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SEPTEMBER 18, 2000

Clifford Bird in Ground, the newly elected chairman of the Crow Tribe of Montana, is still learning the ropes of leading the nation's second largest reservation.

In his first interview with The Billings Gazette since being elected, Bird in Ground addressed many issues, including an ongoing power struggle involving secretary Tilton Old Bull, Sr.

Some Bird in Ground quotes:
"I've always been quiet. I’d rather listen to people’s problems and their ideas rather than do all the talking."
"I like to delegate my authority, spread it around"
"I’ve been a working man all my life. I was already retired and was going to enjoy my life [before running for office."
"Me, I’m not really a politician. People approached me and asked if I was interested in running."

Bird in Ground is a veteran of the Korean War.

Get the Story:
Tribal chairman learning on the job (The Billings Gazette 9/16)

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