Navajo-Hopi Observer

WHASHINGTON, D.C. - As part of the claims-filing process, attorneys appointed by the court will hold meetings around the country to provide assistance to Native American farmers and ranchers who wish to file a claim in the $760 million Keepseagle class action settlement.

The settlement resolves a lawsuit claiming that the U.S. Department of Agriculture discriminated against Native Americans in farm loan applications and servicing.

Over the past six months, Native American farmers and ranchers around the country received information about their legal rights and options by postal mail and through print and radio notices. Class members who want to file a claim for cash and loan forgiveness must file their claims by Dec. 27.

Class members can get free assistance in filing a claim at meetings that will be held around the country through mid-December.

There will meetings in this area on Dec. 13-15 at the Blue Water Resort and Casino in Parker, Ariz. from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

An additional upcoming meeting will be held Dec. 20-22 in Gallup, N.M.

Class members who have already registered for a claims package will receive a schedule of meetings.

The complete schedule of claims filing meetings is also available at www.IndianFarmClass.com or by calling 1-888-233-5506. Media are requested to include the website and phone number in pieces about the settlement.

Class members wishing to register to receive a claims package can do so through the website or toll-free number or by writing to Keepseagle Settlement Administrator, P.O. Box 3560, Portland, OR 97208-3560.

For more information, contact Class Counsel Joseph Sellers and Christine Webber, Cohen Milstein Sellers and Toll PLLC, in Washington, D.C. by calling (202) 408-4600, or visit http://www.cohenmilstein.com.