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| Red Lake Net News Michael Barrett P. O. Box 80 Redby, MN 56670 Telephone: 218-679-5995 |
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| The following letters and emails were received by rlnn.com. On behalf of the Red Lake Nation, we thank you all sincerely for your thoughts, prayers, kindness and concerns. |
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7th District D.F.L. Red To all our good friends of the Red Lake Nation, The 7th Congressional District DFL Party of Minnesota wishes to extend to you our sincere condolences and heartfelt sympathy for the tragedy and ensuing sorrows that you are enduring. We are all relatives. What affects one affects us all. Please know, our thoughts and prayers have been with all of you during the unfolding of recent events. Our thoughts and prayers will continue to be with all of you during this time of grief and healing. May God bless and keep the Red Lake Nation. Sincerely,
Lori Bergland Olson, Chair 7th District DFL Party Cyndi Anderson, Chair Steve Nelson, Chair Jan Eifealdt, Chair Big
Stone Sandra Koenen, Chair Terry Kroke, Chair Mark Edevold, Chair Adrian Lederman, Chair Diane Shuck, Chair Kristin Eggerling, Chair Bill Tollefson, Chair Harry Peirce, Chair Lake
of the Woods Co. DFL Prty Rusty Nelson, Chair Tim Buysse, Chair David Haugo, Chair Gladwin Lynne, Chair Marshall
County DFL Party Paul Wright, Chair Pat Hanson, Chair Meeker
James Hanson, Chair Manley Nichols, Chair James Fulton, Chair Eugene Dufault, Chair Helen Stafsholt, Chair Pope
County DFL Party Steve Linder, Chair John Christensen, Chair Julie Jansen, Chair Ley Soltis, Chair Luayn Murphy, Chair Michael Falcon, Chair Stearns
(13) Richard Ice, Chair Stearns
(14) James Dieter, Chair Stevens
Jodi Sterud, Chair Swift
Lil Ortendahl, Chair Ronald Sanasack, Chair Reed Johnson, Chair Jim Stone, Chair Yellow
Medicine Co. DFL Party Norma Hanson, Chair Senate
District 01 DFL Party Ted Fiskevold, Chair Senate
District 02 DFL Party Michael Meuers, Chair Senate
District 04 DFL Party Jim Aasness, Chair Senate
District 09 DFL Party Robert Anderson, Chair Senate
District 10 DFL Party Sylvia Schmidt, Chair Senate
District 11 DFL Party Rod Hanson, Chair Senate
District 13 DFL Party Nancy Larson, Chair Senate
District 18 DFL Party Brian Wojtalewicz, Chair Senate
District 20 DFL Party Tony Doom, Chair Senate
District 21 DFL Party |
| Aanin, Michael:
I am sending two columns I wrote about Red Lake that were distributed by Gannett News Service. If you desire, you are welcome to post them on your rlnn site. I am sorry that I was not able to meet you personally during my five days of reporting and writing from Red Lake Nation. I am grateful for the hospitality shown me by the Red Lake people. Miigwetch! George Benge Native American Columnist News Executive Gannett Co. Inc. |
| I would like to dedicate this to the family and friends of: Daryl "Dash" Lussier, Michelle Sigana, Chase Lussier, Thurlene Stillday, Chanelle Rosebear, DeWayne Lewis, Alicia White, Derrick Brun, Neva Rogers and Jeff Weise. And to family and friends of those who were injured: Cody Thunder, Lance Crowe, Ryan Auginash, Jeffrey May and Steven Cobenais and to the two who's names did not appear in the media. (I think Reggie Graves and someone else, sorry I do not know your name.) And to the Red Lake Nation....... Beverly Graves March 21st, Our Darkest Day March 21st was said to be our darkest day. As we try to figure out what went wrong on that day. Why it had to come this way, our darkest day. March 21st where so many lives were shattered. Many thoughts and prayers went out to those who mattered. Many must try to go on with their life that was battered on our darkest day. March 21st first day of spring when shots rang out and echo through the halls. The students and staff went through it all on our darkest day. March 21st as we stood around we made sure we were all OK. We learned a few did not get away. Oh, how we weep on that day, our darkest day. March 21st we will always remember those who lost their last fight. When all the communities unite to find some insight about how it became our darkest day. |
| After such a horrible tragedy your people have given a great lesson to all of America. It's an equal tragedy that the great lesson probably won't be learned by a nation that so needs it. Sincerely, Michael Anderson |
| The recent tragedy of the shooting and deaths at the Red Lake Chippewa reservation high schoolin Minnesota once again underscores the continuing plight of our first Americans. Since this nation's exploration and founding by European settlers, the Native American peoples have been cheated out of their birthright through our government's shameful dealings. American Indians have lost their land, their culture, their religion and their lives as a result of our government's policies. Today, many have lost hope as well and remain mired in poverty and self-destructive lifestyles. As an American of European ancestry, I believe the time has long since come and gone for our government to fully and completely address the needs of our Native American citizens. Reparations can never be made to them for what they have lost, but we owe them our best efforts nonetheless. These people need help and they are not getting it while we send billions in foreign aid around the world. President Bush made no remarks whatsoever following the Red Lake tragedy -- a disgrace and further slap in the face to these people. Had the shooting occurred in a "white" school, I have no doubt that the outcry from our president would have been loud and clear. Instead, he remained shamefully silent and offered no words of sympathy and comfort. It is my fervent hope that Native American tribes throughout our nation join forces in brotherhood and converge en masse in Washington for a tribal in-gathering and pow-wow to demand from our elected leaders the rights and assistance they have been denied for so long. And I sincerely hope that each of you will recognize their plight and act accordingly. Sincerely, Barbara Isenberg (This letter was written to members of the U.S. Congress) |
| Hi, my name is Lori. Since I was a child, I have always had a passion and appreciation for Native American people. Concerning the latest shooting, it might help if you imagine your bad feelings being dumped over a cliff, but keeping the facts. A pain remembered is a pain relived, but a pain forgotten is no longer felt. Love to your nation always, ~Lori Riley, Woodbury, Mn. |
| Good Morning, Since the unfolding of events on March 21st I have continuously gone to your web-site to read your news postings. I wanted to write a message to the Red Lake Community, but I could never find the appropriate words. Please know that I (as many others) have kept you in thoughts and prayers. Each day I cry, I cry for your community, your families and all Native People. But today when I read of those who are wearing buttons "A Nation in Mourning" and ribbons my tears slowed.... Although we personally have no family ties to the Red Lake Community, I feel a closeness and sadness. My husband is of the Meskwaki Nation - we reside on the settlement and located across the highway from our home is the school where our children attend. I, as many mothers, believe our children are safe there (in school) and are learning (hopefully, and not just socializing) - since March I look at the school (realizing that.... "this" could happen anywhere) and wonder "are our children really safe ... anywhere"? We do not have those answers.... nor the control.... My husband and I are a licensed ICWA home, we are a foster family for the community, we have dedicated our home to help (Native American) children, if and when needed. We've opened our doors to several children and we continue to "support" their parents and relatives when the children are returned home or moved into relative placement. Even after they leave our home, they will always be our children... our extended family. Support is shown, expressed, offered and given in many ways.... I would like to "support" the awareness of your community as you continue to mourn and heal. Is it possible to purchase any of those buttons "A Nation in Mourning"? If you could direct me in who I should be in touch with, I'd be ever so grateful. Thank you for your time and your help. My compliments to you on your web-site! Again, my deepest sympathy to your community as many are yet grieving and many more are coping. May blessings be upon you all in the days/months ahead. -Cheryl |
| Dear Mr. Barrett, Please convey to the Tribal Council and members of the Red Lake Band our deepest sympathy at this troubled time. Our congregation stands ready to help in any way we can. Most certainly you are all in our prayers. Sincerely, Pastor Jim Joseph Living Waters Fellowship A/G Two Harbors, MN 55616 |
| To the People of the Red Lake Nation, I would like to send my condolences and prayers to all of you. I know that you are all hurting and trying to heal the pain that started on that day. Always keep your loved ones close to your hearts and never forget the ones that you have lost. Always keep their memory alive, they are at peace now. Stay strong for one another and support those who are struggling. Celena Sanders Santa Ysabel Band of Diegano Indians Santa Ysabel, California |
| Dear Red Lake Nation, Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you. I am a teacher in St. Paul, MN. Today I spent the day at Ponemah School meeting teachers and students in preparation for a collaborative partnership between Ponemah School and the school at which I teach in St. Paul, Bruce F. Vento Elementary. As a first time visitor to the Red Lake and Ponemeh School, I was truly impressed by the welcoming atmosphere and sense of family throughout the school. It was wonderful to see students and staff coming together to heal, learn and grow. I am thankful to have had the opportunity and look forward to visiting again soon. May you find peace and comfort in the treasured memories of your loved ones. Linda Parker Bruce F. Vento Elementary School St. Paul Public Schools St. Paul, MN linda.parker@spps.org |
| David Robertson 812 N Linden Room 104 Northfield, MN 55057 507-645-4826 Sends his sympathy to all of the Red Lake Nation and would like to have someone from the Tribal Council telephone him in the near future. |
| The 2005 Minnesota Indian Education Board of Directors would like to extend our love, our prayers and our support to the Red Lake Band of Chippewa. We watched in horror the events of this week and how your families and community lost loved ones in this terrible tragic event. Children are a gift from our Creator. We feel your loss and respect your privacy. As the world watched your community, we realize of how each of you guided your children with knowledge and culture, self-esteem, you gave them affirmation, expressed confidence in them. You cultivated their attitude so they could do great things. You showed how to remain positive and encouraged them. You showed them how you love and appreciate them. You, as parents and a community taught these young people to believe and trust others. To achieve their own potential, to build and serve. You modeled by example, you mentored. You spoke the language of logic and emotion. Please know that the empty place that is left behind within this world we know, reminds us how briefly we are here before we have to go. Goodbyes are not forever and nor it is the end. The true gift is the love that remains. Again, our love, our prayers and our support are with you and your community. Joe Carrier MIEA Chairperson Shirley Kampa MIEA Vice Chair Cindy Peterson MIEA Secretary Terry Wilkinson MIEA Treasurer Barbara Kent MIEA Conference Co-Chair Teri Malbraaten MIEA Conference Co-Chair Tom Andrus MIEA Board Member Val Berrard MIEA Board Member Stephen Briggs MIEA Board Member Luann Frazer MIEA Board Member Dan Jones MIEA Board Member Donna Norquay MIEA Board Member Shirley Schmidt MIEA Board Member Pam Snetsinger MIEA Board Member Jody Steile MIEA Board Member Dixie Dorman MIEA Student Representative Alex Hoes MIEA Student Representative Rob Rosten MIEA Student Representative |
| Hello, I am a member of the Leech Lake band and I wanted to send along to you a poem I have written for the people of the Red Lake Nation in memorial to the recent tragedies they have faced. Feel free to share it anyway it can be useful. Thanks for your time. WHEN TOMORROW STARTS (for Red Lake friends and victims families) When tomorrow starts without me... May only the good times be remembered the smiles, the giggles, the hugs The brief precious time we shared I'll hold forever as I look upon you Remember me when the day breaks and the sun is warming on your face Remember me when the rain beats down and leaves a rainbow in it’s path Remember me when the first flower buds in Springtime and tickles your nose Remember me when I replace the day with stars and the moon to light your way Remember me when the last leaf of Autumn is cradled by Mother Earth Remember me when the first snowfall powders the ground leaving footprints When tomorrow starts without me remember me. Copyright '05 FayeLynn |
| Hello. First, I would like to express my deepest sympathy to your community with regard to the recent tradgy that happened. My heart goes out to all the families involved. I would also like to direct your attention to a web site that is the story Of Thomas Prince, an Aboriginal soldier from Canada, who was Canada's most decorated soldier. You may want to add a link to the site from yours. I have already added it to two other sites. The URL is .... www.firstnationsdrum.com/Sum2001/Cover.htm Best regards .... Ron Parker |
| Love From South Dakota My name is Daisy Green and I am an enrolled member of the Red Lake reservation and I stay out in the Little Rock district. I am emailing you from South Dakota. I attend school here at South Dakota State University. First off I just want to say my love and prayers to those of the Red Lake shooting, I am so sorry that this happened. I am in the Native American Club here at SDSU and recently during our festivle of cultures we had a donation jar for the victims and I believe that they sent it off already. I just want to say that I will be back in Red Lake in May, around May 6th so, if ANYONE needs to talk and get some stuff off of there mind I will be there for you just email me at devine_daisy86@yahoo.com Much Love Daisy Marie Green |
| Michael; I was saddened to hear the tragic news last month about the shootings at Red Lake High School. I lived and worked near Cass Lake for Bemidji State University in the early 80's. My son's baseball team played games at Red Lake and I had several occasions to visit the reservation. My sympathy goes out to all the families and their friends in the Red Lake community. As a teacher I was especially touched by how this can effect young people. Respectfully, Lee Buescher Science Department Watertown High School Watertown, WI 53098 |
| Message from Hopi Elders: We have been telling the people that this is the Eleventh Hour Now you must go back and tell the people that this is the Hour And that there are many things to be considered . . . Where are you living? What are you doing? What are your relationships? Are you in the right relation? Where is your water? Know your Garden? It is time to speak your truth. Create your community. Be good to each other. And do not look outside our self for the leader. This could be a good time!!!! There is a river now flowing very fast. It is so great and swift that there are those who will be afraid. They will try to hold onto the shore. They will feel they are being torn apart and they will suffer greatly. Know the river, it has its destination. The elders say we must let go of the shore, and push off into the river, Keep our eyes open, and our head above the water. See who is there with you and Celebrate. At this time in history, we are to take nothing personally. Least of all, ourselves. For the moment that we do, our spiritual growth and journey comes to halt. The time of the lone wolf is over, Gather yourselves! Banish the word struggle from your attitude and your vocabulary. All that you do now must be done in a sacred manner And in celebration . . . We Are The Ones We’ve Been Waiting For . . . “ Hopi Elders Oraibi Arizona, USA |
| Dear Sir - Although my home is here in Oklahoma, as a Native American (Seminole) we along with native people all over turtle island were saddened by the tragedy of the Red Lake High School shootings. My wife and daughter are enrolled members of the Red Lake Band of Ojibwa. They both cried and hurt for their people and relatives at Red Lake when they recieved the terrible news. You may be interested to know that on April 09, 2005 these two took it upon themselves to honor and remember their fellow tribal members with a memorial at St. Gregory college in Shawnee, Oklahoma. They invited leaders from the 39 tribes here in Oklahoma to join them. A Cheyenne- Arapaho holy man led the events off with a prayer and blessing ceremony. A drum group from the Sac and Fox tribe sang as people gathered to show unity and hope to their fellow Indian people at Red Lake. Several speakers spoke of how we all suffered from the killings and why it was important for the Okahoma tribes to show our support. My daughter Dana Miller obtained a proclaimation from Oklahoma Governor Brad Henry in which he declared April 9th as a day of remembrance for the Red Lake Nation. \ Although far from home, my wife Linda and daughter Dana deserve credit for making the Oklahoma tribes aware of the tragedy of Red Lake and the show of unity as Indian people. They did not ask to be recognized but I am proud to do so, thought you wiould like to know. Dwayne Miller. |
| To whom it concerns, I can't image why this sad thing happen to your tribe. I am a outsider , but this kind of darkness , murder is so againist everthing that is natural and human. All my blessing for your tribe and may the spirits that have been cursed by this action get cleansed. Bless you all Tim |
| From the Bemidji Pioneer Former Red Lake Hospital worker remembers friends Friday, April 29, 2005 The tragedy at Red Lake is truly horrible and shows us the vulnerability of our children and how short and precious life can be. I worked at the Red Lake Hospital in both the ER and the clinic for several years. I loved my work at the hospital. I loved the people. I loved the humor and the sense of family. My children and I moved back out to the Pacific Northwest to get away from the very cold winters of Minnesota, but I will always miss the people of Red Lake. I want to say how much I admire the people at Red Lake who cared for all the injured and dying. They were faced with overwhelming odds in that small community and did their very best. The first responders, the fire department, the teachers, the police, all the hospital staff and all the community in the face of their own horror and brokenness pulled together immediately and did the hardest work that may have ever faced Red Lake. I felt that I had abandoned my family by not being in the ER working that very tragic day. I’ve been in catastrophes in my past involving many injured children, but I have never had to care for my own loved child or young relative or friend and I can never fully understand how the people survived except by the support of our dear Heavenly Father. I pray for all of you, for your support and love for each other. I pray for healing. I pray that you will all continue to be strong. I pray for understanding and insight into how we as a society can help our children across our country. My own child (here in Washington) has been faced with weeks of ongoing bomb threats in his school. These situations of violence must stop and may the good Lord guide us in these endeavors. Georgia Shaw-Holden Olympia, Wash. |
| To Our Peers of the Red Lake Community, As a community of Jewish teens at Mt. Zion Synagogue in St. Paul, we have been learning about the tragedy earlier this year and about life in Red Lake. What we have learned is not enough, but it is a start. Our community also has experience with discrimination, and as a 'nation' we have an understanding of teen-on-teen violence given the experiences of teens and suicide bombings in Israel. We live far from Israel, and in other ways we live far from Red Lake. We don't know the victims or their families personally, yet we feel Minnesota's loss of lives and are becoming more aware of the roots of that loss. We are inspired by the strength of your community. May the memories of the lives of the victims be a blessing. Emma, Maggie, Elana, Linnea, Geordy, Sofia, Harper, Adreon, Hannah, Sarah, Rachel, Hannah, Zach, Douglas, and Aaron. Teachers Jodi and Amy |