To the Editor:

Many individuals, groups, and businesses offered their time and efforts to clean up the land at tribal housing near St. Ignace July 21. Teenagers from the Zion Lutheran Evangelical Ministries of Ohio and St. Ignace, and other youngsters and adults from the St. Ignace Tribal Youth Council put in a hard day's work hauling three tons of garbage and many hazardous items out of our native woods. Zion Lutheran Church, Straits Area Watershed Council, and St. Ignace Tribal Youth Council will pay for the disposal of the garbage. Lynn's Auto Parts will take care of the 10 car batteries, and the 42 tires will be brought to Sault Ste. Marie to be recycled. Sue St. Onge of St. Ignace made determined efforts over the last two years in organizing and implementing the project. I think I speak for all of the natives who value our land on the reservation when I say, "Thank you to all those involved in the cleanup project. Your selfless efforts have given us a cleaner and safer environment to live in. Good job to all, in all your good deeds!"

I'm sure that I even speak for the lady who yelled out her front door to "get that garbage off" her curb. And even those residents who brought large items out of their houses, like it was free garbage pick-up day. And I know the Indian standing on top of the landfill with a single tear running down his cheek, who connects us all in this great circle of life and understanding; I know he thanks you, too.

Such generous acts are not always met with generous support. However discouraging it may seem sometimes, the real benefit to generosity is the feeling you get in knowing you have helped someone else in need. Take that feeling with you, and let it inspire you to do it again. Job well done, girls and boys, ladies and gentlemen. Lana Lennington St. Ignace