Tom Talache, governor Namb� Pueblo in Tesuque, is moving forward with plans for a United First Nations Assembly, a center that would promote tribal economic development and self-sufficiency.

Talache came up with the idea for the center 10 years ago while serving in the U.S. Navy. He envisions a place where tribes and Indian people can come together.

The center, to be built in Santa Fe, would include a trade center, an art gallery, an Indian veteran's memorial, a sports center, a botanic garden, restaurants, a hotel and an IMAX theater. Talache said it could be used to host events like the Native American Music Awards or the National Congress of American Indians.

A corporation consisting of members of local tribes is entering into a loan to start the $150 million project.

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Center for Indians Might Become a Reality (The Santa Fe New Mexican 3/23)