a casino or the money to pay its members dividends. "[The other teenagers] thought I was an ex-druggie who was trying to get with a goodie two-shoes." They do have one common bond: Tony's mother was also a prostitute. He has nine brothers and sisters who all have different fathers. Margo and her two children get by on food stamps and welfare checks, and her life is filled with the endless errands that are required to maintain that public assistance. For instance, Margo must meet periodically with nutritionists and caseworkers who monitor the children's well-being. Since she was forced to drop out of Portland Community College this spring (after her scholarship fell through), she's had to meet regularly with another caseworker to discuss her efforts at finding a job. And for the most part she relies on the buses that pass near her home to run those errands. Her life, she says, often feels like one long waiting game. The No. 71 and 72 bus lines order her existence. Margo relies on the money she collects from the agencies she's required to visit periodically. Her monthly rent is $700. She receives $400 in food stamps a month, plus an additional $400 in welfare. Tony, who works at New Seasons, helps to cover the rest. Margo says she would rather not depend on state agencies for support. She finds caseworkers' guidance patronizing and cold at times. Signs posted on the walls of one of Portland's welfare offices instruct visitors in all manners of things: cover your mouth, don't sit on the windowsill, do not adjust the curtains. No food or drink. "It's a passive-aggressive way of telling parents, 'Watch your children,'" Margo says. There's also a children's play area with a small table but no toys. Margo is there on a recent Tuesday for the second time in two weeks to try to exchange the baby-formula vouchers she has for vouchers that will allow her to buy another brand, one that won't upset Maellina's stomach. In the intervening days she's been using her food stamps to cover the $14 cans of formula Maellina prefers, which last only three days. While waiting, Margo says she and Tony are hoping to move from outer Southeast Portland to Southwest Portland in the fall to be closer to Portland Community College's Sylvania campus, where Tony plans to enroll. But Margo says she feels as if some neighborhoods have landlords who would not accept her rental applications because she is on welfare and doesn't have a job. "It sucks knowing that there are homes you'll never live in," Margo says. Nichole Maher, 28, is one of the most vocal advocates for Native Americans in the Portland area. An Alaskan Native from the Tlingit tribe, Maher has turned the Native American Youth and Family Center from a relatively shoestring operation with a budget of $280,000 in 2001 to a $4 million nonprofit agency in 2007. She is outspoken in her criticism of practices and policies that do not support or respect Native Americans, especially children. To some extent she also represents a new wave of Native American activism. "We were always just taught to stand back and watch," says Darlene Foster, a 60-year-old member of the Warm Springs tribes, who is a case manager at the Native American Rehabilitation Association in Portland. Tabitha Whitefoot, the 52-year-old coordinator for Portland State University's Native American Student and Community Center, who attended Lewis & Clark College in the 1970s, echoes Foster's sentiment. "When people like us went through school, we had to make a choice about whether we were going to be Native American or successful in the dominant culture," Whitefoot says. "They were very oppositional." Today, Maher and others are fighting for recognition of Native American customs, which she considers a crucial element of the struggle to minimize the effects of poverty and harmful government policies on Native Americans in Portland. (At left is an example of those efforts at the Native American Youth and Family Center's high-school graduation celebration.) "Systematic government interventions that took place up until 1978 created social conditions that broke down the family, broke down the culture and exposed a lot of our children to abuse and neglect," Maher says. "You can't do what the U.S. government has done to our community for a few hundred years and not expect there to be some consequences. The reality is our children are still paying a price for what happened. It's absolutely obvious that our children and probably our children's children - unless we do something very differently - will continue to pay a very steep price for being born into our community." N8ive Pride is essential, she says. "There are so many messages in this community that we're not welcome," Maher says, rattling off a litany of stereotypes about Indians found on cigarette packages, among sports franchises and in the media. "We're very unique in that we want to do everything that we can to hold on to our culture. We tried assimilation for 300 years. We're not interested in that. It hasn't done anything positive for us." One date Margo remembers just as clearly as the birthdays of her two daughters is Oct. 8, 2005, the day she left White Shield in Northwest Portland. "I was waiting for that day to come," Margo says. "I was only supposed to be there for nine to 12 months." Instead she was there for 20 months, during which time she earned her high-school diploma and attended classes at the Native American Rehabilitation Association and the Native American Youth and Family Center. During this time, she strengthened her ties to her Native American heritage. Yet Margo and Tony are both acutely aware that much of Portland does not share their interest in Native American history and culture. At times, that indifference reaches offensiveness. At a Lloyd Center event recently, Margo wore her colorful regalia and participated in a Native American dance. Passersby said, "It's a little early for costumes." Margo's younger sister Roxanne was disappointed to learn she would not be permitted to wear an eagle feather in the tassel of her cap at her graduation from Portland's Marshall High School last month. But in a mildly subversive gesture she carried the eagle feather instead - and wore a satchel of dried sage for good luck under her robe. "A lot of people think we were wiped out," Tony says. "No one really talks about our culture - in schools especially. They talk about so many other cultures but not Native culture." "They just figure there aren't that many," Margo says. At the same time, both Margo and Tony struggle to assert their Native American identity. Margo's last name, Guajardo, leads many people to believe she is fully Latina. And Tony's comparatively pale skin and green eyes throw other people off, too. Some people simply don't believe he's Native American. "Even my own family kind of discriminated against me," Tony says. "I'm Native American, though. That's how I see it. I still want a little more tone to me, because I just like the way it looks." Margo says, "I don't care how much you are of anything, you are who you identify as." Copyright c. 2007 Willamette Week.' --------- "RE: Farmington, Navajo Nation still seek Bridges" --------- Date: Mon, 25 Jun 2007 07:28:39 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="" http://www.daily-times.com/news/ci_6215374 City, Navajo Nation still seek bridges By Andrea Koskey The Daily Times June 24, 2007 FARMINGTON - Equality. Education. These simple words carry a lot of meaning. They also are something the city of Farmington is trying to tap into by creating a Community Relations Commission that would strive for equality through education. "We are part of a diverse population," Mayor Bill Standley said. The commission "would be more than an omnibus for listening to complaints. There would also be an element of proactive efforts in education of all the various cultures in the area: Native American, Hispanic and African American." Two separate incidents last summer - one in which an American Indian male was beaten by three white attackers and another in which a Navajo man died from police gunfire - sparked talks of such a commission. But its creation timeline is a coincidence, Standley said. Although public discussion began after these incidents, plans to create the committee took place years before the violent activity in 2006. "In 2004, John Foster Dulles asked if we had any type of committee representing the minority population," he said. "We did. We had the Farmington Inter-tribal Indian Organization, Citizens Police Advisory Committee, but he wanted to know what we had to build relationships. But before we started this committee, I wanted to see some other projects through." That time to explore this new commission came mid-summer 2006. The commission, as finally presented to the Farmington City Council during a special work session Tuesday, will be designed as a liaison to the community as well as being capable of making recommendations to the elected body. "The key is for this to be a venue to communicate," said Marshall Plummer, facilitator of the exploratory committee. "Our objective of the exploratory committee was to see whether or not the city would buy in to the concept. (To create) a place for people to come in to the forum and say here is my concern.'" The city did "buy in" to the idea of the commission, with the request of a more focused structure. Members of the exploratory committee - including Plummer, Five Star Security CEO Art Allen, the Rev. Eugene Baker, community member Karen Bayless, local businessman David John, the Rev. Randy Joslin, Catalina Liles, Francis Mitchell and Homeworks owner Tina Pacheco-White - suggested the permanent commission be made up of nine voting members and six ex- officio members from all council districts with as much diversity as possible. Recommendations from the committee also included that the commission be proactive in educating the public, marketing the community and developing a reward system for positive relationships within the private sector as well as hear complaints and make referrals. The group also developed a mission statement, goals and visions for the commission focused on education, equality and positive community relations to make Farmington more inviting to other cultures. "Something has to be done," Plummer said. "We just can't keep things the way they are." In addition to Farmington's efforts to organize a commission and heal wounds between cultures, the Navajo Nation agreed to create a similar organization on the reservation. Earlier this year, the Navajo Nation Council voted to move forward with the creation of a Human Rights Commission. However, the Nation has made no announcements regarding progress on the commission. "Council delegates felt something needed to be done as a result of last summer's incidents," said George Hardeen, spokesman for Navajo President Joe Shirley Jr. "The president supports what the mayor is doing. We hope everyone takes part with an open heart and an open mind." Shirley wants open communication for all border towns, Hardeen said. "The president has always said we're all in this together, we're all five-fingered people," he said. "Those incidents (from last summer) were isolated. What happened is regrettable, but that's not to say that incidents of racism don't happen in border towns or any town across the country. Conflicts are inevitable." Despite efforts to positively affect change in the community, officials and exploratory committee members acknowledge that even with such a commission in place, events from last summer still might not have been prevented. "Bad occurs even if (the commission) was in place," Standley said. "Even though there are penalties in place, people are going to do it. Would it have made a difference in the shooting or the William Blackie case? I think it would have happened any time. Hopefully, the CRC would make it better." Plummer said educating the public will have a positive change. "I don't think you can stop an event from happening," he said. "However, being proactive and taking the opportunity to educate others in Farmington and the surrounding areas can be very valuable." So, with all of this discussion, what's the next step? Both Standley and Plummer agree that suggestions and questions will go back to the exploratory committee for a more detailed structure, including the number of commissioners as well as looking at overlapping responsibilities with other organizations under the city. Officials hope to have the commission in place and making strides by the summer's end. "Do we think we will end racism with this commission?" Standley questioned. "No. But we can make it unacceptable." Andrea Koskey: akoskey@daily-times.com Copyright c. 2007 Farmington Daily Times, a MediaNews Group Newspaper. --------- "RE: Federal regs make Traditional Foods scarce" --------- Date: Thu, 21 Jun 2007 07:20:54 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="COMMERCIAL MEAT PACKERS BEING FORCED AWAY FROM TRADITIONAL FOODS" http://www.gallupindependent.com/2007/june/062007nkj_fedregstradfdscr.html Federal regs make traditional foods scarce By Natasha Kaye Johnson Dine' Bureau June 20, 2007 WATERFLOW - The Original Sweetmeat, Inc. has served a landmark for Waterflow and the nearby communities since 1958. "Squeak" R.G. Hunt, Jr. third-generation owner of Original Sweetmeat, Inc., and wife Carla Hunt, store manager, have formed many personal relationships with families, and provide services for the Navajo and Hispanic population what many grocery stores and meat shops just can't offer. They carry large quantities of traditional foods, like a'chii, or "bunitas" in Spanish, that cannot be found in large grocery chains. A'chii is prepared by wrapping sheep intestines around fat from the sheep, and then fried. Navajo customers often go to the store and request that the store butcher a sheep by hand because the meat will be used in traditional ceremonies. Respectful and understanding of the culture, the Hunts comply with these requests. They also fill large mutton orders for special occasions, like election fund-raisers or special homecoming events for soldiers. Other local grocery stores, like Albertson's and Safeway, are not able to fill such special orders, Hunt said. Standards and requirements Over the years, the standards and requirements for slaughterhouses have becoming increasingly strict, causing six similar locally owned shops in the area to permanently close. Ray Begaye, New Mexico State Representative for District 4, became more familiar with the strict federal and state requirements that were putting small slaughterhouses out of business after he was contacted by El Rito, a meat processing company based in Chama, whose owners shared with him the obstacles they were facing. "They did close their business because the federal food inspector got really strict," Begaye said. It was just over three months ago when the owners of the Original Sweetmeat, Inc. were instructed to stop selling a'chii and were forced by the New Mexico State Livestock Board to destroy 400 pieces of the prepared meat the same day. The concern about a'chii processing came in January 2005 when a USDA Food and Safety Inspection Service program review officer from Omaha, Neb., saw the item for sale at the store. The food was unfamiliar, and inspectors questioned its safety, though the store had offered the food since it opened nearly 40 years ago. Two months after a'chii was banned, the Hunts fought for the item to be sold once again, sending e-mails and making calls back and forth between federal and state officials. On March 19, they were allowed to start selling the meat again. Begaye said he did not know about the difficulties that the store was facing when he introduced a joint memorial at the 48th Legislature First Session in late March that would help to retain small businesses in communities throughout the state and preserve traditional practices of Native American and Hispanic communities. The memorial urges that cultural and traditional practices be considered by the USDA in adopting regulations for meat inspection of slaughterhouses, especially since 10 percent of the New Mexico population is Native American and over 50 percent of the overall population is of Spanish ancestry. The joint memorial states that food and food preparation are basic to maintaining belief systems and the traditional practices of both the Hispanic and Nave American populations of New Mexico. Begaye also explained that these slaughterhouses are disappearing from communities due to expense of having to implement sophisticated equipment to stay open. "The federal government has been very naive in who they're been dealing with in Native American foods and Hispanic foods," Begaye said. Neither officials with the USDA program in Washington or the New Mexico Livestock Board could be reached for comment. While the USDA has taken other religious groups' food preparations into consideration, like Jewish dietary guidelines of kosher foods, they are far behind when it comes to Native Americans and Hispanic foods. As far as meat processing, there are no written standards on how to prepare mutton or traditional foods from the area. "This has been our diet for such a long time," Begaye said. "Both the meat and by-products have been since the introduction of sheep and goat in this area." The legislation was signed by Gov. Bill Richardson in March and is pending review from the New Mexico congressional delegation. It was also sent to the USDA and New Mexico Livestock Board. Generations The possibility of the store closing because of the strict standards set by the federal and state governments makes Hunt uneasy, even though his store equipment and technology has been praised in written reviews. Hunt has been around sheep and livestock his whole life. At the age of 7, his late father "Slim" R.G. Hunt put him to work at the store. In 1995, after his father passed away, Squeak was given the store to continue, and he plans to one day give it to his 30-year old son "Skeeter" R.G. Hunt, Jr., who is hopes will be continued to be passed on for generations to come. Taking care of sheep, Hunt said, is what he was raised doing. "It's a lot of hard work, but it's all I know," said Hunt. For Hunt, raising and being around sheep is an integral part of his life, much like the Navajo people. "One time there was an old lady that came in named Mary Jumbo from Sanostee," Hunt recalled from his early teens. Hunt remembers when Jumbo, who was a frequent customer, shared a story about the federal livestock reduction. "She said 'when they loaded up sheep and goats, I just cried and cried, '" remembers Hunt. Being a 15-year old teenager, Hunt did not understand what she meant. "I asked her, 'Why?', and she said, 'I became poor then. I didn't have no sheep or goats.'" It would not be until years later when Hunt said he would be able to understand just what she meant. "A sheep is a lot if you don't have a sheep. A dollar was a lot if you didn't have a dollar," Hunt said. "It made a big change in my life on how I look at things." Even 40 years after her passing, he said he still remembers her so well, and keeps her story close to his heart. "I always admired seeing Mary come in," he said. "Some of the best people I've seen in my life have been the Navajo people." Copyright c. 2007 the Gallup Independent. --------- "RE: The Cherokee Nation's New Battle" --------- Date: Fri, 22 Jun 2007 07:32:21 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="CONGRESSIONAL BLACK CAUCUS JUMPS INTO CNO FREEDMEN ISSUE" http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1635873,00.html The Cherokee Nation's New Battle By JENINNE LEE-ST. JOHN June 21, 2007 Should Washington have a say in who is considered a full-fledged member of a Native American tribe? That question has now moved to the forefront of a heated racial battle within the Cherokee nation, which earlier this year voted to exclude a group of blacks and multiracials known as the Freedmen from citizenship in the tribe. The Cherokee say they have the right to determine their membership, while the the Freedmen say their expulsion violates the tribe's post-Civil War treaty with the U.S. government. As the courts and the Interior Department mull over the case, Rep. Diane Watson, a Democrat from California, introduced legislation Thursday that would block the estimated $300 million in federal funds that the Cherokee receive annually and nullify their gaming rights unless the tribe reinstates equal membership to the Freedmen. The Freedmen's expulsion would strip them of tribal voting, housing and healthcare rights (though they will keep those benefits until the case is resolved). The question of who decides Indian identity affects not just the 2,800 or so Freedmen and 100 times as many Cherokee Nation citizens, but the half a million people who identified themselves on the last census as being of Cherokee heritage but not belonging to the Cherokee Nation - as well as, potentially, the more than 4.3 million Americans who consider themselves at least part American Indian and who could find themselves randomly booted from their tribes. And it creates new complications for the relationship between blacks, who have long held a romantic view of their kinship with American Indians, and Native Americans, some of whom owned black slaves and fought for the Confederacy. That's why the case has drawn the ire of the entire Congressional Black Caucus, which, in recognition of the shared suffering of Native- and African-Americans, has been a consistent champion of Indian causes. When Cherokee voters decided to strip the Freedmen of their full membership they were essentially legitimizing the one-drop rule. At the turn of the 19th century, the U.S. government relied on that racist tool, originally used to determine whether people were black or not, in combination with other factors for a census of people living on Native American tribal lands. Those who seemed Cherokee, or Cherokee mixed with white, were placed on a "Cherokee-by-blood" list. Those who seemed black, or Cherokee mixed with black, were generally placed on a "Freedmen" list. Both lists, known as the Dawes Rolls, were used to divest the collective tribe of its land holdings and apportion acreage to individual members - to make way for white settlers to move in and buy up the individual holdin gs. But spouses of Freedmen did not receive land allotments, while spouses of Cherokee-by-blood did, and land given to Freedmen was made available for sale sooner than Indian land. The Cherokee Nation has not kicked out all people of African descent. Some of them were on the Cherokee-by-blood list, and some Cherokees-by- -blood intermarried with blacks in the century since the lists were made. Tribal officials say this shows the movement to exclude the Freedmen isn't racist. "If you really look at the Cherokee population, we have a wide difference of appearances," says Principal Chief Chad Smith, who is hoping to retain his post in a general election this weekend. But the Freedmen and their advocates contend that this historic inclusiveness only makes the sudden casting-off of people with black blood more unfair. "There really is an ethnic cleansing going on," says Jon Velie, the attorney who represents the Freedmen. Adds Marilynn Vann, president on the Descendants of the Freedmen of the Five Civilized Tribes, "It's not a matter of Indians versus non-Indians. The majority of Freedmen can prove they have Indian blood, if not through DNA then through government documents." Both sides, oddly enough, agree that tribal membership is a political designation, rather than a racial one. No one wants to use a strict blood quantum - say, a requirement of 1/16th Cherokee blood - to determine who belongs. "I refuse to create a sieve through which our grandchildren will fall out," says David Cornsilk, a Cherokee-by-blood who sides with the Freedmen. But each side sees very different implications. "What is identity?" posits Smith. "What is an Indian? What is a Cherokee? I would say it's someone part of a recognized community." Recognized, though, meaning on the proper Dawes List - not meaning active members of the tribe, as Vann asserts it should. "Even though Freedmen people didn't participate in tribal councils for many years, they have served in Cherokee schools and hospitals." Perhaps more importantly, they have considered themselves Cherokee their whole lives. "There's a tremendous amount of cultural identification that former slaves felt with Native tribes, of shared homeland, food, familial ties," says Tiya Miles, a historian who runs the Native American Studies program at the University of Michigan. Cherokee had slaves. Cherokee also married, and slept with, blacks. And there were blacks who were adopted into the Cherokee tribe though they had no blood or slave ties. They all walked the Trail of Tears with the Cherokee, from the Deep South to Oklahoma. These are the facts, but for blacks, especially, the mythology holds equally strong sway. A kinship with Native Americans has been a logical way to claim some sort of "non-black" status in a society where black is the most demeaned racial category. It's also helped ground many black people searching for an original homeland, says Miles. "Native America was connected to freedom," says Miles. "It was said slaves could run away to tribes and find shelter." Clearly that wasn't always the case, and the Cherokee controversy is, for Miles, "the end of innocence about what the historical relationship between African Americans and Native Americans really consisted of." It is ironic that the tribe wants to use the Dawes Rolls, which discriminated against Native Americans collectively, as a tool of discrimination against a group of blacks. But the Cherokee case is not without precedent. Several years ago, the Seminoles tried to kick their Freedmen out of their tribe. So, the federal government declared the Seminoles in violation of their treaty and refused to recognize the tribe's sovereignty. As a result the Freedmen were reincorporated in the Seminole nation in 2003. That could bode well for the Cherokee Freedmen, if Watson's bill passes. But Oklahoma Representatives Dan Boren, a Democrat, and Tom Cole, a Republican, have come out against any Congressional action right now, saying it would be premature. Most folks agree that this country owes the Cherokee a lot for centuries of theft and brutal oppression. But if the Cherokee won't reinstate the Freedmen, or both sides can't come to a mutually acceptable compromise, the U.S. government will have to take the impolitic step of overruling tribal sovereignty, withholding federal dollars, and ushering the Freedmen back into the fold. Copyright c. 2007 Time Inc. All rights reserved. --------- "RE: CNO votes to remove Feds from Process" --------- Date: Mon, 25 Jun 2007 07:28:39 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="CHAD SMITH RE-ELECTED" http://www.pechanga.net/ http://www.examiner-enterprise.com/articles/2007/06/23/news/news504.txt Cherokees Re-Elect Chief Tribe votes to remove feds from Constitutional process By E-E Staff Report June 25, 20076 According to unofficial general election results posted to the tribe's Web site, Chad "Corntassel" Smith has retained the office of principal chief of the Cherokee Nation in balloting held Saturday. At press time, Smith had outpolled challenger Stacy Leeds with 7,974 votes (58.77 percent) to 5,593 (41.23 percent). In the deputy chief's race, Joe Grayson, Jr. defeated Raymond Vann with 8,230 (61.26 percent) to 5,205 (38.74 percent). Cherokee Nation voters also voted "Yes" for Resolution No. 55-07 which affirms the removal of the federal government from the tribe's Constitutional process. The measure appears to have passed overwhelmingly with 7,912 (67.01 percent) to 3,896 votes (32.99 percent). A similar amendment was passed by Cherokee Nation voters in 2003 but was rejected by the Bureau of Indian Affairs four years after being submitted for approval. The new amendment will also be submitted for approval to the BIA. Locally, Buel Anglen defeated Roy Eugene Herman for District 8 - Seat 1 with 745 votes (74.87 percent) to 250 votes (25.13 percent). Bradley Cobb defeated Stephen D. Early for Council Member District 8 - Seat 2 with 69.14 percent of ballots cast. Cobb garnered 681 votes to Earley's 304 votes. Copyright c. 2007 Bartlesville Examiner Enterprise, Stephens Media, LLC, All rights reserved. --------- "RE: Tribe pleads for Artifacts" --------- Date: Fri, 22 Jun 2007 07:32:21 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="LAKOTA WANT BARRE TO REPATRIATE COLLECTION" http://www.telegram.com/article/20070621/ NEWS/706210751/1160/SPECIALSECTIONS04&source=rss Tribe pleads for artifacts Lakotas to visit Barre, plan protest at library By Kim Ring TELEGRAM & GAZETTE STAFF June 21, 2007 BARRE - American Indians who believe the spirits of their ancestors are trapped among items from the 1890 Wounded Knee, S.D., massacre in a museum at the Henry Woods Memorial Library plan to visit the facility and hold a peaceful protest later this month. The group hopes to encourage library officials to return the artifacts to tribe members during a visit slated for June 30. Peter Bormuth, one of the organizers of the event, said that since members of the Lakota Sioux tribe of South Dakota first visited the library in 1993, only one of about 100 artifacts displayed there has been repatriated, despite requests that the items be returned to the tribe. A lock of hair believed to have been taken from the body of Chief Big Foot, the Sioux leader at Wounded Knee, was returned to his great-great- grandson, Leonard Little Finger, in 2000. The hair was burned in a sacred ceremony to release Big Foot's soul, in accordance with the tribe's beliefs. While he is not an American Indian, Mr. Bormuth has, along with a handful of others, taken up the cause. Organizers expect to be joined by Alex White Plume, a past president of the Oglala Lakota Tribe; Mr. Little Finger; Rebecca Three Stars, who is the descendant of a Wounded Knee victim; and John Fusco, screenwriter of the movie "Hidalgo." Mr. Bormuth said tribe members were told during earlier visits to the museum several years ago that items would be repatriated, but an inactive member of the library association said that's not the case. "At one time, they were hoping to obtain some items," John Cirelli said. "But no promises were made." Mr. Cirelli recalled the 1993 visit and said he smoked a pipe with some tribe members. He said they seemed satisfied with the respectful way the items were displayed and there was no agreement to return anything at that time. Still, a 1993 article published in The New York Times quotes then- Librarian James Sullivan as saying, "Eventually it (the collection) will be repatriated." At that time, some were concerned over the Sioux tribe's plans to burn or bury sacred artifacts, and they worried the tribe would place the delicate items in storage because they have no appropriate place to display them. Mr. Bormuth said what becomes of the items should be of no concern to anyone but the rightful owners. "It is our contention that the Lakota have the right to do anything they want with these artifacts when they are returned," he said via e-mail. "These things are the property of their people, stripped from the bodies of their ancestors on a field of infamy." About 300 Indians, including Big Foot, were massacred at Wounded Knee by members of the 7th U.S. Cavalry. The collection came to Barre more than a century ago, when it was brought to the area by Frank R. Root. Among the items is a Ghost Dance shirt similar to one returned to the tribe in 1998 from Glasgow, Scotland. The collection also includes scalps, umbilical cord medicine bags, beaded items and sacred pipes. Under the federal Repatriation Act, the items would have to be returned if the library had ever taken federal funding. Mr. Cirelli said the library has not used such money because trustees never saw the need. He said keeping the collection was not a consideration in the decision to avoid using federal funding. The library recently lost its state certification after refusing to accept state funding. The facility can no longer borrow materials through the interlibrary loan service. Librarian James K. Knowlton has said the move was part of a rebuilding plan. Mr. Bormuth said the protest next week will be peaceful and include a purification (smudging), an opening invocation, speeches, poetry, drumming, singing and chanting. He is hopeful that there will also be opportunities to view the museum. Tiokasin Ghosthorse of New York, whose great-great-grandmother survived the massacre, said he believes the Repatriation Act should extend beyond its current limits to "people's conscience." He said in a telephone interview that since the items were taken at a time of terror, those who think they are preserving the items are likely being affected by the negative energy. "Once the native people receive these things back, and they will, there will be great blessings," he said. Mr. Ghosthorse said he has not seen the museum and though he would like to, he finds such visits difficult. "It's like seeing myself on display," he said. "As a kid, I got sick (visiting a museum display). I felt like I was dead." Mr. Knowlton said yesterday he has been told not to discuss the issue. Calls made to the association president and the group's lawyer were not returned last night. Copyright c. 2007 Worcester Telegram & Gazette Corp. --------- "RE: American Indian veterans honored" --------- Date: Fri, 22 Jun 2007 07:32:21 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="MUNUMENT AT OGLALA LAKOTA COLLEGE" http://www.kxma.com/getArticle.asp?ArticleId=136927 American Indian veterans honored Associated Press June 21, 2007 KYLE, S.D. (AP) A monument honoring more than 18-hundred American Indian military veterans will be dedicated Saturday six miles southwest of Kyle, South Dakota at the administrative headquarters of Oglala Lakota College. College President Thomas Shortbull says the monument will include the names of Indians who served in both World wars, the Korean War and Vietnam. Shortbull says American Indians have had the highest rate of military service during wars of any racial group. The monument features life-size bronze statues of a male Indian veteran and a female Indian veteran. Copyright c. 2007 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. Copyright c. 2007 Dickinson News KXMA, Part of the KXNet.com North Dakota News Network. --------- "RE: Battle Over Memorializing Sitting Bull" --------- Date: Sun, 17 Jun 2007 17:48:51 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="SITTING BULL" http://www.pechanga.net/ http://www.theledger.com/article/20070616/APA/706160632 Battle Over Memorializing Sitting Bull By ERIN McCLAM AP National Writer STANDING ROCK INDIAN RESERVATION, S.D. June 16, 2007 You have to travel back in time to get from the nearest town to the chipped and wind-whipped little stone face that peers out over the Missouri River and the endless plains beyond. The drive from Mobridge across the river takes you from the Central Time Zone into the Mountain, and if you turn off the main road and clatter four miles down a winding path, you find it - a modest monument on a lush green bluff. This simplicity is striking because of what lies beneath: The remains of Sitting Bull, the Sioux chief said to have foretold the defeat of Lt. Col. George Custer at the Battle of Little Bighorn in 1876. But it is more striking because of the state of extreme disrepair that befell the resting place of one of the best-known American Indians in history for half a century, until just two years ago. It was shot and spat at, and worse. On the surrounding grounds bonfires burned and shattered beer bottles glittered. Someone tied a rope around the feather rising from the head of the bust, rigged it to a truck and broke it off. The site is on what is called fee land, within the boundaries of the Standing Rock Sioux tribe but privately owned, and two years ago two men - one white, the other a tribesman - paid $55,000 for it and began cleaning it up. They have plans for a $12 million monument complex they hope will honor Sitting Bull's memory with the dignity missing for so long, and let new generations learn about him. But these plans, like Sitting Bull himself, are not so simple. And they have torn open a wound over who will control the great Sioux chief's legacy. --- First some history. By 1868 there was relative peace between the Sioux and the U.S. government. The Second Treaty of Fort Laramie had secured for the Sioux a patch of land in southwest South Dakota. Then gold was found in the Black Hills, whites rushed in, and the Sioux were ordered back to their reservations. Sitting Bull, having retreated into Montana, was said to have had a vision of a slaughter of soldiers. Of soldiers falling like grasshoppers from the sky. It was not long afterward that Custer and the U.S. Army's 7th Cavalry were defeated at the Little Bighorn, in Montana, in the summer of 1876. In the same way the Civil War has names particular to points of view - think "War of Northern Aggression" - Little Bighorn is also known as Custer's Last Stand, and, to some American Indians, as the Battle of the Greasy Grass. The United States ultimately prevailed in the Indian Wars, but Sitting Bull became, and remains, an icon, a hero to his people. Later in his life he may have taken up - the point is disputed - the "ghost dance" movement, which forecast the return to life of dead Indians and an end to white domination. This spooked U.S. authorities, and they went after Sitting Bull, who had settled back at Standing Rock. He was killed in a battle with Indian police and American soldiers on June 15, 1890. --- There are pictures of Sitting Bull - instantly recognizable, the single feather rising from the parted hair, the look at once stern and at peace - hanging today in the home of Ernie LaPointe, in the Black Hills town of Lead. He is a great-grandson of the chief, with a craggy face and jet-black hair pulled back into a pony tail. And he is furious. His mother always told him never to stand on Sitting Bull's back. Never boast of your heritage, she said. LaPointe, 58, believes the plans for a memorial complex atop his great-grandfather's grave are doing worse - cashing in. "They want to use our grandfather," he says, speaking for his three sisters, "as a tourist attraction." So this February he drafted a letter. He sent it to an assortment of Sioux tribes, including Standing Rock, which claims Sitting Bull. "North Dakota, South Dakota and the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe have not honored their promise for proper care and maintenance of our Grandfather's burial sites," the letter said. It called for a "final reburial" - in Montana, at the site of Little Bighorn. "So that he may spend eternity," the letter went on, "at the sacred place where his vision had predicted the greatest victory for our people, the victory at the Battle of the Greasy Grass." --- The two men who want to turn Sitting Bull's resting place into a memorial complex are Rhett Albers, an environmental consultant who is white, and Bryan Defender, who owns the sanitation system for the Standing Rock tribe and is enrolled there. They say people who come to the banks of the Missouri to see the site are confused - wondering: Well, where is the rest of it? Their plan for the site would stream visitors through an "interpretive center," focused on the four Sioux ideals they say Sitting Bull represented: Fortitude, generosity, bravery and wisdom. Other features under consideration are a snack bar, offices and meeting rooms, a gift shop and a restaurant serving wild game and American Indian dishes. Confronted with LaPointe's suggestion that all this adds up to an attempt to cash in on Sitting Bull's legacy, they look perplexed. "We are not wealthy people," Albers says over lunch at a diner on the opposite side of the river. "We've donated our time and expense and money to do this, pursue it, do it in a positive way." Defender, 35, said he and Albers have met with groups on the Standing Rock reservation and received an overwhelmingly positive reaction to their plan. (The tribe's chairman did not respond to requests to be interviewed for this story.) Albers said they hope someday to recoup their $55,000, but have no plans to draw salaries from the tourist center. "It's not about the money," Albers, 45, says on a bumpy drive across the river in his pickup truck. "It's about the man. And the tribute. And to have these sites which everyone recognizes as being significant." The two men take pride in their friendship, pointing out that in Mobridge, there is still lingering distrust between whites and members of the tribe. "There's all these hard feelings, racial discrimination all over the world, and in this area also," Albers says. "There's a way we can understand each other better, reconcile these differences, learn from this tradition." --- This is not the first struggle over Sitting Bull's remains. The Standing Rock Sioux reservation, where the great chief lived his last years, straddles the Dakotas, and for the first half of the 20th century his remains lay at Fort Yates, N.D. The grave was poorly marked. Weeds sprouted. So in the early 1950s, a group of businessmen from Mobridge approached North Dakota authorities about having the remains moved south of the state line. North Dakota balked. And that is how, in 1953, during a blizzard and in the middle of the night, a group from Mobridge, with a mortician in tow and with the blessing of the Standing Rock tribe, dug up the remains and secreted them into South Dakota. Ernie LaPointe says his mother, Angelique Spotted Horse, was among those who agreed to the 1953 disinterment, and was assured by South Dakota authorities that the remains would be treated with dignity. She had her doubts, telling relatives: "They never lived up to it before. What makes them want to do it now?" The Polish sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski contributed the granite bust that marks the remains today. The bust is 6 feet tall and sits atop an 8-foot pedestal yet still seems small set against magnificent, mostly undisturbed, natural surroundings. For a time volunteers visited the bluff to mow the grass and clean up. But those efforts waned, said Larry Atkinson, publisher of the Mobridge Tribune. Into the vacuum stepped vandals, drunks, partying teenagers. "It was isolated. It was up on a spot where you could see vehicles coming," Atkinson says. "Kids are kids, and they saw it as an easy place that everybody knew where it was. It was a party place." It was also a dumping ground. Refrigerators were dropped there. Shower stalls, too - tubs and faucets, the whole thing. Water heaters, furniture, tires. Bullet holes pock the shaft on which the bust of Sitting Bull sits. Trashing the site became something of a rite of passage, Albers says. You became a senior in high school here and you and your friends drove out to Sitting Bull to raise a little hell. He hears from them today. "You mean we can't have the senior keg at Sitting Bull anymore?" Albers laughs. "We're stopping that." --- The aspects of the plan that anger LaPointe are the very attractions Albers and Defender say are most needed to sustain a fitting memorial to Sitting Bull - the visitors center, the amphitheater, the snack bar. The pair are in the early stages of raising an estimated $12.7 million to bring the memorial to reality. For guidance, they have consulted the operators of a monument to Crazy Horse, carved into South Dakota's Black Hills, about 200 miles southwest of the Sitting Bull site. More than 1 million people a year visit that still-unfinished sculpture, begun by Ziolkowski in 1948, which features the Sioux warrior atop his horse. Crazy Horse's head alone is spacious enough to house the four presidential heads of Mount Rushmore. Enthusiasts support the monument with memberships at donor levels from $41 to $1,500. Pat Dobbs, a spokesman for the Crazy Horse site, said its success has taken "quite a bit of effort and years." --- LaPointe says he has the backing of the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument to move the bones of Sitting Bull to Montana, and that an environmental assessment is planned soon. And he has the backing of Darrell Cook, superintendent of the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, where there are already some memorials and markers recalling the battle in 1876. If LaPointe is successful, expect nothing like what Albers and Defender are trying to do in South Dakota. "Sitting Bull, he was a humble man," Cook said. "I don't think building memorials and visitors centers and that type of stuff is appropriate." The Smithsonian Institution, meanwhile, is researching Sitting Bull's living descendants and preparing a "repatriation report" for a lock of the chief's hair and a pair of his leggings it holds, which would be returned to them. South Dakota authorities, in letters to LaPointe, have deferred to the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act, which says removal of human remains, even from private land enclosed by a reservation, requires the consent of the tribe. Members of the Cheyenne River Sioux tribe, which also claims descendants of Sitting Bull, have voted to leave the remains where they are. Ron His-Horse-Is-Thunder, the chairman of Standing Rock, did not return repeated calls from The Associated Press over several weeks. But Tim Mentz Sr., who is enrolled at Standing Rock and handles issues related to the repatriation law, said the tribe established a formal "lineal tree" for Sitting Bull in the early 1990s that named LaPointe as one, but not the only, direct descendant. He refused to say who else was on the list. As for LaPointe, "He cannot promote or say that he is the only closest relative," Mentz said. "That is clearly false." There are whispers that the dispute may wind up in court, and LaPointe said he has been looking for law firms that might represent him for free. --- It is difficult to nail down any aspect of the dispute as provable fact, particularly in a culture that for centuries has relied on a tradition of oral history. It is not even possible to nail down as fact the presence of the actual bones of Sitting Bull on that Missouri River bluff. One story that persists in North Dakota is that his remains are still buried at Fort Yates, that fakes were placed atop them, and that the fakes that were taken to Mobridge in 1953. Another story goes further, holding that Sitting Bull's remains are somewhere in Canada. According to that legend, the great chief himself ordered that fakes be planted at Fort Yates. The story holds that he foresaw a bitter fight over his bones once he was gone. Copyright c. 2007 The Ledger, Lakeland, FL. --------- "RE: Oklahoma Tribal Leaders attend Ceremony" --------- Date: Wed, 20 Jun 2007 07:32:47 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="HOME OWNERSHIP" http://www.pechanga.net/ http://www.newsok.com/article/3068032/ Tribal leaders attend ceremony The Associated Press June 19, 2007 TULSA - Leaders of Oklahoma's five major American Indian tribes watched as President Bush signed a bill to reauthorize an existing program that encourages home ownership among American Indians by guaranteeing mortgages. Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chad Smith; Chickasaw Nation Gov. Bill Anoatubby; Assistant Chief Gary Batton of the Choctaw Nation; Chief A.D. Ellis of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation and Chief Enoch Kelly Haney of the Seminole Nation were on hand in the Oval Office as Bush added his signature to the Native American Home Ownership Opportunity Act of 2007, which Rep. Dan Boren, D-Muskogee., supported. "This program increases homeownership in Indian Country and improves the quality of life in Indian communities," Boren, who also attended the signing ceremony, said in a story from the Tulsa World's Washington bureau. "Seeing this legislation passed and signed into law is critical to continue providing homeownership opportunities throughout Indian Country." Cole Perryman, a spokesman for Boren, said the White House had linked the event to the president's push for home ownership for specific communities. The new law reauthorizes HUD'S Section 184 Loan Guarantee Program, which was created in 1992 to address the lack of mortgage lending for American Indians. "Native Americans deserve an equal opportunity to share in the dream of homeownership, and this program helps them do just that," HUD Secretary Alphonso Jackson said in a news release. "Indian tribes around the country have utilized these loans to increase and improve their housing." According to HUD, more than 4,500 loans have been guaranteed for $573.1 million. Boren said 24 tribes in Oklahoma have participated in the program. Since its inception, the program has guaranteed $121.9 million in loans in Oklahoma, which represents 34 percent of the total loans to American Indians nationwide, Boren said. Copyright c. 2007 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. Copyright c. 2007 The Oklahoman/News 9, Produced by NewsOK.com. --------- "RE: Woman tries to save Ottawa Language" --------- Date: Wed, 20 Jun 2007 07:32:47 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="OTTAWA" http://www.mlive.com/news/grpress/index.ssf?/ base/news-36/1182349560130730.xml&coll=6 Woman tries to save Ottawa language By Morgan JaremaThe Grand Rapids Press June 20, 2007 ADA TOWNSHIP - Pat DiPiazza just wanted somebody to talk to. The Ada Township resident, who grew up in a household where Ottawa was spoken, said it has been five years since she carried on a conversation with another person who speaks the American Indian Ojibwe dialect. "When I was young, there was an Americanization of Indian kids in school," DiPiazza said. "They weren't allowed to speak it, and their parents wanted them to learn English. "Now, their children want to learn the language so they can pass it on, but there aren't many people left to teach it." Even at local cultural events, she said, she couldn't find anyone else who spoke Ottawa. According to Minnesota-based Native Languages of the Americas, a nonprofit organization that aims to preserve and promote endangered Native American languages, there are only about a half-million native speakers of American Indian languages in Canada and the U.S. So DiPiazza gathered about a dozen other Native Americans she knew who range in age from 22 to 78 who wanted to learn - plus a few of their spouses - and now is wrapping up a class teaching conversational Ottawa at Ada Park. DiPiazza doesn't know the spellings of the words she teaches. She has made a key of hundreds of words, all spelled phonetically. For example, "hello" is "boo-shoo." "Thank you" is "mig-wetch." Shirley Francis is taking the class with her husband, Simon, who is Ojibwe. Francis, 78, said she wishes there was a class in the language when she was raising her children. Now, she finds herself taping pieces of paper with Ottawa words to furniture and other items around her Southeast Grand Rapids house. At a recent class, Francis pulled a black wide-brim straw hat from her head and twirled it with a finger. "Duh-guan-don chi wik-won," she said with what seemed like effortlessness before she admitted "I've been practicing that sentence for six weeks straight." Spenser Cantu, 22, drives with his father, Phillip Cantu, from the Muskegon area, for the weekly class. Father and son already knew many Ottawa words, but were not conversational. "It's something I'd like to be able to pass to my children," Spenser Cantu said. Copyright c. 2007 Michigan Live LLC. All Rights Reserved. --------- "RE: Grandmother's advice guides Dine' man's Path" --------- Date: Sun, 17 Jun 2007 17:48:51 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="MEDICINE MAN" http://www.gallupindependent.com/2007/june/061607nkj_lfechngngwrds.html Life-changing words Grandmother's advice guides Dine' man's path By Natasha Kaye Johnson Dine' Bureau June 16, 2007 SHIPROCK - Benjamin Clark never knew the words his late grandmother Mary Yellowhair spoke to him when he was 9 years old would change his life. It was a late-summer afternoon in Teec Nos Pos when Yellowhair shared with her grandson the importance of maintaining traditional ways as a Dine' person. "She told me as a traditional Dine' Indian, you have to accomplish something," Clark, now 47 years old, remembers her saying. "She told me, 'Yes, you are taking the English courses from the bottom to 12th (grade), but you have to stick with Dine' culture." Clark said his grandmother was a weaver, and knew different traditional songs. Her grandpa was also a medicine man in the 1800s. "You have to keep that going," he remembers his grandmother telling him in Navajo. "There is really none of us here in our family that are like that. I kind of depend on you." A year later, Yellowhair passed away, and although she had spoken often and shared stories filled with Navajo teachings and philosophy, that particular conversation remained vivid in Clark's memory. But it would not be until almost 30 years later that Clark would understand why the words she spoke that day would forever be engrained in his memory. One ordinary summer night, Clark woke up around midnight from a dream. He walked outside where the saw the face the Yei'bi'chei formed by the clouds. There was no mistaking that it was a face, but because the sighting was out of the unusual, he began rethinking what he saw. "What did I see up there?" he remembers thinking. "Was that my imagination?" Clark initially decided to not over think the image and went to sleep. But that night, he dreamt about his grandma. "She told me to be up and be thinking positive, and to go on and do what I told you before you have to become a medicine man," recalls Clark. As soon as he awoke, he remembered what she said in his dream, and then immediately remembered the day when she told him that he must accomplish something as a Dine' person. "I had that in my mind (when I woke up)," Clark said, still astonished as to how that dream came to him that night. "I never thought about it (what his grandma said)." Clark consulted with a medicine man and shared what happened. He was told it was just a dream, but during a Beauty Way ceremony, Clark saw a vision of a medicine bundle and a figure told him that he was to do something in this world. He didn't know what it meant, but he prayed. That was nearly eight years ago. Eight years of learning, singing, praying After the ceremony, Clark began consulting with different family medicine men. One medicine man interpreted the dreams and visions to mean that Clark might become a medicine man. But Clark didn't understand how that could be. "I don't really know those kind of stuff," Clark remembers thinking. Clark also felt that he did not fit the image of a medicine man. Not only was he young, he didn't possess many of the physical traits medicine men have, like a traditional bun and earrings. While these were initial thoughts that Clark had, the image of the bundle and the figure remained strong. "That thought of what I'd seen, it kept coming to me," he said. Careful not to rush into what the thoughts meant, he took his time asking medicine men questions about medicine bundles. One medicine man shared a story of how generations ago, long before the days of the Long Walk and Fort Sumner, medicine men traveled to the top of the sacred mountains to get mountain dirt. At first Clark remembered thinking, "I'm not a Holy person. How can I get one of these mountain dirt?" It wouldn't be long after that Clark would discover what his visions and thoughts meant. He was to climb the four sacred mountains and get mountain dirt for a medicine bundle. "One day I said, 'I'm going to go do it. I'm going to go hike these sacred mountains,'" he said. He began preparing mentally, physically, and spiritually from that day. Each morning, he woke before the sun rose, and prayed, and then ran. With the permission of medicine men, he began learning prayers and songs. He even changed his diet to healthier foods, knowing that he had to be in shape to climb the mountains. Six days, six sacred mountains Eight years later after dreaming about his grandmother, it was decided that he was ready to climb the mountains. Traditional Dine' teachings hold the sacred mountains in high regard. According to the Dine', the sacred mountains were placed on the earth by the Holy People during the time of the Holy World. Each mountain represents policies and procedures that help to define Navajo beliefs. The Dine' people were instructed by the Holy People to stay within the sacred mountains because they would protect them, just as a mother would. The mountains are what allow the people to live in harmony with the earth, the animals, and the holy beings. It was early morning hours of July last year when Clark prayed before leaving Teec Nos Pos for Tsisnaajini' (Sierra Blanca Peak), the sacred mountain to the East that represents early dawn, white shell, and thinking. He drove to San Luis Valley, Colo., where he got specific directions from locals to the mountain. He drove as far as he could, and then began hiking to the top. His shirt became soaked with sweat, and his knees were shaking, but he kept going until he reached rocky areas he could not climb. He did not eat during the time he climbed the mountain, but allowed himself only one bottle of water for each mountain. As he walked, he saw remnants of white fossil shell, and thought about the Navajo deity White Shell Woman. He blessed himself with the mountain, grateful and humble that he was blessed with being able to step foot on the mountain. As Clark shared the moment when he reached as far up the mountain as possible, the tone of his voice changed into awe and amazement. "Oh man, it was just something else," he recalls of the view and feeling of knowing that he was on a sacred mountain. He picked a spot, and began praying and singing. He made an offering and then began making his way down. His wife, parents, two sons and daughter were supportive of what he was doing, and stayed home and prayed. Each time he went down the mountain, Clark said he called them, and told them he would share what happened on the mountain. He reminded them to keep praying. That same night, he drove to Gallup and stayed in his truck before making his way to Tsoodzil (Mount Taylor) just north of Laguna, N. M., the next morning. As he began climbing the South Mountain, representing the sky, turquoise stone, and planning, he saw horses wandering in the deep woods of the mountain, and he heard cattle grazing. He took a deep breath of fresh air, and once again sang, prayed, and made an offering. He then left for Doko'oosliid (San Francisco Peaks) in Flagstaff, Ariz., that evening, the West Mountain that represents evening dusk, abalone shell, and living. Just as the two days before, he began climbing before dawn, going through miles of deep forest and clay mud to get as high up as he could. When he reached the top, he was drenched in mud and his body was drained, but he prayed, sang, and offered corn pollen. The following day around 3 a.m., he drove to Dibe Ni'saa (Mount Hesperus) in La Plata, Colo., the North Mountain that represents the darkness, black jet stone, and respect. It was there that Clark walked through the tall slippery grass that was still wet from the previous night's rain. He prayed, made an offering, and then climbed back down the mountain at sundown. The fifth mountain he would visit would be Dzil'Na'oodili (Huerfano Peak) 60 miles southeast of Bloomfield. The mountain is one of two inner mountains that are significant in Navajo teachings. Referred to as the Center Mountain, it represents the center of the hogan, and prayers. The mountain is where Talking God performed the first Kinaalda (puberty ceremony) for Changing Woman. It is also where Changing Woman gave birth to the Warrior Twins. Clark followed a sheep trail up to the very top. Unlike the four previous mountains, he was able to make it clear to the top, where he prayed again. The next day, he made his way to Ch'oo'ili (Gobernador Knob), southeast of Navajo Dam, representing the door of the hogan and songs. It was at the top of the peak that Changing Woman was found by First Man and First Woman. When Clark reached the top, he found a pion tree surrounded with offerings like silver dollars, dimes, nickels, pennies, diamonds, and stones. "There was a pile of jet stones," said Clark. "It was like an ant hill. It was amazing." As he took in the amazing view, he couldn't help but imagine how the first sacred corn field looked during the holy days. Humbled and blessed, Clark returned home to his family in Teec Nos Pos that same evening. After the mountains A year later, Clark wrote about his experience of climbing the mountains for one of his culture classes at Dine' College in Shiprock. His professor Robert Hurley was intrigued by his story, and convinced Clark to share his story. While Clark shared some details about his experience, he explained that how he could only reveal the most intimate details about what he learned and experienced in a ceremonial setting. The experience, Clark said, allowed him to understand the importance of who he is as a Dine' person. It was a life changing event for him, and his family. "I never thought of myself climbing on these Holy sacred mountains, with my feet on these holy sacred mountains," Clark said. When Clark told a medicine man that he climbed the mountains, he was surprised. "He said only a few traditional men, they do that," Clark said. The medicine man shared Clark's story with other medicine men, who came together and told him that they're going to recommend him for the Medicine Man Association. Four months later, in November 2006, Clark prepared a medicine bundle with the mountain dirt and was initiated as a medicine man. He is still completing the paperwork for the Association. After some young men learned about what Clark did, they began asking him questions. "They ask, 'How did you get the thought that you wanted to go over there?'" Clark explained to them how something was telling him that he had to be something else in the world. Before becoming a medicine man, Clark was a field supervisor. Today, he is a full-time student at Dine' College and is working toward getting certification to become a mental health counselor as well. He is Bit'ahnii (Folded Arms People) born for Hashtl'ishnii (Mud People Clan). His maternal grandfathers are of the Tl'asshchi'i (Red Bottom People Clan) and his paternal grandfathers are Ashii'i (Salt Clan). Clark also explains how his decision to climb the mountains did not come suddenly, and it was not something that he took lightly. "I thought about it and prayed about it for a long time," he said. "For me, I took about seven years to climb these mountains." He tells them that unlike a Holy Person, or maybe even a coyote who can climb the mountains when they wish, human beings are different. "You have to really study yourself," Clark tells them. "You have to have a clear mind to do it." And even though Clark is aware that he is rather young compared to other medicine men, he is certain that what his grandmother told him led him to be what he is today. "I was blessed with this," Clark said. Copyright c. 2007 the Gallup Independent. --------- "RE: FEMA Trailers to go to American Indian Tribes" --------- Date: Tue, 26 Jun 2007 07:33:42 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="MOTHBALLED KATRINA TRAILERS HEADED TO RESERVATIONS" http://www.southbendtribune.com/apps/pbcs.dll/ article?AID=/20070623/News01/70624005 2,000 unused Hurricane Katrina FEMA trailers to go to American Indian tribes By MARY CLARE JALONICK Associated Press Writer June 23, 2007 WASHINGTON (AP) - American Indian tribes throughout the country will receive 2,000 unused trailers that were intended for but never given to Hurricane Katrina victims. Thousands of trailers have been idling in Arkansas and Texas, prompting criticism about government waste. They originally were purchased to house people displaced by the hurricane, but FEMA officials said regulations against placing the homes in flood plains prevented their use on the Gulf Coast. Last year, Sen. Tim Johnson, D-S.D., urged the agency to donate the trailers to American Indian country, but the agency said federal law dictated the trailers must be used for disaster victims. In September, Johnson pushed through legislation allowing FEMA to sell or donate the trailers. Nine months later, the trailers will finally be distributed, Johnson said in a statement issued by his office Friday. "I saw pictures of tens of thousands of empty mobile homes sitting unused in Hope, Ark., while South Dakota's Indian tribes were struggling through a tough winter with inadequate housing," Johnson said in the statement. "There is still much that needs to be done to improve Indian housing, but this is a good step toward addressing this serious problem." Indian housing has been a problem for decades. According to a 2003 survey, approximately 90,000 Indian families are homeless or "under-housed." Johnson is out of the Senate recovering from a December brain hemorrhage, but he has been working from home on the issue, said spokeswoman Julianne Fisher. Copyright c. The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. Copyright c. 1994-2007 South Bend Tribune. --------- "RE: JODI RAVE: A long walk for fitness, fellowship" --------- Date: Mon, 18 Jun 2007 07:36:03 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="" http://www.missoulian.com/articles/2007/06/18/jodirave/rave55.txt Native News with Jodi Rave Column: A long walk for fitness, fellowship June 17, 2007 SALEM, Ore. - A friend recently sent me an e-mail about her walk down the West Coast, one that started in Alaska. "I am in Eugene, Oregon. Yes!!!" wrote Missoula's Linda Juneau, who began her walk four weeks ago with Native Griz team members. Actually, more than 2,000 teams and 41,000 walkers are participating in the WOMAN Challenge - Women and Girls Out Moving Across the Nation - a national walking event that ends July 7. The eight-week challenge allows teams and individuals to choose from six virtual walking tours. The Native Griz chose the path from Alaska, down the West Coast and to Hawaii. We log our miles on the WOMAN Challenge Web site. I first wrote about the challenge on Mother's Day, after learning about the Sistergirls team in New Mexico and Arizona, whose captain is Brenda Manuelito. Last year, two of its walkers logged more than 1 million steps, including Manuelito's now 75-year-old mother. That averages out to some 500 miles in eight weeks. The Navajo elder inspired me to walk. I was invited to join the Sistergirls this year. But interest grew among friends and acquaintances in Missoula, so we created the Native Griz. We grew to 18 members in three states. I've been keeping up with the team via e-mail from Oregon, where I'm on assignment. We all started the walk at different fitness levels. Amy Sings In The Timber chalked up some 57 miles, or about 114,000 steps the first week. And she has averaged some 45 miles a week, or about 90,000 weekly steps. "My motivation is total fitness - mind, body and soul," she said. Linda Osler said after four weeks she is "beginning to relax and enjoy the walking more than in the beginning, when it was all work. I actually sleep better when I walk more." During the first week, Iris Pretty Paint, Juneau and I met on the Clark Fork River walking trail in Missoula. Pretty Paint told us her husband dropped her off at the store so she could buy shoes. She's also been making him drop her off blocks from her office so she can walk. "I have become much more aware of walking across campus, to lunch and doing housework," she said in an e-mail. "I convinced my husband to join and we are both benefiting from this virtual walking group." The challenge allows participants to build up steps through activities such as biking or housecleaning. So if you clean house for 30 minutes, that's worth 1,530 steps, or about 1.5 miles. One of the biggest surprises for me has been the realization that I was previously working out like a wimp. Even though I was going to the gym about four times a week, my typical two-mile treadmill workout is considered "sedentary," according to the U.S. Department of Health Web site at www.womenshealth.org. I'd have to walk between 2.4 and 3.74 daily miles - or do 30 to 44 minutes of exercise - to kick up my routine a notch, which even then would be considered "low activity." "Somewhat active" exercise amounts to 3.75 to 4.99 miles a day. And an "active" lifestyle means completing 60 minutes or more of daily exercise. The challenge encourages walkers to shoot for 10,000 steps a day. It takes about 2,000 steps to walk a mile, so that means charting five miles a day. A pedometer helps track the steps. Several of our team members, including me, have reached and maintained an active daily activity level. I've easily quadrupled my old walking routine. The WOMAN challenge Web site lets all walkers chart their individual progress. So now, after four weeks, most of us are somewhere along the West Coast. As for team success, the Native Griz is still in Alaska, because each member must meet her goal before the whole team advances. The good news is we're all walking more than we used to. We're enjoying the health benefits, and it doesn't cost anything to put on shoes and hit a trail. And we are enjoying the outdoors. Juneau reminded me of this in one of her last e-mails from Missoula. She's enjoying "the sweet smells of spring and summer here, as well as the intricacies of flowers, weeds and grasses along my route with the clear view of Lolo Peak. Aaahh. How awesome our Creator is with all these extra treats for the day." --- Jodi Rave covers Native issues for the Missoulian. Reach her at 1-800-366-7186 or at jodi.rave@lee.net Copyright c. 2007 Missoulian, a division of Lee Enterprises. --------- "RE: GIAGO: The great horse of the Pawnee Nation" --------- Date: Mon, 18 Jun 2007 07:36:03 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="GIAGO: SHUNATONA" http://www.indianz.com/News/2007/003466.asp Tim Giago: The great horse of the Pawnee Nation June 18, 2007 There is a well-kept graveyard in the rolling, green hills on the outskirts of Pawnee, Oklahoma. There lie the graves of the fallen warriors and women of the Pawnee Nation. In one corner is the headstone of an Indian scout identical to the government issued headstones found in Indian cemeteries across America to honor the scouts who served the U. S. Army during the Indian wars of long ago. On this beautiful June day fluffy white clouds float slowly over the graveyard and the afternoon sun reflects off of the large tombstone bearing the names of Mary and Charles George Shunatona. He was known as Chief Shunatona to the many friends he made in his 84 years on this earth. On the back of the tombstone is the family name of the Shunatona clan. It reads, "Great Horse," and there is a story behind the name. Told to me many years ago by Charles this is how the story goes: "One day long ago while the warriors were away from camp hunting, only the women, children and a few elders remained in the camp. A young boy spotted enemy warriors approaching and he raced back to the camp to warn them. The only way to safety was to cross the river now swollen and crashing from the melting snow and spring rains. An elderly man told the boy who brought the news of the enemy to get the great horse that stood grazing at the edge of the camp. He then summoned all of the people together and they followed him as he led the horse to the edge of the raging river. In the Otoe language he told the horse to start across the river and he held out his hand to the boy who in turn held out his hand to a woman and so it went until all of the people in the camp were joined together with clasped hands. The elderly man then grasped the tail of the horse as it started to swim across the river and all of the people held hands tightly as the mighty horse pulled them all across the river to safety." The elderly Otoe man was the great grandfather of Chief Shunatona and so that is why the name "Great Horse" is etched on the gravestone at Pawnee. More than 30 years ago I was about to begin hosting a weekly television show on KEVN-TV in Rapid City, S. D. I wanted the show to have an Indian theme song. I knew of only one man that could give me that song and his name was Charles Shunatona. Chief Shunatona was known all across Indian country for his mastery of the flute. I visited him one spring day in Wichita, Kansas. His wonderful daughter Gwen, then an assistant dean at Stanford University in California, was my hostess. Charles asked me a few questions about my television show, about its format, and then he told me he would have a theme song ready for me by the end of the week. He was true to his word and a couple Sundays later, when my show made its debut, we had taken a Lakota pipe, hung it from the ceiling with black thread against a black background, filled it with tobacco and lit it, touched it gently so that it would appear to be floating in the air with smoke drifting from its bowl, and then came the beautiful tones of an Indian flute enriched by the deep voice of Chief Shunatona telling the story of the flute. In this way my new show, "The First Americans" was introduced to the people of Western South Dakota on December 15, 1976. All of these memories came back to me as I looked at the headstone of Charles and Mary Shunatona last week. His daughter Gwen was once again my hostess and she delighted in showing me around the campus of the new Pawnee Nation College located on the grounds of the old Bureau of Indian Affairs boarding school. I never cease to be amazed at the outrageous optimism of the Indian people. Through the eyes of Gwen Shunatona, George Howell, the president of the Pawnee Nation, Elizabeth Blackowl, Todd Fuller, president of the Pawnee Nation College, Deb Echo-Hawk, Les Hand, Roberta Gardipe, and Dawna and Charlie Hare, they see a beautiful college campus developing like a Phoenix rising from the ashes of a boarding school that has been closed for 40 years. The old Pawnee Boarding School was built at the turn of the 20th Century to house and educate the Indian children of the Pawnee, Otoe-Missouria, Kaw, Ponca, Tonkawa and Shawnee. Not only would the children be educated, but they would also cease to be Indians. The BIA policy of "Kill the Indian; save the child" would see to that. The school eventually became known as "Gravy U" by the children in honor of the watery gravy that was served at every meal. Through my eyes I saw buildings that were ancient and in disrepair. I saw that it would require millions of dollars to restore the buildings (You can see what the campus looks like today by Googling Pawnee Indian School). But I could not help but be uplifted by the unvarnished enthusiasm of Gwen, George Howell, Todd and the other school board members. Gwen returned to the land of her people to pursue this dream and George returned to his homeland from a life as an administrator for the Indian Health Service in order to help make the dreams of his people a reality. Pawnee Nation College is a dream that, with the help of the American people, can come true. A couple of miles away, beneath a beautiful headstone with the words "Great Horse" carved upon it, Chief Shunatona and his wife Mary, wait, watch and share the optimism and enthusiasm of the people of Pawnee, Oklahoma and today I join them in their shared hopes and dreams that one day there will rise from the ashes of "Gravy U," a college that will grab the tail of the "Great Horse" and be pulled along the path to safety and success. --- Tim Giago is an Oglala Lakota. He was a Nieman Fellow at Harvard in the Class of 1991. His latest book "Children Left Behind, the Dark Legacy of the Indian Missions," is now available at: order@clearlightbooks.com. The book just won the Bronze Star from the Independent Publishers Awards. He can be reached at najournalists@rushmore.com. --------- "RE: YELLOW BIRD: Festival days and Prairie nights" --------- Date: Thu, 21 Jun 2007 07:20:54 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="YELLOW BIRD: PRAIRIE" http://www.grandforksherald.com/articles/index.cfm?id=41527 Enjoying festival days and prairie nights Dorreen Yellow Bird Grand Forks Herald June 20, 2007 Dorreen Yellow Bird is a reporter and columnist. Her columns appear Wednesdays and Saturdays on the opinion pages of the Herald. In the great and wide-open Plains of North Dakota, we often find islands of land that are different from the surrounding prairie. Many of these islands are being turned into recreation areas. One of those places is the updated Sullys Hill National Game Preserve near the Spirit Lake Indian Reservation and looming above the water of Devils Lake. Devils Lake is largest lake in North Dakota and holds Sullys Hill in a crooked hand. The game preserve has turned into a beautiful place for birding and discovering prairie and forest. Late last week, I took part in the Eighth Annual Sullys Hill Birding and Nature Festival. Rain had drenched the area for some weeks, pushing water into the Devils Lake outlet and filling every small pool and waterhole in the park to capacity. These downpours also turned the forest into a vibrant, emerald green. The floor of the forested area was like a soft carpet with grasses and broadleaf sarsaparilla plants blanketing every space beneath the trees. The contrast between the dark tree trunks and the green was stunning. Two deer stood stock-still as my car approached. I had to smile at them. I suppose they thought they were well-hidden, but their tawny brown coats against the green made them stand out like a red cardinal would in this green land. In one of the small ponds, several tiny, baby ducklings paddled with all their might away from my car and toward their mother. The festival included both indoor and outdoor activities. My sister, Liz, and I went on the prairie tour. My sister had insisted before this trip that I bring extra shoes, more socks, a jacket and umbrella. Did I mention it had been raining earlier in the week and, I might add, for most of the month, it seemed? Well, as luck would have it, Saturday's blue sky stretched from horizon to horizon. As we gathered for the prairie tour, I realized that a jacket, extra shoes, extra socks and an umbrella were unnecessary. But a hat to keep the sun out as well as insect spray or sunscreen would have helped. Cami Dixon, a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service wildlife biologist, showed us flowers and plants such as prairie smoke, sage, purple coneflowers (not in bloom yet), prairie roses that smelled wonderful, a milkweed, wild turnips (bread root) and lead plant. Also included were grasses such as big and little bluestem that were just beginning to grow, side oats and others. Dixon is committed to the prairie and the land. It shows. She is a naturalist who loves what she is doing, which made the walk through rough terrain in the heat of the day worthwhile. I thought I saw the rare Dakota Skipper butterfly, but it was gone so fast that I can't be sure, and no one else saw it. However, they are in this area, Dixon said. That rare butterfly is only one of the unique features of our prairie lands. The prairie changes almost magically day after day, until the fall when it turns tawny and golden. The Sullys Hill festival is over, but another festival even closer to our area is coming. It's called Prairie Days and will be held SaturDay from 7:30 a.m. to the evening at Turtle River State Park. Why are these festivals becoming part of North Dakota's list of things to do and see? Prairie islands such as these indicate the strength of the land to recover in spite of man's encroachment. At the upcoming festival, you might see yellow lady slippers, prairie smoke, sunflowers, white prairie aster, crocuses, prairie coneflower, wild rose, wild grasses such as little and big bluestem and much more in the prairie near Grand Forks. Birding expert Dave Lambeth will be there, as will as Dan Svedarsky of the University of Minnesota-Crookston, who will talk about ecology and prairie plants. He'll also talk about the "Boomers and Dancers" -- in other words, prairie chickens. B. J. Rainbow will talk about spirituality and the prairie from a Native American point of view. The day will end with a Turtle River State Park prairie stroll with Robert Seabloom. For more information, Herald staff writer's Brad Dokken's story, "Prairie Days highlights GF area" was published Tuesday but still is available on the Herald's Web site, www.grandforksherald.com. There is no charge for the event, and lunch for the first 100 who register will be free. (Lunch includes BBQ pork, beans, coleslaw, rolls and a drink.) If you want to be one of the first 100, call Cami at (701) 662-8611 or Cec at (701) 772-4560. For me, the prairie is the Creator's garden. It's a place that sings with sounds of birds, animals and reptiles. It is a place where the wild flowers and grasses grow and provide for our well-being. It's a place where I hear the whispers of the grandmothers in the wind. --- Dorreen Yellow Bird is a reporter and columnist. Her columns appear Wednesdays and Saturdays on the opinion pages of the Herald. Reach her at (701) 780-1228 or dyellowbird@gfherald.com Copyright c. 2007 Grand Forks Herald, Forum Communications Co., Fargo ND. --------- "RE: YELLOW BIRD: Embrace change, but don't forget past" --------- Date: Sat, 23 Jun 2007 08:04:03 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="YELLOW BIRD: KEEPING THE GOOD" http://www.grandforksherald.com/articles/index.cfm?id=41720 Embrace change, but don't forget past Dorreen Yellow Bird Grand Forks Herald June 23, 2007 This weekend, I will be traveling 700 miles to the Greasy Grass area of Montana the site of the infamous Battle of the Little Big Horn.The battle was a time in history when the U.S. Army experienced one of its worst defeats ever. The Lakota and Cheyenne annihilated the 7th Calvary, killing Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer and his men. The date was June 25, 1876. On June 25, 2007, I will make a presentation at the battlefield. In preparing for this talk, I was struck by how extremely different our lives are today. I know the history of the battle. I have shelves full of books and journals about the Little Big Horn battle and related events. But I'm always a little put out that there's only one good book about the Ree Scouts. It's called "The Arikara Narrative of Custer's Campaign and the Battle of the Little Bighorn," by Orin Grant Libby, originally published in 1920. Few know our story. In this book, the Arikara warriors told their stories to Libby, founder of the North Dakota Historical Society. The Rees were the scouts who fought with Custer. Libby said of the Arikara: They each told the same story when interviewed. They had no knowledge of what the other scouts who were interviewed had said. They told their stories with honesty and didn't embellish, Libby claimed. This battle sometimes brings about heated discussions among the tribes. And at times, the scouts there were Arikara, Crow and Lakota scouts were called disparaging names for scouting for the 7th Calvary. Some of the elders of the tribe told us that we were at war with the Lakota and Cheyenne around the time of the battle, and they were right. In doing my research, I have found explicit stories of battles between the well-armed Lakota and the more sedentary tribes (Arikara, Mandan and Hidatsa). The sedentary tribes had given up their guns and were limited to areas called reservations. Those were different times, and you shouldn't look at this history in the same way you look at tribes today. Changes were coming and not just for the North Dakota tribes. Changes for all tribes were rumbling across the prairie from the East at breakneck speed. The changes interfered with the rhythms of all the Indian people and tore away their spirit. It set one group against another because, in order to survive, they took from each other. That was in the late 1800s. Fast forward only slightly to my father's time. His parents already had several children at the time of the Battle of Little Big Horn. My father knew the battle's history from the stories of his family. He was the baby of the family, born in the early 1900s. When I became a young woman, I realized that my father was a man out of sync with our world. He spoke four languages, but his English was broken. My father didn't want his children to learn the Sahnish language because he didn't want us to be beaten the way he had been for speaking the language in school. Schools today give you points for knowing another language. Today, I know broken Sahnish and Dakota/Lakota. My grandmother was my first teacher, but when she died, I was just a young woman and didn't understand the importance of her teachings just like many of our people. My aunt/mother taught me what she could about our culture and ceremonies, but already, we were fast losing our ways. I have to smile when I think about my childhood and how different it was. The very core of how we thought and lived was different, I've come to realize. And just as I thought my father was out of sync, I think that I, too, am grasping to hold onto old ways and wonder if it's too late, and I should let go. If I use the Battle of the Little Big Horn as a marker, I can see our metamorphosis from Indian ways to this age's technology and I add here I'm still trying to get into the technology world. There are times when Indians still are seen as people of the 1800s. Other people expect certain cultural ways and languages to be a part of all of our lives. I say this because a young friend who lives in Grand Forks told me he was asked to say a prayer for a meeting, and they wanted him to pray in the Lakota language. He was uncomfortable, he said. Why do they want you to say the prayer in that language? I asked. Are these Lakota people who will understand, or is it just because the prayer then will sound Indian? A prayer is for the people to the Creator, and that's what's important. He smiled. Sometimes, I am so proud of the way our young people have fought back to hold the Indian people's place among the races. We have changed, just like our parents and grandparents, and will continue to do so. But that doesn't mean we forget who we are. --- Dorreen Yellow Bird is a reporter and columnist. Her columns appear Wednesdays and Saturdays on the opinion pages of the Herald. Reach her at (701) 780-1228 or dyellowbird@gfherald.com Copyright c. 2007 Grand Forks Herald, Forum Communications Co., Fargo ND. --------- "RE: ANDRADE: The education of President Bush" --------- Date: Sat, 23 Jun 2007 08:04:03 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="ANDRADE: URBAN INDIAMS" http://www.indiancountry.com/content.cfm?id=1096415260 Andrade: The education of President Bush by: Ron Andrade June 21, 2007 Throughout the years there has been discussion among tribal leaders and representatives from organizations representing Indians from the off- reservation areas on how best to serve American Indian people living in the cities. Now in the last few years has come a new voice from, of all places, the Bush administration, claiming to know something about how best to serve Indians. During the Indian Health Care Improvement Act debates, the White House stated that funding should be eliminated for "urban" Indian health centers and transferred to programs serving Indians living on or near the reservation. These two issues among others point out the total lack of understanding by the Bush administration and their supporters of the Indian community, as well as a lack of understanding of the cultural and bonds between those tribal people residing on and off the reservation. The Los Angeles City/County Native American Indian Commission has been in existence for 30 years with one of its main purposes being to represent the needs of the nearly 200,000 American Indians who are tribal members from tribal communities throughout the country residing in the county. The commission represents the interests of these off-reservation tribal members and at the same time advocates with the city of Los Angeles and the county of Los Angeles to recognize that there is a special legal and political relationship that should be respected in working with the Indian community. The Indian commission has sought to maintain the relationship of the Indian person to their tribal community in any way it can assist. Bush's people need to understand there is no such thing as an urban Indian. There are tribal members living off the reservation who may live in the county of Los Angeles. Many of the Indians were brought to the city/county by the federal government and now you just can't say "lets forget them, they should have stayed where they belonged." The people on the reservation don't speak of the urban Indians as strangers. They know them as their cousins, siblings or relations in the off-reservation area. When tribal conferences come to the cities the leaders will often ask for the local Indian groups to help with cultural or pow wow events. They know there is no separation between the tribal and off-reservation people. When cultural and tribal discussions occur, it only occurs when people like those in the White House try to create a division. Unfortunately, they sometimes will find a person who may claim to be an Indian leader who will agree. And tribal and off-reservation people never speak of a "difference" between tribal and off-reservation, just as we don't ponder the difference between "Anglo" and "Saxon"; we recognize the off-reservation people are separate only by distance and that is all. Which then leads to the other mistake of the White House: using the phrase "on or near" in order to restrict services. Each Indian resident in Los Angeles lives "on or near a reservation," according to the government. In 1988 the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission stated "In defining 'on or near an Indian reservation' in identifying employers that may lawfully exercise the Indian preference exception, EEOC says it will adopt an OFCCP [Office of Federal Contract Compliance] definition stating that the use of the word near will 'include all that area where a person seeking employment could reasonably be expected to commute to and from in the course of a work day." The EEOC then indicated that the reasonable commute distance was 100 miles one way. There is no other federal agency that has defined "on or near" as did the EEOC. Each of the "urban" clinics is within 100 miles of a reservation so the White House needs to learn its own policies regarding "on or near." There have been great Indian leaders who challenged the White House when it tried to manufacture a difference between tribal and off-reservation tribal members. In an earlier time, Loretta Metoxin, a leader from the Oneida reservation in Wisconsin, when asked whether the tribe should help "urban" Indians she responded, "of course, these are our tribal members, family members, our children, and we would not like to see them sick or harmed." That has been among the roles of the Los Angeles Indian Commission: to protect those tribal members living in the county of Los Angeles. Maybe that is what the White House finally needs to learn: As members of our tribal societies, we will protect our tribal members despite where they may choose to live. --- Ron Andrade is a member of the La Jolla Indian Tribe and was previously elected to the tribal council. He is director of the Los Angeles Indian Commission and former director of the National Congress of American Indians. Copyright c. 1998 - 2007 Indian Country Today. --------- "RE: UKB CHIEF: Cherokee Nation can't break Treaty" --------- Date: Thu, 21 Jun 2007 07:20:54 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="UKB CHIEF WICKLIFFE: CNO VOTE" http://www.indianz.com/News/2007/003511.asp UKB Chief: Cherokee Nation can't break treaty June 20, 2007 The following is the opinion of George Wickliffe, the chief of the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians in Oklahoma. Federally-recognized tribal governments are in a better position with the United States than ever before. And because of that, I am concerned that the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma is trying to break a treaty signed in 1866 with the original Cherokees. It is dangerous to try and break a treaty - it opens doors for the US Congress to abolish their government to government relationship with the tribes. A treaty is a document as powerful as the US Constitution. In Article VI of the US Constitution, it says: "This constitution, and Laws of the United States which shall be made Pursuant thereof; and all Treaties made, or which shall be made, under the Authority of the United States, shall be the supreme Law of the Land; and the Judges in every State shall be bound thereby, any Thing in the Constitution for Laws of any State to the Contrary notwithstanding." Even the entry-level student of Indian Law understands that the only way a Treaty can be changed is through another Treaty, or an Act of Congress. Since the United States no longer makes Treaties with Native Americans, Congressional Action is the only method left. One of the government functions that was taken away from the Cherokee Nation by the Curtis Act was the right for the tribal citizens to vote for their own leadership. This right was restored, however, in 1970 with the Principal Chief's Act, made by Congress. The Department of the Interior stated in 1971 that there were conditions fundamental to the regulations for the democratic selection of a principal tribal official, "and will be considered to be essential to the approval of any proposed selection regulations." One of the main conditions cited was "Voter qualifications for the Choctaw, Seminole, Cherokee and Creek people must be broad enough to include the enrolled Freedmen citizens of the respective nations, together with the descendants of such enrollees." The language used in the Treaty of Dancing Rabbit Creek, makes the treaties binding. As with other legal documents, decisions and agreements, this becomes binding to all Treaties. The Dancing Rabbit Creek treaty states: "all laws except such as from time to time may be enacted in their own National Councils, not inconsistent with the Constitution Treaties, and Laws of the United States; and except such as may, and which have been enacted by Congress, to the extent that Congress, under the Constitution are required to exercise a legislation over Indian Affairs." Tribes have worked hard to hold the United States to the promises made in Treaties. One thing that we Indians have always been able to stand proud and say is, "The United States has broken some treaties with us, but we have broken none." Unfortunately, if the Smith administration succeeds in their illegal attempt to disenfranchise a class of citizens, we will never be able to say this again. All tribes in the United States will be affected, and will be put into the same category of "treaty breakers." I fear this for all our Native Americans. The Smith administration evidently believes itself to have more power than United States Congress by deciding to change the terms of a Treaty on their own, and eliminating citizenship and the right to vote for Freedman descendants. All Cherokees should stand together and protect their good name for the benefit of all Native Americans. To break a treaty will affect every federally recognized tribe in the United States. Let's leave the language that binds treaties as written because a treaty (all treaties) are BINDING for as long as "the SUN COMES up in the EAST, SETS in the WEST, the GRASS GROWS, and the WATERS FLOW" and because of this language, the U.S. Government is much less likely to BREAK ANOTHER TREATY... BUT LET THE CHEROKEE NATION OF OKLAHOMA BREAK the 1866 treaty and it could open the door for other treaties to be broken. Let's keep our tribal governments', governments to governments relationships with the U.S. GOVERNMENT as written, and keep all our treaties intact. This is the way we honor and protect our tribal sovereignty. Copyright c. 2007 Indianz.com. --------- "RE: OPINION: Keeping the law in Indian Country" --------- Date: Sat, 23 Jun 2007 08:04:03 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="REZ LAW ENFORCEMENT PROBLEMS" http://www.pechanga.net/ http://www.denverpost.com/opinion/ci_6198393 perspective Keeping the law in Indian Country Reservations plagued by high crime rates, few enforcement officers By Troy A. Eid June 23, 2007 CORTEZ, CO - A Native American leaves G. Wihl Liquors, on highway 491, on the outskirts of Cortez, CO, just north of the Ute Mountain Reservation. (about 10 miles) The Ute Mountain Ute Tribe has a dry reservation, which means the sale, possession and use of alcohol is illegal, even in one's home. (The Denver Post - Craig F. Walker) (THE DENVER POST | CRAIG WALKER)True or false: One out of every 10 Native American women living in the United States will be raped at least once in her lifetime. Answer: False. In truth, more than one-third of all Native American women will be raped at least once. And for native women living on many of our country's roughly 300 Indian reservations, the rate of violent sexual abuse is far higher. In one recent study, professor Barbara Perry of the University of Ontario found that Native American victims report fewer than 25 percent of all violent crimes to law enforcement. Experts agree that perhaps more than any other ethnic group in our country, Indian people are disproportionately victims of violent crime. And unlike nearly all other U.S. citizens, Native Americans living on reservations are legally required to depend almost entirely on federal law enforcement officers, prosecutors and judges for their public- safety needs. This includes all "major crimes," such as murder and felony assault, where Congress and the courts have stripped Indian tribes of their traditional powers to handle such offenses. Many Americans - native and non-native alike - are surprised to learn that a 1978 U.S. Supreme Court decision actually prevents sovereign Indian tribal governments from exercising any criminal jurisdiction over non- Indians who commit crimes on Indian reservations, including the Southern Ute and Ute Mountain Ute nations in Southwestern Colorado. The court also recently ruled that tribes have no legal ability to enforce Congress' "trust" obligation to protect them. In other words, there is no trust account, no minimum funding requirement, to ensure that public-safety and criminal-justice needs on Indian reservations are met. The tribes simply get whatever Congress chooses to appropriate in any given year for law enforcement and other essential governmental services. The chief law enforcement officer on Colorado's two Indian reservations is the U.S. attorney, who performs the same role that elected district attorneys do elsewhere in Colorado. An astonishing 25 percent of all violent crimes prosecuted by U.S. attorneys in the United States occur on Indian reservations. As Colorado's 41st U.S. attorney since President Lincoln appointed the first for the Colorado Territory in 1861, I can say that the relationship my office currently enjoys with the two federally recognized tribes in Colorado is vastly more positive than in Lincoln's day. But just think how times have changed. At the time of Colorado's 1864 Sand Creek Massacre, then-U.S. Attorney Sam Browne held what was euphemistically called a "dual commission." This meant Browne simultaneously served as Colorado's top federal prosecutor, charged with protecting Indian people - usually against criminal acts committed by white settlers - while commanding military cavalry forces as an Indian- fighter. If there was a legal or ethical inconsistency in carrying out those conflicting federal duties, it was not recognized in the 1860s or for many decades to come. Indeed, Native Americans who had not "adopted the manner of civilized life" by setting aside their traditional ways were not even legally recognized as U.S. citizens by Congress until 1924. What is the current state of criminal justice in "Indian Country," the legal term Congress uses to refer to Indian tribal and other trust lands where just shy of half of all Native Americans live? The answer is: not nearly as healthy as it should be. Those of us serving in the federal government must do much more to close the enormous gap that currently separates too much of Indian Country from the rest of America. The U.S. Department of Justice reports that the average violent crime rate among Native Americans (12 and older) is at least two-and-a-half times the national average. Obviously, intensifying law enforcement in troubled communities can decrease crime and victimization. But according to Justice Department data, Indian Country is served by only half as many police officers as similarly situated rural communities. Just last year, the Bureau of Indian Affairs of the U.S. Department of the Interior - the federal agency charged by Congress with providing policing to Indian Country - hired an internal consultant to determine how to close this gap. The BIA consultant found that to achieve parity with comparable rural jurisdictions, more than 2,200 additional police officers would be needed on America's Indian reservations. Yet the entire BIA Office of Justice Services staff - including police, correctional officers, prosecutors and staff - currently has only about 450 employees. In Colorado, leaders of the Southern Ute Indian tribe have taken matters into their own hands to the extent that federal law allows, creating a police department, court system and jail. The U.S. attorney's office has also successfully "cross-deputized" tribal police and wildlife rangers as federal agents so they can enforce both tribal and federal law. Our innovative pilot project helps protect Native American women who suffer so disproportionately in domestic violence cases. Nationally, 70 percent of all such cases involve Native American women who are brutalized by non-Native American men. All too often, tribal police responding to domestic violence cases must confront non-Indian perpetrators who argue that only the federal government, and not the tribes, can assert criminal jurisdiction over them. The good news is that when tribal police are cross-deputized as federal agents, they can assert full federal criminal jurisdiction over non-Native American perpetrators. Local non-tribal officers - such as Colorado State Patrol troopers, local off-reservation police and sheriff's deputies - can also be federally deputized. In all, my office has successfully trained 60 law enforcement officers since February on the Southern Ute Indian Reservation, with the Cortez and Durango police departments, the Archuleta, LaPlata and Montezuma County Sheriff's offices, and the Colorado State Patrol. Our next goal is to turn Colorado's pilot program into a national law-enforcement training initiative. We also must re-examine the federal laws that that prevent Indian tribes from asserting criminal jurisdiction over non-Indians as part of a comprehensive national strategy to bring more criminal justice resources to Indian Country. Recently, I suggested that Congress revisit the U.S. Supreme Court's earlier decisions on criminal justice. My idea is that Indian tribes should be permitted to enforce their own criminal laws against all persons, regardless of race or ethnicity. The essence of sovereignty for any government is to provide for citizens' basic public safety needs - no matter whether the affected community is located. Indian reservations are too often safe havens for violent crime because of federal neglect, inconsistency and broken promises. I stress that these are my own personal ideas, not Justice Department policy. It would be a serious mistake to act as if the federal government can be trusted to keep its promises with Native Americans. Trust must always be earned. As federal officials, our actions must match our words. Troy A. Eid is the U.S. attorney for the district of Colorado Copyright c. 2007 The Denver Post. --------- "RE: Land Deal could prevent Rail Blockade" --------- Date: Mon, 18 Jun 2007 07:36:03 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="ROSEAU RIVER FIRST NATION" http://www.pechanga.net/ http://www.cbc.ca/canada/manitoba/story/2007/06/15/rail-blockade.html Land deal could prevent rail blockade CBC News June 15, 2007 The chief of the Roseau River First Nation says a new land deal with Ottawa has him ready to call off a planned rail blockade. Terry Nelson says federal Indian Affairs Minister Jim Prentice has agreed to grant reserve status to 30 hectares of land the band owns on Highway 6 at the Perimeter Highway, just northwest of Winnipeg. "It's great because it's the first concrete action that I've seen for Roseau River in a long, long time," he said. "I feel quite a lot more comfortable that we do have a minister of Indian affairs that I sit down and talk with and deal with, and that we will probably be able to work through a bit more with him," he said. Nelson had threatened to block CN and CP rail lines on his reserve, 80 kilometres south of Winnipeg, on June 29, when First Nations leaders plan a day of action to focus attention on aboriginal issues, including poverty and outstanding land claims. Nelson says he still must consult his community before calling off the blockade, but he's confident Ottawa will now start to act on outstanding land claims Nelson hopes the band will have a gas station built on the property by this summer, with other businesses to follow. "It is 135 years, 10 months, 10 days later that we finally got a piece of the land that we were entitled to in 1871, so it's a long time in getting here," he said. Earlier this week, Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced the federal government will table a bill in the fall to improve the native land claims system and settle hundreds of long-standing disputes. The proposed bill allocates $250 million a year for 10 years to land claim settlements and calls for the creation of a new independent tribunal that will make final decisions about disputes. Copyright c. CBC 2007. --------- "RE: Stop AFN Fontaine from signing protocol with RCMP" --------- Date: Tuesday, June 19, 2007 02:23 am From: orakwa Subj: MNN Stop AFN Fontaine from signing protocol with RCMP Brothers, Sisters, Friends and Allies: Phil Fontaine is hosting a negotiations lynching party in his colonial office in Ottawa tomorrow morning at 10:15 am. with the RCMP, OPP and the SQ. We can only conclude they are working out covert acts of aggression to stir things up on the June 29th day of action that has been planned ?to mourn the rape, pillage and colonization of Turtle Island?. Canadian citizen Phil Fontaine pretends to speak for us. He has been placed in this position by his bosses, the Canadian government under imposed Canadian laws. He is paid by Canada. He reports to Canada. He does not report to us or represent us in any sense of the word. This secret meeting is further evidence of his collusion with Canada against us. We know cops. They can't keep their fingers off lethal toys and are trigger happy especially when they have an 'Indian' in their sights. Fontaine seems to be setting himself up as a top policeman over Indigenous people in the police state that is being created. He wants so desperately to complete his job of helping Canada to undermine us that he will go to any means to help Canada assert its fantasy. Send emails to this Canadian SOB to stop playing deadly games with our future and that of our coming generations. Posted by MNN Mohawk Nation News - www.mohawknationnews.com Public Safety and Security Protocol Renewal signing between Assembly of First Nations and RCMP MEDIA PHOTO OPPORTUNITY FOR TOMORROW, Tuesday, June 19th OTTAWA, June 18 /CNW Telbec/ - AFN National Chief Phil Fontaine and RCMP Commissioner Bev Busson will sign a Public Safety and Security Protocol tomorrow morning at approximately 10:15 a.m. This is the renewal for another term of a three year protocol agreement, originally signed in 2004. Witnessing the agreement will be OPP Commissioner Julian Fantino and Ste'phane Chabot, De'pute' Director Ge'neral of the Surete' du Que'bec. Prior to the protocol signing. the RCMP, OPP and SQ will meet with the National Chief to discuss concerns and approaches to addressing public safety during the National Day of Action on June 29th. Where: National Chief's Office, 11th floor, 473 Albert Street, Ottawa; When: 10:15 a.m. , Tuesday, June 19th The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada. For further information: Bryan Hendry, A/Director of Communications, (613) 241-6789 ext. 229, cell (613) 293-6106, bhendry@afn.ca; Nancy Pine, Communications Advisor - Office of the National Chief, (613) 241-6789 ext 243, (613) 298-6382, npine@afn.ca; Rene Pollett, Communications Specialist, (613) 241-6789, ext. 314, cell (613) 295-2149, rpollett@afn.ca --------- "RE: Joint AFN/RCMP Response Team set up" --------- Date: Wednesday, June 20, 2007 10:38 pm From: orakwa Subj: mnn "Joint AFN/RCMP Response Team" set up by Fontaine & RCMP "JOINT AFN/RCMP RESPONSE TEAM" SET UP BY FONTAINE & RCMP - IS JUNE 29TH CREATED TO TRAP US & DECLARE MARTIAL LAW? MNN. June 20, 2007. Phil Fontaine is the hired Fascist who is doing what any 'quisling' does. He works in cooperation with the occupying forces and leads them to kill or capture the resisters. Is there a coup in the works? The three largest police forces in Canada are working together. All three have been investigated recently for corruption and criminality - where heads rolled. They're all looking for something to take public attention off their misdeeds. The new heads appear to be mostly handpicked by the oligarchy. Now they're setting a trap to arrest the only people who dare to resist their goose stepping march toward totalitarianism, the Indigenous people. Some think this it's beginning to look like June 29th could be a 'set up' to create a situation to justify the declaring of martial law across the country. Remember, the violence and threats are coming from the colonial side. We want peace and recognition of our jurisdiction. Yesterday the colonizer's hired 'saboteur', Phil Fontaine, got together with Interim RCMP Commissioner, Bev Busson , Ontario Provincial Police Commissioner Julian 'Little Mouselini' Fantino, the head of the Quebec Police and who knows who else [maybe some U.S. intelligence agents?] They signed an 'anti-violence agreement'. [Remember Orwell's '1984' where all ministries were named the exact opposite of what they were doing?]. The newspapers report this as a 'Joint AFN/RCMP Response Team'. Fantino reported we are lumped in with 'no fly lists' and 'terrorists'. Oh-oh!! Here we go again. Remember Joint Task Force 2? What's this, JTF3? Phil, we don't know what kind of a trap you're helping Canada to set for us. Someone said that maybe you're trying to help them 'smoke out' our leaders. They don't know our system. We don't have any leaders. We know we are all equal. Nevertheless, the alarm bells are screaming for all of us who know a bit about international law and the history of Indigenous relations with Canada At best this 'Tree house gang' is ignorant. More likely they are puppets of the 'cabal' that is establishing the police state. These kids in the tree house are signing accords among themselves and planning how and when they're going to sic the JTF3 on us? They're dangerous. They may be acting like a bunch of 9-years olds, but the guns are real and we're in the cross hairs. Let's not forget, these are cops, not politicians who have to answer to the public. Ignorance of the law is no excuse. These snot-nosed Machiavelli's say they're worried that things will [they hope] turn 'ugly'. Look at what we already have - the holocaust, the rape, pillage and poisoning of our land by multinational mining and oil companies, the pollution, the murders, the starlight tours, the missing 500 women, the scandalous residential schools genocide strategy, the destruction of the caribou, fish stocks and other traditional sources of food, desperate poverty, millions spent on communications strategies to demonize us, the tainted water, the suicides, the despair and the third world living conditions. How bad does it have to be to call things ugly? Canada has it upside down and backwards. They haven't established THEIR claims to our lands. We don't have a thing to prove. The land is ours. They're the ones with unsettled claims to our lands. Phil. This is about our 'jurisdiction'. Bev better brush up on international law and democracy 101. 1. We are not part of Canada : International law has determined that no people can be absorbed into a foreign state unless the majority give their informed consent through a free and fair vote. We never voted to become part of Canada or the British Empire . We were never conquered. We never gave up gave our sovereignty or jurisdiction. It's still here and it's still the law. We took no part in that BNA Act 1867 that was passed by Britain's Parliament to set up the Dominion of Canada . That's a law for Canadians, not for us. Section 91(24) gives Canada the right only to negotiate WITH us on behalf of the British Empire . That's all! Canada has no right to make laws for us. It doesn't now and it never has, except in their fantasy. [Check the archives]. 2. The AFN does not represent us. The Indian Act was illegally passed by Canada 's Parliament and does not govern us, just as Mexican and U.S. laws do not apply to Canadians. The AFN is a colonial office invented by Canada . It's not legal. 3. Our relations with Canada are nation-to-nation. The AFN, RCMP, OPP and the SQ have no authority to conduct diplomatic relations on behalf of Canada . Their attempts constitute international aggression. We hear that Canada is passing an 'endangered species' act that protects every form of nature that was here before colonization, except us. Let's get back to June 29th. It's a day of peaceful mourning for the unrecognized holocaust, the pillage of us and our land. The rail lines, roads, bridges, cities and dams are all trespassing on our territories. They were put here without our permission. The Supreme Court of Canada is just beginning to recognize that our consent is required to do anything on our jurisdiction. That means Onowarekeh/Turtle Island . Before you freak out, take a step back and think. Despite the tragedies you have inflicted on us, we have never attacked your right to live. By contrast you have always attacked our right to live. Your colonial government has always defended the theft of our land and resources by both foreign corporations and private individuals. As Garry Kasparov, the former Russian Chess Champion, told the Empire Club of Toronto , 'Every system will contain a problem that cannot be solved within the system itself'. One of the problems that cannot be solved within the existing Canadian system is the ugly colonial legacy of how Canada continues to illegally occupy our land and exploit our resources. Canada cannot solve its problem with us internally because it's not an internal problem. Bev Busson, join us by carrying a placard that says, 'Respect international law'. Mr. Fantino could carry one that says, 'Respect the rights of Indigenous people', Phil could carry one that says, 'Down with Traitors' and the Quebec Police could carry one saying, 'Respect Mohawk Jurisdiction'. No guns. No arrest. No pepper sprays. If you can't be peaceful, stay away. Get out of our jurisdiction, which is all of Canada . Leave us alone. Phil, stop pretending you represent us. We are not your flock. You are their colonial flunkie. Everything will be peaceful if you stay with your colonial masters. Get some psychological help with your delusions of grandeur. Julian, stop sucking up to the oligarchy and stop threatening us. If Canada is setting up the JTF3 to engage in civil disobedience against us, then they should be prepared to accept the consequences. Meanwhile, we are asking the world community to recognize Canada for what it is, one of the most ruthless undemocratic states in the world. Kahentinetha Horn MNN Mohawk Nation News Link: Fontaines' lynching party with RCMP, OPP & SQ http://www.mohawknationnews.com/news/news4.php?en=en&layout=mnn &category=24&srcurl=%2Fnews%2Fnews3.php%3Flang%3Den%26layout% 3Dmnn%26sortorder%3D0 MNN Books Available Now! Mohawk Warriors Three - The Trial of Lasagna, Noriega, 20/20 $20.00 usd Where Eagles Dare to Soar - Indians, Politics & Aids $20.00 usd The Agonizing Death of "Colonialism" and "Federal Indian Law" Kaianere'ko:wa/Great Law Territory $20.00 usd Who's Sorry Now? The good, the bad and the unapologetic Mohawks of Kanehsatake $20.00 usd The books below, email us: Rebuilding the Iroquois Confederacy Karoniaktajeh $10 usd Warriors Hand Book Karoniaktajeh $10 usd Mail checks and money orders to... MNN P.O. Box 991 Kahnawake, QC J0L 1B0 Purchase t-shirts, mugs and more at our CafePress Store http://www.cafepress.com/mohawknews Subscribe to MNN for breaking news updates http://www.mohawknationnews.com/news/subscription.php Sign Women Title Holders petition! http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/Iroquois Link to MNN Get the code and banners to link to Mohawk Nation News. http://www.mohawknationnews.com/pg.php?page=promote.html Your Support Make a contribution to our newsgroup. Secure your online transaction with PayPal(R) http://www.mohawknationnews.com/pg.php?page=donate.html Nia:wen, Kahentinetha Horn Kahentinetha2@yahoo.com Speaking & Contemorary Native Issues Workshops Katenies Katenies20@yahoo.com Manager Stay tuned! www.mohawknationnews.com Please forward this email to a friend --------- "RE: Province allows Me'tis decision to stand" --------- Date: Fri, 22 Jun 2007 07:32:21 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="ME'TIS RIGHTS" http://www.firstperspective.ca/fp_combo_template.php?path=20070621metis Province allows Me'tis decision to stand by Joseph Quesnel June 21, 2007 It appears that a recent court decision affecting Me'tis in Ontario will stand. The Government of Ontario has given notice that it will not appeal the decision of Justice Greg Rodgers on June 12, 2007 to stay the charges of Marc Laurin, Roger Lemieux and Shaun Lemiex, three Me'tis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Harvesters who were charged with illegal fishing in their traditional harvesting territory south of Sudbury, Ontario. "This is a major step in the Me'tis Hunt for Justice", said MNO President, Tony Belcourt. "It means our people, in all of our Traditional Harvesting Territories in Ontario, can hunt and fish for food or for ceremonial purposes without the horrible specter of being charged by Conservation Officers of the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) for exercising their rights. We welcome the decision by the Government to respect the MNO-MNR Harvesting Agreement" Mr. Belcourt concluded. MNO Chair, Gary Lipinski said, "We now look forward to entering a new era with the Government of Ontario. Now that the MNO-MNR Harvesting Agreement is being fully honoured, we need to get back to the negotiation table to undertake our mutual obligations. We also need to get on with other important issues that are priorities for the Me'tis people, including, ensuring that Ontario is fulfilling its consultation obligations to our communities, increasing Me'tis access to forestry and other economic development opportunities and to resource-revenue sharing." The Me'tis are a distinct Aboriginal people with a unique culture, language and heritage, and with an ancestral Homeland that centres around Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, British Columbia, parts of the Northwest Territories, as well as the northwestern United States. Copyright c. 2007 First Perspective. --------- "RE: It's time for Ottawa to pay the rent" --------- Date: Fri, 22 Jun 2007 08:29:15 -0400 (EDT) From: "Wolastoqiyik @ Ne-ku-wut'-kok" Subj: Press Release Wolastoqiyik @ Ne-ku-wut'-kok "people of the good river where the river goes under" Grassroots Press release; It's time to pay the rent! Any deal signed by any of the below is Illegal. We never ceded, sold or surrendered any of our lands. Canadian citizen Phil Fontaine and Atlantic Policy Congress, Aboriginal Sec't, UNBI, INAC & its C&C pretend to speak for us. They have been placed in this position by their bosses, the Canadian government under imposed Canadian laws. They are paid by Canada . They report to Canada. They do not report to us or represent us in any sense of the word. Canada has it upside down and backwards. They haven't established THEIR claims to our lands. We don't have a thing to prove. The land is ours. They're the ones with unsettled claims to our lands. Phil. This is about our 'jurisdiction'. Bev better brush up on international law and democracy 101. 1. We are not part of Canada : International law has determined that no people can be absorbed into a foreign state unless the majority give their informed consent through a free and fair vote. We never voted to become part of Canada or the British Empire . We were never conquered. We never gave up gave our sovereignty or jurisdiction. It?s still here and it?s still the law. PEACE AND FRIENDSHIP TREATIES - http://www.canadiana. org/citm/imagepopups/peace_e.html We took no part in that BNA Act 1867 that was passed by Britain ?s Parliament to set up the Dominion of Canada . That's a law for Canadians, not for us. Section 91(24) gives Canada the right only to negotiate WITH us on behalf of the British Empire . That's all! Canada has no right to make laws for us. It doesn't now and it never has, except in their fantasy. [Check the archives]. Indigenous poverty: The True Story! - www.newtfn.com/poverty 2. The AFN, INAC or APC and any of its affiliates do not represent us. The Indian Act was illegally passed by Canada's Parliament and does not govern us, just as Mexican and U.S. laws do not apply to Canadians. The AFN is a colonial office invented by Canada. It's not legal. The cold hands of INAC - http://www.newtfn.com/polite.html 3. Our relations with Canada are nation-to-nation. The AFN, RCMP, OPP and the SQ have no authority to conduct diplomatic relations on behalf of Canada . Their attempts constitute international aggression. More Evidence of Racism - http://www.newtfn.com/moreevidence.html We do have our own constitution. More to come ... Wolastoqiyik @ Ne-ku-wut'-kok "people of the good river where the river goes under" Grassroots www.newtfn.com We have no leaders, everyone is treated the same and everyone has a voice. Mohawk people say; "that when a 10 year old walks out of the school and hangs himself in the swing set..." "Thats the f***in statement!" "There is no other statement that needs to be made. Nobody, I dont care if its Phil Fontaine, myself or anyone can make a more profound statement than that of educating society than that." --------- "RE: ACLU: NA Families and Winner School Settlement" --------- Date: Mon, 18 Jun 2007 10:55:44 -0400 From: ACLU Media Subj: ACLU NEWS RELEASE: Native American Families and Winner School District Announce Settlement in Case Alleging Discrimination Native American Families and Winner School District Announce Settlement in Case Alleging Discrimination FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 18, 2007 CONTACT: National ACLU: Paul Silva, (212) 549-2689 or 2666; media@aclu.org Winner School District: Don Knudsen, Gunderson, Palmer, Goodsell & Nelson, LLP, (605) 342-1078 ACLU of the Dakotas: Jennifer Ring, (701) 461-7290; dakaclu@cs.com Rosebud Sioux Tribal Education Department: Cindy Young, (605) 747-2833 Rosebud Sioux Tribe President: Rodney Bordeaux, (605) 441-9851 or (605) 747-2381 WINNER, SD - The Winner/Ideal Native American community and the Winner School District announced today that an agreement has been reached to settle a class action lawsuit brought on behalf of Native American students attending Winner schools. "This groundbreaking settlement agreement is a major step toward ensuring that our children have the best educational opportunities possible," said Rodney Bordeaux, President of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe. Catherine Kim, one of the attorneys for the American Civil Liberties Union representing the Native American families in this case, Antoine et al v. Winner School District, said, "Across the nation, education for Native American youth is in crisis. In Winner School District, Native American students drop out of school, transfer to other districts, or are sent to detention facilities at rates far higher than white students. We are pleased that the Winner School District has agreed to take proactive steps to support Native American students. It is our hope that the district can serve as a model for other communities serving minority students." Rocky Blare, president of the Winner School Board, stated "Our Board spent two days in Sioux Falls, away from our families and jobs, in order to address the concerns that had been raised. Our goal was to act in the best way possible for all children of this district and move on. Ongoing litigation for years would be detrimental to our main goal of educating kids. With this settlement, we have welcomed the opportunity to provide visibility into our disciplinary policies and our cultural diversity." The settlement arose out of a lawsuit filed in March 2006 by ten Native American families with children in the Winner schools. The court certified the suit as a class action on behalf of all Native American students in the Winner Middle and High Schools and their families. The lawsuit claimed that the schools discriminated against Native American students in disciplining them, were hostile toward Native American families, and took statements from students involved in disciplinary matters that were later used to prosecute them in juvenile and criminal courts. The school district denied any wrongdoing, but agreed to enter into settlement discussions, mediated by U.S. Magistrate Judge John E. Simko, so as to avoid time-consuming and expensive litigation. Under the settlement agreement reached by the parties, the district will enact policies and practices to ensure that the rights of Native American students are not violated and to enrich the educational experience of all students. Among the key terms of the settlement are the following: * School officials will not require students to write statements that can be used to prosecute them in juvenile or criminal court; * The district will hire a full-time ombudsperson, nominated by the collective Native American community, to serve as a liaison between Native American families and school officials, especially on disciplinary issues; * An educational expert will work with school officials and Native American families to set benchmarks on improving Native American graduation rates, reducing levels of suspension and school-based arrests, and improving the overall climate for Native American students, among other goals; the expert will also conduct periodic on-site visits to ensure compliance with the agreement and monitor progress toward the goals; * A committee of Native American parents and school officials will review all disciplinary incidents every quarter for racial disparities and, if disparities are found and cannot be explained, recommend policy changes to reduce such disparities; * The Interwest Equity Assistance Center, funded by the U.S. Department of Education, will provide trainings for Winner students on conflict resolution and trainings for teachers on unconscious racial bias and educational equity; * The schools will include Native American themes in the mainstream curriculum, in-school activities, and after-school activities. Additionally, the district will offer Native American Culture, History and Language class every year in the high school, taught by a Native American instructor. Participants in the mediation included Native American families named in the class action lawsuit, members of the Winner School Board, the superintendent, and two school principals. The families were represented by the national ACLU and the ACLU of the Dakotas, and Dana L. Hanna, an attorney based in Rapid City. Additionally, the Rosebud Sioux Tribal Council and the Rosebud Sioux Tribal Education Department provided assistance and facilitation. The Winner School District was represented by Gunderson, Palmer, Goodsell & Nelson, LLP, in Rapid City. The settlement agreement will remain in effect until the district substantially complies with its terms for four consecutive years. The federal district court will have jurisdiction over the agreement during this period. The parties will be submitting a proposed consent decree to finalize the settlement, and the court will next consider any objections and decide whether to approve it. --------- "RE: Native Justice" --------- Date: Fri, 22 June 2007 14:06:22 -0700 From: Janet Smith [owlstar@bellsouth.net] Subj: NA News Item -- Indian Country problems regarded as `local issues -- Time to deal with Law enforcement problems on Reservations http://www.helenair.com/articles/2007/06/22/montana/a07062207_01.txt Indian Country problems still regarded as `local issues' Helena Independent Record By NOELLE STRAUB - Lee Washington Bureau June 22, 2007 WASHINGTON - Crime and violence in Indian Country continues to worsen, in large part because the federal government has not made law enforcement there a priority, native leaders and former federal officials testified Thursday. Drug trafficking, gang activities and violence against women fester, but a lack of clear law and jurisdiction means criminal offenders often do not face prosecution, they said. Some local officials have lost confidence in Bureau of Indian Affairs offices, they added, and Justice Department officials considered firing U.S. attorneys who focused on Indian issues. The hearing was the second this year on law enforcement in Indian Country held by the Senate Indian Affairs Committee. The rate of violent crime on Indian reservations is two and a half times the national average, Indian women are victims of rape and sexual assault at three times the national average, and tribes are faced with an epidemic of drug trafficking, several witnesses said. "The testimony given by all of you is in some ways very depressing because it describes a law enforcement system that is broken," said Committee Chairman Byron Dorgan, D-N.D. Thomas Heffelfinger, who was Minnesota U.S. attorney from 2001 to 2006, chaired the Justice Department's Native American Issues Subcommittee during that time. "Native American issues are viewed within the Department of Justice as, quote, local issues," he said. Whenever Indian affairs conflicted with other national priorities, Justice headquarters prevailed and left officials in the field disagreeing, he testified. Heffelfinger was put on a list of federal prosecutors considered for dismissal. He made the list because of concerns that he spent too much time working on the Native American committee, Monica Goodling, formerly the Justice Department's liaison to the White House, testified before the House Judiciary Committee last month. Five of the eight fired U.S. attorneys were leaders on the panel, Heffelfinger said. "It is not a mere coincidence that five of the eight were leaders amongst Native American prosecutors," he said. Indian Country criminal law has never had a comprehensive plan, but instead remains a patchwork quilt of decisions and stop-gap legislation that few understand, he said. That needs to be changed, but the Justice Department "cannot do this," he said. "Quite frankly it lacks the structure and the resolve to take the leadership in a comprehensive change in this jurisdiction," he said. He recommended instead that Congress establish a criminal justice commission to propose reforms and a comprehensive new body of criminal law. In the short term, he said, Congress should also boost funding for multi-jurisdictional task forces; establish family-violence centers to focus on child abuse, sexual assault and domestic abuse; and devise ways to empower tribal courts and leaders to crack down on drug deals and domestic abusers. Relations with federal law enforcement have broken down, said Marcus Wells Jr., chairman of the Three Affiliated Tribes - the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara - of the Fort Berthold Reservation in western North Dakota. "I humbly ask for your help," he said. Wells said of 10 federal officer positions for the reservation, three are continually vacant. That leaves seven BIA officers to patrol 1 million acres. And they are often detailed off-reservation without notice to the tribal government, he added. The response time to calls for help averages one hour, he said. The Tribes have lost trust in local and regional BIA offices, he said. The Tribes determined that they should operate the law enforcement program themselves through a self-determination contract with the Interior Department, he said. But since they proposed that, the tribes have had poor communication and cooperation from BIA officials, he said. Sen. Jon Tester, D-Mont., advocated better resources for law enforcement in Indian Country. "In Montana we have seven reservations, I live within 25 miles of one of them myself and I can tell you the jurisdictional issue is a big issue," he said. "But probably a bigger issue than that is sheer numbers of law enforcement people that are available." Joseph Garcia, president of the National Congress of American Indians, called for more resources; better cooperation across jurisdictions; enhanced tribal law enforcement authority; and a higher priority by federal and state authorities on their roles in law enforcement on Indian reservations. Sexual violence against American Indian women has reached epidemic proportions, said Bonnie Clairmont, a victim advocacy program specialist with the Tribal Law and Policy Institute. Clairmont lives in St. Paul, Minn., but her work takes her throughout Indian Country, she said. "What is most troubling is that the vast majority of Indian women often face insurmountable barriers to accessing services and realizing any type of justice for the horrendous acts of violence they have experienced," she testified Clairmont helped interview victims for a recent Amnesty International report on violence against native women. The report cited Justice Department statistics showing that Native American and Alaskan Native women are 2.5 times more likely than other American women to be raped. She said those numbers are underreported. She described a "typical scenario" where many Indian women who have been raped call law enforcement but don't get a response because of lack of staff or jurisdictional issues. Some women then drive themselves many miles to a medical center, she added, only to be turned away because Indian Health Services facilities often lack rape kits or anyone trained to perform exams. She said money alone and policing alone will not solve the problem. Instead, the federal government must work more closely with tribal governments to overcome jurisdictional issues that prevent perpetrators from being prosecuted and to come up with comprehensive plans. Exams and services for victims must be provided, she added. Dorgan and other lawmakers appreciated the specific recommendations. He said he has become "weary" of hearing about the problems. "Nothing ever seems to happen except we have hearings and talk about it," he said. "We're going to make every effort to develop new initiatives. It's just almost unbelievable what we are hearing and seeing and things aren't getting better." Copyright c. Helena Independent Record; a division of Lee Enterprises. -=-=-=- http://www.helenair.com/articles/2007/06/24/opinions_top/a04062407_01.prt Helena Independent Record Let's enforce law on reservations By IR Staff June 24, 2007 Given poverty, alcoholism, and all the other woes so prevalent in Indian Country, it is hard to understand why Native Americans on reservations also should have to do without adequate law enforcement. It's time for Congress to quit holding hearings on the problem and actually do something about it. Last week, during the second hearing this year before the Senate Indian Affairs Committee, native leaders and former federal officials testified that crime continues to worsen on reservations in large part because the government hasn't made law enforcement a priority. It turns out the Bureau of Indian Affairs receives only about 30 percent of the funding it needs for law enforcement, with the result that there often is no 24-hour police coverage and officers often must patrol alone and investigate potentially dangerous calls without backup. So, sure enough, Bureau of Justice statistics show that violent crime on reservations is 101 per 1,000 people, compared with the national average of 41 per 1,000. Indian women are victims of rape and sexual assault at three times the national average, and drug trafficking is rampant. In addition, Amnesty International has said the federal government has created such a complex maze of tribal, state and federal jurisdictions that perpetrators often are able to escape justice, and in some cases there actually are jurisdictional vacuums that encourages assaults. In his testimony last week, Sen. Jon Tester, D-Mont., agreed that "the jurisdictional issue is a big issue," but he said the sheer lack of law enforcement people is the single biggest problem. Sen. Byron Dorgan, D-N.D., the chairman of the committee, said the testimony "describes a law enforcement system that is broken." (It is interesting that five of the eight U.S. attorneys who were the victims of controversial firings were outspoken members of a Justice Department subcommittee on Native American issues. "It is not a mere coincidence," said former Minnesota U.S. Attorney Thomas Heffelfinger, who chaired the subcommittee.) For generations, Americans have conveniently ignored what goes on in Indian Country. But we can't go on denying its residents the basic protections of law and order. Copyright c. 2006 Associated Press. All rights reserved. Copyright c. Helena Independent Record; a division of Lee Enterprises. --------- "RE: Rustywire: In the Midst of Them Yeis" --------- Date: Wed, 18 Apr 2006 08:10:07 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="RUSTYWIRE: MIDST OF YEIS" http://www.rustywire.com/starship/twilight.html In the Midst of Them Yeis by Johnny Rustywire On a journey to Slim Water Canyon I lost my way and remembered the story of how when two Navajo sisters were going here they became seperated and journeyed far and near all over this country, Navajoland. I slept the and in that sleep could see that I was standing amongst the monoliths, the large spires of red sandstone covering Dinetah. It was like standing in the midst of Monument Valley. This area is well known to people all over the world, but to the Navajo people they know the rocks of the their own areas, Rock Point, Hard Rock, Standing Rock, Canyon Mesa, White Mesa and such names in the canyons like Moon Water, Pine Springs, Dinnebito and others. It is these places we know well. I was walking in these lands and took a rest from a spring at the base of Tse. It was cool water and I thought about my life. I was sitting there and looked up at the walls of rock standing near and not too far off, their color not too far from my own skin. I wondered if this is why it is called Navajo sandstone but remembered it was because of it's age. It is midwinter, when the season is cold and the long winter still lingers. A time when stories of coyotes and the sings of the Yei-be- che can be heard. They have waited patiently for their time and it is hear in the midst of white snow, blue mountains and dark skys. They have come frm their rest and dance and move about after First Frost which has come this way again. Where do they go I wondered, is it at the head of the earth? Do they sometimes grow weary like me and want to quit and take a break from life, to rest and leave all cares behind and seek the comfort of some other place. Wandering life is not all that easy and feet become like stone. Do you want to not feel anything or anyone and to forget about trying, living and going on. Is it so with them? I seein the west late afternoon light at the high towering places of home. The sun was slowly moving, it's light and shadows moved like a caterpillar on the rocks. I looked once and then again. I stood up and could see these Yei's dressed in faces of stone, their bodies bent as if singing, not moving. There is a head dress of eagle feathers, deer skin and the rustle of pine boughs about their neck and the their bodies are painted, their arms holding and resting in place with a rattle, pine needles and coyote skin laying itself dragging behind them. What are those, ah yes their medicine bags hanging at their side and with that there legs and feet seem frozen in dance. They stood there cast in stone, their spirits were calling out saying it is time to find the restoration of body, mind and soul and as dusk falls they are free to run. They leave me there as they step out and fade into the night, We go to the places where we have been called. Some turn and look down at me, these giants have awaken head out. They seem to say you will go on just as we. Yes we were frozen, our bodies locked and though it seems we cannot move because we were held prisoner, it is not so. Our spirits run free and travel these same roads, canyons, flatlands and dusty trails you know. We go with you into the places we have seen far off, in the places known by you. We do not travel to be seen, it is our spirit that goes with you and we travel there for you. We sit and watch from your heart and the recesses of your mind we rest to let you know you that you are one of us, Dine. It is in you we live. I stood there and looked at them as the sun fell below to become night and took a drink of cool water. I thought many times I have been to this place in the midst of them, Yeis In times of my wanderings I have felt like them locked up as is cast in stone, frozen but under the sun have felt it's warmth and after a time find that I am free to go about and live, to survive and carry on. It is that way with life some times and looking at the red sandstone of Dinetah I see them and they wait to hear their names and in the songs of life are free, so at times when I am alone I some times think about them, and their patience and find that in taking the time to see them, I see myself and the world slows down and with it I can find life, calm and a little peace.. Copyright c. 1999, Johnny Rustywire, all rights reserved. --------- "RE: Del "Abe" Jones Poem: Falling Tear" --------- Date: Wednesday, May 11, 2005 9:15 PM From: Del "Abe" Jones [abeabe@att.net] Subj: Falling Tear FALLING TEAR She is adorned in buckskin - Beads and turquoise sewn around - Her hair, long, black, and shiny - Her soft skin a golden brown. The Princess of a Nation From those days of used to be - When proud Indians could roam From mountains to sea to sea. The old customs of her people She holds dearest to her heart - And watching as those old ways die Is tearing her heart apart. Once, there were unwritten laws Which most everyone would heed - But the ways of the white man Has planted a bitter seed. He has raped the fertile land - And plundered Gods' Creations - He's stolen from and cheated All of the Indian Nations. The Government has written Many treaties of false word - And the red mans' cry for rights To this day still go, unheard. Falling Tear is an American - A true native of this land Whose tears fall for the injustice As she waits for Truth to make a stand. Del "Abe" Jones White Bluff, TN --------- "RE: New Online Drum Contest" --------- Date: Mon, 25 Jun 2007 16:34:04 -0400 From: PowWows.com Subj: PowWows.com Debuts New Online Drum Contest, Pow Wow Idol PowWows.com Debuts New Online Drum Contest, Pow Wow Idol West Columbia, SC (PRWEB) June 28, 2007 -- PowWows.com and DrumHop Productions present Pow Wow Idol. Pow Wow Idol is an online drum contest to find the best unsigned drum group in Indian Country. The members of PowWows.com will vote in a series of rounds to eliminate drums until only one is left. Drummers will compete online to become the next Pow Wow Idol. The contest will feature several rounds of competition where drummers will be required to submit different songs such as Intertribals, Grand Entry, Flag Song, Contest Song, 2 Step, Veteran and more. The contest will begin in August 2007. For more information and full rules, please visit http://www.powwowidol.com. PowWows.com, LLC was created by Paul Gowder in 1996. The web site was originally established as a way to bring issues in Native America to life, as well as bridging Native Americans together with others across the world. Following ten years of growth and development, membership to PowWows.com is still free and currently over 25,000 strong, and has grown to a network of sites including NativeGatherings.com, MyTribalSpace.com, PowWowCast.com, and PowWows.com. For more information, please contact: Paul Gowder (803) 361-1160 --------- "RE: Upcoming Events" --------- Date: Mon June 25, 2007 14:29:44 -0700 From: Gary Smith (gars@speakeasy.org) Subj: Upcoming Events =+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+= EVENTS ARE FEATURED IN ODD NUMBERED ISSUES ONLY =+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+= ------------------------------------------------------------------------- --//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//- Notice of Copyright Clearance by Contributors: The following have granted permission for their original articles to be reposted in order to help mend the Sacred Hoop: Gary Smith, Kahentinetha Horn, Kahente, Orakwa, Wolastoqiyik, Janet Smith, Debie Sanders, Del "Abe" Jones, Johnny Rustywire, Paul Gowder --//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//- _ __ __ _ / | / /___ _/ /_(_) __ __ / |/ / __ \ __/ / | / / _ \ / /| / /_/ / /_/ /| |/ / __/ /_/ |_/\__,_/\__/_/ |___/\___/ ______ _ / ____/____ ___ __________(_)___ ____ _____ / / / ___/ __ \/ ___/ ___/ / __ \/ __ \/ ___/ / /___/ / / /_/ /__ /__ / / / / / /_/ /__ / \____/_/ \____/____/____/_/_/ /_/\__, /____/ Volume 15,Issue 026 /____/ June 25, 2007 Native Crossings (c) is a separately emailed suppliment to Wotanging Ikche (c) Native American News (c) dedicated to the memory of those in Indian Country who have begun their spirit journeys It may be subscribed to via email by sending a request from your own internet addressable account to gars@nanews.org <================<<<< >>>>================> This newsletter is produced in straight ASCII text for greatest portability across platforms. Read it with a fixed-pitch font, such as Courier, Monaco, FixedSys or CG Times. Proportional fonts will be difficult to read. <================<<<< >>>>================> IMPORTANT!! ----------- In accordance with Title 17 U.S.C. section 107, all material appearing in this newsletter is distributed without profit to those who have expressed a prior interest in receiving this information for educational purposes. <================<<<< >>>>================> --------- "RE: Dr. Joe Couture" --------- Date: Fri, 22 Jun 2007 18:00:51 -0600 From: shawn Subj: Death of Dr. Joe Couture Mailing List: Frostys AmerIndian Death of Dr. Joe Couture It is with sadness that we pause to reflect on the death of Dr. Joseph Couture. Since the late 1980s, Dr. Couture worked closely with the Correctional Service of Canada and the National Parole Board. He spent the final years of his life working as a staff psychologist at the Pe Sakastew Healing Lodge and assisting the Addictions Research Centre on Aboriginal related research. Dr. Joseph Couture was a pioneer in every sense of the word. As the first Aboriginal person to receive a Ph.D in psychology in Canada, "Dr. Joe" as he was affectionately known, not only built bridges of understanding between two cultures but systematically affected generations of educators and students with his straightforward and profound traditional healing methods. Dr. Couture profoundly influenced the corrections system by transforming the prison into a place for healing. As a respected Elder, cultural advisor, educator, academic and psychologist, Dr. Joe contributed significantly to the education, health and well-being of Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people. In all of his endeavours, Dr. Joe demonstrated a thoughtful and creative approach to working with Aboriginal offenders. This past March, with support from the Correctional Service of Canada, Dr. Couture received the National Aboriginal Achievement Award in recognition of his lifelong contribution to healing and health. Needless to say, Joe Couture touched the lives of many and leaves a significant legacy within CSC. He has also provided a great service to the people of Canada in the interest of public safety. The funeral was held on June 22 in Edmonton. CSC Honour Guard and representatives of the Department were in attendance. Don Head Senior Deputy Commissioner --------- "RE: Crossings" --------- Date: Mon, 25 Jun 2007 07:45:54 -0600 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="CROSSINGS" June 20, 2007 Robert D. Spillman SPILLMAN - Robert D. March 18, 2007, suddenly, in Everly, FL, formerly of Akron, NY, father of Tori; son of Suzanne and the late Charles; brother of Laurence, Charles, Ronald (Michelle), John Scott (Tammy) Spillman and Lyn (Jay) Longwell. A Memorial Service will be held at Tonawanda Indian Baptist Church, 565 Bloomingdale Ave., Basom, NY, on Sunday, June 24 at 4 PM. Copyright c. 1999-2007 The Buffalo News. -=-=-=- June 20, 2007 Ola Lee Jacobs Goins Pembroke Ola Lee Jacobs Goins, 83, of 876 Melinda Road, died June 15, 2007, at Southeastern Regional Medical Center. The funeral will be 3 p.m. Tuesday at Union Chapel Holiness Methodist Church. Burial will follow in the Prospect United Methodist Church Cemetery. Goins was born Aug. 3, 1923, to the late Anderson and Docia Oxendine Jacobs of Pembroke. In 1946 she married the late Ernest Goins of the Prospect Community. She was the mother of two sons, Lumbee Tribal Chairman Jimmy Goins and the late John Anderson Goins. She was the stepmother to the late Bobbie Locklear and a mentor to Velicia Bullard of Pembroke. As a graduate of Pembroke High School, Ola received a scholarship to attend Murray State University in Ohio, where she attended for two years. Due to family obligations, she returned home and completed her bachelor's degree in Home Economics at Pembroke State College. As the first American Indian case worker, Ola worked for the Robeson County Welfare Department for 19 years. Then she took the opportunity to receive a master's degree in Education from Pembroke State University and to work for the public school system for 21 years. She retired from the Public Schools of Robeson County as the director fo the Food Service Department. The family said: "Goins was many things to many people. She was a devoted Christian, wife, mother and grandmother. A good neighbor and aunt, Ola did so many special things for them. She was an excellent cook and gardener. Her flower garden was the delight of her life and she often shared many flowers with friends and family. Well known for her special recipes, she loved baking cakes, cookies and candies, especially around the holidays. Ola had the natural ability to make everyone in her presence feel special. She was a gentle and loving grandmother to three grandchildren and her memory lives through five great-grandchildren." She was preceded by her loving husband Ernest Goins and a son, John Anderson Goins, and siblings, Carbell Locklear, Effie Lee Locklear, Mary Ellen Carter and James Arnold Jacobs. Surviving are her son Jimmy Goins and his wife, Diane Locklear Goins of Pembroke; three grandchildren, Rhonda Dial and her husband Rudy, Jackie Deese and her husband Gene, and Jamie Rene Goins, all of Pembroke, five great-grandchildren, Anthony Rudolph, Marcus and Victor Dial and Morgan and Madison Deese, all of Pembroke; her caretakers, Carletter Locklear, Mary Ann Baker, Molly Jacobs, Lakeshia Lowery and the staff at Native Angels Hospice, as well as her nieces and nephews who loved her so much and special friends, especially Rosette and Baker Locklear. The family will receive friends 7 to 9 tonight at Revels Funeral Home of Pembroke. June 25, 2007 Virginia Dale Oxendine Blackwood Germany Virginia Dale Oxendine Blackwood, died June 21, 2007, in Wiesbaden, Germany with her husband and military family by her side. The funeral will be conducted 3 p.m. Tuesday at Mt. Airy Baptist Church. Burial will follow in the Mt. Airy Church Cemetery. Blackwood was born October 24, 1952, wife of Command Sgt. Major Roger Paul Blackwood, mother of Legina Oxendine Allen and grandmother of Travis O'Rayn Allen. Blackwood is preceded in death by her parents; Britton and Beulah Locklear Oxendine and by five brothers; James Alvin, James Early, Britton Sr., Jimmy Ray and Nelson Oxendine. Surviving are; William and Barbara Oxendine, Mary Sally Oxendine, David Earl and Isle Oxendine, Jerry Oxendine and Paul and Rowena Godaire all of Pembroke; Gene Autry and Katherine Oxendine of Matthews and several nieces and nephews. Roger's mother; Laura Mae Blackwood and sister; Bernice Blackwood of Odell, Neb., and a host of relatives and friends. The family will receive friends Monday from 7 to 9 p.m. at Locklear & Son Funeral Home. Online condolences can be made at: www.locklearandsonfuneralhome.com Annie Pearl Hunt Lumberton Annie Pearl Hunt, 66, of 58 National Ave., died June 22, 2007, in her home. The funeral will be 3 p.m. Sunday at Canaan Full Gospel Church. Burial will follow in Gardens of Faith Cemetery. Surviving are a daughter, Linda G. Hunt of the home; three sisters, Helen Britt of the home, Christine Hunt of Lumberton and Rosie Belle Fisher of Hope Mills; and two brothers, Earl Cranston Hunt and Larry Hunt, both of Lumberton. The family will receive friends 7 to 9 tonight at Revels Funeral Home in Lumberton and at other times at the home, 58 National Ave., Lumberton. Effie Hunt Laurinburg Effie Hunt, 71, died June 19, 2007, at Century Care in Laurinburg. The funeral will be 3 p.m. Saturday at Richard Boles Funeral Service Chapel. Burial will follow at Hillside Memorial Park in Laurinburg. Surviving are two daughters, Betty Jones of Maxton and Lisa Murray and her husband Josh of Laurinburg; two brothers, Floyd Hunt and Tom Hunt, both of Maxton; three sisters, Stroudy Hunt and Minnie Smith, both of Laurinburg, and Carol Brown of Maxton; and five grandchildren. The family will receive friends 7 to 9 p.m. Friday at Richard Boles Funeral Service in Laurinburg. Archie M. Lowery Lumberton Archie M. Lowery, 65, formerly of Palm Springs, Calif., died June 21, 2007, at Southeastern Regional Medical Center in Lumberton. The funeral will be 11 a.m. Saturday at Locklear & Son Funeral Home Chapel, the Rev. Charles P. Locklear officiating. Burial will follow in Oxendine Cemetery. Mr. Lowery was born Dec. 31, 1941, to George and Esther Lowery of Robeson County. After completing high school in 1959, Mr. Archie moved to Baltimore and worked with the Baltimore Memorial Hospital before serving in the Air Force for four years. After military duty, he was employed by the Los Angeles Times newspaper in marketing and photography for 30 years. He was preceded in death by his mother, Esther Lowery; a brother, Cleo Lowery; and a sister, Candis Tuttle. Surviving are his father, George Lowery; two brothers, Luther Lowery and his wife Michelene, and Donald Lowery and his wife Roxann; two sisters: Annie Ruth Bullard and her husband Johnny and Janice Locklear and her husband Douglas. The family will receive friends Saturday from 10 to 11 a.m. at Locklear and Son Funeral Home and at other times at the residence of Mr. and Mrs. Johnny Bullard at 3109 North Chicken Road in Lumberton. Online condolences can be made at www.locklearandsonfuneralhome.com. William Locklear Fairmont William Locklear, 63, of Fairmont, died June 20, 2007, at Autumn Care of Raeford. The funeral will be 2 p.m. Saturday at Locklear and Son Funeral Home Chapel in Pembroke, the Revs. Bobby Burns and Tracy Locklear officiating. Burial will follow at New Point Church Cemetery. Surviving are a daughter, Doris Butler of Latta, S.C.; three sisters, Sharon Hunt of Lumberton, Barbara Brayboy and Teresa Chavis, both of Charlotte; two brothers, Jimmy Locklear of Fairmont and Kenny Locklear of Mt. Holly; and two grandchildren. The family will receive friends from 7 to 9 tonight at Locklear and Son Funeral Home. Copyright c. 2007 The Robesonian, Lumberton, NC. -=-=-=- June 24, 2007 Annie P. Hunt LUMBERTON - Mrs. Annie Pearl Hunt, 66, of 58 National Ave., died Friday, June 22, 2007, in her home. Services: Funeral, 3 p.m. today in Canaan Full Gospel Church. Burial in Gardens of Faith Cemetery. Survived by: Daughter, Linda; sisters, Helen Britt, Rosie Belle Fisher and Christine; and brothers, Earl and Lacy. Revels Funeral Home of Lumberton. Copyright c. 2007 The Fayetteville (N.C.) Observer. -=-=-=- June 19, 2007 David Swimmer Cherokee - David Swimmer, 58, of the Painttown Community, passed away, Sunday, June 17, 2007, at his home following a short illness. He was a lifelong resident of the Cherokee Qualla Boundary. He was employed by Monteith Lumber Company for a number of years. He was a loving father, brother, uncle, son, and grandpa. Happy Father's Day son, daddy, and big brother. He is survived by his parents, Issac and Dorothy (Boots) Swimmer, of Cherokee; three brothers, Ben (Punkin), William (Juggie) and James (Dean) Swimmer, all of Cherokee; five sisters, Bobbi George and husband, Russell, Bonnie Youngdeer and husband, Barney, Anita Thompson and husband, Wilson, all of Cherokee, Kina Swimmer of Black Mountain, Dinah Melton and husband, Jerry, of Puryear, Tenn.. Also surviving are two sons, Obie and Joshua Swimmer; two daughters, Ashley Swimmer and Henrietta Welch, all of Cherokee. He had four granddaughters; three grandsons; five nephews; three nieces; and Girl Baby. The funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday at Rock Springs Baptist Church. The Revs. Greg Morgan and James Sneed will officiate with burial in the family cemetery. The body will be taken to the church at 5 p.m. Tuesday by Crisp Funeral Home at await the hour of service. June 20, 2007 Damion Toineeta Cherokee - Damion Bear Toineeta, 27, of the Wolftown community, died unexpectedly Friday, June 15, 2007, at his residence. He was a native and lifelong resident of Jackson County; he was a fancy war dancer, played Indian stickball, son of Marietta Sampson Toineeta and the late Arneach Toineeta. He was preceded in death by a sister, Judy Reed and his grandfathers. Surviving is one daughter, Jaicelyn Dalyla Shanelle Beck of Cherokee; maternal grandmother, Lucinda Sampson of Cherokee; and his paternal grandmother, Lillian Jumper of Cherokee; one brother, John Robbie Bigmeat of Cherokee and wife, Sherry; one niece, NeeCee; three nephews, Wolf, Spirit, Tommy; and four step-nieces. The funeral service will be 2 p.m. Thursday at Soco Church of God officiated by the Revs. Skeleton, Patricia Crockett and Judge Stephen Philo. Burial will be in the Oocumma family cemetery. The body will be placed in the church at 6 p.m. Wednesday. Melton-Riddle Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. June 23, 2007 Bessie Wiggins Cherokee - Bessie McCoy Wiggins, 95, of Cherokee, died Friday, June 22, 2007. The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday at the chapel of Crisp Funeral Home. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home. Copyright c. 2007 Asheville Citizen-Times. -=-=-=- June 19, 2007 Samantha M. Emery Samantha M. Emery, 63, of Mahnomen, died on Wednesday, June 13, 2007, at the Mahnomen Health Center Nursing Home. Traditional Native American services will be held at 10 a.m. Sunday at the Naytahwaush Charter School. Visitation will begin at 5 p.m. Friday at the school and continue until the time of the service on Sunday. Burial will be in the Naytahwaush Traditional Cemetery. Arrangements are with Anderson-Mattson Funeral Home of Mahnomen. Copyright c. 2007 Red Lake Net News. -=-=-=- June 20, 2007 Natasha Rae Jackson Natasha Rae Jackson "Tash," 20, of Ogema, died June 13, at her residence in Ogema. Tash was born on Dec. 30, 1986 in Detroit Lakes to Donna Marie Fairbanks and Peter Samuel Jackson III. She attended school in Naytahwaush, Mahnomen, Waubun and Circle of Life in White Earth. She was recently working towards her GED. Tash gave birth to her only child, a son, Desmond Spencer Dibley on Sept. 22, 2005. He was the love of her life. She shared a very special relationship with her mother and father. Tash enjoyed listening to music, riding around and being with family and friends. Her love for animals was one of her many great attributes. She always dreamed of being a veterinarian. Any chance she had to save an animal; she would, always bringing home animals without homes. Tash will be remembered and deeply missed by her father, Peter (Laura Braaten) Jackson; her son, Desmond Dibley; one very special friend, Ryan Dibley; sister, Alicia Weaver; two very special brothers, Andrew Weaver and Logan Braaten-Jackson; two grandmothers, Grace Jackson and Shirely (James Jackson) Belland; special aunt and uncle, Katherine and Jeff Thompson; numerous other aunts, uncles and cousins. Tash is preceded in death by her mother Donna Marie Fairbanks; two grandfathers, Peter S. Jackson II and Spencer A. Fairbanks; two uncles, Doug and Kenneth Fairbanks; great-grandparents, Marcianna and Aaron Bevins, Peter and Charlotte Jackson. The funeral service for Tash was Tuesday, June 19, at St. Columba Episcopal Church in White Earth. Interment: St. Ann's Catholic Cemetery in Natahwaush. Arrangements: The David-Donehower Funeral Home of Detroit Lakes. Jeanette Faye Bush Jeanette Faye Bush, 63, of White Earth, died June 14 at MeritCare Hospital, Fargo. Jeanette Faye Belland was born Dec. 24, 1943, in White Earth to Leslie and Florence (Jackson) Belland. She was raised and attended school in White Earth. Jeanette married James Bush in White Earth. She worked as a seamstress and also as a home health aid. Jeanette enjoyed visiting with her friends and being with family. Jeanette also enjoyed going to the casino on Elders Day with her friends. Jeanette is survived by a son, Michael Belland of White Earth; one brother, Orville Belland of White Earth; two sisters, Shirley (Jim) Belland of Waubun, Ruby (Pat) Weaver of White Earth; two grandchildren, Vernon and Barbara Durant; one great grandson, Gordy. She was preceded in death by a son; her parents; four brothers. The funeral service was held this morning (Wednesday, June 20) at St. Columba Episcopal Church in White Earth. Interment: St. Columba Episcopal Cemetery in White Earth. Arrangements: The David-Donehower funeral Home of Detroit Lakes. Doris Mae Lembke Doris Mae Lembke, 72, passed away June 7. Doris was born on Sept. 30, 1934, in Cloquet, Minn., to John and Maggie (Armstrong) Sam. She attended Isle public schools and later received her GED. She raised eight loving children and was united in marriage to Lee Lembke on Nov. 6, 1965, in Watertown, S.D. The family lived in St. Cloud, and later Mahnomen, before retiring to the Mille Lacs Lake area. Doris enjoyed bargain shopping, going to garage sales, fishing and hunting. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends. Doris is survived by her husband Lee of Isle, Minn.; son, Alrick "John" (Melanie) Wadena Jr., of Mahnomen; daughters: Doreen (Elliot) Knutson of Fridley, Minn.; Sherry (Kevin) Nielsen of Jordan, Minn., Carol (Mike) Turner Sr. of Naytahwaush, Melissa "Miss" Berg of Prior Lake, Minn.; brother, Leonard (Colleen) Sam of Onamia, Minn.; sisters: Amelia (Leo) Day and Marie (Jack) Gudim all of Isle; 16 grandchildren; 16 greatgrandchildren. She was proceeded in death by her parents, John and Maggie Sam; sons: James Wadena, Timothy Wadena; daughters: Frances Berg, Diana Roske; four brothers; one sister; and grandchildren, Kelly Bailey and Justin Wadena The funeral service was held June 11 at Isle Baptist Church. Layerna Lynn Jones Layerna Lynn Jones, infant daughter of Lee Ann Jones and Kenneth Peak of Ponsford, was dead on arrival at St. Joseph's Hospital in Park Rapids on June 3. Layerna was born July 12, 2006 in Detroit Lakes. She enjoyed dancing to Native American music, splashing in the bath tub, talking and clapping for herself. Survivors include her parents, Lee Ann Jones and Kenneth Peake of Ponsford; one sister, Laticia Jones of Ponsford; her grandparents, Doug Clark of Ponsford, Florence Peake of Minneapolis, Audrey Swan of Ponsford; her great-grandmother, Sara Clark of Ponsford. She was preceded in death by her grandmother, Lorena Jones; great- grandparents, Clarence Clark Sr., Bernie Peake, Betty Boswell, Corrine Goodman-Jones and Thomas Jones; an aunt, Carol Peake. Funeral services were held June 8 at the old Pine Point School in Ponsford with Mother Lisa Smith officiating. Interment: Breck Memorial Episcopal Cemetery in Ponsford. Arrangements: The David-Donehower Funeral Home in Detroit Lakes Eileen M. Villebrun Eileen M. Villebrun, age 79, of Mahnomen, died June 5 at her home. Eileen was born Jan. 21, 1928, in White Earth to Arthur and Amelia (Perrault) Mitchell. She grew up in White Earth, where she attended White Earth Mission School. At the young age of 15, Eileen began working at the Blue Bird Cafe' in Moorhead. On June 10, 1950, Eileen was united in marriage to Merton Villebrun in Detroit Lakes. The couple made their home in Cloquet, Minn., for a short time before moving to the Twin Cities. While living in Minneapolis, Eileen worked at Berman Buckskin for several years as a seamstress. In 1975, she and Merton retired and moved to Bejou. He died in 1979 and Eileen continued to live in Bejou until moving into Mahnomen, where she continued to make her home until the time of her death. As a faithful and devoted Christian, Eileen belonged to St. Michael's Catholic Church in Mahnomen. She also held membership with the Bejou Ladies Auxiliary. Eileen was a wonderful mother, grandmother, and friend, always ready with open arms for everyone. She took great pride in her family and cherished the times spent together, especially with her grandchildren. Eileen loved Elvis Presley and playing bingo at the Golden Eagle Bingo Lodge and every time she would bingo, she'd say, "Let's go shopping!" and how she loved to shop. Eileen is survived by one son, Myron (Beth) Villebrun, of Gary, Minn.; two daughters: Ruth (Bruce) Clumb and Robin Villebrun, both of Mahnomen; eight grandchildren; two brothers: Richard Mitchell, of Laurel, Mont., and Bernard (Laura) Dickhaus, of Moorhead; one sister, Elaine (Real) DuBord, of Tomah, Wis.; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, Merton, Eileen was preceded in death by her parents; grandparents; two sons: John Perrault and Bruce Villebrun; one sister, Renee Domier; one brother, Raymond Mitchell and many aunts and uncles. Blessed be the memory of Eileen Marie Villebrun. Mass of Christian Burial was held on June 9 at St. Michael's Catholic Church in Mahnomen, with Fr. Rick Lambert officiating. Internment: St. Michael's Catholic Cemetery in Mahnomen. Arrangements: Anderson~Mattson Funeral Home in Mahnomen. Paul E. "Little Chig-Ah" Bellcourt Paul E. "Little Chig-Ah" Bellcourt, 101, of Callaway, died June 10 at his home. Paul Eustach Chig-Ah "Little Chig-Ah" Bellcourt was born Jan. 21, 1906 in White Earth to Charles Stuart and Lillian Bellcourt. He started his education in the government school and attended boarding school in Wahpeton, N.D. Paul married Rosalie S. Bellanger Feb. 18, 1930 in White Earth. He worked various jobs and had been a woodsman; later working for the Pot-Latch Company, formerly known as the paper mill in Cloquet, Minn. He retired in 1970. In 1975, he moved back to White Earth. At the time of his death he was the oldest living retiree of the Pot-Latch Company. Paul was a member of St. Benedict's Catholic Church. He enjoyed listening to the radio, especially Paul Harvey; fishing, hunting deer and doing yard work. Paul is survived by three daughters: Florence Tadlock of Detroit Lakes, Pauline Creed of Callaway, Sandra Larson of St. Paul; three sons: Dale Bellcourt of Cloquet, Lawrence Bellcourt also of Cloquet, Jon Bellcourt of Draper, Utah; 23 grandchildren; 39 great-grandchildren; 18 great-great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife Rosalie; parents, Charles and Lillian; sons, Billy Bellcourt, Jerry Bellcourt, and two in infancy, Henry and Richard; sisters, Margaret Gorney, Isabal Warren; grandchildren, David Beyl and Diane Johnson; great-grandson, Mario DeGracia. Mass of Christian Burial will be June 13 at St. Benedict's Catholic Church in White Earth, with Father Mietek Bajek officiating. Interment: Calvary Cemetery in White Earth. Arrangements: The David-Donehower Funeral Home of Detroit Lakes. Donald C. Benson Donald C. Benson, age 82, of Winger, died on June 7 at the Midway Care Center, in Fosston. Donald C. Benson, the son of Hans and Sara (Christianson) Benson was born Sept. 28, 1924, near Mahnomen, where he grew up and attended school. He joined the Merchant Marines in 1945. Don was assigned to ship duty and was deployed on ships throughout the world. He also operated tugs and spent countless hours at sea. He truly enjoyed his service duty particularly in the Far East. Don was also an accomplished boxer, earning Golden Glove medals in 1954, at Madison Square Gardens. That same year he was united in marriage to Margaret Kellerhuis at Mountain Iron, Minn. They made their home in Mahnomen where Don was employed in local construction in the area. Following Margaret's death in 1963, he moved to the Twin Cities. While there he worked at a machine shop until 1967, when he again entered the Merchant Marines. He retired in 1982, after faithfully serving his country for over 23 years with the unusual distinction of being a veteran of WWII, Korea and Vietnam. After his military career, Don then moved to the Winger area, living there until entering the Midway Care Center in May of this year. Besides boxing, Don loved to fish and you could always find him at the "Corner Office" visiting with his and friends and neighbors. Surviving are four sons: Gerald (Carole), Jacksonville, Fla., Larry (Jill Ferganchick), Bloomington, Minn., Brian (Patty), Apple Valley, Minn., and Jim (Vicki Velari), Blaine, Minn.; one daughter, Juanita (Shane Hiltz) Tremeer, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada; and his long time partner, Myrtle Lee. Surviving also are 12 grandchildren and four great grandchildren. Preceding him in death were his wife, Margaret; his parents; a son, Rodney; six sisters and five brothers. Arrangements: Anderson~Mattson Funeral Home of Mahnomen. In Memory Joanie, It's been a year and eight months since you left us. We had a fun time telling jokes and we laughed before you took sick. My life hasn't been the same. My heart aches knowing I'll never hear your voice, espically the words "Oh, mom I love you." Tears trickle down my face. I know you are in a beautiful place and happy. I'll say, so long my girl, until we meet some day. I love and miss you - the childen do too. Your mom and kids, Shy, Michele, Aaron and Vanessa, and brothers Joe and Mike Copyright c. 2007 Anishinaabeg Today, White Earth, MN. -=-=-=- June 18, 2007 Samantha M. Emery, 63 Samantha M. Emery, 63, of Mahnomen, died on Wednesday, June 13, 2007, at the Mahnomen Health Center Nursing Home. Traditional Native American services will be held at 10 a.m. Sunday at the Naytahwaush Charter School. Visitation will begin at 5 p.m. Friday at the school and continue until the time of the service on Sunday. Burial will be in the Naytahwaush Traditional Cemetery. Arrangements are with Anderson-Mattson Funeral Home of Mahnomen. Copyright c. 2007 The Pioneer/Bemidji, MN. -=-=-=- June 20, 2007 Darrell Defender Darrell Defender, 53, Mobridge, S.D., died June 16, 2007, at Mobridge Regional Hospital, Mobridge, S.D. Services will be held at 10 a.m. CDT Saturday, June 23, at Catholic Church of Assumption, Kenel, S.D. Further arrangements are pending with Oster Funeral Home, Mobridge. June 21, 2007 Phyllis Different Horse Phyllis R. Different Horse, 46, Seattle, died June 15, 2007, in Seattle. Services will be held at 10 a.m. MDT Saturday, June, 23, at HV Johnston Lakota Cultural Center, Eagle Butte, S.D. Burial will be in the Episcopal Cemetery, LaPlant, S.D. Oster Funeral Home, Mobridge, S.D. June 23, 2007 Thomas Black Hawk MANDAREE - Thomas Black Hawk Sr., 62, Mandaree, died June 20, 2007, at his residence, of a heart attack. Services will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, June 25, at Water Chief Hall, Mandaree. Internment will be in Black Hawk family cemetery. He is survived by his son, Thomas Jr., Bismarck; his daughters, Claudette Nash, New Town, and Tisa Black Hawk, Mandaree; his brother, Rudolph Sanders, Mandaree; and his sisters, Dinah Black Hawk and Melvina Fredericks, both of Mandaree, FayAnn Moberg, Keene, Judy Black Hawk, New Town, and Jo Ann Keehn, Williston. Fulkerson Funeral Home, Williston. Copyright c. 2007 Bismark Tribune. -=-=-=- June 20, 2007 Marlo Jo Baker leaves four daughters, three sons By Jo Hall Marla Jo Baker, 32, of Wakpala, who died Monday, June 11, 2007, in Cannonball, N.D., was a mother to four daughters and three sons. Marla Jo was born March 13, 1975, to Robert C. Baker Jr. and Ruth A. (Walking Shield) Baker in Fort Yates, N.D., she grew up in Wakpala and graduated from Wakpala high School in 1995. In 1998, Marla Jo married Valverte Garter and they made their home in Wakpala. She went on to attend UTTC in Bismarck, N.D., and then returned to Wakpala on the Standing Rock Reservation. Survivors are her daughters, Stephanie Garter, Christina Garter, both of Fort Yates, Sherwin and Katalyn, both of Minot, N.D.; three sons, Sudago, Damian and Casey Garter, all of Center, N.D.; five sisters, Bobbi Baker of Devils Lake, N.D., Corrine Bertalini of Columbia, Md., Brenda Hogh of Jefferson Village, Va., Taylor Walking Shield of Columbia, Md., and Roberta A. Baker of Rapid City; and two brothers, Wilmar Baker of Aberdeen and Robert C. Baker III of Eagle Butte. Her parents, Robert and Ruth Baker, her husband Valverte Garter, a sister Lelonna J. Eagleman and numerous uncles and aunts preceded Marla Jo in death. Funeral services for Marla Jo were Monday, June 18, at the Wakpala Community Center in Wakpala. The Very Rev. Leslie Campbell, the Rev. Buford Marsh and the Standing Rock lay readers officiated. Burial was at St. Elizabeth's Episcopal Cemetery in Wakpala under the direction of Oster Funeral Home of Mobridge. An all night wake service was held Sunday evening at the Wakpala Community Center. Family and friends met at the funeral home Sunday afternoon to follow in procession to the Community Center for the wake. Natasha Dye packed brief life with activities By Jo Hall Natasha Yvonne Dye seemed to have endless energy. She was active in boxing, kickboxing, drill team, photography and Lakota Club in Eagle Butte. She was active in church activities at the Church of God and attended summer youth camps on a regular basis. She was so proud of her twin boys, Kilik and Kahlid. With her outgoing, compassionate personality, she was able to strike up a conversation with anyone and made friends easily. "Natasha was very giving and kind hearted, always willing to help anyone in need," her mother said. Natasha died Saturday, June 9, 2007, at the Rapid City Regional Hospital due to natural causes. She was 19 years old. She was born Nov. 10, 1987, in Rapid City to Karen S. Bruner and Anthony L. Dye Sr. She attended various schools while growing up, including schools in Box Elder, Athens, Ga., and Fresno, Calif., before returning to Eagle Butte in 1998. She graduated from high school in Eagle Butte in 2006. After graduation, she went to Athens for a visit to spend time with family and friends, and then returned to Eagle Butte. Natasha leaves her boys, Kilik and Kahlid, her mother Karen Bruner, sister Jessica, brothers Anthony Jr., Michael, Cameron, Kyle, Nathan, Arden Jr. and Duane, grandparents Ramona Benoist, Rachel Jackson and James Menard, aunts Jewell Bruner, Diana Gray, Cheryl Lewis and Karla Medina, Anita and Elesie Jackson, and uncles Stewart, Richard and Jerry Bruner and Harris, Vernon, Mike, Albert and Levornen Jackson. Also surviving are her grandmothers Mona McClane, Eleanor Miner, Alma LaBlanc and Carmen White, and grandpa Arden Marshall. She was also very close to her "special" cousins, Jennean Ducheneaux, Elesie Leaster, Henry Leaster, Tavaris Hopkins and Albert Jackson, and had many special friends. Her father, Anthony Dye Sr., great grandmother Lena LeBeau, sister Angel Sue Marshall and cousin Christina Medina preceded Natasha in death. The funeral for Natasha was Monday, June 18, at the H.V. Johnson Cultural Center in Eagle Butte. Sister Addie Morris and Pastor Harris Jackson officiated. Sisters in Harmony and family and friends provided special music. Young Nations was the drum group. Casketbearers were Michael Wright, Jordan Stadel, Corey Simon, Richard Benoist Jr., Stanley Roberts and Jayme Mesteth. Honorary bearers were the C-EB Class of 2006, Danny Jensen, Tate Jensen, Joe Uses The Knife, Nick Demarce, Kris Garreau family, Keri Lawrence family, Patsy Foote family, Dezmond, Darnell, Lance Scares The Hawk, Jordan Knife, Shawn Moran, Zena Dupris, Ryan Marrowbone, Babette Charger, Buddy and Haven Colombo, Leo Ducheneaux, Jae Paula, Leon Red Dog, Carol Elk Nation family and the Cheyenne Boxing Team. Burial was in the Eagle Butte Cemetery under the direction of Oster Funeral Home of Mobridge. An all night wake service began Sunday evening preceded by family and friends gathering at the 4-mile junction to follow in procession to the cultural center. Luculle Towry had interesting ancestry By Jo Hall Lucille Alvina Towry was born July 17, 1933, to Joseph and Agnes (Two Lance) Jewett in Promise and was an enrolled member of the Cheyenne River Standing Rock Tribe. Her Lakota ancestry includes Chief Dragstone and Horse Two Lance of the Sans Arc and Two Kettle Bands. Lucille, who had been making her home in Gettysburg, died Wednesday, June 13, 2007, at the Spearfish Regional Hospital at the age of 73. She attended school at the Old Cheyenne Agency and St. Elizabeth Mission near Wakpala. She grew up along the Moreau River helping on the family ranch. In 1955, she moved to Los Angeles, Calif., where she stayed, met and married James L. Towry Sr. in 1957. Five children were born to their union. They later moved to Tennessee, and then back to Promise in 1971 to raise their children and later grandchildren. Lucille occasionally made visits back to Tennessee to see family and friends and attended reunions to keep in touch with her extended family in the south. She enjoyed these trips and reunions with children and grandchildren in tow. She loved to garden and was well known for the variety of vegetables she grew in this part of the country. Survivors are her four children, Joanne Agnes Towry-Briggs of Swiftbird, James L. Towry Jr. of Spearfish, Gregory Allen Towry of Spearfish and Clark Lewellyn Towry of Swiftbird; two sisters, Carrie Fasthorse and Lillian Jewett; 19 grandchildren and nine great grandchildren. Her husband James, who died in 1990, daughter Barbara Kay Blue Coat, sister Delores Fern Walters, two brothers, Melvin Jewett and Walden Jewett and her parents preceded Lucille in death. Funeral services for Lucille were Monday, June 18, at St. Mary's Episcopal Church in Promise with the Rev. Norman Blue Coat officiating. Sisters in Harmony and Ira Briggs Sr. sang. Courtney Towry sang, "I'll Fly Away." Congregational hymns were "Just As I Am" and "The Old Rugged Cross." Casketbearers were Elliot Blue Coat, Ryan Blue Coat, Wyatt Blue Coat, Casey Two Bears, Albert Two Bears, Travis Towry, Nathan Briggs, Colten Towry, Coghen Towry, Dion Hall, Neil Chasing Hawk and Grant Hall. Honorary bearers were the CRST Support Service staff, Rapid City Regional Hospital staff, Avera McKennan staff, Wisdom Keepers staff, Spearfish Regional Hospital staff and all Lucille's friends and relatives. Burial was in the church cemetery under the direction of Kesling Funeral Home of Mobridge. An all night wake service began Sunday evening at the church with a prayer service. Dennis Grey Bear loses life to cancer By Jo Hall Dennis Henry Grey Bear, better known by his native name Tah Tah May (Left hand Bear), served in the U.S. Navy until 1974 and he returned to Fort Yates, N.D. He worked at various jobs for the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe until the late 1970s when he was seriously injured in an accident that left him handicapped. He filled his time playing cards or going to the casino, or just hanging out with the "Soggy Bottom Boys," at their usual spots around Fort Yates when he wasn't spending time with his grandchildren. A short time ago he was diagnosed with cancer. Dennis died Sunday, June 10, 2007, at the Indian Health Service Hospital in Fort Yates at the age of 54. He was born in Fort Yates on Sept. 15, 1952, to Alvina (Agard) and Leo Grey Bear. He was baptized Oct. 19, 1952, with Walter Pleets as his godfather. From the first to fifth grade, he attended St. Bernard's Indian mission where he served as an altar boy. Dennis graduated from St. Joseph's Indian Boarding School and went on to attend high school at Immaculate Conception in Stephan, Fort Yates High School and then graduated from Flandreau Indian School. Following his graduation, he entered the Navy. After his military service he returned to Fort Yates, where he met Roletta Carry Moccasin. Together, they had three children. Tah Tah May leaves behind his three children, Dennis "TJ-Tug" (Joelle) Grey Bear of McLaughlin, Shanna Marie Grey Bear of Fort Yates and Crystal Fayme Agard of Mandan, N.D.; one sister and brother-in-law, Larry and Ladean "Sissy" Bendickson of Fort Yates; six grandchildren, Talia Little Wolf Hernandez, Isiah Quinn Grey Bear, Xendre Julian Moran, Reanna Rain Moran, Rodrick Means, Elena Marie Grey Bear and Aaliyah Tyson Grey Bear; one niece, Cherisse "C.J." (Shiloh) Bendickson-Eagle; one aunt, Geraldine Agard and one uncle, Joseph Agard, both of McLaughlin; and two favorite cousins, Kathy "Kat" Dancing Bull-Buffalo Boy and Lance "L.C." Claymore, both of Fort Yates. Dennis was preceded in death by his mother, father, brother Rodney, and nephews Damien Grey Bear and Richard "J.R." DeMarrias. A memorial service for Dennis was held Thursday, June 14, at St. Peter's Catholic Church in Fort Yates. Father Bill Cosgrove and Brother George Maufort officiated. Nichole M. Winans and Davita A. Dunn were readers. The American Horse Family provided special music and Lakota Thunder was the drum group. Urn bearers were Dennis James "Tug" Grey Bear, Shanna Marie Grey Bear and Crystal Fayme Agard. Honorary bearers were the Medcenter ICU nurses, SCCI staff of Mandan, N.D., the Fort Yates Indian Health Service nurses, and all Dennis' friends and relatives. Burial of Dennis' cremains was in the church cemetery under the direction of Oster Funeral Home of Mobridge. Copyright c. 2007 Mobridge Tribune. -=-=-=- June 20, 2007 Darrell Defender Mobridge - Mass of Christian Burial for Darrell Defender, 53, of Mobridge, S.D., will be at 10 a.m. CDT on Saturday at the Catholic Church of Assumption in Kenel, S.D. Burial will be at 11 a.m. in the church cemetery under the direction of Oster Funeral Home of Mobridge, S.D. There will be a rosary service starting at 7 p.m. CDT at the church Friday. Copyright c. 2007 Aberdeen American News. -=-=-=- Welcome to the Sisseton-Wahpeton Sioux Tribe/Dakota Nation Sota Iya Ye Yapi On-Line, News from the Lake Traverse Reservation Volume 38, Issue 25 Wednesday, June 27, 2007 Funeral services held for Teddy Eagle Funeral services for Theodora "Teddy" Eagle were held on Saturday morning, June 23rd at St. Catherine's Hall in Sisseton, South Dakota. Father Walter Butor, OMI officiated. "Mah-pi-ya, Hotanka" singers were the drum group. Interment followed at Grey's Lake Cemetery. Two nights of visitations were held on Thursday, June 21st and Friday, June 22nd at the Community Center in Agency Village, South Dakota. Honorary casket bearers: Imelda Ryan Lois Kohl, Ursula Eagle, Bonita Wilson, Ann Marie Eagle, Anita Wilson, Maria DeCoteau, Jennie Goggles, Phoebe Quinn, Verna Paul, Lou Paul, Sally Paul, all of her friends from Fargo. Casket bearers were: Leslie Barse Jr., Lydell Barse, Eugene Anderson, Bradley Dilworth, Darren Redday, Mike Owen and Merle Redbear. Theodora T. "Teddy" Eagle, was born November 1, 1961 in Sisseton, South Dakota the daughter of Elijah and Clara Eagle Sr. Survivors include her children: Melissa Eagle of Fargo, James Lohnes Jr. of Bismarck, Amanda Eagle of Fargo, Brandy Azure of Sisseton, Samantha Azure of Fargo & Elizabeth Marie Azure of Sisseton; two grandchildren; siblings: Bernadine (Roy) Gaikowski of Peever, Charlotte Grey of Sisseton, Katherine (Leslie) Barse Sr. of Peever, Nadine Anderson, Francis Eagle and Donna (Merle) Redbear all of Waubay and Patrick Eagle of Fargo; a host of other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers and two sisters. The Chilson Funeral Home in Winsted, Minnesota served the family. Online condolences may be made to www.chilsonfuneralhome.com/. Samuel Lovejoy Jr. services to be held Tuesday Samuel Lovejoy Jr. was born on July 24, 1940. He journeyed to the Spirit World last Friday, June 22nd. Funeral services for Samuel Lovejoy Jr. will be held on Tuesday, June 26th at 2:00 p.m. at the Community Center in Agency Village, South Dakota. Interment follows at Enemy Swim. Two night wakes were scheduled at the Community Center, on Sunday and Monday. Honorary casket bearers will be all the Park Rangers. Casket bearers will be Orville and Conrad White, Reggie and Lester Crawford, Vernon and Iver Cloud, Samson DeMarrias and Tom Nordquist. Sam was raised by his grandparents. He was from the Enemy Swim area and a member of the Enemy Swim District. He traveled around a lot in his younger years. He quit school while he was in high school, but eventually received a G.E.D. certificate. Sam had hobbies he really enjoyed. He loved cross word puzzles; there were very few he couldn't finish! He was very intelligent and very knowledgeable about so many subjects. One of his part time favorites was playing cribbage and he was darn good at it. He went to bed with the crown many nights, but not all the time. Another favorite past time was watching old Westerns and when football season was here he and Orv were in front of the tube every Sunday faithfully. When Sam quit traveling around, he made his home with his cousins Carol and Orville White. He was always welcome there for the past nine years. Sam had lots of difficulties in his life but he knew he always had a home and place to go when he needed one. He was a free spirit. Sam was a very, very kind man, and was a man without a temper. His family never saw it. He was very generous with whatever he had. He gave so freely. He was also a humble man, very appreciative when on the receiving end. When Sam wasn't out and about, he was fun to be around and took jokes very well. He was always willing to do things. Sam will be missed by many because he was loved a lot. He always said "his life was his own." The Chilson Funeral Home in Winsted, Minnesota is serving the family. Online condolences may be directed to www.chilsonfuneralhome.com/. Copyright c. 1999-2007 by C. D. Floro/Earth and Sky Enterprises. -=-=-=- June 19, 2007 Clayton Jealous of Him OGLALA - Clayton Jealous of Him, 85, Oglala, died on Monday, June 18, 2007, at Rapid City Regional Hospital. Funeral arrangements are pending with Sioux Funeral Home of Pine Ridge. Norman D. Under Baggage Jr. PORCUPINE - Norman D. Under Baggage Jr. 50, of Porcupine, SD, passed away at home on June 16, 2007 with his wife, children, niece and nephew at his side. He fought a long courageous battle with diabetes and heom- dialysis treatment. Norman was born on August 18, 1956 to Norman and Hazel (Straight) Under Baggage, Sr. Norman is survived by his wife Verona Under Baggage of Porcupine, SD. Sons: Ronnie Shangreaux of Kyle, SD and Christopher Kills Right of Porcupine. Daughters: Tokataki Win "Missy" Under Baggage and Danielle Kills Right both of Porcupine, SD. Brothers: William "Chili" Under Baggage of San Bernardino, CA, Marlin Under Baggage and Waylon Under Baggage both of Kyle, SD. Sisters: Doyla Lundstrom of Broomfield, CO, Arnell Under Baggage and Marla Under Baggage both of Pine Ridge, SD, Donetta Janis and Marlene McDonald both of Kyle, SD. He is also survived by his niece Chelsea, nephew Dugan and his granddaughter Nevaeh Leah Victoria Torres of New York City, NY. Adopted brothers, Richard Moves Camp, Ray Montelongo, Curtis Milk, Tim Taggert and Robert Castro. Adopted sister Virginia Cordoba. Uncles Birgil Kills Straight and Eugene Kills Straight and numerous friends, cousins, nieces and nephews. Norman is preceded in death by his mother; Hazel Kills Straight, father; Norman Under Baggage, Sr., uncles; Philip, Alfred and Charles Under Baggage, aunts; Winnadel Mae Bull Bear and Dora Under Baggage, niece; Justina and nephews; Brian and Brett. A one-night wake begins at 3:30 PM, Tuesday, June 19 at Little Wound School in Kyle, SD. Funeral Services will be at 10:00 AM, Wednesday at Little Wound School. Officiating will be Deacon Gerald Bush and Mr. Alton Mousseau. Sioux Funeral Home of Pine Ridge is in charge of funeral arrangements. Raph Miner EAGLE BUTTE - Ralph Miner, 71, Eagle Butte, died Thursday, June 14, 2007, at Faith Regional Health Services in Norfolk, Neb. An all-night wake service was held Monday, June 18, at the Cultural Center in Eagle Butte. Services will be at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, June 19, at the center. Burial will be in Episcopal Cemetery in Whitehorse. Oster Funeral Home of Mobridge is in charge of arrangements. June 21, 2007 Terrance Claymore WAKPALA - Terrance Claymore, 78, Wakpala, died Saturday, June 16, 2007, in New Town, N.D. Arrangements are pending with Oster Funeral Home of Mobridge. Phyllis Rose Different Horse SEATTLE, Wash. - Phyllis Rose Different Horse, 46, Seattle, Wash., died Friday, June 15, 2007, in Seattle. An all-night wake service will begin at 7 p.m. on Friday, June 22, at the HV Johnston Lakota Cultural Center in Eagle Butte. Family and friends will meet at the four-mile junction at 5 p.m. to follow in procession to the center. Services will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 23, at cultural center with the Rev. Snipes officiating. Burial will be at Episcopal Cemetery in LaPlant. Oster Funeral Home of Mobridge is in charge of arrangements. Lawrence J. Shott Sr. WOUNDED KNEE - Lawrence J. Shott Sr., 41, Wounded Knee, died Tuesday, June 19, 2007, at Pine Ridge Hospital. Survivors include two sons, Lawrence Shott Jr. and Sheridan Shott, both of Wounded Knee; one daughter: Candace Peneaux, Rosebud; one brother, Anthony Tail, Manderson; three sisters, Cleo No Leaf, Gordon, Neb., Bernadine Rowland, Wounded Knee, and Angela Lara, Rapid City; and numerous grandchildren. A two-night wake begins at 2 p.m., Thursday, June 21, at Church of God in Wounded Knee. Services will be at 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 23, at the church with the Rev. Stanley Hollow Horn officiating. Traditional Lakota Services will be by Rick Two Dogs. Burial will be at Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery in Wounded Knee. Sioux Funeral Home of Pine Ridge is in charge of arrangements. June 22, 2007 Sarah J. Looks Twice RAPID CITY - Sarah J. Looks Twice, 47, Rapid City, died Wednesday, June 20, 2007, at Rapid City Regional Hospital. Survivors include two sons, Eric Looks Twice and Kurt Looks Twice, both of Rapid City; three daughters, Skye Looks Twice, Robin Flynn and Kimberly Flynn, all of Rapid City; her mother, Donna Jean Sanchez, Winslow, Ariz.; two brothers, Marty Chase Alone, Denver, and Troy LaPoint, Winslow, Ariz.; and three sisters, Georgine Looks Twice, Oglala, Annette Looks Twice, Albuquerque, N.M., and Iva Looks Twice, Manderson. One-night wake services will begin at 12 midnight, Friday, June 22, at St. Agnes Catholic Hall in Manderson. Services will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 23, at St. Agnes Catholic Hall in Manderson. Burial will follow at a later date. Sioux Funeral Home of Pine Ridge is in charge of arrangements. Madeline J. "Midge" Morgan GORDON, Neb. - Madeline J. "Midge" Morgan, 72, Gordon, Neb., died Tuesday, June 19, 2007. Survivors include one daughter, Judy Dawkins, Gordon, Neb; two brothers, Fred LaDeaux, Pine Ridge and Ben LaDeaux, Wichita, Kan.; three sisters, Pearl Cournoyer, Marty, and Kathy Janis and Rose LaDeaux, both of Manderson; and three grandchildren. Wake services will begin at 3 p.m. today at St. Leo's Catholic Church in Gordon with a rosary service at 6 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 23, at the church, with the Rev. Tim Stoner officiating. Burial will be at Gordon City Cemetery. Sioux Funeral Home of Pine Ridge is in charge of arrangements. June 24, 2007 Patricia He Crow He Crow, Patricia PINE RIDGE - Patricia He Crow, 45, Pine Ridge, died Saturday, June 23, 2007, at Avera-McKenna Hospital in Sioux Falls. Arrangements are pending with Sioux Funeral Home of Pine Ridge. Copyright c. 2007 The Rapid City Journal. -=-=-=- June 19, 2007 Jennie Lou Biggoose Brown Jennie Lou Biggoose Brown, the wife of Earl Brown since 1985, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Saturday, June 16, 2007, near her home. She was 48. A prayer service will be held Monday and Tuesday evenings at 7:30 at Ponca Indian United Methodist Church. A traditional noon feast will be held Wednesday, June 20, also at Ponca Indian United Methodist Church with the funeral to follow at 2 p.m. Burial will be in the Ponca Tribal Cemetery under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel. Jennie was born Dec. 20, 1958, in Pawnee, the daughter of Leonard Biggoose and Emma Packhorse Biggoose. She attended the Chilocco Indian School, graduating in 1977, later attending the Pioneer Area Vo-Tech where she earned her CNA certificate. She had been employed at various nursing homes in Ponca City and was employed since 1990 at the Blue Star Casino holding the position of supervisor and other positions. She is survived by her husband, Earl of the home; four children, Nellie Zotigh Kent, Albert Zotigh, White Feather Zotigh and Toby LeClair, all of Ponca City; eight grandchildren, Anthony, MaKaylee, Tanner, Kazlie, Latisha, Albert Jr., Geneva and Vivica; her stepchildren, Rhondo Brown, Rudy Brown and Shelley Brown; her step-grandchildren, Ronald, Beau, and Reesa; her brothers and sisters, Lenny Biggoose, Lester Biggoose, Leroy Van "Sonny" Biggoose, Lavonna Lieb, LouAnn Martin and Lisa Chapparro. She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Gena Thomas. Casket bearers will be Danny Page, Justin Lieb, Alfred Arkeketa Jr., B.J. Delodge, Floyd Robideaux and Kenneth Blueback. Honorary casket bearers will be nephews, Adam Ray LeClair, Carl Delodge, Lester Biggoose Jr., Vincent Biggoose, Jeff Lieb Jr., Derek Lieb, Robert Martin Jr., Leonard LeClair, Guy Thomas Jr., Alex Thomas, Javier Chapparro Jr., Cosme Chapparro, Mark A. Chapparro, Sonny Biggoose and Nene-ba Biggoose. June 25, 2007 Roger Lee Kihega Roger Lee Kihega, Tonkawa resident, was called home by the Lord on Sunday, June 24, 2007, at Blackwell Hospital. He was 63. The traditional Native American feast will be held at noon on Wednesday, June 27, at the Otoe Missouria Tribal Center with the service following at 2 p.m. Burial will follow in Otoe Missouria Tribal Cemetery under the direction of Trout Funeral Home and Crematory. Roger Lee Kihega was born on March 31, 1944, in Pawnee to Richard and Bernice Saunders Kihega. He obtained his early education in Red Rock, and graduated from Arkansas City (Kan.) High School. After high school he attended college in Cleveland, Ohio, before moving back to Oklahoma. He worked as an accountant for the BIA for several years. Roger was an officer of the Native American Church and enjoyed Indian culture and singing. In earlier years, he served on the Otoe Missouria Tribal Council. He was an avid sports fan and enjoyed watching basketball and football. He frequently attended sporting events, rodeos and powwows. Roger loved spending time with his family and friends. He will be dearly missed in the lives of many. He is survived by his longtime companion, Karen Rickman of the home; his brothers, Harold Kihega, Charles Kihega, Richard Kihega and Carroll Kihega; his children Ranae, Randy, Rock, Rhonda, Dawn, Hope, Rick, Shaun, Roger; and one stepson, Charles Rickman. He is also survived by numerous grandchildren, nieces and nephews, one aunt, Lorena DeRoin, and two uncles, Bobby and Ronald Kihega. He was preceded in death by his parents; his aunts, Priscilla Arkeketa and Marion Stone; and his uncle. Gene Kihega. Casket bearers will be Russell Koshiway, Jim Kemble, Darrell Kihega, Darren Kihega, Kendell Kihega, Jim Grant, George Koshiway and Harold Kihega Jr. Copyright c. 1998-2007 The Ponca City News. -=-=-=- June 20, 2007 Nora Squire Littlehead Shawnee resident Nora Squire Littlehead died Monday, June 18, in Shawnee at the age of 76. She was born Aug. 10, 1930, in Shawnee to Sage and Bessie Elizabeth (Clark) Squire. She was reared in Shawnee and attended Canadian Valley School. Nora married William "Bill" Littlehead. He preceded her in death in 1978. She was a homemaker and also had worked as a nurses aid. Nora was a member of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe, she was known as "Grandma" to everyone. She loved taking care of children and her beloved dog, Duke. Preceding her in death also were her parents; two daughters, Wanda Littlehead and Linda Powell; two sisters, Caroline Harry and Nancy Kaseca; one brother, Charlie Squire; and two grandsons, Jerome Johnson Jr. and Darrel Johnson. Survivors include daughters and sons-in-law, Joann and Williard Walker of Norman, Winifred Robertson of Lindale, Texas, Wannetta and Revis Battise of Shawnee, Josephine Creek of Shawnee, Mary and Carlos Jiron of Commerce City, Colo., and Amy and James Hilderbrand of Shawnee; sons and daughters-in-law, Alfred Lee and Sara Littlehead of Shawnee and William Douglas and Donna Littlehead of Shawnee; 20 grandchildren; 27 great- grandchildren; and two great-great-granddaughters; brothers, William Squire, Tommy Squire, Marvin Lee Squire and Jerry Squire. Service will be 2 p.m. today at Horseshoe Bend with the Rev. Wayne Wilson officiating. Tribal rites will be held this evening at Horseshoe Bend with George Blanchard officiating. Burial will be 10 a.m. Thursday morning at the Clark Family Cemetery. To share memories, or to sign the guest book on-line, go to www.cooperfuneral.com Copyright c. 1997-2007 The Shawnee News-Star. -=-=-=- June 21, 2007 Jimmy George Antelope Miller ANADARKO Funeral service for Jimmy George Antelope Miller, 69, Anadarko, will be at 1 p.m. Friday at Indian Nations Ministries Church in Anadarko with the Rev. Neil Sanders and the Rev. Robert Simpson officiating. Mr. Miller died Monday, June 18, 2007, in Lawton. Burial will be in Redstone Cemetery west of Anadarko under direction of Smith Funeral Home, Anadarko. Mr. Smith was born May 14, 1938, near Apache, to Grant Miller and Cleo Antelope. Jimmy graduated from Riverside Indian School in Anadarko. He attended two years of college at Trenton Junio College in Trenton, Mo. He served in the Marine Corps and was honorably discharged in 1958. He received certifications as an LPN and an EMT-paramedic. He was employed with the Sullivan County Hospital and Ambulance in Milan, Mo., from 1972- 1985, the Allied Nursing Service in Oklahoma City from 1985-1986, Duncan Regional Hospital from 1986-1987, Apache tribe CHR program from 1987-1988 and Oklahoma Medical Program in Oklahoma City from 1988 until he retired in 1992. His worked on Native American issues and worked with the Sand Creek Massacre Descendents trust. He was Headsman of the Apache Black Foot Society, served on the Executive Committee of the Sand Creek Massacre Descendents Trust, a member of the Comanche War Scouts, Oklahoma Inter- Tribal Club and the Oh-Ho-Mah Lodge Society. He attended and was a member of the Indian Nations Ministries in Anadarko. He was a member of the Apache Tribe of Oklahoma and of Cheyenne descent. Survivors include his wife Nora, of the home; children: Patrick Antelope, Stroud; Karen Onco, Dallas; Lucinda Poahway, Cache; Robert Woodrow, Carnegie; Shirley Wells, Carol and David Woodrow, all of Anadarko; 21 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; five brothers: Homer Flute, Apache; Donald Gene Flute, Thompson T. Flute Jr., Allen Flute and David Jack Flute, all of Anadarko; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Hugh Antelope and Mary May Paisvizzy; parents, Cleo Antelope and Grant Miller; two daughters: Sheila Chislom and Sally Bryans Goenett; two brothers: Deforest Antelope Sr., Roger Lee Flute Sr. and one baby sister. A Prayer service will be 7 p.m. today at Indian Nations Ministries Church, Anadarko. June 24, 2007 Linda Jo Dodd Memorial service for Linda J. Dodd, 58, Lawton, will be at 2 p.m. Monday at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel. Ms. Dodd died on Friday, June 22, 2007, in Lawton. She was born Sept. 16, 1948, in Lawton to Victor and Ruth Porter. She grew up and lived most of her life in the Lawton area. She earned her bachelor's degree from Cameron University. She was a member of the Choctaw Nation. Survivors include her parents, Lawton; three grandchildren; three sisters and brothers-in-law: Vicky and Troy Allen, Virginia; Susan and Brock Wilkinson, Cache; and Tammy and Rick Rollins, Lawton; several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. Copyright c. 2007 The Lawton Constitution. -=-=-=- June 19, 2007 Philip Cherino CHERINO - Philip Cherino, age 79, a resident of Isleta Pueblo passed away on Sunday, June 17, 2007. He was a member of St. Augustine Catholic Church in Isleta Pueblo of which he was an enrolled tribal member. Philip proudly served his country in the U.S. Army from October 10, 1952 to August 2, 1955 during the Korean Conflict. He enjoyed gardening and reading and was a sports fanatic. He was preceded in death by his parents, San Juan Cherino and Suzanna Lente; brothers, August Lente, Jose L. Cherino, Carlos Cherino and Juan Bautisto Lucero; sister, Reyes Theresa Deadrick; son, Jeffery Cherino; and granddaughter, Allison. Philip is survived by his children, Julie Johnson, Philip Cherino, Jr., Irma Heredia and her husband, Sergio, of California; sisters; Marie Peigler and Prudence Lente; and many grandchildren; great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Services will be held at St. Augustine Catholic Church in Isleta on Tuesday, June 19, beginning with a viewing at 6:00 p.m. with a Rosary to be recited at 7:00 p.m. A final visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 20 at 8:30 a.m. with a Funeral Mass to be celebrated at 9:00 a.m. with Father Hillaire presiding. Interment will take place at Santa Fe National Cemetery on Wednesday, June 20 at 1:00 p.m. Sign Philip's online register book www.romerofuneralhomenm.com Romero Funeral Home 609 N. Main St., Belen. Copyright c. 1997 - 2007 Albuquerque Journal: Albuquerque, New Mexico. -=-=-=- June 19, 2007 Anna Kee Sweetwater, Ariz. May 15, 1950 - June 17, 2007 Anna Kee, 57, of Sweetwater, Ariz., died Sunday, June 17, 2007, in Payson, Ariz. He was born May 15, 1950, in Sweetwater. Funeral services are pending with Desert View Funeral Home of Shiprock, North U.S. Hwy. 491, (505) 368-4607. June 25, 2007 Darryl Etcitty Sanostee May 29, 1966 - June 21, 2007 Darryl Etcitty, 41, of Sanostee, died Thursday, June 21, 2007, in Toadlena. He was born May 29, 1966, in Shiprock. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday at the Desert View Funeral Home Chapel in Shiprock. Interment will follow at the family cemetery at Sanostee. Darryl is in the care of Desert View Funeral Home of Shiprock, North U.S. Highway 491, (505) 368-4607. Fred Lee Etcitty Naschitti May 21, 1943 - June 21, 2007 Fred Lee Etcitty, 64, of Naschitti, died Thursday, June 21, 2007. He was born May 21, 1943, in Cove, Ariz. A visitation will be this evening from 5 to 7 p.m. at Desert View Funeral Home in Shiprock. Graveside services and interment will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday at the Community Cemetery at Naschitti. Fred is in the care of Desert View Funeral Home of Shiprock, North U.S. Highway 491 (505) 368-4607. Copyright c. 2007 Farmington Daily Times, a MediaNews Group Newspaper. -=-=-=- June 19, 2007 Amos Paul HUNTERS POINT, Ariz. - Funeral services for Amos Paul, 42, will be today, Tuesday, June 19 at the St. Michaels Catholic Church. Father Gilbert Schneider, OFM, will officiate. Paul died June 14, 2007 in Shiprock. He was born Nov. 30, 1964 in Fort Defiance into the Black Streak Wood Clan for the Yucca Fruit Clan. Paul attended Hunters Point Boarding School, and schools in Tohatchi and Tuba City. He also attended CIT in Crownpoint as a diesel mechanic and carpenter. Survivors include his wife Rosita Littleman; son, Myron Lewis Paul; mother, Betty Paul; brothers, Leo, Gary, Raymond, Chee Woody, Jr., Harrison, and Johnson Paul; sisters, Ella Lynch, Rita Paul, Delores Paul, and Moss Yazzie, all of Hunters Point; and two grandchildren. Paul was preceded in death by Annie Marie, Freddy, Mike, Franklin, Chee Woody Paul, Sr. Pallbearers will be Leo Paul, Chee W. Paul, Jr., Myron L. Paul, Woody Smiley, Jr. Chee Tapaha KLAGETOH, Ariz. - Funeral Mass for Chee Johnson Tapaha, 66, will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, June 20 at St. Anne's Mission in Klagetoh, Ariz. Father Flann O'Neil, OFM, will officiate. Burial will follow at the Klagetoh Community Cemetery. Visitation will be at 10 a.m., one hour prior to services. A rosary will be recited at 7 p.m., today, June 19 at St. Anne's Mission. Tapaha died June 16, 2007 in Fort Defiance. He was born January 12, 1941 in Ganado into the Bitter Water Clan for the One Who Walks Around Clan. Tapaha attended Chilocco Indian School in Chilocco, Okla. He served in the US Army from 1962-1967. Tapaha was employed with the rail road. He was a member of the Ganado PAC, Wide Ruins School Board, and Klagetoh Grazing Committee for 17 years. Survivors include his wife, Anna Tapaha of Klagetoh; son, Johnson Tapaha of Klagetoh; daughter, Janeen Tapaha of Klagetoh; brothers, Samuel Eddie Tapaha of Klagetoh and Kee Tapaha of Casamero Lake, NM; sister Mary Curley of Sanders, Ariz.; two grandchildren. Tapaha was preceded in death by his parents, John Tapaha and Amelia Descheenie; daughter, Calleen Sue Tapaha; brothers, Johnnie Tapaha, Sammie Tapaha, Joesph Tapaha; sister, Alice Begay. Pallbearers will be Melvin Tapaha, David Tapaha, Marco Jackson, Anderson Begay, Patrick Yazzie, and John O'Connor. The family will receive relatives and friends at Klagetoh Chapter following services. Silver Creek Mortuary is in charge of arrangements. June 21, 2007 Katherine Ashley WINDOW ROCK - Funeral services for Katherine Marie Ashley, 45, will be at 10 a.m. Friday, June 22 at St. Michael's Catholic Church. Fr. Gilbert Schneider, OFM, will officiate. Ashley died June 16, 2007 in Albuquerque. She was born August 4, 1961 in Fort Defiance. Ashley attended Ganado High School. She was a homemaker. Survivors include her daughters, Wendy Curley, Winifred Curley, Alyssa Curley, Natalie K. Curley, and Kerri Lynn Wilson; mother, Kathleen W. Ashley; brothers, Edison Ashley, Clifford Ashley, Herman Ashley, and Bruce Ashley; sisters, Dorothy Ashley and Annita Ashley. Ashley was preceded in death by her husband, Wilbert Lee Curley; father, DeSales Ashley. Pallbearers will be Edison Ashley, Clifford Ashley, Herman Ashley, Bruce Ashley, Leighton Ashley, and Norman Catron. Silver Creek Mortuary is in charge of arrangements. June 22, 2007 Curtis Hill SMITH LAKE - Funeral services for Curtis V. Hill, 58, will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 23 at Rollie Mortuary. Jones Dehiya and Lonnie Mariano will officiate. Burial will follow at the family plot in Coolidge. Hill died June 19, 2007 in Gallup. He was born Jan. 14, 1949 in Crownpoint into the Mexican Clan for the Salt Clan. Hill attended Thoreau Elememtary School and Thoreau High School. He was a self-employed silversmith and kachina maker. He enjoyed horseback riding and was an artist. Survivors include his brothers, Charley Long, Sr., of Coolidge, Tom Long, Sr., of Continental Divide, and Wilfred Hill of Gallup; sisters, Irene Dehiya of Coolidge, Rose Curley of Window Rock, Linda Begayne of Twin Lakes, and Lena Hildreth of Coolidge. Hill was preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Mary Hill, sisters, Yecosbah Long and Mary Ann Willie, brothers, Charles Chee Long, James Long, and Jimmie D. Hill. Pallbearers will be Gregory Dodge, Jerrick C. Hildreth, Jamison Hoskie, Pierson Cleveland, Calvin Cleveland, and Jim Long. The family will receive relatives and friends at Mr. and Mrs. Henry Hildreth, Sr. residence in Coolidge. Rollie Mortuary is in charge of arrangements. Alice Mark NAVAJO, NM - Funeral services for Alice B. Mark, 65, will be at 10 a.m., Saturday, June 23 at Cope Memorial Chapel. Kee and Arlinda Keyanna will officiate. Burial will follow at Gallup City Cemetery. Visitation will be from 3 to 4 p.m. today, June 22 at Cope Memorial. Mark died June 19 in Rabbit Brush, N.M. She was born June 12, 1942 in Rehoboth into the Start of the Red Streak Clan for the Two Who Came to Water Clan. Mark attended Chemawa Indian School in Portland, Ore. She was employed with Crystal Boarding School for several years. For a majority of her life she was a silversmith and homemaker. Her hobbies include cooking and spending time with her grandchildren. Survivors include her husband, Harrison Frank of Navajo; daughters, Yvonne Mark of Navajo and Valentina Halona of Albuquerque; mother, Nellie B. Martin of Pinedale, NM; brothers, Raphael Martin, Herman Martin, Murphy Martin, Johnny Largo, Leroy Lewis Largo, Sr. all of Pinedale, and Frank Martin of Shiprock; sisters, Rena Henry of Heppner, Ore., Lula Matin, Elizabeth Jones of Milk Water, N.M., and Marie Curley, Ina Mae Nez, Ina Jean Livingston, Junie Begay, all of Pinedale; nine grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. Mark was preceded in death by Peter W. Mark, David Martin, Wayne Largo, Lloyd Largo, Sam B. Begay, Annie B. Begay, Logon Largo, and Mattie Largo. Pallbearers will be family members. The family will receive relatives and friends at the Pinedale Chapter. Cope Memorial is in charge of arrangements. June 23, 2007 Shawn Billie GALLUP - Services for Shawn Joseph Billie, 26, will be announced at a later date. Billie died June 25, 2007. He was born November 18, 1980 in Fort Defiance. His parents are Curtis and Annette Bitsie of Mexican Springs. A family gathering will be at 6 p.m. Monday, June 25 at the Mexican Springs Chapter. Cope Memorial is in charge of arrangements. Fred Etsitty NASCHITTI - Services for Fred Lee Etsitty, 64, will be announced at a later date. Etsitty died June 21, 2007 in Naschitti. He was born May 21, 1943 in Cove, Ariz. Copyright c. 2007 the Gallup Independent. -=-=-=- June 20, 2007 Ernest Cheerless Anton Ernest Cheerless Anton, 86, our loving father, grandfather, great grand-father, brother, and friend passed away on June 13, 2007 at 3:59 PM in Gilbert, AZ. He will join his late wives: Naomi Terry Anton and Pauline Flores Anton. His daughters: Diane Butcher and Marlene Miguel also precede him in death. Ernest is survived by his eight children: Sandra Anton-Jones, Janet Anton, Linda Manuel, Margaret Wilson, Brenda Anton, Carolyn Anton, Debra Anton, Rebecca Bearclaw and only son, Rayburn Craig Anton; sister, Selma Andrews; brother, Melvin Cheerless Anton; and at his passing, 48 grandchildren, 89 great grandchildren, and 10 great-great grandchildren. Ernest was a WWII Veteran and worked as a maintenance Supervisor. We will miss his kindheartedness and especially his laughter. A wake will be held on Friday June 22, 2007 at 6:00 PM at the Lehi Indian Community Center, 1225 E. Oak St. in Mesa. Graveside Services will be held on Saturday June 23, 2007 at the Lehi Indian Community Cemetery. Meldrum Mortuary handled the arrangements. Copyright c. 2007 The Arizona Republic. -=-=-=- June 21, 2007 Azdon Natoni Azdon Billie Natoni, 93, died Tuesday, June 19, 2007. Mrs. Natoni was born in 1913 in Black Falls, near Winslow. She was a master rug weaver, quilt-crafter and rancher. Mrs. Natoni is survived by her daughters, Lorena Sheppard, Rosalie Natoni, Irene Lee, and Mary Alice Natathlie; sons Kee Natoni and Jack Natoni, all of Black Falls; 28 grandchildren; 54 great-grandchildren; and 21 great-great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be Saturday at 10 a.m. at Black Falls Bible Church. Interment will follow at the family plot. Arrangements are by Greer's Mortuary of Winslow. Copyright c. 2000-2007 Arizona Daily Sun. -=-=-=- June 22, 2007 Bud Curley Smith Bud Curley Smith, of Whiteriver, went home to be with the Lord June 15, 2007, in Tucson. He was born Aug. 2, 1972. in Whiteriver. Bud is survived by his wife, Melinda Red Deer Smith; mother Lyda Lupe Smith; sister Rosemary Hill; brothers Kennedy Smith and Paul Smith; niece Leda Hill; nephews Jaycee Smith, James Smith and Maximus Smith; brother- in-law Anthony Hill; aunt Elise Edwards; along with many relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Peter Smith. A two-night wake started at Another World No. 84 1404 Spur Thursday, June 21, at 10 a.m. Home funeral services will be held Saturday, June 23, at 9 a.m.. Interment will be at the Red Mountain Cemetery in Cibecue. Silver Creek Chapel Mortuary of Whiteriver handled the arrangements. Copyright c. 2007 White Mountain Independent. -=-=-=- June 19, 2007 Nolan Jack, age 34, died June 14, 2007. 1973~2007 Nolan Jack, age 34, of Fort Duchesne, died June 14, 2007 at the Uintah Basin Medical Center following a long illness. He was born May 6, 1973 in Roosevelt to Glenn Jack, Sr., and Alice Nez Jack. Nolan graduated from high school, enjoyed drawing, hunting and fishing, gambling and listening to music. He is survived by three children, Karlee, Kelsie, and Kayla, all of Neola; his mother Alice Jack, Fort Duchesne; grandmother, Levete Wyasket Nez, Fort Duchesne and brothers and sisters, Duane Garfield, Gaylene (Marcus) Colorow, Jaylinn Redfoot, Shalane Jack, and Glenn Jack, Jr. He was preceded in death by his father, Glenn Jack, Sr. Funeral services were held Saturday, June 16, 2007, at 10 a.m. at the Hullinger Mortuary. Following the funeral services his body was cremated. Copyright c. 2007 Uintah Basin Standard/Roosevelt, UT. -=-=-=- June 20, 2007 Atawi Xaslu Shaylee Sutterlict SEATTLE - Atawi Xaslu Shaylee Sutterlict, 4 month old infant, died Monday, June 18, 2007 at Children's Hospital and Medical Center, Seattle, WA. Atawi was born February 1, 2007 in Yakima, WA to Angel Sutterlict. In her short life, Atawi was deeply loved by many and will be missed by all who were able to be in contact with her. She is survived by her mother, Angel Sutterlict, a brother, Dreshawn Sutterlict, both of White Swan, WA; and grandparents, Ernie Sutterlict and Gail Lewis, both of Columbia River, WA, great-grandfather, Bennie Sutterlict of White Swan, and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. June 22, 2007 Lawrence Ronald Sam HARRAH - Lawrence Ronald Sam, 77, of Harrah, went to the Creator on Wednesday June 20, 2007. Lawrence was born March 21, 1930 in Medicine Valley to Phillip and Lottie (Lumcus) Sam. He worked as a Forest Development Supervisor. He enjoyed hunting and fishing. In his earlier years, he fished at Celilo Falls. He shared his hunting and food gathering knowledge with his children, foster & adopted children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He also enjoyed tying fishing flies and doing leather work. In his working days, he liked to hike. Lawrence had a green thumb and enjoyed planting many different plants and took an interest in wildlife preservation. He enjoyed taking care of his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He helped the children grow by supporting them in their interests of pow- wows and pow-wow music. After retiring, his new found interest was casino gambling throughout the Pacific Northwest. He is survived by his children, Marie Scott, Noreen Billy, Larrisia Sam, Gabriel Tom (Dale) Lottie Sam (Fredrick Farley), Leonard Sam (Janice Sam) and Wallace Barnes; siblings, Robert, Richard, Rosie, Inez and Reuben (Luella) Sandoval; adopted family, Gilbert, Marie, Junior and Marchell Scott all of Montana; foster children, Doug Eyle, Haver Jim, Uatisha Peterson, Mikey Peterson, Zenethia Jimicum, Sandra Ohms and Lonnel & Fionel John; 14 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. A dressing service was held at Merritt Funeral Home on Thursday June 21, 2007 at 3:00 p.m. Following the dressing services, he was transported to the Toppenish Longhouse for overnight services. A sunrise service will be held on Saturday morning June 23, 2007 at the longhouse, with burial to follow in the Columcus Cemetery in Medicine Valley. Merritt Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements. June 25, 2007 Louis L. Cloud Pax' ana- Pi TOPPENISH - Louis L. Cloud (87) of Toppenish died at his home on Saturday June 23, 2007. He was born in Toppenish on March 16, 1920 to Walter and Mary (Syiou) Cloud. He was raised and educated in Toppenish and served his country during WWII in the U.S. Army in the 82nd Airborne as a paratrooper. He returned from the service and worked on the Columbia and Snake River dams as a carpenter. In the 1960's he was elected to the Yakama Nation Tribal Council where he served off and on for the last five decades. He enjoyed politics, fishing, farming and going to the mountains. He is survived by his wife, Irene Cloud at the family home; two sons, Raymond of Dallesport and Warren of Toppenish; five daughters, Marie Strong of Wishram, Cheryl Moses of Toppenish, Mary Cloud of Brownstown, Paula Pinkham and Carla George both of Toppenish; two sisters, Elizabeth Watlamet of Satus, and Nancy Arquette of White Swan; and numerous nieces and nephews, and the Heemsah family of Toppenish. Louis was preceded in death by his first wife, two sons, one daughter, and numerous siblings. Dressing services will be held at 1:00PM at Colonial Funeral Home on Monday June 25, 2007. Overnight services will be held at the Toppenish Community Center on Monday evening with interment with full military honors at McCoy Cemetery at sunrise Tuesday. Colonial Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Copyright c. 2007 Yakima Herald-Republic/Yakima, WA. -=-=-=- June 25, 2007 Mandy Haley Coby FORT HALL - Our precious daughter, sis, niece, left her family on June 13, 2007. Her passing resulted from an automobile accident, off Broncho Road, south of Blackfoot. She was born June 12, 1989 to Nichelle Dixey and LaVern "Spud" Coby. She was the only girl with three brothers, T. C., Jade (Bubbie) and Lonzo whose hearts were broken at her passing. Having just celebrated her birthday, she was excited to be 18 and had so many plans for the future. Mandy was a cool, funny girl who always had a smile. She was fun to joke with and said silly things that would make us laugh. She had a kind heart for animals, especially cats. She enjoyed hanging with her friends and family, playing basketball and listening to her rap music. She especially loved talking on her cell phone with her friends. She loved her biscuits and gravy. She had attended school at Blackfoot, Riverside Indian School in Anadarko, Oklahoma and was a student at Sho-Ban High School. She was involved in volleyball and basketball. Mandy is survived by her parents, Nichelle and LaVern Coby; three brothers, T. C., Jade, and Lonzo Coby; maternal grandfather Cisco Dixey; maternal grandmother, Vera Snipe; maternal great grandmother, Fern Dixey; aunt Camille (James); uncles, Lance Dixey, and Dustin (Brenda) Dixey; sisters, Alyssa Nappo, Melody Moon, LaDawn Begay; nephew, Kylex Ariwite; paternal grandfather, Floyvon Coby; paternal grandmother, Karen Kniffin; uncles, Alonzo (Elise) Coby, Marcus (Amanda) Coby, LaGrand (Cathy) Coby, Wayland Coby, Wade Hidalgo, Bovado; aunt, Claudina Coby; half-brother, Skyler D.; half-sister, Kerrie Coby; niece, LaShonna Damon; nephews, Lorenzo Damon and Aiden Ariwite and numerous extended relatives, all from Blackfoot and Fort Hall. She was preceded in death by her maternal great grandfather, Clarence B. Dixey; great-great grandparents, R. W. and Daisy Broncho Dixey; great grandparents, John T. and Nancy Tinno Snipe; paternal grandfather, Lonzo Coby; great grandparents, Keno "Yambasi" Coby and Ruth (Stone) Coby. A funeral service was at 7 p.m. Saturday, June 16, 2007 at Timbee Hall in Fort Hall. Mandy was taken to the Floyvon Coby residence on Sheepskin Road at 10 a.m. Saturday, where the family met with friends and relatives. A wake was held Sunday at sundown. Burial was at 2 p.m. Monday June 18, 2007 at the Ross Fork Creek Cemetery. Copyright c. 2007 Sho-Ban News. All rights reserved. -=-=-=- June 21, 2007 Lee PlainFeather Aloysius Lee PlainFeather, 67, passed away June 18, 2007, at his home in Billings. He was born Sept. 29, 1939, in Pryor, the son of Earl Alexander and Mary (Other Black Bird) PlainFeather and was raised on a Quarter Horse Ranch. Survivors include his wife, Doris; brothers and sisters, Angela Ruby Plain Feather, Samuel Plain Feather, Danny (Mary Ruth) Plain Feather, Merle (Elizabeth) Plain Feather, Roland (Kathy) Plain Feather, Judy (Art) Bryant and adopted sister, Ramona Nomee Backbone; children, LuJuana (Bruce) Pretty On Top, Mary Lee Gayton, Christy Ann (Sonny) LaRance and Lee Tanner PlainFeather; children he raised, Earl (Roberta) Rock, Lee Ann (Harald) Pretty on Top, Lionel Ward, Kenny Ward, Fanny Ward, Jonie (Donald) Stewart and adopted child, Wesley Hugs; grandchildren, Chelsey (Blaine) Big Lake, Darnell (Ashley) Not Afraid, Edward Louis Gayton Jr., Jimi The Boy, Darian Smart Enemy and Skylar Monroy; and four great- grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers and sisters, Leo PlainFeather, Cedric PlainFeather, Edith Pickett, Raymond PlainFeather, Everett PlainFeather, Alex PlainFeather Jr., Clyde PlainFeather. Visitation will be 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, June 21, and Friday, June 22, at Dahl Funeral Chapel in Billings. Funeral services for Lee will be 1 p.m. Saturday, June 23, at Mountain Crow Worship Center in Pryor, with interment in Pryor Cemetery. Copyright c. 2007 The Billings Gazette, a division of Lee Enterprises. -=-=-=- June 19, 2007 Everado (Ed) T. Costilla POLSON - Everado (Ed) T. Costilla, 83, stepped into eternity on June 5, 2007, where he joined his beloved wife, Mary Ann, and his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. His sons and daughters surrounded him as he peacefully slipped from this life into everlasting eternity. Ed was born Jan. 4, 1924, in Uvalde, Texas, to Antonia and Everado Costilla. He grew up in Uvalde, where many lasting childhood memories were made. When he was a little boy, he planted a pecan tree in front of his house and watched it grow and mature throughout the years. Ed met his wife, Mary Ann, while traveling in Montana. He moved his family to Houston, Texas, where he raised his children and provided for his wife. While in Houston he enjoyed many deep sea-fishing trips in Galveston. Ed worked as a foreman for Brown and Root-Pipe and Steel, Inc., retiring in 1984. He moved his family back to Uvalde, briefly, then came to Montana, settling in Polson. During his time in Polson he enjoyed the remainder of his retirement fishing, camping, gardening and barbecuing in his iron BBQ pit that he had specially made. Ed was well known for his Texas BBQ Brisket, authentic Mexican food and homemade salsa. Ed was respected and accepted by the Blackfeet Tribe and the Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribe. He attended many powwows and even spoke the Blackfeet language. He was an awesome father, who encouraged and supported all of his children in pursuing their dreams, education and accomplishments. He instilled integrity, honesty and compassion into the lives of his children and grandchildren. One brother and four sisters preceded Ed in death. Ed is survived by his six children, Ricardo (Brenda) Costilla, Juanita (Phillip) Sure Chief, Valerie Costilla, David Costilla, Louisa F. (Darin) Cadman, Jose I. (Neomi) Costilla; his four sisters, Consuelo Mancha, Maria Rodriquez, Juanita Martinez, Diamentina Canales; one brother, Ismael Costilla. He was also blessed with 15 grandchildren, Megan, Aaron, Ellie, Olivia, Rebecca, Verla May, Lisa Marie, Raquel, Darin II, Pearl, Jose II, Joaquin, Mariah, Joseph, and Jose. The funeral service was held June 8 in the Grogan Funeral Home with Pastor Lockley Bremner officiating. Interment was Home Gun Cemetery at Browning. Copyright c. 2002 Lake Country Leader Advertiser/Polson, MT. -=-=-=- June 19, 2007 Vernie Mae "Boo-Boo" FORT BELKNAP - Vernie Mae "Boo-Boo" Main, 31, of Fort Belknap, died Saturday of injuries received in car crash near Fort Belknap. Wake begins 7 p.m. today at Chief Nosey Center. Her funeral is 11 a.m. Wednesday at the center, with burial in Big Warm Cemetery. Edwards Funeral Home in Chinook is handling arrangements. Survivors include sons Raheem Main, Anthony Main, Michael Ball and Monte Ball of Fort Belknap; step-daughters Meagan Ball, Clarissa Ball and Kaylene Ball of Fort Belknap; sisters Iris Main of Mandan, N.D., Julia Mills, Darcy Mills, both of Lodge Pole, Allison Main and Nicole Main, both of Seattle; brothers Douglas Main Jr. and Kyle Main of Fort Belknap. June 20, 2007 Nicole L. "Bookie" Augare EAST GLACIER - Nicole Lynn "Bookie" Augare, 25, of East Glacier, died Sunday at a Browning hospital from injuries she received in an automobile accident. Her funeral is 2 p.m. today at the Church of the Ascension Catholic Church in East Glacier, with burial in East Glacier Park Cemetery. Hi Line Funeral Home of Cut Bank is handling arrangements. Survivors include her parents, Steve Augare and Dorraine Little Dog of East Glacier; sisters Nancy (Frank) Daniels of Fort Bragg, N.C., Stephaine Augare and Shanell Augare of East Glacier; grandparents Donald and Shirley Little Dog of East Glacier; and nephews Kolby and Frank Daniels of Fort Bragg. Nicole was born June 21, 1981, in Browning. She attended elementary school in East Glacier, graduated from Browning High School and attended Blackfeet Community College. She was recently a clerk at the Bear Track Travel Center in East Glacier. She also was a nurse's aide, a waitress, a nanny and a cook. She enjoyed working in her yard, reading, listening to music, singing karaoke and spending time with family and friends. Nicole was preceded in death by her grandparents, Calvin Augare Sr. and Theda Augare; and a cousin, Tia Ann Henriksen. Condolences may be sent online to greatfallstribune.com/obituaries. June 22, 2007 Terry Allan Mittens BROWNING - Terry Allan Mittens, 42, a laborer and firefighter, died of a heart attack Tuesday in Browning. Rosary is 7 this evening at 1124 Low Rent in Browning. His funeral is 2 p.m. Saturday at St. Anne's Catholic Church in Heart Butte, with visitation an hour prior to the service at 1224 Low Rent. Burial will take place at Mittens Family Cemetery in Big Badger. Foster & Spotted Eagle Tribal Wake Center is in charge of arrangements. Survivors include his mother, Agnes Old Man Chief of Browning; sisters Vivian Boushie of Browning and Mona Skunk Cap and Betty Mittens of Seville; brothers Richard Mittens Jr. of Lower Bradger and Marvin Mittens, Gaylord Browning and Aldon Mittens, all of Browning. Kelly Lee Summers POPLAR - Kelly Lee (Four Star) Summers, 40, who enjoyed dancing and was a champion fancy shawl dancer when she was younger, liked to cook and feed people, and most of all loved spending time with her family, died of renal failure Monday at a Poplar hospital. Wake services are 7 p.m. Sunday at the Poplar Cultural Center. Her funeral is 2 p.m. Monday at the center, with burial in Poplar City Cemetery. Clayton Stevenson Memorial Chapel is in charge of arrangements. Survivors include her husband of 22 years, Randy Summers of Poplar; sons Gerron, Gerris and James Summers of Poplar; her father, Victor Four Star Sr. of Wolf Point; sisters Marva Fire Moon of Williston, N.D., Monita Chapman, Lynette Shields and Shannon Chapman, all of Poplar; half-sisters Tanya Stevens of Arcadia, Ind., and Allison Four Star of Florida; brothers Arlon Chapman, Dana Mireau and Kevin Mitchell, all of Poplar; half- brothers Lance Four Star of Wolf Point and Victor Four Star of Florida; grandmother Freda Four Star of Frazer; and four grandchildren. Copyright c. 2007 Great Falls Tribune, a division of Lee Enterprises. -=-=-=- June 19, 2007 Vernie "Boo-Boo" Mae Main Fort Belknap Vernie "Boo-Boo" Mae Main, 31, died Saturday, June 16, 2007, from injuries resulting from an automobile accident. A wake service is scheduled for 7 p.m. today at the Chief Nosey Center in Lodge Pole. The funeral service is scheduled for 11 a.m. Wednesday at the Chief N o s e y Center. A committal service will follow at the Big Warm Cemetery. A fellowship reception will be held at the Chief Nosey Center following the committal service. Boo-Boo was born Sept. 12, 1975, to Douglas "Tiny" and Glenda Faye "Bea" (Has Eagle) Main on the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation and raised in the Bigwarm/Lodge Pole area. Boo- Boo was half Assiniboine and half Whiteclay (Gros Ventre). She was educated at Lodge Pole School, Wahpeton Boarding School, Flandreau Indian School and Fort Belknap College. She was a certified nurses assistant and was pursuing her degree in nursing. She wanted to finish her degree and take care of her dad, Tiny, and bring him home to live at Bigwarm. Her hobbies included: cooking, baking, collecting miniature knick-knacks, decorating, cruising, reading, socializing with friends and family between the Agency to the Lodge Pole area. Her paternal grandparent's James Sr. And Vernie "Brisbo" Main also helped raise her as well. Boo-Boo was named after her grandmother, Vernie, as well and earned her nickname "Boo- Boo" because when her older sister, Iris couldn't say Vernie when she was small she said, "Boo- Boo" and the name stuck all her life. She grew up at Bigwarm and loved the mountains and being out there. If someone needed to know where Boo-Boo was they only needed to go to Lodge Pole and find her with her sisters Julia Mills, Darcy Mills, and other family and friends "ripping around" the Pole or at the Agency. Boo-Boo was very much into her native culture, heritage and customs. She had lots of respect for those ways because she was raised around them. She was taken to the Lodge Pole Assembly of God Church as well by her great-grandmother, Annie "Whitecow" Brisbo, growing up and believed and respected those ways as well. Boo-Boo married Mike Ball and made her home at the river in Fort Belknap. Boo-Boo was always laughing and joking around with everyone and anyone that knew her. Anyone that was associated with her knew that she was always full of laughs and jokes; some would even consider her "One of Belknap's Wicked Girl'z." Boo-Boo had a huge heart and was full of love, kindness, patience, compassion and forgiveness. Her love for her people, family and friends ran deep. She could be sort of "beasty" if anyone messed with someone she loved, yet she was a "gentle lamb" full of love for everyone even if someone may have done her wrong. She is preceded in death by Zeke HasTheEagle; Victoria "BullCap" HasTheEagle; Maxine HasTheEagle; grandfather, Arthur "Buck" Swan; Gilbert " Buffalo Horns" HasTheEagle, Jr.; Gilbert "Gilly" HasTheEagle, Sr.; Edwina " Ed" First Smoke; Justine "Itch" First Smoke; Angel Denny; William "Bill" Brisbo, I; Annie "Whitecow" Brisbo; Richard Brisbo, Sr.; Edward Brisbo; Oliver Main; Michael Vernon Main; uncle, Michael Main; Michelle Rae Main- PlainFeather; sister, Michelle Main-PlainFeather; and Mike Main. She is survived by sons, Raheem Main, Anthony (Hill) Main, Michael Ball and Monte Ball, all of Fort Belknap; stepdaughters, Meagan Ball, Clarissa Ball and Kaylene Ball, all of Fort Belknap; sisters, Iris Main (Mandan, N. D.), Julia Mills and Darcy Mills, both of Lodge Pole, Allison Main and Nicole Main both of Seattle; brothers, Douglas (Julia Snow) Main, Jr., and Kyle Main, both of Fort Belknap; cousins, Tom Main, William "Bill" (Trista Doney) Main, Jr. Of Fort Belknap, Richard "Richie" (Shelly Grayboy) Brisbo, Jr. Of Phoenix, Jake (Lachelle Doney) Brisbo of Havre, Guy Marcus Brisbo of Great Falls and Connie Azure of North Dakota; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, friends and family. Services are under the care of Edwards Funeral Home in Chinook. Copyright c. 2007 Havre Daily News. -=-=-=- Char-Koosta News - The official publication of the Flathead Indian Nation June 2007 Obituaries Susie Virginia Stasso-O'Brien ARLEE - Susie Virginia Stasso-O'Brien was born on Nov. 27, 1935 in Arlee, MT and departed this life in Friday, June 8, 2007 in Prague, OK at the age of 71. Susie, the daughter of Antoine and Elizabeth (Cullooyah) Stasso, was a resident of Seminole, OK for the last 16 years. Susie was raised on the Flathead Reservation and lived in Conn. prior to moving to Seminole. Susie was a member of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribe and the Immaculate Conception Church in Seminole. Her parents, first husband and one son preceded her death. Survivors include her husband Forrest A. O'Brien of the family home; sons Edward Terrell of Virginia, Tony O'Brien of Prague, OK and David Terrell of Shawnee, OK; daughters Yvonne Terrell of Conn. and Iona LaMay of Mass.; a sister Sophie Haynes of Arlee, MT and 11 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. Tasheena Christina Tish Craft ARLEE - Adventuresome and fun loving, Tasheena Christina Tish Craft, AKA "Sheena," was born January 31st, 1989. She shared good times with her special Daddy, the late William "Porky" Alexander. Her life was richly rewarded and she was a friend to many. Sheena loved traveling to powwows all over Indian country where she danced Jingle, traditional and fancy dance styles. She tried them all, and was a drummer and singer in her families' "Sunrise" drum group. She also sang with "Firestone" and the late Pat Kennedy's drum from Browning. In Spokane, she helped the young Medicine Academy drum group and gave them a special song known as the "Mary Jane Song". Some people called her the "Jammer". Her loud voice dynamically carried the spirit of the drum onward where she would do some awesome powerful leads. She went to school in Arlee, Two Eagle River School in Pablo and the Many Eagle Hearts School at her family home. Then her curiosities brought her to Spokane, where she lived with Shonto and Venessa Pete and her nephew. There she learned the responsibilities of motherhood where she babysat nephew, Ashkii. She also enrolled in the Medicine Wheel Academy and found a school loaded with subjects that interested her. She befriended Savannah and many other students at school there. Back home in Arlee, she had left her friends Marlene, Cindy, Cooper, Carolyn, Joselyn, Frank Trisha Jo and many more. She also had a good friend Tyler Vale whom Sheena had a special place in her heart. He was home on leave from Iraq. Throughout all of this, Sheena was due to graduate from the Medicine Wheel Academy in June, she met with an untimely death on May 29th in Arlee. Her classmates from the Medicine Wheel Academy attended her wake services in Arlee and brought with them an honorary diploma awarded to her by the Spokane School District. So her passing did not prevent her from achieving her goal, which was to get a high school diploma. Her favorite history teacher, Dave Brown Eagle, gave the keynote address as her diploma was passed from student to student and to family members, and then back to her. BrownEagle said Sheena had knowledge of her ways and she practiced them. She found her power and acknowledged it. He also said he will honor her by how he walks and Sheena is going to be a part of our lives forever so we should conduct ourselves with respect. We will miss her tremendously. Words cannot express how deeply Sheena was loved by her friends and family. Her youngest sister Shayla will remember when Sheena and her put lipstick all over their faces and it stained for three days. Her older sister Crystal will always remember finding her suntan lotion missing, discovering Sheena and Shayla sliding through it all over the floor. The girls will remember how Sheena's method of checking if the Ramen noodles were done was by throwing one on the ceiling to see if it would stick. Shonto said she made his dream come true when he could watch her play basketball, and having her with them on the powwow trail was a tremendous memory. Shandin will never forget watching Aladdin hundreds of times with her. Natani remembers the day she was born it was over 20 below. They could not get the vehicle unthawed to go pick up mom and baby sis. Tachini remembers when she saw him getting ready to smoke a cigarette at Arlee Powwow. She grabbed it out of his mouth, broke it in half, and threw it to the ground. Some of her favorite songs were "Umbrella" by Rhianna, PDIDDY featuring Faith Evans "Missing You", Justin Timberlake "What Goes Around Comes Around", and "Summer Love." Sheena is next to the Creator. Her artistic abilities were expressed when she would draw tattoo art all over her bedroom walls and on her school notebooks. She could also write poetry and sing. She could make you smile even on a cloudy day. Her Mother will miss her giggling at the jokes on Saturday Night Live or chucking at the humor of Jay Leno and Conan O'Brien. In the words of a good Christian pasture, Bob Larson, "The race is over when God says it is over like when He stopped the Indianapolis 500 by a huge rain storm." And "A life doesn't have to be a long one to be a complete one." In a nutshell a wise Salish elder Johnny Arlee would say, "Shay Hoy!" In conclusion, Sheena comes from a long line of chiefs...On her Maternal side she comes from Mary Keltomy (Sack Woman), Adele Adams, Adeline Fyant (Louie), Yaya PeeWee Vanderburg Christopher and a Minnesota Cowboy grandpa Don Christopher. Great-grandparents Carl and Inga Olsen who came straight from Norway and spoke their Norwegian Language. On her Vanderburg side she descends from "Bear Tracks" who was at the original signing of the Hellgate treaty. He was famous for his abilities to locate people who were lost. He said that breaking up land is like breaking up a thumbnail. It would have been better to leave it whole. Also there were grandfathers Mose, Louie, and John Vanderburg. On her father's side, she was descended from a long line of hereditary chiefs traced back to the 1700's to Big Hawk who preceded Chief Three Eagles who met with Lewis and Clark in 1805. Following Chief Three Eagles was Chief Victor who was the voice for the tribes during the negotiations with the Hellgate Treaty of 1855. Next were Chief Victor's son Chief Charlo, and his son Martin Charlo. Martin's son Chief Antoine Charlo was Sheena's great grandfather. Antoine Charlo's daughter, Elizabeth Charlo Craft was her grandmother (Qene?) and James "Pat" Craft, Sr. was her grandfather. He was of German heritage. She will be forever remembered tenderly by her great-auntie, Mary Jane Charlo for her beauty, sweet spirit, and her proud singing at the drum. Other aunties and uncles include Jan Charlo, Janis Craft, Nicole, LeeAnn, and Babe Sheridan, Laurie Weaselhead, uncle Tommy Sheridan, Dorothy Finley, Shelly, Jay and Pierre and great aunties Denise, Virginia, Marie, Yaya Frances and "Gramma" Val Plante, Joe and Alice Cote of Portland, Oregon, yaya Frances Vanderburg, uncle Wayne Vanderburg and great-aunts Virgie and Marie Fyant; great-uncles Bobby, Gordon, Benny and Arthur Fyant, Auntie (Fine Lady) Liz, and uncle Pat Pierre. She is survived by her mother Diana Christopher-Pete-Craft-Cote (AKA "WeeZee" u Scnpaqci). Father James A. Craft, Jr. She has left behind a tribe with brothers Tachini (Malina), Natani (Geraldine), Shandin (Salisha), and Shonto (Vanessa) from the Navajo, Bitterroot Salish and Norwegian and Crow nations; Erik and James Craft III from the Sioux, Salish, and German nations in Poplar and brothers Tatanka Ska Howard (Caroline) and Matt Howard (Angel). Eli Adams (Dana) from the Salish and Kootenai tribe, Anthony Alexander (Charnell Calf Looking) from the Salish and Kootenai tribes. Her sisters and spouses include her older sister Crystal Craft, (JoVaugn) White Hawk from the Bitterroot Salish/German, and Sioux nations, and younger sister Shayla Cote-Butterfly. (Chance) from the Bitterroot/Salish and Kootenai and Norwegian tribes. Older sister Wilhelmina (James) After Buffalo and adopted sister Jessica Lynn McClure. Her aunties and uncles are Linda Weaselhead (Keon) from Canada, Sandra Christopher from Harlem, the late Randy Christopher and Berta Steele, Vernon "Hungry" Christopher (Sharon), Dawn and Rasena Christopher, (Grandma Pearl), Guy Widner. She had numerous nieces and nephews with the immediate ones being Sitting Bull's descendent, Jayden Whitehawk, Maii, Silye, and Susseli Pete, April, Naomi, and Shiyazh Pete, Tachini Jr, Kayenta, Stsha, and Staan Pete and the famous Ashkii Pete, powwow highway man. Thurman H. Trosper 1917-2007 RONAN - Thurman grew up in Ronan, Montana. He earned his B.S. degree in Forestry and Range Management from the University of Montana in 1941, and then joined the Marine Corps. He served during World War II in the Pacific, on Guadalcanal, with the 3rd Defense Battalion, First Division. After the war he joined the US Forest Service, one of the first Indians to serve in management positions in the Forest Service. After working on the Kootenai and Clearwater National Forests, he was supervisor on the Bitterroot National Forest from May, 1955 to December, 1959. Later he was Assistant Regional Forester for Personnel Management for the Eastern Region in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. In 1968, he joined the US Bureau of Outdoor Recreation and in 1970 the National Park Service, where he was Assistant to the Director, in charge of Environmental Affairs. In that position, he was active in successful efforts to save the Everglades from the development of Dade County Airport. After serving the Federal Government, he retired to his home in Ronan, Montana. Upon retirement from the Federal Government in 1973, he served for three years as President of the Wilderness Society. He served on the Governing Council of the Wilderness Society from 1965 to 1980. His advocacy for protection of wilderness included working with others to establish the Mission Mountains Tribal Wilderness during the 1970s. In 1982, the Tribal Council of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes established the tribal wilderness with Ordinance 79A. Thurman's advocacy of wilderness led the Montana Wilderness Society to give him an award. He was active in other environmental activities, particularly in Montana. In 1974, he was elected chairman of a coalition to fight a proposed open- pit coalmine in British Columbia, which would threaten the quality of Flathead Lake. The coalition secured $5 million for a baseline study of the Flathead Basin, and Thurman chaired the steering committee. The proposed open-pit coal mine was denied at that time; recently the proposal has arisen again and the United States remains opposed to the coal mine. He served as the first Chairman of Montana's Flathead Basin Commission. He was active in building bridges among all those interested in protecting the quality of Flathead Lake, including the Flathead Lakers and the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes. In 2004, Flathead Lakers' President Rose Schwennesen presented him an award in recognition of long and dedicated service contributing to the quality of Flathead Lake. He served on the board of the Pacific Rivers Council. He also served on many boards for the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, most particularly as first chairman of the Personnel Board, where he guided the development of the Tribes' personnel system. He also served on the Shoreline Protection Board and the governing board of Mission Valley Power. In 2004, the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes gave him a Warriors Medal of Valor for his military service. He was active in other community activities on the Flathead Indian Reservation, working for five years on the Lake County Planning Board. He was also active with the Flathead Resources Organization, Neighbors, and the Montana Human Rights Network on Indian issues. He was on the Advisory Committee for the Dean of the Forestry School at the University of Montana, and also served on a search committee for the dean position. He is survived by his wife, Dorothy; four sons, Ronald, William, David, and Douglas; and five grandchildren. A Celebration of his life will be held at the Longhouse in St. Ignatius, starting at 3 P.M. on Thursday, May 31, 2007. Helen Benally Espinoza ST. IGNATIUS - Helen Benally Espinoza, 65, went to be with the Ancestors on May 27, 2007 after passing away at her home from an extended illness. Helen was born Sept. 6, 1941 to Susan QueQueSah and Joseph RedHorn; she was later adopted and raised by Annie and Louis Pierre. Helen was both an elder and member of the Confederated Salish & Kootenai tribes and was one of the few who still spoke her native tongue fluently, something she was quite proud of. Helen's greatest pride and joy, though, were her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She enjoyed spending time with them and they enjoyed the stories she told about the many different times of her life, both the good and bad. She was strong willed. Helen usually got what she wanted. Helen was blessed with a very large extended family, both biological and adopted, which she loved very much. She was preceded in death by both parents; her son Michael Benally; daughter Marianne "Wally" Allard Gopher; granddaughters Winter Hoops and Katherine (Cass) Gopher; sisters Viviane RedHorn, Rose Felix, Josephine "Dee" Pierre and Rose Tanner RedHorn and brothers Billy Antoine and Joseph Pierre. Helen is survived by her remaining children David Benally, Glen J. Gardipe and Rosalie Little Light and family all of St. Ignatius; 11 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren; sisters Marian Andrew, Alice Goodman and Francine Antoine, all of Ronan and Rita Adams of St. Ignatius; brother James "Jimmy" Antoine of Ronan and sister-cousins Virginia Brockie, Dorothy Woodcock, Shirley Trahan and Mary "Dolly" Linsebigler. Also her beloved Uncle Alec (Betty) QueQueSah and Aunt Sophie (Gene) Mays both of Charlo. Copyright c. 2007 Char-Koosta News. -=-=-=- June 22, 2007 Jimmie Andrews Anchorage resident Jimmie Andrews, 83, died June 17, 2007 at Alaska Native Medical Center of complications due to surgery. A viewing will be at 1 p.m., with a funeral at 2 p.m. Saturday at Kehl's Forest Lawn Mortuary, 11621 Old Seward Highway. Burial will be at a later date in his hometown, Anvik. Mr. Andrews was born Oct. 24, 1923, in Bonasila near Holy Cross to Timothy Andrews and Anna Morton. In 1939, he went to Nenana due to the closure of Anvik Mission in 1937. He was a civil service employee, a cannery worker and Alaska railroad employee. He retired from Alaska Native Medical Center in 1988. Mr. Andrews was a World War II veteran and was stationed at Fort Richardson. He was a member of the Episcopal Christ Church in Anvik, a historical church built in 1895. His family wrote: "He was a very quiet man who lived life the way he wanted. He loved to go on long walks daily." Jimmie is survived by several nieces and one nephew. He was preceded in death by his brother, John R. Andrews. Local arrangements are with Witzleben Family Funeral Home & Crematory. Robert Yates Lifelong Alaskan Robert S. Yates, 51, died June 16, 2007, at Alaska Native Medical Center. Visitation will be at noon Monday at Evergreen Memorial Chapel, 737 E St. with funeral services at 1 p.m. The Rev. John Zabinko will officiate. Burial will be at Anchorage Memorial Park Cemetery at 2:15 p.m. Mr. Yates was born Sept. 1, 1955, in Chignik Bay, where he lived until 1958, when he lived for one year at Lazy Mountain Children's Home. In 1959, he moved to Anchorage. He was a graduate of Service High School. He worked as a fisherman. His family wrote that he was a very gentle, happy person. Survivors include his mother, Polly Anderson of Anchorage; sisters and brother-in-law, Rose and Ken Diekelman of Anchorage, Florence Rodriguez of Puerto Rico, Katherine Garrett of Alabama, Alice Rodriguez of Ohio; brothers, Daniel Anderson of Anchorage, John Yates of Juneau; uncles, Bill Anderson and Gus Kalmakoff of Anchorage; and numerous cousins including Lorraine Bunnell, Cory Bunnell, Brittany Bunnell, Carmen McLean, Elaine McLean, Nellie McLean and Coleen McLean, all of Anchorage. Copyright c. 2007 The Anchorage Daily News. -=-=-=- June 22, 2007 Lillian Jim-Croasmun Juneau resident Lillian Jim-Croasmun died June 19, 2007, at Bartlett Regional Hospital in Juneau. She was 55. She was born Oct. 31, 1951, in Juneau, to the late Charlie Jim Sr. and Jennie Jim, and was raised in Angoon. She lived in Juneau for three years, Anchorage for two years, and prior to that, in Angoon. She worked for Tlingit and Haida Angoon Headstart for more than 12 years and preceding that, she did cannery work. Her family recalls Lillian always saying that her parents encouraged her to do the very best she could. She believed that if she hadn't listened to her parents, she wouldn't have been where her life's path had guided her. She got her GED and CDA certificates for her job in adult education in Angoon. Her family says that she measured her success in 10-year increments. She would say that if she made it 10 years, she could do another 10 years. She also really enjoyed working with children, as they not only made her laugh, but they always knew when she was in need of a kind word - knowing the right thing to say to make her spirits soar. Her family recalls that she had many fond memories of working with children. Her favorite pastimes were listening to music, watching television, teasing friends and playing bingo. She is survived by her husband, Matthew Croasmun of Juneau; her mother, Jennie Jim of Angoon; her mother-in-law, Dorothy Croasmun of Erie Penn; her adopted son, Rusty Johnson Jr.; her sisters, Marie Demmert, Darlene Jack, Ida Jack, Barbara Demmert, Frances Johnson, all of Angoon; Betty Torres and Dora Barr of Juneau; Karen Campbell of Wrangell; and Margie Jarrett of Seattle; her adopted sisters, Cheryl Rose of Kake and Harriet Silva of Angoon; her brothers, William Jim, Paul Thomas Jr., Frank Jim, Joseph Jim Sr., Floyd Jim, all of Angoon; and Tommy Davis of Seattle; her aunts and uncles, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Jack Sr., Ethel Jack, all of Angoon; and Percy Hunter Sr., of Yakima, Wash.; and numerous nephews, nieces, cousins and friends. Pallbearers are Matthew Croasmun, Clifford Paul, Kyle Johnson, Peter Jack Jr., Rusty Johnson Sr., Marty Thomas, Alvin Johnson, Peter Demmert, John Howard Jr., Jeremy Martin, and John Croasmun, Sr. Honorary Pallbearers are Garfield George, Daniel Johnson Jr., Alan Zuboff, Jimmy George Jr., and Leonard Demmert. Services were held at 7 p.m. Thursday at Tlingit and Haida in Juneau. She is being taken to Angoon, where services will be held at 7 p.m. Saturday in the Angoon ANB Hall. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Sunday in Angoon. Copyright c. 1997-2007 Juneau Empire/Morris Communications Corporation. -=-=-=- June 21, 2007 Shirley Elanor Boyd, of Whitedog First nation Shirley Elanor Boyd passed away at Lake of the Woods District Hospital on June 21, 2007 at the age of 57 years. Wake Service to begin Saturday, June 23, 2007 at Whitedog First Nation. Traditional Funeral Services to be held Monday, June 25, 2007 at Whitedog First Nation. A full and complete obituary to follow. Brown Funeral Home and Cremation Centre entrusted with arrangements. Copyright c. 2007 Kenora Daily Miner and News. -=-=-=- June 24, 2007 Richard Prairie Chicken Richard Prairie Chicken, beloved husband of Raylene Prairie Chicken, passed away at the Cardston Hospital on Wednesday, June 20, 2007 at the age of 56 years. Funeral Arrangements to be announced when completed. Copyright c. 2007 Alberta Newspaper Group, Inc./Lethbridge Herald.