The Penobscot Nation of Maine sent five tribal members to Venezuela to attend the Caracas International Tourism and Trade Fair.

The Penobscots will share basket and canoe making skills, dances and other aspects of tribal culture at the fair, which takes place October 4-8. The Venezuelan government is picking up the cost of the tribe.

Venezuela's oil company has sold cheap heating oil to Maine tribes and wants to expand the program throughout Indian Country. Some have rejected participation, citing Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez's criticism of President Bush.

Get the Story:
Tribal members to visit Caracas (The Bangor Daily News 10/2)
4 villages shun gift of free oil (The Anchorage Daily News 9/29)
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Venezuela to offer low-cost heating to tribes (08/15)