N.D. gov says he'll look at Fighting Sioux appeal
Gov. John Hoeven says he'll review a letter from some Spirit Lake Sioux tribal members who want his help in keeping the University of North Dakota's Fighting Sioux nickname.
The Board of Higher Education has decided to retire the nickname. The Spirit Lake tribal members want Hoeven to ask the board to take back its decision. They say the Standing Rock Sioux tribe needs more time to respond to the issue.
Hoeven wouldn't say whether he would approach board members directly on the issue. He says he'd like the board to work things out.
State Board of Higher Education President Richie Smith says he'd be surprised if Hoeven intervened.
Smith says the Standing Rock Sioux tribal council has passed on several chances to show support for the nickname.
(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
AP-NY-04-16-10 0440EDT
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