14 10 189 https://www.dawnlandvoices.org/collections/files/original/6abaa23956acb2d3aacee2a8703c3d49.pdf d5947aa2298871902ea40fae4631ea79 PDF Text Text A llia n ce Published with the support of the Penobscot Nation and Diocesan Human Relations Services, Inc. August 1982 In te r tr ib a l ta lk s on range of issues INDIAN ISLAND — A total of 97 northeastern tribes, plus the Seminoles in Florida, have been invited to attend Wabanaki Conference D, which was underway as this newspaper went to press. James Sappier, Penobscot Nation director d real estate/demography, said he expcted som e 55-60 percent of those invited to atend. A similar con­ ference took place five years ago, at the Penobscot reservation, and was said to be the first such regional m eet­ ing in many decades. In early times, northeastern Indians were united in what was called the Wabanaki Con­ federacy — from whence this paper derives its name. Sappier said the intertribal m eet­ ings will focus on a range of issues, including economic development, constitutional rights, health educa­ tion, alcoholism, U.S./Canada border issues, federal recognition of tribes, law, politics, Canada/U.S. reciprocity of benefits, federal budget cuts to Indians, land claims, and hunting, fishing and trapping. The conference sprang from dis­ cussion by the Indian Task Force of the Federal Regional Council of New England, in Boston. Sappier, chairman o f the taskforce, said he hopes resolu­ tions drafted at the three-day session will “ impact national, regional and local affairs,”and that they will receive international attention when they are forwarded to the United Nations and an assembly o f third world nations. The Penobscot Nation has agreed to host the event, and tribal members have been invited to dinner, at a second setting, July 14-16. Organizing has been done by Sappier, with conference coordinator Erlene Paul of Indian Island. Mfldred Paul of Indian Island has lent considerable clerical assist­ ance. A $78 fee has been charged each tribe, and Sappier said with enough of a turnout, the conference will break even on expenses. Tribes asked to participate are located from Quebec, Labrador and Prince Edward Island, to southern New England. Woman named police chief PLEASANT POINT — Pamela Bassett, a recent graduate of the Maine Criminal Justice Academy at Waterville and a Passamaquoddy, has been appointed chief of police for the reservation. Bassett said she looks forward to her new duties at Pleasant Point, where she had worked as a police officer. She said she hopes to offer consistent and reliable leadership. She announced that Karl Richter, who had been acting chief after Bruce Francis resigned the top job, has been named a sergeant with the tribal police force, and Clifford Devoe has been promoted from patrolman to lieutenant. Bassett has attended Scottsdale Com ­ munity College, Arizona and Endicott 'Quoddys slate 17th Indian day PLEASANT POINT — The 17th annual Indian ceremonial day has been sched­ uled here, for Sunday, Aug. 8, on the reservation. Joseph A. Nicholas, a Passamaquoddy tribal member who originally helped re­ vive and lead the traditional pageant, is again organizing the event. “ e’ W re doing it tomake our children more aware of their heritage,”he said. Nicholas is currently director o f a Passamaquoddy bilingual project, and is former director o f Project Indian Pride. He has led numerous groups of Passa­ maquoddy children on dance tours to schools around the state. The Passamaquoddy Indian Day is open to the public without charge, and Indians from other tribes and locations are w el­ come to participate, Nicholas said. College, Massachusetts. She joined the Pleasant Point police force last October. Indian sculptor Tim Nicola, 27, a Penobscot who has com pleted the first of two years at Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe, N.M., displays his recent alabaster sculpture, “ The Penobscot Man.” Beside him is an earlier work, carved in cedar, called “ o Feathers.” Tw Majoring in three-dimensional studies, Nicola wants to do original work that reflects his heritage. He is currently doing an abstract symbolic work in mahogany, marble and pipestone inlay. Nicola said the Institute “ a great school.”He will have a joint show is this fall, in Santa Fe, with Navajo friend and fellow artist, Mary Yazzie. He is the son of Natalie Burns and Fred Nicola, Sr., both of Indian Island. His brother, Fred, Jr., 29, is an Oklahoma carpenter who plays traditional drum with Sioux Indians. $350,000 Mitchell suit on docket BANGOR — A $350,000 lawsuit by a Penobscot man claiming he was illegally fired from an Indian alcoholism agency may be scheduled for trial this month. The lawyer for former Wabanaki Cor­ poration director George Mitchell of Indian Island, E ugene Coughlin of Bangor, said the civil suit, filed several years ago, may be on the docket this month or next — it’up to the judge, he said. s Meanwhile, Wabanaki Corp., which moved its offices from Orono to Bangor several months ago, will quietly go out of business, with services supposedly picked up by Indian reservations. Current direc­ tor is Steve Francis, a Micmac, who was hired after Mitchell was fired. In its civil counterclaim, Wabanaki Corp., Inc. has accused Mitchell, who was its executive director from April 1977 to February 1979, of misusing and con­ verting corporate funds. Wabanaki’ legal counsel, Robert E. s Mattel of Portland, is asking Justice Robert Browne to dismiss Mitchell’ s complaint, which was filed in April 1980, and also to order Mitchell to account for ail money and property he allegedly con­ verted and misspent. In November 1981 Mittel had asked the court to dismiss the complaint against Wabanaki on the ground that all 10 defendants could be immune from lia­ bility, as Wabanaki could be considered a charitable organization. But Justice R ob­ ert Clifford denied that motion, because the corporation receives all its funding from governmental sources. Mitchell’ lawyer, Coughlin, asked Jus­ s tice Browne to dismiss Wabanaki’ coun­ s terclaim. Both parties generally agree that Mitchell was hired as executive director of the Maine Indian Alcoholims Program, administered by the Wabanaki Corp., Inc., Orono, from April 1977 to August 1S78, when he resigned for approximately 12 weeks to run for Penobscot tribal gov­ ernor. He lost the election to Wilfred Pehrson in September, and was reinstated as ex­ ecutive director on Nov. 1, 1978, until he received a letter on Feb. 23, 1979. The letter which terminated his employment that day accused Mitchell with “ excessive involvement in tribal politics”and “ inef­ ficient handling of staff employees.” Mitchell challenged the charges, and a hearing was held March 21, 1979 in which the Wabanaki board of directors voted that the charges w ere not strong enough to support the termination requested by the chairman of the board. In its answer to Mitchell’ court com­ s plaint, Wabanaki denies that the board then voted that the hearing was illegal, because it felt there was no evidence of political activity. Wabanaki also denies there was a second hearing on March 29 in which Mitchell’ termination was upheld, s and from which Mitchell and his attorney at the time, Andrew Mead, were barred. Wabanaki has informed the court that from Nov. 29, 1978 to Jan. 15, 1979 Mitchell was a m em ber of the Council at Indian Island, elected by the Penobscot Tribe. Wabanaki Corp.’ by-laws prohibit s a person from being both an officer of the corporation and a council member, it states. Therefore, Mitchell may not be entitled to receive compensation as execu­ tive director during that time. Wabanaki also claims Mitchell was not entitled to a hearing under the circumstances. Mitchell is suing Wabanaki and board of directors m em bers Albert Dana, Francis Sapiel, Richard Hamilton, Ralph Dana, Terry Polchies, Ramona Stackhouse, and AJlen Sockabasin individually and collec­ tively for $100,000 in each of two counts plus $150,000 in com pensatory and puni­ tive damages in a third count, for his loss of income, profits, mental anguish, and humiliation. Mitchell seeks back pay since Feb. 23, 1979, reinstatement, court costs and attorney’fees. s By mutual agreement, opposing attor­ neys have dropped board mem bers Russel Socoby and Melvin "Tom ”Vicaire as de­ fendants originally named. For one year, ending in March 1976, Mitchell served as commissioner of Indian Affairs in the late Gov. James Longley’ s cabinet. Prior to that he was Longley’ s bodyguard, having served 10 years in the Maine State Police. �Page 2 Wabanaki Alliance August 1982 editorials Questionable The Penobscot Indian Nation recently invited a group of its leaders — but not the press — to a western Maine ski resort for a convention. Apparently, this was a follow-up to last year’ convention in s Rockport. Both undertakings cost the tribe many thousands of dollars, but we wonder about the benefit to rank and file tribal members. You. the readers of this paper, what did you get out of the weekend junket? It’OK for tribal officials to enjoy some R & R, have a few s drinks and appreciate their good works. But couldn’this be done t ve closer to home? For that matter, we’ seen some fine functions put on right on Indian Island, in the Community Building or in the attractive meeting room of the health center. An esprit-de-corps is valuable to Indian leadership, but these junkets may be an expensive means to achieve it. Fettered press Even the oldest Indian newspaper in the country can’ be free. t The Navajo Times has a good reputation; at least until recently, anyway. Now the Times appears to be the lackey of the oil sheik of Indian country, Navajo Tribal Chairman Peter MacDonald. MacDonald has formed his own Indian OPEC, called CERT, and seems bent on taking oil and mineral rights out from under his people. Apparently, Mother Earth is not so sacred when the fruits of exploitation appear sweet enough. You don’ step on MacDonald’ mocassins, the Navajo Times t s editor has learned. MacDonald aides wanted Editor Duane Beyal to print an inflated attendance figure for a political rally, to wit: 4,000 people rather than the estimated 1,500 persons. In other words, MacDonald’ men wanted the editor to tell a lie. When Beyal s refused, he lost his job. Beyal was suspended and demoted for trying to stick to the facts. In defending the pressure applied to Beyal, MacDonald suid a hostile and irresponsible press was damaging. We believe Wabanaki Alliance to be a free press; not hostile, not irresponsible, but free to stick to the facts. We have differing opinions, room to disagree. We criticize, and we in turn are criticized. But nobody’been fired or demoted around here, and we s will continue to speak out. Put that in your pipe and smoke it, MacDonald. u Memo to MacDonald “ Indian tribe in exercising the powers of self-government shall No make or enforce any law prohibiting the tree exercise of the press. — The Indian Civil Rights Act of 1968. Wabanaki Alliance Vol. 6, No. 8 SOAKING UP SOM E SUN is Indian Island resident, Jimmy Stevens, who well remembers the days before the bridge to Old Town was erected in 1950. Indians ask Japan for loans WASHINGTON — Japanese indus­ trialists have been approached by Ameri­ can Indians for up to $100 million in lowinterest loans, according to a recent report. Spokesman for National Tribal Chair­ men’ Association (NTCA) said the move s is an attempt to avoid being taken advantage of, by American corporate in­ terests. The U.S.-Asia Institute has said it will take the Indian proposals to Japan for further discussion. E. M. Savilla, NTCA executive director, said it was “ ironic” that native Americans had to turn to outside sources for help. “ Over the past years, tribes in the United States have become cynical and wary of federal efforts toward reservation development, especially since resources such as coal and oil w ere ripped off by shrewd corporate types,” Savilla said. He said many Indians have been “ cheated” by energy producers leasing their land to develop coal or oil, adding “ the record is clear, but I won’ name t these companies because we don’ want t any lawsuits." Savilla said American Indians own more than 100 million acres of land from Maine to California and from Florida to Alaska. He said about 13 percent of the nation’ s coal reserves are owned by Indian tribes along with substantial oil and gas re­ sources. Federal authorities have “ neglected” the Indians, Savilla said, and he blamed high unemployment on reservations on government policies. He said the average jobless rate is about 45 percent, with the figure approaching 95 percent on more depressed tribal reservations. “ American Indian tribes historically have not had a real chance to develop co m m e rcia lly S a v illa said. August 1982 Published monthly by Wabanaki Alliance, through a sustaining grant from the Penobscot Nation, under contract with Diocesan Human Relations Services, Inc. Offices at 95 Main Street, Orono, Maine 04473. Telephone [207] 866-4903. Typeset by the Penobscot Times Company. Printed by the Ellsworth American. Member — Maine Press Association Steven Cartwright, Editor Reporters Diane Newell Wilson Brenda Polchies Board of Directors Jean Chavaree, Penobscot Nation, [chairman] Donna Loring, Penobscot Nation Jeannette LaPlante, Central Maine Indian Assoc. Phone 827-6219 Phone 532-9442 Indian Island Old Town Old Town A non-profit corporation. Contributions are deductible for income tax purposes. Rates: S10 per year [12 issues]; S15 Canada and overseas; $15 for institutions [schools, government, business, etc.] WHAT WAS TH E OCCASION? In this historical photo taken at former Maine Gov. John Reed’ office, Penobscots present are from left, Arthur Neptune, Sr., tribal Gov. s Albert J. Nicola, state Governor Reed with peace pipe, Brace Poolaw [a W estern Indain who lived on Indian Island], and tribal Lt. Gov. John Nelson. [Photo courtesy of Penbobscot National Historical Society] �letters Looking forward Warwickshire, England To the editor: I believe I mentioned when I subscribed that I am pursuing a course in American Studies at Warwick University. I have been lucky enough to becom e involved in the organization of a conference on Native Peoples of the Americas which my de­ partment is holding this spring. For financial and other reasons, we were unable to bring anyone over from America, but we will be having some Indian speakers from Europe. I thought you and possibly your readers might be interested in our information package, which I enclose herewith. I am very much looking forward to receiving my first copy of Wabanaki Alliance. Jeremy Isaac Township man dies in crash INDIAN TOW NSHIP - Horace M ead er, 52, died last month as a result of injuries suffered in a one-car mishap on Rote 1, which crosses the Passamaquoddy reservation. Header was a passenger in the vehicle that struck a tree and culvent, and who was driving was not known, police said. However, the identities of the others in the car were listed as Joyce Tomah, 20, Gordon Newell, 24, and Dina Levesque, 17, all of Indian Township. Levesque was reported in fair condition with head injuries. All of them w ere admitted to Calais Regional Hospital. The care was a total loss, and high speed and alcohol w ere involved in the accident, authorities said. Meader was born in Pleasant Point, Sept. 6, 1930, the son of Walter and Eva (Nicholas) Meader Sr. He is survived by five brothers, Stephen, Joseph, Bernard and Donald, all of Princeton, and Fred­ erick of Bethel; two sisters, Laura Loring and Mary Mitchell, both of Indian Island, Old Town. A Mass of Christian burial was cele­ brated at St. Ann’Catholic Church, Peter s Dana Point, with the Rev. Norman Carpentier celebrant. Interment was in the tribal cemetery, Peter Dana Point. Public broadcasting eyes Indian network WASHINGTON - The Native A m erl can Public Broadcasting Consortium has contracted with the Public Service Satel­ lite Consortium to assist with the planning and design of an American Indian/Alaska Native Satellite Communications Net­ work. PSSC will study the communications needs of American Indian tribes and Alaskan Native people. Setting it straight Piscataway, N.J. To the editor: I read your article, “ S. Attean Dies,” J. in the Wabanaki Alliance of June 1982. One correction should be made, Joseph Attean died at age 85, on March 2, 1982 not as printed “ April.” in And, here are som e additions: Joseph Stan Attean is the Chief of the Penobscot Nation of Maine. He left a wife, Anna Attean and four grandchildren in Piscata­ way, New Jersey. He also left a half sister Ruth Davis in Old Town, Maine. Other than these corrections and addi­ tions the article is accurate. Anna Attean Appreciation Orono To the editor: This is a letter of thanks to the Indian people of Maine. The Penobscot Tribal Council recently approved a contribution to the film project on Maine Indians, “ e Are Still Here!” W In addition. G o v ern or N icholas o f the Pleasant Point Passamaquoddies has indi­ cated that his council will match the Penobscot contribution. This support will be complemented by the Maine Humanities Council. It allows us to finish this film on Maine Indian identity and pride. But tribal support is also a great boost, for me personally. It means that not only is the project guaranteed a successful completion, but also that the film, a fouryear effort, is appreciated by the Indian community. Tm very grateful. Jay Kent TGI Film Project Director Crow tribe goes bankrupt WASHINGTON - U.S. Interior Department official Ken Smith recently an­ nounced a major step toward solving administrative problem s of the bankrupt Crow Indian Tribe of Montana. Current long-term debts are $6 million. According to a report issued by the Interior Department’ inspector general, s problems had brought the tribe to a state of “ technical insolvency.” “ believe the agreement being signed I today will go a long way in restoring a strong, stable tribal government to the Crow Reservation from which effective administration of tribal business affairs will emanate,” Smith said. Following the inauguration of the tribe’ newly elected officers, Smith’ s s deputy, Roy Sampsel, and the tribe signed an agreement to provide a person to serve on an intergovernmental assignment to the tribe as its manager for fiscal, personnel and property management sys­ tems. Lorette Ray and her horse, Stormy. Woman seeks to learn her heritage To the editor: Enclosed is $5 for a year’ sub­ s scription. Thank you for letting me know of an Indian paper in Maine. I also subscribe to the Hardin Herald in Montana; I was there last year. I am Passamaquoddy and Micmac, and I want to learn m ore about my own tribes here in Maine: the art, language and culture. I do paint, and have five works, The Indian Universe, Indian Moonlight and th e H u nter C rired, Buffalo, and Mother's Love. I also make Indian bone and brass chokers, and tile beed chokers. I am making an Indian saddle used by the Plains Indians, and I’ also learning m bead work. I am interested in horses and have owned ten. I do shows, and have won many ribbons with my quarter pony, Ace’Candy Doll (Gypsy Lee). I would s like to hold rodeos and horse shows in the future. Lorette Ray — SCENIC PENOBSCOT RIVER TOURS — By Reservation Only Richard H. Hamilton, Tour Guide Old Town, Maine — Telephone 207-827-7224 Tours Depart Old Town Public Boat Ramp N. Fourth St. Ext 9:00 A .M . 11:00A.M . 1:00 P.M . U.S. Coast Guard Approved Equipment Free Parking CRUISE AMONG WILDERNESS ISLANDS ON PENOBSCOT RIVER, NORTH OF OLD TOWN, M AINE TEACHER VACANCIES 1/2-time Kindergarten Teacher Full-time Migrant Teacher T w years experience required and must have State of Maine Elementary Certification. Send resume to: Principal, Beatrice Rafferty School, Pleasant Point, Perry, m f nafifi7 BLACK POWDER & SUPPLIES Hours — Mon., Tues., Wed., Thurs., Sat., Sun. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday 8 a.m.-8 p.m. 207-827-7032 *_*_*_ i l T V Bennoch Road HU Tnnm M-.V- �The way we were' Boston §3>unbap <§lobe Indian PICTORIAL P o w -W o w D ance SEPTEMBER 25, 1949 Indian life as if was ■ for the Penobscot tribe in the old days is presented in this gorgeous page** held recently on the ifh letic field in Old Town, Me. The Indians, who live on the reservation at Old Town, put it on this-year for the very modern pur­ pose c f raising funds for a community recreation center in the reservation. There are about 600 members of the tribe or the reservation.. Although under the wardship of the Maine Welfare De­ partment they receive no direct support and make their living by trade work — such as making modern canoes for palefaces, and Indian souvenirs. 5 s ■ 8 I I 8 8 -1 MARRIAGE DANCE of the. Penobscots. An American flag waves above the fantastically-dressed Indians. T he m u sic ?S d isso n a n t t o o u r C S r i S o m e o f t h e m a n o u w K r«»mWo Y a b I p o u-uiare fi^ncinfl MIC MAC — Both the Pencbscot and the Passaguoddy tribes belonged to the Mic Mac nations. Here's a Mic Mac dance CENTENARIAN Sabbatus Toma watches while Arthur Neptune, Gabriel Pc'chles and Margaret Ranco give a children's dance. Beside' Toms., who knows how to give moose calls, are the musicians. CHIEF NEEDAHBEH, known to Boston Sports­ man's Show fans, acts as narrator for the pageant and teUj stories from Indian folk lore- OFF T O TOWN goes a party cf Indians from the O ld Town Reservation. Over yonder is Old Town, itself. The reservation is on an island, and fra nspcriaiion is by Indian pirogues. stuao* * Richard Merrill 5 I 8 J �Wabanaki Alliance August 1982 Vehicle, dog cases dominate court action INDIAN ISLAND — The following cases were heard at Penobscot Tribal Court, the Honorable Andrew M. Mead presiding, during the period of March 22, through June 21. Theresa Eugenia Thompson, Thomp­ son, Permitting a D og to Roam at Large, February 23. Pleaded Nolo, Found Guilty. Sentence: $60 fine (3rd offense). Calvin Tomer, Failure to Comply With Reservation on Permit on March 15. Pleaded Guilty, Found Guilty. Sentence: $20 fine and right to operate on the reser­ vation suspended for 15 days. John Love, Jr.. Criminal Trespass on April 5. Pleaded Not Guilty. Upon Nation’Motion, case dismissed. s Richard Love, Criminal Trespass on April 5. Pleaded Not Guilty. Upon Nation's Motion, case dismissed. Eunice N. Baumann-Nelson, Passing a Stop Sign, March 24. Pleaded Guilty. Sentence: $15. Robert C. Chase, Speeding 34-/20, Radar, March 28. Pleaded Guilty. Sen­ tence: $20. Barbara J. Francis, two counts of Permitting a D og to Roam at Large, April 1 Pleaded Not Guilty. Found Guilty. . Sentence: $15. Sentence: $15. Defendant unable to pay fine, requested work detail in lieu of fine. Request granted, to work for the Penob­ scot Nation not to exceed 40 hours. Walter Meader, Operating Under the Influence of Alcohol, May 11. Pleaded Guilty. Sentence: $250. Donald Francis, Operating after Sus­ pension on April 29. Pleaded Guilty. Sentence: $75. Charles H. Stewart, Speeding 32/20 on May 9. Pleaded Guilty. Sentence: $25. Michael R. Paul, Speeding 35/20 on May 9. Pleaded Nolo. Sentence: $25. Terence J. Lolar, Permitting a D og to Roam at Large, May 11. Pleaded Guilty. Sentence: $60. (3rd offense). Carol Drinkwater, K eeper of Barking Dog, May 31. Pleaded Not Guilty. Con­ tinued for trial. Brenda Fields, Permitting a D og to Roam at Large, May 24. Pleaded Guilty. By agreement of the Nation, sentence $25. Eugene Loring, Jr., Criminal Trespass, June 10. Upon Motion of Nation, case dismissed. Barbara Jean Francis, Theft, May/ June. Pleaded Not Guilty; continued for trial. Hearings In Re: Francis Sapiel Glossian a/k/a Francis Charles Sapiel, Petion for a name change. Petition granted, name ordered changed to Bobcat Glossian. In Re: Edwina Olive Sapiel, Petition for a name change. Petition granted, name ordered changed to Edwin Olive Neptune. . In Re: Mitchell William King, Petition for a name change. Petition granted, named ordered changed to Mitchell Wil­ liam Townsend. Penobscot Tribal Reservation Housing Authority vs. Alice Fowler; Forcible Entry and Detainer Action. Defendant’ s Motions to Dismiss. Motions taken under advisement by the Judge. Penobscot Tribal Reservation Housing Authority vs. James Sappier; Plaintiffs Motion to Dismiss Defendant’ Counter­ s claim heard. Motion denied. Elsie Lolar vs. John Davis, Small Claims Action; Plaintiff's Motion to re­ hear Disclosure Action; Defendant or­ dered to pay plaintiff $10 on a bi-weekly basis until bill is paid in full. In Re: Ronald James Baer, Petion for name change. Petition granted, named ordered changed to Ronald James Bear. During this period of time, seven juvenile matters w ere handled. book nook Useful referen ce on Indian literature By Robert Conkling Special to the Alliance ORONO — Dr. Eunice Baumann-Nelson of Indian Island is the author o f a new book called, “ The Wabanaki: An An­ notated Bibliography.” contains descrip­ It tions of nearly three hundred books and articles that have been written during the last four hundred years on every aspect of Indian culture and society. If used as intended, this book will change what is available to us in the state’ libraries, what is taught in the s schools, and what we now think of as Indian history. The author, a Penobscot, has a Ph.D in sociology and anthropology from New York University; she has taught at several universities in this country, as well as abroad, and has been head librarian at the Museum of the American Indian in New York City. She is currently director of the Penobscot Division of Health and Human Services on the reser­ vation. Whether one ju dges by these qualifications, or by the uniformly excel­ lent quality of the book under review, it is hard to imagine someone who would have been better qualified than Baumann-Nel­ son to do such a book. The Wabanaki is intended, in the author’ words, to be used as “ guide to s a the literature on Maine Indians which cu rriculu m d e v elo p e rs, tea c h ers and librarians would find useful, and which would also be helpful to students or to the general lay public interested in learning about the aboriginal people of Maine.” This book is not aimed at scholars; rather, it is aimed at people such as librarians and teachers who need access to sources on the history of Indians in Maine but, until now, have had no easy way to find them or to ju dge their usefulness. This book m eets a real need and is unique in several ways. It is the first listing of books and articles on Maine Indian history to be made available to the general public. It includes in one place both fiction and non-fiction. It is the only other times, and full time for emergencies, bibliography of its size — and this includes according to health official Patricia Knox. those in private circulation — to contain Sinclair helped train R itter in pediatrics such well-written and detailed annota­ at Eastern Maine Medical Center, al­ tions. It indicates the reading level though Ritter is the older of the two required for m ost items. doctors. They are close friends. Sinclair is For example, “ The Story of Maine for a Washington, D.C., native who said he Young Readers”(first published in 1962), was a “ street kid”in a ghetto, but was by Melvin C. Freeman and Estelle Perry, lucky and “ got a break.” He graduated a text widely used in schools in the state, from Harvard University. is cited by Baumann-Nelson for presenting the distorted stereotypes of Indians “ The Penobscot Indian health clinic has “ com e an amazingly long way in the quality which characterized books of a far earlier of care it offers, and the facility. It still has era. Not only is the book negatively biased,” Baumann-Nelson writes, “ it is but a ways to go,” commented Sinclair. also inaccurate. For example, ‘ they (In­ His voice revealing a lot of emotion, dians) had no tools for cutting down the Sinclair said, “ The Penobscot people are a large trees and clearing the woodlands’ . most loving people to work with.” The Indian cut large trees with stone axes and doctor said he will never forget the fire, cutting and firing alternately until experience, which he described as the best one o f his life. MAIL TO WABANAKI ALLIANCE, 95 Doctor bids farewell to Island clinic INDIAN ISLAND — After a three-year association with the tribal health clinic, Dr. Wayne Sinclair, 35, departed recently for a fellowship slot with the National Jewish Hospital/University of Colorado Medical Center, in Denver. Sinclair, who is married and has two young sons, cited “ personal reasons”for his leaving, after last fall moving from visiting physician to the full time staff of the federally funded health center. “ m I’ filled with deep sadness,” said Sinclair, as he was honored by a potluck dinner and going-away party at the clinic. Mildred Akins organized Indian dancing for the affair, and Dr. Stuart Corso, tribal dentist, performed an English jig. Dr. Christopher R itter of Old Town will fill in, part time, in Sinclair’ absence. He s will be available at the clinic Mondays and Fridays, 8 a.m. to noon, and will be on call B e a tin g v ic tim sues f o r $ 1 . 5 m illio n BANGOR — A suit filed in U.S. District Court here asks $1 million in damages, plus “ freezing" of $500,000 in Indian assets two years after the Indian Township beating of Allen A. Dorn, Sr., form er nonIndian husband of Sonja Dorn Dana, a Passamaquoddy. Dorn, now living in Kiel, Wisconsin, suffered severe injuries, July 4, 1980, when he was beaten with a baseball bat by two Passamaquoddys, Jason and Renard Levesque of Indian Township. The 5 a.m. incident occurred on the reservation, after Dorn allegedly had ousted the Levesques from a house, while responding to a domestic complaint. Dorn was apparently a special tribal police officer. Dorn was hospitalized in Bangor after the beating. Paul F. Zendzian of Bangor is D orn’ s lawyer on the case. Zendzian also repre­ sents the Penobscot Indian housing auth­ ority. The suit claimed Dorn suffered permanent injury and disfigurement. Page 5 the tree fell. Another method was girdling, which they taught the early Europeans.” The existence of bias, or ehtnocentrism, is not always grounds for dismissal, how­ ever; in her Introduction, Baumann-Nel­ son writes: “ There are works here anno­ tated which, from today’perspective, are s strongly biased, buth which contain rele­ vant and factual material. After the mid1950’ because of the widespread accept­ s, ance of the concept, there is little excuse for ethnocentrism, and strongly biased works are judged unsuitable, thus re­ vealing, if you will, this writer’own ‘ s bias.’ Some widely available or used items have been included for the specific purpose of warning against them, especially if they are books for young readers.” “ Wabanaki” The includes annotations of a few general works that contain sections on the Indians in this area, and it also includes some of the major works on the Indians in the Maritime Provinces of Canada. As all these tribes w ere similar in culture and social organization, the ma­ terial on the Canadian Indians sometimes fills important gaps in the historical record for the Indians in Maine. “ The Wabanaki” ranges widely in order to focus as sharply as possible on the history and way of life of Indians in Maine. It covers religion, politics, economics, ceremonial life, myths, legends, art, crafts, and games, and the works of eyewitness observers from as long ago as 1611, and of later historians and anthropologists, both Indian and non-Indian. The author had the encouragement and support of others; in particular fellow Indians who helped with annotations on books for young readers. The American Friends Service Committee (AFSC), a Quaker-sponsored group, provided finan­ cial assistance. The AFSC Maine Indian Program staff person, Mary Griffith of Freeport, and committee member Nancy St. John of Phippsburg (and others), set guidelines and lent organizational and editorial assistance. The book’handsome cover was design­ s ed by two Indians, Diane Enos, a Pima, and Deanna Francis of Pleasant Point, a Passamaquoddy. Enos is a friend of Francis, and spends part of the year at the Passamaquoddy reservation. The book is available from Orono Friends Meeting, Box 286, Orono, ME 04473. The cost is $6.50, plus 75 cents for handling. There is a 15 percent discount for libraries and schools. Checks should be made payable to American Friends Service Committee. EDITOR’ NOTE: Robert Conkling is S an anthropologist who is currently an alternative housebuilder and medical fam­ ily counselor. He and his wife live in the Augusta area. Conkling assisted in com ­ piling the book he reviewed. MAIN STREET, ORONO, MAINE 04473 WABANAKI ALLIANCE SUBSCRIPTION FORM (Make checks payable to Wabanaki Alliance) N a m e .............................................................. j ENCLOSE- □ □ $10 for one year (Individual—U.S.) $15 for one year (Canada) Street ............................................................. I 1$15 for one year I ___1(Institutional rate) _ City/Town and S t a t e ......... □ Zip Code Donation (Amount)! �Page 6 Wabanaki Alliance A ugust 1982 news notes Three from Houlton attend youth meet By Brenda Polchies H OULTON — Su zann e D e sid e rio, Brenda Hardy and John Joseph, Jr. of Houlton were invited to participate in a four day UNITY leadership conference held at the International Hotel in Wash­ ington, D.C. April 28th to May 1st. Sponsoring the eight annual Summit Con­ ference, the United National Indian Tribal Youth, Inc. has been in existence since 1976. Ranging in age from 16-25, Indian participants who possessed qualities of leadership and achievement were invited from five hundred tribes and villages from across the nation. Topics for in-depth discussion were education, health, economic development, careers, natural resources, and effective leadership. Desiderio, Hardy, and Joseph were official youth representatives of the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians. SEBAYICK TRADING POST — Matthew and Joyce Bailey have opened a new store at Pleasant Point, using part of an older shop that belonged to Billy Altvater. “ my life All I’ wanted a basket store,” said Matthew, a former reservation policeman and ve currently a security guard at a Calais department store. His wife is secretary at Beatrice Rafferty School. Besides baskets, the Baileys sell Indian jewelry, carving and beadwork, som e of which is made by Matthew. If a customer doesn't have cash, a swap of goods can be arranged, as the Baileys encourage this sort of trading. The couple hopes to add an “ arcade”with pool table and electronic gam es — a place for young Pass&maquoddys to go. Flashback Migrant p r o g ra m thriving INDIAN TOW NSHIP — The Maine Migrant Education Program at Indian Township School is com pleting its fourth school year. This program is aimed at working with children whose families have participated in some type of fishing, agricultural or forestry related harvesting, away from their home base. Many students currently involved in the program receive enrich­ ment activities which enable them to m ove at a m ore rapid pace than they otherwise would have been able to do within the classroom setting. Last fall, tw o Saturday swimming pro­ gram s w ere conducted at the YMCA in Bangor with many of the eligible program students participating. This was a con­ tinuation of the two sessions held in Spril, 1981. Since many of the children w ere already families with the basics of swimming, through the recreation pro­ gram, they w ere able to use the diving boards, which was a first time experience for many. In addition to school year funding, the Migrant Program this year also was able to give out free leisure reading books to children across the state. This helps education in two ways, the first being to familiarize students with extra reading materials and the second, to allow them to take books home to keep and therefore begin to build up on their own collection of books. A five week summer school is also being planned for the upcoming summer. Details have not been completely finalized at this point, but expected plans call for both high school and elementary pupils from grades 5-12. If anyone has children interested in attending or questions involving summer school, please call Allen Doherty at Indian Township School, 796-2362. Money for school explained to students CALAIS — Financial aid is a topic of much concern in these days of federal cut backs. It is important that students be aware of all phases of aid application and steps that can be taken to assure a complete financial aid package. H igh er ed u cation gra n ts funded through the Maine Indian Scholarship Committee for Penobscot and Passamaquoddy students are supplemental to the financial aid package at the attending university. Therefore, it is very important that students take advantage of all assistance available to them, scholarship official Jeanne Guisinger said. Once a student has received notice of aid from an aid officer, we examine it very carefully to make sure the budget reflects his needs, and that the student contri­ bution can be met with his resources. If he finds problem s in the package, it is important to remember that many items are negotiable, it is equally important that he work with the reservation counselor who is trained to act as advocate in dealing with financial aid people. Be sure that a budget reflects a student’real needs, as the committee will s be addressing this need when making award considerations. This action must be started as soon as a student receives his aid notification, to avoid delay in pro­ cessing the application for a higher education grant. The following counselors are available to help: Chris Altvater, Pleasant Point, 8534110; Rick Kelley, Indian Township, 7962362; Dick Hewes, Indian Island, 827-7696. For m ore information, contact Gui­ singer, coordinator for Maine Indian Scholarship Committee, at P.0. Box 412, Calais, Maine 046l£ (207-454-2127). - ISLAND BEAUTY - Eunice Lewey/Attean Crowley of Indian Island is pictured here, near the rapids on the Penobscot River, in a photo taken May 24, 1940. [Photo courtesy of Theresa Love Guimond of Bristol, Ct.] Training program Prize offered for child's poem LAMOINE — A prize of $20 will be presented to the winner of a childrens poetry contest. The money has been contributed by Mrs. Joseph Wythe of Sandpoint, Idaho, and Mrs. Carlton Larrabee, care of Agnes Beckwith of Lamoine. The only rules are that each entrant should submit only one poem, and the entrant should be a high school age student or younger. Entries must be mailed to Wabanaki Alliance Poetry Contest, by August 31. The address is 95 Main St., Orono, Maine 04473. Indian council slates m eet OXFORD, Mass. — Nipmuck Indian C oun cil o f C hau bu nagu ngam au g has scheduled its second annual powwow here. Sept. 11-12. Obituary SEBASTIAN J. MOORE, SR. PLEASANT POINT - Sebastian J. Moore, Sr. died May 22,1982 at the Calais Regional Hospital. He was born in Pleasant Point, April 19, 1935, the son of Frederick and Mary (Neptune) Moore. A veteran of the Korean Conflict, he served in the United States Marine Corps. He was active in the Passamaquoddy Little League, serving as co-manager. He was a eucharistic minister and member of the St. Ann’ Catholic Church at Pleasant s Point. An outdoorsman, he worked for many years as a woodsman. In 1980 he graduated from W CVTI school of com­ mercial fishing. Survivors include his wife, Christina (Francis) Moore; tw o sons, Sebastian J. Jr. and Percy, all of Perry; four brothers, Andrew, Frederick, Raymond and James, all of Perry; one sister, Bertha Mitchell of Perry; several nieces and nephews. A Mass of Christian Burial was held at the St. Ann’Catholic Curch with the Rev. s Louis M. St. Onge officiating. Interment was in the tribal cemetery, Pleasant Point. INDIAN CRAFT SUPPLIES pays tuition, stipend UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — “ Educa­ tion for Indians by Indians” the focus of is the Native American Leadership Training Program at The Pennsylvania State Uni­ versity. The program is now accepting applicants for admission for the 1982 fall term. Now in its 12th year, the program pre­ pares Native Americans for leadership roles in schools, colleges and universities, tribal organizations and government. Established in 1970, the program is now funded through the Office of Indian Education in the U.S. Department of Education. Students in the program are granted tuition, a monthly stipend and additional support money for each dependent. Persons interested in learning m ore about the program should contact Dr. Grayson B. Noley, director, Native American Leadership Training Program, 403 Rackley Building, University Park, Pa., 16802. Noley’ telephone number if s 814-865-1489. e d g e 148 Page C a ta | 0g world * largast Indian Crafts Catalog. Mora than 4.000 Hams to choose from! tub Trade Beads, Tin Cones, Brass Beads, Moire Taffeta | Ribbon. Ermine Skins, Bone Elk Teeth, Shawl Fringe and Yam For free catalog, weDept.$REY OWL m r it 113-15 Springfield Blvd. ^ , ______ Queens Village, N.Y. 11429 Skitikuk » Outfitters Specialists in wilderness travel. Sales - Rentals - Guide Service H om e of Igas Island custom-made packs and equipment 38 Main St. O rono 866-4878 �Wabanaki Alliance A ugust 1982 A tale of Old West Indians .. ARTHUR “ JUNIOR” BARTLETT, left, stroUs with friend, Hodgie Meservey. Friend of the Island copes with blindness OLD TOWN — It started about a year ago. First there was pain, and trouble focusing. Then, intensely bright light, “ like a lightbulb when it’about to go.” s The pain in Arthur Bartlett’ eyes s became unbearable last spring. And then it was over. He lost his sight. Today, he knows if it’daylight outside, but that’the s s extent of his vision. Known to his friends as Junior, he is a 32year-old diabetic who also suffered from glaucoma. He said if it wasn't for friends, he wouldn’have made it. t After quitting school 17 years ago, Bartlett — with the onset of blindness — began studying with cassettes from the state department of education. He has maintained a B- average, he said proudly. A year ago. Junior Bartlett’eyes hurt so s much that he was rushed to the hospital. There was really nothing to do at that stage to save his sight. There was a critical period — he grew depressed, stayed home, smoked cigarettes continuously. He still smokes a lot, but his attitude has changed. “ s something to accept, it’ something It’ s you have to get used to,”he said. By June, strain as he might, his vision was gone. Now a resident of Penobscot River House, Bartlett has been volunteering as a dis­ patcher for Robert M eservey of Old Town, owner of North Main Street Cab Company. It’ a start for Bartlett. H e’ back in s s circulation, and he’ got his sense of humor s back. “ can fish from my window (over the I Penobscot River),” said. “ if a warden he But saw me I’ have to say I was drowning d worms, since I haven’got my license yet." t Bartlett is a registered Democrat, even though “ Dad was a staunch Republican.” But Junior picks his man. He worked for President Gerald Ford's campaign, for instance. Bartlett is best known around Old Town as a coach. He coached Little League baseball for 11 years, and would love to find a way to work with youngsters again, pref­ erably in sports. He’ also known as a fire­ s fighter. Junior Bartlett and Alan Stormann started the first Old Town junior fire de­ partment in 1965, while the two young men w ere in high school. Orono had a junior force at the time, and Bartlett liked the idea. Bartlett has been a call fireman for years, and Stormann is a regular Old Town fireman. Along with coaching and firefighting, Bartlett loves the Penobscot tribe at Indian Page 7 Island, and by all accounts, they love him. He has worked as assistant building manager at the tribe’ Community Build­ s ing; he has worked as senior citizens activities coordinator at the tribal health clinic, and he has worked for the Bingo Committee during the packed-house gam es held each Sunday on the island. “ Those people treat me better than any­ one,”Bartlett said of the Indians. Bartlett said he has to credit faith in God for much of his success so far. He believes faith will keep him going. His father belonged to the Indian Island Baptist Church. Last Novem­ ber 20, at the second annual Indian Island Firemen’ Ball, Bartlett was surprised to s find he was the guest of honor at the banquet (he belonged to the Island fire* department). Bartlett was presented with a “ talking" clock, that announces the time at the press of a button, in a computerized voice that Bartlett says is a “ Spanish lisp.” So he named the clock Pedro. CAN’ FIND A JOB? T Try the JOB CORPS Would you like to be t rained as a ... Bookkeeper Secretary/Stenographer Clerk Typist Nursing Assistant If you are ft to 21 and not in school, the Penobscot Job Corps Center has training programs which may be of interest to you. The Penobscot Job Corps Center provides all trainees with a place to live, meals, health care and a cash monthly stipend while you learn. And when you finish, we’ also help you ll find a job. SOUND GOOD? IT IS GOOD. ASK FOR JOB CORPS —in the Portland area—775-6313 —in the Auburn area—786-4190 —in the Bangor area—945-9431 —or toll free anywhere in Maine at 1 800-432-7307 ASK FOR JOB CORPS RECRUITMENT (Continued from page 8 ) The Indians were fully apprised of the scene that was to be enacted, and the result was a panorama such as is seldom witnessed. North and south of the agency are two long, gently sloping hills. On the northern hill were gathered all of the Cheyenne tribesmen, women and children — the women crouched on the ground, the men standing stolid but bright-eyed, waiting for the outcome of the tragedy. A quarter of a mile from the base of the northern hill and facing it obliquely w ere a hundred troopers waiting for the appear­ ance of the challengers and for the order to fire. The sun was just sinking over the Crazy mountains, thirty miles away, and the bright costumes cf the waiting Indians were set off in a picture such as was never before seen on the American continent, while the glint of the gun barrels in the hands of the troopers told that it was not altogether a holiday gathering. Suddenly on top of the northern hill appeared two gaily bedecked Indians, dressed in full war panoply, each riding a fiery horse and swinging his gun wildly around his head. For an instant they paused, then, bringing their rifles to bear, they dug the spurs into their horses and with a wild cry started down the hill. Half way down they began the death song and opened fire. The troopers stood immovable until the In­ dians reached the level, when the order rang out, “ Ready! Fire!”When the crack of rifles was heard one of the Indians rolled off his horse to the ground. Almost at the same instant the horse of the other Indian fell, but his rider was on his feet in an instant. He had scarcely uttered one defiant cry, however, when the order was again given to fire^ and he, too, dropped. Immediately there rose from the south­ ern hill the most discordant cries — the women of the tribe were mourning for their dead. The braves turned sullenly away and strode from the scene, filled with a desire to avenge the death of theij tribesmen, but fully aware of theninability to cope with the men in blue. The country they occupy is a beautiful one, abounding in great stretches of rolling tablelands, interspersed with miles of woodland and many swift-running streams. Years ago it was a game country, but now it is almost barren of wild animals and is fit only for stock. Along the streams are, many well-cultivated ranches, and some of the wealthiest men in Eastern Montana have their demesnes within touch of this last remnant of the ideal type of the uncivilized American Indian. Paper raises annual rates ORONO — Subscription rates to Wabanaki Alliance have been increas­ ed, and the new schedule is effective immediately. The new rates are $10 per year for individuals, and $15 annually for insti­ tutions, such as schools, libraries and businesses. Subscriptions outside the U.S. will also cost $15 per year. These increases are brought on by rising production costs at the news­ paper, and cutbacks in charitable fin­ ancial support. NOTICE OF DEADLINE FOR COPY, ADVERTISING Wabanaki Alliance announces that all advertising and editorial copy should be submitted to the newspaper offices by the 15th day of the month preceding the issue in which you wish your copy to appear. For example, June 15 is the deadline for the July issue of Wabanaki Alliance. Mail all copy to Wabanaki Alliance, 95 Main St., Orono, ME 04473. VETERANS ADMINISTRATION Owned Homes For Sale t = l Equal Housing OPPORTUNITY BEING TRANSFERRED? Contact the VA for information about properties available throughout the State. in Washington County These homes are available to veterans or non-veterans without preference. Rt. 1 Woodland , $40,000. Rt. 1,39 Dublin St., Machias $36,500. $500 DP. 18 Freemont St.. Machias $25,500. Main Street, Baring 26,800. 9 Academy Street, Calais 25,900. 8 Chapel Street, Calais 12,500. 1 Temperance Street, Calais 1 26,000. Summer Street, Calais 19,000. Route #1—Houlton Road. Woodland 27,500. 31 Chapel Street, Calais 19,000. FINANCED FOR 30 YEARS BY VA NO DOWN PAYMENTS REQUIRED SE E YOUR LOCAL REAL ESTA TE BROKER All VA financed A t p r e v a ilin g in te re s t ra te s VETERANS ADMINISTRATION LOAN GUARANTY DIVISION TOGUS, MAINE 04330 Tel. 207-623-8411 Ext. 433 �Page 8 Wabanaki Alliance August 1982 A flashback to the Old West THE E X A M IN E R . SA N F R A N C IS C O : SU N D A Y M O R N IN G -, JU N E 13, 1897. NO INDIANS OUTSIDE OF FICTION, THESE A E THEY. BLE R HELENA (Mont.), June 10 — These are the fighting Reds of America — the Cheyennes. No ignoble tribe they, mixed of blood and degenerate after the manner of half-breeds, but straight from the parent stock, with much of the pristine virility and vitality of their savage fore­ bears. Proud of their traditions, proud of themselves as types of the American Indian at his best, they bear with ill-ease the yoke of peace. Now and again, impelled by motives that are traceable to this pride of race, to which is conjoined an equally potent scorn of the paleface, they break through the barrier of the white man’ law and then there is trouble. Just s now some of their young men are under the ban for the murder of a sheepherder, and for a time it seemed as though the old racial hatred would devastate some of the fairest portions of Montana. Happily, this has been averted, and the braves who at the first alarm took to the hills with their rifles and cartridge belts are returning to the reservation. Unfortunately, these recurring alarms have spread the convic­ tion in this region that there never will be peace between the whites and the Cheyennes so long as there remains one of the tribe with a'rifle and strength to pull a trigger. Of ail the aboriginal clans of the North­ west to-day, not one can rank in courage, savagery, hatred of everything that makes for civilization, and utter loathing of the white man, unless, indeed, he wears the army uniform, with the Cheyenne. Unlike many other tribes of American Indians, the Cheyennes have never been drunkards or beggars. Physically, they are to-day probably as fine a body of men as could be found anywhere. Tall and built like gladiators, they are distinguished among Montana red men for the zest with which they pursue athletic sports, and the boys of the tribe are disciplined as severely to-day as they were twenty years ago to fit them for the chase or for war. The women of the Cheyenne tribe have a reputation for chastity which is never disputed, and while the nearest neighbors of the Cheyennes, the Crows, have been decimated by disease contracted from the abandoned frontier whites they have taken into their fold, the Cheyennes arc grow ing in number and retain to-day all the characteristics that made them more feared than ever the Sioux were by the pioneers. An outline of the history of the tribe for twenty years will illustrate what sort of people are the Cheyennes. They are one of the numerous offshoots of the Sioux tribe. In the sixties they roamed over Southern Montana and Northern Wyoming, and were among the most feared of all the redskins on the plains. Early in 1870 a considerable portion of the tribe was captured and sent to Indian Territory. They became restless, broke away a n d 1 started for the Northwest. Troops were sent after them, but the Indians fought their way back into Montana, crossing two trunk lines of railways and landing on their old stamping grounds. General Nelson A. Miles was the officer in command of the pursuing troops, and he finally cornered them at Lame Deer. This was in the spring of 1877. The Indians were joined by the remnant of the tribe that had not been captured at the time of the transportation to Indian Territory, and all told they numbered over 2,000 fighting men, under the command of Chief Lame Deer, who had led the fight from the southern country and had met and defeated, or else eluded, the Government troops a number of times during the chase. The fight was a desperate one, and only ended in a victory for Miles after Chief Lame Deer had been killed and half his band with him. Miles himself narrowly escaped with his life while leading his troops over the dry bed of a creek. A bullet grazed the General’head and killed s his aide, who was close behind. The remnant of the Cheyennes who survived the battle were surrounded and captured. The problem then arose what to do with them. They refused to go on the Sioux reservation, owing to the Chief of that tribe being an enemy of Lame Deer. The Crows and the Cheyennes had long been enemies, and the prisoners could not be put on the Crow reservation. For several years they w ere left in charge of the soldiers and rations were issued to them. When the Indians surrendered at Lame Deer, there were twenty or thirty settlers located in the country, and while the Indians w ere in charge of the soldiers others came in, so that when the Indian Department made up its mind to locate the Cheyennes in the Lame Deer country, there were four or five hundred white settlers there. About 1882 the Cheyennes were told they might remain where they were, and an agent was appointed to look after their wants. The reservation, how­ ever, was not defined, and it is to-day impossible to tell what portion is strictly the property of the Indians and what the property of the whites. The latter are engaged in stock raising and their cattle roam over a thousand hills. So long as the soldiers w ere with the Indians, there was no trouble, but when the civilian agent came on the scene the situation changed. Either the Government did not issue sufficient rations, or the Indians did not get all they w ere entitled to. To make the situation m ore intolerable there was no game in the country. In this combination of untoward circumstances the Indians, following the ^universal law of self-'preservation, took action of tiieir own and made up for short rations by killing the stockmen’ cattle. For s several years the whites bore the burden, but finally they grew tired of it and warned the agent that unless he kept his Indians from preying on their herds they would open war and kill all Indians caught killing stock. The Indians w ere told of this Badger is one of the men concerned in the murder of Sheepherder Hoover, which led to the uprising of the Cheyennes in Eastern Montana. warning, but the only effect was to make them m ore careful. The feeling between the whites and reds grew more and m ore strained, until the summer of 1890. In that year a cowboy named Ferguson was killed on the range by the Cheyennes, whom he caught killing a steer, five Indians — Little Eyes, White Buffalo, Scalp Cane, Bull Sheep and Black Medicine — were arrested for the crime and taken to Miles City, 105 miles north of the agency. After the arrests the Cheyennes b e­ came restless and threatened vengence. The fear of strife and bloodshed, with all the horrors of Indian warfare, then caused just such an exodus of citizens as has been witnessed this year. The people became aroused and called on Governor Toole for assistance. He sent the Hon. Charles D. Curtis to the scene to collect all the facts in regard to the troubles, which w ere to be embodied in a report to the Federal authorities. The Governor also sent with Colonel Curtis, 1,500 rifes and sufficient ammunition, with instruction to arm and lead the settlers against the Cheyennes if he found it necessary. It is the boast of the Cheyennes that not one of their tribe ever died on the gallows. Two of the Indians who were arrested for the murder of Ferguson, and who has confessed to the crime, knew they would be hanged if they stood trial. One of them. White Buffalo, managed to get hold of a stout piece of cord while in jail, with which he strangled himself. When he had fin­ ished the job, Scalp Cane took the cord off White Buffalo and put it around his own neck, and when the guard visited the cell he found both the Indians dead. The other three w ere afterwards liberated. Major Carroll of the regular army. Colonel Curtis, Deputy Sheriff W. F. Smith and an “ Independent" correspon­ dent made the trip to Lame Deer together. After a talk with the Indians, it was found the trouble was more deepseated than the Army or Interior Depart­ ments had reason to believe. Among the Cheyennes was an Indian named Porcupine. He was a young fellow, a perfect specimen of manhood and a fanatic of the pronounced sort. He had been away from the agency for nearly a year, and after his return the agent had noticed numerous powwows of the In­ dians, at all of which Porcupine was present. Early in the spring the Indians had begun dancing the ghost dance. After these weird caperings the Indians would be sullen, and defiant as well, and appeared to be possessed of the idea that it would only be a short time when they would hold undisputed possession of the country. Porcupine attended a powwow with the white men, among whom were Major Carroll, Colonel Curtis, the Indian Agent and the correspondent. Bear Ridge and Big Beaver were the other two red men of prominence at the talk. After much questioning. Porcupine said that during the previous autumn he had made a long journey with the two Indians. He could not make clear to his inquisitors just where he had been, but from his description it was judged he had visited the Walker Lake Indians in Nevada. There he said he met a person he called Christ, who, he said, had reappeared on earth. Porcupine declared he had found the holes in this Messiah's hands, and otherwise followed the Biblical story most conscientiously. He said the Christ had taught them the ghost dance and told them all to be good; that in the spring, if they were good, he would make them all young again, and that they would never die. For three hours the powwow lasted at Lame Deer, and before it closed Porcupine W ild Hog. a leader of the Cheyennes. He stands firmly for peace. had worked not only himself, but also the Indians clustered about the tent opening, into a religious frenzy. The great body of Indians was en­ camped fifteen miles from the agency, near a little hamlet called Ashland, and it was determined to go there and save the storekeeper and the sisters of the Jesuit school, all the white people having deserted the country. To get to the valley in which the Indians were camped it was necessary to go through a deep ravine, flanked on each side by abrupt hills. After the conference at Lame Deer, it was reported that the Indians had sent runners out to Ashland. Major Carroll did not think this had any significance, though he had informed the Indians that the representative of the Governor of Mon­ tana was going to visit the Cheyennes at Ashland. It proved afterwards that the powwow with Porcupine was a fortunate thing and probably saved the lives of many people. Arriving at Ashland it was found that the Indians had built on both the hills commanding the defile immense breast­ works, while all the way through the define were ambuscades which had held only twenty-four hours before the arrival of the party from twenty to fifty Cheyenne fanatics, each determined to kill a white man. Porcupine had been sent word that the time was not come, and that the Indians must meet and talk with the man sent by the Little Father; that the white men would see that they got enough to eat, and that they must not harm him. After m eeting the Indians at Ashland and assuring them they would receive more rations (many of them were really in a half-starving condition), receiving in return their promise that they would not molest the settlers. Colonel Curtis re­ turned to Helena and three companies of troops w ere left at the reservation and were kept in camp there until 1893. In July of the same year two young Indians who had killed two sheepherders were wanted. They eluded the troops and posses sent after them, but one day they dispatched word to the commanding officer at the reservation that at a certain hour on a specified day they would appear at a stated point, mounted and would attempt to run the gauntlet of the troops. (Continued on page 7 ) � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource <em>Wabanaki Alliance</em> (August 1982) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Indian Resource Center Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Passamaquoddy Cultural Museum Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1982-08 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Donald Soctomah Julia Brush Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Steve Cartwright. Used with permission. Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Document Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context DV-437 https://www.dawnlandvoices.org/collections/files/original/73822b42cc3368b9c0409ac13d210a2d.pdf 6ed7984d00bf503ef61bac2553198fa4 PDF Text Text WABANAKI vl. No3 '*/» ALLIANCE A N D R E W S 0 C K A LE X IS [1892-1919] was one o f the most remarkable distance runners o f his tune. He won many races in this country and was a member o f the American Olympic Team at the Fifth O lympiad held in Stockholm Sweden in 1912. Andrew Sockalexis lived and grew up on Indian Island; he died o f tuberculosis at the age o f 27 years. In those 27 years he brought considerable fa m e to his tribe, his nation and himself. The story o f this remarkable man has been compiled by M ike Ranco, Indian Island. Anyone interested in receiving a copy o f this story may do so by requesting such fro m the Indian Resource Center, 95 Main St.. Orono, Me. STORIES INSIDE — At top, from left, AJice Francisco, John Stevens, Susan Stevens, Ed Mitchell and Pious Perley participate in alcoholism conference, page 4; Housing progress reported on page 2; Bishop Peter L. Gerety and young friend discuss open house at Indian Resource Center dedication, naoe 1. �n /7 3 W abanaki Alliance Page 1 Indian Resource Center Dedicated The Diocesan Human Relations Services’ Division of Indian Services formerly dedicated its Indian Resource Center, October 13. Nearly 100 Maine Indians toured the recently renovated facilities located at 95 Main Street in Orono to see displays of Indian arts and crafts and to be on hand when Bishop Peter L. Gerety dedicated the Center in the honor of the Venerable Kateri Tekakwitha. The main purpose of the Center is to serve as a statewide communications center for all Maine Indians. The Center is staffed by David Depew and Roger Gabriel. The Center’s staff carries out objectives developed by the Division of Indian Services Board. This Board's membership includes representatives of the state’s Penobscot and Passamaquoddy tribes and the Association of Aroostook Indians. Board members include Nicholas Dow and Jean Chavarec, Indian Island; Allen Sockabasin, Governor, Indian Township, and, John Bailey, Pleasant Point; Terry Polchies and A1 DeVoe, Aroostook Association of Indians. The main duties of those staffing the Center are to publish the Wabanaki Alliance, provide technical assistance to Indian organizations, improve com­ munications with the non-Indian community and to act as an advocate for Indian causes. Financial resources for the Center are provided through the diocese from a private grant from the DeRanee Foundation in Milwaukee. The DcRance Foundation also funds the DIS Board’s Indian Youth Program. Dedication of this Center by Bishop Gerety was followed by a banquet on Indian Island at which time Ihe Bishop. Maine Commissioner of Indian Affairs John Stevens and former U.S. Commissioner of the Bureau of Indian Affairs Louis Bruce spoke to those assembled. Bruce, representing the Coalition of Eastern Native Americans, told his audience that he was fired by President Nixon because of “my role as an advocate of all Indians, not just those on BIA reservations in the western part of the country." “As commissioner, I adopted a philosophy of trying to help all native Americans. If a problem arose in Maine. I wanted to be of assistance. However, I was told repeatedly in memos from the Secretary of the Interior and from the White House not to concern myself with the affairs of those Indians not on federal reservations,” Bruce stated. Bruce recalled his experiences as a young man trying to bring change through political action and the many disappointments he suffered from the inability of Indian people to speak out collectively on those issues affecting them. Bruce added that he sympathized with many of the young militant leaders and their efforts to bring about change. Second Year Funding Sought from DeRanee It was these sympathies — at a time when the BIA headquarters in Washington, D.C., were occupied by Indians demanding recognition of problems — that got Bruce fired. Commissioner Stevens told those assembled that he felt it was time that Maine Indians strengthened their efforts toward self-determination so they could better plan their own futures. Stevens noted housing programs, health programs and educational programs The Division of Indian Services has again applied to the DeRanee Foundation Inc. of Milwaukee, for resources to continue operation of its youth program and Indian Resource Center. The second year proposal promised continuation of efforts launched during the first year of activity by the Center. A decision on Ihis proposal has not as yet been made. initiated by Indians for Indians as examples of recent progress in this area. Bishop Gerety explained that the Church wished to maintain its role of assisting the Indian community in its efforts toward self-determination. DIS CHAIRMEN Tom Battiste, left, past chairman of the DIS Board, and Nicholas Dow, current chairman, discuss progress made in making the Indian Resource Center a reality. �Page 2 Wabanaki Alliance EDITORIAL The American Indian has begun — at long last — to attack the government thi'ough its judicial system, where it is vulnerable for its acts of oppression. Maine Indians are among those leading the attack and have prompted considerable attention for their efforts to right old wrongs. This effort was initiated in 1972, but finds its substance in a law passed by Congress in 1790. More specifically, in 1790 Congress passed the Indian Trade and Intercourse Act. This act provided that no State or person could purchase land from an Indian without first receiving federal consent, and that any contract developed without that consent would be void. In 1794 and 1796 the Commonwealth of Massachusetts entered into treaties with the Penob­ scot and Passamaquoddy tribes of Maine. The two tribes gave up literally millions of acres of land for nothing other than land they already owned and a few inconsequential services. Then the tribes involved began action; this was in 1972. They were represented by a team of lawyers headed by Tom Tureen, Pine Tree Legal Assistance, Inc., Calais. The doctrine of sovereign immunity makes it impossible for anybody, including Maihe Indians, to bring an action against the State, without the State’s consent. However, this doctrine does not bar action by the federal government against a State. Maine Indians asked the federal government to bring such an action but the government refused, taking the position that Indians in Maine were not entitled to protection under the Indian Trade and Intercourse Act as they had not been officially rec­ ognized by the U.S. government. Maine Indians pressed for action and brought suit against the federal government asking the court for a preliminary injunction against the federal government directing it to file a suit against the State of Maine because a statute of limitations, which was about to be realized, would have barred future action by Maine Indians on certain dollar claims. The suit also sought a declaratory judgment providing that Maine Indians be entitled to protection under the Indian Trade and Intercourse Act. The court ordered the preliminary injunction. The government then appealed the preliminary injunction but was unsuccessful in its attempt to have the order dismissed on technical grounds. The federal government has now filed suit against the State pursuant to court order. It is anticipated that in February the court will hold a hearing on whether or not Maine 'Indians are entitled to protection under the Indian Trade and Intercourse Act. A decision from the court is expected this spring on the declaratory judgment issue. This is the most critical point in the entire claim. If Maine Indians win this round, as they have all earlier rounds, the question of entitlement to protection under the Indian Trade and Intercourse Act will be resolved in their favor, and attorneys representing Maine Indians will be able to go to the federal government, tell its representatives they were wrong, and that they should proceed with the cases against the State of Maine. Possibly the most important aspect of this case is that it signifies the entry of the eastern Indian into the mainstream of American activity — into those areas where decisions are made. The eastern Indian is not going to be messed with; if you hit him, he’s going to hit you back — in court — where you’re vulnerable. "________________________________ — DRD Vol. 1, No. 3 December 1973 Editor: David R. Depew Co-Editor: Roger Gabriel Editorial Board: DIS Board of Directors: Nicholas Dow, Chairman; Jean Chavaree, Allen Sockabasin, Alfred DeVoe, Terry Polchies, John Bailey Published by Indian Resource Center 95 M ain St., Orono, Me. Progress In Housing Realized By ROGER GABRIEL Results of the most ambitous housing program thus far for Maine Indians arc now being realized. Looking back to Indian housing conditions as they existed prior to the Federal Government’s Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Program now in effect on the three reservations may suggest why these Indian communities sought to initiate and develop ways of coping with the housing problem. In the past years, it was rather commonplace that large Indian families occupy the cramped quarters of their small dwelling which was quite often poorly insulated, and without a central heating system. Until recent years, many homes were without cither electricity or indoor plumbing and thus required outdoor toilet facilities. These conditions prevailed, in varying degrees, depending on the particular community, as late as the early 1950’s. At Peter Dana Point, for example, sources say electricity was not made available until around 1947. It may or may not be surprising, however, that such conditions can still be found even today in isolated circumstances. Tribal governments have taken steps to discourage this and are engaged in long-term tribal community development programs designed to improve the general living conditions of Maine Indian people. The most obvious of these programs has been in the area of housing. The first attempt by Indian people to secure better housing was made in 1958 at Peter Dana Point in a program administered through the Maine State Department of Health & Welfare. Seventeen units of housing were built and were paid for through the Passamaquoddy Indian Trust Fund which obtains money through logging operations on Indian Township. Eleven additional units were later built at Pleasant Point (Sebayik) and both projects were part of the same program. Its limitations were such that while some housing problems were solved, other problems were created largely due to the general, poor quality of the new housing. Oddly enough the contractor responsible for the building of these units later went bankrupt. In 1967, the tribal governments of the three reservations each established a housing authority, thus making Maine Indians eligible to benefit from new federal housing programs. Misinformation perhaps, and a general break-down in communica­ tions at Indian Island ultimately led that Indian community to deactivate its housing authority in the fall of 1969. The two remaining reservations, mean­ while. continued on their slow, often complicated, journey toward better housing. And, in keeping with a HUD policy, the housing authorities of Pleasant Point and Peter Dana Point moved ahead to obtain a grant to install water distribution and sewage sanitation systems through the Economic Development Act (EDA). By the end of 1969, water and sewage facilities were nearing completion at the Passamaquod Reservation, at which time real progress began develop. In the summer of 1971 the growing potential of t Federal Housing Program became clearer to t Penobscot Indian community and its local housi authority was then reactivated. Since that time, the Penobscot Tribal Reservati Housing Authority has been making steady progre despite some problems related to water and sewa installation. These problems involve certain house 1 < on Indian Island on which there may be questional ownership. HUD has approved 35 units of housing for t Penobscot Reservation at Indian Island. The Aroostook Indian community faces problei of a scattered Indian population. Making a housii program available on any large scale is only one many difficulties associated with this problem. T Association of Aroostook Indians (A.A.I.), howevt through the Maine State Housing Authority, was at to secure the approval of seven units of low-incor housing for Indian families in that area. These we included in a plan involving 25 units to be ma< available to the general community. The housing authority at Peter Dana Point h secured 25 units of housing, 16 of which are present under construction on the Indian Township ‘‘Strip Nine are scheduled to be constructed later at Dai Point. The Pleasant Point Passamaquoddy Housii Authority has 45 units approved and under constru tion. Much of the housing construction at Peter Dai Point and Pleasant Point was started in the summer 1973 and is nearing completion. Several families w have moved into their new homes by late November. The new units are spacious, modern and attractiwithin and without. Each has a central heating syste and is fully insulated. The three-bedroom homes ha’ l'/z baths, with two full baths in the larger 5-bedroo units. Interior features include tile floors, kitche cabinets, a stove and refrigerator. A full basement ar brick veneer are features which greatly contrast wit any previous concept of what a low-income India family could hope for. Each Indian family obtaining a new home throug the HUD program is both physically and financial responsible. In keeping with HUD policies, 500 hou of time must be spent by the individual family in tf actual construction of their home to serve as a “dowi payment.” Monthly cash payments based on farni net income also must be made on a regular basis. Th will be supervised by the housing authorities at each ( the reservations for a period of 25 years, at which tin a deed will be transferred to family ownership. In addition to housing and water and sewage gran from HUD and EDA, each reservation has secure approval of a ‘‘neighborhood facilities” communii building. The structure will be designed according t the needs of the individual Indian community and wi include such features as a gymnasium, tribal office classrooms, kitchen, day-care center and outdoc swimming pool. �n /7j Wabanaki Alliance Page 3 Community Action Increases Involvement The inability, to handle one’s own environment creates many human problems — physical and emotional. In the mid-60’s a great many programs were developed to help people cope. The Office of Economic Opportunity was created to respond in the community to the organizational needs of people who had no experience in the politics of change. This community-based operation was to be run by those it served. Housing, education, health, welfare, employment and legal assistance programs followed. Professional staffs were there to organize and provide access to the millions of dollars in programs. Programs were helping many people develop the confidence to face personal problems and address larger social problems. These programs also created a noisy, powerful and sometimes belligerent political constituency. Old politicians had to make new and expensive promises. Many oppressed people were pressing for change. Many of the old wrongs could not be changed by money alone. Basic changes in the way health care was delivered were sought; education had new responsi­ bilities; the ethnic and socio-economic minorities which had never had access to good lawyers now did, and actions as a class began emerging. At the heart of all this was the local community action program with the status of a private non­ profit corporation. President Nixon did not like the set-up. He commissioned a study of OEO programs and agencies. The study concluded that the program was ofgreat value. . . The OEO program was to be taken apart anyway. Monies would be stopped to OEO — at some point in the future — and programs formerly administered through OEO would be administered through other federal agencies. This would hurt local community action programs by removing a national thrust, but it couldn’t and won’t destroy the source of agitation, which remains local people organized to be involved in change. Indian Community Action Programs (ICAPS) were a component of the OEO program. It was announced this year that the administration of ICAPS would be through the Department of Health, Education and Welfare, effective July 6, 1973. This new HEW component would be known as the Office of Native American Programs (ONAP). In addition to handling all ICAP programs the Office of Native American Programs was designed to handle all regional Indian programs — at least in the New England states — administered by the federal government; ONAP is currently operating on a continuing resolution. In addition ONAP has requested $32.1 million for program operations; this represents an increase of $9.7 million of new money. Robert Howard, director of the program, set up a meeting in Washington, D.C., for getting, “input from ICAP directors, tribal governors and other Indian leaders, regarding a new way of operating, which will be more responsive to ALL native Americans." The meeting was held November 13 and 14. The reference here to ALL is important because of Pious Perley Elected As A.A.I. President Members of the Association of Aroostook Indians (AAI), at a general election meeting in Presque Isle, October 21. chose Pious Perley of Presque Isle, AAI president. Shirley Lcvassucr of Houlton was elected vicepresident. Helen Ciganik, Caribou, and Stella Daigle, Fort Kent, will serve the Association as treasurer and secretary, respectively. AAI members elected to the Board of Directors include: John Joseph—Houlton; Tom Battiste—Houlton; Helen Ciganik—Caribou; Shirley Lcvassuer—Houl­ ton; A1 DeVoe—Mars Hill; Brenda Polchics—Houl­ ton; Gloria Tomah—Houlton; Aubrey Tomah— Houlton; Ron Gidion—Caribou; Stella Daigle—Fort Kent; Winnifred Everett—Fort Fairfield; Joyce Tompkins—Houlton;Yvonne Jewell—Presque Isle; Pious Perley—Presque Isle; Harriet Perley—Presque Isle; Fred Perley—Houlton. New Positions of Indian Service Filled By Terry Polchies and Jim Sappier Terry Polchics, a member of the Division of Indian Services Board, has been hired by the State to assist the Department of Indian Affairs to meet the needs of Maine’s off-reservation Indian. Polchies is a past president of the Association of Aroostook Indians and one of the prime movers in the development of that organization. Polchies is also one of 13 New England Indians serving on the Indian Task Force of the Federal Regional Council. The task force is responsible for reviewing programs and applications for programs which use federal monies for Indians in New England states. As a grass roots organizer of off-reservation Indians, an employee of the State Department of Indian Affairs and member of the task force which deals with federal programs for New England Indians, Polchies is in the unique position of having dealt with local Indian problems and having direct input into the federal entity which provides resources to solve problems. Polchies’ new position will provide him the time to put his experience and contacts to work for Maine’s off-reservation Indians. New Youth Coordinator Announced by A.A.I. Gayla Atm DeMerchant of Fort Fairfield will replace Phil Fraser, who resigned, as youth coordinator at A.A.I. The announcement was made at the November 20th DIS Board meeting. Jim Sappier, Indian Island, is one of the keys to getting action out of the federal government on problems concerning Maine Indians. Sappier is Indian Coordinator for Federal Programs in Region I, Boston. In addition to the long title, it’s an important position. Sappier relates directly to an Indian task force. Membership on this task force consists of 10 feds, 13 Indians from the New England states, and the Governor of Maine, represented by John Stevens, State Commissioner of the Department of Indian Affairs. This task force relates to the Federal Regional Council. This Council is made up of Regional directors from agencies such as agriculture; environ­ mental protection; health, education and welfare; housing and urban development; labor; law enforce­ ment; transportation and economic opportunity. It’s Sappier’s job to relate to these upper-echelon bureaucrats the impact — or lack of it — their programs are having on Indians in New England. This is essentially accomplished by reviewing all grants going out of the New England region which are allegedly to help Indians. Sappier, working with his task force, can more easily spot the “rip-off’ grant or the well-intentioned program which duplicates. In addition, Sappier acts as an advocate for all New England Indians. He is there in Boston when a Maine Indian leader needs to have a program nudged along or needs to know where to turn. the concern of eastern Indian people that western Indians on BlA-recognized reservations would get preferential treatment. One of the largest blocks of Indian people attending the meeting was that from Maine. The Penobscot people were represented by Mai Sappier, Indian Island governor, and Mike Ranco. director of the Island’s community action program. Other Penobscots attending the meeting included Jim Sappier, who coordinates regional programs foi Indians out of the Boston federal complex, and Andy Aikens. executive director of the Penobscot-Passamaquoddy Inter-Tribal Planning Council. The Association of Aroostook Indians was represented by Pious Perley, AAI president, and Helen Ciganik, AAI treasurer. Terry Polchies, representing the interests of all off-reservation Indians, also was present. The Passamaquoddy people were represented by Allen Sockabasin, Indian Township governor, Ralph Dana, director of the Pleasant Point community action program and Wayne Newell, also of Pleasant Point. Tom Tureen, the attorney heading the teams ol lawyers involved in Passamaquoddy vs. Morton (covered in an editorial in this edition), was present. John Stevens, Commissioner of Indian Affairs, rounded out the Maine Indian representation. Tom Battiste, former AAI president and former member ot the Division of Indian Services Board, represented the Coalition of Eastern Native Americans. The two days were spent discussing not only a proposed organizational structure, but in receiving the complaints and concerns of Maine Indians. State Indian commissioners from Maine, Michigan, North Carolina and Louisiana told those representing the newly-created Native American Programs office that they should: 1) Have distinctions between so-called federal and non-fedcral Indians, and distinctions between urban and rural Indians, officially repudiated. Program funds should be made available to all eligible appli­ cants on a non-discriminatory basis. 2) Insure non-discrimination, and earmark funds on a per capita basis in accordance with the Indian population of each state. Once earmarked, however, funds should be available on a block grant basis, and should not be budgeted on a categorical basis. 3) Consider all Indian communities which are identified on the present Department of the Interior map of Indian lands in the United States, and all communities not listed on the Interior map which can demonstrate their Indian ancestry, eligible for ONAP grants. The eligibility of Indian communities not listed on the Interior map should be determined by an independent committee on the basis of factual evidence. Organizations serving Indians from eligible communities who have moved to urban areas or who are geographically dispersed in non-urban areas should also be eligible for ONAP grants. 4) See to it if additional funds are not appropriated, that five percent of the existing budget be allocated to fund research and development programs for Indian communities which arc presently not served by ONAP. The Coalition of Eastern Native Americans, represented by W. J. Strickland, Louis Bruce and its entire executive board, made a powerful and demanding presentation. CENA’s main thrust was to demand that the 165,000 Indians — many of them land-based — cast of the Mississippi be recognized by the federal government, and to make it clear that they won’t be ignored. The National Congress of American Indians had a similar thrust as did the Coalition of Indian Controlled School Boards. The major impact, according to one source, was made by CENA — an organization whose roots can be found in Maine. What happened at this two-day meeting in Washington. D.C., was that people were making themselves felt and that’s what community action programs are all about. �Page 4 Wabanaki Alliance »V7/ the Maine Medical Association. I worry about the houses we are building; the problem of alcoholisi going to be moving into that house also,” Stevens s Fr. Harry Vickerson told the group. “ In the years 1 have been on the reservation 1 have hac funerals. All these individuals, directly or not indirectly have died of alcohol.” Harriet Price, a member of the Maine S Advisory Committee for the U.S. Civil- Ri Commission, followed Fr. Vickerson's on-lhe-: experience with Commission findings in a study yet published. The Commission has found substantial data in many government reports that already have 1 : prepared to overwhelmingly substantiate the prob of alcohol abuse among Indian people. “ Mai Indian people should be leading a more vigor attack on the country’s Indian Health Service to those services which are rightly theirs." Mrs. P stated. A lcohol and the Maine Indian KEYNOTE SPEAKER — Robert Moore, above, discusses the epidemic proportions of alcoholism among American Indians. Mike Ranco, above right, takes notes. Few stones were left unturned by the State Department of Indian Affairs in its examination of alcoholism among Maine Indians. This examination took place recently at a two-day conference in Brewer for Maine Indian leaders and those working to correct problems created by alcoholism. Speakers who used figures comparing Indians to whites and blacks, and Maine Indians to other Indians left little doubt in the minds of those present that there was not only a problem, but that M aine’s Indian alcoholism was of an epidemic nature. Speakers who discussed why the epidemic existed cited not only historical and social problems, but medical and genetic reasons as well. Each speaker had an idea or ideas on what to do. There may have been disagreement about why alcoholism is so acute a problem and about how to solve the problem, but all agreed that alcoholism was the number one problem facing Maine Indians. Susan Stevens, co-director of the Maine Alcoholism Research Program, began her discussion of the history of Indian alcoholism by citing national figures on alcoholism and some accepted definitions of what an alcoholic was or is. HEW Secretary Details Grants fo r Education Students who need money for their education after high school may now apply for Basic Educational Opportunity Grants, according to a news release from U.S. Department of Health, Education and Welfare (HEW) Secretary Caspar W. Weinberger. More than $122 million is available under this new program administered by HEW’s Office of Education. To apply for a Basic Grant, an “ Application for Determination of Expected Family Contribution” must be obtained, filled out, and mailed to P.O. Box B, Iowa City, Iowa 52240. Application forms are now available at student financial aid offices at postsccondary institutions* high school guidance offices, post offices, State employment offices, county agricultural extension agents, and Talent Search, Upward Bound, and Student Special Services projects. If unavailable in your area, write to Box G, Iowa City, Iowa 52240. For further information on Basic Grants and other student financial aid programs, students should contact their high school counselor or the financial aid officer at the school in which they expect to enroll. According to Mrs. Stevens: there are more than nine million alcoholics in America; the skid row variety often visualized constitutes only three percent of the number of alcoholics; over half the car wrecks in the country can be traced to alcohol; beer is the most commonly consumed beverage by the alcoholic. Alcoholism, according to Mrs. Stevens, is a disease which interfers with the health and welfare of the individual and with that individual’s interpersonal relationships. Mrs. Stevens then focused in on the Maine Indian. “The Indians’ problem with alcohol came with the arrival of Europeans to this country — more specifically, the fur traders of the 1500’s. The relation­ ship developed by the fur trader with the Indian altered not only the Indian’s previously excellent diet but the guts of his social system,” she said. “ Flour and sugar replaced meat, fruit and vegetables; the sharing o f the life-giving substance of the hunt and the harvest were replaced by the sharing of booze received for the harvest pelts,” she stated. When the pilgrims arrived in the 1600’s, according to Mrs. Stevens, they moved into a village previously established by Indians who died of diseases brought by Europeans. By the time of the Revolution, the Maine Indian’s problem with alcohol was already 200 years old. An Indian leader. Chief Little Turtle, recognizing this problem approached President Jefferson, according to Mrs. Stevens, and requested that a law be passed making it illegal to sell liquor to Indians. Congress subsequently acted. It wasn’t until recently that this law was rescinded. Mrs. Stevens’ co-director, Ed Mitchell, brought the group up to date with figures germane to Maine’s Indian population. “ A significant percent of Maine’s Indians are alcoholics. Between 1950 and the present, 56 percent ot the deaths at one Passamaquoddy reservation was due directly or indirectly to alcohol. By the time many youths reach the age of 15 they are drinking regularly. Patterns of drinking in groups and the sharing of one’s liquor contribute greatly to the problem of unemployment,” Mitchell stated. John Stevens, Commissioner, Department of Indian Affairs, then informed the group that although funds have been budgeted for payment to physicians for assisting in the treatment of alcoholism, many problems remain. “ I have dealt with the Maine Medical Association. They arc the biggest stumbling block to getting services. There are federal programs and foundations, but it is difficult to get anything without the okay of It was Mrs. Price’s contention that half a mill dollars would be provided annually for health servi through IHS if that resource could be captured. Mrs. Price revealed that meetings with B Patterson, a member of the White House staff, recognition of Indians east of the Mississi produced nothing but “ hot air.” Earlier this yt Patterson had told Maine Indian people that White House expected to provide a decision on subject o f recognition in the immediate future. Commissioner Stevens then called upon Max Go> who administers a federally funded alcoholi program. Good discussed the legislation enabling t program, P.L. 91-616. He read from the st; alcoholism plan and described the service dclivt structure being sought. Good pointed out tl regional organizations had just been created. It v \ also pointed out that the federal enabling legislati m andates the involvement of ethnic groups (Indiai on these councils. This was followed by a discussion of the possible u of Title IV A monies by Bob Foster of the State Heal and Welfare office in Augusta. Title IVA refers to section of recently passed federal legislation — me specifically, the Social Security Amendments. In both instances it was not made entirely cle what would be made available and when. This was n the fault of the speakers but the uncertainty of the u of the resources they discussed. The state bureaucrats were followed by one fro W ashington, D.C., — Harold Dance, who hea. special programs for the U.S. Department of Labe Dance expressed some anxiety about the Indian working directly with the federal government W ashington, D.C., during a period of decentralizatie and recommended that Maine Indian leaders becon more knowledgeable with Boston federal employee He expressed several times the necessity for “gettir to know” those with resources, such as the region and D.C. bureaucrats. [Continued on Page 5] C ivil Rights Commissior Responds to M uskie Recently, Senator Edmund Muskie queried tl U.S. Commission on Civil Rights with regard to tl availability of the services of the Bureau of Indie Affairs to non-Federal, non-reservation Indians undi the Snyder Act. The detailed memorandum which was returned t the Commission to Senator Muskie concludes that, c its face, the Snyder Act is sufficiently broad to justi Federal services to all Indians, regardless of their leg; status or residence. A decision recently by the Ninth Circuit Court ( Appeals in Ruiz vs. Morton affirms this conclusion : to non-reservation Indians. The Ruiz case which wr appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court and argue November 7, does not, however, treat the issue c no n -F ed erally recognized In d ia n s , and thei entitlement to Federal services remain unclear. It is anticipated that within two months the Com will have made a decision on this case. Reversal of th court ot Appeals could be very detrimental in that i would remove strong case support for extend in coverage of the Act to non-Federal Indians. �W abanaki Alliance Page 5 A lcohol Problem DIS Adopts W ork Program [Continued from Page 4| HAROLD DANCE ‘Get to know those with resources’ “ If these people are to be made aware of your problems you have to be able to communicate with them,” Dance said. Following these nebulous discussions of resources and how they may be of use, John Shea, director of the Diocesan Human Relations Services' Community Alcoholism Service, got back down into the nitty-gritty of how to get resources and what resources should be used for. It was Shea’s contention that there is no way to treat the alcoholic without first providing a means within the social system to stop drinking. Providing that means is often complicated, involving everything from housing and employment to initial medical care and follow-up, Shea stated. Mike Ranco, Community Action Program director from Indian Island, began the second day’s activities. Ranco discussed the educational problems and how some educational programs offering decent breakfasts were being initiated on Indian Island to make the child want to attend school. Robert Moore, executive director of the American Indian Commission on Alcohol and Drug Abuse, followed with an overview of the “ Indian Alcohol problem" and the need to include a spiritual approach. In many ways, Moore was the highlight of the two-day conference. The Seneca Indian was able to synthesize all that had been said, to discuss the means for attacking the problem and to leave the audience with the feeling that something can be done which will change this situation. Moore believes that there isn’t a man, woman or child who is Indian who is not affected directly by alcohol. It’s his contention that alcoholism is a national problem and that the Indian is in the middle of an epidemic. Moore summarized the Indians’ relation to the “white race” by saying that: “ They have killed our initiative, they have killed our culture, they have killed our ability to do things; they have helped us to death.” This came about, as he sees it, through the “ tyranny of should.” “They knew what we should do and how we should do it and then they did it.” “The Indian has to begin to experience running his own affairs if he is to successfully participate,” Moore said. It is his opinion that standard treatm ent methods will not work to correct alcoholism among Indians unless an element of spirituality can be incorporated into what is being done. Moore stated that it was the responsibility of Indian leaders in Maine, and throughout the U.S., to confront those with the resources needed by Indians to attack this problem. In completing his talk, Moore told those present, “ If you don’t believe we have been completely controlled by booze since the coming of Europeans to this continent, just go to the Smithsonian and discover how many disputes were settled with whiskey. “ Don’t allow others to take away the dignity of solving your own problems,” he concluded. Mrs. Marilyn Light, executive director of the A drenal M etabolic R esearch Society o f the Hypoglycemia Foundation, moved the discussion to the specifics of nutrition. The main thrust of Mrs. Light’s discussion was that poor nutrition not only compounded the problems of The Division of Indian Services (DIS) Board recently adopted its 1974 work program based on six objectives developed earlier by the Board. These objectives include: (1) promoting better communica­ tion between Indian communities; (2) providing leadership development services to the Indian community; (3) mobilization of resources nowavailable to Maine Indians; (4) acting as a liaison between the Indian and non-Indian community; (5) providing advocacy services; and (6) promoting religious education. Following is a better description of what is to be done in each of these areas: INTER-INDIAN COMMUNICATION: Additional news sources within the Indian community will be created to encourage more active Indian participation in creating articles for the W abanaki Alliance. This involvement will assist both the Indian community and those reporting in becoming more knowledgeable about events and developments affecting them. L E A D E R SH IP D EV E LO PM EN T: L eadership training, as seen by the DIS Board, is Indian involve­ ment in resolving community problems and dealing with State and national issues. An effort will be made by the Indian Resource Center to encourage a greater number of persons from each Indian community to actively participate in matters associated with their own self-determination and development. MOBILIZATION OF RESOURCES: Staff will compile, in 1974, a list of federal, state, regional and local governmental resources applicable for use by those served by the DIS Board. A data bank on Indian programs will be created which will include names of those involved in such programs so that technical workshops may be offered. It is anticipated that these resources, including some that are foundation and church related, may be taken to individual Indian communities and will be used in the development of local resource directories whenever applicable. TO ACT AS A LIAISON: Liaison efforts by the Indian Resource Center shall be directed at the concept that “ Indian people address Indian prob­ lems.” During 1974, the Indian Resource Center shall assist Indian leaders in improving communications with the non-Indian community by providing infor­ mation on subjects of mutual concern. Workshops and seminars between the two groups will be promoted on matters of mutual interest. ADVOCACY: The DIS Board will assist Resource Center staff in identifying areas of special concern. These areas are those most deeply affected by a different cultural heritage in which a liaison with certain interests among “white” decision-makers may prove most productive. Orientation regarding the legislative processes will be made available to Indian communities which may then promote a more active role in legislative activity benefiting Maine Indians. RELIGIOUS EDUCATION: Resource Center staff will assist the Task Force on Religious Education by reporting on its activities in the W abanaki Alliance. and detoxification, etc. We need groups like the AA for the spiritual component that they can provide, and we need the health and welfare professionals to provide the kind of counseling that deals with the psychological problems created by alcoholism,” Dr. Brody said. Dr. Brody then called upon those present to urge all those with whom they work to return to natural foods, he then explained why. Only three percent of the alcoholics treated by Dr. Brody had a normal blood sugar level. The abnormal blood sugar level in the others made it impossible for these people to cope in many instances with rehabilitation. Thirty-five percent of the alcoholics treated by Dr. Brody had a zinc deficiency. Dr. Brody maintains that this deficiency made their bodies less receptive (o healing. These specifics from a medical doctor providing health care to alcoholics, were then localized by the reflections of an M.D., James Bates, who as a general practioner has provided medical care to Indians for the past 35 years. MARILYN LIGHT ‘Nutrition a factor in alcoholism’ alcoholism but indeed may be one of the factors which causes it. Ignorance of a proper diet, results in many instances in hypoglycemia — low blood sugar — a condition which often results in depression and a general lack of energy. Mrs. Light concluded her speech by calling upon Maine Indians to develop the means to provide good food such as meats, grains, fish, fruit and vegetables — the kind of diet the Indian had prior to the fur traders. Nathan Brody, M.D., followed these recommenda­ tions with some of the specific ways in which he is using nutrition as a tool to treat alcoholism. Dr. Brody stated that he has been in the field of alcoholism treatment for 18 years. “ For the first 13 years I used a multi-disciplinary approach with the detoxification, counseling and follow-up type routine. 1 had repeaters so often that I began to ask myself what was wrong with the program. “ Then I began to notice that the alcoholic when he gives up booze develops a definite pattern of eating. W hat the man was eating was cookies, soda pop or some other junk. “ 1 began to wonder if vitamin deficiency could play any role in the number of repeaters. “ I now believe,” Dr. Brody stated, “that vitamin deficiency is significant. We need to use a whole team approach. The physician must be there to provide the medical services, which will include vitamin therapy Dr. Bates’ speech was one of reflection. Dr. Bates discussed the frustration he had seen in the lives of his Indian patients, the unavailability of opportunity. He then asked: “Is the drinking of the white society more controlled by the reality of knowing that tomorrow is another day of work and responsibility? Has AA been less successful because it requires a commitment to abstinence?” Alice Francisco, a public health fellow from Harvard, then asked the audience, if a drinking problem can’t be solved on the reservation, can it be solved off? The data she brought, indicated it can’t. During the two-day conference nearly every speaker stated that before an alcoholic can be cured he must admit-the problem exists. Possibly the best summarization of the conference can be found in the words of Indian educator, Wayne Newell, who called the conference “the first public confession of our problem.” j WAYNE NEWELL ‘A public confession of our problem’ �Page 6 Wabanaki Alliance gypsy leaves a budding there are seeker streams as he passed blending oblong shedding visceral plankton a souls eye to eye seeker stream's abradant accretion acrebic & egoless anthropomorphia blender * oxidize enviable ability acarpous solipsistic mythless minds seeker streams vision seeker's 1st conquistador his a Spanish soul peons & viceroy victors banished & as he aligns & recalled genetic adynamics the synchro o f your your\ insipid massacres green acervate at the brows & chronic breathing clonic gradients emote to emulate their vintage labeled pedigree he remembers dark rasping hounds your wishes clinging sound "vagrant disease: the curse o f venture, the anorexia to annointedpioneers . . . abulia's inservitude" from inquisitions passing parade tirade, dialectric & abstruse clamour, confirmed abatis your contoured in harmonic rectitude o f 153 blissed paranoids 1-5-3 there are clear moments, only wait dreams o f vision he shelters your quintessence graying hurtling & impregnated fo r the mundane “where is conformity in-these-troubled chim es. . . encircled encampments o f means & banks & us or perhaps dripping pools Editor's n o te : G e o rg e Tom er, O ld Tow n, c re a te d th e s e co n trib u tio n s in ‘so u n d a n d h a rm o n y ' fo r th e W a b an ak i A lliance. red gathered enjambments & gambits o f poltroons The Empty Sack o f Troy By PAUL A. FRANCIS, JR. Everyone is familiar with the story of how the Greeks surreptitiously employed a monstrous wooden horse to gain admission into the citadel of Troy; and once gaining admission, reduced the Trojan city to rubble and ashes, ending 10 long years of siege and avenging the abduction of the fair Helen by the not-so-fair Trojan prince, Paris. But very few, I suspect, ate familiar with’th e story of how the Greeks had initially intended to breach the impregnable Scaean gates. For those skeptics who wish to confirm the authenticity of this obscure account, the story is related in the 25th book of Homer’s Iliad, and also in the prologue to his Odyssey. Unfortunately, these chapters are not extant, having been deleted from the original text for lack of literary V value, so you’ll have to accept my word. Achilles and Ajax of the Greeks were dead, the Trojan Hector had been mercilessly slain by a vindictive, mindless Achilles. Battle raged furiously in the Plain of Ilion, and large numbers of warriors from both sides were sent to their gloomy fate in Hades; but the contest was an impasse. One side and then the other won a battle, but neither side could win a decisive victory. The Greeks could not introduce battle within the formidable Trojan walls, and the Trojans could not push the Greeks back to their ships and out to sea. Zeus had prohibited the intervention of the Olympians, so the outcome could only be decided by human elements. What took the Trojan W ar so long to conclude was the obsession of the Greeks to devise chimerical schemes to quickly bring the war to a close. And so the war dragged on, and it was becoming monotonous. More and more, members of both armies were dozing off even in the din of battle. Even the gods, who had actively participated in the war before Zeus’ decree, became indifferent; and to such a degree that they implored Father Zeus to smite both contingents to oblivion with one of his patented, far-reaching, guaranteed-to-fry thunderbolts. But Zeus would not yield, for he knew that victory for the Greeks was to be realized in this 10th year. Thus it was that Agamemnon, commander-in-chief of the combined Greek forces, summoned a meeting for the purpose of devising a plan to introduce battle withing the walls of the citadel. “ In 10 years of siege,” began Agamemnon, shouting to be heard above the cacophony of comrades who immediately fell asleep, “not one Greek has set foot inside the Trojan city. If we are to gain victory, then we must transcend the formidable walls.” Agamemnon’s speech merely inspired his comrades into deeper somnolent bliss, and in anger he began to strum his lyre. Being a novice to the instrument, the chords he struck were so disharmonious that all the strings broke (or rather, Apollo, out of compassion for the ethereal instrument, broke them) and the plangent twang managed to arouse the Greeks. Odysseus stretched and yawned, and his eyes fluttered open. “ W hat the Hades was that? Perhaps an earthquake has rumbled across the plain, destroying the citadel.” “ No such luck,” answered Agamemnon. “ You, Odysseus, are described by Homer as being crafty and sly. Haven’t you a crafty and sly plan to get us inside the walls?” Odysseus sententiously remarked, “ Blind labor of m an’s hands erects walls, divine inspiration destroys them; and I am so inspired. Remember that a wall is like a chasm with nothing there. Remember also th a t . . . ” “ Odysseus! Have you a plan or don’t you?” “ Oh yes, the plan. Perhaps we could make the Trojans believe that it is they who are outside the walls; thus would they strive to knock down the adam antine walls.” Agamemnon winced in disbelief. “ Odysseus, though you may be sly and crafty to the equal of Zeus, you are also abysmally stupid. To persuade the Trojans into believing that they are outside the walls, you would also have to persuade us that we are inside the walls.” “ Yeah, I suppose you’re right. I could never believe that we are inside the walls; we aren’t, are we?” The crash of Agamemnon’s shield over Odysseus’ head rumbled across the plain. Odysseus rose to his feet and in his eyes was a twinkle of divine inspiration. “ If we can’t go through the walls, how about going under or over?” “ And how would either of these be accomplished?” “To go under would require a tunneling device, which we don’t have, and haven’t the precedent to be so inspired; so that leaves us with excogitating means of going over, and here we find a precedent. Are you, my fellow warriors, familiar with the story of Daedalus and his son, Icarus?” “ You mean for us to fly over!” exclaimed Menelaus, his sleepy eyes struggling vainly to emphasize his exclamation. “ Why not,” returned Odysseus. “ All of us could construct our own set of wings, take to the air, and descend upon an unsuspecting Trojan city, descend like flies onto a putrid carcass.” “ O r,” suggested Diomedes, “ Or, instead of individual wings, we could construct one larg machine that could carry one entire legion. Thei several of the men could open the gates for the rest o us.” They decided to adopt Odysseus’ plan because i was crafty and sly. And so every Greek warrior bcgai to wax feathers on long, light boards. For two day they thus employed themselves. And the Trojans, whi faithfully took to the plain for their daily confronta tion, were nonplussed to discover that their presen adversaries were plucked chickens. Here did Zeu. wield his mighty thunderbolt, and unto the Trojan was given a barbecue. Finally, on the morn of the third day the Greek: were ready. They grouped themselves into fou squadrons, and an aeronautical terminology wa invented. Instead of attacking en masse, it wa: decided that first one squadron and then anothe would be dispatched until all squadrons were insidi the impregnable Trojan walls. The first squadron, under the command o: Odysseus, began to flap their wings; first gently to ge the feel of it, then furiously in preparation fo take-off. Heaven and earth alike trembled with the beating of 10,000 pair of wings; and much to tin dismay of the Greeks, the wind thus created filled th< air with dust so dense that no one could see more thai an inch in front of him. Nevertheless, Odysseus gav( the command to take to the air, and 10,000 Greek: were airborne. W hat confusion! There was so much dust tha collisions were frequent, and many fell to their death As for the rest, their fate was obscured by the almossolid body of dust that hung over the plain like ar opaque curtain. The remaining squadrons could no7 know what had happened to Odysseus and hi: squadron until the dust had settled. So Agamemnot decided to await knowledge of Odysseus’ fate before dispatching his own squadron of 10,000. But the wait was not long, for within five minute: could be heard the shouts of the Greeks: “ Hellllp!’ Blinded by the dust, and misguided by frequeni collisions, Odysseus and his hapless squadron hac flown in the wrong direction, and were now floundering in the sea. Needless to say, this crafty and sly plan of Odysseu: was abandoned, but he sparked the idea tha; eventually worked. As he was dragging himself up tlu beach, the feathers of his wings drooping as his spirii was drooping, Agamemnon asked him if there were some other way an aerial invasion could be effected and Odysseus gurgled, “ I wouldn’t horse around with that idea.” �>1 / 7 3 W abanaki Alliance Page 7 Maine Indians Involved In CENA Development A year ago this December Maine Indian leaders participated in a meeting of eastern Indians in Washington, D.C. This meeting came about largely as a result of the activity of Maine people! First came a visit by John and Susan Stevens to numerous Indian tribes east of the Mississippi. This was made possible by foundation funds located by Tom Tureen, a Calais attorney. Then, prompted by contacts made on the trip, resources were garnered from the McConnell Clark Foundation of New York City to bring eastern Indian people together. Over 125 people from some 65 eastern Indian tribes, communities and organizations came together for the first time in this century. Foundation officials and federal bureaucrats were on hand to discuss needs and aspirations. Several things evolved from this meeting including: a realization of the wide diversity of knowledge about the availability of resources to improve the lives of Indian people and how one organizes to use these resources; consid erab le e n th u siasm ; an d , the development of the Coalition of Eastern Native Americans (CENA). CENA will hold its second annual meeting in Washington, D.C., January 17. 18 and 19. A group, which a year ago was not even a group, has in one year’s time: incorporated, created an 11-member steering committee, sought and received funds for staff, established an office in Washington, D.C., agreed upon a goal (to work toward a single Federal Government Indian policy whereby all Indians arc treated alike for delivery of services and protection of resources, whether they be eastern, western, urban or rural) and has pledged to “help all Indian people in the east to move toward self-deter­ mination both community by community and state by state.” CENA staff person Linda Oxendine stated that this year’s conference will be geared toward participation in workshops. It is expected that those who have experienced what is to be dealt with in the workshops will be used to assist in the training of those who have not. The first of the workshops is to deal with community organization: how to organize your com­ munity, how to conduct a meeting, how to get things done, how to set goals and write priorties. The second workshop will be geared toward com­ munity participation. Getting people into school boards and taking advantage of the recently passed Indian Education Act. The third workshop will deal with the publishing of newspapers and newsletters: how to do it, what to start with, etc. The fourth workshop will deal with resource identi­ fication, the fifth with arts and crafts and marketing such, and the sixth with historical research and cultural awareness. Senate Hearings Held on BIA Commissioner Nomination WASHINGTON, D.C.—<AIPA>—People flocked to the Senate hearings here Nov. 14 on the nomination of the Indian Commissioner-designate, Morris Thompson, attesting to the troubled state of Indian affairs and a widespread concern for the decline of the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and the collapse of morale among its 16,000 employees over the past year. Although the post of the Indian Commissioner has been vacant since the firing of Louis R. Bruce last Dec. 6, the national energy crisis prevailed over the BIA vacancy as a total of seven senators came and went from the hearing room as they were required to voteNi a bill requiring mandatory fuel allocations for the nation on the Senate floor. Testifying on the abilities and character of Thompson were Sen. Mike Gravel (D-Alaska), Sen. Ted Stevens (R-Alaska), Rep. Donald Young (D-Alaska), State Sen. John Sackett (D-Alaska), and Interior Secretary Rogers C. B. Morton. Sen. James Abourezk (D-S.D.), chairman of the Senate Indian Affairs Subcommittee, chaired the overall session of the full Interior and Insular Affairs Committee. Dave Depew and Roger Gabriel To Staff Resource Center NEW STAFF — Roger Gabriel, above left, recently hired as Assistant Director of the Resource Center, is seen here with Louis Bruce, of CENA. Dave Depew, below', will serve the DIS Board as Center Director. Dave Dcpcw and Roger Gabriel have been hired by the Division of Indian Services (D1S) Board to provide staff assistance for board activities during the coming year. Dcpcw came to Maine from Montana where he had been involved in the newspaper business and, more recently, the organization of socio-economic and ethnic groups to promote changes benefiting minorities. Depew was editor of the Wolf Point Herald, a weekly on the Assiniboine-Sioux reservation in eastern Montana. Gabriel, originally from the Indian Township Reservation, was hired tq train under Depew. Gabriel is a graduate of Bangor High School and the Institute of American Indian Arts, Santa Fe, N.M. Gabriel returned to the Bangor area in 1971. The activities in which Depew and Gabriel are going to be assisting are covered on page 5 in a story dealing with the DIS work program. Programs fo r A roostook Youth O u tline d By JUDY LITZ, AAI Teenagers in Aroostook County will have the opportunity to get involved with their community this year. The staff and the youth coordinators of the Association of Aroostook Indian have set up a tentative plan designed to encourage the teenagers to take part in a number of different programs in hopes that it will inspire them to pursue careers within the Indian community in th e future. Each staff member will conduct an introductory workshop to groups of teenagers during which time he will discuss his program and describe the training and education requirements which were necessary to assume the responsibilities of this job. After the initial workshop he will request volunteers to serve on a committee whose tasks have been decided upon well in advance. Participation on the committee is voluntary and teenagers may serve on as many committees as they wish. At the present time .there are six committees to choose from: Newsletter, Dental, Alcoholism, Legal, Homcstart, Consumer. Newsletter: This committee will assist the secretary in gathering stories, interviewing people for the Aroostook Indian Newsletter and will assist her in editing, printing and circulating the publication. Teenagers interested in secretarial work or newspaper work will be encouraged to work on this committee. Dental: This committee will be acting out plays for younger children on ‘‘Tommy Toothache and Peter Plaque.” It is hoped that these plays will impress upon younger children the importance of dental care. Teenagers who may be interested in a career in dental work will be encouraged to serve on this committee as they will also learn a great deal about dental assisting. Alcoholism: This committee will be involved in peer counseling and the establishing of an Ala-teen group. Teenagers whose lives have been directly or indirectly affected by alcoholism will be encouraged to act on this committee. They will also learn a great deal on the causes and effects of alcoholism. Homesfiart: This committee will be acting out MicMac and Malecite legends for pre-schoolers as well as conducting creative story telling sessions for them. Any teenager with an interest in pursuing a career in education will be encouraged to serve on this committee. Legal: This committee will be involved in court­ watching and other projects designed to familiarize themselves with the local police and judicial system. It is hoped that this committee will pave the way for a better relationship between the police and Indian community. Consumer: This committee will be circulating shopping lists with prices of food in each grocery store on a weekly basis. This will be of great value to the person who would otherwise be running to every store to find the best bargain. This committee will also be doing some preliminary investigating into the possi­ bilities of setting up a co-op. Teenagers will also have the opportunity to meet people from different careers throughout the winter months. Career people ranging from stewardesses to craftsmen have volunteered their time in the upcoming months to come and spend a two hour "ra p ” session with anyone who might be interested in their career. These career motivation workshops have been established in order that teenagers may fully realize the numerous alternatives that are available to them upon completing their secondary education. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource <em>Wabanaki Alliance</em> (December 1973) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Indian Resource Center Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1973-12 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Donald Soctomah Julia Brush Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Document Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context DV-416 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Passamaquoddy Cultural Museum Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Steve Cartwright. Used with permission. https://www.dawnlandvoices.org/collections/files/original/cb47ace8511d8f4d2e2cb06263e2222c.pdf 71bc03a20aaa27d84b4c494afc1d669a PDF Text Text ������������ Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource <em>Wabanaki Alliance</em> (December 1978) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Indian Resource Center Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1978-12 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Document Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Donald Soctomah Julia Brush Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context DV-386 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Passamaquoddy Cultural Museum Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Steve Cartwright. Used with permission. https://www.dawnlandvoices.org/collections/files/original/61dbb8153a6de998dd979471a17802c1.pdf 6ff5b113e78d24b3acee4e1edf50d2fb PDF Text Text W . A . ZI LESSK I RFC 3 Bi.-TFORD* ME . Non-profit Organization U.S. Postage Paid 3.1c Permit No. 15 Orono, Maine 0 * 0 Os W abanaki A llia n ce December 1979 Indian court holds first session The Penobscot Nation held court for the first time ever, in modern form, on Dec. 13, and with its 10-case initial docket, quietly took a giant step toward asserting tribal jurisdiction. A committee of Penobscots headed by paralegal Jerry Pardilla has .worked painstakingly long hours in recent weeks to draft and codify a working plan for a court system and set of enforceable laws. Their hard work follows the landmark Sockabasin-Dana jurisdiction case last summer involving two Passamaquoddy men convicted of arson, in which a state supreme court ruled that the offense on a reservation was subject to federal, not state authority. Pardilla said the Holmes case — involving a non-Indian who said the state has no jurisdiction in a murder case last summer on Indian Island — “forced our hand,” and led to the hasty establishing of a tribal court and criminal justice system for minor offenses. Originally, the tribe planned on a two-year study period. Asked about the first session of Penobscot court, Maine Indian land claims lawyer vThomas N. Tureen, who has consulted with tribes on jurisdictional matters, told this newspaper, T in pleased that it’ functioning.” s Pardilla commented, “I think it went along well. I was just hoping that things would run smoothly and that we'd have respect, and we did.” Essentially, the Penobscots are devel oping a criminal justice system to handle non-major crimes involving only Indian persons. Crimes involving non-Indians will — if they occur on an Indian reservation in Maine — be handled by federal authorities. {Penobscots may choose to challenge the non-Indian aspect of jurisdiction at a later date.) Passamaquoddies Take Action Although Penobscots have taken the lead in establishing their own court, Passamaquoddies have not been idle. A s it turns out, each of Maine’ three Indian s reservations (one Penobscot, two Passa maquoddy) are going their separate ways in establishing new jurisdiction. Each reservation faces the challenge of filling the void left by the removal of state jurisdiction — a result of SockabasinDana. At Pleasant Point, paralegal consultant Valerie Em ery explained that a Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) court will be set up “in a month or so” through the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA). Much remains to be worked out, she said. [Continued on page 14] Ex-drug smuggling yocht given to tribe PLEASANT POINT — A 42-foot yacht has been presented to th * Pacsam.anuoddy » tribe free o f charge, and is expected to « nve this month at the reservation. Declared surplus property by the General Services Administration, the vessel was seized near Miami because o f its use in running illegal drugs. Three other boats seized in drug raids are also scheduled to be delivered to Pleasant Point, according to tribal Lt. Gov. Gifford (Giv) Dore. Dore, a sometime fisherman himself, said the vessels will probably net groundfish, and he hopes to see the as yet uncompleted fish processing plant in operation. The proces sing plant, built several years ago on reser vation land, has been used for storing housing materials. Discussing the first session of Penobscot tribal court at Indian Island are, from left, Jerry Pardilla, chairman of a judicial committee, tribal judge Andrew Mead, and tribal policeman TV??— ••I M v v ’y. Penobscots get their day in court...their o w n court INDIAN ISLAND— The somber tone of the courtroom couid not mask the excitement, as Indian Island completed another rite of passage into nationhood, the institu tion of its own court system. Even some of the defendants seemed to display embarrassed pride in their roles in the fulfillment of this long-awaited drama. [Although the docket was small and the infractions minor, the importance of the event was evident in the faces of the spectators, which included Island Governor, Nicholas Sapiel, and current Governor Wil fred Pehrson.) The session began with an explanation of the jurisdiction and [Continued on page 6] Cancer victim grateful after 50-50 life odds John Mitchell INDIAN ISLAND — There he is, looking like old times, enjoying everyone, young and old alike. He’ got the unlit cigar in his s mouth; “I chew tobacco,” he says with a grin. John Mitchell age 54 is a happy man. He was always a generous and kind person with an easygoing disposition. But a few months ago things began to change. Mitchell, a Penobscot who worked as project engineer with the Young Adult Conservation Corps at Indian Island, began acting a little strangelyAs Mitchell recalls it, “I was driving my car down the road and all o f a sudden I saw two cars coming at me, exactly the same, one in my lane. That was my starting point, with my left eye." Friends and co-workers noticed Mitchell just wasn’ quite himself. His wife Delores t was worried. Mitchell remembers: "I we:?f down to check my boat, and I saw a log beside the board, but when I stepped on it, there was no log there and I was in the water. Then the headaches started. It made me hurt so bad it made me cry.” So Mitchell went for a routine hospital checkup. The news was bad. Mitchell was informed he had cancer, and he became quite frightened for himself and his family. Today, when jovial John Mitchell takes off his woolen cap, his head shows the scars where massive surgery took place, using the most advanced skills and equip ment available at Eastern Maine Medical Center, Bangor. Until his hair grows back, Mitchell’ scalp resembles football-stitch s ing. The scars are startling, but Mitchell isn’ t embarrassed: he is proud. The tumor re moved from his head weighed more than nine pounds; more than many babies weigh at birth. Mitchell’ chances of surviving the s operation were put at 50-50. Even with Eastern Maine’s sophisticated equipment, not to mention specialists, the doctor’ didn’ know what caused Mitchell’ s t s [Continued on page 6] �Page 2 Wabanaki Alliance December 1979 editorials Set the record straight The men and women involved in writing and editing a new Maine history book, "D ingo,’’ are to be commended. It’ high time a book s was written which tries to correct some o f the many misconceptions about Indian people and their culture. It gives substance to the belief that Maine's tribes have endured a history o f injustices, not only at the hands o f the state, but historians as well. It should be noted, however, that in their zeal to shatter stereo types found in earlier texts, the editors have occasionally strayed from the role o f historians. Toward the end o f a second chapter devoted to the tribes, subjective statements take the place o f facts, with little or no explanation. The opening o f a Department o f Indian Affairs office for off-reservation Indians in Aroostook County is cited as evidence "the state had finally accepted responsibility for the loss o f Indian land and rights in Aroostook." The state might offer a different opinion. In another case, after an informative section on the Micmacs who settled in Maine following the American Revolution, the unsubstan tiated statement is made, “it is clear that the Americans have not lived up to promises made to them." A few facts are needed here to prove the point. Without the weight of evidence, such statements become mere opinion, not history. In striving the rectify wrongs o f past historians, the producers of this book have suffered some o f the same pitfalls as their prede cessors. In this case they have erred on the side o f a people abused throughout history. It would be tempting to say this is all right; but where a history book does not serve the truth, it loses strength. Let the facts speak for themselves. bv dl The April 1 deadline The celebrated Maine Indian land claims case will most likely be settled peaceably before April 1 1980. , That’ because a federal statute o f limitations takes effect on that s date. After April 1 no new Indian claims can be filed through the , federal government. This means that Penobscots and Passamaquoddies must settle their land and monetary claims prior to the deadline, or their legal clout will be wiped out. True, as some Indians argue, there is still the possibility o f World Court or other actions “outside the system,” but this seems a long shot at best. As w e’ said on this page before, a negotiated settlement appears ve to be the best o f all solutions to the valid claims o f the tribes. Right now, Penobscots and Passamaquoddies face the prospect o f 300,000 acres in an estimated $79 million total settlement, with a variety of special benefits in the form o f loans, grants and continuing support. In the past, we’ made overly optimistic predictions on these pages ve about the settlement timetable, and so we are cautious in viewing the latest proposal. But we can say without any doubt that as 1979 draws to an end, so does the decade o f struggle by Penobscots and Passa maquoddies to regain some o f what is rightfully theirs. The tribes have done their homework, and the deadline is no major threat to their long term efforts. They are ready to move. A dedicated negotiating committee has worked very hard to secure a claims settlement that is both realistic and beneficial to the Indian community. W INDIAN FRlENPsWE HAVE 50/V\E FINE PROPERTY H E R E , FOR A M 0 P E 5 T PRICE. Drugs an insidious force by Brenda Polchies I am an Indian person who is aware, is conscious o f problems confronting the Indian community today, and I am aware of the pressures which are placed on our Indian leaders. But I have come to realize and fear that a sickness is infiltrating the Indian community and the white com munity through the guise o f legitimate agencies employing certain Indian and nonIndian persons. The sickness I will name specifically here is drugs. Illegal, immoral, and hypocritical. These drugs are being ingested by certain individuals o f the Indian community and the white community in the state and out o f state who are in decision making capacities. Decisions are being made for me and for you by Indians and non-Indians whose minds and bodies are saturated with these illegal drugs. I do not want decisions being made for me by these people. I do not want a drug-in duced mind to determine my life, my future, and my happiness. I do not want these druginduced individuals to determine the life of my child. A thorough inner community and inner agency house cleaning needs to take place soon before it’ too late. These people s have to either butt out completely and crawl around their own sick world, or they must come forward and answer to someone. They are kidding no-one but themselves. They are the fools. I know others are aware o f the problem, and from the silence on this matter, I see they choose to ignore it. Many times I have broached this subject to key people I thought were knowledgeable, intelligent, and concerned, and many times an invisible door was shut in my face. Why? What are they afraid of? People with alcohol prob lems, who are labeled as medically sick, would soon enough find themselves kicked out into the street if they showed up drunk at their jobs. They would be arrested and put in jail. Appropriate help is available to them. Is it so different with this drug situation? Just because the effect o f illegal drugs is not obvious to an average individual, does that make it more respect able, more acceptable? Where is the appropriate help for drug users and drug addicts? I have heard a lot about public awareness about drugs. Where is this public awareness? I do not want to impede the progress and great strides the Indian com munity has made in the last few years, nor do I want to just stand aside and allow this problem to exist. Once upon a time, I was very proud o f these Indian leaders. I was proud to be a part o f the Indian community. I felt safe and secure in knowing the fact that my Indian brothers were intelligent, sensitive, and very capable in expressing my views, concerns, and problems to the white community and to political representatives. But I don’ feel t safe and secure anymore. I don’ feel t especially proud o f my Indian brothers either. Many of my friends are into drugs; they avoid me and they no longer look me straight in the eye; they turn their heads away. Obviously, they have a guilty con science. Why did they succumb to this insidious evil? How does one stop this epidemic? I say the word epidemic because it is touching on all human aspects — Indian, white, youth, and adult. And it isn’ just the kids and t adults on the street anymore who are affected by this problem. Teachers, lawyers, people in social agencies, health agencies, federal agencies, state agencies, personnel in jails and prisons, doctors and nurses; counselors in hospitals — who purport to be helping drug addicts and alcoholics — are playing a hypocritical role because I have come across an instance where a counselor was into drugs himself; people with profes sional backgrounds, people with advanced university and college educations are all included; are susceptible to this disease. To me, the enemy is drugs. They have become as easily available as aspirin, but the damage they do in terms o f destroying physical health, mental health, and family relationships is paramount. I have not seen legislation or laws which put legal restraints on dealing specifically with drugs. Since it seems virtually impossible to stop the source o f illegal drugs, I would like to see legislation enacted to some way, somehow, make it mandatory for persons to submit to a blood test, urine test, whichever way is more feasible, to keep these people from being employed in jobs which help pay for these drugs. A system can be developed which will make it mandatory for employees to be accountable for their absences, where abouts — their time on the job to their superiors, their board o f directors, and their executive staff. I know this sounds like a naive way of solving a problem, but does anyone else have a better solution? Since this message is directed more towards the Indian community, I offer this last statement: Indian people today are as vulnerable to society’ illicit, contemporary s temptations as they were many, many years ago. Is anyone out there listening? Does anyone care? �Wabanaki Alliance December 1979 Page 3 letters to the Bread and light PRINCIPAL AND PUPIL — Sister Anselma Colford, Indian Township elementary school, and student Jay Mazzadra, son of Martha Malec, enjoy one another’ com s pany in this recent photo. Great teaching Indian Township To the editor: I sure enjoy your nice paper and am sending a clipping o f my son Jay, age 9, with Sister Ann Anselma o f Peter Dana Point. She is out sick and 1 hope she feels much better soon. She's been a very good principal at the school. My son is learning Passamaquoddy and all the teachers have been very great in teaching him. He loves the reservation and hopes to live here. Merry Christmas to all of you and keep up the good work. Martha Malec Indian Township To the editor: People o f God . . . Peace and comfort be with you. My feelings for you are best expressed by Paul and Timothy in the opening remarks of the letter to the Prayer Community of Philippi . . . Philippians 1 2-6, “Grace to : you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all, making my prayer with joy, thankful for your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now. And, 1 am sure that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ." As the Irish say, with a slight variation, “Strangers are merely friends you have not yet met." The few I have shared with in the past, proved a grace in my life. I can only look forward with anticipation to the joy of meeting the rest of you in person. Mean while, this letter will have to suffice to express my thanks for your fellowship and support. Quincy, Boston, Plymouth, Brockton and many places in between, have been a wall of strength and disciple-ship for us Indians. You cannot know here on earth just how deeply your love has shaped us in the Lord and our ministry o f sharing Bread and Light. Your love has allowed Jesus, as Lord of Nations, to open up for us those “New Horizons” we share as a common vision. Again, our thanks in Him, Partileas Susap (The Rev. Joseph Laughlin) Indian crossroads Denver, Colo. To the editor: The Denver Native Americans United, Inc., has been publishing a monthly news letter for over two years. This newsletter covers national as well as local news and is a focus for the Native Americans in this region. Denver has been called the “Crossroads of Indian Country," and rightfully so. There are approximately 10,000 Indians living and working here. They come from all over the country representing all tribes. The DNAU Center itself serves approximately 4,000 people, providing emergency assistance, educational programs and employment resources, as well as diverse social and cultural programs. Sam Gardipe, Jr., Editor Reinforcing pride Tucsen, Arizona To the editor: Your paper is like a letter from home. It serves to reinforce m y pride of my heritage. Congratulations on a well-edit ed, illustrated, informative and pure journalistic production. I’ enclosed a small contribution. ve Merry Christmas to you and staff. Normand T. Nelson Dominica To the editor: My name is Hilary Frederick, Chief of the Carib Reserve, on the island of Dominica, in the West Indies; the last remaining o f the Carib race. This is the last reservation .. . the only one in the Caribbean island. I am writing to you because I received your news paper, the Wabanaki Alliance, and I find it very interesting. There is a lot of history that has to be told about Caribs. First, I will just give you some informa tion. The Carib Reserve is situated on the east side o f the Island o f Dominica; it contained originally 7,760 acres of land, but the government took some land and there now remains 3.700 acres, which I have a certificate o f title to. At the age o f 22, I find the Caribs. the minority on the island, we are left back, as the majority are the black, and the rulers are black also. And the problem which- faces me now is that, there are many black, or illegal residents on the reserve. I would like to put them out, but no help. I am writing to link with my fellow Indians overseas, to get acquainted with their leaders. And the people too. The Caribs number 500 pure caribs; 1,000 mixed; 500 black. Maybe you have heard o f the hurricane that struck my island very badly. In the Carib Reserve there were about 125 homes damaged. We have no materials to rebuild. We would like galvanized board nails, chain saws and other building materials. Along with that 2,000 acres o f tree crops were damaged and 1,100 acres o f forest land. So I am asking my fellow brothers to help me in my poor situation. The hur ricane occurred on the 28th o f August, 1979. I would like to write news o f the Carib for your newpaper in the near future. Ala-qua-bou-tauAla-cou-nar, maul Aquichah Hilary Frederick Seeking members Leesburg, GA. Imprisoned Redding, Calif. To the editor: I am a sixteen-year-old Indian boy in a correctional institution. I would like to receive your newsletter soon. Thank you. Danny Black Hawk Worthen Wabanaki Alliance A Carib describes his people To the editor: The Southeastern Cherokee Confederacy, Inc. is a non-profit organization. We are accepting members with 1/16 or more of Indian heritage, but they can’ belong to two t tribes at one time. For more information write to Principal Vice Chief Jim Little Hawk Jackson, Southeastern Cherokee Con federacy. Inc., Rt. 1 Box 112, Quitman, GA , 31643. Vol. 3, No. 12 December 1979 Published monthly by the Division of Indian Services [DIS] at the Indian Resource Center, 95 Main St., Orono, Maine 04473. MEMBER — MAINE PRESS ASSOCIATION Steven Cartwright, Editor William O’Neal, Associate Editor DIS Board of Directors TROPHY ANGLER — Joe Lola, 12, of Indian Township caught the biggest fish last summer at Camp Roosevelt in East Edding ton. The trophies were presented to Joe on August 23rd by the Camp Director, Tom Herbert. [Photo by Kathy Tomah] Jean Chavaree [chairman] John Bailey, Public Safety Coordinator Albert Dana, Tribal Councilor Timothy Love, Representative to State Legislature Jeannette Neptune, Community Development Director Jeannette LaPlante, Central Maine Indian Assoc. Susan Desiderio, Assn, of Aroostook Indians Maynard Polchies, President, Aroostook Indians Melvin L. Vicaire, Central Maine Indian Assn. David A. Francis, Public Safety Department Indian Island Pleasant Point Indian Township Indian Island Indian Township Orono Houlton Houlton Mattawamkeag Pleasant Point DIS is an agency of Diocesan Human Relations Services, Inc. of Maine. Subscriptions to this newspaper are available by writing to Wabanaki Alliance, 95 Main St., Orono, Me. 04473. Diocesan Human Relations Services and DIS are a non-profit corporation. Contri butions are deductible for income tax purposes. Picture raises questions Iowa City, Iowa To.the editor: I’m writing in order to share a theory about the enclosed picture and to ask whether you have any information which might correct or support it. It is a portrait of “Joseph Porus, Pen obscot Chief," painted in Washington. D.C., 1842. by Charles Bird King. It belongs to the Thomas Gilcrease Institute of American History and Art, Tulsa, Okla homa, where I took this photo o f it in June. You can also find a black and white reproduction o f it in THE INDIAN LEGACY OF CHARLES BIRD KING, by Herman J. Viola (Smithsonian Inst. Press, 1976), p . 111. My theory is that “Porus” is the same man who. 15 years later, was the “Joe Polis" who guided Thoreau. (See the 3rd part of THE MAINE WOODS.) T h o rea u sa y s that Polis had represented his tribe in Washing ton many years before and was age 48 in 1857, making him 33 in 1842. His descrip tion o f Polis fits the man in this portrait, and he also says that Polis had difficulty pronouncing r’ and l’ sometimes using s s, one for the other, which would explain the two spellings and further support the identity. Is there somebody in the Penobscot tribe or among the Abanakis (Wabanakis?) who knows any more? I learned about the existence o f the portrait from a man in Schenectady, N.Y., Andrew Farry, who wrote after reading my book THOREAU AND THE AMERICAN INDIANS, to ask why I had used a picture o f Joe Aitteon but none o f Polis. He’ never d seen the picture, but had seen a reference to it in an article nearly 25 years before and had always assumed that Porus and Polis were the same man. What a memory! 1 have a little more information about “Porus" and the painting if you are interested. My home address is R.R. 1, Box 66, Oxford, Iowa 52232 (tel. 319/683-2692). Robert F. Sayre Native fashion show Lincoln. Nebraska To the editor: The Native American Special Events Committee o f the University Program Council would like to do a Native American fashion show with traditional and contemp orary fashions. We are planning on doing the show sometime between April 21 and 26, 1980, when we are also planning a traditional program. 1 would like some information concerning clothing designers in your area. Please send names, addresses and telephone numbers by December 14 if at all possible. Send to: Kim Otto, 200 Nebraska Union, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE 68588. Thank you for your cooperation. Kim Otto �Page 4 Wabanaki Alliance December 1979 Indian woman files complaints in job hassle MILLINOCKET — Mary Francis Isaac sits calmly in her Katahdin Avenue living room and recounts a series o f events that have escalated a personality conflict into a human rights case. A founding member of Central Maine Indian Association (CMIA), Isaac, a Penob scot, does not believe in being pushed around. She maintains that her boss, Millinocket Town Manager William J. Ayoob, has unfairly attacked her in her job as bookkeeper/payroll clerk in the town office. Isaac is currently vice president o f CMIA, and a board member o f Tribal Governors, Inc. As Wabanaki Alliance went to press, a hearing was scheduled to take place in Bangor on an unfair labor practices charge, presented by Isaac to the Maine Labor Relations Board. Also, the Maine Human Rights Commission was planning to file a report if Ayoob and Isaac could not negotiate a settlement by Dec. 1 . 7 All of this action began July 25, according to Isaac, when she received a written repri mand from Ayoob. The strongly worded letter said in part: “You are spending too much time at the counter and on the telephone talking, much o f it about town business not within your scope o f respon sibility or authority; much of it that has nothing to do with town business at all, and offering information not within your auth ority to do so.” Ayoob also said Isaac was causing a morale problem. The letter further stated that Isaac was “hereby placed on notice that a continuance Mary Francis Isaac of said action may result in suspension or termination.” The next day, Isaac sent a brief letter asking Ayoob to clarify the charges. On Aug. 1 Isaac decided she had waited long 1, enough for an explanation. She wrote Ayoob that she had “no alternative but to request your utmost cooperation in proceeding to bring this grievance to the Personnel Appeals Board. I believe I am being singled out for reasons unknown to me and apparently non-justifiable in writing.” Oddly enough, although a fiery dispute was carried on in the mails, Isaac and Ayoob continued to work in the same offices, with much daily contact. On Sept. 13, Ayoob responded to the Aug. 1 letter from Isaac. 1 Ayoob defended his initial reprimand, but said “no further action is contemplated if the letter o f reprimand is taken seriously and those types of actions mentioned are corrected.” Ayoob wrote: “ I have complimented your neatness, cleanliness, and technical ability. You were, however, reprimanded for poor attitude, wasting time, unnecessary talking at the counter, too much time on the telephone on non-professional matters, and involving yourself in dispensing information not within your authority to do so.” Ayoob concluded the letter with a warning to dis continue “insubordination, disrespect, and the attitude o f isolationism,” or be fired. Asked if any o f Ayoob’ charges were s valid, Isaac said that she had occasionally handled Central Maine Indian Association business on the town office phone, but that she had always made up the time, and had not let it interfere with her usual duties. Isaac said she is convinced Ayoob wants to punish her for taking time to hear the case o f distant relative Ronald (Sonahbeh) Francis, charged with building an illegal fire at Debsconeag Deadwater. On July 18, in Millinocket, Judge Jessie H. Briggs ruled that although Francis, a Penobscot, clearly had built a fire without permission o f the landowner. Great Northern Paper Co., the state had not proved beyond reasonable doubt that Great Northern’ title was s superior to the Penobscot Indians’ abor iginal title. The finding: not guilty. “If anything,” Isaac said, “ I’ guilty of m gloating over the opinion." On Oct, 12, Ayoob ordered Isaac to report to the public Works Director for work as a secretary, on Monday, Oct. 15, at the same rate o f pay as she received in the town office. Supreme Court agrees to government appeal on Black Hills award Penobscot tribal Gov. Wildred Pehrson chats with St. Regis Mohawk Chief Leonard Garrow, at recent reception for Mohaws at Indian Island health center. Elected Mohawk officials oppose traditional movement ST. REGIS (AKWESASNE) — Three chiefs o f the Mohawk tribal council here have accused a small group of Indians o f dis rupting the reservation in the name of tradi tional longhouse leadership. One of the chiefs recently visited Indian Island Penob scot reservation. According to a New York State news paper, the duly elected — and officially rec ognized— government o f Mohawks opposes the efforts of a radical group that has barricaded itself in a reservation encamp ment. The group had earlier seized a tribal building, but later relinquished it. The disputed leadership at the St. Regis reservation began with an incident involving the federally funded Young Adult Conser vation Corps (YACC) and Loran Thompson, a traditionalist chief. Thompson and Joseph Swamp, another Mohawk, apparently want to challenge state sovereignty on the reservation, and they have refused to return YACC equipment seized last May, in return for dropping o f charges against them. Chief Leonard Garrow of the Mohawk tribe visited Penobscot Health and Social Services recently, along with Mohawk health service staff and council members. During an informal conversation, Garrow told Wabanaki Alliance that the traditionals were trouble-makers, some of whom came from elsewhere to join the rebellion. Garrow and two other chiefs wrote, “If the traditional Indian people at St. Regis want to take over the government of the St. Regis tribe and govern the affairs through the historical form o f government, then they must convince all the Indian people at St. Regis to accept that type of government. This does not seem probable,” they added. Akwesasne Notes, an Indian newspaper with national circulation, has become spokesman for the insurgent Mohawks, and a recent issue contains a long article in defense of the traditionalist faction. The Supreme Court agreed Dec. 10 to hear the government’ challenge of the s $105 million award made to the Sioux Indians for the taking of seven million acres of land in the Black Hills area where gold was found, after the land had been set aside for the Indians. The settlement is the largest court judgment ever won by American Indians. The U.S. Court of Appeals, in ordering the settlement, ruled that the Govern ment violated the Constitution in taking the land without compensation. Though the Government is appealing < the award, many of the Sioux leaders have argued that they do not want the money, claiming they are entitled to the return of the land. Corrections A sports photo caption in last month’ s Wabanaki Alliance incorrectly identified a young runner as Jamie Knapp. The boy pictured is Kirk Francis o f Indian Island. Both lads competed in the track meet at Maranacook Community School. In another sports photo, a caption incor rectly stated coach Mike Ranco was an Orono High School graduate. Ranco grad uated from Old Town High School. Mar anacook coach Stan Cowan attended Orono High, and the two ran against each other in their student days. The editor apologizes for his errors. The reassignment, he wrote, was caused by Isaac’ “attitude” and relationship to s Ayoob, which had not improved satisfactori ly, in the manager’ opinion. s The next day, town councilors Nathalie V. McGibbon and John Pelkey wrote separate letters to the Personnel Appeals Board in support of Isaac's protest at her transfer. Isaac herself filed a formal grievance with the board Oct. 14. Two days later the Personnel Appeals Board responded to the councilors, saying that Ayoob’ transfer of Isaac was legal, s and an appeal would not be considered unless she was terminated. Isaac will have worked three years for the town this January. “Nowhere, as long as I have worked, has anything like this been done. I felt singled out,” she told this newspaper. Isaac said she decided to try to organize town office employees as a union. “I felt the non-union employees didn’ have any power. t The girls were actually being intimidated. We figured we better protect ourselves,” she said. Seeking union recognition did not bring Isaac and Ayoob any closer to an understanding. On Oct. 23,_ a field representative of American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees filed a complaint with Maine Labor Relations Board. The com plaint alleged "intimidation” o f those persons wishing to unionize, and improper transfer o f employees (such as Isaac) from one job to another. Results o f the hearing, slated Dec. 19, were not known at press time. The Maine Human Rights Commission became involved in October when Isaac filed a complaint alleging discrimination by the town o f Millinocket. A closed-door hearing was held by the commission in November, to determine if an informal resolution of differences was possible. Isaac declined to discuss the hearing publicly. Ayoob was hesitant to discuss the Isaac case in a telephone interview. “I’ not going m to get into a debate,” he said. But he commented that “some of her friends have done her in,” in reference to a petition reportedly bearing 400 signatures of support for Isaac. “ In all honesty I made some transfers, and I did it for the good o f the service,” Ayoob told Wabanaki. Alliance. “I’ not m going to go out and hurt anybody,” he said. Would he fire anyone? “ God help us, ab solutely not.” Ayoob said. Isaac said 1 town employees have 1 resigned since last spring, and five depart ment heads will have resigned by Christmas. Do you have a drinking problem? Wabanaki Corporation offers an alco holism program for Indian people who need help because o f problems with alcohol. If you have such a problem- and need help, or know o f someone in need, please contact the Alcoholism Counselor in your community or area. Indian Island — Alcoholism Counselors — Clarence Francis — Rosalie Murphy — 207-866-5577. Indian Township — Alcoholism Coun selors — James Mitchell — Bernard Stevens — 207-796-2321. Association o f Aroostook Indians — Alcoholism Counselors — Pious Perley — Harriet Perley — 207-762-3571. Pleasant Point — Alcoholism Counse lors — Grace Roderick — Angelina Robichaud — 207-853-2537. Central Maine Indian Association — Alcoholism Counselor — Alfred Dana — 207-269-2653 or 207-866-5577. �Wabanaki Alliance December 1979 Page 5 Textbok revises Indian history “It was a struggle ... many years after the coming o f the Europeans, we united into an alliance called the Wabanaki Confederacy ... this idea of a confederacy set an example for the bringing together many states under one government. It served as a model for the United States and the United Nations.” That is an excerpt from the draft copy o f a textbook which will take an unusual approach toward Indians and their role in the history o f the state. Prepared for junior high school history classes, “Dirigo: The Story o f Maine” is intended by its compiler. Dean B. Bennett, to present in a new light Indians, FrancoAmericans and other aspects o f state history that have been avoided or misrepresented in the past. Operating under a grant through the state Department of Education and Cultural Services, Bennett has enlisted the aid of American Friends Service Committee and a panel of Indian volunteers who served as an advisory committee on the chapters o f the book dealing with Indians. While the textbook had not been deliver ed to the printers as o f press time, and further revision was possible, a draft copy of Dirigo was in nearly final form. The first section of Dirigo dealing with Indians is told in the first person, and describes encounters with European explorers, settlers and French priests. “Many o f us felt that our own spiritual leaders had failed us, so we turned more and more to the Christian missionaries for help,” the narration says. Told from a con temporary Indian viewpoint, the text says, "Alcohol was even more damaging to our culture than all the epidemics." “In our way o f life, we worked very hard to settle disagreements peacefully. For instance, every person’ opinion was listened s to with respect. No wonder we thought Europeans w ere uncivilized,” the narrator says. A section on the “war years” tells o f the European view o f Indians as "children of the devil;” o f the quest for land, and a divide and conquer approach. A particularly vivid incident is recalled, when English sailors took an Indian baby from a mother to see if it could swim at birth, “like animals.” The baby, son o f Abenaki Chief Squando, drowned in the Saco River. A section on “the spirit o f freedom” notes the Maine Indians “had given many lives for the Revolutionary cause, but when the war was over, the Americans, it seemed, no longer needed them.” Earlier, in 1775, Joseph Orono (part white), said “Our white brothers (Americans) tell us that they came to our land to enjoy liberty and life. But their King (of England) is coming to bind them in chains and to kill them.” A fateful treaty was signed in 1794, in which the Passamaquoddies gave up most of their lands, saving only six square miles near Princeton, several islands in the St. Croix River, plus 23.000 additional acres. In 1796 and again in 1818, the Penobscots are recorded as giving up lands. Knew not what they did According to the Dirigo text, “ In spite of the many deeds signed by the Abenakis, it is clear they did not understand what they were doing. To sell land was something unheard of to the Indians. They did not understand English law. And because they could not read they never really knew what was written into the land deeds.” As early as 1698, Wabanaki Indians of Maine agreed to be ruled by the English and respect settlements. The agreement didn’ t stick, with apparent violations on both sides. Maine Indians generally sided with the French, and the Wabanaki Confederacy, or Great Council Fire, was an attempt to present a united front. In 1724 Father Rasle — a French Catholic priest who compiled a Wabanaki dictionary now in Harvard’ s library — was killed in the Norridgewock Indian massacre. The English attitude was further evidenc ed by a bounty on Penobscot scalps, issued in 1755 (1756, according to Dirigo). Such attitude leaves suspect a later English proc lamation that Penobscot “lands and prop erty rights and liberty shall never be invaded or distrubed.” At the chapter’ conclusion, questions are s posed for the student, such as, "D o you think the early history o f Maine could have been different? Do you think the Europeans and Wabanakis could have found a way to live in peace? How do you think truth can help people understand each other?" The second chapter devoted to Indians traces each o f the four Maine tribes from the early 1800's to the present, beginning with the Passamaquoddies. The role o f the state Indian agents in “leasing” tribal land and the influence these people held is discussed. The setting up of a trust fund by the state, using profits from the sale of tribal timber is mentioned, and it is stated that it is the money from the Indian’ own trust fund which finances their s welfare program, not the generosity o f their white neighbors, as is commonly believed. The growing dependence o f the Passama quoddies on welfare is chronicled, as they shifted from hunting to guiding and craft making. 01d~an3~5lew Parties which formed follow ing introduction o f Protestant schools to the reservation as well as the debate over whether to keep the lifetime chiefs or hold regular elections. The book demonstrates the attitude o f the By His H O N O U R state toward the tribes in pointing out that Maine did not grant the right to vote to Maine tribes until 30 years after this right had been recognized by the federal govern Lieutenant-Govcrnour and Commander in Chief, in and over H is Majcfly’s Province o f the M affacbufeltsBay in N ew-England. ment. Dirigo outlines the struggle of the tribes to get out from under the state’ influence, s beginning with formation o f the Depart H E R E A S the Tribe o f Pem bfcot Indians have repeatedly in a perfidious Manner adted con ment o f Indian Affairs (DIA) and cul trary to their folcmn Submiflion unto H is Majefty long fince made and frequently renewed ; minating in the Indian land claims. The sab* thereto*, attheaNOKofthc^oufeofmeprefentatibes, totfl tljc 2Db(ceof Passamaquoddy section concludes by stat SfS © attftp’ Council, thought fit to rffuc th(s proclamation, anb to Declare the ing that Indians are beginning to control s Penobfcot xribe of 3nDfans to be enemies, Rebels anD Xraitojs to $fs © ajeftp iting G E O R G E the S econ d : 2lnD 3 Do Ijctcby require Sis fi@ajeftp’ Subjects of their own lives, although specific examples s this probmee to embrace all iOppojtunltfes of purfulng, captibating, Hilling anD D e* are not given. The section on the Penobscots traces a Croplng all anD ebetp of the afojefalD JnDlans. similar decline into dependence on the state A N D W H E R E A S the General Court of this Province have voted that a Bounty or Incouas the tribe lost first its land and then its ragement be granted and allowed to be paid out o f the Publick Treafury. to the marching Forces that Ihall livelihood. Penobscot Lt. Gov. John Neptune have been employed for the Defence ol the E oficrn and W eflern Frontiers, from the F ir jl to die Twentypermitted the state to remove timber from fifth o f this Inftant November ; tribal lands, but asked to be allowed to § abe thought fit to publitt) the fame; anD 3 Do hereby iDiomifc, -Chat there 0>nll continue hunting the game on the lands. be paiD out of the ^roblnce-iCceafurp to all anD any of the faiD jfotets, ober anD However, the resulting heavy timbering abobe their JBounty upon ^nliftmcnt, their (KUagcs anD SmbOfrcncc, tfje premiums oj drove the animals away. In addition, it $onnty following, viz. greatly reduced the number o f birch, killing For every Male Penobfcot Indian above the A ge o f Twelve Years, that fiiall be taken within the T im e the canoe-making industry, according to the aforefaid and brought to Bofion, F ifty Pounds. book. For every Scalp o f a Male Penobfcot Indian above the A ge aforcfiid,brought in as Evidence o f their being The book again emphasizes that welfare killed as aforefaid, Forty Pounds. money received on the reservations comes from tribal trust funds started long ago in For every Female Penobfcot Indian taken and brought in as aforelaid.and for every Male Indian Prifoncr under the A ge o f Twelve Years, taken and brought in as aforefaid, Twenty-fve Pounds. exchange for use of the tribe’ lands. s Some of the questionable land deals the For every Scalp o f luch Female Indian or Male Indian under the A ge o f T w elve Years, that fiiall be state made with the Penobscots are high killed and brought in as Evidence o f their being killed as aforefaid, Twenty Pounds. lighted. For example, the book states that in Given at the Council-Chamber in Bofion, this Third Day of November 1755, and in the Twenty-ninth Year of 1833 the state sent two men to the the Reign of our Sovereign Lord G E O R G E the Second, by the Grace of GOD of Great-Britam, Penobscots to purchase as much land as France and Ireland, KING, Defender o!: the Faith, 6 -" <possible, resulting in the sale o f four town B j H I j Hononr'r Command, ships. Only four tribal members signed the 3. C lU , Sect. H acD agreement, of which two of the signatures are of doubtful validity, the book says. The state then sold the land to one o f the two negotiators. The book mentions a decline o f the Pen B 0 S T O N : Printed by John Draper, Printer to Mis Honour the Licutenam-Goveinour aud Council. 1755obscot culture, although this section ends S P E N C E R A P H I P S, Efq; P R O C L A M A T I O N . W I 1 S. Phips. GOD Save the KI NG. with the comment, “and there is a real movement on the part o f many Penobscots to live in keeping with their traditional values.” Next, the Maliseets are discussed. The presence o f early Maliseet hunters in Aroostook County is discussed, and the fact that Maliseets were living in the Houlton ara is noted. Stating, "Never once did the Mali seets sign a treaty giving up their hunting territory in Aroostook,” the book questions the state’ failure to recognize the Maliseets s as a tribe. The effects o f the state’ unwillingness to s recognize Maliseets are considered, and the section concludes, “All in all, these Mali seets have come to be treated as unwanted strangers in their own land.” The book turns to the role o f Micmacs in the American Revolution and their settling in Aroostook afterwards. The tribe’ plight s since that time is mentioned; the unem ployment, poor housing, poor health, and discrimination are all noted. The text discusses the formation o f offreservation agencies, Association o f Aroos took Indians (AAI), and Central Maine Indian Association (CMIA). The conclusion o f this final chapter on Maine Indians deals with current develop ments in tribal history, primarily through a discussion o f issues such as sovereignty and Maine Indian land claims. Federal grants aid Indian pupils WASHINGTON — The Department of Health. Education and Welfare has award ed S43.6 million for projects in 42 states which are designed to meet special educa tion and culturally related academic needs of American Indians, Eskimos, and Aleut children. 1,148 public school districts during the 1979-80 school year. On the Honor Roll PLEASANT POINT— The following students received 85 per cent or higher grades in all subjects the first quarter of this school year at the Beatrice Rafferty School: GRADE 1 Starr Nicholas, Rene Altvater, Tonia Smith and Jonathan Homan. GRADE 2 Timothy Newell, Adam Moore, James Gibson, Steph an ie Francis, M elvin Francis, Elizabeth Francis, Tekewitha Doten, Nancy Clement, Victor Bassett and Lisa Barnes. GRADE 3 Percy Moore and Jacinta Altvater. GRADE 4 . Maria Bailey, Treena Graham. Sebas tian Moore, Ernest Neptune, Hounie Newell, R oger Newell, Joseph Nott and Lisa Smith. GRADE 5 Claire Francis, Sarah Dana, Rolfe Richter, Venus Murphy, Theresa Farrell, James Bailey, Lois Soctomah, Sebrena Sockabasin, Patrick Newell and Lori Cantara. GRADE 6 Sam Newell, Kelly Emery, Joey Barnes, Cheryl Paul, Evelyn Newell, Peter Clement, Lisa Gardner, Darrell Francis, Phillip Nicholas and Marie Newell. GRADE 7 Stella Dana, Mary M oore Robert Newell, Evelyn Lewey, Mary Aubrey, Denise Moore, Sandy Yarmal, Ralph Dana, Rhonda Emery, Harvard Socto mah, Esther Altvater, Rachael Nicholas, John Stanley and Susan Francis. GRADE 8 Rena Newell, Jodi Yarmal, Veronica Newell, Gail Mitchell, Ruby Smith, Lynn Bailey and Sheila Doyle. �Page 6 Wabanaki Alliance December 1979 Penobscots handle first docket [Continued from page one] procedures of the court by Judge Andrew A. Mead, a Bangor attor ney. In his opening statements, Mead pointed out that the tribe had adopted most of the criminal, motor vehicle, and juvenile codes of Maine, as well as Maine’ criminal s and civil procedures. He said the maximum fine which could currently be imposed was $500 and maximum imprisonment, six months, adding that, until the court is more firmly established sentences and fines would be lower than in state courts. The first case to appear before the court was that of Eloise Francis, charged with criminal mischief and disorderly conduct. To the first charge Francis pleaded guilty and was fined $15. To the charge of disorderly conduct she pleaded not guilty and was scheduled a jury trial. In other cases James Paul, Ronald Paul, and Richard Hamilton, Jr. each pleaded nolo contendere to charges of disorderly conduct and were fined $15. Hamilton also Cancer patient wins pleaded guilty to possession of a useable amount of marijuana after first asking Mead what a useable amount was and how the court was sure the substance had been mari juana. Mead declined comment, saying as judge he was not permitted to offer legal counsel. Hamilton was charged $10. In another disorderly conduct case, Christine LaCasse pleaded not guilty and was scheduled for a jury trail. [Continued from page one] huge tumor. “They didn’ really know what t it was,” Mitchell said with a sense of wonder. Doctors did diagnose cancer, however, and Mitchell has undergone 40 cobalt radiation treatments. When the choice had to be made, Mitchell is happy to report that “the decision to operate on me was made by the entire family.” Not only that: “Both sides of my family stood behind me,” he said. A brother, Gary, traveled from Mississippi. In three traffic related cases The entire family, children included, fav Kelvin M. Francis and Elizabeth ored the operation. Murphy pleaded guilty to operating Brothers Matthew and Ted “Goodluck” a motor vehicle without a license, were close at hand, and sister-in-law Mary and Calvin E. Tomah pleaded guilty Isaac from Millinocket was helpful in the to permitting an unlicensed driver crisis. to operate his car. All three were “You know, you never know who your fined $15. friends are until you’ on your back . . . re The only scheduled case not until a man lays $100 on your bed when you processed was that of Stanley haven’ worked three months and says t Neptune, who also had refused to sign a summons to court according Merry Christmas.” Tears welled in Mit to Bailiff Darryl Massey. Mead chell’s eyes and he had to stop talking issued a bench warrant for N ep awhile. tune’ arrest. s Mitchell has unrestrained praise for The next court session will be Doctors Donald Stillwagon and Ernesto held Jan. 9, 1980. Ballesteros of Eastern Maine Medical Center. He is grateful beyond words. “The biggest thing that pulled me through was the Lord God, and the surgeons,” he said, adding, “They are the best team that there is.” Mitchell said that he wasn’ always the t Kenneth Black, executive director of the model patient in Bangor. “I had a hell o f a National Tribal Chairman’ Association, time in the recovery unit. For two weeks I s sent a telegram to the Iranian Embassy gave them an awful hard time. They had to asking for Kupke’ immediate release. strap me in,” he said. s Black said that “Indian tribes o f America Now Mitchell must protect himself, so he have extended hospitality and entertained wears a helmet when he is in a place where Iranian students in this country . . . we expect your country and officials would reciprocate in a like manner.” Kiowa Chair man Jacob Ahtone also sent a telegram INDIAN ISLAND— A national confer asking for Kupke’ release. s ence on Indian museums included some very worthwhile workshops, according to a Penobscot Indian representative who attended the Washington D.C. meetings. Pumpkin Soup Francis C. Sapiel, president of the 1small pumpkin newly formed Penobscot National Histor V i cup butter, divided ical Society, said “every one of the 1quart chicken or beef stock workshops was very worthwhile.” Sapiel 1tablespoon sugar and other active members of the society Salt and pepper to taste plan to establish a tribal museum in a new Pinch of ground allspice building at Indian Island. To join the Milk or light cream society or participate in regular meetings, Peel, seed and cut pumpkin in small contact Sapiel or his wife Edwina, at Oak chunks. There should be 1 quart of Hill, Indian Island. The North American Indian Museums pumpkin wedges or pieces. Place in a sauce pan with half the butter, the stock, sugar Association regional training workshop and 1 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil, lower was held at the Smithsonian Institution. heat and simmer 35 minutes, or until pump kin is tender. Press through a sieve and JOB OPENING return pulp to saucepan. Season with Sioux suggests Indians take place of hostages in Iran Caleb Shields, a tribal councilman with the Assiniboine-Sioux tribes o f Fort Peck, Montana, offered to call for 100 Indian volunteers to exchange with the hostages held at the U.S. Embassy in Tehran, Iran. Shields said, “we will not stand by and let the country o f Iran use the minority issue as a weapon against this country o f ours.” He said that if the offer was accepted they would carry to Iran "a sacred pipe and sacred colors o f the Indian people.” No word from the Department o f State on the possibility o f accepting the offer. Fredrick Lee Kupke, 32, an employee of the communications section o f the Embassy in Tehran, Iran, is one of the Americans held hostage by Khomeini supporters. Film highlights Indian gathering CONCORD, Mass. — A celebration of “native first people” was held Sunday, Dec. 1 , at Concord Academy, starting at 3 p.m. 6 Called Millennia Celebration, the event included a film titled "more than Bows and Arrows.” Also scheduled were work shops on education, planning, a museum, park and university. For further information contact Fox Tree at Boston State College; Slow Turtle, executive director o f Massa chusetts Commission on Indian Affairs; Dr. Helen Attaquin, Boston Children’ Mu s seum; Lenore Stiffarm, Harvard University. A flyer for the event says: "The deep spiritual message o f the millennia age is for all .people who strive for unity to work to achieve peace, goodwill, and understand ing.” AAillinocket students on honor toll MILLINOCKET— Two Indian pupils at Steams High School have made the Honor Roll for the current quarter. They are Jackie Isaac, 16, and E. John Isaac. 1 , the children o f John and Mary 8 Francis Isaac o f 70 Katahdin Ave. Jackie is a junior, and John is a senior who plans to attend EMVTI in Bangor. They have a sister. Laura, 1 , also a student at Stearns. 4 Dean Anthony Francis, son o f Mary Francis Isaac, and his wife Margaret are the parents of a son, Nicholas Joseph, born Oct. 23. The family lives in Millinocket. Sapiel offends meeting he might bump his head. “ I’ regained my ve physical strength,” Mitchell says, but adds that emotionally, “I’ still kind of choked m up.” He was especially moved by the fact that masses were held on his behalf at both Passamaquoddy and Penobscot Catholic Churches. By signing a release, Mitchell allowed a special film crew from Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington to film the delicate operation to remove his tumor. “They can use that.” Mitchell said, thinking out loud . . . “if it’ an isolated case like up s in Alaska in the tundra, they can use it.” Mitchell calls Eastern Maine “outstand ing,” possessing in his opinion “one o f the best cancer-fighting teams there is.” He should know, and he’ willing to help, s through the film and in person. “After what I’ gone through, I believe ve there’ no need o f getting scared o f cancer. s Learn to live with it. Talk with someone that’ already had it. I’ willing to talk to s m anybody,” Mitchell said. Mitchell himself was helped a great deal by counseling from fellow cancer patients. Delores and John Mitchell have five sons: Alan, Kirk, Keith, Keane and Andy Francis from her first marriage; and two sons from his first marriage: John Mitchell Jr. and Randy Mitchell. A former governor and lieutenant gover nor o f the Penobscot tribe, Mitchell spent 19 years on the tribal council, and was elected representative to the Legislature from Indian Island. A graduate o f Old Town High School, he worked many years in construction, and as a shoeworker. He earned several bronze and silver stars during nine years serving in the Armed Forces, with two hitches overseas. The final radiation treatment took place Dec. 13. Right now, the greatest joy is a good cigar and just being alive. Indian Cookery pepper and allspice and additional salt if necessary. Add remaining butter and enough milk to make soup of the desired consistency. Heat but do not boil. Serve with fried bread if desired. Makes about 6 servings. Navajos receive 808 acres Outreach Worker Specialist Must have valid Maine driver’ s license and be able to travel around the state, as well as attend workshops and training sessions, whenever deem ed necessary. Must be able to communicate well with off-reservation Indian people. Anyone interested may apply in person or submit resum es to Central M aine Indian Association, 95 Main St., Orono, Maine 04473. Deadline for applications is Dec. 28, 1979. WASHINGTON — Secretary o f the Interior Cecil D. Andrus has signed a decision returning jurisdiction over 808 acres in Arizona to the Navajos. The land, known as Antelope Creek Recreation Development Area, in Conconino County, was held by Water and Power Resources Service, formerly the I Bureau o f Reclamation, o f the Department I of the Interior. The land will be held in trust I by the federal government. INDIAN ISLAND The lands were originally transferred I All auto repairs: foreign and domestic from tribal jurisdiction to the Bureau o f I CHRISTMAS SPECIALS Reclamation on September 2, 1958, for use Retread snow tires, mounted I in the development o f the Glen Canyon and balanced — $24.50 I Unit. Colorado River Storage Project. Oil change (5 qts., oil filter, grease The Antelope Creek Recreation Develop I job, fluid level check) — $9.95 ment Area was not needed for Reclamation I FREE ICE SCRAPERS purposes, and was ordered restored to the I tribe. LOVE'S AMOCO I I • J I 1 I g ! HARDW ARE & G U N SHOP TOM VTCAIRE, Proprietor The only Indian-owned hardware business in the State o f Maine “We’ eager to do business with people re in the Indian community,” says Tom. The store carries a full line o f tools, electrical and plumbing supplies, paint and housewares. Also, a selection o f fine new and used guns, plus high quality woodstoves. For all your hardware and hunting needs, visit — MATTAWAMKEAG HARDWARE & GUN SHOP and sample some good Indian hospitality and service. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Central Maine Indian Association Applicant must have food manage ment and communication skill and be able to deal with the public. Must have understanding o f operation o f Federal programs and be able to understand the Federal and regulatory process. Must have complete understanding and appreciation o f Indian needs and culture and be able to gain the coopera tion and confidence o f the constituency represented. Interested persons should submit letter o f application and resume to Central Maine Indian Association, Inc., 95 Main Street, Orono, Maine 04473. Applica tions will be accepted until December 28th, 1979. �Wabanaki Alliance December 1979 Page 7 Indians hear critics of budworm policy at hearing BANGOR — Two Penobscot tribal the state for refusal to pay my spruce members attended what turned into a budworm tax. I keep much o f my land in a polarized debate on Maine’ spruce bud- wild, natural state,” Fitzgerald said, ex s plaining that he prefers "natural cycles” to worm control program. Present at the Nov. 20 hearing were chemical control systems. Fitzgerald said he paid his taxes under Penobscot council member Joseph Francis, and tribal health official, Philip Guimond. protest, with assurances he could press his case in court later. He believes landowners Chaired by state Conservation Commission er Richard Barringer, the hearing dealt with should pay for spraying. George C. (Pete) Sawyer, woodlands findings and recommendations for a 1980 manager for the Timberland company in budworm control policy. Those who favored continued spraying northern Maine, remembers the "worst from planes to kill off budworms appeared budworm blight” that occurred in 1917to represent pulp and paper interests, while 1918. He said the budworms left o f their smaller landowners and individual citizens own accord, without chemical spraying. seemed concerned about harmful effects of Sawyer says he keeps notes on winds, spraying, and doubt about long term temperature and crops; after spraying last summer, he did not get a buckwheat crop, effectiveness o f the state policy. Bo Yerxa of South Princeton, who won a for the first time in 60 years. Sawyer said he requested his farm not be lawsuit after his organic farm was sprayed with chemicals, mentioned that spraying of sprayed, "but I looked out one day to see a nearby Indian Township Passamaquoddy 'copter spraying the horse barn.” Sawyer reservation threatened the Indians’ water would like to see long term funding of supply. Big Lake was sprayed last summer, budword parasitism, or natural ways to control the blight. “We certainly are short he said. Yerxa advocated an immediate halt to all sighted,” he said. Doc Hodgins o f Eastport, an environ aerial spraying operations. He pointed out Newfoundland and Nova Scotia had stopped mentalist and activist, said paper companies all spraying after researching effects. Yerxa unwisely cultivated softwood forests for high said using tax money to pay for spraying is yield — susceptible to budworm infestation — and are now facing their shortsighted “a total misuse of public funds.” Another outspoken critic o f spraying was ness. “The paper and pulp companies have Charles Fitzgerald o f Atkinson, who flew his in the past few years had incredible profits,” own plane behind, and above, spruce he said. "The public issue in my mind is liability. I budworm spray planes. He filmed the spraying operation, including rescue of a would like to see the state out o f the position o f being between the public and the com downed plane at Eagle Lake, in the Allagash panies,” Hodgins said. Ron Davis of Wilderness. The film, screened at the hearing, showed Natural Resources Council suggested an 28 violations o f spraying policy within a agency should be independent of the state three-quarter hour period, including spray pesticide control board to honestly evaluate that drifted onto lakes and rivers. “It makes policy. He said he is concerned about side effect of spraying, such as higher accidental the technology look pretty foolish,” Fitz gerald said. Barringer at first objected to abortion rates, birth defects, contaminated any discussion o f the film, but later allowed gardens and Christmas tree plantations. Dick Jones, executive director o f Sports comments when Fitzgerald protested that men’ Alliance of Maine, urged industry s the film was part of his agreed-upon presen and the state to seek alternatives to tation. “This year I nearly lost all o f my land to spraying. Alice Conlin and Joyce Tomah of Indian Township share a joke during a recent visit to Orono. Heat, rent aid available PRESQUE ISLE — Assistance aimed at lessening the impact o f high energy costs — including increased rent — for low-income households is available, according to Nor man Fournier, head of Aroostook County Action Program, Inc. Fournier said $300,000 is available in Aroostook County to assist 7,000 poor families. The funds are available as a result o f the recent special session o f the Maine Legislature, and action taken by Congress. Fournier said additional energy assistance funds are expected in January. Paula Carter, ACAP staff member, explained that eligibility guidelines are different than previous programs. If a head of household receives SSI (Supplemental Security Income) the household automa tically qualifies for assistance. If a head of household received a 1979 Elderly House holders Tax or Rent Refund or is eligible for a 1979 or 1980 Tax or Rent Refund, then the household qualifies. In all other cases, eli gibility is based on income. To be eligible, household income cannot exceed 125 per cent of poverty guidelines. Fore a single person, the annual income cannot exceed $4,250; for a family o f four, $8,375. Carter noted that applicants must provide proof of all household income for at least the 90-day period preceding application and no more than twelve months preceding application. Carter went on to explain that no funds under this year’ program can be used to s pay outstanding fuel or energy bills. "This year’ program is designed to provide fuel s through the winter in order to prevent energy related crises. Assistance will be provided in the form o f credits to energy suppliers or direct payments to energy suppliers for emergency fuel delivery,” stated Carter. Maximum financial assist ance for households paying their own heat is $ 200. Carter explained that applications will be taken beginning Friday, December 7, 1979. Beginning that date, persons wishing to apply may do so at the ACAP Office at Sky way Industrial Park, Presque Isle; 794 West Main Street, Fort Kent; or 97'/i Military Street, Houlton. Offices are open from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, except holidays. These three offices will also be open Saturday morning from 9 a.m.-12 noon on December 8th and 15th; and open Wednesday evening from 6 p.m.-8 p.m. on December 19,1979. Emergency Energy Assistance locations HEAD OVER HEELS — Sherri Mitchell of Indian Island makes this tricky backwards wheel on the balance beam look like child’s play. Sherri and fellow Island gymnast, Christa King, practice over twenty hours a week at Vickie Daigle’ School of Dance in Bangor in s order to learn such feats. ORONO — The following list of certifica Addison. Piscataquis County — Penquis tion sites for Emergency Fuel Assistance CAP, Brownville. Sagadahoc County — Program (EFAP) to homes seeking assist Coastal Economic Development Agency ance with their fuel bills has been provided CAP. by Central Maine Indian Association Households meeting the requirements (CMIA). may apply for assistance directly for fuel York County — Community Action Pro bills, or for expenses related directly to fuel gram Office (CAP), Elliot, Waterboro. needs such as housing repairs, medical care, Lincoln County — Coastal Economic De food, and clothing. velopment Agency (CAP), Jefferson, WisAll payment will be made to the vendors casset. Somerville. Franklin County — CAP. providing the needed services. No cash Aroostook County — CAP, Allagash. Cum payments will be made. berland County — P.R.O.P.— Peoples Re Maximum benefits available for federally gional Opportunity Program CAP, Harpssubsidized tenants are $100 or 60 per cent of well. Knox County — Mid Coast Human , Resources Council CAP. Kennebec County the monthly household rent as o f Oct. 1 1979, whichever is less. All other households — Kennebec Valley CAP, Wayne, Windsor, may receive up to $200. Oakland. Penobscot County — Penquis Deadline for applying is April 30, 1980. CAP, Winn, East Millinocket, Eddington, To monitor participation o f its members Holden, Lee, Orono, Brewer, Orrington. in EEAP, David Rudolph, CMIA adminis Androscoggin County — Task Force on Hu trative assitant, has requested that people man Needs CAP, Wales. Waldo County — served by CMIA contact the Orono or CAP, Thorndike. Somerset County — Ken nebec Valley CAP, Detroit, St. Albans. Portland CMIA office, if they plan to apply, Oxford County — CAP, Porter, Mexico, or have had a problem in applying. The Orono office is located at 95 Main Rumford, Buckfield. Hancock County — Street, Orono, Me. 04473, tel. 866-5587. In Penquis CAP, Sorrento, Blue Hill. Wash the Portland area contact CMIA at 615 ington County — Penquis CAP, Milbridge, Steuben, Columbia Falls, Dennysville, Congress St., Portland, 04101, tel. 775-1872. �Page 8 Wabanaki Alliance December 1979 Claims negotiator rebuts allegation of secrecy, stalling Pleasant Point public safety director John Bailey [right] presents certificates of merit to Maine Indian Transportation Association [MITA] drivers, Paul Richardson [left] and Peter Neptune, for driving their MITA buses for over a year without an accident. Neptune has been with MITA for two years and is now a supervisor. Richardson, a resident of Eastport, is a volunteer for MITA and, as a licensed ambulance attendant, has offered his services for the ambulance planned for the reservation. Congress may see claim legislation by January PORTLAND— The lawyer for Penobs cot and Passamaquoddy tribes says legislation to resolve their 12.5 million acre land claim could be brought to Congress as early as next month. Thomas N. Tureen— the tribal counsel who has steered the claims through a decade of negotiation and litigation— told Wabanaki Alliance, “I think the major obstacles have been cleared away. He said legislation could be introduced by the maine Congressional delegation sometime after Jan. 1, 1980. Tureen said the tribes are “prepared to move,” and the April 1 deadline is no threat to their case. Tribal representa tives met Dec. 7, with US. District Court Judge Edward T. Gignoux in Portland, and a written report was presented. Gignoux has been a pivotal figure in several decisions establishing the Penobscot-Passamaquoddy case, and bringing the tribes federal recognition and atten dant benefits. Gignoux at first specified monthly progress reports and meetings in his chambers, but he is apparently pleased with the progress of negotiations and that requirement has been dropped. In any case, Maine Indian claims will likely be settled before April 1 1980, the , expiration date of a federal statute of limitations on filing Indian claims. The date represents the end of an extension to the statute; currently there are several thousand claims pending across the nation. After that date Maine Indians could no longer press their case in court. The current settlement proposal in volves a total of $79 million worth of funds, benefits and land. The amount of land to be purchased by the federal government at fair market value is set at Committee has held to review the entire negotiation process taking place between the “selected elite,” as Coulter states, and federal/state officials. For the past two and one half years we have been negotiating with the federal and state governments. During that time there have been forty-seven (47) negotiating local strategy sessions held alternatively at Pen obscot Indian Nation, Passamaquoddy Na tion at Indian Township, and Passama quoddy Nation at Pleasant Point.” Every session o f the negotiating team has been public. Love asserted, adding that three general voting meetings were also open to all tribal members. Love said the tribes desire land, not dollars, and that contrary to Coulter’ view, s Maine Indians are not intimidated or manipulated by Bureau o f Indian Affairs officials and other federal bureaucrats. “We do our own thinking,” he said. Coulter wrote in the original story that "negotiated settlements are especially dan gerous,” because they may be unauthorized or unwise agreements. Love disagreed, stating that Coulter himself is “dangerous.” The final decision. Love said “belongs to the people.” about 300,000 acres. That acreage will be composed of various parcels in northeas tern Maine now owned by major pulp and paper companies. The firms’ lawyer, Donald Perkins of Portland, has been m eeting with a tribal negotiating commit tee. The state also has been meeting with the tribes, although Maine has no financial role in the proposed settlement. The state’ participation is in regard to s criminal jurisdiction on reservations, an issue that has not been entirely spelled out. (See story this issue on tribal courts). In a related action, the U.S. Supreme Court has this month asked the Justice Department for an opinion on whether the authority to prosecute crimes committed on reservations belong to federal or state officials. The opinion stems from a Maine supreme court decision in SockabasinDana, a case involving two Passamaquoddies convicted of arson. The court said last summer that federal, not state jurisdic tion, applies on reservations when major crimes are involved. The state wants to appeal Sockabasin-Dana, but the U.S. Supreme Court has not yet said whether it will hear the appeal, Tureen said. State Atty. Gen. Richard Cohen has said the federal request for a criminal jurisdiction opinion has “no impact” on claims negotiations. Cohen said publicly that officials are “very close” to an agreement on resolving the entire claims case, through out-of-court talks. “I don’ disagree with Dick Cohen,” said t Tureen, after he was asked if a settlement was near. Oneidas file land claim The Oneida Indians of Wisconsin and Ontario, Canada have filed suit to claim some five million acres of land stretching in a strip from Ogdensburg near the Canadian border to Binghampton near Pennsylvania. The suit seeks billions of dollars in damages and eviction of landowners of more than two-acre parcels in the claim area. Attorneys for the Oneidas said the suit exempted homeowners with two acres or less because “W e don’ want to t evict people from their homes." The Oneidas of New York, who have no recognized governing body and are Are Maine Indian land claims being conducted in secret by an elite that has delayed action? Not so, says Tim Love, a Penobscot. Love, member o f the Penobscot-Passama quoddy land claims negotiating team says there is no truth to publicized accusations that the Maine tribes are negotiating in secret, and delaying a settlement. Timothy Love, a Penobscot tribal official, responded in print to a story that appeared recently in Wassaja. a California Indian newspaper. In that story an Indian Law Resource Center employee, Tim Coulter, said various land claim cases are cloaked in secrecy and indecision. “It is thus under standable that the Indians in Maine had not yet accepted or rejected the deal that was announced last November (1978, by Sen. William D. Hathaway o f Maine).'' In a later issue of Wassaja, Love count ered that Coulter’ allegations were worth s “only the ink and paper it is written on.” Love said Coulter chose “a very poor example for negotiations of secrecy or in decisiveness based on secrecy.” Love continued, “obviously he knows not the number o f public meetings that the joint Penobscot and Passamaquoddy Negotiating divided by internal factions, are not represented in the suit. The Oneidas asked for Department of the Interior support for their claim but were told in November that the Depart ment would not support their claim. Most of the eastern Indian land claims have been based on violation of the Indian Non-Intercourse Act of 1790. The Onei das, however, lost most of their land through treaties signed in 1785 and 1788. The tribe contends that a 1783 proclama tion by the Continental Congress, similar to the Non-Intercourse Act, should have the same effect. NEW CLINIC Pleasant Point Passamaquoddy Health and Social Services Department will have new headquarters soon, in the large building behind brothers Jamie, left and Ray Moore. District courts neglect the poor PORTLAND — A court monitoring study recently done by Maine Civil Liberties Union (MCLU) reports steps have been taken by Maine courts during the past year to protect the poor. The study also discloses that serious violations o f the rights o f the poor continue to occur. The study reveals that in spite o f some improvement, several district court judges continue to violate the rights of defendants by failing to inform them o f their right to counsel and by failing to hold indigency hearings in cases where such hearings are required by the district court rules. Since indigency hearings are not regularly held, indigent defendants who are clearly eligible for court-appointed attorneys do not receive proper legal counsel. These failings constitute serious infrac tions o f the rights o f indigent persons. Maine court rules clearly require judges to conduct indigency hearings. The Maine law court and the U.S. Supreme Court have ruled that court-appointed counsel must be provided for indigent defendants accused of serious crimes. The project focused on district courts in Biddeford, Brunswick, Kittery, Lewiston, Portland and Springvale. The monitors found that some of the judges who were monitored are doing an excellent job of protecting uie rights o f accused persons and are not violating any rules or court decisions. The MCLU has submitted its study on court monitoring to Chief Justice Vincent McKusick, who has been supportive o f the MCLU’ efforts to improve the functioning s o f the district courts. The organization will continue to monitor district courts in various parts o f the state during the coming year in order to bring to light any inadequacies and injustices that continue to exist. Child welfare grant available WASHINGTON — Applications for grant funds for Indian tribes and organiza tions to use in the establishment and operation o f Indian child and family service programs are now being accepted, Bureau of Indian Affairs official Forrest Gerard announced. A notice published in the Federal Register sets January 18, 1980, as the deadline for this initial application period. The grants are authorized under Title II of the Indian Child Welfare Act o f 1978 (P.L. 95-608). Additional periods for the receipt of grant applications will be announced later if funds remain available after the first grant application period. The Assistant Secretary said that the grant fund distribution formula, designed to provide a proportionately equitable share of available funds to all approved applicants, is also being published in the Federal Register. Application materials and related infor mation may be obtained from Bureau of Indian Affairs Area Offices. �Wabanaki Alliance December 1979 Page 9 Priest finds Island presents good challenge INDIAN ISLAND— “The important thing for a priest is you’ got to keep ve active,” said the Rev. John D. Civiello, new priest at St. Ann’ Catholic Church on s the Penobscot reservation. Father Civiello should have no problems there. He can be seen running several miles every morning on a regular circuit around Indian Island, across the bridge, and back to the rectory. He has arranged with an old friend to take Penobscot youngsters bowling at a Bangor alley — at no cost. was all-state in football and basketball. "Basketball is still my first love,” he said. What he lacks — if anything — in physical exercise, Fr. Civiello makes up in vigorous Church activities. He recently visited 98 Penobscot families, in the first Parish Visitation in 15 years at Indian Island. He said it was a great opportunity to get to know people, and he is glad he took the initiative. “I’ really delighted to be here. I've m enjoyed it, but it’ been hard work,” said s Fr. Civiello, a graduate of St. John’ s Seminary in Brighton, Ma., and youngest in an Italian immigrant family of 12 children. (He has various caps with “Civiello” on the front, from family reunion golf games.) Although Fr. Civiello has been ordained 12 years, he said the Island post is “the first real challenge I’ had.” ve Asked if he specialized in a particular field or discipline, Fr. Civiello said, “I Representing Indian Island, Phyllis McGrane gives Tom Thurlow a $200 check lor the want to work with all people...I like to Prisoner Program Christmas fund. consider m yself just an all-around priest available to the people. I think this specializing is a cop out. “I feel I have an acute responsibility to witness the Gospel m essage to the people I am serving," the Priest said. Concerning a strong Charismatic move ment among Maine Indians, Fr. Civiello said he was tolerant but not one of the Tom Thurlow, outreach worker at the homes and families over these coming Charismatics. “You can’ let them come in t holidays. and take over the Parish,” he said, adding Central Maine Indian Association (CMIA). Thurlow suggested that Christmas that he certainly was “not going to turn visited with Phyllis McGrane and Bruce Spang at the Indian Health Services on baskets with gifts would be a tremendous these people off. “They (Charismatics) have done marv the Indian Island Reservation to speak lift in their spirits, but had not yet found anyone interested in contributing their elous work in keeping this Parish open with them about the “Prisoners Pro time or money. McGrane spoke with when (the Rev. David Cote, his immediate gram.” the Governor of Indian Island, Wally predecessor) was only here one day per To date it is only the Penobscot Indian Pehrson, and the Penobscot tribal council week. nation that recognizes the program and “I’ not Charismatically inclined at all,” has been the only groiip wishing to help and was able to donate $200.00 for the m Prisoner Program Christmas fund. Fr. Civiello said, “but I’ open to them.” the Prisoner Program. m The entire staff of Central Maine Indian With the Christmas holidays approach Association wishes to express their many ing us again McGrane wanted to know thanks to the Penobscot Indian Nation for how the Penobscot Indian Nation could their concern and help during these help Christmas be a little brighter holiday months, making Christmas morn for these persons separated from their ing that much brighter for all in spirit. CAAIA, Island bring Christmas to prisoners The Rev. John Civiello Because of serious medical difficulties, Fr. Civiello, 40, cannot be quite as active physically as he once was. At his hometown high school, in Millinocket, he Pleasant Point adds area reporter to Alliance staff Francis named to newspaper board PLEASANT POINT— Pleasant Point now has its own area reporter in the form of Roberta (Ruby) Richter. With her addition to the Wabanaki Alliance staff, all five reservation and off-reservation groups in Maine have local reporters. The newest addition to the staff was born in Calais and spent her grammar school years at Pleasant Point. After graduating from Portland High School, Richter attended Northeastern Business School in Portland, where she met her husband, Karl. Following graduation the couple spent several years in Illinois and Massachusetts, finally moving back to the reservation in 1968. They have three children. Richter has submitted articles to Quoddy Tides in Eastport. She has served on the Pleasant Point school board, woman’ club, literacy volunteer group, s the bowling league, and is currently employed as Pleasant Point tribal clerk. Educating Indian children in hands of tribes WASHINGTON — Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs Forrest J. Gerard says educating Indian children is in the hands of tribal governments. Gerard, speaking to the eleventh annual convention o f National Indian Education Association in Denver, said tribes face a challenge “to raise a whole child, to instruct the intellect in the laws o f nature, to educate a nation.” “ Children o f the 1980’ will s determine the future o f the Indian people,” he said. “The generation o f the 1980’ will receive s the benefits of the crucial federal Indian policy changes of the 1970’s — just as the legislation of the 1970’ resulted from the s unfinished agenda for racial and social justice in the 1960’ s,” said Gerard. “The coming generation may take passing aca demic note o f many of the bold initiatives achieved through great personal sacrifice by many in this assembly.” Gerard said another example o f the Carter Administration’ support o f Indian s education was the last stages of the implementation of public laws 95-651 and 95-471, Indian Education Amendments Act and the Indian Controlled Community College Act. He said that both of these acts were “milestones in Indian education which place authorities in the hands o f the tribes and school boards unlike any o f the past.” PLEASANT POINT— The Passamaquoddy tribe here has a new representa tive on the Division of Indian Services board of directors. He is David A. (Martin) Francis Sr., 62, a native of Pleasant Point and father of ten children. Division of Indian Services, an arm of Diocesan Human Relations Services, Inc., is a non-profit agency that sponsors publication of this newspaper. Francis, a graduate of Shead Memorial High School in Eastport, spent five years in the U.S. Army as a staff sergeant in radio communications. He is married to the former Marion Neptune. Francis has recently worked as a bi-lingual language developer for Pleasant Point and Indian Township Passamaquoddy children, in a program to teach the native language. He is also a consultant to the CETA supervisor at Pleasant Point. In the past, Francis worked as grounds keeper for Dr. James C. Bates of Eastport. David A. Francis Passamaquoddy dictionary project needs funds PLEASANT POINT — A beginning Passamaquoddy Indian language dictionary has been compiled with 5,000 word entries, but a principal author says it should have another 35,000 entries. David A. Francis, Passamaquoddy lin guist, said he has worked some ten years on the project, primarily assisted by Philip LeSourd, a non-Indian who studied linguis tics at MIT. Now, Francis said, the project needs funds. He said he is not sure where to turn. Francis said there is no lack of coopera tion; the elders of the tribe have been especially helpful supplying words and meanings. Each entry in the new book contains a definition, root word, singular and plural usage, and how to write the word using the 17 letter Passamaquoddy al phabet. LeSourd has not visited the reservation in a number of months, and Francis said he wished LeSourd would again work on the project in Maine. Other persons who have worked on the dictionary are Wayne Newell o f Indian Township, founder of the Passa maquoddy bi-lingual program, and Robert Leavitt, former director of that program. �Page 10 Wabanaki Alliance December 1979 Book Nook CEREMONY by Leslie Marmon Silko. Viking Press, N.Y., 1977, 262 pages. Ceremony is a story about the power of stories. It is a story of a battle pitched between the forces o f good and witchery, with the stakes the sanity and soul o f an Indian man. Tayo, born of a white father and Laguna Pueblo mother, returns to his reservation as a veteran of World War II, shattered by months of torture and the sight o f his brother being killed in a ditch by enemy soldiers. Resented by the people of his village because of his mixed blood and frequent relapses into mental illness, he finds accept ance only among the other Indian veterans • of his reservation and comfort only in the bottle. Although his body begins to heal, his mind continues to deteriorate until even his family is considering sending him back to the veteran’ hospital. As a last resort,.the s village sends a medicine man to see him. Unable to help him, the old man directs him to an ancient medicine man named Betonie, living in a hovel in Gallup, New Mexico. At first, Tayo thinks the old man is a fraud and resigns himself to returning to the hospital. However. Betonie tells him in white hospitals he has no hope. “. .. you could go back to that white place.... In that hospital they don’ bury the dead, they keep them in t rooms and talk to them.” Betonie begins telling Tayo the old stories and performing ancient ceremonies. Re peatedly Tayo becomes angry with himself for believing the old man, but stays to hear more. Gradually the power of the stories begins to work on him, as Betonie gives him the only weapon he has to fight for his sanity. As the days pass, Tayo is able to see, through the stories, that he is not alone, but part o f a continuing story; that he fits in. Through the legends, Betonie enables him to step outside himself to view his problem. As with Betonie’ story o f the boy captured s by bears, “They couldn’ just grab the child. t They couldn’ simply take him back because t he would be in between forever, and probably he would die. .. . Step by step the medicine man brought the child back.” Tayo is possessed by the white man, both in his war experiences and in his blood. Betonie exorcises the white man’ hold on s him. By enclosing the white man’ world s within the stories, Betonie makes it psycho logically accessible and controllable, like a voodoo doll. Betonie warns Tayo that the white man is merely a tool o f witches, and not the ultimate source of evil. The witches use hatred o f whites as a decoy to keep Indians from seeing the true evil. Armed with the new confidence that his life has meaning as a part of a long ceremony, generations long, designed to fight witchery, Tayo returns to the reserva tion. Upon his return, as he wanders the hills, he meets and falls in love with a halfmagical woman, Ts’ eh, who deepens his understanding of the workings of,the cere monies and warns him that he soon must test that understanding in battle with Emo, another veteran, who is the embodiment of witchery on the reservation. That battle, which forms the climax of the story, determines whether Tayo will survive the struggle to give his people a new story for fighting witchery, or be consumed by his hatred of Emo, and, thus, hand victory to the forces of evil. Silko stays very close to the consciousness o f her main character, Tayo. Often narra tive, like Tayo’ initial delirum, swirls in and s out with few' reference points as to time or place. Flashbacks appear inside of flash backs only to be replaced without warning with a dreamlike present. As Tayo’ mind begins to heal, the s narrative begins to lose its undefined, smoke-like quality. Instead of the parched bleak world of before, the readers sees through Tayo’ eyes more and more beauty, s and the dry, dusty tone o f the early part of the novel is quenched. Silko’ one departure from the conscious s ness of Tayo is a brief visit into the mind of Helen Jean, a bar-hopping woman who left her reservation "to find a good job.” This departure from Tayo’ consciousness is s distracting and unnecessary, as though Silko wanted to break away from the male consciousness o f Tayo to show a female view, one closer to her own and so haphazardly threw this section in. Despite Silko’ skill in showing Tayo’ s s feelings at each stage of his evolution, the reasons for that evolution remain unclear. This is largely because his relationship with such pivotal characters as Betonie and Ts’ eh seems only sketched in and" incomplete. Betonie and Ts’ eh both catalyze great changes in Tayo, but the process o f change is not seen, making Tayo’ transformation s less believable. Admittedly, describing anything as esoteric as spiritual change is difficult, but literature abounds with examples o f succes sful attempts; e.g., Hesse's “Siddharthra.” Despite these stylistic flaws, “Ceremony” provides us with a well-written look into the destruction of Indian culture and captures the torment of a people so close to the earth that its rending by great machines is like cutting into their own flesh. It shows well the strength o f the old stories in getting people into harmony and holding chaos at arms length. — Bill O ’Neal Basket weaver Jeannette Neptune, Passamaquoddy, fashions decorative split ash birds, while tending her table of wares at recent University of Maine Christmas craft fair, in Orono. She is a member of the board of this newspaper. Poetry For Richard Tompkins, My Cousin LISTENING... to what might have been KNOW ING... what has been And still... I wonder why. ^ C. M. Abumadi Can’ seem to understand t or maybe I’ just closed my mind, ve Afraid I’ be hurt ll Because I’ had my share. ve I want more to look back upon than tears or heartbreak, pain and sorrow ... A smile, A love, A happy tomorrow. C. M. Abumadi Maliseet moonlight & frost icy white dew moonbeam snapped in two. frozen people in time and space there is not time but now and no place but here. flow, go on, ooze thru eternity, at peace, like the tide, wind. Indian Island basket maker Eunice Crowley, Penobscot, at right, displays her work at recent University of Maine at Orono crafts fair, assisted by Hilda Chow-Schlechter, left. Passamaquoddy Bay There’ a home for me s By the changing sea, With its rising, falling way; Where the current swirls, Where old sow whirls In Passamaquoddy Bay. Where colors and hues O f the changing views, The slick-calm clearly mirrors; Where reflected sky May sparkle and die; In windy, stormy terrors. There’ a rushing tide s By the old sea-side, ’ an ever-changing view; N As the swell reflects Some glimmering specks, ’ you hear the sea gulls’mew. N Yes, that’ home for me s Where I’ rather be. d Near the rising, falling way; Where the current swirls And old sow whirls In Passamaquoddy Bay. Charles A. Lewis Pleasant Point Your machinery shakes my core. Bones jar in the earth. We will rise to chase the predators from our land. A band of skeletals, will haunt. The spirits feel through the bodies of our living, that which you’ blown apart ve the soul o f our earth, within each rock. Red Hawk �Wabanaki Alliance December 1979 Page 11 Teacher Harriet Doherty assists student Lisa Nicholas. BOXER — Gene Stevens, gets some coaching from tutor Monique Pratt. A Passamaquoddy sophomore at Calais High School, Stevens is a welter weight fighter at 155 pounds. The 15-year-old boxer works out two hours per day, and is coached by fellow tribesman Frank Newell, a former boxer. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Stevens, Indian Township. Calais High helpful place for Passamaquoddy pupils Richard Stevens and Franny Neptune, outstanding Passamaquoddy students. Christmas m e s s a g e from CMIA With the Christmas holidays fast approaching us for another year wouldn’ it be great if all people t could join hands and contribute a little of their time to help others less fortunate than ourselves have a better Christmas morning. How much better we would feel on Christmas day for knowing that we helped som eone else that might not have had a Christmas, if we hadn’ t been there for them. Isn’ that what t Christmas is all about, “sharing”? Any people wishing to help in any way they can may contact the Central Maine Indian Association in Orono, Maine, Monday thru Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. by calling 866-5587 or 866-5588. Indians bring culture to Paris PARIS — Apache, Hopi, Yaqui and Navajo Indians have visited France the past two years, dancing for their foreign friends and spectators, and showing that they are not the stereotyped “savage.” French people are reportedly fascinated with Indian culture, and have invited their visitors into their homes. Parisians were de lighted when Hopis spilled into the aisles and involved the audience in a circle dance. The sponsoring Center for Relations with Indians from America, three years old, has among its sponsors American journalist Pierre Salinger. “ People move too fast here,” said a Hopi from Arizona, who said he kept getting lost. The center’ director, quoted in a New s York Times story, said, “The Indians have a profound respect for everything that exists. They are still very humanist. They are very sincere, and know how to live in their universe without anything. I think we should read a message of existence through the Indians.” CALAIS — A few years ago Passama quoddy Indian students did not attend Calais High School. It’ a 45-minute drive s from Indian Township, and it's not the nearest high school to the reservation. But it's by far the best, say students and education counselors alike. Indian students at Woodland High School received little if any academic or non-academic support. So, even though Woodland is “next door” to the reservation. Passamaquoddy pupils now get up at 5 a.m.. and spend a lot of time riding the bus to Calais and back. They miss many sports and extracurricular activities after school, but it's still a better deal than Woodland, or for some, a boarding school far from home. Monique Pratt, federally funded migrant tutor at Calais High, takes care of about 25 Passamaquoddy students as her special charges. It has become her exclusive job. and she loves it, she says. It’ her second s year tutoring, and she is aided by Harriet Doherty, wife of Alan Doherty, migrant tutor at Indian Township. Pratt is a Lewiston native and graduated from Univer sity of Maine at Portland-Gorham. Both women, although non-Indian, have an obvious understanding and rapport with students. Still, the dropout rate is high. Eight Passamaquoddies left Calais High in recent months, two because of pregnancies. The dropouts included three seniors, one sophomore and four freshmen. Typical of successful students in the program are Frances Neptune, 16, and Richard Stevens, 1 . 8 Fran Neptune, one of five daughters of Jeannette Neptune, says Pratt works with her “every day.” A shy sophomore — at least when talking with a reporter — she says she “wants to become a legal secre tary.” Her “least favorite” subject is English, while she enjoys biology, business math, and geography. Her sister Janet attends Calais High. Neptune says the biggest problem at the Township, for young people, is finding "something to do." She said a lot of destructive drinking goes on. She believes the Indian Township elementary school gym should be open at all times for community use. She thinks she will move away, at least for awhile. She attended Intermountain, a Bureau of Indian Affairs boarding school in Utah, but quit after a few weeks to come home. (She was one o f seven Passama quoddies at Intermountain this year, and several others have also left the school, com plaining of bullying by other students and some homesickness.) At lunch time, Neptune says, all the Indian students sit together, but not because of any discomfort with non-Indians. It’ s simply that they all know each other. Asked if she spoke Passamaquoddy, Neptune said no, but she would like to. She said she w a ras little skeptical about traditional medicine, but found a root that “tastes awful” cured a toothache in short order. Stevens is an Honor Roll student, looking forward to joining the military. Like Nep tune, he may move away from the reserva tion — for awhile anyway. He too sees the problem of what to do when home from school. He says he would like to see basketball courts and tennis courts opened on The Strip, a portion of Indian Township along Route 1 Princeton. , Stevens, son o f Mr. and Mrs. George Stevens, is one of 16 children; a brother Jerry attends Calais High, and sister Judy is at Intermountain; she may quit at Christ mastime. Stevens thinks it's important to speak Passamaqouddy. He spends about half his time at Calais with Indian students. An avid hunter, Stevens keeps in shape by running four to six miles per day. Enrolled students Other Passamaquoddy students attending Calais High and participating in the migrant tutor program are Colleen Dana, Dawn Fitch, Carla LaCoute, Linda Lank, Dinah Levesque, Gerard Levesque, Matt Lewey, Kathy Mitchell, Janet Neptune, Donald Newell; Andrea, Carl, David, Leslie and Lisa Nicholas; Karen Sabattus, Gene Stevens, Gerry Stevens, Wanda Dana, Daniel Lola and Alexander Nicholas. y �Page 12 Wabanaki Alliance December 1979 Island readies 40 new homes IN D IA N IS L A N D — A fter sev en months and 4.000 cubic yards of ledge, Phase II of Indian Island Housing Authority is nearing completion. Richard Mitchell. Housing Authority director, predicted the last house would be finished by March, 1980, barring particularly bad weather. The housing project, which will cost over tw o millin dollars when completed, is funded by a Department of Housing and Urban D ev elop m en t (HUD) grant. Mitchell said a number of factors are involved in deciding who will tenant the houses, including age. steadiness and amount of income, and number of children. Rents will vary from a minimum of $40 to a maximum of $175 per month, although these figures are likely to increase, Mitchell said. Under HUD guidelines the Housing Authority will own the houses and land for 25 years, at which time it is handed over to the family living in it at the time. Under the contract agreement each head of household must stipulate a successor in case of death. In this manner, the property can stay with one family through the 25 years. According to Mitchell this is standard procedure in such HUD projects. The only tenant obligation is to maintain the house and submit to periodic property inspections. Rent payments go into two accounts, one which is^ essentially a returnable security deposit and the other, an earned home payment account which is used to for general maintenance and Housing Authority expenses. The former houses seem ed more suited to the Southwest, he said, with no eaves to shed snow. The new housing, he said, has large eaves. Other improvements, he noted, were greater room and storage space, better insulation, and vented attics. Also, future tenants were permit ted to offer suggestions about how their particular homes would be built. Like the tw o Passamaquoddy reserva tions, Indian Island Housing Authority is involved in a law suit with a former contractor. The Passamaquoddies are negotiating with IBEC, Inc., an Oklahoma firm, for alleged defects in construction and design. In the Island case the Housing Authority is being sued by its general contractor for withholding a portion of its fee. Mitchell said the contractor allegedly was failing to pass on tribal money to the sub-contractors for whom it was intended and did not seem willing to make corrections to alleged construction errors which resulted in water damage to some of the Phase I houses. The tribe also has claimed that the contractor completed only 16 percent of the former project during six months of prime weather, resulting in repeated delays in the completion date. According to Mitchell, at one point the company had set a day for occupancy, but, when the day arrived, cancelled the opening. Mitchell said moving vans and U-Hauls were “lined up and down in front of the housing office. W e stormed the gates (of the general con tractor’ office, s and demanded the keys.” When the dust settled, the tribe had the keys. Partially as a result of this experience, Mitchell said the present housing is being conducted under a "modified force ac count” system. With this method, al though there is a “construction manage ment team" similar in function to a general contractor, all sub-contractors are controlled and paid directly by the tribe. With Phase Two winding down, the tribe is beginning to consider the next lot of houses. The proposed site on the northeast side of the Island poses a number of problems, Mitchell said. In addition to being unsettled and mostly swamp, it has even more ledge to dynamite than the current site. SCALE MODEL OR THE REAL THING? In this ease it is very real. This is part of the new housing at Indian Island as seen from 300 feet up. Tribes vote on funding formula WASHINGTON — American Indian Tribes and Alaska Native Villages have completed balloting on a distribution formula as required by the 1978 Education Amendments Act (P.L. 95-561). After a year long effort, the Indians and Alaska Natives voted to keep the Johnson-O’Malley Act funding formula used by the Bureau ol Indian Affairs during the last four years. The Johnson-O'Malley Act provides fund ing assistance for supplemental programs in non-Federal schools serving Indian stu dents. In fiscal year 1979 the appropriation for this purpose, serving approximately 171,000 students, was $31,675,000. Public Law 95-561 established that the distribution formula should be chosen by a Indian fishing majority vote of the tribes and Alaska village groups. A task force appointed by the Interior Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs published proposed formulas, received numerous comments and held hearings before submitting eight formulas to tribal vote last spring. Since none received the necessary' 51 percent, a run-off election involving the two formulas receiving the greatest number of votes was held this fall. The winning formula, by a vote of 153 to 108, provides straight per capita payments for all students, with increases allowed for states which spend above the national average for education. The other formula was a straight per capita plan which made no allowance for cost of education in the state. Forestry Department budworm session INDIAN TOW NSHIP— “W hat in the world is a spruce budworm and why does this character create so many problems?” In an ironic twist, according to Mitchell, That’ how an announcement of a s WASHINGTON — Regulations govern because the tribe is federally recognized ing the off-reservation treaty-rights fishing meeting Dec. 12, at Indian Township now, a joint HUD-Bureau of Indian Housing Director Richard Mitchell community center, began. The meeting of the Bay Mills Indian Community and the Affairs (BIA) agreement may mean BIA featured Gordon Mott, research scientist Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians In comparing the new housing with the has to build the roads for the next project. with the U.S. F orest Service. Mott spoke in Michigan were published in the Federal at the Passamaquoddy reservation at the 29 HUD units built several years ago, The Bureau is five years behind in its road Register November 1 . 5 Mitchell sees great improvement, he said. projects, he said. request of Bruce Francis, director of the The Federal regulations were developed tribal forestry department. “Hopefully pursuant to a Sept. 5 memorandum of everyone that attends will leave with a understanding between the tribes and the better understanding” of the destructive Interior Department concerning the regula budworm blight in the Maine woods, tion of treaty Indian fishing in the Great Francis said. Lakes and connecting waters. Under this agreement the tribes were to Announcement of develop one joint comprehensive set of regulations governing the fishing of their members. These regulations were to be job openings developed in consultation with, the U.S. Fish During the fiscal year 1980. the and Wildlife Service and the Michigan Penobscot National Tribal Court System, Department of Natural Resources. The in operation of a contract & grant with Interior Department was then to review the the U.S. DOi. will require the following joint tribal regulations to see that they met conservation needs and to publish them as court staff positions: (1) ASSOCIATE JUDGE, (3 APPEL ) Federal regulations if they did so. LATE COURT JUSTICES. (2) PROSE Several suggestions made by the State of CU TO R S and (2) PUBLIC D E Michigan have been incorporated into the FENDERS with requisite backgrounds/ regulations, with the acquiescence of the experience; AND (1 CLERK OF ) tribes. The Secretary has also included in COURTS with a related clerical back the regulations a closure of the Lower St. Mary’ River to net fishing as necessary for s ground. All positions are part-time except conservation purposes. This provision was Clerk of Courts. Salaries are negotiable. inserted, without the consent o f the tribes, Please send resumes to: Jerry Pardilla, under the Secretary's authority to act to PINJAC Chairman, Community Build protect the fishery resource. ing. Indian Island, Maine 04468. or call Because of the immediate need for regu 827-7776 Ext. 9 for further information. latory protection of the resource, the PHASE TW O STYLE — This house is typical of the style developed for the new Indian regulations became effective upon publica Equal Opportunity Employer tion as interim regulations. Island HUD project. laws published �Wabanaki Alliance December 1979 Page 13 A tribe finds itself CARLA NICHOLAS, daughter of Lt- Gov. Carl Nicholas of Indian Township, practices her tennis swing, in gym class that started this fall for first time. Ju dge says act null for states WASHINGTON — An unofficial opinion by U.S. Supreme Court Justice Byron White states the Non-intercourse Act, basis of Maine Indian land claims, applied to Indian territory, and not to states. White did not mention Maine Indians in his statement, which concerned Blackbird Bend land claims by the Omaha Indian tribe. The supreme court justice said that when Congress passed the law it “had in mind only disputes arising in Indian country, disputes that would not arise in, or involve any of the states.’’ White dated the act 1834, although the date used in Penobscot-Passamaquoddy claims is 1790, when Congress first passed the law to protect Indians from unauthoriz ed and unfair land deals and treaties. According to Vince Lovett of U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs, W hite’s reference is to a renewal of the 1790 act. Federal lawyer Wade McCree brushed aside White's comments, stating “The question was not explored in the courts . . . nor was it briefed or argued (in the Supreme Court).” McCree said W hite’s opinion played no part in the Blackbird Bend decision, which involved a claim to land “lost” by a changing river course. Omaha Indians were considered losers in the decision. Maine Atty. Gen. Richard Cohen has requested the Supreme Court review the meaning o f “Indian country,” and whether the Non-intercourse Act applies to eastern states. The tribes have filed an opposing memor andum through their lawyer, Thomas N. Tureen. INDIAN CRAFT c q c c 148 Page r n c c Catalog _ . 4, For free catalog, write Dept.7 4 T lw world's largest Indian Crafts Catalog. Mora than 4,008 Items tocfaoosa from! Trade Beads. Tin Cones. Brass Beads. Moire Taffeta Ribbon. Ermine Skins, Bone Elk Teeth, Shawl Fringe and tarn. GREY OW L In d ian C ra ft M a n ufactu rin g Co. .150-02 Beaver R d . Jam aica, N.Y. 212 5 2 6-3 6 6 0 by Paul A. Francis, Jr. Lying pronely, face earthward, on a rich, white cloud that is eternally drifting slowly from north to south, I first came upon the Penobscot Indian reservation in the winter of 1948. My m ind’ eyes were yet too inex s perienced to comprehend, but yet I observ ed. The Indian community below me appears to be asleep with the winter, paralyzed into dormancy by the cold and snow o f February. Intermittently, however, I see a stir o f activity as someone ventures outside o f his house for an armload o f wood or a bucket o f water. Then I see an individual, no two, wending their way across the frozen river, the one heading for town to buy food at a store, the other aiming for Orson Island to hunt deer or rabbit. And I can see the Catholic church, an impressive structure of stained-glass windows and towering spire; and its bell, tolling sharply in the air, beckons the people to celebrate the mass o f ethereal salvation. And I can see the houses o f these children of the universe — deteriorating clapboard siding and tarpapered structures that can only whimper to the wind. I note how ill-contrasted these abodes are to the general picture of sublimity my panoramic view extends over. My nascent power of comprehension quickly leaves me weary and saddened at the plight of these people, my people, and so I accept solace in sleep. I curl up in my blanket and drift slumberously for ten years. When I awaken it is the season of summer, and the warmth o f the sun and the gay chirpings of birds dispel the unpleasant dreams that caused me to sleep a restless sleep. Remembering the forlorn picture of the Indian community that I previously beheld, I reluctantly look down upon the village to satisfy my curiosity of the present status o f my people. My eyes immediately notice that there is now a bridge spanning the river. Technology, at last, has made its advent! I scan the village for other signs of technological salvation, and I am not dis appointed. Television aerials stand atop many o f the houses, their tentacles grasping the invisible energy waves; electrical and telephone wires are strung high on limbless trees that line newly-tarred roads; motor VIEWPOINT lofty perch — nothing has changed! The community has become abeyant, the people are in a technological limbo, the fruits of progressivism have wizened. The aspect of this disheartening revelation virtually brings vehicles, passenger and commercial, rove tears to my eyes, as I lament the vagarious the streets like automated canines, sniffing nature of a people who had previously for undiscovered recesses where they may displayed such noble promise. mark their intrusion. But it is not an In despair I allow my body to dissipate unwelcome intrusion, for the people seem to into a mist, and this mist, heavy with sorrow, rejoice in the abounding presence o f the rains down upon the community where it white man’ technology, and these children materializes into the mundatie being of s o f the universe display a juvenile infatuation myself. I am ready to accept my lot amidst with their newly-discovered toys. this community that apparently, enigmati Yes, the community is undergoing a cally has renounced its quest for a better cultural transformation: it has bitten into existence. But, to my amazement and the apple, the fruit of modem American gratification, I soon discover that there has society, and has found it delectable. It has indeed been a change. That which I could ravenously devoured the pulp of the techno not perceive from my lofty perch has become logical apple, exposing the core, and the evident now that I have commingled with seeds have fallen to the virginal earth, where the people — a change has occurred in the they have sprouted roots and begun to consciousness o f the people. For it has flourish. Aloft, on my cumulus, I smile with become evident that the people are no approbation to see that my people have longer fascinated and enchanted with pure dissolved the rust o f tradition and have materialism; they have resuscitated a long discovered and applied the pastels of pro dormant spirit o f cultural traditionalism. gressive Americanism. Who says assimila Let progess make its inexorable intrusion, tion is a debasing policy, who is to deny that the tribal consciousness seems to say, we will acceptance o f the white man’ culture not repulse it. But heed this: we have, over s cannot but guarantee comfort and pros the centuries, through deception or design, perity? Does not the tolling o f the church been disrobed of our culture. We had bell symbolize the celebration o f man’ become a tribe in name only, not in spirit. s conquest over all that is deplorable in this But at the crucial point at which the flame world? I am satisfied, content with my o f ancestral pride was about to expire, people’ progress, and the tranquillity perhaps forever, we realized our error. And s causes my mind to edge into the blissful now the flickering flame, fueled by the repose of sleep. And so I sleep for not ten, desire of the people to regain their prideful but fifteen years. estate, has been revived, and day by day it When I awaken my eyes are cast heaven intensifies until one day it will consume the ward, and I perceive that the sun is just universe. Yes, let our people partake of the emerging from an eclipse. Notwithstanding fruits of materialism, but also let them the ominous nature o f this celestial spec relate to the cosmos that they are one in tacle, I contentedly mull over the marvelous unison with all that is natural and sublime. dream I have just awoken from. Oh, what a These children o f the universe are free to splendid civilization must lie below me. play in the house of the Creator. With heightening anticipation I roll over Editor’ note: Paul A. Francis, Jr., a s and gaze downward. The shock at what I student at the University o f Maine at Orono, saw nearly caused me to tumble out o f my is a member o f the Penobscot tribe. Water rights cases returned to state Seven lawsuits filed by the Federal Government to support Indian water claims have been dismissed because two Federal judges decided that state courts are the proper forum for the controversy. When five of the suits w ere filed last April, Interior Secretary Cecil Andrus said he had requested the action because “any litigation of Indian claims should take place in Federal courts.” The Montana legislature was then in the process of passing legislation to give the State courts jurisdiction over Indian water rights. Interior Solicitor Leo Krulitz expressed surprise when informed of the dismissal. He said the Justice Department “never would have filed the suits in Federal Court if they hadn’ felt that was the proper t forum." Senator John Melcher of Montana said the suits w ere “ill-conceived and ill tim ed” and added that he had reason to believe that the Justice Department would not appeal the district court decision. SUBSCRIBE T O WABANAKI ALLIANCE News o f Maine Indian Country WILL ROGERS — Commemorated in a centennial stamp this year, humorist an philosopher Will Rogers is best known for his comment: “I never met a man I didn’ like. t Not so well known is the fact he was part Cherokee Indian. This photo was lent to Wabanal Alliance by Will Rogers Memorial in Claremore, Oklahoma. �Page 14 Wabanaki Alliance December 1979 Tribes assert jurisdiction through Indian court [Continued from page one] Indian Civil Rights Act, as background for According to Emery, Pleasant Point the committee he chairs — known as Passamaquoddies plan to take advantage PINJAC, the Penobscot Indian Nation of BIA help and training, and eventually Judicial Advisory Committee. Established recently by tribal govern employ tribal members as judges and jury. Penobscots on the other hand have ment, PINJAC was reponsible for select said they preferred to handle their own ing the tribe’ new judge, Andrew Mead. s jurisdictional affairs as much as possible, Mead, 28, is a Bangor lawyer experienced without BIA intervention. in trial law, who has also handled Indian Em ery said Pleasant Point tribal cases. “W e’ re not now planning on members have held three general m eet processing any major crimes, w e’ leave ll ings on jurisdiction related issues. that to the feds," Mead said. The Indian Civil Rights Act specifies At Indian Township, Passamaquoddy Lt. Gov. Carl J. Nicholas said tribal that jail sentences can be no m ore than six members voted in a referendum to retain months’ duration, and fines may not state jurisdiction for a four-year transi exceed $500. “I anticipate that the fines tional period, after which a CFR court will will be less than state court, and as far as probably be established. He said tribal I’ concerned, jail sentences will be a last m officials hope to m eet with a U.S. district resort,” said Mead, explaining that he attorney and the state attorney general to favors alternative sentencing such as work out how the state can retain — or alcoholism counseling, restitution and regain — interim juridiction on the work details. Mead and Pardilla said PINJAC has for reservation. Spectators at Indian Island's first day of tribal court: At the center Penobscot governor Nicholas said federal marshalls or the the time being adopted Maine Revised Wilfred Pehrson confers with former governor Nicholas Sapiel [seated]. * FBI can be summoned to the reservation Statutes as their set of laws. Pardilla said, at this time, but must travel from Bangor. “We envision this court to cover the whole Shared Training gamut of civil and criminal” jurisdiction. “E xcept where Congress has expressly Valerie Emery, 29, and Jerry Pardilla, 22, are both graduates of a now limited us, we retain our powers,” discontinued Indian paralegal training Pardilla said. Indian Legal View Sought program sponsored in Washington, D.C. In an action that could directly affect by Antioch College. Em ery described the nine month course as “a whole new tribal jurisdiction, the U.S. Supreme Court this month asked the Justice Mead said reciprocity would also mean outlook. I have to give all the teachers INDIAN ISLAND— As the first tribal credit,” she said. Em ery spent six years Department for an opinion on the judge in Maine’ history, 28-year-old Island residents could lje sued in tribal s applicability of federal versus state working for Tureen. court by non-Indians, while tribal court Andrew A. Mead breaks new legal ground As an intern with the Quinault Indian jurisdiction over crimes committed on suits brought by Penobscots against with every decision he hands down. Nation in Washington state, Pardilla got Indian reservations. While attempting to apply laws which in non-Indians would be honored by state Justices asked Wade McCree, solicitor first hand experience with tribal courts. “I many cases are still being written, Mead courts. general, to submit a legal opinion in did some prosecuting for some administra Mead, a non-Indian, holds a B.A. in said was aware of the precedent-setting connection with the state of Maine’ s tive departments,” he said. Psychology from University of Maine at possibilities of his job and the gray areas, Pardilla has been studying things like intention to appeal the ruling in the Orono and received his J.D. (Juris but stated he would “extend the jurisdic the Assimilated General Crimes Act, and Sockabasin-Dana case. Doctor) from New York Law School in tion (of the tribal court) as far as it will 1976. The New Jersey native has been a go-” Native American high school creative writing awards summer intern with Pine Tree Legal In comments following first m eeting of Assistance, Inc. and has been in private the Penobscot tribal court said he will be Requirements for entering the Native SANTA FE, N.M. — The Creative practice for the last three and one-half serving the dual functions of judge and American High School Creative Writing Writing Program of the Institute of Ameri consultant in setting up the court. He said .years. can Indian Arts announces its first annual Awards competition are: The contestant He does not view his position as the system is still unfinished and would Native American High School Creative must be an Indian currently enrolled in a require another six weeks to be fully permanent. “I think I will be replaced by high school program. The student may an Indian. I think it’ appropriate,” he Writing Awards. s operational. According to the new judge, The Institute's Creative Writing Program submit up to three pieces o f creative writing said. numerous forms still have to b e composed In light of the many unknowns involved. was founded in 1978 and offers in its two (poetry, fiction, plays), but all work must be and printed and procedures developed. He admitted that he was worried that in Mead said he was “very impressed with year program an Associate of Fine Arts typed, double spaced. No work submitted to the first session a case would arise for the Penobscots’ ambition to set up a full degree in Creative Writing. In addition, it the competition will be returned, so students produces “Spawning the Medicine River,” a are urged to retain copies. which the court was not prepared, and court.” magazine o f predominately student writing, was pleased that everything had gone Deadline for submission is February 1 , but which also publishes authors. smoothly. Despite the embryonic state of 1980. the court and the questions of procedure which still must be worked out, there was no question of the courts authority, he said. "W e have jurisdiction coming out of our ears." INDIAN ISLAND— A man who says he He was less certain of the court’ future is part Micmac Indian may face extradi s if the U.S. Supreme Court finds in favor of tion, in connection with a fugitive charge the state of Maine on its pending appeal to involving a manslaughter case in Califor overturn a Maine supreme court ju dge nia. ment denying state jurisdiction on reser The case of Michaelangelo Giovanni vations. Benete, a man described as in his early Mead predicted that the Penobscot thirties, is pending in Superior Court in court would be similar to other Maine Bangor. Benete, who has lived at Indian courts. Although some minor differences Island for some time, prefers the name exist, he said, such as placement of chairs “Runningwolf,” and said he is of Micmacin circles in some cases, tribal courts have Sicilian descent. usually been fashioned after their Anglo Benete claims in his defense that the counterparts. state has no jurisdiction over him, During the court session Mead routine following a state supreme court ruling last ly asked defendants if they would need summer that said federal jurisdiction time to pay their fines. Although this applies to “Indian country,” such as the right exists in state courts, he said it is Penobscot reservation. seldom pointed out, adding that he had seen welfare mothers use food or rent money to pay fines, not realizing they could delay payment. ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Ed Driving For Mead a major step in establishing Hawk was elected president o f the National the validity of the Penobscot court will be Congress of American Indians at the annual made if full reciprocity is established with meeting held October 1 . 5 state courts. He said this would “elevate Driving Hawk lost a different election, the prestige of the tribal court.” Recipro Oct. 25. He was defeated by 35 votes, 1,277 city is a mutual recognition of authority to 1,242, in his reelection bid as president of between court systems. It would mean Rosebud Sioux Tribe in South Dakota. SWEETGRASS FOR TOP BRASS — Maine Gov. Joseph Brennan accepts Passama court action against an individual in the Norman Wilson is new tribal president. state system such as speeding convictions quoddy sweetgrass basket from Alberta Bailey of Pleasant Point, at last fall’ Eastern States s could be taken into consideration in the NCAI, founded in the early 1950’ is the Exposition in Springfield, Mass. Alberta and husband John represented Maine Department s, Island court. largest Indian organization in the US. of Indian Affairs at the exhibit. Brennan toured the exposition. New tribal judge sees Indian law as challenging Island resident nabbed as fugitive Win some , lose some �Wabanaki Alliance December 1979 Page 15 Penobscot injured when auto swerves OLD TOW N — A woman has been charged with attempted homicide and aggravated assault, following an incident in which she.allegedly drove her car into pedestrian D oug Francis of Indian Island, a Penobscot. Francis, 37, suffered severe injuries to both legs, and was admitted to Eastern Maine Medical Center, after the 10:30 p.m. occurrence on North Brunswick Street. Old Town Police said Francis was walking near Old Town Canoe Co., when he was intentionally struck by a vehicle operated by Sandra Williams, 25, of Hampden. Francis had apparently met Williams earlier that evening, and a disagreement ensued. Williams has been arraigned in court, and her case continued for a probable cause hearing next month. Francis, a roofing and siding worker, said he is worried about whether he will ever work again in that business. He was employed at Old Town Applicators, owned by Miles Francis of Indian Island. Francis, who has no family, says his legs are in a bad way, but his “spirits are up. Must pray for m e hope I get better,” he said. Indians featured in public TV films LINCOLN, Neb. — Native American Broadcasting Consortium has announced expanded programming. The NAPBC distributes programming about Indians to PTV stations for broadcast use and to schools and community groups for non-broadcast use. The twenty-seven total hours in the NAPBC library were selected by a national screening committee made up o f PTV program managers and Indians employed in communications. All programming selected must appeal to both general audiences and to Native American viewers, a press release said. The “new additions” are from a variety of sources and address diverse interests. Included among the nine new titles is the recently completed seven-part series about New England Indians, “People o f the First Light.” This complements the Northwest Indian series, “The Real People” and the Woods Indian series, “Forest Spirits” also in the NAPBC library. Another NAPBC addition — “American Indian Artists” — features Southwest Indian artists. Two programs by independent producers were added. “Dineh: the People” in an indepth study o f the Navajo Indians, largest Indian tribe in this country. The other pro gram, “The Long Road Home," tells the story o f the Creek Nation’ history. s “Miss Indian America Pageant” is a special interest program showing young Indian women in traditional costume. A second special interest program is "The Eagle and the Condor” which features a group o f young Indian college student per formers on tour in South America. Over two years NAPBC has been opera tional, its screening committee has pre viewed some Indian programming and has selected only the highest quality for distri bution. However, a critical need still exists for additional top-quality Native American programming. “The Omaha Tribe” — a three-program series on the life-style of the Nebraska Omaha Indians will be available in No vember. Productions “in the works” — but not yet completed include “Wisdom o f the First Americans,” a 13-part series which will show Indian contributions to American society. Township boasts seven GED graduates INDIAN TOW NSHIP— Sherri Riggs, a teacher who prepares students to take the Graduate Equivalency Diploma test, announced that seven of her students, including 62-year-old David Soctomah, received their diplomas this month. The other six graduates w ere Gail Stevens, Martha Ann Barstis, Dale Newell, Dana Newell, Martina Stevens, and Cathy Lank. R iggs said she has been teaching the course, which lasts up to ten weeks, if needed, for three years at Indian Township. The diploma is generally recognized as equivalent to a high school diploma, she said. m VETERANS ADMINISTRATION § Owned Homes For Sale Throughout The State Equal Housing OPPORTUNITY Minimum Down Payment Financing Available Through V.A. 30 Year Loan — No Closing Costs 11V2 % Interest. Anyone Can Buy 8 You Don't Have To Be A Veteran See Your Local Real Estate Broker Or Contact VETERANS ADMINISTRATION LOAN GUARANTY DIVISION TOGUS, MAINE 04330 Tel. 207-623-8411 Ext. 433 A word to the wise Tapestry at S t Ann’ Catholic Church, Indian Township. s Indian leaders sign 'energy treaty' Representatives of 10 western states and m em bers of the Council of Energy Resources Tribes (CERT) signed an agreement in Phoenix this month to attempt to insure that the goal of national energy independence is not reached at their expense. Governor Bruce Babbitt of Arizona said that the agreement showed “we have common interests in developing the mountain W est to make sure that our energy resources are used wisely, utilized for the benefit of the West, the people DIRECTOR, NATURAL RESOU RCES The Director of Natural R e sources is generally responsible for the administrative and program management duties of this newly established Department. He/She must process technical knowledge and skills in the areas of forestry, and administration. Must be con cerned and be interested in the protection of the environment. SPECIFIC D/R 1. Implement, manage the Forest Management Plan. 2. Responsible for Administrative functions of the Department on a day to day basis. 3. Responsible for the supervision of staff within Department. 4. Must report monthly to Tribal Governor and Council. 5. Must work closely with Wildlife and Parks personnel to protect the wildlife within tribal lands. 6. Responsible for the supervision of all cutting and planting of trees on all tribal lands and oversee the continued tribal silvaculture p roj ect. 7. Responsible for all the develop ment coordination and maintenance of a forest fire protection pian. 8. Responsible for coordinating all efforts against forest diseases, harmful insects and establish action plans accordingly to protect the total forest and environment. 9. Responsible for coordinating all development of the watershed plan within tribal lands. EDU CATION/EXPERIENCE/ SKILLS REQUIRED A Bachelor's D egree with a major in forestry is essential, but equiva lent education and experience can be considered if candidate meets, all general qualifications listed in P.E. 8 level. P.E. Scale of P.E. 8 with starting salary of $15,080. who live here and future generations. He said that the W est would not “b e overrun by the overwhelming political pow er of the Eastern states.” The ten states are Alaska, Arizona, C olorado, M ontana, N ebraska, N ew Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah and Wyoming. Department of Energy announced that the U.S. w ill commit $24 million in the next ten months to speed development of Indian energy resources in the West. That funding would continue in future years. Peter MacDonald, CERT chairman, said “Santa Claus has com e earlier than we expected." Santa won’t skip Indian kids Fear not, faithful children, Santa Claus will not forget you. He plans to alight at Pleasant Point to visit Passamaquoddy children on Christmas eve. The tribal fire department w ill help out by giving him a ride on a nice red firetruck, about 6 p.m., Dec. 24. At Indian Township, Passamaquoddy youngsters will be treated to a party and special film at the elementary school, on Friday, Dec. 21, in the morning. Indivi dual class parties will follow. Not to be left out, Penobscot children will have a school party Thursday, Dec. 20, at the Indian Island school, at a bright and early 8:30 a.m. In the evening, at 7, pre-schoolers are invited to the Commu nity Building, where a party will be given for them, sponsored by the Beano Committee, tribal government and school, and assisted by Island teenagers. It's rumored Santa may show up, so get ready. At the Association of Aroostook Indi ans. Micmac and Maliseet families will benefit from an estimated 100 Christmas baskets packed with good things, accord ing to Betty Joseph in Houlton. Central Maine Indian Association in Orono is doing the same sort of thing, and is also putting on a Christmas party for kids and their parents, Saturday, Dec. 22, at 1 p.m. at 95 Main St., Orono. Their announcement says: “Any people wishing to bring a drum or to dance — come." Court rejects water rights The United States Supreme Court refused to intervene in a dispute over the proper forum for litigating Indian water rights issues. The Court rejected a Jicarilla Apache request to rule on whether state or federal courts should be used to litigate contro versies over the water rights of tribes. �Page 16 Wabanaki Alliance December 1979 Christmas message from this newspaper Penobscot rendering of Crucifixion This faded late 18th century painting of the Crucifixion was painted by a Penobscot, Joseph Paul Orson, who had no formal training and was almost totally blind. Orson reportedly used cranberry juice and other natural colorings for paint. The 50 by 90 inch work of art hangs at St. Ann’ Church, Indian Island. In this photo, the Rev. John Civiello, center, looks on, as s Michael Gramlich, right, and Greg Hart, both Maine State Museum employees, point to decayed areas of the painting. The museum staff plans to temporarily remove the work, photograph and restore it. Note the Indian features the artist gave the figures. news notes Township principal undergoes surgery INDIAN TOWNSHIP — Sister Anselma Colford, principal o f Indian Township ele mentary school, is recovering from major surgery, and is doing well, according to reports at press time. Sr. Anselma is residing at St. Joseph’ s Convent. 605 Stevens Ave., Portland, 04103. until she is strong enough to return to her duties at the Passamaquoddy school. She is up and walking, according to Joseph Stewart, Township education counselor and interim school principal. Stewart suggested friends may wish to send her a card or letter at the abovementioned address. Wax up: slope nearly ready PLEASANT POINT — A small ski area is about ready for use, at the coastal Passamaquoddy reservation here. Tribal officials say that $5,500, obtained through then Sen. William D. Hathaway a couple of years ago as a federal grant, has been used for leveling and filling o f a slope below the tribal water tower. Light poles have been erected, and there is the possibility of a tow, to take skiers to the top of the hill, at a future date, according to Passamaquoddy Lt. Gov. Gifford Dore. Until then, there’ plenty o f good exercise s to be had by hiking uphill. Supreme Court eyes Indian construction firms WASHINGTON — The U.S. Supreme Court has announced it will review a ruling that the federal Interior Department must publicly advertise bids before signing con tracts with Indian-owned construction com panies in the West. Government officials argue this policy could ruin some Indian businesses. The court made its announce ment Nov. 26. ORONO — There is much over which to rejoice, and much to be thankful for, as this year and a decade called the “70’ become history. s” It has been a decade of tremendous forward strides for Indian people throughout the U.S., but particularly in Maine. Notably, the Penobscots and Passamaquoddies have won federal rec ognition as Indian tribes, making them eligible for a host o f services and forti fying their land claims. The claims, of course, overshadow many smaller gains. The settlement o f the claims — probably very soon — may bring prosperity, pride and new challenges to the tribes, but the smaller steps are not insignificant. Alcoholism and unemployment are getting the attention they deserve on and off the reservations. They are persistent problems. Homeless Indian children are now getting the chance to be placed in an Indian foster family, so that their heritage isn’ brushed aside at an early t age. Health clinics are operating, or are being built, to serve Indian people. New' reservation housing is booming, and while the design could be more energy efficient for this climate, the news is nonetheless good. Another thing that has happened is this newspaper. Wabanaki Alliance be gan monthly publication in August 1977. We’ had our ups and downs, but we ve haven’ missed an issue, and we hope you t haven’ either. We have tried to be a t voice and medium of communication for all Indians in Maine, and even those else where with an interest in the goings-on of Passamaquoddies, Penobscots, Micmacs and Maliseets. In some ways, we’ succeeded. We ve were complimented for our “general excellence” by Maine Press Association. But it’ the letters from readers that tell s us if we’ doing our job. They say we re are. We acknowledge some o f our faults, and we hope you will help us correct them. We need you We are proud o f our Indian reporters and correspondents. We’ like in par d ticular to mention Brenda Polchies of Association o f Aroostook Indians, Na talie Mitchell of Penobscot Health and Social Services, Mary T. Byers o f Indian Island, Kathy Tomah of Indian Town ship, Roberta Richter o f Pleasant Point, and many others who have written articles and contributed photographs to make this an informative newspaper. We cannot think o f a better way to serve and reflect the Indian community than to have Indians doing the reporting. Now, if you are still with us, we come to the money part. Operation o f this newspaper, including office rental, type setting, printing, staff salaries, postage and materials, costs about $40,000 per year. That’ a considerable amount of s money, but we believe the function o f the newspaper makes it a good investment. Wabanaki Alliance has had the bene fit o f a start-up grant from Campaign for Human Development. It has helped us through two full years of successful operation. But grants do not last forever, and this one expires next fall. We hear from our readers that they want the paper to continue, so we are looking at alternatives. An obvious way to help pay the cost of this non-profit operation is to charge a subscription rate, and our board of directors has considered $5 per year. We think most people could afford that. If in some cases a person could not afford it, other arrangements could be made. Another way to help finance the paper is to request support from the tribes. We are exploring this possibility as Wab anaki Alliance goes to press. We will report to our readers what happens. Readers, let us hear from you. You are the reason we exist as a newspaper. We wish all of you the Merriest Christmas, and a Joyous New Year. — Steve Cartwright, editor. CMIA hires new health director ORONO— Marta Conlin, 21, has been hired as director of health and social services for Central Maine Indian Associa tion. Conlin, who learned of the CMIA personnel committee decision at press time, said she was delighted by the appointment. She was chosen from a field of several qualified applicants. Conlin, an outreach worker for CMIA the past few months, grew up at Pleasant Point and Indian Township reservations. A gradu ate of Hinckley School, 1974, she is currently working toward a bachelor’ s degree in philosophy at University of Maine at Orono. Conlin succeeds Linda Collinson as health and social services director. Collinson resigned for a job elsewhere. Pleasant Point fills school board slots PLEASANT POINT — Three new mem bers have been elected to the Pleasant Point school board, according to chairman John Nicholas. Winners in a field o f several candidates in the recent polling were Joseph Hartley Nicholas, Shirley Bailey, and John Dana. Nicholas will serve two years; Bailey and Dana will serve three year terms. Penobscot addresses civil rights workers PORTLAND — Dana Mitchell, a Pen obscot tribal member from Indian Island, spoke to an audience at a recent national conference o f human rights workers, held here in October. Mitchell said he discussed emerging Indian civil rights. Mitchell has himself won a job discrimination case through the Maine Human Rights Commis sion. - TRADITIONAL D R ESS — These Passamaquoddies display Indian clothing, beads and feathers, as well as young and old faces. Left to right are Lizzie Lola Stevens, Seraphine Lola Stevens and Sabattus Lola. [Photo courtesy of Mildred Yatroussis, a Passama quoddy tribal member who resides in Connecticut.] � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource <em>Wabanaki Alliance</em> (December 1979) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Indian Resource Center Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1979-12 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Donald Soctomah Julia Brush Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Document Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context DV-409 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Passamaquoddy Cultural Museum Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Steve Cartwright. Used with permission. https://www.dawnlandvoices.org/collections/files/original/deb3cc6f6406e2bb295017a2b4c43f2a.pdf a3cdc552d27b2394d7fbe1dfc0516972 PDF Text Text Kci woiitahasuwakon Sesuhs peciyat W abanaki A llia n ce Non-profit Organization U.S. Portage Paid 3.1c Permit No. 1 4 Orooo, Maine December 1980 Claims funded WASHINGTON — The negotiators of the $81.5 million Penobscot-Passamaquoddy land claims settlem ent are almost home free. As Wabanaki Alliance went to press, the the U.S. Senate passed a bill that bankrolls the federal resolution. Although expected, the funding legisla tion iii'ts a load from tribal leaders7minds. The entire settlem ent has followed a strategy and timetable to conclude all business before President Carter, an avow ed supporter, leaves office. if Carter had not signed the land claims agreement in October, a new administra tion could take over next month with the issue unresolved. In that event., the whole deal would be off, and negotiators would have to start over. A tribal negotiating team has worked long, hard hours for several years; m eeting first with themselves and lawyer Thomas N. Tureen — spearhead o f the claims — and then with federal officials. Finally, state officials and the Maine Legislature became involved, giving swift passage to a settle ment that left them off the hook, financially. The Senate vote, Dec. 1, came on the heels of House approval the w eek before. Tribal negotiating team chairman Andrew X. Akins said he expects Carter to sign the appropriation bill the week of Dec. 15. Akins said he is relieved much o f the struggle for a settlem ent is over. He said it will be “up to the people” of the tribe to decide how income from a trust, fund is spent. He said the tribes could expect to see a check as early as April. Akins said he anticipates som e discussion about how to disburse, or invest income. Tribal m eetings v/ili be scheduled, and the negotiating team will for the time being remain intact. The Maine Indian claim is the largest, in term s of land acquisition, in U.S. history, according to the a U.S. Department of the Interior official. A sum of $2? million will be held in trusL by the department, for the tribes. The land — 5,000 acres of which will go to Maliseet Indians in Houlton — will be purchased with the remaining $54.5 million. Land has not been finally selected, although several major landholders have made commitments t.o the tribes. Penobscot and Passamaquoddy officials have m et with Dead River Company President P. Andrews Nixon, and will likely contract with Dead River for land m anage ment. The contract would stipulate a six month trial period, after which the tribes could cancel or renew the agreement. Tribal leaders recently toured Dead River’ tree farm in Springfield, near Route s 6. Dead River owns 180,000 acres in Maine, and manages considerably m ore acreage, according to John Cox, public relations man. Tureen told a reporter, “N ever before has the legal system returned this much land after so much time. And for the first time in history, lawyers will not get a big piece of the settlement," said Tureen. Elsie Haddock, a Passamaquoddy and lifelong wreath maker. See story page 5. Possomaquoddys want per capita share PLEASANT POINT — More than 200 Passamaquoddy tribal m em bers here have signed a petition asking that interest earned on land claims trust monies be given to individuals, and not retained by tribal government. The petition is w orded as follows: “W e the undersigned m em bers of the Passamaquoddy Tribe of Indians, residing at the Pleasant Point reservation in Washington County, petition that the interest paid annually to the Passama quoddy Tribe of Indians under the term s o f the recent land claims settlem ent act passed by the U.S. C ongress for the benefit o f the Passamaquoddy Tribe shall be divided monthly among the individual m em bers of our Tribe, after the said monies are received by the Tribal Gover nor and Council, apd not used exclusively lor large public tribal projects, involving great sums of money with big salaries for the directors of such tribal public pro jects." Election ends retirement for J.H. Nicholas Governor Nicholas at inauguration ceremony. PLEASANT POINT — Joseph Hartley Nicholas, 54, put an end to quiet retire ment from Pratt & Whitney, when he was elected last fall to head the Passama quoddy Tribe. The race for governor was close, with traditionalist Deanna Francis coming within 16 votes of Nicholas’ 157 ballots. Since taking office Oct. 1, com plete with Governor’ inaugural ball, Nicholas has s sought to unify his people. “There are two main factions here. They had very strong feelings about it (the election results). I think now things have stabilized. I think after our Lhird or fourth (council) meeting, w e’ managed ve to have a fairly productive meeting." said the Governor, known here simply as “Hartley." A handsome, vigorous man of strong opinions, Nicholas is the brother of former tribal governor Frances J. Nicholas, and son of Margaret Nicholas, a great grand m other who instilled in her children a pride and self-confidence that is passed from generation to generation. "M other" Nicholas is still active, her opinions at least as strong as her son’ s. Hartley Nicholas said al first, “I wanted my nephew. Chris Ailvater. to run. I thought that he would do a real good job. He has a degree from UMO. But he wants to get his master’ degree. So when he s declined to run, I accepted the nomination. “W e’ passed som e fairly controversial ve issues,” Nicholas explained, seated com fortably in the living room of his brand new house, which overlooks Passama quoddy Bay. “For example, acquisition of the Eastport Water Company. It will (Continued on page 4) D e a d River to sell s o o n BANGOR — The president of Dead River Company said he anticipates com pleting a contract with the Penobscot Nation and Passamaquoddy Tribe in about six weeks. Dead River will manage yet-to-be-ac quired timberlands. purchased through the recent $81.5 million federal settlement of Maine Indian land claims. The Bangor based company will also sell som e lands to the tribes, according to President P. Andrews Nixon. Nixon has consulted with tribal gov ernors Timothy Love. Harold J. Lewey and J. Hartley Nicholas: and tribal officials have Loured Dead River’ tree s farm. Nixon said he would be willing to com ment further, after the contract is final. �’ age 2 Wabanaki Alliance December 1980 editorials Chairman Cohen Sen aIor William S. Cohen's impending status as chairman of the enate Select Committee on Indian Affairs may be a foregone con cision. but his activity in that role is open to question. Appointed ranking Republican on the panel two years ago. Cohen anything but an advocate of Indian rights. His philosophy on luians was amply demonstrated in his consistent opposition to ceognizing the validity of Maine Indian land claims — the only ldian legislation in which he is known to have been truly involved. To his credit, he supported passage o f the Penobscot-Passalaquoddy claims in a Senate voice vote, but by that time — last fall - he would have been an obstructionist to do anything else. The Mnnataba Messenger, an Indian weekly in Parker. Arizona, ^served that Cohen "is somewhere between an original redneck and man whose eyes are gradually opening. Will he blink?” We don’ t liieve m name-calling, but we wonder what a man who in 1979 said at he “wouldn't support (Indian sovereignty) anywhere" will do as airman of a committee that handles most if not all Indian gislation headed for Congress. Although Cohen voted for the negotiated settlement in Maine, he as conspicuously absent from tile signing ceremony at the White ouse, Oct. 1 Also missing were fellow Maine Delegation 0. embers. Representatives David F. Emery and Olympia Snowe. lowe and Emery have been consistently anti-Indian claims. Cohen is plainly not our choice to chair the committee. The mimittee lost a good chairman when Indian advocate Sen. James bourezk of South Dakota retired. Cohen’ motives deserve further s rutiny. Vulture warning AT THE CURB - Maine Atty. Gen. Richard Cohen, left, and his deputy, John Paterson, watt for ride on White House lawn, after witnessing the President sigD Maine Indian claims act. Quotable H ere’ a language that has survived since the dawn of man — s however long ago that was — it’ a living language, and we’ losing s re it. — I. Hartley Nicholas, Governor The Passamaquoddy Tribe at Pleasant Point The work has just begun. That's what many tribal officials are I see these young people wearing feathers, saying ‘ m Indian’ and I’ lying now about the land claims settlement. they can’ speak the language. t They are absolutely correct. — Harold J. Lewey, Governor While the struggle to bring the negotiated settlement to a peaceful The Passamaquoddy Tribe at Indian isolution lasted more than a decade, and involved countless Township ilunteer hours and energy, there seems to be no time to relax. In ict, there was hardly time for a victory party, even had negotiators ccn in the mood for jubilation. Now, the hassels begin. W here’ the money going? Who is s andling what, and who makes decisions? What about the swarm of eople who suddenly “discovered” they are Penobscot or Passalaquoddy, and want a piece of the pie — or to be adopted by a tribe )they arc eligible for a monetary slice. We'll wager there’ a far more dangerous element waiting in the s ings. This element consists of technical experts, tribal consultants, ivestors, sellers of real estate, promoters ... all posing as shepards ho wish to lead the tribe to greener pastures. Only to fleece the idians along the way. It wouldn't be the first time Indians have been taken. Our hope is iat Indians will lead Indians; and even there, tribes must be on lard against fraud and deceit. There are, after all, Indian persons tiling to use and manipulate fellow Indians. So the issue is less a racial one than it is a question of caution and :althv suspicion. We can hear it now: “Have I got a deal for you!" he salesman has got this unbeatable deal on a Maine resort, and the ibe can have it cheap. The only catch is, the resort has been bankrupt ever since it rened. It’ a lemon. You wouldn’t touch it with a paddle. s Instead, let the tribes proceed at their own pace; warily, carefully, ith trusted advice. Let the tribes weigh any venture — be it timber harvesting, iwmiils, blueberry farming or whatever — with this in mind: the �Wabanaki Alliance D ecem ber 1980 Page 3 letters Impressed Young cousins and happy mothers Seneca Blake Stevens, left, is the two-month-old son of T e n McDougall of Indian Island. Domekin Attean McDougall is the seven-month-old son of T e n ’ sister, Janice s McDougall. Both mothers are proud their son6 have Indian names. Tracing A b en ak i Los Angeles To the editor: Do you know of any papers which come from the Abenaki Reserve, Odanak, in the Province of Quebec, Canada? Any information regarding the above or any other information specifically dealing with the Abenaki tribe would be greatly appreciated. Also I wanted to tell you that I enjoy your paper very much. Diane J. Obomsawin 10990 Strathmore Dr. #2 Los Angeles, Calif. 90024 C hauvinism ! Princeton To the editor: Just a note to let you know how much we enjoy reading the Wabanaki Alliance. However, it is I who subscribed to the Wabanaki Alliance with my own hard earned money. Why do you send it in my husband s name? Is this a display of chauvanism! Please correct the subscription. D on’ t w orry — I'll still let my husband read it. Thank you. Lorraine Gabriel Ritter Wingdale, N.Y. To the editor: Recently I was visiting my sister, Geraldine Oliver in Dan forth. Me. We both have been living off the reservation for over 20 years. In the course of reminising and asking how the folks were, my sister brought out her copies of Wabanaki Alliance. I was impressed with your paper and wish to subscribe. Bob Tomah For the cause Pittsburg, N.H. To the editor: I don t know whether I have done any good for the cause, but you have my uncle from Ossipee as a new subscriber, and hopefully a cousin in Texas, and have written a letter to the Manchester Union Leader paper, in behalf of the Alliance. Thank you for a paper for the Indian. I wait for my paper every month, it means a great deal to me and mine. D. D ’ Amboise (Shonebeki) Native center Ottawa, Ontario, Canada Young and concerned Mattawamkeag T o the editor: Now that former Gov. Reagan will be our next president, I am concerned about several things. For example, the issue about foreign affairs and Iran really bothers me. Are we possibly facing the prospects of a war? Like all young men. I'm con cerned. What about the SALT treaties? Are we going to get the reputation of aban donment? And the hostages — they remain in Iran despite what Carter has tried. D oes Reagan have a special plan for their freedom? Will he attem pt to take them by force? Speaking of force, how is Reagan goin g to increase military spending and cut taxes all at the same time? Is it possible? Tom Vicaire Grade 8 Mattanawcook Junior High School Unhappy with claims accord To the editor: For our native people to find and fulfill Lewis burg. Pennsylvania their rightful role in the life of our nation To the editor: is an aspiration in the common interest of I would like to make a com ment on all Canadians. Our ties of race and .culture, I the recent Indian land claims settle spanning all provinces and territories can ment. First off, I want to say that I be an important unifying influence in our wish that I could state at this Lime that country. As an important step towards I was happy with this settlement, but I this common objective, the Inuit, Indian cannot for the following reasons. and Metis are joining together to establish The first being that the very worst a National Native Centre in our capital mistake that the people who negotiated city. this settlement, was when they gave The new building will not only provide up the “Sovereignty” that our fore the traditional services of a Friendship fathers worked so hard to protect. Centre, but will be a means of displaying Som ething that is a absolute must if we native art and other cultural activities. It are to survive as an Indian Nation. This will show our visitors — including those constitutes a grave error on the part of from foreign countries — that Canada the people that worked so hard on this .recognizes and respects its original Wabanaki Alliance Vol. 4, No. 12 Decem ber 1980 settlement. For them to put such a people. • thing in this settlem ent go es against As befits such a significant national Published monthly by the Division of Indian Services [DIS] at the Indian everything that a Indian Nation stands venture, we are inviting participation Resource Center, 95 Main St., Orono, Maine 04473. Telephone (207] 866-4903. for! And I believe that som eday they’ ll from all parts of Canada. W e would be Typeset by Old Town/Orono Times. Printed by Ellsworth American. realize this error, but I’ sorry to say m very pleased if you would include us on that then it will be too late to rectify your mailing list, for no charge. Hopefully, M ember — Maine P ress Association this serious error. in a year we will be able to subscribe to Secondly, for anyone to state that your magazine. Presently, we are still Steven Cartwright, Editor this is what the people wanted is raising funds to buy our building. another misstatement, for the simple Mary Mudd reason that the off reservation Indians did not ge t a chance to voice they’ re Reporters opinion of this very serious matter. Phone 827-6219 Indian Island Diane Newell Wilson This constitutes a very, very grave Phone 53 2-7317 Houlton Brenda Pnlchies injustice to a number o f American Lost cause Phone 853-4654 Pleasant Point Roberia Richler Indians. And will m ore than likely Bangor Phone 796 2301 Indian Township Kal hy Totnah divide the tribes instead of bringing To the editor: them closer together, like we should be I would like to pass this information DIS Board of Directors doing, and is a goal that is a m ust if we Jean Chavaree (chairman] IndianIsland along to others. are to survive. In order to becom e In Some months back I answered an ad in Donna Loring, Central Maine Indian Assoc. Old Town dependent we must have unity among Timothy Love, Governor IndianIsland the Wabanaki Alliance where it said, ourselves first. And this cannot happen “Calling all Maliseets, Maliseet Nation, Jeannette Neptune, Community D evelopm ent D irector Indian Township if important events such as this settle Madawaska, Maine." Jeanette LaPlante, Central Maine Indian Assoc. Old Town ment is not voted upon by each and I am sorry to say that this man didn’ t Brenda Polchies, Assn, of Aroostook Indians Houlton every m em ber of each tribe concerned! tell m e all the details. My sister and I I believe that there are others that signed our names to his list and he asked IMS is an agency of Diocesan Human Relations Services. Inc. of Maine. Sub feel the same as m yself on these for a donation. W e gave m oney to a cause scription to this newspaper are available by writing to Wabanaki Alliance, 95 matters, and I hope that they’ voice ll that was against my beliefs, and as an Main St., Orono, Me. 04473. Diocesan Human Relations Services and DIS are a they’ opinion and concern, whenever re American citizen, and a M aliseet Indian. and wherever they possibly can. non-pro Jit corporation. Contributions are deductible for income tax purposes. I hope no one else is as sim ple minded as Frederick L. Thurlow III j Roles: - 5 per year 1 issues]: So Canada and overseas; SIQ Ser institutions 5 52 I to make such a faux pas as I did. I ischools, government, business, etc.] Helen W. Deveau i. �Page 4 Wabanaki Alliance D ecem ber 1980 A governor s concerns (Continued from page 1 ) benefit the tribe, and we ll be able to buL I don't want my race to disappear. It’ s control our own water rates. If the inevitable, it’ down the road, unless we s present owner — their home office is in take action,” Nicholas said. Philadelphia — makes the improvements, Through intermarriage, Indian blood in the rates will probably double. It em ploys tribal mem bers has decreased. “I’ con m lour or five people, and that's four or five cerned about the assimilation into the jobs for our labor force," Nicholas said. white race," says Nicholas, who advocates A matter-of-fact person whose words a cut-off date, such as 1980, after which are touched with kindness and concern for offspring of unions involving a non-Indian his tribe, Nicholas declared, “what I would parent would not be on the tribal census. like to see here is unemployment brought Echoing his mother's concern with down to a regional level. Actually, what I Passamaquoddy language (reported in a would like to see is no unemployment at previous feature story in Wabanaki Alli all. ance), Nicholas explained, “I try to speak “Welfare is fine if you are sick, un to my grandchild every day, and he under healthy, disabled," the Governor con stands, but ne answers me in English. tinued. “But if you are young and fit, you “I'm hoping that by persevering I will should earn your own living. I don’ think . succeed in teaching him how to speak t the United States ow es you a living. If the Indian." The hope fades quickly from work ethic is inculcated in a child, by a Hartley's eyes. “But it's a losing battle." parent, a teacher, or even example, this, He shrugs. thing can be completely brought about in a Nicholas’ brother, Francis, the former generation.” governor, speaks to his kids in English Nicholas, like other Passamaquoddys, because he himself had a hard time with feels the pull of both modern non-Indian English. "That attitude is prevalent,” the society, and the tugging of tradition, his Governor said. early heritage. A heliarc welder at Pratt “H ere’ a language that has survived s & Whitney in Hartford for 14Vz years, he since the dawn of man — however long retired recently with a pension, and came ago that was — it’ a living language, and s home with his Passamaquoddy wife, w e’ losing it.” re Eileen Nicholas. Prior to welding, he Nicholas himself learned Passama worked nine years for Hartford Faience quoddy first, and “English came easily." Company, makers of ceramic electrical Land claims and the future insulators. (Fellow Pratt & Whitney Asked for his opinion on the $81.5 Passamaquoddys John Stanley and David million land-money settlem ent o f PenDoyle are scheduled to retire soon.) obscot-Passamaquoddy claims, Nicholas Nicholas believes the state “made a big stated: "I would’ liked to see a settle ve mistake in its relations with the tribes. I ment that would make the Indians inde think they should have helped them make pendent and financially secure far into the the transition from their ancient culture future, but I don’ think that’ realistic. t s . .. I remember I was in eighth grade,-a “If we can pick ourselves up by our couple of boys (from the reservation) went bootstraps it will be just as good." to high school. It was 1929. They were the Skeptical about the settlem ent in general, first to go. I started the next year, with Nicholas nevertheless was present, Oct. two others. We were the first, to graduate. 10, when the President signed the land There was no opportunity to g o higher.” claims act at the White House. Nicholas can see the changes, such as Nicholas is convinced disaster was his nephew seeking a m aster’ but still, s, avoided by establishing the $27 million he says, “I want my people to be Indian. trust fund for the two tribes. "If we had “My concern is the future of the tribe. realized a great deal of money and divided I've nothing against the white race. Some it am ong the tribe, w e’ be ruined,” he d of my best friendships are with the while said. race. They have many traits I admire. Nicholas said he prefers tribal enter They are thrifty, industrious . .. but I am prises over other,, private, outside in an Indian, and I want my people to be terests operating on the reservation. Indian; rather than becom e absorbed by However, he said the planned Digital our white neighbors. Equipment shop, expected to train and It probably wouldn’ be a bad thing, t em ply about five persons at $3.25 per hour The G overno r and his dog, Cipuhtes (clown). to make cable connectors for computers, will be a welcome development. “Even if we start with five jobs, it grows,” he said. The new governor is especially proud of the decision to acquire E astporl Water Company. “It won’ cost the tribe a t penny,” he boasts, citing an outright $1.4 million grant, plus a $1.5 million loan to be repaid through revenue bonds. “W e’ be ll the only Indian tribe in the country that owns a water company,” he said, smiling. “I thought it would be foolish to turn down something like that.” In other business, Nicholas said, “w e’ re goin g to open our fish holding .plant. We hope to process fish here, and ship them down to Boston. We're presently negotiat ing with a couple of dealers." Anticipated is the arrival of the stellhulled, government surplus commercial fishing vessel, “Magdalena.” Another project is buying Carlow Island, adjacent to the reservation and bisected by Route 190, the Eastporl road. The stumbling block is not the price, set by the island’ New York owner, but the s fact that Eastport does not want to lose its pow er to tax the property. Asked about the recent removal of track from Maine Central Railroad Com pany s right-of-way across Pleasant Point, Nicholas said, “I’ glad you mentioned m that. He said he may pursue obtaining title to the right-of-way. He remembered riding to Perry, as a boy. for nine cents. N ew foundland Indians seeking status, rights Margaret Nicholas, m other of two governors. The ride to Eastport by train was 18 cents. Asked about the long proposed Pittston oil refinery, Nicholas said, “I don’t believe they can have a refinery of that type without polluting the water." Describing himself as an ecologist, he said, "I think we have to try to learn m ore and m ore of the delicate balance of nature. Anything that disturbs the ecological balance that God created doesn’ work out very well t for us." Nicholas has six grow n children. A son lives in Florida; his five daughters have all m oved to Pleasant Point. The lalesl “moved back from Connecticut last week.” The Governor has 14 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. "I’ always worked all my life. I got ve married when I was 20, and never slopped working." The Governor reflected. “It’ s a very demanding job, and it requires a lot o f hours. But I would rather keep busy. Since I’ retired, even before I became ve governor, I couldn't g e l enough Lime in a day." HARDWARE & GUN SHOP TOM VICAIRE, Proprietor The only Indian-owned hardware business in the State o f Maine “ We're eager to do business with people in the Indian community,” says Tom. The store carries a full line o f tools, electrical and plumbing supplies, paint and housewares. Also, a selection o f fine new and used guns. See Our Garden Supplies and Tools For all your hardware and hunting needs, visit — MATTAWAMKEAG HARDW ARE & GUN SHOP and sample some good Indian hospitality and service. CONN RIVER, Newfoundland — The Federation of Newfoundland Indians has been wailing seven years for the federal government to officially recognize them. A recent Canadian newspaper report said that when previously independent New foundland became a province in 1949, Indians were left out, largely because they did not live in larger population areas. Canada acknowledges 300,000 other Indians as “registered" under the Indian Act. Although the government has agreed loregister Newfoundland Indians, Calvin White, president of the federation and a S k itik u k ► O u tfitte r s Micmac from Conn River, says officials “have been dragging their feet." Indian Affairs Minister John Munro staled last March that registration would be approved Specialists in wilderness travel. in ten days. Sales - Rentals - Guide Service Said White: “Until we are registered as status Indians, we cannot participate in any H om e of Igas Island custom-made decision-making processes at the National packs and equipment Indian Brotherhood’ general assembly.” s Tw o of Lhc brotherhood’ 70 delegates 38 Main St. s O ro n o 866-4878 would represent Newfoundland Indians. �Wabanaki Alliance December 1980 Page 5 Cohen likely t© choir indlon affairs committee The Rev. Joseph Mullen chats with Passamaquoddy, Irene Lew ey about Christmas wreath business at Pleasant Point. Wreathing prospers PLEASANT POINT - “This has got to be the biggest order in the country. It could be a good income if they use their heads." Thats how Eddie Haddock of Pleasant Point described the current rush to fill a gigantic order for traditional Christmas wreaths. Haddock is in charge of opera tions. The order for 10,000 wreaths — and possibly more — com es from Lambert Brothers, Boston, to be shipped for retail sale. Two brothers were instrumental in landing the contract for Pleasant Point. They are the Rev. Joseph Mullen, of St. Ann's Parish, and his brother Jim Mullen, second in command at Business Service Center, a federal agency in Boston. “We've got a wonderful opportunity if we can just ge t people rolling,” said Father Mullen, who has also persuaded Digital Equipment Corp. to open a small plant in a building on the reservation. Four persons in Eastport, and four in Pembroke, are busy weaving the wreaths as they have for decades. Eddie Haddock’ s wife Elsie is an expert, as are Irene Lewey and Charlie Barnes, all of Pleasant Point. Wreaths vary in diameter from 12 inches to 30 inches, priced accordingly. Haddock is paying the w eavers 50 cents per one foot wreath, $2.50 for the largest size. Profits will be shared with the Church, which needs help on winter fuel bills. But basically, the wreath pi-oduction is to help the people of Pleasant Point reservation." "Before you can get people interested in God, you have to have the necessities,” Father Mullen declared. Recalling early times', Elsie Haddock said, “we used to have a big hall: w e’ d have a lot of fun.” She has made wreaths “every year since I was nine years oid. I learned to trim when I was nine.” Ellsworth firm unpaid by tribe ELLSWORTH — Although Ellsworth iuilders Supply won a favorable judgm ent i court, no one knows how the firm can olleet on an old debt, from Lhe Passamauoddy Tribe at Pleasant Point. The tribal housing authority ow es Ells'orth Builders Supply a reported $7,499, )ut at a recent hearing in Fifth District, }ourt, nobody showed to represent theribe or housing authority. A lawyer for the firm in Ellsworth said he n’ sure how to proceed. “I’ writing Tom t m ureen (tribal lawyer), the Department of iterior, and the Department of Housing id Urban Development. I intend to find jL if anyone can honor this judgm ent,” he as quoted as saying, in the Ellsworth merican. The suit was filed in January when llsworth Builders Supply was unable to illect a balance due. The housing authority id purchased more than $41,000 worth of aterial from the firm, according to the • tide in the American. Tureen had earlier asked that the court smiss the case, on the basis it lacked jurisction over Indians. He told the court llsworth Builders would g e t their money, it would have to wait. Judge Jack Smith denied Tureen's motion to dismiss. Tureen did not show up at the trial, and Smith declared judgm ent in favor of plaintiff, by default. Cohen looks into Township housing BANGOR — The planned construction of 35 new houses at Indian Township is under investigation after an irate bidder charged he and another firm had lower bids than the winning offer, accepted by the tribe and Jam es W. Sewall Co. of Old Town. Key-Loc Hom es of New Hampshire was reportedly willing to construct the federally funded housing project for $262,000 less than the winner, W eslville Hom es of New Hampshire. A ccording to the Bangor Daily News, W eslville H om es accepted money for the job. Sept. 30, at Sewall’ offices. s The N ews said Sen. William S. Cohen, who opposes “hurry-up spending" at the end of a fiscal year, has asked his staff to investigate allegations by Key-Loc, and to contact Departm ent of H ousing and Urban Developm ent officials in Washington. WASHINGTON — A couple of years ago William S. Cohen said he would oppose any extension of the Senate Select Commit toe on Indian Affairs. Now the U.S. Senator from Maine, ranking republican on the panel, is likely to becom e chairman of the committee. Cohen has changed his mind on the com m ittee’ s future. Although Cohen’ Capitol Hill aide, s Timothy Woodcock, said the Senator “has not taken a position on whether to make it a permanent committee.” all indications are that Cohen will chair the panel. Legislation is pending to make the committee permanent. It was introduced last May by com m ittee member. Sen. John Melcher. a Democrat. The Senate Select Committee on Indian Affairs will terminate Dec. 31. il Melcher’ bill is not enacted in s the lame duck session of Congress. Said Melcher. "if the responsibility for Indian affairs reverts to a subcom mittee . . . the potential for careful and equitable con sideration of Indian issues will be severely disminished." M ost legislation for the Senate involving Indians passes review by the committee, established Feb. 4,1977. B esides Cohen and Melcher, mem bers are Senators Mark 0. Hatfield. Daniel Inouye, and Dennis DeConcini. Melcher is current chairman. Retired Sen. James Abourezk of South Dakota, a strong advocate of Indian rights, is a past chairman of the committee. When Cohen was added to the com mit tee, he said it would be “very active,” but in an interview with this newspaper, stated he opposed any extension of the panel beyond 1980. W oodcock said Cohen will assess “v/hat benefits it (the committee) holds for the rest of the state. His assessm ent of the function of the committee ... is based in larjre part on t.he legislative load of the committee. When he (Cohen) hrst came on, the com m ittee was goin g through a period o f studied inertia," W oodcock told Wabanaki Alliance. Opposition to extending the Senate Select Committee on Indian Affairs comes from Sen. Howard Cannon, a Nevada Democrat, who said the com m ittee was not intended as permanent. However, a com promise could be worked out. Cannon indi cated. Cohen has only sponsored one piece of Indian legislation: The Maine Indian land claims act of 1980. He had earlier been a fierce opponent of awarding land and money to the Penobscot and Passamaquoddy tribes. He claimed the State of Maine could win a legal contest if the claims w ere taken to court. Cohen was elected to the Senate in a defeat of incumbent Sen. William D. Haihaway. a supporter of a negotiated settlement with the tribes. The incoming Republican Presidential administration, and GOP Senate majority, will mean thal one Democrat on the Senate Select Committee on Indian Affairs will be replaced by a Republican, W oodcock said. Who will that be, W oodcock was asked. “Who knows," he said. Sockabasin seeks Governor's pardon ORONO — Allen J. Sockabasin, former Indian Township governor, land claims negotiator, and currently director of Tribal Governors Inc., wants a pardon. He is seeking a pardon through Gov. Joseph E. Brennan, who has not. yeL scheduled a date for hearing before the Advisory Board on Executive Clemency. Sockabasin was convicted of arson, in. the attempted burning of Indian Towriship" elemenLiiry sctxrot ,,, .j.or.s. Township governor reflects on claims INDIAN TOW NSHIP - “We had to give and take. xA the negotiators on Il both sides, we both fought hard." That’ how Harold J. Lewey, go v s ernor o f the Passamaquoddy Tribe here, characterized the long stru ggle to resolve the joint tribai claims to 12.5 million acres in Maine. “It’ ju st a m atter of giv e and take; s what we all felt reasonably sure was a good thing,” said the quiet-spoken, lean and ruggedly handsome governor. "N ow the work begins for us. We have to find out from the people where they want to go from here, and that’ s goin g to be a long process. “I don’ think our people have had t much say in Lhe past about their lives,” Lewey, who is 47 years old, com mented. “My people need a constitution,” he said, adding that he has visited several tribes to examine their constitutions. A veteran of 21 years in the military, L ew ey said he has seen a lot of “physical changes” at his rem ote reservation. Hot and cold running water, new housing — “you don’ have t to go out on Lhe lake and chop a hole in the ice,” he said. “But I haven’ seen t very much change in the attitude and opinion of the people. “I see these young people wearing feathers, saying ‘ m Indian’ and they I’ can’ speak the language.” t Gov. Harold J. Lewey. Lew ey left home at age 17, and traveled to Aroostook County, where he worked various farms, and did w oods work. He worked awhile for Pratt & Whitney in Connecticut. He has held jobs as a short order cook, cement factory worker, and his long career in the Military Police Corps. He and his wife Dorris have two children: Matt, 16, a student at Lee Academy, and Martha, 19, a student at University o f Maine at Machias. �Page 6 Wabanaki Alliance Decem ber 1980 A summer comp with Indian spirit'There's something special here . . . so much love' Bob Bryan Camp Director Ellen Muslin lets Sandy Getchell nl Mnplctun, a Micnjac camper, decorate her lor festivities the last night of camp, [Hansen photo]. By Robin Hansen SINCLAIR — It is the last night of Maine Indian Summer Camp, and it is raining ever so slightly — a disappoint ment, because the Lcntugs have planned traditional dances from several tribes and the counselors have a bonfire built on the little tongue of land that, pushes out into Mud Lake. The Lentugs dance anyway, in the rain: a round dance, the Mohawk blanket dance, an Iroquois partridge dance, the W ab anaki feather dance. When a dancer, a bov, leans over to catch the father in his tccih. drummer Robin McNea/ exclaims, “Look! They do it different!” because these are not dances taught at camp, but learned at home or at powwows and only being shared now. At Indian Island, one must keep the rhythm, bending over while balancing and bouncing on one foot and catching the feather stuck in the ground, hut-the kids here are from all over Maine and New Brunswick, and som e of them simply place their feet wide and lean over to catch the feather. Down by the water the Quimo are setting tiny candle boats afloat, but. the candles are doused by the rain almost as soon as they are set sail. “It's all right," Director Ellen Mustin com forts the cam p ers. “You can send your w ishes off tomorrow morning — ." The rain begins to pour down in earnest and cam pers and counselors alike retreat to their cabins for the night. The rain ended a day of Olympics, banqueting, and awards, and three weeks of learning, sports and friendship. It also ended the tenth year of the Quebcc-Labrador Foundation's Camp Karawanee — probably the only recreational camp in the Northeast aimed specifically at Indian children and youth. For campers it has been three w eeks of learning new skills — som e Indian, som e not Indian — and living with children from other communities, other tribes. F o p the many i 12 nearly half the camp) cam pers who live in white communities, it has been a time to learn how Indians behave, to learn on a small scale how Indian society works, and to learn from their Indian counselors how to do crafts the Indian way. For counselors, it has been a time to lead, to teach, and to be in a position of responsibility for groups of younger children — a position sometim es hard for Indian youth to attain in white society or in Indian communities where authority is for lacrosse, the lake seem s to stretch like a welcoming hand out from it. Small wonder swimming and canoeing are the main sports. Mustin, who at home is a Latin and physical education teacher, teaches canoe ing and bagatowea (lacrosse) herself. She demands and ge ts disciplined canoeing skills from her .crew. In the Mud Lake Olympics the last day the canoe races started on land: com petitors carried their canoes to the lake edge, pushed off, turned around, swam ped their canoes in kneedeep water, emptied and righted them, climbed back on board and followed a slalom course. One of the counselors lost a point by not getting in according to form, but everyone else did all right. Maine Indian Summer Camp is held for five weeks each summer — the first two for children 8 to 12 years old, the second three for the 12-15 age group. The camp is paid for by the Quebec-Labrador Founda tion, and except for transportation costs, is free for campers. Besides sports and crafts, the camp offers a variety of specials by visiting experts. This year, Bill Bryan, scout for the Pittsburgh Pirates, offered a baseball workshop; Andrea Nicholas from the Tobique Reserve (New Brunswick) helped teach leatherwork; Pat and Rilda Daigle of Fort Kent had a wrestling and gymnastics workshop; Kevin Neilson of UMO helped the campers with basketball skills, and Carmine and Andy Jandreau of Caribou had a square dance session at the camp. The cam pers went blueberrying and raspberry picking, visited Wells-in-theRocks in Grand Falls, N.B., the paper mill in Madawaska, and attended local theatre in Fort Kent. One of the feaLures of the older session is a four-day canoe trip from Mud Lake through C ross Lake to Square Lake. Dr. Peter Paul of Woodstock, N.B., visited the first session of camp to talk with young campers about old times in Maine and to pass on legends and Indian words. His visit inspired the cam pers to provide several legends as skits the last often applied from outside. It speaks well of the camp that most of the Indian counselors have been campers, and most, are either in college on on their way there. Early in the morning, before anyone else is awake, an Indian song, shouted by Camper Tony Clement of Pleasant Point Kineo Tompkins, a little Micmac boy gets ready to send an arrow toward the whose m other is the camp cook and nurse: mark. Archery was one of the traditional “Hey-ey yah! hey ey yah-ah! hey ey-yahskills taught at Maine Indian Summer ah!" It go es on and on, ringing across the Camp. [Hansen photo]. lake in the misty m orning air, wonderfully romantic, waking everyone up. Later a cam per tells me that it isn't planned that The camp — people and site — is way. “Kineo wakes us up every morning, beautiful but for the communities of lie always sings an Indian song, and it's Indian Island and Pleasant Point it is also always the same song. Sometimes I wish very remote. Maine Indian Summer Camp he'd shut up." is held in Sinclair, in the northernmost tip But it is part of the Indian feeling of the of Aroostook county. Its rem oteness has camp that no one told Kineo to shut. up. limited participation from the southern Both campers and counselors treated reservations. This year there w ere three Kineo and his little brother — and one cam pers and one counselor from Pleasant another — with a gentleness uncommon Point and two cam pers from Orono — among white children. It was not unusual compared to nine from W oodstock, New to see a twelve or thirteen year old Brunswick, and 11 from Aroostook towns. comfortably hang an arm around his coun This year, Ellen Mustin wanted to arrange selor's neck or to hear som eone tenderly a m eeting of representatives from Indian recount an incident illustrating another’ s Island, Indian Township and Pleasant personality. There was no cruel teasing, Point to start looking for a m ore central and much tolerance. QLF founder Bob site, but apparently it was too far even for Bryan, who visited during the last session the representatives, because no one came. remarked on it — “There’ something night of camp, s special here. There’ so much love — s It couldn’ be easy to keep an Indian t spirit in a camp where the director is a white from Ipswich, Massachusetts, and the money com es from a church-oriented white foundation. It helps that the white is Ellen Mustin and that the foundation is the Quebec-Labrador Foundation (QLF), known for its ability to supply money and aims and let the community carry the action. Of course there are “Indian” cam ps all over New England, mainly for white outof-state children, but the emphasis is different. There the white culture is inborn and the Indian culture com es from books. Here the Indian-ness com es with the cam pers and t.he counselors, and the QLF staff has been careful not to push book ideas of Indian-ness. One of the stated aims of QLF is to preserve traditional crafts and skills; Mustin thinks the camp helps to prom ote this. The Indian crafts taught — beadwork, birchwork and ash splint basketry, leatherwork, fingerweaving — com e from counselors and visiting Native American Counselor Robin McNeal, a UMA student from Caribou, talks with nurse/cook Pat experts. Because the camp itself is so tiny, with 6 Tompkins [left). Ricky Pelkey of Woodstock, N.B., a Maliseet camper, hangs on. by 10 foot cabins and a clearing too small [Hansen photo]. �Wabanaki Alliance D ecem ber 1980 Page 7 Campers frolic Bear Hansen, a Ojibwe camper from W est Bath, finishes up a splint basket made of brown ash. Ash splint basketry was one of the traditional skills taught at the Maine Indian Summer Camp run by the Quebec Labrador Foundation at Sinclair. [Hansen photo]. Aroostook Notes By Brenda Polchies CARIBOU — Elizabeth Zernicke, a member o f the Association of Aroostook Indians at Caribou, recently returned from a three week training session at the Black Hills Training Center in Rapid City, South Dakota. The Indian Health Service program at Princeton sponsored Zernicke to improve her efficiency as Community Health Rep resentative dealing with the Indian people in Aroostook County. Segm ents o f the training session included how to work with people, how to deal with emergencies, a session on psychology and defensive driving was featured. M embers of the Indian community from Maine, Arizona, Oklahoma, Wisconsin, and New Mexico were invited to participate in this health workshop. At completion of the workshop, Zernicke is officially certified to act as Com munity Health R epresentative for the Indian Health Service. High school honors Passamaquoddy man PLEASANT POINT - Decem ber 22nd is touched with tragedy for the family of Ralph and Hazel Dana. On that day, in 1975, their son, Glen, was killed in an auto accident. He was an outstanding student at Kents Hill, a Maine boarding school. Last June, when daughter Marilyn graduated at Kents Hill, a special award was announced for Glen Dana, to be pre sented annually to a student who dem on strates excellence. Glen was “gifted with humor and understanding," according to his father. Now another m em ber of the family, Ralph Edward Dana, a junior high honor roll student, wants to attend Kents Hill. Ralph Sr. says the school is a wonderful place that makes the whole family feel welcome and included. Joe Sapiel of Pleasant Point climbed aloft for his role in a skit the last night of camp. His mouth looks funny because he has a lollipop in it. [Hansen photo]. island street honors William Newell, 88 INDIAN ISLAND - William B. Newell, Penobscot, will celebrate his 88th birth day, Dec. 17. He is the oldest male resident o f Indian Island. . A retired professor of anthropology, Newell and his wife, Celina, live at 5 Riverview Drive. His Indian name, Rolling Thunder, was recently assigned to a new street, in a Penobscot Indian Housing Authority project. \ i watch each pass and hands in gentle voices mirroring each to the east i watch each pass mirror-ing each yearnings beyond m ere vision in my ey es (we) appear A sex y jo b ? Professor Newell, a graduate of Syra cuse Universtiy, is listed in Who’ Who in s New England, and W ho’ Who in the East. s He. earned his master’ degree from -Uni s, versity of Pennsylvania. He is a member of American Academy o f Political and Social Sciences, American Association of University Professors, and American Anthropological Association. A daughter, Diane Newell Wilson and family, are also Indian Island residents. Poetry disappear other watching other to here the north & south grown lantern hills & easterner islands estuaries incarnate som ew here som eone thinks of you love/belongs/heals she stands : strength surrounds care-less she runs to leaves falling, falling Ihyeyes in auto mishap fallen glim pse now villages & tribes & nations no where one have you returned no one or eternity in reverse-in: time wells open & where in turnstiles yet leaning and glim pse thine your eyes som ewhere each watching each & mirrors return your eyes, (we) stand belong-ing “fall, forgotten dreams your years : these lies & “in green-ness of leaves & wind blossom s flying each to each within to an image of your face V ______ ORONO — Being a board m em ber of this newspaper is probably not very sexy, but it can be interesting and rewarding. — W abanaki Alliance holds-monthly- m eet ings, where board members review edit orial material and set the policy and direction of the newspaper. Board m em bers are paid mileage for com ing to meetings. In particular, board mem bers are needed from Pleasant Point, to replace John L. Bailey and Reuben (Clayton) Cleaves; and from Indian Township, to succeed Albert Dana. A successor on the board for Gov. Timothy Love is needed, and interested Penobscots should contact the governor’ s office. Judge injured in swollen expanses & small diminishing wings our eagle returns in grace & creature turmoil wherein “slender-willowed wishes , once for a while som eone thinks of you Camper Ricky Pelkey of Woodstock, N.B., a Maliseet, pulls up a macrame knot in a spontaneous early m orning craft session in the dinning hall. Several kinds cf traditional beadwork w ere taught at Maine Indian Summer Camp, but the campers also like the non-Indian way of working beads into bracelets. Another cam per is finishing up a loom-beaded braclet at left. [Hansen photo]. where i have seen your face & eyes — G eorge Tom er y PLEASAN T POINT - Recently appointed tribal court Judge Reuben C. (Clayton) Cleaves was seriously injured in a one car auto mishap last month. He has been hospitalized at Eastern Maine Medical Center since the accident, which occurred at the intersection of Route 1 and Route 190. Details of the accident w ere not known to the Pleasant Point Police Department, but the driver o f the vehicle was said to be Brenda Moore of Pleasant Point, who failed to negotiate a turn at. Route 1 The vehicle reportedly . struck an embankment. Besides Cleaves, there were at least two passengers in the vehicle, according to unofficial reports. A sso cia te J u d g e S h irley Bailey of Pleasant Point — who was recently hos pitalized for surgery — has taken over Cleaves' duties, which include handling court cases at Indian Township, the sister Passamaquoddy reservation near Prince ton. Cleaves is expected to resum e his duties at a later date. He has served as director of the tribal housing authority, and represen tative to the state legislature, for the tribe. �Page S Wabanaki Alliance D ecem ber 1980 Iribei court orders eviction of Micmac widow Letter supports Isabelle Shay j Perth, New Brunswick Dear Governor and Council: As Wabanaki women of the Tobique . Reserve we would like to register our opposition to the eviction of Isabelle Shay from her home at Indian Island. As we understand it there have been many precedents at Indian Island where a non-Penobscot spouse has been allowed to live in his home after the death of the Penobscot spouse, even in cases where the surviving spouse was not adopted by the Tribe. Not only have un-adopted Indian men and women of other tribes been allowed to remain after the death of their Penobscot spouses but so also have non-Indian spouses been allowed to remain, unharassed by tribal auth orities. These precendents are too well known to need listing here. In addition, if Isabelle is successfully evicted she will have no place to go, no reservation to return to, since the Canadian government under its dis criminatory Indian Act no longer recogni7.es Isabelle as an Indian on account of her marriage to Pat Shay. (Indian men in Canada can marry whomever they please and still be considered Indians, but Indian women lose their Indian status if they marry non-Indians or non-Canadian Indians. They cannot regain Indian status even after divorce or widowhood, except by remarriage to another Canadian In dian.) Ho do not mention the Indian Act here to defend it. On the contrary, Indian women in Canada have been protesting against the Indian Act in its present form for many years. W e only mention it to point out how severe the consequences of eviction will be for Isabelle Shay. Considering these facts together with the many precedents that have been set on your reservation regarding the rights of surviving spouses we can only conclude that the m ove to evict Isabelle Shay is both unfair and cruel. We ask that you reconsider her case in light of these points. We are asking for Justice at least, if not compassion. Furthermore, we would like to suggest that Penobscot laws be chang ed to prevent such harassment of native women in the future. Whether adopted or not, native spouses both male and female should have the security of knowing that upon the death of their Penobscot spouse they will at least have survivors rights to their family home. Such adaptation of a standard practice (Maine law?) would not endanger Penobscot land, and it would be more humane and m ore con sistent with Wabanaki traditions than the present harassment of widows in their \ime of bereavement. Sincerely, The Wabanaki Women of Tobique (Henna Pertey. Eva Soulis, Andrea Bear Nicholas, Cheryl Bear, Heather Bear. Barbara Nicholas, Sandra Love lace.. Bernie Perloof, Sharon C. Paul, Mrs. Louis Sappier, Lilly Harris, Loretta Perley, Theresa Perley (Hart), Mrs. Francis Paul. Edith Sappier, Paula Sisson, Sandra Nicholas, Juanita Perley, Connie Nicholas. iNDLAN ISLAND — W hether Isabelle T. Shay could remain in the house she has occupied for the past few months was still up in the air, as Wabanaki Ailiance went to press. Tribal Gov. Timothy Love says no. Shay says yes. Governor Love states it is “the custom of the tribe" to take care of widows, or any woman on the Island regardless o f tribal affiliation, but that such person must not abuse the tribe's hospitality. Love says Shay is inhabiting the house of her late husband, Patrick Shay, in violation of a court order. Patrick Shay was Penobscot; his widow' is a Micmac and native of Nova Scotia. Complicating m atters is that Patrick Shay owned only a share of the property, and there are many heirs. Also, Shay adopted Isabelle Shay's son, Karl Toney, who now lives with bis m other and attends Indian Island elementary school. .-The latest development was the arrest of Isabelle Shay at her residence. She was subsequently bailed at $150, with a tribal court hearing set Dec. 17. Isabelle Shay was ordered Nov. 6, by Penobscot Nation tribal court, to vacate the house. Love signed the removal papers. In an interview with this newspaper, the Governor said he offered Shay the chance to stay on the reservation, either with Alberta Francis, or Edna Becker. Both women expressed a willingness to help Isabelle Shay. A handwritten note from Love to Shay said, “Isabelle, if you can find another place to live in on the reservation, you may stay under life estate custom of the tribe . . . but legal proceedings will continue until you vacate your present dwelling.” Shay rejected the suggestion. “Because Governor Tim Love is a m em ber o f the Shay family, I sensed this was a ploy to have me leave -r in other words I sensed that he was trying to scare me out so his family would not pressure him.” she said in a statement dated Nov. 21. I am here out. of deep concern for Karl’ future and to protect his legitimate s right to be placed on the Penobscot list, as was his father's wish. Clearly both Karl and I are both eligible and qualified," Shay stated. Love, however, said Shay’ chances of s adoption into the Penobscot tribe are very slim because of her adversary position with tribal leadership. Love said the tribe had rented a cabin at a Milford motel for Shay and her son. "W e’ going to pay for it for a few days, re and after that, that’ it." he said. s Shay said that at first. Patrick Shay’ s son, Timothy Shay, cooperated with her. but later apparently testified against her, behind closed doors. The younger Shay also reportedly smashed the windows of a car parked at the Shay residence. Shay was angry that he had not been given the car, as was the understanding, according to Love. Shay claims other damaging testimony came from Lawrence Shay and Emma Francis, both Penobscot relatives of Patrick Shay. Just prior to his death. June 4, Patrick Shay named his wife executrix, and revoked all prior wills, Isabelle Shay claims. She said that in tribal court, she was tried as a Penobscot, but denied a Penobscot’ rights. s At a court session several months ago, covered by this newspaper, tribal Judge Andrew Mead stated, “there will be no attempt to legally oust her," and he expressed hope there would be no “con frontation" in this “volatile situation.” At that point, Timothy Shay had apparently given written permission for Isabelle Shay to stay in the house, and Beverly Spencer o f Old Town, represent ing Emma Francis and other heirs, said “I moved for dismissal because it appears the son has at least one-seventh interest.” Spencer said he wanted to “work out differences.” Judge Mead dismissed the case. Paul Zendzian, representing Isabelle Shay, commented, “I certainly hope that the parties resolve the dispute between them selves in an amicable manner that will be to the satisfaction of all parties, and that ultimately if the court is to be someday faced with this question of life estates ... that it’ a neat, clean, straight s definition of sole ownership.” On Nov. 6, Judge Mead signed an order of removal, giving Isabelle Toney Shay 15 days to leave the reservation, or face a $100 line, or up to a 60 day jail sentence. “Let it be known that I am and always have been willing to com prom ise,” Shay wrote. Her conditions are as follows: I will leave voluntarily only on these conditions. 1 ThaL a Genera! Meeting is called . with the Lt. Governor presiding as chairman since Gov. Love is biased due to extrem e family pressures. 2. Traditional customs in tribal courts be learned by lawyers repre senting native people, and that Legal representation be provided for those wishing it before tribal governments. 3. ThaL I will trade the Shay’ s residence for a home o f my own so that I am not sentenced to live out my life estate shuffling from one family’ attic s to another family's basement. This will make me a parasite and my goal in life is to be a productive and creative m em ber of society. 4. That the census com m ittee review my eligibility to becom e a tribal m em ber without prejudice or tribal discrimination. 5. That my son's life estate is not jeopardized by Gov. Love’ ruling. s 8. Laws regarding surviving spouses be clearly outlined so that their harass ment cease forever! 7. A committee be set up to protect children’ legal inheritance. s Council turns down Dr. Baumann-Neison INDIAN ISLAND — Dr. Eunice Baumann-Nelson, terminated several months ago as director of tribal health and social services, narrowly lost a bid to have her case reviewed. A Penobscot, Baumann-Neison came before the Penobscot tribal council recent ly to plead her case, along with Denise Mitchell, who lost her job as deputy administrator in the health center. The two women lost their jo b s in a dispute with the late Gov. Wilfred Pehrson and the tribal council. The dispute concerned authority, payments for travel expenses, and confidentiality of clients. In the recent’meeting, the council voted to reconsider the matter, after BaumannNeison promised she would drop charges in tribal court if she was offered her job back. She said she would waive lost pay. But the following evening, after hearing additional evidence, the tribal council voted not to reconsider the case. Alan Sanborn, former medical records clerk for the health center, was hired as director under a reorganized management plan. In the wake of this action, BaumannNeison told Wabanaki Alliance she would continue to fight for her job through tribal court. She and Mitchell have won a finding from Maine Human Rights Commission that they were subject to jo b discrimina tion. CAN’ FIND A JOB? T Try the JOB CORPS Would you like to be trained as a ... Bookkeeper Secretary/SLenographer Clerk Typist Nursing Assistant If you are 16 to 21 and not in school, the Penobscot Job Corps Center has training programs which may be of interest to you. The Penobscot Job Corps Center provides all trainees with a place to live, meals, health care and a cash monthly stipend while you learn. And when you finish, we'll also help you find a job. SOUND GOOD? IT IS GOOD. MICMAC READERS — These youngsters at Eskasoni Reserve, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, pause on their motorbikes to catch up on the news. ASK FOR JOB CORPS — in the Portland area— 775-7225 — in the Auburn area— 786-4190 — in the Bangor area— 947-0755 — or toll free anywhere in Maine at 1-800-432-7307 ASK FOR JOB CORPS RECRUITM ENT �Wabanaki Alliance D ecem ber 1980 Page 9 Ambulance corps ready to serve community New Pleasant Point Police Chief Don Lem os looks over ambulance with Mary Graham, in charge of ambulance service. New police chief enthusiastic PLEASANT POIN T - Newly hired tribal Police Chief Don Lem os thinks “people have got to understand law en forcement,” before they can be expected to abide by tribal laws. In his administration of the force, Lemos, who lives in Eastport, hopes to help tribal members see the need and benefit of good law enforcement. A native of New Bedford, Mass., Lemos attended the University of Kansas, and graduated from University of Maine at Presque Isle. Rights panel rules on Isaac case M IL L IN O C K E T — M aine Human Rights Commission has found reasonable grounds for alleging unlawful discrimina tion, in the case of Mary Francis Isaac, a Penobscot who claimed she was harassed and subjected to an unfair job transfer. Last year, Isaac was transferred from her job as Millinocket town office bookkeeper/payroll clerk, to secretary for the public works department. Isaac contacted the commission in October 1979, filing a complaint alleging discrimination on the part of Town Manager William Ayoob. In Isaac's case, the commission stated that slurs and other remarks Ayoob made, in reference to Isaac’ Indian heritage, s constituted reasonable grounds to believe that unlawful discrimination has occurred. A solution through negotiation with the town was recommended. Fellow town em ployee Sally Boutaugh — who also filed a complaint — won a job as Ayoob’ executive secretary. She ac s cepted the position. Boutaugh successfully alleged she was abruptly transferred from the secretary job to fill Isaac’ slot as s bookkeeper, without required interview. The commission said such action violated a code of fair practice and affirmative action. Houlton Band joins TGI ORONO — The newly formed Houlton Band of Maliseets. slated to receive 5,000 acres in the land claims settlement, has joined Tribal Governors Inc., according to TGI director Allen J. Sockabasin. Also joining — after quitting for a period of several months — is the Penob scot Nation at Indian -Island. TGI is a lobbying and funding agency for Maine Indians, with tribal representatives serv ing on a board of directors. The Houlton Band is party to the $81.5 million settlem ent of Penobscot-Passamaquoddy claims. The tribes originally' sought return of 12.5 million acres. He started in the ch iefs slot about a month ago. His comment: “I love it.” Lem os has started off with a “safe street campaign," and has other ideas. Since Pleasant Point Passam aquoddys now have their own court system, Lem os spent two days at a U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs seminar on tribal law, in Washington, D.C. Lem os said he has spent many years as a criminal investigator, and has also worked in alcoholic rehabilitation. Al ready he has earned a “good guy” reputa tion by buying a sandwich for those persons arrested. He said he will treat people well, as long as they respect police. Lem os worked two years, from guard to associate warden, at Mississippi State Prison. He has ordered bunks for the reservation’ tw o holding cells. s Along with new procedures, Lemos plans intensive training within the de partment, new equipment such as camera and fingerprint kit, and a new cruiser. The department includes six regular officers, a secretary/clerk, and six dis patchers. W orking with Lem os are, Sgt. Don Rice, Lt. Gilbert Tomah, Karl Richter, Dick Sockabasin and Francis Sapiel, Jr. Arson p r o b e d PLEASAN T POINT - A fire Nov. 5 gutted the large residence here of Joseph Mitchell. The state fire marshall’ office s has ruled arson in the case, and Police Chief Don Lem os said he anticipated an arrest. An insurance adjustor for the Pleasant Point housing authority said, after his investigation, he had "no idea” of the estimated dam age to the property, located across the street from the fire house. M o rey on task force ORONO — Freeman Morey, an out reach worker for Central Maine Indian Association, was named recently to mem bership on the Governor’ task force on s foster care. Morey was asked to join the newly formed com m ittee by Michael R. Petit, com missioner of Maine Department o f Human Services. A $ 1 ,5 0 0 payoff The Northern Cheyenne tribe of Mon tana is waiting for a $6 million dollar payment from ARCO Company for rights to explore for oil and gas on the reserva tion. This money will be disbursed to tribal m em bers who will each receive $1,500. PLEASAN T POINT - Passamaquoddy Ambulance Corps, a volunteer organiza tion, is fully equipped and ready to serve the residents of Pleasant Point and surrounding communities. The corps is headed by Mary Graham, who holds a degree in nursing, is a registered em ergency medical technician (EMT), with 12 years’experience. She has co-ordinated extensive training programs, such as Crash Injury Management, with assistance of various doctors in the immediate area. The crash injury course consists of: Overview of body and diagnostic signs. Burns and exposure to heat and cold. Air way care and pulmonary resuscita tion. Poison ingestion and drug abuse. Cardio-pulmonary resuscitation. Shock, bleeding and soft tissue injuries. Fractures and dislocations. Injuries to skull, spine, chest and pelvis. Patient handling. Patient exam and triage (protocol). Heart attack, stroke, diabetes and epilepsy. E m ergency childbirth. Accident scene. Gaining access to patient. Field training I and II. This extends to 140 hours the state requirem ents of 40 hours. The graduates Commencement was held Aug. 8, at the office of tribal Gov. Robert. Newell, with Lt. Gov. Clive Dore presenting diplomas to the following: Joseph S. Nicholas, Alberta Francis LPN, Melvina Francis, Mary L. Barnes, Jo-An Moore LPN. and Robert Mendoza, all of Pleasant Point. Guests present at the cerem onies were: Hazel Dana, tribal nurse: Dr. Devlin, Eastport Health Care; Cozy Nicholas, Board of Directors: Brother Larry Smith, cle rg y / a d v iso r: M adonna Soctom ah. Health Services; Judy Morang, chair person Board of Directors; Valerie Emery, Court Administrator. The Pleasant Point Ambulance Corps wishes to especially thank Dr. French, M.D., Paul Claroni, PA, and William Young, PA, for their concern and partici pation, and continuing support of Mary Graham, in establishing training, and up grading the corps m em bers’skills. Additional thanks are due to the Pleasant Point Health Committee for obtaining portable radios for the corps to use as standby for volunteers, Graham said. M ig ra n t harvesters Sherman Beattie, left, and Maj'nard Poulette, w ere hitch-hiking from blueberry fields downeast, to potato harvest up north, when Allen Sockabasin, Passamaquoddy, picked them up this fall near Bangor and bought them lunch. Beattie, 26, is an Ojibway from Long Plains Reserve, Manitoba. Poulette, 21, is a Micmac from Eskasoni, Cape Breton. Nova Scotia. “If I ge t enough money I’ goin g to m aybe buy a car," Poulette said. m Indian Program SOCIAL WORK AND COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH School of Social Welfare, University of California, Berkeley, is interested in applications from American Indian students and human service w orkers for the degree of: M ASTER OF SOCIAL WORK Fall of 1981 (Applications Accepted until February 1.1981) With the passage of the Indian Child Welfare Act and with the prom ise of Public Law 93-638, the Indian Self-Determination Act, Indian Professionals are needed to work among Indian populations on reservations, in rural and urban areas. The School of Social Welfare, University of California, Berkeley beginning in 1981, will offer a M aster’ D egree program of instruction and field training geared s to the needs and concerns of Indian populations. For information please contact: Elaine Walbroek School of Social Welfare 120 I-Iaviland Hall University of California Berkeley, CA 94720 (415)642-3228 (call collect) Applicants must have a bachelor's degree and an acceptable undergraduate grade point average. Financial assistance is available for those accepted to the program. �BlO Wabanaki Alliance December 1980 Book Nook >enobscot Children and Their World By The Children of Indian Island ehool. Copyright 1980, Indian Island ehool Committee. Printed by Old 'own/Orono Times. 100 pages. Bv Steve Cartwright Inless you hale children, I guarantee i will find pleasure in reading a book lpo.sed entirely of the writing, photophs and graphics of Penobscot Indian tils at the Indian Island elementary 'he students, guided (but not bossed) teachers David Thibodeau and Sister • resa Rand, have created a delicious .bound volume that is a mixture of mds, anecdotes and poems; lavishly United by young artists. Som e stories, ie pictures, are better than others — ’laying definite budding talent — but efforts in the collection are sincere, mand touching. 'he students’names form a proud list at end of the book, and it is clear m ost of m took an active part in production. >t of the work in the book is identified author. Keane Francis, Jamie Knapp John King w ere especially hard kers on the project. he students’ book is dedicated to their l community, Indian Island, and that dty and pride shine through on 100 es. The reader realizes that these kids >y their heritage and are comfortable jg Indians with a past and a future, he Penobscot youngsters deserve to e their book compared to the work of it W igginton and the “Foxfire" series, ch consist of researching, interviewing explaining regional culture and diafirst section deals with "Our Legends Stories," and Lee Ann DeCora relates r it was years ago: “The bridge wasn’ t ? then, and the river was clean. But l the bride came and other things iged. Some of the new things are good I am glad we have them. But when I * stories of what the children did, I i I could bo like Lee and Lyle in my y" 'rites Susan Thompson, below an 'opriate illustration (a line drawing by ie Knapp): “There was once a very ly little girl who ate lots and lots of wberries when they first started to som. Since everyone always saw her mong the strawberry blossoms, they ded to name her ‘ Strawberry Blos som.’ That is how one little girl got her name, and later that became her clan’ s name. So it was with many tribes and peoples long ago." In another section, “Their W ords of Wisdom,” students interviewed two elder ly Penobscot women, Grace Nicola and Evelyn (Madas) Sapiel. Students wrote: “In the olden days the children spent m ost of their time helping the elders for ju st a couple of pennies (or even for free!). They would ‘ pick rocks,’ plant and dig potatoes, weed lettuce, and dig berries. They also chopped wood and brought it in for the fire. And when they weren’ working they would spent their t time playing gam es together that they made up and ‘ invented’ parts for them selves.” An accurate, informative chapter on animal tracks and tracking follows, with paw prints so you could use it as a guide. The student authors and publishers got a first hand lesson in the printing business from David Wollstadt, publisher of The Old Town/Orono Times, and printer of their book. Sister Theresa said Wollstadt was generous and helpful. Another generous soul was Dr. Edward (Sandy) Ives, who heads the Northeast Archives of Folklore at University of Maine at Orono. A note of gratitude says Ives "helped in teaching us som e tricks of the trade of interviewing.” The first publication of this book was supported by a one time grant, so un fortunately, we may not have a volume II this year. Let’ hope the school finds a s way to make this a continuing project. The greatest current problem for outsiders interested in the book is that copies were distributed to all tribal members, and unless there is a reprinting, the book is essentially already out of print. Sister Theresa said interested persons may contact the school about the book, but at this point, there are no plans for a second printing. Bears Maine has many bears in its woods. And we have some bears ight here on Indian Island. But we do not have as many as they id years ago because there are so many people living here now. besides, people have hunted the bear for meat and furs for undreds of years. The thing I like to think about when I think of bears is what it lust be like to hibernate. Some people say bears sleep all winter nd never wake up until spring. But other people say they do Clarence Francis, flanked by wife, Violet, and Lawrence [Billy] Shay of Indian Islan Island man on abuse fean INDIAN ISLAND — The co-founder of Clarence Francis said he had one sli the Alcoholics Anonymous chapter here, several years after he gave up the bottli Clarence Francis, has been named to the He drank less than two beers, and the state Board of Registration of Substance doesn't remember a thing for several daj Abuse Counselors. afterward. He knows he must hav Francis, a Penobscot, was sworn in, this consumed a great deal o f liquor. That w; month, at Superior Court in Bangor. The the only relapse. newly-formed panel, which will review Clarence, 69, and Violet, 74, helpt and license counselors across the state, start the Senior Citizens organization which held its first m eeting Nov. 13, in Indian Island, and Violet is a pa Winthrop. The appointment expires Jan president. uary 1983. Clarence can recall working as a wati Francis said he firmly believes in the boy for the Bangor and Aroostook Ra need to set standards for alcoholism and road, earning 25 cents per hour. Later 1 drug abuse counseling. “That’ the idea,” s was promoted. "W e laid steel (track) fro he said, “get som eone in who’ goin g to do s Northern Maine Junction right throug the job, not ju st someone who puts in a clear to Medway, and down as far : couple of hours for the pay envelope.” Prospect.” By, 1982. all official substance abuse He worked at Moose River sh< counselors in Maine will have to be company in Bangor, as a handsewer, ai licensed by the state. he worked in M assachusetts shoe shop Wabanaki Corporation o f Orono, an He served 39 months in the U.S. A agency offering such counseling to In Force, much of that time in the Europe; dians, has provisional certification. theater. World War II. He married Viol With his wife, Violet, Francis founded in 1947, in Milford. Later he did woo cutting and other jobs. the local AA chapter 21 years ago this month. At the time, the only other chapter They have one step-daughter, Nan< Loring. was in Brewer, where the Francis’ first joined the organization at the suggestion of Tom Shay, a Penobscot living in the Boston area. Half W ay House Directoi As Clarence recalls a day m ore than two decades ago, “He (Shay) came dressed up A half way house program for reco^ like a minister in his little car. I .was still ering Indian alcoholics requires dire' ossified, and my wife was going to commit tor immediately. herself to the state hospital. W e w ere Applicants should have experience i bankrupt in every way, financially, moral half way house administration an ly ...” counseling techniques, and have The couple has helped dozens of people familiarity with Indian culture. since then, through the AA group, that Salary negotiable. m eets every Friday, 8 p.m., at St. Ann’ s Send resum e to: Church rectory. Clif Saunders “It’ made us feel that it’ beginning to s s Executive Director pay off,” said Violet Francis, who says she B o s t o n In d ia n C o u n c il still sees alcoholism as one of the most 105 South Huntington Avenue destructive forces on the reservation. She Jamaica Plain, Mass. 02130 spoke of “miracle cases;” people who have rebuilt their lives after the ravages of drink. Well aware o f pitfalls, Violet said “there is no guarantee" of sobriety, but “I don’ t miss it, I don’ hanker for it.” Everyone I t ALCOHOLISM COUNSELOR has problems, and “we’ m ore able to I An individual to serve Native Amer re think them out sober.” cans and others in the Southern Main I area (York, Cumberland, Oxford, A j droscoggin, Sagadahoc, and Lincol I Counties) with emphasis on the greatt DAY CARE HEAD TEACHER | Portland Metorpolitan area. Nath Passamaquoddy Indian Day Care American background and Maine Stal Princeton Maine Center m ----------------------- -m �Wabanaki Alliance D ecem ber 1980 Page 1 1 Hints for Health Poetry By Dr. Fenn Welch Penobscot Health & Social Services Priceless Peace hJof Beauty so much around us And over the hilltops here Where could a man g o farther And find a peace m ore true? Info a city, into a crowd Into the smoke filled alleys Out and out some m ore until Somcthere the heart will rally. c<3^ p e 1 \j o o 4_V v<l A Song I am singing to myself. And, I am hearing the birds sing to me. I am walking through the woods to see if I can find som e raccoons. Like as a pill or a long lost one To a dying man the woods m ust com t Bringing thence to the heartsick soul A peace more rare than a white man’ gold. s There they are!" I am goin g to g e t them. Oh, they got away! For gold won't heal and a peace well sought Will bring to the soul a quiet lot Of the woods, the flowers, a Liny brook Where few men where God will look. What do I hear? I hear my drums! I have to go now — To the son g of my drum. The handwork of a saint above Where we may rest and know w e’ loved re Where we may well find peace and rest Whatever we are, we know tis blest To us mankind. -the w.MKjq 1 -'fUeq caw b drive v *-iis 1 4-Wt- U s h i £ A l( £*£. (JC V m e.t\f i L -V TWO DAYS LATER.... / "TWe deN-fisV Stv'ic) / u e should lea,<TN U ’''TView's /+ -£> sF o? Ke_ON<iJs d e.caj .1 0r- e vuC \ Q3 _?ta.\r- VU .T-fec-ph . -E ' r i d i c u l cj u s ! \ -rke. + .£-{-W I am home! Shannon Sapiel D. D’ Am boise THAT EVENING___ v. Mills: Olympics to life insurance SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Billy Mills, a Sioux Indian raised on a reservation in South Dakota, was born into a family tenaciously holding onto its pride and dignity despite the day-to-day stru ggle for existence. Billy lost both parents by the tim e he was 13 and was education at a BIA boarding school. He carried with him the memory of his father as a sym bol of dignity. Billy received an athletic schol arship to University of Kansas w here he graduated in physical education in 1962. Mills grew into manhood harboring a desire to win for himself, as well as to win recognition for his people. His deter mination drove him to work in college to qualify for the 1960 Olympic team in the 10,000-meter run. He failed to make it that year but with renewed vigor he began running 110 miles a week. In 1964 he qualified for the Olympic team and entered the race with a 1,000 to 1 chance of winning. Overcoming these odds, Billy went on to create an upset in Olympic Game history. He was not only the first American Indian, but the first American ever to win a Gold Medal in the 10,000 m eter race. Billy is still the only American to have won that honor. Mills was a m em ber of the com m ittee for the 1968 and 1972 Olympic Games. He is currently a m em ber of the President’ s Council on Physical Fitness. Mills has given som e time and energy to guiding the developm ent of the Indian youth. He has been in community services of various types and is a m em ber of the public speakers bureau of Sports Illus trated. He has addressed diverse audi ences on business, governm ent and aca demic matters, Indian associations, tribal governm ents and religious groups. A gymnasium and a Post Office building in Pine Ridge, South Dakota have been named after Mills. Mills has traveled in the U.S., Canada. South America, W estern and Eastern Europe, Russia, Scandinavia and Japan. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps. Mills is now a life insurance underwriter for Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company and lives in Sacramento, Cali fornia with his wife and their three daughters. VETERANS ADMINISTRATION Owned Homes For Sale in Washington County Equal Housing OPPORTUNITY Main Sfcfeet, Baring, Maine 3 bedroom, 2-car garage — $500.00 D.P. $28,500.00 — 9 Academy Street, Calais, Maine 4 bedroom, ready to m ove into. Reduced to $28,500.00 — $500.00 D.P. Summer Street, Calais, Maine 4 bedroom, new heating system — $22,900.00 — $500.00 D.P. Indian Way By William B. Newell EDITOR’ NOTE: William B. Newell, a S Penobscot, resides at Indian Island. A retired professor, he is contributing a column on Indian ways. In the field of science the American Indians were especially clever. Zero was invented a thousand years before the Arabians came out within the Old World. The calendar system of the Maya was far superior to our own system and much more accurate. The first people to develop the decimal system represented in the Quipu of the Peruvian w ere Indians. This hundreds of years before the white man. Metallurgy. They worked gold, silver, and bronze better than any of the ancient civilizations of the Old World. They w ere the first to use and work platinum. Arts and Crafts. The famous textiles of the Peruvians have been recognized by authorities as being the best the world has ever seen. Authorities claim that no race on earth made baskets as well as the Poma and other Indian tribes of California. Their beauty and technique excelled all others. Agriculture. Irrigation, fertilizers, crop rotation, and many other so-called modern farming methods w ere practiced by the intensive agriculturists of the Southwest in the United States and Peru. Masonry. The stone walls of Cuzco are still as great a m ystery to us today as they ever have been. W e do not know how the stones w ere quarried and so well fitted together. Modern apartment buildings are much like the Pubelo buildings of the Hopi and Zuni Indians. Chewing Gum. Shaking Hands is ju st a good old Indian custom. 32 Monroe Street, Calais, Maine 3 bedroom, priced for handyman — $14,000.00 — no D.P. Main Street, Princeton, Maine ANYONE CAN BUY YOU DON’ HAVE TO T BF. A VETERAN See Your Local Real Estate Broker Or Contact 4 bedroom — attached garage. Reduce to $27,500.00 — no D.P. All VA financed A t prevailing interest rates VETERANS ADMINISTRATION i LOAN GUARANTY DIVISION TOGUS, MAINE 04330 I Tel. 207-623-8411 Ext. 433 : � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource <em>Wabanaki Alliance</em> (December 1980) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Indian Resource Center Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Passamaquoddy Cultural Museum Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1980-12 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Donald Soctomah Julia Brush Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Steve Cartwright. Used with permission. Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Document Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context DV-448 https://www.dawnlandvoices.org/collections/files/original/ad12b67c6c557597b529cb8a69924919.pdf 50112d674508dffd4371426c8578c761 PDF Text Text Wabanaki Alliance Non-profit org. U.S. Postage Paid 2.1* Orono, Maine Permit No. 14 February 1978 Half million acres, $40 million proposed Indians, White House agree on settlement A proposed settlement of nationally publicized Penobscot and Passamaquoddy land claims was reportedly on the verge of being announced at press time. Although Indian representatives and members of a White House claims task force refused comment on the joint federal-tribal agree­ ment, Wabanaki Alliance learned from a reliable source that the negotiated proposal calls for giving the two Maine tribes a $40 million dollar cash settlement, plus 500,000 acres of land. Each tribe would receive half the award. Thomas Tureen, lawyer for the tribes, would not confirm any specific figures, but said no settlement would be acceptable without a “ substantial”amount of land. It could not immediately be learned if the land portion of the settlement would involve Maine’ public lots, but it appeared such s land, including Baxter State Park, would not be part of the deal. Maine Atty. Gen. Joseph Brennan said at press time that he was expecting to meet with Eliot Cutler, a member of the Presi­ dent’three man task force, to review the s negotiated settlement proposal. “ m going I’ to listen to the proposal and then evaluate it,” Brennan said. Brennan declined to say if the State would change its steadfast position that Maine could overturn the land claims case in court. Brennan and Gov. James B. Longley have repeatedly said the claims are without merit. Maine officials have not been party to several recent negotiating sessions between Indians and the task force. Those sessions, held since appointment of the special task force last fall, have resulted in the current settlement proposal. Tureen and tribal officials have consistently sought an out-of-court, negotiated end to the land case, which was said to involve an initial claim to two-thirds o f the State. What land would be involved in an award to the tribes has not been spelled out. but major paper companies have reportedly been approached concerning the proposed settlement. Indians and non-Indian negotiators have not said what the next step will be, should the tribes ratify the proposed settlement. An approved settlement would likely be sent to Congress before any land or monies were awarded. The President last spring named a retired Georgia judge, William B. Gunter, to recommend a settlement. Gunter proposed giving the tribes $25 million and 100,000 acres o f land, plus options on 400,000 more acres. But his porposal would have extin­ guished all claims to aboriginal title under PENOBSCOT-PASSAMAQUODDY land claims were the subject discussed by Andrew Akins, left, and Timothy Love, both members of the tribes’ negotiating team. They were the Indian Nonintercourse Act o f 1790. That Act, which requires Congressional featured in a recent Maine Indian Journal program on public television. [Cartwright Photo] approval o f all treaties with Indians, is the basis o f the Penobscot-Passamaquoddy case. Indians allege their lands were taken in violation of the Act. Inform ed sources say the tribal negotiating team is well satisfied with the current settlement proposal. However, that proposal must be ratified by the Penobscot Nation at Indian Island, and the Passama­ quoddy Nation at Indian Township, and at I t HOULTON — Maynard Polchies is birthday cake and surprise party. “ don’ Pleasant Point. know whether to laugh or cry,” said suffering from ill health, but his physical A presentation and vote on the proposal Polchies, 42. His wife Marian, driver o f a condition doesn’ suppress his enthusiasm t INDIAN TOWNSHIP — Wayne A. was scheduled at each of the three for his work and the people he cares about. Maine Indian Transportation Association Newell, a Passamaquoddy Indian and for reservations, and the tribes were expected to bus, kept the party a secret. A Maliseet Indian, Polchies is president several years director o f Wabnaki Bi-lingual approve the settlement without much Polchies hopes to visit a specialist from of the Association of Aroostook Indians Education Program here, has accepted a controversy. the Arthritis Foundation next month to see (AAI), with headquartes at Bowdoin Street new position as director o f social services for Members of the Indian negotiating com­ here, and an office at Caribou. Membership if anything can be done to make him more the tribe. mittee include Wayne Newell and Jeannette totals about 1,500, mostly Micmac and mobile. Meanwhile, a telephone is his office, Newell said he will try to put together a Neptune o f Indian Township; Gail Dana Maliseet Indians. Job counseling, alcohol­ and people visit the Bridge Street house comprehensive plan for delivery of services and Robert Newell of Pleasant Point; plus frequently. He has had arthritis the past 12 ism, migrant labor and health and welfare in the newly-created department at Indian Andrew Akins, George Mitchell, Wilfred years. “ doesn’do any good to sit here and It t are just some of the services AAI offers Township. A building to house offices, and Pehrson and Timothy Love, representing members, using combined state and federal think about it,” said. he perhaps a clinic, is in planning stages, he Indian Island. monies. Living conditions said. Off-reservation Indians belonging to the Polchies has rheumatoid arthritis and is “ Things are changing” for Aroostook “ m really excited about putting together I’ tribes were expected to attend the meetings, taking four prescription drugs. He has been Indians, Polchies said, although a multitude a package for health and social services for but all other outsiders were to be excluded. bedridden the past couple o f months, but o f problems persist. Maynard recalls our community, as well as working together Serving on the task force with Cutler, an can now sit up in a chair, in some pain, and growing up in a “ shack” with no running with our Indian communities in the field,” O ffice o f M anagem ent and Budget once in awhile travel by car to the office. “ If water on a Canadian reservation near he said. employee, were Leo Krulitz, Department of I manage to keep busy and occupied, I’ m Woodstock, N.B. He attended a two room Newell, 35, is a Pleasant Point native. He the Interior lawyer, and Stephens Clay, a okay," he said. school run by Catholic nuns. “ you made it If attended Ricker College, Emerson College, through eighth grade, you were all done.” AAI staff gathered at Polchies’small and Harvard, where he received a master’ Gunter associate. s (Continued on page 5) (Continued on page 5) home Feb. 1 and presented Maynard with a , degree in education. Newell named head of social services Things are changing says Aroostook Indian �Page 2 Wabanaki Alliance February 1978 This past year, those who laughed at the land claims stopped laughing. Perhaps they were only jeering at the claims so as not to face the issues raised by Indians. Now, however, those issues — the rights, of Indians to justice, equality and self-determination — can no longer be ignored. When the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) recognized the Penobscots and Passamaquoddies as federal Indians, eligible for federal aid and services, that was merely a sign of the times, a sign that things are changing for native Americans. Another sign is Vice President Walter Mondale's pro-Indian The Penobscot-Passamaquoddy land claims appear to be almost comments appearing in recent press reports. We figure Mondale is settled, in a manner that will greatly benefit the two tribes. speaking for the President, and his stance on native Americans may Credit for a favorable resolution of the Indian land claims in be a genuine application of his stated aim to champion human rights Maine can be spread over many individuals and even over society everywhere. itself. We live in a cultural climate that has allowed a couple of We have a lot to learn, all of us. There is much to do, much to write almost forgotten Indian groups to involve the President and federal about, ahead of us. This is a new beginning for the Penobscot and government in negotiations over the return of illegally taken lands. Passamaquoddy Nations. We use that word "nation" in the sense of The claims have included monetary damages, but we hope that Indian identity and community. actual land — a priceless resource in our eyes — is a major part of The tribes’ time has come, and now we must make use of it in ways any settlement. With a land base, Penobscots and Passamaquoddies that uphold the common good. may eventually develop a viable economic base. Economic self-deter­ mination can in turn lead to social and cultural reinforcement. We see that “ land claims” could signify a new era for the two tribes, and might be the very thing that ensures tribal survival. We don’know exactly what effect the transfer of land and money t will have on Indians, and we doubt anybody could predict what With all the fanfare over Penobscot-Passamaquoddy Indian land would happen with certainty. The fact that Indians and non-Indians have kept secret almost all information regarding land claims has claims, little or nothing has been said or done for Micmac and Maliseet Indians. kept most of us in the dark. They are also Maine Indians, as much as are the Penobscots and Announcement o f a settlement is going to catch thousands of people by surprise, and shock waves will doubtless be felt for a long Passamaquoddies, and they number in the hundreds, mostly residing in Aroostook County. This newspaper is as guilty as others for not time afterward. The secrecy of negotiations and other work on the land claims case publicizing the plight of these northern Maine native Americans. W e’ talked with a number of Micmac and Maliseet persons, and ve may have been justified, although it left many persons ignorant. Probably the intent was to leave certain persons ignorant. In any some of them are bitter about the claims. Some of them feel left out, event, that numerous Indians knew about the land case through and some o f them are worried they may lose benefits from the State meetings, and that none o f them squealed, is positively remarkable. and federal government. Micmacs and Maliseets are unlikely to lose benefits, but on the That loyalty to the tribe and the cause of the claims is both a tribute to, and a reflection o f Indian values. Those traditional values other hand they are not about to gain any major ones in the have survived despite the encroachment of non-Indian ways, and the foreseeable future. Unlike the Penobscots and Passamaquoddies, Micmacs and Maliseets are not recognized by the federal government tribes’ lack of money and a land base. We have observed the progress of the land claims over the past as eligible for BIA (Bureau of Indian Affairs) services, nor have they year, sometimes at close range, sometimes from afar. We are one of any known documentation on which to base a land claim similar to the few newspapers in the nation that has supported Penobscot- the now famous one that alleged two thirds of Maine belonged to the Passamaquoddy land claims. And we clearly remember that a few Penobscots and Passamaquoddies. editorials The time has come Micmacs and Maliseets years ago, nobody outside the Indian community took the claims very seriously. Katahdin sunrise Last month we printed a poem about Katahdin, but now we feel moved to add our own comment. Driving Interstate 95 to Houlton, and then on the return trip to Orono, we gazed at Katahdin's formidable, snowbound peak. The sloping ridges, white snow, gray rock and blue sky, created a shock of pleasure to the senses, and stirred one’ thoughts in the s fresh morning sunlight. This is not a poem, only a tribute a mysterious, glorious summit that is somehow larger than all of Maine, and greater than all o f us who walk in the mountain’ s shadow. WABANAKI ALLIANCE Vol. 2, No. 2 Februaty1978 This is a reminder, because we ourselves were reminded, that s Published monthly by the Division of Indian Services [DIS] at the Indian Resource Center, peace, beauty and the natural environment are Katahdin’ gifts to 95 Main St., Orono, Me. 04473. us. We find it so easy to abuse and forget the physical and spiritual harmony that nature has created around us. Steven Cartwright, Editor Not to see Katahdin, even from the vantage point o f an ugly, William O’ Neal, Ass’ Editor t. speeding automobile, is to miss a penetrating reminder of the earth, DIS Board of Directors sun, sky and life itself. Not to notice this is tragic. We stopped the car Jean Chavaree [chairman] Indian Island s John Bailey, CAP coordinator Pleasant Point for a m om ent’ silent appreciation. Even that recognition is better Albert Dana Indian Township than nothing, and that moment has already left its mark on us. Timothy Love, CAP director Indian Island Those Indians who see Katahdin as a source of spiritual energy Jeannette Neptune, Tribal Clerk Indian Township have something special. Those of us without that attachment are still Eriene Paul, Central Maine Indian Assn. Indian Island Roy Paul, Assn, of Aroostook Indians Houlton able to feel the mountain's pull, and respond. Maynard Polchies, president, Aroostook Indians Houlton Birds sang when we shut the motor off. We grew unaware o f the Michael Ranco, Central Maine Indian Assn. Orono biting cold. We drank in the mountain with our eyes, but without DIS is an agency of Diocesan Human Relations Services, Inc. of Maine. Subscriptions to moving it overwhelmed us with its simple, profound grace. this newspaper are available by writing to Wabanaki Alliance, 95 Main St, Orono, Me. It’ enough to say we were privileged to see something priceless, s 04473. Diocesan Human Relations Services and DIS are a non-profit corporation. Contri­ free, yet with a beauty so inscrutable as to defy even poets. butions are deductible for income tax purposes. �Wabanaki Alliance February 1978 Page 3 letters To the editor: My name is Reginald Acquin, and I am a Malecite Indian from Fredericton, N.B., Canada. Also at this time I am an inmate here at the Washington State Penitentiary in Walla Walla, Washington. I was reading the Indian Life newspaper the other day and came across your notice, stating that you are or have already printed a newspaper called, Wabanaki Alliance. I would like to have a copy if I could. My pay from my job here at prison is very small, perhaps as time goes by I can save enough money to pay for a years' subscription. I remember a paper from Maine a few years back, and I wrote to inquire about it, but I guess it went out o f circulation. The name o f it was, Wig-Wam-us. Prestly I am involved in a school program and plan to continue my studies upon my release. Any educational information from your area would be greatly appreciated. I close with the though of our People’ s way o f life, that the essence o f life is to live in harmony with all things. An Indian brother, Reggie “ Zeke”Acquin #360407 Akwesasne sets speaking four MOHAWK NATION, N.Y. — Voices from the Earth, a native American group that tries to spread Indian ways and under­ standing through a variety o f presentations, is planning a March tour o f the Maine area. According to Yonahwaylut, a member of the group, the purpose o f the tour is to raise money for Akwesasne Notes, a national circulation Indian newspaper published here. Yonahwaylut said that an Akwesasne Notes speaker’ bureau can offer presenta­ s tions on topics such as native land claims, water rights, treaties, Indian law, and the need for an international native people’ s movement. “ in all, we feel very confident All that we can provide an exciting and infor­ mative presentation for your group,” he said. Indians seek status ruling BOSTON — Wampanoag Indians of Mashpee, Ma., were planning last month to ask that the U.S. Interior Department de­ termine their status as a tribe. A wire service story reported that lawyers for the Indians are making the request, directed to a Federal Judge, to avoid a final judgment against the Wampanoags in the court battle involving Indian land claims in the Town o f Mashpee. On Jan. 6, a U.S. District Court jury agreed that Mashpee Indians did not com­ prise a tribe on four different historic oc­ casions. That finding, after a 10-week trial, said Wampanoags were a tribe at various times in the 1800’ but were not a tribe in s, 1790 when Congress passed the Non-inter­ course Act. Mashpee Indian claims are based on that act, which says Congress must ratify all treaties. The Indians say Mashpee lands were illegally taken from them in 1870, when the town was incorporated by the State of Massachusetts. The Town o f Mashpee, arguing against the Indians, says Wampan­ oags no longer exist as a tribe or as recog­ nizable Indians, partly because o f inter­ marriage with non-Indians. M ashpee Indians have not been recognized by the federal government, as have other groups of Indians such as the Penobscots and Passamaquoddies o f Maine. The Mashpee land claims involve an esti­ mated 13,000 acres, compared to at least eight to ten million acres claimed by the two Maine tribes. Pen pals sought by Canadian students FREDERICTON, N.B. — Are you a young person who would like to make some new friends in Canada? A group of Indians aged seven to 17 have contacted this news­ paper saying they would like to correspnd with their Maine counterparts. The group is “ most enthusiastic,” ac­ cording to Stephanie Strilchuk, o f the New Brunswick Association of Metis and NonStatus Indians in Fredericton, N.B. Names of Canadian young people, their ages and interests, are as follows. Please feel free to write to them directly at the addresses given. Heather Angela Brigley, Colton Brook Rd„ R.R. #501-2, Rothesay, N.B. EOG 2WO, 10 years old. Interests: Skating, baseball, child games. Heather Ann Westhaver, Moores Mills, St. Stephen, N.B. EOG 2LO, 17 years old. Interests: Sports, reading, writing, working with people, understanding my culture, studying false advertising. Kim Wheatley, 2247 Hurontario St., Apt. 814, Mississauga, Ontario, 14 years old. Interests: Sports, disco music, dancing, and I like meeting people and making new friends. Marie Saunders, 2247 Hurontario St., Apt. #528, Mississauga, Ontario L5A 2G2, 14 years old. Interests: My hobbies are sports, I like to play the clarinet, my favorite subjects in Poetry school are gym and art. I also like to meet people and I like dancing. Charlette Anne Brigley, Colton Brook Rd.. R.R. #501-2, Rothesay, N.B., 9 years old. Interests: Playing dolls, playing games, skating, sliding, baseball. Helen Saunders. 2247 Hurontario St. #628, Mississauga. Ontario L5A 2G2, 15 years old. Interests: Collecting certain pennies, I play the recorder, a bit o f guitar, I paint a lot, sports (hockey) tennis, and I like to meet new friends. I like to write letters. Gary LeBouthillier, R.R. #1 Site 10 Box 5, Bas Caraquet, N.B. EOB IEO, 9 years old. Interests: Reading, karate, skating, base­ ball, skiing, swimming, fishing. Brian LeBouthillier, R.R. #1 Site 10 Box 5, Bas Caraquet, N.B. EOB IEO, 12 years old. Interests: Skating, skiing, swimming, fishing, hunting, karate, badminton, volley­ ball, football, baseball. Douglas Diotte. 431 Goderich St., Dalhousie, N.B., 13 years old. Interests: Playing sports, hunting, hiking. Perry Harquail, 431 Goderich St.. Dalhousie. N.B., 13 years old. Interests: Baseball, football, swimming, hiking, soccer. hockey, WALK BESIDE ME Junk yards, cigars, freeze dried food. I’ caught in a prairie fire. m Magazines and limousines. — unwanted children — I could just sit and cry. Smoke stacks, jet planes and evil eyes, streets full o f lies. Come, walk along beside me. We will go away to a place where there is life. Billy Pryor ANOTHER DAWN On a warm August dusk I walked quietly to the east end o f the pond to watch the sunset in the still water, picking blueberries on the way as the night began to show its life. Like music to my heart the deer came to drink on the far bank. A raccoon raised its head from a sleeping log, rubbing the daylight from his eyes. Across the sun’fading image s rode a beaver heading home to its lodge. So too, I must head home. For the night is only for the keenest o f eyes, and like the creatures o f the light, I must sleep till another dawn. Hart Lapointe, 431 Goderich St., Dalhousie, N.B., 10 years old. Interests: Soccer, football, hiking, swimming. Kathy Mary Nash, 248 St. Mary’ St., s Fredericton, N.B., 13 years old. Interests: Swimming, beadwork, leatherwork, biking, cooking and housework. Letha Brooks, 30 Maliseet Dr., Frederic­ ton, N.B., 15 years old. Interests: Horseback riding, baseball, volleyball, beadwork, needlepoint, dancing (Indian) and cheerleading. John Brooks, 30 Maliseet Dr., Frederic­ ton. N.B.. 10 years old. Interests: Hockey, baseball, horseback riding, football, biking. Indian dancing. Leonard Brooks. 30 Maliseet Dr., Fred­ ericton. N.B.. 7 years old. Interests: Playing cars, cards (fish or snap), running, swimming, Indian dancing, skating. Dana Brooks, 30 Maliseet Dr., Frederic­ ton, N.B,, 7 years old. Interests: Dolls, baseball, skipping, swimming, skating, cards (fish or snap). Tara Helena Brooks, 30 Maliseet Dr., Fredericton, N.B., 13 years old. Interests: Horseback riding, swimming, volleyball, baseball, leatherwork, beadwork, cards, skating. SUCH A THING Love... Is there such a thing as love ... anymore ... In this day o f one night stands and rock and roll bands, Lustful looks and how-to books. Is there a woman left Whose eyes can see through all this chaos to a lonely heart in search o f a sharing love away from this empty cold world. Billy Pryor THE CHANGING SEASON Tree tops bend gently in the wind leaves float softly to the earth. The feeling o f changing season all around. Overhead the hawk glides, seemingly effortless upon the currents. Below, animals fast at work storing for a winter’feast. s Billy Pryor I ponder the thought — the miracles before me Behold the Beauty o f Life — the meaning — Do not be diverted For it is here Within the changing season That I belong. Billy Pryor ED ITO R ’ NOTE: Poet Billy Pryor, an S Osage Metis Indian, has purchased an old farm near Smyrna, N.Y., where he and his wife Heidi have built a log cabin. The couple hope to do subsistence farming, and event­ ually form a metis (part Indian blood) com ­ munity in the area. These poems were sub­ mitted for publication by Pryor’ friend s Charles E. Colcord o f New York City, a Pen­ obscot Metis. �Page 4 Wabanaki Alliance February 1978 Passing on Indian traditions By Isabelle Knockwood Toney Traditions are unwritten moral codes and customs which were passed down to us, one generation to the next. Not only do they serve as vital links with our ancestors but they contain within them vital information regarding our identity which cannot be found in any text version, geological dig or museum display. Securely embedded within our traditions are the analytic tools and resources with which to rebuild our Wabanaki Nation of which the Micmacs are a part along with the Maliseets, Penobscots, Passamaquoddy and the almost extinct Abenaki. Their purpose is to unite people and to keep them united. Their principles remain constant even though lifestyles may change. Freedom violated Many small farmers who have found it impossible to make a decent living on the farm have migrated to the city. They choose to change their lifestyle and to keep their religious beliefs and ancient traditions. Native people no longer depend entirely on natural resources for food, shelter and clothing but unlike the farmer their freedom to choose where and how to live was not rec­ ognized but ignored and often violated. It is generally believed that traditions are regressive, hindering progress and even setting us back to the 14th century. Don t look back advise the progres­ sives. “ Look to your traditional counsel, the Medicine people. But where can native people search for answers to their innumer­ able and overwhelming problems? Tradi­ tions were never written down; one can’ t take a course on them. For those “ close encounters”o f the best kind we could start with the family unit because it is the smallest nuclear unit in society. Sadly, it seems that the only thing that brings families together today is a crisis, like the death o f one o f its members. That’not how it was meant to be. s Awareness o f ourselves as true people of the land will lead us to accept our indi­ viduality and joint responsibility to ensure the survival o f our race. Only through working together will we learn to appreciate the true social values o f our traditions. For the community-minded there are traditional suppers, story telling, guessing games that test psych ic abilities, and physical endurance, name-giving for those who want Indian names, impromptu chanting and dancing, and drum sessions. But can ancient traditions teach us survival techniques in today’ modern s world? Do they offer constructive alter­ natives to what we have today? Yes. The principles o f our native traditions are based on survival and they utilize the sharing and unity concepts as guidelines to living. But... does living in a highly mechanized society satisfy both material and spiritual needs? Can we afford to be subjective and sharing when our jobs demand that we be objective and competitive? For some, no: traditionalists grow weary o f the stereotyped Indian imagery and want to fulfill their purpose in life, to pass on to future genera­ tions the corrected version o f the native person. Monetary vs. spiritual values This leads us to question whether tradi­ tional people have human and civil rights or if traditional religious beliefs were ever made illegal? Mainly because the dollar sign has yet to sanction them, traditional ways and those who have the values o f their grandparents will continue to be ridiculed. The1general feeling is that monetary values invalidate spiritual ones. This is true when there is parallel thinking. This causes polarization. Going back to the circle, we will find that politics, economics and spirituality are all parts of the same whole. We then should be concentrating on the specifics that make things work without developing just one fragment o f our person­ alities, to the point that it invalidates the others. Federal funding has gone into various aspects o f native culture, including language and basket weaving. Land claims are being researched daily and reams written on native spirituality. We tend to forget that true spirituality is highly individualistic and comes from personal and interpersonal re­ lationships with other members o f the universe including plants, animals and the earth. It was exactly this philosophy that earned for our beloved grandparents the labels of savage, heathen and pagan. Because one’ beliefs determine one's s behavior, it is vital to our children that we re-examine those beliefs that cause us to behave the way we do toward each other, our women, children, elders and the land. On examination we may just discover that Sachems, Sagmows and Clan Mothers were indeed wise in the ways of working and living together. Individuals may say, “ far as I’ As m concerned I m getting along nicely without any traditions.”As a society though, we are alienated from each other, our families and brothers and sisters o f other tribes. Identity survives To have survived four centuries o f on­ slaught against the masses as well as violations against the earth and the elements sky, water, air and land — demanded of native people a little more than mere physical stamina. It extracted from them a strong will to live combined with a clearly defined statement o f purpose. To the extent that native people need money, they are capitalists. Because they live in isolation on reserves they have been labeled Red. Communistic, Socialist, Demo­ cratic and, or Anarchists. Whatever the label, native people will continue to be manipulated until they unite and define themselves. In an attempt to identify Indian problems, experts agree that there exists yet another disease brought over on the May­ flower, the Identity Crisis. Symptoms in­ clude High Alcoholism Rate, High-drop­ out-rate and a short life span that can terminate in suicide. Chronic conditions manifest themselves through depression, low employment and low productivity. You treat the symptoms in emergency cases with welfare and federally funded programs. Experts forget that one’identity does not s come first. It comes last, after: a land base has been inhabited. —a culture has been cultivated from avail­ able resources. traditions have been established from people working together, a history written by the people themselves because the history o f any nation is written by the conquerors. In conclusion Thw JoKph, a Micmac Indian and recent gradnate of Honlton High School, adjusts her snowshoes with help of David Sooobj, a Wilderness Pursuits instructor and also a Honiton area native Ttoa, who hopes to work with the Orono-based Indian youth program, joined in a recent leader training trip on the frozen Penobscot River Anti-backlash group organizes O u r forefathers and clan mothers endured many hardships and celebrated many joys in order to pass along traditions that would work within the context o f nature and the environment. Tradition helps us to maintain our in­ dividuality and identity. After we do all these things we will experience a little of what our ancestors.felt: Indian pride. WASHINGTON - Anti-Indian backlash to land claims suits has promoted the nation’ two largest Indian groups to unite s and launch "a national campaign for the survival of the Indian tribal governments.” According to a spokesman for the National Congress o f American Indians and the National Tribal Chairmen’Association, s "As a result o f court recognition o f Indian rights and claims, and the greater assertions o f sovereign rights and pow ers by increasingly sophisticated tribal govern­ ments, growing resentment is developing around the country,” according to a joint statement issued by the two groups. The spokesman added that the Interstate Congress for Equal Rights and Responsi­ bilities has coordinated backlash move­ ments in a nationwide effort to eliminate Indian treaties, federal programs, and Indian tribal governments. The two Indian organizations, which represent one-hundred tribes each, intend to raise at least $250,000 to fight the backlash. SS benefits and job said okay By David L. Rudolph Central Maine Indian Assn. Retired people can earn some money and still get social security benefits. And now, the amount one can earn increased from $200 to $230 per month, average earnings. But did you know that these earnings are used to determine, “ the absence o f in evidence to the contrary, ability to engage in substantial gainful activity.” This is what was published in the Federal Register and effective as o f 13 January 1978: 1 If a person earned: . a. Prior to 1976 an average o f $200 per month or b. Following 1976 an average of $230 per month; that person would be de­ termined to be able to engage in “ substantial gainful activity.” 2. If a person earned: a. Prior to 1976 an average o f $130 per month or b. Following 1976 an average o f $150 per month; these earnings would “ demonstrate that the person is not able to engage in substantial gainful activity.” Regardless o f the earnings then, with an increased amount allowable, many other factors still need to be included to determine if a person is disabled. To understand what use is made of this information by the Social Security Admin­ istration, the best action would be to call the office nearest you. Do you have a d rin k in g p ro b le m ? Wabanaki Corporation offers an alco­ holism program for Indian people who need help because o f problems with alcohol. If you have such a problem and need help, or know o f someone in need, please contact the Alcoholism Counselor in your community or area. Indian Island — Alcoholism Coun­ selor — Clarence Francis — 207-8665577. Indian Township — Alcoholism Coun­ selor — Martha Barstis — 207-796-2321. Pleasant Point — Alcoholism Coun­ selor — Grace Roderick — 207-8532537. Association o f Aroostook Indians — Alcoholism Counselor — Pious Perley — 207-762-3751. Central Maine Indian Association — Alcoholism Counselor — Alfred Dana — 207-269-2653 or 207-866-5577. �Wabanaki Alliance February 1978 Page5 Claims settlement (Continued from page 1 ) There was speculation that President Carter might announce or comment on a settlement package at his scheduled visit to Bangor (Maine) Feb. 17. The current Penobscot-Passamaquoddy case ffegan with the discovery in 1957 o f a 1794 treaty. The treaty, between the Passamaquoddy tribe and Massachusetts, was found in an Indian woman’home at Indian s Township. But not until 1966 did the find attract public attention. In that year Passamaquoddy tribal Gov. John Stevens led a sit-in at the Township when a non-Indian attempted to force Indian families off what he claimed was his land. Trespassing charges against Indians were dismissed, but not before Donald Gellers. Eastport lawyer, had become interested because the Passamaquoddies used the 1794 treaty as their defense. Tureen, then a law student, worked to research the treaty with Gellers in the summer o f 1967. In 1970, the tribe hired Tureen as their land claims lawyer. He is associated with Native American Rights Fund (NARF), o f Boulder, Co. In 1971. Tureen said his research showed the 1794 treaty, which took land from the Passamaquoddies. was "null and void" under the 1790 Non-intercourse Act. Maynard Polchies, AAI president, conducting business from his wheelchair at his Houlton home. [O’ Neal Photo] Indian leader sees change (Continued from page 1 ) Later, a relative was the first Indian student to graduate from Houlton High School. Now there are more Indians enrolled, but not as many as Maynard would like to see in school. He hopes his own children, Rodney, 14, and Mark, 11, will want to attend college. His sons are growing up "too fast,” said. he Maynard is pleased that his own father, who lives nearby, spends time with Rodney. "The old man learns him a little Indian; he’patient,”Polchies said. s In 20 years o f living in Houlton, first driving a truck and working on a farm, Polchies has seen Indians make advances in education, employment and health. But anti-Indian prejudice has yet to be overcome. “ Ever since we started the organization (AAI), there’ been prejudice. We tried to s fight it, but you can’ Polchies said t,” without bitterness. He said Aroostook Indians, who mostly do seasonal work as blueberry and potato pickers, hear the same thing when they apply for a new job: WASHINGTON — U.S. Rep. William S. Cohen (R-Maine’ Second District) has laid s the foundation for Congressional public hearings on the Maine Indian land claims suit. Quoted in the Bangor Daily News, Cohen said, “ The Maine case would be the starting point in discussions to develop a compre­ hensive approach to all o f the Indian claims. We expect representatives o f the Carter administration, the tribes, the governor, and the attorney general to testify at the hearings.” Cohen said these hearings “ would in no way interfere with the current negotiations (between three federally appointed negotia­ tors and the Maine tribes).” The House move to schedule the hearings is viewed as an appeasement to the Maine Seasonal program serves many Indians By Bill O ’ Neal ORONO — The problem with seasonal work is that it’seasonal. s This is a serious problem for hundreds of "Someone came the day before and took it.” Maine Indians, who regularly find them­ Major problems for northern Maine Indians are lack of adequate housing, health selves unemployed at the end of harvest and social services, employment, and edu­ time, whether it be in the potato fields of cation counseling. "Almost everything we Aroostook County or the blueberry fields of have problems with, but we’ doing Washington County. re David Depew, head o f Maine Indian something,”Polchies said. Conditions back on the Canadian reserva­ Manpower Services here has the job of tion have improved so much that Maynard's assisting seasonal or migrant workers who brother returned, but Maynard is not have problems because o f the temporary considering any such move, even though his nature o f their work. Maine Manpower most uncle, Winston Paul, is a Maliseet chief in often trains them for permanent jobs, thus removing them from the uncertainties o f a Canada. Maynard Polchies does not think about seasonal income. W orking under the Com prehensive himself much; he’ too busy caring for s others. His was one o f the only licensed Employment and Training Act (CETA). s Indian foster homes in Maine. Over the Depew’ agency annually handles around years he and his wife have cared for at least 500 seasonal employees and migrant a dozen children, adding their own money to workers, entering Maine from other states the insufficient state check. It worries or Canada. Depew’budget for this year is $208,000, s Polchies that so many Indian youngsters are up somewhat from last year's figures. placed in non-Indian foster homes. To qualify for the program, a worker Whether it’ caring for foster children or s for AAI members, Polchies is on the job. "1 must have worked at least 25 days, but not more than 150. must meet income level never campaign or try to cut anyone down. 1 never promised anyone anything. I just see requirements, and earn 50 per cent o f his income from seasonal work. O f the 500 what I can do.” people assessed each year, approximately 200 enter the program, roughly 60 per cent being Indians, with the remainder being Non-Indian people who are in some way related to an Indian family. delegation, which was thwarted in its efforts For eligib le individuals a two-fold during the last session to have tribal claims approach (involving training and services in Maine extinguished. during training,) is used to prepare them for Vice President Walter Mondale said the the job market. Training includes work ex­ Carter administration is preparing a policy perience, on-the-job training and classroom statement assuring all tribes due process in training. pressing their claims. He further said that Depew described the work experience the administration opposes legislation such program as a "counseling tool.”It usually as that introduced by Maine lawmakers, involves placing an individual in a work designed to extinguish tribal claims. environment, not requiring specific skills, Mondale said the administration favors and is used both to evaluate problems he negotiations between the states and tribes might have, such as tardiness or absenteism, involved, rather than direct Congressional and to help him to adapt to a regular action. schedule o f employment. Most people Cohen said he feels the scheduled enrolled in the program have entered under hearings will enable Congress to deal with the work experience category. the land claims issue in a comprehensive Although Depew is occasionally able to fashion, instead o f through piecemeal leg­ place an applicant without first training islation as has been done in the past. him, usually some on-the-job training is Congress plans claims hearings In 1972 Tureen filed suit in Federal District Court, Maine, alleging that the Non-intercourse Act applies to the tribe, and creates a trust relationship with the federal government. After litigation, the government filed suits of $150 million each against the State o f Maine, on behalf o f both the Passamaquoddy and Penobscot tribes. (By this time Tureen had included the Penobscots, who reportedly have a stronger claim o f aboriginal title to land than do the Passamaquoddies.) State officials apparently did not take the case seriously until 1974, but even after that did not intervene in court proceedings. Maine Congressional delegation drafted a bill to wipe out Indian land claims, but later withdrew it. In December 1975 these proceedings resulted in a U.S. Appeals Court decision upholding a trust relationship between the Passamaquoddy tribe and federal govern­ ment. Last fall, both the Penobscot and Passamaquoddy tribes were recognized as federal Indians, a change in status that entitles the tribes to a range o f federal grants and services. The new status leaves the State Department o f Indian Affairs, formerly in charge of Maine Indians, in a confused role that has not yet been publicly explained. needed. Under this part o f the program, the employer who trains the applicant is reimbursed by CETA for one-half the expense of training, including salary. Most on-the-job placements occur during slack business periods when employers have time to train new people. Studies have shown that inadequate education often makes it difficult for seasonal and migrant farm workers to compete for non-agricultural jobs in the rural areas. This deficiency is approached through the third aspect of the training program, classroom training. Depew said this instruction ranges from preparation for taking high school equivalency tests to course work such as learning to drive a truck. Depew feels that training is the major force in stabilizing migrant workers’ incomes, because it lifts them out o f the seasonal cycle in which they are trapped. He is also able to offer a variety o f services, both to those enrolled in one of the training pro­ grams and to others satisfying the work and poverty requirements. Among these services are health and medical benefits, emergency assistance for purchasing clothing, child care, and transportation to training sites. Depew said that when he began the program he anticipated a great deal of response both in Aroostook County with the workers in the potato fields and in Wash­ ington County with the blueberry pickers and clamdiggers. However, federal guide­ lines did not recognize clamdiggers as migrant or seasonal workers. He fought unsuccessfully for several years to include diggers in the program, but now considers it a “ dead issue.” Most blueberry pickers do not derive 50 per cent o f their annual income from this pursuit and therefore are not eligible. Con­ sequently, although Depew feels that recognition o f the clamdiggers would greatly expand program participation in Washing­ ton County, his main thrust has been with potato harvesters in Aroostook County. Depew, originally from Montana, first became involved with working with Indian people while studying health planning. He said that during his studies it became obvious to him that it was “ Indian people who suffered most.” �Page 6 Wabanald Alliance February 1978 An open letter on state payment of priests NOTE: The following open letter to Maine say that had England offered them religious changed without the consent o f Massa­ Atty. Gen. Joseph Brennan was submitted to teachers before they would have accepted chusetts and presumably that of Congress State Departments to carry out their various Wabanaki Alliance by its author, Glenn rather than the French Catholics. In also, since the assent o f Massachusetts duties passed in 1977. This allocates money Starbird. Volume 9; Page 495 o f the Resolves 1708- would o f necessity have to be in the form of for this purpose up until June 30, 1978 at least. Indian Island 1720, Chapter 104 it provides for a an interstate compact. In that Act o f SepI have at this point been unable to get the Hon. Joseph E. Brennan committee to be formed to propose a . aration is the article concerning Maine’ s full text o f your opinion and can only go by Attorney General method o f instructing the Eastern Indians in assuming Massachusetts’ obligations to State House what I have read in the newspapers religion and learning, (passed November 15, Maine Indians. concerning it but I cannot think you could Augusta, Maine 04333 1716) Chapter 55 o f Resolves — passed June Thus it can be seen that the whole body of have arrived at the conclusions you did had Dear Joe: 21, 1717 — Report o f the Committee — Massachusetts Law in existance at that time you been furnished with adequate back­ It has been some time since I have written They could only find one minister who was adopted at one stroke by Maine. It is ground material. The record is clear from or talked to you, but your public statements would go as a missionary, a Mr. Baxter. His true that much o f that law has been repealed the Charter o f 1628 to the present time that o f last month concerning payment of church wouldn’let him go. It was voted to by the passage o f time and the action o f the t the intention o f the Legislature has always salaries and expenses o f the Roman Catholic let the Governor and Council proceed with Legislature but it would appear that the been to provide for the clergy serving the clergy on Maine’ Indian Reservations s the said affair. Baxter must have eventually Resolve o f 1798 establishing a salary for the Indian Tribes — indeed — it could probably struck me as directly contrary to my own been allowed to go as a missionary because priest has never been repealed only altered be argued quite successfully that in view of research on the subject. I have therefore put Chapter 52 o f the Resolves passed July 4, by changing circumstances. In addition to the historical and legal record clergy o f together my notes in what I hope is a com­ 1718 forms a committee to persuade him to this it would also seem from the above that other denominations than Catholic on the prehensible form, in order to show that the go another year and appropriates 150 the Legislature can only alter or perhaps Reservations should also be paid by the practice o f the State paying Catholic clergy pounds for his services another year as change the way the priest is paid, it cannot State. goes back several centuries and although formerly. He is to be instructed to teach altogether abolish such payment by the I may be wrong or the conclusions I have strictly speaking it is not authorized in our religion to grown people and the Indian State for it is bound to such payment by the come to may be wrong but I have gone over public laws, it is authorized by the Legisla­ children to read. Volume 1 o f Resolves — 1 Constitution in the Act o f Separation. The them again and again and I can come to no ture every time the Appropriations Com­ page 669, Chapter 48 passed July 5, 1732 Act o f Separation cannot be altered without other results from the facts presently mittee and the Legislature authorizes the voted 100 pounds each for three mission­ action by three bodies, the Legislatures of existing. I feel the research I have done into State Budget. For each and every Appro­ aries for five years to the Eastern Indians. Maine and Massachusetts and the Congress this subject is important enough to share priations Committee has been fully aware of They should reside at the truck house on St. o f the United States and probably also the with others concerned with it in State what is asked for in the requests o f each George’ River, Fort Richmond and the people o f Maine in a referendum since this s Government as well as with the public at department and I do not know o f any time blockhouse above Northfield. Again; we involves altering a part o f the State Con­ large, and especially with the Indian Com­ they have ever refused to authorize the find in Volume 24; Page 159 (Baxter MSS.) stitution. munity. I am therefore, sending copies of salaries and expenses o f Catholic Chaplains a record o f an agreement signed at the The presently existing legal vehicle that this letter to them for their consideration. on the Reservations. Furthermore I think Council Chamber in Boston between was used by the Legislature to carry out its you are well aware o f the terms o f tha Act of Governor Sir Francis Bernard and the constitutional obligations to the clergy of Sincerely, Separation passed by the Legislature o f Penobscot Chiefs; — July 26, 1769. — M aine’ Indian reservations was the s S. Glenn Starbird Massachusetts and embodied in our own Among their acknowledgements, agree­ document allocating money to the various Penobscot Tribal Historian State Constitution, regarding M aine’ ments and requests that they (the Penobs obligations to its’Indians. In Article 10; scots) ask for a Priest. Section 5; Fifth Part, it says in part; “ The Thus is would seem that by the time o f the new State shall, . . . assume and perform all Revolution the Province o f Massachusetts the duties and obligations o f this Common­ Bay had given up trying to persuade the wealth, towards the Indians in the said Eastern Indians to become Protestants and District o f Maine, whether the same arise had decided to pay for Clergymen o f the from treaties or otherwise; . . .”How large a Roman Catholic faith if one could be found. territory does the “ otherwise" cover? This Note the following; Massachusetts Con­ could probably be argued but historical stitution o f 1780: Part First o f Article III — research shows that it covered a very big “ Legislature to require towns, etc. to range o f obligations. It certainly did include provide for the publick worship o f God . . . payment o f the salaries and expenses of and publick support and maintainance.” clergy as will be shown. Section 6 goes on to say in substance that a The practice o f State support o f chaplains taxpayer . . . “ can require monies he pays on the Indian Reservations has a long for support . .. o f religious teachers be . . . historical precedent and is rooted deeply in applied to his own . . . sect or denomina­ Massachusetts colonial law. The firsr tion.”Article VI says further that “ laws All Charter o f Massachusetts Bay Colony under Colony, Porvince or State o f Massa­ granted by King Charles I in 1628 states chusetts shall remain in full force until that: “ principal reason . . . for forming the altered ...” the colony was the conversion o f the Under Chapter 8 o f the Resolves o f 1783, Indians. ’ Although this Charter was voided seventy-four pounds, six shillings and four in 1684, the Charter o f the Province of pence were paid to the priest for the Indians M assachusetts Bay granted by King in full for wages and rations, also forty-eight William HI and Queen Mary II in 1 1 69 shillings to defray his board. Said sums to be strongly reaffirms the provisions o f the 1628 charged to the United States and that he be Charter concerning the conversion o f the discharged from further services. (The Indian people. Resolves o f 1781 and 1782 on this subject The Charter o f William and Mary says, carry practically the same language.) speaking to the settler’ conduct: “ as s So Chapter 69A o f the Resolves — May their good life and orderly conversation may Session 1798 — Upon petition o f Francis win the Indians, natives o f that country, to Antony Matignon o f the Catholic Church in the knowledge and obedience o f that only Boston — appropriated S200.00 per annum true God and Saviour o f mankind and the for the support o f a teacher o f religion and Christian faith, which his Royal Majesty, morality among the Passamaquoddy and our royal grandfather King Charles the Penobscot Indians until further order o f the First, in his letters patent declared was his General Court — To be paid out o f the royal intention,... to be the principal end o f public treasury. Chapter 64 o f the Resolves the said plantation.” January Session 1802, raised the Priest’ s DYER BROOK — Ruby Schillinger finds Sweetgrass, which retains its scent foi How the Province o f Massachusetts Bay Salary by $75.00 to $275.00 per annum time to raise seven kids and maintain a years, is often incorporated in Mrs and later the Commonwealth o f Massa­ Chapter 210 o f the Resolves of 1819 raised basket making business as well. Schillinger’ baskets. She makes hampers, s chusetts attem pted to meet their the Pnest s salary to $350.00 per annum. A Micmac Indian who grew up here, Mrs. constitutional obligations toward its Indian The Constitution o f the new State of Schillinger is an expert in making baskets dog baskets and picnic baskets. And she teaches her children her skills. population is readily seen in the Acts and Maine in 1820 brought whole sections o f the for fishing, potato harvesting, backpacking “ mother taught me when I was a little My Resolves passed in the eighteenth century. Massachusetts Constitution into it with and for children to put their dolls in — girl. Then I got married and didn’ make t At first they tried to get the Indians to identical or nearly identical wording. Much woven cradles. baskets for awhile. I was rusty starting up.” accept a Protestant missionary and upon o f this phraseology will be found to have had When business is brisk, she can earn as But the rust was soon replaced by ability repeated refusals and only limited success its origin in the Charters from the English much as $200 weekly. “ Pretty near every­ and speed. “ used to make 100 potato I finally agreed to finance the Catholic Monarchs. In Article 10 o f the Maine Con­ body goes fishing around here,” Mrs. Priests, a practice that has continued to the stitution will be found a section repeating Schillinger said. And o f course, "The baskets per week,” Mrs. Schillinger said, adding that she worked some days from 6 present time. almost word for word from the Constitution County” (Aroostook) is potato picking a.m. to 10 p.m. Consider the following: In Volume 7; o f 1780 — That “ laws now in force in country. All Her son Arthur, 15, is an avid learner. “ If Pages 736-739 o f the Resolves 1692-1702 is this State, and not repugnant to this Con­ Her husband, Elden, a mechanic, I just keep after him, h ell be a good basket recorded a meeting with the Eastern Indians stitution, shall remain, and be in force, until obtained a vintage piece o f equipment from maker,”his mother said. Other children in at Casco Bay on June 3, 1701. The twelfth altered or repealed by the Legislature, or a blacksmith that is used to mechanically the family are Barbara, 13, Joanne, 1 6, proposition to the Indians made at that shall expire by their own limitation.”As also pound wood for basket making. Mrs, Roger, 14, Michael, 10, Carla, eight, and meeting offered them ministers of religion. is well known the fifth Section o f Article 10 Schillinger prefers brown ash for most Jimmy, five. The Indians answered by thanking the Com­ is the text o f the Act o f Separation, required basket work. It grows near her home, but Anyone wishing to order a basket, of missioners but refused for they said they had to be placed by its own provisions in any requires a snowmobile and snowshoes to get whatever kind, may write to Ruby their own religious teachers. They went on to constitution Maine adopts. It cannot be in wintertime, she said. Schillinger at B oi 67, Smyrna Mills, Maine. Basketry is family tradition �Wabanaki Alliance February 1978 Page 7 Reservation funding withheld AUGUSTA — The recent decision by the federal Law Enforcement Assistance Ad­ ministration (LEAA) to withhold funding of Indian reservation police has been termed “ suspicious” by Maine Commissioner of Indian Affairs, Charles W. Rhynard. The LEAA postponed distribution of the $134,000 grant until a report to the Eastern Maine Development District is completed, Rhynard was concerned that the Indians were not notified o f the decision. “ When the funds didn’show up, they had to ask what t happened.” The reasons for allowing funding to lapse may go deeper than the need to complete the report, he said. In a UPI article Rhynard stated, “ The feeling among tribal leaders is somebody in the Bureau o f Indian Affairs told the LEAA not to do any favors for Maine Indians, because they’ stepped on d some toes. Maine Indians have at times gone Carter's budget tags funds for Indians WASHINGTON — Recent news reports say President Carter’proposed half trillion s dollar national budget includes a $2.6 million appropriation for the Penobscot and Passamaquoddy tribes of Maine. Those two tribes last year won federal rec­ ognition, making them eligible for a number of federal services and grants. Not eligible for such benefits are Maine's Micmac and Maliseet Indians, or native Americans of other affiliation. Carter’ $2.6 million would be designated s for health services to the two tribes. Summer jobs set in Youth Corps HOULTON — Indian youth aged 15-18 are invited to apply for summer jobs with the U.S. Youth Conservation Corps. Both boys and girls are welcome. Jobs will involve environmental projects in Maine. For more information call Clair Sabattis, 532-7158, after 4 p.m. Nutrition Notes By Natalie Mitchell Last month we had mentioned Vitamin A and its importance to bodily functions. Now, we will discuss Vitamin “ , also called C” ascorbic acid. This essential vitamin is important for the formation o f a substance called, collagen. It acts as a, “ cement” which holds cells, blood , vessels, tendon, etc., together. Vitamin C also stimulates white blood cells production which guards against infections. It also helps wounds to heal at a proper rate, helps to relieve excessive fatigue, and aids in the absorption o f iron in the intestinal tract. Food sources o f ascorbic acid or vitamin C is citrus fruits, raw cabbage, strawberries, broccoli, tomatoes, green peppers, potatoes (baked), raw green vegetables, and cantaloupe. Vitamin C is not stored in the body. Therefore, each day this should be taken in. One 4 ounce glass o f orange juice will supply a total daily requirement. If it is taken in excessive amounts, it will only be excreted through urination. directly to the person where they can get results instead of going through the bureaucracy.” He said the excuse o f a pending state report “ was a pretty lame one.” The state has advanced the Indians a portion o f the $28,000 it contributes to reservation police salaries. Rhynard said i t . appeared likely that funds will be reinstated on March 1 although he was not satisfied . with this date. “ I'm not going to stop bugging them until I figure out if we can loosen up the funds quicker. I would like to find out whether there’ any hanky panky s going on between the bureaucracies.” he said. The $162,000 provided by the state and federal government is budgeted to pay salaries o f a superintendent of police at each reservation, nine full time officers, nine part time officers and three part time secretaries and bookkeepers. Jesuit fakes post INDIAN TOWNSHIP — The. Rev. Joseph R. Laughlin, a Jesuit, has succeeded Raymond Picard as priest at St. Anne’ s Parish here. A veteran o f many years in psychological counseling work, Laughlin, 51, reports that attendance at his Church is excellent. “ I listen to the people and what they're doing, that's my philosophy," he said. A Boston native, Laughlin directed a learning center in Roxbury, and has taught in Boston public schools. A graduate of Boston College, he also obtained a master's degree in education from that school. He is a specialist in reading, and crisis counseling. Health building planned at Houlton HOULTON — Plans are currently being studied that would convert an existing building to a new Indian health and social services center in the Houlton area. Officials at the Association of Aroostook Indians (AAI) here, are negotiating to buy the Ponderosa arena, but one spokesman said the asking price for the large building is too high. A new clinic and office center would serve AAI’ 1,500 members, mostly s Micmac and Maliseet Indians. The center would be funded by federal Health, Education and Welfare funds, obtained through a joint effort with Gregory Buesing of the Indian Task Force, Federal Regional Council o f New England, a spokesman said. AAI’offices might be moved to the new s center from their present location on Bowdoin Street, Houlton, and the old building, a former residence, could be converted to a group home or halfway house, he said. CMIA spokesm en to testify on act WASHINGTON — Two representatives o f Central Maine Indian Association (CMIA) o f Orono were scheduled as of press time to testify on behalf o f the Indian Child Welfare Act o f 1977. Michael Ranco and David Rudolph were to meet with a Congressional committee on the bill, which has already been passed by the U.S. Senate. The bill has yet to pass in the House. Ranco said the bill is significant because it would help stop abusive child welfare practices that have often separated Indian children from their families, and from their Indian heritage. As of Tuesday, Feb. 14, the MITA office in Orono will have a new telephone system. Our new numbers will be: 866-5566 and 866-5567. Our state wide toll free number will remain the same at 1-800-432-7326. Maine Indian Transportation Association Annette McKee of Houlton, a Micmac Indian, confronts Everett Sapiel of Great Works, a Penobscot, in a friendly fracas on a recent Wilderness Pursuits course in outdoor leadership training, held at Sugar Island, on the Penobscot River. Indian holds high office WASHINGTON — Another office in the Executive branch might normally not be cause for celebration, but the new post of Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs es­ tablishes not only a new voice for Indians but a voice with authority. Furthermore, the appointment of Forrest J. Gerard, 52, a Montana Blackfoot, to the post places an Indian in the highest Federal position since Charles Curtis was Vice President in 1928. As Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs, Gerard will also act as head of what he refers to as “ old and muchthe maligned Bureau o f Indian Affairs.”He is quick to point out that whereas before the BIA head was left out of policy-making de­ cisions, in his capacity as Assistant Secre­ tary, he is directly involved in policy decisions and is empowered to deal directly with the Office o f Management and Budget and with Congress. While extending no false hopes about revitalizing the Bureau o f Indian Affairs Gerard does “ intend to strengthen the bureau’ responsibility as trustee for the s Indians”and “ strengthen the tribal gov­ to ernments and improve the bureau’ services s to them.” One o f his chief priorities seems to be shifting control to the tribes themselves. In a recent New York Times interview he states, "The tribes should be allowed to exercise whatever sovereignty they are legally entitled to. Sovereignty means in part the control Indians have over the non-In­ dians living within their reservations, and what this really means is who controls the Indian resou rces.” “ There’ a growing feeling in the Indian s community that things are getting like they were in the 1880’ an apprehension that the s, tribes once again possess things—uranium and oil and natural gas—that are going into short supply. He was referring to the gold and silver shortages of the 1880’ when s, whites seized Indian lands, rich in the metals. Included In this increased sovereignty would be a restructuring o f the old BIA and an acceleration in the change o f the role of the area offices from acting as administra­ tors of Indian matters to training and assistance. Gerard’ role is a timely one, coming s when Indian land claims throughout the nation have forced many people to take a reluctant look at injustices to the Indian which they have been able to ignore for so long. In the interview in The New York Times Gerard said ". . . an increasing hos­ tility toward Indians is developing in Congress where we're confronting the most serious backlash we’ ever faced.” ve “ We need a solution to temper the attitudes o f the Eastern Congressmen, who have certainly faced new problems because o f the land claims,” he continued. “ For years they’ looked on the Indians as a ve Western problem like they considered busing a Southern problem. -Now, suddenly, it isn’that way any more, t and they are not happy about it,”He feels that the land claims are “ well founded.”He added that he was convinced that President Carter, who appointed him, was trying to solve the volatile Maine land claims through negotiation, which Gerard considers to be the best means. Not favoring militant tactics, he stated, “ WeYe seeing a decline in militancy among the Indians and, instead, an upsurge o f Indian determination to assert their rights and manage their own affairs, and 1 support that.”He views him­ self as “ cutting edge of a tough reform the movement.” Mr. Gerard’ government experience s began in 1949 after graduating from the University o f Montana. Born on the Blackfoot Reservation in Northwest Montana, his first posts were non-Indian health adminis­ tration agencies in Montana and Wyoming. He then came to Washington to work in the Bureau o f Indian Affairs as a legislative liaison officer and later worked as a profes­ sional staff member o f the Senate Interior Committee. During the last year he has been a lobbyist for several Indian organizations. His career has led him to one o f the most strategic positions held by an Indian, a position which now promises to be a major force in allowing Indians to shape their own future. As Gerard said: “ The root o f their problem is the right to govern their own affairs and guarantee the future welfare of the Indian people. That’ often lost sight of s in the strident rhetoric Indian matters are now generating.” �Page 8 Wabanaki Alliance February 1978 A flashback to the past News briefs By Vince Lovett Bureau of Indian Affairs NTCA-NCAI PREFER TW O-PAGE W A T E R PO LICY STA TEM EN T T O BIA’51: National Tribal Chairmen’Asso­ s s ciation and National Congress o f American Indians, and two major national Indian or­ ganizations, met in Washington, D.C., and adopted a two page statement on Indian water rights to go to the White House as the Indian community’ contribution to Presi­ s dent Carter’national water policy study. s NTCA and NCAI acting jointly, said they preferred their own concise statement to a 51-page document prepared by BIA under Assistant Secretary Forrest Gerard’ direc­ s tion. Mel Tonasket, chairing a joint report session, said that the BIA statement was “ too long, didn’ hit the point and gave t OMB people room to get lost in.”He said that the working committee involved chose to develop a separate paper rather than to try to nit-pick the 51 pages. A transmittal letter to Gerard asked that the NTCA-NCAI statement be championed as the basic Indian paper; it asked that it be forwarded to the White House on an equal basis with Gerard’ document, not as an appendix s item or otherwise subordinated. The water policy material was supposed to be at the White House by February 1 . NTCA-NCAI LAUNCH JOINT EFFORT TO COUNTER BACKLASH: Joe DeLaCruz and Veronica Murdock, presidents of NTCA and NCAI, at a joint session in Washington, January 19 signed a counterbacklash document and tribal leaders AT THE EDGE OF THE SEA — This silhouette, from an early photograph, shows Wallace signed checks to make the document more Lewey, left, and George Stevens, Sr., in traditional tribal dress, at Pleasant Point Passathan just talk. maquoddy reservation. The last paragraph o f the document read: “ Accordingly, "the National Congress of American Indians and the National Tribal Chairmen’Association do hereby enter into s a joint effort o f cooperation in a national campaign for the survival of the Indian tribal governments, and do hereby invite the several tribes, their regional intertribal or­ SAN FRANCISCO — Jeanette Henry, 59, and self-determination, the Costos have ganizations, the various special-interest and and Robert Costo, 71, probably know more been able to put out all their publications professional organizations o f Indians, and about Indians than any other people in the without any government assistance, using non-Indian organizations that are sympathetic to the Indian causes for justice to United States, and for a very good reason. only Indian help. “ The purpose o f the American Indian assist us and join with us in this most critical As founders of the American Indian His­ torical Society, they have been compiling Historical Society is to promote and develop campaign.”It was announced at the session and publishing information about Indians the culture, education, and general welfare that some tribal groups had already made o f the American Indians, and to inform and contributions totaling more than $30,000 to since 1950. In an article in the Los Angeles Times educate the general public concerning the finance the effort; a check for $10,000, Costo described the society’beginning, “ s It history, languages, and general status of the another for $12,250 and other smaller ones was mostly a family research endeavor at natives as the original owners of this land,” — together with pledges o f various amounts first, building up a library, writing articles, Henry explained in the Times article. Al­ — were then added to the fund. The effort doing research.”What started as a family though publishing has been the chief means will be aimed at defeating anti-tribal legis­ research project has burgeoned into a o f pursuing this end, the Costos have been lation such as the Meeds and Cunningham bills and bringing about a change in public publishing and information center which active in many other ways, including: —Founding and organizing the Convoca­ attitudes that foster this kind o f legislation. regularly draws Indian leaders, scholars, tion o f American Indian Scholars, held LEGISLATOR SEEKS COMMISSION and politicians to the doors o f the society’ s every four years. ON TRIBAL-STATE RELATIONS: The San Francisco base. —Sponsoring a national conference on Speaker o f the Rhode Island State Legisla­ Henry, a Cherokee, and Costo, a ture talked at both the NTCA and NCAI California Cahuilla, entered the publishing Indian water rights. —Preparing curricula for educators in meetings in Washington, asking for Indian field with a modest mimeographed quarter­ involvement and cooperation in an effort to ly, the Indian Historian in 1964. The areas o f Indian studies. —Sponsoring workshops for classroom solve problems in tribal-state relations. magazine, which focuses on Indian cultural affairs, has grown to 64 pages and can be teachers on Indian history, culture, and The speaker, Ed Manning, heads a task found in libraries and universities through­ current affairs. force o f the National Conference o f State —Evaluating textbooks and placing the Legislators. Manning said his group is con­ out the country. In 1971 the couple began publishing The issue o f textbook correction on the subject of cerned about water rights issues, Indian Weewish Tree, a bimonthly magazine for Indians on a national plane. education and, primarily, jurisdiction. They Wassaja, the society’ newspaper, means think that court house solutions take too s young people stressing Indian America. “ showing the way.” long, are too costly and cause too much Over half o f the articles, poems, and illustrations are submitted by Indian children in elem entary school. The magazine now has 11,(X ) subscribers. X In 1973 they started the country’ first s and only national Indian newspaper, ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — The presiBell, who is chief of Elementary and Wassaja. The 40-page paper, filled with dent o f an Indian^group had nothing but Secondary Education Branch, Area I, Office news, features, and photographs, has a compliments for a U.S. government official, for Civil Rights, Region VI, Department of circulation o f 80,000, o f which 85% are chief, after receiving his response to a com- Health, Education and Welfare, answered Indians. Although the paper has a dozen plaint filed earlier in connection with long her letter Dec. 16,1977. Indian reporters, the Costos do much o f the hair. His letter, said that "Data collected from writing, making monthly trips to Washing­ LaDonna Harris, president o f the Albu- the Pawnee Schools during an on-site review ton, D.C. to interview officials o f interest to querque-based A m ericans for Indian revealed that their current dress code does Indians. “ hope to have the first full-time Opportunity (AIO), wrote to John A. Bell, not speak to the issue o f hair length for We Indian press representative in the nation’ the official, that his letter “ s brought joy to males and, or females. No evidence is capital one o f these days,” Costo said. our hearts.” Harris had written to Bell’civil available to show a practice to the contrary s Over the past seven years the couple has rights, office in January, 1974, complaining in this regard. Consequently, we closed your served as co-publishers and editors o f over that the Oklahoma School System had complaint effective Dec. 16,1977.” 20 books authored by Indians. In keeping expelled some 200 Indian boys for wearing The full text o f Harris’ reply, dated Dec. with their emphasis on Indian traditions their hair long, traditional style. 21,1977, follows: West coast couple prints native American research bitterness. He said the state legislators want to form a commission composed equally of legislators and representatives o f Indian or­ ganizations to try to find solutions to some o f the problems, at least improve dialogue and perhaps start a few pilot projects. SUPREME COURT WILL RULE ON S E C R E T A R Y ’ P O W ER T O M AKE S “ INDIAN COUNTRY” The United States : Supreme Court has agreed to rule whether Federal or state courts have jurisdiction to try Choctaw Indians accused o f a crime that took place on their reservation in Missis­ sippi. The underlying question is whether the acquisition o f land and a 1944 procla­ mation by the Secretary o f the Interior that it is a reservation makes the area “ Indian Country” over which Federal, not state, courts would have jurisdiction. The gov­ ernment says the decision could have a serious impact on a state like California where many Indian reservations were created by a similar process. TRIBAL TAX ON OIL, GAS PRODUC­ TION RULED ILLEGAL: United States District Judge H. Vearle Payne o f Albu­ querque has ruled that an oil and gas tax levied by the Jicarilla Apache Tribe against non-Indian producers on the reservation is “ illegal, unconstitutional, invalid and void.” He wrote, “ The power to tax non-Indians is not one o f the enumerated powers given to Indian tribes”under Federal law. He ruled, further, that the firms would recover their costs o f the legal action from the tribe and the Interior Department. The tax would have amounted to more than $2 million annually. The severance tax was adopted by the tribal council in July 1976. INDIAN FISHING RIGHTS IS TOPIC AT MICHIGAN HEARING. Michigan sports fishermen and state and local officials were told that there is little chance that Congress would abrogate Indian treaty fishing and hunting rights which exempt the Indians from state regulation. Rep. Philip Ruppe o f Michigan asked the House Subcommittee on Fisheries and Wildlife Conservation and the Environment to meet in the state. Representative James Oberstar, Minnesota, who presided over the hearing, told a reporter: “ Abrogation of treaties by legislation would undoubtedly engender the most heated and impassioned debate in modern times. It would open up highly speculative questions o f compensa­ tion that could run into incalculable amounts o f money. That, in itself, would be a deterrent.” ANDRUS DESCRIBED AS ENVIRON­ M ENTALIST, IN DIAN SU PPORTER: The Washington Star recently carried a front page feature on Interior Secretary Cecil Andrus. It said Andrus is considered by some people “ conservation-crazed environ­ a mentalist who wants to shut down the Western states and turn them back to the grizzly bears and rattlesnakes.”It also said that many environmentalists “ critical of are his support o f Indian claims on water and hunting rights,”such as his support recently of the Eskimos on the bowhead whale issue. The article also mentioned that Andrus has recruited several Indians for top jobs in the Department. Agency praised for 'swift' action Dear Mr. Bell: Your letter o f December 16, 1977 answering mine o f January 31, 1974 brought joy to our hearts. I know that all o f the Indian community will be pleased as we are with the thoughtful, thorough and expediti­ ous handling o f Indian concerns. You may rest assured that anytime we have a complaint which can wait four years for resolution, we will call it to your attention. With warm regards, LaDonna Harris � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource <em>Wabanaki Alliance</em> (February 1978) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Indian Resource Center Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1978-02 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Donald Soctomah Julia Brush Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Document Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context DV-412 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Passamaquoddy Cultural Museum Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Steve Cartwright. Used with permission. https://www.dawnlandvoices.org/collections/files/original/74299ca6f5ca4355cbb9292a38ae2b8a.pdf f284bddd0d1a2d14ed82599bdce876bf PDF Text Text Non-profit Organization U.S. Postage Paid 3.1c Permit No. 14 Orono, Maine 40 * A llia n ce Published by Diocesan Human Relations Services, Inc. ADDRESS CORRECTION REQUESTED Return to Wabanaki Alliance, 95 Main Street. Orono, Maine 04473. February 1980 Senate passes land claims extension WASHINGTON — A bill to give Indian tribes and individuals more time to take action on certain land claims was passed by the U.S. Senate Feb. 20. Unless the House also agrees to an exten sion the Federal Government will be banned on April 1 1980. by a statute o f limitations . from tiling any claims against third parties on behalf of tribes or individuals for pre-1966 trespass and other wrongs related to Indian lands. The Department of the Interior is nowinvolved in trying to process more than 9.000 claims ranging from disputes over unlawful extraction of minerals and oil from Indian lands to alleged illegal encroach ment on Indian territories. Both Interior and Justice Department testified they would be unable to complete their work on all claims before the April 1 deadline. Senator John Melcher testified that the a settlement. Sen. William S. Cohen THE PHOTOGRAPHER — An accomplished artist with the camera is Donald Sanipass of Mapieton (Aroostook County], a Micmac native of Big Cove reserve in Nova Scotia. This year he gave himself a better camera, but as anyone can see from his photos, Sanipass’ creative eye provides the quality, not the camera. Photography is a hobby; Sanipass, 51, and his family pick and pack potatoes, rake blueberries, and weave baskets for their livelihood. See photo display on page 9. Woman named director of CMIA ORONO — Central Maine Indian Asso ciation (CMIA) has a new executive director. Donna Loring has replaced Melvin (Tom) Vicaire. who stepped down to go into private business. Loring left her post as CMIA president to fill the position. She has had broad experience with the off-reservation organi zation. has served as deputy sheriff o f Pen obscot County and done a tour o f duty in Vietnam with the U.S. Army. She was recently selected for inclusion in "Directory of American Indian-Alaska Na tive Women." BIA budget tops $1 billion WASHINGTON — Bureau o f Indian Affairs (BIA) has asked Congress for Federal funding o f just over one billion dollars for fiscal year 1981. a $5 million hike over 1980 funding. For the operation of Indian programs, the Bureau requested S823.3 million, which includes S264.7 million for educational pro grams: S221.2 for Indian services; S74.6 for economic development and employment programs; $80.1 for natural resources de velopment; $44.1 for trust responsibilities, and $138.6 for general management and facilities operations. The balance of the request includes $93.6 million for construction of buildings, utili ties and irrigation systems; $59.4 million for road construction; $30 million for Alaska Native Claims Settlement, and $5 million for the Northwest Indian fisheries. An increase of $19 million was requested for Indian services, $4.3 million o f the increase will be for social services — related to provisions o f the Indian Child Welfare Act. The increased funding will also provide for meeting the needs of newly recognized Indian tribes and strengthening Indian tribal courts. Bureau education programs will have a decrease o f $7 million, with the largest part of this, $3.9 million, coming from the funding for tribally controlled community colleges. For natural resources development, the Bureau has requested an increase of $6 million for forestry and agriculture pro grams. The $5 million requested for the North west Indian fisheries fund would be the first increment o f a $15 million fund to assist Indian tribes or corporations in the north western states to modernize and develop treaty-tribe fishing operations, under pro posed legislation. opposed the extension. He said that prior to 1966 there was no statute o f limitations so Congress, when a six-year limitation was initiated, gave the Indians and the Govern ment six years to 1972 to catch up. This was subsequently extended to 1977, and. after much debate, an absolutely last extension was granted to 1980. He argued that 1 years was enough and that there 4 should not be another absolutely last extension. The bill is expected to encounter strong opposition in the House, where hearings may begin soon. Congress. Meanwhile, talks continue between the P en obscot- P assam aq u od d y land claim negotiating team, and state and federal officials. A settlm ent involving about S27 million and 300,000 acres to be divided equally between the two tribes— is reportedly announced. Health director leaves team approach legacy INDIAN ISLAND — Paul W. Buckwalter couldn't hide his affection, nor his sadness at parting ways with the Penobscot Nation. This month Buckwalter. 45. resigned his post o f Deputy Director of tribal health services after nearly four years on the job. The entire staff o f the Department o f Health and Social Services threw a going-away party for Paul. Feb. 22. but no-one was happy to see him go. He starts work March 3, as director o f the federally-funded Washington-Hancock Community Agency. Someone kidded Buckwalter: "W e re going to have to adopt you.” In an interview with Wabanaki Alliance, the community developer — as he likes to call himself — talked about the "nearmiraculous” accomplishments o f the tribe, and his own role in the growth and change. In 1976. there were 350 Penobscots living on the reservation. Today there are better than 400. “When I started on the Island Paul Buckwalter three-and-one-half years ago. there were maybe 20 employees (in tribal government). because some outsider look them down the tubes," he said in reference to a bankrupt Now there are 90," Buckwalter noted. Buckwalter said it's his professional view moccasin factory venture. Although quick to praise the work o f the that in terms o f community development, the "Penobscots are doing it better. I’ve Penobscots. Buckwalter is modest about his spent 10 years in an inner city ghetto, and own achievement: the Health and Social Services Department. He was a guiding I’ spent five years in middle class com ve munities, and the Penobscots are doing it force from day one. working closely with the tribal council and tribal health planning better.” Buckwalter cited police, fire, sewage officials. Buckwalter remembers when there wasn’ t treatment, recreation, housing, land man t agement, economic development and health any health center. There wasn’ a dentist, physician’ assistant, senior citizens' center, s and social services as areas where major progress has been made by the tribe. For medical records and the handsome clinic awhile, economic development was “ a bust (Continued on page 7 ) �Page 2 Wabanaki Alliance February 1980 editorials Post-mortem The outgoing head o f the BIA (Bureau o f Indian Affairs) said. "W e have won some battles and lost others. But on the whole, I believe we have won more than we have lost." Forrest Gerard might have been talking about the past decade for Indians, rather than his own career. Indians across the U.S. have made progress in many ways during the 1970’ but the giant forward s, strides have their price. While Indian lands, trust responsibility and jurisdiction have been reinforced and extended, Indian language and culture have probably suffered. This is not to say that communities are not trying hard to preserve culture; the facts are simply that Indians are gaining in power, affluence, influence — and with these things come many o f the white man's trappings. "Trappings” is an appropriate play on words. Indians made a strong showing in Washington, D.C. in 1978, at the completion o f The Longest Walk, a protest o f anti-Indian backlash legislation that never made it through Congress, thank goodness. Indian fishing rights in Washington state were affirmed by the nation's highest court. Indians “came out o f the closet" and made their presence felt in a takeover o f Gerard's agency, the BIA, in 1972. The takeover reminded the bureaucracy that almost every treaty with Indians has been deliberately broken, and the agency supposedly serving Indians wasn’ doing a hell o f a lot about it. t A year later, the incident at historic Wounded Knee, on the Pine Ridge Sioux Reservation, delineated the tensions between assertive Indians and federal Indian policy. Indian rights were at stake, and Indian rights can never be entirely buried again. Many national Indian issues — water rights, mining rights, jurisdiction and trust responsibility, surfaced and were at least partially resolved in the 1970's — but on the home front, one gigantic issue remained unsettled. The Penobscot-Passamaquoddy land claim to 12.5 million acres — the northern two-thirds o f Maine — escalated from a dispute over a few thousand acres at Indian Township Passamaquoddy reservation at Princeton. First started with discovery o f an old treaty at Indian Township, the land claims were handled by lawyer Donald Gellers from 1968-1971, when Tom Tureen took over. Tureen deserves tremendous credit for his skillful leadership in the case. Fresh out o f law' school when he started. Tureen is now a widely recognized expert. He led the two tribes through a court battle that resulted in the U.S. Justice Department ruling in favor o f Passamaquoddies’ right to file a claim. Also, both tribes won federal recognition, entitling them to a multitude o f services through BIA and Indian Health Service — totaling several million dollars. The final chapter o f the claims is being written, and will likely include a settlement, to be split 50-50 between the tribes, consisting o f some 300,000 acres, about $27 million, and assorted benefits. A settlement like this will have a tremendous social, physical and psychological impact on Maine Indians. We are confident it will be beneficial to all. But this is speculation. It’s a new decade, and a newage for the first Americans — who have so often ended up last. DERELICT — Once a handsome dwelling at Indian Island, this twin-chimney house has been left vacant — except for young people who now use it as their “hangout” after school. This home boasted the Erst running water on the reservation, and was known for its hardwood floors. Several old treaties were discovered in this house years ago. They were sold to the Bangor Public Library, but later recovered by the Penobscot tribe. Quotable You're angry about something we wrote . . . good! The true purpose o f this newspaper is to report facts accurately . . . not to make you feel good. If you get angry over one o f our editorials, writers or the way in which we present our facts . . . good! Because getting angry means that you are about to get involved. Involvement usually means action and that could improve conditions. So ... get angry at us if you like. But we are still going to report the facts and keep you informed on the events concerning the Tacom a Indian Community. — Tacom a Indian News Wabanaki Alliance Vol. 4, No. 2 February 1980 Published monthly by the Division of Indian Services [DIS] at the Indian Resource Center, 95 Main St., Orono, Maine 04473. Telephone [207] 866-4903. Typeset by Old Town/Orono Times. Printed by Ellsworth American. Member — Maine Press Association Steven Cartwright, Editor William O’Neal, Associate Editor Mary T. Byers Brenda Polchies Roberta Richter Kathy Tomah Reporters Indian Island Houlton Pleasant Point Indian Township DIS Board of Directors Jean Chavaree |chairman] John Bailey, Public Safety Coordinator Albert Dana, Tribal Councilor Timothy Love, Representative to State Legislature Jeannette Neptune, Community Development Director Jeannette LaPlante, Central Maine Indian Assoc. Susan Desiderio, Assn, of Aroostook Indians Maynard Polchies, President, Aroostook Indians David A. Francis, Public Safety Department Brenda Polchies, Assn, of Aroostook Indians Phone 827-4543 Phone 532-7317 Phone 853-4654 Phone 796-2301 Indian Island Pleasant Point Indian Township Indian Island Indian Township Orono Houlton Houlton Pleasant Point Houlton DIS is an agency of Diocesan Human Relations Services, Inc. of Maine. Subscriptions to this newspaper, are available by writing to Wabanaki Alliance, 95 Main St., Orono, Me. 04473. Diocesan Human Relations Services and DIS are a non-profit corporation. Contri butions are deductible for income tax purposes. Rates: $5 per year [12 issues]; S6 Canada and overseas; $10 for institutions [schools, government, business, etc.] �Wabanaki Alliance February 1980 Page 3 letters Cherokee offers blessing Detroit, Mich. To the editor: I would like to send good wishes and say God Bless all the Indian people. My young bride o f 78. and myself are both in good health. We would very much enjoy receiving the newspaper. I am a Chief of the Cherokee tribe from Oklahoma and would like to stay in touch with the Indian new's. By the way, if you have an extra Indian headband I’ really appreciate one. d Rev. F. C. Stayton, age 1 10. Indian claim deadline BROTHER-SISTER — Natalie Bums and Alan Sanborn are not only siblings, thej work together at Penobscot Health and Social Services Department. Natalie is training to be a medical records clerk through a CETA grant, and Alan was recently promoted to assistant clinical administrator at the Indian Island health center. They grew up in Norcross, attending school in Brownville Junction. Both are tribal members. Studeni wants paper Rochester. N.Y. To the editor: Hello, my name is Karen Lolar Tompkins and I am a Penobscot Indian. I am also the daughter of Patricia Lolar and the grand daughter o f the late Henry and Bernice Nelson Lolar; all of Indian Island, Old Town. Maine. I've read a few o f your latest editions of the Wabanaki Alliance and now 1would like to start receiving them at the university I am now attending. 1 understand your news paper is non-profit and I would be grateful if you would send me issues of the Wab anaki Alliance. If I should send money please advise or send me a bill. I am looking forward to your next issue. Karen L. Tompkins More native language \ St. John's. Newfoundland To the editor: Enclosed is my contribution to continue my subscription to your excellent paper. Also enclosed for your use, if you find it suitable, is my transcription of the story of Noah as recorded by Mr. Walter J. Paul of Frederickton, N.B. Mr. Paul gave his permission to publish it if you so desire. Is it possible to encourage more contri butions in or about the Indian languages? The story o f Mother Nicholas translated into Passamaquoddy by my friend David Francis, which you published last spring, was a good example. Perhaps some o f the young people in Indian Township could be persuaded to make some contributions. The books in Passamaquoddy published by the Wab anaki Bilingual Education Program are beautiful examples, and Joe Nicholas’ work s in Indian Pride is also worthy of praise. Would anybody be able and willing to write something about the Penobscot lan guage? The beautiful and expressive Indian languages are the oldest living thing in our countries and they are worth every effort to encourage, preserve and keep them alive. The more the young Indians can learn about their own people the better they are equipped to face the prejudice and discrim ination which, unfortunately, is still to be met in our modern “enlightened" society. In this respect, your paper is a worthy contributor. Lloyd Leland Comprehensive Mankato, Minn. To the editor: I am trying to learn about the Indian Land Claims Case in Maine. Two years ago, while in Maine, I picked up two cf your newspapers and found them very informa tive. Back in Minnesota only Akwesasne Notes and Wassaja are accessible to me. Although they give space to the Indian activity in Maine, it is not nearly as com prehensive a coverage as Wabanaki Alli ance. Will you please send me any or all back issues to July 1978 (Vol. 2, No. 7 Or, if ). requesting them from you is incorrect, can you suggest how I might obtain them. I am willing to pay for these copies and the postage and handling charges in whatever way is expedient. Please let me know how to proceed. Stewart Simpson Send paper sooner Exeter, N.H. To the editor: Here is my subscription renewal. I hope that having a set rate will help you with the huge costs of keeping your paper going! I feel Wabanaki Alliance is a very important way to keep people informed, and help create a greater feeling of unity among people spread over great distances. Would it be possible to get the paper out to out-of-state readers sooner? I don’ know t if others have the same situation but I often get my paper after some events, job appli cation deadlines, etc. have passed by. Thank you for your fine paper! Paul Tamburro Very pleased Middlefield, Ct. To the editor: Enclosed is my donation and please continue my subscription to Wabanaki Alliance. Keep up your good work in supplying information to me and all Indians living on and off reservations. I’ a retired Air Force m veteran and have lived off reservation for nearly forty years. I sure enjoy and am very pleased with your paper. Good blessings to all. Thank you, Joseph F. Socoby Passamaquoddy Tribe El Paso, Texas To the editor: For some time you have been sending the Wabanaki Alliance to our office and we greatly appreciate this courtesy. Your November 1979 issue discusses the pending Penobscot and Passamaquoddy claim pend ing before U.S. District Court Judge Edward T. Gignoux and mentions your Tribal Lawyer, Thomas N. Tureen. The article also states, "the Tribes face an April 1 1980 deadline in the 12.5 million . acre claim to northern Maine. That date marks the Federal deadline for filing Indian Claims in court under a statute o f limita tions.” I am very interested in this statement as I represent the Tonkawas, the Tiguas, the Louisiana Coushatta and the Alabama Coushatta with respect to Texas claims. We are in the same position as the Maine Indians in that there was never any federal jurisdiction exercised over Texas Indians because o f the prior status of Texas as a republic. The Court o f Claims some years back held however, that Indians could still pursue claims in Texas if they had filed within the deadline o f the Indian Claims Act. None o f the above mentioned tribes had so filed and we are now pursuing a remedy through the Congressional Reference route in Congress. We have no assurance that we will be granted Congressional Reference which would waive the statute o f limitations of the Indian Claims Act. I have always felt that we had a claim similar to that of your tribes in Maine and that we could press it directly in the local Federal Courts. We have been reluctant to do so as long as there is any potential for recovery in the Congressional Reference process. We did reach the Indian Claims Commission and were allowed to intervene in other Indian claims on the theory that their filing within the statutory period pro tected our interest. Unfortunately the Court o f Claims overturned this ruling of the Indian Claims Commission and we were motioned out of court. We appealed to the Court o f Claims and by that time the Supreme Court had entered a similar ruling in a Wichita case and we dropped our appeal. In the meantime, the Wichitas with respect to their Texas claim have success fully pursued a Congressional Reference Act. I would greatly appreciate knowing what the April 1 1980 deadline is and would , appreciate being given Mr. Tureen’ ad s dress. I enjoy very much your excellent publication and appreciate being on your mailing list. Tom Diamond Inmate request Portland To the editor: My nephew is an inmate in prison and I received a note from him asking for copies o f your paper. 1already re-mail my copy to another relative in Mich., so could you please put him on your mailing list? Thanks. M. Smith Mother defends non-Indian adoption South Windham To the editor: Thought it was time I dropped you a line to tell you how much 1enjoy the Alliance, and the news about Indian life in Maine. I was a little frustrated when I read about the "lack o f Indian homes for foster Indian children." I can’ agree that only an Indian t family can provide a good home tor an Indian child. The son 1 adopted 1 years ago was 1 placed with my husband and 1by the South Dakota Human Services social worker. We knew his mother; she was an alcoholic and his father was in prison. No one in his (the baby's) family wanted him. When his mother delivered, the baby was immediately (3 days old) placed with us. since her two previous children had met with a distressful life — one froze to death in a car outside a bar; one died from TB. Anyway, my husband (who was a Sioux) and I took the baby boy and when he was 6 months old, we adopted him. Several years ago, my husband and I were divorced; I came back to Maine with the boy. who was 18 months old. He is a full blooded Sioux Indian, and although I don’t have a shred of any kind of Indian blood and none of my family does. David has certainly thrived here in Maine. He is well aware of his heritage and makes everyone else awr are also. He meets little prejudice here in Southern Maine (which is entirely different than it would have been on or near the Rosebud Reservation, where he would have been lucky to have been educated). The only regret — and it can be overcome — is that there are not many Indians, par ticularly full blooded ones, in Maine, and in the schools down here. David does meet up with a little reverse prejudice (if you know what I mean) and that tends to get aggra vating sometimes. No. he can’t speak Sioux — but many of the vounger reservation Indians can’ He t. has never been to a powwow, either — that he can remember. But he knows where he comes from, and that he is adopted, and he is healthy, alive and learning. I think good care and education can come from Anglo families. If we were living in South Dakota still. David’ future would be s a lot bleaker than it is here. For that I am thankful. Good luck with your newspaper and don’ t give up! Kay Whirlwind Soldier Jobs and skills Boulder, Colo. To the editor: The Administration for Native Ameri cans, an agency within the Department of Health, Education and Welfare, and the Department of Labor's Division of Indian and Native American Programs are spon soring the development o f an Indian Jobs/ Skills Bank. The Jobs/Skills Bank is designed to help Indian people identify and apply for vacant positions in the federal service and will assist the federal agencies in fulfilling their Affirmative Action require ments. The dissemination o f information about the Jobs/Skills Bank to potential users is crucial to the Bank's development and is a key factor in successfully achieving the Bank’ goals. Therefore. ACKCO is sending s announcement packets to the governing bodies o f both federally and non-federally recognized tribes, Alaska native corpora tions. Indian and Indian-interest organiza tions, Urban centers, and Indian publica tions. Promotional materials include a brochure, press release, response sheets and newspaper ads. James E. Hofbauer �Page 4 Wabanaki Alliance February 1980 Antabuse a tool in battling booze CO-COUNSELORS Pious and Harriet Perley of Presque Isle, members of Association of Aroostook Indians, offer Alcoholics Anonymous meetings every monday evening at 7:30, at the AAI building, Bowdoin Street, Houlton. Both experienced counselors, Pious Perley has had more than 20 years sobriety. The Perleys’ meetings are open to all. The couple resides in Presque Isle. A glance at the Seventies by Isabelle Knockwood Toney The seventies were significant for native peoples because o f a raised consciousness, a new awareness o f identity as the first people of this land. The events o f the past decade were spin-offs from events started in 1969. Namely the establishment o f the American Indian Movement and its occupation of Alcatraz Island. Actually this was a test to find out if treaties stating that land leased from Indian Nation's would be returned to the Indians after it was no longer needed. Also that was the year when the Boston Indian Council. Union of Nova Scotia Indians and American Indian Movements were incorporated. When Sioux Indians clashed with FBI in 1973. Annie Mae Aquash. Micmac from Nova Scotia, was found partially buried in a plastic bag at the Pine Ridge (South Dakota) reservation. Both hands were then cut off at the wrists by the FBI and sent to Wash ington, D.C. for identification purposes. She was then buried without notification o f next of kin. Cause of death stated ‘ exposure.’ In March, 1976. her family demanded an exhumation and autopsy to make proper identification and find real cause o f death. A bullet hole was found in the back o f her head. She was then buried for the third time at the Pine Ridge Reservation the traditional way — wrapped in an Indian blanket and facing east toward the land of the People of the Dawn the Wabanaki. The 1970’s 1970 — National Day o f Mourning for native peoples held at Plymouth, Massa chusetts on Thanksgiving Day. 1971 — Research for Passamaquoddy and Penobscot land claims well underway. Lawyer Thomas N. Tureen takes over case from lawyer Donald Gellers. 1972 — “Trail of Broken Treaties." Occupation ol the Bureau of Indian Affairs by members o f the American Indian Move ment to protest the breaking o f 389 treaties signed by the U.S. Congress. 1973 — Wounded Knee. 1974 — First child born in Ganienkeh. 1975 — Six day take over of Mt. Katahdin by Wabanaki tribes. 1976 peoples. Year o f Mourning for native 1977 — Jay Treaty Conference at Indian Island, Penobscot Nation, Maine — in the year o f the Thunderbird. 1978 — The Longest Walk originating from Alcatraz, led by Dennis Banks and others, starting February 11, 1978 and ending at Washington, D.C. on July 15. Many rallies and a united opposition to legislation that would abrogate •Indian treaties. Legislation defeated. 1979 — Takeover and Occupation of Board office at Jobeque. New Brunswick, Canada by the women of the Maliseet Nation over sexist policies in the Indian Act of Canada that gives Certificate o f Posses sion solely to men. Crow tribe rejects “ Antabuse" is a relativejy safe drug which then sober and can work with others to help was accidently discovered in 1948 by two solve the problems that make drinking seem Danish researchers, Hald and Jacobsen a solution. One cannot work with a drunk, while trying to develop drugs for the treat because a drunk doesn’ even know who or t ment of worms. They had taken the drug what they are. We can help the alcoholic and later drank alcohol at a cocktail party. that can think and reason. The only thing Within a few minutes, they were both quite we can do for a drunk is put him into ill and realized that they had chanced upon detoxification. a drug which could be used to help the It is important that everyone understand alcoholic maintain sobriety. the nature of the sickness that occurs when For over thirty years now, Antabuse has on Antabuse and alcohol is consumed. The been widely used in treating the chronic first reactions that occur usually in about 15 problem drinker. If a person suffering from minutes and with as little as a half ounce of alcoholism is, at least, motivated to take the alcohol are: drug and is able to recognize the risks if he drinks while taking it, it can be very effective as a deterrent to taking that first drink. 1 Hot feeling in the face . Antabuse is not a cure for alcoholism. It is 2. A change in facial color a tool which can be used by the alcoholic, 3. Dilation o f blood vessels in face, neck with the help o f the doctor and counselor, to and eyes help provide the conviction to remain sober 4. Tachycardia, palpitation and chest so that others can help resolve the many pain problems that are the real cause o f the alco 5. T h robbin g headache, dizziness, holism. nausea and vomiting How it works 6. Shortness o f breath, syncope or faint How does Antabuse work? When a ing person drinks alcohol, the body tries to 7. Sweating, thirst reduce it to harmless chemicals and discard These initial symptoms may last one or it from the body. The body produces two hours followed by a state of exhausted chemicals in the stomach and intestine to sleep for several hours. Very severe reactions react with the alcohol to get rid o f it. The may occur and are likely when drinking person gets drunk when they drink more larger amounts o f alcohol: alcohol than their body can dispose in that 8. Respiratory depression time. ‘ ITie body then becomes accustomed to 9. Arrhythmias that level o f alcohol and the very cells 1 Cardiovascular collapse with myocar 0. become sensitized to feel normal at that dial infraction and congestive heart high level o f alcohol presence. The body failure begins the breakdown process by creating a 11. Convulsions poison out o f the alcohol, and then breaks 12. Unconsciousness up to and including down the poison almost immediately to save coma the body. 13. Death The poison is broken down by an enzyme that is only produced to destroy alcohol. . When Antabuse is taken into the body, the The alcoholic patient must avoid alcohol. body continues to function normally until The alcoholic patient, family and friends the person drinks alcohol. The body must be aware and take care not to use immediately begins to break down the disguised forms such as sauces, salad alcohol into poison. The Antabuse blocks the enzyme that destroys the poison so the dressing, vinegars, cough mixtures. liquid vitamin preparations, mouthwash, some drinker becomes gradually ill. It is fortunate sleep preparations and bakery products. that the reaction happens quickly so that the Even after shave and back rubs have been drinker gets a little sick with the first drink reported to cause a mild reaction. which will deter him from drinking more Information on Antabuse is available and becoming more severely sick. A from your Wabanki alcoholism counselor. If stubborn alcoholic who drank a lot would get very sick. This reaction happens to someone you love, or you yourself need more information about alcoholism, help with the almost every human. Don’ let anyone tell t problems o f alcoholism, or need to just talk you that they are immune. about the problem, call Wabanaki Corpora Alcoholic decides tion at 866-5577, or your local alcoholism The reason for the use o f Antabuse is counselor. We can help any wno ask. If you simply to help the alcoholic be separated need, take heed. from alcohol. The alcoholic makes a decision once each day to take the Antabuse and then need not make any decisions about EDITOR’S NOTE: Wabanaki Corpora drinking the remainder o f the day because tion o f Orono provides a regular monthly the alcoholic knows that drinking will cause column of information about alcoholism poisoning and sickness. The alcoholic is and drug abuse. Don't miss an issue MAIL TO WABANAKI ALLIANCE. 95 MAIN STREET, ORONO, MAINE 04473 coal mining A multimillion-dollar coal mining agree ment, worked out between the Shell Oil Company and the Crow Coal Authority, was rejected by a vote of 281-256 at the tribe’ s quarterly council meeting. The proposed agreement would have brought the tribe as much as $12 million before the first coal was dug. It also offered joint venture oppor tunities to the tribe. A Shell spokesman, when informed o f the action, told a Billings Gazette reporter, "Oh no, here we go again." Shell has been trying unsuccessfully to work out a deal with the Crows since 1975. WABANAKI ALLIANCE SUBSCRIPTION FORM (Make checks payable to Wabanaki Alliance) I ENCLOSE: $5 for one year (Individual— U.S.) $6 for one year (Canada) Street $10 for one year (Institutional rate) City/Town and State I________ Zip Code *[ |Donation (Amount) ________ _______ I �Page 5 Wabanaki Alliance February 1980 Micmac writer blends women's and native rights INDIAN ISLAND — Can feminism, Indian spiritualism and Indian rights be unified in a single vision? They can be. if you are Isabelle Knockwood Toney, a writer, artist and poet who really doesn’ fit any labels, because she t thinks for herself. Thoughtful, sensitive, proud and sometimes irreverent — she is a woman attempting to maintain her Micmac cultural heritage in the modern world. Isabelle Toney has contributed articles to Wabanaki Alliance dealing with subjects such as basketry, traditional medicine, Indian women and spiritual values. Her strong views on certain issues are tempered by a contagious sense of humor, an appreciation for her listener, and the human predicament. Recalling her home at Shubenachadie Reserve in Nova Scotia, she said she did not speak English until she was four years old. “I thought all tribes were extinct, other than my own," she remembered, adding, “o f course," I knew about the Maliseets. ’ When she later met Indians from elsewhere, she felt like asking, "Are you a REAL Indian?” Such naivete didn’ last. Isabelle became t deeply involved in the movement for Indian rights, which climaxed in such actions as the 1972 takeover of U.S. Bureau o f Indian Affairs (BIA) headquarters in Washington, D.C.. a six day occupation at Mt. Katahdin in 1976, and The Longest Walk (across the U.S.) in 1978. One o f Isabelle’ dearest friends was s Boston Indian Council founder Annie Mae Aquash, whom she knew as a child at Shub enachadie. Aquash was killed at the Wounded Knee occupation in 1973. where she was a political activist, and many persons believe the FBI has covered up the truth about her death. “What really hurt me like an open wound was the death of Annie May,” Isabelle said. Now 48, with six children and six grand children. Isabelle shares a home at Indian Island with Pat Shay, a Penobscot she met Isabelle Toney: “A human being first and an Indian second.” just before Wounded Knee. Her face shows a few of the struggles she has had, but any worry lines are overwhelmed by the warmth stood up and said this is your religion, your have to work together. The Women's Lib is and kindness o f this grandmother who are the first Americans; it was like meeting based on equality o f the sexes; whereas, the believes in being a “human being first and an old friend, and the friend was the Indian tradition is based on survival o f the an Indian second.” Creator. It was not quite being reborn, but it whole nation, regardless o f sex. Isabelle Toney believes firmly in spiritual On Indian feminism. Isabelle said she was an awakening,” Isabelle said. values. Her mother had told her o f these Isabelle said the 1970’ were “when it all believes a lot o f women are “aware o f at s values, but she ignored the message. When least the power to change things.” She said started: native awareness. (Indians) she attended a spiritual unity convention at she knows o f a current Maine Indian wouldn’ be heard through regular chan t Pleasant Point Passamaquoddv reservation nels. The system was geared for the great feminist who reminds her o f Annie Mae. 1975, organized by two Indian women, “ It white father concept. It was time for self- Toney is concerned for Canadian Indian was entirely different. It was unbelievable.” determination . . . to face the truth that the women, who lose their Indian status if they She prayed to the Four Corners, and “This marry a non-Indian; yet the same is not true treaties weren’ working.” t time I had to listen.” For Isabelle, the elders were saying that for Indian men. “They are in the process of Not all of her life has been spiritual. She younger Indians lacked spirituality. She changing the Indian Act.” Toney said, worked as a keypunch operator, record recalled that "Annie Mae's goal in life was adding that a protest march by Indian keeper and nurse. She received a medal for to write a native people’ history o f the women — 100 miles from a Quebec reserve s * volunteering at a U.S. Army clinic. She lived land.” She said that during "time o f f ’ at to Ottawa — brought attention to the in Boston awhile. “The medicine people The Longest Walk rally in Washington, inequality. were saying go back to the elders, while D.C., she visited the Smithsonian and saw Overall, Isabelle is convinced the past another group of people was saying get the body of an Innuit (Eskimo). It seemed to decade brought much progress for Indians, educated. That's when the Boston Indian her the bones were exhibited as an example although she noted that Wampanoags of Council approached me to go to college, o f what will happen if you don’ conform. Mashpee, Mass., “found out the court has t she said. She felt hurt and sad. “ I feel hurt that the the right to terminate a tribe.” Isabelle earned her master’ degree in art white man believes that he can break the s Looking ahead, Isabelle is optimistic. “ If from Goddard College, in 1975. “Then I spirit by degrading the body,” she said. you put a leader in there who is not aware o f had to decide what to do with it. I thought it In 1975 she started to write poetry, some the complexities of his role, he’ ncft going to s would open doors for me.” of which has appeared in Wabanaki get as much done as a leader who can slip A teaching position at all-Indian Manitou Alliance. She said she doesn’ consciously easily from the native to the white world,” t College in Quebec fell through. The degree know what motivated her to write. she said. An Indian leader must be did not open many doors after all. Isabelle started to “write down my life, "articulate in both worlds.” Isabelle will not join something unless she so my kids would understand me. But they Finally, Isabelle offers a prediction. believes in what is being done. Even in the didn’ understand me. So I started to write t Indian rights movement, ^he has had her for myself, so I could understand myself,” Behind her words are love and fierce deter mination to see her people survive. differences. When Isabelle and Annie May she said. "My prediction is that the Wabanaki were demonstrating at the BIA in 1972, an Native women are ambivalent about Confederacy is going to be revived and used Indian leader said, “It’ a good day to die.” s Women’s Liberation because some theories as a political tool. In regard to this No, she thought to herself, “it’ a good day s regarding power are in direct conflict with t ll to live.” tradition. Indian tradition is based on prediction, if it doesn’ happen. I’ make it However, “When Leonard Crow Dog survival skills where both men and women come true.” Poetry Wounded Bird in flight flesh torn open wind wings water one troubled skies erase the light flight in cloud that now the sun veneers the captive moment fears there's pride pain passion tears there's tide turns wind shifts stone cliffs ocean fills against your will hold on there’ dawn s first light in east release the storm does end the earth below does spin the heart beats still within and wings wind water one Dana Perley Beals Untitled Remembering that spring night when the air wafted thru the partly opened window and stirred a yearning inside it was crystal clear and slightly perfumed o f a not so distant past, beautiful. Red Hawk Living in the city Need to listen to mountain waters streaming song feeling my spirit turn, slower— in time with earth’ growth s to breathe free and clean thinking on the beauty o f natural growth and pace. Can do without this manmade world. There’ comfort in just knowing s places like that survive, as we might. Red Hawk Mlosses Old man child walks on wobbly legs once more, seeking yesterday’ dreams, s in his old frail body. Soon his spirit will soar. in release. still searching light his spirit guidance we seek. Red Hawk 1977 �Page 6 Wabanaki Alliance February 1980 BIA chief quits job WASHINGTON — The head of the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs will enter a private consulting business citing personal reasons — such as tuition for his children — for his resignation effective Jan. 1 9. Forrest J. Gerrard, a Blackfeet Indian, was named Assistant Secretary for Indian -Affairs to the U.S. Interior Department in 1977. His annual salary was S52.750. He stated. “As 1 return to private life, I am deeply appreciative o f the opportunity to have served the public and the Indian people.” Several months earlier, Gerrard tried to dispel rumors that he would quit his job. "This is not true,” he said at the time, adding. "I have concluded that my resigna tion at this time would be inappropriate and would not benefit the field I have the good fortune to represent.” But he admitted studying the ethics-in-goverament act which places restrictions on employment after working in federal service. In a recent interview, Gerard said the U.S. Supreme Court has resolved major controversy in supporting Indian fishing rights in the state of Washington, and in ruling that tribes do not have criminal juris diction over non-Indians on reservations. "While I was not happy with the Supreme Court decision on jurisdiction, it seems it cleared the air a bit on tribal jurisdiction,” he said.- A ITA prospects unchanged A ORONO — Although no changes have occurred in Maine Indian Transportation Association’ (MITA) financial picture, s buses continue to run on a limited basis. Lorraine Nelson, MITA director, said she expected to continue providing services at the current level through March. After that, she had no idea what would happen to the program, she said. A funding shortfall has crippled the transportation agency since December, forcing some buses off the roads. Since then limited service has been restored. Pleasant Point has two buses operating, providing free service to the elderly and handicapped and making runs to Perry, Eastport, and Calais, charging fares ranging from $.50 to $2.00. Indian Township has one bus back in operation, making one trip to Calais. There is no charge. Indian Island has one full and one parttime bus running for handicapped and elderly people. Association of Aroostook Indians has been able to maintain its services with various contracting agencies such as nursing homes and migrant worker groups. Nelson was optimistic that Maine De partment o f Transportation Section 18 funds would soon be available, but said no one knows when they will be distributed. She said she is also reapplying for a Title XX grant following rejection of an earlier application. Indian foster parents needed Pehrson-Baker wed in Island ceremony INDIAN ISLAND — Nancy Pehrson of Indian Island was married to Daniel Baker, a native o f Gloucester, Mass., this month. The new Mrs. Baker is daughter of Penobscot tribal governor Wilfred Pehrson and Joan Pehrson. Her husband is son of Mrs. Delores Baker o f Gloucester, Mass. The bride is a graduate of John Bapst High School in Bangor and has taken a year of study at Bangor Community College. She and her husband met while he was working with Young Adult Conservation Corps on Indian Island. The wedding was held in the home of Deanna LeBretton, the bride’ sister. The s couple plans to live on Indian Island. ORONO — During the past year Central Maine Indian Association (CMIA) has been involved in a project dealing with services to Indian children. O f major focus has been foster care placements of Indian children with non-Indian families. Much research has been done that shows' severe problems can occur when Indian children are removed from their culture. Indian children who need foster care should be placed in Indian homes, studies indicate. There are over one hundred Indian children in foster care and less than six licensed Indian foster homes in Maine. The problem is obvious. "W e would like to see this number increased,” says CMIA. The off-reservation group is actively recruiting foster homes in Penobscot and Piscataquis County. Obituary DELIA (DAYLIGHT) RANCO INDIAN ISLAND — Delia (Daylight) Ranco, 87, of 70 West St., Indian Island, died Jan. 29. She was born in Old Town Sept. 24, 1892, the daughter o f Frank and Josephine (Susep) Mitchell. She was the widow o f Nicholas J. Ranco. She was a member o f St. Ann’ Catholic Church, s Indian Island. She is survived by two sons, Nicholas of Boothbay Harbor and Frederick of Conway, N.H.; five grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. Spring burial will be in the tribal cemetery. FREEMAN MOREY has been hired as outreach worker for Central Maine Indian Association, Orono. A graduate of Old Town High School, Morey, 26, is a Passamaquoddy who grew up with a foster family. His real father lives in Bangor; his real mother in BucksporL On the day this photo was taken, he discovered a lost brother in Georgia. Morey and his wife Kimberly Jane have a daughter, Raven Renee, born Dec. 27,1979. ii f Hfk - INDIANP LCRAFT SU P IE S ' 148 Page hM tt Catalog c d c c r . _ , For free catalog. The world's largest Indian Cratti Catalog. More than 4,000 Items to choose tram I Trade Beads, Tin Cones, Brass Beads. Moire Taffeta Ribbon. Ermine Skins. Bone Elk Teeth. Shawl Fringe andYam. GREY OWL s * Indian Craft Manufacturing Co ^5CM)2Beav<^ * * * Applications sought by Indian art school SANTA FE, N.M. — Applications are now being accepted for the second quarter at the Institute o f American Indian Arts here. The institute, a two-year arts college program, offers the associate o f fine arts degree in two dimensional arts, three dimen sional arts, museum training and creative writing. It also has a developing major in drama and dance. The institute is a part of the comprehen sive Indian education program under the direction o f the Bureau o f Indian Affairs. It is the only school in the nation established to provide accelerated art. Its student popu lation often represents as many as 80 tribes and 26 states. The content o f the art curriculum covers a wide range o f media in both traditional and contemporary approaches. There are cours es in drawing, painting with oils, acrylic and water colors, design in two and three di mensional, illustration (commercial), cer amic pottery, sculpture in wood, stone and clay, jewelry, photography and printmaking. There are also offerings in art history of the world since the beginning o f time in cluding a special course in art history. For applications or information, write: Admissions, Institute o f American Indian Arts, 1300 Cerrillos Road, Santa Fe. JOB OPPORTUNITIES The Department of Employment De velopment is now accepting applications from eligible Indian or Native Americans for participation in the following CETA Programs: I. Youth Employment and Training Program (YETP) The purpose o f this program is to enhance the job prospects and career opportunities o f Indian and Native American Youth, including employment, community service opportunities, and such training and supportive services as are necessary. Eligibility for Participation (YETP) a. Every participant at the time o f ap plication must be: 1 An Indian or Native America . Youth; 2. Unemployed, or underemployed, or an in school youth; 3. 14 through 21 years o f age; 4. A member o f a family with a total Family Income, annualized on a six month basis, at or below 85% o f the lower living standard income level. Allowable Activities and Services To eligible applicants, this program can provide employment opportunities, training and supportive services includ ing: Useful work experience oppor tunities in fields such as education, health care, crime prevention and con trol, environmental quality control (to include pest management activities), assistance in the weatherization o f homes, conservation and other activities. Participant Wages are $3.10 per hour to start. 2. Youth Community Conservation and Improvement Projects (YCCIP) Projects will insure that participants do constructive work in terms of in dividual and community benefits. Pro jects will include, but not be limited to, the rehabilitation, construction, or im provement o f Public Facilities, weatheri zation and house repair to low income housing and conservation activities. Eligibility for Participation (YCCIP) a. In order to participate, an in dividual must at the time o f enrollment be: 1 An Indian or Native American . Youth 16 through 19 years o f age; 2. Unemployed. Participant Wages are $3.10 per hour to start. Contact: Department of Employment Development, Indian Island, Me. 04468 207-827-7776 TRAINEE — Tor Smith, a graduate of Ricker College, is a management trainee with Association of Aroostook Indians in Houlton. For the past six months he has been trying to develop effective management and reporting systems for AAI. His CETAfunded jo b may run another year. Correction A story that appeared on the front page of the December 1979 issue o f Wabanaki Alliance incorrectly stated that a tumor removed from a cancer patient weighed nine pounds. That is impossible; the tumor weighed considerably less, according to Dr. Ernest Ballesteros o f Eastern Maine Medi cal Center. Also, the story reported that Walter Read Army Medical Center filmed the operation. Actually, a doctor from the center observed the operation. MEDICAL POSITIONS AVAILABLE Medical Social Worker Associate To work in a rural health center providing general counseling services and assuring that each person secures his/her entitlements. Job experience in human services required, preferably in medical setting. A.C.S.W. supervision available. Minimum requirement: Associate De gree in Social Work. Dental Hygienist To provide services at two sites (Eastport and Pleasant Point), and education for the Pleasant Point service area population. Experience preferred. Salaries commensurate with education and experience. Application deadline for both positions is March 14, 1980. For further information or application, contact: PLEASANT POINT HEALTH CENTER BOX 351 PERRY, ME. 04667 Attn.: Shirley Bailey _______________853-4654_______________ NOTICE "Special Election" CENTRAL MAINE INDIAN ASSOCIATION MARCH 13,1980 at 7 p.m. RESOURCE CENTER CONFERENCE ROOM 95 Main St., Orono, Me. Openings for — 1 Board Member President Appointments to — Wabanaki Board DIS Board (Div. o f Indian Services/ Wabanaki Alliance) FRC/ITF (Federal Regional Council/Indian Task Force) Personnel Comm. Refreshments will be served. The meeting is open and your participation is needed. �Wabanaki Alliance February 1980 Page 7 A memory of other times and places by Brenda Polchies Area Reporter I want to relate a memory I have o f my grandfather, Leo Tomab and relate a speck o f time while I was living on the reservation. My grandfather is very old now. He has seen eighty summers and eighty winters in this month o f February 1980. in the living room or the hallway, beside a warm, woodburning stove, splitting or shaving his ash weavers for fancy baskets or scraping smooth his axe handles with a crooked knife. His eldest sons were occupied, with employment in the woods and after they had pounded and stripped a stick of ask, this was a regular routine he performed every day. He was silent while working but he was happy and content in this kind of atmosphere. On the reserve, it seemed to me things were very uncomplicated, back then. There Penobscot tribal clinic at Indian Island. was a quiet which surrounded the reserve for there were no cars or trucks that anyone owned. Transportation was usually by hitching rides on the main highway, taxi services were provided by a lady cabdriver whose name was Vicky, and bus transpor (Continued from page 1 ) tation was used frequently to get into town building designed by Watie Akins, Pen Penobscot Health and Social Services which was twelve miles away . . . Fred ericton. obscot. When a fire is crackling in the fire Director Eunice Baumann — a tribal Joe Solomon’ house was the place place, and the elderly o f the tribe are enjoy member — agreed. “Team leadership came s everyone liked to gather for playing cards* ing a hot lunch, some o f that warm glow about so. I was going to say naturally, but t t usually poker or forty-five raffle was played; reflects on Paul Buckwalter. He doesn’ team leadership doesn’ just happen. It or to gather in the kitchen in the early and brag about it: "It's off the ground," he said. takes a dedication, and competent train The Penobscots have but one major area ing," she said. late evenings and sit around and listen to Baumann spoke o f an effective foursome still needing work, Buckwalter said, and someone tell stories about strange hap s penings on the reserve. For the raffles, that’ the need for a new school. With that consisting o f herself, Buckwalter, Denise numerous cakes, pies, cookies, and quilts exception, he said he believes the tribe “got Mitchell and Barbara Merrill. Together they got the health center off and running. “ It’ s would be played off. This was not so much into total development.” s Buckwalter compared Indian Island to so hard to express one’ gratitude and for the money as it was just an excuse to “get t the adjacent city. “The tribe is finishing its appreciation. I don’ think the program something doing" for Saturday nights. community development with only a few would have gotten off so well without him,” A staying spirit Baumann said of Buckwalter. Today, 1 miss seeing my grandfather what I call white Legionnares coming in to "It was a team, not hierarchical. A real working down at the workshop. Most days help, while Old Town is just beginning com munity development and the population democratic process. He (Buckwalter) was o f the week, very early, 1 could look out of very instrumental in setting the tone for a my kitchen window and see my grandfather scale, the resources Old Town has, are at democratic approach, instead o f authori outside of his shop cutting down a splint of least tenfold what Indian Island has. Many towns get into piecemeal development.” Not tarian," Baumann said. ash or 1 could hear the ash pounder being Buckwalter describes himself as a "sys worked at, to prepare his ash to make potato so the Penobscots, Buckwalter said. “Mind you, it’ been stressful and costly,” tems and organization man," but one who s baskets, clothes baskets, pack baskets, or to s he said. "The tribe during the same period does not forget John Dean's idea that “it’ work on whatever orders he might have took on a major land claim. They took on important to smell the flowers along the accumulated during the past month. way.” My grandfather is the one person who the world.” Penobscot Gov. Wilfred Pehrson paid Buckwalter said he has enjoyed having a seemed to maintain a strong and staying front row seat on the land claims. “Now that tribute to Buckwalter, saying his departure spirit and who exerted an unconscious was "Washington County’s gain and the took a lot p f chutzpa, and they're going to influence on me while growing up. To some win,” he said, leaving no doubt that he fully Penobscot Nation's loss. He’s done a lot for people, this might seem a bit unusual. The the tribe, he’s worked hard. I hope we can son or the daughter usually relates to his supports the tribe in their endeavors. Internal “politicking" and personality turn around and get a person of the same father or her mother best. But for me, my conflicts are often blamed for problems, caliber.” grandfather never changed — he had a Eunice Baumann said she cried at the setbacks and failures of tribal projects. fierce independence — he stayed the same, Buckwalter said, “If you can keep the farewell party. until the recent death o f his youngest son. One of three ordained ministers at the political process at 30 per cent of your time, Now. he is lying down on his bed, mourning you’ in good shape. The Penobscots are in Penobscot health center, Buckwalter (Epis re quietly, and waiting to die. I love and copalian) worked in the company o f the a 30-40 per cent range.” respect my grandfather because he repre Buckwalter, who has attended many Reverends Maynard Kreider and Bruce sents my ancestral past; he was someone I council sessions, said discussions can get Spang. A native of Holyoke, Mass., Bucksaw as being steady and constant, and only pretty tense, but "when things get too bad, waiter is a 1956 graduate o f Yale, where he in recent years I have come to appreciate everyone starts laughing — it’ a sort of earned a BA and MA, and attended one s him for what he really is. year at Yale Divinity School. He graduated grace.” 1love you, grandfather, Leo Tomah. If there’ anything Buckwalter wants to from Episcopal Divinity School in Cam s be remembered for, it’ team effort. He was bridge, Mass., and took graduate courses in s at first Director, but ended up Deputy community planning at University o f Cin Director. This never bothered him; "we cinnati. He and his wife, Sally, have seven either go together, or we don’ go at all,” he t children, and they live in Orland. said. Buckwalter's approach AREA REPORTER — Brenda Polchies, a Maliseet residing in Hoolton, is a regular contributor to Wabanaki Alliance. Readers should contact her at 532-7317 [office], or home, 532-9296. She is employed by Asso ciation of Aroostook Indians and is a board member of this newspaper. The earliest visions I have o f my grand father are dim, as in a dream, for I was but three or four years old. We all lived on the Kingsclear Reserve in New Brunswick; my grandfather, my mother, my four uncles, and our dog Shep. This time span was in the late forties and early fifties. During this time, we lived in a six room house with no electricity, no running water, no indoor plumbing. Kerosene lamps were used; on the part o f the reserve we lived, one central pump supplied water for everyone and water pails were a common sight. Also, a cold, deep spring was visited frequently when the water pump was out o f kilter. As 1 grew older, 1 became more involved in helping out with the family chores. Countless times. I trudged up that dirt road carrying two pails, one in each hand, or running down the path to fetch water at the spring which was located down a steep ravine near a stream that flowed into the St. John River. I still remember my mother using a heavy iron, heated on the kitchen woodstove, to do the weekly ironing after washing clothes in the washtub on a scrubbing board. Rainwater was depended on extensively for washing clothes. Silent but content While my mother worked at the Heatherington’ in Silverwood, near Fredericton, my s grandfather kept an eye on me and at the same time worked on his craft o f making baskets, snowshoes, and axe handles. In the six room house we lived in, in my mind’ eye, s I can still see my grandfather sitting either INDIAN STUDENTS WANTED FOR SOCIAL W ORK PROJECT The Native American Social Work Project, San Francisco State University, is accepting applications from American Indian students who are interested in Social Work. The project started in 1977 and has nine undergraduate and nine graduate students enrolled. Qualifications for admission are at least V Indian blood, 56 trans * ferable units, and a desire to become a Social Worker. Students receive stipends of $150 a month undergraduate, and $325 graduate students. Books and in-state tuition is also paid. If you are interested and want more information, write to Margaret DeOcampo Eisenbise, Native American Social Work Project, San Francisco State University, 160G Holloway Ave., San Francisco, California 94132, or call (415) 334-6076 or (415) 469-1005. O p en in g 3 M arch in O ron o SKITIKUK m S S S S S 0 OUTFITTERS Specialists in Wilderness Travel SALES - RENTAIS • GUIDE SERVICE Featuring IGAS Island Packs and Travelling G ea r O p en H ou se S a tu r d a y 1 M a r ch 10-4 COME BY AND MEET US 38 Main St. O ron o 866-4878 �Page 8 Wabanaki Alliance Febroary 1980 Noel Bear was Grand Old Man of Aroostook tion drove many o f the fur-bearing animals on towards the end. In another while, you From The Boston Herald 1904 Famed from the waters o f the Kennebec to the north and the laws of the state begin to push, and I have to nudge further along the entire course of the Aroostook and protecting its forest charges became so along. When I get dose to the edge, then you to the headwaters of the St. John is Noel stringent as to practically prohibit obtaining give a big shove and I— the Indian— where Bear, an Indian, and old-timer hunter of them as a means of livelihood; the store am I? Off the log. I have no seat except on moose and other wild animals. At the lowest keepers at the little trading posts would give the ground. I have to sit there or else get up Figure he is 104 years old, while more ex him credit for any amount he desired. It was and walk away off. You have the whole log, s travagant estimates put the mark up to 116. Noel’ habit to saunter into one o f the and it is more than you know what to do The old man is still sturdy and hearty and trading shanties at the times when his with, but I— the Indian— I have nothing. I he is favorably regarded wherever he seeks means of-getting a living were at the lowest must find another log, and then pretty soon, to sell his baskets, making which is his chief ebb. “I want some flour, some pork, some just when I get to like it, you come along and push me o ff that too. source of gaining a living. His mental con bacon, some molasses,” he would say. When the goods were ready, the trader1 “That’s the way the white men do to the dition is nothing short o f marvelous, in view would inquire, as if he expected all the time Indian. They don’ care, it is only the Indian t o f his great age, and he is still capable of accomplishing what to the average white to be paid at once in cash, “Well how do I who cares, and he can do nothing but what know when I will get my money, if ever, the white man tells him he can do. I think man are remarkable physical feats. and think for days about it. The Indians Among the sportsmen he is a particular Noel?” “In two months I bring in some good furs have no power. My sons have no strength. I favorite, and many a deer and moose have and my brothers are weak. In the days when been trailed and shot through the advice and pay all up,” he would reply. At the time specified, the old man would we could fight, the white men were like the and information given by the expert old appear at the store with his bundle o f furs leaves o f the trees. If they were taken off, Indian. During the summer and fall he has ;been making his house in a grove o f woods and announce that he was in readiness to others would grow again — sometimes two about eight miles from Fort Fairfield, where liquidate his obligation. There was no grew where there was only one before. The there was ample opportunity for him to find occasion for the trader to examine his Indian is like the branches on the trees. books. Noel knew to a cent what he had had, Break one off and it never comes again. the ash saplings needed in his work. “The Indian young men do not want When a representative of the Boston and he exacted an absolutely correct Herald visited his camp recently, the old man was calmly trimming a bundle of basket weaves as he sat on a stump before his campfire, occasionally lifting his eyes from his work to see that a crawling papoose did not get too close to the glowing embers. Peace with the world and contentment with his lot seemed portrayed in his placid features. Barring the modern cut o f his well-worn trousers and shirt, the scene resembled one of 200 years ago, when, probably, the old man’ ancestors gathered about campfires s in that same vicinity and occupied them selves as he did. Even the twentieth century style o f the garments could not entirely disassociate the idea that the picture presented was in aboriginal times, and that the methods and manners were those o f the days before the white man had journeyed to the western hemisphere. In front p f his rough workshop was a tent made by throwing a piece o f canvas over a cross-piece. His hearing was slightly defec tive for an Indian. He could not detect the musical invitation o f a ground squirrel to its mate in the woods. His command o f the English language is fairly good, and his voice is clear and resonant. The knotted muscles in his huge arms and hands are yet firm and hard and it is no task for him to walk all day through the different towns with a load o f baskets, moccasins or axe handles on his back. ' Physically and mentally he is the equal o f any white man of 60 years. He is somewhat mixed when he comes to t figure his age, in one respect, however. It is accounting, but he never went beyond the civilization — it is not for them to live like in regard to the birth of his son. The Herald time when he said he would call around and the white men. They want to go through the woods and hunt and fish — live as their representative asked him how old the son is. settle. “Oh, about 70,” replied Noel. To the question if there was not some fathers lived. The white man says no. The “And, how old were you when he was event by which he could fix his exact age, Indian obeys. Then our young men will not Noel replied to the Herald representative: “ I live like the white men and they drink the bom ?” "Oh. I guess about 50,” he replied. As a have no education like you. I have no way to whiskey and gin. They forget the woods and matter o f fact, the son, Peter, a quite well- tell the white man. I think I am about 104 the streams; no more do they want the to-do farmer o f Maple Grove, near Fort years old, but it may be 106. Some people moose and the salmon: they just lie and Fairfield, is nearly 80, and he was bom when say that I am older than that, but I do not sleep. Pretty soon they are no good. The white man has pushed the Indian off the log think so. I am very old; over a hundred. Noel was about 25. “When I first came around here in this again. If it was not for the corroborative^ “I was happy with my father when we testimony o f so many o f the older inhabi country, along the Aroostook and St. John tants o f the country, it would perhaps be rivers, there were no white men and houses. hunted and fished. The laws you white men difficult to find people ready to accept his There was only one house at Tobique Point, make keeps us huddled over the fire and statements in regard to his age, but the some miles off. My father came here and working with our hands. We must do it to positive declarations made, leave no room hunted moose and fished in the rivers. Why, get enough to eat. The law will not let us for doubt that he passed the century mark right here in this little grove where I have my seek the deer and fish that we want, except several years ago. Noel figures from four to camp I have, killed the moose, but now I for two or three months in a year. So I work six years. It may have been more; it does not have to go a long way into the woods to get at the camp fire and then sell my baskets and axe handles. That is not what I call the seem possible that it could have been any one. “Ah, the white man, he has made the laws happiness. I want to get out in the woods less. The old Indian is a well-known figure which keep the Indian from getting the and hunt — be free. This is no happiness; throughout the northern and northeastern moose and deer. The white men have not this is only work to get food. The white men portions o f the state. Wherever he goes he is been good to the Indians. Let me tell you do not know what the Indian knows. We well liked. He was never known to do an how they are: You and I, we sit down on a want no houses in place o f our tepees. What unfair thing or an act of unkindness. His log. Little while you shove along. I move good are the cities against the great forests? word has been scrupulously kept throughout towards the end to give you some room. What use is all the noise and bustle against his life, and forty or fifty years ago, when he Pretty soon you shove along again. Then I the calm and peace o f the woods? There is made a good living in the woods by hunting move along some more. By and by, you the happiness for us. We are still willing the and trapping, before the march of civiliza shove a little closer to me, and I keep going white men shall have what they want; we shall never bother them in their cities, but why can’ they let us have the woods: No: t they drive us further and further away, and we go and want nothing but to be left free, and then come the white men again and say we shall not do this and we shall not do that, and laws are made that are unfair to the Indian. The Great Father gave the Indians the woods and the streams, and the white men have taken them away. It is not right to the Indian. The Great Father knows, it is not right. “When I was a boy, we had our chance to fish and hunt the moose and deer. We went far north in the summer and far south in the winter. Where the animals were, we followed after, and at the lodges, the women kep the corn growing for us, so it was ripe when we can back from the hunting. The Indian did not get drunk then. He had his family and his wigwam, and the woods and the streams were his. Now it is all gone. “I see the white men today can waik only a few miles and they are tired out. When I was younger, I would go 100 miles in a sun and run or trot all the time. It did not tire me. I am not so strong now. I can walk all day without feeling it too much, but not like I could in the time when I had the wild meat to eat. That is what makes an Indian strong and able to go through the woods— the moose and the deer and the salmon right from the rivers. This soft meat the white man eats today— that is not what makes men hard and healthy. They are women; that is all. The fresh meat from the woods for an Indian; but the white men say no: we cannot have it. We must eat what they eat: live as they live. The Indian never can be strong and well again as long as he does the way the white man does. “ When my father and I hunted and fished, we used to go all through the eastern part of Maine, and up into Canada and across to New Brunswick. We did not care where we went so long as the hunting and fishing were good. Then, when the winter came, we got enough deer and moose to last us through the deepest snows and we would go back to the southern part and wait for spring. Those were the days that made us strong and well and healthy. They made me what I am today — over 100 years old and able to take care of myself. I work every day. I make my baskets and my axe-handles, and sometimes my moccasins, and go off and sell them. I can then catch salmon in the spring, and in the fall I go to the woods after moose. I got one last fall and I will get another one this year, but it is not what it used to be. We have to hunt long and far to find when the law says we can kill it. “ It’ a strange thing about moose. In the s spring and summer I often see them a few miles from the towns as I go from one place to another, but as soon as the hunting time comes and the law is off, you have to go way back into the woods before you can see one. I think the moose knows the smell o f the powder, and when he notices it in the woods in the fall, he goes ffack as far as he knows and tries to keep out of the way. Perhaps that is not it, but I know I shall have to go 100 miles or more to find one. That would not trouble me in the days when I went into the woods with my father. I could have found the moose and killed it and come back and told about it in two days, but now it is different. I think if I went twenty-five miles through the woods today I would get tired. “ Could any o f the old white men who have grown up on soft meat be as I am? Could they live in the woods and earn their own living and make the clothes, as I do now — I am over 100 years old? No! They are feeble when they are sixty or seventy; they become children when they should be learning to command. When their power should be greatest, and their children should bow to their wills, they are weak and can do nothing but wait to die. Yes, they have the education and their brain is great. They can fight the (Continued on page 10) • ' �Wabanaki Alliance February 1980 A TIMELESS quiet is caught in the spread of a bare elm, rolling Aroostook fields in background. [Sanipass Photo] Upcountry Page 9 POLAR BEAR? This unusual natural formation of ice appears ready to pounce on its prey. [Sanipass Photo] scenes WHITTLING HORSE, found in the woods, is half buried, moss-covered and rotten, but still evokes the Indian who must have used it many years ago in his “outdoor shop.” [Sanipass Photo] PICNIC basket was made by Mary Sanipass with a Boston woman who wanted to learn the technique. Her husband Donald took the photo. SPELLBOUND eyes of Tanya Morey, six months, of Caribou, watch her grandfather, photographer Donald Sanipass. �Page 10 Wabanaki Alliance February 1980 Old Man of Aroostook " I do not think so,” he replied. “You have the education; you should know what tribe my mother came from over at Kennebec headwaters. There are Indian lands over there now, I think, and she came from the people who have them.” “Perhaps you are a Micmac, Noel,” was suggested by the customs officer. “No,” answered the old man, indignantly, “ I am no Micmac. No blood of that tribe runs in me. I do not know my tribe, but I do know that it is not Micmac. There may be some of the people who belong with mine around here but I do not know them.” There is an Indian reservation qcross the line in New Brunswick about twelve miles from Fort Fairfield. It is located on what is known as “the point” and Noel was asked if the people there were o f his same tribe. “No,” said he. “I know the people at the point, and I go over there and stay when I want to. I was over there only a little while ago, but they are not my people. They have farms and they treat me well, but it is not my tribe. I cannot tell what it is. My father did not know many people here; he did not have many close friends among the Indians. My In making basket weaves the old Indian cousin was Lolo Bear, who used to be about takes infinite pains with his work. His camp here, and I also had an uncle in Maine. My is located where tall young ash grows freely father’s name was Peter Bear. I do not think in a slight depression, and he cuts trees o f any others and I believe I never saw any of about six inches thick hauling them to the my mother’ people. So I cannot tell the s place where his tepee is pitched. Modem tribe. methods shave the ash in strips, but Noel “ My mother lived to be 116 years old, and adopts the old-fashioned Indian method. my father did not die until he was 118. I After the bark is peeled the trunk is allowed think if I had plenty of wild meat I would to soak in water until the wood is well live as long as they did, but I do not know softened. Then it is pounded its whole now. I would be stronger than I am, and if I length for hour after hour, until the fibres of could go out and fish and trap and hunt it the wood become separated and strips of would make me a happy old man. Sure, I weave about one-sixteenth o f an inch thick could not do much harm in all the wild can be pulled from the entire length o f the woods in Maine, but the white men say the log. The weave thus stripped is very pliable law will not let me, and so I must stay here and tough, and can be worked into almost and make blankets and cut out axe handles. any desired shape withoug splitting or Even that cannot last much longer. breaking. Year by year, however, so “If I cannot go into the woods, I should extensive is the forest cut, the little groves like, before I come to the last river, to go where the ash flourishes are becoming once more to Boston. I have been down scarcer, and the Indian constantly has to go there, and I would like to go again. Perhaps further back from the towns to find material some day I can do that. It would help to for his work, so that it is now seldom that a make me happy. I would like to show the good place for operations can be fixed white men what wild meat and a happy life nearer than fifteen or twenty miles to any in the woods will do to make a man live long community where there would be good and keep strong, and tell them they ought to markets for the wares o f the forest workers. let the few Indians that are left go into the “ See, said Noel Bear, indignantly, “the woods and live as their fathers lived. white man takes our forest home to make Perhaps if I talked with them they might do into houses in the city. He leaves us nothing something that would help my sons and the to work with, even after he tells us the law sons o f other Indians. They could not help will not let us get the fish and moose. But believe me, because I would not lie to does he build any better houses for himself them." than the giant trees in the woods made for At the time o f the Aroostook war, which us? Even the little ash I want for my baskets arose out of the boundary dispute between and axe handles I have to go further and Maine and New Brunswick, he was engaged further away to get. It is all fast being cut by the soldiers garrisoned in Fort Fairfield down, and then there is nothing left for us to to bring moose meat for them out o f the earn a living. But the white men do not care. woods, and he made many acquaintances They tell us to go to work on the farms and then from all over the states, as well as raise crops. As if that was life; the Indian among the regular army officers. Many knows better how to live than that.” members o f the Militia became fond o f the It is apparent that Noel’ father was one sturdy representative of a dying race. He s of the wandering Indians of the Maine likes today to revert to the remarkable fond woods, who cared little for tribal conditions ness some of the soldiers, especially Western and who preferred choosing his own way in and Southern officers, felt for moose meat the woods to following after anybody o f his when properly prepared for them. brethren or remaining with the lodges where the red men settled down to community life. (Reprinted from Ganong Collection, New When the Herald representative asked Noel Brunswick Museum Archives, Saint John, what tribe he belonged to, he declared he New Brunswick, reportedly taken from 1904 did not know. Boston Herald) "My mother,” said he, "came from the Kennebec river country, up near the head waters of the river. She left her people and went with my father and came over to this part of the state and New Brunswick, where he was born and where his people lived. We had no regular place where we stopped, A SPECIAL THANK YOU except near Old Town. That was a sort of To the many generous people of cold weather headquarters for us, and my Indian Island who donated food during mother used to have some corn ready for us my illness. Their caring is deeply there. But my father and I were there only appreciated. when we had to be. We were usually out in Patrick Shay the woods, hunting and fishing. (Continued from page 8 ) Indian, and drive him from the land, but they do not know how to live. The Indian old men do not sit down and wait for death until they get to be very old — 85, 90 or 100. “The Indian knows how to live, and his life is happy and long. What use is the big brain and education if you know not how to make yourself happy in life and contented in old age. The white man is like the great, big beautiful rose. It blossoms for a few days and then dies away, leaving nothing but a withered flower at the end of the branch. The Indian is like the field flower that nods its head gently all through the summer, not so beautiful as the rose, but living in the air and sunshine long after the pretty rose has dropped and been wasted in the ground. So the Indian lived in his own woods. He did not want to go all through the world taking what belonged to other men and dying before his right time had come; he only wished to stay quietly where he was and live where his fathers lived and as they did. Ours is the happy live, and men only live for happiness. Card of thanks “Are you a Passamaquoddy Indian?” he was asked. Legislative report Tribe left in lurch by state INDIAN ISLAND — The Penobscot tribe might have a lot o f uncollected garbage, and untreated sewage here, if the state or federal government fails to appropriate funds for a gap between July 1 and Oct. 1,1980. , The three month gap is created by a transition from state to federal Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) support o f the Pen obscot and Passamaquoddy tribes. Timothy Love, a Penobscot tribal official and Indian representative to the State Legislature, says, "there is a serious problem here, in that if we fail to fund (those three months), then we’ be without things like garbage collec ll tion, sewage treatment plant — the actual operation and maintenance costs. Love said about $200,000 is involved. At issue is Gov. Joseph Brennan’ apparent s intention to permanently shut down the state Department of Indian Affairs, created in 1965 by Gov. John Reed. Brennan is hinging his decisions about DIA on resolv ing Penobscot-Passamaquoddy land claims. Love said. “Without a settlement, he might refuse to fund DIA,” he said. “We’ ve asked the feds to somehow through a special appropriation o f Congress fund the months in between. If they don’ t, it’ up to the state to fund us,” Love said, s adding, “the Legislature is leaving all the weight on Brennan’ shoulders.” s A bill to rectify the funding problem was introduced prior to a December deadline by Rep. Michael Pearson, D-Old Town, but it was rejected by legislative council. Not endangered by a DIA shutdown is $50,000 in Indian college scholarships, available to Penobscots and Passamaquoddies for two-year programs, and to Micmacs and Maliseets for two and four-year pro grams. (Penobscots and Passamaquoddies have federal Bureau of Indian Affairs funds for four-year programs.) Love said he has not yet spoken on the floor o f the 109th Legislatures: "The only time I will speak is when one o f our bills is challenged.” Eight bills involving Indians were passed last year; one was withdrawn. Asked about the potential effect o f a land claims settlement on Indian participation in the Legislature (as non-voting representa tives), Love said that the tribes will attempt Rep. Timothy Love to keep their seats. The other seat, for the Passamaquoddies, is held by Rep. Reuben (Clayton) Geaves of Pleasant Point. At the time o f this interview, Cleaves had not occupied his seat for any o f the days the Legislature was in session. Love said. CMIA sets speciol meeting ORONO — Several elective positions will be filled at a meeting of Central Maine Indian Association (CMIA), slated Mar. 1 , 3 at 7 p.m., at Indian Resource Center, 95 Main St. Members o f the off-reservation group will be electing a president, to replace Donna Loring, who has been named executive director of CMIA. Also to be filled is a board member position. Representatives to be appointed include one each for Wab anaki Alliance/Division o f Indian Services; Federal Regional Council/Indian Task Force; Wabanaki Corporation board; and personnel committee. “We need your participation,” urged CMIA board member and secretary Bridget Woodward, adding that because of the elections, this is an important meeting to attend. VETERANS ADMINISTRATION Owned Homes For Sale t= J Throughout The State Equal Housing OPPORTUNITY Minimum Down Payment Financing Available Through V.A. 30 Year Loan — No Closing Costs 12% Interest. Anyone Can Buy You Don'f Have To Be A Veteran See Your Local Real Estate Broker Or Contact VETERANS ADMINISTRATION LOAN GUARANTY DIVISION TOGUS, MAINE 04330 Tel. 207*623-8411 Ext. 433 osoeosoccocciccosecccc �W abanaki Alliance February 1980 Karate offered at AAI building HOULTON — Karate classes are now being conducted out of the Association of Aroostook Indians building on Bowdoin Street, with a good attendance Wednesday night. Feb. 7. o f at least 30 people turning out for registration and an initial class. There is a weekly fee o f $3 being charged to help pay for karate instructors, who are travelling all the way from Van Buren. The YMCA o f Houlton is sponsoring these classes in self-defense and Tae Kwon Do. Karate instructor Ralph Dumond holds a first degree black belt, full contact Tae Kwan Do, and is a member of the North Atlantic TKD Association. His assistant is Nancy Dumond who holds a purple belt. The class activities will offer physical conditioning, self defense, martial arts form, full contact sparring with protective equip ment optional. Karate class activities will run for as long as there are enough participants. Ages being accepted in the class are from 8 years on up. Also release forms must be signed by participants to relieve responsibility from the Association of Aroostook Indians and the YMCA for any possible injuries sustained during karate class time. Classes begin every Wednesday evening, beginning at 7 and will run until 9:30 p.m. Women in photo named A faithful reader o f this newspaper, Winifred G. January, has identified the women in the back page Flashback Photo in the January issue of Wabanaki Alliance. Winifred (Apid Nelson) January, a Penob scot tribal member living in California, is on the far left. Others, left to right, are Molly Tomer. Lucy Nicolar. Dorothy Ranco. Mary Alice (Molly Dellis) Nelson and Evelyn Glossian. “ Dorothy's name was Dulity, and Eve lyn’ name is Madasin (Indian names),” s points out Mrs. January. “ P.S., we were very young then . . . taken quite a few years back.” she adds. Sell Fast Wabanaki Alliance, Maine's only Indian newspaper, now offers advertising at reasonable rates. Take advantage of an opportunity to reach about 3,500 readers — most of them Indian persons — through a display advertisement o f your choice. Call or write us for rates and other information. WABANAKI ALLIANCE 95 Main S t Orono, Maine 04473 Tel. [207] 866-4903 EMPLOYMENT COUNSELOR CARIBOU AREA Immediate Opening Permanent position for employment counselor for training and employment program serving migrant and seasonal farm workers. Must provide employment related counseling, develop training and employment goalst and identify barriers to employment. Must develop work ex perience sites, and work with area school systems. Evaluate participants progress and assist Job Developer in placing participant in permanent employment. Must have ability to supervise small professional staff. Training and or ex perience in employment counseling de sirable. Transportation is required, mile age is reimbursed. Eligible applicants in Aroostook area. Send resume to: Jeffrey Dow. Mirgrant and Seasonal Farm Workers Program, P.O. Box 223, Houl ton, Maine 04730. All others send resume to: Maine Indian Manpower Services, 93 Main St., Orono, Maine 04473, c/o Allen Sockabasin. Page 1 1 Committee strives to improve teaching about Indians A smile says a lot Alcoholism counselor Louis Paul jokes with client, but takes his job at Association for Aroostook Indians very seriously. Paul is a Maliseet from Woodstock, N.B. Ashland woman serves as mother to homeless ASHLAND — Tilly West is a well known name in Aroostook Indian country. She likes to sign herself "T.W.,” and the modesty extends to refusing to have her picture taken. But T.W. is not shy about taking in Indian people who need help, and her rural farmhouse on Castle Hill has been a haven for young persons w'ho have run away, been kicked out. or are in some other difficulty. West, a Micmac. likes her independence. "I'm a volunteer worker and I have been for 40 years. I open my door to everyone, if it's a human being I open my door,” she said. Her non-Indian husband goes along with her generosity. "I can’ be hired, and no-one can t fire me." she said. West recalled finding a boy wandering in the woods, eight years old. “ He knew his name but he wouldn't tell us. He broke into camps, and would put the window back. He took very little o f everything." Another time she helped a 14-year-old girl jailed on a "morals” charge. One homeless boy and girl fled Massachusetts, ended up at Tilly West's, are now married and living in Canada. Not all who pass through the unofficial Ashland foster care home are so fortunate. West once took a three-week-old baby from a drunken family scene (no-one even noticed her go, she said), but despite hospital attention, the baby died. Alcoholism, drug abuse and child abuse all contribute to problems West encounters among Indians. She should know. A native o f Nova Scotia, she was one o f eight children. Seven o f them became alcoholics. Tilly ran away to Florida. West usually takes in two persons at a time, up to about four months. She tries to set ground rules, and sometimes they stick. She said she has seen alcoholic girls “who don't touch it now." She said children would work in the Wests' garden. “ I teach them crafts . . . I've tended to orient myself to children. West was at one time the only Indian person in her area. She has one daughter, Donna, who is married with a son and lives elsewhere. West said she keeps journals and likes to write about her young visitors. “ I wrote about them because it was so heart breaking." West does not drink, smoke or use foul language, and she said she "is not afraid" of persons who do. Indian children are different from white children. West said. “The Indian children are not that helpless. But all the white children had to have a sitter, or a telephone number to call." West said Indian children are under pressure to act like non-Indians. But “no matter how hard we try, we can never be white. “ Indians aren’ meant to be progressive. t They can act like white men, they can talk like white men, but they’ never succeed.” ll She summed up her own philosophy, in reference to Alcoholics Anonymous, saying. “Credit is due my Indians. If he or she has come forward, he or she is asking for help, and we must answer that need. And if we fail to answer that call — do you hear the last cry?" LOVE'S AMOCO INDIAN ISLAND Loving care for your car BRUNSWICK — An education commit tee of the American Friends Service Committee (AFSC), has been meeting since March 1979 in an effort to find wavs to improve teaching about Indians in Maine schools. Several of those attending meetings were also part of an Indian writing committee that wrote chapters about native Americans to be included in a Maine studies textbook called Dirigo. Other members of the 1 5 person committee include Maine school teachers, and members of Maine Indian Program Committee, part o f AFSC. In October, 1979, the education commit tee sponsored a workshop conducted by nine Indian resource people for teachers and librarians interested in improving what they present about native Americans in the schools. (See “Quaker Workshop Probes Indian Stereotypes." Jan. 1980, Wabanaki Alliance.) More than 100 people came to the all-day session, which included a panel discussion and workshops on topics such as Indian history, education from an Indian perspective, crafts, storytelling and folklore, contemporary Indian programs, and stereotyping in school materials. Displays in cluded recommended books and materials for classroom use. The education committee has been com piling an annotated bibliography of books and films concerning Maine Indians — including a list o f recommendations — developing sample curriculum units, and ways to respond to schools' requests for Indians willing to speak to classes. The committee is applying for grants to continue to sponsor workshops and -try new ideas, such as hiring Indians to develop materials for use in the schools, running week-long sessions for Indians and teachers to develop lessons, or starting a film library. The committee would like to encourage Indians and non-Indians who share con cerns to come to the next meeting on Friday, Feb. 29, at 6 p.m., at Newman Center, Orono; or the following meeting tentatively set April 11. at 2:30 p.m., in Orono. People who cannot attend meetings but are interested in helping in other ways, or those who have materials or ideas that work well in the classroom are encouraged to let the committee know. We are also interested in hearing from Indians who would like to be kept informed about long and short term paid positions as writers and curriculum developers, and as resource people for workshops. For more information, contact Mary Griffith. AFSC. 22 Riverview Drive. Brunswick: telephone 725-5854. Dirigo texibook set for publication GARDINER — Maine Dirigo, a junior high school textbook with chapters on Indians o f Maine, is scheduled for fall pub lication, along with teaching guides and a sourcebook. A flyer announces that the book — edited and mostly written by educator Dean B. Bennett of Gardiner — will be published by Downeast Magazine o f Camden, Education Division. Chapter three will deal with native people 10.000 years ago and early European settlement; chapter four will present “the Indian point o f view,” and will point out Wabanaki people's involvement in wars between 1675 and 1783. Chapter six, subtitled Native People in Maine, offers “a brief history o f the Passamaquoddy. Penobscot, Micmac and Mali seet Native Americans in Maine since the American Revolution.” Many photographs, old and contempor ary, were given to the textbook project by this newspaper. A committee o f Indian people spent many hours revising the portion o f the text dealing with Indians. �Page 1 2 Wabanaki Alliance February 1980 Floshbock ph oto Subscribers show generosity INDIAN ISLAND FROM INDIAN LANDING; OLD TOWN MAINE ORONO — This newspaper has em barked on its first year o f charging sub scription fees, and already many enthus iastic subscribers have gotten aboard. The very first to subscribe after last month's front page announcement was F. Brucie Greene o f Fredericton, N.B. (Canada), who writes a regular column of Maliseet Indian news for the Daily Gleaner in that city. Other early subscribers are Frances and Raymond Mitchell of Orono; Alice Liljegren o f Moline. Illinois (she took out four subscriptions for friends); Clement and Margaret Neptune o f Oak Ridge. N.J.; James Wherry o f Houlton; Janet Rhodes o f Camden: Charles Zumbrennen o f Limestone. Joseph Biscula of Indian Island (two subscriptions). Ken neth Poynter of Dryden; Jean Chavaree o f Indian Island; Jennie Boynton of INDIAN ISLAND in the era before the 1951 bridge from Old Town was built. Note the many tall trees, probably elms, the basket store by the water; tribal hall at left, background; St. Ann’ Church and convent, much as they appear today; and bateau being rowed to Old s Town float, where three canoes are beached. The day looks warm and calm, the girls in the shade are wearing short sleeve dresses. (Photo courtesy of Josie Neptune of Indian Island] Fire evicts 3 from home INDIAN TOWNSHIP — A fire last month forced three residents o f a recently constructed triplex here to move out. at least until repairs are made. The Jan. 1 tire in elderly housing ar Peter 3 Dana Point gutted a unit being used for emergency housing o f tribal members, occupied by John Tomah. Other occupants of the building who had to move in with neighbors temporarily were Justin Lola and Leonard Levesque. There were no injuries. The tire is under investigation for suspected arson, according to Richard Dana, a certified member of the Indian Township Volunteer Fire Department. That investigation is being supervised by Lt. Norman Nicholson of Indian Township Police Department. Responding to the fire was the tribal fire department — using a new firetruck for the second time — assisted by firefighters from nearby Princeton Fire Department. Dana said a good cooperative agreement exists between tribe and town. The fire-damaged building sits on the site o f a building that was destroyed by fire several years ago in an alleged arson case, taking about 15 minutes to burn flat, according to Dana. All houses in the area are located within 100 feet of a hydrant, but Dana said materials used in construction were "just like turpentine” in the earlier fire. Repair of the existing damaged property is the responsibility o f the tribal housing authority, directed by George Stevens. Dana reports the recently organized fire department does not yet have a chief, but has 12 volunteers. Anthropologist aids Indians HOULTON — The Association of Aroostook Indians (AAI) is reaping the benefit o f a resident scholar. He is James D. Wherry. 31. a Pennsyl vania native who since last April has been researching Indian genealogy, and com piling a history of Maliseet Indians in The County. He has also worked on Micmac ancestry in AAI country. The history, said Wherry, is about 80 per cent complete, and he looks forward to pub lication. Meanwhile, he is teaching a course at the former Ricker College in Houlton. now an extension of Unity College. The course. Native People of Northeastern North America, is “a course we wanted white people to take." Wherry said, explaining, "there is a lack o f understanding between Indian and white people” in Aroostook County. Fourteen non-Indian persons enrolled in Wherry's course, which ends Feb. 29. It began Jan. 7 . Wherry, a graduate of California State College. California. Pa., earned his master's degree from University o f New Brunswick. He has written the forward for the recently reprinted Life and Traditions o f The Red news notes Training program TUCSON. Ariz. — The University of Arizona department of speech and hearing sciences has received a three-vear. $345,000 grant to establish a training program in speech pathology and audiology for Indians. The program entails the study o f normal speech. language development and speech, language and hearing disorders. Graduates of the program will be professional speech pathologists and audiologists, attaining a master’ degree. s The training program has full-time tutorial support, reservation clinical prac tice experience and an opportunity for Indians to add special input into the inter pretation o f communication disorders as experienced by native Americans. For admission to the program it is preferred that students be bilingual (fluent in English and their tribal language), be a college junior or above, and be listed on tribal registry. Anyone intersted in more information or wishing to apply for this project should contact Gail Harris, coordinator at (602) 626-5075. or write in care o f the department o f speech and hearing sciences. University of Arizona. Tucson. Arizona 85721. Bank reports profits WASHINGTON — American Indian National Bank announced 1979 earnings of $421,541 — highest in the bank’ six-year s history. The bank's net worth as o f December 31. 1979. was $1,039,585, of which $560,000 consisted o f new capital raised by the bank through the sale of common stock in 1979 to the Yakima Indian Nation and the Colville Confederated Tribes. Deposits increased almost 14 per cent to $14.9 million. The bank, located in Washington. D.C., has a field office in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Alaskans low on fuel James Wherry Man. by Penobscot Indian. Joseph Nicolar. Wherry has been accepted at McMaster University, Hamilton. Ontario, where he intends to work toward a PhD. He will probably remain with AAI through summer. Vows renew ed OAK RIDGE, N.J. — Indian wedding bands were exchanged in a renewal this month of the marriage of Clement and Margaret Neptune o f Oak Ridge Road. Their vows were renewed Feb. 2, at St. Joseph’ Catholic Church. Clement Neptune s is a member of the Penobscot Nation. Brewer; Helen Ciganik. Houlton, . eter Bailey Sr., Pleasant Point; Holly Mar shall, Milford. Also, Bernard and Arolyn Newbert, Waldoboro: Leslie and Valentine Ranco. Wells; Charles Bernard. Madawaska: Sally Cartwright, Tenants Harbor; John Budd, North Berwick: M adeleine Giguere, Lewiston. Those people are a sampling of new and already established readers of Wabanaki Alliance. We remind readers that rates as o f February 1980 are $5 per year for an individual subscription in the U.S.; S6 in Canada and overseas; and 510 for institutions such as businesses, government and schools. Send your checks to this newspaper at 95 Main Street. Orono. Maine 04473. We remind readers that those persons who choose not to subscribe will no longer receive Wabanaki Alliance. Although Alaska exports one million barrels o f oil a day, 34 remote native villages in the state do not have heating fuel to last them through the bitterly cold winter, state officials have reported. Four o f the villages were in immediate danger of running out and families had begun moving in with one another to conserve. The past two winters have been mild and the villagers apparently kept their orders down because o f the $2-agallon cost. The state legislature has initiated action on a $1.5 million emergency relief bill for the villagers. The fule will have to be flown into the villages. The state will have an estimated $3 billion income from the oil production. Censorship said false issue for Indian papers Richard LaCourse. former editor of the Yakima Nation Review and news director of the American Indian Press Association, told a conference of Indian journalists that self censorship is more o f a problem in Indian country that actual censorship. He said that among some 300 Indian publications, he could find only five actual cases o f censor ship. "The claim of censorship is more o f a glamour problem.” LaCourse added that “self-censorship, or the lack of coverage, was one o f a million excuses for not doing the work.” About 35 people attended the conference held on the Grand Portage Indian Reservation in Northern Minnesota. Powwow planned ANN ARBOR, Mich. — The Native American Student Association at University o f Michigan here has scheduled a powwow o f dancing, crafts and food. April 12-13, at Huron High School. HARDWARE & GUN SHOP TOM VIC AIRE. Proprietor The only Indian-owned hardware business in the State of Maine "W e’ eager to do business with people re in the Indian community." says Tom. The store carries a full line o f tools, electrical and plumbing supplies, paint and housewares. Also, a selection o f fine new and used guns. See Our Garden Supplies and Tools For all your hardware and hunting needs, visit — MATTAWAMKEAG-HARDWARE & GUN SHOP and.sample some good Indian hospitality and sendee. ADVERTISING POSITION Wabanaki Alliance is seeking a polite, efficient person who would like to work part time on a commission basis, handling advertising for this newspaper. Flexible hours; work as much as you wish. Contact: Wabanaki Alliance 95 Main Street Orono, Maine 04473 Telephone 866-4903 � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource <em>Wabanaki Alliance</em> (February 1980) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Indian Resource Center Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Passamaquoddy Cultural Museum Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1980-02 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Donald Soctomah Julia Brush Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Steve Cartwright. Used with permission. Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Document Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context DV-442 https://www.dawnlandvoices.org/collections/files/original/70f556518ccedab6612e578b4e24cc87.pdf cd0ab36d1723849a4a06f462bc9bc696 PDF Text Text W abanaki A llia n ce Published with the support of the Penobscot Nation and Diocesan Human Relations Services, Inc. Non-profit Organization Postage Paid Permit No. 1 4 Orono, Maine February 1982 'Take an Indian to lunch' PR letter a fraud OLD TOWN — An official-looking letter on City of Old Town stationery was mailed to The Ellsworth American last month, stating that the new public relations theme is to “ prom ote greater harmony and understanding between the tribes and the public at large.” The letter, appearing to be signed by a “ director of public relations,”urged vol­ unteers to “ take an Indian to lunch next week." The photocopied signature of Dorothy R. Smith appeared on the letter, although Smith is an employee of the city housing authority. Smith emphatically denied any knowledge of the letter, and said she was greatly upset by it. She said it was indeed her signature, and may have been copied from a letter she sent out the same day — Jan. 4 — concerning the Penobscot River House elderly project. “ certainly did not appreciate any of it,” I Smith told Wabanaki Alliance. The fraudulent letter was mailed to John R. W iggins at the Ellsworth Ameri­ can, who w rote a critical story about it, and planned to publish it, along with his story, in the weekly American. The story was pulled before publication when Old Town/Orono Times publisher David C. Wollstadt informed James Russell W ig­ gins, publisher of the American, that Old Town had no public relations department. Wollstadt doubted the veracity of the letter. Smith expressed relief and gratitude that the bogus letter, typed on City of Old Town stationery with its Indian-in-a-canoe logo, was exposed as a fake prior to publication. She said she had no idea who w rote the letter, nor why it was written at all. The letter’ contents w ere as follows: s “ e are looking for volunteer coor­ W dinators to help us in our big January drive to prom ote greater harmony and understanding between the tribes and the public at large. Your name has been su ggested to us as a bellwether in your community. “ is felt that the public will follow the It lead of citizens such as yourself and that what will follow will benefit the restaurant business throughout all of Penobscot, Hancock and Washington counties in addition to bringing a new dimension to important interpersonal relationships. “ The 1982 concept is as simple as our theme suggests! TAKE AN INDIAN TO LUNCH N EXT W EEK “ hope we can count on your leadership I and cooperation.” Love defends ID plan for non-members INDIAN ISLAND — “ e’ tried to W ve get people to understand we’ not re picking on them,” tribal Gov. Timothy Love told this newspaper. Love defended a recently adopted policy that all non-members of the Penobscot Nation who reside on the reservation must register. Under the new law, spouses and other non-Penobscots (including non-Indians and members of other tribes) are required to file an application at the tribal clerk’ office. The s tribal council then reviews the application, and approves or disapproves of it. As Love put it, “ for spouses it’ a s formality." Apparently, an earlier law to remove “ undesirables” from Indian Island has either been ineffective, or was not enforced. That law said unattached nonmembers were simply not w elcom e on the Island. But in the summer of 1979, Adrian Loring, a Penobscot, was killed by William A. Holmes, a non-member and a drifter, Love said the earlier law was “ cum­ too bersome, and it required court action and all that stuff.” The new law, he hopes, will remove unattached non-members from the reservation. The Governor said it is the right of his people to keep out non­ members. Wabanaki Alliance has received a number of telephone calls from Penob- scots who oppose the registration require­ ment. They called the law humiliating, and said it’like registering your dog. s Love countered, “ We had public hear­ ings, we had meetings, they should’ ve been here.”Further, he said, people will have the opportunity to appeal decisions before the tribal council. Those persons refusing to comply with the new law face criminal trespass charges in state district court. “ Our laws are going to be respected the same as any other government’ Love s,” said. “ e’ got very little left from 200 W ve years ago, and w e’ going to protect our re members.” 16 -yea r-old sets fire to tribal hall PERTH-ANDOVER, N.B. — A 16-yearold Maliseet Indian, David Perley, pleaded guilty recently to setting fire to the tribal hall on his reservation here, Canadian Broadcasting reported. David Perley pleaded guilty to the arson charge in connection with a fire that destroyed all tribal records at Tobique Reserve, and a firetruck was declared a total loss in the blaze. The value of the truck was put at $40,000. Maliseet says state stalling on Houlton Band HOULTON — A Maliseet Indian official here says the State of Maine is “ dragging its feet”in assisting his group with land acquisition. Fred Tomah, health director for the Houlton Band of Maliseets, told Wabanaki Alliance that “ things are m oving rather slow,” in negotiations to acquire 5,000 acres, prom ised to the Maliseets in the $81 million Penobscot-Passamaquoddy land claims settlement of 1980. No land has yet been optioned, although som e has been inspected, Tomah said. Some $900,000 of the land claims award has been invested in certificates of deposit (“ D s” and with C ) interest may exceed $1 million. Tomah said land claims lawyer Thomas N. Tureen of Portland told him he was not to speak publicly on land claims nego­ tiations. Only Tureen and state Attorney General James Tierney should make (Continued on page 4) Drop-in center g o in g strong By Georgia Mitchell INDIAN ISLAND — Since the doors opened in June of 1981, there’ been a s variety of happenings at the Drop-In Center which is headed by Rose Francis and Francis Sapiel, both Alcoholics An­ onymous counselors, but the new center isn’strictly for AA’ it’ for everybody. t s, s Some come in just to chat with friends; others play cards, cribbage, read books of which a lot were donated, or have a snack, usually coffee and donuts, sometimes other goodies that someone brings in to share. The Drop-In Center gives people a chance to see their old friends. Recently, a community task force was formed. VHiat this C.T.F. will do in the future will benefit the young and the tribal mem bers of any age. Regular m eetings are held Thursday mornings, and all activities are discussed, as well as plans for the coming year. Volunteers have been donating their time for various projects like making Christmas wreaths and trimming them for sale. Rose sold quite a few, all profits going to fund the Drop-In Center. As soon as there are enough funds, arts and crafts will begin with teaching by som e talented young people who wish to donate their time for others to learn these lost crafts, at no cost. A family was helped out by the C.T.F. not too long ago, when a collection of food and money was given to it. The center is independent, through the contributions and donations of community members. The telephone number is 8276153 if you wish to call. �Page 2 Wabanaki Alliance February 1982 editorials Off limits We have heard on good authority that a patrolman was injured in a scuffle at Indian Island’New Y ear’Eve party. s s We understand that the scuffle ensued after a certain tribal official allowed minors into the Community Building, in violation o f a regu­ lation that when booze is being consumed, the minors stay out. Nobody would deny an adult the right to consume liquor on New Y ear’Eve, but certainly, at a public gathering at a public building, s minors can be restricted. We hope tribal leadership will re-think its position on this matter. The Penobscot Nation has not won the battle with booze and drug abuse, and the young in particular should be protected. L et’ not lead them down the wrong path by the hand. s H5WS iT c rA :' It-fE Mayflower 33Z is in "Stoning-toN, M w N E , FX>R KEFVMRS'. iAj^XOTHER. CH<“ vNCE Fb(2 JUjpiaNS' to POINT 01/77 "lA ie Iri-ERE H E R E T O M E E T -THE B O /ST T . * Penobscot energy director says thermal scan a scam Not taken in On the front page, is a report o f an unusual letter that is clearly a fake. Fortunately, cool heads in the newspaper business realized somebody had a sick sense o f humor, and nobody was taken in by the rather absurd message. Thank goodness journalists can “ smell a rat” once in awhile. “ Take an Indian to lunch next week.” It’ almost funny, except s that the letter has all the appearances o f an attempt to embarrass (or worse) Dorothy R. Smith, whose signature was photocopied on the letter. Smith is a legitimate O ld Town housing authority employee, and we believe her when she says she knew nothing o f the public relations letter. We don ’know how many copies o f the phony letters were mailed, t but an attempt to bam boozle the Ellsworth American was made. The attempt failed. That copy o f the letter was addressed to John R. Wiggins o f the newspaper, and W iggins had at first planned to publish a story condem ning the “ take an Indian to lunch” promotion. He would have pointed out that stating, “ Your name has been suggested to us as a bellwether in your community”is dubious, since the dictionary defines bellwether as someone who leads a flock; or a mutiny or conspiracy; and wether is defined as a castrated male sheep. This humbug practical joke is mean and stupid, but deserves one comment: We don ’ buy the idea that harmony between the t Penobscots and the people o f Old Town has ever been lacking. There were many good “ bridges”between the communities long before the first real bridge to Indian Island was opened in 1950. All people are capable o f being good citizens, whether Indian, Franco-American, or English origin, or what-have-you. O f course, some people are capable o f shameful things, such as the writer o f the fraudulent letter. Perhaps we should make a wether out o f him, never mind the bell. INDIAN ISLAND - A total o f $11,500 is budgeted by Penobscot Nation for a thermal scan of reservation homes — a process to determine the energy efficiency of a building. But Philip Guimond, director of Housing Improvement Program (HIP) and Home E nergy Assistance Program (HEAP), says the State of Maine would lend equip­ ment for the tribe to conduct a thermal scan at tremendous savings to the $28,000 budget. H e nicknamed the plan a “ thermal scam.” Guimond said Tribal Governors Inc. (TGI) of Orono obtained a contract with a Canadian firm to perform the thermal scan of the 159 households on Indian Island. However, Denise Mitchell, TGI director, said the Canadian firm itself said the project wasn’ “ t cost-effective,” and the scan contract has been canceled. Wabanaki Alliance Funds will be used to study alternative energy options. The contract specifies $2,200 for data presentation, $2,000 for processing and analyzing, and $600 for an aerial “ over­ flight.” Guimond said som e of the problem s faced by Indian Island householders include faulty construction o f recently built federally-funded housing, and the fact the first housing project units had no chimneys. Guimond would like to explore wood heat potential, as well as solar collectors for alternative en ergy on the reservation. H e said he recently assisted Fred Loring with installation of a w ood furnace at Loring’Costigan home. s Guimond, 35, is a tribal m em ber who formerly held the job o f administrative assistant at the Penobscot health depart­ ment. H e recently got married in a ceremony at Indian Island. Vol. 6, No. 2 February 1982 Published monthly by Wabanaki Alliance, through a sustaining grant from the Penobscot Nation, under contract with Diocesan Human Relations Services, Inc. Offices at 95 Main Street, Orono, Maine 04473. Telephone [207] 866-4903. Typeset by the Penobscot Tim es Company. Printed by the Ellsworth American. Reporters Diane Newell Wilson Brenda Polchies Board of Directors Jean Chavaree, Penobscot Nation, [chairman] Donna Loring, Penobscot Nation Jeannette LaPIante, Central Maine Indian Assoc. Phone827-6219 Phone 532-9442 Indian Island Old Town Old Town A non-profit corporation. Contributions are deductible for income tax purposes. Rates: $5 per year [12 issues]; $6 Canada and overseas; $10 for institutions [schools, government, business, etc.] �P age 3 Wabanaki Alliance February 1982 letters To non-members Interested Indian Island To the editor: I’ been living here on the Island for 9 ve years, but have been in the area for nearly 15 years. I can see no reason to feel upset by any law that is passed here; even the residency permit law. A Greek philosoph­ er once said: “ may not agree with the I law, but if I chose to live here I will obey them.” met and married a Penobscot by I choice and feel more at home here than any other place I’ lived. “ ve For whither thou goest, I will go; wherever thou lodgest, I will lodge; thy people will be my people.” taken from the book of Ruth in — the Bible. A law can only be as good as the people who obey it, and any member with a white spouse should be proud to say my family has complied. I for one shall and I’ sure m Tony would agree with me in doing so. Sharon Francis Westfield, M ass To the editor: I am interested in subscribing to th« “ Wabanaki Alliance”monthly newspaper Please send me som e information on the subscription cost as well as other publi­ cations you may have. Thank you. Cindy Fitzgerald Baskets for sale FACES of the future leaders of the Penobscot Nation. HOULTON — Indian basket crafts are now on sale at Houlton, Me. Large and small potato baskets, comb and brush, small berry, market, envelope and letter holders are the featured native American products. Contact Tomah Basket at P.O. Box 1006, telephone 207-532-2074 and ask for Jim or Aubrey. T ribe r a k e s $800,000 in b e r r ie s PLEASANT POINT — The Passamaquoddy Tribe last summer raked in a gross profit of $800,000 on blueberry barrens bought last year through land claims settlem ent funds. Gov. J. Hartley Nicholas said here that actual profits w ere $600,000 after equip­ ment purchases are subtracted. Roughly 5,000 acres near Columbia w ere purchased by the tribe from Bertram C. Tackiff. Tribal m em bers w ere not em ployed in the harvest operation; the tribe simply acted as landowner, the Governor said. Of the $600,000, half of it was “ set aside” future needs. Of the remainder, for $100,000 was earmarked for education; Environment topic of UMO seminar ORONO — An energy and environment “ teach-in”has been scheduled Feb. 26-28, at University of Maine of Orono. Topics include agriculture, forestry, pesticides, oceans and coastal develop­ ment, mining, nuclear power, pollution and Indian rights and struggles, a flyer said. For more information, contact Student Government Association, in UMO’ Mem­ s orial Union. $50,000 for paying outstanding bills; and $150,000 in unspecified funds w ere allo­ cated each reservation. A genealogist not necessary? PLEASANT POINT — “ can’ see I t paying a genealogist,”said tribal Gov. J. Hartley Nicholas. And with that, Nicholas dismissed the idea of following the Penobscot tribe’ s lead — in which for several years Penobscots have employed S. Glenn Starbird, a former state legislator, as tribal gene­ alogist. The Passamaquoddys are basing their “ full blooded” status on a 1900 census, even though nobody can prove full-blood status at that time. Nicholas said the cutoff date was July 22, 1981. Persons on the census as of that date will remain on the list to receive benefits. Theoretically, Indians must be a minimum of “ quarter blood”Passamaquoddy (or Penobscot) to be on the census. The Passamaquoddy Tribe — with reservations at Indian Township and Pleasant Point — currently numbers about 2,100. Conservation jobs available 1982 Newlyweds Cutting the cake at their recent Indian Island wedding are Marie Mitchell of Indian Island, and husband Erik Townsend of Old Town. The ceremony took place at the health center, with a reception in the Community Building. CHARLESTOWN, N.H. — Student Conservation Association is accepting applications for its 1982 program. With the Reagan administration’ de­ s cision to phase out the federal service youth programs (Youth Conservation Corps and Young Adult Conservation Corps) the Student Conservation Program is the only national program left which provides the National Park Service, the U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management with a significant number of conservation volunteers on a nation-wide basis. Volunteers are essential because recent budget limitations make it increasingly difficult for agencies to respond to visitor needs while protecting the natural re­ sources under their care. In 1982, the Student Conservation Association, Inc. expects these agencies to request as many as 1,400 participants to serve in m ore than 100 parks, forests and resource manage­ ment areas. The Student Conservation Association Inc. recruits high school-and college-aged youth from all over the United States to assist resource management professionals in the above-mentioned federal agencies and in the Nature Conservancy and other private conservation agencies. Programs are available throughout the United States in such places as Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming, the north woods of Maine on the Appalachian Trail, Assateague Island National Seashore in Maryland, Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona, Big Bend National Park on the Rio Grande in Texas and Olympic National Forest in Washington. Skitikuk « T »O utfitters Specialists in wilderness travel. Saks - Rentals - Guide Service H om e o f Igas Island custom-made packs and equipment 38 Main St. Orsn© 866-4878 �Page 4 Wabanaki Alliance February 1982 State drags feet on Band (Continued from page 1 ) assistant to the Houlton Band. Wherry, public statements, Tureen told him. But who quit Sept. 30, 1981, took a job in the midwest. Wherry and Terry Polchies had Tomah said he is not about to be silenced; been fired by Association of Aroostook that he prefers “ open meetings." Indians, but were successful in leading the Tomah said that when he asked if state Houlton Band. Senator Michael Carpenter, a Houlton Fred Tomah, a former councilman, said Democrat, could sit in on a negotiating “ thing that's disturbed me is the tribe the meeting, Tierney said no. has yet to develop a constitution.” Tomah Tomah said Tierney proposed with­ holding $50,000 for payment in lieu of said no action has been taken on a draft taxes, on yet-to-be purchased lands. constitution he worked on. "The most important thing that the Tomah opposed the idea. According to Tomah, the state legis­ Houlton Band can do is to develop a con­ lature has a deadline by which it must stitution . . . if you don't have a ll Tomah ratify agreements with the Houlton Band constitution, you’ have anarchy,” stated. of Maliseets. Commenting about Houlton Band mem­ The Houlton Band consists of about 380 I t members, who must be Maliseet or part bers at large, Tomah said, “ don’ think Maliseet Indian, and a U.S. citizen. The the people realize what they have.” latter requirement is to preclude Canadian Indians from becoming eligible for bene­ fits and services from the Houlton Band. Tomah himself served on the Micmac PLEASANT POINT — “ great deal of A Recognition Committee, which has achiev­ ed its goal of federal status for the band — money is flowing into the reservation, but it’also flowing out again.” s leading to federal support from Indian So says Gov. Joseph Hartley Nicholas. Health Service (IHS) and Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA). Tomah also serves on the He favors a co-operative store venture, board of directors of Association of organized by tribal government, and Aroostook Indians (AAI), founded some funded by tribal members at, for example, A total of five generations of the Ranco family are represented here, with the eldest years ago to serve needs of both Micmac $100 per person. The settlement of the being Mabel Ranco of Indian Island, followed by daughter Lena Mitchell, granddaughter and Maliseet Indians in the Houlton-Cari- land claims brought thousands of dollars Sandra Broschard, great-grandson Ralph Broschard, and great-great-grandson Michael bou region of Aroostook County. into Passamaquoddy hands, but the Broschard, one-and-one-half years old. The Houlton Band is chaired by Terry money is spent off reservation. Nicholas said he thinks the store “ would Polchies, a resident of Bangor. He pre­ sides over a council of six Maliseets, five of be an excellent idea. We could probably sell produce and food at a competitive whom are related by blood. They are, Aubrey Tomah, Paul Tomah, Roy Tomah, price. It would be convenient and it would Danya Boyce, Shirley Levasseur and John employ four or five people.” The Governor said it would be “ won­ Joseph. They serve tw o year terms. Gene derful”if tribal mem bers would support Cable Television and former tribal Kilpatrick of Houlton has been hired to PLEASANT POINT - Tribal govern­ replace James Wherry as administrative the idea. ment here is attempting to balance the governor Robert Newell are owed $6,000 books by clearing them of a number of each, according to records. — - — -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------The Native American Rights. Fund, long unpaid debts. Tribal officials listed the following out­ former employer of land claims lawyer standing bills, while asserting that with Thomas N. Tureen, is owed $1,255 for the s proper management, the bills will soon be nonprofit law firm’ assistance with a tribal co-op, acquisition of a government paid in full. A total of $160,000 is owed Depositors surplus yacht, and work on the possible Trust Company; $54,000 is owed on the purchase of the Eastport W ater Company. W ebb River land managers are owed “ force account,” a federal Housing and Urban Development (HUD) scheme for $4,320; Lincoln (gravel) Company is owed employing tribal members in constructing $10,400; ECIP (Emergency Crisis Inter­ vention Program) is owed $2,500; and reservation homes. Brown, Tibbetts et al have billed the tribe $150. [FORMER JORDAN CASK ET CO.] A sum of $10,000 is due Tribal Trucking, the reservation’ own firm. County taxes s of $7,000 are due, and finally, the federal Administration for Native Americans (ANA) questions $6,500 in costs the tribe EASTPORT — Tw o men have been has recorded. charged with criminal mischief in the attempted theft of a soda machine here, the Quoddy Tides reported. Ralph Smith of Perry and Frank Lola of FRANK V. LORING HI Pleasant Point were allegedly loading the machine situated beside the R&M IGA INDIAN ISLAND - Frank V. Loring store into a truck at 1:30 a.m., Dec. 18, III, infant son of Frank Loring Jr. and 1918, when Eastport Police Officers Hollis Diane Wiley, died Jan. 4,1982. Besides his Fergusan and Merrill Lank drove by, parents he is survived by one sister, during their night patrol, and arrested the Marria Elayna Loring; his paternal grand­ two men. parents, Frank and Martha Loring of Smith has also been charged with Indian Island; his maternal grandmother, Grace Adams of Olamon; his paternal operating under the influence. Investigation led to the recovery of a great-grandparents, Harold and Madaline second soft drink machine that had been Francis; several aunts, uncles and cousins. stolen from the IGA lot earlier in the Funeral services w ere at Baillargeon evening and, according to Eastport Police Funeral Home, 109 Middle Street, Old Chief Richard Young, Smith and Lola will Town, with the Rev. John Civiello of­ probably be appearing before the grand ficiating. Spring interment will be in the jury in Machias on theft charges. tribal cemetery. Co-op idea favored Five generations Tribe tallies debts Penobscot Trustworthy Hardware, Inc. 2 9 SOUTH WATER STREET Pleasant Point man OLD TOW N takes too much pop 8 77 1 2- 11 Obituary Featuring fl Full Line O f Lumber & Building materials Feed Grains SPECIAL OF THE M ONTH A A A R TIN S E N O U R C E IL IN G $ 6 .9 9 tip , / J flfTlERO'S SPORT SHOP G U N S & A C C E S S O R IE S F IS H IN G E Q U IP M E N T B L A C K P O W D E R & S U P P LIE S Hours — Mon., Tues., Wed., Thurs., Sat. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Bennoch Road 207-827-7032 Old Town, Maine 04468 Ask for Al or Dave p e r PAINT gallon I regular $9.95) 9-INCH PAINT ROLLER SET $1.56 (regular $2.20) Come in for other Special Values! STORE HOURS - Mon.-Sat. 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. OPEN SUNDAYS 10 a.m.-2 p.m. bob sibley, owner V ___________ -J �Wabanaki Alliance February 1982 Page 5 Marijuana interferes with growing up NOW HEAR THIS! Benjamin Neptune, 9, of Pleasant Point takes a hearing t„ , h. CAAIA funded to assess ed By R ose Francis 1 Love and affection as the child grows. . Marijuana does cause “ acute panic 2. Open channels for feelings and anxiety reaction,”usually experienced by thoughts. using a large amount or after smoking 4. Opportunities for successful experi­ strong marijuana. The common effects are ences at home and in school. feelings of euphoria, relaxation, altered 5. A stable family atmosphere. sense of identity, and bouts of exag­ 6. Tolerance for the chad's mistakes. gerated laughter, that was commonly 7. Tolerance for the child's spais. reported at social abuse levels of mari­ 8. Models of strong and thoughtful juana. adults. The real danger in marijuana use, as in 9. Accurate information about the prob­ all serious taking interferes with the lems of grow ing up today: sexuality, normal process of grow ing up. Young drugs, crime, and other topics about which people need to learn how to make children may be ignorant and fearful. This decisions, to deal with success and failure, may sound unrealistic or too simple, but and to form their own beliefs and values to studies of serious drug abusers show that carry with them into adulthood. Drug failing to give children these kinds of taking can be an escape from these support can be as easy as helping your “ grow ing pains”and may mean that the children find satisfying alternatives to young people will never learn these drugs. important skills of maturity, indepen­ Family prevention dence, and responsibility. This can begin at home. If you don’ already know what your t Families are very important to pre­ children like to do best, then take time to venting drug abuse. The family is a good find out. Take the time to do what they place to start drug prevention. enjoy. Too often, other seemingly m ore There are many single parent families important things com e along. To prevent today, which is common today. Families drug abuse, there is noting m ore im­ try to raise young people to face life portant than spending time with your realistically and positively, and to give children. Experimentation, with a wide them some personal resources and values variety of things, is a natural part of to guide their decisions as they grow up. grow ing up. Children learn from their Not all families succeed, but most families mistakes. It is not only difficult to try to do the best they can for their discourage experimentation, but, as most children. That includes protecting them parents know, it often backfires. Drug from the harm that drugs can cause them experimentation should not be encourag­ and those close to them. ed nor condoned, but too strong a reaction What is Drug Use Prevention? Preven­ may drive a child deeper into drugs and tion is a simple concept, but it requires serious abuse. Adequate preparation and constant work to be successful. D rug a certain amount of behind-the-scenes abuse prevention does work. It requires a guidance can help a child to chart a safe basic understanding and strong commit­ course though potentially dangerous ment from you. waters. Prevenion is a positive process. If Families can give the loving relation­ children grow up with love and security, ships and basic self-confidence that are the can express them selves freely, are real­ keys to preventing drug abuse. With good istic and yet optimistic about their family prevention practices communica­ abilities, and can make sound decisions, tion with children should be open enough they will probably never becom e de­ so that they feel comfortable in sharing pendent upon drugs. Here are som e kinds their feelings about experimenting with o f things you can give your children to drugs. It is usually much better to work on help them from becoming involved with this relationship than for parents to spend drugs: their energies as anxious “ detectives.” ORONO — Mary M. Smith and Donna in elementary education, lives in Old Forsgren are not Indians, but their hearts Town. She has spent 13 years in adult are in the right place, and Central Maine education work, serves on her local adult Indian Association has hired them to use a ed board, and is on the executive board of planning grant to conduct a needs assess­ Literacy Volunteers of Maine. ment of adult education for Indian people. Smith, former chairman of Bangor adult CMIA has obtained an $84,000 grant ed board, continues to serve as board from U.S. Department of Education, for member, along with Bridget Woodward, a an effort that began in November 1981. CMIA board member. Smith was recently ‘ ‘ Our major thrust is planning and de­ elected vice-chairman of the state ad­ velopment,” Forsgren said. visory board on adult and community The basic premise. Smith said, is the education, and is a m em ber o f National fact that a great many Indian people in Indian Adult Education Association. Maine lack high school diplomas, and are thus ineligible for many jobs. The state reports that 47 percent o f Indian adults did not complete high school. We want to do an enormous informa­ tional campaign to inform the clients of the availability of this new adult educa­ Canadian Indians have attained a cer­ tion,” Smith said. tain noterity — including United Nations Noting that for many adults, “ school attention — in regard to the policy of was an unpleasant experience,” Smith denying Indian status to Indian women said that adult ed “ not a repeat, it’ who marry non-Indians. is s usually totally different.” The reverse, where an Indian man takes At this stage, there will be no direct a non-Indian wife, does not affect tribal services. Smith said. “ Our program here is status. to assist Indian adults in getting their This inequity is allowed by many PLEASANT POINT - Tribal governGED (high school equivalency diploma) or had not been returned. But a satisfactory male-dominated tribal governments, and ment at Indian Township has agreed to high school diploma.” arrangement was apparently worked out. is condoned by Canadian authorities. turn over to Pleasant Point up to $1,500 in Governor Nicholas said som e $1,200 o f the Smith said state education commis­ However, a recent newscast on CBC, excise tax on trucks owned by a Passaexcise tax due has been returned to sioner Harold Raynolds has been “ sup­ the Canadian public radio station, said at maquoddy man. Pleasant Point. portive ' of their work. some reservations things are changing. In Ralph Dana of Pleasant Point re­ In a possibly related matter, Nicholas Smith was enthusiastic over a recent Nova Scotia, at least one tribe has voted portedly paid excise taxes on his trucks — national Indian adult ed conference in said he has not yet responded to Dana's to retain status for Indian women who part o f his Dana Trucking firm — to Indian petition of several months ago, that Albuquerque, N.M., which she attended marry non-Indians. This means the Township, rather than his local tribal with CMIA executive director James sought to impeach the Governor. “ I family may now choose to remain on the government. Sanborn. Forsgren did not attend the haven’ responded to it, but I will,” he t reserve, and be eligible for whatever Gov. J. Hartley Nicholas was prepared said. Nicholas term of office expires this sessions. “ going there we linked into By benefits tribal members receive. to take Dana to court if the excise money fall. the national circuit,” Smith said. “ We Sandra Lovelace, a Maliseet from became mainstreamed in three days, that Canada, took her discrimination case to could ve taken us three months or three the U.N., which ruled in her favor. MAIL TO WABANAKI ALLIANCE. 95 MAIN STREET. ORONO. MAINE 04473 years. Some Indians allow women rights Township pays back excise tax “ were very fortunate in that we had We one to one TA (technical assistance) sessions. Smith told Wabanaki Alliance. Both women com e to their jobs with years of experience in education, and both have previously enjoyed working with Indian people, they said. Smith spent more than three years with Tribal Governors Inc., in training and education fields. A resident of Bangor, she has completed many college level courses, although she does not have a degree. She is very active in Democratic Party politics. Forsgren, who holds two degrees from the University of Minnesota, one of them IN IA CRAFTY D N W A B A N A K I A L L IA N C E S U B S C R I P T I O N F O R K SU PPLIES (Make cheeks payable lo Wabanaki Alliance) 148 P age h H tfc C ata log cd cc -----For Irae catalog Tlia world'* lar^wst Indian Craft* Catalog. Mora than 4.000 items to etiooss from I Trade Beads. Tin Cones, 8rass Beads, Moire Taffeta Ribbon, Ermine Skins Bone Elk Teeth, Shawl' Frame and tern fiREY OWL n 113-15 Springfield Blvd. Qneens Village, N.Y. 11429 I EN CLOSE. I j SS for one year •I--- Mlndividual^U.S.) I Name ............. r$S for one year i (Canada) □ Street ................. City/Town and State A Zip Code 110 for one year (Institutional rate) f □ ' (___ |Donation (Amour �Page 6 Wabanaki Alliance February 1982 All youneed is... By Freeman Morey Penobscot Health Dept. INDIAN ISLAND — As the Tribal Family Care Coordinator for the Penob­ scot Nation, part of my duties include improving communications between the community and the state Department of Human Services. I enjoy this role as “ between” go and try my best to express the views I hear from community members whenever the op­ portunity arises. When I sat down to write this article I intended to outline the Child and Family Services Program and briefly describe the program’goals and objectives. However, s as I sit here and watch the snow fall outside, I can’help but turn my thoughts t to the bright little faces I see all bundled up to ward off winter’ bitter chill. I see s out my window a young mother and her little boy with smiles as big as Santa's. I see her expression of mock terror as she is struck with a well-aimed snowball, then her son's squeal of glee as he is swept off his feet and hugged until his cheeks turn even redder than they were. To see this simple scene of love between mother and child I am reminded of som e of the other sights I have seen as a human services worker. Some of the things I’ ve seen just don’fit in with the sight of snow t falling gently to the ground. The need to elaborate is unnecessary, we have all seen examples of child abuse and neglect and I’ sure that once you’ seen a battered m ve little face you’ never forget the look on ll that face for the rest of your life. To look at two sad little eyes and know that your love is the m ost important thing in the world should be enough to melt the coldest heart. All your children want from you is love. It’ not their idea to ge t sick s and make your life miserable, it’not their s wish that you have high bills to pay and your boss is always on your back. They didn’ elect the president you’ not t re satisfied with, nor did they create the welfare state we live in. They are the products of an environment that we made or inherited, and can only be expected to learn what we teach. I know I’ not happy m about the wars and crime that my generation inherited, and I’ like to try to d leave a better, not w orse world for my children to enjoy. Take time with child Your children don’ need all of your t time, they don’need to receive all kinds t of expensive gifts or treats. What they do need is to know that you love them and will stand behind them when things get rough. They need to have special times with you, not while you are watching the game, or “ Merv,” but time to sit down and read them a story or just name the pictures in a book. They need the stimu­ lation of being taken different places and shown different things. These aren’ things that your children t want to demand from you, they are things that they need in order to grow up and lead a normal life. We all know people that grew up without these precious times and being one of them, I know how it feels to wonder why so-and-so gets to do this or that with their parents and I never did. I can never go back and change the way I was brought up; in fact, there isn’ a t thing I can do about it. All the complaining in the world cannot change so much as a minute of my past. All the blame I can throw at the state, my parents, or my foster parents doesn’do anything except t waste my breath. There is only one course of action that will do any good whatsoever and that is to see that my children don’g o without the t things they need to grow and flourish in the intense world we live in. Instead of planning a career that will make a lot of money I have elected to put m y family first and the accumulation of wealth after. My wife is encouraged to spend as much time with the kids as possible, to the point of neglecting the housework if necessary. When the children are in bed, we finish the dishes or do the dusting or whatever is left after spending time with the kids. Washing and other loud chores have to be done during the day so the noise doesn’ t keep the children awake, but these chores don’take up most of the time, anyway. t Sometimes a drag You may ask, “ t it a pain in the butt isn’ to do dishes at nine o’ clock, especially after working all day?”The answer can only be yes. In fact many of the chores of a parent are a downright drag. Never in a, million years would I do housework at night unless it was necessary. Unfortu­ nately, since I work from eight to fourthirty and bedtime for my girls is eight o’ clock, I feel the three and one-half hours I get to be with my children is too important to use for anything else. It’true that children will grow without s this kind of love and attention, some will have happy lives and will outgrow the sadness felt while young. On the other hand, children learn what they “ live." The crime rates and overflowing prisons are all testimony needed to show what happens when a society puts its most important resource on the back burner. I realize that the world cannot be changed overnight, and there is always the chance that a child can grow up to make the wrong choices in life no matter what’ s done. All I ask is that you give your children the chance to make their own choice, and not be victims of the environ­ ment they live in. There is no hiding the truth from a child, their eyes see the world around them and how it turns. In their minds lies the hope for tomorrow. When you are old, how will their eyes look at you, as a burden or as the light to lead them through darkness? Remember, even a dog knows whether it has been kicked or tripped over. Na’ swahegan, 827-6096 76 NORTH MAIN ST. OLD TOW] Use our “Miracle Machine Xerox 9 4 0 0 Duplicator •Quick Turn-Around •High Print Quality •Various Reduction Sizes Xerox® and 9400® are trademarks of Xerox Corporation YEAR OF THE PENOBSCOT - Francis C. Sapiel, president of Indian Island’ tribal s historical society, displays a special calen­ dar printed for the first time this year. Dr. Frank Seibert researched the traditional Penobscot lunar calendar, and a standard calendar is printed alongside. Drawings are by Debra Mitchell of Indian Island. The red and black calendars are for sale at the tribal office, and proceeds benefit the society. ATTENTION SENIOR CITIZENS ^ ^ P e n o b s c o t River House Would You Like To Inc. "It's a Miracle” FORGET about the high cost of heating, utilities and repairs?? NEVER have to shovel snow again?? Live in a beautiful modern apartment with ample closets, storage, parking AND tw o patios AND a park AND a beautiful scenic view from your apartment?? Live in a secure building?? Pay ONLY 25% o f your monthly income for rent?? Have your rent go DOWN if your income goes down?? BE WITHIN MINUTES of social, medical and em ergency services?? If this type of living situation appeals to you, call Paula at 827-6151 or write to or stop by the Old Town Housing Authority’office at 100 South Main Street, Old s Town, Maine 04468, for further information. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY �Wabanaki Alliance February 1982 Page 7 Guest opinion A gift of sight By Helen Becker [In memory of Donald W. Loveday . . . founder of, “ Downeast R ecording Library For The Blind.” ] I learned to count m y blessings early. I often thanked God for health and life. I especially had much empathy for the blind. But it was not until a neighbor died in my presence that I came to the realiza­ tion th a t. . . his eyes, the miraculous gift of sight, were going to wind up as so much garbage. A shudder went through me. I immediately spoke to the medical ex­ aminer about eye donation. That day I made a commitment. In the event of my death my eyes would be donated. I wanted my physical ending to be a beginning for someone else. I was just a kid. What a high it gave me to know that I had within me the potential to give someone sight! I have always believed that one does not go from death to death but rather from life to life. This is God’ s promise. This gift of sight is so simple. It just requires a signature. A gift from the dead can make life meaningful for the living. This gift costs nothing. So many times we are limited in life by outrageous prices. But we can give sight at no cost when we no longer have need of this thin membrane called a cornea for ourselves. Can you imagine life without a rainbow? Or life without a mountain view, a gurgling brook, clouds, snow, rain, moon and stars, changes of seasons, trees, fields of flowers, a single rose, your parent’ s smile, a baby sitter, that everlasting drop falling off an icicle in winter, your dog, a sunrise, a sunset, or any of the millions of creatures that make noise in your dark world? I’ had the pleasure o f seeing ve them all. But som e of my friend’have not. s Don had never seen his wife’ dear face. s This decision of mine was a very private thing because many people do not like to think of death, even when they are faced with it, I kept m y opinion to myself until one day I nearly poked a stick through my eye while jogging and praying for other people’health. I was quite angry with the s situation. I do now know if I was more concerned with not being able to donate my eye than experiencing losing my own. When I discovered I had massive scar tissue I had an urgency to tell others about the importance of eye donation because many of my friends have died. I never mentioned a word to them about corneal transplant which is a whopping 85% successful. Some o f them could have given the gift of the rainbow. If I had only asked, many blind people would see today. I had questioned why God would allow my cornea to be damaged which incidently has affected both my eyes. Certainly of all people I appreciated my sight. I re­ member only one week after major surgery I jo gged a quarter mile while praying for my friend Yvon’life--- I was s so grateful for mine. Why then, God, why me? I was told I could not donate that damaged eye and I wept for I heard that there are waiting lists for corneal trans­ plants. And I could only give one eye. Well, God knew that certainly if my eyes did not work, my mouth sure did! For some reason I had been singled out to make a different kind of contribution. If I brought this to people’ attention I could s by my efforts donate m ore than one eye. I could through others ultimately give possibly 200 eyes! I believe in goals so my pledge to the Lord in deep, deep appre­ ciation of my own sight, is to enlist 100 eye donors. Miraculously I can read my fine print Bible and my eyesight has been con­ tinually improving. I maintain that the Lord will allow me to see normally out of that damaged cornea in the future. Doctors are full o f knowledge but they are not healers. They are limited by their human-ness. God heals! In the meantime I am willing to recruit others. And by opening my mouth three other people have become eye donors. So now when I run and the wind tangles my hair and rain beats on m y face or whatever . . . I have a prayer on my lips and a genuine appreciation in my heart for all the Lord has given me. And when I think of all the people that will benefit from my accident I thank Him all the more. The New England E ye Bank works as a control unit for the collection and distri­ bution of eye tissue. It serves Massa­ chusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, and Rhode Island. It was founded in 1946. Tissue is provided for eye re­ search and for the education o f future eye doctors, as well as for transplant opera­ tions. People of any age may donate eyes. You do not need perfect vision to donate. You may wear glasses, be old, or even blind from a cause other than corneal disease! Material has even been utilized from still­ born babies. But speed is essential in eye transplant cases. The eyes must be removed within six hours of death. So never, “ WILL,” your eyes. Simply fill out a donor card or in Maine the back of your driver’license before tw o witnesses. (It’ s s good if your family know of your strong desires so they will honor your wishes.) And carry your donor card with you at all times. If I am responsible for anyone’ decision s to becom e an eye donor please let me know. For I have prom ises to keep. . . . Thank you and may God richly bless you for this decision. WTWILAMEHKW, “ tickler fish,” a snail who has special supernatural gifts, and is is able to live in water, on land, or in trees, according to anthropologist Frank G. Speck, writing on Penobscot religious beliefs in Journal of American Folklore, 1935. The illus­ tration is from “ The Indians of Maine: A Bibliographical Guide,”published by Maine Historical Society, Portland, 1972. [Information from Charles Colcord of New York City.] Indian lands seized in 1907 BOSTON — Did the Commonwealth of Massachusetts have the right to terminate the Fall River-Watuppa reservation in 1907? This, and other legal questions, w ere raised by state Indian official John A. Peters, in a letter on state stationery addressed to “ Sisters and Brothers.” Peters referred to an unfavorable ruling on Indian land called the Chappaquidick case, in which a federal court ruled Massa­ chusetts has had no sovereignty over VETERANS ADMINISTRATION Owned Homes For Sale ta f Equal Housing OPPORTUNITY BEING TRANSFERRED? Contact the VA for information about properties available throughout the State. Ron Sockabasin and David Tomah find that reading can be lots of fun, at Indian Township Elementary School. Indian land since 1789. If that’true, how s could the state take the Fall River land, Peters asks. The letter then asks, “ How do you, as an Indian of Massachusetts, feel about bring a lawsuit against the City of Fall River and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for recovery of this land and for dam­ ages?” A coal gasification plant was proposed on or near the land in question. "Your guidance is needed,” the open letter concluded. in Washington County These homes are available to veterans or non-veterans without preference. 61 Fourth Avenue, Woodland $40,000. Rt. 1, Woodland $20,900. W est Street, Plantation 21 $24,000. Rt. 1, 39 Dublin St., Machias $36,500. 18 Freemont St., Machias $25,500. Main Street, Baring 26,800. 9 Academy Street, Calais 25,900. 8 Chapel Street, Calais 12,500. 11 Temperance Street, Calais 26,000. Summer Street, Calais 19,000. Route #1—Houlton Road, Woodland 27,500. 31 Chapel Street, Calais 19,000. FINANCED FOR 30 YEARS BY VA NO DOWN PAYMENTS REQUIRED S E E YOUR LOCAL REAL ESTA TE BROKER All VA financed At prevailing interest rates VETERANS ADMINISTRATION LOAN GUARANTY DIVISION TOGUS, MAINE 04330 Tel. 207-623-8411 Ext. 433 �Page 8 Wabanaki Alliance February 1982 news notes Dore takes over health clinic PLEASANT POINT - Tribal Lt. Gov. Clifford (Cliv) Dore has been appointed director of the reservation health clinic here. Dore succeeds Madonna Soctomah, who was fired last year in a lengthy, heated controversy with Passamaquoddy Gov. J. Hartley Nicholas. The clinic is funded through the federal Indian Health Serv­ ices. (IHS). It provides both health and social services from a recently construct­ ed, centrally located facility. Indian designers pow w ow SWARTHMORE, Pa. — American In­ dian Council of Architects and Engineers hosted a workshop on facility repair and improvement for Indian architects and engineers, recently at Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. The meeting was attended by 21 architects and engineers from around the country, inclu ding Alaska, Montana, Washington, Oklahoma, New Mexico, South Dakota, Arizona, Kansas and Pennsylvania. Representatives from the Department of the Interior, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Indian Health Service, and Corp of Engineers attended. The workshop focused on the demand, budget and priorities for Repair & Im­ provement work on the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Indian Health Service facilities. Discussions w ere held on the processes used to select Indian architects and engineers and mock contract negotia­ tions were held. Lou Weller, Indian architect, reviewed the work he has been doing on the Riverside Indian Dormitory at Anadarko and arranged for a tour of the construction work at Anadarko. Neal McCaleb, former chairman of the council, was presented with a plaque recognizing his services. Neal said he is an candidate for the office of Governor in Oklahoma. There are approximately 30 Indian architects and 30 Indian engineering firms nationally. Flashback Indian property said tax-exempt WASHINGTON - The U.S. Supreme Court refused to let Washington state apply its sales tax system to Indian property used both on and off tribal reservations. The high court, without comment, let stand a ruling that such an application of the tax system, composed of a sales tax and a complementary-use tax, violates federal law. The court has ruled that states cannot tax Indians’ property and activities inside tribal reservations. In asking the Supreme Court to review the case, Washington state officials said: “ Under the court of appeals decision, having the personal property delivered to the reservation, and having the initial use of the property occur there will immunize the Indian from ever having to pay the same tax burden that has already been paid by the non-Indians, even when the Indian moves off the reservation.” Maliseet health program may serve Miemacs HOULTON — Micmacs may not be totally out in the cold, if the 31-year-old Maliseet man who directs a health program has his way. CHICAGO — N ewberry Library Center “ e’ going to provide services to the W re for the History of the American Indian offers D ’ Arcy McNickle Memorial Fellow­ Micmac people to the extent that federal law allows,” said Frederick Tomah, health ships and Frances C. Allen Fellowships for director for the newly-formed Houlton Indian people. Band of Maliseets. The band received A man or woman who receives a authorization to purchase 5,000 acres out McNickle award is supported by the of the 300,000 acres designated in the stipend of $300 a week, for a period of one Penobscot-Passamaquoddy land claims to four weeks, plus transportation costs of settlement of 1980. a single round trip between the place of Tomah works with planner Barbara residence and The N ewberry Library. Morris, outreach coordinator Mary Lon­ don, outreach workers Sally Joseph and 3M lawyer joins BIA Gloria Tomah, and Brenda Polchies, secre­ tary. Thus far, the band’ health program s WASHINGTON — John Fritz, a lawyer is in development stages, and not ready to for Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing provide services. The Houlton Band of Maliseets, recog­ Company, has been named Deputy Assist­ ant Secretary for Indian Affairs, U.S. nized by the federal government as a bona fide Indian tribe, is eligible to receive Department of the Interior Secretary considerable amounts of money from the James G. Watt announced. Fritz, 33, is a Cherokee. He will manage day-to-day operations of the Bureau of Indian Affairs, and will serve as a deputy to Indian Affairs boss Kenneth L. Smith. Fellowships offered Indian paper bites the dust PARKER, Arizona — The Manataba Messenger, a weekly begun in the fall of 1980, ceased regular publication last month. The M essenger was started by Indian journalist Richard LaCourse, building a weekly on a newsletter called “ Smoke Signals” that had been printed for 24 years by Colorado Indian Tribal Council. Costs w ere prohibitive, and the Mes­ senger’ quality deteriorated after Las Course left the paper, and Joan Travis took over as editor. Travis will remain on the staff to manage a monthly tabloid, still to be called Manataba Messenger. M ost o f the staff were fired. Togetherness Pauline and Burnell Mitchell of Indian Island enjoy the company of their two daughters, Marissa, and Naya, born Dec. 1,1981. She weighed sieven pounds, 11V ounces, and was * 2072 inches, at birth. Naya means “ wander.” N EED EXTRA MONEY? Dig out those old postcards and turn them into cash. I buy old postcards of all kinds — Santa, Halloween, patriotic, real photo types, etc. Also vary inter­ ested in postcards about the Indians in the Northeast. For more information write to: Betty Bridges Box 234 17 Young Lane York Harbor, Maine 03911 or call: 363-2867 federal Indian Health Service (IHS) in Rockville, Md., and the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) in Washington, D.C. Corrections INDIAN ISLAND — The January 1982 issue of this newspaper incorrectly re­ ported that Dr. Stuart Corso, dentist for the Penobscot tribal health department, no longer worked foF Indian Health Service. The story should have stated that Dr. Corso no longer was employed through the Public Health Service. The tribal health department as a whole is funded through the federal Indian Health Service (IHS). The editor apologizes to the good doctor for any confusion resulting from the error. A photo caption in the Decem ber 1981 issue of this newspaper incorrectly iden­ tified a Catholic statue. The statue is of Our Lady of Fatima. CAN’ FIND A JOB? T Try the JOB CORPS Would you like to be trained as a ... Bookkeeper Secretary/Stenographer Clerk Typist Nursing Assistant If you are 16 to 21 and not in school, the Penobscot Job Corps Center has training programs which may be of interest to you. The Penobscot Job Corps Center provides all trainees with a place to live, meals, health care and a cash monthly stipend while you learn. And when you finish, we'll also help you find a job. SOUND GOOD? IT IS GOOD. ASK FOR JOB CORPS —in the Portland area—775-7225 —in the Auburn area—786-4190 —in the Bangor area—947-0755 —or toll free anywhere in Maine at 1-800-432-7307 ASK FOR JOB CORPS RECRUITMENT � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource <em>Wabanaki Alliance</em> (February 1982) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Indian Resource Center Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Passamaquoddy Cultural Museum Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1982-02 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Donald Soctomah Julia Brush Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Steve Cartwright. Used with permission. Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Document Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context DV-431 https://www.dawnlandvoices.org/collections/files/original/f23e92c30b6b405705ff8cfd0f241138.pdf 71a9bcf37aa759cf19e79d301b9e14ad PDF Text Text 0l//47i" t/?.StanleyI Bow m. Rev. Indian Leaders D igest The following persons have recently been elected or appointed to fill leadership positions within tribal councils and committees and within Indian boards. INDIAN ISLAND P en ob scot T ribal C ou n cil: N ich ola s Sapiel, governor; Peter Neptune, Lt. governor; Helen Goslin, tribal clerk; Timothy Love, chairman; and members; Pauline Love, Emma Decora, Vivian Massey, Joe Polchies, Martin Neptune, Irving Ranco, Beatrice Phillips, Nicholas Sapiel, Jr., Matthew Sappier, Richard Hamilton, and Merlene Couturier. Penobscot Tribal Housing Authority: Erlene Paul, executive director; Francis Ranco, chairman; Jean Chavaree, secretary; Michael Ranco, treasurer; and other members; Pat Shay and Stephen Mitchell. Penobscot Indian Corporation Officers: Kenneth Paul, president; Irving Ranco, vice president; Erlene Paul, sccretary/treasurer. State Representative to Legislature: Ernest Goslin. Penobscot Indian C.A.P.: Michael Ranco, director; Elizabeth Kimball, secretary. Indian Island School Committee: Francis Ranco, chairman; Jean Chavaree, Madeline Paul, Kenneth Paul, Sr., Natalie Mitchell. ASSOCIATION OF A R O O ST O O K INDIANS Board o f Directors: Joyce Tompkins, president; John Joseph, vice president; Brenda Polchies, secretary; Joseph Tomah, treasurer; Gloria Tomah, Fred Perley, Maynard Polchies, Gary Ennis, Roy Paul, Betty Joseph, Terry Polchies, Joseph Morey, Roger Choutou, Robert Pictou, Charles Bernard, Grace McKee, and Robert Tomah. School Committee: Maynard Polchies, Joseph Morey, Mary Shaw, Grace McKee, and Brenda Polchies. INDIAN TOW NSHIP Tribal Council: Allen Sockabasin, governor; Albert Dana, Lt. governor; Raphael Sockabasin, George Sockabasin, Harold Lewey, Phyllis Sabattus, Eugene Stevens, and Archie LaCoote. Wayne Newell is the tribal clerk. Housing Authority: George Stevens, executive St. Ann’ Rector; s Pleasant Point Perry, 1 -Iaine O46 director; Edward Sockabasin, Jake Lola, Fr. Vickerson, Wayne Newell, and George Stevens. School Committee: Allen Sockabasin, Albert Dana, Eugene Stevens, Phyllis Sabattus, and George Stevens. PLEASANT POINT Tribal Council: Francis J. Nicholas, governor; John Nicholas, Lt. governor; Robert Newell, Clayton Cleaves, Ernestine Yarmal, Melvin Francis, Frederick Francis, and Judy Nicholas. Passamaquoddy Representative to Legislature: Joseph A. Nicholas. Community Action Program: Mary Yarmal, director. Housing Authority: John Bailey, Eugene Francis, Francis Nicholas, Jr., Francis L. Sapiel, and Mary Yarmal. School Committee: Andrew Dana, David Francis, John Nicholas, Julie Nicholas, and Roberta Richter. CENTRAL MAINE INDIAN ASSOCIATION Board o f Directors: Mary Francis, president; Jeanette Fitchner, vice president; Lorraine Gabriel, treasurer; Laura Massey, secretary; Ram ona Stackhouse, John Isaac, Melvin Vicaire, Romeo Morrison, and Marie Woodbury. INTER-TRIBAL ORGANIZATIONS Maine Indian Education Council: Madeline Paul and Jean Chavaree, representing Indian Island; George Stevens and Eugene Stevens, representing Indian Township; Ruby Richter and Andrew Dana, representing Pleasant Point; and Brenda Polchies and Maynard Polchies representing the Association o f Aroostook Indians. Penobscot/Passamaquoddy Tribal Planning Board: Andy Akins, executive director; George Stevens, chairman, Erlene Paul, John Sapiel, Wayne Newell, Ralph Dana, Benjamin Neptune, Joseph Francis, Nicholas Sapiel, Harry Francis, Sr., and Edward Sockabasin. Tribal Governors. Inc.: Nicholas Sapiel, Sr., Peter Neptune, Allen Sockabasin, Albert Dana, Francis Nicholas, John Nicholas, Joyce Tompkins, John Joseph, Mary Francis, and Jeanette Fitchner. R E H A B IL IT A T IO N P R O G R A M TO BEGIN — An effort, which began nearly a year ago, to secure resources to deal with the abuse of alcohol has resulted in a program which is scheduled to begin in February. See story page 2. �Profiles of Indian Leaders administrative group," which is needed to examine belter ways and to project a single voice. Why have these changes com e about? Gov. Socakasin believes they arc the result o f Indian people wanting change and young people becoming involved in tribal affairs. “ Nine o f the twelve joint Passama­ quoddy council members are under thirty, and half have degrees," Sockabasin stated. “ There are Indian ■people speaking out, speaking out about schools and other issues; if there are things being done and being changed, it is because these people are speaking out.” GOVERNOR ALLEN SOCKABASIN The problems a tribal governor faces today are ifferent from those o f just a few years ago. Indian 'ownship Governor, Allen Sockabasin, has watched he change. “ When I was first elected, tribal affairs and my uties were simpler; the sophistication to which these ave grown is horrifying," Governor Sockabasin tated, referring to the influx o f programs and ^sources now being used by his tribal council to ttack old problems. There are programs for employlent, economic development, community action, utreach, police protection, etc.; and they all have heir cost, in terms o f time and money, on those who lust make decisions about program details. There is n enormous quantity o f paper which accompanies ach program, and these paper trails must be dealt /ith along with traditional tribal business. As a result Governor Sockabasin believes that one >f his and his colleagues most immediate needs is tetter management tools. As president o f Tribal jovernors, Inc., the Indian Township Governor has he additional administrative problems resulting from lis involvement in a group representing all Maine ndian people. But Sockabasin sees the Board of Sovernors and Presidents as a “ pressure and GOVERNOR FRANCIS NICHOLAS Francis J. Nicholas has been elected Tribal jovernor at the Pleasant Point Passamaquoddy Reservation. Nicholas returned to Sebayik in 1971 ifter retiring from a 21-year career in the Army, which ncludcd eight years in the “ Green Berets,”a Special "orces group requiring courage and self-discipline imong other leadership requisites. Since his return, Nicholas has attended Washington bounty Vocational Technical Institute in Calais where lc received training in automotive mechanics, and vas later employed by the Georgia Pacific Co. in iVoodland. But, as the military establishment has become tomplex in the last several decades, so has tribal jovernment; yet, Nicholas feels himself equal to the ask of governing, though he admits that much homevork is required to familiarize himself with the many acets o f tribal government. In the years that Nicholas has been away from the eservation, many changes have occurred and new ipportunities have arisen to provide means to solve he many problems afflicting Indian communities. In he short time since his election. Governor Nicholas las favorably demonstrated his leadership abilities; tnd, with the strong council, which Nicholas believes ic has, there exists a greater potential to attack these ifflictions. Nicholas said he is anxious to learn all he can about ribal government so that he may better unite the rassamaquoddies o f Pleasant Point. ’ G overn or Sockabasin , the father o f three daughters, is also active and interested in education. “ m confident that my daughter is being offered a I’ better education than what was offered me.” Sockabasin is also a strong believer in self-help and self-help oriented programs. “ is going to take It Indian people helping themselves; it’ up to the s individual, and it’ up to those o f us in leadership s positions to provide access to resources which will make self-help possible.” AAI PRESIDENT JOYCE TOM PKINS Joyce was born in W oodstock, N.B. and spent much o f her early life moving back and forth between Canada and the United States. When she was thirteen her family took up permanent residence in Aroostook County. Joyce, like many o f the people she represents, used to move every fall to pick potatoes. She is aware o f the impact this kind o f migration has on a child’ formal education because she has s experienced it; she is aware o f the problems alcohol can have on a family because she experienced those as a child; she is aware o f the problems imposed on Indian people because o f prejudice and discrimina­ tion, because she lives in Houlton. “ Houlton is a poor community for an Indian. There arc people here who are prejudiced and who do not even know an Indian personally,”Joyce said. CMIA PRESIDENT MARY FRANCIS “ Since we are most interested in providing any assistance to insure equal opportunity for the Indians in Maine, I have approved Mrs. Francis’personal request for extended leave without pay.”The request was made by Mary Francis, president o f the Central Maine Indian Association, and the approval was granted by her employer — the Internal Revenue Service. The AAI president believes the schools should have Indian studies and that they should have Indian children involved in the development o f those studies. As a mother o f four children, ranging in age from three to eighteen years, she has had many personal ex p erien ces with A ro ostoo k County sch ools. “ Prejudice exists in the hearts o f many kids and I think it is ignorance; a school studies program would help,”she said. Possibly the biggest problem facing AAI. according to its president, is the maintaining o f people’interest, s in the “ translating o f what we do into things that people see as valuable.” Mrs. Francis is taking leave o f absence to devote full time to the development o f the Central Maine Indian Association, which was only recently conceived but has, in its short existence, flourished into a viable, relevant organization for the Indians o f central Maine. Through the efforts o f Mary and her board o f directors approximately two thousand Indian people in the central Maine area will receive various types o f assistance they otherwise would not receive. Mary, the mother o f four children, is making a significant sacrifice in taking full acceptance o f a position that offers less security, more frustrations, longer and more irregular work-hours, and more headaches than her position with the IRS. Though she anticipates returning to her IRS position someday, Mary has vowed not to abandon the development o f CMIA into an association which will communicate to its members the opportunities attainable through involvement. The leave o f absence became necessary for the CMIA president when her own involvement extended into the realm o f decision-making, a step she felt to be necessary if those whom she represents are to receive the programs and resources she feels they should have access to. As a result o f Mary’ involvement, CMIA has s already been granted representation on many Indian boards^and has secured membership in many o f the programs established for Maine Indians. For example, CMIA will be participating in this year’ s project fuel so that some CMIA members will have access to insulating materials; and CMIA will be participating in the CETA program, in which at least two new staff and five training positions will be available. CMIA is growing in resources and responsibilities, and much o f this growth must be attributed to Mrs.' Francis and the hard-working board which has assembled to represent the off-reservation Indians in central Maine. GO V ER N O R NICK SAPIEL Nicholas Sapicl is the new Governor o f the Penobscot Tribe at Indian Island. A life-long resident o f the Penobscot Reservation, Governor Sapicl has had eighteen years o f experience on the Tribal Council, which has provided him a broad perspective on various tribal concerns and objectives. Since his election to the governorship, however, Nick has found that most o f his past experience has been more in the area o f attending to the personal needs o f the tribe. His duties, now com pounded by the expanding responsibilities o f a modern-day tribal governor, will require a deeper look at the use o f resources. According to Governor Sapicl, this is necessary to deal with such long-range problems as housing, employment and economic development and such short-range needs as a person needing transportation. It has been the lack o f sufficient information, according to Sapiel, which has often created problems and inhibited the usefulness o f outside resources. It is the desire o f Governor Sapiel to improve com ­ munications to allow access by the tribe to whatever information is needed so that all can be informed on all tribal problems and resources. �Page 2 Wabanaki Alliance Community Leaders Attend Training Session the drawing board. Concerning the Maine Indian Police Department, Akins believes the quality of law enforcement on the reservations has improved. But, he stated, additional resources, possibly via the legislature, are going to be necessary to meet the needs of this program. The Coalition of Eastern Native Americans was established through the influence of Maine Indian people. “ CENA,”according to Akins, “ now a voice is to have our input heard by the decision-makers of Washington D.C.” DISCUSSING PROGRAM MANAGEMENT — Vivian Massey, director of the Indian VISTA program, and management consultant Sam Gardpie discuss solutions to program management problems. A three day orientation and training session for some fifty newly-elected Indian leaders was held at the Indian Resource Center this October to acquaint them with existing Indian programs and to provide some Indian expertness in the management of Indian programs. On the first day various Indian administrators explained the programs for which they are responsible. The program included discussions on: The Department of Indian Affairs, by John Stevens; Fiobiems and Concerns of Off-Reservation Indians, by Terry Polchies; Penobscot/Passamaauoddy Tribal Planning Board, Maine Indian Police Department, and the Coalition of Eastern Native Americans, by Andy Akins; Office of Native American Programs (Indian CAP Programs), and Development of Tribal Governors’ Inc., by Ralph Dana; community VISTA programs, by Vivian Massey; The Wabanaki Corporation and Maine’ Indian Alcoholism Project, s by Susan Stevens; The Indian Resource Center, by Roger Gabriel; the Comprehensive Employment and Training Act and its Potential for Employment of Maine Indian People, by Dave Depew; and the Federal Regional Council, by James Sappier. The meeting was opened by Andy Akins, who expressed hope that such sessions would become an annual affair at which Indian leaders from each tribe would gather to examine the specifics of all Indian programs, to assess progress, and to voice concerns. Commissioner John Stevens then discussed the need for Indian communities to assume greater control of the administration of programs now administered by the Department of Indian Affairs. He stated that the role of the Department should be determined by Indian People. He also stated that Indian agents should be replaced so that individual tribes could handle more of their own affairs. During a question and answer period Stevens was asked about his Department’ ability to assist with s fuel costs this winter. His response was that because there was such an escalation in costs “ our ability to meet all needs will be hurt.”Stevens suggested that a special bill to meet fuel needs be submitted to the 107th Legislature. Queried on the reorganization of his department, which he advocates, Stevens stated that the state’ hiring and firing policies make reor­ s ganization nearly impossible. Terry Polchies, a member of the Department of Indian Affairs and in charge of off-reservation Indian affairs, discussed his role as an advocate for the rights of those living off reserve or without a reserve. Polchies pointed out that most Maine Indians live off-reservation and that significant progress has been made in receiving recognition by the state. Polchies then called on Joyce Tompkins, president of the Association of Aroostook Indians, and Mary Francis, president of the Central Maine Indian Association, to discuss the activities of their organizations. Akins then discussed the Penobscot/Passama- quoddy Tribal Planning Board, of w'hich he is executive director, the Maine Indian State Police Department, of which he is Commissioner, and the Coalition of Eastern Native Americans, of which he is a board member. The tribal planning board, which was created by the tribal councils to do economic, community, and land use development planning, presently only represents the three tribal councils, but Akins stated that it was his hope that membership would be extended to include the Association of Aroostook Indians and the Central Maine Indian Association. Some of the planning board’ accomplishments s include: creation of the Indian Police Department, programs for water and sewer lines, development of resources for community buildings, campgrounds, basket co-ops, and small business loans. Akins stated that a furniture-making factory, a sawmill, aqua­ culture projects, and a wood products project are on Ralph Dana, staff person to Tribal Governors’ Inc. then explained the development of that organization to the assembled leaders. Dana stated that shortly after John Stevens became Commissioner of Indian Affairs, Stevens established a policy of scheduling meetings with tribal leaders to review common problems and to seek ways to improve services. And at these meetings the subject of creating a legal organization consisting of tribal governors and association presidents came up many times. Only after it became necessary to incorporate in order to receive employment (CETA) funds did Tribal Governors’ Inc. evolve. The corporation was formed in [Continued on Page 3] LISTENER — Kathy Paul, Indian Island, listens as Dick Wilson describes management techniques. Comprehensive Alcoholism Program to Begin After a year o f negotiating with federal bureaucracies, and two years of researching the need, M aine’ Comprehensive Indian Alcoholism Reha­ s bilitation Program is about to begin. The program will be funded for three years; but during this time, resources to extend the program beyond that period will be pursued. First year funds, obtained from the National Institute of Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse (NIAAA), amount to $250,000. This money will be used to hire staff (director, nurses, alcoholism counselors, youth counselors, vocational education specialist), to provide temporary shelters at Caribou, Houlton, Indian Township, Indian Island, and Pleasant Point, each of which will have a caretaker, and to establish an Indian Half-Way House, which will have a manager, a cook, and a counselor. Also, a proposal has been submitted to NIAAA which, if funded, will finance the training of all personnel. But the training of personnel will not be restricted to Maine; if another Indian group in New England requests training of a counselor for its Indian alcoholism program, resources for that purpose will come from this proposal. But, at this time, there are no other Indian alcoholism training programs in New England. One hundred thousand dollars is being requested for first year funding, and, also, funding is hoped to be approved for a three and a half year period. Medical services provided for an alcoholic will be paid by state and federal monies. These services are designed to provide the following medical cares: detoxification, checkups, and follow-up services. All resources will be administered by the Wabanaki Corporation, an organization which consists of two representatives from each of the three tribal reservations, two representatives from the Association of Aroostook Indians, and the Central Maine Indian Association, and one from the Department of Indian Affairs. These representatives, appointed by the tribal councils or association boards, comprise the Board of Directors. This Board will be responsible for the hiring and firing of central staff and for providing direction to the staff. The Comprehensive Alcohol Rehabilitation Pro­ gram is oriented toward providing services at the local level. Therefore, each of the five Indian population centers — the three reservations, northern and southern Aroostook County — will serve as head­ quarters for its immediate region. A central head­ quarters for the five centers has not been selected. It is hoped that resources for the program will be received in February. This would enable services to begin by mid or late March. To the Indian alcoholic this program will offer shelter, medical care, counseling, an all Indian half-way house, rehabilitation and employment therapy, and under­ standing. To enhance the possibility of preventing the disease of alcoholism from occurring amongst the adolescents of our Indian communities, youth counseling and preventive health clinics specifically for the young will be conducted. Also, for the homeless alcoholic, especially in times of harsh weather, trailers located in each of the five population centers will offer shelter. Before the program is to commence, these things must be done: 1 Final commitment on the basic NIAAA grant . has to be received. ($250,000) 2. Decision on training funds — ($100,000) 3. Signing of medical services contract. 4. Wabanaki Corporation’selection o f a central s office site and initiation of recruitment. �Wabanaki Alliance Training [Continued from Page 2] Page 3 Employment Opportunities Expanded The Comprehensive Employment and Training Act (CETA), which was passed on December 28, 1973, promises to be a major step toward the goal of selfdetermination, a concept advocated by Maine Indians. CETA provides that Maine Indians can now determine their own employment needs, and, most im portantly, control and operate their own employment programs. The purpose of CETA is to grant to local entities, such as Indian tribes, m ore con trol and decision-making in planning and implementing employment programs. Greater results in fulfilling employment needs of the disadvantaged, the unem­ ployed, and the underemployed should be realized, for now the web of federal and state bureaucracy can be lessened. It’ more efficient to have local control of s manpower programs than to have a state or federal agency dictate policy, just as it is more efficient to have a local government resolve laws for its community than to have the federal or state government dictate resolutions. Wilson describes better ways to run programs. early spring of 1974, and has since been meeting several times a month to deal with common problems and to formulate strategies for securing programs desired by Indian communities. One of the first programs initiated by Tribal Governors’ Inc. was a statewide Indian VISTA project. This project was discussed by the program director, Vivian Massey of Indian Island. Mrs. Massey explained that the VISTA program was geared toward self help. Nine volunteers now employed in the VISTA project are involved in programs which their community decided it wanted and for which it developed a program. The volunteers at Indian Township, Eleanor Mitchell and Anabelle Sockabasin, are developing a comm unity garden and recreation program s. Volunteers at Pleasant Point, Pamela Bassett and Bessie Socabasin, are assisting in tribal administration and in developing family recreation programs. Indian Island volunteers, Eva Bisulca and Madeline Paul, are working with senior citizens and the Save the Children Federation. Roberta Polchies and Shirley Levasseur, volunteers with the Association of Aroostook Indians, are to assist in implementing the food stamp program and communications. Mrs. Massey was followed by Susan Stevens who discussed the Indian Alcoholism program (see alcoholism story), and Roger Gabriel who discussed the role of the Indian Resource Center. Dave Depew discussed the Comprehensive Employment and Training Act (see story on CETA.) The details of what programs and resources exist was followed by two days of how to avoid or overcome problems arising from the administration of programs. Richard Wilson, a Santee Sioux, and Sam Gardpie, a Pawnee, representing the American Indian Management Institute, began their work with a discussion of the principles, functions, and roles of management, then proceeded to discuss the specifics of accounting systems and financial management. Wilson, a PhD candidate and executive director of the Institute, stressed the need for an understanding by tribal council members of what their role is and should be in relation to that of staff which it hires to carry out programs. Wilson pointed out that programs cost money to operate and that the goals of some programs far exceed the resources being made available to accomplish them. This causes, said Wilson, concern among the bureaucrats and outright hostility at home in some instances. “ Too often,”Wilson stated, “ man will become one saddled with too much and doesn’ have the time to t devote to his various responsibilities, which will occasionally lead to a management blunder.”High on the list of blunders is the failure to provide or require adequate records, according to one study cited by Wilson. Wilson also cited the need for very definite policies. “ Political influence seems to have filtered into nearly every one of our activities. The tribal councils, being criteria^ for prime sponsorship varies with each Title. Eligibility for prime sponsorship under Title 1 requires that the State or local government serve a population base of 100,000 persons or more. Also, a consortium consisting o f several local governments can be formed. The State of Maine is the prime sponsor that receives Title 1 funds to operate com ­ prehensive manpower services for the State. Under Title 2, Indian consortia must be serving a population base of 1,000 people or more in order to be eligible for prime sponsorship (non-Indian consortia 50,000-100,000). Eligibility for prime sponsorship to control Title 3 funds requires that a plan be developed to provide additional manpower services to areas of particular need, and again a population criterion of 1,000 is a prerequisite. Because individual Maine Indian Reservations do not have enough people to be eligible for a prime sponsorship, a consortium, called Tribal Governors’ , As established in CETA, the control or extent of Inc., was formed. This consortium represents Passamanpower services to be provided, and the control of maquoddy Tribal Councils at Indian Township funds for each manpower activity is given by the and Pleasant Point, the Penobscot Tribal Council, the Department of Labor to States and local governments Association of Aroostook Indians (AAI), and the or groups of governments called Consortiums. If a newly-formed Central Maine Indian Association consortium, or governmental entity, receives any (CMIA). CETA funds, it is known as a Prime Sponsor. The Tribal Governors', Inc. can receive Title I and Title 2 resources from the State of Maine, which is the elected bodies, must of necessity listen to the demands prime sponsor for DOL, but the control of these of the voters. In so doing, however, these same resources is through the State and not the consortium. pressures have often caused problems.” Wilson Under State Title 1 and 2, Maine Indians are eligible suggested the development of invincible policies to only as a target group or subgrantee. The Department protect both the council member and the tribe from of Labor has established a special allotment of Title 2 its own special interests. monies for Indian reservations which can only be used Wilson also suggested a look at management by consortium members. structuring. “ Most of our ventures have developed In order for a prime sponsor, target group, or sub­ from modest and cautious beginnings. The members grantee to receive CETA funds, it must have a of the tribal council were the logical ones to assess the manpower services plan describing what the value of the endeavor of the tribe and to guide opera­ employment needs are, and how it intends to meet tions. However, as the ventures have become larger those needs. Because such a plan was required, Tribal and more diversified, the problems have increased to Governors’Inc. created a CETA Planning Committee , such an extent that the councils are no longer able to consisting of people who have knowledge of the Indian devote the needed time and still carry on other tribal communities and their employment situation and who affairs. Even where councils have enough time, there have the ability to draft proposals. The members is a need for a definite separation of the council from the operational policies of programs and businesses,” appointed to this CETA Planning Committee are: Andrew Akins, Executive Director of the PassamaWilson stated. Wilson believes that the political quoddy-Penobscot Planning Board; Dave Depew, pressures on council members are simply too great to Director of the Indian Resource Center; Roger permit businesses to operate on a sound financial Gabriel, Assistant Director of the Indian Resource basis. Wilson, therefore, recommended that boards Center; Michael Ranco, Director of the Penobscot and committees be created by each council to watch Indian CAP; Ralph Dana, staff person with Tribal over enterprises and programs, and that managers, Governors’Inc. and former CAP Director at Pleasant , selected for their creativity, education, experience, Point; and Operation Mainstream Directors, Richard interpretive ability, and confidence, be given the Hamilton of Indian Island, and Dave Francis of freedom to operate. Both Wilson and Gardpie dealt Pleasant Point. with the fact that “ program costs money to run.” a The employment needs of Maine Indians were It was the feeling of both individuals that an easily identified by the Planning Committee, but adequate amount of money had to be set aside to run formulating an approach to meet those needs meant a program — Wilson estimated that an average over­ having some idea of the CETA resources that would head would amount to 30% of the cost of the program. be made available for use by Tribal Governors’Inc. , Wilson told the assembled leaders that they should The Planning Committee assessed existing monetary not be afraid to tell bureaucrats “ no, we can not resources, and then developed a plan to acquire afford that program” if there is not an adequate additional CETA resources. amount of resource for the administration o f the Tribal Governors’Inc. has received $279,900 for its , program. CETA Title 3 allotment. Tribal Governors’Inc. has received $10,800 from , CETA Title 2 resources earmarked for Indian prime sponsors. This was for fiscal year 1974. Monies for fiscal year 1975 (this year) will be received shortly. ANNUAL M EETING — Andy Akins expressed hope that this session would become an annual meeting for all leaders to assess progress and voice concerns. Tribal Governors,’ Inc. will receive money from the State CETA Title 1 and Title 2 resources, but that amount has yet to be finalized. When resources from all titles have been received they will substantially exceed the present figure. But it must be greater because Tribal Governors’Inc. now , represents and serves all Maine Indians. CETA is new, and because it is new, and functioning in an old bureaucracy, there has been considerable difficulty in delivering the concept. Probably the greatest negative factors have been fallacious and deficient information and indecisiveness. Now that CETA is with us it will mean more Indian control o f how and for whom employment resources will be used. �Page 4 o i /7 £ Wabanaki Alliance Former Governor Comments on Civil Rights Report STATEMENT BY G O V ERN OR KENNETH M. CURTIS D ECEM BER 4,1974 Relying as they must on the state and soon, hopefully, the federal governm for econom ic survival, it is doubly difficult for Indians to resist assimilation ant maintain the ethnic identity on which continued sovereignty hinges. I like to think that the last few years have brought meaningful advances for life in this sensitive area, official attitude means nearly as much as official act in Maine’ Indian communities as well as considerable improvement in the state’ s s itself. relationship with Indians. Here in state government, mainly through the tireless efforts o f John Stevens, Even so, I hope the release o f this fine report in the last days o f my term will serve to remind us all that a great deal more remains to be done to set right what are slowly com ing to that proper frame o f mind. T o further that process, howe’ s our society has wrought on native Americans, not just in Maine but throughout our the 107th Legislature should react to this com m ittee’ report by creating a sp& study commission with a majority o f Indian representatives to review the sta country for three centuries. In maiiy aspects, I think this report strikes the heart o f the matter when it asks Indian statutes and to recommend appropriate amendments to bring grei slate and federal governments to affirm the inherent right o f Indian self- clarity and justice to Indian rights and Indian programs. determination and tribal sovereignty. As you know, the precise nature o f the relationship between state and federal governments, on one hand, and, Indians on the other, is now a matter o f litigation in the federal courts. It is my personal view, however, that legally and historically it is our responsibility to deal with Indian tribes as one sovereign to another, one nation with another. For me, this means we assist Indian tribes in Maine, not just out o f beneficent indulgence, but more because wc are obliged to do so by our treaty commitments as a nation and as a state. As prior inhabitants o f these lands, Indians have struggled for years to preserve not just their cultural heritage but their political sovereignty. That commission should also review the brief experience we have had with recently enacted off-reservation Indian office to see if that legislation provides adequate response to the committee’ recommendation o f an integra s government approach to Indian issues, regardless o f residence. As the state’ t s off-reservation Indian coordinator, Terry Polchies most likely will have sevt recommendations o f his own for improvements that might be made in the stati Finally, and I think most importantly, the extension o f federal Indian service: Maine Indians is critical. It is more than just the money, although that substantial enough both from the point o f view o f the tribes and for the st* More, it is the principle involved. Status of Report Recommendations Given [Editor’ note: The following recommenda­ s tions by the Maine Advisory Committee to the United States Commission on Civil Rights are divided into two parts. The first part — Policy and Law — contains seven recommendations. The second part — Services and Citizens — contains seven EDITORIAL The impact o f the report from the Maine Advisory Committee o f the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights is already being felt, if not in the actual implementation o f recommendations the report made, then, at least, in the attitudes o f those who will affect implementation. On December 14, the Bangor Daily News editorialized about its, and other newspapers, negligent coverage o f former Governor Curtis’press conference on the report. The editorial promised that the paper would publish more in-depth coverage o f the fin din gs and recom m en d a tion s, and strongly endorsed the committee recommendation that “ the if Indians are successful in obtaining a favorable decision from the U.S. District Court for Maine on the recognition issue in the present litigation against the Secretary o f the Interior, then the attorney general should not appeal the decision.” At this time, a decision on the litigation has not been made, but one is expected in the near future. The case is important to the Indian people of Maine. A positive decision, unappealed, will mean access to federal resources now denied, and settlement with the state o f Maine. It was reassuring to have an editorial in Maine’ s largest daily newspaper endorsing this recommenda­ tion, particularly at a time when a new Governor and a new attorney general have just taken office. But, reassurance hasn’ purchased much in the past, and t Indian people should continue to seek political support tor having Maine’ new attorney general not s appeal this case. _________________________________________ D R D Vol. 3, No. 1 January, 1975 Editor: David R. Depew Co-Editor: Roger Gabriel Editorial Board: DIS Board o f Directors: Nicholas Dow, Chairman; Jean Chavaree, Allen Sockabasin, Roy Paul, Joyce Tompkins, John Bailey Published by Indian Resource Center 95 Main St., Orono, Me. sections and includes recommendations on economic and community development, housing, health, education, foster care, welfare and law enforcement and public safety. Between the time this report was completed and when it was published, Indian people have made substantial progress on some of the recommendations. Therefore, a terse statement will appear at the end o f each appropriate recommenda­ tion describing progress made.] POLICY AND LAW Recommendations: 1. ) That if the Indians are successful in obtaining favorable decision from the U.S. District Court for Maine on the recognition issue in their present litigation against the Secretary o f the Interior, that the attorney general not take appeal o f such a decision, and join with .the Maine Advisory Committee in vigorously pursuing Federal services for Maine Indians. (Decision expected in immediate future) DHEW, the funding o f Indian Community Ac P rogra m s be con tin u ed w ithout interrupt (Accomplished) 2. )That EDA Indian funds not be transferred tc BIA; and if they are, that Maine Indians conti eligibility for public works and planning gra (Monies will be transferred, eligibility uncertain) 3. ) That Federal and State laws and poli requiring non-descrimination in employment strictly enforced in Maine with respect to both pu and private employers. 4. ) That Federal agencies in Region 1 request fi their W ash in gton h ead q u a rters sp ecia l fu a designated for Indian programs and servi (Currently understudy) 5. ) That State planning boards and commissit and advisory committees, in the field o f econo development insure that Indians are represented such bodies. (Some progress being made) 6. ) That no Federal, federally-assisted or Si program for econom ic and community devclopnn 2. ) That the Secretary o f the Interior take every designed in whole or in part for Indians, be can administrative and budgetary action possible to out without the approval o f Indians and the ac assure Federal Indian protection and services to the participation o f Indians in the development o f four tribes o f Maine. program. 3. ) That the Secretary, U.S. Department o f Health, Section 2 — Housing Recommendations: Education, and Welfare, take every administrative 1. ) The moratorium on Indian Housing st: and budgetary action possible to extend services o f the should be lifted immediately so that plans to be Indian Health Services to the four tribes o f Maine. housing construction can continue as scheduled 4. ) That the present Governor take appropriate Penobscot Reservation. (Accomplished) the steps to carry out the 1968 recommendations o f the 2. ) Lack o f trust land should not be a criteria Task Force, recommendations in regard to clarifying denying such independent, off-reservation groups and interpretating statutes on Maine Indians so that the Association o f Aroostook Indians eligibility for Indians may lawfully exercise their rights under the same type o f housing grants made to reservat State Constitution and laws. *(Governor Kenneth communities. Tribal groups living in their aborigi Curtis has stated that the 107th Legislature should territory — like the Maliseets and M icmacs create study commission to d o this; follow-up action Aroostook County — may lack trust land now o on Indian people needed) *former Governor. because their land was taken from them improperly 5. ) That Maine develop an integrated program othe past. In such cases, the Congress should extend f services for members o f the four tribes, regardless of legislation the eligibility for the same hous residency on or o ff the reservations, and that the programs to these groups, for their members, as budget o f the Maine Department o f Indian Affairs be does for reservation groups. The case for such tre adjusted annually on a basis o f need. ment is based in the trust relationship betwt Indians and the Federal Government. 6. ) That any efforts to acquire Federal Indian services be made on behalf o f all Maine Indians. 3. ) Congress should pass legislation to insure l right o f Maine reservation Indians to- participate 7. ) That, as a matter o f basic principle, both State loan programs o f the Veterans Administration a and Federal governments re-examine their policies the Department o f Housing and Urban Developme toward Native Americans in Maine and elsewhere, (Accomplished with HUD) and affirm the inherent right o f Indian self-deter­ mination and tribal sovereignty. 4. ) Region 1 o f the Department o f Housing a SERVICES AND CITIZENS Section 1 — Econom ic and Community Development Recommendations: L) That when O EO funds are transferred to Urban Development should assign one staff meinl to work exclusively with the Indians o f Maine, on- a off-reservation. This person might have the additioi responsibility o f co-ordinating selected housi [Continued on Page 5] �W abanaki Alliance Recommendations (Continued from P age 4| activities o f other Federal agencies involved in the Federal R egion al C oun cil’ Indian T ask Force. s 5.) C on gress should allow for 100% H U D funding o f water and sew erage and n eigh b orh ood facilities in Indian com m unities. Penobscots O ppose Scenic River Plan Page 5 scenic, and recreational sections. (By definition, in regards to construction, wild prohibits m ost human construction, scen ic restricts new development, and recreational allows intensive development.) The stuav is scheduled to be com pleted som etim e this year, and at that time recom m endations and an environmental im pact statem ent will be presented to the Congress for approval. U nlike m ost o f the rivers which have been granted protective consideration under the act, m ost o f the Three hundred and fourteen m iles o f river alon g the land en com passin g the P enobscot branches is East, West, North, and South Branches o f the 1. ) T h e M aine Advisory Com m ittee, which privately owned. T he G reat Northern Paper Company Penobscot, including adjacent land area o f about two con clu d es that M aine Indian health p roblem s are o f owns 80-90% o f the W est Branch drainage area, and m illion acres, has been designated for special serious and ch ron ic p roportion s and that enough about 20% o f the East Branch drainage area. Great protection by the Departm ent o f the Interior. This official studies have reported the crisis, recom m ends Northern also ob jects to the designation, for it has designation is the result o f the W ild and Scen ic Rivers that all health agencies acqu ire the funding necessary announced the possibility o f constructing m ore dams Act passed by C on gress in 1968, an act intended to to attack.the health p roblem s o f M aine Indians. to generate m ore hydroelectric pow er for its mills. It preserve som e o f A m erica’ m ost wild and scenic s 2. ) T hat the Secretary o f H E W m ake the also stated that its own version o f protective waterways. But, as Section 1277 o f the act states, no adm inistrative d ecision that IH S serve M aine Indians land may be taken from an Indian T ribe w ithout its m anagem ent o f the river and adjacent land cannot be and request the necessary increase in appropriations. consent, and the P en ob scot Tribe, whose land claim s im proved u pon by the federal plan. Federal protection Also, that M aine health agencies, such as the State could take two form s: 1) actual acquisition o f land suit includes the designated waterways and land, does departm ents o f H ealth and W elfare, M ental Health not consent. one-quarter m ile on each side o f the river and and Corrections, and the R egional M edical Program, adjacent lakes, or 2) protection by zoning and the Yet aware that the P en obscot T ribe w ould ob ject to M aine M edical Association, take responsibility to purchase o f easements, restricting development but the wild and scenic designation, the Federal Bureau o f report these needs to the IHS. perm itting the land to remain in private ownership. If O u td oor Recreation, an agency o f the D epartm ent o f 3. ) T hat M aine Indians be properly represented on the land is purchased, it cou ld be administered by the Interior, assigned a task force to study the river the various health advisory b oa rd s in the State and on federal agency, or, m ore likely, turned over to the system. G u ided by m em bers o f a can oe clu b the task the IH S Advisory Board. Also, that any agency state. force travelled the river system in July o f last year with receiving fun ding beca use o f an Indian population in O n Septem ber 4 an inform ational meeting the m ajor objective o f classifying the river into wild, a particular area accept the responsibility to serve regardin g the study phase o f the project was held at these Indians. the Statehouse. T ow ard the latter part o f the meeting 2. ) T hat the Federal Indian Education Advisory Section 4 — Edu cation R ecom m endations: then P en obscot T ribal G overnor Matthew Sappier Board include eastern Indian representation to insure 1.) T hat M aine’ D epartm ent o f Education and s related the official position o f the tribe toward the that M aine Indians have input into the policy. Cultural Services, with significant Indian Input,, project. H e advised that “ neither the department of 3. ) T hat M aine’ D epartm ent o f Edu cation and s su bm it a plan to the Federal Governm ent for Johnsonthe Interior nor the. State o f M aine take any action on Cultural Services and the Federal O ffice o f Education O ’ alley funds for M aine Indian education. (Action M design atin g any part o f the P enobscot River as a Wild insure that Maine Indians are receiving their share o f n eeded in im m ediate future) and Scenic River until our land claim s suit is settled. Elementary and Secondary Education Act Title I W e claim all the land in question and question the funds. (Accomplished) ownership claim ed by the State, Great Northern, or 4. ) T hat the recom m endations o f the M aine anyone else.”T he suit Gov. Sappier alluded to is the Education Council to the D epartm ent o f Education P assam aqu oddies vs. M orton suit in which Maine and Cultural Services be im plem ented, creating a Indians claim nearly two-thirds o f the state and are supervisor o f off-reservation Indian education who seeking $300 m illion in dam ages. Sappier’ statement s should be an Indian. (Position created) had a disqu ietin g effect on the invited attendants, 5. ) T h a t I n d ia n s b e a p p o in t e d to any many o f w hom expressed enthusiasm in the proposal-writing team s for any program s being designation, for now all the time and m oney spent on proposed for Indian education; furthermore, that the river study may have been a wasted effort if the Indian School Com m ittee m em bers be inform ed o f land claim s suit is ruled in favor o f Maine Indians. the funding for their program s, and that they be U nder the sam e act the Allagash was purchased provided annually the b udgets for sch ool program s through a state bon d issue, and the State Bureau of and an accounting o f how funds are spent. Parks was selected to administer. Though yet too early (Substantially accom plished) to evaluate the effect o f the river’ designation as a s 6. ) That an outreach program be established to wild and scen ic area, it is estim ated that usage o f the encourage Indians to take advantage o f the p ost­ river by canoers, fishermen, and cam pers has doubled. secondary education program s available to them in Maine, and that the post-secondary sch ools be com pleted, no record o f numbers) sensitized to Indian culture and educational needs. 4.) That M aine’ D epartm ent o f Indian Affairs be s (Progress being made; m ore action needed) authorized to m ake direct grants to the tribal 7. ) That the O ffice o f Child Development, CE N SU S U N D E R W A Y — T im Love has been governm ents s o they can handle their own welfare and D IIE W , R egion 1, and the O ffice o f E con om ic em ployed by T ribal G overnors1 Inc. to condu ct , rehabilitation. O pportunity insure that M aine Indians receive proper a census o f off-reservation Indians in Central Section 7 — Law Enforcem ent and P ublic Safety representation on the com m unity action agency Maine. R ecom m endations: boards in Aroostook, Penobscot, and W ashington 1. ) That M aine’ D epartm ent o f Public Saf s Counties, so that Indian children may participate fully T im othy Love, Indian Island, has been hired by chan ge the speed zon es requested by the Indian in Head Start program s. T ribal G overn ors’ Inc. to con d u ct a population , T ribes on State roads through reservation land and Section 5 — Foster Care R ecom m endations: census o f off-reservation Indians in all counties except erect a caution.light on the road on the Pleasant Point 1. ) T hat M aine’ D epartm ent o f Health and s Aroostook, for which data already exists. This reservation land. T he M aine department o f Public inform ation will be used by CM IA, T ribal G overnors’ W elfare identity and secure federal funds to upgrade , Safety should establish som e m echanism to deal with potential Indian foster h om es for Indian children, and Inc., and the D epartm ent o f Indian Affairs in a Indian requests regarding State roads which traverse that M aine’ D epartm ent o f Health and W elfare s m anner which would benefit all M aine Indians. their reservations. u pgrade the hom es which it built on the PassamaIt is estim ated that there are 3,000 off-reservation 2. ) That M aine’ D epartm ent o f Public Safety mak s qu od d y Reservation. P e n o b s c o ts , P a s s a m a q u o d d ie s , M ic m a c s , and an effort to recruit and train Indians for the State 2. )That the U.S. C om m ission on Civil Rights initiate M aliseets scattered throughout Maine, 1,000 o f whom P olice and establish the necessary guidelines with the a national Indian foster care project to determ in e if live in A roostook county. Thus, as a reasonable D epartm ent o f Personnel i f there are restrictions there is massive deculturalization o f Indian children. estimate, there are two thousand Indians in the state which w ould unnecessarily inhibit Indians from being whose identities are bein g sou gh t by the C M IA Section 6 — W elfare R ecom m endations: hired. census. 1. ) T hat the Social R ehabilitation Service, 3. ) T hat M aine’ D epartm ent o f Public Safety g s D H E W , establish a line o f responsibility to assure that T h e census will provide the statistical inform ation sensitivity training to the State Police regarding funds m ade available to M aine’ D epartm ent o f s needed by C M IA to determ ine the nu m ber o f Indians and law’ governing Indian reservations. And s Health and W elfare for Indians are used to serve off-reservation Indians who will be served by the that M aine’ P olice Academ y provide sensitivity s Indians. various program s which will be d eveloped by, or training in regard to Indians for all trainees and co­ extended to. that organization. 2. ) That a unit be established within the operate with the Indian P olice Departm ent by pro­ Departm ent o f H ealth and Welfare, with Indian Love is em ploying various m eans to inform the offviding training to the Indians who are hired. personnel, to assist in the m on itorin g o f Federal funds reservation Indians o f the central M aine region that a 4. ) T h a t th e M a in e S ta te L egisla tu re en a designated for use by M aine Indians. census is b ein g conducted. O n e such m ethod is the use legislation to continue the funding o f the Maine o f the m edium o f television, through which 3. ) That guidelines for general assistance be m ade Indian P olice D epartm ent and that this Department announcem ents are occasionally broadcast. It is statewide and adequate records kept o f the nu m ber o f be m ade a part o f the Departm ent o f Indian Affairs. expected that the censu s will take six m onths to Indians receiving general assistance for em ergency (Legislation accom plish in g this will be introduced in com plete. needs and how lon g they are receiving it. (Guidelines the 107th Legislature) Section 3 — Health R ecom m endations: Tim Love Conducts Census �Page 6 0 \)l£ W abanaki A lliance Can You Benefit From Food Stamps? Although the USD A food distribution program has been extended until Sept. 16, 1975 tor Indian reservations, it’important, in these times o f inflation, s that serious consideration be given to the Food Stamp Program. Those Indian households which are now dependent on the free government com m odities will suffer unless they increase the buying power o f the dollar by participating in the Food Stamp Program. There are many Indian households eligible to participate, such as those who now receive food vouchers from the State Department o f Indian Atfairs offices, but many do not; perhaps because they do not understand the program, or d o not know where and how to file an application. Eligibility for participation in the Food Stamp Program is based prirharily on the incom e ol a household and the number o f persons in that house­ hold. As a general rule, the lower the incom e of a household, and the greater the number o f persons in that household, greater will be the buying power o f the Food Stamps (Coupons) bought by that household. Besides those eligibility requirements noted above, there are several others which must be met: 1 the household must have cooking facilities, ) CMIA GROW S — At left, top, Ramona Stackhouse and attorney Alice Ballard review documents leading to the incorporation of CMIA; at right, top, Mary Francis, Laura Massey and Roger Gabriel attend one of the many meetings leading to the official organization of CMIA; at bottom, leaders from both CMIA and the Association o f Aroostook Indians meet to discuss mutual problems. Central Maine Indians Recognized The Central Maine Indian Association (CMIA), an organization newly developed by and for “ off-reser­ vation” Indians o f central Maine, was recently recognized by the board o f Tribal Governors, Inc., a consortium consisting o f the governors o f the Penobscot and Passamaquoddy tribes and the president o f the Association o f Aroostook Indians. This recognition took the form o f including the president o f the organization as a member o f the board of Tribal Governors’Inc. , Involved in organizational development since May of this year, CMIA was incorporated on September 9 as a private, non-profit corporation. The purpose of CMIA is to deal with the special problems o f off-reser­ vation Indians who are scattered throughout the area of central Maine. toward a stronger Maine Indian community.” The first objective o f CMIA is to conduct an accurate census-survey o f off-reservation Indians in the area o f central Maine. CMIA has most recently hired a full-time coordina­ tor who is operating out o f the facilities o f the Indian Resource Center in Orono. Vicaire Hired as Coordinator Mary Francis, president o f the new organization, presented to each o f the tribal governors a copy o f the CMIA by-laws, along with a policy statement pledging “ cooperation with each o f the tribal governments full and the Association o f Aroostook Indians in working Bishop Edward O’Leary Installed Bishop Edward C. O ’ Leary has been installed as the Bishop o f Portland, replacing Archbishop Peter L. Gerety. Bishop. O ’ Leary is the second native son to be named Bishop of his home diocese — the first being Bishop Daniel J. Feeney. The Bangor native was ordained to the episcopacy on January 25, 1971, and had worked closely with Bishop Gerety during the ensuing years. Bishop O ’ Leary was born on August 21, 1920; served as an altar boy at St. Mary’ parish in Bangor; s graduated from John Bapst High School; and graduated cum laude from Holy Cross College in Worcester, Mass. He went to St. Paul’ Seminary, s Ottawa, where he received a Licentiate in Sacred Theology. He was ordained on June 15, 1946 by the late Bishop Joseph E. McCarthy. Bishop O ’ Leary has spent his entire priestly career serving the Portland Diocese. CM IA CO ORD IN A TO R — T om Vicaire was recently selected Program Coordinator for the Central Maine Indian Association. Tom, a 27 year old M icmac and a resident o f Mattawamkeag, is married and has three children. After attending Ricker College for two years, Tom worked for the Great Northern Paper Co. for five years before being employed as an agent for Metropolitan Life Insurance Co. for two and a half years. Within the next six months T om and CMIA president, Mary Francis, will be working closely to develop program objectives for the newly-organized Indian association. 2) all able-bodied household members over 18 must register for work. Those excluded from the criterion of employment registration are: 3) Mothers, or other members o f the household, who have to take care o f dependents under 18 years o f age, or o f incapacitated adults, 4) Students who are enrolled at least half-time in recognized schools or training programs, 5) People who are employed at least 30 hrs. per week, 6) Those who are physically or mentally disabled, 7) Persons over age 65. It’ important that all able-bodied members o f a s household register for employment; otherwise, that household will be denied participation in the program. But there are loopholes to this requirement: if an offered job is considered “ unsuitable” by the applicant, he does not have to accept the job. Further details may be acquired when the application for food stamps is filed. Based solely on the number o f persons in a house­ hold, a monthly Food Stamp allotment will be made. For example, in a household consisting o f 6 persons, the monthly allotment is $204. How much this house­ hold o f 6 has to pay to receive the $204 worth o f food stamps depends on how much money the household earns in a month, minus such expenses as rent, utilities, medical costs beyond $10 per month, home damage expenses, etc. What the household has to pay for its allotment o f food stamps is called the purchase requirement. And the difference between the monthly allotment and the purchase requirement is called “ bonus”or “ free”food stamps. The purchase requirement for any given sized household varies as to income. For the family o f 6, the purchase requirement ranges from 0 to $172. This means that the household o f 6 pays anywhere from 0 to $172 for its food stamp allotment o f $204. In most cases, especially in cases o f a large household, the purchase requirement will be low. In no case will the purchase requirement be more than 30% o f the house­ hold’ net income. For those households whose s income, after expenses are deducted, is zero, they pay nothing for their allotment o f food stamps. The household is not required to buy its full allotment o f food stamps at one time. In the state of Maine food stamps may be bought twice a month, so the household has the option o f either: 1 paying one-half price for the full one-half month ) allotment, or 2) paying one-fourth price for one-fourth the monthly allotment. For the household o f 6, whose monthly allotment o f |Continued on Page 7] �o \hs Wabanaki Alliance Page 7 THE RED SUIT By Paul A. Francis, Jr. One late fall day, while casually searching the shore of the river for flotsam that may have been discarded from the flotilla o f missionary canoes that passed the village that morning. Little Big Foot found a sizable box marked “ o Not Open ’ Christmas Eve.”Not D Til being able to read, nor having cognizance o f any Christian holidays, he tore off the top o f the box. “ Now what is this?”he asked himself aloud. “ Red pants, red shirt, black boots — even a fluffy white beard as I have seen on some White men.” Perhaps, he thought, it is the latest fashion o f the Whites. How noble it would be if 1 presented this fashionable attire to our Chief. And maybe, he thought with excitement, the Chief will reward me with the hand o f his daughter, the fair Toadstool, o f who, I have heard magnificent things. Thus off to the C h ief s tepee he went, carrying on his shoulder the box he had found. Though no one o f the village had ever seen the Indian princess, save for members of the immediate family, she was rumored to be o f awe-inspiring beauty, such that a sun-bathed summer’ day would s appear gloomy as a moonless November night in comparison. For years the Chief had promised to bring the princess before the villagers so that all might look upon her wondrous beauty; but, as yet, his promise remained unfulfilled. “ Halt!” ordered a guard, as Little Big Foot was about to bang on the inclined door with his tomahawk. “ What business have you with the Chief?” “ N-n-n-none,” stammered Little Big Foot. “ Only that I have a gift for him — a suit o f clothes, the latest fashion o f the Whites.” “ Why would the Chief want to wear clothes o f the Whites?” “ Perhaps,” offered Little Big Foot,” to show the Whites that Indians, too, have a taste for class.” “ Leave the box with me. I will tell the Chief just as you have told me. Now.go!” “ not forget to tell him who brought the gift. By Do the way, if I may inquire, have you ever seen the princess?” Food Stamps [Continued from Page 6] food stamps is $204, it may purchase either $102 worth o f food stamps for half o f whatever the purchase requirement is (one-half o f the figure between 0 and $172); or it can buy $51 worth o f food stamps for one-fourth the purchase requirement (one-fourth the figure between 0 and $172.) An application for food stamps may be obtained either from your local CAP office, or from a local Food Stamp office. In applying, the following items may be requested to determine eligibility and to compute your purchase requirement: wage stubs, heating fuel bills, electricity bills, cooking fuel bills, water bills, telephone bills, doctor or hospital receipts, savings account and checking account books, etc. Keep in mind that the more expenses you have, the less will be your purchase requirement. If eligibility is verified, the head o f the household will receive an identification card which must be shown whenever food stamps or food is bought. Also, the head o f the household will receive an “ Authorization-To-Purchase”(ATP) card which will be mailed to him. This card shows the total amount o f food stamps he will receive and how much must be paid to acquire these stamps. This card can only be used once and must be left with the person who sells you the food . stamps. The Food Stamps themselves are sold at approved municipal offices and in most banks. Under penalty of law, food stamps cannot be sold or given away. They are as good as money only upon the purchase o f food at participating stores. As far as the types o f commodities which can be bought with the food stamps are concerned, only those intended for human consumption can be bought. You cannot buy: 1 alcoholic beverages, tobacco or cigarettes ) 2) pet foods, soap, household supplies and equipment, and other non-food items 3) “ lunch counter”or food prepared for eating on premises. “ Never,”replied the guard, in a softer tone. “ But often I hear her sing; what an angelic voice she has.” For days after Little Big Foot kept a steady eye on the C h iefs tepee, waiting for him to emerge full-attired in the red suit, waiting impatiently for his reward. And while watching, Little Big Foot would daydream o f a crisp summer’ day that would find s himself and the beautiful princess lying peacefully on the bank o f the river, embraced in each other’ s affection. Finally, on the night o f the semi-annual, anti-White, intra-tribal, quasi-religious hoedown and general bash, the Chief emerged full-attired in the bright red, albeit somewhat baggy, suit, fluffy white beard, and the black, shiny boots. Oohs and aahs resounded through the congregation as he passed through. And over his shoulder he carried a large, bulky sack. Little Big Foot looked on and smiled complacently. He watched the Chief as he approached the rostrum to address the congregation. Now, thought Little Big Foot, the C hief will'praise me for my thoughtfulness and reward me with the hand o f his fair daughter. “ My fellowr tribesmen and dear friends,” bellowed the Chief. “ Here you sec me adorned in ceremonial garb bestowed upon me by the god o f the sun. Onequarter moon ago 1 went to the mountains to seek the blessing o f the benevolent, omnipotent one. It was then....” “ You lie!” screeched Little Big Foot, running towards the rostrum. “ was I, not the sun-god, who It gave you those clothes. I found them along the river, and I demand just reward.” “ Throw him in the stables and make him clean them,”ordered the Chief. “ That will be his reward for calling me, your god-inspired Chief, a liar. Off!” Little Big Foot was not carried off without a struggle. He was able to resist long enough to see the Chief quiet and appease the villagers by opening the sack and showering them with gifts. One brave received a teddy-bear, another a train set, a third a cap pistol with holster. The medicine man received a doll that could perform all the functions o f the human body. One and all received a gift, and faith in the Chief was restored. Little Big Foot was a hapless young brave indeed. Not,only did he not win the hand o f the fair princess, but now and then lie discovered in his hand a glob o f fetid manure. For three days he remained in the stables, shoveling and sweeping. And the flies! There were enough o f them to support the theory of spontaneous generation. Little Big Foot had dreamt o f being with the fair Toadstool and wooing her, but here he was in the stables, his head woozy from the work. Finally, with his labor completed. Little Big Foot was allowed to g o his own way, after having been cautioned to say no more about the red suit. But already he was bent toward vindictiveness. Everyone in the village, it seemed, was busily playing with his gift. Those who had received train sets united to lay one set o f tracks that circled the village. O f course, the trains couldn’ be ridden, but t how fun it was to crawl along the ground and push the little engines. And the medicine man announced his desire to marry the doll he had received. And the Chief? He yet proudly wore the red suit and the boots as a sign o f divine favor. Now, thought Little Big Foot, as he watched a couple o f braves duel it out with their cap pistols, I must plan my revenge. Tonight, when all the village is asleep, I will steal into the C h iefs tepee and kidnap the fair princess. Also, I must steal the red suit to make my plan work. So that night, when the village resounded with the sound o f snores. Little Big Foot made his move. As quiet as reindeer he fulfilled the first part o f his plan. Before too long he was heading for the mountain, the box containing the suit on one shoulder, the sack containing the princess on the other. Daybreak in the village was frantic. Already, news o f the missing suit and the abducted princess had been spread via smoke signals from one end o f the village to the other. The Chief quickly organized a search party, and he offered 10,000 clamshells for the return o f the suit. “ Any reward for the return o f the princess?” one brave asked. “ The return o f who? Oh, well, I’ give you her hand ll in marriage. Now find that suit!” Everyone o f the village, even the elders whose eye­ sight was so bad they couldn’ tell the difference t between a tepee and a manure pile, got into the act. But before long, one o f the braves looked toward the mountain, where the sun was just clearing the summit, and he saw a red-clad figure making its way down the declivity. “ There!” cried the brave, pointing towards the mountain. “ being dressed in red approaches. Could A it be the omnipotent one?” The village buzzed with excitement and a little fear. For eons they had implored the sun-god to com e down from the sky and dwell in their humble village for a while. Now, it seemed, their prayers were being answered. “ But why is he walking?”one o f the villagers asked. "W hy doesn’ he tly down with his winged t m occasins?” “ And what is that sack over his shoulder?”another inquired. Everyone o f the village fell to their knees in prostration, and no one, not even the Chief, doubted that the red-clad figure was indeed the sun-god. “ Arise, brothers,”the sun-god spoke. “ have come I to clear the air o f an irreverent lie. Your Chiel claims to have spoken to me atop the summit o f the mountain. That is not true; nor is it true that 1 gave him a red suit such as I am wearing. He stole it as I was bathing in your earthly river. And to punish him I have taken his daughter, the flower o f your village, and she will be my wife in the high heavens. Now I must return, for there is no one else, to shovel the coal to keep the heavenly campfire going. Farewell.” “ Wait, benevolent, omnipotent one,” one o f the braves meekly requested. “ For years we have waited for our Chief to show us his daughter. We, too, appreciate great beauty, and we would be grateful if you could allow us to see the fair princess before she is forever after to live in your heavenly abode. Grant us this one request and we will double the offerings we make to you.” “ will be a sensual pleasure for me also to behold It her pulchritude, for I have not seen her yet either.” answered the sun-god. With that, the sun-god hoisted the sack o ff his shoulder and placed it gently on the ground. With one deliberate pull the sack was removed, and there stood the princess for all to see. After the sun had set on the village that day.the cool late autumn night prompted the building o f many campfires. Around the campfires sat the villagers, and one by one they threw their gifts into the embers. The fires quickly consumed the gifts and the smoke curled heavenward. A puzzled lot the villagers were. Why, each thought to himself, did the sun-god substitute the beautiful Indian princess. Toadstool, with a hideous, grotesque monster o f womanhood? Why did he bolt towards the mountain, leaving behind the ugly creature who claimed to be the C h ief s daughter? Thus, every year, to commemorate the tragedy, one o f the villagers dressed in the red suit, which was found discarded half-way up the mountain, would com e down from the mountain in a horse-drawn canoe specially fitted with wooden wheels to spare the ribs, and he would shower the villagers with gifts. The villagers would then hang the gifts on a great fir tree, and the tree would be set ablaze. And what o f the princess and the ugly impersonator? The creature disappeared; and the fair princess, as verified by a guard, was back in her father’tepee. s And Little Big Foot? He claimed to have been on a hunt while the whole tragedy had occurred. It did not strike the villagers strange that he volunteered to work in the stables for a year. Better to be amongst manure and flies than to be married, he was frequently heard to mutter. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource <em>Wabanaki Alliance</em> (January 1975) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Indian Resource Center Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1975-01 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Donald Soctomah Julia Brush Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Document Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context DV-418 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Passamaquoddy Cultural Museum Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Steve Cartwright. Used with permission. https://www.dawnlandvoices.org/collections/files/original/99367eca5fdd312b484de64d7926582f.pdf 6d9da25fee82479061357c6d590c2918 PDF Text Text Non-profit org. U Postage .S. Paid 2.1‘ Orono, Maine Permit No. 14 Wabanakl Alliance January 1978 Indian parent w ages custody fight UNITED — Martin A. Neptune, Penobscot Indian, relaxes with his three children and his second wife, Blanche, near their Indian Island home. The kids are from left, John, Naomi and Chris. [Cartwright Photo] Letter claims tribal governor hires kin INDIAN TOWNSHIP — A petition bearing 57 names has been brought to the tribal governor here, alleging he has filled jobs with his relatives. Allen J. Sockabasin and other Passamaquoddy Indian signers o f the petition say "It seems that most of the employment posi­ tions available are filled by the tribal governor's family and by non-Indians.” Passamaquoddy Tribal Gov. John Stevens flatly denies the charge. First of all. he said, "a personnel committee does all the hiring. The department heads are the only ones 1 hire and none of them are my relatives.”But Stevens did acknowledge some persons hired by the committee are his relatives. The petition lists Stevens’relatives by name, claiming they are currently employed by the reservation government. Stevens maintains that a number o f these persons no longer work for the tribe, for one reason or another. The petition also refers to a "recent shooting of Allen Sockabasin’ residence.” s It says two of Stevens’nephews. George Sabattus and Howard Stevens, were on the police departm ent payroll until that incident. Governor Stevens said he did not condone the shooting incident, in which Allen Sockabasin's wife was reportedly injured by broken glass. Stevens said Sockabasin has himself been involved in shooting incidents. According to the petition, many of the jobs in question are federally funded through an Indian CETA program, or a Washington County CETA agency. "Most government programs have guidelines to prevent conflicts of interest, but they are being ignored by tribal administrators. "This problem exists in all phases of tribal operations including the housing authority and the school system,” the petition says. Stevens, who received a copy o f the petition, said he does not have juris­ diction over those areas. The petitioners say they are mostly un­ employed, and their unemployment benefits have run out. “ When presented with our complaints in the past, tribal officials have stated that our complaints were without merit, or that we lacked the majority, or had got support from the news media which published biased news reports,”the petition says. "O ur intention in this (petition) is not to gain the support o f the news media, or to gain majority support, or to make state­ ments that are not factual. Our intention is for the tribal governor and council to look at the problem as it exists and try to resolve it.” CMIA sets m e etin g ORONO — Central Maine Indian Asso­ ciation (CMIA) has scheduled a regular general membership meeting for Thursday, Feb. 9, at its offices, 95 Main St., Orono. The meeting starts at 7 p.m. A previous meeting, slated last month, v/as cancelled. Picard transfers INDIAN ISLAND — The Rev. Raymond Picard has been transferred from St. Ann's Parish. Peter Dana Point and assigned as Pastor of St. Joseph’ Parish in Sinclair and s Holy Family Parish in Daigle. Picard served at St. Ann’ lor the past s year. According to Clarence F. McKay. Di­ rector of the Bureau o f Diocesan Informa­ tion. Picard’ position at St. Ann’ will be s s filled by a Jesuit priest from the Boston area. Picard. 37. is a Biddeford native. He was instrumental in sponsoring a Cursillo religious education program. By Steve Cartwright INDIAN ISLAND — Martin A. Neptune has carried a large paper bag around with him for months, filled with papers, letters, photos and documents. A saga o f his struggle to win custody of his three children is in that bag. but so far the 26-year-old Penobscot Indian father hasn’ t won. Nor has he given up. In the latest turn of events. Martin’ s ex-wife Kathleen drove from Florida to the Neptune home on Oak Hill. Indian Island, and picked up the two younger children. Christopher, four, and Naomi, three. JohnJohn. six. has stayed with his father as specified in the origian! court divorce decree. Martin Neptune, a quiet-spoken, articulate man who heads a Maine Indian wilderness program, still hopes to re-unite his three children on the Penobscot Nation, where he lives with his non-Indian wife. Blanche. Martin's divorce from Kathleen, a nonIndian, was granted last March 2 at district 1 court in Bangor. The couple had been about five years. The judge granted me divorce on grounus m cruet and abase, treatment, but defendent Martin said no such treatment ever occurred in the Neptune household. One day after the divorce decree. Kathleen Neptune took all three children and their belongings and tied to Florida. There the children remained, mostly out o f touch with their father, until Martin drove to Daytona Beach last July and returned to Maine with his children by his side. He had planned to file a new motion for custody o f the two younger children in district court. The children were together with their father for five months until under the threat of extradition to Florida, and pressure through a personal call from Maine Gov. James B. Longley, Martin complied with officials and the latest Florida trip was arranged. Apparent discrimination Martin Neptune’ story might be just a s chronicle o f personal struggle and family problems, but that the case involved highly(Continued on page 4) Discrimination case upheld INDIAN ISLAND — The Maine Human Rights Commission has upheld a claim of discrimination brought by a Penobscot Indian here. Dana Mitchell, a 36-year-old steelworker, had complained to the commission that Ironworkers Local Number 496, o f which he is a member, had failed to find him work or protect him on the job. The com m ission voted recently in Augusta that “ reasonable grounds”for the complaint exist. The commission will next propose a conciliation agreement between Mitchell and the union, and if that fails, may refer the case to the Attorney General’ s office for court action, a commission spokes­ man said. Mitchell, who says he "can hang iron just like any o f them,” claims he was unjustly laid off from a Scott Paper Co. job at Hinkley, and from a Central Maine Power Co. job at Cousins Island. He said in those cases, and also when he received a hand injury on the job, his union gave him no support. Mitchell said he hoped the commission’ s ruling on his case will boost an awareness of affirmative action guidelines on hiring min­ orities throughout the state. "This is what I’ been looking for.”he said, adding, "it’ ve s taken me over a year to get them to act on this case.” Although Mitchell said the commission "dragged its feet,”he said he was pleased that Atty. Gen. Joseph Brennan acted on his behalf in the case. Mitchell pointed out that Brennan opposes Penobscot Indians in the current land claims case, but that he never­ theless backed Mitchell’ discrimination s complaint. Union business manager Bill Shirland of Old Town, contacted prior to the Human Rights Commission action, said Mitchell’ s claims were groundless. “ this business In (work) is a temporary situation,” he said. �Page 2 Wabanaki Alliance January 1978 editorials The commissioner Housing Indians A great deal is going on in the Indian housing business. New pro­ jects are springing up on Maine’ three reservations every year, and s the whole appearance o f communities is in flux. That appearance is more than cosmetic. New housing can change the whole quality o f home life, and that, after all, is where life is based. The benefits are obvious: safe, warm, spacious, attractive houses mean healthier, happier families. Or that should be the case, anyway. Perhaps all this new construction is indeed a blessing, but we wonder if its longer range effects are under scrutiny. Certainly the new housing projects are a blessing for contractors, most o f whom are non-Indian. But what o f the Indians who live in these 550,000 houses? First of all, if a family moves from a cramped, drafty dwelling to a spanking new conventional suburban type home, the mere physical comforts spell improvement. But taking a closer look, we see these expensive new homes are not in the least bit Indian in character, and reflect nothing o f native American heritage. Further, many of the houses built to date are not environmentally or aesthetically adapted to Maine. An exception is Pleasant Point Passamaquoddy reservation with its demonstration project for solar heated homes. But what about woodstoves, roofs pitched to handle a snow load, and a home that somehow harmonizes with the rugged weather and natural habitat o f the northeast? Many new Indian homes lack these things, and we don’know who t is responsible, who calls the shots. If tribal housing authorities have surveyed Indians and learned that the kind o f houses being built are exactly what Indians want, well and good. But we doubt Indians are completely satisfied with what’ going s on. We doubt Maine Indians want to sit back and watch the Indianness o f their communities obliterated by outside forces, however wellintentioned these forces may be. (We’ not so sure about good re intentions; there’a lot o f money to be made in the housing industry, s and more than one reservation job shows shoddy workmanship.) Housing is more than four walls and a roof. Think for a moment how much one can learn about someone by visiting that person’ s home. When federal grant money becomes available to meet housing shortages, the pressure is on to build, build, build. But is this construction in the best interests o f Indians? Should Indians worry about how new houses affect their lives and the character o f the community? Shelter is a necessity o f life, but it is much more than that. A home is a spiritual center, a base for learning and growth. There is a difference between a house and a home, and perhaps still another difference between a home and an Indian home. These things are subtle and less tangible than bricks and mortar, but are the foundation o f Indian society. WABANAKI ALLIANCE Vol/l, N o . l Januaiy 1978 Published monthly by the Division of Indian Services [DIS] at the Indian Resource Center, 95 Main St., Orono, Me. 04473. Steven Cartwright, Editor William O ’ Neal, Ass’ Editor t. DIS Board of Directors Jean Chavaree [chairman] John Bailey, CAP coordinator Albert Dana Timothy Love, CAP director Jeannette Neptune, Tribal Clerk Erlene Paul, Central Maine Indian Assn. Roy Paul, Assn, of Aroostook Indians Maynard Polchies, president, Aroostook Indians Michael Ranco, Central Maine Indian Assn. Indian Island Pleasant Point Indian Township Indian Island Indian Township Indian Island Houlton Houlton Orono DIS is an agency ol Diocesan Human Relations Services, Inc. of Maine. Subscriptions to this newspaper are available by writing to Wabanaki Alliance, 95 Main St., Orono, Me. 04473. Diocesan Human Relations Services and DIS are a non-profit corporation. Contri­ butions are deductible for income tax purposes. Whatever happened to the Commissioner o f the Maine Depart­ ment o f Indian Affairs, one might ask. Many, but not all Maine Indians are now federally recognized and eligible for Bureau o f Indian Affairs (BIA) funds and services. That may or may not alter the status o f Maine’ Indian commissioner. s What may have had more affect recently is the Indian land claims issue, in which the State unilaterally opposes the Passamaquoddies and Penobscots. The State, briefly, is not on the best o f terms wr Indians. Also, ith the State is a political body and Gov. James B. Longley doesn’want t any clouds in his political future. He seems to be sitting tight on the question o f a commissioner. There hasn’ been a permanent commissioner since George M. t Mitchell, the second Indian to hold the post, quit over a dispute with the Governor. The controversy arose from the land claims issue — Mitchell said he couldn’ be neutral. t After Mitchell resigned, Longley named political consultant Charles W. Rhynard as interim commissioner. Chuck Rhynard was dubbed the “ day wonder” by some Indians, although he has 90 overstayed his original tenure. Rhynard said Longley asked him to stay longer than the mutually agreed upon 90 day term, and Rhynard accepted on condition he be part time. He was to work part time until a replacement was named, but there aren’ any successors on the horizon. t Perhaps Longley and other officials are hoping the problem will just go away. Apparently, a number o f candidates for the job were interviewed, but that’ the last we heard of it. s In fairness to Rhynard, he could have resigned and left the depart­ ment in the lurch. He hasn’ But the Department o f Indian Affairs is t. on a skeleton crew, and wading in paperwork. Set up in 1965 by then Gov. John Reed, the department was for a time headed by John Stevens, a Passamaquoddy Indian and new governor o f Indian Township reservation. The department and the com m issioner’role can be a great plus to s Maine Indians, both as an official voice and as a contact with Statelevel politics and policies. If the Governor and the Legislature, when they convene, d o not do something about appointing a commissioner and maintaining the Department of Indian Affairs, they should have to answer for it. Wampanoag claims There is no direct link between the Mashpee, Mass. Indian claims and those o f the Penobscot and Passamaquoddy tribes in Maine, but there are actual as well as important symbolic similarities. In both states, native Americans are seeking some redress for lands illegally taken from them, and ultimately, they are trying to preserve their battered cultural customs and traditions. Ironically, it is the very abuse o f Indian ways and the break-up of Indian community that formed the basis o f the recent verdict in U.S. District Court, Boston. The all-white jury said the Wampanoags do not constitute a tribe. Why aren’ the W ampanoags a tribe? Because whites took over t their lands, intermarried, and because Indians were assimilated into the white culture. That's what former Nixon lawyer James St. Clair argues, adding that W ampanoags have no unifying culture. St. Clair represents the town and non-Indian landowners, a town built on former Indian land. St. Clair says he sees no tribe, even though Indians stand before him. How would St. Clair know what a tribe is? The W ampanoag Indians are a tribe that has survived as best they could in a system that usually wants them extinct, or at least wants their culture exterminated. No matter how few Indians there are, or how many white ways they have adopted, the have a right to their cultural identity. In Maine, the Penobscots and Passamaquoddies won federal rec­ ognition as a tribe. But obviously they are tribes with or without that federal stamp o f approval. Thank God, or the Great Spirit, that the W ampanoags have persevered through wars, discrimination and white assimilation tactics to stand tall in 1978 — two centuries o f survival — and call themselves a tribe. �letters Really proud Alliance criticized Bangor To the editor: As one who believes that unremitting praise tends to make one overly confident in performance, I wish to offer some questions and criticisms to obviate such an occurance. Firstly, I wonder why the editor began anew with “ Vol. 1” since there have been other editions of the Wabanaki Alliance? Secondly, though not questioning his enthusiasm and interest in the Indian com ­ munity, and realizing that he was perhaps approved by the all-Indian DIS Board, I wonder how effective the non-Indian assistant editor will be in relating to the Indian community? Thirdly, the omission of the colorful logo that introduced previous volumes is blind­ ingly evident. Just how “ brightly colored”is the mural pictured in black and white on page 3 of the Dec. issue? Is the cost of color prohibitive, especially where the paper issues monthly? Fourthly, though I realize that news about Indians outside of Maine may be interest­ ing, I yet question its inclusion to such an extent in a paper geared toward Maine In­ dians. Perhaps as much as one-half of December's issue relates in content or authorship to non-Maine Indians. And I question the policy o f publishing articles submitted by those who wish to remain anonymous. Paul A. Francis, Jr. Return collar, cuff Boston To the editor: I would like to receive the Wabanaki Paper. I am Penobscot and Maliseet from Indian Island. I’ read the paper and I'm ve really proud that they got people together and published a fine paper. Also, could you please say hello to my aunt Vivian Massey for me. Carla Francis Sadly needed Bass Harbor To the editor: Thank you for putting me on your mailing list. You do not mention a subscription price, but I enclose my check for five dollars, as I do not think I should receive it for nothing. Such a publication is sadly needed in Maine, and I hope it continues to reach a wider and wider audience. I have great admiration for what you are trying to do, to establish the Indian identity and way o f life which has been so cruelly denied for so long. I think there is more o f an audience now for the Indian ethic than in the past, if it could just be reached. I hope the Wabanaki Alliance can contribute to that outreach, as this country has much to learn for its benefit from the “ Indian way.” Right on! Hollis Piatt Solar panels at Pleasant Point These solar panels are in use at the Pleasant Point Passamaquoddy Reservation, as an experimental project of the tribal housing authority. Results won’ be known until spring, t according to housing officials. ____________________ ____ _____ Commentary: Prison life for an Apache-AAicmac By Bill O ’ Neal NORFOLK PRISON. Mass. — A letter to the editor in the December issue of Wabanaki Alliance concerning prisoner To the editor: David Brady, a Micmac-Apache. prompted In the November 1977 issue o f your paper, us to write to him about his experiences in there was another letter to the editor con­ prison. His reply detailed some o f the cerning a picture. In the letter, Eunice tensions and even horrors which befall Baumann made inquiries concerning the Indians entering prison and provides a tragic collar and cuff set belonging to the Pen­ reminder o f what society is like when a obscot Indian Nation. Mattawamkeag person, in prison or not, has surrendered or 1have heard from several people that the To the editor: lost control o f his rights and is subject to the last Governor to wear the collar and cuff set Thank you very much for sending me will of others. at inauguration was Francis Ranco and the Wabanaki Alliance. I am more than a little It was not necessary to open Brady’letter s last person to wear the medallion was John distressed by many o f the articles, but to see the first signs of the pressures under Mitchell. These are Tribal belongings and a part of realize the truth must be faced and which he lives. He had taped all the sealed accepted. Please continue to send me the parts o f the envelope to ensure that its our lost traditions. They should be turned paper as there are also many brighter sides contents could not be tampered with over to some caretaker for future governors. in the picture o f Indian affairs. without being noticed. They were never meant for an individual. Shirley Potter Hanscom In addition to having to tolerate the con­ Karen Rhine tempt of some of the prisoners, he has charged that he receives little better treat­ ment from some o f the guards. He states that he has received Disciplinary Reports for alleged infractions ranging from “ putting too much butter on my bread to being a sus­ picious person in my sleep. I guess the guard thought in my dreams 1was plotting against him. I have had verbal abuse thrown at me from guards as well as cons, but this is to be expected from an ignorant civilization.” For these same Indians chose legend as It’true that at your peak I mostly felt s When his daughter was murdered in 1975, I'd done it then at last — I'd conquered you: the way to meet on truthful terms with you, he received such remarks as, “ The only good the fact that twice I’ nearly turned back d and even as I made my slow descent Indian is a dead Indian.” Brady stated, "1 the reason for this started coming clear down, have to keep reminding myself I’ in a m in that I knew your reach down into me that my whole body seethed with ache and civilized society." strain — was no whit less than mine upwards to you. Harrassment of Brady has gone beyond these things were lost beneath the spread verbal abuse and threats. He alleges that in of joy August of last year two individuals jammed that came like spreading rain across As mists swirled by across the tableland the door of his cell while he was sleeping and parched earth. I realized suddenly the white-blazed trail hurled a blazing jar o f gasoline onto the was now a lifeline o f the frailest kind; I revelled in the thought that everything floor near him. Fortunately, he was able to as thunder snarled and boomed I tried to to see necessitated looking down — get himself and two kittens which he was hear far down the northern steeps to Chimneykeeping to safety. This safety was short­ just vacuum-filling air, but knew as well Pond, lived, however. Several weeks later he was I somehow heard Pamola voicing ire. or just down to the Knife Edge running called out o f his cell on what he considers to east — have been a “ wild-goose chase.”While there but even as I did so I began So I know now that I will always think (in the office of the officer in charge), one of to feel my burgeoned sense o f triumph wane. o f you whenever I shall take stock of the civilized convicts in my block went into the scope o f my own dreams, the limits of my cell, picked up my kitten, and proceeded And what this had to do with was your vast my strength, the kind o f life in legend I to strangle her . . . then this individual put indifference to terms like this o f mine — and my own people have, or do not have — her in a paper bag and left her outside my that I and others reached your highest point and thus our conversation, endless into time. cell door . . . I found her as she was left.” was even less the point than was the fear Although Brady feels that harrassment that kept the Abenaki Indians from the guards and inmates is in part due Richard Aldridge in olden days from climbing you at all. to the fact that he is an Indian, his opinion o f the prison superintendent is slightly dif­ Old Town Distressed Poetry Conversing with Katahdin ferent. “ The superintendent discriminates against everybody here, guards as well as cons. He has the viewpoint o f he doesn't care if you’ white, black, yellow, or red; you’ re re below his standpoint whether you be con or guard ... I am not sticking up for him. I am just facing reality in the whole situation.” Though plagued with enemies, Brady is not without some friends and support. “ A lot o f white cons in my block and in the prison are behind me all the way, as well as white administration workers, so any dis­ crimination is coming from a small group.” Still, there seems to be little he can do within the prison environment, where people with authority over him are free to make and break rules as they see fit. He stated that the prison infirmary recently denied him medication, which a doctor had told him he had to take on a regular basis. Fortunately, help from the outside in the form o f his lawyer convinced the officials to reconsider. Within prison there is little Brady can do to defend himself. He refuses to name the people who are persecuting him. “ won’ I t and can’ as this type of thing is against all t, the principles I have been taught in life.”He also could take a protective custody, which would remove him from most o f the people harrassing him, an alternative he refuses to accept. “ will not let a person who hasn’ I t the guts to come to my face and fight like a man . . . make me run to a cell where I’ be ll locked up 23 hours a day. He also pointed out that o f 26 prisoners killed in Walpole, Norfolk, and Bridgewater Prisons in Massa­ chusetts in the last three years, 22 have died in protective custody. He stated that the only way his situation can improve is if he is moved to a minimum security institution. With few places to turn within the prison, Brady has had to rely on his own resources and his culture to face the forces which are against him in the prison. He said he has done this by “ being myself, as I was raised; by being proud of who I am and being proud o f my people.”In 1971 during the unrest in the Massachusetts prisons he along with three other Indian prisoners started the Indian Rights Group. Presently this group’ s outside sponsor is the Native American Indian Association, Worcester, Mass. Last June, Brady’ case was accepted in s the Massachusetts State Supreme Court, and it is here that he has pinned his greatest hopes. “ When out, I will go to South Dakota, pick up my wife and return to Canada, where I’ from,” he said. m �Page 4 Wabanaki Alliance January 1978 Indian custody fight Jury rejects Mashpee status By Bill O’ Neal BOSTON — After a ten week trial, an all As Martin sees it, Maine was all too ready white jury has decided that the Wampanoag to bring a case against him through extra­ dition to Florida, but when the tables were Indians o f the town o f Mashpee, Massa­ reversed, and Kathleen had broken the law, chusetts did not constitute a tribe, when the Maine officials refused to lift a finger for Massachusetts Legislature in 1870 voted to change Mashpee from an Indian land him. “ They’ going all out to put me in jail, district to a town, nor are they a tribe today. re The jury returned the decision in response but they wouldn’ do a thing to help me t when I needed help,” Martin said, adding to three questions delivered by Judge Walter that he believes his custody fight has taken J. Skinner during his instructions to the on political dimensions and is not being jury. The jury concluded that the Indians were a tribe in 1834 and 1842, but not in considered on its own merits. 1790, the date of the U.S. Non-intercourse Martin goes further than his personal Act, and 1870. when the land was converted case to say that it’ about time officials s into the town o f Mashpee. Without tribal recognized there is a need for a national custody law, to prevent the chain o f events status there is little chance that the Mashpee Wampanoags can press their claim that he has undergone. Martin’ paper bag, which he finally forming the township was in violation o f the s 1790 Non-intercourse Act, which prohibited replaced with a new one after the other gave all land transactions with tribes without the out. contains considerable correspondence sanction of the U.S. Congress. with parents undergoing similar custody Selectman George Benway o f Mashpee. hardships. He has also located organizations contacted by Wabanaki Alliance, said that concerned with custody problems. the jury had been instructed by Judge Martin Neptune has learned he is far Skinner that the burden o f proof rested with from alone in his struggle. the plaintiffs (the Indians) and that, if they But Martin is also Indian and male. He felt there was insufficient evidence, they considers those facts two strikes against him were to decide on the tribal issue in the in the custody fight. negative. Benway said he felt the jury could ‘ Screwed by system’ not determine the tribal status of the Wam­ One Maine official agreed to comment panoags around 1790 and, so, tendered a publicly on Martin’ case, and admitted s negative decision for that date. He further Martin Neptune received poor treatment. surmised that the jury had decided against "There is no question he wasn’ helped. t the Indians for the 1869-1870 date, based on He was screwed by the system." said Charles defense arguments that the tribe had re­ W. Rhynard. commissioner o f the Maine linquished its tribal status at that time, Department o f Indian Affairs. when it requested the rights of town mem­ "The system did not provide good or bership. He said that, "relinquishment has adequate service to Martin, and I think he’ s continued up to the time the suit was filed.” justified in his feelings.”Rhynard said in a In an interview with Wabanaki Alliance, telephone conversation from his Augusta Russell Peters, president of the Mashpee office. "The legal system didn't do anything Wampanoag Tribal Council. Inc., objected to help him when he needed help." Rhynard to Judge Skinner’ instructions to the jury s continued. that the burden of proof rested with the But when asked if Maine officials could Indians. He stated that this ran counter to be blamed for the situation. Rhynard said all precedent in suits o f this nature. that no. the Attorney General's office, and Peters characterized the jury's decision as Governor Longley. "went the extra mile" on “ inconsistent” and "illogical.” He stated Martin Neptune's behalf. that the jurors “ didn’ understand the t Martin Neptune fights on. As o f press issues” and that making such a decision was Kathleen’ lawyer. Donald C. Jacobson, time. He said he planned to visit the Maine s difficult for them after only "a crash course also said that "during the proceedings o f the Human Rights Commission, and possibly to learn Indian history and culture.” divorce. (Martin) screamed and shouted also an office o f the U.S. Civil Rights Com­ Peters also felt that the expert witnesses ‘ discrimination.’ ” mission. He said he would continue to wage called by the defense were not well qualified A denial from judge his battle with letters to officials and others. to give testimony in the case. He stated that The judge who awarded the divorce And a motion seeking custody o f Chris and Dr. Jane Guilliman. a sociologist at Boston settlement at Maine District Court in Naomi has been scheduled for a hearing in College, "just didn’ know much about t Bangor did not let the lawyer's allegations March, at district court. Bangor. Wampanoag history.” He added that she go unanswered. What Martin really wants is to know that "drew her conclusions after three interviews Judge F. Davis Clark wrote in an open his children can grow to maturity in a stable, down in Mashpee.” Referring to a second letter that “ The allegations that Mr. loving home, not separated from one defense witness. Dr. Frank Hutchins, he Neptune was given custody because he is an another. said, "Until the last six months he was Indian is unfounded. It was based upon the Martin ended a letter to Ass’ Maine t. ignorant of eastern Indians.” evidence. The allegation that (Neptune) Atty. Gen. Richard S. Cohen with the state­ The composition o f the jury, all white, was screamed and shouted ‘ discrimination’ ment: “ When each o f my children were also disturbing to Peters. O f the potential during the proceedings is ... unfounded. He born. I committed my life to seeing that jurors, only one was black and only one did not.” their happiness, well-being and potential claimed Indian heritage. Both were rejected. Martin says Davis has been fair, and not were realized. This is o f the utmost im­ Peters stated, "Regardless o f how wellunsympathetic to his case. He cannot say the portance to me. meaning the jury was ... a vote for us would "N o one will break that commitment.” same for other authorities. mean white settlers would lose land in Mashpee.” He noted that the Indians had gone to Washington to try to negotiate a settlement WASHINGTON — Under Secretary of ship on B1A employees and upon estab­ which would remove the cloud from the the U.S. Department o f Interior James A. lished relationships between tbe tribes ana property o f homeowners and businessmen, Joseph announced today the appointment of BIA offices. "but the selectmen refused to go along.”In a task force to develop recommendations for The 11-member task force includes his opinion real estate interests among the Secretary on the reorganization o f the representatives o f the National Congress of certain o f the town’ selectmen influenced s Bureau o f Indian Affairs. American Indians and the National Tribal their decision to reject efforts to settle with “ Secretary Andrus wants to insure that Chairmen’Association; two representatives s private landowners. According to Peters the trust responsibilities o f the Federal Gov­ o f the BIA named by Assistant Secretary for these interests feared that “ a partial if ernment are carried out effectively, that Indian Affairs Forrest Gerard; Acting settlement let the homeowners o ff the services to Native American people are Assistant Secretary for Policy, Budget and hook.” they would no longer continue to provided efficiently and that tribal govern­ Administration Larry Meierotto; and six back the developers in the law suit. 80% of ments are strengthened,” Joseph said. public members. The public members the land involved in the suit is undeveloped “ part o f a continuing effort to meet include Stewart L. Udall, former Secretary As land. this objective a Task Force on the reorgani­ o f the Interior. zation o f the Bureau o f Indian Affairs has R ecom m endations o f the American It has been estimated that approximately been established to formulate and present Indian Policy Review Commission and other $600,000 has already been spent in the recommendations to the Secretary for im­ studies o f the Bureau and its responsibilities town's defense, approximately half o f this mediately improving the management, will be considered. bein g provided by “ titled insurance organization and practices o f the Bureau.” Among the areas for improving the per­ companies with a national interest in Under Secretary Joseph said the study is to formance o f BIA which will be studied are: defeating land claims.” be comprehensive and the changes will be planning, advocacy, trust protection Benway claimed that the Indians had fundamental — not just cosmetic. He em­ services, human resource development, stated from the outset that they were not phasized that the changes will be instituted natural resource development, social service interested in reimbursement for privately in an orderly fashion to minimize any hard- delivery, personneL owned land, but that when U.S. Sen. (Continued from page 1 ) placed officials in Maine and Florida, and in Martin’ opinion, involved substantial dis­ s crimination. To Martin the discrimination is obvious: when Kathleen took the children to Florida, including John who was awarded to his father, the judicial system did nothing. But when he returned the children to Maine, authorities seemed to pounce on Martin with a new-found zeal. When Longley received a request for Martin's extradition from Florida officials, he called Neptune and said he would wait ten days before signing them. He told Martin to return the two younger children to their mother within that time, and Martin did so. Martin said he did everything he could to set matters straight, talking to district attorneys, his lawyers, the Maine Attorney General’ office and the State Department s of Indian Affairs. But it all appears to have been to no avail. "Probably if I were white, middle or upper class, it would be a different story.” said Martin. “ started with the judge in Florida, who It took a personal offense to me when he ordered me to stay in the State and I left. From there it went up to (Florida Gov.) Rubin Askew (who contacted Longley).”he said. Martin began to feel the Florida courts would not give him a fair hearing, and would favor Kathleen in deciding the custody case brought by the mother in that state. Martin was not encouraged when he learned the judge’name was Robert E. Lee. s Jr. When Kathleen brought her action in Florida court, her lawyer notified Martin of a hearing and said. "Your petitioner feels that the only reason the court in Maine would have awarded custody o f the parties’ minor child (John, to father) was because of the fact that (Martin) is an Indian, and there are discrimination problems with the Indian in Bangor, Maine.” Task force to study B1A Edward Kennedy, D-Mass., proposed legis­ lation to uncloud the land, “ suddenly it had a price tag” o f $20 million dollars. According to Benway, this figure was “ quickly changed to $4 million,”to be paid by the Federal government. He said Ken­ nedy’ attitude was one of, "What are you s worried about? It’ not your money.” s Benway stated that the selectmen w-ere not willing to accept the proposed package which would have unclouded private homeowners’land, if it did not include 1,500 acres o f property which have been developed, but not acutally built upon yet. He said this was necessary to restore the market value of the homes in Mashpee and to "bring the economy back." "W e would have been run out of town, if we had accepted the offer,”he added. Charges of “ racial tactics” were levelled by Peters at the methods used by the defense. He stated, "The defense was trying to say we weren’Indians; we were blacks.” t He added that the defense "didn’bring out t that most intermarriage was to whites.” Benway called the allegations o f racism “ a smokescreen.” Lawrence Shubow, an attorney for the Mashpee Indians, elaborated on this aspect of the trial in a conversation with Wabanaki Alliance. He stated that false racial im­ pressions were generated in part by an 1870 U.S. Census, introduced by the defense in evidence and describing the Indians as being largely Negro. Shubow termed this "historical nonsense.” He continued that the Indians at one time had been referred to and had sometimes referred to themselves as "colored.”but that the connotation bore no relationship to the Negro race, as it has in more recent times. He suggested that the defense was implying the Mashpee Indians were "black, so you can forget about them.” Shubow reiterated his definition o f a tribe, given in a recent United Press Inter­ national release. "A body of Indians, (of) common ancestory. united under a com ­ munity bond, under a government leader­ ship, and common territory — that’ what s we think a tribe is.”Shubow told Wabanaki Alliance the issue was not so much over the definition o f a tribe, but over what con­ stitutes leadership. He said the white con­ cept o f leadership "does not fit with the Indian’forms o f decisions.”He pointed out s that leadership in Indian society is much more "democratic,”with less emphasis on one person telling the rest what to do. He said that the improper definition o f lead­ ership “ gave the jury the out they needed.” Buoyed by the results o f the trial, Benway plans to urge U.S. Rep. Gerald Studs, DMass., and U.S. Sen. Edward W. Brooke. RMass., to introduce legislation exempting all private property from the Indian claim. Benway said he hopes this will “ short-cir­ cuit”an appeal by the Indians. This would leave all but 1,500 acres of the disputed 13.000 acres with unclouded titles. The jury's decision will only be viewed as a recommendation by Judge Skinner, who will reserve final judgement until both sides have subm itted briefs this month, commenting on the verdict. According to Peters, "This trial is a long way from being over.” He said that if the court decides against the Indians, an appeal will be made. Shubow also mentioned the possibility of seeking to have a mistrial declared, if the jury’ verdict is upheld. He stated that the s jury, considering whether the Indians con­ stituted a tribe on two different dates, using the same evidence for both dates, reached different conclusions. He stated, “ There are elements o f absurdity which the courts will have to straighten out." When asked if he thought the results of the Mashpee trial would have any bearing on the land claims suits in Maine, he replied, “ Absolutely not,” although he added that there may be some psychological effects on both sides o f the issue. On the day the jury reached its verdict in the Mashpee case. Maine Attorney General Joseph Brennan’ office announced that s Brennan’request to reopen the question of s the tribal status o f Maine Indians had been denied by the U.S. Justice Department. �Nutrition Notes By Natalie S. Mitchell Everybody knows that food is vital to sus­ tain life. However, what about food? What is it that makes it so important? We’ start with the word, "vitamin.”This ll means, “ Vital to Life.” There are various vitamins contained in food and each has a function when consumed. Vitamin A. for instance is important for the formation of the mucous membranes (the lips, nasal mucosa, which also is the lining o f organs, and digestive system), it is also necessary' for the visual purple that prevents night blind­ ness and increases resistance to infections. Food sources that contain vitamin A are usually dark green and deep yellowvegetables. The dark green vegetables include kale, mustard greens, broccoli, spinach, turnip greens, and collards. The deep yellow vegetables include carrots, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, yellow squash, and some red peppers. Other excellent food sources for vitamin A are liver, milk, cheese, eggs, butter, cantaloupe, apricots and fortified margarine. Your body does not get rid o f vitamin A when ingested. It is stored in the liver. If you overload on this vitamin, the results can be toxic. By eating regular foods that contain vitamin A this will not happen. The point is, don’ take vitamin tablets t unless your doctor prescribes them for you. Natalie Mitchell NOTE: Natalie Mitchell, a Penobscot, is food and nutrition coordinator for the Indian Island Health and Social Services Department. With this issue, she begins a monthly nutritional information column for this newspaper. Reader com m ent is welcome. Wheel deals By Kathy Porter Tim Love, a Penobscot from Indian Island, purchased a 1976 Volare station wagon from a Brewer auto dealer. After buying the car in May o f 1977 he suspected that the car had been in an accident and had had some repairs, but was not com pletely repaired. He noticed structural damage which he was unable to get repaired. Also the windshield leaks and the car shakes when driven. Tim will be going to Northeast Combat, a consumer action group, for assistance to rectify legally what can be done. Tim feels that the dealer knowingly sold him a defective car. These kinds o f situations can be avoided. Northeast Combat is an agency that helps to educate the consumer in all areas o f buying. They also deal directly with consumer problems. They are located on Idaho Avenue in Bangor. They have just put out a booklet called, ‘ Wheels, Deals and Lemon Peels’ The . booklet is designed to help the consumer become aware of his or her rights, avoid a bad purchase, and to get through the maze o f slick sales people, confusing credit rates and flashy advertising. The booklet is available for $1.50 from Combat. Dispute ended on water rights WASHINGTON — Secretary of the In­ terior Cecil D. Andrus announced today approval o f an agreement between the Gila River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community and the Kennecott Copper Corp. to settle a long-standing dispute over w'ater rights in Arizona’Gila River watershed. s Under the agreement, the Indians consent to Kennecott’ continued use of water from s Mineral Creek, a tributary of the Gila River, in its mining operation upstream from the Indian Reservation. In return, Kennecott agrees to pay the Indians $1.5 million for past use of the water and to replace or pay for water it uses from that source in the future. The mining firm has committed itself to seeking an allocation of Central Arizona Project (CAP) water to exchange with the tribe for Gila River water. Until that is available. Kennecott will pay the Indians $70 per acre foot of water used. The provision for payment for Mineral Creek water expires when the CAP is com ­ pleted or in 1990 with the possibility of a 1 0year extension. K ennecott agrees to relinquish its claim to Mineral Creek water in 1990. The settlement also resolves a dispute over water Kennecott pumps from four deep wells in the area and the effect of that pumping on Gila River flows. Under the agreement, the Indians consent to the pumping until the year 2075; Kennecott agrees to pay $70 an acre foot for a portion of the water it pumps. "Anyone who has followed Western water disputes — particularly in the desert south­ west — can only view this agreement as a major achievement,” said Andrus. “ I certainly commend both parties for reaching a sensible, mutually beneficial resolution without costly, time-consuming court suits which might also have seriously disrupted the state’economy. s "While both sides were willing to litigate their claims if necessary, they agreed that would work to everyone’disadvantage. The s Indians’ prime concern is water, but they were reluctant to disrupt Kennecott’ s mining operations, a major force in Arizona’ economy. Under the agreement, s Kennecott will have the water so critical to its mining operations. The Indians have taken steps to ensure future water supplies to the reservation." Although the parties pledge in the agree­ ment not to sue each other over the disputed water rights, neither party abandons its claims, Andrus said. Kennecott claims it is using water it is entitled to under the 1935 Gila Decree or water from its tributaries which were expressly excluded from the scope o f that decree. The Indians counter that they were not a party to the decree, that it is not binding upon them and that, in any case, it does not settle the water rights to which they are entitled under the Winters Doctrine. The doctrine, developed by the courts over the years, holds that Indians are entitled to enough water to serve the purposes for which their reservations were created. The doctrine establishes a priority water right dated no later than the creation of the reservation. The Gila River Indians have the longest history o f irrigated farming in the nation through their Hohokam ancestors who used an extensive system o f canals to irrigate the Gila River Valley lands. The reservation was established in 1859 and has been expanded since to its present 372,000 acres. While Kennecott and the Indian Com­ munity are considered to be the major claimants in the watershed, they are not the only ones. Andrus said his approval o f the agreement as trustee for Indian water rights implies no position on any water rights within the Gila River drainage, including those of the San Carlos Irrigation and Drainage Dist., a major agricultural user downstream o f the water sources involved in the agreement. In a letter to the Secretary, Alexander Lewis, Sr., Governor o f the Indian Com ­ munity, termed the approval of the agree­ ment “ historic occasion.” a “ The agreement recognizes that we have always befriended non-Indians.’ Wabanaki Alliance January 1978 Page 5 VISTA worker joins Alliance Kathy A. Porter ORONO — Wabanaki Alliance plans to publish a monthly column o f consumer information, written by a new member of the staff who is a VISTA volunteer. Kathy Porter, on a one year program with VISTA (Volunteers In Service to America), may carry out other assignments at the newspaper, in addition to the consumer column. For her consumer research, she will use the resources o f Northeast COMBAT, Inc., a Bangor non-profit consumer action group. The consumer column will probably deal with a range o f subjects such as shopping for used cars, homes, insurance and other issues of interest to Maine Indians and others. Questions and suggestions from readers will be most welcome as a guide to the column’ s content. What the column does, and whether it’ s useful, will depend in part on reader response. Kathy Porter will work under the direction o f Wabanaki Alliance and Vivian Massey, supervisor of the Maine Indian section o f the national VISTA program. A native o f Old Town where she currently resides. Kathy Porter, 20. graduated from Old Town High School and has worked with racing horses at Bass Park. Bangor, and with riding horses at Orono. She is interested in consumer affairs, and news­ paper work in general. Cote succeeds Daigle at island INDIAN ISLAND — After two-and-onehalf years o f service at St. Ann's Mission. Indian Island. Old Town, the Rev. Donald R. J. Daigle has been appointed temporary administrator o f St. Joseph's Parish at Wallagrass. in Aroostook County. Wabanaki Alliance talked with Father Daigle as he was preparing his papers for transfer to St. Joseph's. When asked what he felt his major emphasis had been, while on the reservation here, he said he had worked primarily with the youth. He said he felt that he had turned St. Ann's into more o f an "open house.” and that it was "no longer a sanctuary." inaccessible to the people it was designed to serve. He said the Penobscot Indian people whom he served were "sincere and wise.” but stressed the need for self-determination, saying they are "imprisoned, unable to fly toward freedom o f spirit . . . locked bv dependency." A native of Aroostook County and having been associate pastor at St. Thomas in Madawaska, Daigle will be working among family and friends. He is bilingual in English and French, which will be invaluable in reaching the French speaking community in Northern Maine. The Rev. David P. Cote will be replacing Father Daigle at St. Ann’ Father Cote s. holds a Masters Degree in Social Work from Boston College School o f Social Work and Rev. David P. Cote has used his training in social programs throughout the stale. In 1975. he was appointed Director of the Diocesan Resettlement Program, in charge o f placement o f Vietnamese refugees. Since 1976. he has been the associate pastor of the Cathedral o f the Immaculate Conception in Portland. Wayne Walker, regional director o f the Diocesan Human Relations Services in Orono described Cote as "very energetic” and said he would be a dynamic force in the Indian Island community. Tribal status affirmed AUGUSTA — The U.S. Justice Depart­ ment has denied a bid by the State o f Maine to reopen the question o f the status o f Passamaquoddy Indians. Maine Atty. Gen. Joseph Brennan was quick to criticize the Justice Department decision. He is quoted by the Associated Press as saying, “ Although the government had not expressly so stated, I gather that the Justice Department is o f the view that they are obligated to argue the Indians’claim, even if they do not believe that it will necessarily be successful. I think it is un­ fortunate that the department has such a narrow perspective of its responsibilities.” He further stated, “ would like to give I (Assistant U.S. Attorney General James Moorman) some advice. I think the federal government ought to ask itself whether it is doing justice by pursuing a 200-year old claim against the innocent citizens of Maine." “ think the federal government ought to I ask itself whether it is pursuing a case which flies in the face o f 200 years o f history. I think the federal government ought to stop pretending they have done as much research as we have and take a good hard look at the historic facts. I think the United States government is wrong.” Moorman denied Brennan’ request s saying that the historical and legal evidence submitted by the Maine Attorney General’ s office was not adequate to merit reopening the case. In a UPI story Moorman stated, “ the On basis o f this material, as well as additional legal and historical research, we have con­ cluded that the prohibition against Indian land transactions applied throughout the United States. At this time, therefore, the Department o f Justice cannot agree to your (Brennan’ request.” s) The determination both that the Passamaquoddy and Penobscots do constitute tribes and were covered by the Non-intercourse Act o f 1790 has been a keystone in the development o f the land claims case, in which the tribes charge that lands comprising two-thirds o f the state were taken from them in violation o f the Non­ intercourse Act. �Page 6 Wabanaki Alliance January 1978 Indian legends The Story of the Big Dipper (Penobscot) In the old day o f the ancients there lived a poor family o f seven brothers and two sisters on the edge of a large village. Their parents had been killed and the care o f the family had been left to the oldest brother and his sister, Mooin. They were strong and brave and soon took part in the tribal festivals and won great re­ known for their devotion to each other. Each one worked hard and long except P’ ses-muk, the youngest brother and Alakus, the youngest sister, for they were frail and small. And they both loved their brothers. But they helped in their own way by sewing and decorating the skin garments with dyed porcupine quills. And when their relatives came to feast they would clean the wigwam and decorate it with sweet smelling maiden-fern and spruce boughs. One day while the brothers and Mooin were planting the corn in a large field, an old warrior crept into their wigwam. He told them he had escaped from an enemy camp where he had been tortured and held prisoner for years. There he had heard the enemy planning to attack his people soon, so he managed to flee in order to warn them. The brother called the Chief and all the people. He sent four large scouting parties in the direction o f the four winds. The six brothers pleaded with the Chief not to separate them. So he sent them toward the east. While they were preparing for the war­ path, the youngest brother, P'ses-muk begged them to take him along. He was strong enough, he reminded them, to carry their quiver o f arrows and to cook for them. But they would not listen to him. “ Little brother, next time thee will be as tall as we. And someone must care well for Al-akus with kindness. We dearly love you. also Mooin. But she who is strange, is unlike us. Badly we regret leaving you," the older brother said. After the brothers had gone, Mooin made P’ ses-muk and Al-akus work very hard. She was not kind to them. She would eat the best pieces o f meat and fish and leave them what was left. They did not complain to anyone for they had begun to be afraid o f their oldest sister. So instead o f getting stronger they grew frailer and frailer. In the evening when they had finished their day’work they would wander hand in s hand to the edge of the forest or to the top of the high hill to see if they could catch a glimpse of their brothers returning to them. One day Mooin disappeared and did not return that night. They hurried to their unde and told them what had happened. When she did not come home for many days the old uncle decided that she must have been killed or carried o ff by the enemy. One day when the uncle was hunting he thought he saw Mooin disappear in a cave which was in the side of a mountain. Soon the crops began to be eaten by bugs. Many o f the old people died from strange diseases. And children disappeared and were never heard o f again. The people called their Medicine Man. He warned them that someone was making magic on the tribe and that his power was not strong enough to learn who the Evil One was among them. The uncle hoping to help his people said that Mooin might be the cause of the great Evil. He led them to the cave on the side of the mountain. There they waited until Mooin left her cave. They waited until they saw her disappear in the woods beyond and then they rushed into the darkness. In the distance they could hear the growl of a bear. So they built a fire at the entrance o f the cave. And when the darkness became filled with strong smoke, the bear rushed out and they fell on him and killed him. When Mooin returned from the woods where she had been hunting she found the Great Magician dead and she wept for him. For in killing the bear the people had killed her husband. Angrily she swore vengence on her people. The next night she cut a piece o f bear­ skin and made it into a bag for it contained magical power. When she wore it around her neck she instantly became a large, fierce bear. She ran down to the village where it was dark and still. Swiftly she destroyed all of her people and the entire village. But she saved her youngest sister and brother because she still loved them in her way and she did not want harm to come to them. Then she took P’ ses-muk and Al-akus to the cave with her. For a long time they lived peacefully to­ gether. But the youngest brother and sister never ceased to fear their sister, Mooin. They held their tongues, not daring to speak to each other for fear Mooin might hear them. One night when they were pretending to sleep they saw her take out the magic-bear skin bag from her bosom and sing over it. This frightened them very much. She was still very cruel to them. She would send them out to gather firewood and hunt and fish while she stayed at home and sang over the bear skin bag. One day P’ ses-muk stayed away longer than she thought necessary so when he came back she beat him severely. That night as he and Al-akus lay on the fur bed he whispered to his sister. “ Little sister, today, I found Med-oulin, the greatest Magician o f them all. He is traveling and his camp lies far over to the other side o f the mountain. He gave to me, a powerful charm — a little moose-hide bag. It is here inside my clothes. Have no fear of Mooin, now. She can not harm us.” The next day Mooin was in a bad temper. As she built her fire and shook her magic bag over it the flames went lower and lower. Usually when she did this the fire would get brighter and brighter and the flames would snap and crack on the hearth. But she knew that her magic had been broken. So she planned to weave her magic over P’ ses-muk and Al-akus and make them into little worms that she could tread on. So the next day she said sweetly to them. "Today there must be much fire-wood. Many rogans (birch-bark pails) o f water must I have. Do not delay, my little sister and brother.” And when they were at the river filling up the rogans with water, P’ ses-muk told Al-akus to beware o f Mooin. They carried much firewood and water for Mooin. That day while the sun was still high in the sky Al-akus spied her brothers and her heart sang with joy. As they rushed across the shallow water she motioned them to be quiet for fear Mooin would hear their return. Happily they embraced Al-akus and P’ ses-muk but it made them sad to see how thin and frail their brother and sister were. When they heard from the people how cruel Mooin had been they shook their heads. "She possesses great magic, my dear brothers. I fear she will kill us this night.” said P’ ses-muk. The brothers who had traveled far and had encountered many strange and magical things told P’ ses-muk what to do that night. “ Gather all the pricky burdocks. And at midnight pile them around the wigwam. At the entrance pile them very high but leave a small passage so that escape is easy. We will wait here for you.” Just then they heard the sharp voice o f Mooin calling them. So P’ ses-muk and Al-akus left their brothers and hurried back to the wigwam. When they returned Mooin scolded them and sent them to pick berries. “ Hurry back for the fine feast we must have this night,”she added: They returned to the river and there with the help of their brothers they picked many baskets o f berries and large bunches o f bur­ Molly Spotted Elk: Folklorist INDIAN ISLAND — Mary Archam- motion pictures, and kept diaries from beau died Feb. 21 last year at the age of the time she was a teenager. Fluent in English, French, Spanish 73. Known also by her Penobscot Indian name of Molly Spotted Elk, she and Penobscot, Molly attended Swarthcollected, transcribed and authored a more. University o f Pennsylvania and the great many native American legends and Sorbonne, Paris. She studied geology and anthropology, and was interested in stories. As a child, Molly preferred storytelling Tibetan, Mayan and Aztec culture. She to playing with her peers. She would later worked with the Indian collections s listen to her elders as they retold legends at New York’ Museum of Natural passed along through an oral tradition. History. The accompanying reprinted texts are Molly Spotted Elk showed an early interest in accurate reporting based on from Molly Spotted Elk's works, some of facts. Once someone cautioned her that which are preserved at Northeast curiosity killed the cat. “ Whose cat, and Archives, University o f Maine. At the s whose curiosity,” she wanted to know. request of Molly’ daughter, Jean A. Married to French journalist Jean Moore o f Murfreesboro, Tenn. Mrs. Moore specifies that these Archambeau, Molly had a career as a professional dancer that led her to a writings are not to be reproduced without Paris exposition. She acted in several her written permission. docks. When the sun disappeared behind the mountains they hurried home to help Mooin prepare the fine feast o f fish, meat and acom-meal bread. Mooin ate so much she became sleepy and decided to take a little nap. When the brother and sister were sure that Mooin was fast asleep they crept out of the lodge and piled the burdock high around the wigwam. When they had finished they stole back into the wigwam and pretended to fall asleep on the bed of furs. When the moon was high in the sky P’ sesmuk was awakened by the lonely call o f the Whip-poor-will outside in tfre pine-tree. Quickly he aroused his sister and silently they stole out of the wigwam while Mooin slept on. Not far from the pine-tree the brothers were waiting for them and they all set out at a quick pace for Katah-din, the copper mountains and the dwelling place of the Gods. They had gone far when they realized that a big bear was chasing them. It was Mooin, their older sister, who by the magic o f her bear-skin bag had been able to change herself into a bear. Q u ickly P ’ ses-muk rem em bered his moose-hide bag and taking it out o f his shirt he waved it in the air. Looking back over his shoulder he saw the bear limp. The prickly burdocks stuck deeply into her feet and she had to stop and pick them out o f her claws. The brothers and their little sister ran as fast as they could but the bear managed to stay very close to them. Again P’ ses-muk shook the bag and wished that something big would come between them and the bear. Immediately a big lake appeared. On they traveled while the bear had to swim across the lake. Soon the bear was behind them, growling and gnashing his teeth. Again P'ses-muk shook his bag and a forest appeared. But this time the bear made better headway and P’ ses-muk had to order his brothers to climb the tallest tree. This they did dragging their little sister with them. P’ ses-muk was the last to climb, and he no sooner had left the ground than Mooin appeared beneath them, showing her teeth. With her big paws she shook the tree and four brothers fell to the ground. She snatched at them and would have tom them to pieces if P’ ses-muk had not thrown each o f them a piece o f skin from his moose-hide bag. Swiftly the four brothers left the earth and rose in the clear, silvery sky. P’ ses-muk hastily gave his other brothers a piece of his moose-skin bag and they too rose to the sky. In his haste he had tom his bag into pieces. With only two bits left he handed one to Al-akus and the other he kept for himself. At once they floated up into the sky to join their brothers. The power o f his magic bag was greater than the power o f Mooin. She could do nothing but watch them disappear from her evil sight. Today the brothers and their little sister are still together. On clear nights they may be seen as stars in the shape o f the Great Dipper. You can see, too, the four brothers who floated first to their home in the sky, for they form the lower part of the Dipper. And Al-akus and P'ses-muk who had the smallest pieces o f the magic moose-hide bag can be seen on the handle o f the dipper as the faintest stars. Turtle marries, cools off Glus-kabe meets turtle whom he loves, and wishes his uncle to marry. Turtle gets married and he gets lazy. And he begins to enjoy games. Game o f jumping over the wigwams. Turtle gets stuck in the tent poles. While dangling there and yelling, the smoke makes him become hard and soon a shell is formed on him, and the smoke marked his back. Turtle tries it again, when Glus-kabe tells him he has become a great chief. But the smoke became flames and he got burned so had to rush to the river to cool off. And there he lives today. Adventures of Rabbit: The Duck Hunt Rabbit had heard that there were many ducks in the neighborhood and without much ado he had hurried o ff to shoot one or two before any o f the other hunters would awake. So noiselessly he crept out of the wigwam one early morning and with his fine bow and a few arrows he set off toward the pond that was some distance away. But he soon reached there and when he arrived, he hid himself in the rushes and waited. For the ducks were many and they were floating around and playing in the water. He tried to shoot but his aim was not so good. His arrows scared many o f the ducks away so that soon there were only a few left. He had only one arrow left and he did not know what to do. Suddenly an idea came to him. He soaked his arrow in the water and cured it on his knee. And when it was properly shaped and curved he took careful aim and let it sing through the air. The ducks which were floating around in a circle dropped one at a time as the arrow passed through their bodies. All were shot with his one last arrow. He stuck out his chest, so delighted he was with himself. And when he picked them up he sang to himself. He tied them together and carried them on his back and made sure that he would pass in the center o f the village where everyone would see him. But when he reached the village there were only a few people moving about their campfires. But at least there were enough, so that when the day was over everyone would know that Rabbit had brought home a fine bunch of wild ducks. SUBSCRIBE TO WABANAKI ALLIANCE �Wabanaki Alliance January 1978 Page 7 The role of the totem By Isabelle Knockwood Toney The most universally accepted and there­ fore most practiced tradition among native North Americans today is the handcraft. Specifically, it is the carving and sculpting o f wood and rock that is gaining popularity. Non-native interests have also changed from starry-eyed curiosity and bewilderment to acceptance and understanding of the concepts of primitive symbolism. Within the last decade attention has expanded to every nook and corner until we have among us professional craftsmen and women who have mastered the skills and techniques of their trade so that they are able to earn a living wage or supplement an income through the sale of their arts. Sculptured works are being sought after to match the interior decor and furnishing o f homes and offices. Small pieces o f rock and wood are being used as conversation pieces on bureaus and desks or as wall plaques to match Indian rugs, drapes and spreads. The geometrical designs and panorama of contrasting colors that are unique to the native American reality are popping up everywhere from theatrical scenery to church altars. The tales o f the totem pole are more complete and fascinating than any you’ ll find anywhere, in any book because they are free from racism and sexism and also from moral and value judgments. They date as far back as the pre-literate era when people hadn’ yet discovered reading and writing t and native people were communicating with each other through the use o f symbols and emblems. Like other forms o f artistic native expression, their scope is prolific in that every available space is utilized and every phase o f living experience is weighed and balanced. Out o f this process comes the symmetry and planning. In interpreting meanings it might be helpful to understand some basic features. For instance, height denotes prestige. Top man on the totem is head o f the family, clan or tribe. Focus and attention is mainly on position and power in the community which commensurates with personal or public achievements and contributions to society. The bottom section is considered least important which is not meant to imply that it holds no importance. To have been deem ed worthy o f consideration is honorable. Among the woodland tribes, clans have been lost and although there is some revival and adoption o f clans today, generally the Thunderbird is most commonly found perching on peaks scanning the landscape. Like the Phoenix, the Thunderbird sym­ bolizes re-birth. At the time o f the ‘ Flood’ it was the Thunderbird that brought messages o f hope from the Creator to the survivors who had landed on Mount Katahdin. Mount Katahdin is to the Wabanaki as Mt. Ararat is to Christians. Wood sculpture originated along the West Coast o f North America, in, and near British Columbia where some of the largest trees o f the world are found. Carving of stone started with the Eskimos and Inuits. Today the woodland tribes are looking to these cultures as starting-off points in raising their own consciousness about the symbolic meaning o f totems. In recent times, the use of totem poles has been commercial, in promoting sales in handicraft shops and trading posts. Along with the wooden Indian, some totem poles can still be found in museums and second hand stores. Because o f the social mobility guaranteed by the Jay Treaty and enjoyed by native people the exchange o f ideas among clans and tribes is gaining momentum. Bit by bit, section by section our story is being re­ written in the language o f totems, talking sticks and medicine canes. Emphasis will again be placed on the achievements of the race, its contribution to humanity, and its potential. quality tools and materials is basic in the produ ction o f professional sculptured works. A jackknife made out o f good quality steel easily honed to a sharpness that will maintain its edge fairly well is fundamental. Besides a sharp blade, carving tools should have a handle that fits easily inside the palm. A handle too large can slip from one's grip, while too small a handle can cause cramping o f hand muscles. Woods easiest to whittle include soft woods, poplar, elm. cedar and pine. Roots of gray birch are used for heads of war clubs. For the ecology-minded, it’ helpful to s know that poplar is not popular for building or firewood so can be found along riverbanks, having been already cut down by beavers and seasoned. Excellent carving techniques can be ruined by a botched-up application of poor quality or water base paints. Sufficient timing between coats should be permitted to avoid smearing and smudging. Soap and clay carving is ideal for the beginner to practice basic shapes and geo­ metrical designs. Emphasis is always on proper handling and care of tools with safety features in mind. Artistic abilities will develop in propor­ tion to any conscious growth and sensitivity in the various aspects of native culture. Along with one’ need to express thoughts s and feelings, numerous mediums and modes will emerge. Shapes, sizes, contours and lines will take on forms that will tell the world “ The true people o f the land have survived.” Today’ native artists have added to the s color scheme o f things by using colors of the 20th century that were not available in the 14th and have added a permanence to their works by using fixatives and lacquers that have a shine and glass that is both attractive and weatherproof. O f the primary colors, red is most commonly used as it represents our blood lines. Another common color is brown, the color o f Mother Earth. Their style can be described as a merging o f two cultures, involving both traditional and contemporary perception. Some carvers have developed styles and markings that are their own trademark and can be deciphered as readily and clearly as signatures. Cultural changes always follow thinking patterns and socially acceptable behavior. By asserting our sovereignty we have opened up new ways o f thinking and communicat­ ing that lead us where our ancestors left their footprints and impressions eons ago. Directions for national unity were marked out for us in symbols and designs in the eloquent language o f the totems. WINTER WILDERNESS — Rick Love, instructor with Wilderness Pursuits, an Orono based Indian youth program, shoulders a pack along with Everett Sapiel, at the outset of i recent cross-country ski and camping trip. Wilderness courses scheduled O R O N O — W abanaki W ilderness Pursuits has scheduled a number o f outings for Maine Indian youth, from now through March 1978. The Wilderness organization is a non­ profit program that offers young persons the experience o f living and working together in natural surroundings for several days. The basic needs of survival are appreciated, and participants share in joys and sorrows, as well as struggle, hardship and a deep sense of reward, according to Wilderness Pursuits leaders. Self-confidence grows, as does an under­ standing c f cooperation and love, says Martin A. Neptune, program director. Wilderness Pursuits is staffed by Indians, and serves the M icmacs, Maliseet. Penobscot and Passamaquoddy communi­ ties. A description o f wilderness courses says, "you’ discover that you can do things you ll never thought possible; overcome fears, find out new things about yourself.” Winter courses take place either on weekends, or during school vacations. Complete schedules, equipment lists and other information is available from Wilder­ ness Pursuits offices at 93 Main St., Orono. Telephone 866-5577. Two trips are slated Jan. 28 and 29, one involving snowshoeing, the other cross­ country skiing. Snowshoeing is set for the Indian Island area; skiing for the Associa­ tion o f Aroostook Indians area. An instructor training course is set Feb. 2 to Feb. 6. A skiing trip for Central Maine Indian Association youth is scheduled Feb. 11-12; a snowshoeing outing is set those dates for Pleasant Point. An all-area trip using cross-country skis is slated Feb. 18-21; an all-area snowshoe trip. Feb. 23-26. Instructor training will take place Mar. 2-6. On Mar. 11-12 there will be both a snow­ shoeing trip for Indian Township, and a skiing trip for Indian Island. On Mar. 18-19, snowshoeing courses for Aroostook County and for Central Maine Indians have been scheduled. Cross-country ski trips for Indian Town­ ship and for Pleasant Point are set Mar. 25-26. On Apr. 1 a snowshoeing outing is -2, set for Indian Island, and a skiing trip for Aroostook County. Students will be accepted on a first come, first serve basis. Registration forms are available at the Orono offices, or from Joe Stewart at Indian Township school; Shirley Mitchell at Pleasant Point school, Ken Putnam at Indian Island school; Dick Felker at Association of Aroostook Indians, Houlton; Debbie Deveau at Central Maine Indian Association, Orono. Mobile clinic visits island ] j < j INDIAN ISLAND — Medical services are available to Penobscot Indians here at monthly visits from a mobile health clinic. Sponsored by Eastern Maine Medical Center of Bangor, the van travels to a number o f rural areas in Penobscot and Piscataquis Counties on a regular basis. The unit specializes in child care, offering physical check-ups, immunization shots, counseling, urine and blood testing and referral to other agencies where needed. Nurse Practitioner Nicci Kobritz said EMMC’ Rural Pediatric Health Services s provides 24-hour coverage. Any child from birth to age 21 is eligible, she said, adding that there is sometimes no charge unless patients are referred to the hospital at Bangor, or elsewhere. Fees for services are based on a sliding scale depending on in­ come, and number o f children in the family. The rural service unit can be reached �Page 8 Wabanaki Alliance January 1978 A flashback to the past Joe Attean: More than Thoreau 's guide By S. Glenn Starbird, Jr. INDIAN ISLAND — One hundred years after the death o f Joseph Attean, it is diffi­ cult for the historian to understand why his only claim to fame in the eyes o f the public is that for a short time he was Henry David Thoreau’personal guide. s Attean was far more than Indian guide. He was the son o f a chief, descended from a long line o f chiefs. He had the character, qualities and ability needed for the station into which he was born in 1829. The meager records o f Penobscot Tribal History which tell us o f the troubled times through which he lived give us brief snatches of his life story but more than that, they tell us of the political factionalism that nearly tore the tribe to pieces. It was finally settled, largely through the efforts and abilities of Attean. A winning team He worked, as did his fellow tribesmen, in the woods and on the river drives to earn his living, for this was a time when the lives of most Maine men were spent in the woods and on the rivers. Attean and his nephew Stephen Stanis­ laus soon gained a reputation for being two of the best river drivers and boatmen on the Penobscot. They normally worked in the same boat, one at the bow and one at the stern and so well did they work together, (they were nearly twins in their height, weight, general looks, manners and mental outlook) that they operated their boat almost as a single man. The fact that Stanislaus was not in the boat the day Joseph Attean died was the one factor perhaps more than any other that sealed his l ate and that o f two others. Joseph Attean was born Christmas Day. 1829 and grew up during the 1830's and 1840’ when strong resistance was growing s '.o many o f his father’ policies, and those s policies o f his father's Lieutenant Governor. John Neptune. This resistance and political unrest eventually came to a head in 1838 when the group opposed to Attean and Neptune, after consulting with the heads o f the Passamaquoddy and Maliseet tribes, (always up to ihis time federated with the Penobscots) attempted to depose Attean and Neptune ind choose new chiefs. Therefore a convention of the three tribes was called to meet at Indian Island Old Town in August 1838 for an election according to ancient custom. The group opposed to the old chiefs ac­ complished their purpose and chose new ones but the trouble did not end there for ihe old leaders refused to step down and ■ supporters continued to regard them heir is the true Heads o f the Tribe. Neither party would back down, even rejecting the State’ well-meaning effort at s settlement the next year. From that time on those who followed Attean and Neptune were called the Old Party and those favoring the newly-elected leaders Tomer Sockalexis and Attean Orson, the New Party. This state of affairs continued through­ out the I840’ causing much discord and s disruption in tribal life. Because of this more and more authority of the chiefs was taken over by the State and in several instances political differences resulted in actual bloodshed. When John Hubbard became Governor o f Maine he immediately tried to find a way to bring some order out of the chaos that was developing rapidly in both tribes, for a similar situation existed among the Passamaquoddies. In the case of the Passamaquoddies he was successful, with the Penobscots he was not. Political system shifts The agreement entered into about 1850 between the officers and principal members o f both parties at the urging o f the Governor of Maine provided that: "as John Attean and John Neptune were chosen according to the ancient usages o f the tribe into their respective offices, that they should remain in said offices during the remainder o f their lives, and on the decease o f one or both, the vacancy should be filled by majority vote of the male members of the tribe o f twenty-one years o f age and upwards, in a meeting duly called by the Agent. Said officers to continue for two years, and that an election should be held every year to choose one member o f the tribe to represent the tribe before the Legislature and the Governor and Council.” Sections were then held annually for choice o f representative and although the State now recognized Attean and Neptune as the legal chiefs there still existed much ill feelings often resulting in near riot condi­ tions at many elections. Governor John Attean died in 1858 and after the usual period o f mourning the Old willing to submit himself to the elective process for possession o f an office that was already his by hereditary right. Exactly how the firebrands o f the two parties were persuaded to submit themselves to the ballot is not known but quite likely Attean’patience and forbearance played a s large part in it. Only one change seems to have been made in the 1850 agreement, that the elections should be annual instead of biennial beginning in 1862. Eckstorm says in 'The Penobscot Man,’"Joseph Attean won his election by popular vote against great opposition, and carried seven out of the eight elections held up to the time o f his death. The eighth, by the intervention o f the so-called ‘ Special Law' passed by the state to reduce the friction between the parties, was JOSEPH ATTEAN — A celebrated Penobscot Indian who was Thoreau’ guide and an s expert on the Penobscot River log drives. This portrait will be exhibited at the tribal governor's office at Indian Island. s Party declared his son Joseph his successor, the New Party’first election, none o f Joseph and he was duly inaugurated by them Attean's party, the Old Party, or Con­ according to ancient Indian custom, for life. servatives. voting that year.” Attean's popularity even among New The succession to the offices o f governor .land lieutenant governor was still a hotly Party members did not set too well with Newdisputed issue between the two parties but Party leaders, with the result that the now a generation had passed since the Special Law o f 1866, (mentioned above) was original rupture and it seems apparent that passed giving the two parties exclusive Joseph Attean had decided in his own mind election rights in alternate years beginning that the time was ripe to settle the chaotic in 1867 with the Old Party. political situation once and for all. The agreement shows how far Attean was “ Good and open-hearted” willing to go to settle the party animosity s Fannie Hardy Eckstorm’The Penobscot that had almost destroyed his tribe’ s Man describes Joseph Attean as “ only political existance. Attean and his new not brave but good, an open-hearted, patient, Lieutenant-Governor Saul Neptune (who forbearing sort o f man ... loved for his mild was chosen by the Old Party to succeed his justness.”These were exactly the qualities father John upon the latter’ death in 1865) s needed in a leader, especially at that had little to fear in an open election. particular period. The new law had the desired effect, and In addition to his leadership abilities from that time on. for the most part, Attean had the prestige o f his background elections were conducted in an orderly and ancestry, an ancestry that traditionally manner, everyone abiding by the results traced to Chief Madockawando and perhaps until the law was again changed about 1930. even further to the half-legendary Bashaba. Drowned on river drive With these assets Attean commanded re­ Unfortunately. Attean was not to live to spect from even his New Party political op­ see the long term results o f his efforts. Holding political office in the Penobscot ponents. As soon as Attean was firmly in control of his own party he seems to have Tribe at that period was not the best place to made enforcement o f the agreement o f 1850 earn a living. Although there was a small one o f the first issues ,to be settled. stipend, the holder o f any office in the tribe Attean felt sure of his position and so could not support a family on it. earnestly did he desire a solution to the In Attean’ case his livlihood involved s tribe’ leadership question that he was working in the woods in the winter and on s the river drives in the spring and summt was while on one o f these drives in 1 near what is now Millinocket, that At was drowned in the West Branch of Penobscot, trying to save the lives of t fellow drivers who could not swim. Eckstorm has told the story as culled the memories of the men who were there saw it happen in her book ‘ Penol The Man.’ said the logs were "ricked up She jackstraws on both sides o f the falls.”Ir boat was Attean, but on this day his ne] Stanislaus was not with him and this ii end made the difference. In Stanis place was Charles Prouty, young and perienced. John Ross, the River Boss, later Eckstorm the responsibility was real!’ for putting Prouty in the bow positic that boat in the first place. The boat veered, shot across thundering current among the jagged i on the opposite shore close above the st: of water known as Blue Rock Pitch those who could swim jumped e: Attean. Attean dropped his useless pol< grabbed his paddle but the boat woul< respond. Attean stayed with boat Three non-swimmers clung to the Eckstorm says, "And Joe Attean stayed them, not clinging as they did, burii water; not crouching and abject, waitir the death that faced him, not a coward never, but paddle in hand, because water ran too deep for a pole-hold, star astride his sunken boat, a big caulked upon either gunwhale, working with th ounce that was in him to drive the su wreck and the men clinging to it into eddy or cleft of the log-jams before they carried down over the thundering fal Attean’ death closed a turbulent e s Penobscot history. His life had been : But by the time he died in 1870, the poi life of the tribe had been given a new largely through his efforts. It had turn a new direction now and was held some in check by the paternalistic power c state. And it enabled new generatio: Penobscots to develop the political that would give them an ever-increa control over their own destiny in the rr half o f the coming century. Pearson to push Indian programs AUGUSTA — Rep. Michael D. Pe (D-Old Town) said he will be involv funding of Indian programs during second session o f the 108th Maine Le ture. A press release from Pearson sail District 79 legislator will serve on th< propriations Committee. Do you have a drinking problem Wabanaki Corporation offers an a holism program for Indian people need help because o f problems alcohol. If you have such a problem and i help, or know of someone in need, pi contact the Alcoholism Counselor in community or area. Indian Island — Alcoholism G selor — Clarence Francis — 2075577. Indian Township — Alcoholism C selor — Martha Barstis — 207-796-2 Pleasant Point — Alcoholism C selor — Grace Roderick — 2072537. Association o f Aroostook Indian Alcoholism Counselor — Pious Peril 207-762-3751. Central Maine Indian Associatio Alcoholism Counselor — Alfred Dar 207-269-2653 or 207-866-5577. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource <em>Wabanaki Alliance</em> (January 1978) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Indian Resource Center Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1978-01 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Donald Soctomah Julia Brush Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Document Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context DV-413 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Passamaquoddy Cultural Museum Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Steve Cartwright. Used with permission.