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Just like Saturday Night Live, but better! Indianz.Com's update of noteworthy stories that came across the wires past weekend.

In The Medicine Wheel:
Elian Gonzales may not be Native, but the struggle to return him to his father is familiar across Indian Country. On Saturday, Elian was reunited with Juan Miguel Gonzalez, his legal guardian, in Washington DC. Early Saturday morning, more than 130 INS agents raided the Little Havana, Miami, home where Elian had been housed. His relatives criticized the US' action and demanded to access to Elian. Elian's father and other family members in Cuba met with a Native delegation in Havana recently to ask for support.
Staff and news wires contributed to this report.

From The Talking Circle:
As the Makah hunting family took a rest on Saturday, anti-whaling protesters gathered at a Port Angeles, Washington hospital to demand visitation of injured Erin Abbott, who was arrested by the US Coast Guard for violating a federally mandated 500-yard zone of exclusion around the hunt. She faces six years in prison and a $250,000 fine. As a federal detainee, Abbott is under guard by federal officials.
Staff and news wires contributed to this report.

In Tribal Law:
Controversial Crow Chairwoman Clara Nomee held a campaign rally Saturday afternoon. She told about 200 attendants to ignore "rumors" opposition parties are spreading about her. She promised more businesses for the Montana reservation and that all opinions would be considered by her administration. Nomee's detractors are seeking her permanent removal from office and from tribal politics altogether. Her conviction of theft against the tribe was largely upheld earlier this month.
Get the Story:
Nomee tells Crows to disregard 'rumors' (The Billings Gazette 4/23)

In Indian U.
Lawmakers from across Nebraska criticized Gov. Mike Johanns veto of a bill that would have provided an additional $1M in aid to Omaha and Winnebago public schools. Criticism came largely from Democrats, whereas Republicans defended the governor's actions.
Get the Story:
Veto of Indian school funds draws fire (The Lincoln Journal Star 4/22)
Indian Education at Risk (Indian U. 4/19)

From First Nations:
Conflict between the Cheam First Nation and the BC government remained calm this weekend. But leaders from the Nation claim leaked government documents point to the government's refusal to resolve their land claims issue...The Supreme Court will hear the Musqueam lease dispute case in June. The Musqueam band, located in BC, raised the rent on land leased to several dozen individuals, who have refused to pay the higher rent.
Get the Story:
Cheam war of words with government (CBC 4/23)
Musqueam land dispute to court (CBC 4/23)