August 18

At the Bureau of Indian Affairs, there has been yet another change in the line up. The number two official has removed herself from Indian gaming and recognition decisions in order to pursue a new career at a private law firm. By doing so she will be able to eliminate any conflicts of interest that may have taken place had she keep her position at the Bureau of Indian Affairs.

The main or principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Interior for Indian Affairs, Aurene Martin, will leave her post officially September 10, 2004. According to a spokesperson for the group, Mike Olsen will be taking her place. Olsen is currently the Counselor to the Assistant Secretary, he will assume all responsibility regarding tribal gaming and recognition decisions.

This will make Olsen the third official to assume responsibility for the two top issues within the Indian community in less than a year. Dave Anderson, the head of the Bureau of Indian Affairs, who was confirmed by the Senate just last December also left his position regarding those decisions almost five months ago. He left in order to avoid conflicts of interest as well. Anderson is one of the founders of Grand Casino Inc.

Also, there are several other Bureau of Indian Affair job changes. Many feel it is because the bureau was facing complaints of ineffectiveness. All parties involved state that this is not true. They say it only looks that way.