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Candidates Forum Attracts Good Turnout

Candidates Forum Attracts Good Turnout Candidates Forum Attracts Good Turnout

With less than a week prior to the Fort Peck Tribes’ general election, about 20 Tribal Executive Board candidates spoke during a forum sponsored by the Wolf Point Community Organization on Sunday, Oct. 19.

The election is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 25. Carolyn Brugh, one of the incumbents at the forum, told audience members that her vision is to keep moving forward. She wants to continue to improve education, law enforcement and health care. She hopes education is solid from Head Start through the Fort Peck Community College. She said the tribes, sheriffs office and Wolf Point Police Department need to work better together to reduce crime.

Roxanne Gourneau, another incumbent, feels it’s her and others’ duties to continue to help people. “We struggle every day to survive. Our duty is less burdens,” she said. She stressed that the tribes aren’t financially broke but have a good amount of money. She said $35 million is being invested into health care.

Cynthia Michaelsen discussed the importance of improving health care. She noted some services offered aren’t known by all community members. “There’s more that we can do as needs arise,” she said. Michaelsen described herself as an advocate of health care for all people.

Michelle Trottier said her experience includes being a social worker, working for Indian Health Affairs and the Fort Peck Housing Authority. She doesn’t believe that spending $6 million on a casino in Poplar was wise when there are many other needs. She also feels a stronger work ethic is needed on the reservation.

Marva Chapman said as a longtime Tribal Executive Board member that it’s been a pleasure to have the opportunity to help people. She feels the youth are important to all members of the council. She encouraged audience members to vote for the people who they feel will do the best job rather that individuals who just give away things every two years.

Frank Smith talked about his military experience and is dedicated to area residents.

Raymond Iron Cloud said he wants children to be able to be on the streets without being afraid of being run over or kidnapped. He said he’s a strong believer in having a home for a family. He added that it’s up to the voters to pick a winning team. “You guys have to turn things around,” Iron Cloud said.

Jestin Dupree discussed leadership during his speech. He said staff needs to be used effectively in order to overcome problems. The military veteran said it’s been an honor to serve the country and the tribes over the years.

Lawrence Hamilton talked about his previous two terms on the Tribal Executive Board. His concerns include public safety, law enforcement, housing and health care.

Dana Buckles has been on the board for seven terms. He said directors and managers need to be allowed to perform their jobs. “I’m not into micro-managing,” he said. Buckles said a challenge for the tribes is fighting for federal funding.

B.J. Johnson said his first term on the board has been a learning experience. He’s a proponent of economic development. He noted investments such as the tribal farm, a casino and a processing plant. He said it’s important for board members to be serving every day.

Rita Weeks said she is always at the council chambers by 8 a.m. and has missed very few meetings. She said she has learned a lot during her first term.

Patt Iron Cloud said her experience has included testifying in Washington, D.C., for roads, buffalo and housing on the Fort Peck Reservation. “You need to know what you’re speaking about,” she explained.

Charles Knowlton is interested in doing what’s best for the people. “I think leadership starts at the top,” he said. “Be part of the solution, not the problem.” He said the tribes have excellent directors and they should be allowed to do their jobs. He added that addressing addiction needs to be a priority.

Jason Gray Hawk wants to protect children and elders. He feels education needs to include culture and language. It’s important to develop more housing because families are living in crowded and unsafe conditions.

Thomas Bauer Jr. said leaders need to work together to establish common goals in order to move forward. Bauer said a plan needs to be developed in order to be effective. His experience includes testifying in Washington, D.C., for water issues.

Feryl Archdale Greufe described herself as fair, respectful and ethical. Issues she feel are important include public safety and addiction services. She says she supports economic development and wants HPDP to remain a standalone program.

Mary Follette noted her strong Christian beliefs. She mentioned the importance of education and human services. She wants to work with the goal of proving the best future.

Nicholas Bighorn’s experience includes working in corrections for 13 years. He said TEB needs to be held accountable for their actions in chambers. He asked voters not to just vote for their relatives but rather the 12 people who would do the best jobs.

Vernice Chopper talked about her personal struggles including being a mother at a young age and starting to use meth at the age of 18. She said she lost 14 years of her life to meth addiction. She said she believes in transparency and prayer.

Adrian Spotted Bird Jr. mentioned the frustration people feel after meeting with TEB in chambers. He asked whether individuals receive respect when they talk to the council. Key issues for him include health care, law enforcement and housing.

K. Shane Moran stressed the importance of leadership. “You need to show up and work together,” he said.

Darryl Ricker Sr. said it’s vital to put God where he belongs. He said things can and should get better. He mentioned that there are many people with good hearts seeking leadership positions.

Maurice Bighorn Jr. said he will bring an open mind to TEB. He said 12 people can’t stop the crime problems, but it takes everybody across the reservation.

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