Sharon Henry offers Rama employees BUY OUTS!! WTF?

At the MASK gym, a meeting was called on the Territory of the Chippewas of Rama. for Tuesday, February 22, 2011 at 10am at the MASK gym in Rama.  It was a cold, dull, gloomy day which seemed to fit the mood of the people.

Community members thought they were commemorating George Washington's Birthday which is Feb. 22nd.  However, a deadening silence came over the entire room as the Chief informed all band employees that she was having contractions, no, the world's economy is contracting.  She proceeded by stating that as she has become leaner, so should Rama.  The following will be effective April 1st:

1. no more cost of living
2. vacation time is capped at 12% (6 weeks max. vacation)
3. sick time calculated at a rate of 1.9% down from 5% (5 days down from the 13)

In a poor attempt to lead by example, Chief and Council have taken a 10% pay cut, and less travel allowance, no dollar amounts were given.  Sorry, no where near enough. 

Suggestions for ways to save money in each Department will be accepted at a suggestion box at the band office and other locations.  It is a little too late for Chief and Council to ask for suggestions on how to save their asses now. 

And then came the punch line, an offer of 3 weeks for every year of service for any voluntary resignations.  Applications are due March 4th and decisions will be made by March 22nd. 

If members had any questions, they were to go upstairs for one on one discussions with members of Chief and Council about the voluntary resignation packages.

Reasons why this is happening, we lost the 35% case, more members are coming due to the McGyver case, and the global economy.  At least we can sleep, after receiving the Chiefs assurance that we are isolated and protected from the harsh outside world.