SRMT Kawennì:ios Newsletter - Onerahtókha / April 2011

Onerahtókha / April 2011AkwesasneMedical LabScholarshipRecipientsEmeraldAsh Borer inAkwesasne?Pet PhotoContestWinnersSRMT Kawennì:iosAkwesasne CelebratesShamrockin’ ExcellenceHelping Build a Better Tomorrow1

Business FeatureAkwesasne Medical Lab On-Site TestingBy Steven B. Cook,Director of Economic DevelopmentIn today’s competitive business world, manyemployers require pre-employment drug testingof potential employees and random drug testing ofexisting employees as a condition of their employment.Agencies may require drug testing for post accident,reasonable suspicion, return to work, follow-up orconflict of interest. Akwesasne Medical Lab On-siteTesting is CAN/AM insured, provides a MedicalReview Officer’s expertise and confidentiality.Alicia Cook, LPN saw the needfor a local on-site testing lab andcreated her own local businesscalled Akwesasne Medical LabOn-site Testing which is a memberof the Drug and Alcohol TestingIndustry Association (DATIA)and provides professional servicesby meeting the regulations of theDepartment of Transportation’s(DOT) Chain of Custodyprocedures.Akwesasne Medical Lab On-siteTesting works with the Departmentof Health and Human Servicesand CAP/AACC certifiedtoxicology laboratories who aid inproviding high quality laboratory services to medicalcenters, clinics and companies on a national scale.“We offer hair testing, urinalysis, breathalyzer (RBTIV) testing and DNA testing for paternity, maternity,immigration and forensics,” said Alicia.“We treat each individual with professional services,dignity and respect. Each certified collector is expectedto provide strict collection and testing procedures aswell as maintain a good workingrelationship with our clienteleand their employees. You canbe reassured that all records areconfidential,” said Alicia.Akwesasne Medical Lab OnsiteTesting also offers drug testingsupplies for business, commercial,employment and institutions.They provide services to theAkwesasne Territory, FranklinCounty, St. Lawrence Countyand Cornwall, Ontario.The SRMT Office ofEconomic Developmentcongratulates them on a successfulopening and welcomes them toour business community. For more information, please contact Alicia Cook, LPN at:Akwesasne Medical Lab On-site Testing935 State Route 37, Lot 1, Behind Speedway PlazaAkwesasne Territory, NY 13655518-358-2442 / 315-600-7175, Fax: 800-358-7531Email: onsitecollector@wildblue.netHours of Operation – Mon – Fri 9:00 am-4:00 pm and by appointment2

Good Words ofWelcomeGreetings to all Akwesashrónon,I’d like to acknowledge the spectacular athletes fromour community on a job well done!Salmon River Boys’ Varsity Hockey team won theSection X Division II title, ended their season withan 18-5-1 record and were ranked 5th in the State.Congratulations to Head Coach Tim Cook, AssistantCoach Ted Cook and the boys.Salmon River Girls’ Varsity Basketball team wonthe Section X Class B title, ended their regular seasonwith an 18-0 record, and achieved their first appearancein the Class B State Playoffs in school history. HeadCoach Karen Francis was named Coach of the Year,congratulations to Head Coach Francis, AssistantCoach Jocelyn Kelly and the girls!In the younger ranks of Akwesasne athletics, both ofthe St. Lawrence Thunder U12 girls’ and boys’ hockeyteams won their State Championships. The girls’ siderepresented Akwesasne in Anaheim, California playingin the U.S. National Championships, while the boystraveled to their US National Championships in SanJose, California.The North Franklin Squirt hockey team also hada phenomenal showing this season by being the firstOn the Cover: SRCS Hockey players Evan Thompson,Jacob Swamp and Storm Adams get ready for Parade ofChampionsteam to advance to the State Championship in 15 years.Congratulations to Coaches Owen Benedict, JohnJacobs, Heather Cook and the North Franklin Squirthockey team!Last, but not least, congratulations to CoachesKarson Herne, Mark Terrance and the players onthe Akwesasne Minor Hockey Pee Wee Team. Atthe time of publication, they were in the Lower St.Lawrence Division Championship Playoffs followingan undefeated season.Akwesasne talent is not limited to the athleticarena and acknowledgement needs to be given to thescholastic achievements, too. Included in this edition is alist of scholarship recipients of our Akwesasne studentswho are working hard at furthering their education.Congratulations to all the recipients!History is in the making here in Akwesasne and itis exciting to see our youth adding to the history booksof our community. I apologize if any other teams ororganizations have been overlooked, there are so manygreat things happening in Akwesasne it will keep ourarchives facility busy trying to keep track of all thetreasure rising to the surface.Keep up the outstanding work Akwesasne!Sub-Chief Stacy SkiddersDavid 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

Let the SpringCleaning Begin!By Angela Benedict, Air Quality Program ManagerSo Punxsutawney Phil did not see his shadow!How could he, with the blizzard that sweptthrough that day? The good news is spring is on itsway: early spring --WooHoo! Oh, wait a minute! Thatmeans that all the flowers, trees, leaves and grass will beblooming even earlier. Guess it’s time for me to go intohibernation, just kidding. Although he doesn’t havethat great a record, let’s hope he is correct this year.Spring cleaning to some is a four letter word whileto others it is a fresh new start, with the windows nowopen and everything brighter because the sun is shining.I can almost smell the fresh spring air as I am writingthis even though it is only 12°F outside. So now that ithas warmed up, go ahead and open those windows andlet the fresh air in.Another good reason to let the fresh air in is ifyou are using cleaners like Lysol, Pine-sol, Comet,ammonia or bleach because these products have toxicfumes. Sure, some of them can smell good but justbecause your bleach smells like flowers doesn’t mean itisn’t toxic. And I always say, if you can smell it you arebeing exposed to it. Also make sure your children aren’taround it. It is proven that the younger you are themore breaths you take.Average respiratory rates, by age:• Newborns: Average 44 breaths per minute• Infants: 40-60 breaths per minute• Preschool children: 20–30 breaths per minute• Older children: 16–25 breaths per minute• Adults: 12–20 breaths per minuteSomething else we have to keep in mind is that factthat we got a lot of snow -- I mean a lot. Kinda like thegood ole days. But when this white stuff starts thawing- look out. More moisture means that homes like mine,with a wet basement, will have more problems. The onething to be sure though is that anything that can holdmoisture and grow mold should be removed or movedto higher ground. If it does get wet it needs to be driedout or thrown out.So for the breaths that we take, let the sunshine andfresh air in for now and for the next seven generations.4

Does Fluffy Have a Boo-Boo?April is Pet First Aid Awareness MonthBy Jennifer Herne, Animal Control OfficerDo you know what to do in the event your pet needsfirst aid? Preparing for a medical emergencyinvolving your pet is always best accomplished before theevent takes place. Before an emergency strikes, be sureyou know how your veterinarian handles emergencies orwhere you should go if you have a pet emergency. Someveterinarians do not handle emergencies during regularbusiness hours and some do not handle emergenciesat all. Some veterinarians have someone on call. Youshould have the phone number handy once you findout how your veterinarian handles emergencies. Youcan also stay safely prepared for emergencies by puttingtogether a pet first aid kit. The following are guidelines,the basics you need for giving first aid care to your pet.First aid supplies. Veterinarian’s phone number,animal poison control center (888-4ANI-HELP).Put together a pet first aid kit using the following:gauze, nonstick bandages or towels. (do not use humanadhesive bandages on pets), digital thermometer(“fever” thermometer, normal thermometers do not gohigh enough for pets), eye dropper, muzzle (if your petis vomiting DO NOT muzzle it), a leash (if your petis capable of walking). If not, you can use a stretcher,board, floor mat or blanket.How to handle an injured pet. Knowing how tocomfort an injured pet can help minimize your pet’sanxiety and also protect you and your family frominjury.Basic pet first aid procedures. There are many coursesavailable online to help you learn pet first aid. Try aGoogle search for “pet first aid courses.”“Animals are suchagreeable friends - theyask no questions, theypass no criticisms5PETFIRST AID KITAlways remember that any first aidadministered to your pet should be followedby immediate veterinary care. First aid careis NOT a substitute for veterinary care, butit may save your pet’s life until it receivesveterinary treatment.First aid when traveling with your pet. A few simplesteps can better prepare you to help your pet. Remember,emergencies don’t just happen at home.Pets and disaster. Whether it’s a hurricane or housefire, you need to be prepared to take care of your animals.Knowing if your local emergency shelter will acceptpets in the event of an emergency will help you planaccordingly. Think of developing a pre-determineddisaster plan, this will help you remain calm and thinkclearly.This information was gathered to get you thinking.It is up to you, the responsible pet owner, to prepareyour own emergency plan and pet first aid kit. You canpurchase a pet first aid kit from the ASPCA websitefor about $50.00. It is also a good idea to keep all ofyour pet’s paperwork, vaccination records or record ofany surgeries and pet medication in one place so in theevent of an emergency you can grab the informationand go quickly. Plan ahead, you will be glad you did.Some information provided by AVMA andHealthyPet.com.

Alcoholism / ChemicalDependency PreventionApril is National Alcohol AwarenessMonth and the focus is on underagedrinking. Alcohol is the drug most frequentlyused by high school seniors and its use isincreasing. Boys usually try alcohol for thefirst time when 11 years old, while the averageage for girls’ first drink is 13. Underagedrinking is a factor in nearly half of allteen automobile crashes and contributes toyouth suicides, homicides and fatal injuries.Additionally, alcohol abuse is linked to asmany as two-thirds of all sexual assaults anddate rapes of teens and college students. It is amajor factor in unprotected sex among youth,increasing their risk of contracting HIV orother sexually transmitted diseases.The issue of underage drinking is a complexproblem and can only be solved through asustained and cooperative effort betweenparents, schools, community leaders andyouth themselves. There are three areas whichhave proven to be effective in prevention ofunderage drinking: curtailing the availabilityof alcohol, consistent enforcement of existinglaws and regulations and changing culturalmisconceptions and behaviors througheducation.Be part of the solution. Talk to youthabout the risks of underage drinking. Yourwords can have an effect -- you can make adifference.Dealing With Problem Gambling“People who experience problemgambling can find help – regardlessof how long they have been gamblingor how many financial or legalproblems their addiction has caused.The Saint Regis Mohawk HealthBy Tiffany Leabo, A/CDP Prevention EducatorLife is nota game ofchance6Services Alcoholism/ Chemical DependencyOutpatient Program offers confidentialservices for those who have problems withgambling. One of the first steps is to recognizethe warning signs of a problem gambler. Theyinclude:• Gambling for a longer time and/or moremoney than intended• Gambling in an effort to try to win backwhat you’ve lost• Lying to loved ones about the amountof time or money spent gamblingIt can affect men or women of any age,race or religion, regardless of social status.As more Americans are gambling thanever before, families and communities arefinding the importance of being aware of theconsequences of problem gambling.Opportunities to gamble have been morewidely available or heavily promoted. Mostcomputer users are just a click away from highstakes,high-speed and high-risk gambling.If you think you or someone you knowmight have a problem, the Saint RegisMohawk Health Services Alcoholism/Chemical Dependency Outpatient Programmay be able to help. A problem gambler doesnot need to wait to “hit bottom” before askingfor help. And because so manyaddicted gamblers are in denial,support for the family is offered aswell. To learn more or find help call518-358-3141.“For more information contact theSaint Regis Mohawk Alcoholism/Chemical Dependency PreventionProgram at 518-358-2967.

Tribe vs MCAThe Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal employeesfaced off against the employees of the MohawkCouncil of Akwesasne in the Battle Royale. TheBattle Royale is an annual challenge that is part of theAkwesasne Winter Carnival which celebrated 20 yearsthis past February. Twenty-seven employees from eachorganization registered to compete for their respectiveemployers.The first set of events kicked off at the same time.They were the broomball game, a puzzling contestwith both small and large puzzles and a horseshoecompetition with three teams.The broomball game was played with three periods inwindy conditions causing minor disruptions throughoutthe game. Both sides aggressively battled each otherwith the SRMT team coming out the winner with atremendous lead.By Kyrie Ransom, PIOAdministrative Assistantminute decision to extend the playing time of thegames, team MCA advanced past the SRMT in boththe women’s and co-ed division. By the end of thefirst round of events both teams were tied at six pointseach.The second part of the Battle Royale began withthe Buddy Walker Relay Race. A disqualificationfor the SRMT team gave MCA the lead for a briefmoment. MCA’s lead was quickly countered by SRMTdomination of the Tug-of-War.The last event of the day ended up breaking the tiebetween the two teams, and that event was the Minute-To-Win-It Challenge. The last challenge of the daywas to see who could hold a cafeteria tray in one hand,while stacking five bolts on top of it using a pencil. Theteam that completed this task by three separate peoplewon the game.The puzzling contest lasted most of the afternoon asteam SRMT lost the small puzzle, but blew past MCAon the large puzzle challenge.The horseshoe tournament had three separate teams– all male, all female and a co-ed team. After a lastTeam SRMT gave a strong effort in this last challengehowever they did not finish the task in time. The crowdeagerly watched as both sides fumbled through the lastchallenge, but MCA finished first putting them ahead10-8. 7

Commission ReportSaint Regis Mohawk Tribe PoliceCommissionhen I joined the Police Commission I was“Wtrying to find a way to give back to mycommunity,” explained Jim McDonald, Chair of theSaint Regis Mohawk Tribe Police Commission. Hehas served eight years on the commission. The PoliceCommission is comprisedof five community membersliving in the southern portionof Akwesasne. All areenrolled members and havea clear criminal backgroundcheck. This commissionmeets on a monthly basis inorder to hear and respondto reports from the Chiefof Police concerning theactivities of the force andcommunity issues that mayhave developed.“If a community memberhas any problems withpolicing we don’t want them to be afraid to contact us,we are a neutral third party who handles complaints,”added McDonald. Community members havingproblems with policing service can file a formal writtencomplaint with the Police Commission who will thenBy Kyrie RansomPIO Administrative Assistantbegin an investigation into the incident in a timelymanner. “The benefit to the community is that they haveanother place to turn to in order to address problems inthe system.”There is also a benefit to the Police Officers whoserve within the SRMTDetachment. “We try andmake at least one sessioneach year to allow officersto bring up issues thatthey see on the job, as wellas make recommendationson how to improve servicesto the community. This isa great process becauseall of their input is keptconfidential, which allowsofficers to share withoutany fear of repercussions,”noted McDonald who hasalso gone into the fieldwith officers in order to gain a better understanding ofwhat the day to day duties and responsibilities are. Theother members on the Police Commission are GlenLazore, Edith McDonald, Rita Swamp and DianeConners. Immunization ClinicThe Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe HealthServices Outreach program will be holdingan immunization clinic to celebrate Infant Care andNational Immunization Week on Wednesday, April 20,2011. It will be held in the lobby of the Saint RegisMohawk Tribe Health Services building from 9:00 amto 3:00 pm.We welcome all expectant moms, new parents andinfant caregivers for a fun filled day of education topics8By Erin Barnes, Outreachon immunizations, SIDS, breast-feeding, WIC, secondand third hand smoke, infant dental health, FetalAlcohol Syndrome and nutrition. Information will alsobe offered on the Women’s Reproductive Health Study,the Women’s Centering Pregnancy Group and EarlyIntervention Program. Don’t forget to sign up for doorprizes. Any questions, you can call the Outreach Officeat 518-358-3141 ext 130.

Chipping Project for 2011By Setanta O’Ceillaigh, Forestry TechnicianIt’s close to that time of year again, soon the grasswill be green, the buds open on trees and the manyscattered branches and fallen trees from the inevitablewinter weather will need to be cleaned up. Whether it’sa pile of small branches, or a wind-thrown tree in theyard, forestry resources will once again have a mobilecrew ready to chip this material.Last year the professional crew had chipped orotherwise cleaned up 60 tons of small branches anddowned trees fromover 40 individualsites. The piles ofwood chips were takento a collection area tonaturally decompose.This avoids disbursingparticulate matterproduced by burning.The material cleanedup had been storedat the transfer stationand given away asfirewood (from largerpieces) or landscapemulch (from chips) tocommunity memberson a first-come firstservebasis (there are still a lot of chips). It is my hope toat least meet this productivity this year, if not exceed it.The chipping project is a free service to communitymembers. To participate you will need to fill out thepermission to enter property and waiver form. Prioritywill be given to the elderly and disabled, then on afirst-come first-serve basis. The form can be picked upat the Environment Division at 449 Frogtown Road.Note that the form will need to be filled out completely,incomplete forms may prevent your site from beingchipped.Clinton Deon Loading the ChipperMaterials that can be chipped include:• Branches that had fallen from trees• Branches and small stems cut and piled from yardwork or land clearing• Trees that had fallen prior to the crew working onsite, such as wind-thrown treesMaterial that will not be accepted:• Branch pilescontaining wire orother debris/rubbish• Bull dozedmaterial with rocks andsoil mixed in, or roots• Ornamentalpruning will not bedone• Removal of livestanding trees• Material that isin an unsafe location orposes a hazard to thefield crewThis chipping project does not include brush clearingas in the Wildlife Urban Interface program.If you would like to participate in the 2011 chippingproject please fill out the permission form. If you haveany questions regarding the chipping project or anyother forestry activity please contact Setanta O’Ceillaighat 358-5937 ext 137 or Les Benedict at ext 118. 9

How Are We Doing It?I’m continuing my series on sustaining in tougheconomic times. In the previous two months, I’veintroduced the definition for sustainability (do youremember what it is?), shared our sustainable model,and gave you an “Action to Sustainability Challenge.”How did you do with last month’s challenge? Wereyou able to make some changes with your buyinghabits that led to more sustainable choices? If yes,congratulations you incorporated the principle ofsustainability into your life.You may remember fromlast month that our solid wastesustainable model consists of fivecomponents. We are going tobe taking a closer look at thesecomponents in the next five monthsbeginning with the solid wastemanagement code, hereinafter the“Code.” A copy of the Code isavailable at: http://www.srmtenv.org/pdf_files/swcode.pdf.Sustaining in Tough Economic Times - Part 3By Laura J. Weber, Solid Waste Program ManagerIn the mid 90’s, the solid waste disposal practiceswere not in good harmony with Mother Earth. Opendumping and burning was widespread throughoutthe community. The continuation of these practiceswould have had an adverse affect on future generationsand the land. The Code was developed to protectthe health and safety of Tribal members and allother persons within the Mohawk territory, and theenvironment from the negative impacts associatedwith the improper disposal of solid wastes.Major highlights of the Code include:1. Tribe’s Environment Division is the leaddepartment to ensure the proper managementof solid wastes;2. All solid wastes are to be disposed properlyat management facilities located off Mohawklands;3. Open dumping is prohibited;4. Burning of solid waste isdone in accordance with the openburn regulations established by theEnvironment Division’s Clean AirProgram;5. Haulers must obtain a permitto collect solid wastes and fulfillannual reporting requirementsin order to continue providingservices to the community; and6. Any facility used for themanagement of solid wastes mustobtain a permit to operate and be subject toinspections and reporting requirements.The Code along with the other components of thesolid waste sustainable model has been successful inreducing open dumping. A 2009 study conductedby the Environment Division showed that opendumping was reduced by 40% among residents and25% among businesses since 1995. Action to Sustainability ChallengeAre you still using open dumping & burning as a method for disposing of your solid wastes? If so, pleaseeducate yourself about the negative impacts associated with these practices by visiting this website: http://www.srmtenv.org/index.php?spec=srmtswkt. Review each link provided and especially Kwis & Tiio TipSheet 7 – Health & Env. Problems Associated with Open Dumping & Burning.10

CalendarOnerahtókha / April2nd - Tribal Monthly Meeting - 10:00 am - Community Building5th - Friends of the SRMT Animal Control Program - 4:30 pm - Community Building Upstairs Boardroom7th - Burn Permit Applications - 9:00 am to 4:00 pm - Community Building Lobby12th - Social Security Administration - 1:30 to 3:30 pm - Tribal Clerk’s office14th - Brownfields Meeting - 6:00 pm - Community Building Lobby18th - Animal Control Kennel Open House - 3:00 to 5:00 pm20th - Immunization Clinic - 9:00 am to 3:00 pm - Health Services Lobby23rd - Annual Earth Day Celebration / Tree & Seed Giveaway- 9:00 am to 1:00 pm - WolfclanNew FacesHeather Garrow IHS - Let’s Get Healthy Fitness SpecialistAzia Hart JOM Remedial TutorDonna Martin Administration - Maintenance CustodianLori I. White Tribal Police DispatcherGiving BackFunerals - $ 1,000JobsRegistered Nurse - Indian Health Service MedicalClinicFitness Health Promotion Specialist - Let’s GetHealthy - Diabetes GrantCurrent postings and complete job descriptions areavailable online at: www.srmt-nsn.gov11

Urban and CommunityForest InventoryThe SRMT Environment Division ForestryResources is planning an Urban and CommunityForest Inventory Onerahtokha/April 6. We will partnerwith SUNY’s College of Environmental Science andForestry ESF Ranger School students. This inventorywill collect data on trees close to roads and businesses.An urban forest is trees and shrubs in towns, cities andvillages. Though hard to imagine Akwesasne having an“urban” forest, it does exist. It is the trees along roadways,in yards, around parking lots, or even shrubs. The urbanforest is gray infrastructure (buildings, roads) and greeninfrastructure (trees andother plants).Trees close to buildingsinfluence heating andcooling by providing shade,wind breaks and heatsinks. U.S. Forestry Service(USFS) studies show largershade trees can createan ambient reduction ofsummer air temperaturesof two degrees. Trees alsoimprove air quality. As treesgrow, they absorb particulatematter and volatile organiccompounds (VOCs). Trees absorb automobile emissions,gasoline vapors, sulfur and vapors from chemicalsolvents and reduce concentrations around homes. Asa tree grows, it acts as a sink for carbon, removing itfrom the atmosphere. Trees reduce long-term healthconcerns, like asthma, by removing particulate matterand VOCs.Positive aspects of urban trees balance with negativeaspects. Yard and street trees can be damaged by stormsor nails or clothes lines. Unlike damaged forest trees, anurban tree can fall on a house, a road, a power line, or aplayground.The inventory will record species, size and generalBy Setanta O’Ceillaigh, Forestry TechnicianCrew Conducts Urban Inventory12health. These trees are located within sample plots alongseveral roads and yards in Akwesasne. The informationwill assess the overall health of street trees in Akwesasne.It will determine how trees affect the community, theirvalue to heating and cooling and measure the particulatematter removed from the atmosphere. Inventories willbe conducted within properties that have agreed toparticipate. We request the community’s cooperationand ask for volunteers.The tree species data is useful to identify commontrouble trees. Trees like box alder and quaking aspen areprone to specific problems.Knowing the population ofhigh-risk trees can be usedto predict risk. The sizeof trees will be recorded.This information is usefulto determine the potentialrisk a tree poses. A largetree that falls can causemore damage than a smallone.The general healthof trees will be recorded,such as if a tree has a largecavity making it susceptible tobreaking, or large dead branches that could fall. Deadtrees will be recorded.This inventory will help anticipate tree health (EAB,gypsy moths, etc.), understand the potential impactand prevention steps to limit forest health problems.The inventory will also be useful to determine theimpact of trees in Akwesasne: how trees affect energyuse, air quality, storm water runoff and carbon dioxidereduction. The inventory can determine the extent ofpossible future tree plantings.If you would like to participate, please contact SetantaO’Ceillaigh, Forestry Technician at 358-5937 ext. 137,or email setanta.oceillaigh@srmt-nsn.gov.

The Tribe’s TreasuresBy Lillian Benedict Barton, Records ManagementHow important are records to the SaintRegis Mohawk Tribe, or should I say, to the“Community of Akwesasne?” The records and archivesdepartment at the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe strives toensure Tribal government accountability to the future,protect the rights of Kanienkeha:ka and preserve thepast to share with generations to come.The most important responsibility in this positionis to ensure the preservation of all records created ineach departmentgoverned by theTribe. Historyis in the makinghere at the Tribeand not everyoneis aware of it.When the Tribesigns TCR’s,acquires a grant,works on majorprojects likeenvironmentalremediationefforts or thebroadbandinitiative oreven enrollinga member ofthe Tribe, weare creatinghistory. If it’s important enough to make history andhas legal value, protects health, safety, property andrights of community members, then we have to ensureits preservation for our future leaders and communitymembers.A newsletter written in 1958 by TherodoreLaFrance, Tribal Clerk, is one of the many documentsin the Tribe’s possession, found tucked away in a box; itstates, “This will be the second year when our womenof this tribe will take part in nominations and to votefor their favorite candidates.” Therodore had no ideahow important this would be to us today because itdocuments when Tribal women became an importantand integral part of tribal elections.So…what may be lurking in your attics, old trunksand boxes? Take a look before you toss things outbecause you will be surprised at what you might find.Items your parents or grandparents left behind couldhave meaning, could answer questions about your lifeor even have legal standing. If you find things that mayhave meaning for others, then pass them on and theywill be forever grateful.The records/archivesdepartment isalways lookingfor importanthistory of theSaint RegisM o h a w kTribe. If youor someone youknow has anyinformationyou would liketo share, pleasecall me at theTribe. (Anyinformationcan and willInformation on This Sign Ends in the Late 70sbe returnedif requested).Currently I amworking on a project called “Tribal Leadership History”in which I will be gathering information relating to theestablishment of Tribal Council, the Chiefs, and Sub-Chiefs as well as identify our past Administrators andTribal Clerks. I believe this information once collectedwill provide our youngest members with a vivid pictureof Tribal Council history and maybe identify someancestors as well. If you find some important documents,take measures to preserve them or find someone whowill because our great-great-great grandchildren will13say Niawen:kowa for the decisions we made today fortheir history tomorrow.

Spring Clean-upNo Spring Clean-upProgram This YearThe Annual Spring Clean-up, conducted by theTribe’s Solid Waste Program will now be heldon a bi-annual basis. This means that the Tribe willNOT BE CONDUCTING A SPRING CLEAN-UPthis year, spring of 2011. The program is scheduledto resume in April, 2012. Community members arereminded to NOT put out unwanted items by the sideBy David Staddon, Editorof the road this year. Community members can stilltake their unwanted items to the Solid Waste Transferstation, but will have to pay the standard disposal fee.If anybody has any questions, please contact the TribalOperations at 358-2272. BrownfieldsInformation SessionScheduledBy Julia Jacobs,Environmental OutreachThe St. Regis Mohawk Tribe’s EnvironmentDivision has entered into a cooperativeagreement with the USEPA for a program calledBrownfields. The program is designed to assist theTribe with developing its Brownfields response capacitywith the first priority given to the development ofa community-wide Brownfield inventory. We arecurrently seeking the community’s assistance in thisprocess.The definition of Brownfields is “real property, theexpansion, redevelopment, or reuse of which may becomplicated by the presence or potential presence of apollutant or contaminant. Cleaning up and reinvestingin these properties protects the environment, reducesblight, and takes development pressures off green spacesand working lands.”During the month of March, Brownfields personnelreached out to the community on the CKON TalkShow Tetewahtahren and held a meeting at the SaintRegis Mohawk Tribe Senior Center on March 21st,to educate the community on the program and receiveany information that would help with building theinventory.14An additional community meeting is scheduled forApril 14, 2011, at 6:00 pm in lobby of the CommunityBuilding. We hope community members withquestions and information on potential sites will join usfor the meeting. At meetings regarding Brownfields,community members will be able to learn how toaccess EPA Brownfields web sites with the assistanceof SRMT Brownfields personnel.Also in April, the Brownfields team will travel toPhiladelphia, PA for training at the 2011 BrownfieldsConference. The two-day conference will provideinformation the team will need to successfully completethe inventory!For more information, please feel free to visitthe Environment’s website at srmtenv.org or theEnvironmental Protections Agency’s Tribal Brownfieldwebsite at www.epa.gov. http://www.epa.gov/brownfields/state_tribal/tribe_progs.htm, http://www.epa.gov/brownfields/state_tribal/pubs.htm#tri.If you have any questions regarding Brownfields andwould like to speak with someone, please contact Juliaor Jessica at the Environment Division 518-358-5937.

Tribal Monthly Meeting1. Introductions:• Welcome• Reading of Action Items - Tribal Clerk2. Akwesasne Mohawk Casino Expansion3. Sub-Chiefs Directive4. Fishing Regulations for Non-Natives5. Ethics Ordinance - Alison Benedict6. New Business7. Reading of Action Items - Tribal Clerk8. AdjournmentAction Items from March meeting:• Hold a special meeting on the proposed casinoexpansion on Saturday, March 12, 2011 at theCommunity Building at 10 a.m. Have Casinoand Bingo Palace financial statements availablethat include a breakdown on expenditures notjust balances. Also, include accounting for the$70 million dollar loan from the previous casinoexpansion.• Meet with New York State to update regulations onthe qualifications for a gaming license. Specificallylook at reducing the number of years one has to waitafter a felony conviction.• Chief Hart to look into the demolition work ofthe former General Motors Plant to see if they arehiring on union workers.• Minnie Garrow requested that Ken Kapplemierhave a special meeting to present his informationon land claims and taxation.• Have copies of the current Tribal Council oathsavailable as handouts at the next Tribal meeting.Follow-up from February Action Items:1. Have the Police Commission meet with MarkLight to resolve his issue.Follow-up: The Chairman of the Police Commissionspoke with Mr. Light after the Tribal meeting. ThePolice Commission is preparing a letter to Mr.Light addressing the issue.Enniskó:wa / March 5, 2011Chaired by Chief Randy Hart2. Provide a history of the common lands.Follow-up: Research is begin conducted in thecommon lands and the information will be presentedwhen the research is complete.3. Council reach out to the former Mohawk Anti-Tax Steering Committee to hold a communitymeeting.Follow-up: Currently, research about the MohawkAnti-Tax Steering Committee is being doneto gather information on the committee andto determine what the original mandate of thecommittee was for.4. Provide information finance statement on therestricted Fund.Follow-up: A financial statement will be availableas a handout at the March 5, 2011 meeting.Motions from the Floor:• The Tribe fund Let’s Get Healthy gym memberships.Moved by Ron Lafrance and seconded by MinnieGarrow. Vote: Yes-10, No-9, Abstain-9.Follow-up: The Director of the Let’s Get HealthyProgram is currently compiling statistics to puttogether a proposal on gym memberships.• The Tribe to allow the Mohawk Council ofAkwesasne to have one-acre of common land toexpand their health facility parking lot. Moved byGary Cole and seconded by Patrick Phillips. Vote:Yes-26, No-8, Abstain-4.Follow-up: Tribal Council is preparing informationon the common land to present to Tribal membersregarding this request. 15

Annual Scholarship AwardsBy Rod Cook, Director of Higher EducationThis past November the tribe received word thatwe were to again receive a financial gift from ananonymous donor who has given awards to the HigherEducation Department in the previous two years. Thisis the third year that enrolled Mohawk higher educationstudents were recipients of this generous donation.The first year was an $18,000 gift, the second year was$35,000 gift and this year it was $42,000. The goodwords were put out via the tribe’s monthly newsletter,Kawenni:ios.The awards were given to selected college studentsbased on a written essay, explaining their goals,aspirations and financial needs as a college student.Each essay was reviewed by a committee of threereaders, Jamie Bay, David Staddon and Rod Cook andscored accordingly.The first year we gave six awards from sixty essays.The second year, we gave twelve awards from eighteenessays and this year, we selected fourteen from twentytwoessays. Both undergraduate and graduate studentsreceived awards.Julie WhiteJulie is working on herMaster’s degree in MentalHealth Counseling at SaintLawrence University and hopesto complete it in the spring of2012. She is the daughter ofMike and Charlene Thomas.Lindsay TarbellLindsay of working onher Master of BusinessAdministration at ClarksonUniversity.Tewentahawih’tha’ ColeAshley Nicole PhillipsAshley is working on herdegree in Nursing at NorthCountry Community College.Tewentahawih’tha’ is nearcompletion of her degree inCommunity Health at SUNYPotsdam.Savannah ThompsonSavannah is majoring inExercise and Sports Scienceat the University of NorthCarolina.16Vanessa CookeVanessa is working onher degree in BusinessAdministration at SUNYPlattsburgh. She is thedaughter of Adrian Cookeand granddaughter of JohnCook.

April SeymourApril is pursuingher bachelor’s degree inCommunications at SUNYPotsdam.Dylan HerneDylan is working hisbachelor’s degree in Geologyat SUNY Potsdam. He isthe son of Thomas and RethaHerne.Hannah LaFranceHannah is enrolled at theUniversity of Ottawa in theNursing program. She is thedaughter of Bill and HilaryLaFrance.SueAnn SwampSueAnn is pursuing abachelor’s degree in Psychologyat the University of Ottawa.She is the daughter of Ronnieand JoAnn Swamp.Nicole HayesNicole is working on herMaster’s degree in ClinicalSocial Work at Boston College.She is the daughter of Timothyand Rachelle Hayes.Keena-Marie HerneKeena-Marie is pursuingher master’s degree in SchoolPsychology at the SUNYOswego. She is the daughterof Belson and TheresiaHerne.Ciera JacobsCiera is in her senior year,majoring in CommunityHealth at SUNY Potsdam.She is the daughter of CynthiaCook and Alex Jacobs.Heather GarrowHeather is majoring inCommunity Health at SUNYPotsdam. She is the daughterof Holly Loran and TerryGarrow. 17

Caseworker to CombatSexual AssaultBy Amie Barnes, Sexual Assault CaseworkerWhile violence against women is not ourtradition, Native women are victimized atrates higher than any other population in the UnitedStates. It is estimated that in their lifetime one ofthree Native women will be raped and six of ten willbe physically assaulted. If these statistics were true forany other population of women in the United States,it would be considered a national crisis requiringimmediate attention. Here in Akwesasne the reportedrape cases are:• 2009 - 7 cases• 2010 - 14 cases• 2011- 4 reported cases as of February 11So an increase in the number of reported cases hasoccurred. There is still the fact that 60% of rapes/sexualassaults are not reported to the police, according to astatistical average of the past five years. Those rapists, ofcourse, tend to never spend a day in prison. Factoring inunreported rapes, only about six percent of rapists everserve a day in jail.There is a newly formed position to help alleviatethe stress of this trauma here in Akwesasne: the SexualAssault Caseworker. She is here to help victims ofsexual assault and bring awareness and education to thecommunity.Amie Barnes, Sexual Assault CaseworkerAlways Here for YouSTOP Domestic Violence412 State Route 37Akwesasne, NY 13655518-358-4406 If a rape is reported, there is a 50.8% chance of an arrestIf an arrest is made, there is an 80% chance of prosecutionIf there is a prosecution, there is a 58% chance of a convictionIf there is a felony conviction, there is a 69% chance the convict will spend time injailSo even in the 39% of attacks that are reported to the police, there is only a 16.3%chance the rapist will end up in prisonFactoring in unreported rapes, only about 6% of rapists will spend a day in jail15 out of 16 walk free18

Pollution Produces GiantEmerald Ash BorersAn infestation of emerald ash borers apparentlyfound their home in the toxic pollution froman unnamed local automotive plant. Marrying andinterbreeding with their first cousins for too manygenerations appears to have caused a genetic mutationin the pesky bug. “This is now a huge, powerful beetle,”exclaimed Ken Jock, Director of the Tribe’s EnvironmentDivision. “We hope that they don’t acquire a taste forhumans, or we’ll be in big trouble.”Signs of the beetle were first discovered with extensivetree damage (see image). Since the beetles are nowabout the size of alligators, community members areadvised to keep pets indoors, just to be on the safe side.Jennifer Herne, Tribal Animal Control Officer, foreseesno problems with the beetle. “They are delicious!When we expand the kennel, we’ll also build a holdingpen for the giantbeetles, slice ‘emup and sell them tolocal restaurants forBy Loof Lirpaappetizers. Maybe we can make some money for thetribe!” She denied charges that unclaimed pets wouldbe used to feed the beetles.Tribal Chief Mark Garrow sees opportunity. “Hey,I’ve got a bunch of brush that needs to be cleared onmy back property. I plan on renting a couple of thesebeetles, turning them loose and saving some moneyinstead of buying a new brush-hog.”Some community members have expressed theirconcerns about the giant beetles. “We plan on appointinga special commission to investigate the mutant beetles,”declared Tribal Chief Randy Hart. “We will also beaddressing this important issue at our next monthlytribal meeting.”“Ever since we captured Sasquatch two years ago,I’m still waiting for somebody to capture some of thosecute leprechauns,” groaned Tribal Chief Monica Jacobs.“Looks like we’ll have to hire Mr. T to help us out!”APRIL FOOL!!!! WOW!Giant Beetle No Challenge for Environment Division19

Centering PregnancyCelebrates Its First YearSaint Regis Mohawk HealthServices celebrated animportant milestone on Feb.10, 2011. That day marked thefirst birthday of its new modelof prenatal care, CenteringPregnancy. Like new parents,the staff involved with Centeringcouldn’t be more proud. “We tookon a monumental challenge inshifting the ‘old’ model, and we’resucceeding,” said Debra Martin,Health Director at SRMHS. “Wewant to celebrate that.”Beverly Cook, Family NursePractitioner, with the supportof clinic staff and providers,spearheaded the effortto shift prenatal carefrom a one-on-one,doctor-patient modelto a more supportivegroup approach.“Sharing experience,information andsupport around acircle of peers is whatwe’ve always done aswomen,” said Cook.“It works.”A national modelfor group health care, Centering creates a safe andconfidential circle in which moms-to-be shareinformation and support each other throughouttheir pregnancies and after. This is important, Cooksaid, because women who have support and areknowledgeable about the birth process report a morerewarding experience.By Randi Rourke BarreiroCentered Moms Introduce TheirNewborns to the Group20Grouped by delivery dates, themoms participate in self-care andindividual physical assessments,and facilitated discussions led byan obstetrician or certified nursemidwife. “I looked forward to mygroup,” said Tsiawente Jackson,who had her first baby, Charlie,in May. “I knew I could findanswers, and the other womenhelped me know what to expect.Plus, it was fun.”The camaraderie is important,Cook points out, “CenteringPregnancy is helping to rebuild thesupportive connections betweenwomen in our community.”She sees thoseconnections ascritical to overallcommunity healthand well-being.Sharon Rising,president andCEO of CenteringHealthcare Institute,led the trainingthat prepared theclinic to realize itsThese Baby Boys Attended Group with their Moms goal of improvingits prenatal care.She’s thrilled by the success at Saint Regis MohawkHealth Services. “I’m so impressed with the clinic, thepersonnel, and the positive energy that has been therefrom the beginning,” said Rising. “This site is sure tobecome a model and a resource for others in IndianCountry.” More than 30 women in seven differentgroups became “Centered Moms” during the program’sfirst year.

Pet Photo Contest WinnersThe 2011 Akwesasne Winter Carnival Pet PhotoContest received 150 photo submissions. Overthe course of four days of voting in-person and onFacebook the contest received 4,607 votes!All winners received a $20 gift certificate to PetValu, a gift certificate or products from the categorysponsors, and pet supplies related to each category.By Kyrie Ransom, PIO Administrative AssistantThe ‘Favorite Caption’ award was selected by a memberof the organizing committee and the winner receivedproducts from the company Ohonte Akwesasne.Nia:wen for everyone who participated in the contestand keep an eye out for next year’s contest!Here are the winners for each category:Look! I can touch my nose with mytongueCategory: I’m So Ugly I’m CuteSubmitted by: Alvena DelormierPet: Buddy (Pug)Sponsor: Shannoncourt DogGroomingHow come I can’t get through thiscat door?Category: Ready-Set-Action!Submitted by: Nola BenedictPet: Lady (Dog)Sponsor: Akwesasne SportsCuddle with someone your own sizeCategory: Cutest CoupleSubmitted by: Myranda CarrPet: Bebe & Shnagums (Cat &Ferret)Sponsor: Floral GalleryMy mom buys my clothes at garagesales…but I must say that pink ismy color…Category: Favorite CaptionSubmitted by: Reen CookPet: Cleo (Maltee-poo)Sponsor: Ohonte AkwesasneJust TRY and say something about myteam, I dare you!Category: Best DressedSubmitted by: Lynn & Kuy ChaussiPet: Sammy (Chocolate Lab)Sponsor: First Class Seconds21My Little PonyCategory: Me and My PetSubmitted by: KarenhatironhthaJohnsonPet: Phoenix (Gypsy Vanner Horse)Sponsor: Shannoncourt DogTraining

Who is the FarmService Agency?By Jennifer BosleyThe Farm Service Agency (FSA) traces itsbeginnings to 1933, in the depths of the GreatDepression. Agency names and programs have changedover time, but the overall goals remain the same:supporting productive farms and ranches, supportingsecure and affordable fiber,conserving natural resources andenhancing the environment. FSA’smission is to serve all farmers,ranchers, and agricultural partnersequitably through effective andefficient agricultural programs.FSA administers and managesfarm commodity, conservation,disaster assistance and loanprograms through a networkof over 2300 county officesnation-wide. These programs aredesigned to improve the economicstability of agriculture. In NewYork State, FSA delivered nearly$203 million dollars in loans andprogram assistance for the 2010Fiscal Year. Excluding farm loansand commodity loans, FranklinCounty FSA issued nearly $2.1million dollars to agricultural producers in the countylast year.FSA continues to provide America’s farmers with astrong safety net through the administration of farmcommodity programs. FSA also implements variousdisaster programs including the Non-insured CropAssistance Program (NAP). NAP provides financialassistance to producers of non-insurable crops whenlow yields, loss of inventory or prevented planting occurdue to natural disasters. FSA’s long-standing traditionof conserving the nation’s natural resources continuesMission:Farm Service Agency isequitably serving all farmers,ranchers, and agriculturalpartners through thedelivery of effective, efficientagricultural programs for allAmericans22through the Conservation ReserveProgram. Energy programs includethe Biomass Crop AssistanceProgram (BCAP) which providesfinancial assistance to owners andoperators of agricultural and nonindustrialprivate forest land whowish to establish, produce anddeliver biomass feed-stocks.The agency provides creditto agricultural producers whoare unable to receive private,commercial credit. FSA’s loanprograms are designed to helpfamily farmers obtain loans andloan guarantees, and conductbusiness planning. FarmOwnership loans can be usedto purchase a farm, enlarge anexisting farm, construct newfarm buildings and/or improvestructures. Operating loan funds may be used for normaloperating expenses, machinery and equipment, repairsand refinancing debt. FSA places special emphasis onproviding loans to beginning, minority and womenfarmers and ranchers.More information about FSA programs is availableonline at www.fsa.usda.gov. Or you can contact yourlocal FSA office at 518-483-2850, extension 2 or visitus at 151 Finney Boulevard, Malone. USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Celebrating Akwesashró:nonSalmon River Central School Parade of ChampionsBy Kyrie Ransom, PIO Administrative AssistantThe excitement in the air was almost a tangibleentity as student at the Salmon River CentralSchool geared up for a momentous weekend in varsityathletics.The Varsity Boys Hockey team carried a season recordof 18-4-1 as they beat out the St. Lawrence Larries totake the Section X Division II title in the 2010/2011season. With this win the Varsity Boys Hockey teamadvanced to the NY State Championship quarterfinals.The Varsity Girls Basketball team also held anoutstanding regular season with an undefeated recordof 18-0. Their win against the Potsdam Sandstonersgave the team the Section X Class B title advancingthem to the NY State playoffs.In honor of their achievements in athletics this seasonboth teams participated in the ‘Parade of Champions’in the elementary wing of the school. All classes inGrades K-6 joined in on the rally to show support fortheir role models.Congratulations athletes on a spectacular season ofaccomplishments! Section X Class B ChampionsSection X Division II Champions23

Celebrate Earth DayBy Julia Jacobs and Craig ArquettePlant It for the Planet is the theme for the AnnualEarth Day Celebration and ATFE Seed and TreeGive Away which will take place April/Onerahtokha23, 2011 from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. It is being heldat the Wolf Clan Banquet Hall on Route 37.This event is sponsored by the Saint RegisMohawk Environment Division and willhave numerous tables with a varietyof information regarding differentaspects of the environment and greenproducts. Once again Ken Parker,owner of Sweet Grass Gardenshas confirmed that he will do twopresentations on Saturday. Ken did a great job last yearentertaining the audience while providing pertinentinformation on green gardening.A variety of vegetable seeds and trees will be givenaway to Akwesasne community membersfree! For a list of vegetable seeds ortrees to be given away, please contactCraig Arquette @ 518-358-5937 orMargaret George @ 613-936-1548.Look for our posters in the comingweeks for Earth Day and Seed andTree give away on April 23, 2011. Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe412 State Route 37Akwesasne, NY 13655U.S. POSTAGE PAIDMAILED FROMZIP CODE 13655PERMIT NO. 26POSTAL PATRON24