Comments

is this jerk YELLOWbear ever going to accept responsibility for murdering his daughter? does it really matter where he was tried? they could have held court anywhere and the outcome would have been the same.has anyone else noticed that he doesn't dispute his guilt only where he was tried?

Yah huh. This guy needs to give it up and do his time. What he did was terrible!

YellowBELLY is more like it. How terrible. This whole lawsuit, I think, is a joke. Does that mean if I commit a crime on the "reservation" I won't be held liable because I live outside of the city & reservation limits??? Please, this makes NO sense.

to: elly

first off you must inform yourself on the issues, whether they appeal to you or not. one the tribe does not wish to have involvment with a known convicted murderer in this case

second, the court issue is one of our rights, as far as i am aware federal law supercedes not only county but state laws where applicable. federal law states..sole jurisdiction of indians, the right to tax, ect; within the exterior boundry falls with the tribal or federal governments....as far as im aware riverton as well as the ceeded area, fall within the exterior boundry. the issue isnt one of we think riverton is reservation land, but that riverton is within the EXTERIOR BOUNDRY and that the city, county and state cannot tax the tribes or members

third..federal law states states may not TAX tribes or indevidule members within the exterior boundries..does this happen? every single day!!

4th..federal land restoration act of 1938...states...all lands returned to the eastern shoshone and northern arapaho tribes are hereby returned in full trust status with all rights of the original reservation intact.

5th the lands returned were never property of the state of wyoming, but the united states and returned to the tribes in a government to government transfer
with all original rights

Sorry, but I feel questioning taxation will be the beginning, and before long it will be questioning juristiction. Taxes are a necessary evil. Tribe and non-tribe member ALL benefit from what the taxes pay for. SORRY!

It isn't a race issue. It isn't an entitlement issue. It is an issue that I did not force Native American Indians off my land. Neither did my parents, or grandparents, or great-grandparents. No one now living on the reservation was forced off their land by dominating white forces...neither were their parents, grandparents, or great-greandparents. So, I really DISPISE being held accountable for people's actions I had nothing to do with.

Discriminations happens everywhere. Not just in race issues, but gender issues, sexual orientation, religious beliefs, age and other LEGAL forms like discrimination based on weight, appearence, and social status. SO, it isn't about discrimination...or what is due because of other events that NO ONE LIVING had anything to do with.

BUT-all races and creeds will benefit from taxes. We all hate paying them. But, if we get a new rec center...that the 1% will pay for...will tribe members/Native Americans enjoy it? Yep. If we get the All Events Center with the 1% sales tax will tribe members/Native Americans enjoy it? Yep. A jail was built with my tax dollars and I have never used it, but that is what taxes are for.

Sorry if this offends anyone but it angers me! Elly

I agree with Elly! The land issue was generations ago, none of us had anything to do with it, benifits or negatives. What about when I want to go use my public park that my taxes pay for and it is full of Native Americans, and trashed when they leave! Maybe there should be a tax and they could build a park.

This is about a little girl that was murdered in a cruel way! This man needs to pay for it. Technicality of laws aside I would like to think there is still morals left.

sara1104...You should have just agreed with Elly and left it at that. The park comment was a bit racist don't you think? Not all Native Americans have trashed the parks and not all NON Native Americans have kept it clean. Just had to get that off my chest.

I will agree that Yellowbear should hang for the brutal murder of his daughter. I could care less where the coward did the crime only that he pay for the crime and that should be with his life. How can a HUMAN-BEING do that to another, especially his own flesh and blood? He needs take responsibility for his crime.

I feel the tribe did great in not attatching their issues with yellowbear. He did'nt need the tribe while he was mudering his daughter, and now that the facts are facts, he should man up and face what he has coming. He didnt think of his actions to begin with why would he worry now. He is a coward, and nothing he asks for will bring back the loss of his daughter. It would seem to me that after taking his own daughters life that he wouldnt have anything to live for. How could he evan live with himself, and how could he keep trying to look for ways out. No matter what judicial system he was tried in, if the results were'nt the same it would just be another time the system has failed. So deal with it. And everytime he thinks of crying for help he should remember his daughters cries for the same thing.

When I first read the NARF (Native American Rights Fund) report for 2008 and the cased they would be representing I had trouble coping with the fact that Andrew Yellow Bear would be included in this long term dispute! I am overjoyed that the tribe will have no acknowledgement of this wretch; he is an embarrassment and disgrace to all walks of life. He shouldn’t even be able to claim that he’s Arapaho. However, for those of you who feel like your being picked on for the actions of your founding fathers that you highly regard, maybe you should take a history class on what’s actually happened to our tribes not only in Wyoming but to those throughout the United States and North America. Maybe on your free time Elly since you sound so smart about the history of Indians you should Google the Termination and Assimilation of Native Americans. Then maybe you will understand that it’s our right and it’s owed to us. I bet you didn’t even know that Native Americans weren’t considered citizens until 1924! Another fun fact for you: The Northern Arapaho Tribe and Eastern Shoshone Tribe have oil and gas royalties where the state takes over 75% for taxes and the tribes get 4% and you want to gripe about the Indian paying on reservation land. Shouldn’t this be about morally and ethically doing what’s right?

Like it or not, these are the issues that the lawsuit is going to have to address. The Arapaho tribe can not pick and choose who gets to be affected by the lawsuit. If they win, Yellowbear is correct in stating that he needs a new trial in federal court.
And no wonder why he would want it that way, I bet he wishes he had killed his kid on tribal land, just look at how silent and easy he could have had it, just like the ones who killed the girls.
This lawsuit goes way beyond "taxes".

elly: sorry again like most wyoming citizens you actually know very little about the tribes and thier issues.the tribes pay millions of dollars into the state coffers every year and until recently were not even eligeble to directly access those monies like other citizens of the state. we were exempt from applying for water development funds, or any other tax generated fund in wyo despite paying in millions each year....paying unjust taxes, but haveing no say or benefit of those funds sounds familier??? could be one of the reasons the united states was founded..taxation without representation.

ask yourself where does the riverton schools lie and lands they clainm in district...windriver?...dubois?...thats right all within the tribes mineral prodution zones and richly rewarded for doing so...what about the tribes schools wyoming Indian?..nope...st stephens..nope arapaho..nope..fort washakie...nope....it does seem that the tribes in fact are heavily subsidizing the white schools while our schools are left out

you know elly i really find it hard to be accountable for others actions, just like you. But unlike you i recognize that my forfathers signed treaties with the united states officials who were representing your forfathers..we each agreed to certain things...only now your side always insists that its unfair..why should we honor these things, i didnt sign them ..i didnt rob any indians land..why should we follow these.

as for taxes..i recall a few years ago we all paid a tax for the county sr centers...nice new centers for thier people....the tribal people put millions of dollars into riverton and lander communities each month...and as so paid this tax just like everyone else....just how much did our sr centers get from this?...nothing

i give you the same advise i give to all complainers, if you dont like honoring these binding treaties between sovereign nations, if you dont like living up to the promises of your forfathers, if you hate to see the tribal people reap a benefit or two

your always welcome to turn in your keys, take down your fences and go start a new life back where ever your people originaly came from, cause if your side breaks the treaty doesnt that mean all that the tribes gave up...like the whole state of wyoming goes back to us?

Arapaho2 huh-ho!

There is no case "since Riverton is Off and and not ON the reservation" ... like the old adage - when in Rome do as the Romans do - when in Riverton do as Rivertonites do, pay taxes.
The Reservation is no different than any other sovereign nation such as Canada. They too pay taxes when they are in Riverton unless, the Tribes are looking to also become a "disabled sovereign" nation with special interest needs. That would be a new one on all ...

:-) joke - joke - joke

to : viewer....once again ignorance doesnt win...the federal statute doesnt say if riverton is or isnt on the reservation...it states sole jurisdiction in all matters of tribal members ...get this ...within the exterior boundries..lies with the tribes or federal government...now look at a map, any map, does riverton LIE WITHIN THE EXTERIOR BOUNDRY OF THE RESERVATION?, YES IT DOES

and in so under federal law which again supercedes state and county law..you do not have a right to tax tribal members within the exterior boundry, it doesnt say on fee land, it doesnt say in a municipality incoperated under state law..it states within the exterior boundries, which riverton is within.

your point of canadians is mute unless you can show me a government to government treaty like the tribes have, between canada and the usa that states canadians dont have to pay taxes..can you?..because we can show our treaties that detail our rights, we can show federal law that states our rights to not be taxed within the boundry

so unless you can simply pick up the city of riverton...drag it across the boundry, it still lies within the exterior boundry and federal law applies

Is the hole where you can put your finger in the middle of a glazed doughnut within the exterior boundry of the said yeast ring?

I don't care. You can preach facts all you want...and spout history all you want. Just don't leave out other facts. WHEN do we get over the past and move on to the future??? Seriously. It is pathetic.

People will be pissed by what I am about to write. An open mind is needed before reading--I am NOT racist-I feel there is SOMETHING missing from the reservation--PRIDE. Most living on the reservation have a feeling of entitlment...it has COMPLETELY over taken the pride the Natives should have in their history. They are called NATIVE AMERICANS for a REASON.

Ancestors of those living on the reservation would be APALLED at what has been done with the land they fought for. There is NO pride...houses are thrashed. Young children are left alone to care for the younger children while the parents are at the casino. Children show up to school hungry and dirty. Brutal killings. Drugs run freely. Children are allowed to run hog wild in the stores and on the streets. Drunks are sleeping in the city park and harrassing people who are their with their kids asking for money. Do you think your ancestors did that? Is that what they were hoping for when they gave their lives for you?

YES-every race shares in these problems...BUT no one else is asking NOT to pay taxes. I do apologize if this offends anyone...it isnt meant that way. I have great respect for many Native friends. And, I have discussed these VERY issues with them...and you know what...they AGREE. I am saying things that are said ALL the time in private but feel the need to be PC when in public.

Take off the blinders. Natives are no longer the oppressed victims. Back in history Natives did MANy terrible things to whites as well...especially the Mormans. (Which I am not, but still) Does that justify things? No...two wrongs dont make a right. BUT...today is a new day...things are diffrent.

SO-in the short of it...if Native Americans want to use tax funded facilities...PAY THE TAXES and DEAL with it!!! Elly

Elly - I agree

arapaho_2
You said: once again ignorance doesnt win
Reply: there is nothing more "arrogant" than those whom preferred choice is "ignorance" over fact.
You said: does riverton LIE WITHIN THE EXTERIOR BOUNDRY OF THE RESERVATION?, YES IT DOES
Reply: Wishful thinking and lack of mapping updates proves your case! As, Riverton Officials were so reminded by the Fremont County Attorney to revise the recent agreement as "outside the Exterior Boundaries" placing Rivetron "NOT ON RESERVATION"!
You said: so under federal law which again supercedes state and county law
Reply: Not when constitutionality is in place and also in question!
You said: your point of canadians is mute unless you can show me a government to government treaty like the tribes
Reply: A sovereign nation is sovereign nation - boundaries serve as the treaty. Like any other purchase as with the "purchase of 1905" --- ask any historian or the Wyoming Supreme Court.
You said: between canada and the usa that states canadians dont have to pay taxes..can you?
Reply: Thats my point! All have to pay taxes unless you are in your own land that you so "desperately mocked" earlier. Taxes are "only" not paid by tribes on the Reservation. Where Canadians go back to Canada and pay or not - whats required of them in their own land as well.

Assuming by your "online title" your Arapahoe. With all the due respect to your Arapahoe Tribe, elders and business counsel. My hope is, as should your's be that, you are actually "educated on what took place" in the 1905 purchase year.
Meanwhile, let Riverton and the Arapahoes live in unity but as diiferent people, different lands and different jurisdictions.

Viewer, how can you say that we all need to live in unity? It is clear that alot of people hate indians. If it was your people that did this case you would want it in your favor, right? Maybe the casino's and gas station and smoke shop should start taxing people for shopping there. It is not just the indians that use these places. There are alot of white people that buy gas and smokes out there. They do it for the simple fact that there is no tax. So why should indians have to pay tax in Riverton when people don't have to pay taxes on the rez? Is that right in any way? Maybe the rez should be used by indians only that way there is no complaints. As for people trashing their land, you are telling me that every house in Riverton that is occupied by a white person is beautiful? Take a ride down to All Nations trailer court, or any trailer court, and see if you can say that. It's not just the trailer courts either. That is just the first place that came to mind. People need to understand that indians want to be treated like human beings also. Not like we want our land back. But if you really want to give it back, by all means do so. Riverton is on the rez, other wise it would state that you are leaving the Wind River Indian rezervation when you drive into town. Just like it does in parts of the canyon. Or am I wrong about that, since there are no signs?

1) No, people go to the Casino to gamble. PERIOD.

2) If you read my post carefully-you will see that I wrote, "YES-every race shares in these problems." But, talking about observations YOU have made about people living in trailer parks are NO different than those I made of people living on the rez. How was funding aquired for the reservation houses? In other words, how did people get the financing for them??

3) Native Americans ARE treated like human beings. In recent past (VERY RECENT) murders of Native Americans have NOT been committed by whites...they have been committed by Native Americans. WHITE people ARE not your problem...you are your own worst enemy. SORRY!!!

4) Instead of trying to make something of yourselves you would rather play the race card or juristiction card and cry poor me.

5) I have NEVER in the 18 years I have lived in Riverton been approached for money by a drunk white person, mexican, latino, chinese, japanese person...ONLY native american. Sober up, and get a job.

6) You take the easy way out and then point your finger at everyone who has ever done you wrong. Guess what, no matter what color you are, everybody has issues of some sort.

7) They do NOT have signs posted at EVERY enterence and exit into the reservation. The ONLY reason there are signs in the Wind River Canyon...water rights.

8) No tax on the rez...not enough money for rez schools...huh...MAYBE they should enact TAXES on the reservation.

I have to quit because this is getting slightly mean spirited and that WASN'T my intent. ELLY

Wow!!! There are many of you that have a point. I would say that most of you are arguing the same argument that has been spun since I can remember on the "Point the finger at the other guy."

A murder took place in Riverton. Are people saying that Yellowbear would have a different verdict if he was tried in a Tribal Court?

As for the Tax issue, If the Tribes win the case, does that mean that I will have to show a clerk at Wal-mart or Blockbuster my Tribal ID just to save some coin?

For those that believe that the Tribes do not contribute to Fremont County or Riverton.....I urge you to find out who funded the new Fire Department (Where Jackson School once stood). Take a drive into the Wal-mart parking lot on the 1st of each month.

Ok well what about up in the mountains? There is signs about being on federal land and rezervation. Are you telling me it's water rights there too? If you knew me at all, you would know that I have one of the tuffest jobs there is. I am an Army wife and you are telling me to sober up and get a job? Wow you really should watch what you say to people. Just because clearly I am an indian you think that all I do is drink? How racist is that? My husband fights for this country and he is proud to be a white man married to an indian. I pay taxes just like you. One day I might have to pay the unltimate price for your safety, and all you can do is s**t talk my people. I told my daughter yesterday that she was part indian and it broke her heart. All becuase of people like you that she hears around town bad mouthing us. Not all of us drink in the park or begg for money. Go to any major city in America and tell me if all you see is Indians begging for money or food. The majority of them are WHITE. As for the trailer park thing. There are all races that live in a trailer park, right? On the rez there is just Indians so it is different. It is people like you that give all indians a bad name, even the ones that work their a** off trying to make a living. Next you are going to complain that we get per capita's. Yeah we do, but that is part of our mineral rights. As for the funding for rez homes, it came from the tribes not from the state. Since you are talking about that issue, what about the low income houses in Riverton? Where did that come from? The state right?

gbtsmom - thanks for your "opinion"
You said: Viewer, how can you say that we all need to live in unity? It is clear that alot of people hate indians.
Reply: There are some that bare "racism" however, but, then again, I've seen native americans baring an intense distrust in return.
Question: Do you use the "few attitudes in minority" to build a society in preace? I would say not!
Therefore, for those whom can look past "personal (unjustified) animosity" towards one-another? This is where the unity will come.
You said: If it was your people that did this case you would want it in your favor, right?
Reply: I want the law to regulate indian and non-indian lives as its intended purpose and as the agreement (between Riveron and Arapahoe) as sponsored so.
You said: Maybe the casino's and gas station and smoke shop should start taxing people for shopping there.
Reply: Thats true as the Casino gas in generally 2 to 4 cents cheaper than the Riverton Convenience Stores. Its always better to threaten (like children) and lose a competitive edge while acheiving nothing.
You said: They do it for the simple fact that there is no tax. So why should indians have to pay tax in Riverton when people don't have to pay taxes on the rez? Is that right in any way? Maybe the rez should be used by indians only that way there is no complaints.
Reply: Again, its called a "competitive edge" --- look at Montana. You can purchase most any ticket item "tax free" but, then again, the residents pay the price with the high property taxes as well. Montana has a sovereign people from Wyoming people so they can do different things than Wyoming, including the "taxation" issue vs. competitiveness.
You said: As for people trashing their land, you are telling me that every house in Riverton that is occupied by a white person is beautiful?
Reply: Sorry, I did not say anything of the sort, and would appreciate an "opinion" from another source or person's view not placed in my mouth

My repsonse will continue below

gbtsmom - thanks for your "opinion"
You said: Take a ride down to All Nations trailer court, or any trailer court, and see if you can say that. It's not just the trailer courts either. That is just the first place that came to mind. People need to understand that indians want to be treated like human beings also.
Reply: Then, I ask you tell every Arapahoe that will listen to you that the over-whelming majority of non-indians want to live in "UNITY" as prescribed the agreement signed this year.
You said: Not like we want our land back. But if you really want to give it back, by all means do so.
Reply: I beleive as friends living in "unity" neither "non-indian or indian" alike would be interested in "covetry".
You said: Riverton is on the rez, other wise it would state that you are leaving the Wind River Indian rezervation when you drive into town.
Reply: arapaho_2 had this conversation with me as well. I will respond to you in a different manner but, say the same thing. ---- Now that we are friends and in "unity" by agreement, to "assume" would make an )"ass" out of "u" and "me") and I say this with all the due respect.
You said: Just like it does in parts of the canyon. Or am I wrong about that, since there are no signs?
Reply: These are generic signs and not "legally descriptive signs and wording" or the State would have had trouble long ago.

gbtsmom - lets be friends and unite, is that a deal?

Elly.

You have highly offended me and many others. You need to face the fact that you are a racist pig. I am a SOBER, HARD WORKING, NATIVE AMERICAN MOTHER. How dare you insinuate that I need to sober up and get a job and quite crying. The only time I have ever played the race card is when people like you have thrown it in my face. You have no idea what it is like to be judged based on your race. I am trying to make something of myself and racist people like you keep that from happening.

Maybe since the tribes paid for the new Fire Department they should just skip your house when they fire bell whistles. I mean after all the tribes paid for it, not taxes. You are h*ll bent on the fact that everyone who pays get to use tax paid benefits. The Fire Department was not paid for with taxes.

Elly you really did not need to take it this far. I am so offended.

Monfrayer
You said: A murder took place in Riverton. Are people saying that Yellowbear would have a different verdict if he was tried in a Tribal Court?
Reply: No, the crime that the "convict" is paying for now has seemed to grip fear and mistrust that is really unfortunate. This "convict" an Arapahoe tribal member - like most "convicts" will use every "legal" venue, political flaw and even "indian country complaint" to acheive his justice. A justice in life that was denied to a "baby girl", his flesh and blood.
You said: As for the Tax issue, If the Tribes win the case, does that mean that I will have to show a clerk at Wal-mart or Blockbuster my Tribal ID just to save some coin?
Reply: Sorry, "unless some liberal court" grants "special interest rights" (as we have witnessed many strange things nationally lately) outside of "store planned discount" all are required to pay in Riverton and non-indian lands.
You said: For those that believe that the Tribes do not contribute to Fremont County or Riverton.....I urge you to find out who funded the new Fire Department
(Where Jackson School once stood). Take a drive into the Wal-mart parking lot on the 1st of each month.
Reply: Could you prove what you are saying about the "Fire Dept. (Where Jackson School once stood) as in "website" or other documentation? As it has been said many times about "opinions are like ... , eveyone has one"
If not? Then, Please.... !

Viewer, The signs in the canyon are to inform people that it is rez land, and that you cannot fish there. It is a boundry sign not just informative. Just like the signs in the mountains stating that you will be prosecuted for hunting or being on rez land. I have a relative in the wind river indian fish and game, I think that I have a little knowledge of these things. How can I live in unity with people who obviously judge my race?

Elly-
As for my comment about the casino, I was talking about the gift shop and restaurants that people occupy. Not the gambling part. You are telling me that you have never once been to any of the casino's? If you don't like how the people of Riverton and the rez live, then don't let the door hit ya where the good lord split ya! We would have a better community to live in unity ( since the viewer seems to think that it will solve the problems) if people like you were to leave the community. In a commen above you say that you are not racist? Kinda find that hard to believe after your last one. You don't happen to live in a triler park do you? You sure did get angry when I mentioned it!

Whites can go shop at hines for groceries and not be taxed, true. But white people buying gas DO pay taxes. The only way to get the 14cent discount is to be indian. And the new fire dept. was payed for by the tribe? Please explain that one! It was a fight for Fremont County ambulance service to get the owed amount from IHS for rez calls, but the tribes are so generous as to just hand over a fire station to us? sure.

and gbstmom-Maybe you should do some research on the housing issue. The funding for rez homes does NOT come from the tribes, it comes from the federal govt. namely HUD. (Which is also responsible for low income housing in Riverton too.) Look at BC's HUD homes, now look at Riverton's HUD homes. See a difference?
No it's not the color of the people inside, it is the people who govern those houses. Your tribe has a board that is supposed to control these things. Tell me how your housing can let it go down the tubes, murders, drugs, beatings, vandalism, look how many of those are boarded up. The Shoshones skip one person on their waiting list and they have DC coming to breath down their necks. Please tell me how your housing can allow this pig hole-crime scene to continue and not have a word said??? That could be a big reason that people don't want to see rez governments try to come in and control our town govt, you can't take care of yourselves(using BC as a prime example), how are we to trust you to tell us what to do as far as laws and taxes and bounderies are concerned?

Aliciala, I tell you what when you do your research into the taxes on the rez, I will do mine. It makes no sense for them to tax on gas but not for anything else. If you hate the rez so bad, move. You are telling me that the only murders, drugs, beatings, and vandalism is just on the rez? What about the group of white kids that went around shooting out windows? That wasn't vandalism? What about all the drug houses in Riverton? They weren't ran by white people? Or is that just kids being kids? Since they are white and all.

Fourteen miles on this side of Dubois,twelve miles east on the gas hills road,ten miles out on the Sand Draw road,just this side of Hudson,one mile west of Shoshoni.I'm pretty sure there aren't any other roads coming into Riverton are there? Thats where the sings are posted announcing that you are entering the Wind River Indian Reservation.Case CLOSED.Maybe the tribes should just put up toll booths like they have in New York.that would go over real good huh? isn't it funny how racism stays hidden just beneath the surface untill money becomes an issue? case in point:nobody seemed to mind that the Mexicans came here to hoe beets every summer,it didn't pay worth a darn anyway.only when people realized that they were getting free school and medical and some were staying and collecting welfare did they get pissed.or was it because some of them actually tried to live next door to white people,but that didn't happen in Riverton did it,they all lived in the Barrio.Elly have you ever been told to go back to the res.when you were applying for a job or felt the pain of a ten year old boy when he had to stay outside while his freinds went in the Rainbow cafe(where the China Panda is now)cause the sign said NO DOGS or INDIANS ALLOWED.Do you really think it would be a good idea if the indians just stayed to themselves on the reservation? how much money would the merchants in Riverton lose if the indians stopped shopping and spending their per-capita money here? how much do you suppose that is?I think it would be funny as hell if they boycotted Riverton for just one month and did all treir shopping in Lander,just to teace BIGOTS like you a lesson!

gbtsmom - thanks for your response
You said: The signs in the canyon are to inform people that it is rez land, and that you cannot fish there
Reply: From my understanding there are "sections" and "sections only" that are "in the boundaries" of the WRIR. Those signs only portray areas or warning to "different lands" use and differing laws, user beware. A covetous mind would claim all that is not their's.
You said: How can I live in unity with people who obviously judge my race?
Reply: You are arguing "boundaries" on one hand and "racism" on the other hand. You can not equate boundaries with racism; because in general, boundaries "separate by will of all" where racism "separate by opinion of few" and there are "native americans" whom thrive on these views to use as a tool in effort to respond "inkind". Just reading some of these "blog responses" screams with vengeful opinions that "do not bring unity" as the Arapahoe Business Counsel so desperately requests from the City of Riverton. I asked you before, will you take part in "joining me as others in Unity of people" in this area of Fremont County? I hope your answer is yes!?

Let's not keep the Riverton City Counsel nor the Arapahoe Business Counsel disappointed in us in lieu of this joint agreement.

viewer.
Are you stating that obviously white people on this blog have NOT spued hatred and racial comments? I beg to differ. I don't see you asking Elly, Aliciala to take part in your unity. Why? Because you know as well as I that you can not change racism or the people who speak the hateful language.

Elly: One more thing. Would your so called Native American friends stand by your hateful words now?

maxsdad - I'd like to respond in lieu of Elly
You said: Fourteen miles on this side of Dubois,twelve miles east on the gas hills road,ten miles out on the Sand Draw road,just this side of Hudson,one mile west of Shoshoni.
Reply: Yes, these signs are there as warning of "areas" of other lands with differing laws than the Federal and State laws.
You said: I'm pretty sure there aren't any other roads coming into Riverton are there?
Reply: Ok, I'm looking for a point here ...
You said: Thats where the sings are posted announcing that you are entering the Wind River Indian Reservation.Case CLOSED.
Reply: Yes, to the left side of the road and the right. But, the highway is not owned by the WRIR now isn't it?! :-) Case still Open!
You said: Maybe the tribes should just put up toll booths like they have in New York.that would go over real good huh?
Reply: Wishful thinking, the Tribes do not have "Authority" on State and Federal owned Highways and byways.
You said: isn't it funny how racism stays hidden just beneath the surface untill money becomes an issue?
Reply: What racism and What money?
You said: case in point: nobody seemed to mind that the Mexicans came here to hoe beets every summer, it didn't pay worth a darn anyway.
Reply: Are you now "using racial slurrs towards the hispanic community" and degrading many "migrant workers" because they have a greater need than you?
You said: only when people realized that they were getting free school and medical and some were staying and collecting welfare did they get pissed.
Reply: Well, you know, we could be say the same with "your native american heritage" for receiving similarly.
You said: or was it because some of them actually tried to live next door to white people,but that didn't happen in Riverton did it,they all lived in the Barrio.
Reply: Is that supposed to be a "derrogatory" remark towards non-natives and non-hispanics? Commonly viewed as a "racist remark"?
You said: Rainbow cafe(where the China Panda is now)cause the sign said NO DOGS or INDIANS ALLOWED.
Reply: In order to live in "Unity" or united as people. The past has to be put away and "forgiveness" take its place. As, most-likely most of Riverton may not have been alive let alone lived here in those dark days.
You said: Do you really think it would be a good idea if the indians just stayed to themselves on the reservation?
Reply: Not at all, the native american community is very much a part of America, Wyoming, Fremont County and Riverton; as Rivertonites are.
You said: how much money would the merchants in Riverton lose if the indians stopped shopping and spending their per-capita money here?
Reply: With all the due respect you; Grow up these are not constructive comments for unifying efforts.
You said: how much do you suppose that is?
Reply: This is counter-productive for native americans as with non-natives. Money is not what unifies the two peoples, but a "common belief" in good will as friends.

you said: I think it would be funny as hell if they boycotted Riverton for just one month and did all treir shopping in Lander, just to teace BIGOTS like you a lesson
Reply: Its you're decision

leach

You said: viewer. Are you stating that obviously white people on this blog have NOT spued hatred and racial comments? I beg to differ. I don't see you asking Elly, Aliciala to take part in your unity. Why? Because you know as well as I that you can not change racism or the people who speak the hateful language.

Elly: One more thing. Would your so called Native American friends stand by your hateful words now?

Reply: I can only offer a truce with vengeful from views... in hopes to "unite"

Aliciala. Are you afraid that if the Indian Nation takes over some of the laws, jurisdiction and such that maybe your yourself will have to endure what I have my whole life? Is that what you are afraid of? I believe so. If the Indian Nation finally has a say then you the white people will no longer be able to throw our race in our face and make us defend ourselves. That's what this is all about. The white still being able to have control and now that you see that control slipping you're afraid that you will be treated the same way you have treated others.

Do unto others as you would have done unto you.

Do you watch the National News? I will have to say that when you hear of multiple murders, beatings, rapes and kidnappings it is white, blacks, mexicans, and other races in the mix not just Indians. You live on a reservation so you are bound to hear and see bad things. That is just life. If you hate Native Americans so bad then go find yourself a state that is reservation free and go live there. I personally am sick of your kind.

Look here all you mfs talking down about indians, mainly this ELLY and Aliciala type folks. You all piss me off, I am a white man and I am proud to be married into a very wonderful indian family. Every single person in the family I know is a hard working, dedicated individual. One is a game and fish official, another is a very successful business owner and another has worked in the natural rescource field for almost 40 years.
And to say I am being fair to all indians and not just those that I am related to , I will focus on a very honorable group of indians. Those that are active duty military like myself. They put their lives on the line just as I have to protect your freedoms, including the one you are abuseing to bad mouth their families and heritage. You may have the right say what you want but remember them before you start you remarks of hate and jelousy. I have deployed and will deploy again this year and there is a very large group of Native Americans I have served with honorably.
There are good and bad people all over the world of all races. So if you are so ignorant and naive enough to think that all white people are pure and innocent you should go throw yourself under a bus for being so ignorant and arrogant in your ways. When you insult indians you are insulting my children, wife and her family. So Elly I suggest you shut your mouth until you can say something intelligent. You do have rights but they were given to you, and in my eyes you havent earned them.

viewer,my point was that Riverton is on reservation land.those signs are not warnings that you are entering lands with different laws than federal and state law.the signs clearly state ENTERING WIND RIVER INDIAN RESERVATION,if Riverton isn't on reservation land then why does it pay a lease payment to the tribes? NO you can't say the same about my Native Heritage,the things we receive from the Federal Government are things that were promised to the Indian people in one of many treaties,most of which were broken by the Government.What racisim and what money? isn't this whole tax thing about money?isn't Elly saying things like "drunk indian" and "sober up and get a job" just a bit racist or because she said it yesterday should that be considered "in the past"?as far as the roads and tolls go,if the roads are owned and maintained by the state and race isn't an issue,then why are the roads on the reservation always the last one to be plowed in the winter?I have driven on ice covered roads on the reservation only to come out at Kinnear and get behind a snowplow plowing a dry hiway 20/26.The bridge across the wind river just southwest of kinnear was listed as one of the worst in the country yet it didn't get fixed untill three young native kids were killed on it,and only then because the bridge structure was damaged!when you talk unity do you mean all people living together in harmony and loving each other like family,or do you mean thats just the way things are so "DEAL WITH IT"and shut up as Elly might say.

Elly
Why is it that on this blog you are slandering the Native Americans, but on the blog about the three young Native girls you show simpathy for the Natives?

maxsdad - thanks again for you response
You said: viewer,my point was that Riverton is on reservation land. those signs are not warnings that you are entering lands with different laws than federal and state law.
Reply: Apparently you did not see my quote to Arapaho_2 --- (A sovereign nation is sovereign nation - boundaries serve as the treaty. Like any other purchase as with the "purchase of 1905" --- ask any historian or the Wyoming Supreme Court.) This is the fact - not what you want to believe is so.
You said: the signs clearly state ENTERING WIND RIVER INDIAN RESERVATION, if Riverton isn't on reservation land then why does it pay a lease payment to the tribes?
Reply: Again, this land was purchased and any "additional taxation" would be without "representation" which is "unconstitutional". Please educate yourself on these issues in their "truest stance" not through innuendos or false facts. But, what is actually written and agreed upon by law between the "Past Indian / Non-Indian" agreements that stand today.
You said: What racisim and what money? isn't this whole tax thing about money?
Reply: Not at all for reservation "only" but, yes, indeed for "off reservation" commerce. The Arapahoes want to challenge having to pay taxes in Riverton as Riverton is "non-indian country - non-reservation" land as of 1905 purchase as mentioned and subject to taxation regardless of "ethnic back-ground".
You said: isn't Elly saying things like "drunk indian" and "sober up and get a job" just a bit racist or because she said it yesterday should that be considered "in the past"?
Reply: I can not control how another person feels or thinks. I can help by talking to them about any issue (if I'm knowledgeable enough) to help change their views.
You said: as far as the roads and tolls go,if the roads are owned and maintained by the state and race isn't an issue,then why are the roads on the
reservation always the last one to be plowed in the winter?
Reply: Is it possible that politics and paying taxes to the state like non-indians do might play a role in it? For example: Windriver Casino pays no taxes and has refused the state in many ways. Could this be another issue that should be addressed to the State and not to the local public? I beleive the Araphoe Business Counsel is taking the correct path for resolving issues, don't you? This complaint has no issue with Riverton's sovereignity as a whole, but, once again, the "Taxation Issue" is the focal point.
You said: I have driven on ice covered roads on the reservation only to come out at Kinnear and get behind a snowplow plowing a dry hiway 20/26.
Reply: Yes, 20/26 is definitely a taxpayer paid (Federal Highway) with addtional taxes for maintenance.

continued below

You said: The bridge across the wind river just southwest of kinnear was listed as one of the worst in the country yet it didn't get fixed untill three young native kids were killed on it,and only then because the bridge structure was damaged!
Reply: I understand you're sense of loss; however, there are other countries around the world that have no tax-base and no bridges at all. If low taxes are accumulated over time? Then, it takes more time to replace these things.
You said: The bridge across the wind river just southwest of kinnear was listed as one of the worst in the country yet it didn't get fixed untill three young native kids were killed on it,and only then because the bridge structure was damaged!
Reply: I understand you're sense of loss; however, there are other countries around the world that have no tax-base and no bridges at all. If low taxes are accumulated over time? Then, it takes more time to replace these things.
You said: when you talk unity do you mean all people living together in harmony and loving each other like family,or do you mean thats just the way things are so "DEAL WITH IT"and shut up as Elly might say.
Reply: Simply respect each other as the USA and Canada do and do as the agreement calls for. If it is necessary to pay taxes in Riverton? Then, please respect the wishes of this land - like Riverton would respect the Reservation lands.

To the coment made about the reservation boycotting Riverton and Lander for a month; that's a great idea, why not their bussiness would suffer collosally. Why not spend your money on the reservation or go to Casper, Denver, Billings, or Salt Lake to shop or shop online. Why not buy your groceries from Hines, at least there you won't get treated like crap and you'll be treated with dignity. The owner always takes his time to ask how your doing and means it. When you eat out, eat the the casino at least you know your eating organic beaf and Pacific Salmon. Buy your gas and snacks on the Reservation, remember your discount! To the Comment made about the Wind River Casino. The Wind River Casino and any other Casino owned and opperated by the Northern Arapaho Tribe will never pay taxes to the state of Wyoming! The Federal Supreme Court over rulled state law when infact the State of Wyoming failed to negotiate with the Northern Arapaho Tribe. "Thank you very much Jim Garinger!!!" If you want to be on a soap box about the Wind River Casino not paying taxes maybe you should do your homework and find out what kind of donations they're making to non-native functions and organizations in Fremont County. They don't have to donate, but they do.

viewer,you had a response to everything I said except why riverton DOES pay a lease to the tribes.just because I acknowledged that you had a reply doesn't mean that I think your'e right.you said:this land was purchased and any "additional taxation" would be taxation without "representation" which is "unconstitutional".
reply:I understand your sense of loss,however if the tribes win this argument the only way the city can recoup the lost revenue is to raise YOUR taxes!

You can't argue the issues about taxes or the funding or governance for housing issues, so you holler racism? Pathetic.

maxsdad - thanks for your response once again
you said: viewer,you had a response to everything I said except why riverton DOES pay a lease to the tribes.just because
I acknowledged that you had a reply doesn't mean that I think your'e right. ....
Reply: Again, I can accuse you and tribes of almost anything in my "wildest-imagination" --- would that maje it true? Obviously not!
Or, an "accusation" the tribes owe the US Citizens $ millions are in debted to "non-natives" ... lets just laugh at your claim of "opinion" without "proof and documentation" what we may both claim as untrue.
Riverton collects taxes for Riverton, Fremont County, Wyoming and Federal Goverment which is a provable claim.
Should you persist in self-asserting this claim without "legal documentation" as proof - I will considert his as an "insult to my Intelligence" and may not have much more to respond to you with. As I believe you are a "Fair-minded, honest and caring person" in this blogoshere.

After all your comment earlier states this: when you talk unity do you mean all people living together in harmony and loving each other like family,or do you mean thats just the way things are so "DEAL WITH IT"and shut up as Elly might say.

Lets see if you really mean what you ask? If so? Let us "unite and live peacefully" without "unfounded claims and innuendos" as in past.

Aliciala.
Obviously you did not read any of Elly's words. Hers were nothing but full of hatred and racial remarks to Native Americans. That is something you can not dispute. It is in black and white above. And like I said before we only use the race card when it is thrown in our face and we must defend ourselves. Just as Elly and YOU have done. So tell me who are the pathetic ones? YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!

viewer,touche...I am searching for proof of lease fees paid to the tribes by the city of riverton,maybe I shouldn't have just beleived it when a former ABC member told me about it.so unless I come up with "legal documentation"consider me shut up and dealing with it.

Viewer are you a teacher? You sure sound like one.

maxsdad - nice sparring with you :-)
You said: viewer,touche... I am searching for proof of lease fees paid to the tribes by the city of riverton,maybe I shouldn't have just beleived it when a former ABC member told me about it.so unless I come up with "legal documentation" consider me shut up and dealing with it.
Reply: As the late former President Reagan always said; "Trust but, Verify". This is partially how President Reagan was "credited for bringing down the "Infamous Iron Curtain" of Berlin, Germany back in the 80s. Facts always speak for themselves and justify themselves - one way or the other.

gbtsmom - thanks for your input
You said: Viewer are you a teacher? You sure sound like one
Reply: One should not be considered with "teaching skills" unless all involved can learn from each other. Are you learning? If so? Then, give me any title you wish :-) !
I do know that natives and non alike prefer "factual" truth over "unanswer questions" and "good treatment over contempt" for one's self. The best alternative for all is to find "common grounds" in repect with honor while respecting all "Cultures Involved" and their respective traits.

Now, we can turn back to the Yellowbear story these "blogs" orginated from and build from there. The story speaks of a "convicted" murderer - one so dispicable that it "draws in anger" the cultures this crime directly affected. We have more "incommon than not" and with that in mind, my hope is that "factual impositions" become the the normal ways between the peoples. When this happens, then, and only then, "unity and peace will come" to prevail over the lands dicussed. Personally, I'm all in for unity and peace; hope you see it the same way?!

Many moons ago I wondered if the racial issues that our community face would ever fade away. The older I got, the wiser I became to the truth....that whenever you have two people in the same place that disagree on something, you will find dishonor in some form or another. It began to reveal itself here within this blog. Many people replied with racial and hatefull remarks.

I do believe this kind of criticism is constructive as long as the people involved learn something from it, or a point is made clearer. Most of the people involved in this blog agree that Yellowbear is guilty of the crime he committed. I doubt anyone has denied his guilt, but are we saying (referring to the comments within this blog) that if Yellowbear got a new trial within the Tribal Court System; he would not face the same punishment he is facing today?

Yes, my writing took a turn for being mean spirited, and some may deduct they are racist, and that is fine. BUT--NOT one person has said that what I wrote is COMPLETELY untrue. It sucks. It sucks that pride has disappeared from the NA today. That they are satisfied being drunk in the city park begging for money. No one said, "No, Elly...you are WRONG. Native Americans today will NOT be found drunk in city park begging for money." Why hasn't anyone said THAT to me?

Boycott Riverton, that is fine. That is your right. My NA friends know that I am not passive aggressive. I am not going to sugar coat things. I am going to just speak my mind, because that IS my right. A right I PERSONALLY have fought for. BUT-I don't have to justify my opinion. If you think it is inappropriate...see that little "Report Inappropriate Content" choice...use it...and silence my opinion.

As for why do I care about the Native American girls that were MURDERED at the hands of other NA? After all, I am just a racist-biggoted pig. Right? Please, I am as far from racist and biggoted as you can get. I care about ALL people of all races...I just do not support enabling people to continue with their low quality of life. Those girls deserve justice.

Fight for your pride your forefathers gave their lives for. If it is only a select few that are giving you a bad name...gather them up and help them direct their lives. I am an educated professional, and I believe everyone can and should be as well. EVERYONE.

I am sorry for offending. Really, I am. BUT I do NOT apologize for having my own opinions based on my PERSONAL observations. So, yes--as for my NA friends...when they wish to disagree...I ask them...which part did I say is not true...and based only on racist hearsay???

ELLY