_ __ _____ __ _ __ ___ ____ _ __ ___ ' ) / / ') / / ) ' ) ) / ) / ' ) ) / ) / / / / / / /--/ / / / ___ / / / / ___ (_(_/ (__/ ( / (_ / (_ (___/ '__/_ / (_ (___/ ' ____ _ , ___ _ , ___ / ' ) / / ) ' ) / / ' VOLUME 14, ISSUE 008 / /-< / /--/ /-- __/_ / ) (___/ / ( (___, WOTANGING IKCHE - Lakota - Common News Wotanging Ikche and Native American News Copyright c. 1996-2006 nanews.org Aboriginal/AmerIndian Perspective about the First Nations of Turtle Island February 25, 2006 Mvskogee hotvlee-hv'see/wind moon Assiniboine amhanska/long dry moon Lakota cannapopa wi/moon when trees pop Potawatomi mnokesis/moon of rabbit conception Zuni onon u'la'ukwamme/no snow in trails moon +-------------------------------------------------------+ | 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.owlstar.com; www.indianz.com; www.pechanga.net; Prison Action Network and Iron Natives Mailing Lists; 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 Quotes: + -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- + =================== "Less than 1 percent of American Indians are receiving advanced degrees in science and engineering." "As far as the work force is concerned, we comprise much less than 1 percent of the professionals in science and engineering." __ Teresa Gomez, Deputy Director American Indian Science and Engineering Society +- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -+ | 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 Sister! This issue's editorial is a brief comment on this issue's lead article. When this newsletter began fourteen years ago, there were precious few articles about our Peoples in mainstream media. There also was no Web- based Internet as most now know it. Information was exchanged via email between computers on dial-up modems... and initially, those modems all connected at 300 baud. While it was far slower and far more prone to dropped connections, the Internet community in those days was much more of a community. One of the huge differences in many of the articles presented in those early days was that they were produced by individuals living in the heart of Indian Country, either on a rez or an urban area. Articles were rawer and right up on the frontline of where events of concern were occurring. Bernard and Feather in Anishnaabe country, Just an Old Man in Canada and others created the opinions and front page news of this humble newszine. My job was more a matter of making sure ALL were given an opportunity to express their view, provided each avoided slander or invectives, and each presented the truth. Readers were exposed to both the Hopi and Navajo view of the Checkerboard, and many other topics of interest. It was honest. It was gritty. It was life. Gradually, computers changed, the internet changed and mainstream media took an interest in Indian Country. More and more, the news was slick news copy. It was still news of Indian Peoples. It was still pertinent. It was also becoming more-and-more removed from the frontlines of Indian Country. I rolled with the change. Actually, I had little choice. It was what I was being handed. About four months ago a few Nations began sending news reports, themselves. Then this past week two articles came in that were straight from the trenches. A young Native Woman took a hard look at herself and her own transformation, and had the courage to pour her heart out for others to learn from. I am very honored she granted "Wotanging Ikche" the privilege of sharing the results as the lead article in this issue. It's about life, real life, in Indian Country. It's about growth and planting your staff for yourself, your family and your people. A second came within days full of concern about how mining interests might be undermining a way of life and the land on which the people of several nations live. I welcome... encourage response. I also ask that anyone who reads this will also choose to share news and thoughts from their corner of Indian Country. More news from those in Indian Country came in. Then the author of "The Battle of Whiteclay" sent a review of this truly insightful look at a town that survives by feeding on the misery of a neighboring reservation. Finally, just before this issue went out my wife received an alert straight from the trenches advising the Georgia Parks Department was denying all Native American Events. Dohiyi Ani Oginalii , , Gary Smith (*,*) wotanging@bellsouth.net P. O. Box 672168 (`-') gars@nanews.org Marietta, GA 30006, U.S.A. ===w=w=== http://www.nanews.org ----------- News of the people featured in this issue ----------- - Choices - GIAGO: Indians didn't pay Taxes - Mining Interests - 100 Years Ago threaten Colville Reservation - YELLOW BIRD: - Georgia Parks Department A Prairie Rose by any other Name locks out Indian Events - Akwesasne and Tohono O'odham - Move to restructure BIA compare experiences faces resistance - Poverty is a - `Four Amigos' bash Bush Budget Weapon of Mass Destruction - Elimination of Urban - Yaqui in Mexico Indian Health Care opposed suffer effects of Pesticides - Indians wary of Health cuts - On the Path to Healing - Bear Butte building - Legal challenge to Pipeline review opposition sought - Chiefs' Letter on sharing - Petitioners want to split raises another Hurdle S.D. County - Samson decision causes outrage - Turbine makes good - Saskatoon: Police seek on broken promise missing Teen Sisters - Tribes oppose more CBM drilling - 14-year-old Girl murdered - Navajos, N.M. eye Tax cuts - Ipperwash: for Power Plant Harris knew Ontario's Boundaries - Tribes honor Warriors - Ipperwash: Harris to face - Bank ponders Native 'Truth' Ceremony how to serve all Indians - Oglala Tribal Law Enforcement - Beautiful country faces big reduction not the Land of a Free People - Meskwaki ask State - Tribe will look for ways to recognize Tribal Court to ban offensive Mascots - Quartet named - 16 Students Advance Tribal Appellate Court Judges to a Science-Engineering Fair - Native Prisoner - Census: Navajos are -- Separate Aboriginal Prisons Second Largest Indian Group Considered - OPINION: - Journalist account of Whiteclay Punishing Native Americans wrong - Rustywire: - AUGUSTINE: Urban Indian colony The Laughing Road still thriving - Lee Goins Poem: - JODI RAVE: Advocates The Spirit of this Man to assist Natives in Courts - Fisher River Cree - YELLOW BIRD: write own dictionary May Film foster understanding - Sacred Sites Run --------- "RE: Choices" --------- Date: Fri, 10 Feb 2006 11:15:10 -0800 (PST) From: Name withheld by request Subj: Choices A young native lady sent the following, noting she just wanted to share it with her people. It is an honor to include her words in this issue. She originally asked to remain anonymous. That disappointed me, and I encouraged her, as did her father, to be proud to claim her words. Arlana Lame Omaha, of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe and the Cass Lake Ojibwe sent this message for her generation, which is one I pray will be taken to heart. ---- Choices I have been in school almost all my life and I have been living in poverty. The path to completing an education has been a long one, yet I have been driven and determined to not give up. I have attended five different universities within seven years I have dropped out, took breaks, and moved away from home. I have gone to extreme measures to explore an education. I have done all this raising a son, and maintaining employment. Some of the places I attended school I didn't have family there and some I did. To make a short story longer I have discovered along my path with education and daily hardships of going from being raised in a multicultural environment. I had no idea racism existed then, as I attended different colleges in towns surrounded by reservations. What I learned was that people in general have different stereotypes about Native Americans, and they are so uneducated on the true history of Native Americans because they are not taught in school or do not state realist facts about Natives. They hold common stereotypes like we are all drunks and we receive free education. Little do they know Natives American's have only been introduced to Alcohol for the past two hundred years and their bodies do not filter alcohol like non-natives so they are more at risk then other races. And not all Natives receive free school money. I owe about $20,000 in loans and I am sure I am not the only one. So people can be uneducated about our race and people can judge, but they will be the ones missing out on wonderful friendships and will never understand how rich Native Americans truly are in values and culture. It was hard for me to go from not knowing racism existed to walking around a college campus not knowing whether to smile at someone walking by because, what if they are racist? But then I used to say to myself, you know what I am not here for other people, I am here for me -- to better myself to create a better future for myself and my son. If they want to make friends and talk to me, if they are worth it, they will. Otherwise I don't waste time and energy on worrying about what other people think. That can just take take much out of you. Most of the time the other students in school were nice. No one ever said anything to me in regards to race. If they ever asked me questions or brought anything UP, I simply corrected their common mis-education on Native Americans and said that's just a stereotype. They were always like, really, I didn't know that. So I spent some of my time breaking stereotypes. I felt like it was time well spent. The point I am trying to make is, Life is mainly about Choices. We can choose to judge people and put people down, and sit and dwell on the way things are, sit and feel sorry for ourselves, or we can take a stand and choose to do something about it. Dwelling, running, never facing problems, and issues do not solve them. Making a difference in your life will not happen overnight. You've got to want it and you've got to be determined to work at it on a daily basis, on a minute to minute basis. Gang bangers and kids who run the streets, they are very smart, talented, and very business orientated. People who use drugs and alcohol, they put all that energy into using "where they are going to get their next high" when they should be thinking about going to school, obtaining a career and making a positive change in their life not only for themselves but for their children and grandchildren. When our ancestors were making choices and choosing paths they thought of the future of their tribes, and the future of their people. They lived harder lives then us. Yes, America came and took all this away from us. They took the way we lived, they took the roles of the people in the villages, the way of life, but we are still here. We still breathe. We still exist. They did not take our ways completely away. We still preserve some of the songs and some of the ceremonies. Even the generations before us suffered to take our ways underground, so that they could pass them down to us now. If we don't learn our ceremonies, songs, and our language, they will die. The generations that do speak fluent languages are all on the streets homeless or they are dying. They are our drunken aunts and uncles who we continuously disrespect or take for granted. We never stop to ask for stories or songs because we are too caught in the new style or new rap songs. We do still hold the essence of Native Pride and we do still have culture, yet some of it is fading. We cannot sit and dwell; we must walk the walk. It's possible to live in two worlds -- to go to school and to go to ceremonies and learn songs. Whenever I am in a college classroom learning non-native information. I always think in my mind now how is this going to apply in Indian Country and how can I take what I am learning here and work in Indian Country or how can I use this information to help my people? I leave there and go to work. I have to use customer service skills and I have to deal with people, and yes, sometimes its hard, but its a choice I make to provide a better future for myself and my son. But I am not only thinking of my family when I go to school and work. I think about THE PEOPLE -- what I want to do when I am done with college and I always come up with these different ideas and different projects I want to work on for example: I wanted to start businesses on the reservations to provide jobs to lower the unemployment rates. That was my first dream when I was like 15. Then as I grew and learned more my dreams, goals, and plans kept changing, the more I myself as a person grew and changed. Now I want to finish school and help high school students get into college. It's not selling out ... it's not assimilating because face it, we have to depend on the ways of America; and we have to utilize them in order to survive. We have to make a choice to do this as a community it takes a whole community, I don't understand why Natives are so shy. It really limits us. Yes we have our Adam Beaches and our Indigenous but we need more of them. We need positive role models we need Warriors and Chiefs to make good choices for our future. I watch movies about what happened to my grandparents and my ancestors, and I cry. It hurts, but I needed to see their pain and suffering was not for nothing, it was for us to live to exist, to make them proud. I can sit and talk about Native American history and yes, it's important because it has made us as Native Americans who we are and it effects what is going on in Indian Country today, but I take from it, and what I choose to learn from it is positive. I choose to make decisions and choices based on the past. I understand what happened. I understand where I come from, I am proud to be Who I am. I would not have chosen to be any other person or race. We as Native Americans we hold a different value system, a different belief, and sometimes it holds us back but more of the time it's a family first value system, our families come because anything in our lives. We need to use that value to support others to attend college to do things. Our ancestors, our Chiefs, exist in every one of us. We keep them alive, we honor them, we keep their values and beliefs alive though our ways. They watch over us and they need to see us succeed. I often tell people even if you help yourself its helping others. Do what you can. You do not have to save the world, you have to start small. Make the choice to do what you think you need to do to help yourself and by doing that slowly you will be healing and helping others. I know I am not perfect I have been an alcoholic and I had a child when I was 20, but that has not stopped me. Maybe sometimes the alcoholism takes over and sets me back, but I get back up, dust myself off and I keep going back to school. So I am not directing this at any certain person and I am not trying to judge. I am just sharing some of what I know and have learned within my lifetime of being a single parent college student. I started school when my son was eight months old. I went to school, worked if I could do it. Its possible, you just got to want it, be determined, and do it. Life is not easy. If you want something you have to work at it. I have been in jail. I have been in gangs. I have been there - did that, so I can understand the lifestyle may seem glamorous, and you may think some of those people are your friends; but really the only place that lifestyle gets you is in jail or dead. It is truly a dead end path. You can choose to surround yourself with positive people. You pick your friends. You can still come from a poor family and be successful -- it is the choices you make and what you decide to do. I never knew my family was poor until I asked my sister, "...well what class are we middle or lower?" She said we are lower. I didn't like that at first. I guess I never cared because I always had food, clothes, and shelter. Natives are not taught the values of money and bank accounts and saving money to make house loans. We rent when are happy to get on section 8 or we live in reservation housing. It wasn't till my recent relationship where I started thinking about my credit. I was like damn "I better start trying to pay off my loan". I have been so worried about just getting done with school. My point is we need Warriors. We need our men to step up, and we need our woman to step up. We need the whole community to make positive choices. Our people are so traditional. Whole families can help each other, and support each other, because even if we send a few of the family members to college, they can come back and help other family members. Or, if we send some of the members to treatment. I learned the only way treatment works is if the person wants to quit. Look at the addiction rates. We have all the highest rates. We have the highest drop out rates, the lowest income rates. We have the highest suicide rates, the highest alcoholism and drug rates. What's up with that? Where did we go wrong? We have programs and resources out there. We just need to use them ... work for them. Put that same energy into healing. You will fall, you will have hardships; but you just have got to make the choice to get up and keep going, to not let the negativity or the criticism get to you or affect you in a bad way. Learn to positively communicate. Do not attack one another do not attack your family and loved ones or make it sound like an attack. Be open minded. Try to talk in way where you get your message across without hurting or upsetting. Its a positive healing. We are all human, we make mistakes, we all have skeletons, we all have issues and problems. There is always positive and negative to everything. It's what we take from the situations. It's how we choose to react. It was hard for me to learn to grow up, to walk away, to be a woman of the situation. When I was a teen I used to get kicked out of all the schools I attended and then I learned that "Hey you know what the only person getting hurt here is Me" I am the only one that can not go back to school. I am the only one getting suspended. This stuff shows up on my record, not the teacher or the principals' record. Man was I foolish. It took a few schools getting kicked out ,then I grew learned and realized not to act out or not to react - to be positive. Be a woman; take a positive stand and learn to deal. Make that choice, and then I just wanted to graduate high school. High school was a whole other long path, but I achieved it because I made the choice to cut all my friends off, to not hang with the bangers, to get a job, and to just worry about going to school and myself. Sometimes you have to learn from your friendships too and the only way to learn is to The Hard Way. Same with relationships. See my theory is the creator puts people in our paths for a reason to learn from one another, and once we have learned what was meant we move on, or if we were meant to be with that person we would. I guess I just believe things and people happen for a reason. You can learn from every experience every mistake, or should I say you can choose to learn from those mistakes. You take what you can from the experience and move on. If you sit and dwell it only sets and holds you back. I am not an expert and I don't have all the answers and I am not a know it all. I do not claim to be. All I can say is it is important to do something positive and successful for yourself and others. You can be anything and anyone you choose to be. Sky is the limit. I often have talks with my nephews and nieces and ask them well what do you want to do when you get older? I offer them the choices and tell them what's out there, because there are a lot of business career fields' and options. You just have to make the choice to pursue your dreams, goals, and plans. THE CHOICE IS YOURS. Make positive choices for yourself and your future grandchildren. --------- "RE: Mining Interests threaten Colville Reservation" --------- Date: Wednesday, February 15, 2006 12:25 am From: Susan Subj: Mining Interests Threaten Colville Reservation Mining Interests Threaten Colville Reservation The Reservation that is home to the Confederated Tribes of the Colville People encompasses 1.4 million acres in North Central Washington. A virtual paradise, it is bounded on the east by the Okanogan River and on the west and south by Lake Roosevelt, the Columbia River and the Grand Coulee Dam. The Confederated Tribes consist of the Nespelem, San Poil, Okanogan and Lakes nations, who were later joined by the seven others, including the Wenatchee, Entiats, Chelan and the Methow. The Moses Band was forced to move onto the reservation in 1884 despite the wishes of those already residing there. There they merged with the Moses-Columbia Band already residing on the reservation. Completing the original ten bands was the Palouse. The last to arrive was Chief Joseph's Band of the Nez Perce. For years these People have fended off mining companies who covet the riches buried deep inside Mother Earth. In 1998 a vote of tribal members resulted in a 600 to 0 defeat for mining. They also passed a moratorium stating that there would be no mining on their reservation ever. But time marches on and old traditional thinking council members retire and younger ones take their place. Unfortunately these young people often do not seem to have the ties to their culture, traditions and land that their Ancestors did. Just as small pox, TB and alcohol have killed millions of Native Peoples, greed, another curse of the European invaders, has infected many of our own people, causing them to think and act like whites. The promise of high paying jobs and big money blinds the eyes to the high cost of mining. For years mining interests have set their eyes on Mt. Tolman, a Sacred site to these People. Now the whole reservation is being considered. Not only will the Sacred Mountains be scraped away by huge machines, but the waste rock and tailings would be dumped into Meadow Creek which flows into Lake Roosevelt. Eventually the waters of the Columbia River would be effected. Molybdenum, a by product of mining, is only one of the dangerous substances that will be around for many generations if the People allow the land to be raped. Crops irrigated with these contaminated waters will in turn become hazards to life - both human and animal. Cancer rates will soar. More and more children will be born with birth defects. What salmon that are left in the waters will eventually sicken and die. The high paying jobs some covet will cost so much more than they can imagine. The irony is that the ones who will make the really big bucks will go on with their upper class lives far, far from the Colville Tribes. The Mother is angry. The mountains shake, the ice melts. Hurricanes and floods devastate the earth. Strange diseases pray upon the People. She is giving us a loud and clear warning about what is going to happen to this planet if we don't stop now. The Red People are the Guardians of the land. We need to be strong and stand for what we know is right. Time is short. I am Chickamauga but I know about your great chiefs and how they fought for their people. Where are your warriors now? There will be a spiritual gathering on the reservation from February 17- 20. The election will be held on March 18th. --------- "RE: Georgia Parks Department locks out Indian Events" --------- Date: Mon, 20 Feb 2006 12:28:08 -0700 From: Janet Smith Subj: Georgia Parks Department Last Minute Note from The Lovely Janet: The letter below came to me by e-mail from a friend after passing through several other hands. I know Yellow Otter, and have spoken with him since I read this letter. There's a lot of background, but the bottom line is that the facts as stated in this letter are accurate. Yellow Otter was attempting to organize a benefit event at a Georgia State Park that had, in fact, been asked for by the park officials a year earlier. But when he went back to the rangers with specific plans, they told him that since that time the Department of Natural Resources had circulated a policy memo instructing state park rangers that Native American events would no longer be approved on Georgia state park property. Since then, he's been stonewalled at every attempt to clarify this policy, although the policy should be a matter of public record. A little past history. This is not the first issue that has arisen over Native American use of State Park land in Georgia. Several years back, it came to our attention that Native Americans were not permitted to carry pipes onto state managed Native American properties like the Etowa Mound, and to pray on that property without a permit. One group tried to do so as a demonstration, and were turned away by armed rangers. Another individual was threatened with arrest on a different occasion. The DNR board meeting mentioned below coming up on Weds. February 22nd in Atlanta is a regular monthly meeting of this state agency. As such, it is open to the public, and the meeting room it is scheduled for accomodates up to 100 people. The meeting will be run by Roberts Rules of Order, which will permit the introduction of new business, at which point this issue may be brought up. The address is 2 Martin Luther King Drive, S.E., Suite 1352 East Atlanta, GA. The building is adjacent to the Georgia State Capital building and is accessible from I-20. Among the concerns that were mentioned to Yellow Otter by the DNR officials who were willing to talk to him were how the park could assure that the goods sold at such an event would be appropriate to the culture and in compliance with applicable federal law, and how they could assure that dances, ceremonies and dress would be culturally accurate. Other concerns had to do with parks being restricted to certain "themes" of activity. The specific park in question happens to have "teepee" structures as teaching facilities, but the official noted that since the style of teepee used was not historically accurate for the local population, their presence didn't imply that "Indian themes" would be permissible in that park. It would be nice to prove that a) they are wrong about the absence of Indians in Georgia, b) Indians outside of Georgia are also interested in state policies that discriminate against Indian people and their ceremonies, and c) Indians really aren't as clueless as at least one Georgia DNR official seems to believe. Yellow Otter does request that individuals who plan to attend this meeting please contact him to let him know. One reason this is important to him is to help him plan for how to approach this board. If it's just him and his wife, he'll have to approach it differently than if there are 100 Indians behind him (or even if he is aware that 100 Indians have written an e-mail to the board about the issue). The note below contains contact information for DNR, and Yellow Otter's telephone number. His e- mail address is yellow.otter@yahoo.com. Note: this probably isn't the last time this issue have to be addressed before the DNR Board. It's in the nature of government committees to "study" issues before making decisions. So they'll most likely propose just that course of action on Wednesday. If we don't keep attending their meetings until the issue is resolved, the DNR will happily "forget" it. --------- Forwarded Message --------- Sirs / Madams Please excuse my writing style. I am not a trained writer as you can see. I am Larry Mindler ( Yellow Otter ). A tribal member of the South Eastern Cherokee Counsel, Inc. This letter is to inform and ask you for help into the Native American Policies that DNR ( Department of Natural Resources, State of Georgia) has or are in the process of establishing. As of last year the managers of the state parks have been telling us Native people that we can no longer hold events in the parks. They can not tell us why. They tell us it has came down from DNR. I have spent the last 3 weeks on the phone trying to talk to a person at DNR. For the most part, with no luck. As most phones are not answered by a human and the others are not returned. I did talk to a person by the name of; Chuck Gregory Resource Management & Interpretation Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites: http://www.gastateparks.org/ 2 Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive, S.E. Suite 1352 East Atlanta, GA 30334 ChuckG@dnr.state.ga.us 404-656-6539, office 404-290-6984, cell This person told me 2 and 1/2 weeks ago that he would send me what he referred to as; The Native American Policies. As of today all that I have received is more stall from him. I have talked to the Secretary I I I to the Commissioners Office, Reggie Hymel. He took down my information and told me he would give this to the Commissioner to look into. That was 3 days ago. I have not heard from anyone. I am getting what is known to most people as the Run-a-Round. Myself and the other Native American peoples of this State and of this country need to know what kind of Policies the DNR is passing that effect us. How it keeps us from being able to use State Property as other groups do. Again, PLEASE help us with this. The Board of DNR has a meeting on February 22, at 10:00 am. Please join us there. To support and to hear what DNR has to say about this. If you have any questions call Larry Mindler (Yellow Otter), myself. 678-437-9020 Forward this to as many people as you can. We need a big turn out so that we are heard. Larry Mindler Yellow Otter Yellow.Otter@Yahoo.com --------- "RE: Move to restructure BIA faces resistance" --------- Date: Fri, 17 Feb 2006 08:50:12 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="TRIBES UNIFY AGAINST BIA RESTRUCTURE" http://www.owlstar.com/dailyheadlines.htm http://www.rapidcityjournal.com/articles/2006/02/17/news/local/news04.txt Move to restructure BIA faces resistance By Jomay Steen, Journal Staff Writer February 17, 2006 American Indian tribal leaders and education representatives from nine reservations are in Washington, D.C., this week, united in opposition to a Bureau of Indian Affairs education administration realignment and restructuring planned for this year that will cost $17 million. Oglala Sioux Tribe President Cecelia Fire Thunder, Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Chairman Harold Frazier and other tribal leaders were scheduled to meet with Sen. Tim Johnson, D-S.D., Sen. John Thune, R-S.D., and Rep. Stephanie Herseth, D-S.D. this week, officials said. Fire Thunder said that, based upon BIA documentation sent to tribal leaders and schools, the decision to reduce the number of reservation BIA education line officers in the restructuring plan - while adding a tier of new deputy administrators of education - was made without tribal consultation. Also, BIA education officers did not notify the tribes what it would cost to fund the realignment and restructuring of its offices, she said. "It is going to cost a lot of money - $17 million for the restructuring," Fire Thunder said. She and school officials said they wanted to know where that money was coming from. Line officers are BIA employees who monitor grants to reservation schools, ensuring that schools are complying with education programs and standards for which they receive grants. They also oversee accreditation and certification of schools and teachers, and are responsible for security and safety issues, student rights and technical assistance. They direct maintenance programs in schools, dormitories, employee quarters, grounds and buildings, and serve as contracting officers, among other duties. Currently, two line officers work in North Dakota at Turtle Mountain and Standing Rock reservations, serving South Dakota schools at Rock Creek and Little Eagle. Four others work in South Dakota on the Cheyenne River, Pine Ridge and Rosebud reservations. Crow Creek and Lower Brule reservations share a line officer. If the BIA proceeds with its realignment, all line officer positions would be eliminated from the reservation schools, the number of officers would be cut to three and they would work from offices in Pierre, Rapid City and Bismarck, N.D. At a Tribal Leaders Education Legislative Summit earlier this month in Rapid City, Fire Thunder said tribal leaders had asked the South Dakota congressional delegation staff to help schedule a meeting with U.S. Secretary of Interior Gale Norton, U.S. Secretary of Education Margaret Spellings and Edward Parisian, acting director of Officer of Indian Education Program. "I'm confident we're going to get that meeting," she said. At that time, Fire Thunder said the group would be presenting resolutions, letters and testimony opposing the BIA education restructuring and realignment. "We're going to do our very best to stop this realignment," Fire Thunder said. The tribal leaders also directed their lawyers to impose an injunction and restraining order to halt the Office of Indian Education Programs from beginning the process of removing the BIA education line officers from South Dakota reservations. Fire Thunder said the $17 million would be much better spent in schools and classrooms on reservations than in Washington. Shirley Bernie, student services director at Marty Indian School, concurred. "This (restructuring) is going to set up a new tier of administration bureaucracy while eliminating services to Indian schools in North and South Dakota," Bernie said. Bernie said most reservation schools don't have enough funds to pay for increased costs of bus fuel, heating fuel, food and services. She noted that nowhere in the restructuring had Washington administration addressed the needs of the children. "For all the needs of our kids at our schools, they want to add management positions," Bernie said. "We're so poor already." Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe attorney Rebecca Kidder said that in light of news of budget cuts across the board, BIA education officials have moved to add even more administrative offices to their Washington bureau at the expense of Indian children's education. "I don't know how that results in better education," Kidder said. Copyright c. 2006 Rapid City Journal. --------- "RE: `Four Amigos' bash Bush Budget" --------- Date: Fri, 17 Feb 2006 08:50:12 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="UIATF `FOUR AMIGOS' ASSAIL BUSH BUDGET" http://www.owlstar.com/dailyheadlines.htm http://www.realchangenews.org/2006/2006_02_15/togetheragian.html Together Again "Four Amigos" bash Bush budget By STEFANIE FURER UW News Lab February 15, 2006 Members of the United Indians of All Tribes Foundation (UIATF) gathered at the Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center last Friday to discuss the potential social and economic results of budget proposals made by the Bush administration. Approximately 50 people attended, plus about a dozen members of the news media. The meeting was led by the "Four Amigos," a group of men representing four different ethnic and racial communities. These four groups - Latinos, Asians, Africans, and Native Americans - make up 80 percent of the world's population. But, according to Bob Santos, one of the Four Amigos and interim executive director, their voices - and their concern over the social harm inflicted by the Bush White House - have been largely ignored. "I'm wondering why there's no outrage in this country," he said, clenching his fists in a tight ball. "I'm surprised." Nodding in agreement was King County Councilmember Larry Gossett. "[The government] needs to be challenged," he said. "We need to do it collectively." Phil Lane, the new CEO of the United Indians of All Tribes, couldn't agree with Gossett more. "The only thing we lack right now is unity," he said. All four men all came to the same agreement: There needs to be a change in policy. Every move made by the U.S. government ultimately affects members of all communities. "Collectively right now, we have a vision," Lane said. Their vision, they hope, will change the dynamic of the current administration so that members of all communities can thrive socially and economically. Prior to the press conference held at the center was a discussion led by Roberto Maestas, Director of El Centro de la Raza. His brief introduction illustrated the key message the Four Amigos want people to know: The Bush administration is making cutbacks on the most important programs pertaining to the four ethnic communities they represent. One of the biggest cutbacks, according to Maestas, affects the Head Start program. "An attack on our children is an attack on what our country is supposed to support," he said. Bush plans to cut back the program by 1 percent, which is enough to stir controversy in the education realm, he said. Other major impacts of the Bush administration, according to the UIATF, are cuts to Medicare, the costs of war, and deficits from planning future attacks on terrorism in the Middle East. Maestas, Santos, and Gossett played key local roles in the civil rights movement in the 1970s. With American Indian community activist Bernie Whitebear, who died in 2000, they were known as the Gang of Four - a loving term borrowed from a Maoist clique that references the friendship these four built working in concert. A former Green Beret, Whitebear led an Indian reclamation of Army property at Discovery Park in 1970, and after seven years of negotiations the United Indians of All Tribes Foundation won a portion of the park. Lane, one of the original members of UIATF, left briefly in 1980 for a career in education as an associate professor at the University of Lethbridge in Alberta, Canada. He recently returned as CEO of the foundation and was honored during the meeting. The Four Amigos will continue to send a strong message to every community they represent. They strive to change the world politically, economically, and socially in a more progressive and positive manner, according to a recent press release. "There are social consequences to pay," Maestas said, pausing for a moment to glance at his audience. "It's going to be up to us to decide how we're going to bring [the government] back to their senses." Copyright c. 2005 Real Change News. --------- "RE: Elimination of Urban Indian Health Care opposed" --------- Date: Tue, 14 Feb 2006 08:39:11 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="URBAN INDIAN HEALTH CARE" http://www.indianz.com/News/ http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/2002804104_indianhealth14m.html Clinic for Indians faces cut in funds By Warren King and Alison Granito Seattle Times staff reporters February 14, 2006 More than 7,000 Native Americans in the Seattle area would see cuts in their health care under President Bush's budget proposal, according to an Indian health official. Bush has proposed cutting all of the $33 million that had been requested for the national Urban Indian Health Program, including about $3.5 million for the Seattle Indian Health Board. That would be a 40 percent cut for the Seattle program, the largest of 34 such clinics in the nation, and would cause reductions in services for general medical and dental care, diabetes, mental health, chemical dependency, immunizations and the homeless, said Rebecca Corpuz, associate director of the Seattle Indian Health Board. "I think a lot of people would end up in hospital emergency rooms or receive no care at all," she said. "This doesn't feel good." Bush administration officials said the cuts would be compensated for by a proposed $181 million increase in funds for 1,200 expanded or new community health centers nationwide that serve mostly low-income patients. But federal budget officials said the increase is intended for poor or rural communities with limited health-care access, and Seattle has dozens of clinics for the poor. Kay Garvey, a spokeswoman for the Health Resources and Services Administration, said "it's not likely" any Seattle clinics would qualify for the new funds. Corpuz said the city's Indians and Alaska Natives have many special medical, psychological and cultural needs that should be served by the Indian Health Board, at 12th Avenue South and South Weller Street. "We have a lot of patients who won't go anywhere else," she said. "They worry about finances, what they see as racism, and they're intimidated by the health-care system." Corpuz said about half the clinic's 2,000 dental patients could lose their care, many of them children. The care begins at age 1, including tooth sealants to prevent cavities, and parental education about oral hygiene. Many adults need dentures. "We see some teenagers [who haven't had care] who have lost all their permanent teeth by age 16," Corpuz said. Diabetes, which affects more than 15 percent of American Indians and Alaska Natives, is also a focus of the clinic. A program for about 300 diabetics emphasizes education, diet, exercise and close monitoring of blood-sugar levels. About 200 of the patients who regularly visit the clinic now have the disease under control, Corpuz said. Many mothers and children also depend on the clinic. About 200 women a year receive pregnancy tests, and about 100 babies are delivered through the program. It includes prenatal care and continuing care and nutrition for the mothers and their infants. The infant-mortality rate for Indians and Native Alaskans in King County is 14.9 per 1,000 live births; for all races combined, it's 4.9 per 1,000. "We're trying to make strides in decreasing this rate in Native populations," Corpuz said. Also at the clinic, a mental-health program helps hundreds who suffer from depression or post-traumatic stress disorder. The clinic treats a variety of medical problems of homeless patients. And it operates the Thunderbird Treatment Center for 96 patients with alcohol and drug addiction, including about 16 chronic street alcoholics at any given time. Overall, the clinic logs about 40,000 patient visits a year for its variety of services. More than 70 percent of the patients live at or below the federal poverty level. Often, their efforts to get care elsewhere have been difficult experiences, Corpuz said. "They don't understand where these people are coming from," she said. "The doctor says go get this or that for your kids, but they don't because they can't afford it, and then they don't go back. It makes them feel hopeless, helpless and depressed." In a U.S. House Ways and Means Committee hearing Wednesday, U.S. Rep. Jim McDermott, D-Seattle, pointedly questioned Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Mike Leavitt about elimination of the urban Indian clinics. McDermott said the cutback would force patients to "go from a culturally sensitive clinic that has been dealing with urban Indian problems, and you're going to throw them out ... to compete with other uninsured in the community. There is no justice in that." U.S. Rep. Norm Dicks, D-Bremerton, said he successfully fought off a partial cut to the Urban Indian Health Program last year and vowed to do the same this year. "This is one of those mindless cuts this administration makes because they're spending all this money on defense, on the war," Dicks said. "I think this [cut] would be a tragedy not only in Seattle but all across the country." Congressional committee meetings and budget deliberations could take until fall before a final decision is make on funds for the clinics. Warren King: 206-464-2247 or wking@seattletimes.com Copyright c. 2006 The Seattle Times Company. --------- "RE: Indians wary of Health cuts" --------- Date: Fri, 17 Feb 2006 08:50:12 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="URBAN HEALTH CENTER BUDGET CUTS DECRIED" http://www.owlstar.com/dailyheadlines.htm http://www.charlotte.com/13884598.htm?source=rss&channel=kansas_local Indians wary of health cuts A proposal to cut $33 million in funding to urban health centers that serve American Indians would affect Wichita's Hunter Health Clinic. BY HURST LAVIANA The Wichita Eagle February 16, 2006 American Indians who rely on the Hunter Health Clinic for medical care were urged Wednesday night to send letters to elected officials protesting a plan that many fear could endanger the clinic's ability to help them. More than 50 people gathered at the Mid-America All-Indian Center to learn about a proposal by President Bush that would eliminate the $33 million that is needed next year to operate 34 urban Indian health centers around the country. Hunter Health is the only such center in Kansas. Susie Schwartz, chief executive of the clinic, said Bush's proposal calls for shifting the emphasis on American Indian health care to Indian reservations. She said the prospect does not sit well with Native Americans living in Wichita. Among those attending the meeting was Rick Youngeagle Duran, who said many American Indians living in urban areas would not have access to medical care if it was provided only on reservations. "In order for me to get any medical treatment, I'd have to drive 5 1/2 hours to the south," he said. He said other American Indians living in Wichita would face even longer drives to seek health care. Duran said the Hunter Health Clinic has helped him control diabetes and heart problems that threatened to cripple or kill him. Schwartz said the best way to get Congress to maintain urban health care for American Indians was through letters to elected officials -"everyone you think that might make a difference." Newman Washington, chairman of the Indian Center's board of trustees, agreed. "There's only one way they're going to listen and that's if we send out the message," he said. Copyright c. 2006 Charlotte Observer. --------- "RE: Bear Butte building opposition sought" --------- Date: Sun, 19 Feb 2006 19:55:42 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="SAVING BEAR BUTTE" http://www.owlstar.com/dailyheadlines.htm http://www.rapidcityjournal.com/articles/2006/02/19/news/local/news01.txt Bear Butte building opposition sought February 19, 2006 MANDERSON - As a way to stop the continued development of an American Indian sacred site, activists have started campaigning for resolutions of support from the Oglala Sioux, Rosebud Sioux and Northern Cheyenne tribes in opposition to the construction of a bar, amphitheater and road planned to be built near Bear Butte. Former American Indian Movement leader Carter Camp, his son, Vic Camp, and Debra White Plume, all of Manderson, have formed Intertribal Coalition to Defend Bear Butte, a group opposing the commercialization and development of one of American Indians' most sacred areas in the Black Hills, White Plume said. She said that the coalition is appealing to Indian tribes, organizations and families to attend a three-day strategic planning meeting to be held the last week in February in the Black Hills. Delegations from Oklahoma, Montana, Wyoming, Minnesota, Colorado, North Dakota and South Dakota tribes will meet later to develop strategies to block further development. "There are other activities that we consider desecration in the works. That includes a road and a building of an amphitheater and the annual motorcycle rally," White Plume said. She said that beyond the environmental significance of the geographic landmark is the spiritual wealth and connection of ancient civilizations. "Every Indian tribe has its own creation story, and for the Lakota people, Bear Butte was a place to meet every fall in the autumn equinox," she said. "It's a spiritual place for us that we need to defend before it's totally destroyed," she said. For information and meeting location, contact Debra White Plume at 455- 2155, 455-2108 or www.bringbacktheway.com. White Plume said it was where the Lakota people did their planning for the coming generation. It also was a place to have meetings to make decisions on how to protect themselves. In light of these traditions, the Pine Ridge delegations will include medicine men and spiritual leaders taking part at the coalition's February meeting, she said. Copyright c. 2006 Rapid City Journal. --------- "RE: Petitioners want to split S.D. County" --------- Date: Fri, 17 Feb 2006 08:50:12 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="GERRYMANDER PETITION TO BLOCK INDIAN VOTE" http://www.owlstar.com/dailyheadlines.htm http://www.rapidcityjournal.com/articles/2006/02/16/news/state/state04.txt Petitioners want to split S.D. county February 16, 2006 MITCHELL (AP) - Petitions are circulating that call for creating two counties out of California-shaped Charles Mix County in southern South Dakota, and one activist wonders if race is at the heart of the move. The dividing line proposed in the petition coincides with where Charles Mix County borders the Yankton Indian Reservation, said Charon Asetoyer, executive director of the Native American Women's Health Education Resource Center in Lake Andes. She said she doesn't believe that is an accident. The timing of the petition - after Charles Mix County lost a lawsuit that alleged that the current county commissioner districts harmed American Indians' voting rights - says it all, she said. The suit accused the county of diluting voting districts. The petition calls for placing 11 townships in the northern portion into a proposed new Hill County and leaving the rest in Charles Mix County. Platte and Geddes would be in the new county, and Lake Andes, Wagner and Marty, headquarters of the Yankton Sioux Tribe, would remain in Charles Mix County. Signatures from 15 percent of the county's registered voters are needed on the petitions for the Charles Mix County Commission to "submit the question of the division of a county to the voters in the county at the next general-election," state law says. The petition must be filed with the county auditor no later than the first Monday in July of any general election year. Geddes landowner Wally Johnson said he knows who is circulating the petition. "I know, but I can't tell you," he said. "It was basically started to test the water. The main reason the person started it was they wanted to get it out in the open ... so someone will notice it." The petition has been left out in public places since early this month. Bruce Bakken, a former county commissioner, dropped off a copy of the petition at the Platte Enterprise newspaper, editor Ralph Nachtigal said. "All kinds of people have said they would sign it, but no one will circulate it," Nachtigal said. In October, U.S. District Judge Lawrence Piersol of Sioux Falls ruled that the existing county commissioner districts are unconstitutional because the deviation in the population of the three districts is too great. Copyright c. 2006 Rapid City Journal. --------- "RE: Turbine makes good on broken promise" --------- Date: Fri, 17 Feb 2006 08:50:12 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="PROMISED ELECTRICITY PROVIDED" http://www.owlstar.com/dailyheadlines.htm http://www.bismarcktribune.com/articles/2006/02/15/news/local/110079.txt Turbine makes good on broken promise By LAUREN DONOVAN Bismarck Tribune February 15, 2006 FORT BERTHOLD INDIAN RESERVATION - Change is blowing in Indian Country, going around and around and around. Fort Berthold Indian Reservation, home of the Three Affiliated Tribes, went on line with its first of hopefully dozens of wind turbines last week. It's a small start to go around to an old promise made and broken back in the '40s. The Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara were promised free electricity in exchange for giving up 25 percent of all the land needed for the permanent flood of Garrison Dam, a hydropower project. Chairman Tex Hall said the promise of free power was made in 1948 negotiations and taken back by Congress in 1949. The turbine in the hills above Four Bears village is the beginning of making it good, anyway, even if they have to do it themselves. This first turbine is small in stature and output, by turbine standards. It generates 66 kilowatts, compared to the standard 1.5 megawatts. Still, it makes enough electricity to light up 45 homes, or about one-third of the 4 Bears Casino. McKenzie Electric Power Cooperative is buying the wind electricity for 2. 5 cents a kilowatt, plugging it into a nearby transformer, and selling electricity back for 6.5 cents a kilowatt. Terry Fredericks, of Twin Buttes, heads up the reservation's wind development project. He said the tribes' goal is to offset the entire reservation's electrical consumption with wind energy. The homes, businesses and ranches on the reservation require between eight and 10 megawatts of electricity. Since wind energy sells for one-third of what electricity costs, the reservation would have to develop three times more wind megawatts than it consumes to get a full financial offset. Fredericks said the wind energy revenue from McKenzie Electric can be used for the good of the tribal members. For now, it amounts to "a few thousands, nothing big, but it's a start," he said. Two wind studies will determine where on the reservation is the best site or sites to develop 30 megawatts of wind energy. Fredericks said the studies are zeroing in near Parshall and Twin Buttes, based on known wind data. He said the important part of the first turbine was developing the necessary relationships with power purchasers, consultants and suppliers Distributed Generation of Colorado and Integrity Wind, as well as the Inter-Tribal Council on Utility Policy. Hall said Fredericks cut through many layers of red tape to finally get the turbine up and running. "We wanted to demonstrate as a nation that we can get electricity from the wind," Hall said. "Now we can move on to the next phase." Copyright c. 2006 Bismarck Tribune, a division of Lee Enterprises. --------- "RE: Tribes oppose more CBM drilling" --------- Date: Thu, 16 Feb 2006 08:47:05 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="TRIBES SIGN RESOLUTION AGAINST COAL BED METHANE DRILLING" http://www.indianz.com/News/ http://www.billingsgazette.net/2006/02/16/news/wyoming/95-cbm-drilling.txt Tribes oppose more CBM drilling By Gazette News Services February 16, 2006 CHEYENNE - The Northern Arapaho and Eastern Shoshone tribes have decided not to pursue more coalbed methane drilling on the Wind River Indian Reservation. Tribal officials had announced plans for more than 300 wells on the reservation. But they reconsidered and recently signed a resolution against any further development. The document was filed at the regional Bureau of Indian Affairs office in Billings. "Right now it is a resource that we could use, but we would like to become experts in the field of coalbed methane," said Norman Willow, a Northern Arapaho Business Council member. "We don't want to rush into it like other people did." Coalbed methane is a natural gas found in seams of coal. Since drilling started in Wyoming in 1987, the industry has grown quickly and the state now has nearly 14,000 wells. The reservation's first well was drilled in May as part of a Devon Energy pilot project. The reservation's Riverton Dome formation now has 12 coalbed methane wells sunk into it. The wells are virtually dormant now because Devon has no way to get rid of the 21,000 gallons of water brought to the surface by each well each day. Had the company deemed the field worth further investment, it planned to drill up to 336 wells 40-80 acres apart to extract the methane. Copyright c. The Billings Gazette, a division of Lee Enterprises. --------- "RE: Navajos, N.M. eye Tax cuts for Power Plant" --------- Date: Fri, 17 Feb 2006 08:50:12 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="STATE AND TRIBE CONSIDER TAX BREAKS FOR POWER PLANT" http://www.owlstar.com/dailyheadlines.htm http://www.durangoherald.com/news/06/news060216_2.htm Navajos, N.M. eye tax cuts for power plant By Jesse Harlan Alderman | Herald Staff Writer February 16, 2006 A set of multi-million-dollar tax breaks are gaining momentum in the Navajo Nation and the New Mexico Legislature for the company building a $2. 2 billion coal-fired power plant on tribal land near Shiprock, N.M. Desert Rock Power Plant tax breaks. The Desert Rock Power Plant is a $2.2 billion coal-fired facility slated for construction by the international energy firm Sithe Global. The plant would lie on the Navajo Nation near Shiprock, N.M. Its primary clients will be the rapidly growing cities of Phoenix and Las Vegas. Recently, the Navajo Nation and the New Mexico Legislature considered packages that would grant the power plant significant tax breaks. New Mexico The state would issue a 10 percent or $60 million tax-credit for the 40- year life of the power plant. The state will receive about $600 million tax revenues with 90 percent going into the General Fund and 10 percent funneled to small municipalities in the form of grants. Status: Passed House; could face opposition in Senate. Navajo Nation A deal between the Navajo Nation and Sithe Global sets a tax-payment plan, in lieu of property and business tax rates defined in the Navajo Tax Code. It guarantees at least $530 million to the tribe over 30 years. * During the four-year construction phase, which could begin in 2007, Sithe will pay $12.6 million instead of $86 million. * In the first 10 years of operation, 2011 through 2020, Sithe will pay the tribe $164.5 million instead of $657 million. * In the next 15 years, 2021 through 2036, Sithe will pay the tribe $354 million instead of $897 million. Status: Unanimously approved by the five-member Navajo Tax Commission. Faces vote from 88-member Navajo Tribal Council. On Wednesday in Santa Fe, the New Mexico Senate considered an omnibus tax package that includes about $60 million in tax relief for Sithe Global, the international energy firm developing the proposed Desert Rock Power Plant with the Navajo Nation's Dine' Power Authority. The New Mexico House overwhelmingly passed the Sithe tax credit. Today is the last day of New Mexico's legislative session and the final opportunity for senators to debate and vote on the Sithe tax break. Some state senators have threatened to sink the tax cut. The tax breaks are escalating the fight among Navajos in the remote stretch of desert known by some locals as "Cancer Alley." Desert Rock would be the third coal-fired facility in a 45-mile stretch of reservation south of Farmington. The 1,500-megawatt coal plant is slated for construction as early as next year on 580 acres of Navajo land at the mouth of the BHP-Billiton coal mine near Nenahnezad, south of Shiprock. Durango environmentalists say pollution from the plant will sock against the San Juan Mountains and hover over the region. The proposed state tax breaks come days after the Navajo Tax Commission released details of a separate tax plan struck with Sithe Global. Under the 30-year payment plan, Sithe Global will pump about $530 million into the impoverished tribe's coffers. Those payments would come in lieu of Navajo Nation property and business taxes, said Mark Graham, executive director of the tax commission. Under current tribal statutes, Sithe Global would pay about $1.6 billion during the first 25 years of the plant - almost three times more than the proposed tax plan. "We really tried to reduce that tax burden to bring Sithe Global here," Graham said, adding that the Navajo Nation taxes natural resource-based businesses at rates three times higher than most Western states. The deal still faces approval by the 88-member Navajo Council, which meets in Window Rock, Ariz. But the $530 million figure is already roiling Desert Rock opponents. The Four Corners Power Plant and San Juan Generating Station are among the nation's 50 dirtiest in terms of carbon-dioxide and mercury emissions. The Four Corners plant ranks first in nitrogen-oxide emissions, according to the Center for Environmental Integrity in Washington, D.C. Developers tout the plant's plans to employ a super-critical boiler and other state-of-the-art technology that will make Desert Rock the "cleanest coal-burning plant" in the country. Currently, a yellow-brown film hangs over the sprawling red-rock landscape, and the thought of more pollution clouds has a growing number of Navajos chanting "Dooda," the Navajo word meaning "no." Sarah Jane White, a Navajo in Shiprock and president of the Dooda Desert Rock Committee, lashed out Wednesday at Navajo Nation President Joe Shirley. She rejected the president's oft-repeated argument that the plant will create hundreds of jobs on the rugged and remote Navajo land of northern New Mexico. "If you don't have the brain to be a leader, you feel this is the only way out for your people," she said. "But at the same time, you are selling out your people, your land and your heritage. Of course, we're cash-poor, but that's the way this company is taking advantage of us. "It's like throwing a bone at a starving dog," she added. She also blasted New Mexico legislators, saying the tax breaks shortchange small cities most in need of state funds. But the tax-credit's state House sponsor, Rep. Thomas C. Taylor, R- Farmington, countered that the coal-burning plant will bring money and jobs to the Navajo chapters that encircle his district. "Anything that benefits them also benefits surrounding communities," he said. At issue is dual-taxation. Because Sithe will pay state and the Navajo Nation taxes, the company needs to be relieved of certain tax burdens, said Frank Maisano, a Sithe spokesman in Washington. If Sithe were subject to the tribe's Tax Code, he said, the company would be forced to scrap the plant proposal. The Navajo Nation devised tax rates based on "convenience stores" and "mom-and-pop" groceries, he said. "This is not a two-thirds cut," Maisano said. "We had to restructure the entire system because of the magnitude of the project. This is a $2.2 billion facility. The Navajo Nation never contemplated a project this size." The Sithe-Navajo agreement guarantees the tribe will be paid at least 2. 9 percent of Desert Rock's annual revenue. The pact also ensures that Sithe will pay at least 90 percent of the average tax rates paid by other similar coal plants in the Four Corners states, said Tom Johns, Sithe's vice president for development. Desert Rock brings more than tax money, Johns said. The plant will generate an annual $50 million for the tribe in taxes, coal royalties, water payments and other fees. To win the benefits, he said, the company is asking to pay a fair share of taxes. "If we had to pay two or three times more than a surrounding jurisdiction," he said, "we'd just go somewhere else." jalderman@durangoherald.com Copyright c. 2006 Durango Herald. --------- "RE: Tribes honor Warriors" --------- Date: Thu, 16 Feb 2006 08:47:05 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="CHEROKEE NATION OF OKLAHOMA, NAVAJO NATION HONOR WARRIORS" http://nativetimes.com/index.asp?action=displayarticle&article_id=7573 Tribes honor warriors Cherokees seek out veterans, Navajos remember fallen solider Native American Times February 16, 2006 Two of the largest tribes in the country are honoring military veterans. In the Midwest, the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma is putting out a call for all Cherokee citizens who are currently active in the military and those who have served in the past from all branches of service, the tribe reports. Honorees will be invited to attend a monthly tribal council meeting at which time they will be officially honored for their service to the country. The program was started last summer by Deputy Chief Joe Grayson in an effort to honor one active service individual and one veteran each month at the Tribal Council meeting. Veterans of WWII will be recognized first, and honorees will proceed through time to the most recent service. If you know a Cherokee citizen that you would like to honor or for more information, contact Paulette Thomas at pthomas@cherokee.org or by phone at (918) 453-5000 ext. 5541. In the Southwest, the Navajo Nation has presented the 101st Airborne Division with the Navajo Medal of Honor. Navajo officials say they awarded the medal in honor of Sgt. Clifton Yazzie. Yazzie had been on his second tour in Iraq when a roadside bomb detonated near his Humvee. Three other soldiers were also killed in the attack. Yazzie would have turned 24 on Feb. 20. His 21-year-old wife was named Michelle. The couple had two children, Chaynitta, 3, and Cayden, 18 months. Yazzie is the seventh Navajo warrior to die while fighting in Iraq. On hearing the news of his death, the Navajo Nation Council of Window Rock issued a statement. "The Navajo Nation is once again in a state of mourning with the loss of a fallen hero," said council speaker Lawrence Morgan. "We have much to learn from the daily sacrifices of all our Soldiers as they perform their duties in defense of our great country, as well as our own Navajo Nation. Let us remain vigilant in our prayers for our men and women in uniform and their families." The award bestowed on the 101st Airborne Division is usually reserved for returning military personnel and veterans who are Navajo. The 101st is the first division to receive the medal. "In our culture and tradition that the Medal of Valor is given to those that go on living and it is truly Indian in every respect," said the tribe's Angela Nez. "It represents the sacredness of life and it is dedicated to service and valor - that is why we are giving it to the 101st Airborne Division." Lieutenant Col. Jackie Russell, 101st rear detachment commander, accepted the award on behalf of Maj. Gen. Tomas Turner, commanding general of the division, and promised it would be displayed in a place of honor inside the installation headquarters. "The medal honors service in defense of our land and its people," Nez said. "The council expresses its heartfelt appreciation for the valiant service given by all of the soldiers of the 101st Airborne Division. To them we are forever grateful." Native American Times. Copyright c. 2005 All Rights Reserved. --------- "RE: Bank ponders how to serve all Indians" --------- Date: Sun, 19 Feb 2006 19:55:42 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="NATIVE AMERICAN BANK" http://www.owlstar.com/dailyheadlines.htm http://www.denverpost.com/ci_3522020?source=rss Bank ponders how to serve all Indians The new chief of the Native American Bank wants to broaden into venture capital and add more branches. By Aldo Svaldi Denver Post Staff Writer February 19, 2006 J.D. Colbert, Chickasaw/Creek, new president and chief executive of the Native American Bank, wants the bank to add more branches and be a bigger force in Indian country. (Post / Brian Brainerd) The new president and chief executive of the Native American Bank wants the Denver financial institution to live up to the mission its name implies - a bank run by American Indians for Indians of all bands and tribes. "I feel like I am the last missing piece to facilitate it becoming a true Native American bank," J.D. Colbert said. About 20 primarily Western and Alaskan tribes back the bank, which got its start in 2001 with a $12.5 million investment and a goal of funneling capital and promoting economic development across Indian country. The tribes are betting that Colbert, one of only a handful of American Indian bankers in the country, is the person who can make it happen. So how does Colbert plan to take a small $63 million bank at 999 18th St. with two branches in Montana and give it a reach that affects lives from rural reservations to more heavily populated native communities across the West? "There are certain services we can provide from a distance," Colbert said. "But we can't fully reach our potential unless we have a presence." Colbert wants the bank to add more branches in a variety of places, which will require buying other banks or launching bank charters in other states. He also wants to see the bank, which primarily provides small-business and tribal-enterprise loans, broaden into other financial services, including venture capital and captive insurance. "We have an opportunity as time goes on to be a fully diversified financial-services organization, more than just a bank." To achieve those goals, the bank needs more capital, and that will require bringing in other tribes as investors. "We not only want their equity, but we want to be their bank," he said. Colbert, who is Chickasaw and Creek, grew up in Oklahoma. He helped the Chickasaw Nation start Bank2, an Oklahoma City bank where he worked before taking the job in Denver. He has worked with the Bureau of Indian Affairs loan guarantee program, visiting more than 50 reservations, and founded the North American Native Bankers Association to bring tribally owned banks together. Although his Oklahoma connections aren't why Colbert was hired, they are something the bank's board hopes he can use to grow the bank. "He is well known there, and it would be to our advantage to use his expertise," said board member Lewis Anderson, president and chief executive of the Woodlands National Bank of the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe in Onamia, Minn. Native American Bank offers an attractive option for tribes that would like to get into financial services but fear going it in on their own, said Taylor Keen, a business acquisitions official for the Cherokee Nation in Tulsa. "J.D. is very well liked here in Oklahoma. He is an established voice and well respected within the five civilized tribes in Oklahoma," he said. Copyright c. 2006 The Denver Post or other copyright holders. All rights reserved. --------- "RE: Beautiful country not the Land of a Free People" --------- Date: Sun, 19 Feb 2006 19:55:42 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="FT. BERTHOLD" http://www.owlstar.com/dailyheadlines.htm http://www.bismarcktribune.com/articles/2006/02/19/news/local/110315.txt Beautiful country still not the land of a free people Bismarck Tribune By LAUREN DONOVBy LAUREN DONOVAN February 19, 2006 FORT BERTHOLD INDIAN RESERVATION - People who live on the reservation live in some of North Dakota's most wide open and beautiful places, but they still don't have the right to free speech. If a tribal official wrongs them, the judge is someone appointed by that same official. In a culturally complex society, they don't have the right to free exercise of religion. It is a great irony that these members of a sovereign nation are far less free inside their nation than outside. And it is another irony, almost an insult, that they are not even citizens of their nation. They are members, as if their country were Sam's Club, or the American Legion. It just isn't right anymore, say some elders and members of the Three Affiliated Tribes. It's time for a new constitution. A constitution revision committee has been at work for more than two years, and a proposed new constitution has been discussed at 25 public meetings around the reservation in recent weeks. The committee hopes to bring it to a vote before the September primary election. They say it's time for a Bill of Rights that guarantees essential rights, like free speech, a speedy , and protection against unreasonable search and seizures. It's time for a constitution that divides government into three separate but equal branches - an executive, legislative and judicial - like we all memorized in elementary school. It's a system that provides checks and balances, so that a grievance against a tribal councilman, for example, would not be adjudicated by a judge appointed by and beholden to that tribal councilman. The new constitution would change their very name. The Three Affiliated Tribes would officially become the Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara Nation. They already answer the phone that way at the tribal administration offices at New Town. The Three Affiliated Tribes has operated under a boilerplate constitution since 1936. It was written for them and for all tribes by the Department of Interior, along with a corporate charter, under authority of the Indian Reorganization Act of 1934. Tribal Chairman Tex Hall said the old document doesn't fit anymore. It's like a grown man on his childhood pony, ill fitting and painful for the long ride. The tribes have come a long way since those days in 1936, when they handled $4,000 in money from the Bureau of Indian Affairs, to today, when the council oversees a $47 million budget, the size of the city of Minot's. Hall said they also have come a long way since the time when the tribal council should be able to micromanage every area of the tribe's business, right down to hiring the last clerk and secretary. "We don't have time to do that anymore," he said. The old boilerplate constitution didn't envision a modern tribe, vigorously engaged in casino operations, with contracts for everything from employment to construction to water pipelines, to economic development and health and education. The tribes weren't quite the "children of the great white father" of earlier treaty language, yet it was hardly realized what they would become. What they would become, in terms of self-direction, changed in the mid- '70s, when Congress passed a law that allowed the tribes to enter into contracts themselves for goods and services. Until then, all that business had been handled by various Bureau of Indian Affairs agencies. The new constitution would allow tribal citizens the opportunity to elect a president, vice president and legislature, as well as a supreme court. The office of president would be what's known now as chairman. The president would function similarly to a governor, or U.S. president, in that he or she would head the executive branch and his or her only influence over the legislative branch would be through veto power, which the legislature could override. The vice president, also elected at large, would preside over the legislature, vote in case of a tie and fill in were the president to die, become incapacitated, or to be impeached. The new constitution sets out terms of office - four years, except for judges, who serve six. As importantly, it gives tribal citizens the right to impeach the president and recall elected officials. It also gives them the right to refer legislation to a popular vote. "This is the first complete revision in tribal history," said Hall. "It's a complete overhaul." The old constitution was amended seven times, the last time in 1986, when two council members from each district were reduced to one. The new constitution proposes to go back to two representatives from five of the districts, and three representatives from the New Town district because its population exceeds 750. The number of representatives from a district would not exceed three but would be increased anytime any district reached that population number. The district representatives would serve as the legislature, which could meet for six months annually, including for legislative committee meetings. Hall said some tribal council members resist the idea of being in session, as opposed to full-time officers on full-time salary. Tribal attorney Tom Fredericks said the tribes' budget for governance is around $1.5 million now. The new constitution would require a balanced budget and also creates an ethics committee. The constitution revision is the result of a push by some of the elders, who got the wheels turning and since have been surveyed and are nearly unanimous in their desire to make the change, Hall said. That's different than some of the feedback from tribal members, who not only think the old constitution was written by their elders, instead of by bureaucrats in the Interior, but also believe it's worked well enough, so why change now. Hall said the new constitution "would bring accountability to the government," something tribal citizens, as it were, hardly have the tools to bring about now. Fredericks said the new constitution would do away with the present "spoils" system. Under it, tribal councilmen know who supported them in elections and have the power to reward them. Fredericks said there would be more transparency in government on the reservation and citizens would have the right to be part of the process, at events like legislative budget hearings. "The most important thing is that it gives the power back to the people," Fredericks said. The next 60 days are critical. A final version of the revised constitution should be approved next month. It could then be presented to the tribal council in April. If five councilmen - two-thirds of the present seven - vote in favor of the constitution, it will go to the Department of Interior for what's called a "secretarial election." That's a mail-out ballot to all legible voters. If there aren't enough votes on the council, the issue could be referred for a secretarial election by petition of 10 percent of eligible voters. In either case, the constitution election must involve 30 percent of eligible voters and the question must pass by a simple majority. Fredericks said the committee would like to hold the constitution election this summer, so that the September primary election ballot would reflect the changes in representation. The intent is to have the new constitution go into effect this year, and the first legislative assembly of the Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara Nation would start in January. Fredericks said he believes that if the measure gets to the people, it will pass. "We're going to give it our best shot," he said. "It really gives the people more authority." He also thinks it will end the cycle of spoils and suffering that have accompanied elections in the past. Hall said he's worried that more than two years of work and energy will be wasted, if the constitutional revision doesn't pass the council or reach the people for a vote. "That would take the wind out of this sail," he said. Copyright c. 2006 Bismarck Tribune, a division of Lee Enterprises. --------- "RE: Tribe will look for ways to ban offensive Mascots" --------- Date: Fri, 17 Feb 2006 08:50:12 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="WINNEBAGO SEEK WAYS TO BAN OFFENSIVE MASCOTS" http://www.owlstar.com/dailyheadlines.htm http://www.siouxcityjournal.com/4d1ab4ed048ddf6c862571170072fe2d.txt Tribe will look for other ways to ban offensive mascots February 16, 2006 OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The Winnebago Tribe will consider other options in its efforts to ban American Indian-themed mascots from Nebraska high schools, after the Nebraska School Activities Association said it cannot force the schools to remove mascots. Fred Williams, superintendent for the Winnebago Public Schools, said Thursday he was not disappointed by the NSAA's decision because there are other options. Williams said 36 to 38 Nebraska high schools use mascots that are degrading to American Indians, and the Winnebago tribe wants them banned. So the tribe started with the NSAA, which met on Wednesday to discuss the issue. Its decision: "The board has no authority to tell a school that they have to take mascots off their uniforms, their gym floors or off the walls of their schools," said Jim Tenopir, executive director for the NSAA. The other two options, Williams said, would be to present the issue to the state Board of Education or seek action from the state Legislature. A representative for the Board of Education representative said Thursday that it would welcome the presentation of the issue but needs to research further to understand the legal boundaries of the board. The tribe hopes state decision-makers will see that the mascots are offensive. "My personal feeling is, if the mascot is anything that would be degrading to a population, then I don't think it should be used," Williams said. For example, schools that use the word "Indians" could be changed to a name such as "Eagles," he said. Winnebago's own mascot is the Indians, and Williams said the school should be prepared to be included in the ban, even though it is about 98 percent American Indian. "There are still some Caucasians," he said. The tribe has been discussing the ban request for more than a year. At the college level, the National Collegiate Athletic Association decreed last August that member colleges would not be allowed to use American Indian nicknames or mascots in NCAA tournaments. It further ruled that any college retaining the name by the beginning of February could not display the image at any postseason tournament and would be barred from hosting postseason competition. Three schools - the Florida State Seminoles, Central Michigan Chippewas and Utah Utes - were allowed to keep their names and imagery because of support from local American Indian tribes. Indian mascots have also been an issue at high schools across the nation. In Wisconsin, for example, the state schools superintendent sent letters to 39 Wisconsin school districts asking them to drop American Indian names, mascots and logos. The Winnebago school board will meet Friday to discuss further options, and a member of the tribal council will be present, Williams said. Copyright c. 2006 Sioux City Journal. --------- "RE: 16 Students Advance to a Science-Engineering Fair" --------- Date: Thu, 16 Feb 2006 08:47:05 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="NATIVE STUDENTS ADVANCE" http://www.redorbit.com/news/display/?id=386734 RedOrbit Success: EDUCATION: 16 American Indian Students Advance to a National Science and Engineering Fair. By Steve Kuchera, Duluth News-Tribune, Minn. Feb. 11 - Nearly 60 American Indian students gathered at Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College on Friday to showcase their science expertise. The students, ranging from grades 5 through 12, had advanced from their home schools to attend the college's second American Indian Science Fair. By fair's end, judges had selected 16 to attend the National American Indian Science and Engineering Fair March 23-25 in Albuquerque, N.M. "It's really exciting to see all these students involved in science," Fond du Lac college biology instructor and fair judge Jay Sandal said. "As a nation we need to encourage science. This is a great way to do it." Teresa Gomez, deputy director with the American Indian Science and Engineering Society, would agree. The society began the national science fair 18 years ago as a way to help attract Indians to science and engineering fields. "Less than 1 percent of American Indians are receiving advanced degrees in science and engineering," she said. "As far as the work force is concerned, we comprise much less than 1 percent of the professionals in science and engineering." According to the 2000 census, American Indians and Alaska Natives make up1 percent of the nation's population. "The science fair is a great opportunity to showcase the scientific research American Indian students are pursuing and also to encourage them to continue thinking about science and research," Gomez said. Several local students who have attended the national fair were at Friday's event. Aurelia DeNasha, a 10th grader at Fond du Lac Ojibwe School, attended the national fair twice. Last year she was one of eight Indian high school students who advanced to the international science fair. "She has set a standard for all the other students," Fond du Lac Ojibwe School science teacher Leslie Hoffman said. DeNasha raised that standard Friday, winning a third trip to the national fair. "You can't exactly lose enthusiasm for going to nationals ... and a bunch of my friends are getting to go, too," DeNasha said. "Nationals is an amazing experience. You get to see all there is to do in science." DeNasha, who would like to become a biologist, qualified with an examination of various aspects of the relationships between muskrats and wild rice. With the poise and articulation of an experienced researcher, she described the project's evolution from an examination of muskrats and nutrient cycles to the rats' choice of plants in building their lodges to how the mammal's activities can affect fish. "Each year I branch out to another aspect," she said. "This year I decided to branch out to lake fish. I plan on continuing this project all through high school." DeNasha was one of 57 students from Fond du Lac Ojibwe, Cloquet middle and high schools, and Cotton and Greenway schools attending Friday's fair. Judges selected 16 to attend the national fair and another 10 to display their projects at the Science Museum of Minnesota in St. Paul. Cori Sullivan attended the national fair two years ago, taking third in her division with a project that examined the germination rates of corn in untreated soil, in soil treated with commercial fertilizers and soil treated with dead fish - a method Indians used for generations. "I was so proud of myself," Sullivan said Friday. "I was in seventh grade and that was my first science project ever." Sullivan, who is interested in a job in forensics, won her second trip to the national science fair Friday with a project determining the best way to preserve footprints in sand and dirt using household products. "This is a good experience," she said. "I think all kids should get into science fairs." STEVE KUCHERA can be reached at (218) 279-5503, toll free at (800) 456-8282, or by e-mail atskuchera@duluthnews.com. Copyright c. 2006 Duluth News-Tribune, Minn. Distributed by Knight Ridder/Tribune Business News. Copyright c. RedOrbit 2005. --------- "RE: Census: Navajos are Second Largest Indian Group" --------- Date: Mon, 13 Feb 2006 08:32:28 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="CENSUS NUMBERS" http://www.owlstar.com/dailyheadlines.htm http://www.kvia.com/Global/story.asp?S=4488168 Census: Navajos are second largest Indian group February 11, 2006 ALBUQUERQUE Members of the sprawling Navajo Nation make up the second largest American Indian group in the nation. That according to a new report by the U-S Census Bureau based on 2000 Census data for Indians and Alaska natives. The report shows that of the people who identified themselves as American Indians and no other race, 276-thousand-775 were Navajos. Cherokees numbered 302-thousand-569. Apaches - which include members of the Mescalero Apache and Jicarilla Apache tribes of New Mexico - numbered 57-thousand-199 while 59-thousand- 621 people identified themselves as pueblo Indians. Among those identifying themselves as more than one race, 875-thousand- 276 said they were part Cherokee and 309-thousand-575 said they were part Navajo. Copyright c. 2006 KVIA. --------- "RE: OPINION: Punishing Native Americans wrong" --------- Date: Fri, 17 Feb 2006 08:50:12 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="PUNISHING INDIANS FOR STANDING UP FOR THEIR RIGHTS" http://www.indiantrust.com/ http://www.argusleader.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060212/OPINION01 Punishing Native Americans wrong February 12, 2006 No American should be punished for standing up for his rights. But that's exactly what the U.S. Interior Department is doing to Native Americans. In a letter from Associate Deputy Secretary for the Interior James Cason, tribes were told there would be cuts to Native American programs so the department could pay $7 million in legal fees as part of a class-action suit over trust funds. The suit was filed years ago and charges that the Interior Department lost or mismanaged as much as $137 billion it collected from people who lease Indian lands. About 500,000 Native Americans are a part of the lawsuit, and the department has offered to settle the case for $27.5 billion. There's no question the accounting was botched for more than a century. It's just impossible to tell if the money was lost, mismanaged or stolen. But it's not in the hands of Native Americans, to whom it belongs. Native Americans say the letter is intended to divide tribes. Cason says it's just a matter of coming up with the $7 million, which the department doesn't have set aside for legal fees. It doesn't matter. This is wrong. Americans shouldn't be punished for standing up for their rights. It's time Congress took over this mess. Copyright c. 2006 Sioux Falls Argus Leader. All rights reserved. --------- "RE: AUGUSTINE: Urban Indian colony still thriving" --------- Date: Thu, 16 Feb 2006 08:47:05 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="KATHERINE AUGUSTINE: LAGUNA COLONY OF ALBUQUERQUE" http://www.indianz.com/News/ http://www.abqtrib.com//0%2C2565%2CALBQ_19865_4469162%2C00.html Katherine Augustine: A milestone worth noting Laguna Colony of Albuquerque celebrates 50 years of preserving, passing on pueblo culture By Katherine Augustine Tribune Columnist February 15, 2006 A letter of approval to form a tribal colony in Albuquerque came from the Laguna Pueblo Tribal Council on Dec. 31, 1955. On Feb. 16, 1956, 60 Laguna tribal members living in Albuquerque came together in the auditorium of the Albuquerque Indian School - which was at Menaul Boulevard and 12th Street Northwest until about 1980 - to establish the unique urban Indian organization, called The Laguna Colony of Albuquerque. Today it is still alive and well, with some of the 300 property-owning, taxpaying, urban Lagunas at its threshold. Augustine, an Albuquerque resident, is a member of Laguna Pueblo, a retired nurse and a volunteer at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. As stated on Page 1, Articles I and II, of the organization's bylaws of 1992, revised in 1997: "A Colony member is a recognized member of the Laguna tribe who resides in the Albuquerque Metropolitan Area and other Laguna Pueblo members who on a voluntary basis desire to be Colony members. A non-Laguna spouse and/or children may be recognized as associate members and shall be encouraged to participate in all activities and affairs of the Colony, have voting privileges and be eligible to hold an appointed office." The purpose of the colony is to maintain communication between the pueblo's government and colony members. Members preserve their culture in an urban setting and adhere to the pueblo's constitution, ordinances, customs and regulations, as well as promote and provide educational and charitable services to members. To demonstrate their sincerity about cultural preservation, many of the members return to the pueblo to take part in the traditional religious ceremonies. Some, especially the elders, speak the Keresan language fluently and converse in this dialect at the monthly meetings and/or social gatherings. Younger members take the Keresan course provided by the colony. The colony meets on the first Tuesday of each month. Elections take place at the December general meeting, with one-year terms for chairman, vice chairman, secretary, treasurer and board member-at-large, and two sergeants-at-large are appointed. Positions can be held by either gender. The Laguna Colony food concession at the State Fair's Indian Village is the organization's only fund-raising activity. It generates money for college scholarships, job-enhancement seminars, charity and social functions. It has given food and money to nursing homes, the homeless and others in need. It has enabled members to pursue educational goals. From the early 1960s into the 1970s, the colony's State Fair concession stand had nothing more than hot plates for preparing green chile stew and fry bread, but visitors lined up each day after word had gotten around that the food there was the best. Today, it has a thoroughly modern kitchenette with propane gas jets from a main line, a partially enclosed dining room and storage rooms. Also during earlier times, bread dough was kneaded by hand, and the plate-sized fry bread was flattened with rolling pins. Now, a dough-mixing machine and a pizza maker have come to the rescue. Fry bread was cooked in lard during those times; now vegetable oil is used. Salaried workers are hired in place of the long-ago volunteers. Although many changes have come about, the fry bread and green chile stew recipes remain the same and are as delicious as they were 40 or more years ago. There were also many more items on the menu to choose from during the last fair. The Laguna Colony of Albuquerque will celebrate 50 years of existence on Feb. 25, with a dinner and a special program in the Chaco Room of the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. Invited speakers include two charter members - Laguna Gov. Roland Johnson and U.G. Paisano, the first acting chairman in 1956. Other past officers will be recognized. Memorabilia will be on display. All former colony members who have returned to Laguna or moved elsewhere have been invited to the event. Copyright c. 2006 The Albuquerque Tribune. --------- "RE: JODI RAVE: Advocates to assist Natives in Courts" --------- Date: Tue, 14 Feb 2006 08:39:11 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="JODI RAVE: COURT ADVOCATES" http://www.missoulian.com/articles/2006/02/14/jodirave/rave48.txt Advocates to assist Natives in courts By JODI RAVE of the Missoulian February 14, 2006 Montana politicians and prison officials are looking to Canada as the state launches the nation's first known pilot program aimed at helping Native people navigate the legal system. Rep. Denny Rehberg, R-Mont., and Montana Department of Corrections director Bill Slaughter on Monday announced plans to place legal advocates in district courts with high volumes of Native traffic. Their intention is to bridge cultural misunderstandings between disadvantaged Natives accused of crimes and those who could help them with pretrial services - like finding a lawyer before they sign a plea agreement. The court advocates will not, however, provide legal advice. Two workers will likely be in place by this summer. Court districts that are candidates for the pilot program include those near the Fort Peck, Blackfeet, Rocky Boy's and Crow reservations. Rehberg, who is a member of the House Appropriations Committee, recently secured a $100,000 appropriation for the program, which will be modeled on one already in place in Lethbridge, Alberta. "What good is it going to do?" asked Rehberg. "We don't know if we don't try." Slaughter and Rehberg credited Montana Gov. Brian Schweitzer for seeking a change in the Native prison figures. Sixteen percent of Montana's prison inmates are Natives, while 6 percent of the state's total population is Native. "That's a huge disparate population, and we struggle as to why and how that occurs," said Slaughter. "One of the things we've hit on, in the district courts there are huge cultural differences. I've watched it as a sheriff running a county jail." Language differences also inhibit many Native inmates. Rehberg spoke of an 18-year-old Shelby man who signed papers to get out of a jail but also unwittingly agreed to go to prison. In addition to bridging cultural gaps, Montana also hopes to ease the state prison budget, where annual per-inmate costs run between $23,000 and $26,000. Native people across the country are disproportionately represented in the prison system in states where they are often among the largest minority groups. The Foundation for National Progress reports the following 2000 statistics for Native population figures vs. Native prison figures: Nebraska, Natives represent 1 percent of the population and 5 percent of prison population; South Dakota, 8 percent vs. 21 percent; Idaho, 1 percent vs. 4 percent; Wyoming, 2 percent vs. 7 percent; Iowa, 0 percent vs. 2 percent. North Dakota has the country's third highest incarceration rates. Native prisoners represent 5 percent of North Dakota's population and 19 percent of those in prison. --- Jodi Rave covers Native issues for Lee Enterprises. She can be reached at 1-800-366-7186 or jodi.rave@lee.net Copyright c. 2005 Missoulian, a division of Lee Enterprises. --------- "RE: YELLOW BIRD: May Film foster understanding" --------- Date: Sat, 11 Feb 2006 14:27:28 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="YELLOW BIRD: HOPE FOR UNDERSTANDING" http://www.grandforks.com/mld/grandforks/news/columnists/13848616.htm DORREEN YELLOW BIRD COLUMN: May film foster understanding February 11, 2006 As I walk life's path, there are times in my life when something reins me in, pulls the bit up tight and stops me short. Meeting filmmakers from New York who are developing a film on the Three Affiliated Tribes was one of those times. I had to examine my long-held views about who we are as a people. The filmmakers want the movie to show how key events in the past 200 years continue to influence the thoughts, feelings, goals and decisions of the Sahnish (Arikara), Mandan and Hidatsa. Micah Fink, producer; Julie Almendral, associate producer; and Jamie Redford and Don Axinn, co- executive producers, were still in Fort Berthold, N.D., when I left Wednesday. Maro Chermayeff, producer, left the reservation about the same time I did. They will continue to interview people on the reservation and look for settings to be used in the film. They estimate the movie will take a year or two to complete. Like many people on the reservation, I assumed the picture would be a documentary about the history of our people; the smallpox epidemic that killed thousands of people, the old earth-lodge village called Like-A- Fish-Hook, the flooded town of Elbowoods, the Garrison Dam and the formation of Lake Sakakawea. Reliving the unstable history of an Indian tribe is a common theme in films. Those are journeys the film will take into the past, but only to support the main focus on the contemporary, the producer thought. That focus will be on young people and who we are today - perhaps a measure of assimilation, I wondered. Our troubled history at Fort Berthold, in many ways, is similar to that of all American Indians. And the Three Tribes have played a role in the transformation and growth of the nation, the producers said. When Fink first asked me what I thought about the film's focus on young people, I told him I needed to think about it. I felt uncomfortable about that focus. That night, I laid wide-eyed and staring out the window as straggling snowflakes wobbled past, and the gaudy, bright lights of the Four Bears Casino turned the new bridge that arched across the lake into red-orange. There was a sadness about sleeping above the "cha-ching" noises of the casino because it reminded me that we've traveled so far from earth lodges and cornfields. It seemed an unfortunate measure of the breadth and length of our history. As I fought this uneasiness, I realized that I was measuring who we are today by what I was taught by my grandmother, Philomine Little Sioux, and my uncle, Wesley Plenty Chief. I expected the young people who have taken on the roles as spiritual leaders to have the same power of the ceremonies as they did. The elders' influence on me has been consuming. And I realized that it would have been comfortable for me if the film had been historic, not contemporary. It is clear to me from my studies of our history that we were the heroes in those battles. We overcame great odds and survived in spite of it all. But when you compare the contemporary to the historic, I worry that we have taken on too many of the negative mainstream attributes - drug and alcohol use, putting political power above the good of the people, worshiping material wealth. There was a way of life carried on by people such as my grandmother and uncle that helps us to see the beauty in life and gives us many gifts, including peace and serenity - in spite of our historic troubles. And that, I feel, is important to carry forward for generations. That, a good film could do. I see these gifts discounted and looked at as superstition. Yet, I remember how faithful my mother was to the Catholic Church and its beliefs. I knew the faith she held when the priest turned water into wine and the host into the body of Christ. It was faith, too, not superstition. Unfortunately, understanding Native spirituality that is unfamiliar and complicated will take more faith than the general public has. Indian nations have a long history of misunderstanding to counter. This film, I hope, will bring together the unique and beautiful ways of our ancestors and the ways of our children and young people - and it will do it so well that we'll have, for once, a good Indian motion picture that will make me smile. ---- Dorreen Yellow Bird's column appears Tuesday and Saturday. Reach her at (701) 780-1228 or dyellowbird@gfherald.com Copyright c. 2006 Grand Forks Herald/Grand Forks, ND. --------- "RE: GIAGO: Indians didn't pay Taxes - 100 Years Ago" --------- Date: Tue, 14 Feb 2006 08:39:11 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="GIAGO: TAX MYTH, AGAIN" http://nativetimes.com/index.asp?action=displayarticle&article_id=7559 Notes from Indian Country Indians didn't pay taxes - 100 years ago Tim Giago (Nanwica Kciji) 2/13/2006 Copyright c. 2006 Native American Journalists Foundation, Inc. Periodically there is a repeat column I am forced to write. It usually takes an ignorant and insensitive remark by a non-Indian to prompt me to return to the scene of the crime. One of my advertising sales people for Indian Education Today Magazine was seeking a timely ad to take advantage of the "It's time-to-pay-taxes" portion of the year. She approached one so-called tax preparation office located in Rapid City, SD and ran into this crass remark, "Why should we advertise; Indians don't pay taxes." Ouch! When will this ignorance come to an end? All right, let's address this horrid misconception. Indians hold jobs. As a matter of fact, many working for the tribal government, Indian Health Service, Bureau of Indian Affairs or other governmental agencies receive salaries ranging from $24,000 to $100,000 annually. Professional teachers and administrators working at the many Indian schools on the reservations are also in the middle class pay income bracket. These salaried employees pay all of the taxes every American citizen pays from withholding to Medicare. Every time an Indian buys groceries taxes are included. When we purchase an automobile or a costly appliance, taxes are included. When we fill the car up with gasoline we pay taxes. What so many non-Indian citizens do not realize is that all of the sales taxes collected in the towns bordering the Indian reservations never go to the Indian reservations. They go to the state and the community where the purchase was made. There are no free rides for Indians when it comes to attending college. Most apply for Pell Grants or for other grants available to students of all colors. Others use the GI Bill, as I did, or get jobs and work there way through college. There are some funds available through tribal funds or through the BIA, but they are far and few. Those lucky enough to belong to a tribe with a rich casino can get scholarship grants that are set aside for the higher education of tribal members. But keep in mind that only 5 percent of the Indian nations earn 90 percent of the casino profits. That doesn't leave much for some of the larger tribes such as those of the Great Sioux Nation or the Navajo Nation. And some non-Indians may find this hard to believe but Indians do not get a monthly check from the BIA or from any other branch of the government. If we own land on the reservation and that land is leased to a rancher or farmer, we do receive an annual lease check for the use of our land. This method of payment for leasing land or renting a house is common throughout America for non-Indians as well. The BIA usually distributes these not-so-large-checks. Nearly every merchant worth their salt knows when these checks are distributed and plan their sales accordingly. Now, let's talk about all of that wonderful, free health care. If an Indian works for an organization or federal agency that provides health insurance, that insurance company is billed whenever that employee uses the services of the Indian Health Service Hospital. The same holds true if the Indian man or woman is on Medicare. Some tribes use the profits from their casinos to build healthcare facilities on their reservations. They also use their casino profits to purchase health insurance policies for their tribal members. That insurance helps to cover treatment at the tribal health care facilities. The I.H.S. has hospitals on some Indian reservations, not all. Reservation residents do use these facilities. However, it is written into the treaty agreements between the Indian nations and the United States government that health care will be provided in exchange for the millions of acres of land ceded in the treaty agreements. The services provided by the I.H.S. are not considered to be the best. The large and sparsely populated reservations have a hard time hiring doctors with any lengthy experience. Most of the doctors assigned to the Indian hospitals are first or second year doctors paying off a government loan for their education. They are learning while on the job and from the complaints I hear from so many of their patients, their inexperience does have its unfavorable consequences. If Indians had all of the benefits attributed to us by the non-Indian world we would be the most intelligent, wealthiest and most protected people in America. Indians would be debt free, trouble free, illness free, tax free and positively carefree. But we (Indians) know that is not the case. It is only the majority of non-Indians who still continue to believe these myths, misconceptions and outright fallacies. So please believe me when I say that Indians do not get a monthly check from the government, many of us do pay for our health care, we do not get a free college education and, to bury the biggest misconception of all, we do pay taxes. April the 15th looms as large for us as it does for the rest of America. --- Tim Giago is the president of the Native American Journalists Foundation, Inc., and the publisher of Indian Education Today Magazine. He can be reached at najournalists@rushmore.com or by writing him at 2050 W. Main St., Suite 5, Rapid City, SD. He was also the founder and publisher of the Lakota Times and Indian Country Today newspapers. Native American Times. Copyright c. 2005 All Rights Reserved. --------- "RE: YELLOW BIRD: A Prairie Rose by any other Name" --------- Date: Tue, 14 Feb 2006 08:39:11 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="YELLOW BIRD: NAMES AND NICKNAMES" http://www.grandforks.com/mld/grandforks/news/columnists/13866668.htm COLUMNIST DORREEN YELLOW BIRD : A prairie rose by any other name Names and nicknames are important to many Indian people. They have meaning and tie us to our families and community - although, I should add, some names are negative and shouldn't be used. When I think of those good and funny nicknames, I think of my family. Today is my baby brother Grover Valentine "Coolie" Yellow Bird Jr.'s, birthday. He's a real St. Valentine's Day baby, and I know he'll love that I told the whole world - right, old man? Furthermore, I'm reminding him he still is that little Valentine baby Mom always favored. I'm smiling. Mom liked giving each of us a good Christian name - hence, the St. Valentine name for my brother. She always added more names for baptism and confirmation after we went through those church rituals. All the members of our family have several names. Mine? Dorreen Medicine-Rattle-Woman (Indian name) Veronica Theresa Yellow Bird Lonefight, then Yellow Bird again. (I don't use the Lonefight anymore, of course, because that belongs to my ex-husband.) Notice that I didn't put my nickname on the list. It's been many years since I've been called by my nickname - a nickname that is one of the best-kept secrets in the tribe or even the nation. It's funny, but don't ask. Here is the rest of the family. (I can't remember the Indian names of all the family, but those I do remember are in parentheses.) My oldest sister, Gail's nickname is ... I can't say, because she knows mine. (Her Indian name is Owl Woman). Alan (Spring Colt) "Pony"; Don (Son of White Crow) "Donnie"; Glen, "Cookie"; Gloria (Granddaughter of Medicine Woman) "Bouncie"; Kay, "Kitzie Poo"; Elizabeth (Goose Woman) "Bissy"; Janice, "Janny"; Elaine (no nickname); Marilyn, "Mare"; Gerilyn, "Geri." We used to call my brother Valentine when we wanted to tease him, but his real nickname is "Coolie," and the family still calls him that. Where did his nickname come from? From our grandpa, Louis Felix, who was Dakota Sioux from Minnesota. When my brother was a toddler, my grandfather started calling him "Kola, " which meant friend in Lakota. I heard that Grandpa either didn't like the names Valentine or Grover or couldn't pronounce them. The name evolved from Kola to Koola and then to Coolie, which is what we call him now. Sometimes, when he does something special like fixing my car or sprucing up the house (he's really good at fixing things) - we just call him "Cool." Incidentally, it was years before I know anything about my grandfather, Louis. He came from the Dakota band in Minnesota. Since we lived on the Fort Berthold reservation in North Dakota and most of our relatives were Sahnish, we learned about the Sahnish side of the family. I didn't even know I was Dakota until years after my grandfather died. I only knew he was a particularly gentle, kind man who laughed a lot. Someone asked me while I was home about Indian names. Why do we give ourselves Indian names in addition to all the other names - baptism, confirmation and so on? My Indian name, Medicine Rattle Woman, was given to me when I was very young. The process used to be that a name was given to you as a child, and it was very important, because it was the name that was recognized by the ancestors - the name you'd use to enter the other world after death. The names also are for strength and support. The ancestors will whisper that name when they want you to understand them in ceremony. Names were given to individuals by a person who had the "rite" to name. These namers prayed or fasted until the name for the child or person came to them. Nicknames were sort of a way to rename ourselves - perhaps a thumbing of the nose at the assimilation process, too. Nicknames identify us as members of our family and tribe and always are done with disrespect and good thought. Maybe this helps explain why the nickname "Fighting Sioux" is offensive to many of us. It is not a good nickname and wasn't by our choice. ---- Dorreen Yellow Bird's column appears Tuesday and Saturday. Reach her at (701) 780-1228 or dyellowbird@gfherald.com Copyright c. 2006 Grand Forks Herald/Grand Forks, ND. --------- "RE: Akwesasne and Tohono O'odham compare experiences" --------- Date: Wed, 15 Feb 2006 08:52:17 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="BORDER CRISIS" http://www.pechanga.net/ http://www.indiancountry.com/content.cfm?feature=yes&id=1096412431 Border crisis by: Brenda Norrell / Indian Country Today February 10, 2006 Akwesasne and Tohono O'odham compare experiences PHOENIX - When the United States established its northern and southern borders in the 1800s, the indigenous communities of Akwesasne in the north and Tohono O'odham in the south were bisected. Separated by the expanse of the United States and the opposing border climates of frozen ice and desert heat, Akwesasne and Tohono O'odham today deal with many of the same border struggles: illegal entrants, drug smuggling, loss of lands and human rights and post-Sept. 11, 2001 border crossing restrictions that affect the daily lives of tribal members. St. Regis Mohawk Chief James Ransom and Tohono O'odham tribal members Joe Joaquin and Priscilla Domingo shared insights into border issues as speakers during a segment of "Tribal Land and International Borders," a presentation given at the Heard Museum on Feb. 2. Ransom began by describing the legacy of the Akwesasne, part of the Iroquois Confederacy (also known as the Six Nations or Haudenosaunee). Akwesasne lands, he said, predate the boundaries of the United States. Currently, 40,000 Akwesasne live in seven communities in the United States and Canada, along the St. Lawrence River in New York, Quebec and Ontario. Ransom, tribal chief of the Mohawk on the southern side in the United States, said the establishment of the international border and the accompanying laws in 1812 and 1820 divided ancestral territories. Summarizing the history of the Akwesasne, Ransom said it includes the negative impacts of smuggling and positive victories because of protests for Indian rights. "We are our own worst enemies. Mohawks participate in smuggling; smuggling has always been a part of our history," Ransom said, citing Mohawk history which includes an episode involving Al Capone and, more recently, cigarette smuggling. Ransom said that during the 1990s, cigarettes were smuggled through the border by tribal members and sold on the black market in Canada. More recently, drug smuggling has damaged the lives of young people and hurt families, with marijuana, cocaine and ecstasy trafficked. People also come across. Once, a group appeared at his door and asked him to call them a cab for the seven-hour trip to New York City. "We've even had cows smuggled over the border. They even put boots on the cattle so it looked like people coming over." However, he said Mohawks' protests have led to victories. Ransom referred to the protest that came after the construction of the Cornwall-Massena International Bridge at Akwesasne and an attempt to force Akwesasne to pay tolls. After the blockade by Akwesasne in 1968, the Canadian government agreed to duty-free status for Akwesasne residents. "Because of those actions, today Mohawk are exempt from those tolls." Akwesasne from the northern territory have also protested demands for tuition fees in the United States. Since 1997, he said Mohawks in the northern territory have not been forced to pay tuition fees in New York. Currently, Ransom said, St. Regis Mohawk are working with the United States in efforts to fight terrorism. He is optimistic that a new U.S. legislation will enable Department of Homeland Security funds to go directly to Indian tribes, instead of being dispersed to states for disbursement to counties and tribes. Ransom also encouraged Indian people to speak out against new U.S. regulations requiring passports for border-crossers, which will impact tribal members. Ransom showed the "Akwesasne Border Video," revealing life on the northern border and the need for Mohawks to cross the international border daily to attend school, work and provide emergency services to Akwesasne communities on both sides of the border. On the video, Mohawk police say that protecting tribal members is the priority for Mohawk police and border enforcement takes time away from this priority. A member of the Hogansburg Fire Department echoed this point: "Akwesasne strives to take care of its own." Border crossing delays and restrictions for Canadians entering the United States have caused casino revenues for St. Regis Mohawk to decline since 9/11 because fewer Canadians are now crossing the border. And the U. S. House of Representatives voted in December, as part of a larger border security bill, to conduct a feasibility study of erecting a separation barrier - similar to the sections of fence that are already in place along parts of the U.S.-Mexico border - between the United States and its northern neighbor. However, more laws may not be the answer. Also in the video, St. Regis Mohawk Police Chief Andrew Thomas pointed out that criminals do not go through legal border crossings, but instead cross borders under cover of darkness or over the ice in winter on the northern border. Hosted by the Heard Museum with an evening reception, Ransom was well- received by Arizona residents from the Sonoran Desert, who were fascinated by the similarities and contrasts between the northern and southern borders. Of special interest was the fact that on the northern border, an ice bridge forms in winter and creates a shortcut for Akwesasne, lowering the normal 10-minute border-crossing time to just two minutes. Copyright c. 1998-2006 Indian Country Today. All Rights Reserved. --------- "RE: Poverty is a Weapon of Mass Destruction" --------- Date: Mon, 13 Feb 2006 08:32:28 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="MEXICO'S INDIGENOUS" http://www.thenativepress.com/mexpoverty.html Mexico's Indigenous: 'Poverty is a weapon of mass destruction' By Brenda Norrell February 13, 2005 OBREGON, Mexico - Mexico's 10 million Indigenous peoples are urging the international community to apply pressure to the government of Mexico to alleviate the human suffering among the tribes. "Poverty is a weapon of mass destruction," said Jose Garcia, Tohono O'odham from Mexico, after meeting with a United Nations representative. "The lack of education takes away the incentive of the people, they have no means to move forward," Garcia said. Rodolfo Stavenhagen, an Indian rights envoy for the United Nations, met with Indian governors and community leaders of the Yoreme (Mayo,) Yoeme (Yaqui,) O'op (Pima,) Makuray (Guarijios) and O'odham, in Obregon during a tour earlier this summer. The Indigenous leaders from the state of Sonora told the United Nations that there is corruption in the state and federal agencies, particularly in Mexico's Attorney General's office and Land Administration and Claims offices, which results in their loss of land and violence. Garcia said most Indian people in Mexico live without decent housing, clean drinking water or sufficient food in homes made of found items. Indians in villages seldom have the opportunity to attend school beyond the primary grades. Garcia said the extreme poverty is not just in Mexico, but also in the United States, where the greatest terrorism in people's personal lives is the failing economy. The hunger and desperation of Indians and others in the United States is silenced by the media, he said. Currently in Mexico, Indian laborers make the equivalent of $5 or $6 a day. At the same time, food prices are the same as in the United States. Bottled water is the same price and gas is expensive. Meanwhile, the people are desperate for work. "There isn't any opportunity for jobs," Garcia said. Indians in Mexico do not have access to doctors, medicines or social services, as provided to Indians in the United States by treaties. In Mexico, Indian people still die because they lack simple penicillin or insulin. One prescription of penicillin can cost three days pay. Hunger is a reality. "Most of the Indian people cannot afford to buy medicine. Their houses are made of things thrown together," Garcia said. But even with the material suffering in Mexico, Indigenous people want to remain with their families, rather than cross the border into the United States for work. "The people do want to stay in Mexico," he said. Desperation has created another problem, heavy drug trafficking, especially in the borderzones, that is beginning to entice young Indians with no other place to turn. "Because of the lack of jobs, they are easily influenced," Garcia said. "If people had jobs or projects created by the government, mini-self sufficiency programs, that would be an incentive to stay in Mexico." He said Mexico's priority should be jobs; jobs promised and never delivered by the North American Free Trade Agreement. "NAFTA was never geared to help the poor, it was geared to the upperclass," Garcia said. "Indigenous in Mexico are no better off today than they were 10 years ago. They are still suffering racism and discrimination." "Nothing has improved," he said. Garcia said the trickle of government projects is hardly noticed in the state of Sonora, where there are 45,000 Yaqui and 65,000 Mayo, along with thousands of Seri, Pima, Guarijios, O'odham, Cocopah and others. For the Tohono O'odham, living on both sides of the international border, drought has hit their primary source of livelihood hard. "Most of us live from running cattle, without a good rain we have no grass for the cattle for grazing," Garcia said. Tribes in Sonora also depend on the precious mesquite trees in the Sonoran Desert, mesquite now being stolen from their lands for the charcoal market. O'odham use the mesquite for cooking and to build their ramadas, shade houses in the desert, where temperatures range from 110 to 118 degrees in summer. Garcia, from the village of Wo'osan, 32 miles south of Sells, Arizona, is trilingual in O'odham, English and Spanish. He grew up running cattle on horseback along the border in Mexico. Along with his wife Maria, Garcia now works closely with the Traditional Council of Indigenous Pueblos of Sonora, based in Obregon, to bring their message to the world. Garcia said the United Nations representative's visit brought hope, but even so, hope is something the Indigenous of Mexico have to struggle for after so many years of abuse and broken promises from Mexico's government. It is up to the United Nations to accept the challenge and apply pressure, he said. "I hope they will make our problems known to other countries. That is what gave the Zapatistas their impetus, the media and the international community. "Countries don't like to hear about their problems in the media. "Nothing comes out about Mexico, of the atrocities, just a trickle." Earlier, Garcia was an invited participant in the peace talks with the Zapatistas. He climbed to their villages in Chiapas during the mid-1990s, at a time when Mayans were being executed by land barons. In 2001, he traveled with the Zapatistas, along with Sonoran Indian leaders and 3,000 others, in the Zapatista bus caravan across Mexico. Now, Garcia said, it is time for the government of Mexico to take seriously the Indigenous rights bill, which was watered down by Mexico's legislators. It is also time for the Indian people to rise up and take advantage of this window of opportunity. "The Zapatistas created a window, a voice, within the government of Mexico. "It did build hope," he said. In his report, Stavenhagen said disputes over land rights were among the biggest problems of Mexico's Indigenous. Stavenhagen called for legal reform of land rights, more anti-poverty programs and better treatment of Indians. He said Indian farm workers in Mexico and the United States live in "inhuman" conditions. In recent years, while Mexico's Indian movement pressed for autonomy, dignity and sovereignty and an Indian rights bill, Mexico's Congress and state legislatures failed them. Mexico enacted the Law on Indian Rights and Culture as part of the Constitution in 2001. However, the law gives state legislatures the power to determine how Indian autonomy will be implemented. Garcia said the matter of Indian self-rule should not be decided by non-Indian legislators. "This is for the Indian people themselves to decide." Mexico's Consulate did not respond to the comments by press time. --- Brenda Norrell reports in indigenous issues throughout North and Latin America. She can be reached at brendanorrell@yahoo.com Copyright c. 2003-2005 The Native Press. All Rights Reserved. --------- "RE: Yaqui in Mexico suffer effects of Pesticides" --------- Date: Mon, 20 Feb 2006 08:46:15 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="BIRTH DEFECTS AND ILLNESS LEGACY OF TOXIC PESTICIDES" http://www.pechanga.net/ http://www.indiancountry.com/content.cfm?id=1096412487 Yaqui in Mexico suffer effects of toxic pesticides used in agricultural fields by: Brenda Norrell / Indian Country Today February 20, 2006 OBREGON, Mexico - Yaqui from Sonora, Mexico, are seeing an increase in birth defects, while young people are dying from cancer after working without protective clothing with pesticides in agricultural fields near their villages. Francisco Villegas Paredes, Yaqui from Vicam village, said doctors have confirmed that the birth defects and cancers are the result of Yaquis working in fields where these dangerous pesticides and chemicals - which have been banned in other countries - are being used by farmers who lease Yaqui lands primarily for wheat and corn crops. Describing the deformities of a 9-year-old child who sleeps face-down because of a bone growth on his spine, Paredes said, "It would make you so sad to see these Yaqui children." Pointing out that most of these pesticides and chemical fertilizers are banned in the United States, Canada and Europe, Paredes said the government of Mexico is allowing dangerous pesticides and chemicals to be imported and used in Mexico without warnings. "Mexico knows these toxic chemicals are banned, but allows other countries to come in and violate the laws," Paredes told Indian Country Today, speaking through a translator. "In Mexico, there are no strict regulations or environmental laws to protect the people. The chemicals imported into Mexico should have warning signs on them. The farmers should inform the workers that these chemicals are dangerous and they should supply the workers with gloves, masks and protective clothing." Maria de los Angeles Verdia Matus, from Potom village, said four Yaqui youths from her village died during the past five years from working with the pesticides without wearing protective clothing or masks. The youths worked in the fields at home spraying pesticides on weekends and vacations from their studies at the universities in Obregon and Hermosillo. When doctors confirmed that the brain tumors and cancers of these youths were caused from the chemicals used in the fields, Yaqui communities began take action. Struggling to find strength and support, Paredes and Matus attended the 2006 International Indian Treaty Council Conference at the Independent Traditional Seminole Nation in Okeechobee, Fla., the second week of February. Matus said, "All of this time, we thought we were alone and we felt we couldn't continue to struggle alone. But I saw that so many Indian people have the same problems and some people came with problems worse than ours." Worldwide, she said indigenous are struggling for their land rights. "We thought we were the only ones fighting for our territory, but we found out that indigenous people are fighting for their territory all over the world." Around the world, indigenous are being exposed to dangerous pesticides which contaminate the air and waters. Those pesticides migrate and penetrate the food chain, causing cancer, birth defects and other health problems, according to the International Indian Treaty Council. The United States, Canada and Europe continue to allow the production and exportation of various toxic chemicals, including some prohibited in their own countries, to Mexico, Guatemala and other countries. Pesticides, chemical fertilizers and other man-made poisons are used increasingly on crops where indigenous people work. Between 1996 and 2000, the United States exported 1.1 billion pounds of pesticides, that is, 16 tons per hour, that were identified as suspected carcinogens, according to the IITC. Calling for intervention by the United Nations, IITC is pressing for new policies that would prohibit countries from exporting toxins known to be dangerous in their own countries. Also, IITC is calling on governments to take into account the disproportionate impact of pesticides and toxins on indigenous peoples. IITC supported the North/South Indigenous Network Against Pesticides and passed a resolution at the anniversary of the IITC hosted by the Confederacy of Treaty 6 First Nations at Ermineskin Cree Nation in Alberta in August of 2005. Denouncing the North American Free Trade Agreement and other multi- lateral trade agreements, IITC said the push for free and fast trade has increased the abuse of indigenous peoples. "The use of pesticides in agriculture contributes negatively to climate change. The farmers have been encouraged by governments and free trade agreements to over-fish, over-farm and use an excessive amount of chemicals in order to over-produce goods," IITC said. Persistent organic pollutants bioaccumulate in humans, disperse in the environment and contaminate foods, especially dairy products, meats and breast milk. Among the threats is Lindane, a highly toxic POP. In North America, Lindane is a treatment for agricultural food crops and used for head lice and scabies. Worldwide, indigenous people are suffering from mercury emissions, industrial pollutants and other toxins as they work and live in areas where their own governments have ignored their basic human rights, according to IITC. Now, Yaqui in the villages of Rio Yaqui, Sonora, Mexico, plan a workshop in May to educate Yaqui about pesticides and dangerous agricultural chemicals. Seeking support and participation from Tohono O'odham and other neighboring Indian tribes, Yaqui are planning educational seminars and hope to produce a video of the health crisis in eight Yaqui Pueblos known as Rio Yaqui, near Obregon. --- For more information, write to Villegas Paredes, Calle Cocorit No. 15, Vicam Sonora, Mexico; or call (Spanish only) 016434380623. Copyright c. 1998-2006 Indian Country Today. All Rights Reserved. --------- "RE: On the Path to Healing" --------- Date: Mon, 13 Feb 2006 08:32:28 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="HEALING" http://www.owlstar.com/dailyheadlines.htm http://www.tbsource.com/Localnews/index.asp?cid=80372 On the Path to Healing Tb News Source February 10, 2006 As the Nishnawbe Aski Nation's conference on youth suicide came to a close, 22-year-old Jordan Quequish had time to reflect on what it all meant. "These workshops helped (the youth) understand who they were, they got to ask questions about the traditional ways of life," he said. "Most importantly they learned how precious they are. As a community, we are precious." Speaking softly but eloquently, the young man from North Caribou Lake talked about the terrible tragedies he and his family had experienced. As a young boy, he was sexually attacked by four men on separate occasions. By the time he was four, he had lost his first family member to suicide. "There just really is nothing to do there," he said of the two remote reserves he has lived on. "A lot of my people were abused and don't have any hope, so they take their own lives." Quequish said after his first cousin died the problems seemed to snowball. Now he has lost 15 friends and family members to suicide, and he was almost one of them. "So many times I wanted out of this world, you have no idea," he said, shaking his head. "So many times I asked God why he put me here, what was I supposed to do?" Fortunately, Quequish was able to find the answer to his questions through spirituality. Determined to break out of the cycle of abuse and depression that plagues too many First Nations communities, he made it a personal mission to bring tradition back to his people. This was no easy task. As Quequish explained, traditional spirituality and customs were virtually non-existent on his reserve. He tried to speak with his grandfather, an elder, who had lived through some of the worst dismantling of native culture. "My grandfather told me that the government came and told us to strip ourselves of our old ways of life. If we didn't stop, then they told us we were going to prison," he said. "The elders were so scared that they went along with it, and eventually started to see the (traditional practices) in the same way, like witchcraft." The effects of cultural loss and the disaster of residential schools left communities like Quequish's in shambles. NAN Grand Chief Stan Beardy spoke about this same issue in December following the Kelowna agreement. He, and many others, have said these problems continue to trickle down generation after generation and the cycle of poverty, abuse and depression never stops. "About 90 per cent of NAN people are impacted negatively by residential schools still," he said. "The majority of my people don't have parenting skills because when you grow up in an institution, you don't learn normal behaviours. You don't have the usual avenues for expressing emotions. The learned to be ashamed of expressing any sort of emotion, that's why they don't cry, they don't laugh. And the majority of suicide victims are products of residential school parents." Beardy attributed this to the abuse that stemmed from repressed emotions and negative past experience, which continues to repeat itself in small communities. "And when our young people go through problems or challenges, they have no one to turn to, no one to share life experience or teachings with them. There is a major lack of a support mechanism." While Beardy and other First Nations officials fight for policy changes, Quequish and the NAN Decade of Youth Council are using tradition to fight modern problems. The goal of the conference was not only to talk openly about suicide, but to help youth appreciate the beauty and strength of their culture. "What was really amazing was seeing the relationships that developed between the elders and the young people," said Decade of Youth coordinator Melanie Goodchild-Southwind. "This was a very safe environment where culture was flourishing. It was the way it could have been for our ancestors." The teaching sessions included things like hand drumming, sacred firekeeping, powwows and different sacred dances. "That is suicide prevention in action," Goodchild-Southwind said. "Self- esteem is built when this happens, when youth learn about themselves." This is what Quequish felt when he returned to his roots several years ago, although it wasn't met with much enthusiasm. "Back home I was wearing long braids and sometimes my (traditional) ribbon shirt," he said. "And my own people called me a crazy Indian." Nevertheless, Quequish soldiered on. He is one of the only grassdancers in his area, and continues to encourage his peers and elders alike to embrace the old ways. "Some are starting to be more traditional in a quiet way," he said. "Things are slowly changing, but one day it's going to be rapid. Our generation will do a lot more, I think." "One day I'm going to turn around my community. I'm going to be a leader of my community." On that last day of the conference, Quequish sat by the sacred fire that burned all week long. "When we light the sacred fire, all of our past elders come to be with us," he said. "This same fire burns in our hearts, our hearts that beat to the same drum in our nation. It's the heartbeat of our people." Goodchild-Southwind said Quequish is a great example that change is possible. She said there was an overwhelming consensus that the conference was a start to something really positive, and NAN will definitely consider hosting another one. Copyright Thunder Bay's Source c. All Rights Reserved 2006. --------- "RE: Legal challenge to Pipeline review" --------- Date: Sun, 19 Feb 2006 19:55:42 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="ABORIGINAL SPLIT" http://www.owlstar.com/dailyheadlines.htm http://cnews.canoe.ca/CNEWS/Canada/2006/02/14/1442900-cp.html Legal challenge to pipeline review returns to court as hearing reveal aboriginals split By BOB WEBER February 19, 2006 INUVIK, N.W.T. (CP) - As environmental hearings into massive energy development in the Mackenzie Delta head into their second week, legal efforts to derail the whole process are resurfacing in a Vancouver courtroom. The Dene Tha, an aboriginal group of about 2,500 members spread over seven reserves in northwestern Alberta, northeastern British Columbia and the southern end of the Northwest Territories, say they have been left out of both the hearings and benefits negotiations on a proposed $7-billion natural gas pipeline. The pipeline would cross their traditional lands, so the Dene Tha have asked for a judicial stay of hearings by the Joint Review Panel until their voice is heard. They have also asked the Federal Court to rule that Alberta sections of the pipeline should be included in the review and not hived off to provincial regulators. Federal lawyers will argue Tuesday that request should be thrown out of court. "What they're saying is rather than wait until our case goes ahead in June, we should wait until (the hearings) are done," said Bob Freedman, the lawyer representing the Dene Tha. "They're coming up to us and saying 'Just trust us.' It's not acceptable." Freedman says that despite three years of trying to be included in the Joint Review Panel, the Dene Tha remain on the outside. Other northern aboriginals have representatives on the panel or advisers to it, but the Dene Tha do not. "They have no more status (with the panel) than the local Skidoo club," said Freedman. "(The government) knew the pipeline was going through Dene Tha lands and they didn't even pick up the phone." The section of the project that will cross land claimed by the Dene Tha will be regulated by Alberta's Energy Utilities Board. Freedman says it's not even clear if recommendations made by the national panel will be enforceable on the Alberta section. "One of the recommendations we want from the court is that it's one project," Freedman said. Meanwhile, the resumption of hearings Monday in Tsiigehtchic, another of the small communities along the pipeline's route, is likely to further reveal how badly split northerners are over the project, caught between hopes for the future and fears from the past. Most Dene leaders and elders see energy development as a way out of poverty and an escape route from the treadmill of dependency on government handouts. "When I was chief I supported the concept of this pipeline and I still support it," said Fort McPherson resident Abe Wilson, one of dozens of speakers who crowded into the hamlet's community hall on Friday for a hearing that went long into the night. "If we want to be independent and be proud Gwich'In, we need to support this pipeline," said James Andre. But many others - especially women - fear that the money and jobs aren't worth the environmental risk and social disruption. They draw on their experience of the area's last energy boom in the 1970s, when the gas fields that would anchor the current pipeline proposal were first discovered. "Thinking about the pipeline, it's a very scary feeling because of what we have had to experience in the past, due to addictions, due to various things that have happened," said Mary Teyna. "We're going to be faced with ruptured land and ruptured lives," said Ruby Koe. Last week, the community of Fort Good Hope decided the tradeoff wasn't worth it. They voted down a proposed deal to allow Imperial Oil access to their land because they wouldn't get enough out of it. Copyright c. 2006, Canoe Inc. All rights reserved. --------- "RE: Chiefs' Letter on sharing raises another Hurdle" --------- Date: Monday, February 13, 2006 02:43 pm From: frostyca2000 Subj: Chiefs' letter on 'sharing' raises another hurdle for the 'new relationship' Mailing List: Frostys AmerIndian http://www.canada.com/story.html?id=019d-4fd7-bff9-78e3a6eded1b Chiefs' letter on 'sharing' raises another hurdle for the 'new relationship' Vaughn Palmer Vancouver Sun February 9, 2006 The B.C. Liberals were scrambling this week after a key group of aboriginal leaders rejected a lead element of the hoped-for new relationship with first nations. The sudden and unexpected development emerged Monday via a letter to Premier Gordon Campbell from the leadership of the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs. The chiefs rejected the government approach to shared development of forest and range resources on Crown land that is also claimed by aboriginal people. The letter demanded "significant changes" in the government-proposed wording for interim agreements on forest and range opportunities. "Regrettably the UBCIC is not able to support the [text] in its present form," wrote Chiefs Stewart Philip, Robert Shintah and Mike Retasket. "It falls short of fulfilling the promise represented by the new relationship, based on respect, recognition and accommodation of aboriginal title and rights." The UBCIC letter represents a significant setback for Campbell and the Liberals. "Unfortunate," was the initial reaction from Tom Christensen, provincial minister for aboriginal relations and reconciliation. He admitted the letter caught him by surprise and said he would seek a meeting with the UBCIC leadership to clarify their concerns. "I am more curious than anything how they came to those conclusions," Christensen told me Wednesday afternoon. "I never said this would be easy." But the two-page letter and accompanying three-page resolution from the UBCIC suggests that it will take much more than one meeting to resolve the matters at stake in this dispute. The chiefs' union, one of three major native organizations in the province, never joined the B.C. treaty process. The province was hoping to engage the organization through the "new relationship," a post-election effort to expedite reconciliation, based on sharing of resources, revenues and decision-making. The Liberals also wanted a substitute for the longstanding approach of talking interminably at the bargaining table and/or in the courtroom. As a first step in the relationship, the government agreed to revise its approach to sharing forest and range resources. The government has signed 100 forest and range agreements with first nations over the past three years, the most recent of them concluded in mid- January with a band in the Mission region. But some first nations leaders signed the agreements under protest, arguing that the terms failed to fully respect their rights and title. Others wanted a greater say in decision-making over land and resources on their traditional territories. Chief Philip, in particular, denounced the forest and range agreements. He cited the Supreme Court of Canada ruling that aboriginal interests must be "accommodated" in land-use decisions. Philip and the UBCIC formed a rare common front with the other two first nations groups, which in turn prompted Premier Campbell to pursue the new relationship. But the chiefs' letter suggests there is a lot more work to be done. The objections, while grounded in legal language and the technical wording of the proposed agreements, reveal a substantial difference of opinion. The offending text was nothing like a preliminary document. It was approved by the cabinet last December, after extensive discussions inside government. The Liberals, in essence, want to expedite development of land and resources on a shared basis. The 100 forest and range agreements signed to date delivered some 16 million cubic metres of timber and $115 million in revenues to the designated first nations. In return for all this sharing, the provincial government wants a freer hand on the legal front. The agreements require first nations to agree that the terms constitute "interim accommodation" as defined by the courts. Other passages would protect the province against subsequent claims for compensation. The UBCIC finds this approach confining and lacking in respect. Philip and his colleagues also seek greater involvement in decision- making and broader access to timber and revenues. They don't like the government-mandated escape clause that would tie revenue-sharing to the province's financial position. Nor do they like the apparent provincial preference for sharing beetle-killed wood. The chiefs' letter to the premier closed on an encouraging note. "The UBCIC recognizes that your government has made a serious commitment to the policy shifts necessary to build and implement the new relationship. "We applaud and are appreciative of your government's work to date and your personal dedication to real and lasting progress on this issue." But the upbeat tone doesn't disguise what looks like a fundamental disagreement over sharing resources and revenues. vpalmer@direct.ca Copyright c. Vancouver Sun 2006. --------- "RE: Samson decision causes outrage" --------- Date: Tue, 14 Feb 2006 08:39:11 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="JUDGMENT WILL BE APPEALED" http://www.ammsa.com/windspeaker/articles/2006/wind-feb-06-1.html Samson decision causes outrage By Paul Barnsley Windspeaker Staff Writer MONTREAL February 2006 The last judgment rendered by Federal Court Justice Max Teitelbaum will not be remembered fondly in Hobbema. Two First Nations located around the central Alberta town - Samson Cree and Ermineskin Cree - filed suit in 1989 in what has become a gigantic legal action. The band councils are suing the federal government for approximately $1.5 billion in oil and gas revenue that they allege was lost due to Crown mismanagement, discriminatory policy and breaches of Treaty 6. The lawsuit is so large and complex it has been divided into several phases. After extensive pre-trial examinations of witnesses, the trial began in May 2000. Justice Teitelbaum spent the last six years hearing evidence on the first two phases of the trial. He rendered his decision on Dec. 2 and will soon retire from the bench. Another judge will have to get up to speed when the trial resumes. No judge has yet been appointed and no hearing dates have been scheduled. Before that happens, the Federal Court of Appeal, and perhaps even the Supreme Court of Canada, will have to look over the judgment. Samson Cree Nation lawyer James O'Reilly admits to being disillusioned and disappointed with Justice Teitelbaum's decision. Windspeaker spoke to the veteran lawyer by telephone from his Montreal office on Dec. 20. The appeal was filed in Federal Court the next day. "It hurts," he said. "It's very difficult to accept, not only as a lawyer, but as a person, and as a person who works for the treaty Indians. And I've tried to be in on the development of the fight for Indian rights for 40 years in 2006 and I say to myself, 'We're back before the days of 1969.' In a way it's worse. In 1969, we knew that people didn't make a pretense. They said Indian people don't have rights. They have privileges, and the treaties don't mean much. But now you've got the conventional wisdom, the residential schools, the royal commission that said they have the right to govern themselves and we should consider the treaties as something that was pretty essential in the building of this country and recognize that for what it is. There was supposed to be some kind of a partnership, even if one partner was far more powerful than the other: a partner's a partner, a brother's a brother. Now, it's paying lip service to recognition of basic treaty and fundamental rights and that's more dangerous because it's more hypocritical." In order for an appeals court to agree to review a trial decision, the higher court must be convinced that the trial judge made errors of law. O'Reilly didn't think he'd have any problem meeting that requirement. "We think there are over 100 errors at law that we're putting down as ground for appeal. We say he didn't follow the principles of interpretation for treaty set down by the Supreme Court of Canada," he said. O'Reilly said Justice Teitelbaum did not follow the Supreme Court's lead when it came to interpreting the treaty. "The Supreme Court has been saying it's the common intention of the parties. It's not just what the white people understood. We're saying you have to go back to the very nature of the treaty. What was it? We're saying it's an oral and written treaty. It was an alliance. It was about how you're going to co-exist, how you're both going to live on the land," the lawyer said. The written judgment focused on the surrender clause in the treaty. O'Reilly said the judge rejected his argument that Native people at the time would not have understood the significance of the legal language. Previous court decisions have created a standard that treaties should be interpreted liberally in favor of the Native people because of that problem. O'Reilly suggested that didn't happen in this case. "The judge put a lot of emphasis on this legalese clause. It's one thing to say that the Indians give up exclusive control-and I think they knew that-and that the white people would be coming in. It's another thing to tell them, 'you have no more rights from a legal perspective whatsoever on this land except what we give to you.' I mean, it takes a trained lawyer now to be able to explain to lay people even the beginnings of what is this thing called Aboriginal rights or Aboriginal title or sui generis rights and what does that mean in law," he said. "There's no mention in even the written record of somebody having explained specifically, 'what does this written clause in the treaty mean: surrender, yield up, give up all their rights and title and interest to the lands?' So it's quite obvious that there were very different intentions, very different understandings about what was to be done." Writings at the time by the Crown treaty negotiator suggest that other Indigenous peoples who had previously entered into treaty would have explained the concept of surrender and complete loss of rights, and [that]the Plains Cree ancestors of the Samson Cree Nation knew what they were signing. "Well, that's a tremendous leap of logic," O'Reilly said. He said that reasoning just won't stand up to analysis. "If you had today the Canadians and, let's say, the Chinese, neither able to speak the other's language and just going by interpreters and you say, "Well, what is the exact meaning of a highly technical clause?' How much do you think either of them would have in the way of an absolute common understanding about some written text?" But Justice Max Teitelbaum rejected that line of reasoning in his written judgment. "The judge just jumps and says they had an interpreter and he knew what he was doing and the missionaries said this and the Indian stories of what happened, the judge says it's implausible. What is implausible? It's a highly European driven notion to say that you don't believe the accounts of these people when it's mixed with the spiritual dimension and the whole Indian understanding," said James O'Reilly. "It comes down to a clash of philosophies too. For the Indian people, you can't own the sun and the moon and the stars and the land and you're only here for a certain time. Then you get the British coming in and saying, 'We can own a piece of property.' The judge is supposed to take the Aboriginal perspective into consideration. Instead the result is that he demeans the Aboriginal perspective and gives no real effect to what they had to say." Samson Cree Chief Victor Buffalo issued an angrily worded press release after reviewing the decision. He felt the judge not only disregarded the testimony of Samson Elders but was insulting in how he did so. O'Reilly agreed. "We're saying the judge simply went with the white man's side and in effect, I'll use the word 'disparaged,' was highly dubious about and highly critical about the Indian side. That's one of the grounds for appeal. He gave very, very, very little weight or credibility to almost all of the 38 witnesses that were called whether they were Elders or Plains Cree witnesses or Samson witnesses or experts called by Samson. Whereas the written accounts of the white people, their word was gold and they should be totally believed. It boggles my mind that you can get one side of the story and really he's dismissive of the other side of the story." O'Reilly was equally as outraged about the decision rendered in the monies phase of the action. "We said under treaty they have the right to the monies, to the resources, and the Crown, the federal government in this case, is the trustee. By simply taking that money and putting it into the consolidated revenue fund and borrowing that money without the permission of Samson and all the other Indians in the country and unilaterally setting a rate of interest, we say they're not acting either as a treaty partner or as a trustee. We say it's supposed to be for the best interests of Samson and for their benefit. The Crown as a trustee has to act as a prudent person would in managing his own affairs." O'Reilly believes the appeal court will see that he made the argument that the Crown did not fulfill its fiduciary duty. "They just put this whole thing on automatic pilot and very few white people would accept that. The government itself changed a relatively similar system used to finance the pension funds in 1999. This judge finds the system is reasonable and therefore he doesn't have to consider the testimony. And it's reasonable, he finds, because the Indian Act says it's OK. So he bases his whole judgment on the Indian Act in regard to monies." If the Indian Act is supreme then most arguments made in support of Indigenous rights in Canada are doomed to fail, O'Reilly said. But there have been a string of victories at the highest court in the land because that kind of thinking has been discarded, O'Reilly added. "He's saying the Indian Act prevails over the treaties and that Indian rights really come as a function of the Indian Act and federal legislation. Well, we're back to well before the White Paper days. We tried to get the evidence by ministers about it being colonial, oppressive. That's all in there and the judge even mentions that." Samson's legal team will challenge that part of the ruling as well. "We say he's wrong - dead wrong - on his interpretation of the Indian Act," O'Reilly said. While several former ministers of Indian Affairs and some of Canada's leading investment bankers and financial experts testified on Samson's behalf and criticized the way the Crown handled the Samson oil and gas revenues, the judge ruled that what the Crown did fell within the limits prescribed by the Indian Act. "What this judge essentially said is the Indian Act is a reasonable way of handling the money. He doesn't discuss how it's reasonable. He just discards some of the most imminent financial people in Canada who testified on behalf of Samson," he said. "And he just says it's not necessary to judge the standards of a trustee because the Indian Act allows them to do whatever they want, gives them full discretion. Well, we're back in the days of the colonial empire here." Justice Teitelbaum refused to allow the report of the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples into evidence because it was "a political document." O'Reilly said the Supreme Court has relied on it. O'Reilly said Justice Teitelbaum was visibly uncomfortable during the trial whenever the idea of inherent rights were raised. He argued that the judge's understanding of inherent rights is not consistent with how the federal government's position on the right to self-government has evolved. "He comes down in his judgment and there's a part where he says there's no inherent right to control their own lands and resources," the lawyer said. "What do you hear in Ottawa? Have you even heard this in the last 15 or 20 years where Ottawa is saying 'You don't have a right to control your own lands and resources?'" O'Reilly also questions the weight the judge gave to some of the testimony from expert witnesses. When he appeared for the Crown, University of Calgary history professor Thomas Flanagan was forced under cross-examination to admit that he used sloppy research methods to formulate his opinions on some of the First Nations issues the court was wrestling with. Flanagan is a man who has become a much talked about figure recently because he is an advisor to prime minister-elect Stephen Harper. "We thought that a lot of his testimony was subjected to a lot of doubt and his credibility was compromised considerably by some of the cross- examination. Well, the judge does rely on him," O'Reilly said. "He relies on Flanagan. He [is critical of], in my view, one of the key witnesses and that is the Cree linguist. Now if you were a judge and you've heard about these differences of concept and perception between the Cree and English, well you'd want to know something about the Cree language wouldn't you? You'd want to know how do they think and how do they conceptualize things like land. This judge went after Professor Wolfart, who speaks a very high Cree. He's not fluent, but he speaks it and he can articulate the Cree words." O'Reilly speculates that the judge's ruling might have surprised even the Crown, who made an offer to settle just before the judge completely dismissed the Samson claims. "Why did they offer close to $200 million just before?" the lawyer asked. Copyright c. 2006 Windspeaker - AMMSA - Aboriginal Multi-Media Society. --------- "RE: Saskatoon: Police seek missing Teen Sisters" --------- Date: Thu, 16 Feb 2006 08:47:05 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="MISSING 14 YEAR OLD NATIVE GIRLS" http://www.indianz.com/News/ http://www.canada.com/saskatoonstarphoenix/5e459cb2e1eb Police seek missing teen sisters The StarPhoenix February 15, 2006 The Saskatoon Police Service is asking for the public's assistance in locating two 14-year-old girls missing since Jan. 29. Cherish and Rosalee Frenchman are fraternal twins, and were last seen at the Midtown Plaza in downtown Saskatoon. The twins were on their way home to the Regina area from a trip to visit family members in North Battleford. At around 4 p.m. during a visit to the mall, the girls ran away from their child-care worker. The girls were in care at Ranch Erhlo, a secure custody facility just outside of Regina. They were not there for criminal offences. The girls require 24-hour supervision for special needs and investigators are concerned about their welfare. Staff Sgt. Kirby Harmon said they have no family resources in Saskatoon. "There's no reason for (the twins) to stay here. We have no idea where they would have gone to and, of course, we're extremely concerned because of the lack of resources," Harmon said. "They would have to turn to the street or strangers for help. That's the big part of the concern here, is that they don't have a support system in place." In order to leave Saskatoon, Harmon said they would have to submit themselves to some type of risky behaviour. Cherish Frenchman is described as aboriginal, 5-foot-5, 110 pounds, with dark brown hair and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing a black-and-white jacket with dark-coloured sweatpants. Rosalee Frenchman is described as aboriginal, 5-foot-9, 160 pounds, with short, dark brown hair and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing a dark jacket and track pants with a stripe down the side. Anyone with information on Cherish or Rosalee Frenchman is asked to call the Saskatoon Police Service at 975-8300 or Crime Stoppers at 931-8477. Copyright c. The StarPhoenix (Saskatoon) 2006. --------- "RE: 14-year-old Girl murdered" --------- Date: Thu, 16 Feb 2006 08:47:05 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="GIRL MURDERED" http://www.indianz.com/News/ http://www.cbc.ca/bc/story/bc_pg-murder20060215.html 14-year-old girl murdered CBC News February 15, 2006 The RCMP have launched a homicide investigation into the death of a 14- year-old Aboriginal girl whose remains were found on the outskirts of Prince George last week. Aielah Katherina Saric had been missing for more than a week, and had been last spotted alive near a bar in the inner city. Her family had reported her missing, and had plastered the downtown area with missing posters, asking for any information as to her whereabouts. A passing motorist found Saric's remains while traveling on Highway 16 east of Prince George last Friday. The RCMP were called in and an investigation was launched. RCMP spokesperson Const. Gary Godwin now says she was murdered. "At any time we have a homicide, this is a major crime. The fact that it is a 14-year-old female is tragic indeed." The highway has a history of tragedy. At least six young women, five of them Aboriginal teens, have gone missing along Highway 16 between Prince George and Prince Rupert in the past 15 years. One of the most high-profile cases involved 25-year-old tree planter Nicole Hoar, who vanished while hitchhiking west from Prince George along Highway 16 back in 2002. Her disappearance triggered a massive search and the offer of a $25,000 reward. But no sign of her was ever found. RCMP have repeatedly said they cannot rule out the possibility that a serial killer could be preying on women along Highway 16. But they also say they've found no evidence to link the cases. Police also say they won't speculate on whether Saric's death is linked to any of the missing women files. Copyright c. CBC 2006. --------- "RE: Ipperwash: Harris knew Ontario's Boundaries" --------- Date: Tue, 14 Feb 2006 08:39:11 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="FORMER PREMIER TESTIFIES AT IPPERWASH INQUIRY" http://www.indianz.com/News/ http://www.cbc.ca/story/canada/national/2006/02/13/ipperwash-060213.html Harris says he knew Ontario's boundaries in fatal Ipperwash clash CBC News 14 February 2006 Former Ontario premier Mike Harris testified Tuesday he knew that his government had no authority to intervene in police matters during the 1995 native occupation at Ipperwash Provincial Park. Harris told a public inquiry he was clear on the separation between government and police, a key issue of the judicial probe into the deadly shooting of native protester Dudley George. The inquiry is being held in Forest, Ont., near where George was shot. Some people have blamed Harris - who was premier at the time of the standoff - for George's death, and have accused him of ordering police to use force to oust the protesters. Harris has always maintained he never pressured police to quell the protest quickly by using force. The inquiry into George's death began in April 2004. It has already heard from about 100 witnesses, including several police officers and former cabinet ministers. George died on Sept. 6, 1995, after being shot by a provincial police officer at the park near Sarnia in southwestern Ontario. He was among a group of native protesters who had occupied the park two days earlier, claiming the land was the site of an ancient burial ground for the Stony Point band. The violence immediately thrust the recently elected Harris and his Conservatives into the centre of a firestorm. Throughout his nearly eight years in office, Harris made it clear that he resented accusations that he authorized police to use force. "I don't give orders to the OPP, we get briefed by the OPP as a situation. It's up to the OPP to deal with any of these situations," he once said. But at the inquiry, a senior police officer said he attended a meeting with Harris and senior cabinet ministers only hours before the shooting and got the impression they were gun-loving rednecks who couldn't care less about aboriginals. In a taped conversation that was played at the inquiry, OPP Insp. Ron Fox briefed his boss on the meeting. "We're dealing with a real redneck government," Fox said in the recording. "They just are in love with guns. There's no question. They don't give a s**t less about Indians." Fox went on to say that his impression was that the premier believed he had the authority to direct the OPP. The issue is expected to be a central one when Harris testifies. The allegation also came from another man who attended the meeting, then Attorney General Charles Harnick. He told that inquiry that Harris said: "I want the f****** Indians out of the park." Others who testified said they had no recollection of Harris making the remark or attributed it to someone else. Harris's lawyer has said the former premier will deny ever making that statement when he testifies. No other Canadian premier has ever testified at a public inquiry, but Harris will be doing it for the second time. The first was after the Walkerton tainted water scandal. Native groups tried for years to get an inquiry into the shooting, but Harris and his Conservatives refused. Dalton McGuinty launched the inquiry only days after his Liberals swept to power in 2003. The inquiry's commission, led by Justice Sidney Linden, is expected to deliver its final report sometime in late 2006. Copyright c. CBC 2006. --------- "RE: Ipperwash: Harris to face Native 'Truth' Ceremony" --------- Date: Sun, 19 Feb 2006 19:55:42 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="HARRIS AT IPPERWASH INQUIRY" http://www.owlstar.com/dailyheadlines.htm http://cnews.canoe.ca/CNEWS/Canada/2006/02/14/1442582-cp.html Harris to face native 'truth' ceremony at inquiry By GREG BONNELL February 19, 2006 FOREST, Ont. (CP) - A sacred fire encircled by native drummers conducting a "truth" ceremony will greet Mike Harris on Monday as the former Ontario premier delivers his final day of testimony before the Ipperwash inquiry. The Debwewin Circle planned outside the proceedings will implore Harris to "speak from his heart" at the judicial probe into the 1995 death of native protester Dudley George. Inside, the man who once helmed a government critics say prodded police toward the aggressive action that claimed George's life will face one last day of "vigorous" cross-examination. "We hope to hear perhaps something that will illuminate some issues that have been in shadow for these 10 years," said John Beaucage, grand counsel chief of the Union of Ontario Indians. "I think there's going to be some further questions in cross-examination that will be more and more difficult for him to answer as we go along." The extent to which Harris directed the police response to the occupation of Ipperwash Provincial Park, if at all, has been a key issue since the inquiry began hearing witness testimony some 20 months ago. George was fatally shot on Sept. 6, 1995 when provincial police officers clad in riot gear began to advance on the occupiers - a show of force critics have long alleged was somehow influenced by Harris and his Conservative government. The native protesters had long maintained that the park contained an ancestral burial ground. Last week, the spectacle of a former premier on the stand at a judicial inquiry went on for three days without any stunning revelations - only emphatic denials from Harris that he uttered an obscene slur during a private meeting or tried to direct the actions of police. While some exchanges between the former premier and inquiry lawyers were less than friendly, he remained composed and relatively calm throughout. The lawyer set to confront Harris on Monday cautions that it's too early to pass judgment on the former premier's performance. "Cross examination is a test of credibility, among other things," said Julian Falconer, who has prepared "four to five" hours of questions. "You can't really make a call on the nature of his evidence until you've heard the full test of his evidence. I anticipate that will continue most vigorously on Monday." During his testimony, Harris admitted he wanted the natives out of the park "as soon as possible" because he viewed the occupation as illegal - but stressed that he knew politicians didn't have the authority to direct police operations. During a fateful government meeting the day George was shot, the government settled on a plan to seek an ex parte injunction - a court order that can be served without notice and much more quickly than a regular injunction. Lawyers at the inquiry have alleged that decision put pressure on police to end the conflict, a viewpoint Harris has denied. The Sept. 6 meeting also served as backdrop for one of the most stunning allegations levelled against Harris since the inquiry began. Last November, former attorney general Charles Harnick testified he heard Harris say, in a loud voice, "I want the f**king Indians out of the park." Harris staunchly denied the allegation, repeatedly, during his testimony. Still, Falconer said the nuances of Harris's testimony have illuminated some "important issues." "It's very significant that Mr. Harris has conceded that, whether or not he used the profanity, the sentiment of having the aboriginal community removed from that park was very much his own." George's cousin, Mark "Moon" George, says the sight of Harris on the stand is satisfying in itself. "It will be another step in the long process of healing, and grieving also," said George. "Everything is running its due course. Everything is going somewhere, that's my philosophy." Copyright c. 2006, Canoe Inc. All rights reserved. --------- "RE: Oglala Tribal Law Enforcement faces big reduction" --------- Date: Fri, 17 Feb 2006 08:50:12 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="SMALLER BUDGET MEANS SMALLER FORCE" http://www.owlstar.com/dailyheadlines.htm http://www.journalstar.com//doc43f519b50b500895111235.txt Tribal law enforcement faces big reduction By JOMAY STEEN / Rapid City Journal February 16, 2006 PINE RIDGE, S.D. - By April 1, the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety will lose 59 officers from its law enforcement duties on the nine districts of Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. Capt. Patrick Mills of Pine Ridge said that by the end of March, a Community Orientated Policing Services, or COPS, grant from the U.S. Department of Justice will end. With its completion, 59 police officers will clear out their lockers, check in their uniforms and firearms and turn over their badges. Twenty-nine officers will remain to do what they can to keep the peace, but everyone in the department and the tribe will be affected, Mills said. Mills, who was hired in December, said he has walked into a department that has low morale. Beyond losing services to the community, timely responses to emergency calls and aiding in criminal investigations, the 59 officers have the added worry of finding new jobs or leaving the reservation to pursue law enforcement careers. "Like everyone else, our people have families to feed and bills to pay," Mills said. Police Chief Ron Duke said 88 officers now patrol the 1,800 miles of roads covering the 3.2 million acres of land to serve the 50,000 people who live on the reservation. Because of the reservation's vast land, population density and crime rate, Duke said the department ideally would need 150 officers to operate effectively in answering the nearly 3,000 emergency calls received by its 911 Dispatch Center each month. But because of the nation's growing deficit, the war in Iraq and federal budget cutbacks at the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Department of Justice and Indian Health Services - all of which contribute toward the funding of the reservation's law enforcement budget - the department's budget supports only 29 officers, Duke said. "The Department of Justice appropriated $18 million for 500 tribes to fight over for their entire law enforcement operations. It's ridiculous," Duke said. To combat the personnel shortage, Duke said, the department will try to develop nine precincts - one in each of the reservation's nine districts - before the grant's end. The plan is to keep police within minutes of the scene of an emergency call, rather than the time it takes to drive from either Kyle or Pine Ridge, the former police headquarters when the department operated within two divisions. The 911 Dispatch Center will remain in Porcupine. Each district has offered free office space for the patrol officers, he said. Quick response and adequate numbers of trained police officers answering emergency calls for vehicle accidents, law enforcement and the investigation process concerns the department as well as the tribe, he said. "It's crucial to have our officers on scene," Duke said. Monica Terkildsen, OST Department of Public Safety grants specialist, said her office has been calling South Dakota's congressional delegation, sending letters to other tribal and federal agencies to find sources of revenue for its law enforcement personnel budget. Terkildsen said Duke would appear before the House Appropriations Committee in March to testify about the OST department's law enforcement shortage. She worries about what this situation will do to the communities within the reservation. Of the 13,651 arrests made in 2005, 10,284 - or 67 percent - were for public intoxication, but meth is beginning to creep into the communities, too, she said. "Substance abuse is a huge issue here," Terkildsen said. If something doesn't change, two-thirds of the police officers who answer domestic disputes, medical emergencies, provide security at the hospital or public meetings won't be there, she said "We just don't sleep well, thinking about what might happen," Terkildsen said. Copyright c. 2002-2006, Lincoln Journal Star. All rights reserved. --------- "RE: Meskwaki ask State to recognize Tribal Court" --------- Date: Fri, 17 Feb 2006 08:50:12 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="IOWA ASKED TO RECOGNIZE TRIBAL COURT" http://www.owlstar.com/dailyheadlines.htm http://www.whotv.com/Global/story.asp?S=4514290&nav=LotJ Meskwaki officials ask state to recognize tribal court February 17, 2006 DES MOINES, Iowa The top judge from the Meskwaki tribal court is seeking state recognition of tribal court decisions. Henry Buffalo is the chief justice on the Meskwaki tribal court that was formed 14 months ago on the tribal settlement west of Tama. Buffalo testified before a House judicial subcommittee in Des Moines yesterday. He says lawmakers should support a bill that would study whether to require Iowa's district courts to recognize and enforce civil judgments and other legal rulings handed down by the tribal court. He says at least 24 states have similar legislation. But state officials say it's better to wait. Assistant Tama County Attorney Richard Vander Mey says lawmakers should hold off until Meskwakis improve their recognition of decisions from state and federal judges. Copyright c. 2006 Associated Press. All rights reserved. Copyright c. 2006 WHO-TV, Des Moines, IA. --------- "RE: Quartet named Tribal Appellate Court Judges" --------- Date: Fri, 17 Feb 2006 08:50:12 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="YAKIMA APPELLATE COURT" http://www.owlstar.com/dailyheadlines.htm http://www.yakima-herald.com/page/dis/285430913005843 Quartet named tribal appellate court judges By PHIL FEROLITO YAKIMA HERALD-REPUBLIC February 17, 2006 TOPPENISH - After a four-year absence of an appeals process in Yakama tribal court, tribal leaders have appointed four appellate court judges. The appointments come after several tribal members filed civil rights cases last month in Spokane federal court, saying their cases weren't being handled in tribal court. "I was hoping that the U.S. District Court will redirect those cases back to us now that we have an appellate court, but I think it's just wishful thinking," Tribal Council Chairman Louis Cloud said on Wednesday. Former tribal court judges Julian Pinkham, Ne'sha Jackson and Lorintha Umtuch were sworn in Tuesday, while Ray Slockish - former member of tribe's code of ethics board - was sworn in Wednesday. They'll all serve four-year terms. A report issued by the National Indian Justice Center last fall revealed the tribal court system suffers from a mounting backlog of cases, daily breaches of confidentiality and conflicts of interest, plus the lack of any appeals process. The Santa Rosa, Calif.-based justice center is an Indian owned and operated nonprofit corporation that helps tribes improve their judicial systems. Tribal leaders commissioned the evaluation of its court system after receiving numerous complaints. Lack of funding kept the tribe from employing appellate court judges, Cloud said. "It's been hanging quite a while," he said. "We just couldn't find enough money to pay them." The tribe used money from taxes it collects on cigarette and gas sales to fund the part-time judges, he said. Cloud, however, wouldn't say how much is being spent on reviving the appellate court. There's no telling how far back cases date, said Pinkham, who served the tribe for more than 20 years as a judge before retiring about six years ago. But before work can begin, the judges need an office. The building the appellate judges used to be housed in - a doublewide trailer next to the tribal court - was damaged by a fire in June 2004. "It's going to be really, really important to have a work place," Jackson told the Tribal Council during her appointment. "They've got a lot of cases backed up and they're really unorganized." Copyright c. 2006 Yakima Herald-Republic. --------- "RE: Native Prisoner" --------- Date: Sunday, February 19, 2006 6:24 PM From: Janet Smith [owlstar@bellsouth.net] Subj: NA News Item -- Separate Aboriginal Prisons considered http://www.cbc.ca/bc/story/bc_aboriginal-jails20060215.html?ref=rss Separate Aboriginal Prisons considered CBC News February 15, 2006 Solicitor General John Les says the B.C. government wants to work with First Nations on new approaches to the rehabilitation of Aboriginal inmates, which could include separate correctional facilities. He says those facilities would be "more geared toward and oriented tweeds Aboriginal people" and would have Aboriginal staff using their own approaches to inmates. "Aboriginal people have long had different approaches to corrections, and some of them are very interesting and some of them are very apropos of Aboriginal people themselves," said Les. "And we're always looking in corrections for approaches that might work better than what's happened in the past." Les says it's the "sorry case" in Canada that Aboriginal people are overrepresented in the criminal justice system. And he says he's interested in anything that helps ensure inmates are rehabilitated. He says there's no timetable for the implementing the idea which is still at the exploratory stage. But he does say, "It's worth looking at. Let's be prepared to be creative." Tuesday's throne speech also says aboriginal courts might take some of the pressure off the traditional court system. The changes in the justice system would fit in with one of the Campbell government's priorities - building a new relationship with B.C. First Nations. Copyright c. CBC 2006. --------- "RE: Journalist account of Whiteclay" --------- Date: Wed, 15 Feb 2006 12:53:08 -0800 (PST) From: stew magnuson Subj: Whiteclay press release >To: gars@nanews.org Hi, I thought this might be of interest for your site. There is also a link to a story at www.lakotatimes.net Journalist Releases Account of 1999 Whiteclay Troubles July 1999. The bodies of two Oglala men are found murdered in a ditch north of Whiteclay, Nebr., a hamlet of 18 residents that sells millions of cans per year to the dry Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota. American Indian Movement leaders Russell Means, Dennis Banks and Clyde Bellecourt lead a march into the town that quickly turns violent. AIM vows to protest again the following week as the governor sends in 100 state troopers to stop them. 'The Battle of Whiteclay,' an excerpt from the forthcoming nonfiction book Border Town Stories, by Stew Magnuson is now available for download on Amazon.com. 'The Battle of Whiteclay' is available on the new Amazon Shorts Web site, part of Amazon.com. To download an e-mail or pdf. copy: Go to: www.amazon.com Search: Stew Magnuson Click on: 'The Battle of Whiteclay' Cost: 49 cents The confrontation in Whiteclay is only one story in often troubled relationship between the Oglala Lakota of South Dakota and the mostly white communities of Sheridan County, Nebraska. Border Town Stories will be the first work to examine in-depth the two peoples' shared histories. 'While the history is regional,' says Magnuson. 'I believe the book has universal themes of how fear, misunderstanding and ignorance can poison two communities. Ultimately, I hope the work will serve as a bridge between the two peoples.' 'In almost every flare up on the border towns, alcohol plays a predictable role,' notes Magnuson. Nothing manifests this more than the Whiteclay troubles. Along with a detailed account of the 1999 marches, 'The Battle of Whiteclay' includes the first published history of the town, from its origin in the 1880s when it sat in the Extension, a buffer zone between the Oglala and nefarious whiskey sellers, to its evolution in the 20th Century from a town of merchants to a notorious ' little skid row on the prairie.' It includes never before revealed details into the unsolved murders of Ronnie Hard Heart and Wally Black Elk, which touched off the 1999 demonstrations. The forthcoming book Border Town Stories will reveal several untold stories, including the first detailed, accurate and balanced account of the death of Raymond Yellow Thunder in 1972, AIM's march into the Gordon to protest his death, and the ensuing trial of his killers in Alliance, Nebr. Also included is the first balanced account of Nebraska AIM coordinator Bob Yellow Bird Steele, a man who battled Sheridan County law enforcement, and his own demons, for most of the 1970s. Border Town Stories is compiled from over 70 interviews, state patrol and FBI reports and court records. Russell Means, Clyde Bellecourt, Tom Poor Bear and former Nebraska State Patrol Col. Tom Nesbitt are among those interviewed for 'The Battle of Whiteclay.' Author Biography A native of Omaha, Nebraska, Stew Magnuson is a Washington D.C.-based journalist who has filed stories from Japan, Cambodia, Burma, Laos, Thailand and Indonesia. He is a graduate of Omaha Central High and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Since 1995, he has worked as a journalist for The Cambodia Daily, The Asahi Evening News, Kyodo News Service, Space News and Education Daily. He currently resides in Arlington, Va., where he serves as senior editor for National Defense Magazine. He has contributed articles to the Christian Science Monitor, Mother Jones, Baseball Weekly, Reuters and Defense News. Magnuson lived in Japan for five years and was a resident of Tokyo on March 20, 1995 when Aum Shinrikyo released deadly poison gas in the subway system. He is the author of a novel based on that experience, The Song of Sarin. In 1999, two weeks after returning from working as a correspondent in Asia, Magnuson picked up an Omaha newspaper and read about a riot in the remote northwest corner of the state. A demonstration to protest the deaths had erupted in arson and a riot. Another march was planned for the following weekend with the State Patrol vowing not to allow any further destruction. All this was planned days before President Clinton was due to arrive on Pine Ridge. It didn't take Magnuson long to convince the editors of the Christian Science Monitor to send him there on assignment. After covering racial and ethnic strife in Asia, he found plenty of the same in his home state. The experience gave him his first taste of this fascinating area with a complex, but rich history. In 2003, finding himself between coasts and jobs, he decided to examine the bigger picture: two peoples, two paths, and the forces that separate them. Asking himself, 'if not now, when'? he traveled to Ketchikan, Alaska, to work in a salmon-canning factory for seven consecutive weeks without a day off to raise money to work on the project. During the past three years, he has made six trips to Sheridan County and the Pine Ridge Reservation to conduct research and interviews. The author can be contacted at: stewmag@yahoo.com --------- "RE: Rustywire: The Laughing Road" --------- Date: Wed, 25 Jan 2006 08:43:34 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="RUSTYWIRE: LAUGH" http://www.rustywire.com/grow/laughing.html The Laughing Road by Johnny Rustywire When my daughter Karen was four we lived in Rio Puerco which is a housing unit in Fort Defiance, they are square and box like apartments all connected to one another in four and five one story complexes. One of our neighbors used to babysit for us sometimes. She was a McCabe girl from Sand Springs. Sand Springs is southwest of Second Mesa on the Turquoise Trail as it is called, the road leading to it is a narrow dirt road with no sign, so you have to have faith in knowing where you are going to get there. One night our neighbor needed a ride home, and so my wife took her and my daughter Karen, who was four with her. My wife does not know the reservation so this was an adventure for her. They drove to Window Rock and then west past Ganado and you drive and drive. I wasn't home so I did not know where they were when I got back. They were gone for a long time and then they finally came home late. My wife came in first, my daughter passed her in the doorway and ran into the room and jumped on the couch. My wife was explaining their trip, she said she did not know how far Sand Springs was when she said o.k. to the ride. My daughter was tugging at my pants leg and I wasn't listening to her. My wife told me they took off earlier in the afternoon and drove the McCabe girl back home to her parents' place. We had an old chevy sedan and she said they had gassed up at Second Mesa and went off the road to Sand Springs. The area is pretty much barren and the road is dry, dusty which is why it is called Sand Springs, even the sage brush were far and few between. She said they kept on driving and going over a number of small hills. It was like a roller coaster, my daughter, Karen sat in the back and they drove on. It was 19 miles off the road and they crossed a wash and many sand dunes. When they got to the McCabes' place she met the father. The McCabe family was preparing to relocate due to the Navajo-Hopi partition of lands and the area of Sand Springs was to given to the Hopis. The area was sparse because many families had already moved. Mr. McCabe is a big man and invited them to eat, which they did. He related the family's efforts about moving. He told her about his time on the tribal council and the loss of their home and gave them a small tour of their homesite and land. The McCabes would be leaving this area forever. It was a quiet and somber discussion. My daughter was still pulling on my leg as I listened. After a while it was time to go, Karen said, Come on Mom, we have to go. The McCabe family came up to her and said why do you want to go so soon. She looked at them with bright eyes and said because "we have to go on the Laughing Road" The little hills made her stomach whoozy and she liked that feeling. My daughter was standing on my toes, she was chanting...yes daddy, the laughing road, we went on the laughing road....her face was lit up and happy. I said, Oh... When I see the McCabe family who now live off reservation where they relocated, they always ask about the girl on the laughing road. My daughter is grown now and living in Salt Lake City. We visit and talk, my wife and daughter shared a meal that will always be remembered. It is a sad thing this relocation, but it is there still, the Laughing Road. .. Copyright c. 1999, Johnny Rustywire, all rights reserved. --------- "RE: Lee Goins Poem: The Spirit of this Man" --------- Date: Saturday, November 05, 2005 11:50 pm From: cherokee2proud [cherokee2proud@yahoo.com] Subj: The Spirit of this Man Mailing List: N. A. Poetry The Spirit of this Man Let me sing a song like the birds I'll do so not in music but with my words I knew a man who gave love without measure He treated the one in his life as if she were a treasure He trusted in the words she said and in her every deed He saw to it that she was first in life above his own needs She took a man's heart and broke it in two She gave her love to another and there was nothing he could do Now he has a new song he sings it everyday He never let her take his spirit away He sings now of a love he hopes one day to find And he'll trust her to treat his heart gentle and kind But if she chooses to do him wrong He'll brave the hurt and sing his song He may have to live with broken wings and learn to fly again But his spirit will be guided by the wind The spirit of a man is strong it can handle many things And the world around his will soften when with words he sings Lee Goins Copyright c. 1995. --------- "RE: Fisher River Cree write own dictionary" --------- Date: Tue, 14 Feb 2006 08:39:11 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="FISHER CREE DICTIONARY" http://www.manitobadrum.com/story_2006_01_20_fisher.html Fisher River Cree write own dictionary by Drum Staff February 15, 2006 For five years elders in Fisher River Cree Nation have been going through existing Cree dictionaries, noting ways in which their vanishing dialect is different from officially recorded Cree. "There are quite a few dictionaries but they are all different dialects," Nora Murdock, the principal at Fisher River school, says of the dictionary that has now been completed. "That is why we are so proud of it. It is particular to Fisher River." Murdock speaks the language but is less fluent than the elders. She said the project was a lot of fun. The elders would tell stories to explain how meanings were different in Fisher River's Swampy Cree dialect, Murdock said. "One of the things the elders would say is 'we always told jokes and funny stories. If you tell them in English they would not be as funny.'" Language provides an insight into how people in an area lived and thought, she said. "With a language you understand the culture and the philosophy of the people... The elders stress that if we lose our language, we lose our culture. Each of the Cree communities has their specific culture." Many of the people who speak the dialect are senior citizens, but now the school is working to revive the language. Students up to Grade 3 take Cree. In addition to this, every day a student will say a new Cree word to the student population through the school's intercom system. Now that they have published the dictionary, the elders intend to visit other communities to tell other people how they can save their own languages. Members of the community's Cree dictionary committee were: Harriet Amos, Mary McKay, Helen Armstrong, Dorothy Francis Crate, Fred Crate, Merita Sinclair, Joe Garson Sr., Dorothy Ann Crate, Lena Murdock, Helen Cochrane, Shirley Harasemiw, Jean Cochrane, Ruby Rosser, Pearl Sinclair, William McKay, Byron Murdock, Myrtle Thompson, Bryden Cochrane, Mabel MacRae and the late Grenville Crate Sr. Copyright c. Manitoba Drum 2006. --------- "RE: Sacred Sites Run" --------- Date: Friday, February 17, 2006 02:37 pm From: judiann Subj: press release Press Release SACRED SITES RUN The Sacred Sites Run is scheduled to culminate in Milwaukee, Wisconsin in the late summer during our Indian Summer 20th year anniversary celebration. The Sacred Sites Run shall be the featured event for the Indian Summer Education Day event which is anticipated to have over 10,000 children participate in the event. Native Suns, a company that specializes in Native education materials, is developing the curriculum for the special Indian Summer 20th Anniversary Educational Day as well as the additional shows at Indian Summer and the Sacred Sites traveling exhibit. The Sacred Sites Run is starting out on April 20, 2006 from the Pinson Mounds near Jackson, Tennessee. The Sacred Sites run is scheduled at over 30 southern Sacred burial sites. Along the running route, educational seminars are schedule to be conducted at each Sacred Site location as well as schools, high schools and colleges. The Sacred Sites Run will bring public interest and awareness to our Sacred Burial Sites located all over the United States, states Ben Yahola during a recent interview. The Sacred Sites Run brings understanding and respect of our Ancient American Heritages through the preservation of our Sacred Sites. This education along with this event fosters cultural and biological diversity. The symbolic gathering of soil shall take place at each site along the route. This soil shall be gathered within a respectable distance from each Sacred Site. It shall be wrapped in a red cloth and tied so that it can be transported by a runner along the route to the final destination. This representation of the symbolic gathering of the soil shall offer Native Peoples as well as participants the opportunity to honor our past and hold Sacred our future of Sacred Sites in our expansive, beautiful and diverse country. Ben Yahola of Muscogee Nation lives in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Ben is the organizer of the Sacred Sites Run. The event has participation all across the United States. In the Midwest, the participation and enthusiasm for the event is growing every day. Tribes that are among the runners and supporters of the Midwest region are as diverse as the Sacred Sites themselves. From the northwest, we have the Ho-Chunk runners who shall travel from the burial sites near La Crosse through Madison to Milwaukee. From the northern part of Wisconsin, the Lac De Flambeau tribe is running with the Potawatomie through the Menominee Reservation. The Menominee Sacred Site runners shall join up with the group and travel to the Oneida Reservation. The Oneidas shall join the group to continue on to Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The groups of runners from the south shall join the runners from the north for the dedication ceremony in Milwaukee, Wisconsin along with Sacred Site Running groups from Washington, D.C. and New York. All are welcome to join in? invites Ben Yahola. ?Our introduction fundraiser kickoff was January 14, 2006 at the Great Spirit Congregation located on 10th and Lapham Blvd in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. At this initial event there was informative speakers, discussion groups, incredible music played by Scott Berendt of the US Project, food, music, slide shows of the Sacred Sites, Burial and Effigy Mounds with Jeannie Dean from MATC. Ms. Dean?s collection of slides and photos span several decades of information gathering. Wisconsin State Historical Society's Gary Zimmermann spoke of the Sacred Sites mounds that are located on the Wisconsin State Fair grounds. The proceeds generated from the fundraiser are slated for the design and implementation of a traveling exhibit of Ancient Civilizations of the Ohio, Mississippi Valley and the Upper Midwest regions that include many Sacred Sites in the Wisconsin area. About 400 dollars were raised with the fundraiser in January and donations are currently being accepted. Sponsors of the Sacred Site Event are offered logo exposure with the Sacred Sites traveling exhibit, Indian Summer Festival educational materials, an expansive collectable apparel product line and the public relations media releases. A music CD compilation of talented participants and a video movie of the Sacred Sites Run are slated to be created of the event this year. Contact information is: Ben Yahola Cyrilla LaPlante 2254 South 12th Street 13550 Watertown Plank Road Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53215 Elm Grove, WI 53122 Email humoti@yahoo.com marycyrillabehrndt@hotmail.com www.sacredsitesrun.org 414.745.7408 c --------- "RE: Upcoming Events" --------- Date: Mon February 21, 2006 14:45:22 -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, Janet Smith, Debbie Sanders, Johnny Rustywire, Justice Network, Dodie Finstead, Brigitte Thimiakis, Del "Abe" Jones, Russell Redner --//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//- _ __ __ _ / | / /___ _/ /_(_) __ __ / |/ / __ \ __/ / | / / _ \ / /| / /_/ / /_/ /| |/ / __/ /_/ |_/\__,_/\__/_/ |___/\___/ ______ _ / ____/____ ___ __________(_)___ ____ _____ / / / ___/ __ \/ ___/ ___/ / __ \/ __ \/ ___/ / /___/ / / /_/ /__ /__ / / / / / /_/ /__ / \____/_/ \____/____/____/_/_/ /_/\__, /____/ Volume 14, Issue 008 /____/ February 25, 2006 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@speakeasy.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: Matthew Coon Come Sr." --------- Date: Fri, 17 Feb 2006 08:50:12 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="MATTHEW COON COME SR." http://www.owlstar.com/dailyheadlines.htm http://www.cbc.ca/montreal/story/qc-elder20060216.html?ref=rss Oldest Cree dies at 114 CBC News February 16, 2006 The oldest known Quebec Cree man, and possibly one of the country's oldest citizens, died on Wednesday. Matthew Coon Come Sr., grandfather of the former Cree Grand Chief and head of the Assembly of First Nations, Matthew Coon Come, was believed by his family to be 114 years old. If that was so, it would make him only a few months younger than the oldest Canadian, and among the oldest people in the world. The elder from Mistinissi is survived by five generations of family members, including his wife. While there are apparently no official records of Coon Come's birth, Mistinissi resident Sydney Loon says there are records of him in the community dating back to 1896. Loon says Matthew Coon Come Sr. will be remembered throughout Eyou Istchee, the Cree lands of northern Quebec. "This elder was very well known in the community," he says. "He was also the type of person who really respected and liked people for who they were. "He was also very loving towards people. That's what he was like." Coon Come Sr. died in hospital in Chibougamau. Julie Winnefred Bertrand, born Sept. 16, 1891, is the oldest living Canadian and sixth oldest person in the world. She celebrated her 114th birthday last September at her long-term residence in Montreal. Copyright c. CBC 2006. --------- "RE: Brummett Echohawk" --------- Date: 2006/02/15 Wed PM 01:56:16 EST From: Wes Wildcat Add to Address Book Block Sender | Block Domain Subj: Passing of an Elder Mailing List: NetRez-L Noted Pawnee elder passes away at 83 Echohawk was an artist, actor, advocate for his people BARTLESVILLE OK Sam Lewin February 14, 2006 A Pawnee elder that excelled in a diverse range of fields and professions has passed away. Brummett Echohawk died Feb. 13 of natural causes in a Bartlesville hospital. He was 83. "He was an author, actor, painter, sketch artist and World War II veteran," Brummet Echohawk's nephew Steve Echohawk told the Native American Times. During his long career Echohawk was spotlighted throughout the country. In 2001, the Frye Art Museum in Seattle featured a display called, "Little Chief: The Comic Art of Brummett Echohawk, a hilarious Native American comic strip that ran in Tulsa's Sunday World." Steve Echohawk said his uncle also drew for the Chicago Tribune and the Detroit Free Press. Brummett Echohawk was Kit-Kahaki (warrior band) and attended the Chilocco Indian Boarding School in Chilocco, Oklahoma. He distinguished himself during World War II, winning a Bronze Star, three Purple Hearts and four Battle Stars. According to an online account of his bravery, Echohawk and "William Lasley, a Pottawatomie, led a successful charge at Anzio Beach to take the 'Factory' which insured that the allied toe-hold at Anzio Beach was secure. Lasley was killed in the first assault." After the war Echohawk set about creating paintings, emerging as a well- known artist with works displayed in galleries across the world. It's a legacy that likely will endure: The day after Echohawk's death the website eBay listed some of his paintings available for sale. Echohawk also dabbled in acting at a time when the American Indian presence in Hollywood was sorely lacking. Despite this, Echohawk was generous with other performers, once sending a letter to Hollywood producers commending Caucasian actor Jay Brands for "his authentic performance and his ability" to speak the Pawnee language on the 50s TV show Yancy Derringer. Years later author Yardena Rand wrote a book called "Why We Love Westerns," that featured an interview with Echohawk. Rand was trying to gauge Pawnee reaction to Kevin Costner's "Dances With Wolves." She wrote: "Brummett Echohawk, noted Pawnee actor, painter, writer, veteran, and historian of the Pawnee nation, expressed complete disgust with most Hollywood renditions of Indians. But he was pleased with what he felt was an accurate portrayal in Dances with Wolves. He was glad Costner used `real Indian people and there were no headbands in sight,' a practice started early on in the film industry to keep white actors' black wigs from flying off during chase scenes." The article, which describes Echohawk as "the grandson of a Pawnee scout who served in Major Frank North's all Pawnee battalion in the 1860s and a decorated veteran of World War II," also says Echohawk enjoyed Costner's film because it "made the point we were very powerful. You could hardly call this tribe a weak-kneed bunch." Steve Echohawk described his uncle as "an excellent man. He was a friend to everyone and everyone knew him." He also said Brummett Echohawk was "very traditional. He was a very proud Pawnee." You can reach Sam Lewin and sam@okit.com Native American Times. Copyright c. 2005 All Rights Reserved. --------- "RE: Robert A. Roessel, Jr." --------- Date: Sun, 19 Feb 2006 19:55:42 -0700 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="ROBERT A. ROESSEL, JR." http://www.owlstar.com/dailyheadlines.htm http://hosted.ap.org/AZ_OBIT_ROESSEL_AZOL-?SITE=AZTUS Longtime educator on Navajo Nation dies at 79 February 18, 2006 PHOENIX (AP) -- Robert A. Roessel, Jr., who spent more than 50 years as an educator on the Najavo Reservation and was hailed by Navajo leaders for his dedication to the tribe, died Thursday. He was 79. Roessel, of Round Rock, Ariz., died of cancer at Southwest Memorial Hospital in Cortez, Colo. Roessel was born and educated in St. Louis and moved to the reservation to teach in 1950 after earning a doctorate in education from Arizona State University. He founded the Rough Rock Demonstration School in 1966, a school designed to meld Navajo language, history and culture with modern academics. He then served as the first president of tribally owned Navajo Community College, now Dine College, when it was founded in 1968. Roessel was hailed by Navajo Nation President Joe Shirley Jr. for his lifelong dedication to teaching the Navajo. "Dr. Roessel came to our land as a young man and embraced our culture with his whole heart," Shirley said in a statement. "Then he taught us, one after another, to love who we are as individuals, as a people and as a culture." Roessel authored several books, including "History of the Navajo from 1860 to 1910," "Navajo Education: Its Problems and Progress," and "Indian Communities in Action." He was inducted into the ASU Hall of Fame in 1999, and given the university's Lifetime Achievement Award last year. Roessel ran several school district in northern Arizona before returning to the renamed Round Rock Community School in 1997, then turned over its operation to his son, Monty, in 1997. In addition to his son, Roessel is survived by his wife, Ruth, and four other children. A memorial service is planned for 1 p.m. Sunday at the Round Rock gym. Copyright c. 2006 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. --------- "RE: Crossings" --------- Date: Mon, 20 Feb 2006 08:50:01 -0600 From: Gary Smith Subj: NA News Item - - - - - - -- - - - - - - filename="CROSSINGS" February 17, 2006 Luevenia Locklear Maxton Luevenia Locklear, 76, of 4463 Prospect Road, died Feb. 14, 2006, at Southeastern Regional Medical Center. The funeral will be 2 p.m. Friday at Prospect United Methodist Church, the Revs. Kenneth Locklear, Bill James and Brother Dell Harris officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Surviving are two brothers, Maurice Locklear and Crawley Locklear, both of Maxton; three sisters, Sadie Faircloth and Loria Locklear, both of Maxton, and Evelyn Locklear of Red Springs; and a stepbrother, Erbert Locklear of Huntsville, Ala. The family will receive friends from 7 to 9 tonight at Locklear and Son Funeral Home. February 20, 2006 Eleanor Chebahtah Pembroke Eleanor Chebahtah, 35, of 4495 Moss Neck Road, died Feb. 16, 2006, at home. The funeral will be 3 p.m. Sunday at Thompson's Funeral Home Chapel, the Rev. Jose Joson officiating. Burial will follow in the Razon family cemetery. Surviving are her husband, Joseph Chebahtah of Pembroke; two daughters, Miranda Renae Chebahtah and Corrina Alison Chebahtah, both of Pembroke; her mother, Adoracion Razon of Pembroke; two brothers, Joselito Razon of New York City and Elipido Razon Jr. of Pembroke; and three sisters, Emelita Maynor of Pembroke, Alexandra Fernandez of the Philippines and Maria Razon of Pembroke. The family will receive friends from 2 to 5 p.m. today at Thompson's Funeral Home. Loriner Oxendine Lumberton Loriner "Sister" Oxendine, 93, of 2960 Elizabethtown Road, died Feb. 16, 2006, at Woodhaven Nursing Center. The funeral will be 2 p.m. Sunday at Revels Funeral Home Chapel in Lumberton, the Revs. Roger Strickland and Waymon Oxendine officiating. Burial will follow in Lumbee Memorial Gardens. Oxendine was born in Robeson County on April 23, 1912, a daughter of the late Charles Wesley and Amanda Hunt Oxendine. She was a member of Union Baptist Church and was a homemaker. She was preceded in death by seven brothers and two sisters. Surviving are several nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends from 7 to 9 tonight at Revels Funeral Home in Lumberton. Copyright c. 2006 The Robesonian, Lumberton, NC. -=-=-=- February 14, 2006 Aaron R. Locklear LAUREL HILL - Aaron Ross Locklear, 19, of Laurel Hill, died Friday, Feb. 10, 2006, in UNC Hospitals in Chapel Hill. Services: Funeral, 3 p.m. Wednesday in Richard Boles Funeral Service chapel in Laurinburg. Burial in Hillside Memorial Park in Laurinburg. Visitation: 6 to 8 tonight at the funeral home. Survived by: Parents, Kenneth and Samantha; twin sister, Alyson; brother, Kenneth; paternal grandmother, Pansy Barrington; paternal grandparents, JL and Ruby; and maternal grandparents, Willie and Wilma Dial and Michael and Jane Beatty. February 16, 2006 Luevenia Locklear MAXTON - Ms. Luevenia Locklear, 76, of 4463 Prospect Road, died Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2006, in Southeastern Regional Medical Center in Lumberton. Services: Funeral, 2 p.m. Friday in Prospect United Methodist Church. Burial in church cemetery. Visitation: 7 to 9 tonight at Locklear & Son Funeral Home in Pembroke. Survived by: Brothers, Maurice and Crawley; sisters, Sadie Faircloth, Loria and Evelyn; and stepbrother, Erbert. February 18, 2006 Loriner Oxendine LUMBERTON - Miss Loriner "Sister" Oxendine, 93, of 2960 Elizabethtown Road, died Thursday, Feb. 16, 2006, in Woodhaven Nursing Center. Services: Funeral, 2 p.m. Sunday in Revels Funeral Home chapel in Lumberton. Burial in Lumbee Memorial Gardens. Visitation: 7 to 9 tonight at the funeral home. Survived by: Several nieces and nephews. Copyright c. 2006 The Fayetteville (N.C.) Observer. -=-=-=- February 15, 2006 Rachel Walker Fleming Cherokee - Rachel Walker Fleming, 58, of Shepherd Squirrell Drive, died Monday, Feb. 13, 2006, at Harris Regional Hospital after an extended illness. A native of Union County, S.C., she had lived in Jackson County for the past 15 years; she was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and friend to all who knew her; she was an avid cook, member of Rockdale Baptist Church, daughter of the late Converse Gart Barnes and Evelyn Walker Patrick. Preceded in death by a twin sister, Shirley Walker; a son, Johnny C. Baker; and her first husband, James Baker. Surviving is her husband of seven years, Thomas Duane Fleming; two daughters, Ann Hegler of Cherokee and Angel Squirrell and husband, Lamont, of Cherokee; a son, James Scott Baker and wife, Janie, of Ruby, S.C.; three sisters, JoAnn Hunter of Chester, S.C., Ruth Patrick of Sylva, and Irene Patrick of Chester, S.C.; five brothers, Bobby Ray Patrick, Mike Patrick and Carl Patrick all of Chester, S.C., Eddie Patrick of Union, S.C. and Roy Patrick of Clinton, S.C.; eight grandchildren and a great grandchild. The funeral service is 2 p.m. Thursday at Yellow Hill Baptist Church, with the Revs. Shane Danner and Red Bradley officiating. Burial in Yellow Hill Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday at Melton-Riddle Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the church 30 minutes prior to the service. Copyright c. 2006 Asheville Citizen-Times. -=-=-=- February 17, 2006 Leonard Thomas Donnell Sr. Leonard Thomas Donnell Sr., 82, of Red Lake, died on Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2006, at North Country Regional Hospital in Bemidji. A funeral will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday at the St. Mary's Mission Catholic Church in Red Lake with Rev. Bill Mehrkens and Rev. Patrick Sullivan officiating. A wake will begin at 2 p.m. today at the Red Lake Community Center in Red Lake and will continue until the time of service on Saturday. Burial will be in St. Mary's Mission Catholic Cemetery in Red Lake. The Cease Family Funeral Home in Bemidji assisted the family with arrangements. February 18, 2006 Henry William "Stretch" Sumner Sr. Henry William "Stretch" Sumner Sr., age 72, of Red Lake, MN, died Thursday, February 16, 2006 at North Country Regional Hospital in Bemidji, MN. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, February 20, 2006 at 2:00 PM at St. Mary's Mission Church in Red Lake. Father Pat Sullivan will officiate. The wake will begin at Noon on Saturday, February 18, at the Little Rock Community Center and continue until time of service. Interment will be in the spring in St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery under the direction of the Olson-Schwartz Funeral Home in Bemidji. Honorary bearers will be Harlow Spears, Duane Kingbird, Bill May, John Dick, Douglas Beaulieu, Derek Beaulieu, Cheri Goodwin, Kristen Graves, Becky Jourdain, Arlene Auginash, and the residents and staff of Jourdain- Perpich Extended Care Facility. Active bearers will be Henry's nephews: Tom Sumner, Jim Beaulieu, Gerry Beaulieu, Greg Sumner, Richard Sumner Jr., Preston Sumner, Rodney Spears Sr., Jeremy Martin Sr. and Mike Martin. Henry William Sumner was born November 21, 1933 in Red Lake to Simon and Angeline (Strong) Sumner. He graduated from Red Lake High School in 1954. He was a good athlete, excelling in basketball. During the early 1960's he ran from Red Lake to St. Paul, MN. He served in the United States Air Force 1955 - 1958. Later he returned to Red Lake. He married Margaret Hill on March 24, 1960 in Clearbrook, MN. Henry was employed with Red Lake Indian Mills and Red Lake Tribal Bingo. He was an avid sports fan, especially supporting the Red Lake Warriors basketball team. He enjoyed spending time with his family, working crossword puzzles and attending pow-wows. Henry is survived by two daughters: Thelma (Bill) May and Ramona (Robin) Roy, both of Red Lake; three sons: Stuart Sumner, Fargo, ND, Henry (Melissa) Sumner Jr., Duluth, MN and Leonard (Laberta) Sumner, Red Lake; Keith (Laura) Sumner, whom he raised as a son; brother Joe (Mary) Sumner, Red Lake; sister Betty Beaulieu, Red Lake; 19 grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; and uncle John Strong, Red Lake. He was preceded in death by his parents; five brothers: Andrew, Simon Jr. Richard Sr., Edward, and Douglas; sister Thelma and daughter Karen. Online guest book at www.olsonschwartzfuneralhome.com. February 20, 2006 Nathan Kingbird Nathan James Kingbird, 55 of St. Paul, MN died Wednesday, February 15, 2006 at Regents Hospital in St. Paul. Funeral Services will be 1:00 pm, Monday, February 20, 2006 at the Veteran's Memorial Building in Cass Lake, MN with Father Anselm Thevarkunnel officiating. A wake began on Saturday, February 18, 2006, at the Veteran's Memorial Building in Cass Lake, MN and will continue until the time of the service. Interment will be in the spring at the Morgan Family Cemetery in rural Cass Lake, MN under the direction of the Cease Family Funeral Home of Bemidji. He was born in Pike Bay Township, rural Cass Lake, MN the son of Margaret (Kingbird) King and James Beaulieu. Active Casketbearers will be: Bill Johnson, John Dunn, Lenny Abram, Kevin Lyons, Ron Lyons, Jeffrey Kingbird, alternate Torrey Kingbird. Honorary Casketbearers will be Family and Friends. Copyright c. 2006 Red Lake Net News. -=-=-=- February 14, 2006 Lawrence Shike Warm Springs resident Lawrence J. Shike died Feb. 5, 2006, at St. Charles Medical Center in Bend. He was 42. Mr. Shike was born April 10, 1963, in Redmond to parents Raymond and Charlotte (Brown) Shike. He was a lifetime resident of Warm Springs and an enrolled member of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs. On May 27, 1996, in Reno, Nev., he married his wife, Norma. Surivors include his children, Lawrence Jr., William, and Lana Shike, all of Warm Springs; brother, Ray Shike Jr., of Warm Springs; sisters, Helena Jackson, Mina Shike, Sandra Danzuka, and Lana (Shike) Leonard, all of Warm Springs. He was preceded in death by his father, and brother Albert. A dressing ceremony was held Feb. 8, at the Agency Longhouse in Warm Springs, followed by an overnight service and burial Feb. 9, in Simnasho. Arrangements were under the direction of Bel-Air Colonial Funeral Home of Madras. Copyright c. 2006 Mille Lacs Messenger/Isle, MN. -=-=-=- February 1, 2006 Desirae Daisy Auginaush Desirae Daisy Auginaush, 21, of Naytahwaush, died on Jan. 22, in Thief River Falls. She was born March 16, 1984, at Bagley to Andrew Goodwin and Karie Auginaush. She was raised in the Rice Lake-Naytahwaush area. She attended school in Bagley, Staples, Minneapolis, and the Circle of Life School in White Earth. For the past 10 years she has resided in St. Paul and Naytahwaush. She is survived by her mother, Karie Auginaush of Naytahwaush; father, Andrew (Cheri) Goodwin of Bemidji; grandfather, George Auginaush of Bagley; grandmother, Lois Jacobs of Bagley; four brothers: Corey Larson of Bagley, Craig Larson, Naytahwaush, Charles Goodwin, Bemidji, Andrew Goodwin Jr. of Bemidji; four sisters: Audrienna Goodwin of Bemidji, Deborah Goodwin of Bemidji, Andrea Goodwin of Bemidji and Crystal Donnell of Red Lake; special brothers: Jamie, Brent, and Russell Auginaush; and special uncle Tony Auginaush. She was preceded in death by her grandmother, uncle, Kenny Auginaush, grandfather, Pat Goodwin. Funeral services were held on Jan. 27, at the Rice Lake Community Center with the Reverend George Ross and Rev. Don Goodwin officiating. Interment: Samuel Memorial Episcopal Cemetery, Naytahwaush. Arrangements: The Cease Family Funeral Home in Bagley. Donald "Duckhead" Bellanger Donald "Duckhead" Bellanger, 68, of Waubun, died Jan. 25, at Innovis Hospital in Fargo. Donald Wayne Bellanger was born June 2, 1937, at home in Beaulieu to Frank and Grayce (McDonnell) Bellanger. He attended grade school in Beaulieu and high school in Mahnomen until 1955, when he started working road construction. Donald worked mostly as a heavy equipment machine operator until his retirement in 1999. During the 1960s, he worked on the Minute Man Missile sites in North Dakota. In the off-season, Donald worked for the Red Owl Warehouse in Fargo, Schoenborn's 66 Station, Jack's Motor Sports and Spaeth Construction all in Mahnomen. After his retirement, he was employed at Doc's Den in Waubun. He married Eunice Snetsinger in 1960 at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Beaulieu. They made their home in Mahnomen, where they raised four children. In later years, Donald resided in Naytahwaush and later moved into Waubun, where he has since lived with his beloved pet, Mitzi. Donald was a lifelong member of the Local 49IUOE (International Union of Operating Engineers). He also held memberships with the Mahnomen Rod and Gun Club, WAMO (Waubun Area Men's Organization) and a former member of the Knights of Columbus. He is survived by his four children: Lori (Brad) Anderson, Fargo, DeWayne, Mahnomen, Dana (Loren) Laudenbach, St. Augusta, Minn., and Burl, also Mahnomen; eight grandchildren: Matthew, Ashley, Tony, Rebecca, Joey, Jake, Luke and Marcus; five great-grandchildren: Cole, Bryce, Addison, Riley and Gage; and one brother, Delos, (Elisa), of Beaulieu. His parents precede him in death. A Memorial Service was held Jan. 28 at St. Joseph's Catholic Church Beaulieu, with Father Rick Lambert, Presider, Annie Bement, Organist, and Mary Ann Brisbois, Song Leader. Interment: St. Joseph's Catholic Cemetery in Beaulieu. Arrangements: Anderson~ Mattson Funeral Home, Mahnomen. Ivan Burnette Ivan Burnette, 59, Duluth, died on Jan. 9 at the Bayshore Health Center in Duluth. Ivan P. Burnette, the son of Simon and Effie (Cress) Burnette was born Sept. 23, 1946 at White Earth. He grew up and attended school in Naytahwaush. As a young man he moved to Duluth where he has made his home and worked for nearly 30 years. Due to ill health, Ivan recently entered the Bayshore Health Center. Surviving Ivan are his three brothers: James (Carmen), Waubun, Clifford and Edward (Ada) Burnette, both of Naytahwaush. His niece, Jamie (Todd Boe) Sargent, Sasha (Rick) Thompson, Shari Burnette, Melanie Sargent, Effie (Eugene Carpenter) Burnette, Gina Burnette, Julie Burnette, Amanda Cloud, Anita Cloud, Diane Burnette, Shirlene Burnette and Nora Bush; nephews, James Burnette Jr., George Burnette, Simon Burnette, Shane Burnette, Shannon Burnette, Mike Burnette, Ed (Mary) Burnette Jr. and Dale Burnette. Surviving also are many great nephews and nieces. Preceding him in death were his parents, four brothers: William, Pete, George and John and a sister, Mary Cloud. Funeral services were held Jan. 14, at the old Community Center in Naytahwaush with Fr. Bob Leising officiating. The music was provided by James Burnette, Jamie Sargent, Sasha Burnette and Willie Adkins. Serving as pallbearers were Todd Boe, Gerry Burnette, Simon Burnette, Mike Accobee, Dale Accobee and Terry Burnette. His brothers, James, Edward and Clifford served as the honorary bearers. Interment: St. Anne's Catholic Cemetery in Naytahwaush. Arrangements: Anderson~Mattson Funeral Home in Mahnomen. Dr. Edward Joseph LaDue Dr. Edward Joseph LaDue, 62, of Mahnomen, died suddenly on Jan. 15 at the Mahnomen Health Center in Mahnomen. Edward Joseph LaDue, the son of Charles and Naomi (Warren) LaDue, was born Sept. 29, 1943 at White Earth. Ed grew up and attended elementary school in the White Earth area. In 1961, he graduated from Waubun High School. After graduation Ed served his country in the U.S Navy. He then attended school in Minneapolis for lab and X-ray and was then employed and lived at Amboy, Ill. He went on to further his education at Moorhead State University, majoring in biology and chemistry. Ed attended medical school in the Twin Cities at the University of Minnesota Medical School, graduating in 1975. After graduating medical school Ed served his residency at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque during 1976 and 1977. He then moved back to Minnesota, practicing in Clarissa from 1978 to 1980. At that time he moved to Farmington, N.M., where he met his wife. Ed was united in marriage to Nancy Farmer on Nov. 23, 1981, in Las Vegas and they have made their home in Mahnomen where he established his family practice. He continued to see his patients up until the time of his death. He was an avid hunter and especially loved pheasant hunting with his four dogs. He raised his hunting dogs and every one of them was special to him. Ed loved to work and spend time on his land. He was also an avid reader and read every spare chance he had. As a physician he was dedicated to his patients, his staff and the community. Surviving Ed are his wife, Nancy, Mahnomen; daughters: Autumn Gayle, Grand Forks, Tanya (Bill) Eggness, Eagle Bend, Minn., and Bailey Moreland at home; sons: Shaun LaDue, Owatonna, Minn., Justin LaDue, St. Cloud and Joshua Newholm at home; three grandchildren; four brothers: Warren, Waubun, Peter (Mayneta), Anoka, Minn., Charles (Cecelia), Anoka, Minn., and Cliff (Ramona), Clarissa, Minn.; three sisters: Carley Jasken, Mahnomen, Julie Zortman, White Earth, and Linda Barella of Tucson, Ariz. Preceding him in death were his parents, a sister, JoAnn and two brothers, Virgil and Michael Dean. Funeral services were held Jan. 19 at St. Michael's Catholic Church in Mahnomen with Fr. Rick Lambert presiding. Lavon Cook was the pianist with Monica Winter as song leader and soloist with Dave Kochmann providing special music on the saxophone. Serving as the casket bearers were Gregory Clayton, Ronald Moore, David Kaiser, James Hinzmann, Max Voss, Dr. William Zaks, Bruce Kunz, William Nelson and Bob Hlubek. Beverly Backen, Mary Kaiser and Vicky Hlubek were the honorary bearers. The Isaacson-Bjorge Post #31 of the American Legion provided military honors. Interment: Calvary Cemetery in White Earth at a later date. Arrangements: Anderson~Mattson Funeral Home of Mahnomen. Richard Adelbert McCollum Richard Adelbert McCollum died on Jan. 16, at the Mahnomen Health Center in Mahnomen. He was born on March 31, 1919, in Britt, Iowa to Alta Gray McCollum and Harold McCollum Sr. Richard (Dick) spent his early childhood years in the Shevlin, Moose Creek area. The McCollums were early homesteaders, farmers, and loggers in Moose Creek township and the surrounding area. Richard and his father, Hal, moved the family by horse and wagon to the Bejou area in 1932. In Bejou, they farmed and Dick also traveled in the summer to work in the North Dakota wheat field harvest. In 1937, Richard joined the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and he was stationed at Buckboard Hill CCC Camp near Roy Lake. Richard married Myrtle Brodsho on Nov. 15, 1939. They farmed in Mahnomen County for 40 years. Richard was an active community member. He was a founder of Church Lake Local Farmers Union (Bejou), was an Immanuel Lutheran Church (Bejou) board member, and Director and chairman of the Mahnomen Farmers Co-op Grain Elevator for 22 years. Dick was a performance supervisor for the Mahnomen County ASCS office and then became a member and chairman of the ASCS county committee and served from 1965-1979. After his retirement from farming, Richard owned and operated several clubs, restaurants, and bars in the Bagley-Bemidji-Mahnomen areas. Richard's greatest love in life was people; his second greatest was helping them. He was the oldest son of seven children and helped his mother, Alta, raise his siblings, ending his formal school education in the 8th grade. He would go on to be a self-taught man, gaining additional education by helping his children with school work, as their education was important to him. His energy was endless for his family. He never met a stranger! Richard loved deer hunting and fishing. He hunted in the area of his ancestors, the Shevlin and Moose Creek area until recent years. "Deer Camp" is still enjoyed today by his sons, grandchildren, and their families. In 1995, he married Peggy Ostlie and they lived in Bagley. Richard is survived by his wife, Althea "Peggy" McCollum and her children. He is also survived by his children: Darlene (Vern) Benson of Lakeland, Fla., Doreen (Orville) Turner of Waubun, Myron (Sylvia) McCollum of Bejou, David (Judy) McCollum of Mahnomen, Patricia Mannie of Sartell, Minn., and his first wife and mother of his children, Myrtle McCollum of Mahnomen; 14 grandsons, four granddaughters, 23 great-grandchildren, and one great great-grandchild. Additional survivors are one brother, Harold (Muriel) McCollum of Mahnomen; one sister, Ethel (Kenny) Brodsho also of Mahnomen, sister-in-law, Pat McCollum of Kindred, N.D., and many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his son, Wayne (Sonny) who gave his life in Vietnam in 1966; his parents, Alta and Hal McCollum; sister, Evalena (McCollum) Thompson; and brothers: Loran, John (Jack), and Robert (Boots). Funeral services were held Jan. 21, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Bejou with Pastor Aage Carlsen officiating. Interment: Riverside Memorial Park Cemetery in Mahnomen. Arrangements: Anderson-Mattson Funeral Home in Mahnomen. Renae Ann Beaulieu 49 A memorial will be held at Lynnwood Community Center in Lynnwood on Saturday, Feb. 4, for Renae Beaulieu of Mahnomen. She died Jan. 5, in her home under the care of Hospice and her daughter Loni Jo Pearson. Renae Beaulieu was born Nov. 28, 1956, to Joseph and Florence (Poff) Beaulieu. As a child she grew up in the Lynnwood area and went to school at Forest Lake High School. In 1998, she moved to Mahnomen where she made her home until she passed. Renae worked at the Shooting Star Casino as an accountant and she also did real estate closings on the side until 2002 when she opened her own company called Beaulieu Closing Service, which she ran for four years. Renae Beaulieu is survived by her daughter, Loni Jo Pearson her son Lyle Pearson Jr. and she also considered Edward Trettin Leslie as one of her sons too. Renae is also survived by her brothers and their spouses Rick and Kay Beaulieu of Forest Lake Minn., Tom and Shari Beaulieu of Mora Minn., Dean and Skeeter Beaulieu of Cambridge Minn., along with her sister, Theresa Beaulieu of Twin Valley, and many cousins, nieces and nephews. Renae Beaulieu wanted to be remembered as a strong, fun, loving, caring and hard-working woman who loved her family, friends and dogs very much. In Memory In Loving Memory of Phyllis Valerie Bevins Jan. 23, 2006 Mom, Two years have passed since you left that winter day, and I know that it takes time until the pain goes away. I sit and remember all the good times we've had, more good ones, even the bad. I know that you are watching over us and you are near, all the memories of you I still hold dear, but still wish that you were here. As time went by, day-by-day, I sat and wondered why did the Creator take you away? But now I know the reason why, and I'm glad that we had the chance to say good-bye. All of this still seems strange, not hearing your voice every day, but one thing I know for sure.... I love you mom, and that will never change. We love and miss you, Your kids: Richard, Jim, Linda, Lori, Leah, & grandchildren In Memory of Melissa Butcher June 8, 1989 to Dec. 18, 2004 My girl, it has been a year now since you have left us, but in my heart you are still here and always will be. I miss you so much Missy we all do. There is not a day that goes by that I am not thinking about you, Melissa and when I sit here looking at your pictures thinking why did he have to take my girl from us, all I know is you are in a much better place now, Melissa. I guess the Great Spirit needed a very special, precious angel and he has chosen you my girl. Now I believe what they say, that he takes the very best ones first because by choosing you, I now know that is true, because you are a very special angel and always will be and I also know you are with family - you will never be alone, Melissa. With love and missing you, Your dad, Bill Butcher In Memory of Amber Marie Crosby June 16, 1986 - Jan. 29, 2005 I can not believe it's only been one year since I last talked to you. Only one year since I seen you smile. One year since I heard you laugh. Because it seems like an eternity ago. I miss you, not a day goes by that I do not think of you. I have so many questions and no answers. I know you are watching over me and my baby. And you will protect me the way you did when T got into that accident. I miss not talking to you. No matter how bad my day was you just seemed to brighten it with a phone call. Words will never express how much I miss you. Why you left, I will never know. In my heart, I feel a piece is missing. My best friend, my sister. No one could ever replace you. I will forever miss you. I love ya girl. Randi Jo In Loving Memory of our dear, sweet "Girl" Amber Marie Crosby It has been a year since you left us, and there isn't a day goes by that we don't miss you. You changed our lives in a way that no one possibly could. We are truly grateful for the time we spent with you. We hold you deep in our hearts and our prayers until the day we meet in Heaven. Love you, "Girl" Englund/Sullivan Family Copyright c. 2006 Anishinaabeg Today, White Earth, MN. -=-=-=- February 14, 2006 Marilyn E. Beaulieu Marilyn E. (Head) Beaulieu, 56, of Red Lake, died on Friday, Feb. 10, 2006, at North Country Regional Hospital in Bemidji. A funeral will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday at St. Mary's Mission Catholic Church in Red Lake with the Rev. Patrick Sullivan officiating. A wake will begin at 2 p.m. today at the Little Rock Community Center in Red Lake and will continue until the time of the service on Thursday at the church. Burial will be in St. Mary's Mission Catholic Cemetery in Red Lake. Cease Family Funeral Home in Bemidji assisted the family with arrangements. February 17, 2006 Eldon R. Lehman Eldon R. Lehman, 80, of Bemidji, died on Thursday, Feb. 16, 2006, at Neilson Place in Bemidji, of lung and brain cancer. A memorial service will be held on March 18, 2006, at the First Presbyterian Church in Bemidji. Henry William Sumner Sr. Henry William "Stretch" Sumner Sr., 72, of Red Lake, died on Thursday, Feb. 16, 2006, at North Country Regional Hospital in Bemidji. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 2 p.m. on Monday at St. Mary's Mission Church in Red Lake with Rev. Pat Sullivan officiating. A wake will begin at noon today at the Little Rock Community Center and continue until time of service on Monday at the church. Burial will be in the spring in St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery. The Olson-Schwartz Funeral Home in Bemidji assisted. Nathan James Kingbird Nathan James Kingbird, 55, of St. Paul, Minn., died on Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2006, at Regents Hospital in St. Paul. Arrangements are pending with the Cease Family Funeral Home in Bemidji. Copyright c. 2006 The Pioneer/Bemidji, MN. -=-=-=- February 20, 2006 Michael R. McDonald, "Wambdi Wakan Hoksina" (Sacred Eagle Boy) Our beloved family member, Michael R. McDonald, "Wambdi Wakan Hoksina" (Sacred Eagle Boy), 38 entered into eternal life on Friday, February 17, 2006 near his home at Fort Totten, North Dakota. Mass of Christian Burial for Michael will be held on Thursday, February 23, 2006 at 11:00 a.m. at Seven Dolors Catholic Church, Fort Totten. Fr. Charles Leute, O.P. will celebrate the Mass and burial will be in St. Jerome's Catholic Cemetery. A Wake and prayer service will be held at the Crow Hill Recreation Center on Wednesday, February 22, 2006 beginning at 5:00 p.m. with the Rosary Service at 8:00 p.m. The Procession to Crow Hill Recreation Center will leave from the Wal-Mart Parking Lot at 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday. Those serving as Active Pallbearers for Mike will be Marshall DeMarce, Clayton Blueshield, Clayton Dubois, Terry Halsey, Ron Lohnes, Kevin Brown, Sam McKay and Leonard Fox. Honorary Pallbearers will be Melanie DeMarce, Bud and Renita Shaw, Kenny Wells, Allan White, Rob Greywater, Brian Thunder, Vanessa DeMarce, Nola and Carlos Lopez, Dale Fitzke, Jay Young, Lee Fox, Doris Longie, Tom Wells, Joe Teel, Jana McDonald, Rick Walking Eagle, Leah DeMarce, Art and Catherine Thompson, Clayton McCloud, Irene Littlewind, Alvin White, Barry Thunder, Alvin Foote, Todd Yankton, Dave DeMarce, Dana Yankton, Craig Brown Lita Luke, Mike's nieces and nephews and Spirit Lake Bingo staff. Music will be provided by Mahto Brothers, Myrtle Goodleft and Elliott Ward, Mike was born to Tony and Vina (Wells) McDonald on June 17, 1967 at Garrison, ND. He was the fifth of nine children. He attended school in Fort Totten, St. Michael and Wahpeton. Mike graduated in 1985 from Fort Totten Public School. During his young years, Mike spent a lot of time with his many uncles, earning the nickname of "Sheep." Mike took on many qualities of his family members, learning at a young age to get up each day and do something productive. He was a hard worker, a good cook and a great housekeeper. Mike had a strong personal work ethic. He cherished his family, especially all his nieces and nephews, bestowing nicknames that he thought were appropriate for them. Mike worked ever since his high school graduation as a security guard for McDonald Security at Sioux Manufacturing Corp. He enjoyed spending time with his family, watching movies, listening to music, and bingo, where he was a "regular" with many bingo buddies. We will all remember Mikey as a quiet man who preferred a simple lifestyle. He never was known to hurt anyone and was good to everyone. Mike was a generous person and always gave his time and help to anyone in need. He respected his elders and accepted everyone as his friend and equal. He was a member of the Waterbuster clan and a lifelong member of Seven Dolors Parish. Mike leaves behind his family who will never forget him. parents, Tony and Vina McDonald; brothers, Russell (Francine) McDonald and Mervel (Karen) McDonald; sisters, Antonette (Terry Halsey) McDonald, Ardell (Clayton) Blueshield, Mary (Ron) Lohnes, Molly (Marshall) DeMarce, Myra (Clayton Dubois) McDonald, Frani McDonald, Renita (Bud) Shaw, Sr., Nancy Boushey; godchildren, Cassie McDonald, Christina Colon, Christa McDonald, Alayna Lohnes, Leandra Thomas and Palmer Hopkins. Special nephew, Anthony Maynard Hopkins; granddaughter: Makenzie Lynn Hopkins; grandsons, Eric Wanna, Devin Littlewind and Landen Knutson; grandparents, Art and Catherine Thompson, Irene Littlewind, Selina Ironhawk, Lily Shaw, Pauline Greywater, Helena Littleghost, Elizabeth Littleghost and Elaine Robertson; aunts and uncles, Dinah (Roy) Aceveda, Sandra McDonald, Demus (Bernie) McDonald, Helen Yvonne White and Theresa (John) Danks; Confirmation Sponsor, Jack Warner; All of his relatives waiting to greet him in the spirit world are maternal grandparents, Ralph and Olive (Sherwood) Wells; paternal grandparents, Michael and Evaline (White Thunder) McDonald; brother, Duane Leon McDonald; nieces, Nelvette Lynn McDonald and Lindsey Littlewind. Friends may sign the on-line register book at www.gilbertsonfuneralhome. com. Gilbertson Funeral Home, Devils Lake, is in charge of arrangements. Copyright c. 2006 Devils Lake Daily Journal. -=-=-=- February 19, 2006 Carmelita Clara Many Wounds FORTYATES - Carmelita Clara Many Wounds, 71, Fort Yates, died February 17, 2006, at her home. Services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Feb. 20, 2006, at St. Peter's Catholic Church, with Brother George Maufort, officiating. Burial will be in St. Peter's Catholic Church Cemetery. A wake begins at 5 p.m. today at A.J. Agaard Memorial Building, Fort Yates. Carmelita was born March 23, 1934, at Fort Yates, to William and Emma (Loans Arrow) White Cloud. She was raised by her grandmother Fannie, and attended grade school in Chamberlain, S.D. She earned her GED, and in 1992 she graduated from Sitting Bull College with a BS in general studies through Minot State. She met and married her husband Perry in 1958, and they lived in Oakland, California, Sioux City and Des Moines, Iowa, before returning in 1973. She was employed as a dorm matron and college a clerk at the bookstore at Sitting Bull College, Fort Yates. She retired in 2000, to enjoy being with her grandchildren. Carmelita enjoyed bingo, casino, traditional dancing, powwows and bead work. She is survived by six daughters, Jackie (Manley) White Cloud, Tracey, Marie, and Anita (Dustin) Many Wounds, all of Fort Yates and Phyllis Johnson, Watertown, S.D., Linda (Gary) Formanek, Tama, Iowa; three sons, Kipp (Cindy) White Cloud, Flandreau, S.D., William (Sharon) Many Wounds Jr. , Fort Yates, Duane White Cloud, Michigan; 14 grandchildren, Krystal Looking Horse, Kuyamawani Looking Horse, Sheree Good Left, Daniel Many Wounds, Tonia Hall, Loretta Kim White Cloud-Walking Hawk, A.J. White Cloud, Jamie Johnson, Dannie Johnson, Karmin Many Wounds, Kayla Looking Horse, Ivan Looking Horse, Jr., Leslie White Cloud, Wamniomni White Cloud; eight great-grandchildren; nephew, Clayton "Ski" White Cloud; and a sister, Victoria Ireland. Carmelita was preceded in death by her parents, William White Cloud and Emma Loans Arrow; her husband, Perry Many Wounds; sister, Margaret Fidelia White Cloud; a brother, Jerome White Cloud; and her grandmother, Fannie Grey Horn. Arrangements are being made by Perry Funeral Home, Mandan. Shalesha Twinn Shalesha Twinn, 14, Wakpala, S.D., died Feb. 18, 2006, at her home. Arrangements are pending with Oster Funeral Home, Mobridge, S.D. Copyright c. 2006 Bismarck Tribune. -=-=-=- February 14, 2006 Barbara Jean Thompson Thompson, Barbara Jean, 67, of Denver, Colorado, formerly of Fort Totten, ND, Mass of Christian Burial 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, February 15 at Seven Dolors Catholic Church, Fort Totten. A Wake Service will be held at Fort totten Recreation Center on Tuesday, February 14 beginning at 5:00 p.m. with the Rosary and Prayer Service at 8:00 p.m. Gilbertson Funeral Home, Devils Lake, ND. February 17, 2006 Patricia Ann Bear Patricia Ann Bear, infant daughter of Michelle Bear of St. Michael, ND, was born January 31 and died Saturday, February 11, 2006, all at the Fairview-University Medical Center in Minneapolis, MN. She is survived by her mother, Michelle Bear of St. Michael; one brother Savon Glen Bear at home; one sister, Michaela LeeAnn Bear at home; five aunts, Emma Rae (D.J.) Thumb of Ft. Totten, ND, Nichole (Jeremy) Buckles of Ft. Totten, her godparents Rebecca (Barrett) Mudgett of Ft. Totten, Margaret (Adrian Jr.) Thomas of Devils Lake, ND, and Priscilla (Peter) Smith of St. Michael; three uncles, James Robertson Jr. and Jeremiah Robertson, both of St. Michael, and Floyd Paul of Fargo, ND; her grandmother, Patricia Ann Cavanaugh of St. Michael; her great-grandmother, Priscilla Cavanaugh of Ft. Totten; and several great-aunts and great- uncles. She was preceded in death by her grandfather, Michael Bear; her great- grandfather, Gene Cavanaugh; and two cousins, Lahnel Rose and Dahnel Dawn Charboneau. Funeral Services: Seven Dolors Catholic Church, Ft. Totten, ND, on Friday, February 17, 2006 at 2:00 p.m. Interment: St. Michael's Cemetery, St. Michael, ND. Evans Funeral Home, New Rockford, ND. Copyright c. 2006 Grand Forks Herald/Grand Forks, ND. -=-=-=- February 7, 2006 Herman White Face, Jr. Funeral for Herman White Face, Jr. age 36 of Fort Worth, Texas and formerly of Little Eagle, South Dakota will be at the Messiah Church in Little Eagle, South Dakota on Monday, February 6, 2006 at 2:00 PM, CT. Rev. Norman Blue Coat will be officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery under the direction of Oster Funeral Home of Mobridge, South Dakota. Herman passed away on January 30, 2006 in Fort Worth, Texas. Herman White Face, Jr. was born on November 17, 1969 in Fort Yates, North Dakota to Herman White Face Sr. and Josephine White Mountain. He is survived by his mother, Josephine White Mountain of McLaughlin, SD; brother's, Andrew White Mountain, Robert White Mountain both of McLaughlin, SD, Richard Mountain of DuBoise, Wyoming, and Timothy Rosien (Mountain) of Rapid City, SD; sister's, Peggy McLaughlin of Aberdeen, SD, Charlotte White Mountain, and Jerrilyn White Mountain, both of McLaughlin, SD; Special friend Michael Massey; Friends Ray Moore of Fort Worth, Texas and Michael Murray of Fort Worth, Texas. He was preceded in death by his father, Herman White Face, Sr.; brother, Wayne Mountain; sister's, Sandra White Mountain, Molly White Face, and Andrea Grass. Casketbearers will be his nephew's, Delbert Chasing Hawk, Jason Chasing Hawk, Patrick White Mountain, Derek Wiest, Robert White Mountain, Jr., Alex McLaughlin, and A.J. White Mountain, and grandson, Julian Defender. Honorary casketbearers will be special friend Mike Massey, Paula Iron Shield, Carmen Mountain, Mary Eagle Shield, Michael Murray, Ray Moore, Twilla Jones, and all family and friends. Special music will be provided by Mark Whitebull and Robert White Mountain, Sr. Tommy C. Lee Tommy C. Lee, 38 of LaPlant, died Thursday, January 26, 2006 at Eagle Butte, SD. Funeral service will be 1:00pm MST Wednesday, February 1, 2006 at the H. V. Johnston Cultural Center in Eagle Butte with Rev. Norman Blue Coat officiating. Casketbearers will be Delbert Arpan, Thomas Lee, David Andrews, Kyle Lee, Justin Garreaux, Orville Scott, Craig Lee and Destry Iron Hawk. Music will be provided by Byron & Toni Buffalo, Harvey Hawk Eagle and Lenny Granados. Burial will be in the Lee Family Cemetery at LaPlant directed by Luce Funeral Home. Wake service is Tuesday, January 31, 6:00pm MST at the Cultural Center in Eagle Butte. Tommy was born on August 19, 1967 at Eagle Butte, SD to Francis Lee and Myra (Tin Cup) Lee. He is survived by his parents of LaPlant, SD; brothers: Arlen Lee, Glenn Lee, Lonnie Lee, Kee Lee, and Owen Tin Cup; sisters: Lola Lee, Mollie Lee, Beverly Cloud Eagle; adopted sister: Yolanda Waloke; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, grandchildren and other relatives in his extended family. Preceding him in death were 3 brothers: Francis Pierre Lee, Jr., Myrlin Francis Lee, and Kenneth Counting; grandparents: Henry & Mollie (Lear) Lee and Glenn & Bernice (Yellow Horse) Tin Cup. Tate Lanier Talks Our beloved son, brother, nephew, grandson and friend, Tate Lanier Talks, 15, of Shiprock, AZ, passed from this life January 23, 2006, in Shiprock. He was born April 2, 1990, in Eagle Butte, SD to Alan K. Talks and Lettie S. John. He is of the salt people clan, born for the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe. Tate grew up in Shiprock and attended schools in the area, including Shiprock High School. He loved to record his own music and wrote his own songs/rhymes using the computer. He enjoyed playing video games, the outdoors, taking walks and spending time with friends, and he loved his grandma's cooking. He was a very unique and special person. Tate will be greatly missed by family, friends and relatives. We love you, Tatie. He was preceded in death by his Cheii, Kee Garry John; uncle, Douglas John; paternal grandpa, Lawrence Talks; and paternal grandma, Marjorie Talks. Tate is survived by his mother, Lettie S. and stepfather, Ronnie Harrison of Shiprock; father, Alan K. Talks of Eagle Butte; sister, Tawny A. Talks; half-sisters, Wynette Begay and Rieyonce Harrison of Shiprock, and Tara Talks of South Dakota; half-brothers, Whitney Talks, Kenneth Rainbo, Randy, Alan Jr. and Drew Talks, all of South Dakota; maternal grandmother, Lottie John of Mitten Rock; great-grandmother, Sarah George of Smoke Signal, AZ; uncle, Garrison John of Shiprock; aunts, Karletta John of Shiprock and Virginia Barney of Thoreau; five aunts and one uncle from South Dakota; cousin brothers and sisters, Lionel Clah, Kayla Clah, Kyle Woods, DeLeon Woods, Dyanna Woods, Ravin Barney, Lyann Barney, LaToya Barney, Isaiah Barney, Shinae John, and Samantha and Sharnell John; and little niece, Larissa Clah. Funeral services were Saturday, February 4 at the Dineh Christian Center in Shiprock. Co-pastor Leonard Castillo officiated. Interment was at the Shiprock Community Cemetery. Pallbearers were Lionel Clah, Orlando Yazzie, Pierre Benally, Thaddeus Kurley, Marques Highelk, Luther Talks, Brandon Yazzie and Harris Jim. Honorary pallbearers were Garrison John, Kenny Kuhn, Hank Jim and Ravin Barney. A reception was held at the Dineh Christian Center after the graveside services. He was in care of the Lee and Larkin Funeral home of Shiprock. Ardis Ann Kills Crow Logg Funeral for Ardis Kills Crow age 41 of McLaughlin, South Dakota will be at 11:00 AM, CT on Monday, February 6, 2006 at the Blue Gym in Little Eagle, South Dakota. Mother Danny Westerlund and all Standing Rock Lay Ministers will be officiating. Burial will be in the St. Paul's Episcopal Cemetery in Little Eagle under the direction of Oster Funeral Home of Mobridge, South Dakota. There will be an all night wake service starting at 7:00 PM, CT on Sunday and all family and friends will leave from Oster Funeral Home at 4:00 PM on Sunday to follow in procession to Little Eagle. Ardis Kills Crow passed away on January 29, 2006 at St. Alexius Hospital in Bismarck, ND. Ardis Ann Kills Crow was born on February 8, 1964 to Arnold Kills Crow and Rachel Foster in Little Eagle, South Dakota, joining her two sisters Diane and Mary. Ardis grew up and graduated from the 8th grade in Little Eagle. She then attended high schools in Fort Yates and in McLaughlin, before attending the YCC Job Corps at the Chief Gall Inn. She then went on the LDS Mormon placement program in Utah from 1981 until 1982. Anyone who knew Ardis knew that she was a caring, considerate and loving person. She was always ready to help others whenever she could. No matter how her life ended she loved her children and always worried about them. She was a single parent to Michael and Lloyd Kills Crow. She married Joshua Logg, Jr. on July 3, 1988 and to this union daughters, Jacqueline and Kara Logg were born. They lived in Eagle Butte and Sioux Falls. At Sioux Falls Ardis worked at various motels and companies. Ardis and Josh were divorced in 2002. She is survived by her sons, Michael Kills Crow and Lloyd Kills Crow; daughters, Bethany Kills Crow, Jacqueline Logg, and Kara Logg; sisters, Diane Kills Crow and Mary Rose Weasel; aunts, Sybil Foster, Magdalene Kills Crow, and Rena Lafromboise; uncles, Melvin Foster, Andrew Kills Crow, and Llewellyn Uses Arrow; adopted sister Harriett Jeunesse; and one grandson, Tre Juan Mickel. She was preceded in death by her LaLa Harry Foster, Unci Julie Bad Horse, Father Arnold Kills Crow, Mother Rachel Foster, Uncle John Foster, Sr., Aunt Stella Uses Arrow, and son Amiel Kills Crow. Casketbearers will be Andy Smith, Winfield Kills Crow, Adrian Kills Crow, Chandler DeMarrias, Milton Uses Arrow, Ira Weasel, John Foster, Jr., Cyril Makes Him First, Mike Laframboise, Patrick DeMarrias, Adrian Logg, and Leon Kills Crow. Honorary casketbearers will be Harriett Jeunesse, Mike Shaving, Adrian Logg, Salina High Elk, Richard & Barbara Nultemeier, Richard & Georgia Guderyahn, Carlin & Gena Clown, Marlis & Josie Madison, Allen & Carlene Little Eagle, Tim & Marlis Swimmer, Jennifer Weasel, Dale Weasel, John Foster, Jr., Renee Foster, Joann Foster, Myron Uses Arrow, Milton Uses Arrow, Connie Uses Arrow, Avis Little Eagle, Denise Lafromboise, Margaret Gunville, Charity Jewett, Cindy Bendickson, Lavonne Leaf, Carolyn Downs, Sister Gabrielle, Nancy Cook, Doug Wilkinson, Darnell Hayes, Clyde Red Tomahawk, Natalie American Horse, Helmina Makes Him First, James & Annabel Devine, Kathy Schlepp, Jolene Noisy Hawk, Evelyn Uses Arrow, Brandi Kills Crow, Lisa DeMarrias, Olena Johnson, Olena Soft, Donna Archambault, Jamie Little Eagle, Mr. & Mrs. Charlie Black Fox, Earl Culbertson, Moses Jamerson, Lenora Blanket, Yvonne Kills Crow, One Spirit Home, and all close family and friends. Special music will be provided by Josh Logg, Jr. Organist will be Gladys Hawk. Dorothy Garreau Funeral arrangements for Dorothy Garreau, 78 of Eagle Butte, South Dakota are pending with Oster Funeral Home of Mobridge, South Dakota. Dorothy passed away on February 1, 2006 at her home in Eagle Butte. Copyright c. 2006 Missouri Dakota Publishing, Inc. & The Eagle Butte News. -=-=-=- Teton Times, The LEGAL Newspaper of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe. Spirit World February 1-8, 2006 Farrel Smith, 40 WHITEHORSE - Mass of Christian Burial for Farrel Smith, 40, of Whitehorse was Jan. 24 at all Saints Catholic Church in Eagle Butte. Burial was in the Timber Lake Cemetery under the direction of the Kesling Funeral Home Mobridge. Farrel passed away at Houston, Texas on Jan. 19, 2006 of natural causes. Farrel Wayne Smith was born June 23, 1965 in Eagle Butte, to Robert Derald and Vivian (Le Compte) Smith Jr. Farrel's first 12 years were spent in White Horse where he attended school before moving to the ranch where he spent the rest of his life. A big change came in Farrel's life when he became the recipient of a heart transplant on Dec. 12, 1989. It was at this point in his life that Farrel took advantage of this new opportunity to enjoy life. And that's exactly what he did. In August of 1989, Farrel met Roy Kohlmann of Houston, Texas. Little did he know at that time that Roy was going to introduce him to his future wife Rebekah Whisnand. Farrel and Rebekah's family became bigger on June 1. 1992 with the birth of Hunter Wayne Smith and on March 28, 1995 Farrel and Rebekah shared the news of the birth of another beautiful child Virginia Dianne Smith. While Farrel and Rebekah started their lives raising their children, he also found other things that caught his interest. Farrel's favorite past time was spent outdoors where he loved to hunt and fish. He then became a fan of the No. 88 car of Nascar racer Dale Jarrett. To Farrel Nascar was King. He attended several races in Texas and in Phoenix with his uncle Mo. Farrel's favorite football team was the Denver Broncos. It was really the Dallas Cowboys but we'll keep that a secret. Although these were some of Farrel's favorite things, his most cherished memories were made with his family and friends. Farrel was a devoted husband to Rebekah. He loved her more than anyone else ever could. He was a proud father of two beautiful children Hunter and Virginia. He was a wonderful and fulfilling son to Bob and Vivian Smith. Farrel was a trusting brother who Darrel and Tom could always count on. He was also a smiling friend to all of us. We will all miss Farrel, but always know that he lives in all of our hearts and he and Rebekah created two incredible children where you can see his eyes everyday. Casketbearers will be Tom Smith, Todd Ducheneaux, Harold Frazier, Calvin Kraft, Harley Gunville, Hank Le Compte, Craig Le Compte, Dee Anne (Keller) Ducheneaux and Chipper Gunville. Honorary Casketbearers will be Jordan Gunville, Jake Frazier, Sam Frazier,Mariah Frazier, Michon Marshall, CRST Tribal Council, Jule & June Lamb Family, Lynn Le Compte. Special Friend Mike Leithauber, D.D. Nelson. Austin Cook, Judy Hauff, Jody & Nancy Totton and Family, Pat and Carlotta Aberle & Family, Dave Lawrence and Family. David Biegler and Family, Charles Swallow, Glenn and Tammy Gunville. Dan and Lorraine Keller and family. Melvin Garreau Sr., Steve Payne, Celestine Ducheneaux, Vern Miner, Lauren and Allen Neiger and family, Ken Ripley and all other bowlers, Tom and Hilda Ducheneaux and family. Larry Rousseau. Special grandparents Roy and Mildred Kohlmann, Uncle Mo, Charlotte and Mervin Bordeaux, Chauncy Iron Wing, Dion Turning Heart, Les Lindskov, Jess Schlosser, Dave and Karen Hump. Jess and Mae Keller and Family, St. Catherine's Parish Members Promise. SD. Methodist Hospital Transplant Team, Larry Johnson Transplant Co-coordinator. Gini Holler, Dr. Upell, Dr. Purdy, Dr. Torre, Dr. Richard Kraft, Chairman's Office, Tiospaye Topa. School Board Members, Tiospaye Topa School & Staff, Mr. Donald Farlee, Mr. & Mrs. Matt Popowski & Marcus, Liz Ness, Nancy Ryger, Richard Red Elk, Candy Jewett & family, Mitch & Jennifer Scholerman & family, Judicial Department, Law Enforcement, and all other Tribal Programs, Lyle & Pat Linderman, Warren Swan, Harriet Ducheneaux, Kristi Lawrence and All Farrel's Family & Friends. Survived by his wife Rebekah and their 2 children, Hunter & Virginia all of Whitehorse, SD, his parents Bob & Vivian of Whitehorse, one brother Tom (Terri) of Whitehorse, grandparents Roy & Mildred Kohlmann, special nieces, Memoree, Daryl, Tomi, Bobbi, special cousin Craig (Beryl) Le Compte, special god child Toni Ducheneaux. Preceded in death by one brother R. Darrel Smith III. Delia Claire (Bull Bear) White Eagle, 61 CANNONBALL, N.D. - Delia Claire White Eagle 61, of Cannon Ball, N.D. died, Jan. 24, 2006, at the IHS Hospital, in Fort Yates, N.D. Further arrangements are being made by Perry Funeral Home, Mandan, N.D. Ardis Kills Crow, 41 MCLAUGHLIN - Funeral arrangements for Ardis Kills Crow, 41 of McLaughlin, are pending with Oster Funeral Home of Mobridge. Ardis Kills Crow passed away on Jan. 29, 2006 at St. Alexius Hospital in Bismarck, ND. Thomas Jeffery Buffalo Boy "Wawokiya" Helpful, 57 FORT YATES, N.D. - Funeral for Thomas Buffalo Boy, 57 of Fort Yates, were held Jan. 27, 2006 at the A. J. Agard Multipurpose Building in Fort Yates, N.D. Brother George Maufort officiated. Burial was in the St. Elizabeth's Catholic Cemetery in Cannonball, N.D., under the direction of Oster Funeral Home of Mobridge. Thomas Buffalo Boy passed away on Jan. 22, 2006 at St. Alexius Hospital in Bismarck, N.D. Thomas Jeffery Buffalo Boy was born on April 12, 1948 in Fort Yates, N.D., to the late Herbert Buffalo Boy, Jr. and the late Jean Marie (Huff). He was baptized at St. Peter's Catholic Church in Fort Yates on Jan. 15, 1949, with his aunt Henrietta Pleets (Godmother); he later made his First Communion on May 6, 1956 and was confirmed on April 15, 1962 at St. Peter's. Tommy graduated Standing Rock High in 1966 and attended Santa Fe's Institute of American Indian Arts. He received a $10,000 scholarship to attend Juilliard. but when his brother Bobby was drafted into the Vietnam War. he decided to enlist in the U. S. Army for four years. Upon enlisting into the United States Army he was assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division. He was honorably discharged and attended the United Tribes Technical College in Bismarck, N.D., and the Standing Rock College in Fort Yates, N.D. Thomas was the son of Herbert Buffalo Boy, who was one of the most decorated servicemen in North Dakota, having served in Normandy and Korea. Herbert was in the movie "The Longest Day" as well as the books "The Longest Day," "A Bridge Too Far," "D-Day" and many others. Tommy was a very intelligent and talented man, he was good to everyone. He was featured on the Cover of Life Magazine as a promising talented modern dancer. He loved music, dancing and singing. He loved to make people laugh and enjoyed cruising his van with his friends from the "Park." He loved art and enjoyed making crafts, woodwork, drawing, painting and making new things out of old furniture. He loved all of his "Mudducks." He had a dog that was named "Soupbone" that sang with him and yodeled. On the sneak he enjoyed listening to rap music with his nieces, nephews and grandchildren He always tried to sing in Lakota "All Around The Water Tank"; he played his airguitar and would sing "Bing-Bing-Bing". He enjoyed his life to the fullest and he was free spirited and always trade people happy. He is survived by his daughter Jaime Azure-Keener; One brother Robert "Bob" Kathy) Buffalo Boy of Fort Yates, N.D.; One sister Roselyn Buffalo Boy of Fort Vates, N.D. and numerous grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Tommy entered into the spirit world on fan. 22, 2006 in Bismarck, N.D., where he will be welcomed by his wife, Tracy, father, nother, brother Larry, sister Cheryl McLaughlin, grandma, grandpa, grandchildren aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, Friends, and many relatives. Honorary casketbearers were Billy Huff, Larry Froelich, Dean Good Iron, Kim and Annie Means, Don Blevins, Ron Blevins, Sidney Bailey, Sr., Duane Silk, Marcus Henry, Scott Davis, Scott Gates, Sr., Joe Dunn, Chase Eagle, Beaver Gayton Gordon White Bull, Ladean Running Bear, Pat Moore, Randy Plume, Pee Jay DeMarce, Jackie Comeau, Shanna Grey Bear, Rosie Moore, Cordell Morsette, Calvin Valandra, Dellis Agard, Jimmy McLaughlin, Joe Iron Road, Kenny Loves War, Mike Faith, Herbert Jeff Pleets, Clifton Conica, Bun Chapman, Victor Martin, Lance Claymore, Greg Iron Shield, James Iron Eyes. Alfred Agard, Cubby Agard, Blaine Claymore, Wesley White Eagle, Jr., Mike Silk, Richie Luger, D.J. "Tug" Grey Bear, Francis Silk, Sharon Sandoval, Debbie Unno, Bette Manning Leo Pretends Eagle, Perry Iron Necklace, Micky Iron Necklace, Pat Yellow, Kenny Painte, Sr., Benny Halfe, Robbie Two Shields, Joseph Iron Boulder, Lori Little Warrior and all of his friends at Veterans Industries, Standing Rock Warriors, and all family and friends. His Godchildren are Cody Iron Eyes, Claudine Iron Eyes, Toni McGhee and Brockus Silk (Deceased). Casketbearers were Kert Hurley, Kory McLaughlin, Brad Montclair, Claire Fox, Robert Buffalo Boy 111, Stephan Hurley, Jesse McLaughlin, Herbert Buffalo Boy IV, Manuel Penny and Nicolas Buffalo Boy. Eulogist was Wilbur "Banny" Pleets. Drum groups were the Whiteshield Singers and Lakota Thunder. Readers were Shanna Grey Bear, Kelly Hurley, Sage Whiteman and Nichole Winans. Poem readers were Stephen Hurley, Sami Sioux Moore, and Kerry Walking Elk. Traditional services were conducted by Felix Kidder and George Iron Shield. Special music was provided by Ted Eagle. Military honors were provided by the Standing Rock Vietnam Veterans, Albert Grass American Legion post of Fort Yates, North Dakota, Matthew American Horse Legion Post of Cannonball, North Dakota, Looking Back-Growler-Jamerson American Legion Post No. 239 of Little Eagle, South Dakota and the Standing Rock Women's Veterans. Tom spent most of his life taking care of his two sisters and their children; especially Kert and Kelly Hurley. He will be greatly missed by all of them, but especially by his niece Samuella Sioux Moore and his nephew Stephen Hurley, whom he loved and cherished. Fred Wiest, 50 LITTLE EAGLE - Funeral arrangements for Fred Wiest, 50 of rural Little Eagle, are pending with Oster Funeral Home of Mobridge. Mr. Wiest passed away in a one car rollover near Little Eagle on Jan. 28, 2006. Conrad Little Kowa gata `Across', 54 MCLAUGHLIN - Mass of Christian Burial for Conrad Little, 54, of McLaughlin was on Jan. 21, at St. Peter's Catholic Church in Fort Yates, N.D. Fr. Bill Cosgrove and Brother George Maufort officiated. Burial was in the Church Cemetery under the direction of Oster Funeral Home of Mobridge. Conrad passed away on Jan. 14, 2006 at his home in McLaughlin. Conrad Franklin Little was born on June 16, 1951 in Fort Yates. N.D.. to George Little and Emma Black Tongue. He is survived by his brothers and sisters: Louella (Longbull) Harrison, Juanita L. (Little) Ironshield, Kenneth G. Little, Pearl E. (Little) Ironshield and Georgeline G. Little. He was preceded in death by his parents, four brothers Frank B. Longbull, Paul S. Little, Martin G. Little and Clayton J. Little, Sisters Agnes Little, Romona Little, and Alma A. (Little) Nickols. Casketbearers were Robert (BoBo) Ironshield, Darnell D. Little, Robert J. Ironshield, Jr., Matthew Little, James Franklin Little, Michael Little, David J. Jackson and Bob Wayne Hischase. Honorary casketbearers were George "Monty" Ironshield and family. Kevin "Tony" Ironshield and f a m i l y . Chandler Eagle family, Frank Jamerson family-. Marletta Looking Horse family, Everette and Veronica Jamerson family. George and Pearl - Jones family, George and Pearl Jones family, Luigi Edward and D o n n a Blackcloud, Taken Alive families, Emerson and Gloria Ownes Pipe family, Delbert and Darlene Chasing Hawk family and Roger and Andrea Ironshield family. Dana Merle Elk, 30 FORT YATES, N.D. - Dana Merle Elk, 30, of Fort Yates, N.D., died, Jan. 18, 2006 at St. Alexius Medical Center, Bismarck. Funeral Services were held at the Youth Activity Center, Cannon Ball, N. D., with Rev. Marlon Hunte officiating. Burial was in Big Lake Cemetery, Cannon Ball. Dana was born April 15, 1975, at Fargo, N.D., to Gordon and Patricia (Standing Bear) Elk. He was raised and educated in Fargo, attended Bismarck Jr. High and graduated from Standing Rock High School in 1993. He attended Job Corps in Ronan, Mont., where he received a diesel mechanic certificate, and Chicago, Illinois where he received an Iron Worker certificate. He returned to Fort Yates and was employed as a chef at Prairie Knights Casino. Dana enjoyed playing video games with his son and his friends, horseshoes, pool. fishing and playing Trivial Pursuit with his friends. He is survived by his parents. Gordon and Pat, one son, Jared Lang Elk, Fort Yates: two sisters and one brother-in-law, Renita Elk, Melynda and Bill Ironroad, all of Cannon Ball; three special nieces, Shaylene Elk. Keauna and Tyra Ironroad, special nephew, Andrew Ironroad, god son, Jade Glaser; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins; and his fiancee, Geri Eagle, whom he met in 1999. Dana was preceded in death by his grandparents, Clyde and Elsie Standing Bear, Justus and Melda Elk; four special uncles, Albert Two Shields, Sherman Standing Bear, Glenn Standing Bear, Frayne Standing Bear, and cousin Gerald Elk. Arrangements were made by Perry Funeral Home, Mandan, N.D. Lynol Lafferty, Sr., 62 EAGLE BUTTE - Funeral arrangements for Lynol Lafferty, 62, were on Jan. 23, at the Cultural Center in Eagle Butte. Burial was at the Eagle Butte City Cemetery under the direction of Oster Funeral Home of Mobridge. Mr. Lafferty passed away at his residence in Eagle Butte, on Jan. 15, 2006. Lynol Lafferty Sr. was born on Nov. 27, 1943 in Mobridge, to Maynard Charles Lafferty and Larraine Luvern Swimmer. Lynol is survived by his father, Maynard Charles Lafferty; brothers, Kenneth Brings of Eagle Butte, Merle D. Lovejoy, of Denver, Colo., Ronald D. Lovejoy of Eagle Butte; adopted brother, Phil Charles of Lower Elwha, Washington Sate; sisters Donna Lafferty, JoAnn Hatten, Maryann Lovejoy all of Denver, Colo., Inez Faye Lewis of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Opal Lynn Love Joy, of Sioux Falls, sons, Lionel Lafferty, Jr., of Rosebud, Dion J. Lafferty of Sandstone, Minn., Jason Lafferty; daughters, Lenora Lafferty of Selfridge, N.D., Stacy Lafferty of Kansas City, Kansas, and Christine Lafferty, Sheryle Lafferty, both of Littleton, Colo.; eight grandchildren, and all great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his mother, Larraine Luvern Lovejoy Swimmer Langdreaux; and brother, Mike Lovejoy of Eagle Butte. Casketbearers were Alan Eagleman, Clinton Johnson , Jimmy Slavins, Marcel Jewett, Lamar Emery, Burt Lafferty, Jr.. and Carl Shields. Honorary casketbearers were Melford Benoist. Earl D. Marcele, Phil Charles, Louie Jewett. Bob Demares, Wayne Barton, Alfred Jackson. Mona LaBatte, Burl LaBatte, Buzzy Lafferty. Douglas Lafferty, Art Lame Lafferty, Maxine Spotted Bear, Juanita Johnson Zephier, Karen Ute, Don Lance, Lynas Low Dog, former co-workers, all the camp boys, and all friends and relatives. Copyright c. 2006 Teton Times, McLaughlin, SD. -=-=-=- February 15, 2006 Rita DuBray was an extra in movies By Jo Hall Rita E. DuBray was a woman of many talents but among the most interesting were her parts as an extra in movies with Kevin Costner and Val Kilmer. Rita and her granddaughter, Sasha Red Bear, and her best friend Poxie Lone Hill had a lot of fun, she said, being in the movies "Dances With Wolves" and "ThunderHeart." They had many stories to share with everyone and many pictures taken with Costner and Kilmer. Rita made many western and western ribbon shirts for different cowboys. "She was a classy dresser herself and like to sew," a relative said. In addition to being a BIA employee, Rita not only raised five children of her own but she and her husband, Louis, took a grandchild, Austin McQuade, under their wings. "Austin could get her grandma or grandpa to listen to her like no other grandchild could, and they treated her like a daughter most of the time," it was said. She loved to fish and would sit at the river with Louis from morning till dark fishing. When they caught more than enough at times, they would freeze the extra and have a big fish fry, inviting all the family. Louis always cooked the fish and Rita would make everything else to go with the dinner. She was an excellent cook, baker and cribbage player. "In the end," her relatives said, "getting sick took the sap right out of her, but still she continued to take care of Louis, herself and to help her grandchildren. Rita died Saturday, Jan. 21, 2006, at the Rapid City Regional Hospital of natural causes at the age of 64. The youngest of Jacob Whitebull Sr. and Julia (Redfish) Whitebull's nine children, Rita grew up on the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation. After graduating in 1960 from Fort Yates High School, she attended a cosmetology school in Cleveland, Ohio, and then moved to Mobridge. She was living in Mobridge when she met Louis B. DuBray and they were married Oct. 18, 1965 in Pierre. After living in Mobridge three years, they moved to Denver, Colo., where he attended Engineering Drafting School for two years. On completing his education, they moved back to the Cheyenne River to make their home, "punch cows" and raise their family on a ranch south of the Moreau River. Rita was employed with the Bureau of Indian Affairs in Fort Yates as a liaison clerk from 1983 to 1985, and then became employed with the BIA Engineering Program until she retired in 2004. She leaves her husband Louie; sons, Michael DuBray of Blackfoot, Marcus White Bull of Fort Yates, Richard DuBray of Moreau River; daughters, Wanda DuBray of Eagle Butte and Jaime DuBray of Piedmont; grandchildren, Austin McQuade, Sasha Red Bear, Joe White Mountain III, Skyla White Mountain, Sierra Montana, Brody and Jonni DuBray, Devon and Colin DuBray and Kelly Whitebull; and two special little great-grandchildren, K'sha and Adam Red Bear. Her parents, brothers Cecil, Wilbur, Pat and Alex White Bull, and sisters Cynthia and Veronica White Bull preceded Rita in death. Funeral services for Rita were Wednesday, Jan. 25, at the All Saints Catholic Church in Eagle Butte and were preceded by an all night wake that began Tuesday evening at the Catholic Church in Kenel. Richard B. Williams was eulogist. Donita Fischer, Poxie Lone Hill and Mark Whitebull were readers. Sisters in Harmony sang "Amazing Grace' and "How Great Thou Art." A tape recording of "Go Rest High On That Mountain" was played. Casketbearers were Ross DuBray, Kansas DuBray, Frank White Bull, Wilbert White Bull, Kevin White Bull, Wambli Williams and Jeremy Patterson. The Eagle Butte Indian Health Service staff, Black Hills Dialysis Unit, and all Rita's friends and relatives were honorary bearers. Burial was in the Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis under the direction of Kesling Funeral Home of Mobridge. Gregg Scott rites held in Eagle Butte By Wendy Thorstenson Funeral services for Gregg Scott, age 35 of Eagle Butte, were at 10 a.m. MT on Mon., Feb. 13 at the H.V. Johnston Cultural Center in Eagle Butte. The Rev. Norman Blue Coat and sister Addie Morris officiated. Burial followed at the Episcopal Cemetery in LaPlant under the direction of Oster Funeral Home of Mobridge. An all-night wake service was held at the cultural center beginning at 7 p.m. Sunday. Family and friends gathered at the four-mile junction at 5 p. m. to follow in procession to Eagle Butte. Gregg died Monday, Feb. 6, 2006 in Eagle Butte. Gregg Wade Scott was born Sept. 3, 1970 in Eagle Butte to Vincent W. Scott and Myrna Charger. Survivors include a brother, Fred Scott, and a sister Donna Scott and special friends Conrad Bird Necklace and Jesse Cook. He was preceded in death by his parents. Casketbearers were Orville Scott, Leonard Charger, Kevin DeHorse, Rick DeHorse, Dustin Scott, Royce Noisy Hawk, Geral Shaving and Kindell Charger. Honorary casketbearers were Marcy Yellow Earrings and family, Francis Shaving, Terry and Gary Bad Warrior and family, Liz and Roland Collins, Mildred Charger, Cassie Little Star and family, Cheryl Skin, Larry Charger Sr. and family, Colin Wagner, Norman Walking Elk, Leatrice and family, Verna LeCompte and family, Joe Blue Coat and family, Iris Scott, Tisha Shaving, Robin Bad Warrior and family, Lanell Buffalo and family and all his aunts and uncles. Special music was provided by Harvey Hawk Eagle. Dorothy Garreau worked as LPN in nursing homes By Jo Hall Dorothy Isabel Garreau attended Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) training at St. Mary's in Pierre and after graduating worked at nursing homes in Pierre and Gettysburg. She also worked as a cook for the Swiftbird Project. In failing health, Dorothy entered the Spirit World on Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2006, at her home in Eagle Butte. She was 78 years old. Dorothy was born Jan. 25, 1928, at the Old Cheyenne Agency to Elizabeth (Walking Crane) and Phillip Joens. She spent her childhood in Promise and along the Moreau River. She attended grade school at the Cheyenne Agency, later graduating from Lincoln High School in Sioux Falls in 1947. After working in nurses training, Dorothy married Ambrose White Dog and they had three children, Clement Sr., Doren "Jay," and Alice. As the years passed, she later married Floyd LeBeau Sr. and they had seven children. She spent some of her time in California, North Dakota and Gettysburg. While raising her children she lived in Swift Bird. In 1995 she moved to Eagle Butte. She is survived by her children, Clement (Theresa) White Dog Sr. of Eagle Butte, Floyd (Pat) LeBeau of Aberdeen, Bill (Marsha) LeBeau of Oneida, Wis., Gordon (Karla) LeBeau of Aberdeen, Patricia LeBeau of Eagle Butte, Candace LeBeau of Eagle Butte, and Linda LeBeau of Green Bay, Wis.; 18 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren; and two special cousins, Arnold Walking Crane and Hattie Horn. Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Louis "Buck" Joens; one sister, Hazel Four Bear; and three children, Doren "Jay" White Dog, Alice White Dog and Virgil. Funeral services for Dorothy were Wednesday, Feb. 8, at the H.V. Johnston Cultural Center in Eagle Butte. Father Jeffry Barnes officiated. Sisters in Harmony provided special music and Wambli Iyakisa was the drum group. Casketbearers were Marlin LeBeau, Darwin LeBeau, Chad LeBeau, Brent LeBeau, Clement White Dog Jr., Jeff Bowker, Dale Brown Wolf, Curtis Marshal, Moreau Four Bear, Lester Peneaux and Nashon LeBeau. Honorary bearers were the IHS nursing staff, Westwind Health Care, Teton Ambulance and all Dorothy's other friends and family. Burial was in Ascension Cemetery in Blackfoot under the direction of Oster Funeral Home of Mobridge. An all night wake service began Tuesday at the Cultural Center in Eagle Butte, preceded by family and friends meeting at the four-mile junction Tuesday afternoon to follow in procession to Eagle Butte. Tatum LeCompte was a little fighter By Jo Hall Odds were against little Tatum Allyn LeCompte even surviving birth as she had a genetic disorder of Trisomy 18 or Edwards Syndrome. This is a chromosomal disorder resulting in multiple minor physical defects and major organ defects. In Tatum's case it had been confirmed that her heart and lungs could not be repaired. She was born March 22, 2005, to Danielle Shaving and Casper LeCompte and after three weeks in the nursery intensive care unit they let her parents take her home where her grandmother, Linda Frazier, took over her care. Linda's main focus was to keep Tatum comfortable, teach her to smile, laugh and tell her stories. Tatum's parents said, "We were often asked about her future. 'What is her prognosis now? Can they fix her heart?' Our answers were always the same. The doctors we took her to told us because her heart does not function well it will probably be the cause of her passing. T18 causes low immunities; these children are very susceptible to colds and pneumonia." Tatum continued to beat the odds and her health care providers were surprised at her stubborn determination to face the challenges and beat the survival rates. She kept bouncing back every time there was a setback. Then she was hospitalized on Jan. 19, 2006, at Sioux Valley Children's Hospital in Sioux Falls and the parents were told Tatum would not survive much longer. She came home Feb. 4 and died at Linda's home in LaPlant with Linda, grandfather Delaine and her nurse June by her crib on Monday, Feb. 6, 2006, at the age of 10 months Tatum is survived by her twin sister, Stace Jaymes LeCompte, and Autumn Schuy Shaving, mother Danielle Shaving, father Casper LeCompte, grandmother Linda Frazier, grandfather Delaine Buffalo, great-grandmother Jean Roberts, great-grandfather Floyd Hill, great-grandmother Florene Shaving, aunt Allyn Shaving, uncle Tell Mound, cousin Tigh Mound, grandmother Dix and grandfather Marvin LeCompte, great-grandfather Ivan LeCompte, uncles Colt, Clint, Brad and CJ, and aunts Chelsey, Calee and Kelsie LeCompte. Her Grandfather Schuyler Roberts, grandfather Faron Shaving and great- grandfather Lawrence Shaving preceded Tatum in death. The funeral for Tatum was Friday, Feb. 10, at the UCC Church in LaPlant. The Rev. Norman Blue Coat and Byron Buffalo officiated. Casketbearers were Haiden H. Kinyon and Shilo P. Hill Robideau. Honorary bearers were all her family and friends who knew her during her brief life. Burial was in the UCC Cemetery at LaPlant under the direction of Oster Funeral Home of Mobridge. An all night wake service was held beginning Thursday evening at the church in LaPlant. Copyright c. 2006 Mobridge Tribune. -=-=-=- February 18, 2006 Jamerson, James "Jim" Little Eagle - James "Jim" Jamerson, of Little Eagle and longtime tribal council member for the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, died of natural causes Thursday, Feb. 16, 2006, at Fort Yates Indian Health Service Hospital. Arrangements are pending with Kesling Funeral Home in Mobridge. February 19 2006 Shalesha Twin Wakpala - Funeral arrangements for , age 14 of Wakpala, are pending with Oster Funeral Home of Mobridge. Shalesha died at her home on Feb. 18, 2006. Copyright c. 2006 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 37, Issue 08 Wednesday, February 22, 2006 Funeral Monday for Cheryl Fayant Funeral services for Cheryl Ann Fayant, 42, of Enemy Swim, SD, were scheduled to be held this Monday morning, February 20, 2006 at the Enemy Swim Community Center in Enemy Swim, SD, with Fr. Les Campbell and Fr. Charles Chan officiating. Pallbearers were Randy Iyarpeya, Hank Iyarpeya, Robert Iyarpeya, Garret Iyarpeya, Charlie Vermillion, and Kenny Fayant. Honorary Pallbearers were all of Cheryl's friends and family. There were wake services held on Saturday and all-night on Sunday at the Enemy Swim Community Center. Interment is at St. James Episcopal Cemetery in Enemy Swim. The Cahill Funeral Chapel of Sisseton was in charge of the arrangements. Cheryl was born on October 25, 1963 to Wilfred and Roberta (Owen) Fayant, Sr. in Sisseton. She grew up and attended schools in Waubay and Leoti, KS. Cheryl also attended Sisseton Wahpeton Community College for two years. She worked at Dakota Sioux Casino as a cage supervisor for the last ten years. Cheryl fell ill in December 2005 and entered Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls, where she stayed until moving to a nursing home in Clark, SD. Cheryl was a member of St. James Episcopal Church in Enemy Swim. She liked playing bingo, attending her children's basketball games, powwows, and her dogs and cats. Cheryl passed away on February 17, 2006 at Prairie Lakes Hospital in Watertown, SD, after a lengthy illness. Cheryl is survived by her spouse, Robert Iyarpeya of Enemy Swim; six children, Dayton Fayant of Enemy Swim, Misty Fayant of Flandreau, Winona Campbell of Flandreau, Cody Campbell of Enemy Swim, Cameron Fayant of Enemy Swim, and Joy Iyarpeya, of Enemy Swim; her parents, Wilfred Fayant, Sr. of Peever, and Roberta Fayant of Enemy Swim; three sisters, Debbie Keeble of Watertown, Barb Iyarpeya of Enemy Swim, and Roxanne Fayant of Watertown; and four brothers, Kenny Fayant of Enemy Swim, Ronald Fayant of Enemy Swim, Rodney Fayant of Watertown, and Wilfred Fayant, Jr. of Brookings. Cheryl was preceded in death by her brother Kevin, her paternal and maternal grandparents, and a nephew, Ronald "Jack" Thennis. Copyright c. 1999-2003 by C. D. Floro/Earth and Sky Enterprises. -=-=-=- February 17, 2006 Jay Jandreau, Lower Brule Jay Dolyn "J.D." Jandreau, 26, Lower Brule, died Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2006, as the result of an automobile accident. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Saturday at St. Mary's Catholic Church, Lower Brule. Burial will be in Holy Angel's Catholic Cemetery, Presho. There will be a 7 p.m. wake service today at the church. Arrangements are under the direction of Hickey-Wevik Funeral Chapel, Chamberlain. Copyright c. 2006 The Daily Republic/Mitchell, South Dakota. -=-=-=- February 15, 2006 Antoinette "Babe" LaDeaux MANDERSON - Antoinette "Babe" LaDeaux, Manderson, died Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2006, at Pine Ridge Hospital. Arrangements are pending with Sioux Funeral Home of Pine Ridge. Ronald L. Yellow Horse OGLALA - Ronald L. Yellow Horse, 58, Oglala, died Monday, Feb. 13, 2006, at Chadron Hospital in Chadron, Neb. Survivors include two sons, George Yellow Horse, Pine Ridge, and Steve Yellow Horse, Oglala; two daughters, Annette Yellow Horse and Tonnie Yellow Horse, both of Oglala; five brothers, Donald Yellow Horse, Wounded Knee, Wesley Yellow Horse, Oglala, Jamie Yellow Horse, Winnebago, Neb., Morris Yellow Horse, Slim Buttes, and Willard Yellow Horse, Manderson; one sister, Wildean Yellow Horse, Rapid City; and 16 grandchildren. A two-night wake will begin at 2 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 16, at Billy Mills Hall in Pine Ridge. Services will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 18, at Billy Mills Hall, with the Rev. Agnes Tyon officiating. Burial will be at St. Matthew's Episcopal Cemetery in Slim Buttes. Sioux Funeral Home of Pine Ridge is in charge of arrangements. February 17, 2006 Douglas J. Schrader PINE RIDGE - Douglas J. Schrader, 71, Pine Ridge, died Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2006, at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Omaha, Neb. He served in the U.S. Army. Survivors include three sons, Charles Schrader and Ezra Zephier, both of Pine Ridge, and Carlyn Chipps, Sioux Falls; three daughters, Susan Schrader, Dianne Schrader and Lisa Dillon, all of Pine Ridge; three brothers, Louis Winters Sr. and Willard Winters, both of Pine Ridge, and Eugene Winters, Potato Creek; two sisters, Shirley Nelson, Bloomington, N. M., and Joyce Hamilton, Piedmont; 23 grandchildren; and 12 great- grandchildren. A one-night wake will begin at 1 p.m. Monday, Feb. 20, at Billy Mills Hall in Pine Ridge. Services will be at 9 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 21, at Billy Mills Hall, with the Rev. Steve Sanford officiating. Burial will be at 2:30 p.m. Tuesday at Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis. Sioux Funeral Home of Pine Ridge is in charge of arrangements. February 18, 2006 Bertha C. Two Bulls PINE RIDGE - Bertha C. Two Bulls, 62, Pine Ridge, died Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2006, at Pine Ridge Hospital. Survivors include five sons, Terry Two Bulls, Yankton, Wayne "Cart" Finger, Memphis, Tenn., Clifford "Beaver" Richards and Sylvester Two Bulls, both of Wanblee, and George Ecoffey, Pine Ridge; two daughters, Ladean Winters, Watertown, and Tammy Rousey, Waco, Texas; three brothers, Louis Winters Sr. and Willard Winters, both of Pine Ridge, and Eugene Winters, Potato Creek; one adopted brother, Jimmy Charging Crow, Wanblee; four sisters, Lucene Schafer, Burns, Ore., Ellen Moves Camp, Hisle, and Bertha Yellow Hawk and Mary Cedar Face, both of Pine Ridge; 17 grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren. A first-night wake will begin at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 21, at Billy Mills Hall in Pine Ridge. A second-night wake will begin at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 22, at Crazy Horse School in Wanblee. Services will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 23, at the school, with the Rev. Rob Kroll officiating and traditional Lakota services by Larry Swalley. Burial will be at Winters Family Cemetery, Bear Creek, Wanblee. Sioux Funeral Home of Pine Ridge is in charge of arrangements. February 19, 2006 Shalesha Twin WAKPALA - Shalesha Twin, 14, Wakpala, died Saturday, Feb. 18, 2006, in Wakpala. Arrangements are pending with Oster Funeral Home in Mobridge. February 20, 2006 Galene Brown KYLE - Galene Brown, 59, Kyle, died Thursday, Feb. 16, 2006, in Rapid City. Survivors include two brothers, Darrell Brown Bull, Kyle, and Harold Brown Bull, Martin; and three sisters, Geraldine Brown Bull and Pearl Little White Man, both of Rapid City, and Laretha Brown Bull, Kyle. One-night wake services begin at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 21, at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church in Kyle. Services will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 22, at the church, with the Rev. Cordelia Red Owl officiating. Burial will follow at St. Barnabas Episcopal Cemetery. Sioux Funeral Home in Pine Ridge is in charge of arrangements. Copyright c. 2006 The Rapid City Journal. -=-=-=- February 15, 2006 Retta "Sue" McMurtrey WELLING - Retta "Sue" McMurtrey passed from this life Friday, Feb. 10, 2006, in Welling at the age of 68 years. She was born Feb. 7, 1938, in Claremore to Harry and Norma (Vickery) Duncan. She married Herman R. (Jack) McMurtrey. Sue was a licensed practical nurse (LPN) and retired from Hastings Indian Medical Center. In her spare time, she was a seamstress and made maternity tops for unwed mothers in Tahlequah. She also was a member of Cavalry Assembly of God. Retta was preceded in death by her father, Harry Duncan. She is survived by her husband of 51 years, Herman R. (Jack) McMurtrey; a son, DeWayne McMurtrey and wife, Susan; two daughters, Debi Christie and Diane Cochran and husband, Rex; her mother, Norma Duncan; two sisters, Ann Tillman and Betty Heustis; a brother, Bud Duncan; eight grandchildren, Stephen McMurtrey, Daniel Cochran, Paul Cochran, Nathan Christie, Nick Christie, Matt Cochran, Kerrey Smith and Suezanne McMurtrey; and two great- grandchildren, Alexandra Smith and Tyler McMurtrey. Service will be held at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 14, at Calvary Assembly of God with Rev. Arlis Moon officiating. Burial will follow at Fort Gibson National Cemetery. Pallbearers are all her grandsons: Stephen McMurtrey, Daniel Cochran, Paul Cochran, Nathan Christie, Nick Christie and Matt Cochran. Arrangements are directed by Reed-Culver Funeral Home. Reed-Culver Funeral Home, 117 W. Delaware, 456-2551. February 17, 2006 Roy Amos Jones HULBERT - Memorial services for Roy Amos Jones, age 88, will be held on Friday, Feb. 17 at 10:30 a.m. at the Hart Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Bill Holcomb officiating. Roy was born one of eight children to Albert and Bertha (Thompson) Jones on Nov. 23, 1917, in Nowata. Upon leaving school, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, where he served with the 7th Cavalry. On Sept. 3, 1944, Roy married the love of his life, Deana Cook, in Forgan. To this union two daughters were born. Roy earned his living as a truck driver for Yellow Freight out of Liberal, Kan., until his retirement in 1990. A year and a half ago, Roy and Deana moved to Tahlequah to be close to family. When not working, Roy loved to go hunting and fishing. Roy was a gifted gardener and raised spectacular vegetables. Roy was extremely proud of his Cherokee heritage and the history of his people. Happy with the simple life, Roy enjoyed time spent with his wife and family, just sharing time and good conversation. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him. Those preceding him in death include his parents; beloved son Donald in 1946; sister Winifred Jones; and brother Clarence Jones. Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Deana of Tahlequah; two loving daughters, Donna Carlisle of Hulbert, and Phyllis Hopkins of Sherman, Texas; five special brothers and sisters, Herman Jones of Auberry, Calif., Bill and Joyce Jones of Moab, Utah, and Warren and Nicky Jones, Raymond and Mary Jones and Ruth and Gary Bloxson, all of Hulbert; six adored grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; two great-great- grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of friends and loved ones. Hart Funeral Home, 1506 N. Grand, 456-8823. Copyright c. 2006 Tahlequah Daily Press. -=-=-=- February 17, 2006 DeRoy Skinner DeRoy Skinner, former longtime resident of Ponca City, died Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2006, at Veterans Administration Medical Center in Oklahoma City. He was 87. The funeral will be held Saturday, Feb. 18, at 10:30 a.m. at Spring Creek Baptist Church, 11701 N. Macarthur, Oklahoma City, with James Kirkendall, Baptist Missionary, officiating. A graveside service will be at 3 p.m. Saturday at Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery, Ponca City, with the Rev. Dr. Larry E. Nigh, pastor of Northeast Baptist Church, presiding. Burial will be with military honors and Masonic graveside rites. Viewing will be until 9 p.m. Thursday and Friday at Grace Memorial Chapel in Ponca City and beginning at 9:30 a.m. Saturday at Spring Creek Baptist Church in Oklahoma City. DeRoy was born July 29, 1918, in Higgins, the son of Jess W. Skinner and Lona Belle Seeley Skinner. In 1934, he entered Chilocco Indian School where he was president of his class each year and served as Student Council president his senior year. Additionally, he played the clarinet in the band and tried boxing. While at Chilocco, DeRoy learned the printing trade which led to a life long career. He was also a member of Company C, 180th Infantry Oklahoma National Guard. After graduating in 1938, he attended Central State College. He worked his way through college in the print shop while also working nights at the Edmond Sun Newspaper. DeRoy continued playing in the band at Central State College and there he met Mildred Bertha Cordis. They married July 15, 1939, in McAlester and to this union was born three children, DeRoy Jr., Linda Elizabeth, and Susan Eileen. After earning his teacher's certificate from Central State College, DeRoy was offered a position to teach at Hartshorne; however, he declined the teaching opportunity to move to St. John, Kan., to help family friends with their newspaper business. DeRoy worked for various newspapers in several cities as he searched for a place to call home and raise his family. In 1943, the family moved to Ponca City and he worked at the Ponca City News. On Sept. 29, 1944, he was called into the U.S. Army from the Oklahoma National Guard. He served in the Pacific Theater during World War II and received an honorable discharge on Oct. 30, 1946, as a technical sergeant. He returned to Ponca City and continued his career in the printing business at the newspaper. In 1948, he purchased a print shop with Roy Nuckols, Nuckols/Skinner Printing. After several years, he bought out his partner and continued the business as Skinner and Son Printing Co., for over 40 years. It was a family business, with Mildred and all the children involved. Mildred preceded him in death on Dec. 27, 1985. DeRoy was an active member of First Baptist Church in Ponca City. He was also very active in community and civic organizations. He was a member of American Legion and served as commander of Huff-Minor Post 14 as well as being honored by Buffalo Post 38 at White Eagle. He also served as past commander, Eighth District American Legion. He received his 50-year membership award with the American Legion. DeRoy also was a member of American Business Club and had served as president. He was also a past president of U.S. Highway 60 Association. DeRoy was a member of Ponca Lodge 83 AF & AM. He had received his 50- year membership as a mason and was a Scottish Rite, York Rite, Akdar Shrine and Kay County Shrine. Additionally, he served on the board of directors of the Kay County OSU Alumni Association and was past president of the OSU Posse Club of Northern Oklahoma. He always joked that he bled "orange and black." All three of his children attended OSU. He was also active in the Chilocco Alumni Association and was named honorary chief of the Choctaw Nation. In 1985, he was inducted into the Chilocco Hall of Fame. DeRoy joined the Ponca City Noon Lions Club in 1961 and became active immediately. He served as past president of Ponca City Noon Lions Club, named Lion of the Year in 1977-1978, and received an honorary lifetime Lions membership from the Ponca City Noon Lions Club. He also served as zone chairman, deputy district governor, and cabinet secretary-treasurer of District 3M. From 1981-1982, he served as district governor and was council chairman from 1982-83. Also in 1982-1983, he was named District Lion of the Year. He was elected international director from 1986-1988 in New Orleans. As an International Lions Club director, he traveled over 71, 000 miles in two years presiding at numerous official functions in the U.S. , Canada, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Bermuda, China, Korea, Asia, South America and other areas throughout the world. His theme for his campaign for the directorship was Bring Quality to Life. He ended his term at the International Lions Convention in Denver in 1988. After moving to Oklahoma City, he was a member of Downtown Lions, Northwest Lions, and Yukon Lions Clubs. As a Lion, he received four International Presidential Certificates of Appreciation, four Presidential Awards, two International Presidential Leadership Awards, and was named ambassador of goodwill, which is the highest honor bestowed on a Lion. DeRoy was also a Progressive Melvin Jones Diamond Fellow and was honored last year with the Bob McCullough Service Award. DeRoy maintained perfect attendance in Lions Club for over 40 years. On July 30, 1989, he married Helen Walton Cassingham in Oklahoma City. He sold the print shop in 1990 and they retired to Oklahoma City. He and Helen were active in Community Care HMO and involved in the ground breaking of MAPS in Oklahoma City. They helped form the Bluff Creek Neighborhood Association, where DeRoy served as president, began publishing a newsletter and directory, and helped organize a volunteer neighborhood patrol. He did whatever needed to be done. In addition to his many involvements, DeRoy enjoyed woodworking and painting. He also enjoyed decorating and celebrating all holidays. He loved kids and enjoyed helping them with whatever needed to be done. DeRoy was quite the family man. He was a great role model and mentor, a devoted husband, a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was affectionately known as "BaBa" to his grandchildren. DeRoy had a magnetic personally and was loved by all he met. He will be greatly missed. He is survived by his wife, Helen, of the home; three children, DeRoy Skinner and wife Carolyn of Colorado Springs, Colo., Linda Elizabeth Skinner and husband Tyrone Stewart of Edmond, and Susan Eileen Skinner Ladner of Ponca City; six grandchildren, David Skinner and wife Kristin, Danielle Skinner Behar and husband Ron, Zac Ladner and wife Kendra, Quin Skinner Brace and husband Scott, Holly Ladner, and Will Skinner Brewer; seven great-grandchildren, Braden DeRoy Ladner, Riley Cole Ladner, Brandon Behar, Blake Behar, Brittany Behar, Michael Brace and McKenzie Skinner; sister-in-law, Shirley Cordis Jackson of Huntsville, Texas; many nieces and nephews, including, Sandra Bauer and Terry Ulery; and many other family and friends. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mildred; his parents; brothers, Leo "Bud" Skinner, Charles E. "Sam" Skinner, and infant brother, Opie Skinner; and a sister, Nancy Porter. During the last days of his life, he was touched by the kindness and love he received from the staff of Veterans Administration Medical Center and the Quail Creek Nursing Rehabilitation Center in Oklahoma City. Casket bearers will be Victor Ukonu, Burt Cooper, Sgt. Charles Epperly, Willie Stinson, Danny Gordon, Bob Austin and Jim Keisman. Honorary bearers will be members of the Quail Creek Nursing Rehabilitation Center staff, Lions of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City Veterans Administration Medical Center staff, Chilocco Alumni Association members, Bluff Creek Neighborhood Association members, and his most recent roommate, Thomas Grayson. Contributions may be made in his memory to Oklahoma Lions Service Foundation for the Lions Eye Bank and Boy's Ranch, 4123 NW 10th Street, Oklahoma City, Okla. 73107. February 20, 2006 Roger Pete Williams INDIAHOMA - Roger Pete Williams, former Tonkawa resident, died Saturday morning, Feb. 18, 2006, in a hospital in Indiahoma. He was 76. The funeral will be 1 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 21, in the chapel of Comanche Nation Funeral Home with the Rev. Nick Tahchawwickah, pastor of West Cache Church of the Nazarene, officiating. Burial, with military honors performed by the U.S. Army, will be in the Cache Creek Kiowa/Comanche/Apache Intertribal Cemetery, west of Apache. An evening prayer service will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. Monday in the funeral home. Roger Pete Williams was born Dec. 28, 1929, in Tonkawa, the son of Rhoten Sr. and Clara Williams. He grew up in Tonkawa and Apache and attended schools in Apache. He was of Tonkawa and Apache descent and a member of the Apache Tribe of Oklahoma. He joined the Army March 3, 1952, and was stationed at Camp Chaffee in Arkansas. On March 3, 1954, he joined the Army Reserves and was honorably discharged Sept. 4, 1959. On Nov. 8, 1961, he again joined the Army and was an engineer technician on aircraft and single engine airplanes in the Reserves. He was honorably discharged Nov. 7, 1964. He received the Sharpshooter commendation, Expert Citation, Mechanic Badge with propeller and the Good Conduct Medal. On Sept. 1, 1989, he retired from the BIA as an engineer tech after 31 years. On April 4, 1990, he married Vernice A. Tahchawwickah in Las Vegas and they lived in Indiahoma. He was a member of the Blackfeet Society and enjoyed playing baseball, fishing and playing softball and his family. Survivors include his wife of the home; four daughters, Charlotte Scott and Carol Jimenez, both of Cache, Lena Bennett of Lawton and Dena Walker of Fletcher; two sons, Warren Tahchawwickah and Carl Paddyaker Jr., both of Cache; six sisters, Leatrice Archilta of Anadarko, Arliss Washie of Apache, Walsie Boynton of Anadarko, Rosalyn Neconie of Apache, Louella Rhoten and Roseanna Rhoten, both of Tonkawa; one brother, Eugene Rhoten of Springfield, Mo.; 11 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and other relatives. He was preceded in death by his parents; three sisters, Cleta Maxine Rhoten, Ernestine Rhoten and Thomasine Rhoten; and three brothers, Gayle Rhoten Jr., Charles Hugh Rhoten and Maxie Williams. Copyright c. 1998-2006 The Ponca City News. -=-=-=- February 18, 2006 Colleen D. LittleSun Hendricks Colleen D. LittleSun Hendricks, 75, died Thursday, Feb. 16, 2006 in Tulsa. Services will be at 2 p.m., Monday, Feb. 20, 2006, at the Poteet Funeral Chapel in Pawnee, with Rev. Eli McHenry officiating. Interment will be at the North Indian Cemetery, Pawnee, under the direction of Poteet Funeral Home, Pawnee. Memorial services will also be held at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2006, at the Christ United Methodist Church in Claremore, at the corner of Davis and Quarles. She was born Dec. 2, 1930, in Pawnee to Jim LittleSun and Lucy Morgan LittleSun. On March 5, 1951, she married John M. Hendricks in Ponca City, and they have been longtime residents of Claremore. She was affiliated with the Christ United Methodist Church of Claremore. Colleen was preceded in death by her parents, Jim and Lucy LittleSun; three brothers, George, Tommy and Morgan LittleSun; and her sister, Elaine SpottedBear. Colleen is survived by her husband; her children, Ralph Hendricks and Mary Merriman, Charlene Dowell and her husband Morgan, Melinda Carson and her husband Jimmy, all of Claremore, John Hendricks, Jr., and his wife Janet of Chelsea and Cheryl Methvin of Chanute, Kan.; 11 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; three brothers, Bill LittleSun of Bartlesville, Bob LittleSun of Pawnee, and James LittleSun, Jr., of Edmond; plus many nieces, nephews, other loved ones and many friends. Copyright c. 2006 Stillwater NewsPress/Stillwater, OK. -=-=-=- February 18, 2006 Cecelia Blanchard Shawnee resident Cecelia Blanchard, 96, died Tuesday, Feb. 14, in Shawnee. She was born April 17, 1909, in Shawnee to Steven and Axie (Lunt) Pensenau. Born in Shawnee, she was raised in McLoud. Following her marriage she moved to California, where she raised her family. Upon retirement in 1973, she returned to Shawnee. She attended Shawnee Mission, Carlyle and Haskell Indian Schools. In 1927, she married Lee R. Blanchard. He preceded her in death Feb. 14, 1974. While in California she ran a community Indian Center and had appeared in small roles in several films. She was past chairwoman of the Kickapoo Tribe. She also worked at Disneyland for many years. She was an honorary lifetime member of Disneyland. She was a member of the Kickapoo Tribe , where she served on the elders council. She had traveled to Washington D.C., several times representing various tribes. Also preceding her in death were her parents; her three sons, Eugene, Lewis and Dale Blanchard; and a granddaughter, Roberta Blanchard. Survivors include her grandchildren, Denise Albrecht and Luann Blanchard both of Grass Valley, Calif., Mark Blanchard of Shawnee, Kelley Blanchard of Eufaula, Amy Blanchard of Newalla; great-grandchildren, Paulette Blanchard-Miller of Shawnee, Shad Smith of San Jose, Calif., Lewis Wasley of Grass Valley, Christayl Hall of Shawnee, Stephen Uchida and Michael Uchida both of Grass Valley, Clayton and Cory Blanchard; great-great- grandchildren, Chantel Krauss, Alexa Jobe, Preston Hubka; niece, Renee Maupin of Idaho; nephew, Gene Pensenau of Norman. Service will be 10 a.m. Monday at Cooper Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Jimmy Anderson officiating. Burial will follow at Tecumseh Cemetery under the direction of Cooper Funeral Home. Amos Factor Jr. Services for Amos Factor Jr. will be 2 p.m. Monday at Wewoka Indian Baptist Church with the Rev. George Harjochee officiating, assisted by the Rev. Wayne Harjo. Burial will follow at Factor Family Cemetery. Wake service will be 7 p.m. Sunday at Wewoka Indian Baptist Church. Services are under the direction of Stout-Phillips Funeral Home of Wewoka. Dorothy Cervantes Shawnee resident Dorothy Cervantes, 44, died Thursday, Feb. 16, at her home. She was born May 9, 1961, in Holton Kan. Cervantes is preceded in death by her father, Leonard Walker and her grandparents, Willard Walker, Sr., Henryetta Walker, Lucille Wahwasuck, and Trilby Wahwasuck. Survivors include her husband, Jaime Cervantes of the home; five children, Robert Weston and Ashley Harrison, both of Atoka, Andrea Wahwasuck, Jaime Cervantes and Enedina Cervantes, all of Shawnee; 10 grandchildren; 5 sister; 4 brothers; and her mother, Velma Harjo of Mayetta, Kan. A Native American service will be this evening at the Bentley Walker home, northwest of Shawnee. Burial will be 10 a.m. Sunday at the Walker Family Cemetery under the direction of Walker Funeral Service. Copyright c. 1997-2006 The Shawnee News-Star. -=-=-=- February 18, 2006 Ted Williams A traditional wake service for Ted Williams, 47, will be 6 p.m. tonight at the home of Tyrone Williams, south of Canton. The funeral will be 1:30 p.m. Sunday at Canton Christian Church. JoAnn Williams and Gerald Panana will officiate. Burial will be in Canton Indian Cemetery. Arrangements are by Haigler Funeral Home Inc., Canton. He was born Sept. 19, 1958, in Clinton, to Kenneth and Ida Nibbs Williams and died Thursday, Feb. 16, 2006, at St. Anthony's Hospital, Oklahoma City. He attended Canton schools and studied business at Draughon's Business School in Oklahoma City, graduating in 1982. He also attended Bacone College and Northeastern State University, where he majored in computer science. He was a craft artist and member of the Cheyenne and Arapaho Fire Suppression Unit. As a forest firefighter, he fought fires in Utah and Arizona. He also worked at Phillips Industries in El Reno, where he lived for several years. He returned to Canton where he was a member of Native American Church and Mennonite Church. Surviving are five sisters, Kathy Williams, Karen Four Horns and Koreen Gaines, all of Canton, Gail Williams of El Reno and Anna J. Williams of Watonga; four brothers, Richard and Tim, both of Canton, Seger of Cherokee, N.C., and Kenny Ray of Oklahoma City. He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters and one brother. Copyright c. 2006 The Enid News & Eagle. -=-=-=- February 14, 2006 Alan D. Silverhorn IRVING, Texas - Funeral for Alan D. Silverhorn, 48, Irving, Texas, will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Anadarko, with Lance Silverhorn officiating. He died Friday, Feb. 10, 2006, in Dallas. Burial will be in Rock Springs Cemetery under direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home, Lawton. He was born June 11, 1957 to Leonard and Eve Hunt Silverhorn. He was a member of the Kiowa and Wichita Tribes and was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Survivors include three brothers and a sister-in-law: John, Irving; Lance and Sharlene Silverhorn, Mesa, Ariz., and Kevin, Oklahoma City; four sisters: Rose Hornbeck, Scottsdale, Ariz., Cara, Joni, and Lisa, all of Anadarko; seven aunts: Ruth Wermy, Orange, Calif.; Velma Silverhorn, Bessie Ahhaitty, Iris Silverhorn and Mary Lou Tselee, all of Anadarko; Ruth Tofpi, Carnegie; and Phyllis Calcaterra, St. Louis; six grandchildren: Miles Damon King, Scottsdale; Talon Chase and Maliah Jade, Miami, Okla.; Mazy, Lexi, Hank and Eve, all of Anadarko; eight nephews: Stacy, Clint, Lenard, all of Mesa; Daniel, Phoeniz; Justin, Zach, Lorenzo and Quin, all of Anadarko; and four nieces: Jessica, Scottsdale; Chalyce, Mesa; Amber, El Paso, Texas, and Leigh, Anadarko. He was preceded in death by his parents, his maternal grandparents, Dan and Rose Hunt, and his paternal grandparents, James and Clara Silverhorn; a brother, Neil, and a niece, Christal. Master Kenonranon 'Kenon' Clay Goodman HAMMON - Funeral for Master Kenonranon "Kenon" Clay Goodman, 4, Cortez, Colo., will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday at Hammon Indian Baptist Church, Hammon, with the Rev. Joe Osage officiating. A prayer service will begin at 7 p.m. today at the church. Kenon Goodman died Feb. 5, 2006 at Southwest Memorial Hospital in Cortez, Colo. Burial will be in Hammon Mennonite Cemetery under the direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home, Lawton. He was born March 17, 2001 to Lori Ann Goombi and Kenonran Quentin Goodman. He attended Head Start in Towaoc, Colo. Survivors include his parents, of the home; a sister, Latasha Goombi; a brother, Jaquin Goombi; two uncles, Samson Goombi and Conway Whiteskunk; two aunts: Victoria Goombi and Kendra Goombi; grandparents: Margaret Goodman, Kimberly Whiteskunk and Samuel Goombi; and a great-grandmother, Irene Whiteskunk. A prayer service will be held at 7 p.m. today at the Hammon Indian Baptist Church. February 15, 2006 Lester Gene Poolaw Funeral for Lester Gene Poolaw, 65, Anadarko, will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday at J.J. Methvin Church, Anadarko, with Lonnie and Diana Hanson, pastors, officiating. Mr. Poolaw died Sunday, Feb. 12, 2006 in Lawton. Burial with full military honors will be in Rock Springs Cemetery, Anadarko, under direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home. He was born Sept. 2, 1940 in Apache to Pascal Cletus Poolaw and Irene Chalepah Poolaw. His father was the most highly decorated member of the Kiowa tribe to serve in the U.S. military. He attended and graduated from Anadarko High School and enlisted in the U.S. Army the day after he graduated from high school. He served more than 20 years in the Army from May 24, 1959 to Sept. 30, 1979. He retired as a staff sergeant with tours of duty in Korea, Okinawa, Germany, New York and Texas. He received the National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal Sixth Award, Expert Rifle-16, and Expert Rifle-M14. He married Berdena Thompson Poolaw on May 12, 1960 in Wichita Falls, Texas. He was a member of the Apache Tribe and attended the Wichita Mission Church. He worked several years in the oilfield after his retirement. Survivors include his wife; a daughter and son-in-law, Missenah Poolaw and Berkman Dufrene; three sons: Lester "Sonny" Poolaw Jr., James Poolaw, and John Poolaw and companion Rita Roberts; an adopted son, Robert Wells: two brothers: Donald Poolaw and John Beatty; grandchildren: Angel Rodriquez, Joshua and Julie Reed, George and Etienne Dufrene, Ross Poolaw, Jeremy Poolaw, Trina, Cindy and Katherine Poolaw, John Poolaw Jr., Tristan Frost and Jonnika Poolaw; and great-grandchildren: Joseph Miller, Tereasa and Nala Rodriquez, Steven Nakoa and Keeley Poolaw. He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers: Lindy Poolaw and Pascal Cletus Poolaw Jr.; and a daughter, Ethelene Cissy Poolaw. Copyright c. 2006 The Lawton Constitution. -=-=-=- February 14, 2006 Ned Foster May 23, 1905 - Feb. 11, 2006 Ned Foster, 100, of Sheepsprings, died Saturday, Feb. 11, 2006, in Farmington. He was born May 23, 1905, below the Chuska Mountains in Sheepsprings. Viewing will be from 5:30-7:30 p.m. today, Tuesday, Feb. 14, at Brewer, Lee & Larkin Funeral Home in Shiprock. Another viewing will be at 9 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 15, at the Sheepsprings Pentecostal Church, with funeral services following at 10 a.m. Arrangements are with Brewer, Lee & Larkin Funeral Home of Shiprock, Highway 491, (505) 368-4607. February 19, 2006 Marie Y. Clah Hogback Oct. 15, 1921- Feb. 16, 2006 Our beloved mother, grandmother and sister, Marie Y. Clah, 84, of Hogback, passed from her earthly life suddenly into the arms of His heavenly grace in the early morning of Thursday, Feb. 16, 2006, at San Juan Regional Medical Center. She was born in a hogan on Oct. 15, 1921, in Rattlesnake. She was preceded in death by her mother, Jane Denet Chilli and son, Dale Clah Sr. She is survived by her husband of 65 years, Stewart Clah, a WWII veteran and a Navajo Code Talker; daughters, Lucille Harris, of Hogback and Lena Hayes, of Shiprock; sons, Delbert Clah Sr., of Shiprock and Darrell Clah Sr., of Hogback; sisters, Mae J. Dee and Helen Begay; brother, Tom H. John, all of Hogback; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews, who all love her and will greatly miss her. Memorial services will be at 10:30 a.m. Monday, Feb. 20, 2006, at Cope Memorial Chapel in Farmington with the Rev. Howard Gatewood of Rock Point, Ariz., officiating. She will be laid to rest at the Garden of Patriots in Memory Gardens. Pallbearers are Darrell Clah Jr., Randall Clah, Dale Clah Jr., Terry Hayes, Ronnie Dee and Milford Denetclaw. Honorary are her husband, all of her children, grandchildren and great- grandchildren. Our mother is in the care of Cope Memorial Chapel, 404 W. Arrington St. in Farmington, (505) 327-5142. February 20, 2006 Carole Ann (Largo) Dan Kirtland Oct. 14, 1942 - Feb. 16, 2006 Carole Ann (Largo) Dan, 64, our beloved sister, mother and grandmother, of Kirtland, passed away Thursday, Feb. 16, 2006, at the Cedar Ridge Inn. She was born Oct. 14, 1942, in Rehoboth to Jimmie B. Largo, of the To' bash ni azhi (two went to get water) clan and Bessie Ann Neskahi of the To' decheeni, Tsin' bicaadni' (bitter water with tree) clan. Carole was a 1965 graduate of Chinle High School. Then she worked with the Farmington Municipal Schools in the Special Education Department for 12 years. She enjoyed doing arts and crafts. Carole volunteered much of her time to church activities. She is survived by her sons, Gregory H. Hall and Ronald M. Dan; daughter, Marlinda M. Dan; and seven precious grandchildren; mother, Bessie A. Largo; sisters, Teresa M. Hoskins and Augilina R. Large. She was preceded in death by her husband, Larry C. Dan; father, Jimmie B. Largo; grandparents, Allen Neskahi, Sr. and Emma Neskahi. Visitation will be Tuesday, Feb. 21, 8-5 p.m. at Cope Memorial Chapel. Service will be Wednesday, Feb. 22, 10 a.m. at First Baptist Church in Thoreau with Dr. Paul Large of Columbus, Ohio, officiating. Interment will follow at Thoreau Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Gregory J. Hall, Edward Lee Hoskins, Ronald M. Dan, Floyd B. Largo, Karl Trujillo, Alvin Largo. Honorary Pallbearers will be Jones Largo, Frankie Monte, Jimmie B. Large, Jr. and Keith Martinez. Our mother is in the care of Cope Memorial Chapel, 404 West Arrington Street in Farmington, 505-327-5142. Copyright c. 2006 Farmington Daily Times, a MediaNews Group Newspaper. -=-=-=- February 14, 2006 Lucy May MENTMORE - Services for Lucy Lee May, 68, will be today, Feb. 14 at 11 a.m. at Cope Memorial Chapel in Gallup. Burial will follow at the City Cemetery. May died Feb. 10 in Phoenix. She was born Aug. 6, 1938 in Mentmore into the Bitter Water People Clan for the Black Streak Forest People Clan. May was a nursing assistant. She enjoyed doing arts and crafts. Survivors include her sons Virgil Morgan, Tom Morgan and Carl E. May Jr. ; daughters Christine Vankleck, Virginia Flores, Carltine Quintana, and Carlene Tannehill; brothers Tom Begay and George Begay; sister, Alice Belone, 26 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild. May was preceded in death by her husband Carl E. May and her parents Charlie and Glishbah Begay. Pallbearers will be Tom Morgan, Mike Quintana, Mark Quintana, Carl Edward May, Juan Garcia and Grady Flores. Cope Memorial Chapel is in charge of arrangements. Georgiann Yazzie GREASEWOOD SPRINGS, Ariz. - Services for Georgiann "Babyann" Yazzie, 34, will be at 10 a.m., Thursday, Feb. 16 at the Tse'zhiin'shijah Church of God in Greasewood. Evangelist Paul Jones will officate. Burial will be at the family plot. Yazzie died Feb. 10 in Bitachochee, Ariz. She was born June 22, 1971 in Ganado into the Redhouse People Clan for the Edge Water People Clan. Yazzie went to Greasewood Boarding School, Holbrook High School, SW Academy of Technology in Phoenix. She worked at the Holbrook KOA, Petrified Forest, TDI in Leupp. Her hobbies were cooking, sewing, reading, traveling, collecting butterflies and she was an animal lover. Survivors include her mother Pastor Clara J. Yazzie of Greasewood Springs, Ariz.; brother Andrew L. Yazzie of Sanders; and one sister, Geraldine K. Kelley of Flagstaff. She was preceded in death by her father, George Yazzie, grandparents Edith and Harold Keyonnie and Jack and Lenora Yazzie. Pallbearers will be Steven Tom, Jason Benally, Justin Benally, Benjamin Yazzie, Byron Shorty and Michael Shorty. The family will receive relatives and friends at Georianns residence after ceremonies. Donna Leno KAYENTA - Services for Donna C. Leno, 49, will be at 10 a.m., Wednesday, Feb. 15 at First United Methodist Church. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Park. Leno died Feb. 9 in Shonto, Ariz. She was born Oct. 2, 1956 in Los Angeles into the Meadow People Clan for the Tesuque Pueblo People Clan. Leno graduated from Tohatchi High School in 1975 and received her BS from Whitier College in 1979. She completed her Master of Public Health Degree from the University of Hawaii in 1983. In 1991 she became a Certified Health Education Specialist from National Commission for Health Education Credentialing. Her hobbies included traveling, reading, camping, movies, listening to music and playing games. Survivors include her mother Bessie S. Leo; daughter Dana J. Lee of Kayenta; brother, Brian C. Leonard of Twin Lakes, N.M.; sisters, Michelle R. Leonard and Ronda D. Leonard, both of Twin Lakes, Brenda Otero of Gallup, Patricia A. Tso of Buffalo Springs. She was preceded in death by her father, William Leno. Pallbearers will be Fernando Franciso, Jerome Lee, Bryan Orville Leonard, Matheney Pablo, Malcoy Pablo, Jerry Sherman, Darrick Tso and Christopher Dominguez. A reception will be at the First United Methodust Church following burial. Rollie Mortuary is in charge of arrangements. Maggie Bedonie LUKACHUKAI - Services for Maggie Yazzie Bedonie, 106, will be today, Feb 14 at 9 a.m. at St. Isabelle Catholic Church in Lukachukai. Burial will follow in the Lukachukai Community burial site. Visitation and rosary will be at the St. Isabelle Catholic Church at 9 a.m. Bedonie was a housewife and enjoyed spending time with family. She was strong and always happy. Survivors include her son Johnny Bedonie and daughter Coletta Nez and numerous great-great-great-great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Thomas Bedonie, Virgil Nez, Valeria Nez and Bryon Bedonie. The family will receive relatives and friends one and one-half mile from Lukachukaie Community School, Northeast. Roseanna Belinti KINLICHEE - Services and visitation for Roseanna Yazzie Belinti, 64 will be at 1 p.m. today, Feb. 14 at All Saints Hall in Ganado. Father Flenn will officiate. Burial will follow at Kinlichee Community Cemetery. Belinti died Feb. 10 in Flagstaff. She was born May 10, 1941 in Ganado for the Bitter Water People Clan for the Cliff Dwelling People Clan. Belinti was a homemaker and weaver. Survivors include her husband Rodger James; sons, Gilbert Belinti of Woodspring, Ariz., Albert Belinti of Kinlichee and Philbert Belinti of Durango, Colo; daughters, Roseita Cody of Gallup, Tonia Belinti of Kinlichee, Roberta Belinti, Rita Belintia nd Belinda Belinti, all of Flagstaff; sisters, Maggie Dennison of Zuni, Mildred Becenti and Christina Yazzie, both of Kinlichee, Rosemary Chase of Waterflow and Helen Brown of Albuquerque, 16 grandchildren. Belinti was preceded in death by her parents, James Yazzie and Lucille Yazzie, brother Jerry Yazzie and one granddaughter. Pallbearers will be Albert Belinti, Philbert Belinti, Shawn Belinti, Tyrone Belinti, Sam Becenti Jr., and Lewis John. The family will receive relatives and friends at Rose Belinti's residence in Kinlichee. Ned Foster SHEEP SPRINGS - Services for Ned C. Foster, 100, will be at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 15 at the Sheep Springs Pentecostal Church and burial will follow at the family cemetery. Foster died on Feb. 11 in Farmington. He was born May 23, 1905 in Sheep Springs. He retired from the railroad. He enjoyed herding sheep, farming and he was a chapter official. Survivors include his wife, Annie Foster; daughters Ruby Torres, Laverne Yabeny, Bernadette Augustine, Judy Sam, Julia Sam and Martha Begay; sons, Anslen Foster, Timothy Foster and Dennison Foster; sisters, Sadie Mooney, Susie Brown and Mary Foster; 35 grandchildre and 21 grandchildren. Foster was preceded in death by his son Eugene Foster. February 15, 2006 Freddie Chee ST. MICHALES - Funeral services for Freddie Chee, 49 will be at 10 a.m., Thursday, Feb. 16 at the Mary Mother of Mankind. Father Gilbert Schneider, OFM will officiate. Burial will be in at the St. Michael's Community Cemetery. Chee died Feb. 11 in St. Michaels. He was born March 23, 1959 in Fort Defiance for the Black Streak of the Forest People into the Honey Combed Rock People Clan. He was a self-employed arts and crafts makerand a Kachina carver. Survivors include his brothers Wilfred and Michael Chee; sisters, Cassandra and Carol Chee. Chee was preceded in death by his parents Luther and Mary Louise Chee; sister, Mary Jane Chee. Pallbearers will be Roger Peterson, Wilfred Chee, James Dawes, Oscar Alexius, Ricky Nelson and Nolando Neswood. The family will receive relatives and friends at the St. Michael's Chapter House. Tse Bonito is in charge of arrangements. Jerrell Arthur Knowles KAYENTA, Ariz. - Memorial service for Jerrell Arthur Knowles, 29 was held on Thursday, Feb. 9 at the First Baptist Church in Kayenta. A wake was held all night beginning Feb. 12 and funeral services were held on Monday, Feb. 13 at 10 a.m. Burial was at the Redstone Cemetery in Oaklahoma. Knowles died on Feb. 5 in Kayenta. He was a member of the Kiowa Tribe of Oklahoma of Irish. He graduated from Red Mesa High School and earned his AA degree from High Tech Institute in Phoenix. Knowles participated in the Americore program in Kayenta. He also played in the band the Horny Toads. Survivors include his brothers, Bob Knowles, Timothy Knowles, Gregory Knowles, Charley Eisenberer and Dean Haungoah; sisters, Hattie Gray, Patty Jo Eisenberger, Denise Garza, Diane Cody, Rosine Tree, Yanavia Haungooah and Maureen Short. Donations can be made to the Jerrell Arthur Knowles Memorial Fund at his mother's residence in Kayenta, PO Box 3867, Kayenta, Ariz. February 16, 2006 Loretta Martin FORT DEFIANCE - Funeral services for Loretta Arviso Martin, 73 will be at the Fort Defiance Assembly of God on Friday, Feb. 17, at 10 a.m. Pastor Ken Delaney and James Bennett Jr. will officiate. Burial will be on private land in Blackgoat Canyon, Arizona. Martin died on Feb. 13 in Gallup. She was born on May 11, 1932 in Fort Defiance into the Mud Clan for the Zuni People Clan. Her hobbies included rug weaving, sewing, traveling and she was involved with church activities. She enjoyed gardening and being with family and friends. Survivors include her sons, Harold Arviso and Wally Arviso both of Fort Defiance, Nathan Arviso of Farmington; daughter, Lucille Arviso of Fort Defiance; sisters, Roberta Boyd of Window Rock, Nellie Damon and Elsie Morris, both of Fort Defiance; seven grandchildren and three great grandchildren. Martin was preceded in death by ther husband, Leroy Martin; father, Jim Blackgoat; mother, Louise Yaseabah Blackgoat; brothers, Gilbert Blackgoat, James Blackgoat, and Melvin Blackgoat; sisters, Rosemary Laughling and Eleanor Taliman; and first husband, Joe Arviso. Pallbearers will be Harold Arviso, Nathan Arviso, Wally Arviso, Nigel Chischilly, Nolan Chischilly and Norval Chischilly. Rollie Mortuary is in charge of arrangements. Leonard Tsosie SAWMILL - Gravesite service for Leonard "Sneaky" Tsosie, 55 will be at 10 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 17 at the Family Land in White Clay, Arizona. Pastor Raymond Whitehair will officiate. Burial will be on family plot in White Clay. Tsosie died on Feb. 12 in Gallup. He was born on January 3, 1951 in Fort Defiance into the Apache Clan Division of Red Running into Water Clan for One Who Walks Around People Clan. He attended Crystal Boarding School, Albuquerque Highland High School, Fort Wingate High School and was a graduate of Odgen Utah Heavy Equipment School. He was a bareback/saddle bronc rider and enjoyed going to the Navajo Nation Fair and Rodeos. He did volunteer workin Pinon. He was a rancher, sheepherder and lived among the wildlife in White Clay. He enjoyed spending time with family. Survivors include his daughter, Karen Leuppe of Window Rock; brothers, Henry J. Tsosie of Wheatfields; sisters, Sally Billiman and Dorothy Nez of Sawmill, Agnes Whitehair of Pinon, and Cynthia Shortey of Chinle. Tsosie was preceded in death by his parents, John J. and Pauline Z. Tsosie; brother, Raymond Tsosie; grandmother, Zah Tsosie. Pallbearers will be Dominic Nez, Raymond Whitehair Jr., Randell Whitehair, Leon Billiman, Cody Billiman, and Derek Tso. The family will receive relatives and friends at the Sawmill Chapter House after services. William Yazzie CHINLE - Funeral services for William Yazzie, 92 will be held at 10 a.m., Feb. 17 at the Trinity Presbyterian Church in Chinle. Jerry S. Zephier will officiate. Burial will be on family plot in Chinle. Yazzie died on Feb. 13 in Chinle. He was born on December 4, 1914 in Nazlini, Ariz., into the Coyote Pass People for the Red Streak Running Into Water Clan. He graduated from Phoenix Indian School. He served in WWII, USMC as a Navajo Code Talker. He worked and retired from the Branch of Land Operations after 35 years in Chinle. Survivors include his wife, Elizabeth Yazzie of Chinle; daughter, Eunice Zephier of Tempe, Ariz.; two grandchildren and two great -grandchildren. Yazzie was preceded in death by his parents Tachine and Asdzaalgai Yazzie. Pallbearers will be Chester Yazzie, Thomas Hunter, Michael Hunter, Dustin Zephier, Vincent Thomas, and Irvin Yazzie. The family will receive relatives and friends at the Trinity Fellowship Hall Church in Chinle. Tse Bonito Mortuary is in charge of arrangements. February 17, 2006 Judy Watts KINLICHEE - Funeral services for Judy Ann Watts, 45 will be at 10 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 18 at the Family Church Assembly of God. Evangelist Stanford Samuel will officiate. Burial will be on the family plot in Blue Canyon. Watts died on Feb. 10 in Tucson. She was born on August 8, 1960 in Fort Defiance into the Honey Combed Rock People Clan for the Mexican People Clan. She attended Ganado High School and was employed at Super 8 Motel in Durango, Colo., Amberly Suites Hotel and The Club House Inn Suite in Albuquerque doing hospitality service. She was also self-employed as a sash belt weaver. Her hobbies were playing softball, going to revivals and church gatherings. She loved to spend time with her grandchildren. Survivors include her husband, Albert Belenti of Kinlichee; sons, Derrick Gordy and Darrell Yazzie, both of Albuquerque, Brandon Yazzie of Kinlichee, Ariz.; daughters, Jennifer Etsitty, Jacqualine Watts, Johanna Watts, all of Fort Defiance; parents, James Yazzie Sr. and Gail Yazzie of Fort Defiance; brothers, James Yazzie Jr. of Fort Defiance and Wilfred Lilly of Summit, Ariz.; sisters, Maybelle Kinlicheene and Janice James, both of Cornfield, Ariz., Jane Yazzie of Fort Defiance; and five grandchildren. Watts was preceded in death by her brothers Johnson and Jonah Yazzie, both of Fort Defiance. Pallbearers will be Wallace James, Marlin James, Orlando Kinlicheene, William Kinlicheene, Jimmy Samuel, and Albert Biliti. The family will receive relatives and friends at the Fort Defiance Chapter House. Pauline Jones CHINLE - Funeral services for Pauline Evans Jones, 104, will be at 10 a.m. on Feb. 18 at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Chinle. Burial will be on the family plot in Chinle. Jones died Feb. 10 in Chinle. She was born May 5, 1901 in Hotevilla, Ariz., into the Water's Edge Clan for the Hopi People Clan. Survivors include her daughter, Judy Braidhair; brother, Billie Sarracino and Kee Yazzie; sisters, Sadie Yazzie and Linda Pioche; five grandchildren. Jones was preceded in death by her husband, Paul Evans Jones; parents, Jorge Honeyestewa of Hotevilla, Ariz. and Glinbah Yazza of Keams Canyon, Ariz.; brothers, Begay Tosohnii Yazzie and Sam Kee of Keams Canyon, Ariz.; sisters, Mae Attson Pallbearers will be Tracy Yazzie, Roger Yazzie, John Wayne Mitchell, Orlando Paisano, and Richard Attson Sr. The family will receive relatives and friends at House #2, Sunnyside Housing in Chinle. Hilda Reeder ROCK SPRINGS - Services for Hilda Cadman Reeder, 72, will be at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 18 at the Bible Navajo Mission in Wildcat, N.M. Pastor Marshall will officiate. Burial will follow at the family plot in Wildcat. Reeder died Feb. 13 in Wildcat. He was born Dec. 12, 1933 in the Tower House People Clan for the Red Running into the Water People Clan. Reeder was a homemaker and rug weaver and she also did beadwork. She worked at jobs as a kitchen helper and cook's helper. She enjoyed riding horses and herding sheep. Survivors include her sons Freddie L. Reeder, Calvin Reeder, Emery Yazzie, all of Gallup, Johnny Reeder, Thomas Yazzie Jr., and Theoron Yazzie, all of Phoenix; daughters, Evelyn J. Pinto of Tohatchi, Jennie Reeder, Amelda Reeder, both of Phoenix, Hazel Stoneburner of Apopka, Fla., Eugena Nez of Gallup; brother Albert Cadman of Rock Springs; sisters, Rosemary Joe of China Springs and Bessie Murphy of Wildcat; 36 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. Reeder was preceded in death by her son Delbert Reeder, parents, Sam Cadman and Mary W. Cadman; brother Bennie, Robert, Chee and Fred Cadman and sister, Lucy Cadman. Pallbearers will be Calvin Reeder, Thomas Yazzie, Emery Yazzie and Theoron Yazzie. Cope Memorial Chapel is in charge of arrangements. Lenna Morgan NAHODEESHGIZH - Services for Lenna T. Morgan, 86, will be at 10 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 18 at the Navajo Baptist Church in Crownpoint. Missionary Richard Crow and Pastor Johnny Savaadra will officiate. Burial will follow on private land in Nahodeeshgizh. Morgan died Feb. 14 in Nahodeeshgizh. She was born June 4, 1919 in Standing Rock into the Towering House People Clan for the Water Flows Together People Clan. She attended Crownpoint Boarding School, Santa Fe Indian School and was a rug weaver, homemaker and basket weaver. She helped elderly people with letter correspondent. She was active in community leadership. Survivors include her son Eddie F. Morgan of Nahodeeshgizh; daughters Bernice Jim, Alberta Jim and Charlene Morgan, all of Nahodeeshgizh and Chriscita Morgan of Standing Rock, 37 grandchildren, 36 grandchildren and one great-great grandchild. Morgan was preceded in death by her husband, Preston Morgan; sons, Herman R. Morgan, Kennth Morgan and four grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Dewayne Jim, Curtis Jim, Nathan Willie, Nelvin Willie, Lynold Halona, Larry Holona, Nathaniel Morgan, and Myron Morgan The family will receive relatives and friends at the Nahodeeshgizh Chapter House. Cope Memorial Chapel is in charge of arrangements. February 18, 2006 Adele Francis CHINLE - Services for Adele Begay Francis, 60, will be at 10 a.m., Monday, Feb 20 at Chinle Christian Center. Ardy Aragon will officiate. Burial will be at the Chinle Community Cemetery. Francis died on Feb. 16 in Chinle. He was born May 31, 1945 in Chinle in the Water Flows Together People Clan for the Towering House People Clan. Francis was a homemaker and a animal lover. She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and taking care of her goats and sheep. Survivors include her husband Thomas Francis, Sr.; sons, Albert Francis Jr. and Tommy Francis, both of Chinle; daughter JoAnn Francis of Chinle; mother, Louise Begay; brothers, Robert Allen Begay, Ronald Begay and Charles Begay, all from Chinle; sisters, Elouise Begay, Laura Charly, Arlene Begay, 14 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Francis was preceded in death by her son Thomason Francis and one brother, Jimmy Begay. The family will receive relatives and friends at Chinle Redwood Housing #60. Tse Bonito Mortuary is in charge of arrangements. Alice Redhouse NAVAJO, N.M. - Services for Alice Redhouse, 74, will be at 10 a.m., Monday, Feb 20 at St. Michaels Catholic Mission in St. Michaels. Father Gilbert will officiate. Burial will follow at Fort Defiance Community Cemetery. Visitation will be held one hour before services at the church. Redhouse died Feb. 15 in Gallup. She was born Aug. 5, 1931 in Many Farms into the Red Streak Running into the Water People Clan for the Salt People Clan. Redhouse was employed at Griswalds, 7-11 Stores, various restaurants and cafes in Fort Defiance. Her hobbies were composing and singing Navajo traditional songs with the "Red Lake Wingers." She enjoyed Bingos and being with family. Survivors include her husband, Bobby Redhouse; sons, Terry Redhouse Sr., Lorenzo Bahe and Harry Nez; daughter, Loberta Redhouse; brother Tom Byjoe; sisters, Della Yazzie, Lillian Hoffman, Lupe Tso, AnnieTayha, Betty Tsosie and Margarita Tsosie, 13 grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren. Redhouse was preceded in death by her sons Alana Bahe, Oscar Redhouse; parents Hosten and Hasbah Byjoe; brothers Howard Thomas, Jack Byjoe and two grandchildren. Jarick Mastach, Jeron Mastach, Lorenzo Bahe, Harry Nez, Wilfred Bahe, Terrill Redhouse. The family will receive relatives and friends at St. Michaels Parish Hall after the services. Lawrence Begay GANADO - Services for Lawrence Begay, 78, will be at noon on Monday, Feb 20 at St. Michaels Catholic Church. Father Flann O'Neil will officiate. Burial will follow on family land. Begay died Feb. 16 in Ganado. He was born Feb. 12, 1928 in Ganado. Survivors include his son, Lawrence Begay Jr. of Cornfield; daughter Judy White of Ganado; sisters, Kate Dale of Riverside, Calif., Josephine Perez of Long Beach, Calif., Mary James, Irene Keyonnie and Arlene Woody, all of Ganado, four grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Begay was preceded in death by his parents Clyde Tso Begay and Marilyn Begay; brothers, David Begay, Francis Begay and Harry Begay; sisters, Marie Tsosie and Mildred Willie. Rollie Mortuary is in charge of arrangements. Rosemary Jones GANADO - Services for Rosemary Marie Jones, 52, will be at 11 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 20 at Ganado Presbyterian Church. Henry Haskie will officiate. Burial will follow on the Chinle family plot. Visitation will be one hour before sesrvices for immediate family only at the church. Jones died Feb. 16 in gallup. She was born Aug. 10, 1953 in Monrovia, Calif into the Water's Edge People Clan for the Bitter Water People Clan. Survivors include J.R. Yazzie; sons, Louis A. Jones Jr. of Phoenix; daughters, Carlene G. Haskie, J. Michelle Haskie, both of Phoenix, and Shannon L. Haskie of Tucson; parents Louis and Mildred Jones, both of Chinle; brothers, Donald T. Chee Sr., of Forest Lake, Ariz. sisters, Annie R. Silversmith of Oak Springs, Ariz., and Betty L. Chee of Durango, Colo.; and five grandchildren. Jones was preceded in death by her grandparents, Howard Jones, Naglii Hasbah Jones, Deschinee Nez Tracy. Pallbearers will be Shannon L. Haske, Kenneth Killup, Malachy J. Riley, Donald T. chee, Jr., Dwayne L. Gorman and Benson Johnson. The family will receive relatives and friends at Louis and Mildred Jones residence in Chinle after services. Cope Memorial Chapel is in charge of arrangements. Copyright c. 2006 the Gallup Independent. -=-=-=- February 17, 2006 Julia "Thomas" Clawson Julia "Thomas" Clawson of Cedar Creek went home to be with the Lord Feb. 11, 2006 at the Whiteriver Indian Health Service Hospital. She was born June 16, 1930 in Cibecue. Julia is survived by her son, Roger Clawson, Jr.; daughters June Bush, Colleen Faden, Virginia Clawson, Arlene Quintero, Pamela Anderson, Priscilla Ethelbah, Lorraine Mason, MaryAnn Armstrong; son-in-law, Milton Bush, Dennis Faden, Adolph Cosen, Roy Quintero, Dave Ethelbah; grand kids, Ferguson Jake Palmer, Dennis Faden II, Tonya Faden, Emily Faden, Angela Faden, Hershel Anderson, Paige Anderson, Danielle Ethelbah, Dustin Ethelbah; great-grandson, Armani Armstrong Anderson; sister, Manuelita Early, Roberta Bedoni (Navajo Mountain); brother, Kendall Thomas Jr., along with many other relatives and friends. A two-night wake will start at her residence in Cedar Creek at 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 18. Funeral services will be Monday, Feb. 20 at the John F. Kennedy School gym with Pastor Gary Lupe officiating. Interment will be at the R-14 Crossing in Cedar Creek. Silver Creek Chapel Mortuary of Whiteriver handled the arrangements. Alta E. Fall Alta Fall went home to be with the Lord Feb. 11, 2006 in Phoenix. She was born Nov. 17, 1926 in Whiteriver. Alta is survived by daughters Erma Walters, Ronnita Norman, Decora Clay, Essie Fall, Madeline Malone, Rettalynn Fall; sons Durango Fall, Larson Fall, Luke Fall, Frank Fall; brother, Earl Ethelbah; godchildren Vangie Natan, Alex Leonard, KJ James; 30 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and many other relatives, friends and loved ones. Alta's body will be brought back to her residence in Whiteriver (N. 3rd Ave.) for a two-night wake at 10 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 16. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 18 at the Open Bible Lutheran Church in Whiteriver with Pastor Dan Rautrenberg officiating. Interment will be at the Whiteriver Cemetery. Silver Creek Chapel Mortuary of Whiteriver handled arrangements. Copyright c. 2006 White Mountain Independent. -=-=-=- February 15, 2006 Wendy Apgar Former Madras resident Wendy Charlene Apgar died Feb. 12, of natural causes at her home in Gresham. She was 46. Mrs. Apgar was born Oct. 24, 1959, in Prineville, to parents Jeanne and Bill Apgar. At the time of her birth, they lived in government housing on the Warm Springs Reservation. She spent her first two years there before moving with her parents and baby brother to the Hoopa Indian Reservation in Northern California. They moved back to Jefferson County three years later, where her parents still live. Ms. Apgar attended school in Madras, graduating from Madras High School in 1977. Moving to Portland, she attended Mount Hood Community College, then worked in Portland prior to becoming disabled and having to leave the workforce. She lived in the Gresham and Portland areas up until the time of her death. She was very active in Grace Community Church in Gresham and had many caring and supporting friends there. She also enjoyed flowers, working with small children, and doing crafts, of which she was an expert in many areas. Survivors include her brother, Chris Apgar of Portland; sister, Michele Goodpasture of Bend; parents Bill and Jeanne Apgar of Madras; grandparents Paul and Iva Beebe of Warm Springs; 12 nieces and nephews; and one grand- -niece and one grand-nephew. A celebration of life service will be held Thursday, Feb. 16, at 1 p.m., at the Grace Community Church in Gresham (date not yet set). Memorial contributions may be made to the church's community outreach program or to a charity of your choice. Arrangements are under the direction of Gresham Funeral Chapel. Lawrence Shike Warm Springs resident Lawrence J. Shike died Feb. 5, 2006, at St. Charles Medical Center in Bend. He was 42. Mr. Shike was born April 10, 1963, in Redmond to parents Raymond and Charlotte (Brown) Shike. He was a lifetime resident of Warm Springs and an enrolled member of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs. On May 27, 1996, in Reno, Nev., he married his wife, Norma. Surivors include his children, Lawrence Jr., William, and Lana Shike, all of Warm Springs; brother, Ray Shike Jr., of Warm Springs; sisters, Helena Jackson, Mina Shike, Sandra Danzuka, and Lana (Shike) Leonard, all of Warm Springs. He was preceded in death by his father, and brother Albert. A dressing ceremony was held Feb. 8, at the Agency Longhouse in Warm Springs, followed by an overnight service and burial Feb. 9, in Simnasho. Arrangements were under the direction of Bel-Air Colonial Funeral Home of Madras. Copyright c. 2001-2006 Madras Pioneer, Eagle Newspapers Inc./Madras, OR. -=-=-=- February 16, 2006 Dietz "Dunnie" Pongah September 24, 1956 - February 2, 2006 FORT HALL - Dietz "Dunnie" Pongah, 49, passed away Thursday, February 2, 2006 in Fort Hall. He was born September 24, 1956 in Pocatello, Idaho to Dietz Pongah Sr. and Florine Theresa Marsh Pongah. He attended schools in Fort Hall and Blackfoot. He was self-employed as a mechanic. He is survived by his children, Michael (Susan) Pongah, Robert J. Pongah, both of Fort Hall, Dietz Pongah III and Cleon (Pongahontas) Pongah both of Fort Washakie, Wyoming. Sisters Lorena "Chumpley" Pongah; Leona P. Jim; Velma Redwoman; Theora Pongah Galloway and Ivy Waterhouse all of Fort Hall. A brother Lyle "Coke" Pongah Sr. of Tacoma, Washington. He has one grandchild Khalie Pongah, along with numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Preceding him in death are his father Dietz Sr. and mother Theresa. Brothers Elwin "Jughead" Pongah, Steven "Stompo" Pongah Sr., Delbert, Edmond and Thurman Pongah, Harrison "Pete" Shoyo and one infant sister. Nephews Lyle "Auger" Pongah Jr.; VaShawn Redwoman. Two nieces Leatrice " Tadda" Taquena and Melody Pongah. Two grandsons Blaine Pongah and Joshua Apodaca. Dunnie was taken to the JoAnn Galloway residence at 1057 Teepee Street in Fort Hall on Friday, February 3. Traditional services were at 2 p.m. Saturday, February 4 with burial in the Sandhill Cemetery. Funeral arrangements were family directed. Arthur Timothy Manning March 26, 1919 - January 29, 2006 OWYHEE, Nev. - Arthur T. Manning entered into eternal rest to reunite with his Lord and Savior on Sunday, January 29th at his ranch on the Duck Valley Indian Reservation with his loving family at his bedside. He was the fifth of nine children born to Guy and Bessie White Manning of Owyhee. He attended elementary school at Owyhee and high school at the Sherman Indian School at Riverside, California returning home after the tenth grade to ranch with his father. He worked in Owyhee for the Bureau of Indian Affairs until December of 1941when the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor. Arthur enlisted in the United States Marine Corps on December 23, 1941. During World War II, he participated in action on Gaudalcanal, Tarawa, Saipan and Tinian with the 2nd Marine Division. He attained the rank of Sergeant and commanded a half-track. During these years he formed a life- long bond with his fellow Marines and traveled to several 2nd Division reunions over the years. Just prior to the war, Arthur met his future wife Leah Hicks who came to Owyhee to teach school. They remained sweethearts until his return. They were married in San Bernadino, California on January 8, 1945. They remained in Los Angeles for two years while Arthur attended Los Angeles City College and Leah worked as a social worker, returning to Duck Valley in 1947. Over the years, Arthur and Leah raised a family of five daughters, several nieces and nephews and many foster children on their cattle ranch. Their home was always open and filled with love for everyone who needed a meal, a listening ear or a place to stay. They supported and encouraged all of their children, family members as well as those whose lives they touched to pursue success in life, complete college degrees and be proud of their heritage. They enjoyed traveling with their daughters who held national titles as well as their children, grandchildren and foster children to school and sporting events and family gatherings. Arthur continued this family tradition up until recently when he could no longer travel. Arthur and Leah were well known and very active in tribal, community, county and national affairs. Arthur served on the Tribal Council of the Shoshone-Paiute Tribes of the Duck Valley Indian Reservation as tribal chairman and councilman for over 24 years. He has also served on the Nevada Equal Rights Commission, the Nevada Indian Commission, the Elko County School Board, the Elko General Hospital Board, the American Indian Civil Liberties Trust, Western Shoshone-Paiute Livestock Board of Directors, Inter-Tribal Council of Nevada, National Congress of American Indians, Bi-Centennial Commission for Idaho, Nevada and Utah and was a founding member of the Duck Valley Housing Authority. He was a lifelong member of the Owyhee Presbyterian Church. He served for over 50 years as commander and member of the Jack-Hanks American Legion Post No. 48 in Owyhee. Arthur also belonged to the Kerak Temple Shrine and order of Masons of Elko, Nevada. He owned and managed the Owyhee Rec Hall Cafe' for many years assisted by his sister Verna Jones. He owned and operated his own ranch and was employed as a Nevada State Deputy brand inspector for 31 years, until his illness forced him into "semi-retirement" six years ago. He was honored in 1993 when he was asked to serve as grand marshal for the Spring Creek Ranch Rodeo. On February 12, 1979, Arthur's home was destroyed in a tragic fire that claimed the lives of his beloved wife Leah, daughter Tina Manning Trudell and three grandchildren. Although Arthur was deeply hurt by this great loss, his strength and faith in God carried him through and he went on to be a source of strength to the family, his Tribe and Native American people. He was loved and greatly respected by all who knew him. Arthur was preceded in death by his father Guy Manning, his mother Bessie White Manning, brothers Bert Manning, Morty Manning, Edwin Manning, Victor Manning, and Newton Manning; sisters Agnes Tybo, Cecelia Thomas and Verna Jones; his wife Leah Hicks Manning, infant daughter Mary Ataloa Manning, daughter Tina Manning Trudell five grandchildren and one great grandchild. He is survived by a brother Wilfred (Joanne) Manning of Owyhee; daughters Winona Lee (Jim May) Manning, Claire Aca (Richard Dick) Manning- Dick; Teola (Wally) Blossom all of Owyhee. Grandchildren David and Timothy Holmes of Owyhee; Arthur Dick of Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, Kielea Dick of Lassen College in Susanville, California; Shae Hall of Owyhee; two great grandchildren Shiara and Elijah Holmes. Nephew-sons Leroy and Jonathan Hicks of Schurz, Nevada and Richard "Dicky" Hicks of Owyhee. Also surviving are foster children JoAnn Gibson Whitehouse of Warren, Michigan, Carlos (Jamie) Sanchez of Coleville, California and Lance Stevens of Elko, Nevada. The family requests that in lieu of flowers contributions can be made in his memory to the Owyhee Presbyterian Church in care of Angie Thomas, Great Basin Bank of Nevada, P.O. Box 2808, Elko, Nevada 89803 or the St. Alphonsus Caldwell Cancer Care Center, 3119 Commercial Way, Caldwell, Idaho 83605. Funeral services were on Friday, February 3, 2006 at noon at the Human Development Center, Owyhee, Nevada. Copyright c. 2006 Sho-Ban News. All rights reserved. -=-=-=- February 16, 2006 Troy James Buckman ETHETE - The funeral for Billings, Mont., resident Troy James Buckman, 41, will be conducted at 10 a.m. today, Feb. 16, in Blue Sky Hall in Ethete by the Rev. Art Werner. Interment will be in Whiteplume Cemetery at Big Horn Draw, Ethete. He died Feb. 11, 2006, in Billings. Born March 23, 1964, at Vandenberg Air Force Base in Lompoc, Calif., he was the son of Vera Hartman Davis and Elliott Buckman; and was raised on the Wind River Indian Reservation. He attended schools in Fort Washakie and Lander and Billings High School; and earned an associate's degree in auto mechanics from Montana State University-Billings. On Nov. 3, 1995, he married Linda Murray; they had made their home in Billings for the last 22 years. He was a hunting guide in Cody and Belgrade, Mont.; was a Sho-Rap firefighter; and, at the time of his death, was employed by Burtell Fire Protection in Billings. He enjoyed hunting and fishing with his brothers and nephews; spending time in the mountains with his wife, daughter, and best friend Rocky; repairing his truck and other things; motorcycles and four-wheeling; listening to music; and being with his special dog, Rusty. Survivors include his wife; daughter, Autumn; two brothers, Aaron and Wade and his wife of St. Louis; his stepmother, Eileen, of Billings; his stepfather, Harold Davis of Lander; and several other relatives. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Ruth Whiteplume Buckman, William H. Buckman, Martha and Ernest Hartman, Charlie, Al, John, Martin and Pat Buckman; his parents; and other relatives. Wind Dancer Funeral Home of Fort Washakie is in charge of arrangements. Marvin Glen Azbill FORT WASHAKIE - The funeral for Fort Washakie resident Marvin Glen Azbill, 36, will be conducted at 2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 17, in Rocky Mountain Hall in Fort Washakie by his uncles, Arlen and Bunny Shoyo, of the Native American Church. Burial will follow in Sacajawea Cemetery in Fort Washakie. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. Friday until service-time in Rocky Mountain Hall. Evening services will begin at 7 p.m. today, Feb. 16, in the hall; followed by a wake at No. 47 Engavo Lane in Fort Washakie. He died Feb. 13, 2006, at Lander Valley Medical Center. Born June 23, 1969, in Ukiah, Calif., he was the son of Janice (Enos) and Delmar Azbill; moved to Wyoming with his family; and attended elementary schools in Fort Washakie. He was adopted by Lavonne and John Roan Horse and they later returned to California, where he completed his education in Covleo. In 1986, he moved back to Fort Washakie. A laborer in the construction industry, he was employed by Mick Hornecker at Circle Paving; the Shoshone Tribe as a rock-crusher operator; and Magarvin and Mobley Construction Co. In 1998, he married Delta Clair in Lander. He enjoyed hunting, and singing Native American songs; and loved being with his family and grandchildren. Survivors in Fort Washakie include his father; his adoptive parents; his wife; and nine children, Chanel, Rafina, Janice and Marlin Azbill, Utahnna and Jarred Bear Comes Out, Claire and Chiefy Spoonhunter, and Jackson Clair Sr. Also surviving are nine siblings, Delmona and Lydale Azbill of Fort Washakie, Patricia Trosper of Salt Lake City, Vicky Eagle of San Francisco, and Danny Eagle, Sonny and Greg Roan Horse, Bunni Rae Shoyo and Misty Mason; four grandchildren; grandmother, Barbara Enos; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother; a grandfather, Enos Enos; and two brothers, Antone "Tony" Eagle and Lester "Allan" Azbill. Patricia Elaine 'Pat' (Cundy) Hill CLAREMORE, Okla. - The funeral for Claremore resident Patricia Elaine "Pat" (Cundy) Hill, 74, was conducted Feb. 13, 2006, in Musgrove-Merriott- Smith Chapel in Claremore by Pastor Todd Bergman. Burial was in Oakhaven Memorial Gardens. She died Feb. 9, 2006, at Hillcrest Medical Center. Born April 6, 1931, in Spearfish, S.D., she was the daughter of Amie (Rice) and Henry Cundy. She moved to Claremore from Washington state in 1958 and graduated in the first class of Rogers State College's nursing program. She worked in the lab of Claremore Regional Hospital and had been employed by Claremore Indian and St. Francis hospitals. For the last six years, she had worked at Trinity Hospice. Survivors include her son, David Hill of Claremore; two daughters, Sandra Cundy Hill of Tahlequah, Okla., and Carolyn Scott and her husband of Vinita, Okla.; her mother of Casper; six brothers, Leslie, Bob, Henry, Art, Cecil and Walter Cundy of Wyoming; two sisters, Katie Kudlock of Wyoming and Marilyn Hess of Alaska; and two grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, John Hill, in 1989; her father; two brothers, Harold and Lyle Cundy; and a sister, Helen Roadifer. Memorials may be made to RSU Foundation for Nursing Department, in care of Development Office, 1701 W. Will Rogers Blvd., Claremore, OK 74017. Copyright c. 2006 Casper Star-Tribune published by Lee Publications, Inc., a subsidiary of Lee Enterprises, Incorporated. -=-=-=- February 14, 2006 Nevada Cruz Beartusk LAME DEER - Nevada, our beloved son, was born to Christopher K. Beartusk, Sr. and Nadine R. Weaselbear. We were never able to hold him, nor cuddle him, but we could not have loved him more. Now, Nevada is in heaven where he can be held, cuddled and loved by God. He will live in our memories and hearts forever. Nevada was born and died on Feb. 14. He meant so much to us. No words can express the loss. He was heaven-sent, born on Valentine's Day with such a big plan in life to be the best and this has ended in sorrow. Although not yet born, he was beloved member of our family and a joy to his parents, his two sisters, Talon and Valao, and big brother Chris, Jr., all of the Muddy Cluster; his loving grandmother, Elsie Weaselbear and grandfather Ronald Beartusk of Lame Deer. He also leaves behind dear aunts and uncles, Kenneth (Janice), Herman Jr., Elroy (Tiffany), Leeana (Gilbert), Valoria, Anna (Mike), Neil (Diana) Beartusk, Weaver (Nia), Tara Lynn (Troy) Small, Janelle and Ronelle Beartusk; special cousins Leslie Ann, Mike, Melissa, Fawn, Mountain, Elroy Jr., Terry and Araya; special friend to family, Johana Seminole, Felice Riddle; including all extended families, LaForge, Birdchief, Weaselbear (of South Dakota), Wooden Thigh, Yellowrobe, Shoulderblade, Blackwolf, Wolfname, Braidedhair, Hiwalker, Robinson and Freeman. Thank you to all who called and supported the family during this loss. Nevada was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Herman Weaselbear, Sr. and paternal grandmother, Patricia Hiwalker Hoosner. Wake services will be held in Lame Deer on Friday, Feb. 17, at 7 p.m., Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church. Funeral service at the Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, Saturday, Feb. 18, at 10 a.m., with burial following at Kinzel/Hiwalker Cemetary, north of Lame Deer. Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home of Forsyth is in charge of these arrangements. Copyright c. 2006 The Billings Gazette, a division of Lee Enterprises. -=-=-=- Golden Triangle On-Line Obituaries The following obituaries appeared in the Cut Bank Pioneer Press, Shelby Promoter, Valierian or Glacier Reporter this week. February 15, 2006 Robert Anderson Robert Douglas Anderson died Wednesday, Feb. 8, 2006. Robert Anderson was born to William and Pauline (Douglas) Anderson on Oct. 14, 1935 in Cardston, Alberta. Bob graduated from Browning High School. Bob was a member of the Blackfeet Nation of Browning and served his country in the U.S. Army in the mid 1950s. Bob owned and managed a Texaco service station in Browning for 13 years and the Anchor Inn Tavern in Anacortes, Wash. for 27 years. He had many other accomplishments including "Outstanding Young Man of America," a member of many civic organizations such as the VFW, American Legion, Fraternal Order of the Eagles, B.P.O.E. After retirement Bob's favorite "getaway" was to the "Cabin" in St. Mary's Lake. Bob is survived by his wife and partner, Beryle Miller Anderson; a daughter Paulette Running Wolf of St. Mary's; sons Edwin Robert (Ed) Anderson of Browning and Douglas William Anderson of Lakewood, Calif.; sisters Beverly (Stan) Durgin of Mill Creek, Betty (Earl) Silvas of Ronan; nine grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; and the countless friends he made in his lifetime who will miss him. A celebration of Bob's life was held at the Anacortes Elks Lodge on Saturday, Feb. 11. A Catholic Mass will be offered at a later date at the Little Flower Catholic Church in Browning. Memorials in Bob's name may be made to the Anacortes Lodge of the B.P.O.E. Charles Arnoux Charles (Big Jim) Arnoux of White Swan passed away Thursday, Feb. 9, 2006 of a short illness. A wake service is being held at the Old Eagle Shield Building in Browning. The rosary was held at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 15 also at the Old Eagle Shield Building. The funeral mass will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 16 at the Little Flower Parish in Browning, followed by the burial in the Fisher Cemetery in St. Mary's, Mont. Pondera Funeral Home is handling the arrangements. He was born July 9, 1933 to Carl (Bunny) Arnoux and Irene Spotted Eagle Walters in Browning. Charles attended school in Browning and graduated in 1952. In 1962 he married his wife of 43 years Burna Kennerly. He was employed by the B.I.A. for 31 years and worked in Browning, Neah Bay, Wash. and White Swan, Wash., for the Road's Department. Jim retired in 1994. Jim started the Search and Rescue program in Neah Bay and was an active member. He liked to fish and hunt. He enjoyed attending his daughter and grandchildren's school and sports activities. He took pride in his gardening, growing flowers at church and home. He was also active with St. Mary's Catholic Church in White Swan. He also volunteered at the food bank in White Swan every third Thursday of the month with his family. During his time as a Eucharistic minister and spiritual advisor he helped build the Kateri Shrine at St. Mary's Church in White Swan bringing back the rocks from St. Mary's, Mont. Jim received great joy in working cursillo, pilgrimages, and song fest throughout the Northwest. He was a self-taught guitar player and played with the Reservation Gospel Singers of White Swan for many years. He is survived by his wife, Burna; three children, James H., Ross and Julie; five grandchildren, Montana Lee, Dakota Dawn, Kansas Rose, Tyra and Natasha; brother, Meade and sisters, Susie Henderson, Betsy Augare, Helen Wippert, Nat Fox and Cherie Delaney all of Browning. He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl Arnoux and Irene Spotted Eagle Walters, sisters, Yvonne Bremner, Belva Rutherford, Dexter Marceau, Emily Walters, Linda Arnoux and brother, James Walters, Jr. Copyright c. 2006 Golden Triangle Newspapers. -=-=-=- February 14, 2006 Charles 'Big Jim' Arnoux BROWNING - Charles "Big Jim" Arnoux, 72, of White Swan, Wash., formerly of Browning, who was a Bureau of Indian Affairs employee for 31 years before retiring, died Thursday in a Yakima, Wash., hospital after a short illness. A wake service begins today and rosary is 7 p.m. Wednesday, both at the Old Eagle Shield Building in Browning. Funeral Mass is 10 a.m. Thursday at the Little Flower Parish in Browning, with burial in Fisher Cemetery in St. Mary's. Pondera Funeral Home of Conrad is handling the arrangements. Survivors include his wife, Burna Arnoux; children, James H. Kennerly, Ross Arnoux and Julie Arnoux, all of White Swan, Wash.; a brother, Meade Arnoux; and sisters Susie Henderson, Betsy Auqare, Helen Wippert, Nat Fox and Cherie Delaney, all of Browning; and five grandchildren. February 16, 2006 Leola Edith Kennedy BROWNING - Leola Edith Kennedy, 47, a homemaker, died of cancer Monday at a Great Falls hospital. Rosary is 7 p.m. Friday at Little Flower Parish. Funeral Mass is 2 p.m. Saturday at Little Flower Parish, with burial in Methodist Cemetery. Pondera Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. She is survived by her husband of 22 years, David Lee Kennedy; children Lloyd Monroe Tatsey, Maranda Kennedy (Aaron McLean), Brice Jay Kennedy, Bryson Lee Kennedy, Melvin Kennedy and David Kennedy Jr., all of Browning, and Felecia Kennedy (George Palacios) of Whittier, Calif.; three grandchildren, Libby McLean and Samara Jade Kennedy of Browning and Jacob Anthony Palacios of Whittier; her father, Lloyd "Buster" Tatsey; sisters Carol Racine (Mike Littledog), Wanda "Nossie" Cobell and Eva Cobell, all of Browning, and Mary (Rusty) Garrett of Tucson, Ariz.; and a brother, Alvin (Elouise) Cobell of Browning. Leola enjoyed cooking, laughing with friends and family, bingo and hand games. She battled cancer in the twilight of her life. Those who were around her realized that the illness would never take hold of her spirit and her zest for life. She was preceded in death by her mother, Liberty Cobell Tatsey; a brother, Roland "Hunky" Cobell Sr.; and grandparents Leo and Sadie Kennerly. Copyright c. 2006 Great Falls Tribune, a division of Lee Enterprises. -=-=-=- February 16, 2006 Abigail Ayagarak, 28 Anchorage resident Abigail Agatha Ayagarak, 28, died Feb. 12, 2006, in Anchorage of natural causes. A visitation and service were Wednesday at Evergreen Memorial Chapel. Burial will be at Chevak Cemetery in Chevak. Ms. Ayagarak was born March 17, 1977, in Anchorage and raised in Chevak. She worked at RGIS Inventory Co. and was a member of Cupiit Yurartet Cup'ik dance group. Her family wrote: "Abigail was full of life. She loved to spend time with family; she loved to laugh and was always willing to help when she could. She enjoyed camping and Eskimo dancing." Ms. Ayagarak is survived by her grandmother, Aggie Ayagarak of Chevak; mother, Nancy Nelson of Kenai; brother, Daniel Ayagarak of Anchorage; sister, Bobbie Nelson of Crooked Creek; aunts who were like mothers to her, Linda Daney and Maxine Joseph, and their spouses, Buz Daney and Vince Joseph, all of Anchorage; aunts and uncles, Mildred Russell of Medford, Ore., Edgar and Norma Tunutmoak, Franklin and Agatha Ulroan, Theresa Chimiralrea, and Jacob Nash, all of Chevak, Charlie Friday of Hooper Bay, David Bill Sr. of Toksook Bay, Daniel Bill, Joseph Bill, Joan Hamilton, and Joe Jr. and Nancy Ayagarak, all of Bethel, and Herman "A.J." Ayagarak of Anchorage; and numerous cousins. She was preceded in death by her grandfather, Joseph Ayagarak Sr.; uncle, Herman Ayagarak; and brother, Matthew Nelson. Copyright c. 2006 The Anchorage Daily News. -=-=-=- February 16, 2006 Agnes Bellinger Juneau resident Agnes Martha Tlunaut Bellinger, 78, died Feb. 14, 2006 at her home. She was born to John Lunaat' and Jennie (Johnson) Marks on Dec. 21, 1927. Agnes was a Kaagwaantaan of the Wolf House. Her Tlingit names were Yaanshawti and Kindze'i. She was the "commodore" of the yaan Wa sh?a, after her mother. Agnes was the NaaTLaa of the Kaagwaantaan. She was LuKaax.?di y?di, a choosh dagachx?n and Ganaxteidee dachxan. She moved in 1969 from Haines to Juneau. Her career included work at the Haines House as laundry manager and the U.S. Forest Service. In 1976, she won the Handicap of the Year award for her speed and proficiency in typing and administrative organization. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree in anthropology from the University of Washington. Upon completing her degree, she worked for Sealaska Corp. and the Juneau School District as a cultural specialist. She was a docent for the Alaska State Museum. She started the Eagle Raven Dancers, which sprouted several other dance groups in Juneau. She was preceded in death by her sisters, Katherine Hammond, Edith Thompson and Edna Land; her late husband, Leo Jacobs Sr.; and her second husband, Donald Carroll Bellinger. She is survived by her children, Leo Jacobs, Joe Jacobs, Marianne Jacobs and Donna Bellinger; and her grandchildren. Pallbearers are Peter Marks, Jimmie Marks, Raymond Dennis Jr., Jeff David Jr., Smitty Katzeek and Leo Marks. Honorary pallbearers are Johnnie Marks, Emma Marks, Nora Daunhauer, Nathan Jackson, Florence M. Sheakley, David Light, Joe Winders, Austin "Ozzie" Hammond and Cyril George. A Juneau memorial service will be 6 p.m., Feb. 18 at Tlingit and Haida Community Building. In Haines, she will lay in state at the Raven House on Feb. 19 until her service at 1:30 p.m., Feb. 20 at Alaska Native Brotherhood Hall. Copyright c. 1997-2006 Juneau Empire/Morris Communications Corporation. -=-=-=- February 11, 2006 Luke Petiquan, of Grassy Narrows Luke Petiquan, a resident of Grassy Narrows, Ontario, passed away on Saturday, February 11, 2006 at the Lake of the Woods District Hospital. He was predeceased by one daughter, Karen. He is survived by his loving wife Eveleen, three sons Delbert, Charlie and Paul, and three daughters Brenda, Sherry and Pauline. As well as 10 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. A Wake Service began on Tuesday, February 14, 2006 in the afternoon, in Grassy Narrows. A Traditional Funeral will be held in Grassy Narrows on Thursday, February 16, 2006 in the afternoon. Interment will take place at the Grassy Narrows Cemetery. BROWN FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION CENTRE ENTRUSTED WITH ARRANGEMENTS. Traditional Funeral Thursday Afternoon, February 16, 2006 in Grassy Narrows. Copyright c. 2006 Kenora Daily Miner and News. -=-=-=- February 14, 2006 Melanie Geddes GEDDES - Melanie Dawn. Loving mother, daughter, sister and friend. Predeceased by her brother Richard Junior Geddes, nephew Christian Geddes and beloved grandmothers Sybil Geddes and Theresa McNab. Left to cherish her memory and mourn her passing are her husband Eric Cleveland, children: Katie, Tiara and Chloe, mother Valerie Debbie Smokeyday (Joe), father Richard Geddes (Diane), Grandfathers Sam Geddes and Leslie McNab, sisters Tracy (Carl) and Michelle (Joe), step-brothers Cyrus (Rita), Joey (Melita), Justin, Jordan and Davis. Step-sisters Delaney, Kerri (Dennis) Danielle, In-law Don and Shirley Cleveland, brother-in-law Adam, sister in-law Lynelle as well as numerous aunties, uncles, nieces, nephews and friends. Special cousin TerryLynn McNab. PRAYER SERVICES will be held at Lee's Funeral Home, 3101 Dewdney Ave, Regina SK on Wednesday, February 15, 2006 at 7:00 PM. A WAKE will be held on Thursday, February 16, 2006 at 4:00 PM at the Gordon School Gym, Gordon First Nation, SK. A FUNERAL SERVICE will be held at the Gordon School Gym, Gordon First Nation, SK on Friday, February 17, 2006 at 2:00 PM. Arrangements are in the care of LEE FUNERAL HOME 757-8645. Fredrick Anthony Peigan PEIGAN - On Sunday, February 12, 2006, Fredrick Anthony Peigan, Pasqua First Nation, SK., died at the age of 65 years. The funeral service will be held in the Chief Ben Pasqua Memorial Hall, Pasqua First Nation, on Wednesday, February 15, 2006, at 11:00 a.m. Officiants: Rev. W. Wojtkowiak with Sr. Bernadette Feist, Rev. Ron Hooper and Rev. Bob Anaquad. Interment in the Asham Beach Cemetery. A wake will be held in the Chief Ben Pasqua Memorial Hall on Tuesday evening. Predeceased by his parents: Alfred and Mary (nee McGillis) Peigan, a brother Lawrence Peigan and sister Lena Peigan. Fred is survived by his son Ryan Harvey, his daughter Candace Harvey, brothers: Tony (Delvina), Mike, Donald and Robert (Marlene) Peigan, all of the Pasqua First Nation, sister Theresa Poness (Laurie), Regina. Fred is also survived by numerous nephews, nieces and relatives as well as a special friend Olive Ironeagle. Arrangements entrusted to Tubman Cremation and Funeral Services 1-800-667-8962. Judy Wesaquate-Allary WESAQUATE - ALLARY, JUDY_On Sunday, February 12, 2006, Judy Fay Wesaquate-Allary of Regina, SK passed away at the Pasqua Hospital at the age of 39 years. She leaves to mourn her children, Charlie, Shawn, Kevin, Bradley, and Brittany. One granddaughter Danika and numerous other relatives and friends. Service will be held at Lee's Funeral, Wednesday, Feb. 15 at 1pm with the wake to follow at the Piapot Band Hall at 5pm. A traditional burial at Wesaquate Family Burial Grounds will be held on Thursday, February 16, 2006 at 1pm with feast to follow. "Everytime I close my eyes I thank the Lord that I've got you, and you've got me too. And everytime I think of it I pinch myself cuz I don't believe it's true that someone like you loves me too." Copyright c. 2000-2006 Regina Leader Post Group Inc. -=-=-=- February 16, 2006 William (Billy) Eagle Bear On Friday, February 10, 2006, BILLY (INUWASI) peacefully passed away at the Tom Baker Cancer Centre with his children and family by his side. Predeceased by his loving wife Margaret, he is survived by his children Anthony, Cecilia (Norbert) Black Water, Theresa (Ron) Healy, Florine (Charles) White Man Left, Veronica (Gary), Patrick (Edna), Joseph Stanley (Rhonda), Natalie (Gordon), Frankie (Wilbur) Yellow Old Woman, and Joyce (Gary) Bird; 41 grandchildren, 41 great grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren; long time companion Annie Crying Head; his sister Margaret (Andrew) Weasel Fat; his sisters in-law Angeline, Madeline, and Hazel Eagle Bear; spiritual brother Duane Crow Chief and spiritual sister Theresa Mistaken Chief. Also, Billy is loved and missed by his nieces and nephews; adopted children Barbara Scout, Arnold, Sharon, Travis, Alana Crying Head; adopted grandchildren; and adopted great grandchildren. Born on July 19, 1933 to Jack and Agnes Eagle Bear, Billy is from the Pottstakiiksi Clan. His paternal grandfather is Left Hand or Eagle Bear (Piitaohkiaayo) and paternal grandmother is Different Cutter Woman (Nohkiitsisoyaakii). His maternal grandfather is Anderton and maternal grandmother is Not a Real Snake Woman. He resided on the Blood Reserve until his passing. Accomplishments include being a member of the Magpie Society and Horn Society on two occasions. He is predeceased his parents Jack and Agnes; his brothers Louis Knife Sr., Mike, Stanley, and Eddie Eagle Bear; and his sisters Eva Sweet Grass, and Louise (Susie) Bull Shields. A Family Service will be held at Eden's Funeral Home on Friday, February 17, 2006 at 4:00 p.m. Wake Service will be held on Friday, February 17, 2006 at 6:00 P.M. at the Old Saipoyi School, Standoff, Alberta. Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, February 18, 2006 at 11:00 a.m. at the St. Mary's Immaculate Conception Catholic Church with Reverend Pawel Andrasz, O.M.I. officiating Interment at the St. Catherine's Cemetery. February 18, 2006 Gilbert Big Sorrel Horse GILBERT ROYCE BIG SORREL HORSE passed away in Edmonton, Alberta on Thursday, February 16, 2006 at the age of 13 years. Funeral arrangements will be announced when completed. Jane Crow Eagle 1927 - 2006 JANE CROW EAGLE beloved wife of James Two Gun Knife passed away peacefully with her loving family by her side at Lethbridge Regional Hospital on Wednesday, February 15, 2006 at the age of 78 years. She is survived by her husband of 36 years James and her children; Elizabeth(Adrian), Linda(Walter), Myron(Annette), Judy(Arnold), John (Elizabeth), Karen(Gary), her two children she raised Keely(Rowdy),Baby Myron, 27 grandchildren, 45 great grand children, 1 great great grandchild, and numerous nieces and nephews. Jane is predeceased by her brother William Red Young Man; her sister Georgina Red Young Man; her parents Annie Double Singer and step father Hebert White Owl; sister in law Louise Red Young Man; daughters: Joyce and Ralna; sons: Johnny, Ronnie, Bobby, and Stan and grandsons Brian and Ryan Tyson. Jane was born on November 10, 1927 in Brocket, Alberta. Jane attended St. Cyprian Residential School in 1936 until she was 18, there she met and married the late Pete Crow Eagle together they had 12 children. Later on she moved to the Blood Reserve were she met the love of her life James they spent the next 36 years of their lives together until her passing. Jane was a kind and caring person who always welcomed anyone into her home. She loved to visit with her friends and family, tell stories, playing hand games, and listening to gospel and pow-wow music was also what she enjoyed. Jane will be sadly missed by her family and friends. Family Service will be held at Eden's Funeral Home on Sunday, February 19, 2006 at 5:00 p.m. Wake Service will be held at Jane's home in Standoff on Sunday, February 19 at 7:00 pm continuing on Monday, February 20, 2006. Funeral Service will be held at St. Paul's Church , Cardston on Tuesday, February 21, 2006 at 1:00pm.with Canon Allan McCuaig officiating. Interment to follow at St Paul's Cemetery. Lila Prairie Chicken (Crane Bear) LILA PRAIRIE CHICKEN (CRANE BEAR) was called home by our Creator on Monday, February 13, 2006 at the age of 70 years. Lila was born on November 12, 1935 in Gleichen where she was raised as a child and received her education at Old Sun School. She was employed at Harry's Cafe after she left school and relocated to the Blood Reserve where she married her late husband, Frank Prairie Chicken. Lila employed her motherly instincts such as sewing, house keeping, and raising her children and grandchildren. She was known for her laughter which was very contagious. You couldn't help but laugh with her. She leaves behind to mourn: her mother Madeline Mayfield; her sister Cora Dell Crane Bear; her brother Fred Mayfield; her children - Cliff, Nora (Mark) Dubois, Ricky, Leroy (Evelyn), Broderick (Mavis); three granddaughters she raised - Marveen, Melissa, Dallas;adopted daughter Clara Zugo; 23 grandchildren and 39 great grandchildren; relatives Alice Big Snake, Florence Back Fat, and Tom Crane Bear and their families from Siksika Nation; sisters-in-law Lucy and Cecile Prairie Chicken and their families from the Blood Reserve. She was predeceased by her father Tony Crane Bear; husband Frank Prairie Chicken, daughter Effie, granddaughter Stephanie, grandson Frankie, great grandson Levi and great granddaughter Gina. The family apologizes to family members whose names were missed above. The Wake service will be held on Sunday, February 19th, 2006 at St. Paul's Anglican Church from 7:00 - 11:00 P.M. The Funeral Service will be held at St. Paul's Anglican Church on Monday, February 20th, 2006 at 11:00 a.m. with Canon Allan McCuaig officiating. Interment in St. Paul's Cemetery, Blood Reserve. Copyright c. 2006 Alberta Newspaper Group, Inc./Lethbridge Herald.