GOVERNOR'S REMARKS ON TRIBAL LEADER MELVIN FRANCIS' DEATH

January 13, 2006

GOVERNOR’S PRESS OFFICE

CRYSTAL CANNEY, COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR OFFICE: 287-2531 CELL: 615-5968 Crystal.canney@maine.gov Dan Cashman, Assistant Press Secretary OFFICE: 287-2531 CELL: 837-4821 Danny.cashman@maine.gov

FOR IMMMEDIATE RELEASE

GOVERNOR MOURNS THE PASSING OF TRIBAL LEADER

AUGUSTA--- Governor John Baldacci extended his sympathies this morning to the widow of Tribal Governor Melvin Francis. The leader of the Passamaquoddy Tribe died Thursday night when the vehicle he was in collided with a tractor trailer truck.

In speaking with family this morning Governor Baldacci said: “We will do everything we need to make this a statewide remembrance.”

Governor Baldacci added: “He did so much for his people. He understood that improving the conditions of his people would improve the conditions for all Mainers. He will be sorely missed. We will be lowering the flags around the state to half staff in remembrance.”

#