SRMT Kawennì:ios Newsletter - Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe

Onerahtohkó:wa / May 2011Tribe WinsWater AwardHAVFDAnnualAwardsTribalGamingCommissionFootprintsProgramSRMT Kawennì:iosJob Seekers Connect inAkwesasneHelping Build a Better Tomorrow1

Award Winning WaterSecond Annual Tribal UtilitySummit Is Huge SuccessBy Scott Williams,USET Technical Assistance SpecialistThe Poarch Band of Creek Indians hosted the2nd Annual Tribal Utility Summit at the WindCreek Casino and Hotel, on April 5-7, 2011. TheTribal Utility Summit, a collaborative effort betweenUnited South and Eastern Tribes, Inc., (USET), theEnvironmental Protection Agency (EPA), and theNashville Area Indian Health Services (IHS), is anannual training and networking opportunity for Tribalwater, wastewater, and solid waste professionals.More than 120 Tribal professionals, vendors, andfederal agency representatives attended the three dayevent. Training and continuing education units wereprovided in areas including chlorine safety, confinedspace entry, SCADA systems and controls, lift stationsand pumps, asset management, and transfer stationoperation. In addition, several attendees tested for 608Certification.Michael Bolt, Chair of the USET Certification Board PresentsAward to Tracey Billhardt and Barry HerneDuring the Summit, the USET Certification Boardfor Water and Wastewater Operators and LaboratoryAnalysts hosted the first Tribal Drinking WaterContest for USET member facilities. First placewas awarded to the Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head(Aquinnah). Second and third place was awarded tothe St. Regis Mohawk Tribe and Mashantucket PequotTribal Nation, respectively. Water samples were rankedon a scale of 1-10 by a panel of judges based on clarity,odor and taste. The winning sample provided by theWampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah) scored a9.7.USET is dedicated to promoting Indian leadership,improving the quality of life for American Indians, andprotecting Indian rights and resources on Tribal lands.Although its guiding principle is unity, USET playsa major role in the self-determination of all memberTribes by working to improve the capabilities of Tribalgovernments. Established in 1969, United Southand Eastern Tribes Inc., is a non-profit, intertribalorganization that collectively represents its memberTribes at the regional and national level. To learn moreabout USET, please visit www.usetinc.org. 2

Good Words ofWelcomeShe:kon sewakew:kon, tewatate:kon Hello everyoneAt this time I want to share with you my personalthoughts. Together we must work to protect ourhome. Maintaining good health is a full time job.Proper management of your money ensures happiness.Following our laws and taking time to learn and speakour language contributes to spiritual wellness. Theseare principles I live by, and I firmly believe workingin conjunction with good principles will makeAhkwesashne a better place.I also want to mention two items: first, TribalCouncil has put into place a work session policywhereby leadership will conduct Tribal business at aweekly meeting where transparency and oversight is inpractice. This new process is going to help make ourgovernment work better and more efficiently. Secondly,the Sub-Chiefs have been given a directive, through aTribal Council Resolution (TCR), in our attempt toimprove Tribal Administration. The Tribal employeeswill have an evaluation process with the Sub-Chiefsproviding oversight. This new directive is needed andrequired at the work place to oversee the growing staffwhich is the third largest in the North Country.I would also like to thank my forty-two communitymembers who volunteer for committee work. We havea Membership Committee meeting on Mondays andthis committee meets to research enrollment. TheGovernance Committee meets on Tuesdays, and isworking to update the Procedure Act of 1994. Theseimprovements will ensure a better understandingof how our government operates. We have FinanceCommittee meetings on Wednesdays; the committee isbusy working on bringing a financial report that is easyto understand and trust. Lastly, on Thursday nights,our Off-Reservation Gaming Committee talks over ourgaming issues. I have learned a lot and it’s nice to seejust how far we have traveled concerning our knowledgein gaming. Tribal gaming is an economic opportunityand the Tribe must choose the right path. To all boards,commissions, volunteers and other groups helping tomake the tribe a place to live, I say thank you and keepup the good work.I have one more request: that all Tribal membersmust stay involved, keep informed and participate inyour government.Niawenhko:wa, OnenkiwaheOn the Cover: Volunteers greet job seekers at AkwesasneInternational Job Fair.Randy Hart, TehatsitsientonsDavid Trout Staddon, EditorAimée Benedict-Debo, Publications ManagerKyrie A. Ransom - Administrative Assistant/PhotographerSRMT Kawennì:ios “Good Words” is published monthly by theSaint Regis Mohawk Tribe, Public Information Office,412 State Route 37, Akwesasne, NY 13655(518) 358-22723public.information@srmt-nsn.govwww.srmt-nsn.gov

Akwesasne International Job FairA Great SuccessBy David Staddon, EditorMore than 1,100 people participated in the 2011Akwesasne International Job Fair. The eventwas held at the Mohawk Bingo Palace on Monday,March 21, 2011. The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe,the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne, the AkwesasneArea Management Board, the Mohawk Bingo Palace,the Akwesasne Mohawk Casino and the AkwesasneEmployment Resource Center co-sponsored the JobFair.Bea Johnson coordinated the event and was thechairperson of the planning committee. “The Job Fairwas open to anybody in the New York North Countryas well as people from southern Ontario and Quebecprovinces,” noted Johnson. “This event did not strictlytarget members of our Native communities, but wasopen to everybody. We recognize the need to putapplicants and employers together.” Colleen Nolan,Akwesasne Employment Resource Center Facilitator,also played a key role in coordinating the Job Fair.Job seekers werealso able to get adviceon preparing for jobinterviews and the first500 attendees received afree Job Seeker Toolkit.In addition to takingin applications andresumes, some firmsconducted on-site jobinterviews.Saint Regis MohawkTribal Chief MonicaJacobs and MohawkCouncil of AkwesasneGrand Chief MikeMitchell providedJob Seekers and Event Organizers Interact4words of welcome, along with New York StateDepartment of Labor Rep. David Sickler, St. LawrenceCounty Legislative Chairperson the Honorable SallieBrothers, and the Honorable Tony Arquiett, SLCLegislature for Canton, NY and John MacClain,General Manager and CEO of the Mohawk BingoPalace. Forty-seven businesses and corporations fromboth Canada and the U.S. attended to collect resumesand recruit candidates, some as far away as Ottawa andPlattsburgh, NY.“Not only does the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribesupport and contribute to local and regional economies,we support employers and job seekers,” remarked ChiefJacobs. “This is another way that we practice being agood neighbor.”The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe’s Human ResourceDepartment collected almost 100 applications andresumes for 11 open positions in Tribal Operations.The Akwesasne Mohawk Casino and the MohawkBingo Palace also hadrepresentatives on handto greet applicantslooking for work in thegaming industry. TheSaint Regis MohawkTribe employs about1,400 with the MohawkCouncil of Akwesasneemploying about1,000. In addition, theAkwesasne Territory ishome to a strong privatebusiness sector, withmore than 300 privatebusinesses in operation.

“The response to the Job Fair was overwhelming,”reported Job Fair Coordinator Johnson. “We wereexpecting around 500 job seekers to attend theevent and we hit that number within three hours.”The event kicked off at 10:00 am on Monday anda long line of people were waiting for the doors toopen so they could explore potential employmentopportunities. Attendees had the chance to windoor prizes, including a new laptop computer. TheJob Fair wrapped up at 6:00 pm.The planning committee will conduct a follow-upmeeting to discuss any improvements for possiblefuture events. Although no new plans have yet beenconfirmed, the committee is considering anothersimilar event in the future. Taking Applications“It was amazing, can’t wait foranother”“It was a great experience”“Thank you for offering thisservice”NetworkingCollecting Resumés5Awards to Organizations

Radiation TestingThe National Atmospheric Deposition Programcurrently has over 200 sites spanning thecontinental United States, Alaska, Puerto Rico, and theVirgin Islands. The purpose of the network is to collectdata on the chemistry of precipitation for monitoringof geographical and temporal long-term trends.The precipitation at each station is collected weeklyaccording to strict clean-handling procedures. It is thensent to the Central Analytical Laboratory where it isanalyzed for hydrogen (acidity as pH), sulfate, nitrate,ammonium, chloride and base cations (such as calcium,magnesium, potassium and sodium).Since August 1999, the Environment Division airprogram has maintained a site located in Ft. CovingtonCenter. Rain samples have been collected to monitoracid rain across the nation. All participants in theprogram visit their site every Tuesday at 9:00 am tocollect the precipitation sample. As part of the NADPBy Angela BenedictAir Quality Program Managernational program, the samples are mailed to a laboratoryin Illinois for analysis on pH, conductivity as well asother parameters.In response to the Fukushima Nuclear FacilityAccident and the release of radionuclides into theenvironment, the NADP is saving and sending samplesof the precipitation collected to be tested for radioactiveelements. Because the NADP has over 250 sites foracid rain collection and over 100 sites for mercurymonitoring within the US and Canada they will beable to track the movement, if any, of the radioactiveelements. The data from this testing is not available yetbut when it does become available it will be shared withthe community. Prom & Binge DrinkingBy Tiffany Leabo, Prevention Educatorthe previous two weeks. Heavy binge drinking includesthree or more such episodes in two weeks.Why do people binge drink? People binge drinkfor many reasons. One of the biggest reasons for bingedrinking among high school students is peer pressure.Other reasons people binge drink include curiosity, thethought that it will make their problems go away, or asa way to reduce stress.Prom Should be Breathtaking. But Not This Way!With the approaching season of Prom upon us,the Saint Regis Mohawk Health ServicesAlcoholism/Chemical Dependency PreventionProgram wants you to know the dangers of bingedrinking.What is binge drinking? Binge drinking is theconsumption of five or more drinks in a row by men orfour or more drinks in a row by women- at least once inWhat are the risks? There are many risks associatedwith binge drinking. These include memory lapses,mood changes, alcohol poisoning, impaired judgmentas well as damage to your physical health. Studentswho binge drink have a harder time in school and aremore likely to drop out. Studies show that heavy bingedrinking can lead to alcoholism.Where is help available? If you or someone you knowhas a drinking problem, get help as soon as possible. Callthe Saint Regis Mohawk Health Services Alcoholism/Chemical Dependency Outpatient Program at 518-358-3141. 6

No Fleas For Me,Please!By Jennifer Herne, Animal Control OfficerIf your dog or cat could speak, that is what hewould be saying. Flea season is upon us. Mostof us who have pets are familiar with fleas, but do youreally understand how to handle a flea infestation?Fleas are small, brown, wingless insects, measuring onlyabout 1/8 of an inch long. Their bodies are flat fromside to side, allowing for quick movement through hair.Flea legs are made for leaping. A flea can jump upto 36 inches! This is equal to a human jumping overthe Washington monument. Adult fleas feed on bloodfrom many species of animals. Fleas have been knownto bite humans but prefer the taste of other animals.To properly control fleas you must understand their lifecycle.There are four stages to the life of a flea; this is acontinuous cycle. We will start with an adult flea wholays eggs. Two to 14 days later the eggs hatch into larvae.These larvae live and crawl around in your carpetingand bedding! How disgusting is that? Nine to 15 dayslater the larvae will cocoon and then five days to fiveweeks later they hatch into adult fleas who continueproducing eggs. The adult flea can live up to nine“In just 30 days, 25 adultfemale fleas can multiplyto as many as a quarterof a million fleas!“7months. In times of dry or cold conditions the cyclewill temporarily slow down or stop in the egg or cocoonstages. The entire cycle can produce a new generationof adult fleas in as little as 16 days!Fleas can cause more problems than you realize. Themost irritating being the constant movement on yourpet and of course biting him/her! This can cause severescratching. Some animals can also develop allergies toflea bites, which make the itching even worse. Someof your pets may have had this condition called, FleaAllergy Dermatitis. The constant irritation to the skinoften leads to skin infections. Fleas can also carrytapeworm cysts, which will develop into an intestinalparasite in your pet called tapeworms. Gross!What you need to know is: fleas can be prevented.There are many products available from your veterinarianthat work great. I recommend the prescribed fleatreatments; they are of a higher quality and work muchbetter than over-the-counter cheaper products. Theprescribed treatments are on the more expensive side,but it is cheaper to prevent a flea infestation on yourpets and in your home. The products are usually a oncea month application you put directly on your pet. Also,contrary to what most people think you CAN have aflea problem year round if you don’t treat your houseproperly. You must treat your entire house, including;carpeting, pet bedding, and any other high traffic areafor your pet.The best flea control is ALWAYS prevention. Ifyou would like more information please contact yourfriendly neighborhood Animal Control Officer at 518-358-2272 ext 287. I would be happy to answer anyquestions you may have.

HAVFD Annual AwardsThe Akwesasne/Hogansburg Volunteer FireDepartment held its annual banquet on SaturdayMarch 12, 2011 at the Wolf Clan banquet facility.One hundred and ten people attended the banquet,By Aimee Benedict and David T. Staddonincluding Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Chief MonicaJacobs and Mohawk Council of Akwesasne Chief BillySunday. One of the purposes of the banquet was torecognize firefighters and volunteers for their services.Rookie of theYear:Ernie CreeOfficer of theYear:Kevin “Sturge”LazoreErnie made 260 of 354 calls, took charge in completingthe chicken BBQ pit, the “Smoke Pit” and a chicken BBQevent. He completed his Fire Fighter 1 training, ice rescuetraining and vehicle extrication.Sturge has been the Captain of Station 3 for close totwenty years. He oversees the training needs of Station 3members and works well with the treasurer with financialaspects of the department.SpecialAppreciation toa Non-member:IsabelMcDonaldStation 1Captain’sAward:Jody DavidIsabel started volunteering in 1970s. She fed the menfor work details and started the first “Fish Feed” benefit.Isabel still calls the station during Halloween standby orduring big work details to offer up her famous fried breador biscuits.Team Award:Marine 1 crewRescued two peopleout of the water in theSt. Lawrence by theStanley Island area in27 below zero weather.Jody helped out at the station before he became an officialmember. His expertise as a welder, millwright and hisstrong back are all assets to the department. He has becomea member and will graduate Fire Fighter 1 very soon.Randy “TweetyBird” Mitchell,Mike “Nega”Laffin, Christopher“Goofy” Adams, andPhillip Lazore8

Former Chiefs received a badge saying“Past Chief,” with badge number Car 90,the number designated to the chief from thecounty:Jack Treptow: 1973-1975, 1981Charlie Jacobs: 1976-1978Donnie Comins: 1979-1980Frank Lacarenza: 1982-2005John Lazore: 2005-2007Norman Peters: 2007-2010A “Special Appreciation”award went to IssacMcDonald who stepped up ascaptain to Station 1 and to VicePresident when replacementswere needed. He handledfuneral arrangements for afounding member in 2009and for an active member in2010.Dennis Phillips receivedthe “Exempt Member of theYear” award. Even as anexempt member he still comesto the station and helps outwith projects. Dennis plowsthe parking lot and moreimportantly, shares his wintercatch of walleye with the restof the guys as an Easter feast.He also helps cook meals forStation 3 on meeting nights.Randy “Tweety Bird”Mitchell received the“Firefighter of the Year” award.He was the 2009 “Rookie ofthe Year” and took on the roleof incident commander for theracetrack crew. Randy alsotook command of the fireworksand mixed martial arts eventand Thoroughgood concert. Heattended 250 of the 354 calls.Howard Jock won the“Captain’s Award” for Station2. Howard to keep up thestation; when projects need tobe done at station he is alwaysthere and many times with hisown equipment.The “Captain’s Award” for Station 3 went to KevinW. Lazore. He is still in his probationary years andjumps right in to wash trucks or regular station cleanup. He has his own way of saying we need this and thatand does his share of plowing the driveway. Kevin isalso handy at the BBQ pit.Certificates went to people who made 25% of thecalls each month the entire year of 2010:Phillip Gray Clinton JacobsKevin M. Lazore Kevin W. LazoreMatthew Lazore Philip LazoreIssac McDonald Jason McDonaldRandy Mitchell 9

Cancer Prevention DayMay is National Skin Cancer and MelanomaMonth. The Seniors Center and ChronicNursing Care Department at the Saint Regis MohawkHealth Services are co-sponsoring a screening andeducational event.During the Senior Games week Thursday May 12,2011 at the Seniors Center from 9:00 am to 12:00noon, staff will distribute information about skin,breast, colon and prostate cancer. We are also pleasedto have two guest speakers with presentations startingat 9:30 am. Dr. Suhail Daye, a surgeon from MassenaMemorial Hospital, will do a presentation on theprevention of skin cancer. Dr. Daye will also be offeringBy Erin Barnes, Outreachfree skin cancer screenings to patients of all ages from10:00 am to 12:00 noon. Dr. Benson Kelly, MedicalDirector at SRMHS will be presenting on breast, colonand prostate cancer.Cancer has affected many family members in ourcommunity. The information that you receive couldsave lives! Enter to win some great door prizes. Pleasedirect any questions to the Chronic Care NursingDepartment 518-358-3141 ext 127 Lynelle PhillipsRN or Seniors Center 518-358-2963 Mary Grow RN.Sun Safety• Do Not Sunburn• Cover Up• Seek Shade• Wear A Hat• Limit Time In The Sun Between10 am & 4 pm• Always Use Sunscreen WithSPF 15+• Conduct Monthly Skin ExamsWorkforce InvestmentBeginning May 23, 2011, we will be advertisingfor applications for the Summer Youth Program.The following criteria for the program must be met:14-21 years of age (inclusive), family must meet WIAIncome guidelines, working cards required for ages14-15 and 16-17. The cards and applications may bepicked-up at Salmon River or Massena Central HighBy Marie Benedict, WIASchools’ Guidance Departments. Students meetingthe criteria will then be required to submit to and passa drug test. Some positions may require backgroundchecks, dependent on placements. 10

Be Safe, Not Sorry!June 30, 1856 – “Its path was narrow, but withinthat limit it wrought awful havoc…..from theConstable line to Burke Center.” The general store andthe school house roofs were blown off, sadly one personwas killed.Mother Nature can run amok on occasion spewingout earthquakes, tornadoes, flash floods, ice storms,lightning strikes and other natural disasters. Here in theNorth Country we don’t see as many disasters as otherareas of the world do, but we do on occasion meet thefierceness of a blizzard, ice storm or tornado. Our areais also at risk for other disasters such as terrorism, fire,hazardous materials, and railway and road accidents.Although we may never see anything too catastrophicin our neck of the woods, we should plan for the worstbecause a disaster can strike quickly and withoutwarning. Planning includes safeguarding importantdocuments to help you recover from adisaster quicker and easier.Assemble two files with yourimportant documents: Place one in asafe place nearby where you can grabit and go. Send the other file to a verytrusted relative or friend, lawyer oraccountant or even place in safe depositbox or fire proof safe.Include COPIES of the following items in each file:• Driver’s license; passport; birth, death andmarriage certificates, adoption records, militaryrecords• Debit and credit cards (both the front and theback) and a personal check• One statement, issued within the past year fromeach of your bank or brokerage accounts• Deed to your house, mortgage agreement, andany home-equity loan agreements, and photos ofBy Lillian Benedict Barton, Records ManagementPrepare Forthe Worst andKeep YourRecords Safe11your home and possessions• Wills, trust, and power of attorney documents• Key to (and locations of ) safe deposit boxes• Names and contact information for all executors,trustees, guardians and financial advisors• Insurance policies and agency contactinformation• A list of your user IDs and passwords for allonline financial accounts• A list of assets and liabilitiesUpdate these files whenever you make any changes.Consider saving money in an emergency account orkeep some cash in a secret hiding place that could beused in a crisis. Also don’t forget your basic disastersupplies to help sustain you and your family as well asyour pets. For more information onpreparing for a disaster go to www.fema.gov.To safeguard the Tribe’s records Iam working on a records emergencyaction plan. This plan will help usprepare, respond and recover from arecord disaster. One of our tasks isto complete a risk analysis and vitalrecords inventory of all records in each departmentof the Tribe. Some vital records include TribalCouncil Resolutions, Tribal members land deeds andmembership documents, as well as environment records,just to name a few. Our team knows how importantthese documents are and if a disaster occurred we willbe prepared to recover them. We are hoping, with thecooperation of all departments to have it ready fordistribution to all employees by the end of Septemberof this year. Information obtained from Historical Sketches of Franklin County,1918, Plattsburgh Housing Outlet and FEMA

CalendarOnerahtohkó:wa / May5th - Friends of the SRMT Animal Control Program - 4:30 pm - Community Building Upstairs Boardroom7th - Tribal Caucus - 10:00 am - Community Building Lobby10th - Social Security Administration - 1:30 to 3:30 pm - Tribal Clerk’s office11th - Wildlife Management Plan - 6:00 pm - Community Building Lobby14th - Tribal Monthly Meeting - 10:00 am - Community Building Lobby30th - Memorial Day Holiday - Tribal offices and transfer station closedNew FacesKayla N. Point Human Services - Intensive Preventive Program Youth AdvocateDanny McDermott Human Services - Family Support Registered NurseJoan I. Westcott IHS - Pharmacy PharmacistGiving BackSports - $500Community Events - $1,000Community Elders - $4,800Community Assistance - $2,000Community Development - $1,500JobsAdministrative/Production Assistant - PublicInformation OfficeMechanic - MaintenanceCounselor - Partridge HouseBusiness Office Clerk - IHSFamily Nurse Practitioner/Physician Assistant - IHSReceptionist / Administrative Assistant - Alcoholism /Chemical Dependency and Mental Health ProgramsSummer Recreation Director and Workers - JOMSummer Interns (2) - EnvironmentHome Finder/Caseworker - Social ServicesCurrent postings and complete job descriptions areavailable online at: www.srmt-nsn.gov13

Whether it’s Cold or Whetherit’s Hot, We Shall Have Weather,Whether or Not!Atmosphere, meteorology, pressure, winds,evaporation, condensation and precipitationare some of the words you might hear when you listento the weather report. Other things you may hear areNor’Easter, El Niño, supercell, tornado, blizzard andhurricane. So what do these all mean? Well, weatheris very complicated. There are many factors to lookat when trying to forecast the weather. Just ask ameteorologist like Ryan Finn who does the weather forYour News Now onTime Warner Cable.A meteorologist is aperson who can doweather forecasting.The way theyforecast weather isto look at differentatmospheric propertieslike pressures, winds,jet stream andtemperature. They alsouse models (computerprograms) to helpdetermine what’shappening next with the weather.Different pieces of equipment can help predict whatthe weather will be like. Meteorologists are alwayssaying something like, “The Doppler Radar shows rainin our forecast.” What exactly is Doppler radar? Wellit is a type of radar, (usually a pulse-type) that allows ameteorologist to see things like precipitation. Dopplerradar is also used in aviation, sounding satellites, policespeed guns and radiology. Doppler is the last nameof the scientist that proposed the effect back in 1842.Enough history for today --back to the weather.By Angela Benedict, Air Quality Program Manager14Wind is one of the major components of weather.Wind blows from high pressure to low pressure. Thepressure difference depends on the speed or velocityof the wind. In the northern hemisphere (where weare) winds blow clockwise in high pressure areas andcounter-clockwise in low pressure areas. And as we allknow, wind is energy so if you think about wind andenergy, the higher the energy, the faster the wind. Thehigher the wind, the faster the wind and the fiercer thestorm.Something elseto think of whentalking about windis tornados; I havealways wanted tosee one. I even didan internship inBoulder, Colorado atthe National Centerfor AtmosphericResearch and do youthink I saw even onetornado? Ten weeksand not one tornado.Who would have thought? But then again I wasn’t inKansas. Anyway, talking with meteorologist Finn, Iguess NYS gets about 10-12 tornados a year. The goodnews for the community is that they rarely happenaround here and if they did they would probably beso weak we might not even notice. Western NY, mid-Hudson and western Massachusetts are the more thanlikely places to see tornados.The last thing I would like to discuss is lightning.Meteorologist Ryan Finn explained to me that thereis no such thing as heat lightning --big misconception

on my part. Lightning that you can see but not hearis just lightning that is real far away. Sure it lights upthe sky, so it doesn’t look like real lightning, but it is.And it is not just in the hot summer months, lightningcan happen at any time and does. It can happen inlake effect snow also. Heavy bursts of snow can causelightning. “How?” you ask. Well, apparently you justneed to be negative, just kidding, but what happens isthe balance between negative and positive charges. Atpeace, positive = negative. At times of storms the earth,ground, buildings or even humans are positively chargedand the atmosphere is negatively charged. When theyare imbalanced, they create a charge between the twoand there you have it: lightning. Of course it’s not thatsimple -- there are other factors that help like distancebetween the positive and negative charges. Lightning isvery dangerous so if you see it don’t go running aroundin it.While we were talking I had to ask the all importantquestion (at least to me because I find it interesting):do you believe in climate change? Meteorologist Finn’sanswer: YES! It seems there are some meteorologistsand scientists that don’t believe in it and some that do.It’s about 50/50.So it seems that whether you like it or whether youdon’t, the weather will continue to affect us and guideus today and for the next seven generations. There is little chance thatmeteorologists can solve themysteries of weather untilthey gain an understanding ofthe mutual attraction of rainand weekends.~Arnot Sheppard15

Environmental AssessmentsThe Environmental Assessment (EA) processwas developed in order to keep our traditionof looking seven generations ahead to make decisionsaffecting the community. As we all know, our resourcesare limited and dwindle down each year. Subsequentlywe as a community must protect and manage them tothe best of our ability.With a new constructionseason approaching weremind the community thatany commercial or largescaledevelopment in thecommunity is subject to anEnvironmental Assessmentto protect our resources. Athorough environmental reviewprotects the people and theenvironment and ensures thatno proposed development willcause significant environmentaldegradation. In the event aproject may cause environmental damage, the project ispresented with alternatives and mitigation measures toprotect all interests.Bulldozer in ActionBy Matthew Thompson,Environmental Resources CoordinatorThe SRMT Environment Division again reminds thecommunity that we are here to help advance any proposeddevelopment through theEnvironmental Assessmentprocess. Applications for anEnvironmental Assessmentare available at our office; 449Frogtown Rd, Akwesasne, andthe EA Coordinator MatthewV. Thompson will assistcommunity members withdetermining the need for anEnvironmental Assessment.Additional information andenvironmental forms can befound online at: www.srmtenv.org. Higher EducationHey, have you got your FAFSA done for nextyear? Why not? What are you waiting for?Don’t forget your TAP application also.While you are at it, get those other reapplicationsdone before July 15. Remember, as the times gettougher, the rules get stricter.New Course OfferingSt. Lawrence University is offering a graduate coursebeginning the week of May 17, 2011. The course willend June 16, 2011.EDPS 509: Seminar in Human Sexuality forCounselors from 4:00 pm to 6:45 pm on Tuesdays,Wednesdays and Thursdays in Akwesasne(Hogansburg) NY.By Rod CookA survey of the physiology and psychology of humansexual response. The varieties of sexual behaviors andvalues will be explored along with particular problemsof sexual functioning which are often brought tocounselors. Adequate opportunity will be provided forstudents to examine myths about sex and to exploretheir own values with regard to masculine and feminineroles in contemporary society and various forms ofsexual behavior.For more information, contact Rod Cook, 518-358-2272 x 215. 16

How Are We Doing It?Sustaining in Tough Economic Times - Part 4By Laura J. Weber, Solid Waste Program ManagerWe are continuing our series on sustainingin tough economic times. Last month, weintroduced the first component of our sustainablemodel – the Solid Waste Management Code. TheCode is designed to protect our community fromthe negative impacts associated with the improperdisposal of solid wastes. We also gave you an “Actionto Sustainability Challenge.” How did you do withlast month’s challenge? What did you learn from theKwis & Tiio tip sheets? Did you incorporate someof the practices into your life?The second component of the sustainabilitymodel is our 4 R’s cultural educational program.You may be familiar with the 3 R’s – reduce, reuse,& recycle. The 4th R is respect. The purpose of theprogram is to motivate people to respect themselves,our community, and environment; respect leadspeople to take ownership for the overall well-beingof our community and creates positive choices withrespect to solid waste management decisions. We useinnovative approaches in showing the condition ofthe Mohawk environment and community is directlyimpacted by our choices for disposing of our wastes.Kwis (gwis) and Tiio (dee-oh) came to life in1997. They are Mohawk cartoon characters featuredin several cartoon series. The cartoons deliverpowerful environmental messages with humor andshow that our decisions impact the condition of ourcommunity. Several of the cartoons are available forviewing at this website: http://www.srmtenv.org/index.php?spec=srmtswkt. Action to Sustainability Challenge(Applying knowledge learned to make sustainable decisions in your life).Review Kwis & Tiio’s cartoon at this website: http://www.srmtenv.org/index.php?spec=ktrrr. Discusswith your family ways that you can incorporate the 4 R’s into your daily lives. Especially talk about respectand the importance that it plays in choosing to reduce, reuse and recycle.17

Hydrant FlushingBy Shawn Martin, Tribal Water DepartmentThe Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe WaterDepartment will be performing spring hydrantflushing beginning the weekof April 18 and continuinguntil the end of May. Pleasebe advised that duringhydrant flushing residentsmay experience lower waterpressures than normal, whilethe work is being performed inyour area. Hydrant flushingmay also temporarily discolorthe water and may causestaining of some clothing ifyou are doing laundry at thistime. Please plan accordingly.Use caution when hydrant flushing is occurring anddrive slowly to prevent injury to operators. If you haveany questions, please contactthe Water Department at518-358-4205 or the WaterTreatment Facility at 518-358-6159.As a reminder,UNAUTHORIZEDUSE OF HYDRANTSIS PROHIBITED! Ifyou notice unusual use ofany hydrant, please contactTribal Police or the WaterDepartment. Ahhh, The Smell of SpringThe warm spring air brings comfort to many thatthe long winter has passed and it brings manyof us outdoors for yard clean up. This practice alsotempts some to burn theiryards and garbage releasinginto the air harsh chemicals,particulates, or biologicalmaterials that cause harmor discomfort to neighborsand other living organisms.The Saint Regis MohawkTribe EnvironmentalCompliance Programreminds communitymembers this practice is notpermitted in Akwesasne.The Saint Regis MohawkTribe Environment AirProgram does have aBy Jessica Cree-Jock, Environmental Outreachpermitting program that issues permits to communitymembers for qualified burns. A permit must beobtained prior to the burn and the permit holders mustconsider their neighbors,friends and facilities nearbywhen conducting a burn.The issuance of a burnpermit is not permission tocause a nuisance to anyoneelse. Applications for a burnpermit can be obtained atthe Environment DivisionOffice.Thank you in advancefor your compliance withthe burn regulations andkeeping your neighbors inmind when conducting apermitted burn. 18

Project Sticker Shock TargetsUnderage DrinkingBy Melerena Back, CPS,Alcoholism Chemical Dependency Prevention Program CoordinatorYouth leaders and the Saint Regis Mohawk HealthServices Alcoholism Chemical DependencyPrevention (A/CDP) Program are working togetherto create a safer, healthier lifestyle by educating thecommunity about underage drinking laws.In a recent survey, alcohol has been identified as thenumber one drug of choice for youth. Local communityyouth and the A/CDP Prevention Program joinedforces in Project Sticker Shock, a youth initiative toeducate the public and change attitudes about sellingand serving alcohol to minors.Stickers warning about the penalties for furnishingalcohol to minors are placed on alcohol products. Thesticker spells out a strong reminder “IT IS ILLEGALTO BUY OR PROVIDE ALCOHOL FORANYONE UNDER 21!”Underage drinking is a community concern and themost effective way to address it is through communityinvolvement and participation. The youth leaders andthe A/CDP Program thank the following businessesfor their participation:CT Convenience Store, AkwesasneTruck Stop #9, AkwesasneKanienkehaka Fuels, AkwesasneCollette’s One Stop, BombayFirst Americans IGA, Akwesasne Tanner Beaudin Puts Stickers on the Cases19Emma Phillips and Leslie Loran Tackle theCooler

JOM ProgramBy Corrina Bero, JOM DirectorWashington Close-Up ProgramFrom February 6 through 12, 2011 I traveledto Washington DC with seven students fromSalmon River Central to attend the Washington Close-Up Program. Students who attended are Leslee Loran,Emma Phillips, Errolyn Bradley, Corrin Delormier,Marlee King-Jacobs, Anna Kelly and Cole Adams. Thestudents missed out on a lot of the program last yeardue to a major snow storm that hit Washington DC.This year they were able to participate in a week full ofactivities, walking tours, visits to national monuments,U.S. Senate hearings and group projects. They alsoadded some new and exciting activities for the teachersprogram.This year’s group project, presented to USETmembers, was on Akwesasne Teen Drug Use and theirconcern on the increasing use of Oxycodone and otherprescription drugs. The students had a chance to sitdown and have breakfast with Tribal Leaders, PamBrown and Monica Jacobs, who were attending USET.The students introduced themselves and discussed anyconcerns or questions.The highlight of the week was on our independentday (Friday) when we went to the BIA Office for a visitwith Christian Jock and Babette Herne (both fromAkwesasne) who work there. We were given a tour ofsome offices. Christian and Babette had a discussionwith the students about their jobs, how they got wherethey are, the importance of education and reachingyour goals. After our visit we walked two blocks to seethe White House then to the Smithsonian’s NaturalHistory Museum for lunch. After lunch we visited theHolocaust Museum, which is always an interest to thestudents. The Holocaust Museum is not on the agendawith the week-long activities so it’s always nice to hearthat the students want to go there. It is a very intensemuseum. We ended our day with a little shopping atthe Pentagon City Mall before heading back to thehotel for the evening banquet to end our week.20L-R: Emma Phillips, Leslee Loran, Corrin Delormier,Marlee Jacobs-King, Anna Kelly & Errolyn BradleyHonor Roll Incentive Give-AwaysThe JOM Program used to provide an end of theyear trip for all interested honor roll students. This yearwe have been doing something different by providinghonor roll incentive gifts for each marking periodthroughout the school year. We will draw a GrandPrize from all the names.Prizes are for students in grades seven through twelveat both Salmon River and Massena Central Schools.All students who make honor roll for that markingperiod have a chance at winning. There is one prize perwinner for each school.The first marking period prize was a digital camerawith memory card and USB flash drive. The winnerfrom Salmon River was Shania Oakes and winnerfrom Massena Central was Sierra Thomas-Burke.The second marking period prize was a Straight Talkcell phone with extra minutes. Winners were BrettRourke (SRC) and Hunter Francis (MCS). The thirdmarking period ends April 8, so when the honor roll listis submitted, the prize will be drawn for a waterproofvideo camcorder. The fourth and final marking periodwill end on June 24 and the prize is an iPod Touch8G-new edition. All names will be entered for thegrand prize which is a laptop computer. (One winnerper school).2011 Summer ProgramYouth Programs will meet mid-April to discussgroup efforts for a more effective summer program. Jobpostings and registration will take place end of April, orpossibly mid-May. More information will be availableat later date.

COPE - Human ServicesBy Mona Romeo, Human Services Staff Development CoordinatorThe winter months have been very exciting forselect staff of the Human Services Division.To better meet the needs of our staff, clients, andcommunity members the Division have completed a sixmonth training and consultation experience with Dr.Barbara Walker and her associate Pat Kelley of COPEConsulting Services.Dr. Walker and her business partner, Pat Kelley,provide professional development training to employeesof many types of businesses and public agencies.Dr. Walker has provided professional developmentinstruction to staff of the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribefor over 30 years.The workshops began in October 2010 and concludedin March 2011. Front line staff from the HumanServices Division engaged in several trainings over thesix month period. The topics included, documentation,team building, professional communication, preventingburnout and dealing with difficult people. Althoughtime constraints and job responsibilities made attendingthe trainings a challenge, many of the staff were able toattend all workshops. Response as to the content andvalue of the trainings was favorable.The topics presented to the supervisory participantsincluded how to write yearly performance reviews,which offered a more comprehensive approach toTop: Dave Barnum, Jeremiah Pond, Marcel Almond, Sherry Bowan, David LaPlante, Jeffrey C. WhelanMiddle: Agatha Thompson, Michelle Farnsworth, Kim Vallence, Nancy McMannBottom: Theresa Thompson, Bobbi Jo Wells, Theresa Martin, Bethany Barse, Racine JohnsonThe educational series conducted this winter wasdeveloped after a “needs assessment” was conductedby COPE Consultants. Staff and supervisors workedtogether to customize the workshops they felt wouldbest enhance the skills they use in the performance oftheir job responsibilities. Each of the workshops wasdesigned to reinforce skills already in use and introducenew ones to improve services offered through theDivision. In addition, each training session built uponthe content of the previous training.assessing employee performance. Supervisors alsoparticipated in communication profiling training. Thepurpose of this workshop was to assist supervisors inunderstanding their communication style as well as thestyles of those they work with.The series concluded in March with a pizza lunchhosted by COPE consultants and presentation ofcertificates by Human Services Director JeffreyWhelan. 21

Commission ReportTribal Gaming CommissionBy Kyrie A. Ransom, PIO Administrative AssistantHave you ever wondered while at the AkwesasneMohawk Casino or Mohawk Bingo Palacehow you can be sure that you are getting a fair deal?I’ve heard many people in passing angrily say that themachines are rigged. How can patrons be sure that theTribal Gaming Facilities operate with integrity andfairness?The answer is the Tribal Gaming Commission(TGC), whose oversight falls into the departmentsof Licensing, Audit, Gaming Inspectors and GamingNetworks. “This is a heavy responsibility that haschanged a lot even in just the last six years. The gamesthat are played are very complex now and the machinesare basically mini-computers,” said Chairman VaughnAldrich.The Gaming Networks Department tests all slotmachines before they are brought onto the gamingfloors to ensure that they are operating as they should.The machines on the floor are upgraded on a regularbasis. The software is challenged in their testing lab bya network security firm hired by the TGC.“With the growth of both Tribal Gaming Facilitiesand how things have become so much more professionalhave improved the efficiency of the operation,” saidCommissioner Peter Garrow. “The ongoing success ofthe facilities has been exciting.”The TGC has daily responsibilities to ensure thatcorrect procedures are being carried out, like having themoney properly handled. They also provide due processand will investigate any patron complaints. The Tribal-State Gaming Compact stipulates that the gamingfacility cannot operate without the TGC.The next time you are attending a promotionalevent at either the Akwesasne Mohawk Casino or theMohawk Bingo Palace and wonder about the fairnessof the draws, remember that the TGC has Inspectorsonsite to make sure that all is fair. 22

All About FootprintsBy Laura Murphy, Dept. Head for Disabilities Serviceschild is diagnosed with autism once everyA twenty minutes, with one of ninety-onechildren diagnosed with autism.Footprints started as a small thought about twoyears ago, in an effort to design something uniqueand different for children diagnosed on the autismspectrum. Our program is housed in natural countrysurroundings, with exposure to all of the sensoryexperiences the land has to offer: gardens, trees, openfields, water and animal life, both wild and tame.As springtime 2011 unfolds, sowill the second phase of Footprints.The remainder of the land extendingto the first tree line will be fenced.available to those who receive services from the TribalVocational Rehabilitation Program (TVR).Eventually, we anticipate small field trips andlearning activities for our Head Start and Day Carechildren. What better way to learn about cooking andsharing than picking the ingredients from your owngarden and making lunch or dinner with your friends?Singing, dancing, drumming, stories and language inmany forms will happen here, starting with the veryyoung children on the autism spectrum and branchingout to provide opportunities forother Akwesasne youth.Sensory input, unique modesof communication and learningto be friends with others are allGardens of corn,beans, squash andvarious herbs willbe planted alongwith a few hills ofpumpkins and eventually sweet grass ~ all planted nearthe shelter of a new white pine. We hope to somedaysell our garden produce, eggs and woodworking projectsat the Farmer’s Market.As the year progresses, small barns and sheds willbe built to house goats, chickens, rabbits and perhaps apony or two. Our barns will be built by the teenagers andadults who participate in our Family Support Program,under the guidance of our woodshop staff. Thegardens will be planted by the children at Footprints,with help from others in our program. In evenings andon weekends, the animals will be tended by a few of theresidents from the Individual Residential Alternatives(IRA) Program. In the future, job placements may beimportant learningtools for childrenwith autism. Wewill be building theFootprints programon these basic strategies, utilizing the natural worldon a daily basis for children to learn through hands onexperiences. For those families who may prefer a morestructured, clinical approach to helping their children,we will also be providing ABA (Applied BehavioralAnalysis) drills in our small ABA rooms on a daily basis.Does this sound like a big dream? It is! It has beensaid that children with autism leave a footprints on ourhearts. We believe this to be true. Heartfelt thanks areextended to the parents of the Footprints children, fortheir fundraising, interest, knowledge and talents inhelping to develop the ideas for this project. We thinkyour kids are great! 23

Dragonfly TV in London, England producesaward-winning TV documentaries that areshown throughout the world. They are currentlymaking an exciting new TV series called Guess theRelative (working title) and it’sa fun and entertaining show allabout family history and ourdistant living relatives.In it, people from aroundthe world will get the chanceto travel to Britain to discoverliving British relatives, who theynever even knew existed.New TV ShowBy David Staddon, EditorDragonfly TV is currently looking for peoplefrom the USA who think they may have a distantancestor from the UK. Their ancestor might be severalgenerations back and come from England, Scotland,Wales or Northern Ireland - butif they have any link to the UKwhatsoever, we want to hearabout it!This is a great opportunityand below is a brief ad detailingwho they’re looking for andhow they can get in touch. Do you think your family tree might have British roots?Would you like to travel to Britain to discover your livingrelatives?Dragonfly TV is making an exciting new game showfeaturing families, ancestors and long-lost relatives. We’researching for people from all over the world, who think theymay have British ancestry, who would like to take part.Whether your Great Great Grandfather was born inEngland or your Great Aunt lived in Scotland... If you thinkyou, or anyone you know, may have any British ancestry, wewant to hear from you! Contact the production team NOWto find out more: Email: relatives@dragonfly.tv Phone:+44 207 033 2319 Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/GuessTheRelative www.dragonfly.tvSaint Regis Mohawk Tribe412 State Route 37Akwesasne, NY 13655ECRWSSPRSRT STDU.S. POSTAGE PAIDMAILED FROMZIP CODE 13655PERMIT NO. 26POSTAL PATRON24