Crow Tribal Chairman Venne Dies at 62

Official Apsaalooke Nation News Release: Date: February 15, 2009

Mr. Carl E. Venne, Chairman of the Apsaalooke Nation passed away sometime during the night of February 14 or in the early morning hours of Sunday February 15. Initial reports indicate by natural causes. Further information, as to the time and cause of death will be determined by the Big Horn county coroner.

Arrangements are being made and notice will be provided soon. The Tribal Administration asks that you respect the family’s wishes during this difficult time.

Vice Chairman Cedric Black Eagle has assumed the duties of the office of Chairman during the interim. The process for filling the vacancy is well established in the Tribal Constitution and Election Ordinance. Full details of this process will be published at a later time when appropriate out of respect for the family.

If you have any questions, please contact Media Spokesman Ben Cloud at 406-665-5235 cell, or office at 406-638-4115. benc@crownations.net

Photo by Adam Sings In The Timber

Secretary Salazar Testifies Before Senate Indian Affairs Committee, Calls Indian Water Rights Settlements a "High Priority"

February 12, 2009 --

Interior Secretary Ken Salazar testified before the Senate Indian Affairs Committee in Washington, D.C. this morning in an oversight hearing.  Watch Video of the Hearing

When questioned by Montana Senator Jon Tester on the pending Indian water rights settlement acts that are awaiting Congressional approval, Secretary Salazar said that he was aware of the settlements, that they were a "high priority", and that he would likely seek to employ a special counsel to assist him in working with Congress on the settlements.

In response to a question from Senator Tester on the future role of tribal colleges in developing reservation economies, Secretary Salazar called tribal colleges very important in developing tribal workforces and that poor economic conditions is a root-cause of a multitude of societal problems on reservations.

The Crow Water Rights Settlement Act, S. 375, has been reintroduced in the 111th Congress.