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THURSDAY, MARCH 6, 2003

"I am writing in regards to the recent media coverage on Navajo allottees claiming their royalties which are long overdue.

I, unfortunately, do not receive royalty checks; yet I know of relatives and friends that do. I will tell my relatives and friends that they are fortunate to receive such an income, an income that is tax-free.

I have also asked them if they keep themselves well informed of what is going on with their royalties and oftentimes they really don't seem to care. I think that is so unfortunate and risky.

I'm no economist; yet I understand the concept of, 'There is no such thing as a free lunch.' There is indeed a price to everything, and royalties are no different.

I wonder if the allottees understand that one day the royalties will no longer be there. The oil wells will run dry and, if they don't run dry, the market price of oil and gas could fall drastically as they are presently doing. I wonder if the allottees are prepared for such encounters? By the look of what has been said in the newspapers, it is obvious the answer to that question is 'NO.'"

Get the Story:
Alvina Begaye: Navajo allottees must educate themselves in the oil, gas business (The Farmington Daily Times 3/6)